ENJOYING LIFE AS A YOUTH 2 out of 3: “Wait and have Faith”

Ever since I had my Facebook account, I’ve been open about my interests, particularly my love for music. I enjoy national and local bands, including the youth band Echo St. from San Pablo Parish and the Amateur Band from Baguio City, which is connected to one of my nursing professors. Moreover, I’m a fan of TJ Monteverde’s songs, especially “Puhon,” released four years ago, as they carry meaningful messages.

Throughout past relationships, I experienced the love I sought, the peace I longed for, and the companionship I craved. Yet, I came to understand that these relationships were not in alignment with God’s will. Now, at 19, I occasionally find myself anchored, yearning for a “perfect, intimate relationship.” In these moments, however, I am reminded of the guidance given to me by our spiritual youth director, Rev. Fr. Zaldy Abonales, who emphasized that happiness is not something I need to seek from others, nor do I need to define myself through relationships. I was always in a rush to prove things that I am worth of love.

Last year, particularly during June and July, I have encountered significant personal struggles. One evening, while alone in a quiet, dimly lit room, I found myself crying and praying for clarity regarding my feelings for someone, alongside the deeper pain I had been processing of what I had recently witnessed. In the background, my grandfather’s radio softly played a song by TJ Monteverde, “Dili pa panahon, maghulat ko sa puhon…” At that moment, I paused and couldn’t help but laugh a little—how perfectly timed and amusing it was, as I was seeking discernment, and that song happened to be playing.

It was then that I realized it is fate reminding me of the Bible verse: “He has made everything beautiful in its time” from Ecclesiastes 3:11. I am free to admire someone because God has made everything beautiful and in resemblance to His features, but I must remain grounded in the understanding that while it may weigh heavy, it is ultimately better for me to live my own life and create my own memories as a youth. The song “Puhon” by TJ Monteverde beautifully captures the essence of waiting and having faith in God, affirming that His will is always greater than my own.

He heard me crying inside the room, and reminded me to “Wait patiently for the Lord; He turned to me and heard my cry.” Psalm 40:1

(By Sophia Beatrice V. Sison | San Pablo Youth Apostolate)