A Night in the Hills by Paz Marquez-Benitez

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Gerardo Luna, a jewelry store salesman, harbors a deep, unspoken desire to explore the forest, a dream he nurtures despite his routine life in Manila. Hindered by his frail health and societal expectations, he's drawn to the allure of the forest's beauty and serenity. His encounter with Ambo, an orchid gatherer, ignites hope for realizing his dream. However, familial expectations and pressures emerge, urging him to conform to societal norms. Despite the longing to break free, the journey to the forest unravels a discord between his aspirations and the weight of responsibilities. His contemplative moments in the forest prompt existential reflections, stirring a longing for something deeper, beyond the confines of his present life. The narrative hints at an inner struggle between personal desires and societal obligations, ending on a note of unresolved tension and a pivotal moment as he contemplates a question posed by Peregrina, suggesting a potential life-changing decision.


In the story of Gerardo Luna, literature acts as a powerful tool for expressing who we are and understanding others deeply. Gerardo's dream to explore the forest represents his strong inner desires, reflecting his unique longings that make him different. His journey, amidst societal pressures and family expectations, shows the clash between personal dreams and what society thinks is right. Readers connect with Gerardo's struggle, pondering their own dreams against the pressure to fit in. When Gerardo meets Ambo, the orchid collector, it opens a window to a simpler life close to nature, broadening our view of different ways to live. Gerardo's story encourages us to embrace our dreams despite society's views, urging us to respect others' aspirations and the challenges they face. Overall, it teaches us to understand diverse dreams and appreciate the varied paths people take in life, fostering empathy and a deeper understanding of human experiences.


The story of Gerardo Luna holds significant value for discussions in Seventh-day Adventist (SDA) schools, despite differing themes. It offers a compelling platform for critical thinking and reflection among students by exploring the complexities of personal aspirations and societal expectations. Gerardo's pursuit of fulfillment amid societal pressures prompts thought-provoking discussions on balancing individual dreams and community values, pertinent to ethical considerations within SDA teachings. His encounter with Ambo introduces an appreciation for simple, nature-bound lifestyles, resonating with SDA principles of environmental stewardship. Encouraging empathy and understanding of diverse viewpoints, the narrative fosters a compassionate and inclusive community within SDA schools. By analyzing Gerardo's struggles, students can reflect on their own aspirations and ethical implications, deepening their understanding of personal identity within SDA contexts.  

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