Mt. Maculot

"I lift up my eyes to the hills.

From where does my help come? 

My help comes from the Lord,

who made heaven and earth."- Psalm 121:1-2

Today, I have one unforgettable moment climbing up to one of the most popular mountains in the Philippines for hikers - the Mount Maculot in Cuenca, Batangas. The last time I went up to this mountain was 15 years ago with my former fiance' now my wife Hanny, together with some friends. This time the mountain hiking is not for us but for the next generation- our youth that we will lead on top of this hump as part of our youth program for our upcoming camp this Christmas vacation. I have to be honest, it is not the same compare to 15 years ago's feeling and energy but it is worth the climb. I found out amazing facts with this mountain climbing that we can compare to our life experience. 

Number 1: YOU CAN ONLY LEAD OTHERS TO WHERE YOU HAVE BEEN BEFORE.
As the hikers need a guide to conquer a mountain, we also need a mentor to go up where we want to be. Without the help of Mamay Gitoy, we cannot reach the mountain and eat at his lomi house on top of Mount Maculot. You read it right- a lomi house at the mountain top. That makes this lomi noodles so special. Thanks to the guys that help us succeed for without them we cannot reach our destination.

Number 2 fact: IT IS NEVER LONELY UP THERE IF YOU WILL BRING OTHERS WITH YOU.

We always heard from those who "have been there, done that" that they never really enjoy their success for they are all alone "up there". Why don't you bring others with you? It is worth the climb and you can share your lives with them. You will also discover that you have not reach the top alone. Others brought you there- your coach, your colleagues or maybe angels. So cheer up and enjoy the ride.

Lastly: THE MOUNTAIN IS NOT TOO BIG, GOD IS.

When I was looking up to this mount from the campsite, it seems like insurmountable and high that I ever wonder if I can reach the top again. But you know what happened when we reached the peak, the retreat house where I am at before is so little that I hardly saw it from the top view. It is the same when we look at our problems from God's perspective, it will be small and conceivable when we operate it with divine guidance and help. Whenever you face insurmountable odds, see it through God's eyes so it will be solved and things work out His ways. Until next time...