Homeward Bound: A Journey of Patience, Perseverance and Comfort

Hello everyone!

Hope all are safe and well!

As I embarked on my journey back home on October 28, 2023, the excitement was palpable. This trip had been long-awaited, a chance to reunite with family and savor the familiar comforts of home. Little did I know that this voyage would turn into an endurance test, a journey filled with unexpected hurdles, and a testament to the resilience of travelers during peak season.

We set sail from Cebu City, and even before the ship left the harbor, it was apparent that we were not alone in our quest to return home. The ship was packed to capacity, teeming with passengers, each with their own stories and destinations.

Unfortunately, our journey was not without its hiccups. Delays pushed our arrival at the Ormoc pier to around 6 p.m. The sun had long set, and the anticipation of finally reaching home grew stronger with every passing minute.

Once the ship docked, the race was on. Everyone hurried to disembark, eager to make their way out of the port and find transportation to their respective hometowns.

But, to my surprise, I found myself standing in a seemingly endless line at the bus terminal. It was a sight to behold, passengers of all ages and backgrounds, waiting patiently for their turn.

The long hours in line seemed like an eternity. Hunger gnawed at my stomach, and in my attempt to satisfy my appetite, I bought a meat roll, some bottled water, and peanuts. A rambutan fruit, a sweet reminder of my journey, would be my pasalubong for my family eagerly awaiting my arrival.

As I waited in line, I couldn't help but observe my fellow travelers. We were all tired, hungry, and eager to begin the next leg of our journey. The exhaustion and anticipation were etched on our faces, a collective testimony to the challenges of traveling during peak season.

The line eventually started moving, and after more than two hours, I found myself in a van, finally en route to Carigara. Praise God indeed, for I could already taste the comfort of home.

The journey from Ormoc to Carigara took another hour, and as we arrived in Carigara, the heavens opened up. Raindrops danced on the roof of the vehicle, a fitting end to a day filled with twists and turns.

I messaged my elder sister, who kindly agreed to fetch us in Carigara. Her husband drove their multicab to bring us home.

The final stretch was a mere 15-minute drive, and as we pulled into our home, I could feel the exhaustion slowly give way to relief. We were home safe and sound, enveloped by the warmth of family and the comforting embrace of familiar surroundings.

But the journey wasn't complete until I stepped into my family's house, where the aroma of a delicious, home-cooked meal greeted me. I couldn't help but smile as I realized I was about to taste the food prepared by my parents. It was a moment of pure comfort and a reminder of the love and care that define the essence of home.

This journey, although challenging, was a reminder of the strength that lies within us when we yearn for the warmth of home. It was a test of patience and perseverance, a story of travel during peak season, and a testament to the love and longing that bind us to our roots. And, it was all worth it for that first taste of home-cooked food and the embrace of loved ones.

Have a Blessed Sunday everyone! 😀😀😀💖💖💖

Thank You Lord for the blessings and love!
Be grateful in every little/simple things and you’ll find happiness you ever wanted! 😀😀😀
Everyday is worth to be grateful of!

Praying for the safety and wellness of all.
Heal Our Land Oh God!

Lovelots,
@shikika