In Manila where I grew up, we welcome the new year with noise, fireworks, coins on our pockets, and fruits. I remember going to Quiapo with my mom to buy at least 12 different kinds of fruit to grace our dining table. The number represents the 12 months of the year. If we have extra money, we buy more than 12!
The olives of Thailand
The lanzones tree.
In March of last year, I began searching for God more. The scope of my job crossed the bounds of my family and personal life. I brought home work every night including on weekends. One day, I can’t hold it anymore. I shared my predicament with my co-worker. Sr. Beth asked me one question, “What are the fruits of your work?” She told me about the fruits of the Holy Spirit. According to Galatians 5:22, these are “love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.” The Catholic Church tradition also includes modesty, chastity and generosity. My response was a wake up call to me. I had no peace. I had no joy. I had no self-control for I was beginning to have evil thoughts while I worked at home. Finally, I decided to leave my job and let God take control of my life. I am still on the path of getting to know God more and His real purpose for me, but at least now I have peace and joy. God is truly awesome.
A fish pond in Thailand
Do you want to know more about the fruits of the Holy Spirit and how to be more fruitFULL this 2015? Take this 3-minute retreat. Have a happy, blessed, and a healthy new year! God bless us all!
