Most people say that change starts with yourself or from the moment you decide to make the first step. They also say that consistency, perseverance, and commitment will secure the change you aspire to have whether it is a physical, spiritual, or in character. I also believed this perspective for a long time until I come across a story that changed that perception.
In one of the episodes of Encantadia, a Filipino fantasy-drama series, Pirena finally decided to reconcile with her sisters and follow the path of being virtuous and upright. She asked for forgiveness and even returned the powerful gem (brilyante ng tubig) that she has stolen to prove that she is really changing for the better. However, her daughter, Mira, still doesn’t want to forgive her for she has lost her trust in Pirena who severely caused her pain and suffering in the past. She believes that her mother wouldn’t be able to change.
Here is the clip:
Rough Translation:
Mira: How long will you stay as an ally of your sisters and of the Fairies/Goddesses? Until you get tempted to seize power? Or maybe you’ll steal the powerful gems that others are protecting?
Pirena: Mira, I cannot promise that my will to change will be consistent. I still need everyone’s help. You still need to look after me. So help me, my daughter. Help me so that I will not go back to my old habits. I am begging you. Give me a chance to change for both of us.
Right then, I realized that changing oneself is not just a work of one but a work of a group. When one chooses to change besides self-work, they also need encouragement and support because if we show that we don’t believe that they will be able to change, they will doubt their own capability to be a better person.
It is true that almost every step in changing must be done by one’s self but a gesture of belief and motivation can help them in their goal. This is also the same with spiritual transformation. Most new believers find it difficult to avoid their bad habits and to remain faithful, but with a helping hand and kind words, they will be able to find comfort and inspiration in continuously fighting and changing.
“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.”
1 Thessalonians 5:11
Article by Chlarissa Mae
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