Our 2-day Family Camp and Retreat with the staff of CLEVERKIDS School headed by Dra. Emeliza B. Mones and with other families on 18-19 December 2023 was such a unique and healing experience as we had the opportunity not only to have a Family Day but to appreciate living and learning in an ecological way. We stayed at Haven for Ecological and Alternative Living (HEAL).
HEAL was created back in 2006 by the Medical Mission Sisters. Its main goal is to address the healing needs of not just humans, but the whole community of life. They want to be like a shining light of hope, transforming the interconnected web of life and standing up against anything that threatens it.
The activity commenced with an orientation followed by an eco-walk. We all learned something really important - the connection between the Earth's well-being and the health of us humans. We're all in this together, striving for the abundant life that God wants for all of creation. It's showing reverence for the Earth and everything in it.
HEAL is all about making connections. They want us to see that our health, the sustainability of our planet, and the prosperity of our societies are all intertwined. It's like a big circle of awesomeness.
Despite our diverse ways of worship, we wholeheartedly joined in the liturgy conducted by the invited Pastor Rodolfo Tigas Jr. and his assistant, Ramel D. Obillo who led the music. It allowed us to come together as a community, share in prayers and songs, and express our faith collectively.
After the liturgy, we had a symbolic activity, a family reflection. Families were asked to present what the family can see their future 5 years from now. It was a powerful experience to gather as a family and visualize our dreams. We believe that by uniting our aspirations, no matter how ambitious or modest they may be, strengthen our commitment to one another. Together, we are devoted to supporting each other throughout our journey. We are grateful for having a family who dream, motivate, and accomplish together.
We also had an evening of open discussion and witnessed the power of dialogue and connecting on a deeper level as we gathered around to share our thoughts and have meaningful conversations on family challenges and identifying strategies to attain our goals.
Another unique experience we had was sleeping in an open-air while still being protected from the elements. Breathing in fresh, natural air and connecting with nature is incredibly refreshing and rejuvenating. We especially love the soothing sounds of rustling leaves and chirping birds that add to the peaceful ambiance.
Escaping from the busy pace of our daily life and finding tranquility in this serene environment is truly something to be grateful for. Our family enjoyed every moment of our stay.
The following day, we had a very meaningful session. We were tasked with engaging in a process of "shopping around" items that could aid in our personal growth and development in terms of learning. We were then asked to share with the group the choices we had. Through this activity, we came to a distinct realization regarding the areas in which we found ourselves lacking, as well as those we hold in high regard. Notably, among the aspects identified were our attitudes, values, and knowledge.
We wrapped up the two-day family camp with a fun-filled Christmas party, exchange of presents, awarding and a group prayer in a big circle.
We received the Complete Family Award. We acknowledge that it's not all about winning, but by the cherished love, unwavering support, and profound unity that resonates within our family. We extend our deepest gratitude to CLEVERKIDS School for these extraordinary moments, as they serve to strengthen the bonds that bind us, forging an even more unbreakable closeness within our family.
FUN FACTS:
We brought these products from Human Nature as we were told not to use anything with harmful chemicals during our stay.
During our Eco-walk led by Sister Ann, one of the medical mission sisters, we saw lichens on trees and learned that lichens are extremely sensitive to sulfur dioxide and are not usually found in areas with high pollution levels. Therefore, the presence of lichens on trees can indicate good air quality. Woods rich in lichens support more wildlife than any other. They provide a habitat and a food source for various insects, birds, and mammals. Lichens also play a significant role in mineral and hydrological cycles. They can fix atmospheric nitrogen into forms that are usable by the lichen itself and other plants and animals.
Labyrinths have been used for thousands of years in various cultures and religions as a tool for spiritual growth, self-reflection, and relaxation. Today, they are used by people seeking a peaceful and introspective experience. A labyrinth is meant to be walked as a form of meditation or contemplation.
We had this exciting activity to gather as fast as we can a cacao leaf, a nitrogen fixing plant, flower of caturay, monggo, brazilian spinach, mulberry leaf, miracle fruit and a dragon fruit leaf.
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