A friend was on a plane that encountered heavy turbulence midway to its destination. With great anxiety, he asked God to protect him and promised that he would serve Him if he survived. The plane got to its destination safely—but, our friend forgot about his promise. Instead, he engaged in selfish pursuits. Some Filipino proverbs about promises, translated by Damiana Eugenio:
A person makes many promises when he’s seriously ill, but forgets about God when he gets better.
Promises that are made quickly also vanish easily.
During the storm
Promises made during the storm are forgotten after.
He who makes many promises seldom fulfills them.
When you were at sea, you promised to light a candle. When you reached land, you didn’t even remember the candle!
Your promise is your oath; your word is your face.
Fulfilling a promise is a virtue.
It’s easier to make a promise than fulfill it.
A promise nails down the one who makes it.
Don’t make promises you can’t fulfill!
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