Prologue

She stood before the crowd, watchful eyes expecting her every
move. Some of them she knew but most of them were people she never
met in her life. Maybe someday she would encounter them again
somewhere, but that day they, all she thought was that they shared the
moment of glory together.
You know what they say how in the moment before you die,
you could see your whole life flash before your eyes? Funny, she was not
about to die yet, but somehow the same thing happened. The difference
was that the vision was not about her life, in general, exactly.
She remembered those nights she spent studying for a quiz or
two the following day. She remembered the feeling of extreme stupidity
when she used the wrong value in her solution. She remembered those
homeworks she did not pass and the seatworks she missed just because
she chose to sleep instead. And the heavenly glory she shared with her
mates whenever their class received a 15-point bonus in their scores.

It was a flashback of her student life.

She scanned the crowd to find the familiar faces that kept her
up to her feet for the past years. There they were, sitting in the right side
of the building, eyes gleaming with pride. She saw them stand when her
name filled the place, a mixture of clapping hands and whooping screams.
She couldnt her them from where she stood, but she knew that they were
all proud of her.
At last, she made it. She made it this far. And she was elated to
see how far she could still go.

She stepped forward. Significant people she didnt even know

offered her handshakes, congratulated her and wished her well. Finally,
the lady at the end of the line handed her her diploma, and just like a
scene in the movies, everything was in slow motion. She felt the smooth
texture of the thin sheet grazing the skin of her palms. She smelled the
distinct scent of the paper as well as the future victory it held. She thanked
the lady and smiled and faced the crowd once again.
But she didnt look at anyone in particular. She held her head
high and beamed a genuine, victorious smile. She looked straight ahead
and whispered a prayer.
2

Thank you Lord.

She had graduated and earned her degree. She did it.
She raised her hand, pointing up to the heavens. It was so say

it isnt me, its His doing. She gave Him back all the honor and glory
she received that day, because she knew that without Him in her life,
she is nothing.

And so, another chapter of her life had ended. It was the time
to flip another page, and to start another chapter.

But little did she knew that it was just the prologue of the first
book of her life. Chapter one is yet to start. Many more chapters will
come, and magnificent volumes will follow. After all, the Greatest Author
writes the best novels the universe could ever read. Maybe hers would be
a best-selling series.

Year ONE

Leanne heaved a sigh. For every day that had passed,

never will the congested roads and traffic jams fail to
complete hers. Although she has gotten used to that kind
scenario every morning, today was exceptionally frustrating.
Not only did she reek of smoke and pollution; her whole
being felt smoky and polluted too. She spent a little extra
time prepping up for today, but the city impurities most
likely ruined her get-up. And not to mention the rising heat
4

even though it was only past seven in the morning. Shoot,

past seven. She looked at her watch she only have nine
minutes to spare.

With the fastest pace her short legs could muster,

she proceeded to the elevator. Her assigned place is situated
at the fourth floor, fortunately, so it will only take her a few
minutes to get there. She could not afford to have her first
tardy slip, not today. All she would have today is her very
first paycheck.

The familiar buzzing of their office greeted her, along

with the small hellos and how-are-yous of her colleagues.
The scent of black coffee and professionalism hung in the air,
like the sense of doing something for a greater good is just
there, waiting to be pluck out of the midair. She wished them

all a good day and went on to start her work, feeling extra
motivated to get something done.

///

A knock on her desk made her to turn her attention

away from the screen in front of her.
So, Engr. Amarillo, how does it feel to get your first
paycheck? a pretty lady asked, her face devoid with any
emotion.
Nothing much, really, Engr. Cruz. I dont really feel
exited and all. I havent even called my parents this morning
just to tell them about it. In fact, I dont expect anything
thats why I dressed up and all that stuff. No fuss, really.
She answered stoically.
6

They stared at each other for a few moments. Then

they burst out laughing.
So you really did call your parents to brag about
your paycheck?
Not brag, ate Myla. I just told them that finally I can
give back what I owed them for raising me up. Besides, its
not my money, its theirs. She told her with a smile.
Myla, her closest colleague in their company sat in
front of her. She began working a year ahead of her, and she
trained Leanne when she started working a little over a
month ago. As the communications engineers in the
company, they often worked as a team so they quickly
became friends. Myla was not just a friend to her though;
she was also an older sister and a mentor.
Im just happy that you are happy. You may think
that this is something small in your career, but its a step
closer to your dreams.
7

Ill remember that ate Myla.

It is true that it may look like a small, simple

accomplishment. But an achievement, no matter how small
it is, is still an achievement. If there is one word that could
describe Leanne at this moment, it would be grateful.
For a few times, she got rejected by the companies
she applied for. But she did not stop. And when finally a job
opportunity came and she saw that it would work out just
fine for her, she grabbed her chance. Being able to do the
kind of job she pined for, being able to surround herself by
positive people and being able to make her parents proud is
enough for her, for now.
S0, the team wants to know where we shall have a
celebratory coffee treat later. You up for that? Myla teased.

Why do I get the feeling that you all will make me

pay? yet, she smiled at her friend.

///

After seven rings, the other line finally picked up.

Hello mother dear, I just got home from church. I
ate lunch with ate Zyre. Leanne greeted.
Lunch at 3:00? If your father finds out, Im sure
hell tell you off, again. her mom answered.
If he finds out. she chuckled, emphasizing a
certain word. Anyway, I called you because I want to know
if you already gave the youth that sponsorship they were
9

asking me. I think its enough to support three young people

for the Christmas Institute.
I already did. They send their thanks.
Send them my love, mom.
By the way, is your message ready?
Oh yes, the message. Leanne was invited to speak at
their church for the Christmas season. And yes, her message
is very much ready. She made it the night they told her about
being the preacher. Every time they ask her to speak, to
deliver Gods words, she feels elated and honored. Every
time still feels like the first time she shared His message.
Its the overwhelming feeling of being able to be used
by God that makes her want to know Him, serve Him and
love Him more and more. After all these years, the fire of
worship is still blazing in her heart, the ember of praise
fanned into bigger flames.

10

Yes mom. Its almost done. I cant wait to come

home. I miss you guys.
We miss you too, sweetheart.

When her mom hung up, a wave of longing washed

over her. Working away from home, facing the real world
seemed a lot to take in. But at least she had coped up, and
she was getting by.
And with Gods grace, in every learnings she
encountered, she was never alone. Leanne has a full life
ahead of her, and she resigned herself under His control.

11

Year TWO

Despite the crowded restaurant, Leanne easily

spotted those boys she was supposed to meet. In all the
fairness, they chose to sit at the farthest corner of the place,
where it was less noisy and a bit more private compared to
the rest of the restaurant. They really know her.
One of them saw her as she made her way towards
them, and pointed her to his mates. There seemed to be
some kind of surprise agenda, but she already saw the
12

flowers, and balloons hidden below the table. She smiled. At

least, they remembered.
When she reached their table, all three of them arose,
singing to her in chorus. Happy birthday, angel! they
greeted.
They handed her the flowers and the balloons, and a
gift box wrapped so prettily in blue ribbon that Leanne
almost refused to open it. But her souls were persistent, so
in the end, she gave in.
Thank you so much souls! I called you guys up so I
could treat you, but the flowers and gifts are truly
unexpected. She said, hugging each of them in gratitude.
Wheres Soul Jigz and Soul Jerry?
They cant make it tonight, angel. the tallest of
them, JP, answered. Jerry said he couldnt excuse himself
at the review center. And Jigz has an interview.
But dont be upset angel, you got us! Rem said.
13

Leanne smiled. Of course, she knew it. After many

years of her being their angel, and them being her souls, she
knew for sure that they got her back no matter what. And
after all these years, her souls, who once were just in the
transition from being boys to guys, are now men. Well,
except for one.
Angel, that cute guy over there keeps looking here.
I think he likes me. Edver said, nudging her with his elbow.
She rolled her eyes. No soul, I dont think he likes
you.
Why not?
Because I know him. Hes someone from work.
Maybe hes wondering why Im here. Said she. Still, Edver
insisted that the guys is eye-flirting with him.
The food arrived, and surprise, theres also a cake for
her. They caught up with each other, talked about a lot of

14

things, traded stories from the years they hadnt seen each
other.
So what are your plans now angel? Rem asked her,
finishing his third plate.
Well, the company I am working on is currently
screening for possible candidates that they could send
abroad for trainings. The credentials could promote for
higher positions, plus a bonus of additional knowledge
about my field. I tried submitting my files, so I hope I would
be qualified.
Of course you will, angel! You can do it. JP
encouraged.
But angel, what if you will not get picked? Edver
interjected.
Then, Ill enroll for Masters Degree Classes. The
company offers post-graduate courses, so at least, I could
have my MS degree. She answered.
15

You dont intend to quit on you job now?

No, not yet.
Whoa angel, you have it all planned out! Rem said.
Not really, soul. I just keep my options open so that
if ever things dont work the way I want them to be, at least
I have Plan B. she winked at them.
But angel, really. That guy has his eyes glued here.
I think he fell in love with me. Edver stated rather loudly,
loud enough for the guy to hear. It made him avert his eyes
to their direction. Leanne laughed to herself, a bit amused
by what she saw.
So, souls, its your turn. Tell me your plans. She
sipped her blue lemonade. Shes quite sure that it would be
a long night.

16

///

The melody rose to its crescendo. It was her favorite

part; the part of the song where she could utter little words
of worship. The part of the song where she could whisper a
soft prayer, yet the whole room would hear it. The sweet
tune of the keyboard accompanying her resonated in the
room. She could feel the soft plucking of the guitar, hear the
slow beating of the drums. She let herself get lost with the
song. She let herself get swept away from praising. With eyes
close, she spread her arms and sang. Soon enough, the song
had ended. But her worship hadnt.
Warmth still filled her chest when she stepped out of
the church premises. She bid goodbye to the praise and

17

worship team, and headed home. Just then, somebody

walked beside her.
I didnt know you worship-lead. Heck, I didnt even
know you go to that church. It was one of her colleagues,
the same guy in the restaurant.
She looked at him, eyes squinted, halting her pace.
You dont look like the kind of guy who attends church
either.
Ouch. He put a hand in his chest, feigning to be
hurt. Leanne rolled her eyes and briskly walked away,
leaving him alone with his unimpressive acting skill.
A few seconds later, she found him walking beside
he yet again, matching her fast pace. She ignored him, not
even bothering to cast a second glance at him.
So you like church-going guys? he asked.
I like God-loving people. She simply responded.

18

I love God! he shouted, causing her to roll her eyes

at him for the second time that night.
It isnt enough to make me like you though.
Fortunately, her ride arrived inside. She stepped
inside, not risking to look at him. But she heard him shout
as the bus moved. See you church, and at work!

It was one real heap of a day for Leanne. Mostly

because her prayers were answered. She received a news
from Myla that she got promoted to junior telecoms
engineer. This meant her hard work had been paying off.
Heres another step closer towards her goals. And she would
be forever grateful.
Another was that she was able to lead the worship at
their church. She was the worship leader for the night, not
just the back-up vocals. She and the band had been
rehearsing for weeks now, and she prayed every night that
19

may she be able to bless other people while praising God.

And in fact she did. Because after the church service, a group
of young people came to her, thanking her and telling her
how they were moved by just singing praises to the Lord.
Nothing compares to the feeling of being able to be
used by God. That feeling of being able to be a part of His
ministry, to surrender willingly to His plans, to touch souls
and become a fisher of men. Leanne always knew that she
was made to worship. She was made to bless Gods name.
And tonight may yet be the highlight of her spiritual life.
And lastly, though she didnt want to admit it to
herself, that person. God really loves surprising her. His
grace drowned her, his blessings poured out to her
unworthy self. She needed to talk to Him, heart to heart. She
smiled to herself. She cant wait to get home.

20

Year THREE

Their merry laughter reverberated in the four walls

of the room. It has been so long since they last had a sleepover. And to think that they were young professionals in
their near mid-twenties, a slumber party wasnt the most
likely thing to do.
But her girls insisted on having this night-out for a
sole reason: to pry more news on their friends engagement.
21

Kjeldzen Maries long-time boyfriend proposed to

her the day before. And as their nature, the ladies wanted to
know every detail about how the proposal went, from the
angle of the knee her fianc bent to the exact words he used
in asking her hand.
But Lei might not be here on your wedding day.
Claire pouted. Leanne looked at her with wide, I-cantbelieve-you-said-it looking eyes.
Why not? Armi Joy looked at her questioningly.
The other girls turned their attention to her as well.
She didnt know how to start explaining. The truth is,
she was offered a reasonable job in MBC Plus Media, a
broadcasting company abroad. It was her dream job. She
didnt want to leave, but this opportunity might knock only
once in her lifetime. She didnt intent on letting this slip
through her fingertips.
My dream job found me, guys. I cant just say no.
22

What do you mean? Trecia asked.

She means shes already leaving next month.
Claire cut her off before she could even answer.
Leanne sighed. She didnt mean to keep the
information from them. It was just that everything
happened to quickly that she hadnt had a lot of time to
process everything. And thanks to Claire, it looked to them
like she planned to keep it a secret.
Im just waiting for my papers. Then Im off. Im
sorry I didnt tell you sooner. she told her friends quietly.
Silence enveloped the room, replacing the chatting
and giggles a few minutes ago. After some time, Jewel May
finally broke the ice. Well, Im glad you got your dream job.
Were happy if youre happy.
And try to be here for my wedding. Kjeldzen Marie
seconded.

23

Group hug! Armi Joy shouted, gathering the all six

of them in a circle.

///

Her mom hugged her tightly for the last time. When
they let go, a series of reminders came flying out of her
mouth, making Leanne cringe. Nagging is every moms forte,
which is a proven fact.
Come here, sweetheart. Her dad said to her. He
embraced her and kissed her head, a gleam of pride evident
in his eyes. Take care of yourself. He who began a good
work in you will be faithful to complete it. He reminded her.

24

She nodded. Ever since she was a kid, her dad had
always used that verse to remind her that in every milestone
in her life, God will always be there. And she never forgot
about it. In fact, she cling to that promise for the longest
time.
Always, pops. She suppressed a sob. Her dad
hugged her once again, longer this time, and whispered
something to her ear.
Go chase your dream, my angel.

///

Working with different kind of people is a greater

challenge than being in the field yourself. And what is more
25

challenging than working with people from different culture

and race?
Korea is a very rich country, in both cultural and
economic aspects. It took some time for Leanne to adjust
with their culture, but when she finally gotten used to her
life, she tried to make out the most out of it. It was her dream
job after all. And she was doing this not only for herself, but
also for her family.

The cold morning breeze of winter kissed her cheeks.

Even with the several layers of coats she wore, the chilly
wind still managed to freeze her bones to its core. She
thought living in Baguio was cold enough, but living in a
country in the northern hemisphere was deadly frigid.
Why was she even out so early in the morning? Its
because some guy she knew sent her a message the night
before telling her that he just arrived in Korea and he needed
26

a coffee buddy and a tour guide. So there she was, waiting

for some crazy guy to show up.
Yes, to her, he was indeed crazy. Only a crazy person
would ever file a leave in their work and spend months
worth of their salary for a plane ticket to Korea just because
they miss her. Truth to be told, it wasnt just some guy she
knew. It was someone special to her.
I got jetlagged. Was his morning greeting.
You crossed just one time zone, genius. It cant be
that bad. Was hers.

Can I hug you right now? Your mom says I have to

hug you for her. Plus, its so cold here. I cant feel my ears
anymore.
From an annoying colleague-restaurant guy to
someone who now somehow holds her heart, he sure came

27

from a long way. She never thought shed fall, not to him
specifically, but there she was, cheeks flushed not from the
cold, but from the effect of that person to her.
You are so clingy. Were not even dating yet.
Not yet. But soon. He winked.
She rolled her eyes in attempt to cover up the
moshpit sensation in her stomach. But she was sure he knew
how happy she was to see him. Its true that when you are in
love, you could do even the craziest thing. Leanne somehow
believed that now.

28

///

We can never be sure of the future. Things might be

there for a moment, so better not let them pass you by.
Leanne couldnt help but think about what her life
would be if it wasnt the way it was. Maybe she was still in
her previous company, leading her own team of telecoms
engineers like her ate Myla. Or maybe she could have
quitted her job and found a new one. Chances were she
would end up working in some company back home,
earning just enough money to support her family. Not
working her dream job would be her biggest what if.
She was very grateful for all the blessings and
opportunities given to her. She was glad that she could also
give her parents everything they wanted. They sacrificed a

29

lot of things before to be able to provide all her needs; it was

her turn now.
She smiled like a Cheshire cat when she settled the
last of the bill she needed to pay. The teller handed some
papers for her to sign, congratulating her for availing their
product. She purchased a car.
It wasnt for her though.
It was a gift for her parents silver anniversary.
Leanne saved some from her earnings for many months so
that she could buy her dad his dream car. It was a promise
she made to herself when she was younger. And now that
she had a stable job and a good amount of savings in her
bank account, she couldnt help but to feel a bit
accomplishment.

30

Right then and there, she knew the feeling of being

able to provide for her loved ones. She dearly hoped that her
parents were still proud of her, even after all the things she
failed to do for them.

31

Year FOUR

It was only for a month, but shell take every chance

she could get to come home.
After meeting with the interior designer, Leanne
called her mom to see how her picking of the roof tiles went.
Apparently, she couldnt decide which tile color suits their
new house.
As promised, she and her sister had their old house
renovated. The elevated bungalow they grew up with now
32

soared three-story tall, designed with big rooms and elegant

furnishings. Just a little more finalizing was needed, and her
family would be ready to occupy the house they once
dreamed of.
She saw a familiar car park outside the shop, and she
took it as a cue for her leave. Her boyfriend greeted her with
a warm smile, and embraced her tightly like they didnt see
each other for a long time.
Your mom told me to hug you for her. he said, still
not letting her out of his bear hug.
Im guessing dad asked you to kiss me for him as
well. Her voice was muffled from his chest, and she felt him
chuckle.
Actually no, but since you said it yourself, Id do it
for him too. And there went another stolen kiss in the cheek,
its effect to her never fading.

33

What time did you arrive? she asked him, despite

her suspicion that he had just got there.
Just now. The four-hour drive from Manila was
tiring. But Im okay now that I see you. he flashed her a
cheeky grin. All she could manage was a smile.
Hows work? How is everyone? They walked hand
in hand towards the car, fingers locked perfectly fitting each
others hand.
Good. Ate Myla got her promotion last week. Shes
senior telecoms engineer now. She says hi, by the way. He
answered as he opened the car door for her.
Leanne felt genuinely happy for her ate Myla. She
had always been good to her, and she knew that she deserves
every blessing coming her way. If she didnt choose to work
abroad, she was most likely to be still working on that
company, with her ate Myla and the guy driving beside her.

34

What do you want to do today? she felt him

glancing at her from time to time in their car ride.
She

considered

for

moment.

Then

she

remembered that it was that time of the year. Today, you

need to rest first. Tomorrow we go to Baguio, I have probies
to meet.

///

One month was too short for a vacation, but she has
to go back. The company she was working in Korea was
strict about time management, so any delay wasnt
recommended. Things should always be in the same pace

35

with the plans. Should there be inevitable interruptions,

they always try to keep it at minimal.
With MBC Medias merging with an American
company investors, work had to be tripled to perfection.
Leanne was transferred to the research and broadcast
designs department, where she led a team of brilliant
engineers. She never felt so blessed in her life, for being able
to be entrusted with such an important task. With the fast
development

of

technology,

broadcasting

and

communication were a big avenue for new innovations and

improvement. And the fact that the company gave her such
significant task made her feel a little overwhelmed.
And she was learning continually. Getting out of the
university did not mean she had to stop studying. Even
being in the field, she took night courses for broadcast
engineering so she could use her knowledge and degree at
her work.

36

It wasnt the six-digit amount of salary she receive

every month that motivated her to do better. No, she wanted
to contribute something useful in her profession. She did
not want to be just an engineer who builds and designs; she
wanted to be an engineer who makes a difference and
inspires.

She was young, with little experiences and plenty of

energy. She had a full life ahead of her. And she wanted to
make a difference.

37

Year FIVE

It seems just yesterday when Leanne stepped into

her first work as a licensed electronics engineer. Such a
young spirit coming out to venture the real world. Such a
nave mind in facing the trades of the industry.
It was surreal. She remembered feeling terrified
once she first entered the glass doors that opened her eyes
to her profession. It felt like a dream, but she was not
dreaming at all. The memories were real, the experiences

38

were too, as well as the legit learnings she acquired along the
way to where she is today.
She looked at the vast whiteness before her. Inhaling
the cool breeze, she huffed a breath, the warm air mixing
with cold creating pseudo-smoke.
Being here in person is a lot better than just
watching Taemin tour around, right? her sister slash best
friend Tricia told her. They laughed at that thought. Years
ago, they planned visit Europe, particularly Switzerland
someday. That someday, came today.
Im glad we were able to get this well-deserved
vacation. It feels quite refreshing. She admitted to her
sister.
And I should remind you that we cannot afford to
miss the tram again. her sister joked. They nearly missed
half of their morning tour because they rode the wrong tram.

39

And we seriously cant miss the Les Miserables

show tonight. I fought a bloody internet war for the tickets.
We cant let them go to waste.

Among all her travels, this escapade was her most

favorite. She was not sure whether it was because she was
with her sister, or because their childhood dream finally
turned into a reality. All she knew was that at the peak of her
career, she got the chance to enjoy the energy, time and
resources she had.
Just as they planned, they went around Europe
visiting castles and places they had only read about when
they were kids. And even though both of them was
committed in their work and with someone, they made it a
point that it was just the two of them in that trip.

40

They took another train going back to the Leukerbad.

The ride was long, but that made it perfect for sincere
talking and nostalgic reminiscing.
So that business youve been planning, are you
really going to push it? Tricia started.
Yes. I need to have investments by now. Besides,
Junos going to be in college soon. We promised mom and
dad that we will support his schooling.
What was that again?
A caf.
Her sister thought for a few moments. But there are
hundreds of cafs back at home. Dont you think theres a
great chance of losing the market competition?
She already did, actually. How can her caf standout and make it big amongst the sea of potential competitors?

41

Thats why mine will not only just a caf. Its going
be a special caf! she answered her merrily.
What kind of special? still, her sister was not
buying her idea.
Leanne smiled playfully. You have to come to the
opening so you could see for yourself.
Tricia rolled your eyes. No wonder Juno calls you
the Evil Sister.
Between you and me, he has no other choice. They
laughed once more.

They took some pictures at the sceneries they had

passed, as well as photos of themselves. There was no
denying that they missed each other so much, and that trip
made it possible for them to catch up with each others lives.

42

Didnt he ask you yet? Tricia randomly asked her.

Ask me what?
Marriage, of course. Youre both in the right age.
You made him court you for two years. Youve been together
for almost three. Its about time. Her sister pointed out.
Leanne thought for a moment. For her, marriage is
a major plot in her storyline. It could mean that another part
of the novel she calls life is about to start. It leads to another
new book, not just a short chapter. Settling down with her
own family isnt just a filler; it would be the climax. The
thought scares her, but she would just let the greatest
Author do the proofreading in her life.

He hasnt. But sometimes he jokes around that

when we built our house, he needs to have his own
workshop.

43

He told me before we left that hell propose to you

when we get back. Hed been preparing for this since the
year started, big time. He asked me to keep it a secret, but I
wont. Tricia stuck her tongue out.
I cant believe you are actually telling me this, little
sister! she gasped.
I just want to spare you from the crying mess Im
sure you are too become. You better prepare your emotions
now eonnie. She winked, bringing up the endearment she
used to call her big sister.
You big, bad bully!
Shes not sure if she was ready to settle down. But it
would take a lifetime to prepare yourself for committing
yourself into something permanent. You come as you are
before God, prepared or no, and say your vows. No matter
how ready you say you are, unexpected things would happen.

44

Its a scary thought. A life shared with someone so

full of uncertainties? Who would sign up for that?
Oh, but she would. She wasnt sure, yes, but for one
thing she was certain. Its a next book with him.

45

Epilogue
Of this story

(Ten years after)

A boy aged seven ran out from the storehouse and came inside the
house. He nearly toppled the lamp over and spilled her coffee from jumping to
her lap. Leanne looked at her son with a shock.
Psalm, what did I tell you when Moms writing?
The little boy caught his breathe, and bowed his head looking sorry.
Behave. Im sorry mom. I wont do it again. he promised. Leanne smiled, her
anger vanishing in an instant. She patted her sons head.
Whats up, dear? she asked.

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I found this while dad is cleaning in the storehouse. You have your
name on it, but its different. Its yours right?
She gasped when she saw a familiar book in her sons hand. It was an
old friend.
Yes, its mine, sweetheart. I made it way back in college. She took it
from him and laid it in the table before her. She carried Psalm and made him sit
properly in her lap. Together, they opened the browning pages.
What exactly is that mom? It is a story book? he asked innocently.
Its my life plan.
She didnt know that she managed to keep it. She felt nostalgia wash
over her as she flipped the thin bounded sheets, page after page.
Whats a life plan?
Its like an outline of the things you want to do with your life. You
list them all like this, and somehow make it happen. She answered her son. It
made her wonder if her plans actually worked out. She almost cannot remember
any of them.

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Like how you make an outline for me to remember easily the parts
of the body? Or when you write down which homework should I finish first?
Leanne chuckled, Exactly! Same idea but only little more
complicated.
I want to have a life plan too! he said to his mom, eyes burning with
determination.
Then make one. Lets hang it on your room after, its that okay?
Sure! Ill make one for Praise too! suddenly remembering his little
sister, who was sleeping soundly in her crib behind them.
I dont think its a good idea, sweetheart. She should be the one to
make her own. She saw her sons face fell, clearly disappointed. But you can
help her when shes big enough to write. Then you can hang hers in her room.
Sounds good?
Okay, Ill do that. Psalm beamed at her.
Now why dont you call Dad? Tell him to help you find things you
need for your life plan.

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Her son excitedly jumped down from her lap and ran outside, calling
out to his dad. It made her smile even more. She never thought shes be able to
see her plans many years ago. She knew some things didnt exactly go the way
she wished, and she certainly had setbacks along the way. But in every setback,
God had a better comeback, and in every dead-end, He had shown a detour.
She came to the very last page of her life plan and saw something that
warmed her heart.

Many are the plans in a mans heart, but it is the Lords purpose
that prevails Proverbs 19:21

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