“Ibangon yo issa! (Wake up, now!)”, yelled my mom waking us up early in the morning. Innovative alarm like this would surely bring you to your feet. “Ingkayo pakanen manok! (Go and feed the chickens!)”, announced my dad following our alarm. Growing up in the Cordillera Region, this is a glimpse of a typical morning for a child where the daily chores are planned before the sunrise even emerges on the horizon. Chickens are one of the common livestock in our village. They also play a vital role in some religious groups as they are used as divinatory animals. Before the arrival of Christianity, most of the folks say that our village was the primary seat of an ancient religion in our state. This ancient religion has a vast list of deities, superstitions and rituals. The sacred rites performed in our communities are as diverse and intricate as the concerns of the residents. Whether faced with the challenges of daily life, the uncertainties of impending milestones, or the unrelenting forces of calamity, some people in our communities look at the rituals as a source of solace, guidance, and hope. Some believe that ceremonies, incantations, and offerings performed by the elders serve as both a reflection of the deepest concerns and a vessel for the most fervent desires. Some believe that these are binding the divine and the humans.

For example, there is someone in the community seeking counsel about trying something new or something risky. In this event, a shaman will assist the ritual with enchantments and fate reading. Specifically, a chicken will be chosen for a symbolic or spiritual rites depending on the one who requested it. They prepare the chicken with delicate precision. The feather of the chicken is removed by hand, then the skin will be exposed to the awaiting flames. Soon after, the chicken’s body is deftly opened, revealing its internal organs. The revelation of which marks a pivotal moment in the ritual. Amid the hushed anticipation, all eyes fixate on the chicken’s gallbladder. It is termed “pidis”, in our local language. “Pidis” is such a small but mighty organ that holds the key to the seeker’s future. A healthy, vibrant gallbladder foretells good fortune and allows the venture to proceed, while a weakened one spells caution and redirects the seeker’s path. This is the chicken gallbladder divination.

Imagine being a member of our village. You were looking forward to a great opportunity outside the village, but your family decides to consult an elderman or a shaman before you get going. Then, the shaman asks you to get a chicken to determine your fate. So, you got one and have it presented to the shaman. What would you do and how would you feel if the chicken you chose reveals a weakened gallbladder? In the aftermath of a negative divination reading, would you feel angry and defeated? While one’s family may have initiated the consultation with the shaman and the chicken may have provided the seemingly ill-fated omen, the question of culpability is more nuanced than it may initially appear. Is it the family’s fault for placing undue emphasis on the divination process? Is it the shaman’s fault for interpreting the signs in a negative light? Or maybe, it is the chicken’s fault?

Our life in the mountains is simple. My dad puts up his own garden of vegetables and fruit trees, and sometimes flowers hardly succulents. The bermuda grass we procure from a distant neighbor is a golden pavement for our drifter chickens, conscientious dogs, and now, my sister’s hedonistic cats. The chickens seemed to be of interest to my dad so he focuses more on the care of the chickens. The chickens follow a stage-specific diets to make sure they grow well holistically such as having vibrant feathers, agility, and quick reflexes. Proper care for the chickens determine their suitability for consumption or sale.

Faith is like a bridge between what we can see and what we believe in. It is the foundation of our hopes and dreams, and gives us strength to keep going even when things get tough. In the past, people who had strong faith were seen as really great and important, because they never gave up on their beliefs, even when times were tough.

Hebrews 11: 1-3

Although chickens freely roamed our yard, I have never embraced animal divination involving chickens. The beauty of the biblical scripture has given me a deeper understanding of who I am and what my future may be. As a believer of Christ, I came to know that my future and fate are not confined nor determined by an animal organ. I do not despise people who believe in omens, superstitions, fate readings and those believing in animal divination. They have their own reasons and each one is entitled to make a choice. As for me in the case of the chicken gallbladder divination, it is not the accountability of a chicken to decide for my life’s endeavors. These spiritless yet essential creatures are meant to coexist with other creatures created by God.

When worries and insecurities of the future wear me out, I am reminded of faith. Faith is like a bridge between what we can see and what we believe in. It is the foundation of our hopes and dreams, and gives us strength to keep going even when things get tough. In the past, people who had strong faith were seen as really great and important, because they never gave up on their beliefs, even when times were tough. They trusted in the bigger God than themselves, which helped them face life’s challenges and gave them peace even after death.

And so, dear reader, I ask you: what beliefs do you hold dear that shape your perception of the future? May your path be illuminated with wisdom and clarity, whatever guidance you choose to follow. I wish you the very best as you navigate life’s twists and turns. Remember that while there may be factors beyond our control, the choices we make have the power to shape our destinies. May you find peace and joy in your journey, guided by the light of your own discernment.

A collection of reflective writings from a bored and an introvert teacher.