Sunflowers Bloom in Summer:
Most important lessons learned from the children...
“Hope... that amidst all the uncertainties and frustrations in life, there are far greater, beautiful things in store for everyone. The children also taught me to be a responsible kuya (older brother), how to be a part of a family whose members are bound by love, compassion and understanding, putting aside all differences.” - Jeremy dela Cruz
“A hug signifies much of what is inside one's heart. I was really moved when a child gave me a very spontaneous hug then a ‘thank you' after I cleaned his wounds... Therapy might be to give one a hand and to walk together telling stories – going up and down the stairs with one of my clients had more meaning for the child than the therapies. In those moments, he would insist to hold my hand... Respect is all one needs to start a personal change. A child taught me that when I asked sorry for something I did during a play.” - Fr. Geraldo Costa, CICM
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“The children taught me the value of a simple life and how one can be happy even with simple things. Even though they went through so much difficulties in their young lives, they express such joy and contentment when they are simply playing, and we got to share that joy with the kids during the camp.” - Criselda Marzo
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“Recognize and thank the Lord for every little blessing that you receive. They may not completely make you happy but they could slowly fill that emptiness in you.” - Aileen Jam Mendoza
"The kids taught me that no matter how young (or in my case, how old) you are, no obstacle and problem is too big. We all have strengths that will help us overcome whatever problems we may encounter. Also, they taught me to appreciate my blessing, no matter how simple and small they are.” - Rosemond Joyce Ruiz
“That my problems are petty compared to what they have been through. They made me see and appreciate how good my life has been (despite the bumps along the way) and that I should not complain... Be generous in showing your appreciation of children – touch them, make them feel special.” - Mary Catherine Peña
“The most important lesson is the key concept of “the NOW” in Gestalt Psychology... I have developed a deeper appreciation for the present and more importantly with the present and the positive potentials of the children I worked with. Once these positive potentials are discovered and affirmed, these process add to their resiliencies especially that they are in a very special situation – that of being away from their family. The past is gone and the future has yet to reveal itself. Where I find myself useful and grateful for would be the present.” - Triceayn Marie de Guzman |
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“Being with the children reminded me that despite life's imperfections, happiness can be found in the most trivial things. Adults though we are, there are times when we need to be in touch with the child within if we have to keep away feelings of bitterness and cynicism amidst trying circumstances.” - Faridah Kristi Cabbigat
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