Over the course of eight books, I've chronicled my journey from the Philippines to the United States, primarily focusing on my memoirs. It wasn't easy to find the right title for this latest book. With perspective, I've chosen to delve into both the brighter and darker sides of my life. While many focused on the former in my previous works, I realized that the latter, the struggles, deserve recognition too.
We each have our stories, even the seemingly foolish ones. To free ourselves, we must clear the cobwebs that weigh down our minds and spirits. Holding onto burdens for years only leads to chronic depression and a sense of helplessness. I personally learned this lesson after surviving a broken marriage and losing my wife to cancer. The struggles continued as her family took our children away without my consent, leaving me with a sense of abandonment and Great Depression.
But through faith in Christ, I endured. Regardless of those who hurt me, I forgave, loved, and pressed on. Life in the United States brought new opportunities. As my eyes stretched from mountains to plains, I found myself embracing a new country and its beauty. Starting anew wasn't easy, but I adopted the attitude that if others could succeed, so could I. With determination, education, and a smile, I secured a job that marked the beginning of a new chapter.
In the melting pot of America, I encountered people from all walks of life, revealing both the good and the bad. This country's diversity strengthens it, yet it's not immune to cruelty. Poverty brought its own challenges, as hospital staff treated us as dirt due to lack of insurance or money. Even within my family, I tried to uplift, but love, forgiveness, and moving forward proved to be the most transformative.
