A Challenge for the Family

Everything exists on borrowed time. And that includes human life. Thus, for me, each moment is precious.

I believe, too, that each one of us is on a mission. We each have our own ‘cross’ to carry in life.  The heavier the cross successfully carried, perhaps the greater the waiting rewards in heaven.

I believe each one of us has a destiny – an ultimate destination to reach. But we may choose our own way of getting there. And it helps a lot to build on the wisdom of our elders.

Papa Inting used to tell us siblings: “You can choose your friends but not your relatives. We (Mama and he) hope that someday you will find life partners who are loving, caring and understanding.” The he would stop momentarily to give emphasis to the punch-line: “May you each choose a partner who knows how to look back to their yesterday and remember who they were.”

For her part, Mama Pining would remind us that “it pays to be humble, humane, and compassionate to all.” She’d explain to us that everything we own comes from the Lord including the time of our lives, and that the Lord may knock at your doors anytime to take it all away. She’d also echo Papa’s counsel for us: “to be especially kind to the less fortunate,” as the way to find fulfillment in our lives.

Our parents are one in their wish for each of us siblings – “to someday find a partner in life who is loving, caring, understanding, and prayerful to the Lord.” I am always in awe of such wisdom.  Finding good life partners would further secure the honor and good image of the family, and most importantly, all the more glorify the Lord.

With a good family, you’ll find support in pursuing your other passions in life. In my case, I am grateful to Lord to have brought me people who are like family to me. With these ‘new’ family members, I’ve been able to carry on the project that is very close to my heart.

I was 34 years old when I decided to revive The Freeman founded by my uncle, Paulino. It was a daunting undertaking, but I had good help from Mr. Juanito Jabat, who was like a brother to me. Then, a sister publication, Banat News, came to be.

Soon, the expanded operations of The Freeman and Banat News also increased the weight I carried on my shoulders. Then, again, the Lord sent me another good ally and friend. Since 2004, Mr. Miguel Belmonte and I have been doing well in our joint stewardship of The Freeman and Banat News.   

I am grateful, as well, for the ever-loving support of my wife Nena in all my endeavors. With her I am able to continue the religious devotions of my parents and grandparents. As she takes care of some of my various concerns, I am also able to focus more on running Mama and Papa’s University of the Visayas.

I know there is still more for me to do. With the blessing of my constant companion Senor Santo Niño, the ever-protective arms of the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the watchful eyes of Mama Mary, the presence of my brother Servant of God, Archbishop Teofilo Camomot, may I still walk farther, grow healthier and shine brighter. And may the next-generation Gullases and in-laws also take upon themselves to continue to keep and uphold the legacies of our elders.