the year was 2006. Filipino guests would ask our superiors to have an hour of social meet-up with us.

Cecil and Maryanne- two sisters- came over to the monastery in June of year 2006 to spend a week of  personal retreat to our monastery.
I remember talking to her, and from our one-hour of conversation, I learned a lot from her and she learned a lot from me.
Most of our guests who come over the monastery seek for a one-on-one talk. Most of them would tell us about their difficulties, challenges and their life.
We, as monks, were good listeners. That day, I learned so much about life outside the world- the ups and downs of people who are struggling with their relationships... with their faith..with their life!

Cecil, me and Dom Caedmon-another monk who has transferred his vows to the Monastery of Mount Saviour in El Mira New York.