Making Changes

Seeker: When I Finally Stopped Saying No Brother Barry has had many labels in his life. Son. Jamaican. New Yorker. Navy man. Husband. Dad.  Minister of the Gospel. Host of Face the Truth. But if there’s one label that changed everything else. it’s seeker. This is the story most people don’t know about Brother Barry… the journey of a seeker who was looking for truth in all the wrong places, until God led him to the one place he did his best to avoid. Episode Timestamps 00:00               A Seeker’s Opening: “Could This Be It?” 02:15               Twenty Years in Media: How God Uses Technology to Spread the Gospel 08:20               Born in Jamaica, Raised in the Bronx: The Boy Behind the Minister 11:00               Two Parents, Two Churches: Growing Up Without Spiritual Roots 14:30               Religion as Rebellion: Why the Louder the Preacher, the Better 17:00               “Evidence That Demands a Verdict”: The Book That Confirmed God Was Real 21:30               Joining the Navy at 17: Chasing Structure After a Chaotic Childhood 25:30               Married at 19, Divorced at 20: When the Chaos Followed Him to California 28:30               The Club Epiphany: One Thought That Changed Everything 30:30               From Club to Bible: The Night He Became a Seeker 33:00               Enter Brother Rene: The Coworker He Kept Avoiding 35:30               Offended by the Truth 38:30               Every Church But His: Seeking Everywhere Except the Right Place 40:30               The Chaotic Church That Was the Last Straw 43:00               Talking to God Out Loud: “If You Exist, Show Me” 45:30               Going to Prove It Wrong: The Plan That Backfired 51:00               First Bible Study with Brother Joe Ventilacion: “What Is This?” 53:30               Couldn’t Sleep: The Night the Search Ended 55:30               The Chapel Was on His Route All Along 58:00               Obsessed: Never Missed a Bible Study After That 1:01:00            The Messenger Lesson: The Final Wall Comes Down 1:07:00            First Worship Service: Peace Like He’d Never Felt Before 1:08:30            Baptism Day: The Tears, the Injured Knee, and the New Life 1:12:30            Finally God’s son: What It Meant to Belong to God 1:16:00            All or Nothing: What It Really Takes to Seek God 1:22:00            What to Say to Seekers Who Say “That’s Too Hard” 1:27:00            From Seeker to the Pulpit: What happened next? Thirty-five years later, Brother Barry still tears up thinking about that first Bible study, the night he couldn’t sleep because he thought: could this be it? After years of a chaotic childhood, unstable homes, and churches that left him more confused than when he walked in, God led him right to the door he’d been passing every single day. But what he didn’t know was that his story was just beginning. Because God had a calling waiting for him that would blow up every plan he had for his young life. Now, if Brother Barry’s story spoke to you, or if you know someone who’s in the middle of their own secret journey, share this with them. For more Making Changes podcasts, visit incmedia.org, the INC Media app, or find it anywhere you listen to podcasts. Thanks for listening, and may your change uplift you. Connect with Aliw Garcia Pablo, the Making Changes Host instagram.com/aliwgarciapablo Watch Want to Find God? https://incmedia.org/want-to-find-god/ Interested in attending a Bible study in the Church Of Christ? Set a time to speak. Connect with the Making Changes Host http://instagram.com/aliwgarciapablo Rate & Review: Spotify and Apple Podcasts Follow the show: Instagram http://instagram.com/makingchangespodcast Visit our website: incmedia.org/making-changes  

Click to expand transcript Growing Up CODA: Transition to Adulthood Brother Ronnie David:  How do you tell your mom and dad you’re not going to be with them anymore? We both moved up closer to the chapel in Atlanta, but now, it’s not a two hour drive. It’s a 20 hour flight now, if you want to see us. Aliw Pablo: It’s part 2 of our episode with Brother Ronnie and Rowel David, who are CODA, or also known as Child of Deaf Adults. In this episode, we’ll be talking about growing up CODA and how that prepared them to be later called into the holy ministry. We’ll find out how they came to the difficult decision of leaving their parents, who are both deaf, behind. Brother Ronnie David: I was shaking. What I said was, you know, we’re going to be leaving, because we’re gonna go study in the ministry now. And I braced myself because, you know, I know this was a shock for her. We never talked to her about it. She didn’t even talk to us about it. It was never discussed it, we’re going to do this. Aliw Pablo: You’re listening to Making Changes, a show about the changes we go through and the life lessons we learn along the way, but always with God by your side. I’m your host, Aliw Garcia Pablo.  Today’s episode is perhaps one of the biggest life changes we’ve ever talked about. Brother Ronnie David: Her words will be etched in my mind forever, I will never forget. Right, Rowell? Aliw Pablo: Two young men who have been their parents interpreters all their lives—at the bank, in school, in the workplace, at Church.  Brother Ronnie and Brother Rowel have been their parents’ advocates and liaison to the world. But despite their deep love for their parents, they decided to answer God’s call to enter  the holy ministry. The stories they will share may shock us but certainly inspire us, on what happens when we have a change in perspective. What happens when we put our fears away, when we replace fear with confidence and trust in God instead, so that we can make room in our lives for His plans? Let’s listen in. [Show open] Aliw Pablo: When would you say that you both started to feel the calling into the ministry? Brother Ronnie David: There was one worship service I do remember. And the minister did say one thing that really stuck out to me, which was, “Even if you’re thinking about it, that’s already a sign.” And I remember after the worship service saying, “I’m thinking about it right now. But does that mean it’s a sign, like, should I join now? There [were] three other brothers in the local [congregation] who are talking about it. And our resident minister announced it after the worship service: “If there are any brothers who would like to join, please meet us in the sanctuary this afternoon at three o’clock,” something like that. But I do remember that three o’clock though. All I remember is when I entered that door, I saw my brother on the other side. And you know what? At that point, I wasn’t surprised he wanted to join. But there’s a reason why when the minister mentioned years before, that if you’re thinking about the ministry, it’s a sign already, until now, until that point, why I didn’t join right away, it was because I was kind of worried about my parents. I mean, they are good and faithful, but like we mentioned earlier, they didn’t have the best kind of jobs, I’ll admit. It was very labor intensive. They spent a lot of hours just to be able to make ends meet. We didn’t have the best life. I’m not going to sugarcoat that; it was really rough. There were hard times. In my mind, I was like, “Okay, me and my brother, this is where we[‘ve] got to have the comeback story. We’re going to get great jobs, you’re going to provide them a great life, and, and we’re all going to have big houses. And we’re going to tell them, “Mom and dad, we did this for you. We love you, you know.” But that Sunday at 3 p.m., that was kind of a different idea at that point. “Okay, now who’s going to take care of mom and dad?” I remember looking at my brother. We didn’t say anything, though. We joined. The minister had us sign a form, or we all prayed after. And I just remember, me and my brother already discussing, “We’re not going to tell Mom and Dad yet.” I don’t know. Why didn’t you want to tell them, Rowell? Brother Rowel David: I think for me, personally, I think it was because who knows if this is even going to go through. And who knows if we would even get approved? You know, this is just a pre-application. And so because, just like what he said, we were worried [about] who’s going to take care of mom and dad. I’m sure you know, in a regular person’s (way of) thinking they would—as parents who are deaf, who depend on their children, they would probably think the same thing. And so for us, it’s like, why would I want to put them through the worry? this may not even go through. So it’s like, you know, I guess it was one of those times where it’s like, we’ll cross that bridge when it comes. Aliw Pablo:  But you both hadn’t talked to each other at all about the ministry until you saw each other at the chapel that day? Brother Ronnie David: Oh, yeah, no way. We never spoke about it at all. Aliw Pablo: So, tell us about how your parents found out that you’re both joining the ministry. Brother Ronnie David: Because they announced it after the worship service one day. They said, “Okay, through the guidance of the Church Administration, these brothers were accepted to join the holy ministry.” And they mentioned all the names. And you know what, for a local of less, a little less than 100 people at that time, a little less than 100 brethren, to send five brothers at one time. I was pretty…it was a lot.  You could look around, their parents crying, you know, aunties, uncles, friends, cousins. It was super emotional. The only ones who didn’t feel it were probably my parents. Because they’re looking around wondering, why is everybody crying? Did something bad happen? I remember telling, like, the others, please do not say anything to our parents. Because it was still in my mind, who was going to take care of them? I don’t want to… I didn’t even want to think about what we’re going to say to them. They eventually (found) out. I remember we were in the car, and my mother did bring it up. She said, “Is it true what I heard guys? Is it true you both went to join the ministry?” And, honestly, I think we were both speechless. We didn’t know what to say. Brother Rowel David: If you remember I turned around, I  looked at you and I said, “Did you tell her?” And then you turned around, you looked at me, and you said, “No. Did you tell her?” You know, and I don’t know for me, because (she’s) deaf, of course, she didn’t hear us say that. But we were trying to have a conversation, we’re trying to get our stories straight so that we can figure out how we can tell her. Brother Ronnie David: Then there was a mom on the side, “I know you guys are talking to each other. I see you.” Aliw: I see you talking about me. Brother Ronnie David: But I’ll tell you what though, it was just kind of… it was quiet. Because how do you tell your mom and dad you’re not going to be with them anymore? How do you do that? Especially when we’re young, I mean, I think I was still young. I was like, 21, my brother was 19. And I do remember, like, I was shaking. I did tell her. I said, “Mom, Dad, so…” I didn’t apologize, what I said was, “You know, we’re going to be leaving, because we’re gonna go study in the ministry now.” And I braced myself because, you know, I know this was a shock for her. We didn’t…we never talked to her about it. She never even talked to us about it. It was never discussed that we were going to do this. But her words will be etched in my mind forever. I will never forget, right, Rowell? She said, “You know, I always prayed for this. I always hoped you guys would join.” Brother Rowel David: I think at that point, it really, I’m sure I can say this on behalf of both of us that—that was the moment for us where it’s like, “If this is what they want, what’s going to stop us?” You know, what… there should be nothing that would stop us, you know. I remember we had a conversarsation. We were sitting there in the sanctuary and we were talking to ourselves and we were saying, you know, “Why did we even think that we could take care of them better than God?” Like, we were so worried about who would take care of mom and dad, you know. We’re trying to go to the ministry, and we forgot what they have been teaching us our entire life, which is that God is always watching you, and God will always take care of you. And so if they were taking care of them, if God was taking care of them, before we even came into the picture, what makes us think that they won’t be able to do it without us? Brother Ronniel David: You have to keep in mind, because the situation at the time was, we were both working not only to take care of ourselves, but we’re also still taking care of our parents. I mean, I even quit school, because I couldn’t afford going to school and taking care of the family, as well. So I took off time from school just to focus on working and saving a little bit more money. And at that age, too, you can only imagine how it’s unfortunate, but I (didn’t) remember this simple thing that our parents have been teaching us all our lives, which is that God is there, and God will take care of you, and trust in God. Brother Rowel David:  And that and that was always our answer. That was always our answer when people would say that, you know, who’s going to take care of your parents when you guys leave? We would always say, “God will. God will take care of them.” Because that’s what they taught us. That’s what they taught us and it’s the truth. It’s the truth. We’re not going to let anything stop us. Aliw Pablo: Getting to the Philippines and studying in the  ministry was one thing, but their trials and challenges have just begun. Brother Ronnie David: If I could just put it in perspective, whe

Click to expand transcript Making Changes: Growing Up CODA (Child of Deaf Adults) Part 1 Brother Ronnie: And you know what, there is even one specific moment that I remember which is, the minister is giving—he’s wrapping up the lesson, he’s getting very spiritual; he’s giving the bayubay (advice).  Brethren are feeling it. And I look over at my mother, and I kid you not, she’s crying. And I don’t know why. I’m thinking, what are you hearing? What are you listening to? What were you getting from this?  Brother Rowel: You know, again as a child…what would go through my mind is, you can’t even hear, you know. Why is this important to you? Why does it matter? You can’t even hear. But as a child seeing that, and then finally being able to understand—it’s like, ok, let me stay awake maybe there’s a reason why.  Aliw: When I first learned about Brother Ronnie and Rowel David’s story, right away, I had so many questions. I was just so curious about how they grew up and became the people that they are now. You see, they’re brothers who are both CODA, an acronym for Child of Deaf Adults. They grew up in Georgia and are now both ministers of the gospel in the Iglesia Ni Cristo or Church Of Christ.  Brother Ronnie: I remember asking her afterwards, like, Oh, why are you crying? What did the minister say? And she said, “I don’t know, but I felt something. I was feeling something. And it made me feel like crying.” Brother Rowel: When me and my brother would talk about it, we would always say they really did worship, depending on the Holy Spirit, you know. Brother Ronnie: It’s one of the biggest lessons we ever got from them. And again, they never explained that to us. They never said anything about the Holy Spirit. They never put that into words but it’s based on the way they live, that’s how we learned it.  Aliw: From INC Media Audio, you’re listening to Making Changes, I’m Aliw Garcia Pablo. Today’s episode format is a bit different. This is a 2-part series where we’ll sit down with Brother Ronnie and Brother Rowel to see what it was like to grow up CODA and how that shaped their faith. This 2 part episode is so layered as you will see and feel. It’s about the struggle of growing up CODA, love for their parents but also the frustrations from the perspective of two young boys whose lives were filled  with setbacks and struggle.   Let’s listen in… Aliw: Hi, Brother Ronnie, Brother Rowel, thank you so much for taking the time to talk with us.  Brother Rowel: Thank you, Sister Aliw. Brother Ronnie: Thank you so much. Aliw:  We’ll start off by asking, what would you say? At what age, would you say that you realized that your home life was a little bit different from the rest of your friends in school or wherever? Brother Ronnie: It didn’t really hit me all at one time. It just kind of, eventually, I understood that our situation growing up is very different from other people. Like, for example, when we would go to the grocery store, and we’d help our mom pay. You know, we’d give the cashier the money, or if we have questions, we would talk for our mother. Same thing with going to the doctor’s office—my mother would want to tell the doctor something and the doctor tells us to tell our mom and we’d tell our mom. And then even when he came to school. The teachers are telling us okay, I need to talk to your parents, which have home phone numbers, I can call them. They call us later on, and I’m the one answering the phone. So, it was a gradual thing, I don’t think it was a specific age, but, the longer or the more we grew up with our parents the more I realized it really is different from other people. Bro. Rowel: For me growing up, I thought that everyone did sign language to their parents. I mean, yes, we had aunts and we had uncles, we had grandma and grandpa that we would speak to but for some reason, you know, of course, the mind of a child growing up, you just think, yeah, but when it comes to your parent, you do sign language. And so, you know, finding that out, noticing that about the other children, how they would speak to their parents, you know, it obviously showed me that it was different. But you know, the crazy thing is that, yeah, I noticed it. But then right after it was like, okay, we’re just different, you know? My situation isn’t like their situation. Bro. Ronnie: It’s funny because you kind of forget you’re doing sign language. You don’t even know you’re doing sign language anymore. We could literally just be talking to our parents and switch over to just talking or voicing out our opinions or whatever. It’s all one language at one point so… Aliw:  So, let’s back up a bit and give you a bit of their background. Their parents, Raquel and Ramon, were both born deaf, they met in the Philippines, got married in the Church and their mother migrated to Georgia first where the rest of her family were. We all know how hard it is to start a new life in a new country but how much more not being able to hear. Their parents both understood and signed Filipino Sign Language, but not ASL or American Sign Language. The brothers have some memory of what it was like for their mom.  Brother Ronnie: And back then, you know, websites, chat rooms, or Skype, all that didn’t exist. So, she really just kind of stayed at home. Her life was more like just observing things. It wasn’t really a community, (or) communicating with people, socializing, or talking to people, she would meet deaf people along the way, here and there. But there was still that lack of communication because they could never keep up with each other. They didn’t have phones or whatever, she didn’t have her own cell phone at the time. So, it was more on her just watching and looking, just waiting. My father…he came along a couple of years later on… Brother Rowel: My parents, when it comes to them, they’re—a very good trait they have is that they’re able to adapt to a lot of people, a lot of situations, and be able to find their way through. For example, our mother, she may be speaking with someone, and they don’t know sign language, but she’ll find a way to get her point across. It wasn’t until, of course, me and my brother, (when) we came along, that’s when she started using us just to make it easier. But even before then, yes, she had our aunt, our uncles and our grandparents, but if they have to do something, they would find a way to be able to (get) by. Aliw: So, would your mom write what she needed to say? And then just show it to people? Brother Ronnie: Exactly. She always had a paper and pen on her. Here’s a crazy experience she had. I actually remember her telling me about this. So, I’m the firstborn. And my mother—she wanted to go visit my father back in the Philippines again. She traveled to the Philippines by herself. You know, going into an airport with me, talking to the stewardess, trying to find out what her gate is. And you know how hectic an airport can be… Aliw: Right!  Brother Ronnie:… And going transferring from this flight to this flight. And still, until now, it gets me, how was she able to do that? I mean, she didn’t have a cell phone. She didn’t have a—she didn’t text anybody. Because she was able to get to the airport there in the Philippines and still from there, find my family without a phone or anything. Aliw: Yes, that—just finding those that will pick you up is so hard with the crowds of people.  Aliw: So growing up, you saw that your parents, your mom, specifically, never used her disability as an excuse. Brother Rowel: Even though after, you know, that process of finally understanding that they’re different. Even after that, she would always tell us, “No, I’m normal. I’m normal, I just can’t hear.” That’s what she would always tell us.  Brother Ronnie: It’s funny even until now, I don’t think she would consider that as a disability. Brother Ronnie:  So, she would teach us the normal things like drink water, or go clean, you know, clean the dishes, or go home apples, stuff like that. My brother’s favorite: food, you know, stuff like that. But it’s funny because my aunt’s, my uncle’s, I want to say, they don’t really know sign language like that. I want to say they don’t really know that well, but they can all talk, they can all fight, they can all laugh, they can do everything like regular siblings. Aliw: Their parents were simple people with humble but demanding jobs in the small town of Milledgeville, Georgia. Their dad worked as a furniture mover; their mom, she worked at the local hospital cleaning clothes. But both parents, despite being deaf and couldn’t speak, made sure their two boys were raised well.  Aliw: Okay, so when you are in , as little boys, you know, how were you disciplined as little kids  with you know, most parents would yell, they’d get mad? What was that for you? Bro. Rowel:  I’d say it’s very, you know, it’s one thing to get loud. Especially as a kid, it’s one thing to hear your parents get loud, but to see it, like to actually see it because they’re all, it’s all visual with them. It’s all facial expressions. And so when they’re mad, like you could you could put a wall in front of us. And you could tell by our voice, you’re mad, but then seeing it face to face? Oh, it’s scary. It is. But you know, I will say this, you know, not trying, you know—of course, we weren’t angels growing up, we were boys growing up playing around here and there. But I’d like to say that she didn’t—both my mother and our father—they didn’t really have to discipline us too much. But I feel like that’s because our mother really put the fear of God in us. My mom would always tell us, I may not be with you, but God sees you. You know, she would always say that. Brother Ronnie: I have to add to that story because I know exactly what my brother’s talking about. When he says (that) my mom said that God’s watching you—it’s because, again, my mom is visual. She’s visual. She can’t tell me what it means to hear. She can’t explain that to me. So,

What happens when your skeptical neighbor becomes your sister in faith? For years, Kim said, “I don’t need church. God is everywhere.” But one Sunday, she chose to attend a worship service in the Church Of Christ. That decision changed Kim’s life and also deepened the faith of her friend Aliw, host of Making Changes. It’s the story of how God moved the pieces in their lives to bring them together and bring them both closer to Him in ways they never expected. Finding God was just the beginning. Real peace comes when you choose Him daily. 00:00 – “When You Believe, Faith Doesn’t Die – It Only Grows Stronger” 02:05 – The Reunion: God’s Favorite Meets Her Best Friend After Years Apart 06:15 – The Seamless Move: How Everything Fell Into Place for Tennessee 10:09 – From “I Don’t Need Church” to Never Missing Service 13:18 – The Saturday Night Call That Changed Everything 14:17 – Walking Into Light: Angels Singing at First Worship Service 17:03 – Why She Never Wanted to Leave After That First Day 23:01 – When Every Doctrine Made Perfect Sense Immediately 24:18 – Sharing Truth with Neighbors: The Captain of Neighborhood Watch 27:13 – The Bible Study That Ended with Slammed Books and Red Pens 29:39 – Getting Andrew and the Kids to Follow God’s Call 35:07 – The Heart Transplant Crisis: When Faith Meets Life and Death 38:06 – Approved at the 11th Hour for the Grand Baptism 43:22 – Why Faith Only Grows Stronger After 16 Years 46:15 – The Maturity to Follow God’s Disciplines, Not Just Beliefs 49:38 – What Her Christian Friends’ Drinking Taught Her About Hypocrisy 52:05 – Being the Only Black Woman: Overcoming Cultural Questions 58:08 – From Heart’s Calling to White Shoes: Becoming a Deaconess 1:01:27 – Why She Keeps Wanting to Do More for God 1:04:01 – Raising Kids to Serve God Properly, Not Just Be Happy 1:08:52 – Church as Daily Recharge and Safe Haven from a Nasty World 1:12:03 – How Their Friendship Changed Both Their Faith Perspectives 1:18:48 – Change Is Transformation That Impacts Others Kim’s change wasn’t just about joining the Church; It was about understanding that membership is not a destination, but a doorway into deeper spiritual maturity… a deeper connection with God…and a deeper purpose in life. This was a woman who had moved from simply being in the church to truly becoming God’s child. Or God’s favorite, as she proudly puts it. And maybe that’s the change we all need to make….not just once, but again and again, as we grow into who God is calling us to become. If this story has moved you, or you know someone who needs to hear it, share it with them. And don’t forget to subscribe to Making Changes wherever you listen to podcasts. And remember, change can also be a transformation that makes you a path for others to find their way to God. So make that change. For more Making Changes podcasts, visit incmedia.org, the INC media app, or find it anywhere you listen to podcasts. Thanks for listening, and may your change uplift you. Connect with the Making Changes Host Rate & Review: Spotify and Apple Podcasts Follow the show: Instagram Visit our website: incmedia.org/making-changes

The bond their parents instilled in them would carry an older brother through seven years of patiently waiting… and be solidified in one night when the three brothers prayed together, now bound by something deeper than blood. This is a story that proves some relationships are worth praying for, no matter how long it takes. Episode Timestamps 00:00 – Three Brothers, One Bond: Growing Up with Pecking Calls 02:18 – The Age Gap Chronicles: From Only Child to Big Brother 06:01 – Pecking Calls and Countdowns: The Brotherhood Rules 1:03:39 – Building Deeper Relationships: From Surface to Spiritual Depth 1:12:41 – Little Glimmers of Hope: Mom Singing, Dad Nodding 1:20:05 – What 18 Years of Patience Has Taught Them 1:25:09 – Parenting with Purpose: Teaching Kids Through Experience 1:29:26 – The Domino Effect: One Calling Changes Generations 1:35:54 – Getting Emotional: Racing Against Time 1:41:22 – Rapid Fire: Funny Brother, Sensitive Brother, Marriage Advice 1:44:18 – Change Is Everything: Blessing, Growth, and God Eighteen years later, Harmony, Aries, and Adonis still gather after every Sunday worship service to pray for their parents. They’ve learned that the most profound changes don’t happen overnight – they happen one invitation at a time, one prayer at a time. So if you’re waiting for a loved one to change their heart…or know someone who is… share this story, and remind them that God’s answers are always… always worth waiting for, no matter how long it takes. Connect with Aliw Garcia Pablo, the Making Changes Host  Watch Want to Find God? Rate & Review on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. Follow the show on Instagram. Visit our website: incmedia.org/making-changes

Ez thought she had everything under control. From the moment of diagnosis, Ez shares her powerful journey from needing control to complete surrender, letting go of everything she thought mattered and turning her pain into service to God and others. 00:00 – The Journey Begins: From Control to Surrender 03:04 – The Unexpected Diagnosis That Changed Everything 07:44 – First Response: “I Trust You” 10:58 – Breaking the News with a Whiteboard Presentation 15:25 – When One Surgery Becomes Six 20:00 – Finding Light in the Darkness Through Daily Anointing 27:26 – Lessons in Faith: What Prayer Really Means 36:47 – The Deeper Roots: How Trials Strengthen Faith 44:03 – From Recipient to Giver: Becoming a Deaconess 48:06 – Advice for Patients: Creating Your Healing Team 51:43 – What NOT to Say to Someone with Cancer 56:53 – Living in Remission: Fear, Faith, and Moving Forward 59:04 – Teaching the Next Generation Through Example 1:01:05 – Why We Need Sharp Edges to Be Rounded Out 1:03:39 – Rapid Fire: Favorite Meals, Congregations, and Life Advice Ez started her journey believing she could control everything…but after her cancer diagnosis she realized her power wasn’t her ability to plan every detail in her life. It was surrender. Surrender to God’s will. Surrender to God’s plans. From telling God, ‘I trust you’ in her darkest moment to becoming a deaconess serving others in theirs, Ez discovered that letting go of what she couldn’t control gave her access to something far more powerful – purpose, peace, and the ability to transform pain into service. If you’re struggling to control something today, remember Ez’s words: ‘Change is an opportunity.’ So, let go and surrender to the change God has in store for you. And if you’re a woman listening to this or know someone who needs to hear this, please – take action on what Ez learned the hard way. Fight for your health. Be your best advocate. Connect with Aliw Garcia Pablo, the Making Changes Host  Rate & Review on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. Follow the show on Instagram. Visit our website: incmedia.org/making-changes  

At their lowest moments, Mary and Rashad couldn’t have imagined that their story was just getting started. That the same circumstances that nearly destroyed them would become the foundation for something beautiful. This conversation explores the transformative journey of Mary and Rashad, who faced significant challenges and ultimately found redemption through faith. They discuss their experiences with hitting rock bottom, the importance of intentional prayer, the role of community in healing, and the commitment required in relationships and parenting. 00:00  From Rock Bottom to Redemption 02:59  A New Spiritual Journey Begins 05:52 Experiencing a Different Kind of Worship 08:54 Building a New Community 11:44 Navigating Relationships and Forgiveness 14:57 The Importance of Commitment 17:52 Baptism: A New Beginning 20:49 The Transformation After Baptism 23:40 Facing Life’s Challenges 26:38 The Role of Prayer in Marriage 29:39 Parenting with Faith 32:40 Finding Freedom in Faith 47:52 The Power of Forgiveness and Experience 49:03 Learning from Mistakes and Consequences 50:31 Parenting with Faith and Guidance 50:49 Navigating Family Traditions and Beliefs 54:12 Understanding the True Meaning of Christmas 55:58 Inviting Family into Faith 01:01:05 Embracing Change and Overcoming Fear 01:04:46 The Impact of God on Relationships 01:09:43 Finding Peace Through Surrender 01:14:52 The Role of the Church in Our Lives God didn’t wait for them to clean up their act first. He met them right there in the mess and showed them the way out. And it wasn’t some overnight miracle. It was messy. It was work. It was choosing God even when their hearts could have chosen an easier way out. But through all of that messiness, their story shows us what’s possible when we let go of the brokenness and surrender completely to God. If Mary & Rashad’s story resonated with you, or if you know someone who’s been trying to control their own story instead of letting God write it, share these two episodes. Sometimes we need to hear that surrender isn’t giving up – it’s finally letting go. For more Making Changes podcasts, visit incmedia.org or find it anywhere you listen to podcasts. Thanks for listening, and may your change uplift you. Connect with Aliw Garcia Pablo, the Making Changes Host  Watch Part 1 of Mary & Rashad’s Story Read the Knowing When to Give and When to Take:  Watch Why God’s Guidance in Marriage is Important  Rate & Review on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. Follow the show on Instagram. Visit our website: incmedia.org/making-changes

Two broken people seeking for answers find each other in pain. Church hurt, religious trauma, and childhood abuse bring Rashad and Mary together in their desperate search for healing and truth and in the process, find God waiting for them. 00:00 The Journey Begins: Meeting at a Casino 02:18 First Encounters and Shared Colors 05:39 Rashad’s Spiritual Background: From Church Builder to Club Life 10:26 Mary’s Childhood: Growing Up with an Abusive, Alcoholic Father 15:07 Breaking Free from Family Dysfunction 16:54 What They Sought in Each Other 19:19 The Interracial Dynamic: Love Beyond Color Lines 21:19 Mary’s DUI: The Three Days That Changed Everything 25:52 Rashad’s Bible Study Journey: 28 Lessons and Secret Transformation 32:29 The Double Life Dilemma: Mixing Light with Darkness 37:43 The Crossroads: Choosing God Over Comfort 42:10 Prison Phone Calls: Reading Job Behind Bars 46:41 Separate Transformations, One Divine Plan 48:02 Choosing Light: Opening the Door to Change But their story doesn’t end here. In part two of this episode, you’ll hear what happens after Mary called the minister, Brother Mike, their baptisms, and how they learned that true freedom isn’t about having no rules – it’s about joining God’s club and following His way. Their transformation from from choosing pain to choosing God, proves that sometimes the most beautiful stories come from the most broken beginnings. If Mary and Rashad’s story resonates with you, or if you know anyone who’s been choosing their pain over God’s healing, share this episode. Sometimes we need to hear that God can write a better story than we ever imagined. Don’t forget to subscribe to Making Changes wherever you listen to podcasts, and remember – change isn’t just inevitable, it’s necessary. You might as well change for the good. Thanks for listening, and may your change uplift you. Connect with Aliw Garcia Pablo, the Making Changes Host  Check more Stories of Faith. Rate & Review on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. Follow the show on Instagram. Visit our website: incmedia.org/making-changes

Growing up, Brother Bernard watched his Filipino immigrant father sacrifice everything to start over in America, yet somehow stay completely devoted to his faith. The question that never left Brother Bernard alone: Why? Why was his dad’s faith so strong? In This Episode 00:00 The Search for Meaning 02:54 Lessons from a Father’s Faith 05:43 The Journey to the Ministry 08:40 Finding True Happiness 11:42 The Call to Serve 14:50 Faith Through Adversity 17:41 The Impact of Faith on Family 20:45 The Role of Gratitude 23:28 Transformative Changes in Life 26:42 The Legacy of Faith 29:32 Navigating Life’s Challenges 32:22 The Blessings of Service 35:11 The Importance of Perspective 38:10 Embracing Change 41:01 The Power of Connection 43:42 Lessons for Future Generations 46:37 The Bigger Picture of Life 49:27 The Importance of Faith in Grief 52:16 The Journey of Self-Discovery 55:14 The Role of a Parent 57:40 Final Reflections on Faith and Family   Brother Bernard’s journey to joining the ministry shows us that sometimes the greatest changes happen when we stop to understand the why behind what we do, why we’re here, and the true purpose God gives us. If Brother Bernard’s story resonates with you, or if you know anyone who has ever felt that feeling of getting everything but still feeling empty, share this episode. Sometimes we need someone to tell us that sacrificing for our true purpose doesn’t mean we’re at a loss… the truth is, it can be the complete opposite. For more Making Changes podcasts, visit incmedia.org or find it anywhere you listen to podcasts. Thanks for listening, and may your change uplift you. Connect with Aliw Garcia Pablo, the Making Changes Host  Watch Erribelle Celestino’s Faith Speaks  Rate & Review on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. Follow the show on Instagram. Visit our website: incmedia.org/making-changes

Feeling discouraged about inviting friends to faith? This week, we’re revisiting one of our most replayed moments from last season, the powerful story of Brother Andrey Silva and his friend Errol Viray. It’s a reminder that persistence can transform lives, and why you should never give up on the people you care about. In This Episode [00:00] Introduction to the episode and revisiting a memorable story. [01:15] Brother Andre Silva shares advice on helping friends find faith. [03:45] The significance of perseverance and trust in God. [06:30] Embracing change with God as a guiding force. [09:00] The impact of a life of service and spiritual fulfillment. [12:00] Reflections on change and the importance of a strong foundation. If this reminder resonated with you, make sure to share this episode with someone else. Thank you for listening to Making Changes and joining us this season. If you want to listen to the rest of this conversation with Brother Andrey and Brother Errol scroll down to the 2-part episode called “Life of Service” It’s amazing story that every one needs to hear. For more Making Changes podcasts, visit incmedia.org, the INC media app, or find it anywhere you listen to podcasts. Thanks for listening, and may your change uplift you. Connect with Aliw Garcia Pablo, the Making Changes Host  Life of Service Part 1 Life of Service Part 2 Rate & Review on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. Follow the show on Instagram. Visit our website: incmedia.org/making-changes

Most people know James Raiz as the box office artist behind Marvel Studios’ biggest hits, the energetic host of Time to Draw Live with over a million YouTube subscribers. But behind the viral videos and sold-out shows, James faced a change that would redefine everything he thought he knew about strength. 00:00 Introduction to James Raiz 02:15 The Influence of Family and Cultural Expectations 05:30 Discovering Art as a Career 09:45 The Role of Faith in Overcoming Challenges 13:20 Creating Art for the Church and Community 17:05 Navigating Personal Trials: A Wife’s Illness 21:30 Finding Strength in Family and Faith 25:45 The Impact of Art on Personal and Professional Life 30:10 Embracing Change and Growth 34:00 The Journey with Marvel and Star Wars 38:20 Teaching and Inspiring the Next Generation 42:00 The Power of Authenticity and Values 45:30 Looking Forward: New Beginnings and Joy 48:00 Closing Thoughts and Reflections James’s story is one of resilience and faith. Because here’s what he learned in the space between Marvel premieres and midnight prayers: we don’t become who we’re meant to be in the comfortable moments. We become who we’re meant to be in the moments that require us to hold on when everything in us wants to let go. If James’s journey inspired you, share this episode with someone who needs to hear that change is possible. For more Making Changes podcasts, visit incmedia.org or find it anywhere you listen to podcasts. Thanks for listening, and may your change uplift you. Connect with Aliw Garcia Pablo, the Making Changes Host  Follow James on Youtube @BoxOfficeArtist Watch Maynard Binaday’s Faith Speaks Rate & Review on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. Follow the show on Instagram. Visit our website: incmedia.org/making-changes

At 31, JP faced a health scare that would change everything. He had to make a choice. Accept the labels that had defined him his whole life – “the smart kid,” “not the athletic type,” “the one who sits on the sidelines” or take a step outside of the identity he had given himself. 00:00 The Fear of Change 03:01 Defining Health and Identity 06:01 Comfort Food and Emotional Well-being 08:58 Catalyst for Transformation 12:08 Taking the First Step 14:59 Building Momentum and Small Wins 18:13 Overcoming Self-Doubt 20:59 From 5K to Marathons 23:58 The Journey to the New York City Marathon 27:24 Facing Challenges: A Father’s Cancer Diagnosis 32:41 The Importance of Health and Nutrition 37:48 The Role of Faith in Personal Transformation 40:51 Consistency Over Perfection in Habits 42:16 Finding Identity Beyond External Perceptions 45:08 Prayers for Persistence and Endurance 46:08 Running as a Metaphor for Life’s Journey 48:09 Tears of Gratitude and Future Goals 51:48 Family Pride and Shared Accomplishments 53:05 The Deeper Meaning of Running and Support 55:19 The Power of Small Steps in Change JP’s story began with a prayer in a gym parking lot, but it didn’t end there. The man who once believed he wasn’t “the athletic type” is now encouraging young people in his New Jersey congregation to lace up their running shoes. He’s showing them the same thing his father showed him in that hospital room… keep going, even when life gets tough. If you’re sitting in your own parking lot right now, maybe it’s time to pray, take a deep breath, and see what’s possible when you refuse to accept the limits others place on you. If JP’s journey encouraged you, share this with someone who needs to hear that faith can grow even when life feels difficult. For more Making Changes podcasts, visit incmedia.org or find it anywhere you listen to podcasts. Thanks for listening, and may your change uplift you. Connect with the Making Changes Host on Instagram.com/aliwgarciapablo Rate & Review on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. Follow the show on Instagram. Visit our website: incmedia.org/making-changes

At 47, most people are settling into their careers, not starting completely over. But Ted Teodoro wasn’t most people. After retiring from a successful 20-year finance career, Ted did something that shocked everyone who knew him – he applied to become a police officer, chasing a childhood dream he’d carried for decades. 00:00 Chasing Dreams: A Cop’s Journey 10:30 The Immigrant Experience and Parental Expectations 20:17 Faith and Trusting God’s Timing 27:22 Navigating Career Changes in Midlife 28:02 Exploring New Horizons in Law Enforcement 29:27 The Academy Experience: Ego and Growth 32:20 Reflections on Youth and Resilience 33:41 Standing Firm: Balancing Faith and Duty 36:35 Navigating Life’s Forks: Faith vs. Career 39:42 The Importance of Faith in Challenging Times 45:33 Never Give Up on Your Dreams 47:34 Lessons Learned: Gratitude and Growth 49:20 Risking It All: The Role of Faith in Pursuing Dreams 51:08 The Need for a Higher Power 52:57 Embracing Change for Personal Growth 58:16 Final Thoughts: Change is Good Ted’s story proves that dreams don’t have expiration dates and that putting God first doesn’t mean giving up on who you’re meant to be. After 20 years in finance, he didn’t just change careers; he showed us that we can chase our dreams without compromising our faith. So if you’re carrying a dream that won’t let go, remember: it’s never too late to start over, just make sure to consult God and ask Him to guide your decision… that’s what Ted did and now he’s living his dream. If Ted’s journey encouraged you, share this with someone who needs to hear that midlife can be the beginning of their greatest chapter. Connect with the Making Changes Host, Aliw Garcia Pablo on Instagram. Rate & Review on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. Follow the show on Instagram. Visit our website: incmedia.org/making-changes

Rhea Mae’s life changed when doctors said she had an inoperable brain aneurysm and might die. Instead of living in fear, she discovered how a mindset change can help her build resilience no matter what new obstacle was thrown at her. Her story shows how the lessons she learned in the worship services helped her go from asking ‘Why me?’ to saying ‘Use me’ for God’s purpose. 00:00 The Journey Begins: A Life-Changing Diagnosis 10:03 Faith and Trust in God During Trials 20:05 Transforming Mindset: From Fear to Gratitude 29:58 Facing New Challenges: The Cancer Diagnosis 36:47 Navigating Life’s Trials 39:00 The Power of Prayer and Faith 44:40 Resilience Through Resistance 48:43 Choosing to Share Your Story 52:08 Living with Intention and Gratitude 56:08 Embracing Change and Growth Meng’s story is such a powerful reminder that we don’t get to choose our trials, but we absolutely get to choose how we respond to them. From brain aneurysm to cancer, she chose surrender over bitterness, trust over fear. So if you’re asking “why me?” remember: your current chapter isn’t your final chapter, and God is writing a story far better than you can imagine. If Meng’s journey encouraged you, share this with someone who needs to hear that faith can flourish in the hardest of seasons. For more Making Changes podcasts, visit incmedia.org or find it anywhere you listen to podcasts. Thanks for listening, and may your change uplift you. For more Making Changes podcasts, visit incmedia.org, the INC media app, or find it anywhere you listen to podcasts. Thanks for listening, and may your change uplift you. Connect with the Making Changes Host, Aliw Garcia Pablo on Instagram. Rate & Review on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. Follow the show on Instagram. Visit our website: incmedia.org/making-changes

This conversation explores the emotional and practical challenges of caregiving for aging parents, particularly focusing on the experiences of the sandwich generation.  Bernie and Jerry share personal stories of loss, adjustment, and the complexities of navigating new roles as caregivers while balancing their own family responsibilities. 00:00 The Role Reversal: Becoming Caregivers 03:05 Navigating Sudden Loss and Immediate Change 05:59 Adjusting to New Living Arrangements 09:08 The Emotional Journey of Caregiving 12:00 Acceptance and the Bittersweet Nature of Aging 14:57 The Challenges of Communication and Connection 18:09 Finding Peace in Caregiving 20:59 The Sandwich Generation: Balancing Multiple Responsibilities 24:03 The Impact of Menopause on Caregiving 26:57 Sibling Dynamics in Caregiving 35:03 Navigating Family Dynamics in Caregiving 38:33 Coping Mechanisms and Emotional Resilience 41:43 Faith and Acceptance in Caregiving 44:53 Finding Strength in Community and Support 49:05 The Role of Faith in Caregiving 51:45 Embracing the Honor of Caregiving 54:44 Anticipatory Grief and Its Challenges 57:56 The Importance of Communication in Caregiving 01:00:11 The Spouse’s Perspective on Caregiving 01:06:10 The Power of Prayer in Relationships 01:09:38 Navigating Caregiving Challenges 01:12:20 Acts of Love in Difficult Times 01:16:31 Lessons Learned Through Caregiving 01:22:50 Preparing the Next Generation 01:26:39 Finding Strength in Change Bernie and Jerry’s story shows us that caring for aging parents isn’t just a duty. It’s discovering love, patience, and faith we never knew we had. So even when we feel overwhelmed and lost, God is shaping us into exactly who we need to be.  Now if you’re in the sandwich generation or facing your own difficult season, remember, God chose you for this assignment and He will give you strength to see it through.  If you found value in what you heard today, share this with someone who needs to hear that they’re not alone in their struggles.  For more Making Changes podcasts, visit incmedia.org, the INC media app, or find it anywhere you listen to podcasts. Thanks for listening, and may your change uplift you.   Rate & Review on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. Follow the show on Instagram. Visit our website: incmedia.org/making-changes 

In this episode of Making Changes, host Aliw Garcia Pablo explores the theme of change through powerful stories from individuals who faced various life transitions. From a father’s prayer during a medical crisis to a young professional discovering her artistic talents during the pandemic, each narrative highlights resilience, faith, and personal growth. 00:00 Embracing Change: Life’s Unexpected Turns 02:14 Faith in Crisis: A Father’s Prayer 04:57 Promises and Sacrifices: A Journey Abroad 06:33 Pandemic Discoveries: Uncovering Hidden Talents 08:34 Cultural Lessons: Finding Joy in Service 10:43 The Transformation of Parenthood 12:45 Small Changes, Big Joys: Discovering New Passions 15:01 Evacuated Blessings: Appreciating What We Have 16:50 Taking Risks: The Leap into Business Ownership 19:00 Life’s Timing: Patience and Growth 21:08 From Trauma to Triumph: A Journey of Healing   That’s what this season of Making Changes is all about. The continuous process of becoming, whether it’s through crisis or choice, sudden events or gradual evolution, we’re all works in progress. So thank you for listening and watching. We’ll be back with more stories of transformation. Until then, make sure to subscribe to Making Changes on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen to And if you have a minute to spare, make sure to rate and give us a review. This will help us make sure that more people will get to listen to these amazing stories of change. Thanks for listening and may your change uplift you. Rate & Review on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. Follow the show on Instagram. Visit our website: incmedia.org/making-changes 

Aliw Pablo: You know, it’s not everyday that I get to catch up with an old friend. Aliw Pablo: Okay, go. Brother Andrey Silva: It’s part of the blooper reel. Can we put a blooper reel together? Aliw Pablo: Yes! Aliw Pablo: And it’s even more special when that friend is someone who’s gone through so many unique life-changing experiences. Like my friend, Brother Andrey Silva. Aliw Pablo: Okay. Hello, Brother Andrey Silva. How are you? Brother Andrey: Great. How are you, Sister Aliw? Aliw: I’m good. Welcome to the Making Changes Podcast. Brother Andrey: Glad to be here. [Show open] Aliw Pablo: If you were a young adult in the nineties like me, you might’ve heard of Brother Andrey. He was the lead singer of Kai, the first (and until now, the only) Filipino boy band who found mainstream success and popularity in the US. A lot has changed since his music career with Kai. Now, Brother Andrey is a minister of the gospel in the Church Of Christ. So today, we’re going to talk about all of the changes he’s gone through, and the life of service that God has paved for him. I’m Aliw Garcia Pablo, and you’re listening to a special episode of Making Changes. Aliw Pablo: Well, we’re so glad that you traveled all the way here from Texas. Brother Andrey: Yes. Aliw: Just to be here on our podcast today. Brother Andrey: Thank you for having me and praises be to our Lord God. Aliw: So Brother Andrey, for those that are, you know, who may have known you from years and years ago, like you and I have known each other for like thirty years already. Well, our age has just been revealed. But for those that have known you for a long time and are probably wondering what happened… Brother Andrey Silva, where have you been? What have you been up to? Brother Andrey: I’ve been in Africa for the… decade, almost a decade. I was assigned there as a minister, doing the work of the ministry in Africa. You know, I often tell the brethren that, you know, as ministers who are assigned there, we were able to have a front row seat to the amazing things that our Lord God was doing for the Church on that continent. It was a lot of work, and so we also witnessed how God truly upheld us as we fulfilled our duties in the ministry; taking care of the brethren, making sure that the Church would progress and grow, which was the aim of the Church Administration in the first place for sending us there. Many memorable experiences. I learned how to ride a horse in Africa. Aliw: I have seen those pictures, like on mountain tops, right? Brother Andrey: Yes. There in the country of Lesotho, which is known as the Mountain Kingdom, there was a group of people or a village there in the middle of the mountains, who were thirsting for the words of God. And we’ve had brethren who are from there wanting us to share the words of God there, and so we would have to ride two hours on horseback up and down about five mountains before we would reach that village. A village called Ha-Lerumonyane Village.  And a memorable experience in that place is the first time I was able to go there. ‘Cause I remember how difficult it was to get there, you know, it’s very- Aliw: Have you ridden horses before? Brother Andrey: That was the first time, and so very painful. Aliw: I can imagine. For two hours? Brother Andrey: Two hours on a mountain, rocky. Aliw: One way. Two hours on a mountain, one way. Brother Andrey: One way. Two hours, one way. But to finally get to that last mountain, and as soon as you get over that peak, the village can see that you’re almost to their village. They’re still quite a distance away, but they’re waiting to see that silhouette to cross that peak. And as soon as they saw us along with the translator and the other Basotho people that were with me, you start hearing the village singing and chanting. Aliw: Wow. Brother Andrey: Singing and chanting. I was like, “What is that? What are they singing?” You know? I was asking my translator. He said, “Oh, they’re singing a song about how the minister is now here and we will be able to hear the words of God and such.” And so, that was a very touching moment, just to see how they were thirsting to hear the teachings that we have inside the Church, and so that was a very touching moment for us. Yeah. Aliw: You know, speaking of music, I mean we know that, you know, you are very musically gifted and to be able to spend a decade in a country where people, I mean, music is their language. Brother Andrey: Yeah. Aliw: Were you able to also, you know, do music while you were there? Brother Andrey: We were able to have many musical projects there by the mercy of our Lord God, you know. And as mentioned music is a very natural thing for the African people. Brother Andrey: When they’re happy, they sing. When they’re sad, they sing. When they’re angry, whatever emotion they’re feeling, they convey it through song. So, you know, to have music made for the Church was very easy, very enjoyable, to work with the brethren in regards to that. Brother Andrey:  We were able to make different ranges of music to the traditional type of African music, to what they like to call Afro-beats, more contemporary music, we were able to do that. And music videos as well. And so, that was one of the more memorable things as well, to be able to connect to the brethren that way. Aliw: And when you, you know, when you think back, Brother Andrey, when you were growing up here in the Bay Area, in a million years, did you ever imagine spending a whole decade in Africa in a life of service? Brother Andrey: I didn’t think in two million years that I would ever get that experience, but you know, when I first heard that I was going to go to Africa, of course, I was excited. You know? It’s because for the most part, the continent was somewhat of an untouched region when it came to the works that we have in the Church. There was a presence already in certain countries, but continent as a whole, there was still a lot of work to be done because our mission was the expansion of the Church in Africa. And so, you know, the guidance of the Church Administration, you know, pulled us through so many times. The inspiration that we received from our beloved Executive Minister pulled us through so many times. Those difficult times when, you know, we were driving those long distances, leaving the house when the sun wasn’t even up yet, coming home when the sun had already set, not getting to spend time with our family as much. You know, they understood what the mission was, why we were there, and so they were very supportive. Aliw: Yes. We’re going to just take, take a trip down memory lane a little bit to just kind of really show just how full circle your life has come, you know? For those of you watching us at home or listening to us, if you were a teenager in the nineties, then you probably have heard of a little group called Kai. Do you remember that group, Brother Andrey? Brother Andrey: Oh yeah, yeah, yeah. Aliw: So you know, it’s just so amazing that you’re talking about making music in Africa and just all the experiences you had there, but in reality, it seems like God was already paving the way. Brother Andrey: Absolutely, yeah. Aliw: So take us back to you know, when you were a teenager here in the Bay Area, which by the way, I should say I do remember when–because we were both in Fremont local, right, in the nineties–you and some of the guys there, you guys would always sing acapella in the mens bathroom because the acoustics were really good. Right? But how did you end up in a group called Kai, and how it just became to be still to this day, the only Filipino boy band that actually reached mainstream? How did it all begin? Brother Andrey: Well, like you mentioned, you know, it all started in the local congregation of Fremont. You know, me and my brother and two other brothers had a little acapella group and, you know, we used to sing, for church functions. Aliw: So here’s the origin story of Kai—one day, Brother Andrey went to a family party, where he started to jam on the piano with a cousin whom he hadn’t met before. He later found out that Brother Andrey sang with a group of his friends at Church, and invited him to one of their practices.  Brother Andrey: And ever since then, at that point, you know, we were developing, musically, you know, even more. To the point where, you know, we were almost going to call it quits because, you know, we had been doing it, maybe, two years at that point. Aliw: And you guys were all in high school? Brother Andrey: We were all in high school, and some of us were graduating. Already wanted to move on, go to college, you know, think of our future careers and all of that. And then, before we were going to hang it up, you know, the gloves, we all decided, you know, this. We should record a song, just so we could show our future kids that—”hey, look, Daddy used to sing.” And we recorded this song and it was a song called, “Say You’ll Stay”. And, we decided, you know, well, just for fun, you know, since we’re going to quit anyway, but let’s just send it out to all these radio stations. Because we had friends. who were also working at radio stations, who kind of gave us, you know, the information to where to send it. And so we sent it out just for fun, not thinking anything of it. And before we knew it, you know, these stations were starting to play it and it was gaining popularity, like people were actually starting to request it. It started there in the Deep South, there in Louisiana— Aliw: Louisiana of all places! Brother Andrey:  Yeah, and so before we knew it, it was gaining popularity, getting noticed by Billboard. You know, we were charting on Billboard as an unsigned act. And so, that’s when we were getting calls, you know, from major record labels. And so, you know, I guess the rest is history, right? Then we went on to do some things in the music industry. Aliw: And what was that one big record label company that actuall

A Life of Service: Part 2 Brother Andrey Silva: And there were times when in the middle of the night he would give me a call, you know, pick me up and, you know, his face would be bloodied.  Errol: There’s so many times during the journey that I thought I was going to quit. Aliw Pablo: Quit life? Quit the band? Quit— Errol: Yeah. All of it. Brother Andrey Silva: One of the things that I saw that would help him make a change in his life, was if he was in the Church. Aliw: You know,  all friendships go through highs and lows but what happens when a friend refuses to give up in saving someone’s life? Refuses to give up in helping a friend make changes in his life? Brother Andrey Silva: Because God is the solution to all things,  Aliw: Welcome to part two of our conversation with long time friends and KAI bandmates, Brother Andrey Silva and Errol Viray.  You’re listening to this special episode of the Making Changes Podcast, I’m your host, Aliw Garcia Pablo. Today’s episode is about  friendships that run deep and friends who never give up. Brother Andrey Silva: That was the only solution I can think of, to help my friend, my brother.  Aliw Garcia Pablo: Well, hello, Errol.  Errol Viray: Hello. Aliw Garcia Pablo:  Welcome to Making Changes podcast. Errol Viray: Thank you for having me. Aliw Garcia Pablo:  Can’t help but notice the shirt, though, like we got to show off the shirt.  Errol Viray: We had to, right? Brother Andrey Silva:  I’m trying to find out when I’m gonna get mine.  Aliw Garcia Pablo:  You don’t have one? Errol Viray:  I sent it to your brother. Brother Andrey Silva: You gave it to my brother? Errol Viray: Yeah.  Brother Andrey Silva: You think that’s ever gonna touch my hands? Aliw Garcia Pablo:  I’ve been seeing these Kai shirts on social media. Is there, like, a ‘90s revival happening or what’s going on?  Errol Viray: Yeah, you know what? Very much so. So, it’s popping up everywhere right now and then with this, these shirts kind of came up because of demand, you know. Aliw Garcia Pablo: But you know, when you guys look at that shirt, when you look back at those young boys at that time, and the dreams and things that you were looking forward to, who were Andrey and Errol in those shirts? Brother Andrey Silva: We were starving artists. No, you know, when I look at that shirt, and during that time frame, we were some excited kids who were ready to embark on this amazing musical journey that our Lord God was allowing us to experience.  Aliw Garcia Pablo: Yeah, but you know, your friendship goes beyond Kai. You know, there are people who are, who are in bands together, and it’s clearly just a working, professional relationship, right? But what kind of brotherhood did you guys have and share?  Brother Andrey Silva:  When it comes to the name Kai, right? Like, it stands for Kaibigan or friendship. We chose that name because we were all friends before the band, you know, because we considered ourselves brothers, actually in that group. And so for us to be able to have those extraordinary experiences as brothers, you know, it made it more enjoyable, honestly and meaningful. Aliw Garcia Pablo:  You’re the only son in your family, right? Because you have sisters.  Errol Viray:  Yes, three sisters. Aliw Garcia Pablo:  Three sisters, yeah. And growing up, what kind of childhood did you have that, you know, having a friend like Andrey was, like, literally having a second brother?  Errol Viray: I had a hard upbringing, you know. So it was real, it was, it was a big difference. My mom and dad were very strict. I was also going through it during that time because my dad had left.  Aliw Garcia Pablo: You are now the man of the house.  Errol Viray: Correct, correct. I had to hold that mantle, and so being part of the group, being unified through that, I got a chance to see how life was outside of my family, right? So then we would hold rehearsals, for example, at, you know, Brother Andrey’s house. And I think sometimes we do it like on the, you know, going into the weekend, you know. So what turned into a rehearsal for me would go into a full weekend, staying at the Silva’s house, you know.  Aliw Garcia Pablo: You were the fourth son?  Errol Viray: Yeah, correct, yeah, correct. And they embraced me as such as Brother Andrey, you know, his mom, his dad, his brothers, obviously. And then, I just remember, you know, staying over that first time after rehearsing for, you know, for the week, for… on that Friday, going to the weekend and Sunday hit. And I think I was sleeping on your floor, man. I was on your floor sleeping, and then he wakes me up, “Hey, man, we’re going to church. I… Oh, I don’t have any clothes, man. So… Aliw Garcia Pablo: Which is just just down the street. It’s just down the street from the chapel.  Errol Viray:  It was just down the street, down the street from the chapel. I get in there, and, you know, it was so embracing. It was, it was refreshing. Everyone there was accepting. You know, you get in, you hear the words, you meet everybody, and you just feel part of it, right? They treat you like family. And just what I was going through at the time, it was, it was a breath of fresh air for me. Okay, I’m going through all this stuff. I want to be here every weekend, right? I want to be here every weekend. So whether Dre knew it or not, I had a plan, like, I’m staying over at his house just for this weekend, right? With the intention to also, I want to go back to all those folks that I’ve been introduced to. It’s fun being there. I love being there.  Aliw Garcia Pablo: You said you were going through it. What exactly were you going through? Errol Viray:  My dad wasn’t in the picture for like, you know, some years, heavy on substance abuse, and then I’m there to try to protect, right? So you got my three sisters, I got my mom. So as you know, feeling like I had that mantle now, as the man of the household, I felt the need to try to protect.  Aliw Garcia Pablo: You were how old at this time? Errol Viray: How old am I? Like, how old was it? How old were we then, like, 16, 15,16, and so it was tough. You know, the verbal would be physical. Sometimes it would get physical. And so it was just a tough upbringing. And so that’s all I knew. You know, I thought, “Okay, this is normal. So I don’t know if…”  Aliw Garcia Pablo: You thought everyone’s families went through this? Errol Viray: I thought this is what it was, you know, it’s just it was, like, the norm. It was a norm for me. And so it’s funny, because I had that kind of attitude, you know? So, when I would meet people like, Oh, you’re not what, what’s so different about what I’m going through? You know, you don’t go through that. That’s not a normal thing for you. And so when I got the chance to see his family, his family, and how they operated and the way they treated each other, especially his mom, his dad, more so I saw first and foremost, how that dynamic was supposed to be.  Aliw Garcia Pablo: Between a father and a son.  Errol Viray: Correct, correct. I mean, my dad had his moments right? So when he was right, he was right, but when he wasn’t in the right mind state, it was just it was torture. I dreaded, you know, being around him during that time.  Aliw Garcia Pablo:  And so what do you remember during that time, Brother Andrey? Brother Andrey Silva: Yeah, I remember him. I remember Brother Errol having a difficult time, because he would express to me that, you know, sometimes he would say, you know, “Nah, I don’t want to go home yet. Can I just hang out here?” “Well, yeah, stay here as long as you want, you know.” And there were times when he would be home, where, in the middle of the night, he would give me a call, you know, “Pick me up. I’m over here on this corner,” you know, like, “Okay, what’s up?” He said, “Just pick me up.” Okay, I’d go to pick him up. And, you know, his face would be bloodied, you know. And then he would tell me that, you know, he got into it with his dad or whatnot. So I said, okay, just, just come stay with us for a bit. He would stay at the house for a bit until he would get to reset a little bit, you know, or until he found out his dad left, then he could go back.  Because I think, you know, with Errol feeling that he needed to protect his family, you know, having that role, the dad is always gone. So him being the firstborn and the only male, you know, he felt that that responsibility was on him. But then when his father would come back, you know, there would be that conflict, because that’s his dad’s role, and now there’s somebody who’s trying to take his role and and so maybe underlying, you know, subconsciously, there would be that, that struggle there. And so, you know, Errol would get the worse end of it. You know, many times we’d have to go there to try to calm the situation.  Aliw Garcia Pablo:  You say, we. Who was with you? Brother Andrey Silva: You know, there were times when other band mates would come, Larry, right? Our manager would come with me. There were times when my dad would come, you know, and to try to talk to his dad. And those were always pretty effective whenever my dad would talk to his dad, because, for some reason, Errol’s dad had this big respect for my dad, and so he would sit and listen to whatever my dad would say to him, yeah. Aliw Garcia Pablo:  How did that feel for you? You know, you’ve got this friend, right? You’ve got your friend’s dad. You’re not related by blood. How does it feel knowing that they went that extra mile?  Errol Viray:  It’s a level of gratitude that you can’t explain, right? It was, I felt safe, you know, them being around and, you know, like Brother Andrey mentioned just having those late calls. “Hey, man, I’m going through it again. Can you come by and get me?” Like it was almost like that safe, safe zone for me. And so when they would come, it was like I said, I was able to reset. And then when they would leave, it was back to it again, you know. So it w

Growing Up Coda: A Year Of Change   [Chatter]    [ Show opens]   Sister Aliw Pablo: Alright, ok we’re all ready?    Sister Aliw Pablo: Hello Brother Ronnie, Brother Rowell, it’s been a while since we’ve seen you last.    VO: Believe it or not, it’s been a year since we published the very first episode of the CODA series, where we first met Brother Rowel and Brother Ronnie David both CODAs or children of Deaf Adults and ministers of the gospel in the Church Of Christ.   Sister Aliw Pablo: Ka Ronnie, do you want to sit up a little bit?    [laughter]    VO: So much has happened with the David family since we last talked. So we thought it would be worthwhile to catch up. And because September is Deaf Awareness Month, what better time than now.     Sister Aliw Pablo: Hello, Brother Ronnie, Brother Rowel, it’s been a while since we’ve seen you last.    Brother Rowel David: Hello, Sister Aliw.   Brother Ronnie David: Hello, Sister Aliw.  How are you?   Sister Aliw Pablo: We’re good. How are you doing? How are you both?   Brother Rowel David: Well, doing well, doing well.   Brother Ronnie David: Doing great   Sister Aliw Pablo: We just wanted to check in with you both and see how things are and just the impact and the feedback you’ve gotten from the CODA series,    Sister Aliw Pablo: Would you say that there are people that you may have known for a long time, and after seeing your stories and hearing your stories, were  there things that they were surprised to learn?   Brother Ronnie David: I’ve had a lot of brethren who from my past local assignments, they texted me, they called me and they said, “I didn’t even know. I had no idea.” Because the thing is, we don’t put this out there. It’s not something that, “hey, hello, my name is Ronnie and my parents are deaf.” For them, one thing that got me was they said, “I see why you did the things The way you did. I see why.   Sister Aliw Pablo: Your story, you know, the CODA series was—is really a family story. And I am so curious to know have parents come up to you? Have kids come up to you? As far as helping bridge that cultural divide, generational gap, whatever gap happens as we grow older?   Brother Rowel David: You know, some are coming up and asking, you know, “what, do you think we shouldn’t do if, you know, this is the situation. You know, my child is going through this, do you think you can help them with this and that?” And so, I feel like because of that video, because of that series, it’s opened up a lot of doors. It’s actually opened, like, in the sense of parents, now seeing things in a different way as well. Because now they’re seeing things that you know, hey, this could be affecting my child, or me not doing this could be hindering them in this way.   Sister Aliw Pablo: One thing too, as far as opening up conversations, I’m curious as far as faith sharing, how has the feedback been from brethren who do have friends who are hearing-impaired and and how have they shared the content with them?   Brother Ronnie David: You know, it’s funny, because I feel like some brethren never thought about inviting a deaf person to a Bible study. They never thought about inviting a deaf person to listen to the words of God. But that’s an option. And that’s definitely happened to us sharing faith now. And it’s brought an—it’s gotten to the point where, even for those of the local I was assigned in, we were having a Bible study, we had about maybe eight or nine deaf there, so brethren are joining and they asked me so you know, Ka Ronnie we actually know some deaf my neighborhood, in my area. Can you do a Bible study over here? And I said, Sure. Exactly what it is. Because you know what? People feel more confident enough to invite people who are deaf now because they see that they have the opportunity also to hear God’s words. It’s even in the sense of learning sign language as well. Because through the CODA series now they’ve seen the other apps and the other, you know, videos that the Church Administration has produced. And now it’s branching out into the—you know, we—I’ve had some brethren come up and say, “yeah, I changed my major to communication,” you know, “to be able to help, you know, to learn more sign language as well.” And so it’s really, it’s impacted a lot of people in so many ways.   Sister Aliw Pablo: Well, praise God, praise God. And we hope that the wonderful thing about the CODA series and the story of your family is that it’s timeless, you know. That this can be watched five, ten years from now, and the stories and life lessons in your families can resonate for generations to come. But I should also point out, you’re all together today. I know that people may think you’re in the same place now, but why do you happen to be together and were able to do this interview and you’re in the same room?   Brother Ronnie David:  That’s true. We’re actually we’re blessed today to have a special gathering that was approved by the Church Administration for the ministers and not just the four districts that are here but all over the East Coast. So it was also a blessing for us in another way, which my brother and I were able to see each other.    Sister Aliw Pablo: So it’s been a year and one of the things I never got to ask you both of this, but you know, our Part Three, there were some really profound intimate moments with your parents that you were able to say that you both have said you’ve never said before. And I know that for a lot of our viewers who watched it, that ending for Part Three is what got them. It just tore them up. It just—they just said, “I didn’t expect that at the end. Why didn’t you tell me? I should have had a box of tissues.” And I could tell from the reaction of your parents that they too were really shocked and moved by what you were able to tell them. So I was curious to know after that interview, what did they say to you? Brother Rowel you were in the same room with them.  But what was it like after that interview?   Brother Rowel David: I’ll say you know… that my parents are people of few words, I’ll say it like that. even though they—my— especially my mother, she can sign away forever. But after the interview, it was more—you know, of course, deaf culture—more on action. We Just went up and hugged. Hugged, and then of course when my mom came up and hugged me, my dad came up, and it was just hugging for a good couple of minutes, saying I love you, this and that.    Sister Aliw Pablo: No words needed.   Brother Rowel Pablo: No. None at all. It was a good moment. It was a good moment.    Sister Aliw Pablo: Brother Ronnie, you obviously weren’t in the same room. But what were the conversations like after that interview, but also after they actually watched it? And watched the whole thing put together?   Brother Ronnie David: It’s like my brother said, it was.. it wasn’t only words. You know, my mother called her favorite son and I answered. She just told me she loved me so much. Because you—(laughs) you know what, for her, her and my dad, we don’t talk about our life to each other. We just live life with each other. So for us to confront it and view it and look back, I think that kind of opened all of our eyes. So she told me, she is thankful that we’re all together. And that we’re a family that was blessed to be together by God.    Sister Aliw Pablo: Brother Ronnie can you repeat what you just said? “You don’t do life together…”   Brother Ronnie David: It’s like we, we never talked about our life together. We Just live life together. And it was probably the first time that we actually looked at each other—our faces, talked to each other and actually had a chance to look back and say, wow, this has been our life the whole time, and imagine the blessing it was to actually relive it with each other. And to see wow, you know, all those things we went through, whether happy, sad, good or bad, it was a blessing in the end because look at where we are now. And I think that’s where all the love came from and the fact that we really took a moment to say I love you to each other in a different way than we ever had before.   Sister Aliw Pablo: Being able to have that time and that moment to be able to do that and to look back a year later, if you can share with us what’s happened in the last year,   Brother Ronnie David: So, maybe a couple of months afterwards, just to go ahead and put it out there, I don’t know why but very suddenly our father passed away. And that was very tough. That was tough. Especially because we just had this opportunity to really open up to each other for the first time ever. I’m 32, my brother’s 30. And for how many decades that we lived life together, right, and for the first time ever we opened up to each other. And then one of us is gone. So like that definitely was… the sadness, the sorrow that was definitely there. And it’s not going to be something that still comes to mind and our hearts. We won’t stop thinking about it. But that’s the biggest trial we’ve experienced since we had done the CODA series.   VO: With no warning, their beloved dad, Brother Ramon David, suddenly passed away in mid April of this year.    VO: It was here that Brother Ronnie recounted their last moments with his dad. Their parents were in New York, visiting Brother Ronnie and his wife and had just finished attending worship service in a local congregation where Brother Ronnie was assigned to preach. It was on their way home when Brother Ramon suddenly fell ill and later passed away.    Brother Ronnie David: …the last thing I think about is, thank you, dad, for that last lesson. You teach a man how to finish his race. That’s exactly what we’re going to do. Because I hope that’s the way I finish my race, too. I’ll be on duty. I’ll still be genuine, genuine faith and love to the Lord God and live my life for God. That’s exactly what I want. So even though it was tough, it was—it was so sad at the moment at the time until now. I mean days later, weeks la

Aliw: Hey, it’s Aliw. It’s now August, and here, where I live, in the Bay Area, the weather’s getting cooler, and our days are getting shorter. You know what that means, summer’s winding down and it’s almost time for students to head back to school. So, this episode is for students! Specifically, college students who are leaving home for the very first time.    And even if you’re not moving, but are still about to go to college, I understand that that change is profound and challenging in itself. I’m a mom of two college students, myself, so trust me, I know!    These are the challenges that Marielle and Chanelle talk about in this episode, and more specifically, trying to hold on to their Christian faith while they’re in college. We’re bringing back this episode from our first season because what they talk about is timeless.    I want to thank them both for being so honest and brave during this conversation, and letting us all be a part of it. And I hope you’re able to share this conversation with someone in your life who’s about to face this milestone.  (music fades in) Marielle Magno: Why I liked University of San Francisco is because I could still easily go home. It’s not that long of a commute. But I’m also far enough to be pretty independent, but still be close to home.  Chanelle Amoguis: That must be exciting. What are your feelings right now? You know, thinking about dorming and moving? Aliw Garcia Pablo: Meet Marielle and Chanelle. Marielle is an incoming college freshman, sitting down and talking to Chanelle who graduated college last year.  Marielle:  So like, while you were in Korea, um, how, how did you like to stay true to your faith and not be easily tempted and influenced, while dorming and being away from home? Chanelle:  That’s a good question.  Aliw: Studies show that there’s a growing trend that reveals that some college freshmen aren’t just preparing to say goodbye to their families. They’re preparing to say goodbye to their faith as well.  With newfound freedom and away from the eyes of their parents and temptations everywhere. What can one do to keep their Christian faith strong and thriving while away in college?  Chanelle: Setting boundaries is so important. And you have to constantly tell yourself like, this is a line and this is a line that I will not cross.  And they say “will not” instead of “cannot” because if you say “cannot” it’s like you’re restricting yourself. But if you say “will not” that puts you in control of your decision…  Aliw:  So, today we’re having that tough conversation. Is it possible to remain as a true and faithful Christian while away in college? A phase in life that the world says is a time for exploration and self discovery? Or could college actually be a time that can bring a person even closer to God? I’m your host, Aliw Garcia Pablo, and you’re listening to Making Changes. [Show Open] Aliw: Marielle was so excited to be asked to be part of this podcast. She starts her freshman year at the University of San Francisco in the Fall. She’ll be getting advice from Chanelle from Hawaii, who moved 1000s of miles away from her family, and studied in South Korea. We’ll hear about real life experiences and real world advice from one Christian to another and learn tips on how to navigate around the changes that come during this part in young adulthood but always with God by their side. Let’s listen in. [Music ends.] Marielle: Hi, Chanelle. Thank you so much for being here to talk to me today.  Chanelle: Hi, Marielle. I’m so happy to talk to you today. I’m excited.  Marielle: Yay, me too. I’m so excited as well. So nice to meet you.  Chanelle: How are you? Marielle: I’m good. How are you? Chanelle:  I’m doing great. It’s a bit hot over here, so I’m sweating a little bit in nervousness and excitement. But I heard you graduated recently. Congratulations! Marielle: Thank you. I graduated. Thankfully, it was an in person graduation. So I gotta have it in person. A lot of students, so 800 students to graduate class. And you got too? Chanelle: I did, I did. It’s like during the pandemic back in 2020. So we didn’t have an in person graduation, unfortunately, because you know, the pandemic was pretty new. So everybody was just like on lockdown. I graduated from the University of Hawaii at Manoa. Yeah, I know. It’s a pretty big school. And I also heard that you’ll be moving away as well. Where are you going? Marielle: Yeah, I’m going to move to the University of San Francisco, which is just like around 40 minutes away, but I’ll be dorming there. Chanelle: You’ll be dorming there. So this is your first time being away from your family.  Marielle: Yeah, it is. Did you move away for school too?  Chanelle: I did. I, yeah. When we look back on it. I just remember all the good memories and the fun times I had, but it was back in 2017.  I studied abroad in South Korea for a semester.  Marielle: And what did you study?  Chanelle: Um, basically all things: Korean language, Korean history and Korean culture. Yeah, I got it. Yeah, and I was fortunate enough to have the opportunity come to me by a friend. He told me that there’s a scholarship that hardly anyone applied to and if I did it, there’s a high chance I’d get it. I just had to turn in paperwork, pass the interviews, and yeah, they pretty much paid for everything. You know, you have the whole experience.  Marielle: That’s so cool. That’s awesome.  Chanelle:  And Kpop is a great motivator, you know, and learning new languages, which is what helped me for my major in Korean. Marielle: Yeah. So what was it like dorming especially in a different country too? Chanelle: For me dorming in a different country. It was very exciting, very terrifying. But the terrifying didn’t come until later, you know. When I first heard it, you know, all that excitement washes away any types of fears, stresses that I had because of this, like the idea of studying abroad into a country that you’ve grown up wanting to travel to– to visit, ever since you’re a kid, like, in my case, especially, it’s just like, no, this is I’m all in. No problems here at all. So yeah, I was very happy. And my parents were excited for me as well. Marielle: So like, while you were in Korea,  how did you like, stay true to your faith and not be easily tempted and influenced while dorming and being away from home? Chanelle: Oh, that’s a good question. For me, I really surrounded myself with friends who shared the same goals, and respected my values and boundaries. And one of the biggest culture shocks that I’ve seen firsthand was the drinking culture in Korea. Like it’s so common that you see it in Korean dramas, pop culture, even among the most popular k idols, they promote it in their advertisements, like it’s become normalized. And it hits you when I, as a student, of course, my friends would at the time, my classmates would ask me to go out and, and hang out and drink at the bars with them. Like they do it every day. Not saying that all Koreans drink every single day. But you know, it’s hard when there’s influences left and right, even more so there. And it’s not just Korea. It’s everywhere around the world.  Marielle: Yeah, exactly.  Chanelle:  Yeah, it’s easy to get caught up and distracted with influences around you. But you, keeping that awareness of your boundaries… Setting boundaries is so important. And you have to constantly tell yourself, like, this is a line. And this is a line that I will not cross and I say “will not” instead of “cannot” because if you say “cannot,” it’s like you’re restricting yourself, but if you say “will not” that puts you in control of your decision that this is something you’re not going to do. And don’t be afraid to tell people “no.” Don’t be embarrassed if your values are different from others, because sometimes, you know, you think that they’re going to react weirdly or they’re going to look at you differently. Like, no, really, like if you just say no, they’ll be like, okay, because sometimes it’s just as simple as that. And if they ask why it’s, you can just tell them and they’ll be like, okay, cool, I understand it’s fine. You know, and if they keep pushing, maybe these are the types of people that you shouldn’t be around. So you know what’s right from wrong. And don’t put yourself in a position where your boundaries are compromised.  And honestly, I’m just really grateful for the friends and family I’ve made in the local of Yongsan and Ansan. Shout out to them. They were always there to keep me busy in my duties in the Children‘s Worship Service or even in INC Radio and attending all of the activities there in Korea, it was so amazing. It really kept me away from those types of influences and reminded me of the foundation of my faith. Marielle: Wow, I really, Oh, wow, that’s really good advice what sticks out to me the most is “to not be afraid to say “no.” Because yeah, I’m like, I really value friendships, especially even in high school where I already know everyone. But now I’m going into college where I won’t know anyone. Even in my high school. Oh, no one there is going to USF. So I’m going to be surrounded by new faces. And I would, of course, love to, like make some friends. And I’m not gonna lie, sometimes I do end up just so for them to stay my friend, I’ll end up doing certain things like, okay, sure, I’ll do this with you. But it isn’t anything bad. But I would just really want to stay friends with people. So I just really like the advice you say about making sure you have your own boundaries for yourself, and knowing who your right friends are for yourself. Who has a good influence on you. Chanelle:  I completely understand Marielle because I was like you at that point, too, you know, like, I was passive. I didn’t know how to stand my ground. Yeah, but you know, once you make that first step, everything else will be easier. Marielle: Okay. Yeah. Cause also I’ve been praying to just like to make sure that…this to God that t