My suffering is my offering

My suffering and your suffering have meaning because of God…
Fr Jerry Orbos SVD (2018)

Fr Jerry Orbos SVD on My Suffering is My Offering

Moments in Philippine Daily Inquirer by Fr Jerry Orbos SVD

A celebration, a feast! That’s how I would describe the going home of 19-year-old Maxine Blanco to the heavenly Father last March 23, Saturday (the day of Our Lady), at 3 p.m. (the hour of great mercy). So young, so beautiful inside and out, so full of joy and life, who lived life to the max!

Maxine was diagnosed with bone cancer in September 2018. Her left leg was amputated two months later, something which she faced joyfully, insisting that she walked and danced her way to the operating room! She did not listen to the voice of helplessness, hopelessness and self-pity. No, not this brave girl who, all her life, had wanted to make a difference in this world.

Maxine wanted to take up law. When asked why, her simple answer was that she wanted to help our country and our people. So young, so frail, but so full of idealism and dreams for our country, the Philippines. A very timely reminder to our politicians and government officials who continue to abuse and steal, so unkind to the youth’s hopes and dreams.

I believe in my heart that Maxine Blanco is a modern-day saint, a role model for the youth. Her last words to her younger siblings, Martha, Margaux and Marco were: “Help Mom and Dad,” embodying her deep love and gratitude for her parents, Miguel and Belle Blanco. Thank you, Maxine, for the love and the inspiration, to the max!