Finding Hope in Broken Places

Under the lights of a nearby fast-food restaurant, a young boy diligently works on his homework. This touching scene, captured by Joyce Torrefranca and shared on social media, features nine-year-old Daniel Cabrera. Daniel studies outside the McDonald's where his mother works. His unwavering focus on his studies serves as a powerful reminder of resilience or the human spirit's capacity to thrive even in challenging circumstances.

Inspiring Determination

Joyce Torrefranca is a student herself. Upon seeing Daniel's determination to do his homework, despite the difficult situation while waiting for his mother at work, Joyce said she was inspired to study harder for her upcoming exams.

Daniel's story is a testament to the indomitable spirit that perseveres against all odds. Using his time wisely, he finds space for learning. Lastly, his dedication to education reminds us of the transformative power of perseverance and the pursuit of knowledge.

Harsh Realities of Life

Recent findings by the Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey in March 2024 shed light on the stark realities faced by Filipino families:

• 46% perceive themselves as poor.

• An additional 30% are on the brink of poverty.

• 33% consider themselves food-poor, with 36% borderline and 31% not food-poor.
  

In its survey on hunger, SWS survey showed that 14.2% experienced involuntary hunger in the past three months, marking the highest level since May 2021.

These statistics paint a grim picture of the economic challenges many Filipino families endure daily. Nearly half of Filipino families view themselves as poor, with a significant portion hovering just above the poverty line. Food insecurity is also prevalent, with one-third of families experiencing food-poor conditions.

In "A Farewell to Arms," Ernest Hemingway presents a similarly stark view of life. He suggests that life is inherently harsh and cruel, affecting everyone, regardless of their moral character, kindness, or courage. According to Hemingway, the world does not discriminate—it inflicts pain and suffering indiscriminately. Even the kindest and morally upright people are not immune from suffering and hardships in life. In the Bible, we have the story of Job as an example of a righteous suffering. Needless to say, the materially poor are the most affected by the hardship of life.

Resilience and Faith in Filipino Culture

Despite facing numerous challenges, Filipinos exhibit remarkable resilience and unwavering faith, especially in their religious beliefs.

Resilience: Filipinos show resilience by bouncing back from adversity. Despite economic struggles and food shortages, they persist with determination and hope. This resilience isn't just a passive response; it's an active effort to overcome obstacles and create a better future. Stemming from strong community bonds and belief in their ability to enact positive change, this resilience is evident in their daily acts of perseverance and solidarity.

Faith: Faith holds a central place in many Filipinos' lives, providing them with spiritual strength and guidance. As believers in the Easter story and the resurrection of Jesus Christ, they find inspiration and hope for a brighter future. Their faith teaches them to trust in God's plan and find meaning in their suffering, empowering them to face challenges with courage and the support of their community.

In daily life, resilience and hope are evident in acts of perseverance and solidarity within Filipino communities. Despite hardships, Filipinos find strength and hope in their faith, believing in better days ahead. They support each other, sharing resources and assistance, which helps them endure and overcome obstacles. This resilience is more apparent during calamities, highlighting their ability to bounce back and remain hopeful, even in the face of the toughest challenges. If you have time, read Bro. Carl Gaspar's book "Desperately Seeking God’s Saving Action: Yolanda Survivors’ Hope Beyond Heartbreaking Lamentations." If there is one message that Bro. Gaspar—and others who have worked closely with the poorest of the poor—want to convey, it is that the poor can teach us what it means to hope. In his reaction to the talk of Fr. Timothy Radcliffe at the International Eucharistic Congress in Cebu City, Bro. Gaspar said, "This is truly ironic – the people who should be the ones to be consoled are the ones who console us, the ones who should be the first to just give up and yield to despair are the ones who remind us that beyond the darkness is light."

Strength Through Hardship

Yes, life can be cruel, difficult, and unforgiving. Everyone faces difficulties in life. However, some people become stronger because of their hardships. Why is this so?

Those who refuse to give in to pressure often become stronger despite hardships. Hope, as Alexander Pope says, springs eternal in the human breast, inspiring people to persevere even in the face of adversity. This eternal hope empowers individuals to move forward, trusting in God's promises.

Perhaps this is why Hemingway observed that those who are strong often find themselves in broken places. In a chaotic world filled with hardship, the brave may be broken, but they thrive.

Finding Meaning in Suffering

In the German concentration camps, Viktor Frankl observed that life had lost its value. Despite their personal sufferings, some people provided comfort to others, even sharing their own ration of bread with those who were more vulnerable, weaker, and hungrier. While some became emotionally dead and turned into animals, those who found meaning in suffering became saints. In the darkest times, some people find meaning in suffering by helping others and showing compassion. These acts of kindness and resilience make people stronger and bring out the best in humanity.

The Beauty of Scarred People

Rev. Charles Cooke believes that scarred people are beautiful: "The greatest love comes from scarred people. I know that many people stop loving so they won't be hurt again. But those who do start over again, who continue in spite of all, who leave themselves open to the possibility of being hurt again -- These people are able to love again in a deeper way, a more understanding way, a richer way."

A Future of Hope

In Jeremiah 29:11-14, we read, "For I know well the plans I have in mind for you, says the Lord, plans for your welfare and not for woe, so as to give you a future of hope. When you call me, and come and pray to me, I will listen to you. When you look for me, you will find me. Yes, when you seek me with all your heart, I will let you find me, says the Lord, and I will change your lot."

God promised a future of hope to the exiled Israelites in Babylon. They had lost their land, king, and temple. But God asked them to thrive in exile: to build houses, plant vegetables, get married, and have children. In His time, He would bring them back to Israel to rebuild their Temple and nation. He promised to walk with them, to answer their prayers, and to be found by those who seek Him with all their hearts. This biblical passage inspires faith and resilience, reminding people that God has plans for their welfare and a bright future ahead. It shows that despite hardships, there is hope for a better future, rooted in faith and belief in a higher purpose.

A Challenge for Filipino Catholics

As Easter people, we must embrace our faith amidst life's hardships. Let Daniel's story inspire you. Find hope in your struggles and keep your faith strong. Show resilience and determination in your daily life. Support each other and find ways to help those in need, just as Daniel found a way to continue his studies despite his circumstances. Your faith and hope can light the way for others, turning moments of darkness into opportunities for growth and love.