All my climbs for the first
quarter of 2013 are all comebacks and these include my return to Pico de Loro
for the fifth time in Ternate, Cavite. You might be asking "why keep on
returning?"
Each climb is worth joining
especially when done and shared when people who have a special part in your
life. This "re-climb" to Pico de loro was for a cause
and at the same time a fellowship
activity with some brothers and sisters in Lingkod Makati, Alabang and Quezon
City. Lingkod, as mentioned in my previous posts, is a Catholic community of
young professionals which aim is to christify the workplace.
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| summit of Pico de Loro |
Thankfully, we were given a very
fine weather and a zero precipitation for such weekend. We were a group
composed of 30 participants, majority of which were first timers. Everyone
seemed to enjoy the trek even though they experienced some difficulties since
it was their first time. I honor them for taking the challenge and for
finishing the traditional back-trail trek.
There were many campers who
climbed on that day. We first spent some time and stopped for our lunch at the
falls (which seems to be almost dry) so we
were only able to arrive at the camp site by around 2pm. Hence, the only space
left for us was the open area facing the summit and the mountainous view. It
was good but we had to face the strong winds and so our tents were greatly
challenged.
Twice have I gone to the summit.
Two batches for this group: the first batch witnessed the sunset and the second
one, though late with the literal sunrise, have witnessed the freshness of the
morning at the top. Everyone seemed to
enjoy the view. Well, who could resist to say "wow" to the 360-degree
magnificent view of Pico de Loro..
The entire climb was sooooo Lingkod--
full of lingkod ways. Service to one
another and a lot of life-giving sharings and bonding.
In our reflections during the
socials, we've come up with the same insights. Indeed the journey throughout
the trek is like the journey of life, you have to persevere and never give up
since a wonderful promise waits in the end, the summit. Just like in our Christian life, it is never
easy yet the Lord's promise shall prevail and one must hold on to that truth in
order to reach the goal you've been persevering for-- to be with the Lord at
the top.
The whole climb was also full of laughter
and amusing jokes. Being able to bond with the brothers and sisters and of course with lots of guests was indeed fun!
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| happy trekking groupmates! |
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| The group just before leaving the campsite |
My message to my two close
sisters in Lingkod Alabang, Shirlyn and Nins:
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| Me, Shirlyn, Nins --- "Good Morning!" :) |
Thanks too for the friendship and a weekend full of service and
bonding. Indeed we are united not only in the passion to climb and love for the nature but
most of all, we are united in our faith in Christ. We were also able to have
opportunity to evangelize and share with others the way of life we have in
Lingkod.
To all my brothers and sisters
who joined us, thank you so much for your presence, support,
love and service. Until next time! :)
