Something to Apply

As we let the day pass by
Time flies, we can't deny
So appreciate birds that fly
And flowers growing nearby
Lift up our heads to the sky
And just let out a good sigh
To thank the Lord on high
For what money can't buy


~Now needing some shuteye :)

How Mom's Rest Led to Rebirth

Rejoice! Rejoice!

It was a promise I made to write out the testimony we all have experienced with my mom. It is now very close to a year after she died and it all still remains fresh in my memory how she was used by God as an instrument for us as a family. It was the saddest but at the same time the greatest thing that ever happened to us. Especially to my Dad. It was more of rejoicing than sadness. Praise God!

Dad would never stop exclaiming to everybody "I've found it! I've found it!"

Let me tell you how it all happened.

When the Big C disease lands to one of our loved ones, it is as if we see death already coming in the near future. Mom was not exempted in that kind of reaction. But on the onset of the disease, she was already a fighter. A really tough fighter all the way through - very disciplined in all her intakes and activities. She also gained strength from fellow people who are stricken with the same disease in her every visit to the doctor. This was her support group and it made her so relieved to know that she was not alone. Yes, she was never alone.

Big C has become very common nowadays, so common so that it felt like it's just a kind of flu spreading around.

Just a week after her birthday on January 16, 2007, her belly bloated like she was 5 months pregnant. She could not eat because she could not feel any hunger. That was when she was rushed for an emergency operation on that Sunday, when doctors do not usually conduct surgeries. But hers was a really urgent case. It could not wait.

Her biopsy confirmed Ovarian Cancer, stage 3-C.

Like any other Big C patient, she underwent series of Chemotherapy sessions and her first year of battle went great. She felt normal again although she lost a few pounds. We were all confident and full of hope that she will win the C-cell combat.

People thought that when a person is stricken with cancer, that person becomes very less able in doing day-to-day activities. My mom deviated from that kind of thinking. I did not believe in that as well. She behaved as if there were no C-cells in her system. She wanted everyone to think she was not sick at all. She did not want anyone to know about her case even if people started to whisper around asking for details. For her, the last thing she wanted was people pitying on her. Very strong.

On the bright side of it, we were likewise benefiting from all the type of meals she was instructed to take - more veggies, more liquids, less meat, less sugar, more organic foods, etc. We were taking in healthier meals with her and she appreciated that so much. Meanwhile, Dad was Mom's hero. He always prepared and cooked her customized meals. But as a mom, she would keep telling us "prepare anything you like, I can handle it." She really insisted that we do not make her a reason for us to change what we used to do or eat or drink. She wanted us to enjoy everything because at some point, she felt like we were deprived of some things because of her. Selfless.

Year after year, she kept losing weight. But her outlook in life never shifted. Her aura was full of positivity and strong will. Even people who saw her wondered if she was really sick because she does not look like one. However, when she started to lose her hair, she stayed at home most of the time and waited until her hair grew back. Sometimes before, she went out to buy some groceries or to fetch my sister making sure she wore either a wig or a bonnet. The good thing about having new set of hair is that it felt like that of a baby's! So soft and smooth!

Year 2008 was when she gradually came to know Christ. The more she was stronger to face the battle knowing there was so much hope in Him. I believe that as her sickness was progressing, God was preparing her to what matters the most.

It made me happy to see the look of hunger for Word in her face. She was getting all the energy she needed from God. I remember her always reminding us of James 1:19 whenever we try to complain or be mad about something instead of being grateful for everything: "Understand this, my dear brothers and sisters: You must all be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry (NLT)."

You see, a cancer patient's ONLY wish is to be healed. So that should make us think what else do we have to complain about?

Then another round of Chemotherapy sessions in 2008. At the start of the year, we decided to have a family portrait taken in a studio. She was super excited about it. I had the photo converted to a large cross-stitch pattern along with their engagement photo from 1977. She crafted the photos for a couple of years and they were hung at home a few days before she joined the Lord. She was still able to enjoy her masterpieces. Priceless!

Came in 2009. There was a request of a 3rd round of Chemo sessions. This time, she was not really sure if her body could handle it but as usual, her spirit was strong. Her veins became so thin that even skilled medical representatives had a hard time finding them. In the end, she gave it a chance. Hopeful.

Dad remained very supportive in all her ordeals. He was always beside her. He has defined what love is to all of us.

By April of 2010, I was tasked to report in New Jersey for 3 months. At the same time, her doctor has diagnosed the 3rd recurrence of C-cells in her body. Mom was already firm of her decision not to continue with the treatment. Knowing that I was leaving for a quarter, they tried to hide it from me. They did not want me to worry while I was away. But well, I had bionic ears and so I knew of it but pretended I had no idea.

After they sent me to the airport, while waiting for my gate to open, I texted them admitting that I was aware of the situation.

When I came back by June, I saw a different person just as I entered my home in Manila. The same set of strong-willed eyes but Mom was skin and bones. She gave all the energy she had to come and meet me in Manila before traveling 6 hours back to Baguio. I knew then that perhaps God has in His plans that Mom would join Him in 2010. The fear that we may not be able to celebrate Christmas with her set into me. My heart sank and I embraced her quickly with a smile, pretending not to notice any change in her physical package. Before my teardrops fell, I excused myself and cried in the bathroom. I just had to cry.

On August, she had tubes in her stomach that drained out the water created by the C-cells. She requested that she be discharged from the hospital since she felt she'd be more comfortable at home.

And true enough, she became better. She never failed to talk to Dad about her wishes and plans everytime they were alone. While her body was deteriorating that she had to stay in bed most of the time, her spirit was rising. Her last 2 weeks were the most significant weeks of our lives.

At the end of September, she finally decided to open her doors to our relatives with the help of my brother Don's convincing. Dad likewise never gave up in talking her into it ever since her condition started to get worse.

And this sparked the start of a beautiful ending.

Mom asked Dad to let them all come to our home so she can ask for forgiveness. One by one, my aunts and uncles came to see her, not wasting any time, praying for her and laughing with her. It was the most amazing moments I have ever seen. Mom's face was full of joy and she felt super light for surrendering it all to God. Our home was filled with warmth, laughter, compassion, and love. Praise God! I started to feel assurance then and my fears slowly faded. I knew God was in full control.

We celebrated thanksgiving on her last Saturday for the mini reunions we have been having for 2 weeks since Mom opened her doors. We had the Sunday celebration at home as well so she can join us in hearing God's message. We saw that in spite of all the pain and suffering, she managed to keep a smiling face. It did not occur to any of us that she was ready because things were just beginning to be alright. What we know for sure was that she was happy, free from all of the burden.

That night after the service, excruciating pain started to attack her body. She was not able to sleep, thus, it required painkillers from her doctor. Thankfully, the pills helped her catch some sleep the following days. My uncle lent us a wheelchair and mom was able to enjoy the sunlight on Monday along with the cool breeze and fresh scent of pine trees in our backyard.

She desired that her cross-stitch masterpieces be framed and be hung on the wall. Surely, no minute was wasted on that, she saw her creations up on the wall during her last Saturday and again, we saw that precious smile painted all over her.

The next day, she chose to just see the sunlight from our dining area window. My dad saw her close her eyes for a while before heading back to her room. For Dad, he knew it could be any time because he had seen this with his uncle before.

October 13 at 8 AM, my brother Dan and I were joking with her. She laughed with us while she sat on her bed. At 10 AM, she said she was ready to sleep. When Dad came home from buying Mom her needs, he already noticed her yellowish color. Dad admitted to us later that he was scared and he did not know what to do.

He gathered us for a fast lunch that day and we still did not know about what Dad was thinking or feeling. We ate lunch like any normal day while Dad was agitated. By noon, he started trying to wake up Mom. We all ran to her side hoping to see her talk to us for the last time. But to no avail.

"May Your will be done" was my continuous prayer while we watched her go.

However, her response was more than words. After her last deep breath, she left a sweet smile for all of us to see, assuring us that she was on her way to the greatest place ever and there was no need to worry or be sad. I'd say that was what startled my Dad and at the same time, gave him peace in his heart. It was really her time to go.

God did not only leave a smile on her face, her color has not changed as though she was just sleeping since she reiterated to my Dad that she did not want any needles pricked into her body. Moreover, she was still soft up until the day she was buried 3 days later. And we thank God for these messages.

When I looked at her, she seemed to have brighten up as God took her in His arms. Mom was not healed physically, but we were all healed emotionally and spiritually. Everyone was reunited through her. Praise God!

At this point, Dad had not yet found what he was looking for. But he knew that Mom's wish not to follow any traditional rituals had something to do with what God had done to her.

My aunt invited us to come to church on the first Sunday of November. Slowly, God opened Dad's eyes to the truth. Dad began to understand what kept Mom from giving up and where she was pulling all her strength. Little by little, Dad was finding answers to his questions through the Encounter God Retreat and with this, he received Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior. He now realized the importance of God's Word through the Bible.

Gradually, Dad is submitting his life to God. And up to this day, he kept on expressing that it is hard to explain the happiness God is continually giving in his heart. It made me cry to see him ever so happy in his life. He even said that at his age, he is 61, it is only now that he has found what he was looking for. Thus, his statement "I've found it! I've found it!" with his arms stretching to the skies! But he is also very thankful to realize that it is never too late for anyone to know Jesus Christ and be renewed. Hopeful...like my mom.

Dad has changed so much since then. He has quit smoking last April which he was doing for more than 30 years. Praise God! It is one of his greatest testimonies on how God has totally changed him. No withdrawal symptoms whatsoever. He just believed in the power of God. Moreover, he stands 5'5" and yet he weighed 98 pounds during the trying times. But now, he weighs 120 pounds! No need for weight boosters. Praise God again! His aura has shifted from night to day.

We continue to learn as a family what God wills for us, what are God's promises for us, what God needs from us, why things happen the way they do, what really matters in this life, what kind of riches we should hold on to, and so many more! Now, I sound like a marketer. =) We can't stop from sharing the great things God keeps doing in our lives!

Most importantly, we have found our purposes in life and the things that make us happy in spite of the problems that come to us. God has greatly helped us change our perspectives. We need to keep clinging on to the Lord through His Word for guidance and strength since we cannot do these on our own. Along with these is the fellowship with brothers and sisters in Christ. Praise God!

Dad has accepted the fact that God had to take my Mom away from him before any of these can happen to us. Thus, we have found joy even if Mom has to depart from us so we can say it was still a blessing. Others may say that our mom is gone permanently in this world but I'd like to see it on a different light. This is temporary. Life here is temporary. And we all hold to the truth that we will one day see each other with the Lord in paradise, which is permanent.

The scripture "For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain." in Philippians 1:21 made a lot of sense to us now. God made a way for us to see that death is not a bad thing after all since it means meeting with God face-to-face. That was why we can still rejoice over it.

I would also like to admit that I have doubted the Lord when I did not believe He can change Dad. I thought that it was hopeless for my Dad to know the Lord because he was so religious in following the old ways, more like he had closed doors. Nevertheless, His ways and His thoughts are higher than my ways and my thoughts. Therefore, I was wrong - big time. God proved me wrong! God wanted to correct me and reminded me I need to trust Him in all His plans.

With God, nothing is really, really impossible! Amen!

To God be the Glory!!! =) God Bless you all!

Day 12 - Such a Blessing

No more clean clothes left in my bag. Last day at the hotel.

I called up our Engineer at home to check if there was an update. He was sad to tell me that water supply may take a while and that he was trying to coordinate with Meralco. There was scarcity with manpower. Oh. I thought I saw one Meralco truck along Ortigas Ext. last Monday before we left. But I guess I was wrong.

And so I had to let my manager know about the still sad news.

Next plan was dorm. For a week. I am sooo grateful for my company's provision of my temporary accommodation. Thank you so much! It's a great help for me. Such a blessing!

So me and my brother rushed home to gather more clean clothes. Upon entering the gate, a group of people were busy pumping out the muddy water from the basement. Looked like they were having a hard time drying out the basement. This may take a few more days, I thought.

Then there we were again at the bottom of the bridge, waiting for Ortigas-bound vehicles for half an hour or so.

I got a call that the room will be ready in a while but when I checked my watch, there was no time to drop by at the dorm's counter to claim the key. Instead, I went straight to work, finished my shift with half of my lids closed, then went to the dorm to rest.

It was tiring but still very thankful that there's a place to stay, water for bathing, and power to charge our communication tools.

We're still so much blessed. News say that there are parts of Pasig and Cainta still soaked in water. Many are homeless, hungry, and have no more clean clothes to wear.

We are still blessed.

PERSPECTIVE

Puddles are baby oceans. Really, there’s not much difference except that the wildlife in one lives longer and is big enough for us to see.

Trees are giant weeds. Just look at one when the leaves have fallen, and you’ll see how similar they look.

And our house is nothing but an overgrown dollhouse.

It’s all a matter of perspective. Try looking at something differently today. It will help your creative juices flow and your tolerance level grow.

By THE HAPPY GUY

SADNESS

Feeling a little sad? Down in the dumps? Should I try to cheer you up?

Maybe not just yet. It’s Ok to feel down sometimes. Happiness is not about constantly feeling like you’re on top of the world. Yes, it’s great to feel joy and excitement, but sometimes we have to charge our batteries and come back down to ground ourselves.

Allow yourself these moments. The key is not to let them drag on for hours or days. Kick yourself back up if it starts to drag on. But until then, you deserve the space to come down for a while.

-The Happy Guy

Something You Never Had

The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. Psalm 34:18

Cindy waited 34 long years and stayed in the marriage. She gave it her all, and waited for her husband to come around. He was emotionally unavailable. He dropped dead from a heart attack last month. Bye-bye to that hope. Sam is 58 years old. There's been a hole in his heart as big as all outdoors for 56 of those years, wanting his father who disappeared when he was two. Dianne has been looking for someone to come into her life for many years. A partner and lover. She is old now. It may not happen.

Have you ever longed for something you've never had? Something money can't buy? Maybe a good relationship with your mother or father, or your kids. Perhaps you would really like a relationship that is now impossible, because that person has died.

You can be sad about something you never had. You can grieve something you never will have. But can you lose something you never had? 

One thing you could never lose - even if you wanted to - the unconditional love that God your Father has for you. Never. No way! Not possible to lose that; it's there for ever and ever. It's just for you.

The LOVE that GOD has for YOU is not, and never could be, something you never had. It's been there all of your life. Even before.And it will be after.

Just ask him to show you. He will!

Sally I. Kennedy is the author of Irish Thursdays: More Little Parables, Words from the 
Heart, and 52 Little Parables from Ireland . She lives in south Florida, with her husband 
Ben. Please visit her website at this address: http://www.sallyikennedy.com Sally's 
email: sallyikennedy@bellsouth.net

SElECTIvE HEaRING

And we have this confidence in him, that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us. – 1 John 5:14

I know a man who used to get in trouble with his wife because she claims he never listens to her. Every time she would call him, he wouldn't respond. "Why don't you answer me?" she'd demand. His reply would be, "But I didn't hear you." The wife interpreted this as her husband's way of ignoring her. She accused him of selective hearing — subconsciously not listening to her whenever she spoke. Of course, the man vehemently denied this. And the conflict only deepened.

Until the man had a hearing test. That's when they discovered that he was partially deaf to a certain frequency of sounds, including — you guessed it — his wife's voice. The Lord has selective hearing, too. He doesn't hear our prayers that will not benefit us or, at worse, harm us. Like those times we asked Him to make us sick just so we could avoid an undesirable situation. Or the times we prayed for death because we were depressed or heartbroken. Or the times we asked Him to bless us with something less than what He actually wanted to give us. But when we do ask for something according to His will, be sure that He has perfect hearing. 

by Rissa Singson-Kawpeng

REFLECTION:
When did you ask the Lord for something that wasn't good for you?

Lord, thank You for wanting the best for me. Amen.

The Good Life

Beware of covetousness, for one's life does not consist in the abundance of the things he possesses. — Luke 12:15

Driving down the highway in Houston, I passed a billboard with large letters that announced "THE GOOD LIFE!" I couldn't wait to get closer to read the small print, which explained that the "good life" was about buying a lakefront home starting at $300,000. Which made me wonder if some unhappy families might live in those homes, with kids who never see their parents or couples who, though living on the lake, wish they weren't even living together.

Luke 12 came to mind as I remembered the story of the man who asked Jesus to tell his brother to divide the inheritance with him. That was the wrong thing to ask Jesus! He replied with a warning, "Beware of covetousness, for one's life does not consist in the abundance of the things he possesses" (v. 15). He then went on to tell the story of an extremely rich man who, from God's point of view, was a fool — not because he was successfully wealthy but because he was not rich toward God.

The sooner we get over the illusion that more stuff means more peace, happiness, and self-fulfillment, the better off we will be. And then the more able we will be to find the longed-for peace and happiness — the true "good life" — that only Jesus can provide. — Joe Stowell

O Lord, help us to be content,

Whatever we possess;

Protect us from the foolish lie

That "more" brings happiness. — Sper

The STRESS Factor

Stress, its all around us. It's common to say that because society is so much more complex today, we are all under a lot more stress than people were fifty years ago.

What is stress? When you put weight on a cable, you place it under stress. Too much stress will cause the cable to snap. That's how it is with you and me. Too much pressure, and we snap. The nerves are shattered. There can be a nervous breakdown. 

Listen to the warning given by Jesus, "Be on your guard, that your hearts not be weighted down with dissipation and drunkenness and the worries of life" (Luke 21:34). The human heart involves the mind and emotions as well as the physical life. Jesus is saying that too great a burden may be placed upon our minds and emotions. Getting drunk is one way such a burden can be placed on your mind. You know that drunkenness clouds your mind and alters your emotions. The result is that you cannot relate to others properly. Drunkenness so alters our moods that some people become dangerous. They sometimes beat their wives and kill people while driving. Drunkenness is a terrible sin.

But Jesus says worry is just as bad as drunkenness when it comes to putting stress on ourselves. Listen again, "Be on your guard, that your hearts not be weighted down with dissipation and drunkenness and
the worries of life." Worry clouds your thinking. Worry alters your emotions. You become touchy and sharp with others. Too much worry can shatter your nerves and bring you to the breaking point! This is why Jesus warns us to watch out.

Contributed by Dr. Dennis J. Prutow

Standing Firm

Standing Firm

You see it all the time. People achieve success, and then their personal lives seem to fall apart. As someone once said, success has made failures of many men. But does that have to happen?

The September 1996 issue of Standing Firm magazine contains a great story about Bobby Bowden. Bowden is head football coach for Florida State University. His team's winning record places him near the top in wins among active coaches at the Division I level. Bowden's record of successes in bowl games is the highest winning percentage in NCAA history. So he is successful in his chosen career. Whether you are a fan of F.S.U. or not, you have to admit that Bowden is a successful coach.

But there is more to Bowden than the statistics you read in the sports pages. He is a man of faith, and makes no apologies for that. During hi steam's Friday evening meetings before their Saturday games, Bowden uses valuable time for team devotionals, which he leads. As for his ongoing leadership of the team's staff, each day he meets with his staff for devotions and prayer prior to their regular staff meetings.

Each year, Bowden takes his entire team to a predominantly black church for worship. The following Sunday, he takes the team to a predominantly white church. There is no deception involved--he writes a letter to each
athlete's parents or guardian to tell them about the church visits and obtain their approval. "I'm trying to show these kids that they are accepted in church whether they are white or black," Bowden said.

So what is the point of this and the many other ways Bowden walks his walk of faith? Bowden says, "I want to show these kids that you can be a Christian, you can be a God-fearing man, you can abide by the rules, and
you can still be successful."

How Does This Apply to Our Lives?

A number of social commentators have asked the questions, "Where are our heroes?" and "Where are the role models for today's youth?" That is because we constantly read about people who were considered heroes, but turned out to be villains who compromised their values and broke the rules. Is it necessary to compromise your values to make it in life? Bowden's story shows that it is not. No, Bowden is not perfect. But there is a core to his life. Bowden stands firm in his beliefs--and is successful. What is the difference between the Bobby Bowden's of the world, and others? Simply put, some people are like onions. They have no core, just layers. And when you peel away all the layers, nothing is left. Don't glorify the "onions" of the world. Instead, lift up people like Bowden--men and women with a core to their lives, who exhibit integrity and faith. Help them touch others. Encourage them. Pray for them. Finally, build and strengthen your own core. Start by placing your trust and confidence totally in God. Trusting in God does not guarantee you worldly success or great riches, but the Bible teaches that something far more important will result, blessings from God.

"Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him." Job 17:9
Contributed by Rich McLawhorn email:REM@mail01.scdps.state.sc.us

Bad Luck, Good Luck?

Bad Luck, Good Luck 

An ancient Chinese story: A farmer had one old horse that he used for tilling his fields. One day the horse escaped into the hills and when all the farmer's neighbors heard about it, they sympathized with the old man over his bad luck. "Bad luck? Good luck? Who knows?" said the farmer. A week later, the horse returned with a herd of wild horses from the hills and this time the neighbors congratulated the farmer on his good luck. "Good luck? Bad luck? Who knows?" said the farmer. 

Then, when the farmer's son was attempting to tame one of the wild horses, he fell off its back and broke his leg. Everyone agreed that this was very bad luck. Not the farmer, who replied, "Bad Luck? Good luck? Who knows?" 

Some weeks later, the army marched into the village and forced every able-bodied young man to go fight in a bloody war. When they saw that the farmer's son had a broken leg, they let him stay. Everyone was very happy at the farmer's good luck. "Good luck? Bad luck? Who knows?" 

Life is a lot like that. Sometimes it seems like things are going well, and at other times, things seem to be going badly. And we let those things dictate our feelings and our outlook on life. When things are going well, we're happy and we think God is with us. If they are going badly, we get discouraged and think that God must have abandoned us. We end up being tossed around by our circumstances. 

But the apostle Paul wrote in Philippians 4 that he had learned to be content, even happy, in all circumstances. He was happy when things were bad (he was in jail at the time), and he was happy when things were going good as well. That's the great thing about being part of God's family. We really don't have to worry in our circumstances, because no matter what, we have hope in Christ. "We know that in everything, God works for the good of those who love him (Romans 8:28). 

Anonymous

The Bitter "Why?"

The Bitter "Why"

Us: "God, why did you do that to me? Why did you take the one I most love? Why did you permit such illness to conquer my life? Why am I sterile while others have children? Why? Why?"

STEVEN: Before blaming God, let me tell you my story. Many years ago, I thought richness to meant the ownership of the most precious diamond. So, I kept petitioning God to make me rich by granting me this diamond. One day, God let me stumble upon a very precious diamond on my way to work.

Delighted, I scooped it up and swiftly tried to hide it in my suit. At that moment, an angel blocked my way, fiercely took the diamond and threw it far away.

Shocked, I kept yelling and screaming at God, "Why did you do that to me? Why? Why?" A few minutes later, I found the King's soldiers approaching me. They started searching me thoroughly. When they finished, I angrily asked reason for their act. To my astonishment, they told me that the King has lost his dearest diamond and ordered them to search for it and instantly kill whomever they found with it. Alleluia. God did that to save my life and help me enlarge my vision scope to other means of richness like good health and happy family.

GOD: my dearest son and daughter, I'd love you all to be always satisfied.
But, I select the kind of satisfaction I see suiting my purpose in each one of you.
I grant some good health, others wealth, others children. I sometimes
permit the loss of beloved ones or certain illnesses to enrich your souls and
draw you closer to my heart. My dear children, your "whys" are bitter to my
soul. They reflect your lack of love, trust and submission to me. Why do not
you just lean your heads on my shoulder and trust my love and care for you?
Remember, it was written, "For he maketh sore, and bindeth up: he woundeth,
and his hands make whole." (Job 5:18). "Yet I will not forget thee.
Behold, I have graven thee upon the palms of my hands." (Isaiah 49:15-16).

Us: Dear God, I am sorry for any complaint we have raised against you.
Let it be Your Will in my life. Please help me feel your healing hands during
my toughest times. Thank you. Amen.

Contributed by Maria Hanna.

How Do You Perceive Sunsets?

Sunsets could tell us or remind us of a few things:

- That even if the day has ended, we don't have to likewise end things on our side. It could serve as our rest or break before we continue battling over our trials when the sun rises again. That is, battle trials with strength and gratefulness - grateful that these trials make us stronger, probably without us realizing it yet.

- That we evaluate and reflect how our day has transpired and try our best to count the graces of God, and maybe this way, we will go to bed hugging our loved ones, instead of stress. After all, life is balanced by pain and struggle so fretting about them is just a waste of time, energy, and most of all, happiness that we could not gain back when time has already passed.

- That no matter how frustrating, stressful, sad, and disappointing things could be, the sun reminds us that life goes on and we can flush these emotions that badly affect our decisions down along with the sun so we can always start anew.

- That since we cannot control its setting everyday, there are also things in our lives that we do not have control over. And even if we pour all our efforts to disagree, argue, or rage over uncontrollable things, nothing good will come out of it if the change won't be coming from the source. Thus, we go back to the second point above, waste of time. Since God has control over all things, the one thing we have control over is pray.

I know things are easier said than done but reminding us of great things definitely lightens up the mood, don't you think?

So how about you, how do you perceive sunsets?

Find People Worthy of Your LOVE

BUSINESS MATTERS (Beyond the bottom line) By Francis J. Kong

A teacher asked her third grader to write about their personal heroes.

One little girl brought the essay home and showed it to her parents. Her father was flattered that her daughter had chosen him.

"Why did you pick me?" he asked expectantly. And the sweet little girl replied: "Because I couldn't spell Schwarzennegger."

Who are the people you admire? Who are your heroes and role models in life?

Who would make it to your personal "5 Most Successful People list?"

To many business people I know, the five names on their Successful People list would most likely be found in the world's richest people list.

But what about yours?

Who would make it to your list? Michael Josephson takes it a step farther. He says: "Think of the five most successful people you know. Now think of the five happiest. How many made both lists?" Amazing isn't it?

The five most successful people in the world for you may not exactly turn out to be the five happiest people in the world too. Here is the reason why.

My heroes in life are certainly not the names you find in business magazines.

They are heroes because they have positively impacted my life and inspired me to become better.

In real life, the greatest heroes are often found among the most ordinary people.

Josephson says: "Most people think of success in terms of possessions and achievements, while happiness is a state of mind. It's common to think success will bring happiness, but that's often not the case." Think about what the people on your happy list have in common. I'll bet they have better-than-average relationships, especially with their spouses and children. Of course, other factors besides good relationships also tend to produce happiness – like good health, enjoying one's work, and having fun. And people driven by spiritual and ethical values usually are more content than those who measure success in terms of prosperity, pleasure, and peer approval.

Why are many successful people unhappy?

I guess one of the reasons is that in their quest to succeed, the journey getting there has been littered with a lot of relationship casualties along the way while those who are happy have very healthy relationships. And if I were to choose the one thing most essential to happiness, it would be good relationships. Many leaders fail to understand this.
They would sacrifice relationships just to achieve their own versions of "success" and then one day looked at themselves in the mirror and say: "It's lonely at the top." If that is the case, then there is something wrong.

Real successful people are those who do not only have healthy accomplishments they have healthy relationships along the way and they share the joy with other people at the top.

Think about it. The happiness quotient of people who live high-flying lives of the rich and famous or the swinging lives of the young and beautiful is surprisingly low. Yes, these people experience plenty of moments of soaring satisfaction, but they become harder to duplicate and sustain. Often such people are left with an "Is that all there is?" feeling that can lead to depression and boredom.

No matter how rich, sexy, or famous one is, happiness is almost impossible for people who have hurtful and unsatisfying relationships. Yet people surrounded by the affection, love, and respect of others can find their way to happiness in spite of economic hardship, hard work, and even ill health. That's good news. We can't all be rich, famous, or beautiful, but we can all find people worthy of our love.

And when you have it you are successful aren't you?

I don't know about you but as long as I know that there is a God who loves me and I live my life for Him, I am both successful and happy and you should be, too.

ABC: An Update

I have written a previous blog about my ABC and this is just an update to that.

Well, B is still an on-going financial responsibility, yep. And hope to taste it come January.

At last, A has stopped holding on. It is now within my reach. Just so happy to have it. =)

The next thing with A would be categorized as a sub of A, i.e., A-1, etc. The materialization period of a sub is yet to be seen because as always, it would depend on financial factors, again.

That's just about it.

And again, happy with A.

Taggity Taggity Tapopo

As tagged by my kumare Lian...

Bloggers that are tagged need to write on their own blog about their 10 things and post these rules. Don't forget to leave them a comment telling they're tagged, and to read your blog.

Here are 10 facts about me:

10. Show-offs repel me.

9. Blue is my fave color.

8. I love listening to other people's stories.

7. I almost always wear my hair long. I once sported a very short one-length do back in high school but never tried it again.

6. The Notebook is my number 1 romantic movie.

5. If given the chance, I'd like to try to do a voice-over for an animation or a cartoon show maybe.

4. I love to travel, my dream is to see Greece!

3. I am empathetic.

2. I love pasta and cheese even if cheese causes my migraine.

1. Great photographs amaze me.

Now I'm tagging:

Aiee
Ann
Arra
Cathy V
Sir E!
Cordz
Evic
Fifi
Jasi
Isco
Jenny
JB
Joy
Louj
Lady
Marj
Najah
Orlando
Peejay
Ping
Princess
Roslyn
Sheng
Tine
Valerie
Vanessa

Listen

Listen lyrics by Beyonce.

Listen to the song here in my heart
a melody I start but can't complete

Listen to the sound from deep within
Its only beginning to find release

Ohh the time has come for my dreams to be heard
They will not be pushed aside and turned
Into your own, all 'cause you won't listen

[chorus]
Listen
I am alone at a crossroads
I'm not at home in my own home
And I've tried and tried
To say whats on my mind
You should have known
Now I'm done believing you
You don't know what I'm feeling
I'm more than what
You've made of me
I followed the voice, you gave to me
But now I've gotta find my own
You should have listened

There was someone here inside
Someone I thought had died
So long ago
Oh I'm screaming out
And my dreams will be heard
They will not be pushed Aside or turned
Into your own
[ Listen lyrics found on http://www.completealbumlyrics.com ]
All 'cause you won't listen

[chorus]
Listen
I am alone at a crossroads
I'm not at home in my own home
And I've tried and tried
To say whats on my mind
You should have known
Now I'm done believing you
You don't know what I'm feeling
I'm more than what
You've made of me
I followed the voice, you gave to me
But now I've gotta find my own
You should have listened

I don't know where I belong
But I'll be moving on
If you don't, if you won't

Listen to the song here in my heart
A melody I start, but I will complete

Now I am done believing you
You don't know not what I am feeling
I'm more than what you've made of me
I followed the voice you think you gave to me

But now I got to find my own - my own

Aren't you glad?

Aren't you glad to have your family and relatives by your side?
Aren't you glad to be born with legs and be able to make a slide?
Aren't you glad of daily sunshine that brightens your morning?
Aren't you glad of strength that make you stand on your flooring?

Aren't you glad of your work that uses the skills God gave you?
Aren't you glad of the will to bounce back after feeling blue?
Aren't you glad of the bounty meals that you receive everyday?
Aren't you glad to have sanity to design your own pathway?

Aren't you glad that even if life is hard, desires can still be met?
Aren't you glad that you can look forward and have a goal to set?
Aren't you glad of having transportation to bring you anywhere?
Aren't you glad of technology that is ran by a working software?

Aren't you glad that you can sleep at night to regain lost power?
Aren't you glad that your buds can tell between bitter and sour?
Aren't you glad that you can differentiate the right from wrong?
Aren't you glad that you can appreciate a greatly written song?

Aren't you glad that because of you, some people become happy?
Aren't you glad that you can watch movies even if it is sappy?
Aren't you glad that the opinions you want to share are heard?
Aren't you glad that you have moveable arms to shave your beard?

Aren't you glad that what always keeps us going on in life is hope?
Aren't you glad that you can wash off dirt from your body with soap?
Aren't you glad to have expert people around you to give guidance?
Aren't you glad to play with kids even if they can be some nuisance?

Aren't you glad that to be in a situation, there is not only one option?
Aren't you glad that real friends push you to practice with caution?
Aren't you glad that in enacting your decisions, you have the freedom?
Aren't you glad you can change courses when you're hit with boredom?

Aren't you glad that God does not give you problems you cannot bear?
Aren't you glad that as blessings, you always have something to wear?
Aren't you glad that no matter how cold you can be, you still give love?
Aren't you glad that to freshen the world, rains are sent from above?

Aren't you glad that you gain endurance because of failures and pain?
Aren't you glad that the lessons are bases like that of a window pane?
Aren't you glad your successes are ways to boost your self-esteem?
Aren't you glad that doing your best could make you the crop's cream?

Aren't you glad that despite tragedies, smiles are still painted on faces?
Aren't you glad that you grow up changing due to life's distinct phases?
Aren't you glad that you amaze the audience because of your talents?
Aren't you glad that your memory can still recall treasured moments?

Aren't you glad that I continue to listen to your never-ending story?
Aren't you glad that God has given you wisdom to start a query?
Aren't you glad of having me portion out a little piece of my mind?
Aren't you glad that even if you bother me, I give effort to be kind?

Aren't you glad? Aren't you?

How time flies...

I cannot believe it is already half of the year.

We celebrated two birthdays during the first two weeks of January after enjoying the new year blast. On the 3rd week, my mom's belly was swollen, got operated 2 days after, and diagnosed with the big C. It was the coldest month in Baguio since 1960's I guess. Then there's the end of January.

The Flower Festival of Baguio was not that grand this year. I barely felt it, or maybe I did not care that much. Valentine's Day passed by just like that. It was our company's evaluation month. We visited one of our boss's private pool in Los Baños, Laguna while he was in the Philippines. It was then still cold. Then there's the end of February.

Campaign procedures for election candidates started. TVs are full of ads and streets full of trash. I left for Singapore as a tourist for a few days after stressing myself out from Bureau of Immigration's lousy processes. Chemo started and ended March for my mom. Salary increase in the company is being laid out. Then there's the end of March.

Holy week was the starting point of April. I have been working from home for two weeks to be with my mom on her 3rd chemo. Days just passed and the sun started to bring heat to the Earth. Our payslips have changed since the increases were reflected. I took hold of a bigger responsibility. I heard many wedding bells this month. I was involved in an accident along Marcos highway while I was on a DeLuxe Victory Bus. It was a total wreck but all I have are bruised knees, scratched left elbow, and a traumatized feeling. Praise God. Peso was beginning to strengthen. Then there's the end of April.

The beginning and 3rd week of my birth month were to support my mom in the hospital but Labor day introduced the month. TVs flashed the last-minute Ads for candidates. Election day finished with violent endings and unavoidable failures. People started to peel off trashes from street walls. I attended a wedding in Olongapo. I stayed with my family during my birthday and enjoyed dinner at home. We went out with my brother's daughter whose 7th birthday is on the 27th. We had fun bumping cars and winning tickets from the machines. Then there's the end of May.

And then now, 5 days off from June. Classes in public schools have started. Peso is at its strongest, 45.718 against the dollar. But lower profits for Business Process Outsourcing firms. We have a company outing on the 9th at La Luz Beach Resort, Batangas. Then there's the beginning of June.

Great Trough of 2007

The wheel is turning. The travel is towards the trough. And I am afraid. But the constant reminder that God is the greatest helps ease the pain. Kaya ng Diyos ko yan!!! Battles continue to emerge, consistently testing my strength and faith. They even overlap sometimes or happen in succession, which puts more pressure into the soul, seemingly no time for good news. But no matter what, keep focused. A new day is already a blessing. Having food to intake is another. A family who cares is present. And most of all, Almighty God who loves us is good all the time. Thus, be thankful.

That trough I am referring to is cancer by the way, not me, but my beloved mother. Ovarian Cancer Stage IIIC. Total Abdominal Hysterectomy with Bilateral Salpingo-Oophorectomy plus Omentectomy were the emergency procedures, which lead to the diagnosis. Nothing to find there anymore because everything has been removed. But the cancer cells have spread.

Six Chemotherapy sessions come next. Probiotics intake starts. More courage required. Greater Faith to establish.

With this, I pray for healing...