Amalgamations of Peter Paul

The Jonah Mowry Inspiration

2011-12-05T02:01:00.001+08:00

This is Jonah Mowry. You'd want to know his story.

I was deeply moved by his video. At 14 years old, he showed bravery in sharing his story to the world, recounting how difficult bullying was for him and revealing his struggles with it. I was watching his eyes all throughout the video and saw pain and loneliness.

I did not have to see exactly how he was bullied, what I saw was far worse. I saw how broken he was. No one ever deserves to be treated like that. It's sad. The fact that he couldn't use his voice, and had to come up with flashcards, could the message be any clearer?

I did a little research and was relieved to find out the amount of support Jonah has been getting is overwhelming.

It's a great message of hope for the down-trodden. I can only imagine someone who's going through the same thing he did, taking comfort in the fact that they're not alone. Oppression doesn't have to be an option. One can put his/her voice out there. There's no reason to be alone if only one reaches out, just like Jonah did. Suicide is not the answer.

Jonah is doing very well and is happy.

He's also getting some counseling.

Share Jonah's video with your friends and spread the inspiration.

Life gets better for everyone. You just have to stick to it, and believe.

My Movie Review: 3 Idiots

2011-11-15T02:29:00.000+08:00

3 Idiots | www.amalgamationspp.com

On a very strong recommendation from a good friend, I was curious to watch this one. This was my first time to watch an Indian film in full length, so I didn't want to have any expectations. But from what I heard, it broke all box-office records in India in its release.

The 3 Idiots is a 2009 Indian comedy film directed by Rajkumar Hirani, with a screenplay by Abhijat Joshi, produced by Vidhu Vinod Chopra. It was a loose adaptation of a novel called Five Point Someone, by Chetan Bhagat. 3 Idiots stars Aamir Khan, Kareena Kapoor, R. Madhavan, Sharman Joshi, Omi Vaidya, Parikshit Sahni and Boman Irani.

“School is not pressure cooker.”

Is a quote from Ranchoddas Chanchad, played by Aamir Khan, who enrolled in one of India’s finest engineering college called the Imperial College of Engineering (ICE), and challenged the traditional learning system of the institution.

His direct-to-the-point character pushed off most of his teachers who always saw things in one dimension.

Viru Sahastrabuddhe, played by Boman Irani, runs the school like a factory and treats learning as a competition.

His view was that “Life is a race. If you don’t run fast, you’ll get trampled.” In order not to get trampled on, students need to run fast. Those who cannot endure the pressure, either quit or lose and some even go as far as commit suicide.

Rancho's view and passion for learning made him see things in different perspectives. And since day one, he had become a pain in the ass not only to the director, but his teachers as well who disliked his idealogies that contradicted their traditional ways of teaching.

If Rancho wanted to pass his subject, he must stick to what the books say. These are situations easily observed in learning institutions we also have in the Philippines. This style of teaching will teach the students to “cram blindly” as the character of Ramalingam shows in the movie.

Students memorize the book without understanding what it means for the sake of getting “good grades" which defiles the purpose of learning. You can top your class yet end up unable to apply what you've learned, to the real world.

The movie also showed how the two courses namely, Engineering and Medicine were the only courses considered to be acceptable and that the “other” courses didn't matter if you wanted to be viewed as socially successful.

In the later parts, I thought it was fascinating and interesting how the movie came out emotionally strong to bring out the message that there are other courses out there, no matter how seemingly insignificant, can make one tremendously successful and live a happily fulfilled life.

“Do not chase success, be good in your field and success will chase you.” And the first step to do that I think, is to realize what you are most passionate about. That way you never get pushed into any negative pressure of doing things because you love what you’re doing.

The 3 Idiots is a movie worth watching not just for students, but the parents as well. It provides a perspective that not all professions that are considered “big” are what's going to necessarily give happiness to a person, that it must ultimately be giving in to one's interests and passions that one can live a happily successful and fulfilled life.

With that, I'm giving 3 Idiots, 4/5 Stars.

Blog Hiatus

2011-11-08T22:56:00.000+08:00

Blog hiatus | www.amalgamationspp.com

I am on blog hiatus at least until the end of November. Work is taking all of my time, peak season and all. Until then, stay inspired. ♥

Meredith's Letter to Heaven

2011-10-16T23:16:00.000+08:00

Meredith's Letter to Heaven | www.amalgamationspp.com

Since October 2006, this story came under a variety of titles, including "Going Postal," "Angels at the Post Office," "Angels Turn Up In Unexpected Places," and "This is a US Postal Service Story."

Some of you may know that our 14 year old dog, Abbey, died last month (8/23). The day after she died, my 4 year-old-daughter Meredith was crying and talking about how much she missed Abbey. She asked if we could write a letter to God so that when Abbey got to heaven, God would recognize her.

She dictated and I wrote:

Dear God,

Will you please take special care of our dog, Abbey? She died yesterday and is heaven. We miss her very much. We are happy that you let us have her as our dog even though she got sick. I hope that you will play with her. She likes to play with balls and swim before she got sick. I am sending some pictures of her so that when you see her in heaven you will know she is our special dog. But I really do miss her.

Love,
Meredith Claire

P.S.: Mommy wrote the words after Mer told them to her
We put that in an envelope with 2 pictures of Abbey, and addressed it to God/Heaven. We put our return address on it. Then Mer stuck some stamps on the front (because, as she said, it may take lots of stamps to get a letter all the way to heaven) and that afternoon I let her drop it into the letter box at the post office.

For a few days, she would ask if God had gotten the letter yet. I told her that I thought He had. Yesterday, for Labor Day, we took the kids to Austin to a natural history museum. When we got back, there was a package wrapped in gold paper on our front porch. Curious, I went to look at it. It had a gold star card on the front and said "To: Mer" in an unfamiliar hand.

Meredith took it in and opened it. Inside was a book by Mr. Rogers, When a Pet Dies. Taped to the inside front cover was the letter we had written to God, in its opened envelope (which was marked 'Return to Sender: Insufficient address'). On the opposite page, one of the pictures of Abbey was taped under the words "For Meredith." We turned to the back cover, and there was the other picture of Abbey, and this handwritten note on pink paper:

Dear Mer,

I know that you will be happy to know that Abbey arrived safely and soundly in Heaven! Having the pictures you sent to me was such a big help. I recognized Abbey right away.

You know, Meredith, she isn't sick anymore. Her spirit is here with me just like she stays in your heart young and running and playing. Abbey loved being your dog, you know. Since we don't need our bodies in heaven, I don't have any pockets! So I can't keep your beautiful letter. I am sending it to you with the pictures so that you will have this book to keep and remember Abbey.

One of my angels is taking care of this for me. I hope the little book helps.

Thank you for the beautiful letter. Thank your mother for sending it. What a wonderful mother you have! I picked her especially for you.

I send my blessings every day and remember that I love you very much. By the way, I am in heaven and wherever there is love.

Love,
God, and the special angel who wrote this after God told her the words.

According to Cary Clack of the San Antonio Express News, the tale is real. In mid-August 2006, the San Antonio family of Greg and Joy Scrivener and their three children suffered the loss of Abbey, their 14-year-old black and white dog. Driven by concern for their pet's future welfare, 4-year-old Meredith, the Scriveners' middle child, dictated the note quoted above to her mother, then enclosed it and two photos of the family dog in an envelope addressed "To: God in Heaven." This envelope, bearing the family's return address, was dropped into a mailbox at the Brook Hollow post office.

Two weeks later, the Scriveners found on their front porch a package wrapped in gold-colored paper and addressed "To: Mer." In the parcel, along with the letter from "God" quoted above, was a book by Fred Rogers (of TV's Mr. Rogers' Neighborhood fame), When a Pet Dies (a book that "helps children share feelings of the loss of a pet while offering reassurance that grieving is a natural, healing thing to do").

According to her mother, Meredith was comforted by the book and letter and was unastounded that God saw fit to write back. "She wasn't surprised because she had such faith that her letter was going to get to God." (The oldest of the Scrivener children, 6-year-old Andy, was impressed. He "thought it was pretty special his sister got a book from the angel," says his mom.

While Mrs. Scrivener considered asking at the post office about the package, she decided against it. "I kind of like not knowing," she said. "I don't know who took the time to do it, but it was an angel. We all think about doing these things, but no one takes the time to do it."

In Memory of Steve Jobs

2011-10-06T13:50:00.001+08:00

A picture of Steve Jobs on an iPad | www.amalgamationspp.com

This one I dedicate to a man who made such a huge difference in our lives.

The hard-driving executive pioneered the concept of the personal computer and of navigating them by clicking onscreen images with a mouse. In more recent years, he introduced the iPod portable music player, the iPhone and the iPad tablet. All of which changed how we consume content in the digital age.

"Steve's brilliance, passion and energy were the source of countless innovations that enrich and improve all of our lives," Apple said in a statement. "The world is immeasurably better because of Steve."

"Steve Jobs is one of the great innovators in the history of modern capitalism," New York Times columnist Joe Nocera said in August. "His intuition has been phenomenal over the years."

Steve left behind his wife of 20 years, Laurene, and four children, including one from a prior relationship.

"Your work is going to fill a large part of your life, and the only way to be truly satisfied is to do what you believe is great work. And the only way to do great work is to love what you do," he told the Stanford grads in 2005.

"If you haven't found it yet, keep looking. Don't settle. As with all matters of the heart, you'll know when you find it. And, like any great relationship, it just gets better and better as the years roll on."

Thank you, Steve for all the great things you created making our lives easier, you truly are an inspiration. Rest in peace.

Thank You

2011-09-30T00:33:00.000+08:00

Hope | amalgamationspp.com

I saw the sunshine today, thank You for a great day.

As always, there was food on the table, thank You, I had something to eat when I got hungry.

Appa was especially quiet today and looked at me with loving eyes each time I passed by his cage. Thank You for giving me unconditional love unheard and unspoken.

Today was quiet and one when my head didn't want to explode on its own. Thank You for the strength, I was able to do everything I had to.

It was sad to watch the news, but I was praying all the while. You wouldn't give anyone anything that was unbearable. Thank You for the strength You have given the victims of the typhoon.

I'll lay myself in bed wondering what other wonderful blessings You'll bring tomorrow. I'm looking forward for them. Thank you for keeping me, my family and friends safe, and thank You for the hope and inspiration that I know You're giving to the victims of the typhoon. Thank You for keeping them alive.

Thank You, God, for this day.

The Story of the Doll and the White Rose

2011-09-26T13:44:00.000+08:00

The doll and the white rose | amalgamationspp.com

This was another story I wanted to share with you guys. I did a little research online but didn't find anything about the author. But nonetheless I'm sharing this with the hopes that you'll get something very positive from it.

I was walking around in a store, when I saw a cashier hand this little boy some money back. The boy couldn’t have been more than 5 or 6 years old. The Cashier said, “I’m sorry, but you don’t have enough money to buy this doll.” Then the little boy turned to the old woman next to him, “Granny, are you sure I don’t have enough money?” The old lady replied, “You know that you don’t have enough money to buy this doll, my dear.” Then she asked him to stay there for just 5 minutes while she went to look around. She left quickly.

The little boy was still holding the doll in his hand. Finally, I walked towards him and I asked him who he wished to give this doll to. “It’s the doll that my sister loved most and wanted so much for Christmas. She was sure that Santa Claus would bring it to her.” I replied to him that maybe Santa Claus would bring it to her after all, and not to worry. But he replied to me sadly. “No, Santa Claus can’t bring it to her where she is now. I have to give the doll to my mommy so that she can give it to my sister when she goes there.” His eyes were so sad while saying this.

“My Sister has gone to be with God. Daddy says that Mommy is going to see God very soon too, so I thought that she could take the doll with her to give it to my sister.” My heart nearly stopped. The little boy looked up at me and said, “I told daddy to tell mommy not to go yet. I need her to wait until I come back from the mall.” Then he showed me a very nice photo of him where he was laughing. He then told me, “I want mommy to take my picture with her so she won’t forget me. I love my mommy and I wish she doesn’t have to leave me, but daddy says that she has to go to be with my little sister.” Then he looked again at the doll with sad eyes, very quietly.

I quickly reached for my wallet and said to the boy. “Suppose we check again, just in case you do have enough money for the doll?” “OK,” he said, “I hope I do have enough.” I added some of my money to his without him seeing and we started to count it. There was enough for the doll and even some spare money. The little boy said, “Thank you God for giving me enough money!” Then he looked at me and added, “I asked last night before I went to sleep for God to make sure I had enough money to buy this doll, so that mommy could give it to my sister. He heard me!” “I also wanted to have enough money to buy a white rose for my mommy, but I didn’t dare to ask God for too much. But He gave me enough to buy the doll and a white rose. My mommy loves white roses.”

A few minutes later, the old lady returned and I left with my basket. I finished my shopping in a totally different state from when I started. I couldn’t get the little boy out of my mind. Then I remembered a local news paper article two days ago, which mentioned a drunk man in a truck, who hit a car occupied by a young woman and a little girl. The little girl died right away, and the mother was left in a critical state. The family had to decide whether to pull the plug on the life-sustaining machine, because the young woman would not be able to recover from the coma.

Was this the family of the little boy?

Two days after my encounter with the little boy, I read in the newspaper that the young woman had passed away. I couldn't stop myself as I bought a bunch of white roses and I went to the funeral home where the body of the young woman was exposed for people to see and make last wishes before her burial. She was there, in her coffin, holding a beautiful white rose in her hand with the photo of the little boy and the doll placed over her chest. I left the place, teary-eyed, feeling that my life had been changed forever. The love that the little boy had for his mother and his sister is still, to this day, hard to imagine.

Death cannot bind love simply because it knows no boundaries and can reach all the way through to heaven.

"Paid In Full"

2011-09-25T16:32:00.001+08:00

"Paid in full." | amalgamationspp.com

I wanted to share this story I read years ago back in college that stuck with me. It teaches the lesson of, what you reap, you sow.

One day, a poor boy who was selling goods from door to door to pay his way through school, found he had only one thin dime left, and he was hungry. He decided he would ask for a meal at the next house. However, he lost his nerve when a lovely young woman opened the door. Instead of a meal he asked for a drink of water. She thought he looked hungry so brought him a large glass of milk. He drank it slowly, and then asked, “How much do I owe you?”

“You don’t owe me anything,” she replied. “Mother has taught us never to accept pay for a kindness.”

He said, “Then I thank you from my heart.”

As Howard Kelly left that house, he not only felt stronger physically, but his faith in God and man became stronger. He had been ready to give up and quit.

Year’s later that young woman became critically ill. The local doctors were baffled. They finally sent her to the big city, where they called in specialists to study her rare disease. Dr. Howard Kelly was called in for the consultation. When he heard the name of the town she came from, a strange light filled his eyes. Immediately he rose and went down the hall of the hospital to her room.

Dressed in his doctor’s gown he went in to see her. He recognized her at once. He went back to the consultation room determined to do his best to save her life. From that day he gave special attention to the case.

After a long struggle, the battle was won. Dr. Kelly requested the business office to pass the final bill to him for approval.

He looked at it, then wrote something on the edge and the bill. And it was sent to her room.

She feared to open it, for she was sure it would take the rest of her life to pay for it all. Finally she looked, and something caught her attention on the side of the bill. She began to read the following words:

“Paid in full with one glass of milk.” Signed, Dr. Howard Kelly.

All acts of kindness come back to you, some way, some how and some time. What you give is only half as important as how genuine your intention of giving is.

My Heart, Your Gift

2011-09-24T00:30:00.001+08:00

My heart, your gift | amalgamationspp.com

Somewhere in a small province, there lived a young boy who would follow this route to school everyday: He has to cross rugged plains and pass along dangerous highway where vehicles recklessly drive by.

Across this highway, the boy would take a short cut, passing by the church every morning to say "Hi!" to God, and faithfully say his, "Good morning, God." A Priest was happy to observe this daily and found the sweet innocence uplifting.

"How are you John? Going to school?" "Yes, father," he would flash his innocent grin, and the priest would be touched. He was concerned about the boy and so one day he talked to John.

"From school," he advised "Do not cross the highway, you can pass through the church and I can accompany you to the other side of the road. That way I can see that you are home safe."

"Thank you father."

"Why don't you go home. Why do you stay in this church right after school?"

"I just want to say 'Hi' to my friend, God." And the priest would leave the boy to spend time beside the altar, talking to himself. One time, the priest hid behind the altar to listen to what the boy has to say to his Heavenly Father.

"You know my Math exam was pretty bad today, but I did not cheat although my seatmate was bullying me for notes. I ate one cracker and drank my water, papa had a bad season and all I can eat is this cracker.

Thank you for this! I saw a poor kitten who was hungry and I know how he feels so I gave my last cracker to him. Funny, but I am not that hungry.

Look, this is my last pair of slippers. I may have to walk barefoot next week, you see this is about to be broken. But it is okay, at least I am still going to school. Some say we will have a hard season this month, some of my classmates have already stopped going to school. Please help them get to school again, please God?

You know, mama hit me again, it is painful, but I know this pain will pass away, at least I still have a mother. God, you want to see my bruises? I know you can heal them, here, here and oh, blood. I guess you knew about this one, huh?

Please don't be mad at her, she is just tired and she worries for the food in our table and my schooling that is why she hits us. Oh, I think I am in love. There's this pretty girl in my class, her name is Anna. Do you think she will like me?

Anyway, at least I know you will always like me, I don't have to be anybody just to please you. You are my very best friend! Hey your birthday is two days from now! Aren't you excited? I am! Wait until you see, I have a gift for you. But it's a surprise! I hope you will like it! Oops, I have to go."

He stood up and calls out, "Father, father I'm finished talking to my friend. You can accompany me to the other side of the road now."

This routine happened everyday. John never failed. Father Mark shared this every Sunday to the people in the church because he has never seen such pure faith and trust in God, a very positive look at negative situations.

On Christmas day, father Mark was sick and couldn't make it to the Church, he was sent to the hospital. The church was left to devout Christian women who would chant the rosary so fast it was almost unrecognizable. They would not smile and seemed to always find faults in what others did. They were also very well-versed in cursing when irritated. They were kneeling, saying their rosary when John, coming from his Christmas party, excitedly dashing in.

"Hello God! I..."

"Shut up you obnoxious kid! Can't you see we're praying? Go away!"

Poor John was so terrified, "Where is father Mark? He is going to help me cross the street. But before that, I have to greet Jesus. It's His birthday, I have a gift right here."

He had tucked the gift inside his shirt, and just as he was about to show it, the old lady pulled him by his shirt and threw him out of the church.

"Go away or you'll get hurt!"

The boy had no choice but to cross the dangerous part of the road in front of the church.

As he was crossing, a fast moving bus was speeding by a blind curve.

The boy was protecting his gift inside his shirt, so he was not looking. There was so little time to run. He was hit, and John died on the spot.

Many people crowded the poor boy, lifeless and still.

Out of nowhere a tall man in a pure white shirt and pants, a face so mild and gentle, but with eyes full of tears. He came and carried the boy in His arms. He was crying. The curious bystanders nudged the man in white, and asked, "Excuse me sir, are you related to this child? Do you know this child?"

The man in white, His face mourning in agony, looked up and answered, "He was my best friend," was all he said. He took a badly wrapped gift in the bloody chest of the lifeless boy, and placed it near His heart.

He stood up and carried the boy away and they both disappeared in sight. Leaving the crowd wondering and curious.

On Christmas Eve, father Mark learned of the shocking news. He visited John's house, and wanted to talk to his parents and ask about the man in white.

"How did you know that your son died?" "A man in white brought him here," sobbed the mother.

"And what did he say?" Asked the priest.

The father answered, "He did not say anything. He was mourning. We do not know him and yet he was very lonely about our son's death, as if he knew our son very well. But there was something peaceful and unexplainable about him. He brushed my son's hair away from his face and kissed him on his forehead. Then he whispered something."

"What did he say?"

"He said to my boy," the father began, "Thank you for the gift. I will see you soon, you will be with me." The father of the boy continued, "And you know, for a while, it felt so wonderful. I cried, but I do not know why. All I know is I cried tears of joy. I could not explain it, but when that man left, something peaceful came over me. I felt a sense of love inside. I could not explain the joy in my heart. And I know my boy is in heaven now.

But tell me, father, who is this man that my son talks to everyday in your church, you should know because you're always there, except at the time of his death."

Father Mark suddenly felt tears welling in his eyes, with trembling knees, he murmurred, "At the church, he always talked to no one, but God."

Real Life Inspiration of Derek Redmond

2011-09-20T03:41:00.000+08:00

Tormented by frustration, Derek Redmond | amalgamationspp.com

Almost two decades after the 1992 Barcelona Olympics, the Derek Redmond real life inspiration continues to spread around the world. The first time I saw his video two years ago was tough to watch.

Just like Derek, at some points in our lives, we break our hamstrings, falter and fall to the ground. "But how many of us would actually do what Derek Redmond did?" Would be a good question to ask.

I've gotten around to finally have the time to edit the video, but for the longest time, I wanted to blog about this for the simple truth that I think our whole lifetime is captured within this 4:47 video.

To Derek Redmond and his father, Jim Redmond, you personified the true definition of victory. It's when you persevere through people telling you to stop, not heeding even the most unbearable pain, to reach for that noble end with that one important inspiration in mind and become more than you can be.

Thank you, and may many others emulate your example of perseverance, courage, inspiration and love.

Amazing Grace (My Chains Are Gone)

2011-09-18T02:55:00.001+08:00

Jotta A. singing Amazing Grace | amalgamationspp.com

The times I feel sad and down, I pray for healing and guidance to descend on me. The moment I least expect, God makes His presence known and bring a message.

Messengers are anything or anyone, from family, close friends, or even complete strangers. All the troubled times, all it really takes is to open my heart. Tonight, God sent me His message of amazing grace through this heaven-sent young boy.

I froze in my seat, closed my eyes as I listened to the message. The boy's words aren't clear English, but I knew I understood the message completely when tears started rolling down my cheeks.

Amazing Grace (My Chains Are Gone)

Amazing grace
How sweet the sound
That saved a wretch like me
I once was lost, but now I'm found
Was blind, but now I see
'Twas grace that taught my heart to fear
And grace my fears relieved
How precious did that grace appear
The hour I first believed
My chains are gone
I've been set free
My God, my Savior has ransomed me
And like a flood His mercy rains
Unending love, Amazing grace

The Lord has promised good to me
His word my hope secures
He will my shield and portion be
As long as life endures

[2x]
My chains are gone
I've been set free
My God, my Savior has ransomed me
And like a flood His mercy rains
Unending love, Amazing grace

The earth shall soon dissolve like snow
The sun forbear to shine
But God, Who called me here below
Will be forever mine
Will be forever mine
You are forever mine

Thank you, Jotta for the inspiration. Truly, you are blessed.

Agnus Dei

2011-09-17T23:55:00.000+08:00

Jotta A.
1,400,000+ hits in YouTube, this Brazilian youngster will send shivers of inspiration to millions more. Jotta will astound you with his rendition of a Michael W. Smith song, Agnus Dei (Lamb of God). It's simply a breathtaking performance singing his heart out praising God.

This was performed live in a Brazil talented kids show called, Joven's Talentos Kids.

Talk about inspiration, this kid's gift surely is heaven-sent!

Agnus Dei
Michael W. Smith

Alleluia, Alleluia For the Lord God Almighty reigns

Alleluia,
Holy, Holy are You Lord God Almighty
Worthy is the Lamb
Worthy is the Lamb
Amen

Alleluia, Alleluia
For the Lord God Almighty reigns

Alleluia,
Holy, Holy are You Lord God Almighty
Worthy is the Lamb
Worthy is the Lamb

You are holy, Holy are You Lord God Almighty
Worthy is the Lamb
Worthy is the Lamb
Amen

Holy, Holy are You Lord God Almighty
Worthy is the Lamb
Worthy is the Lamb

You are holy, Holy are You Lord God Almighty
Worthy is the Lamb
Worthy is the Lamb
Worthy is the Lamb
Worthy is the Lamb
Amen

Intergallactic Neighbors

2011-09-15T01:25:00.000+08:00

UFO seen in China.
Stuff about the universe always fascinates me since I was a kid. That's why whenever there are stories about UFOs and extra terrestrial beings, I'm all ears (and eyes for that matter) on them. There are many natural phenomena such as the aurora borealis that breaks the sky into ghastly but magnificent spirit-like multitude of moving colors, and perhaps some of those associated with alleged UFO sightings are in fact just one of those phenomena.

But there's no denying some of what you'll see in the video I embedded, this one's the most recent I think. Hoax or not, I believe how the earth is just a very tiny spec of the infinite vastness of the universe. What an awful waste of space if we were the only beings living in it. The only reservation I have is, do they have good or bad intentions coming into our world? But like we live our lives, we can't always look at the glass half full, right?

I'd like to hope they're visiting with friendly intentions. Whenever they're ready, I hope I'll live through that day to see intergallactic neighbors communicating to say, "Hi!"

Happiness is a Habit

2011-09-13T20:04:00.000+08:00

If that face doesn't bring smile and happiness to your heart, I doubt anything will.
There's so many hatred and sadness around. And more than ever, it's difficult to dig in and look for that happy spot.

I really think we should get in the habit of looking on the bright side, and doing happy things. Anything, just making an effort, no matter how small it may seem and hopefully soon enough find that we're becoming a genuinely happier person.

I read this article entitled "Happiness is a Habit" and I wanted to share it with you guys. You might take a thing or two from it.

1. Live a simple life. Be temperate in your habits. Avoid self-seeking and selfishness. Make simplicity the keynote of your daily plans. Simple things are best.

2. Spend less than you earn. It may be difficult, but it pays large dividens in contentment. Keep out of debt. Cultivate frugality, prudence and self -denial. Avoid extravagance.

3. Think constructively. Train yourself to think clearly and accurately. Store your mind with useful thoughts. Stand porter at the door of your mind.

4. Cultivate a yielding disposition. Resist the common tendency to want your own way. See the other's viewpoint.

5. Be grateful. Begin the day with gratitude for your opportunities. Be glad for the privilege of life and work.

6. Rule your moods. Cultivate a mental attitude of peace and goodwill.

7. Give generously. There is no greater joy in life than to render happiness to others by means of intelligent giving.

8. Work with right motives. The highest purpose of your life should be to grow in spiritual grace and power.

9. Be interested in others. Divert your mind from self-centeredness. In the degree that you give, serve and help, you will experience the by product of happiness.

10. Live in a day tight compartment. That is live one day at a time. Concentrate on your immediate task. Make the most of today.

11. Have a hobby. Nature study, walking, gardening, music golfing, carpentry, stamp collecting, sketching, voice culture, public speaking, language, chess, books, photography, social service, travel, authorship. Cultivate an avocation to which you can turn for diversion and relaxation.

12. Keep close to God.

You don't want your life passing by and upon looking in, say to yourself, "What a wonderful life I've had, I just wish I realized sooner." Truth of the matter is, sadness can also be a habit, but nobody really cares if you're miserable, so might as well be happy!

Remembering 9-11-01

2011-09-11T13:00:00.000+08:00

9-11-01 WTC Attack
Today, I join the many who mourn a sight of loss, recasting the painful memories and haunting fears a decade ago that still hover over the aftermath at ground zero of the World Trade Center's twin towers in New York.

Each of us has our own perspective on 9/11, and we have our memories as well as stories of how that day impacted or changed us.

I’ve watched TV specials as well as read articles online, wanting to remember those who suffered, those who lost their lives, and those who sacrificed to try and help. My heart and prayers go out for everyone still suffering from loss of their beloved that day. May all the victims rest in peace.

What was it like for you?

A Mother's Love

2011-09-07T00:15:00.000+08:00

Qinghai-China Earthquake
I do not reblog posts, but I'll make an exception on this one. This story is taken from the web site - www.ourecho.com, also available on many other websites. They claim it to be a true story, but who knows for sure? The only reason I'm sharing this, is for the moral value that can be taken from it.

This is a true story of a mother’s sacrifice during the China earthquake. After the earthquake had subsided, the rescuers reached the ruins of a young woman’s house, they saw her dead body through the cracks. But her pose was somehow strange that she knelt on her knees like a person worshiping; her body was leaning forward, and her two hands were supporting an object. The collapsed house had crashed her back and her head.

With so many difficulties, the leader of the rescuer team put his hand through a narrow gap on the wall to reach the woman’s body. He was hoping that this woman could be still alive. However, the cold and stiff body told him that she had passed away for sure.

He and the rest of the team left the house and were going to search the next collapsed building. For some reason, the team leader was driven by a compelling force to go back to the ruined house of the dead woman. Again, he knelt down and used his hands through the narrow cracks to search the little space under the dead body. Suddenly, he screamed with excitement, "A child! There is a child!" The whole team worked together. Carefully they removed the piles of ruined objects around the dead woman.

There was a 3 months old little boy wrapped in a flowery blanket under his mother’s dead body. Obviously, the woman had made an ultimate sacrifice for saving her son. When her house was falling, she used her body to make a cover to protect her son. The little boy was still sleeping peacefully when the team leader picked him up.

The medical doctor came quickly to exam the little boy. After he opened the blanket, he saw a cell phone inside the blanket. There was a text message on the screen. It said, "If you can survive, you must remember that I love you."

This cell phone was passed around from one hand to another. Everybody that read the message wept. "If you can survive, you must remember that I love you." Such is the mother’s love for her child!

Give your mom and dad a big hug after reading this. They'd do the same for you, for sure.

Appa's Crib

2011-09-06T15:45:00.000+08:00

Appa

Appa has the kennel or canine cough for a week now. But I'm happy to notice he's not coughing and huffing as much anymore. It's disturbing to hear him wheeze, choke and cough but it's subsiding now and I'm glad. He's been restless lately, both I guess from not getting any exercise and how uncomfortable must he be being sick for the first time. I did not want to take him walking in the park while he's still sick.

I've been giving him more milk than usual and also adding some fruits in his regular meals and that seems to be working. I've also been giving him some chicken soup I make for myself every night these past cold nights. And so I think that's helping as well. He's playing with his toys again and is no longer lethargic, that's a good thing.

At almost 4 months, his weight is at 12 kilos and that kind of worries me. His crate, if you look at the picture measures 3.5ft. x 2.5ft. and now it looks ridiculously small with him in it. He's been able to jump over it a couple of times when I left the top door open. It's hard to imagine how he'll fit in there in the next few months. I'm worried about getting a bigger crate, bigger one means more difficult to clean and move around, not to mention outrageously expensive. I can fence him in for a bigger room but that's going to be outside of the house which is where I do not want to place him. I want him clean inside the house.

This video below is one I made three weeks ago, and the picture above is one I just took earlier. Compare his size!

He's just being silly and wanting to come out and play. =)

The Kelly Inspiration

2011-09-02T12:58:00.000+08:00

Emmanuel Kelly

I believe we all have different purposes in life. And we are fortunate how we're accessibly able to find inspiration from extra-ordinary people in unexpected places. The Kellys is such a wonderful family. They have a home built on strong faith, love and acceptance. And I'm glad Emmanuel Kelly took this step to share to the world the inspiration that he and his family eats, breathes and lives on.

Watch how one man battle odds, with all that he's got.

Last Minutes with Oden

2011-08-29T13:36:00.000+08:00

"Oden"
This documentary was about a former addict, Jason Wood, putting down his much loved pooch, Oden. This was his farewell documentary to his best furry friend. It's beautifully shot and pretty much impossible to watch and come out on the other side with dry eyes.

"He showed me through his example how to love..." "Your job here is done, champ."

These words came from knowing his little best friend has indeed changed his life. Is there anything more wrenching than having to put your bestfriend down? I was completely moved and my heart ached for Jason and his best friend Oden. Your job here is done, Oden. Rest in peace.

Loyalty Beyond Life

2011-08-26T13:43:00.000+08:00

Jon Tumilson and dog, Hawkeye.
We often hear stories that validate dogs as man's bestfriend. Here's yet another heart-breaking one coming all the way from Rockford, Iowa.

Jon Tumilson, a Navy SEAL, was one of 30 Americans killed in Afghanistan on August 6 when a rocket-propelled grenade took out a U.S. Chinook helicopter. He was mourned at a service in Rockford, Iowa, attended by 1,500 family members, friends and Hawkeye, Tumilson's dog.

The Labrador retriever was an important part of Tumilson's life that friends and family called the dog his "son." When Tumilson's friend Scott Nichols walked to the front of the room to speak, Hawkeye followed. Today.com reports. "As Nichols prepared to memorialize his friend, Hawkeye dutifully laid down near the casket," Scott Stump writes. Hawkeye laid by the casket for the duration of the funeral, keeping a watchful eye on his friend.

Jon's sisters Kristie and Joy describe their brother as someone they always looked up to, and someone who always showed so much strength, courage, determination and selfless love.

Video courtesy of www.kimt.com
Rest in peace. You have paid with the ultimate price to fight for what's right. Thank you for the courage, bravery and inspiration.

One Moment in Time

2011-08-15T23:58:00.000+08:00

"One Moment in Time"

This is a 2-minute clip highlighting Charice's rendition of One Moment In Time from james66949 who owns the full video in YouTube. With all due respect to Whitney Houston, Charice did justice to her song in a mesmerizing stellar and powerhouse performance! Turn up the volume and prepare for an out of this world chills and goosebumps experience! Check it out!

The Paws N' Toes Society

2011-08-10T04:23:00.001+08:00

The Paws N' Toes Society

Photos are owned by the Paws N' Toes Society. To a great dog lovers' community and to all the dogs in the world great and small, this is dedicated to you.

Appa and His New Shirt

2011-08-06T01:25:00.001+08:00

Yey! Got a video recording of me and Appa playing wearing his first shirt. This was actually my 4th grade Physical Education uniform I altered a bit to fit him. He likes it! =)

Emancipated

2011-08-03T02:06:00.002+08:00

Emancipated: Blue Butterfly

Appa hesitatingly had another bath today. At his 12th month, I'm estimating his weight to be around 7 to 8 pounds now. I'll still need to weigh him in next week. I cleaned a scab developing in his right elbow with just alcohol because I didn't know what to apply on it. It's going to heal, I just need to keep it clean until it does. His crate smells like heaven and he's sleeping like a log right now in it. So what does my puppy have to do with a post entitled, "Emancipated"?

A lot actually.

I've never been the type of person to stay in a place that created problems for me. I'm a civilized person, but I don't have to like you if I thought you are not a good person. Life is easier and happier that way for me. And through unfaltering persistence, perseverance and hardwork, I've come to love the comfortable life I have where I have what I need and I can get what I want. I'm loving my lucky life. It's too short to waste it thinking about problems.

Appa has taught me there's so much more important things to be thinking about than fickle things, responsibilities to take, jobs to do, tasks to accomplish. I guess in a surreal way, he helped put things in perspective for me. Where do I put the problems? Nowhere. I turn my back altogether from it, always look forward at the brighter side of things, and do what must be done.

Today I learned how everything we need has already been given to us, the hands to mold, the feet to move, the heart to care and the mind to think. All the problems come when these four are misused. But once all four are used properly, there's no time for problems. There's not even enough time in the day to be happy. There's just pure emancipation.

Rest In Peace, Lola Pia

2011-07-13T17:23:00.002+08:00

Rest in peace, lola Pia.
St. Joseph's Home for the Aged lost another good grandma today. We will always remember you lola Pia. May you rest in peace. We love you.

Somewhere Over the Rainbow

Somewhere over the rainbow
way up high
in the land
that I heard of once
Once in a lullaby

Somewhere over the rainbow
skies are blue
and the dreams
that you dare to dream
really do come true

Someday I'll wish upon a star
and wake up
where the clouds are far behind me
Where troubles melt like lemon drops
away above the chimney tops
that's where you'll find me

(Instrumental)

Someday I'll wish upon a star
and wake up
where the clouds are far behind me
Where troubles melt like lemon drops
away above the chimney tops
that's where you'll find me

Somewhere over the rainbow
skies are blue
and the dreams
that you dare to dream
really do come true
If happy little bluebirds fly
above the rainbow, why
Oh, why can't I?