Grace, to those outside the faith, is a spiritual (and abstract) concept that is difficult to understand unless experienced.
It is the core message in all my writings—be it a book for children or adults, or any life stage.
Careful not to preach, I weave stories on how to live it out, praying that it may help transform how we treat our own selves and others when we or they make mistakes.
This core message is translated into narratives borrowed from the experiences of people whom I meet and who are in my circle. From them, I have learned the many colors of grace. And the best thing is, I am learning each day to also live them.
From my late mom, I learned to pause before reacting, to listen without rushing to judgment, and to release bitterness or the urge to punish someone who has hurt me.
From my late husband, I learned to accept human limitation and to give myself and others permission to make mistakes without diving into harsh self-punishment or anxiety.
From my former boss, I learned to stop the exhausting cycle of trying to constantly prove my value through excellent work and client approval.
From our women’s Sunday school, I have learned about boundaries: holding healthy limits while keeping my heart free from malice or spite.
From my Lola Cionang, I learned that even if I fall short or drop my defenses, I offer myself forgiveness instead of shame.
From various househelpers through the years, I have learned to practice patience, let go of irritation, and extend mercy when it is inconvenient.
From my problems and failures, I have learned that grace comes not only when everything is easy, but when I have hit rock bottom and still sustained to keep going.
From many Christian books, I have learned that grace is an enabling power that I absorb through quiet reflection, prayer, and reading.
From the Bible, I have learned (and keep learning!) that grace is everywhere, anywhere—I only need to recognize and receive it.
I can go on . . . but tomorrow is another day.
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