My Mt. Sinai experience!
I have been to
I have been told stories about how Mrs. So and So made it to the top, so I decided that it was time for me to experience it. “If Mrs. So & So can do it, so can I.” As soon as I got to St. Catherine, I got myself ready for the climb, and together with Cyonie Hermosisima, her daughter Avril Tiu, Harry Pabilona, and Dennis & Gloria de Pio, we set off for our camel ride at the base of the mountain which took about 1 1/2 hours before we reached the final camel station. At
After an hour and a half, we stopped and I was told that we would have to walk the rest of the 700 steps up to the summit. I watched all the others start their trek up, so I convinced myself that I too CAN DO IT. Thank God that I had no idea how it was to climb 700 steps or I would have chickenedout right then and there. Dennis & Gloria were smarter. I learned later that they decided not to go any further. Harry, Cyonie, Avril and I, went on. Safely tucked in bed at our hotel were the rest of the group: Danny & Lisa Gil, Oscar & Lurline Rodriguez, Myrna Pabilona, Allen and Estrella Anub and Danny & Lina Nellas and Fr. Robin Dumaguit. I tried my best to catch up with Harry Pabilona who seemed not to mind the climb at all. Somewhere along the way, a Bedoiuin who must have seen me struggle from one rock to another, offered me his arm and I gladly accepted it. Little did I know that it would cost me $10.00 for the trip up to the summit. Truth to tell, that was the cheapest $10.00 I have ever spent in my entire life. Without his strong arm to prop me up, I would probably be crawling on my knees all the way up. As the darkness started to lift, I could now see the face of my guide, and I saw how tired he looked. As soon as he got me settled in a huge bolder, he told me that I could have a beautiful view of the sunrise from that vantage point. Together with other tourists, we eagerly awaited the famous
After the experience, I can now say, that I will not recommend it to anyone over 50 even if they are physically fit. For Avril Tiu, she wants to go back and do it one more time. “It’s easier the second time around”, she quipped laughlingly. In hindsight, I am glad that I did it! The experience was good for my health and mostly for my ego. But I will never, never do it again!
For those who are still apprehensive about visiting the Holyland, I am a living proof that all is well in God’s country. Our most efficient guide Exie was there to welcome us at the border together with our very jolly driver Adnan. Like all the previous trips that I have taken to the Holyland, I continue to be touched by the place as I listen to the homily of our spiritual director, Fr. Robin Dumaguit and the spirit-filled explanation of the sights by our guide. The places visited are the same, and yet each time I visit the place, I am filled with the same awe and wonder as the bible comes alive with every footstep I take. The place that touches me most is the place of the crucifixion, as I start to reflect on how the Lord suffered and died for us. Can you imagine how our lives would be, if we do not have our faith? On this trip, I wept unashamedly when the passengers shared how the trip has changed their lives. I thank the Lord for keeping me in this profession, and I will continue to do what He wills for me for as long as I am able. To God be the glory!
For your comments, you can reach me at Delmar Travel & Tours, Inc. Tel. 032-25636561 & 2536571 or by email at marilou_ordonez2000 @yahoo.com
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