HELEN SARITA’S SIX DECADES OF GRACE: THE HEART OF A POET, THE STRENGTH OF A MOTHER By Antonio Ma-at

At sixty, Helen Sarita stands as more than a poet, more than a community leader, and more than a mother—she is a symbol of unwavering strength and faith. Her journey has been painted with trials, yet every hardship has only sharpened the radiance of her story. Behind her gentle words and graceful presence lies the heart of a woman who has carried burdens that would have broken many, and yet continues to inspire with her poetry and resilience.

Recently, her long-time friend, Ms. Gertrude Sienes, journalist and former editor of Kabayan Weekly Newspaper-UAE, reached out to her for a heartfelt conversation. Their exchange touched on the deepest parts of Helen’s journey. Later, during Dorie Reyes Polo’s book launch, I too had the chance to ask Helen my own questions, where her answers further revealed the remarkable philosophy she lives by.

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Hardships and Triumphs

Gertrude asked: Among your life’s journey, what seems to be the hardest, saddest parts and maybe the happiest moments …How did you deal with those scenarios?

Helen shared:

“The most challenging period began when I launched my business, coinciding with my husband’s stroke. He was in and out of the hospital while my three sons were still in college—my daughter attending high school at UNO-R, and my youngest was only two years old. My unwavering faith was my sole anchor. I navigated those difficulties alone, and I still marvel at how I persevered and survived.”

As I listened, I thought of how resilience is not found in comfort, but in storms. Helen’s words remind us that strength is not the absence of tears—it is the courage to keep going despite them.

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God as Her Refuge

Gertrude continued: We know that you are the religious type, what is the role of God in your life?

Helen answered with conviction:

“He is my refuge, my hope, and my protector. I believe God had a purpose for me, and these trials were His way of preparing me to inspire, bless, and empower others.”

Her words were not just declarations of belief—they were lived truths. I reflected that perhaps this is why her poetry resonates so deeply: it flows from a heart that is both tested and anchored in faith.

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Calming the Pressures of Life

Gertrude asked: How do you deal with daily pressures and how do you calm down yourself?

Helen responded:

“I find solace and strength in daily prayer and worship. My FPB Prayer Group helps a lot in my spiritual growth. We refresh our faith everyday by reading the scripture and sharing our insights. This is how I honestly manage pressure. I’m continually amazed by God’s presence in my life. Positive communication with Him is not only calming but also empowering.”

Her answer revealed something profound: while others might seek escape, Helen seeks alignment. It is in communion with God that she finds both peace and power.

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Family as Her Legacy

When asked: How are all your children nowadays? Any other members of the family you are with?

Helen answered with pride:

“My children are a source of my immense pride. They’ve embraced life with contentment and a deep faith, qualities I’m grateful to have instilled in them. My youngest, currently a second-year nursing student, receives unwavering support from his sister in the United States, who generously covers his tuition and allowance.”

As she spoke, I realized her truest legacy is not found in awards or publications, but in the lives of her children who carry her values into the world.

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Life Lessons for the Next Generation

Gertrude asked: Any advice you have for your children about life?

Helen replied:

“It’s important for them to be strong. My actions, more than any words, serve as a testament to my own resilience. I don’t offer repeated or perpetual advice; instead, they observe how I handle pressure and interact with diverse individuals in a diplomatic and gentle manner. If they take and follow this kind of attitude, what they desire in life will naturally follow.”

Her wisdom reminded me that the most powerful lessons are unspoken—they are lived.

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A Public Message

Gertrude then asked: Any message to the public on how to deal with pressures as a basic life input?

Helen’s words carried the cadence of poetry:

“Continue to dance to the rhythm of life, enjoying the music. Don’t stress excessively; have faith that is bigger than your challenges, and always speak kindly. Silence is a powerful tool. Never judge others’ mistakes. Yet, offer advice with understanding, remembering our shared humanity and need for compassion. Humility and kindness will bless not only you but also your children, grandchildren, and your future generations.”

For me, this answer felt like a gift—not only to her audience but to humanity.

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Ten Lessons for Aspiring Dreamers

When I asked her: Being a multi-awarded achiever figure in the Philippine literature and leadership, what are the top 10 lessons you can share to those who aspired and want to follow your path?

Helen responded with her ten guiding lessons, from “Just be yourself” to “Let your kindness shine, be loving, and be loved.” Each one was a reflection of how she has lived.

Listening to them, I thought of how rare it is to find a leader who prizes humility over recognition and kindness over entitlement.

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Advocating for Literature

I asked: What is your plan this year to promote Philippine literature?

Helen answered:

“As a DJ, I promote literature by reciting my poems on the air. Collaborating with artists and showcasing their talents during fundraising events to purchase chairs also promotes literature. This December, ME Publications, in collaboration with other organizations, will recognize teachers, poets, and artists, encouraging them to ignite their passion for arts and literature.”

Her answer revealed that her love for literature is not passive—it is active, communal, and generous.

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The Value of Writers

When I asked: How do you value writers?

Helen replied:

“I deeply respect writers at all levels. I value the authenticity of their hearts through their writing, more than perfect grammar. Good writers speak from the heart, and they have my utmost respect.”

As a writer myself, I found comfort in this truth: sincerity is the real measure of greatness.

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If Life Were a Book

Finally, I asked: If your life is a book what would be the title and why?

Helen said:

“I love to initiate and pioneer new ventures. I am unafraid to take risks, discover, and materialize my ideas. I believe that with pure intentions, our plans will be blessed; the most challenging part is always the beginning.”

Her answer reflected not just a title, but a philosophy: life is not about avoiding beginnings, but embracing them with faith.

It is fitting then, that Helen’s upcoming book is titled The Trailblazer—a perfect summation of her character. For six decades, she has embodied this word: daring to pioneer, to risk, to lead, and to inspire. The book promises to be more than a collection of pages; it will be a mirror of her life—a testament to her faith, resilience, and enduring love for people and literature.

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Closing Thoughts

Helen Sarita’s six decades are a living anthology—composed of trials, faith, motherhood, and poetry. She is proof that strength and softness can exist in the same soul, and that the true measure of a life is not just in what we achieve, but in what we inspire.

As I close this piece, I hold onto one truth: Helen Sarita’s story is not just to be read—it is to be lived, imitated, and carried forward by those of us fortunate enough to witness her grace.

⸻ Antonio Ma-at, Your Fellow Dreamer

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