9 Mornings 2008

For the fourth consecutive year I was able to complete the 9 early morning masses (5 AM) called Simbang Gabi.  I felt a pretty good sense of accomplishment once again because it sure isn't easy but the gratifying feeling after makes up for it.  Plus, who I am to whine about it when my 87 year old grandmother completed it as well amidst the rain and the cold.  In fact, she and I was in a sort of race on who would wake up earlier to get ready.  She beat me a couple of times. 

I made a few intentions for my 9 day novena.  Its not my primary motivation but it is a motivation nonetheless.  The priests actually encourage people to have intentions because those motivate them to complete it.  So far, I think two of my intentions from the past years have been fulfilled.  For one year, one of my intentions was for my brother to pass his bar exams and now he is a lawyer.  Another year was for him to be enlightened and well, lets just say he sure got a heavy dose of enlightenment and now he is so much happier.  I didn't make a copy of what my intentions were for this year.  Even if its the things I would want to happen, I would still like to be surprised.  Plus, its not like all of it will be fulfilled.  I believe in God giving you what you need and not what you want.  So whatever He gives me He knows its what I need in my life.