READING wholesome books is comparable to hearing prized ideas from most admired gurus. It is essential to know the background of the author and his choices of emphatic words as it will critically influence our mind. One of the best books I have read is “The Anthill Preacher”. The book --I usually start reading books from its abstract which is commonly printed at the back cover. While skimming over the synopsis of this book, I found many thought-provoking sorts that directed my eyes to the table of contents to choose one from the rubrics of five parts. However, before I was able to pick a suitable part to read, a different level of excitement sparked my interest to start reading from part one.

After reading the first part, there was a sweltering sensation inside of me to go farther, that before I noticed it, two-thirds of the book was done. It was the first reading marathon I ever had, equated my interest in reading law books. The setting and flow of its substance is so smooth and the familiarity of places mentioned in the book made me feel like I was with the dramatis personae during the highest of all highs and lowest of all lows in his adventure.

Even after reading the main course, full and contented, I dawdled at the cover depiction to touch on the marrow and ended up reading completely from cover to cover. I did not miss a single knowledge from reading it and still wanting gen of the same genre from the same author.

The Author --A typical boy reared from an obscure village that is severely influenced with superstitious beliefs and soused to poverty. Dearth made his eyes keen for opportunities to support him especially for his education. While others study to find a job, he first got a job to finish his studies. His way of shrewdness and sound reasoning inspired by the teachings of great revolutionary leaders made him a preferred recruit and later became a leader to many student officialdom.

In one of the many instances of close encounters, he was finally convicted spiritually. That was a good turning point though to combine his instilled ideology with a liberated theology. His applied principle in survival and proven strategies in leadership with all laws of charity, bounded with a nationalist heart is hunky-dory beyond doubts. He wrote in humility, pure and relatable experience.

Pastor Wendell Mongaya Serrano is a role-model father, a benevolent husband, a servant-leader in His vineyard, a preacher, a family counselor and my intelligent professor. He was the president of the South Philippine Union Conference, the Mindanao headquarters of the Seventh-day Adventist Church before retiring from service in 2010.

Visit his Facebook page S&S Media Ministry. (abrigodann@gmail.com)