Bangon, Pilipinas!
The image above is a photo of the painting of the late Filipino artist, Joey Velasco, which I took two years ago. The painting was lent by Velasco's widow to the University of Santo Tomas during its Quadricentennial Retreat held at the SMX, Mall of Asia in Pasay City.
The morning after that horrifying experience and the incredible devastation left by Super Typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan) in the Visayas, we, Filipinos, dropped to our knees in national mourning. But, as we take and endure the 'kick in the gut' of the horrific aftermath of our cruel visitor named Yolanda, we cling steadfastly to our faith - in God and in each other... and in the global community that seeks to spread goodwill through sincere expresssion of grief and generous acts to lend a hand. We seek God's merciful face as we gather ourselves to rise again using borrowed strength from our friends in the global community.
With God and true friendship, there is always hope. And with hope, there is always life... and joy. The Philippines will rise again... and, with our friends' support, we will be one happy nation, basking in God's amazing grace once again! Amen.
Bangon, Visayas! Bangon, Pilipinas!
***
