...retreat memories, day 2

Saturday, October 18, 2008

Our phones rang in intervals, and by 5:15 am, we were all awake, but too lazy to take a bath. By 7:20, we were all ready. We took a little detour in Ralph and Roger's 'manor' as they call it before we went to attend to Mass. Well, their place really looks like a townhouse compared to our 'beach house cottages'.

There were three scheduled talks for the day, although one seems to be more of an activity than a talk. Anyway, the first speaker went in front holding a guitar. I thought it was one of those boring speakers who could make you sleep in a matter of seconds. He first talked about the Prodigal Son, then him being a marijuana addict and dealer before, then he started talking about his real achievements in life. I was really touched by the way he talked about his family, especially his son. I really liked what he said about carrying your child as much as you can 'coz you'd miss it when you won't be able to in time. Then there was his song # 8: "...I don't wanna close my eyes, i don't wanna fall asleep, 'coz I'll miss you Robi, and I don't wanna miss a thing..." Then, the kid whispering to him "...You know what, you're the best dad in the world..." Then everything seemed to be a blur when I realized tears were already rolling down my eyes. Then he sang again, this time a Filipino version of "I Will Be Here" which made my cry even more. Then he asked us to hug our friends and I felt like I was relieved more than ever. After his wonderful song, I dried my tears and saw that the people in front of me were doing the same. Who would have thought these guys know how to cry as well. So yeah. Kuya Obet was the only speaker who really made me cry like that, and I can say he was one of those who really made a great impact on me.

The Amazing Race maybe was suppose to be fun, but to be honest, it was the most boring part that happened this day. Maybe because our group wasn't in the mood to unite so much and all. I can't believe Fadi was the only one who crossed the fire wall while some groups. only had two people left. So maybe it all depends on the group spirit.

We were also given a chance to confess. I'm not sure, but I think it has been a year since my last confession. And I was able to open up more, so I feel happy after.

The third talk in the afternoon was about Love, Sex, and Life. You know, the iKeepLoveReal talks. I thought it was going to be a repeat of what they told us before, it was different and actually more funny than what most of us had expected. Talking about funny, who wouldn't agree that the guy speaker was totally hilarious. I wouldn't be surprised if he becomes a stand-up comedian one day. But mind you, he's a doctor, although I'm not sure what field he specializes in.

We were given the rest of the afternoon for our one-on-one talks with our assigned facilitators. Then we kinda explored the place. Oh, and the InterCom phones were hidden because prank calls reached Fr. Mon's and even the owner's rooms late at midnight. Then we also discovered that there was a souvenir shop near the gate.

When we have nothing else to do, we just stayed in the room and talked and laughed and shared stories.

Then, finally after dinner, one of our most anticipated part of the retreat. We were first given candles. Even outside the Conference Room, while we were waiting for some more people, I felt so joyed being with my friends. As corny as it may get, I still have to say it feels good staring at the beautiful night sky glittering with pretty stars, hiding from paparazzi pics, posing for group and class pics.

We finally entered the room, and it was so dark when only a big candle is lighting the whole room. After everyone had their candles lighted, we got our envelopes and started reading our Palanca letters. I was really surprised to see my envelope with some 12 or so letters when I was really only expecting five. I was so happy. Reading those letters made me so happy.

After that, we had banana cupcakes with chocolate chips on top. And since, it's our last night, we were given an extra hour to spend good time with our dear friends. Of course, we had our own kalukohans. We had so much fun laughing our hearts out and singing at the top of our voices and laughing like we never knew any worries in the world. This was the best night I ever had with my friends and I'm sure everyone of us feels the same.