It has been four weeks since the public servants of New Lucena participated in the Inner Conditioning Workshop (ICW), and the transformation in their approach to service is evident. ICW not only provided tools for personal growth but also reshaped how they approach their duties in serving the community.

One participant shared, “ICW helped me change my attitude, to control my feelings or temper.” In the high-pressure environment of public service, emotions can easily become overwhelming. However, ICW has given participants a new level of emotional control. It is not about suppressing feelings but channeling them constructively rather than reactively. 

One Kagawad noted, “Before ICW, I was quick to react, but now, I don’t entertain gossip or immediate judgments. I know I’m doing my best for my constituents.” This shift has allowed public servants to take a more measured and thoughtful approach to their work.

Another reflection highlighted the newfound satisfaction in serving others, with one participant expressing, “If I do good, I feel better.” This realization underscores that the joy of public service no longer comes from external validation but from the internal reward of doing good. Helping farmers week after week has become a personal passion for some, done “without expecting anything in return.” This sense of purpose, reinforced by ICW, has brought renewed joy and fulfillment to their roles.

Faith has also taken on a stronger guiding role in decision-making for some participants. One remarked, “I believe God will give what is good for me.” This belief now serves as a compass in their interactions, reinforced by ICW’s teachings on maintaining a life free from conflict. By aligning their hearts with both service and faith, they have fostered more harmonious relationships within the community.

For others, the workshop has deepened their spiritual connection. A participant shared, “When I joined Divine Mercy, I realized I have a big role in society.” ICW widened this perspective, helping them see their role in the healing ministry not just as a responsibility, but as a mission. They have also begun guiding organizations through self-diagnoses, empowering them to understand their roles and contributions to the community. This wider focus has enhanced their capacity to serve more effectively.

The workshop has also been a catalyst for personal renewal, with one participant reflecting, “Thru ICW, I’ve found ways to renew myself and know myself better.” ICW was not just a temporary event but the start of continuous growth. The lessons learned during ICW have allowed participants to see their past trials as stepping stones to becoming more effective in their service to others. One noted that experiences like Lakaran have helped them realize how past challenges now serve them as they assist the community.

Looking back on these four weeks, the public servants of New Lucena are grateful for both the guidance they’ve received from ICW and the continued spiritual support. As one participant expressed, “I am thankful God is guiding me.” These reflections mark the beginning of ongoing self-renewal and deeper commitment to community service.

New Lucena’s public servants have always been focused on serving others, but now, thanks to ICW, they do so with renewed purpose, emotional control, and grace.