By: Atty. Marlo T. Cristobal
Allow me to pause for awhile from my “Catalyst” venture to consider a reader’s particular reaction that struck the innermost chamber of my heart like lightning.
In the course of my writing for “Catalyst,” l have always been entertaining honest doubts if my write-ups are making any impact at all or just mere cry in the wilderness.
Of course many readers sent in their private messages that gave me the inspiration to continue to write as they clearly asserted or implied– in so many, different ways — that l wrote good or l wrote topics good, or both. But inexplicably my doubts just persisted, despite the absolute absence of any dispiriting basher or naysayer.
Until the comments of a reader alluded to above came in recently. They are “one of a hell,” if l may put them. They jolted my spirit with high voltage, as it were, for they exactly reflect what deep in my heart l felt were the realities of my writings. Now that someone has independently made an expression in the open of what l felt, l feel a sense of fulfillment and accomplishment.
The reader that made what l rather consider an incisive or perceptive observation of my write-ups was a fellow officer in our big conglomerate of business companies, whom l have not seen nor talked with for about 7 years now or more, especially that l already retired from office work 7 years ago. According to my very reliable source she was an honor student and, in my personal knowledge, very intelligent and competent officer of our companies. Her name is Ms. Arlene Durana, who served in our business conglomerate for a very, very long time.
If only then to put perhaps in proper light my “Catalyst,” or, to borrow an oft used legal phrase, whatever purpose they may serve my “Catalyst,” please allow me to quote in toto Ms. Arlene’s comments which she sent to me on May 21, 2026:
"Dear Atty. Marlo,
I truly admire your brilliance in writing and the depth of wisdom you now carry with stronger spiritual values. Your words have become even more meaningful because they reflect not only intelligence, but also faith, humility, and purpose.
As my former colleague, it is inspiring to witness your growth and the way you generously share these insights with me. Your writing uplifts, enlightens, and leaves a lasting impact.
Mabuhay po kayo Atty. Marlo!"
To which l replied candidly quick in minutes:
“Thank you, Arlene. You know deep inside me l wanted really to convey my message in exactly the way you put it. I thought l failed to do so because no one has commented in exactly the manner you have done. In all candor and humility, l thought to myself l was writing something deep in intelligence and in wisdom, as you describe it. I thought l was failing as a writer and to carry the legacy of my father who did some intelligent writings, too, during his time. Of course many friends, relatives and acquaintances have expressed their praises for my write-ups but not the way you penetrated my innermost and secret thoughts — in all humility — about my writing and writings. My soul and spirit could feel the honesty of your comments since they clearly spring from your heart.
Now l am inspired no end to write more. Thank you so much for confirming in the open what l have been keeping inside me — out of shyness or timidity or fear.”
To which she sent her rejoinder equally quick:
"Dear Atty. Marlo,
Your words truly touched my heart. I simply expressed what I genuinely felt from your writing — its depth, wisdom, sincerity, and soul.
Your father’s legacy clearly lives within you, and your gift as a writer is undeniable.
Please continue writing because your words inspire and move people more than you realize."
Again, Ms. Arlene, thank you and my immense appreciation, too, to all my readers who likewise expressed their love for my written discourses.
