My EWA experience

the Feminists

    

The Ecclesia of Women in Asia 5 has just culminated and I am so grateful for the opportunity to be part of it. Almost forty women (feminist) in Asia and the US as well gathered in Kuala Lumpur Malayisa to tackle issues related to women. Specifically, this year's theme was Wired Asia, Toward an Asian Feminist Theology of Human Connectivity. It was my first time to join an international endeavor like this and what made it so special was the fact that I was given the chanc to present my paper to these great women.

Dancing with joy

                                     

I was thinking I would be presenting on the second day but It was a surprise knowing I was the first presentor. I was totally panicking few hours before the conference kicked off. As I started delivering my 20-minute presentation, I realized that I was not anymore my usual self. I noticed that in front of
me were women who were totally supportive of me.I saw how interested they were of my paper.
 After my talk and the dialogue with the other participants, I was bombarded with all praises from these same women. They liked my paper because it was something new. They like my presentation as well. I was totally empowered. I never did imagine I would become that confident. I am forever thankful to my mentor for not giving up on me.

with my mentor, Ma'am Agnes

                                  

As the conference went on, I have come to realize that new doors have opened up for me.
My heart seemed to explode hearing from my mentor how confident she was of me. I have often wondered where my theology struggles will lead me but after the five day encounter with my fellow feminists, I knew I was on the right track...and i still am.

                                 

Thank you everyone.See you again soon.

  

I was emotional on the last day of the conference. I felt so blessed just being there. More than that,I felt so relieved knowing I have found my support system. Sharon Bong told me she's glad I was able to make it there. I was immensely grateful that I have found my place in this venture. It's good to be safe. It's good to have a home again.

Another gift today



from google images

                             
Hello readers! I have been so tired for the last couple of days that I ended up not writing anything stuffy in here..I guess it started last Saturday evening. The woman thing is here again and I am enjoying my time. I need to stay cool despite the ordeal for I dont want to get overwhelmed by this gift.

I went to practice at the shala today.Traffic was terrible and I thought I would be so late that I ended up taking a taxi somewhere in Galeria.When I arrived, I saw two great women practicing with the teacher.I did my savasana then started my surya namaskar.Margaux was already behind me.I knew she was intently observing my chaturanga dandasana. I was scooping when I heard her scream, "YES! You did it!" I stopped in the middle of the upward dog and looked at her.I smiled and I still couldnt believe I did it.My practice at home was worth it. :)

I was doing alright with the rest of the poses when I suddenly felt the discomfort at my back. My teacher noticed it too.She asked if I had scoliosis and I affirmed it. My pelvic muscles were also beginning to hurt.I told her my period was coming but I just really wanted to stretch.She told me to do some yin poses to relax my nerves.

I didn't do the rest of the poses anymore.I have felt  that my legs were trembling.I had cramps so I did my finishing poses then my savasana.I was told to lift my legs up on the wall. It was more relaxing.

The best thing happned after the practice today. I had a great time conversing with Margaux.It was so natural for us to simply share things not only about yoga but life in general.I guess we talked for an hour.We became very opened and comfortable with each other.It was awesome.

We hugged and gave assurance that we would see each other in the next practices soon.I had found a new friend again.I am very grateful for another like mind.She's very encouraging about my practice.I am more inspired to be a yogin.

I went home bringing with me great memories of my encounter with myself and my teacher.I am happy i have another great person to handle me in time of Jon's absence.

Despite my cycle now, I am still glad that I went to the shala today.The universe must have been preparing me to welcome another great guru.I am blessed as always.

OM.

GREAT practice tonight

Talking about energy that's awesome, I just had it tonight.With the other women at the shala, I felt that the universe has opened up its horizon to all of us who wished to be at home with ourselves again.


Teacher Nature was early and she took time to chat with us while waiting for the others.She was very human when she told me she's in denial with teacher jon leaving soon.I could only smile and told her we need to let him go.Of course, i said that with a kind of a heavy heart.I also have my episodes of denial knowing my last classes with him are a way too short.Still, i am beginning to pray for him for a safe and blessed journey out there.


I felt so light while the practice went on.There were less thoughts getting in my way. It was a total surrender of desires, of worries, of expectations, of hopes and of pains.I am very certain my prayers were heard.


The practice ended with a great savasana.I am again ready to sleep soundly.I said goodnight to Nature and the rest of the women.I told them it was a great practice tonight.It was indeed.I went home peaceful.I laughed a lot during my classes with Jully.Priceless!


It's hot now but I dont mind.My body has been conditioned enough at the shala.This heart is happy.This self is renewed This soul is strong for I have the UNIVERSE backing me up...always!


Namaste!