The 7 in the picture are from the left going right (seated): Drs. Naomi Ruiz & Carmen Pabiton, both past Presidents of PACERS. Standing are Marichel (Dr. Ruiz's eldest daughter), myself, Director Joey of DLSU's Center for Counseling, Dr. Susan Estanislao & Dr. Ruiz's son Bobby. 
On this pic are the Tres Marias of PACERS: Dr. Naomi Ruiz at the center, Drs. Pabiton & Estanislao.Dr. Ruiz was instrumental in my entry to PACERS. I remember her for inviting us to attend the PACERS Annual Convention in 1996 which was held at Robinson's Galleria, the theme of which was Megatrends in Counseling.
One Sunday two weeks ago, Dr. Irma Coronel texted Dr. Pabiton about Dr. Ruiz . Their house was burned down, and Dr. Ruiz brought NOTHING from their house except the dog that stays with her. Her husband and son Bobby were out at that time, and Dr. Ruiz was alone in the house with their helper. With the help of some men in the neighborhood, Dr. Ruiz was carried out of the burning house. And to think that their house wasn't insured! The visit was then apt because this lady, who's now into her late 70's (in two years she'll be starting the eighth decade of her life - guess her age!) has been our Chair at the Counseling & Educational Psychology Department of DLSU's College of Education. When I entered DLSU in 1995, she was then the Chair. She eventually taught me my first Counseling Techniques subject. The following year, she also taught me Family Therapy. Such ties still bind in me. I remember her for sharing with us that whenever she was pregnant, she got promoted. She was for me one person who witnessed the reality of Divine Providence.
During the visit, I also gathered that her first child, Marichel was a miracle baby. Dr. Naomi was married two years already and had no child yet. She was diagnosed having an infantile uterus. Faith came in, and her first baby was given. And the next deliveries were really painful because her first delivery was almost fatal due to the anaesthesia given her. Hence, deliveries without anaesthesia she underwent for the next child given them. Dr. Naomi once mentioned in the conversation that "I don't believe that sufferings should be taken out of our experience." She was one who experienced herself the wisdom of suffering: an occasion to show that God indeed takes over in our weakness. His will is really paramount. Wow! This visit has almost been a pilgrimage in faith to a woman who shown me the advantage of having a strong faith while serving others as a Counselor. Thanks a lot, Dr. Naomi for your motherly Christian sharing. May your long life be filled with joy and wisdom. Hope to see you during our Annual Convention next year. God bless
