JUN MARFORI
Pulling Back to Move Forward
The “daily grind,” as many traditionalists or boomers may recall, describes the patterns of life—often professional—that can feel repetitive, tedious, and monotonous.
Yet today, the grind is no longer confined to the workplace. In a world made more complicated by endless demands, the burden extends into our personal lives. Social media, round-the-clock messaging, emails, and on-demand entertainment ensure that there is always “something to do.” No dull moment, yes—but also “no time to lose,” “no time for everything,” and always “not enough time.”
I am blessed to live just three minutes away from our parish church, allowing me the gift of daily Mass and the Eucharist. Still, even with the best intentions, my time with the Lord after Mass can feel elusive, fleeting, or rushed. His gentle whisper—“Come and see”—meets my almost automatic reply: “Wait lang, Lord…”
That is why the unexpected four-day trip to Baguio, a gift from our daughter to my wife and me, became more than just a getaway. It was a faith journey, a reconnection, a rekindling. Like the comfort of a jacket in 18-degree weather while Manila sweltered in the 30s, it was a retrahere—a pulling back.
Pulling back from what seems significant, urgent, and non-negotiable, but in truth, not life-giving. Pulling back to retreat from all that distracts, in order to advance toward what is essential.
It became a time of serenity in His holy presence, in a place where creation meets Creator—and where all is about Him.
And so, I returned to Manila with a renewed heart, a fresh pair of eyes and ears—ready to hear, feel, and encounter Him anew. To wait on Him. To seek Him. To walk with Him.
A retrahere. Pull back. Withdraw. Then advance to a fresh start.
“And He who sits on the throne said, ‘Behold, I am making all things new.’” (Revelation 21:5)