Hummingbirds and Me

Editor’s Thoughts: …………….……. “Hummingbirds And Me” .… by Raylene Ann Rodrigo-Baumgart

Featured Items: 1. From Poverty to Washington DC …………………………………………..………….…….. by Pastor Mars Sigue 2. A Poem: “Aging Journey” ………………………………………….……………………………. by Luz Espiritu-Brown 3. Hummingbirds Nest ………………………………………………………………..... by Raylene Rodrigo-Baumgart 4. From Russia With Love ……………………………………………….…………………..… by Ainor Aganeo-Ombiga 5. From the Hilltop to Southern Thailand …………………………………….………………..….. by Adelino Libato 6. From the Hilltop to Beautiful Canada ……………………………………………. by Raytim Layao-Mananquil 7. From A Pioneer’s Memoirs ……………..…………………………………………………..………. by Nelson Ornopia 8. Suicide …………………………………………………………….………………………..… by Ardys Joy Caballero-Gadia

SULADS Corner …......................................…. “True Wealth” ……………... Mr & Mrs. Payaron, Slong, Davao Patch of Weeds: ……………………………….……………………………………………………….…..…….……………….…….. Jesse Colegado

LIFE of a Missionary: ……….…………………..….. “Samoa Fale” …………………………………...………….. Romy Halasan

CLOSING: Announcements |From The Mail Bag| Prayer Requests | Acknowledgements Meet The Editors |Closing Thoughts | Miscellaneous

Editor’s Thoughts: “Hummingbirds And Me”

Raylene Ann Rodrigo-Baumgart

hen I think of hummingbirds, the words that come to my mind are: agility, freedom, joy, adaptability, courage, resilience, wonder, energy, happiness, beauty, love, and a seeker. Just consider the wondrous and amazing journey of the epic flight of a

hummingbird. Hummingbirds make epic journeys in their lives traveling long distances from Brazil all the way to Central America and parts of the United States. Whenever they hear that instinctive call, they knew it is migration time and they knew they need to cross many obstacles and against all odds. Remarkable planners, they will know where every feeder or flower is along their paths. At first glance they seem tiny and defenseless, however, they are feisty and will defend what they love and will not back down from a fight. What they may lack in physical strength and power, they make up in courage and bravery and strength of mind, heart and spirit. A tiny little bird with high energy, constantly needing to feed and replenish its energy during these long trips because of its

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high metabolic rate. They are extremely skilled at flight, as they can dart forward, backward, sideways and are the only bird that can hover.

What do we learn from these hummingbirds? As I read all the written articles and descriptions about these tiny wonders, I cannot help but pause and wonder how we, as humans can relate to what they do and improve our ways so we can live awesome productive lives, like them – small in structure but fearless and not worrying about their tomorrows, but simply preparing themselves for their instinctive journeys and completely depending on God’s providence.

I still think a hummingbird is one of nature’s fascinating creature. This agile and beautiful bird, although tiny in size can really make an impact. It doesn’t make its small stature, a limitation. Its small size allows it to fly like a helicopter, fly backwards, forwards, sideways and even completely upside down if needed. It can fly up to 30 mph and dive as fast as 60 mph. Despite tremendous odds, they courageously take the necessary journey of their lives to go south to escape the cold. It has been studied that it is not the lack of food that tells a hummingbird to go south. It is the bird’s internal, biological calendar that knows the time of immigration is approaching, and the hummingbird starts to pack on fat, which will fuel its journey. And then it gets an overwhelming urge to migrate. The amount of food in the environment does not affect the migratory urge. In fact, the birds leave their summer home while food is still plentiful. That way, they are assured of finding also more food along the way. This is how they plan their flight – wisely.

They are the tiniest birds in the world. They average 8.5cm long and can weigh between the weight of 1 and 8 pennies (2 and 20 grams. A penny weighs 2.5 grams.). Hopefully, human beings instead of fixating on our limitations – like the hummingbirds, we should focus on capitalizing on our strengths. The hummingbirds can be extremely aggressive. They are known to lunge at bigger birds to defend their territory. As human beings, may we take inspiration from hummingbirds and with courageous hearts, stand up to our beliefs. Hummingbirds also have extremely good memory and can remember the exact locations of all of the flowers and feeders that they have visited, thus making this helpful when planning return visits. Hummingbirds are very efficient. When a hummingbird sleeps, they enter “torpor,” a deep sleep that helps them conserve energy. Then I asked, “Do we humans, make the most of our time but when the day is done, relax and refresh? Or do we always remain busy physically and mentally and drive us to exhaustion?” Hummingbirds are the most flexible and adaptable birds. They need to eat several times an hour, usually every 20 minutes or so, but they do not fixate on just one or two food sources. They are aware of thousands of possible flowers or feeder at any given time and they can change their course in an instant. Humans still need to learn to stay intuitive and be ready to adapt and change plans as necessary. We need to learn to try eating new kinds of food from other culture and eat what is available. A hummingbird wings beat about 70 times per second (200 times per second when diving). They also have hearts five times bigger than a human in proportion to its body. A hummingbird also breathes 20 times more than a human. (250 compared to 12 breaths per minute). An average

hummingbird’s heart rate is more than 1,200 beats per minute. Strangely though, the hummingbirds can hear and see better than humans. They can see ultraviolet light. Hummingbirds have little to no sense of smell. The hummingbird’s unique, iridescent colors set it apart from other birds and they are able to adjust how brightly they shine. The coloring of the feathers does not come from pigmentation, but instead from prism-like cells within the top layers of feathers. The colors we see depend on the angle of light when it hits the feathers. The average small hummingbird has around 940 feathers. When light catches the feathers, the hummingbird shines and glimmers like no other. As human beings, can we easily let our true colors shine brightly as needed? Dennis Dreves, an Australian living in Canada who has served as a director of the Creation Science Association of Canada said, “The hummingbird is a very good example of the evidence for God as Creator. All the hummingbird’s features would have to work perfectly from the beginning for it to have survived – long bill, special tongue, unique rapid wingbeat – in order to be able to gather its highly efficient energy food. The migratory behavior – energy storage, flight endurance, long distance navigation, must also have been perfect from the beginning so the adults could reach their nesting grounds and return with their young. I cannot doubt the hand of God the Creator in the design of this remarkable creature. Truly the hummingbird is God’s tiny miracle.”

From Poverty to Washington D.C.

Pastor Mars Sigue

y dream as a young child was to study at Mountain View College. And although poverty was the reason for not reaching such a young man’s dream, it did not stop me from trying to achieve it. I resorted to doing three years of canvassing work at Butuan City.

Fortunately while trying to sell books, I also got involved with local evangelistic meetings and Bible studies which I always enjoyed. I ended up having more souls baptized than saving enough money for my educational fund. During my third summer of canvassing, I did not have enough sales. There were many times when I did not have money even for food. Having a hungry growling stomach was normal for me. But thanks to wonderful brethren from churches, I got food during church potlucks and “bayanihan” work. I went home at the end of that summer and spoke to my parents about my interest to study at MVC. My Mom sensing my sincere and deep desire immediately went to a corner of the room where the only money she had was in a bamboo “savings bank.” Striking the bamboo with a hammer, coins came out. My Mom picked up the scattered coins on the floor and counted them. It amounted to P55.70 pesos (about US $1.25 at the present rate). I had tears of joy as my Mom wholeheartedly handed me all her savings. It was not easy for her to do so, but she knew that it was the only way for me to achieve my dream. With the money from my Mom, I hitched a ride on a big logging truck from Butuan City to Cagayan de Oro. From there I found a cargo truck that delivered logs from Bukidnon to Cagayan and returning back to Bukidnon with a load of dried fish for sale. I felt really blessed to find one kind driver who willingly agreed to take me and drop me off at Bagontaas. Arriving in Bagontaas, I realized I had another big problem. There were no vehicles I could take to MVC. I had no choice but to walk. And walk I did. The unpaved road was muddy that time of the year and I knew I had to save the only pair of shoes I had. Taking off my shoes, I walked barefooted all the way to MVC. Arriving in the campus, there was no one to welcome me. I begged the dean of the Boys’ Dormitory to allow me to sleep in the hallway while waiting to register for my classes the following day. Thankfully, he consented. And boy, did I sleep well after the torturous ride on the logging truck and the long hike from Bagontaas to MVC. The next day, I took a cold shower to refresh myself and without breakfast, I went to the business office to register. Going to the treasurer for the registration approval, I was asked how much money I had with me. I pulled out the remaining P50.00 from the money given by my Mom, after spending P5.70 for my food during the three days of travel. The treasurer said, “Your money is not sufficient. In order to be registered you need P75.00 pesos. You cannot be registered today.”

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I then asked him, “Can you please value my body for the remaining P25.00 pesos to make it into P75.00 because I will do whatever work you will give me”. He said, “No! That is not possible. You just need to go home and look for more money.” Disappointed and in tears, I went to the Loggers’ Village and I asked the Lord for His strength in this situation. I walked around the whole campus singing and praying the whole day until dark that evening. I distinctly heard the voice telling me “Do not go home. This is the school of the Lord, You are a child of God. He will make a way. Just stay and study.” “But can I be registered?” I asked myself. The next day, I found myself in the sawmill where I noticed people working. Having nothing else to do, I worked there without any permission. I cleaned up the area and tried to help operating the 5,000 RPM chainsaw. I worked all day, helping in whatever needed to be done. After 2 weeks of work they realized I was such a wonderful worker, so they made me stay as a working student. Still penniless and trying to save, every morning I would go to the cafeteria and begged from the cafeteria workers for the “bread ends” that were not

served to the students but rather were usually gathered for the chickens. That was my free breakfast and the only meal for the day for the next 3 solid weeks while working in the sawmill.

One afternoon I had a terrible accident at work. While slicing the lumber with the chainsaw, I became out balanced due to hunger. I had no energy or strength for such hard labor. I tried to stop the machine with my right hand but my hand simply smashed into it. Bleeding and in

great agony, I was rushed to the clinic and the nurse rudely declared that it was not an accident but just a case of carelessness. She further said, “Tanga kasi yan.” I continued to work at the sawmill using my left hand. On February 21, 1969, the College Treasurer sent me an invitation to see him in his office. With sawdust on my clothes, hands and feet, I stood at his office and was told the most wonderful news. The college voted to accept me as a college student. I was able to enroll and study and work at the same time. As a student of Mountain View College, I had worked in numerous departments wherever I was needed. I enjoyed working in the cafeteria with Miss Rallos where I had the choice of what I can eat. There I got to know all the students since everyone had to eat. I became the famous “Kuya Mars” with a big smile. Then I worked at DXCR, my favorite job of all. I was the first announcer when it went on air for the first time. I finished my Bachelor’s Degree in 1975 without owing any single cent to the college. After graduation, I was hired to work in Mindanao Sanitarium and Hospital then later, called to join the Adventist University of the Philippines as an instructor at the Graduate School-MPH Program. Few years after, I was called to join the North Philippine Union Mission, and later hired as a Church Pastor at Fil-Am SDA Church in Orlando, Florida. But God has always great plans for those who are faithful. One day, I got the call to work as the Senior Pastor at the Filipino American Capital SDA Church at Maryland and later called to serve as an IDE missionary to Africa. Today, my wife Beth (nee Binondo) and I are back in Washington DC to retire. And in all these moments of being able to serve God in His vineyard, I give God all the glory and honor. He was with me all throughout my life especially from the MVC hilltop to where I am now. And I “praise God from whom all blessings flow.”

Aging Journey

Submitted by Luz Espiritu Brown

THE JOYS OF AGING By Joan Murray

The joys of aging go like this.

You reap what you invested in your offspring.

As you watch with awe them spread their wings.

You have no one to tell you what to do. Now the foot is in the other shoe.

God willing, you own your own home.

So no worriesabout any bank loan.

At work, you're at the top of your game. But can think of retiring all the same.

You have time to spend writing poetry. Instead of emptying a toddler's potty.

Although the bones may creak a bit. You can still boogie if you take a fit.

Leisure time is yours to spend. As you reunite with old friends.

Now that you know yourself inside out.

You're at peace with you and those about.

Although alone, if you believe in love and care, the world's your oyster if you dare.

Gosh, on reflection, we're doing well.

I'm suddenly under old age's spell.

Hummingbirds Nests By Raylene Rodrigo-Baumgart

have always been fascinated with hummingbirds. But it wasn’t until a good friend of mine showed me a hummingbird’s nest in her azalea bush that I got really interested and went through the different websites getting all information about them. Like a crown jewel, the

nest of a hummingbird is one of the great wonders in all of nature. They are so tiny, yet so perfect. Few of us have ever seen a hummingbird nest. This is because they are nearly impossible to find. From the ground, they look like another bump on a branch. From above, an umbrella of leaves conceals them. And from the side, they look like a tiny knot, quilted with lichens, plant down and fibers. Though each of the 17-hummingbird species that breed in North America builds slightly different nests in various habitats, they have much in common.

Building hummingbird’s nest is a real engineering feat by the female hummers without any help from the male. They build velvety, compact cups with spongy floors and elastic sides that stretch as the young grow. They weave together twigs, plant fibers, flimsy dried leaves and spider silk as threads to bind their nests together and anchor them to a chosen foundation. Their eggs are about the size of navy beans or Tic Tac mints, so the nests are very hard to spot since they are so tiny and wisely camouflaged. I can just imagine how complicated building such a nest can be. Every year after migrating to breeding grounds, a hummingbird’s first job is to eat. After refilling its energy and meeting with a fella, the female hummingbird will immediately start to build a nest. Did you know that only the female hummingbirds build the nest for the young? We always picture those attractive colors when we think of hummingbirds, but those colorful ones are the males. Although the females are duller in color, they are the real heroes in building nest and taking care of the babies. The males do not chip in for any contribution from their end, and hence, the female does everything right from building the nests to raising her babies. He may be around defending

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the feeding territory and sharing the nest with her, he does not contribute any work to it. The time period between building the nest until the time that the hatchlings leave home takes about 5-8 weeks.

It is of utmost importance that a perfect location be chosen Female hummingbirds do not like to use regular bird house as they are too confining. She looks for a place that is well off the ground to prevent predators such as ants, snakes and big birds. So generally, females build their nests 10 to 90 feet high, usually in shrubs or trees with a few exceptions. And the nest must be sheltered from strong winds to prevent the teeny baby hummingbirds from being blown away. She will need a good base like a “Y’ or at crossed-branch of a tree or bush. She will test the strength of a prospective site by repeatedly landing on it and clinging to it. A place with big leaves over the top to shelter from the sun and rain is ideal. Since temperature is such an issue in raising baby hummingbirds, the female may prefer higher altitudes and locations close to bodies of water where the weather is cooler.

She is also very particular in choosing the material for the nests. She prefers soft materials like moss or lichen or cotton fluffs, dryer lint, silk cotton fibers, light tiny feathers and leaf hairs. She will bring these back to her nest a little at a time gluing them together with spider webs. The spider webs make terrific glue allowing the nest to be flexible as the babies grow. They also make

it easier for the mother hummingbird to repair the nest when damaged. She will make sure the lighter parts of the nest are in the sun, while the darker parts of the nest are in the shade, blending it in with the surroundings. They are the smartest and smallest architects and can build on anything. Their great minds make them design these intricate nests. Don't be surprised if you notice one female hummingbird stealing nesting material from another female hummingbird. This is common practice among hummingbirds. When a mother hummingbird is gathering the materials for her nest, she will carry the items in her beak. When she arrives at the nest, Mama Hummingbird will painstaking tuck the material into the fork of the branches to make the base of her nest. When she carries the spider webs to the nest, you will notice them all around her beak, under her chin, and across her breast. She will use her chin and body to press the spider webs and material into her nest so that every piece will go exactly where she wants it. This is just to give you an idea how small the nest is.

Blue-throated hummingbird’s nests are often built on electric wire inside or outside some cabins. Calliope hummingbirds will build series of two, or three or even four nests on top of each other, often attached to a conifer cone or some huge dense flowers. No matter where they build the nests or no matter what type of fibers or materials they used, they build carefully, meticulously thinking only of the welfare of their baby hummingbirds. EDITOR’S NOTE: Some of these info were taken from Wikipedia as well as a compilation of hummingbird info from Audubon and pictures have been on my collection for many years from google)

From Russia With Love By Ainor Aganeo Ombiga

fter graduation from MVC –School of Nursing in 1993, I felt so lost because we could not take the Board Examinations that summer as they were scheduled on a Sabbath. We had to wait until December which I thought could work out on our favor, giving us more time

to study. After passing the exams, begin the difficult task of looking for a job. First, I worked in Dr. Levi Pagunsan’s Clinic for a while and then I transferred to Iligan Medical Center as a trainee for their Dialysis Department. In 1996, I decided to try my luck and begin the adventurous move to Manila. Just like any nurse who aspires to go abroad or look for opportunities of better pay, my turn came. While there, I went on concert tours around Luzon, promoting my album. It was during one of these tours that I landed a job as an English tutor at AIIAS. I was happy with my life. Tutoring Korean kids on the weekdays and going on concert tours during weekends was ideal for me. I get to enjoy my love for singing and then have a job during the week as well. I was actually earning four more times than a regular nurse in a hospital setting. So to me, life was great!

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One day, somebody told me to meet a missionary from Russia for an interview. They needed volunteer teachers to serve in Sakhalin, Russia for at least two years. I was hesitant but I prayed about it and thought to myself, “Well, it is just an interview. I may not even get a job offer.” But I was wrong! I was hired right on the spot and was told to make all the preparations for the adventure. I was in total shock! I then called my parents and my then boyfriend (now husband Toto). I was told about the risks, advantages and disadvantages of accepting this job offer. One bothersome reality is that Russia have very harsh winters and growing up in a tropical l country would require such a huge adjustment period. Then I was also warned that people there are not open to tourists, and more so to missionaries. We were warned not to mention the word “missionary” and instructed to always use the description, volunteer teachers instead. I had ambivalent feelings about the situation. Although scared, I was also excited about venturing out to a new country, new culture and all the joy and possibilities of experiencing life as a missionary. SO, I finally said, “Yes.” The processing took place immediately. Passport, visas, and all the requirements had to be met. All went well. I was supposed to go with another volunteer teacher who was a music major. I thought this was a perfect opportunity. She can play the piano and I can sing, so we will be perfect partners. Our first stop was in Korea, where we stayed for three days. Then finally, our departure date for Sakhalin came. I was so excited! I was restless. “Finally, this “provinciana” is going to places”, I thought to myself. While at the Korean airport, while we were all sitting together, our flight was called for boarding. We all lined up and boarded. Unfortunately, my partner and I got separated from the group and we found ourselves on another transfer shuttle bus to the plane. I asked the other passengers where we were going but nobody understood not spoke English. I started to panic. I had a feeling that something was wrong! Then my partner started shivering and then crying. I kept asking and yelling at the driver to stop the bus and let us out but to no avail. A fellow passenger next to me said, “Japan.” So we panicked realizing we could end up in Japan instead of Russia. Finally, the bus came to a halt and everyone scurried out. My partner was still wailing. We hurried to a land steward who told us to get back to the bus so the bus can take us to the right plane. The flight was delayed of course because of us. The Korean missionaries were so relieved to finally see us. We looked like lost sheep, frightened and drenched with both tears and

sweat. We whispered a prayer of thanks at the same time. I felt so embarrassed and stupid. This experienced made me realized the importance of always staying alert and focused in all that I do. We arrived in Sakhalin, Russia towards the end of the summer season, but because we came from the tropics and not used to such kind of temperature, we were always chilled to the bones. That first week was also raining almost every day. We resided in an apartment building which was just 25-30 minutes walk to the school. Since we were newcomers, we were escorted by another male Korean volunteer in the morning and afternoon from home to school and back to home. By the end of the week, we were familiar with the daily route so we no longer needed the guide. One afternoon, as we were going home from school, it started showering, so my partner and I opened our huge umbrella and started frolicking in the pouring rain. We were skipping while singing, “Raindrops keep falling on my head”. There was nobody on the road but us and then suddenly a big burly guy appeared from nowhere and hissed, “tikho” meaning, “Be quiet!” Of course we did not understand him then, but the look in his eyes was enough to silence us. His face was covered with cuts and bruises. He looked like he just had a fight with somebody. His hands were inside his jacket, so I wasn’t sure if he was holding a gun. I could not take my eyes off him so instead of walking past us, he came back and went straight to my face and started talking to me in Russian with his very angry voice and menacing face. I was so scared, I started shivering. While he was hurling unfamiliar words to my face, I signaled my partner to escape. I thought if I get killed, at least someone will be able to survive and tell our story. Of course, I was praying under my breath. It was not until I lowered my head in prayer, that the guy finally left me. We learned later never to look at anybody in the eyes especially because we were foreigners. That experience left me shaken. I thought I would end up being mugged or shot in a Russian street. We learned a big lesson that day: not to attract attention by singing loud or even humming down the streets. We also learned that talking in a foreign language can trigger or arouse suspicion from the locals. Not everyone there are happy to welcome strangers to their land. We learned to be extra careful with our words and actions. We learned that people there are more reserved and not very

friendly. They do not even wave or smile when you meet them in the streets. They simply greet each other “Good Morning’ or “Good afternoon” without any eye contact.

These are just a few of the many experiences I have as a missionary to a strange land. There were lots of lessons learned and a lot of knowledge gained. But one this is certain, praying directly to God in any strange and new situation has always proven effective. My prayers and the prayers of those I love have brought me to Russia and back home. And the memories are still fresh in my mind. Perhaps someday, I can be back, not to work but to be a vacationer, trying to retrace my footsteps and now finally enjoying it without fear of the unknown.

From the Hilltop to Southern Thailand by Adelino Libato

nder the Pines” with the chirping cicadas and whistling or howling winds, two hearts were relaxing amidst the biting coldness of the early morning breeze. The panoramic view of MVC had largely impacted and contributed immeasurably to the initial blending

of these hearts--- from special relationship to the holy wedlock. This special relationship led me to request permission from Papang Jose Toledanes, the father of my spouse. It was a lot easier for me to ask “permission” with “ensured connection” rather than “permission” first without “ensured connection”. Unfortunately, my case was the reverse: “connection” first before father’s “permission”. Obviously, it was an infraction of EGW’s advice. The good thing was, with choking voice, trembling knees and cold feet; I had mustered the courage to talk to Charity’s father. To face Papang Jose was a big achievement. Thus our drama of our love life originated at the MVC hilltop and continues to this day at Central Thailand. Without the hilltop, what would life have been? The journey in life has been and will always be checkered with ups and downs with the addition of the tremendous blessing and little pleasures here and there every now and then. To scribble all the ups and downs will mean an endless endeavor. Writing books has no end as the Bible has noted. It is unquestionable that there is a plus factor in underscoring those experiences that highlight optimism, divine intervention (leading and protection), as well as staying in the faith. This may demand that we can ignore negativity since the world is full of such. By God’s grace, we can get this off our chest. To do this will imply a big shift in paradigm as regards the natural tendencies such as gossiping, crab mentality, jealousy, low self-esteem, and other spiritual killers. By extension, this may also lead us to avoid toxic elements whether they are thoughts, actions, and people. In life, there are times when we encounter unforgettable stuff that may offer value-added twists in life. We just can’t allow them to fall into the cracks and just place them behind our backs. We can’t afford to forget them since they bring joy and positivism to our systems. Definitely, there are wonderful lessons to learn and pitfalls to avoid. It’s easy for us to slide into thinking of the ugly past and keep on beating ourselves. That’s simplistically developing the attitude of a victim mentality. Undeniably, there are many dark segments in life that may drive us to unwholesome and unnecessary uncouth comments and tirades. A complete waste of time and energy! But how many times have we been there? Instead, we can go down on our knees and spend more time alone with God. Truly, indeed, it’s only by God’s grace! How to be candid and transparent will be a challenge as regards to Life’s Journey amidst the conflict between Christ and Satan. Undoubtedly, there are dark sections (illnesses, discouragements, spiritual defeats, etc.) that only God’s ears must hear as EGW puts it. This concurs with the Bible’s point that the hearts of men are “continually evil”. Recalling them to blame ourselves may drive us into crazy situations and even depression. Those who are gripped

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with the passion for mission have felt the tremendous pull from the powers of darkness to obstruct and disrupt the Gospel commission. It is easier said than done when one is in the fiery furnace of trials such as terminal cancer, life sentence, spouse’s death, irreversible setbacks, and more. The world seems unfair since we don’t get equal share of the ups and downs. Some have just extra-ordinarily too much on their plates. And we must pray for them for God’s will and healing. In this world, there is equity but never authentic equality. Let’s face it cheerfully! It appears that our only safety is to stay in faith with the Living and the Written Word. “Life’s Journey” as advocated by Editor Raylene, has become a captivating venue for praising and thanking God for His marvelous divine interventions. Further, this offers deep reflection and positive insight in our walk with the Master Teacher. The call to model Him just seems impossible without the Spirit possessing us. He knows we are all lost without Him. What matters is to be always on the “right side.” Now, we only get a glimpse of His love and goodness. Although, we may wonder of His demeanor when He said to the Pharisees, “Woe unto you vipers” and “whited sepulchers”, we are assured of tears of love in His eyes. Jesus’s love has always been the center of our Life’s Journey. Without Him, our journey must have been sour and bitter. In fact, in our Life’s Journey His amazing hand has paved the road with unimaginable surprises such as turnarounds and reversals on our favor amidst the storms. This article is the first series on our Life’s Journey if I may dub this. To delve into such fortuitous and curvaceous landscape of life suggests retrospection, introspection, and anticipation. From my

own perspective of my team’s Life’s Journey, I’ve attempted to note 10 Checkpoints. Along the way, we rubbed elbows with versatile and well-branded people. Our fond memories of them bring to mind energizing nuggets. These Checkpoints serve as mileposts full of challenges and spiritual insights. Each Checkpoint deserves to have a book written for generations to come and learn life’s realities. Absolutely, there are insightful case studies that are worth retelling. These may project the reminder that life is spiced with reasonable degree of humility. Hence, it may seem justifiable to break down our Life’s Journey into 10 Checkpoints with 3 Sections. The introductory “briefies” of the first two Checkpoints (As MVC Neophytes) are noted as follows: 1. MVC Student Life: Our authentic Life’s Journey began at MVC during years of great panoramic

view. It was at the Hilltop where I met my lovely and outspoken spouse, Charity, with “boisterous” laughter once in a while. Further, when I was reading the Messages to the Young People one Sabbath afternoon, I stopped on page 56 and pondered upon. Then, I made my decision to accept Jesus as my personal Savior through baptism. MVC’s ambience, people, and experiences always find a soft spot in our hearts. The super relationships of people and various activities were just full of life skills and sweet memories.

2. NMM District Work: With two solid offers to work after graduation, I opted to connect with Northern Mindanao Mission (NMM) with headquarters located in Cagayan de Oro City. It was here that Charity, quit her teaching job from Matutum View Academy and joined the new ministry. Hiking mountains for 21 kilometers and crossing the “Cagayan de Oro River” for 21 times were some of the thrills worth retelling. The motorcycle accident that led me to have the “sweetest sleep” 3 times was unforgettable. I could hear the numerous shouts of Pastor Francis Aguilar, “Don’t sleep, don’t sleep.” At that time, death for me was just like a sweet sleep. Suddenly, everything was reduced to insignificance- my new motorcycle, my watch, my cracked helmet, etc. What was paramount in my little consciousness? Two serious things stood dominant:

a. 1“Am I ready for Jesus to come?” and b. 2. My child was too young to be fatherless. It would go without saying that my young

spouse would have another dimension to restart life.

In the upcoming articles, more snapshots will follow with our Life’s Journey as denominational teachers and tentmakers. As denominational teachers, we’ll cover Checkpoints 3 to 7 such as follows: 3. MMA Teaching Work (Manticao); 4. SMA Teaching Work (Davao Sur); 5. MVC Teaching Work; 6. AIIAS Teaching Work (Cavite); and 7. EIS as Missionaries (Bangkok).

As tentmakers, we’ll try to highlight Checkpoints 8 to 10 which are titled as: 8. Bangkok & Central Thailand Consultant; 9. Siam International School (Rangsit); and 10. Califoria Prep International School (Saraburi).

For us the Hilltop is beyond repay! Countless alumni and faculty members had positively impacted our lives. At one point or another, those alumni were our paragons of professionalism and service. With modeling, they shared with us their lives, their wisdom, and advice. We praise God for those alumni and faculty with great brands. Since we have not had a chance to say “Thank You” to them for their optimism, inspiration, and splendid influence, perhaps it’s fitting to express such here. To name some of them: Gayaos, Segovias, Tumangdays, Zamoras, Tupases, Ranarios, Bugayongs, Tabingos, Pagunsans, Bartolomes, Tanamals, Bocalas, Manalos, Dials, Paypas, Serranos, Tanamals, T Manalo, S Franco, Barangay Uno/ Loggers’ Village Folks, and many more. Among our contemporaries: Sabans, Sigues, Sumagaysays, Gulfans, Garilvas, Neris, Cabalunas, Rodrigos, Aguilars, Nermals, Moraldes, Llagunos, and etc. My former solid and loud “sakristans” at MVC were Danny Conejos, Israel Villaver, Kerry Estrevilla, Israel Andoy, R Obedencio, Fred Agustin, and more. Just in the early part of May 2017, it was indeed rewarding to attend a seminar on primitive Godliness and last-day events conducted by my former MVC student, Dr. Fred Agustin, who now heads the Theology Department of Asia Pacific International University in Thailand with MVC model in mind. What a rejoicing it will be when God gathers His children in the sweet by and by. UNWORTHY BUT ALL ARE SAVED BY GRACE!

From the Hilltop to Beautiful Canada by Raytim Layao-Mananquil

was the youngest of five daughters in the family when my parents adopted a son. Although we were poor, my parents believed in Christian education so my older sisters were

educated in our own Seventh-day Adventist schools. All of us studied at Mountain View College. Like many others, there were several times, we had to go to the business office and begged to be allowed to take the scheduled examinations. But throughout these trials, all of us graduated. My oldest sister graduated with a BSE-Ed, my second oldest in Accounting, the third one finished BS Biology and the fourth one graduated both in Secretarial School and Agriculture. However, it was not smooth sailing all the way. It was with a lot of tears shed; countless times kneeling in prayer and with God’s providence that we all made it as graduates of MVC.

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When it was my turn to graduate from High School, I had the misfortune of graduating together with my sister. Since she was older, she was given the privilege of going to MVC that year, while I was told to stay home for a year and help my parents until they were able to support us both financially. Can you imagine, how that made me feel? All my life, I was dreaming of going to that hilltop and have my chance of graduating there too. I was in

total despair upon such news but that did not deter me. I was determined to go to MVC against my parents’ wishes and had to find ways to support myself. Luckily, I had a cousin who understood my desire and gave me her only P80.00 which was just enough for my fare. With a small bag packed, I took that most awaited journey to independence. When I arrived on campus, I immediately went to the business office and boldly approached Mr. Edwin Tigley and told him that I am willing to work full time in any department as long as I can stay and earn as much money as I possibly can to attain my Christian education. He applauded my boldness and said that because of the determination in my eyes, he decided to take a chance on me and assigned me as a full time working student at the Vegetable garden department under Mr. Shadrach Santosidad. I was given a room in the dormitory to stay. The heat of the scorching Philippine sun and the long hours of tending the tomato plants or kangkong or whatever was in season did not deter me from my quest of becoming a student. Although discouraged at times, I never gave up but kept on working. At last the fulfillment of my dream was finally taking shape. Later, I was assigned to work in the cafeteria under the supervision of Miss Lourdes Rallos. My roommates thought this should be a better change for me, but waking up before 4:00 o’clock in the morning was a challenge. On top of that, Ma’am Rallos had very strict rules. She expected me to work at a very fast pace and without any mistakes which was too much for me. I suffered from severe fatigue and mental exhaustion. I got depressed and discouraged and spent a lot of time seeking shelter under the inyam tree, just crying to the Lord and asking for a sign if this was what He wanted me to do. Because I had no choice, but work in the cafeteria, I had to do what was needed to be done and swallowed my pride. That inyam tree became my refuge and favorite corner to kneel in prayer at the rising of the sun while it was still peaceful and quiet. Then I met Miss Eunice Nais, the supervisor of the Food factory. After I voiced my desire to be a fulltime working student, she offered me the only fulltime position available at the Food Factory. There were several part-time male student workers and I was the only female, thus became a huge subject of their jokes. The hours were extremely long. Pretty soon, I was suffering from

fatigue and painful varicose veins from standing all day. There had been several moments of depression and thoughts of giving up. But there were always people who come to the rescue, inspiring me and encouraging me to persevere. One of them was Mrs. Moreno. She would invite the full time working students to their home for lunch. She would always tell us that she loves full time working students because she knew they were the ones who were most likely to succeed and do well in life. So, despite of a lot of crying sessions and manifold hours in prayer, the full semester came and went. Then one day, a cousin from Texas called me and said that he was sending tuition money directly to the Business office so I can be enrolled the following semester with the condition that I changed major from BS Bio (MedTech) to BS Nursing. He knew that if I graduated from nursing, there would be more opportunities for me. It was an answer to my prayer! And that was what I did. I had to tell myself that becoming a nurse would not so bad after all. Finally, I was no longer a fulltime working student but became a nursing student. And all I had to do was study. For the first time since arrival to the campus, I enjoyed the Saturday evening social activities or attend special concerts and programs. My tuition was always directly paid to Mr. Edwin Tigley in the business office. And when I finally went for my internship at the MVC School of Nursing in Iligan Sanitarium and Hospital, the fund was forwarded directly to Miss Perla Egarle. Although I had never been able to enjoy a single penny from the gift from the USA, it had helped me achieve my dream of graduating from Mountain View College. There had been several trials even after graduating and in the many choices I made as a working nurse (I will share those stories next month). All I can say is that God is so good. He made sure that my dreams came true. With determination, hard work, lots of prayer and a close relation-ship with God, He has never failed me.

(to be continued next month)

From A Pioneer’s Memoires by Nelson Ornopia, AB Theo’60

ountain View College was established in 1953. I was there between 1954-1960. It took me six years to finish my four-year course because of my financial problems. I worked under Financial Plan 3 where I was only allowed to take 12 units per

semester. I did not go home within those six years. During the summer, I would either work at the college or I went canvassing to earn for my tuition for the following year. So, I experienced some difficulties during those early pioneering days. The place was not yet well developed; only a few buildings were built. Our men’s dormitory was called an “attic” for it was on the second floor close to the ceiling and also close to the wooden roof covered with asphalted “asbestos” roofing material. Below the “attic” was the lumberyard and the farm dryer. My first work was with the sidewalk maintenance under Pastor Salvador Miraflores. We maintain the sidewalk leading to the buildings, putting stones/pebbles so it would not be muddy. Then I worked in the laundry department under Mrs. Mary, the wife of Pastor Benito Mary. Since there was no running water to the washrooms, the soiled clothes were washed at the Balambangan Creek. When we finally had running water and a faucet installed at Laundry Valley, behind Jamandre Village, we did our washing there. The men laundry

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workers did the ironing at night; the ladies did their work during the daytime. When we had VIP visitors from the General Conference and Far Eastern Division, I was assigned by Elder Murdoch, the President, to take charge of getting their clothes washed at the Laundry Department and to see to it that the men’s shoes were shined. I was provided with “shoe-shine” materials for that purpose. I was later transferred to work at the Janitorial Department where I was made responsible for the whole building complex. As the student work supervisor, I was authorized to sign labor reports of those janitors working there. Later on, I was promoted to be secretary to Elder James Lee, head of the Theology Department, where I had to prepare stenciled materials and helped provide Spirit of Prophecy books to these ministerial students. My experience as a student colporteur for three summers (which was a requirement for those taking Theology) really helped me in the art of meeting and dealing with people. This helped me immensely in my future work as a minister. During those early years at MVC we did not have the modern facilities that the students now are having. Those were challenging times yet enjoyable and fulfilling. These experiences I had in MVC during those early years, have helped me greatly in becoming who I am now, a humble gospel worker for God. Thank God and to MVC.

May is Mental Health Awareness Month

Ardys Joy Caballero-Gadia

am a survivor of loved ones to suicide. Plural, unfortunately.

Brent1 was my good friend. We worked together in the ICU for years. His bubbly personality

and astute leadership skills endeared him to all. Easily 6’5” the bulky former marine medic who loved to body build was known for his helpfulness and big easy laugh. “I got you Babe!” or “I got you Man!” he was often heard saying. “Hey Tiny!” he would often greet our Filipino nurses as we walk into the unit at shift change. “Hey Babe!” they would laugh in reply.

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Sometimes, during lunch break we would talk about our families, our dreams of the future, and whatever our interests were. He’d laugh with his booming laugh and loudly say, “You can do it! Don’t stop dreaming big!” He was such a big Teddy Bear and everyone’s friend. One Monday, he did not show up to work. It was unlike him. The team was worried. On Tuesday, our supervisor summoned us all; she was accompanied by a chaplain and two social workers. We were told that Brent was found. His PTSD (post-traumatic stress syndrome) had become too much for him to bear and he committed

suicide Friday. The coroner estimated he died around 4 hours after our shift ended. We didn’t even know he had PTSD. Many of us wept. He used to joke saying, “suicide is not really suicide when you are already dead inside.” As a young ICU nurse, I did not hear the warning signs nor did I see past his jovial manner. None of us did. I focused too much on cardiology, pulmonology, and preventing multi-organ failure in our patients – I forgot that the brain is an organ too. I do not know if I would have made a difference for Brent or could have persuaded him to get some help. As I listened to the tributes said during his funeral, as I saw the medals and military ribbons tacked on the US Marine uniform he wore lying in his casket, and as I later watched his flag-draped casket carried out by Marines – I wept knowing Brent was a hero so many times over and we failed him. That day I swore that I would stop looking down at mental health nurses and instead learn as much as I could about their specialty. It was a step at the right direction, and a start of a journey. Little did I know that I had so much to learn.

adly, that same month another important person in my life committed suicide. Bridget2 was a high school student who attended church at the local Filipino SDA church. She was 3rd generation Adventist. She surprised us on Tuesday evening by showing up

unannounced at our front door with a bag of cooking bananas. She shyly asked if we were busy. Then she moved into our kitchen to make banana maruya (bananas fried then tossed in brown sugar). She said she just wanted to hang out with us and that she felt like cooking something. We had often told the youth that our home was open to them so although surprised, we cancelled our plans to go out and instead stayed home to enjoy Bridget’s visit. Later she asked if she could call her friends to come join us. We enthusiastically said yes; they were our friends too! By 8:00PM, we had more than 25 young people in our house. In our kitchen, they created an assembly line making tacos while they talked reminiscing how we used to have Taco Tuesdays when they were younger and we were their Sabbath School teachers. Then we had worship

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together, with Bridget leading out. For old times’ sake, they divided into teams and played Bible-Come-Alive, just like they did on Taco Tuesdays when they were in grade school. I laughed watching them behave as though they were in elementary again. As the night wore on, the group huddled in our living room floor talking about life, boyfriends, girlfriends, high school, college, professors and whatever they were excited or annoyed about. Because some of them were now in college, many of them only saw each other on Sabbaths. As they talked, there were

moments of tears, of laughter, and of reassurances and affirmation. Around 11:00PM we started telling them to go home – it was a school day after all. There were lots of hugs given and I-love-you’s said. Plans were made for a possible camping trip. But things weren’t meant to be. At work three days later, I got a phone call telling me that Bridget had committed suicide. Distressed and unbelieving, I clocked out after asking for 3 days off. My ICU team knew how much those young people meant to Andy and me; they were our friends. I couldn’t wrap my mind around the fact that she was gone. That loving teen who led our worship Tuesday evening did not appear troubled. Was there foul play? Can we have this investigated? And then later my questioning turned to …. What signs did we miss? Could we have done something differently? Shortly after Bridget’s funeral, I started volunteering to get floated to the mental health unit. Neither Brent nor Bridget showed signs of trouble. Both were happy, healthy and doing so well in life. At the psych unit, I often caught myself assessing the patients for adequate perfusion and oxygenation like a good ICU nurse would when I should have been listening to their words like a good mental health nurse would. At the mental health clinic, I found myself listening intently at peoples’ cough – not conscious that I was assessing their lungs without a stethoscope! And for my continuing education units, I started choosing mental health topics – although I did very well in psychiatric nursing while at MVC, I found that I truly had so much to learn. It was humbling. That same year, I quit nursing and moved on to the IT department (information technology) where I would have a bigger role in healthcare administration and leadership. In the ICU, my jurisdiction as a charge nurse encompassed only my unit but in the IT department I would be responsible for making many key elements hospital-wide. The pay was significantly lesser but it was something I wanted to do, needed to do. It was a step at the right direction, and the next step of my journey.

One of my first projects was to set up a telemedicine system for our chronic pulmonary patients. The other was to find an electronic notification system for the soon-to-be-launched National Suicide Hotline so that … should a veteran happen to call, a series of events would happen in domino effect, namely:

1. When a caller is identified as a veteran, we needed the computer to automatically start

searching for the Veterans Hospital closest to the caller … this is while the trained professional answering the Hotline is still talking with the caller to defuse the crisis, THEN

2. Have the system alert the appropriate licensed social workers on duty, providing them with the veteran’s health information and the current crisis at hand so that interventions can be done by trained personnel who are near the caller’s location. Again, all these occurring while the caller is still on the phone with the Hotline and without further interventions from the Suicide Hotline staff. THEN

3. As interventions are being done by trained professionals, we needed the computer to create a confidential “paper trail” that will allow the team to see exactly what interventions were done and where the previous teammates had left off. We could not afford to oversee any “documentation” especially when the team was dealing with a crisis. We needed this information viewable by any VA employee clinicians no matter which part of the nation he or she is at. THEN

4. I also needed to device a way for our local social workers to keep track of these callers. Follow through is critical. Our team takes our job very seriously and we wanted to know how the callers 3 days after. A week later. Two weeks later. Six month later. Etc. In addition, we needed to find a way for the team to get urgent alerts when a “suicidal” person misses their doctor’s appointment or therapy sessions. When this happens, we needed someone from the veteran’s healthcare team to call him/her to check if things were ok. If things were not ok, then the team member would offer to send someone to come pick the veteran up. Often, having someone from the team call them has demonstrated to us how vital the human touch is. Letting them know that they are not alone. MEANWHILE, we needed to make sure that all that documentation and records all went to the patient’s medical record and was easily accessible to his/her healthcare and mental health team.

In the meantime, my social worker counterpart worked to create a standardized process so that each caller/veteran will feel welcome to come meet the mental health team, find out what resources are available to them, learn more about their condition, and create a relationship of trust with his/her mental health team. A warm hand-off of sorts so that they will not get “lost in the system.” We believed that once they met some of the team members and learned what to expect, they would be more open to

getting help. Today, I am happy to say that the system is still in place. Many lives have been saved.

It is almost 16 years since Brent and Bridget’s death. I often think of them because they truly brought joy to our lives. They meant much to us and are missed. But the living must go on. I don’t believe in living a mediocre life so I choose to live life and enjoy it. But they are not forgotten. I have since changed my path from ICU nursing to Informatics Nursing. I traded my dream of becoming a nurse anesthetist for something better. I now find myself entrenched with IT issues, fixing health care processes, writing policy and teaching computer classes. I also find myself deeply involved in multiple mental health initiatives; the outcomes have been satisfying for myself professionally, and for our patients and our organization. I wouldn’t have it any other way. Looking back, I now realize the massive devastation mental health issues have on all involved: the sufferer, the family, the coworkers, the friends – the community. There are many who learn to live with mental health problems and do very well but there are far more that do not survive – the damage done affecting those they leave behind. Many of our veterans come back from combat with mental health issues. The things they had seen or experienced at the battle field is more than enough to traumatize a normal mind and for them, they experienced these repeatedly.

For combat veterans like Brent – what have we as a community done for them? Family and friends are part of their healing. How have we contributed to helping them get better? Surely, we do not depend entirely on others to help our own family? For civilians like Bridget whom we see each Sabbath at church not knowing if they are in pain or if there are concerns – how therapeutic were we during our short interaction with them? If we were the last ray of hope they had, how did we contribute to their healing? Or were we too focused on entertaining ourselves with nice programs at church, looking nice and seeing friends? If so –

shame on us for that is not what Jesus would do.

s a society, we need to stop looking at mental health issues as though the sufferers can help it or by sweeping the problem under the rug pretending it does not exist.

We never say to an asthmatic, “I don’t understand why you can’t breathe better! There’s a lot of oxygen around you! Be stronger!” We never tell a person with heart disease, “Get hold of yourself and regulate your heart better! It’s all within your power!” And we certainly do not tell a person with the chicken pox to stop thinking of the itch so that the itching will go away.

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Then why do we tell people with panic anxiety “Stop thinking like that! It’s all in your head!” Or the person with clinical depression, “you need to start thinking of positive things!” It is reactions like this that are toxic to those who are already suffering. They cause mental health sufferers harm. And it is often done by well-meaning people who just happened to be ignorant. Don’t judge someone because they have a mental health disorder. With the current statistics saying that one out of 4 will experience mental health disorder sometime in their lifetime, that

person could be you! End the Stigma! Break the Silence! Help increase mental health

awareness! Educate yourself and those around you! And remember – mental health is not contagious. You won’t catch it by being kind. May is National Mental Health Awareness Month – what new things about mental health have you learned this month?

SULADS’ Corner: “True Wealth”

By Mr. & Mrs. Payaron. Slong, Davao

unie was a successful farmer at Sitio Lambilah. At a very young age he already had wide cornfields, a huge peanut plantation, and several cattle and other farm animals. Although he belonged to a Christian church, he only attended religious services in respect for their

pastor so as not to feel left out from the group of believers within their community. Junie was so successful as a farmer that he was able to send his sisters to different well-acclaimed schools. Although well to do financially, Junie felt as if there was something amiss in his life. Like a leaf floating in the wind, he felt as if he had no real purpose. He went to church but because he was too caught up with the things that were needed to be done in the farm, he found no time to study the Bible or pay much attention to his church's doctrines and beliefs. In 2012, SULADS Missionaries arrived at Lambilah. Junie's home was one of the houses that were subjected to the missionaries' home visitations. In the long run, Junie became one of the closest friends of the missionaries in the village.

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Taking the chance, one day the missionaries asked Junie if he was willing to participate in a Bible study. Aware that the church members of the religion Junie was a part of were very assertive in their beliefs and would have no hesitations in engaging in a heated debate when it came to religion, the chances of Junie agreeing to a Bible study was very slim. Nevertheless, it was a miracle when Junie had no form of hesitation or refusal when the missionaries approached him for the Bible study! The Bible study went well; Junie accepted almost every Adventist doctrine that was taught to him in the duration of the Bible study. However, the missionaries hit a snag when it came to the doctrine of diet. Junie was reluctant to accept that eating pork was not condoned by the Adventist church. Pig farming was one of his high earning businesses and to acknowledge that eating and raising pigs was a sin would mean the abandonment of that financial venture. Because of Junie's personal conflict with the principle, he declined baptism and conversion. He determined that his financial needs were of greater priority especially since his sisters' education depended on his income. But still, the Holy Spirit continued working on Junie's heart and finally, he was able to settle his mind on letting God take control and accepted Christ as his Savior through baptism not long afterwards. At present, Junie and his family are major supporters of the mission work in their area. They too, are active participants in the ministry. According to Junie, since he started serving God at a personal level, his body and mind have found an unexplainable peace. Although his finances were severely crippled, he no longer feels weak or unhappy as he did before.

© SULADS International, Inc. If you would like to support this mission program dedicated to taking the Gospel to the people of Mindanao, please write a check to Gospel Outreach. Mark it for the

SULADS and send it to: Gospel Outreach P.O. Box 8 College Place, WA 99324 You may also donate to the SULADS using your credit card by logging on to Gospel Outreach's donation site (http://www.goaim.org/) and follow the directions. Again, mark it for SULADS. If you would prefer, you may write your check to the General Conference of

SDA and mark the donation for SULADS and send it to: General Conference of SDA Donations 12501 Old Columbia Pike Silver Spring, MD 20904 Thank you for your support of this very important project. If you do not want to receive any more newsletters, Unsubscribe To update your preferences and to unsubscribe visit this link Forward a

Message to Someone this

Math Test

ittle Joe walked into his dad's study while his dad was working on the computer.

"Dad," said Joe, "Remember when you told me you'd give me twenty dollars if I passed my math test?" Dad nodded. "Well, the good news is that I just saved you twenty bucks."

(from ArcaMax Jokes)

Unpaid Bill

customer sent an order to a distributor for a large amount of goods totaling a great deal of money. The distributor noticed that the previous bill hadn't been paid.

The collections manager left a voice mail for them saying, "We can't ship your new order until you pay for the last one." The next day the collections manager received a collect phone call, "Please cancel the order. We can't wait that long." (from ArcaMax Jokes)

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5 Toughest Questions Women Ask Men

1. What are you thinking about?

2. Do you love me?

3. Do I look fat?

4. Do you think she is prettier than me?

5. What would you do if I died?

What makes these questions so difficult is that everyone is guaranteed to explode into a major argument if the man answers incorrectly. Therefore, as a public service, each question is analyzed below, along with possible responses.

Question # 1: What are you thinking about? The proper answer to this, of course, is: "I'm sorry if I've been pensive, dear. I was just reflecting on what a warm, wonderful, thoughtful, caring, intelligent woman you are, and how lucky I am to have met you."

This response obviously bears no resemblance to the true answer, which most likely is one of the following:

A. Baseball. B. Football. C. Curling. D. Golf. E. How I would spend the insurance money if you died. (Perhaps the best response to

this question was offered by a TV sitcom, where the husband told his wife, "If I wanted you to know what I was thinking, I would be talking to you!")

Question # 2: Do you love me?

The proper response is: "YES!" or, if you feel a more detailed answer is in order, "Yes, dear!" Inappropriate responses include:

A. I suppose so. B. Would it make you feel better if I said yes? C. That depends on what you mean by love. D. Does it matter? E. Who, me?

Question # 3: Do I look fat? The correct answer is an emphatic: "Of course not!" Among the incorrect answers are:

A. Compared to what? B. I wouldn't call you fat, but you're not exactly thin. C. A little extra weight looks good on you D. I've seen fatter. E. Could you repeat the question? I was just thinking about how I would spend the

insurance money if you died.

Question # 4: Do you think she's prettier than me? Once again, the proper response is an emphatic: "Of course not!" Incorrect responses include:

A. Yes, but you have a better personality. B. Not prettier, but definitely thinner. C. Not as pretty as you when you were her age. D. Define pretty. E. Could you repeat the question? I was just thinking about how I would spend the

insurance money if you died.

Question# 5: What would you do if I died? A definite no-win question. (The real answer, or course, is "Buy a Corvette.") No matter how you answer this, be prepared for at least an hour of follow-up questions, usually along these lines: Woman: Would you get married again? Man: Definitely not! W: Why not, don't you like being married? M: Of course I do. W: Then why wouldn't you remarry? M: Okay, I'd get married again. W: You would? (with a hurtful look on her face) M: Yes, I would. W: Would you sleep with her in our bed? M: Where else would we sleep? W: Would you put away my pictures, and replace them with pictures of her? M: That would seem like the proper thing to do. W: And would you let her use my golf clubs? M: Of course not, Dear. She's left-handed.

(from Cybersalt Digest)

Terrible Toos

e were sitting in the front of the coach section of the plane. Those in the back could hear Christian. He was making quite a racket. Christian had just turned 18 months old. I'd often heard of the terrible too's, the age from two to four when children simply went

wild. Well, Christian matured early; he was in that stage NOW. When do the terrible too's really end? As I sat and observed Christian, I realized the age of the too's can last for quite a while. They last until we mature. Christian was too impatient. Christian was too unsatisfied. Christian was too fussy. Christian was too loud. Christian was too restless. Christian was too unappreciative of all he had. Christian was too ungrateful for all we did for him. Christian was too much like a two-year-old. The terrible too's. Know anyone stuck in that stage?

Which Finger

hile visiting my 89-year-old grandfather in the hospital, a nurse came in to check his blood sugar. Before she started, the nurse examined his red fingertips that had been poked numerous times already and said, "Humm...which finger should we use this time that won't

hurt too much?" "Yours!" my grandfather replied.

(from Da Mouse Tracks)

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The New Horse

champion jockey is about to enter an important race on a new horse. The horse's trainer meets him before the race and says, "All you have to remember with this horse is that every time you approach a jump, you have to shout, "ALLLLEEE OOOP!" really loudly in the horse's

ear. Providing you do that, you'll be fine." The jockey thinks the trainer is mad but promises to shout the command. The race begins and they approach the first hurdle. The jockey ignores the trainer's ridiculous advice and the horse crashes straight through the center of the jump. They carry on and approach the second hurdle. The jockey, somewhat embarrassed, whispers, "Aleeee ooop" in the horse's ear. The same thing happens--the horse crashes straight through the center of the jump. At the third hurdle, the jockey thinks, "It's no good; I'll have to do it" and yells, "ALLLEEE OOOP!" really loudly. Sure enough, the horse sails over the jump with no problems. This continues for the rest of the race, but due to the earlier problems, the horse only finishes third. The trainer is fuming and asks the jockey what went wrong. The jockey replies, "Nothing is wrong with me -- it's this bloody horse. What is he -- deaf or something?" The trainer replies, "Deaf?? DEAF?? He's not deaf -- he's BLIND!"

(from GCFL)

Wishbone

fter a big family dinner, a grandfather and his grandson broke the wishbone from the turkey. The boy was bitterly disappointed to find himself holding the small end of the bone.

"Don't worry," the grandfather comforted the child. "My wish was that your wish would come true." (from Da Mouse Tracks)

Starting Over

he mother of three notoriously unruly youngsters was asked whether or not she'd have children if she had to do over again.

"Sure," she replied, "but not the same ones."

(from Cybersalt Digest)

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Intercom Repair

y friend's son worked at a fast-food restaurant when he was in high school. One night while he was manning the drive-thru, a customer told him that the intercom wasn't working properly. My friend's son went about filling the order while a female co-worker fiddled with

the intercom. She asked, "Is that okay now?" "Well, no," the customer replied. "Now you sound like a girl." (from GCFL)

Wedding Daze

A grandmother overheard 5-year-old Christy "playing wedding." The wedding vows went like this: "You have the right to remain silent, anything you say may be held against you, you have the right to have an attorney present. You may kiss the bride."

(from GCFL)

Did you know? Hummingbird tattoos in America are becoming mainstream among women. Because the hummingbird is so small, it has to work hard to survive. A tattoo of a hummingbird can represent this difficulty and could be meaningful to a person who has been through a lot in life. Many people can relate to this and the hummingbird has become a symbol of the strength it takes to rise above trouble and hardship. Yes, it does represent going through hard times, but it stands for surpassing them. It can represent someone that lives life to the fullest and loves life and every breath. We are often told to enjoy every moment, but do we live that way? The hummingbird tattoo can remind you of that. An interesting tidbit, certainly…

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Samoa Fale

his week, I am going to share with you something that is unique to Samoa. When I first arrived in Samoa, I was amazed to see many houses that seemed unfinished because they had no walls. I later learned that these houses are called Samoan Fale, the Samoan word

for all types of houses, whether small or large. It looks like all houses have their own fale located in the front of the house. The traditional living quarters or fale (houses) contain no walls and up to 20 people may sleep on the ground. During the day, it is used for socializing and relaxing. Each fale has several posts that represent each member of the family. One's family is viewed as an integral part of a person's life. The extended family lives and works together. Elders in the family are greatly respected and hold the highest status. During the evening meetings or gatherings, each member will sit beside a post. The fale tele (big house) is the most important house. It is usually round in shape, and serves as a meeting place for chief council meetings, family gatherings, funerals or chief title investitures. In one of our weekends in Savaii, one of the two biggest islands of Samoa, we slept in the beach fale for 2 nights. It was a restful night listening to the gentle lapping of the waves on the beach.

an Adventist Signage in front of a line of Samoan fales

T

Samoan Fales

Fales

Fales

inside a fale

Inside a fale, different design

inside a fale, different design

beautiful young woman serving drink

Samoan culture It is intriguing to see and observe the strong and intact Samoan culture. The traditional culture of Samoa is a communal way of life based on Fa'a Samoa, the unique socio-political culture and fale plays a major rule in this communal way of life. The major part of the Samoan culture is faith, family and music (most families practice singing after worship every day). Both men and women can be tattooed (tatau). A man's tattoo is called a pe'a while a woman's tattoo is called a malu. Almost all Samoans have tattoos because it is a symbol that you belong to a certain family.

Men Eat First In the Samoan culture, men eat first before the women in social gatherings. And women do not eat more than what is deemed womanly. At a sit-down formal traditional dinner, the ladies serve the men lavishly and lovingly. After the men had their dinner, the women then eat, and are served only by other women. Even at modern buffet meals which are supposed to be informal affairs where everyone can eat together, men are encouraged to swarm to the table first, while the women coyly and politely hold back and curtail their hunger pangs gracefully as ladylike and demurely as expected of them. It just seems to be the unwritten rule that men get to go to the table first and have the pick of the choicest foods. Elders and guests are always served first; children and the women often eat later. Sometimes they eat what is left over, which in some cases may be little left to eat. The ‘Ladies first’ etiquette are oftentimes forgotten. Men do not say, “No, you ladies, go first…. you have been running after the children taking care of all household chores etc.” I had experience this culture during a visit to one of the village Adventist churches in Savaii. Young ladies will serve you with the choices food while they sit in front of you watching as you eat. Although rice is available, it is not served even in special occasions like meetings and feasts. People prefer to eat taro, cassava and sweet potatoes. In most get together I have attended, meat is the major food on the table and is cooked in several different ways with coconut milk. Even a drink in Samoa is made from coconut milk and is served first during the lunchtime.

fale at the back of the SDA Church

church members waiting for lunch

my food

potluck. no rice

SDA brethren in Samoa

coconut is served … Samoan style

Announcements

1-WEEK MISSION TRIP to Navajo land, Paige Arizona The sulads will be conducting a Vacation Bible School on July 16-22, 2017. Sulads & friends welcome to join. (2 ½ months away!) It has proven to be a heart-warming, life-changing experience! For info: Asher Himbing (in Facebook) His email: sherhim1@gmail.com

SULAD KAAMULAN in Canada: an Ethnic Cultural Festival, Thanksgiving and SULAD Reunion with the Gitxsan Nation. Where: Gitwangak Village in Canada. When: August 4-6, 2017 (3 months away!) All sulads, MVCians and friends are invited. For info: Limwel Ramada (reachable in Facebook)

Email the group at suladscanada@gmail.com

SULAD 50th ANNIVERSARY GRAND REUNION

(Yes, we’re celebrating a few months early)

When: June 24,2018 – July 01,2018 (14months away) Where: MVC Campus. Bukidnon, Philippines. Who: sulad pioneers, new sulads, sulads from all over the world and products of the sulad mission schools will be there to celebrate God’s goodness, to get spiritually recharged, to fellowship with each other, to hear sulad reports first hand, and receive continuing education training! Outstanding speakers and trainers. Visits to mission schools. A SULAD FAIR with booths and exhibits. Food tasting. Parade of Tribes. Authentic presentation from various tribes. Meet new friends. Network with fellow sulads. Cool activities for sulads’ kids. So, save the date and plan on being there! For more info : Joy Caballero-Gadia (Facebook) or email: watermankids@yahoo.com

TO ALL SULADS AROUND THE WORLD 1. SULADS CONNECTION – If you have Facebook and a) would like to participate in the

planning for the upcoming 50th Anniversary Reunion, b) would like to be kept informed of the plans, c) keep in touch with fellow sulads, or d) all the above – then you would want to be part of the group called SULADS CONNECTION. To join, simply message any of the following: joubert falcunitin, Dams McFall Mari Ray, Joy Caballero-Gadia, Editha Daguman, Milady Sowa, Asher Himbing, Darlene Sabandal

2. SULADS PRAYER ROOM – If you are a sulad who strongly believes in prayer, loves to pray and understands the meaning of confidentiality …. Come join us at the our prayer room. To join simply message any of the following: Chlowe Mantalaba, Medz Cardiente, Ghing Lamera, Joubert Falcunitin, Melch Mode, Estrada Tonex

a live hummingbird

Needed: MVC Alumni write-ups (articles) for Junior Devotional 2019

MVC is tasked by the PPH (Philippine Publishing House) to coordinate the making of the Junior Devotional for 2019. Inviting alumni around the world to participate in this endeavor. Guidelines from PPH: 1. Write in conversational manner. 2. Write to describe not to prescribe. 3. Be specific. 4. Dwell on a single lesson, trait or action. 5. Have a creative title of not more than six words. 6. Include the Bible text/passage your story tries to point out. Suggested Bible versions: NIV,

ESV, NKJV, NLT and NASB. 7. Must be 350 words or less, including the memory verse which is indicated below the title of

the article. 8. Include your biodata. 9. Observe proper citation.

Contributors whose articles are chosen to be included in the devotional will receive Php 350/article upon the release of the devotional.

Deadline for submission is on July 2017.

Submit articles to sdajuniordevotional2019.ph@gmail.com

Reasons for rejection: 1. Contradicts SDA beliefs and practices. 2. Misses to emphasize the devotional theme. 3. Too preachy 4. Invades other's right to privacy. 5. Fails to comply with the requirement for the number of words. Suggested topics to write about: Spiritual matters, family, friends, studies, values, health, dating, social concerns, technology, hobbies, answered prayers, and nature.

Alumni Calendar When What Where For More Info

May 31-Jun 4 Philippine GYC (PYC) Iloilo City TBD July16-22 SULAD VBS Navajoland Arizona Asher Himbing Aug 02-05, 2017 ASI Int’l Convention Houston, TX www.asiministries.org Aug 4-6, 2017 Sulads Kaamulan @ Canada Canada suladscanada@gmail.com Sept 1-5, 2017 MVCSN Alumni Reunion Cancun Ted Ray Llasos (Facebook) Dec 28-31, 2017 GYC Phoenix, AZ www.gycweb.org 2019 Summer (TBD)

MVCSN Golden Anniversary Reunion

MVC Campus Devaney Bayeta, Pres MVCSN Homebase Chapter

2019 Aug 12-17 Int’l Pathfinder Camporee Oshkosh, WI www.camporee.org

Acknowledgement

A special THANK YOU to the following who made this issue of CyberFlashes beautiful:

• Adelino Libato for “From the Hilltop to Southern Thailand”

• Ainor Aganeo-Ombiga for “From Russia With Love”

• Ardys Joy Caballero-Gadia for “Suicide”

• Luz Espiritu-Brown for the poem “Aging Journey”

• Mars Sigue for “From Poverty to Washington DC”

• Nelson Ornopia for “From A Pioneer’s Memoirs”

• Raytim Layao-Manaquil for “From the Hilltop to Beautiful Canada” And to

• Jessie Colegado for the chuckles in “Jessie’s Patch of Weeds”;

• Romy Halasan for the stories about Missionaries’ LIFE

• The SULADS and Gospel Outreach for “SULADS’ Corner”;

• Eddie Zamora & Lyn Tabingo for editing; Joy Caballero-Gadia for the layout

Meet The Editors

This week’s issue of Cyberflashes was by Raylene Rodrigo Baumgart. Next week’s issue will

be by Ardys Joy Caballero-Gadia. Please direct all entries to her or any of the editors.

NAME: EMAIL ADDRESS:

Eddie Zamora ezamora594 at aol dot com Evelyn Porteza-Tabingo etabingo at gmail dot com Jessie Colegado Cyberflashes at gmail dot com Joy Caballero-Gadia watermankids at yahoo dot com Lily EscaraLare LyLare at Hotmail dot com Melodie Mae Karaan-Inapan melodieinapan at yahoo dot com Raylene Rodrigo-Baumgart raylene.baumgart at gmail dot com Romulo ‘Romy’ Halasan romsnake at gmail dot com

If you wish to subscribe to Cyberflashes, to unsubscribe, or if you changed your email address and want Cyberflashes to be sent to your new address, please send your request via email to any of the editors. We spell out the @ and dot signs in the email addresses to prevent worms, viruses, and robots from harvesting them. If you would like to correspond, simply substitute the correct symbols.

Prayer Request

THANKSGIVING: For the much-improved health of Ellen Fabella (daughter of Dr. and Mrs Armand Fabella), the successful heart surgery of Helen Deslate and the improved health of MVC President Dr. Gladden Flores. And the many answered prayers! Praise the Lord!

FOR THE CONTINUED HEALING OF: Viminda Brion Murcia, Ruth Fabella & Ellen Fabella (wife and daughter of Dr. Armand T. Fabella), Felix Sareno, Helen Deslate, Jhun Cardiente, Jerusalem Era, Elmer Aguro, Rayelch Modillas, Rebecca Antemano, Roxie Pido, Virgie Osita, Neneng Sanes, Pastor Oseas Zamora, Pastor Remelito Tabingo and members of the MVC Alumni & Friends who are sick. COMFORT FOR THE BEREAVED FAMILIES OF: Asher Ortaleza, Federico Blaza, Araceli Arit, Jovita P. Solis, Wayne Chavit, Nanette Chio, Kerry Tortal, Elmore Jornada, Rolly Boniales and other families who recently lost their loved ones.

Closing Remarks The Editor

have been comparing my life to that of a female hummingbird. Although more subtly colored and less flamboyant in their actions than the male hummers, the female hummingbird leads a very active and interesting life. There is never a dull moment in her

life’s journey.

I

Through imagination (backed by real stories and research), let me trace an epic journey of a female hummingbird as she arrives in January along the foothills of Costa Rica from her long flight from her summer nesting territory in Pennsylvania. She is now in the tropics where the weather is warm and there is abundance of bright colorful flowers everywhere. She knew nearly a dozen of species of hummingbirds are nearby, but mostly they live without direct competition. For the next three months, she will have an easy life, enjoying the sweet nectar from tropical flowers and the many insects available in such perfect summer weather. But soon she will start to become restless and her instincts will tell her to go back north.

First, she begins gaining weight. She needed the fat she puts on as fuel on her migratory flight. It is okay to double their weight in about a week. By late February, she begins her journey north through Central America. Travelling by day and sleeping at night, she flies out of Costa Rica through Nicaragua, Honduras and Guatemala. Then she heads for Southeast Mexico. It is a leisurely trip, covering about 1,500 miles in six weeks. When she reaches the north coast of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula in mid-April, she faces a major challenge. The shortest route across the Gulf of Mexico – 600 miles over open water. Even with favorable winds, the flight will take her about 18 hours. There will be other kinds of songbirds but for a creature weighing less than a nickel, this is an extra-ordinary journey. When she completes the crossing, arriving on the U. S. Gulf Coast, she must quickly find food so she can build up her strength and keep flying north.

Finally, in the second week of May, our female ruby-throat hummingbird reaches Pennsylvania, her summer territory, a suburban neighborhood with flower gardens and plenty of trees. The male hummers have arrived, each one fiercely defending a small territory by perching high, chasing intruders and performing courtship displays. Unlike other songbirds, the female hummingbird won’t select a mate and move in to share his territory. She establishes her own home range and mates with one of the nearby males. And after the first date, her Prince Charming won’t even pay any more attention to her. He’ll be off trying to court other females, leaving each new mate to start raising her young all by herself. On the third week of May, the ruby-throat chooses a site for her nest. Her amazing engineering work begins. She gathers her essential soft pretty materials according to the design she has in mind and although it may take her hundreds of trips over a week to construct her nest, it will be a beautiful one-of-a-kind design.

Once the nest is done, she lays a tiny egg and soon begins incubating it. One to three days later, she lays a second one, For the next two weeks or so, she will sit on them all night and most of the day, leaving the nest several times a day to feed herself among the flowers and nectar. When the eggs hatch, this very industrious wonder-mama visits flowers, drinking as much nectar as she can gather and swallowing tiny insects as well. Then she returns to the nest and sticks her bill deep into

the throat of a baby, pumping her neck muscles as she regurgitates the nectar mix into its stomach. Then she feeds the other baby. If it is chilly, she may sit on top of the young for a minute to warm them up. Then she is off again to get more food for herself and the young. What an exhausting effort. The baby hummers are now growing and the tiny nest with its spider web magic, stretches to accommodate them. They begin exercising their wings after about 15 days, standing up on edge and buzzing their wings vigorously. A few days later, they abruptly leave the nest, launching into an awkward first flight. At first, the fledglings can’t feed themselves. It takes practice to be able to hover at a flower and drink nectar. The Mama never abandons her babies. She will continue to feed for a week as they learn how to find food. They are fed every 15-30 minutes. Hummingbirds require a large percentage of fruit flies, gnats, small spiders and other soft-bodied insects for protein, as well as nectar for energy. Adults eat about every 10 minutes and can drink up to twice their body weight in nectar every day.

And at the same time, our tireless hard working female may already be building another nest, preparing to raise a second brood for the season. Such an unselfish, busy life! What they lack in flash and finery, these feathered mamas make up for in spunk, determination and fine parenting skills. And they do it all on their own with no help except following the instincts that their Creator have instilled in them to do.

After reading all these articles about hummingbirds, I am all the more determined to put out feeders and plant as many beautiful bright nectar-filled flowers in my garden. Hopefully they will make my garden, my bushes, my trees as their temporary home during their journey.

Whenever I am discouraged, I think of the hummingbirds and I am reminded of Matthew 6:25, 26 which says, “25Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than

clothes? 26Look at the birds of the air: They do not sow or reap or gather into barns — and yet your Heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they”

HAPPY SABBATH, everyone!