INTENSIFIED!

Last August 20, I had the chance to meet up with a colleague of mine I haven't seen in a while (well, at least around two-three weeks..). Arden Atienza invited me to a praise and worship concert dubbed as "Intensify" and I was thinking it was a perfect opportunity to finally meet up with a bunch of people I missed hanging out with--- Wave 57.

So, pretty much I was clueless as to what I was expecting. Well, I actually know what happens in most praise concerts--- they sing songs, distribute snacks (that's how most orgs in UP recruit freshies), and I usually get uncomfortable given that I'm not a very religious person. I am spiritual in a way but I mostly believe in good deeds more than empty rhetoric. I will get my butt up and help in the most feasible way I can so any person needing my help will get results rather than well... sing. But I fully respect others' ways and that's why last Saturday, I found myself going to United Paranaque Subdivision (by the way, I have not been in that area) hoping to see my pals.

I arrived at the venue and Arden welcomed me although he was pretty busy with the whole event I did not bother to have him wait for me the whole time. I know he was like the "punong-abala" so I let him go. Well, none of my other friends showed up so it was a bummer. But not quite...

The whole event was more like a gathering of a lot of college students and young professionals. It was sponsored by the youth groups of the Vicariate of San Antonio de Padua (I hope I got this right) and it just amazed me that they were able to put up such a big production. First off, right at the gate of Our Lady of Unity Open Grounds I saw Cong. Roilo Golez, the representative of this district of Paranaque. He had with him all his julalays...but well, it was great that he would come to events like this. I mean, his presence made me curious.

When I heard the music, wow! It just captivated me and for a time, I forgot that my friends ditched me and left me there alone. Well, I never really felt awkward and alone there. Yeah sure I may not know anybody there but for a time I was one with them. There was the atmosphere of unity. I also loved the songs they played even when mostly I think I have heard them for the first time in that event. The bands may need to work out some of those vocals a bit but their songs of praise, if they were original pieces, were very good. I personally love Bestfriend.

When another band sang "Jesus Take the Wheel" it just made me cry (which is weird but those who totally know me are aware that I'm such a cry baby they often wonder how I'd argue in court had I become a lawyer...err make that WHEN I become a lawyer). But that just gave me a sort of like an epiphany. I am soo needing spiritual guidance the past couple of weeks errr make that maybe months. I have been lost in this jungle and I'm oftentimes consumed by it that to feel that Somebody is there to guide you all the way is such a relief. I needed to be reminded of the fact that everything has a purpose. I was mad the past months because I'm so frustrated at how things aren't working out the way I'd hope they would. I failed at almost anything I tried out and all my life plans aren't working out and that pisses me off. So sitting there and listening to the bands kinda gave me my needed strength. He gave me strength.

So thanks Arden for inviting me and Lord for that wonderful night. I'm thankful I didn't miss it...