✝️ Never Carrying the Cross Alone
One habit that has become part of my life is holding a crucifix as I fall asleep. Because I often struggle to sleep at night, the crucifix has become a quiet reminder that Christ is with me, even in the darkness and silence of the night.
On the opening day of the Perjalanan Salib, one particular moment touched me deeply. As I watched the volunteers together with Fr Andrew Manickam each place a hand on a small part of the cross during the procession, I found myself unexpectedly moved. It was a simple gesture, yet it spoke so profoundly to my heart.
At that moment, I was reminded that carrying the cross is never as easy as it appears. From the outside, it may seem manageable, but those who strive to follow Christ know that the cross often comes in the form of hidden struggles, silent sacrifices, disappointments, and daily perseverance. Yet the same cross that speaks of suffering also proclaims victory, for through the Cross, Christ conquered sin and death.
Every gesture throughout the opening day of the Perjalanan Salib brought back memories of the crosses I have carried in my own life. Many of those crosses were unseen by others, but God has been present in every step of the journey. Instead of seeing only suffering, I was reminded that each cross has become an invitation to trust Him more deeply.
The Holy Hour, the Rosary, the intercessions for the Archdiocese, and the community that gathered each day to walk this journey together all became channels of God’s grace. They reminded me that no one carries the cross alone. Christ walks with us, and through the prayers and presence of the Church, we are strengthened to continue the journey.
Although the days of the Perjalanan Salib seemed to pass by so quickly, they have left a lasting impression on my heart. I thank God for allowing me to be part of this beautiful pilgrimage of faith. It was not simply an event that I attended; it became another gentle reminder that every cross embraced with Christ is never the end of the story. Beyond every cross lies the hope and joy of the Resurrection.