While on work pause—drive or fly or sail away! At least that’s what I did when I was in between corporate jobs in late 2019, prior to this ongoing pandemic. From one island to another using my mother’s reliable Toyota, I saw and appreciated God’s creation in Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. Enter 2022.
Three months detached from a senior executive post at the largest integrated real property developer in the country, I pushed the gas pedal of a rental VW and took the scenic trip from Northern to Southern California and back, via US-1 also known as the Pacific Coast Highway. Although I was looking forward to an easy journey, I started driving in the midst of foggy, cold weather in the Bay Area. Solo driving can take its toll on one’s physical health, especially for someone recovering from a recent leg surgery. Refusing to be disheartened, I took the plunge, determined to test my driving skills on the freeways and backroads of California, and relying on my resolve to mentally call forth considerable feats in physical stamina. And so, the rented German-manufactured vehicle took me to the scenic spots along the 17-mile drive in Monterey, Carmel-by-the-Sea, Morro Bay, and Long Beach Shoreline Marina. There were of course multiple stops along US-1, both for the purpose of better appreciation of the breathtaking views and also for necessary rest breaks. The foggy weather at the start of the trip did not deter me from my wonder and wander trip! I hardly noticed that my road trip had passed the halfway mark, and behind me was a trail of treasured moments with kith and kin, and of kind hearts gifting me with food and mementos. But more than just these things, I appreciated their stories as to how their lives have turned out in the Land of the Free.
As I quietly savored the fresh breeze from the beaches of Sta. Barbara, where I took an extended pit stop, I pondered how God provides for me through and through. On this trip, He gave me everything I needed—food and restful sleep every night for my body, and amazing views of His creation for my soul, plus a loving sister who, at one phone call, instantly makes all the billeting arrangements even during unscheduled pit stops. I had planned my stops but there were times when a certain wondering and wandering feeling within made me stop and “smell the roses” that God has provided me. The calm waters at a coastal town of Sta. Barbara along the Pacific and the soothing sunrise prodded me to hold on to God’s wonderful promises.
This joyride was indeed a brief but much-needed respite from the hustle and bustle of what life had been so far in Metro Manila. Being on the “other side” of the world and blessed with more alone time, I could not help but realize that all of our respective journeys through each novel year should not depend on our own efforts. If it were so, then year-by-year it will be a constant struggle, one of laboring and of striving, yet wanting. This solo joyride for several miles reinforced my reliance on God’s Word more than on physical supplies, to sustain me for this peregrination. If we are believers of Jesus Christ, the Bible declares us righteous (2 Corinthians 5:21). Thus we rely on His righteousness rather than on our own strength and righteousness.
Heading back north, I saw the road more clearly, literally (with no fog along the way) and figuratively! As this self-imposed six-day road trip ended where it started at the Bay area, I drove with confidence not on myself but on my Creator who loves me so much that He gave His begotten Son to die for me, and if only I believe, I shall have eternal life (John 3:16).
This new year, therefore, we can renew and strengthen our commitment to make Jesus the center of our lives. We can “drive through life” for miles and miles yet if we fail to meet and know Jesus, we will surely fail. This year, and for years to come, more than pursuing fame or fortune, may we instead exalt Jesus and acknowledge Him in all areas of our lives—in our families, relationships, careers, ministry, and other endeavors. The more we amplify Him, the more we receive His righteousness, provision, healing and grace. As 2022 ushered a fresh start, let us all be patriots and focus on how Jesus served (not led) His followers. Precisely what a true patriot means: realizing that there’s a much bigger being and a far greater cause. If only Filipino believers imbibe this perspective, I wonder why some make New Year’s resolutions, year after year.
A former infantry and intelligence officer in the Army, Siegfred Mison showcased his servant leadership philosophy in organizations such as the Integrated Bar of the Philippines, Malcolm Law Offices, Infogix Inc., University of the East, Bureau of Immigration, and Philippine Airlines. He is a graduate of West Point in New York, Ateneo Law School, and University of Southern California. A corporate lawyer by profession, he is an inspirational teacher and a Spirit-filled writer with a mission.
For questions and comments, please e-mail me at sbmison@gmail.com.