In Barangay Cabilauan, the recent ICW Kamustahan of CabiSMWA wasn’t just a meeting—it was a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. Amidst the daily grind of community service and personal challenges, three women—Gilian, Mercedes, and Divine—shared stories that highlighted a profound truth: while life’s obstacles are inevitable, they are never insurmountable when faced with faith and a supportive community.

The “Kamustahan” serves as a vital pause in the busy lives of these community leaders. It is a safe space where vulnerabilities are shared, and burdens are lightened through the simple act of listening.

Gilian: The Miracle of Faith

For Gilian, the week brought significant challenges, serving as a reminder that the path of life is rarely a straight line. She opened up about the pain that accompanies the process of overcoming obstacles, acknowledging that the journey can often hurt before it heals.

However, her perspective remains rooted in unshakable hope. “Walang problema kung walang solusyon” (There is no problem without a solution), she shared. Gilian emphasized that while the process is painful, the outcome of trusting the Divine is transformative. “If God chooses it, Manami gayud” (It is truly beautiful), she reflected.

Her takeaway for the group was a powerful call to spiritual prioritization: even if you lose everything else, never lose your connection with God. She reminded everyone that prayers, when offered from the heart, do not go unanswered.

Mercedes: Service Starts with Harmony

Mercedes, a dedicated Barangay Health Worker (BHW), highlighted the beauty of shared responsibility. Her story focused on the “Bayanihan” spirit alive within their team. She shared how the BHWs support one another, covering shifts for colleagues who have important personal matters to attend to. This flexibility allows them to rest and recharge without guilt.

This harmony extends from her work to her home. Mercedes expressed gratitude for the understanding between her, her husband, and their children. For her, domestic peace allows her to serve her community better. Her philosophy is simple yet profound: “The goodness of the Lord follows everything.” When one acts with a helpful heart, goodness naturally follows in all aspects of life.

Divine: Resilience in the Face of Scarcity

Divine brought a relatable and grounding reality to the circle, sharing her struggles with family dynamics and the financial pressure of college tuition. It is a burden known to many Filipino mothers, yet Divine refuses to be paralyzed by anxiety.

Her stance is one of pragmatic optimism. “Even though a lot of problems, ang lahat ay may paraan” (everything has a way/solution), she declared. Divine’s story serves as a reminder that resourcefulness and perseverance are key leadership traits. Her ability to look past the immediate lack and focus on finding the “paraan” (the way) inspires others to keep pushing forward despite financial constraints.

A Community of Solutions

The stories of Gilian, Mercedes, and Divine reflect the core essence of the ICW Kamustahan in Cabilauan. It is more than just a reporting of updates; it is a weaving of lives.

From Gilian’s spiritual anchoring, to Mercedes’ collaborative service, to Divine’s resilient problem-solving, CabiSMWA proves that true leadership is holistic. It acknowledges the pain, celebrates the support, and always finds a way forward. As these leaders return to their duties, they do so not just with strategies, but with a renewed heart.