Subject: Update
from Camp Aguinaldo
Date: Wednesday,
March 29, 2000 1:54 AM
Dear Everyone,
Shalom.
The letter I received from the Jesuits regarding my application
reads, in part:
"Though with much regret, I nevertheless have to inform you
that I am not accepting you into the Society."
This is a what-do-you-say-in-a-situation-like-this kind of
situation so I won't mind if I do not hear from you. But if you do reply,
please don't ask me why I was not accepted. The decision was not mine to make
so I don't know why I wasn't accepted. And if you're wondering if I have any
regrets, I have none whatsoever.
But if and when you see me, please don't hesitate to approach me.
You don't have to say anything, a hug would be more than enough.
So what will I do now? In my last update, I said that "If I
am NOT accepted, I'll probably teach in Ateneo or work with the Jesuits. My
heart belongs there NOT in Makati." It's still true but other
possibilities have come to mind and it's all wide open right now. Going back to
the corporate world is not very likely but with the right job and offer I MIGHT
think about it. But the thought of becoming a priest ends here--unless the
heavens open up and God does to me what he did to St. Paul.
In the meantime, I'm giving myself a few weeks to relax and do
what I couldn't do while in Arvisu (it's most probably NOT what you're
thinking). I trust that things will work out as they have in the past because I
know that God takes care of me whether I deserve it or not.
Please pray for all those who were accepted AND those who were NOT
accepted--that all of us may receive the strength, the courage, the wisdom and
the peace to face the challenges that lie ahead of us.
And to all of you who have prayed for us over the past year, thank
you very much.
Von
PS If you don't understand or have forgotten what this is all
about, you may want to read through my pevious emails below.