Last September 22, 2010 was the integration for the First Year SATMI students in Eden Nature Park. This is part of our activities in studying Introduction to Sacred Scriptures with Sr. Miriam Alejandrino, OSB as professor. The said trip was participated by (15) fifteen first year students from different congregations, like C.Ss.R, TOR, Marist, CFIC and our guest priests Frs. Caloy and Meechai. Some were first timers in this place and some have gone here many times but they still consider this place a paradise.
We started our activities with the morning prayer led by Sr. Miriam. We experienced God’s presence among us and in the place. Of Course, strolling around the vicinity followed. As tourists, we were privileged to be toured and oriented to different attractions in the place like the bio-organic garden, the wonderful view overlooking the city of Davao, the different cottages of the indigenous people of Davao and many others. We also witnessed the beauty of God’s creation. We inhaled fresh air. We were greeted by the dances of flowers and trees in the vast fields, and the songs of birds which added to the inviting serenity that filled the place. Our morning activities ended with the most awaited part – snacks.
Our afternoon session began with a reflection on Psalm 127:1 “Unless the Lord builds the house, those who build labour in vain, Unless the Lord guards the city, the guard keeps watch in vain”. We were instructed to express our reflection through poem, essay, drawing or song lyrics. As I reflected on the activity which Sr. Miriam gave to us, I realized that the main purpose of us coming here was to witness the integrity of creation, to appreciate and enjoy God’s craftsmanship. The text led us to a deeper level of reflection and contemplation, and enabled us to tap our inner resources as we childlikely basked in the unspeakable pulchritude of the “tall trees and the green world”. Nonetheless, we became aware that God was really present in us through his creation. Without him we are nothing. And we are challenged that in everything we do we should be anchored in God’s will.
Finally, we finished our individual reflection, the group was ready and set for the skyride. Everybody enjoyed the said activity and even wanted to have some more rides if it had not been for the expensive cost. Most of us were first timers to take this ride yet certainly we enjoyed. Before we left the area we capped the day with our last ritual prayer led by Sr. Miriam and off we went... Home sweet home .
(Allan)
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