How To's of Life

Do Not Worry

2014-01-27T09:58:00.001+08:00

When God says, “do not worry…”, he means it. There are no underlying complex explanations behind it. Just that God wants you to worry about nothing – not clothes, food, money, career or your future. He knows you more than anyone else; he knows your needs and your circumstances. And as your perfect Father, he will give you what you need in his time, according to his grand plans.

God Against Worrying

Instead of worrying, focus all your energy, attention and effort on knowing Him – as you father, provider, strength, comforter, savior and King. What God desires is a relationship, one that is unbreakable even with the invasion of unfortunate circumstances and the flood of all consuming worldly needs. He needs you to know Him like never before so when the time comes that you need to speak up for his name, you can do so without hesitation.

Again, God urges you “do not worry about anything or anyone…” God, after all, is in control of every circumstance and situation. Instead, pursue God in every waking hour of your life. In every decision and action, ask God if his hand is upon it. Ask God if you are in line with his will and plans. Ask God if he approves of where your life is headed.

What Worry Does

Remember that at the end of this journey we call life is the all powerful God waiting for us to give an account on how we were as stewards of his gifts. Did we use our life to bring glory to his name? Did we use our time to spread his word? Did we do all we can to know him more and more each day? Did we live out his design and purpose for our lives?

Worry brings only confusion. Let it dominate your life and you’re bound to go astray, far away from the straight and narrow path that God intended for you to walk in. Allow worry to stain the picture and you’re going to live life like the prodigal son - bonded to worldly desires like money, sex, power and greed. All of which are going to lead to your inevitable destruction.

Overcoming Worry

Even if things do not go your way, let not worry grip your heart or mind. Rise above your obstacles and needs then focus your thoughts on seeing the glass as half full. When you know your God, He will come through not just half way but all the way. Regardless of your faithlessness, just believe and come to Him in all abandon. Neither your abilities nor knowledge will save you from despair. Rely too much on yourself and you’ll only end up selfishly guarded and proud.

In this world and in this life, there are no guarantees. Live on your own and you will constantly chase after meaningless dreams. Push God away and you’ll always end up with demons in the shadows. Fear will be your constant companion. There are no joy in the horizon if you let worry stomp on your relationship with God. So, heed God’s call and advice because He knows that you need not worry now. Yes, regardless of what’s happening because He’s got your back. Yes, even if you were hurting him again and again with you sinful ways. Yes, he loves you despite your inadequacies and shortcomings.

On Loneliness

2013-10-13T14:07:00.000+08:00

What's equally tragic with a life without love?

Loneliness.

To me, it is one of life's greatest tragedies. While feelings of abandonment, rejection and being unloved are awfully painful as they are, loneliness in the picture makes the emotions a hundred fold truer hence even more painful.

A lonely life is like being stuck in a dessert. No matter how long or how loud you scream, no one's going to come. It's like being lost in a crowd with no hand to hold and no shoulder to cry on when the going gets tough and rough. And although we have families and friends we see, talk with and whom we know love us, the gaping hole remains unfilled.

In his book, The Four Loves, CS Lewis has said,

"We are born helpless. As soon as we are fully conscious we discover loneliness. We need others physically, emotionally, intellectually; we need them if we are to know anything, even ourselves."

Loneliness leaves us incomplete, and it's something we have to live with for the rest of our lives unless we let people in. God meant for us to live and love together, along each other and with each other. That's why He created Eve out of Adam's ribs because "no man is an island."

To feel lonely is completely normal, but to give in and let this terrible emotion control our lives is another matter. Take time to savor and understand the feeling, then use it to pursue a life without it. That often means letting go of our inhibitions, our past and doubts.

Because only when we hold nothing back will we fully experience love and life in all its glory.

X Factor: Fil-Am Singer Ellona Santiago Makes it to Demi Lovato's Final Four

2013-10-06T08:00:00.000+08:00

In the spirit of Filipino pride, let's celebrate Ellona Santiago's successful stint to make it to X Factor US Season 3's top 16. Ellona is a Fil-Am aspiring singer who was born in the Philippines but moved to the US when she was barely 1 year old with the entire family and has lived in the country since.

With the show's new platform, the Four Chair Challenge in exchange for the bootcamp, the competition has been stiffer and more intense. No one wants to be de-seated. And with Demi Lovato's four seats already occupied, it was a make or break performance for Ellona. She was the last performer for the category singing her own passionate rendition of Clarity by Zedd.

See her performance...

If you watched X Factor Season 1, this girl was in it too but she was part of a group, inTENsity, who was booted out during the early part of the live show. Two years later, Ellona hopes that second time's the charm. Well, it sure is because Demi chose her over another Latina aspirant, Jamie Pineda to complete her final four.

It looks like we'll be seeing more of this small girl with a big voice in the coming weeks.

How to Deal with the likes of Devina DeDiva

2013-10-05T16:27:00.002+08:00

A whirl wind of angry rants and a barrage of hot protests were thrown at Devina DeDiva after her infamous, racist and degrading statement about newly crowned Miss World Megan Young and Filipinos in general. In her own words, "Miss Philippines is Miss World? What a joke! I did not know those maids have anything else in them[.] Ha Ha Ha"

Seemingly not content with her insults, she further adds, "They r poor, smelly from cleaning toilets & uneducated."

Photo Credit: scoopboy

She may say that she's just stating her opinion. It's what freedom of speech has entitled her after all. Unfortunately, hers was not a reasonable opinion or a simple name calling fiasco, but a deliberate and tactless attack of an entire nation. Even more unfortunate for Devina DeDiva, she doesn't have an inkling of how fierce, bold and proud we Filipinas can be.

In just a matter of days, she became a household name in the Philippines and an instant web sensation, but not for good reasons at all. Just today, it has been reported that she lost her job as an assistant teacher in Singapore. Serves her just right, I must add. Several Facebook pages has been created against her. One Devina Dediva page currently has 8,635 likes and 10,548 talking about it. She's been called names: 'the devil', 'a scum', 'a b*stard', 'a f******g prostitute', 'a d*mb*ss b*tch', 'a sh*thead', 'a p*tang ina', and a slew of other nasty names. Some spewed out threats and others even wished her dead. What a nightmare it has turned for her.

Let's Show Her Who We Are

But as much as I agree that what she said was below the belt, I am saddened with how some of us reacted. I read through a handful of comments against her and I can see that some went down to her level. If Devina shamelessly attacked our Filipino descent, a few of our very own did the same - degrading her roots and stereotyping Indian women. Even worse, there was a meme posted in the aforementioned FB page (see below) that clearly implies....

I think you get the point. So instead of reacting to the issue, I'd like to respond with these thoughts with the hopes to admonish my fellow Filipinos that we can say our piece without being rude, stereotypical or threatening. We can deal with the likes of Devina DeDiva in a manner that's calm, educated and dignified. Instead of spewing her insults back to her, let's SHOW her that we are not what she said we are. After all, ACTIONS speak LOUDER than words.

How to Deal with the likes of Devina DeDiva

Respond instead of Reacting - "Smelly, poor, less privileged and uneducated." Those are hurtful words and for many of us, our first reaction was all-consuming anger. How dare she! What audacity to accuse us of such things. And what's the shame in being a "maid" when it's a decent job that feed, cloth and shelter our families? Right? Yes, of course we're right which we think justifies our reactions (either good or mostly bad) but it doesn't. When we react, we says things that are hurtful (similar to what Devina said about us). Responding is a different approach altogether because we say things from a reasonable and open-minded perspective.

Be Direct - Say your piece, argue your case then move on. I think it's enough to let her know that what she said was offensive. If she listens, all good. But if not, try other means to get your message across (for this case, a legal advice is a sound option) then move on. Don't argue or extend the heated exchange after you've said your two cents. She won't listen because if she has an open mind, she wouldn't have said those racist stereotypes in the first place.

Avoid Name Calling - Despite her rotten statements and unquestionable character, we have no right to call her names. As much as it makes us feel good to call her this and that, but if we do we're just like her in a sense. So don't go this route or we'll be putting ourselves in the same level as hers.

Respect to her Rude - Don't battle rude with rude. Instead let's heed what the Bible says about our enemies. Luke 6:27-29 But to you who are listening I say: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you. If someone slaps you on one cheek, turn to them the other also.

Are You Useful Now?

2013-01-29T14:08:00.003+08:00

A couple of days ago, I got a chance to watch Lincoln. Yet again, filmmaker Steven Spielberg helmed a story so enchanting and moving, it ought to awaken your unknown love for history. It was a beautiful masterpiece centered on Lincoln's life as a father, husband, friend and as the 16th president of the United States who marshaled the freedom of the slaves.

But for me, the scene that lingered long and vividly was the heated confrontation between father (Abe Lincoln) and his first born son, Robert. The civil war was poised to end and Robert has been steered away to enlist for war by sending him to Boston to become a lawyer.

While visiting soldiers who were injured, the stirrings in Robert's heart to be useful now came alive and burning. A momentary lapse in Lincoln's part, a slap against a son's defiance, furthered his son's desire to its boiling point. With or without permission, Robert enlisted his heart and life for war.

It's meaningful and moving and touching because I feel the same way. I don't want to be useful tomorrow, I want to be useful now. Not five years after but now.

Maybe we all go through this stage and season of self-doubt. We question our worth as a person based on how useful we are now. Are we doing what we always wanted to do? Are we living for something bigger than ourselves? Are we happy? Are we making a difference? Are we changing the world? Are we useful?

These are questions that are real and scary. If you answered yes, good for you. But a no echos the restlessness from within. It's a silent cry of desperation seeking freedom from the bondage of mediocrity and the common life. To be useful means to be important. It's a human desire common to all but only a handful achieves.

But what does it really mean to be useful? Only you can tell because your life is yours to live. You don't need to be president or a noble soldier to feel fulfilled. Just look around you, examine your motives and notice the little differences you are making on other people's lives.

Usefulness is all about perspective. As long as you are living your life according to how you were wired then that's useful. Birds fly because they were created with wings. Flowers bloom, the sun rises and sets, the moon beams at night and fishes swim. They are who and what they are because of their specific design. And you are who you are because God created you that way.

The moment you are feeling useless, go back to your creator. Only He can tell you what you were wired for.

A Poem in Loving Memory of Sandy Brook Children

2013-01-27T10:44:00.000+08:00

Photo Credits: Tim Tebow's twitter

GOODBYE FOR NOW

Oh, precious little ones!

How can we say goodbye?

The thought of never seeing you

Bring waves and waves of pain

How can we live like this?

When we will miss everything

Your innocent smile and energy

Even the naughty glint of your eyes

Who would have thought?

That fateful day was the last

Never again to hear your voice

And kiss you goodbye for school

No more birthdays to celebrate

Or grad ceremonies to attend
Not even a wedding to witness

You were a blessing

A bundle of joy to behold

You taught us to live and love

How did we deserve such a gift?

If we can steal a day from death

Or even an hour will do

We will hug you one last time

And tell you, "We love you so!"

God wants you by His side

So we'll say goodbye for now

Go on and soar towards heaven

Where everything's happy and beautiful

No demanding moms nor angry dads

One day we'll be together again

Today, we live with your memories

We will miss you everyday.

We will love you forever.

Movie Review: Salmon Fishing in the Yemen

2012-12-26T17:13:00.000+08:00

I heard that this movie is a contender for the Best in Motion Picture - Comedy or Musical award in the upcoming Golden Globes Awards 2013. And since I'm in the mood for a romcom flick, I decided to watch this one.

Based on the title, it doesn't sound like a comedy and a romantic one to boot. It seemed to me like an indie film or a documentary about salmon fishing. Good thing, there's the movie poster with Ewan McGregor and Emily Blunt sitting next to each other looking like they're engrossed in a serious, romantic conversation. Seeing the poster, you'd know that this movie is not your typical, make-believe and predictable Hollywood flicks which are mostly about sex and lame "love" stories.

Salmon Fishing in the Yemen is calm, light and warm. A delightful story between two irresistible characters - Dr. Andrew Jones, portrayed marvelously by McGregor, and Harriet Chetwode-Talbot played by Blunt.

A very ambitious and a visionary sheik, played by Amr Waked, brought the two together embarking on a theoretically possible project, in the same way that it is theoretically possible to send a man to Mars, of bringing salmon fishing in the Yemen. The fishing part is definitely an interesting ingredient for the movie. It brought something else to the story that picked my attention. Yes, it's about a love story but the movie also zeroed on faith as a special element of love. It was an excellent combination to showcase a special love that tugs at the heart.

The story is mostly unpredictable which is a pleasant surprise. Sure, there were some cliche moments but the story got hold of the audience's interest throughout the rest of the movie. The cast is generally adorable especially McGregor who was charming and cute with his accent. It was not over-the-top chemistry between the two actors but ironically very effective. I like that it was subtle, tender and very romantic.

The movie wasn't even too dramatic or intense. It was simply a unique story about love that was told very creatively which made the movie entertaining and worth watching.

How to: Develop Self Confidence by Napoleon Hill

2012-12-16T20:01:00.002+08:00

Photo Credits: http://talknerdy2me.org

Numerous self-help authors, motivational speakers and a plethora of books would tell us that self confidence is a key element in the formula of success. In fact, self confidence is normally where the journey to dream fulfillment starts. Besides creating lofty dreams, one needs to believe in one's self in order to make things happen.

Some people are blessed to grow up in an environment that breeds a healthy self-image. Unfortunately, most of us, I believe, grew up unsure of our capabilities and potential because of demeaning words spoken to us when we were younger by our parents, friends and other people. We are living in a negative world where it is very difficult to be optimistic. We are surrounded with people that are hell bent on pulling us down.

But if we truly and badly want to be successful in this lifetime, we need to develop the virtue of self reliance. We need to bank on our strengths, abilities and character to turn our dreams into realities. Before we can even start, we need self confidence.

Here are 7 declarations that we can take advantage to nurture and develop our belief in ourselves. Say it out loud and declare it everyday. It will make a world of difference.

The 7 Steps to Self Confidence by Napoleon Hill:

"I know that I have the ability to accomplish all that I undertake. I know that to succeed, I have only to establish this belief in myself and follow it with vigorous, aggressive action. I will establish it."

"I realize that my thoughts eventually reproduce themselves in material form and substance and become real in the physical state. Therefore, I will concentrate upon the daily task of thinking of the person that I intend to be and of drawing a mental picture of this person and of transforming this picture into reality."

"I am studying with the firm intention of mastering the fundamental principles through which I may attract to me the desirable things of life. Through this study, I am becoming more self-reliant and more cheerful. I am developing more sympathy for my fellow man, and I am becoming stranger, both mentally and physically. I am learning to smile that smile that plays upon the heart as well as on the lips."

"I am mastering and overpowering the habit of starting something that I do not finish. From this time forward, I will first plan all that I wish to do, making a clear mental picture of it, and then I will let nothing interfere with my plans until I have developed them into realities."

"I have clearly mapped out and planned the work that I intend to follow for the ensuing five years. I have set a price upon my services for each of the five years, a price that I intend to command through strict application of the principle of efficient, satisfying service!"

"I fully realize that genuine success will come only through strict application of he "Golden Rule" principles. I will, therefore, engage in no transaction which does not benefit alike all who participate in it. I will succeed by attracting to me the forces that I wish to use. I will induce others to serve me because of my willingness to serve them. I will gain the friendship of my fellow men because of my kindness and my willingness to be a friend. I will eliminate from my mind fear by developing faith. I will eliminate hatred and cynicism by developing love for humanity."

"I will learn to stand upon my feet and express myself in clear, concise, and simply language, and to speak with force and enthusiasm, in a matter that will carry conviction. I will cause others to become interested in me, because I will first become interested in them. I will eliminate selfishness and develop in its place the spirit of service."

How to Help the Poor?

2012-12-12T21:00:00.000+08:00

"Give a man a fish, feed him for a day.

Teach a man how to fish, feed him for a lifetime."

According to the National Statistical Coordination Board (NSCB), 2009 data shows that the magnitude of poor population in the Philippines is in 23.1 millions. (See data at NSCB website)

That is an astounding number. Unfortunately, it is a sad, scary truth that has been around for a long, long time. Even before and during Jesus' time, poverty already existed. Remember the poor widow who put in her last two very small copper coins as offerings (Mark 12:42)?

Yes, poverty is an epidemic and not only in the Philippines but around the globe. People die because of hunger. Millions of Filipino families live under a dollar everyday. They seldom eat three times a day. Children, disabled, men and women alike roam the streets of the cities to ask for alms. They live in the slums and most are jobless.

Year after year, the state of poverty in the Philippines is getting worse. The number is ever increasing and if we do not put a halt to it, we will find ourselves in a sea of impoverished fellowmen.

But how do we help the poor? There are already a hundred NGOs around the country doing their share but it still doesn't seem to be enough. We see hundreds of on-going feeding programs, medical missions, and add to that those TV shows that give away cash prizes on a daily basis. Yes, these efforts help but after the meal was consumed and the prize money was gone, what happens next?

If we really want to help the poor, we need to stop offering band-aid solutions. These are temporary and forgettable. It doesn't deal with the root cause of the problem resulting in little to no difference at all. We need to come up with solutions that are meant to deal with the causes and not just the symptoms of the disease. Poverty is like a deadly disease that spreads like an epidemic because of lack of education, unavailability of decent jobs and poor mentality.

Poor people remains poor because they allow their situations and circumstances to dictate the course of their lives. Breaking free from poverty will never be a walk in the park. It will require hard work and grim determination to get past through the challenges and setbacks along the way. But the feat is possible because there are people who have already done it.

I came up with 4 E-STEPS on how we might be able to gradually eradicate poverty in the Philippines. This is not based on a study or research but this is merely based on my opinion, observations and readings.

Step 1: ENLIGHTEN

Changing one's poor mindset is a good place to start. They may be born into poverty but they don't have to die poor. They just need to understand that things CAN change for the better. Change the way they think and actions will follow through.

Step 2: EMPOWER

As soon as the mind is ready, the next step is to prepare them for the long journey. They need to know that they have what it takes to do this. It's definitely not going to be easy but they need to know that there are people who are ready to guide, support and even love them.

Step 3: ENDEAVOR

If one has already set his mind to overcome poverty, it is time to set a goal, big enough that will challenge and motivate them to keep going even if the path is tough and hard.They need to have a target and they need to know where they are going. Setting a goal or an endeavor is essential for their success in beating poverty.

Step 4: EDUCATION

The tool that they need the most is education. A degree will not get them out of poverty but the experience of getting a diploma will widen their horizons and challenge their perspectives. Education is not the only solution but it is a key that will open doors of opportunities for our poor people.

Pacquiao's Stunning Loss is God's Glorifying Win

2012-12-10T22:34:00.001+08:00

Philippians 3:7-8

But whatever was to my profit I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. What is more, I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider rubbish, that I may gain Christ.

Every time there's a Manny Pacquiao fight, traffic stops, crimes go down and Filipinos are excited and more hopeful. Young, old, men, women, the poor and the rich come together to watch Pacman bring glory to the Philippines. We are so used with Pacman winning game after game after game. We get to a point where we bet not on who's going to win but on which round will Pacman KO his opponent.

But yesterday was a different story. In a stunning, shocking and an unbelievable twist, Pacman was caught off guard by Juan Manuel Marquez's winning counter punch. The People's Champ fell down. He was KOed at round 6. With Pacman's stunning loss, it seemed like we, as a country, also felt that brutal punch from Marquez. What just happened? It took a while longer for reality to sink in. People were crying, shouting in dismay and some just fell silent. In the cyber world, we all have something to say about the fight. Some were sad, angry and very disappointed. Thankfully, most people are still behind Pacquiao win or lose.

Most of us could not believe that our champion was defeated. We thought Pacman was invincible. He's supposed to be the "Fighter of the Decade" and we expected him to win this one. This time around, our hero failed to meet our expectations. Why did he lose? Is it because he changed his religion? Or it could be that he did not train enough? Maybe Marquez trained harder than Pacman that's why he seemed leaner and stronger. Or was it just lucky punch? We can speculate. We can justify. Or we can move on.

In any kind of sports, there's always a winner and a loser. For this specific fight, Pacman is the loser and Marquez came out victorious. But does life ends when one loses? Does Pacman stop being the People's Champ because of one defeat? Is his legacy ruined because of this? I don't think so. The Filipino pride is intact. He still made us all proud when he accepted defeat graciously. He knows his story doesn't end here.

Instead of walking out, Pacman smiled and congratulated Marquez. He got up with his honor and faith intact because despite his loss, he managed to give praise to God. He surrendered the results to God knowing that his loss is God's gain. When Pacman gave thanks to God and honored him on international television, he won the biggest battle ever. He may have lost some fans and supporters after this fight but he surely won God's stamp of approval.

Even the Winds and the Waves Obey Him

2012-12-05T19:18:00.000+08:00

Matthew 8:27

The men were amazed and asked, "What kind of man is this? Even the winds and the waves obey him!"

There are times in life when we will experience extreme suffering and hardship. The wind blows like crazy, strong enough to break our resolve. We will stumble and fall once in our lives. Sometimes, the waves of sadness and hopelessness are too huge to drown us in our very own misery.

When problems are too hard to handle, we are often tempted to give up. Then we blame God for our own misfortunes. Such audacity we possess to put the blame on Him when He had given us everything. We are the ones who are making the choices, decisions and excuses. Instead of blaming, why not praise Him despite of our troubles and tribulations? After all, accusing someone never solves the problem. However, this is easier said than done.

When we are hurt and in pain, the first automatic response is to put on our defensive mode. We attempt to protect ourselves from despair by placing the blame on someone else. This allows us to have a temporary retrieve and relief because somehow, we are not entirely at fault for our messy situation. We further nurse our ego with self-pity ridiculously thinking that this will make us feel better.

But we have to realize that problems are there not to break us but to draw us closer to God. Jesus said it himself, "Come to me all of you who are weary and burdened and I will give you rest."

If we truly know the power and the glory of Christ then we would also know that the best choice is to praise Him at all times especially during the bad times. In moments of desperation, sing your praises and lift up your hands to honor Him. Do not use your mouth to blame or curse but only use it to thank God for who He is.

No matter what your circumstances are, you can trust God. Use all your might to focus your perspective on who God is and not on your present dreary situation.

Our God is all powerful that even the winds and the waves bow down to Him. One word. One command. God can and He will change your situation in His perfect time. So, hang in there and wait on God. For always, we have to let go and let God.

The Zig Ziglar Legacy

2012-12-04T21:36:00.001+08:00

"You can get everything in life you want if you will just help enough other people get what they want."

- Zig Ziglar

C.S. Lewis. Abe Lincoln. Winston Churchill. Steve Jobs. John Piper. Mahatma Gandhi. William Wilberforce. Theodore Roosevelt. Jose Rizal. Peter Drucker. And Zig Ziglar. These men are some of those whom I highly look up to. They are my inspiration, my standard and my heroes.

I never met any of them but they changed my life through their stories, writing and legacy. These men are one in a million because they fully lived and embraced their fate and destiny. Passion and purpose drove them to make history. Most of them are long gone but their legacy lives and will continue to be alive in the future because of their incomparable and incredible contribution to humanity.

Last November 29, 2012, I heard the news that Zig Ziglar passed away after losing his battle against pneumonia. A great loss for us who were touched and changed by Zig's unwavering passion to motivate people live their dreams by helping enough other people achieve their own aspirations. Zig's contagious enthusiasm towards life and success will continue to change lives for the generations to come. He may have lost the battle to a sickness but his was a full life nevertheless.

I mourn the passing of one of my heroes and my mentor. I have devoured his books and I have listened to his audio messages again and again. He has made such a huge difference in my attitude towards life. He made a believer out of me. One of my most treasured quotes from Zig talks about choosing to become a meaningful specific rather than becoming a wandering generality. Up to this day, that philosophy pushes me to live life meaningfully not only for my sake but for the sake of other people too.

This is Zig Ziglar's legacy. He's not after individual successes but he wants every story to be meaningful and significant. This is not done through selfish ambition and hoarding of all the wealth in the world. Real and lasting success is all about working together with other people. You will get what you want if you help your friend, your neighbor, your colleague, your family get what they want. It's a win-win situation. It is a timeless and proven philosophy of sowing and reaping. It's all about building relationships with other people. And the truth is, it is more fulfilling and satisfying to know that you are a part of someone else's success story.

And Zig, you have helped me immensely. Thank you for your dedication to help other people run after their dreams and goals. You are a major part of so many people's success story including mine. You will be truly missed.

Living a Passionately Purposeful Life

2012-12-03T21:31:00.004+08:00

Photo Credits: www.inspiredgiftgiving.com

Finding your passion at an early age is a rare opportunity and an extraordinary blessing. It only means that God has given you more time to live life according to your heart's desires and His design. Use your time wisely and embrace your passionately purposeful life.

For most people, it takes many years of searching and suffering before they find the passion that makes them tick. Unfortunately, there are also people that never lived their passion. These are people who allow fear, circumstances and discomfort to hinder them in pursuing their dreams and aspirations.

Often, we are content to live the good life. As long as we have food to eat, a shelter to live in and money to meet our needs then we are content. Life is good. Then life becomes a routine where we wake up with less and less enthusiasm as the days go by. We end the day without any sense of fulfillment and accomplishment. Soon, we realize that twenty five years has passed and our lives are not an inch closer to what God wants us to have.

Living is not just about breathing air. You can be alive and dead a the same time. Your age may reach a century but if you are not living your passion and your purpose then your time on earth is meaningless.

God does not want that kind of life for you and me. Good is not good enough. He wants us to have a great awesome, exciting and a fulfilling life.

Don't stop searching and pursuing for your passion and purpose. Let God guide you as you embark on this journey that will change the course of your life forever. Once you find it, do not ever let go until your are living, breathing and tasting your passionately purposeful destiny.

SALAMAT NANAY

2012-10-27T12:59:00.002+08:00

Syam ka bulan ang imo gin-agwanta
Wala man sa plano pero ikaw nagpadayon
Gaisahanon nga imo gintindugan
Ginhimo ang insakto sa mata sang Ginoo

Sa tunga sang kahuy-anan kag kabudlay
Wala ka nagduwa-duwa nga ipabalo sa tanan
Nakasala ka man kag nakadasma
Ikaw isa lamang ka iloy nga nagahigugma

Nagpadayon sa pagpangabuhi
Ginlukdo ang isa ka dako nga responsibilidad
Nagtindog bilang amay kag iloy
Ginhatag ang tanan sa imo mga kabataan

Ang imo mga sakripisyo
Kag luha tungod sa kahidlaw kag kasubo
Indi madulaan sang paglaom
Maga-updanay liwat sa natakda nga tiempo

Salamat sa imo pagpalangga
Paghigugma nga takos kag wala kaangay
Amon kasing-kasing nagakalipay gid
Kay ikaw ang ginbugay nga amon mangin iloy

Ang amon pangamuyo:
Kabay mangabuhi pa ikaw sing malawig
Agod amon mabalik kag mapakita
Gugma kag pasalamat nga bug-os kag takos

Halin sa amon mga tagipusuon,
Salamat Nanay!*

* A Mother's Day poem I made for my mom. Written using the local Hiligaynon dialect.

Anguish

2011-12-09T01:30:00.001+08:00

in a span of a short life
the stab that marked forever
not once but a thousand times over
it is a life flooded in strife

wounded like a warrior defeated
a stream of welling anguish is falling
the thorns of sorrow is killing
a lonesome fellow deserted

tough like a heartless giant
only to bled anew
to crumble a man of gallant
a torment meant for the few

a most horrifying wail
that extends to the darkest
even the strong become frail
the end of the meekest

the absence of solitude
a chilling sense of foreboding
to see one's magnitude
one must keep abiding

Soniador, a poem
December 9, 2011

Humor for the Day: Lose Weight by Just Sitting

2011-11-27T15:13:00.001+08:00

Good luck! LOL

Where Are You Sleep?

2011-11-26T23:52:00.001+08:00

Photo courtesy of http://www.mylifedisrupted.com

Everyone is off to bed

The oldest one was first to shut her eyes

One by one the teens were in their jammies

But the little one first needs to be fed

Soon she dozes off like everyone else

Exchanges of "Good nights" and "Sweet dreams"

The day has finally come to an end

The bed looks like it beams

Fluffy pillows awaits and would gladly lend

A heavenly comfort and a tired soul's mend

It is now past midnight

But the eyes resist the lure of sleep

The lamp's little ray was the only light

To shut the humming sounds with all the might

Where are you sleep?

Soniador, A poem

November 27, 2011

VIDEO: Little Girl Afraid of Her Own Shadow

2011-11-26T16:50:00.001+08:00

The cutest little girl ever. Under the blazing heat of the sun while chowing down on her ice candy, all of a sudden the existence of her shadow which is not always there was in stark presence right before her eyes. She was pointing at it while sobbing at the same time. She was like saying, "What the heck is that thing doing? Following my every move and wouldn't go away!"

Poor little thing! She was trying her earnest to dodge her shadow but there's nothing much to do really. Even her mom was not helping in her predicament.

If Peter Pan, in the famous Disney fairy tale, left Neverland to look for his shadow, this girl would rather go to Neverland so she can live without her scary shadow.

Aaaah. The ironies of life! And her mom was right, "It wouldn't go away you know." In many ways, we are like the little girl who is afraid of her own shadow. At least, the little girl's fear was born out of ignorance and innocence. In the meantime, she does not know why shadows even exist but when she grows up she'll only laugh the incident off. On one hand, our fears are much more real and gripping. We fear all sorts of shadows. The shadow of our past, present and the uncertainty of our future. As C.S. Lewis profoundly puts it:

Part of every misery is, so to speak, the misery's shadow or reflection: the fact that you don't merely suffer but have to keep on thinking about the fact that you suffer. I not only live each endless day in grief, but live each day thinking about living each day in grief.

Sometimes, it is the very shadow of our fears that hinders us to live the full life. We should learn from the little girl. We can cry, scream and point at those shadows. We need not go to Neverland so we can live happily ever after. Just accept the fact that those shadows will never go away but we can always rise above them. We need to recognize that these fears exist and at the end of the day, the sun will set and the shadows fade away. The next day is a new beginning.

Photo courtesy of http://www.panhala.net

Humor for the Day: Man vs Woman

2011-11-24T20:22:00.001+08:00

Photo Courtesy of Facebook

Rachel Crow: "All the kids out there, you can because I did!"

2011-11-24T17:39:00.001+08:00

The adorable Rachel Crow sung I Believe by Yolanda Adams for the top 9 live performance on X Factor USA last night. She dedicated her performance for her mom and dad who adopted her when she was still a few months old.

I couldn't even imagine where and who Rachel would be if she was not lovingly cared by her foster parents. Rachel was born to a crack cocaine addicted mother. She has suffered abused and trauma living in a crack house and consequently, becoming addicted to crack. What an awful start in life for any kid.

Rachel Crow is 13-year-old today and looking at her and her genuine, innocent smile, you would never guess that she went through that when she was younger. She is such a ray of sunshine! When she smiles, she brightens up the place. When she sings, she captivates and tugs at your heart. She is a young, adorable, happy girl with an old soul.

I included the lyrics of I Believe below for some inspiration.

They said you wouldn't make it so far a a
And ever since they've said it its been hard
But never mind that night'cha had to cry
Cause you had never let it go inside
And you can never give up
You can reach your goals
Just talk to your soul and say

[Chorus:]
I believe i can
I believe i will
I believe i know my dreams are real
I believe i can
I believe i will
I believe i hold it soon man
That is what i do believe

Your fools are justes singing, your soul aha
And you know that your moves will let them show
You keep creating pictures in your mind
So just believe they will come true in time
It will be fine leave all of your cares and stress behind and
Just let it go
Let the music go inside again the pain
It just start to believe
At third my yet what people say
Hold your head high and turn away
With all my hopes and dreams I will believe
Even though it seems it's not for me
I won't give up, i'll keep it up
Looking to the sky
I will achieve on my knees
I will always believe

At the end of her performance, Rachel said, "And I wanna tell all the kids out there that you really can because I did!"

Could you adore this girl even more? And I hope that thousands more or even millions more would be inspired with her story. It was a bleak past for Rachel but I can see that she will have a bright, exciting future ahead. Rachel Crow, I do believe. =)

Thanksgiving Celebration Filipino Style

2011-11-24T14:56:00.001+08:00

Philippine Festivals

In the Philippines, we don't have a national holiday dedicated for Thanksgiving Celebration the same way US and Canada has. But we do celebrate thanksgiving. In fact, we do it several times a year.

Across the archipelago, there are several dozens of festivals held each year. A certain province, a certain city or town has a yearly celebratory ritual dedicated for a patron saint, a famous product, a special skill or a special quality that is uniquely associated with the place.

Every January, a special day is set aside for the Feast of the Black Nazarene in Quiapo Church, Manila where devotees of the famous miraculous Black Nazarene endure the scourging heat and the long procession just to have a glimpse or even touch the statue. We have the Sinulog Festival in Cebu City where Cebuanos dance along the street to the beat of the drums while shouting a praise, "Pit Senor! Viva Sto. Nino!" While the Panagbenga Festival in Baguio City is held every fourth week of February to celebrate the flower season of the city of Pines. The Pahiyas Festival of Lucban, Laguna honors the patron saint of farmers, San Isidro. In the province of guimaras, they celebrate their famous golden mangoes through the "Manggahan sa Guimaras Festival". In Mindanao, General Santos City celebrates the Tuna Festival to give thanks for the contribution of tuna for the livelihood of the city.

A special mention for the Pasalamat Festival held in La Carlota City during the month of April to honor the god of Agriculture in Kanlaon Volcano. Pasalamat is thanksgiving in English. There are street dancing to the beat of the drums and a special pageant for the Pasalamat Queen.

Photo courtesy of www.koolbirks.com

The list could go on and on. Different places, different names but in essence, the festivities is one and the same. It a celebration of thanksgiving.

These thanksgiving celebrations are held throughout the year in the Philippines. And everyone is invited to join the Filipinos' way of giving thanks.

Read More: Thanksgiving is not about the Perfect Turkey

Thanksgiving Day is not about the Perfect Turkey

2011-11-24T12:30:00.000+08:00

Thanksgiving is not about the perfect turkey or is it? Everywhere in the web, articles upon articles, videos upon videos and recipes upon recipes, talk about how to make the perfect turkey. They are helpful, no question about that. But the spotlight has been on the turkey and not on the real essence of thanksgiving.

Poor thing!

As history would tell us, the "First Thanksgiving" event that Americans refer to is the one celebrated by the Pilgrims at Plymouth on 1621. They had a variety of food like fish, grains, wild fowl (including turkey), fruits and vegetables. The celebration lasted for three days eating and thanking God for all His blessings.

The Pilgrims at Plymouth

But it was only in 1863 when Abraham Lincoln in the midst of the American Civil War and prompted by articles written by Sarah Josepha Hale proclaimed a national Thanksgiving Day. From then on, thanksgiving has been observed every last Thursday of November annually.

An excerpt from President Abe Lincoln's Proclamation of Thanksgiving Day:

The year that is drawing towards its close, has been filled with the blessings of fruitful fields and healthful skies. To these bounties, which are so constantly enjoyed that we are prone to forget the source from which they come, others have been added, which are of so extraordinary a nature, that they cannot fail to penetrate and soften even the heart which is habitually insensible to the ever watchful providence of Almighty God.

Lincoln has said that in the midst of enjoying the bounty and blessings of life, we tend to forget that these are because of the providence of Almighty God. It seems to me that we keep on forgetting. Year after year, we fuss about the menu, about the turkey, the stuffing and dressing, the annual parade and along the way shoving the real essence of the celebration aside.

In the midst of a civil war of unequalled magnitude and severity, which has sometimes seemed to foreign States to invite and to provoke their aggression, peace has been preserved with all nations, order has been maintained, the laws have been respected and obeyed, and harmony has prevailed everywhere except in the theatre of military conflict; while that theatre has been greatly contracted by the advancing armies and navies of the Union.

Population has steadily increased, notwithstanding the waste that has been made in the camp, the siege and the battle-field; and the country, rejoicing in the consciousness of augmented strength and vigor, is permitted to expect continuance of years, with large increase of freedom.

They are the gracious gifts of the Most High God, who, while dealing with us in anger for our sins, hath nevertheless remembered mercy. It has seemed to me fit and proper that they should be solemnly, reverently and gratefully acknowledged as with one heart and voice by the whole American people.

Lincoln further encourage us to count the many blessings we are experiencing in spite of difficulties and problems. It was in the midst of civil war then and Lincoln urge America to rejoice in spite of the war and continue to be hopeful for the freedom that America soon will truly enjoy.

And I recommend to them that while offering up the ascriptions justly due to Him for such singular deliverances and blessings, they do also, with humble penitence for our national perverseness and disobedience, commend to his tender care all those who have become widows, orphans, mourners or sufferers in the lamentable civil strife in which we are unavoidably engaged, and fervently implore the interposition of the Almighty Hand to heal the wounds of the nation and to restore it as soon as may be consistent with the Divine purposes to the full enjoyment of peace, harmony, tranquility and Union.

The food, dinner invitations, family gatherings, parade and the turkey have all become a part of the Thanksgiving custom. It creates a more celebratory atmosphere but even without it, we should always remember that Thanksgiving is ultimately, a day to give thanks. The moment that we prioritize our turkey more than cultivating an atmosphere and a culture of thankfulness then we may be celebrating Happy Dead, Roasted Bird Day than Happy Thanksgiving Day.

So forget about the perfect turkey for a while, go on ahead and say a prayer of thanks to God for He has been good.

Pinoy TV Gems: Junior Masterchef Pinoy Edition

2011-11-22T18:36:00.001+08:00

Junior MasterChef Pinoy Edition Hosts

I've given up TV a long time ago. I can't be bothered with the news and Pinoy teleseryes are way too cheesy and dramatic which doesn't suit my taste anymore. Why should I agonize sitting through dozens of tv advertisements when I could simply skip them and go right ahead google and stream the shows? But as I've said, for me television has lost it's appeal altogether.

Until Junior Master Chef Pinoy Edition lured me back. It is a tv cooking show that promotes healthy competition among youngsters ages 8 to 12. It is also a venue for the kids to showcase their cooking skills, team spirit and creativity. They are taught how to handle pressure especially that challenges are with time constraints.

And Junior Master Chef is currently my stress buster. It's the only show I couldn't miss.

Five reasons why I looooooooove the show:

1. It keeps stress at bay which means I spare myself from the mercy of sugar overdose.

2. It is always pure joy watching kids at a very young age spin off their own recipes. AMAy-zing!

3. It gives me hope that if the kids can, I can too.

4. I love their kitchen and the plethora of ingredients? WOW. I want one in our house too!

5. Lastly, it sets a good example for the young and old alike.

I think we need more shows such as the Junior Master Chef on our television. It's not only a pleasure to watch but it encourages the young generation that age does not matter. They may be young but they can and they should start chasing their dreams.

Meet the super 12 of Junio Master Chef Pinoy Edition!

Super 12 Junior Master Chef Pinoy Edition

Humor for the Day: Funny Ha Ha

2011-11-22T13:58:00.001+08:00

A glimpse of what it will be like for the coming years...

Keith Lapinig's Gazer Elf to be Macy's Parade Balloon for Thanksgiving

2011-11-22T10:10:00.001+08:00

Keith Lapinig and his creation. Photo courtesy: http://www.bakitwhy.com

A big hurrah for Mr. Keith Lapinig for winning the Macy's Great Elf American Adventure Competition. His elf creation was chosen by thousands of fans on Macy's Facebook page and the verdict is out. Keith Lapinig's creative elf creature will be made into Macy's parade balloon this year.

Keith Lapinig is a 25-year-old Filipino-American who resides in Queensland, NY. He is a graphics and web designer who along with 1000 other participants submitted his entry for the competition.

The Gazer Elf will be one of the helium wonders on Thanksgiving Day to be seen by millions of viewers and it is the newest member to Macy's family of elves.

Again, Congratulations Keith Lapinig!

Watch Keith's video below: