The first night of the Tzu Chi Bohol Youth Camp on July 5,2024 was filled with tears of reflection and realization featuring a session by Bro. Rey Peñalosa, a certified Tzu Chi Volunteer, centering on the value of showing love and respect towards one’s parents. In Tzu Chi, Dharma Master Cheng Yen often talks about the virtue of filial piety as it is the foremost of all good deeds and an integral part of spiritual cultivation.
Bro. Rey commenced his session by briefly sharing his family background and detailing how his upbringing and life experiences shaped his character. Despite his flawed childhood life, he said, “My life wasn’t perfect, but thanks to my parental figures who shaped me into who I am today. My grandparents raised me while my mother worked somewhere far away. My mother and I reunited when I was in Grade 5 and people asked if I was upset with her. I simply replied, ‘No,’ because my longing had turned into love and joy.”
Reflecting on the twists and turns of his life, Bro. Rey recounted key moments that shaped his journey. After graduating from a nursing course, he embraced independence, taking on various jobs. He became a caregiver for the elderly, which was fulfilling yet challenging for him. Until one fortunate day after his last shift, a job opportunity arose,leading to his first day as a staff at Tzu Chi.
“Throughout my journey in Tzu Chi, I’ve learned to let go of hatred and grudges. Instead, I’ve embraced love and affection, which have brightened my path towards goodness and fulfillment.” said, Bro. Rey.
Bro. Rey acknowledged honoring his parents’ sacrifices. Despite their imperfections, he signified his parents’ relentless commitment to unconditionally nourish and love their children. As he articulated touching reflections, one by one, the campers were moved to tears. This emotional moment left a deep impact to the youth participants as they reflect on the essence of being filial to their parents.
Youth camper Reymart Mandaje shared how the session renewed his love and respect for his parents. Back then, his friends became such a priority that he failed to take care of his sick mother. He expressed regret for not showing his appreciation and love for her. A phrase that struck him deeply that Bro. Rey mentioned was how we would offer flowers to our loved ones only after they pass away, a gesture that he admittedly was not able to accord his mother when she was still alive. Comforted by the loving words from senior volunteer Bro. Ferdinand Dy on the importance of family bonds, he said, “Though I missed the opportunity with my mother, I am now determined to cherish my father and give him the love and care he deserves.” This camp has been an eye-opening experience for Reymart, one he will uphold and cherish throughout his lifetime.
Overwhelmed with emotions, Joshua Barbacina, wholeheartedly conveyed his rekindled feelings towards the pressures and expectations that his family apparently puts on him. He said, “The videos presented by Bro. Rey, depicting a father who lied to his children, enthralled my attention. I came to realize that our parents truly love us to the extent that they endure and stay strong just for our sake. It is saddening on how often we overlook their feelings and sacrifices. I will finish my studies and become the light for my family in our darkest times.” Joshua continued as his resentment towards his family turned into optimism and acceptance after a sharing session with the Tzu Chi Uncles.
Floss Carmelli Daquio had been relentlessly crying a river that night. She came to a lot of insights about how she often falls short when it comes to communicating her feelings with her parents. “I don’t really talk back to my parents but I keep all the anger inside my heart to the extent that I have bad thoughts towards them, which I know is still disrespect. But despite all this, because of Bro. Rey’s talk, I am now more determined to fulfill the only thing I promised my father before he died, and that is for me to finish my studies.” said Floss Carmelli.
An inspiring advice by a Tzu Chi Auntie touched Aliza Rosales deeply. For years, she had difficulties in conveying and expressing her feelings to her mother. She was told to initiate and have the courage to reach out to address hurt feelings. “That’s why I messaged her (after the session), told her all the words I wanted her to know and promised her that I will study hard and make her proud.”
With hearts full of love and souls brimming with gratitude, the campers were able to experience a camp that changed the way they perceive family, instilling in them the importance of being grateful for having parents who are willing to sacrifice everything and transcend all bounds just to make ends meet. Truly a memorable night, the campers will remember this moment throughout their lives, as under that glittering night sky, they discovered the beauty of love and appreciation for their parents.
