On the quiet afternoon of December 4, 2025, the community of Brgy. Calumbuyan gathered for their ICW Kamustahan. It wasn’t a day for grand speeches or loud proclamations. Instead, the circle became a space for something far more powerful: Gratitude.

When asked the simple question, “What is something you are thankful for?”, the answers that surfaced were deeply rooted in the realities of life—health, family, and the quiet dignity of survival.

Health and the Gift of Purpose

Aida opened her heart with a testimony of relief. Facing a potential medical crisis, she received the news she had been praying for:

“I am thankful that I didn’t need the operation for my gall bladder. I am thankful for every day that I am still alive.”

But beyond her physical health, Aida discovered a new appreciation for the rhythm of daily life. She realized that having tasks to do isn’t a burden, but a blessing.

“It’s actually nice to accomplish something every day, to have something that keeps me busy.”

Sometimes, wellness isn’t just about the absence of illness—it’s about the presence of purpose, no matter how simple the task.

The Horizon of Hope

Elsa echoed the sentiment of gratitude but shifted her gaze toward the future. For her, the “light” was the nearing milestone of her eldest child.

“Just a little longer, and my eldest will finally finish school.”

Her gratitude was also grounded in the grit of the present moment. She acknowledged the struggle, but celebrated the strength that gets her through it.

“I thank the Lord for the grace of each day—that somehow, I survive.”

Elsa’s reflection reminds us that survival is its own form of success. Every day we make it through is a stepping stone toward the dreams we hold for our families.

The Grace of “Just Being”

The gathering in Calumbuyan proved that you don’t need extraordinary events to feel blessed. The participants found joy in the “near misses” of surgery, the busyness of hands at work, and the promise of a child’s graduation.

In a world that often asks for “more,” the hearts in Calumbuyan taught us that “enough” is a beautiful place to be. As long as there is life, work to do, and grace for the day, there is always a reason to say thank you.