They say life is the best teacher, but sometimes, it throws in extra homework—like the lessons we learned at the Inner Conditioning Workshop (ICW). This transformative experience didn’t just teach us to reflect; it gave us a life-changing realization.Here are some gems from the Sibagat participants:
Myrna Buera: Inhale, Exhale, and Marital Carpooling
Every night, I practice my favorite exercise: inhale and exhale. It’s not just about breathing—it’s about reflecting on how blessed I am. I have a job, a supportive (albeit sometimes misunderstood) husband, and the gift of life every single day.During our Monday convocation, Vice Mayor Maria Liza Evangelista said, ‘What’s inside our heart will manifest outside.’ Wow, that hit me. I realized my emotions used to dictate my actions, especially when I was sulking like a toddler denied candy. But thanks to ICW, I’ve learned to let things go (well, at least 70% of the time). Now, my goal is to pass these lessons on to my kids and even my husband—who might need a refresher on understanding my cute tampo moments.“Breathe Deeply and Appreciate the Small Wins.” Even if your husband doesn’t get why you’re mad about that thing he said five days ago, life’s still good.
Virginia Timosa: From Angry Sister to Grateful Daughter
“Sometimes, emotions are like toddlers—loud, messy, and impossible to control. When my younger sister sold my land (yes, MY LAND) last February, I went from zero to volcano. However, ICW taught me the importance of emotional release and forgiveness.After my anger cooled, I swallowed my pride (and maybe a lump in my throat) and asked for her forgiveness—even though I was the aggrieved party! Let me tell you, it wasn’t easy, but the peace it brought was worth more than the land itself. Lesson? Anger doesn’t solve anything, but humility can heal even the deepest wounds. (Though a heartfelt ‘Sorry, Ate’ wouldn’t hurt, sis!)“Forgiveness Is Free, but the Rewards Are Priceless.” Sometimes, the bigger person isn’t the one with the title—it’s the one who says, “Let’s move forward.
Ronie: The Road Less Traveled
They say every choice has a price, and boy, do I feel it. Leaving Iloilo and my teaching career to take on this mission in Sibagat has been the toughest decision of my life.Last November 11, when my grandson asked, ‘Lolo, where are you? It’s my birthday,’ my heart broke. My lower self screamed, ‘What were you thinking, leaving everything?’ But my higher self reminded me that this is the road less traveled—a path dedicated to sustainable development and societal transformation. It’s not easy, but it’s meaningful. And while I miss birthdays and celebrations, I know my work here makes a difference. Still, a virtual ‘Happy Birthday’ doesn’t quite have the same warmth as a hug.“The Road Less Traveled Isn’t Paved with Regret.”Sacrifice doesn’t mean losing; it means choosing a greater purpose.
Final Thought
Life, like ICW, is full of twists and turns. We cry, we laugh, and sometimes, we just breathe. But through it all, we learn that growth happens when we pause, reflect, and keep moving forward—even if it’s down the road less traveled.So, as Myrna would say, inhale… exhale… and maybe carpool with someone who loves you unconditionally (even if you argue over directions).
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