I used to be a manager in one of the biggest fast-food chains. In this fast-food chain, the kitchen crews and the counter crews cannot cross from one area to another due to food safety reasons.

One day, “Erwin” (not his real name), approached me and said, “Sir, can you transfer me to another station? Can I be a counter crew?” Erwin is one of the oldest crews, approaching his 50s. He is always assigned to the egg station, because he cooks eggs better than anyone else. However, Erwin feels that his role is too small and insignificant. That is why he wants to change stations.

As his manager, I know very well that Erwin lacks skills in the counter since he was not trained in that station. Another factor is Erwin’s demeanor and appearance. Erwin’s age is way older as compared to our counter crews who are in their early 20s, making him look “less-pleasing”. That is why I decided to say no to his request.

"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." — Jeremiah 29:11

Pampanga—A place where the sleeping giant awakens. In June 1991, after more than four centuries of slumber, Mt. Pinatubo erupted so violently that caused 847 people dead, 184 injured, 23 missing, and more than 1 million people displaced. Hundreds of millions of dollars in private properties and infrastructure lay in ruins. This occurrence also caused the world’s temperature to fall by an average of 1 degree Celsius. Clearly, Pinatubo’s eruption signals the world’s most violent and destructive volcanic catastrophe of the 20th century. As I recall, way back that time, snow-like ash from lahar fell in my hometown in Laguna. I remember my parents were cleaning up our place covered with ashes which I thought before was snow.