Liwanag is Here.

It has been days since Liwanag World Festival ended... but we all know, it is the beginning of something bigger as we have tapped into a larger field. We have garnered enough media attention, to keep the ball rolling.

I'm getting feedback that the whole event was "too much" for the common mind to understand. It seems like people are so used to being in one box that people would try to label and box the event as "environmental", but, no wait... we have politics too... so we are also in that box. And we have the artists which showcased the whole Filipino culture... and there were business people too, the visual artists were there, techie people were behind the whole event as well. So, what is Liwanag? it seems like a ball of many things.... that in order for you to really understand it... you have to experience it. Not just by being in the event... but by getting to know the organizers, the supporters, the people behind the whole thing.

people can't seem to fathom the idea that... in order for us to create SUSTAINABLE CITIES or SOCIETIES we have to gather all the dimensions that would make it so. In our case.. we have identified 7 areas. [ human development, spiritual, ecological, economical, political, societal, cultural ] 

We have showcased all 7 in one event... and that confuses people... because when you make events.. you have to create a certain niche. Yes, i know. But, the event was meant to thread everything together. :) 

But to those who took the risk.. albeit the confusion, the curious, the believers, the visionaries and the revolutionaries.... they would all shook their heads if you missed the event.... many partnerships were being discussed, and future projects are being made.... 

there's more work to be done... but the message during the event was really this: "inner change" comes first..... everyone understood that.

Padyak at Liwanag

Transcripts of Messages from Kuya Jude:

Jan.9: 5:28AM - "Dia na mi karon sa Villasis in a GK site named "Namnama" (Hope). Kahapon pala may nanganak dito, the husband's name is Salvador. And we were received as the 3 magis on bikes. I could not help but notice how providence lead us day by day.  Last sunday we were in Laoag (light) and it's Epiphany Sunday pa - a feast that celebrate Jesus as Light of the world. Whew, its really awe-inspiring. DISGUSTING*!! as Nick would describe it" 

*DISGUSTING - is a MISSION term coined by Nic Perlas as "amazing,stupendous, unbelievable".

Jan 11:
5:37am - Val and I will be staying for another night in QC. Bukas 4am kami magpapatuloy sa Batangas City. Felcon will bike ahead this afternoon. Today we will be meeting with Joey Ayala during breakfast. Lunch with Fr. Pics and in the afternoon with Tony Meloto. We will recalibrate schedule today and upload pictures. 
 
11:54am- Just finished tupi session with Joey Ayala at Tandang Sora, QC. Going to Intramuros to meet Fr. Pics, the biking priest... on commuting mode. Will share pix this afternoon.

Jan. 12: "3:30 pm Text from Jude: left 7am from Joey Ayala's house, Tandang Sora. Fr. Pics guided us from the exit of C5 until Nuvali, Laguna. Here now at Makiling Elem School. Rest 5 minutes. Wish to arrive to Batangas City Port by 7:30pm"

8:30pm: Touchdown Batangas City.

Jan. 13: "We have already finished the whole Luzon (Jan2 treck to Cape Engano Lighthouse. Jan3 Sta. Ana to Aparri. Jan4 Aparri to Sta. Praxedes. Jan5 to Laoag via Pagudpud, Bangui. Jan6 to Vigan. Jan7 to Baguio. Jan8 to Villasis, Pangasinan. Jan9 to QC Circle. We met with excellent bike citizens Papa Denz, TIna and the rest of the members of Folding Bike Pilipinas and the Firefly Brigade. Jan10 Ikot Liwanag, we visited Light Bearers Joey Ayala, Father Picz and Tony Meloto. Jan 11 Tandang Sora to Batangas City. We rode to Caticlan. Today we start our Visayas pilgrimage. As I try to look back, I was amazed at how things evolved, transformed and unfolded. I now see that all these were realized with the help and support of everybody, a Bayanihan in action. I was amazed by how persons, events, things would pop up. Amazed by the level of sincerity, warmth of friendship we receieved. These have energized and made us go on. Nicanor Perlas Movement of Imaginals (MISSION) Firefly Brigade-Philippines We Want Bike Lanes in RP Movement Cycle For Life."

More snippets soon!!

They inspire me and gives me goosebumps as I imagine what they are doing!! Huwaw

Padyak Tungo sa Liwanag 2013

As I post this blog, Kuya Jude, Kuya Falcon(Bayawan, Dumaguete) and Valerie (Baguio) is probably on the way to Batangas City from Manila on their 11th Day of biking for Liwanag of their 24day sojourn!

What's the gist? (Padyak Tungo sa Liwanag 2013)

Padyak tungo sa Liwanag 2013, a bicycle pilgrimage all over the country from Palaui Island, Sta. Ana,Cagayan to Davao City (Jan 2-Jan 29,2013). Its the personal way of carrying the ideals of Liwanag Worldfest 2013 for creativity and sustainability. Please join us as we string beads of light all over the Philippines. 

The plan is for biker friends to meet them along the way, and bike with them till whatever part of the Philippines or bike all the way to Davao!!!

What's amazing is, they will visit various historical sites very important in the Philippine history and also to light candles at lighthouses stationed along the Philippines.

more updates.. of their whereabouts soon!

Here is the itinerary they have: 

Place	Est. Dist (km)	Days Travel	Date
Dumaguete to Manila*		1	30-Dec
Manila-Palaui*		2	31-Dec
Palaui Island to		1	1-Jan
Sta Ana to Aparri	130.00	1	2-Jan
Aparri to Claveria	90.00
Claveria to Laoag City	90.00	1	3-Jan
Laoag City to Vigan City	100.00
Vigan to San Fernando City	140.00	1	4-Jan
San Fernando to Baguio City	75.00	1	5-Jan
Baguio to Dagupan	100.00	0.5	7-Jan
Dagupan to Tarlac City	100.00	0.5
Tarlac City to Manila	120.00	1	8-Jan	Via  Anggat, Bulacan (Enchanted Farm)
Manila to Batangas City	150.00	1	9-Jan
Batangas City to Caticlan	2go leaves at 9pm	arrives at 6am the next day
Caticlan to Culasi	100.00	0.5	10-Jan
Culasi to Sn Jose de Buenavista	120.00	0.5
Sn Jose de Buenavista to Ilo2	100.00	1	11-Jan
Iloilo to Guimaras
McArthur’s Wharf to Tumanda Wharf	45.00
Pulupandan Wharf to Kabankalan	75.00	1	13-Jan
Kabankalan to Mabinay	60.00	0.5
Mabinay to Bayawan	60.00	1	14-Jan
Bayawan to Dumaguete	100.00	2	19-Jan
Dumaguete to Santander
Santander to Cebu City	135.00	1	20-Jan
Cebu to Cagayan			21-Jan
Cagayan to Davao	298.00	3	22-Jan
Davao	150.00	5	26-Jan
	2,502 Km	24 days

The Journey of a Hero - Lakbayani Program

Ever since, I started to continue  my journey with a group of like minded individuals from MISSION (http://imaginalmission.net) last July, things started to propel faster than I expected. And it's not just wishful thinking, but it's a walk, a movement where indeed Love moves.

And with this I will be presenting you with a wonderful journey... an initiative of Manila Node.... called the Lakbayani Program...

Below is an invitation.... for you to join in on the program.... 

Here's to wishing you a divine quest for the coming years..... 

Sin Cere, 

Tina L.

(There Is No Alternative but Love)

 

LAKBAYANI, THE JOURNEY OF THE HERO

Madaling Maging Bayani sa Sariling Bayan. Its easy to be a hero in one's own country. In the midst of the struggles and challenges we face, there are stories of hope, stories of ordinary people living extraordinary lives.These are individuals and groups with initiatives in every field, working for a more positive, holistic and sustainable Philippines. There is a better Philippines that already exists and MISSION Manila has mapped out their heroic feats in partnership with Barangay San Antonio in Pasig City, The Goodwill Group of Companies, Earth Flora,The Green Shop, 4Life and Ataman Koop.

LAKBAYANI is a celebration of projects and initiatives of countless Filipino heroes. MISSION Manila and its partners are bringing the good news that there are Filipino heroes working in the grassroots, contributing to building a better country through their work in politics, business and culture. As we share their stories, may we be inspired to start living a hero's life in our own fashion.

LAKBAYANI is a MISSION Manila initiative. Founded in 2010, MISSION which stands for Movement of Imaginals for Sustainable Societies through Initiatives, Organizing and Networking, is a cultural, spiritual, scientific movement of individuals in civil society, government, and business. On the basis of profound inner transformation, MISSION aims to create a better country, a better world. MISSION has active members and network nodes in Metro Manila, Cebu, Davao, Iloilo, Dumaguete, General Santos , Baguio and a fledgling international node in Germany.

Dreaming of a better Philippines? We are already there. Embark on this Journey of the Hero with us from October 24- 28,2011 at the Barangay Hall of Barangay San Antonio, Gen. Malvar St., Pasig City. And you can start living a hero's life too.

For more information: Email: lakbayani2011@gmail.com

Call or Text : 0915-5336189/0921-5025262

Visit: Lakbayani: http://lakbayani2011.tk

Facebook Lakbay Bayani

Mission: http://www.imaginalmission.net/web2.0/

LAKBAYANI LAUNCH OCT. 24-28, 2011

MISSION MANILA IN PARTNERSHIP WITH BARANGAY SAN ANTONIO, PASIG CITY

and

The Goodwill Group of Companies

Earth Flora, 4Life, The Green Shop, Ataman Koop

PROGRAM OF EVENTS

(Note: I did not place the October 24, 2011 program since it's over and done with already). you can still participate in the following. :)

Wednesday, October 26,2001-Theme: Gender Development

12:00 N.N. Exhibit is open to the public

Graffitti Wall- messages, signatures, drawings of heros and visions for a better Philippines and a better world

Video loop- photo slideshow

6:00 P.M. Public Lectures/dialogue

Designing your Life (Guidance Counseling)

Kristine Gonzalez- guidance counselor & yoga teacher

7:00 P.M.

Gender development & advocacy: Preventing & dealing with women & children abuse

Nela Santiago- Gender advocate

Mirian Buergo-Gender advocate

8:00 P.M. Video loop

8:30 P.M. Exhibit closes

Thursday, October 27,2011- Hero's Journey

12:00 N.N. Exhibit opens

Graffitti Wall- messages, signatures, drawings of heros and visions for a better Philippines and a better world

Video Loop/slideshow

6:00 P.M. Public lectures & dialogue

The Heroic Journey- Ang mga Hakbang ng Bayani

Lucito de Jesus- author, dream sensei, aikido sensei and peace & wholeness advocate

7:00 P.M.

Iya Agbon

Moving Mindanao- children filmed and produced movie on their intentions and issues.

8:30 P.M. Exhibit closes

Friday, October 28,2011- Theme: Celebration

11:00 A.M.

Product demonstrations and dialogues with visitors of the booths:

Royal Business

The Green Shop/4Life

Earth Flora Biodynamic Farm

Ataman Koop

Go Natural Food Bowl

12:00 N.N. Exhibit is open to the public

Graffitti Wall- messages, signatures, drawings of heros and visions for a better Philippines and a better world

Video loop- photo slideshow

3:00 P.M. Vision Cafe- interactive dialogue with participants on the question:

Paano sinasabuhay ang pagiging bayani? How do you live as a hero?

Expressed thru drawing & artwork & bag of dreams.

6:00- 10:00 P.M. Cultural show/concert

Open to the public

Emcees: BSA Scholars- Sugar Crisanne Aberia and Mariejo Ramos

Barangay San Antonio Choir

Conductor- Linda Fidelino

The Adventist Glee

Conductor- UN Ambassador of Goodwill Gion Gounet

Repertoire:

Crown Him- Kirkland

Green Cathedral- Carl Hahn

Pasiging- Hiligaynon song

Hallelujahs to the Lamb- Beethoveen

Engineer Miguel and Mrs. Bernadette Dimadura on violin & piano

Repertoire:

Canon in D- Pachelbel

Sa Nanay Sa Tatay

Kahit konting pagtingin

Monica Rosales

Repertoire:

You're still the one – Shania Twain

Lazy Song- Bruno Mars

I wanna know what love is-Mariah Carey

Bituin Walang Ningning- Sarah Geronimo

Price Tag- Jessie J

AnonyMuse (Girl Band)

Repertoire:

Salamat- Yeng Constantino

Slippin' Away- Aziatix

Fly- Nicki Minaj & Rihanna

I need you ( from the mini-series Jesus)- LeAnn Rimes

Mel Orense- acoustics- original compostion- Buhay ng Bayani

JR Prisno- Hip Hop & socially conscious rap

Jakob Rodriguez- Pinoy Rap & Hip Hop

Community jamming and dancing

Wabi Sabi Life and Love

I was intrigued by this term when I read an article by Arielle Ford and it turns out she's writing a book about it called "Wabi Sabi Love".

Okay, you might ask... what? Wasabi what? Isn't that the super hot green paste Japanese seems to love?

No, It's Wabi Sabi.....

What is Wabi Sabi?

"Wabi Sabi is the ancient Japanese art form of finding perfection and beauty in imperfection."

Isn't that just wonderful?

Photo Source: Perfectly Amiss

They have even arts dedicated for that... thus the popular term Wabi Sabi Art...

Now, I suddenly remembered the basic principle of Ikebana, when I attended a mini workshop with Lady Tirol (the Japanese art of flower arrangement) ... which is somewhat related to this.. because one of the founding principles of Ikebana is to let "nature" be. Meaning, if this certain flower got a wilted leaf on it... one just allows it because it's nature. So, they don't usually recommend taking the wilted leaf and they say it's part of the beauty of Ikebana.

I am just impressed and very inspired with how rich the Japanese arts are. I just love how their teachings on Wabi Sabi and Ikebana incorporates life and nature. And how life can be interconnected to art...

and not just that... how Wabi Sabi can be adopted as a way of life and love... the beauty of nature and simplicity... this also teaches how to be in the moment... to accept things the way they are and appreciate them instead of seeing all the things we don't want and the imperfections all around us. and it also helps us become more aware of what we deem of as imperfect... may it be the weight, the pimples, the warts, the unwanted fats in certain body parts, the eyes, the nose, the skin.... and accept them... being comfortable in our own skin...

so yeah...

with Wabi Sabi life and love,

Liberty/Tina

Fabulous 2011

So long 2010... and Hello 2011!

2010 was a great year for me!

And even up to the last day... 2010 gave me one eye-opening experience... and I learned something about myself. That with everything I have gone through, I still do get scared and I have a lot of doubts in my mind - STILL. I also realized the mind is powerful but not as majestic as the heart. That the mind still relies on what you feel. And that what you feel does the rest of the job. What a work it is... to really get out of my mind and come to my senses..... what a greater work to get out of my box..... Arrrgghhh... that it's easier to post a status message over at Facebook than actually doing it. But, hey... just because I posted it.. doesn't mean I am already there.. I posted it because I needed the reminder. That was my year-end drama... now I have one last chance na lang daw. Booohooo. Pass this Tina... transform transform...


And I am even looking forward for a fabulous 2011.


(I have always planned to post a 2010 checklist but I guess I will have to post it later).

Meanwhile for my blog ritual... Imma post what I shall be having

This year.... is going to be a fabulous one for me!

I am choosing to do wonderful, unexpected things.
I choose to be more kinder...
I choose to be progressive and not procrastinate (Go Crown Ambassador!)
I choose to be a better woman inside and out...
I choose to stop running away (i almost attempted that just recently. ego still soooo strong.)
and with that....
I choose to tame and befriend my ego...

I choose to face all fears with confidence.. (GO TINA!!!)
I choose to see the beauty of the sunset..
I choose to have a "PERFECT DAY" once a month. =)
I choose to think out-of-the-box (Think RANCHO!!!)

I choose to focus on what I want and not by thinking what others might say...
I choose to surprise people - in a good, fun way. :)
I choose to be more cheerful and more charitable.... specially to the people I have judgments with.

I choose to be more adventurous (Gooooo extreme sports! HAHA!)
I choose to be fit slim and healthy as I can be for me and my family! (Sign up na TINA!)
I choose to lose the excess weight that does not serve me for the past couple of months! :)
I choose to be open to changes...
I choose to be more relaxed and beautiful...

I choose to go to even more places in the world I have never been before..
I choose to be more patient to people I do not like..
I choose to be the best girlfriend ever! *hearts&flowers*
I choose to have no obstacles... only challenges and opportunities to learn. :)

I choose to focus on more wonderful things about every person I meet.... =)
I choose to simply savor love and life... =)
I choose to stay awake more...
I choose to be more outgoing and free spirited...

I choose to change the world in my own little way...
I choose to not be weary in doing good...
I choose to lovingly serve everyone I meet... (just stay awake Tina!)


HAPPY FABULOUS NEW YEAR TO ALL OF YOU, my dear Friends.... =)



Cheers for a wonderful 2011!



Let's keep our vision and make this world a better place!

Stop and Surrender

Now, I stopped trying to control events, and just trust and have faith that everything will fall into a natural order, one that works.

you know the popular saying:


(via heymrblue)

so... yeah. and that the good thing about things falling apart, is that you can choose to pick up which pieces you want to have in your life.

I'm just resting while a power much greater than me takes over. :) (thinking about rest, makes me want to go have a massage!!!! i BADLY NEED ONE! maybe mamaya before i go to sleep.)

but, but, i have to get back on track. I have a "challenge", I'm working out on..... some goal.. which I will reveal as soon as I ACHIEVE it. it's in my PRIORITY FOLDER.

The recent uhmmm experience I had, I mentioned was terrible, right? It almost shattered a belief, that I keep holding on to... but, then... my angels are always around to keep me back on track. I have always believed that you need not a lot of pain and suffering to grow. Because, Jesus said: "It is finished". But, of course... you have a choice to go through all that. And like many gurus would say: "There are many paths to the mountain top."

I've always believed that Love operates on a win-mode. Being successful in life need not have a lot of negative tension involved, and that we don't really have to struggle all the time.

So... I surrender and just love. :) It's like I'm melting into another world. Some may call it a fantasy, but sometimes the truth can seem like a fantasy. Of course, I still have a feet on both worlds. And someone taught me how to take the rose-colored glasses off, if necessary. And, I did.

They say the world changes, when we change. It reflects back to us what we have been giving all along. It softens when we soften. It opens when we open our hearts.

It's this moment when LOVE matters more than anything. Not psychology, not neurosis. Just Love. That warm feeling, that despite all those broken promises, shattered dreams, half truths, hostility, you found a way to stop fighting the world... and let things be.

There'd be moments I may forget, but that's part of our journey....

*spreads the love to y`all*

peace IN! (haha. trying to be cool, eh?)

There are no Mistakes

i suddenly remembered a song....

it's by Barbra Streisand...

If you think you took the wrong turn... if you made any mistakes... if you regret something.. or maybe you are thinking about the past that went bad..

or maybe life wasn't that easy....

this song... this song is for you....

i hope you take time to listen to it...

and its a good song to follow up on my previous post with those "vulnerable" side of the heroes...



Lessons to Be Learned - Barbra Streisand

They say there's a universal plan
For every woman, for every man
I do believe there's a higher power
But in our darkest hour it's hard to understand
So we start to question, start to doubt
We lose faith in what life's all about

Why did the right road take the wrong turn
Why did our heart break, why'd we get burned
Just like the seasons there are reasons for the path we take
There are no mistakes
Just lessons to be learned

Don't give up, keep on looking deep inside
Let your heartbeat be your guide
Cause there's a gift, for those who keep believing
You'll find what you've been needing is right before your eyes
You'll hold the answer in your hands
Then you'll know, you'll finally understand

Why did the right road take a wrong turn
Why did our heart break, why'd we get burned
Just like the seasons there are reasons for the path we take
There are no mistakes
Just lessons to be learned

No matter how many times you stumble or fall
The greatest lesson is loving yourself through it all

Why did the right road take a wrong turn
Why did our heart break, why'd we get burned
Just like the seasons, there are reasons for the path we take
There are no mistakes
Just lessons
Lessons to be learned

Absolute Vulnerability

Even heroes have "vulnerable moments".

Despite the superpowers and psychic abilities they have... they are human too.


Adrian Tranquili a sculptor shows us the scarcely seen, vulnerable side of our Super Heroes.

Although the outside battles are equally riveting... it is the inner battle that matters most. In Spiderman 3: "The Battle Lies Within".

Everyone can relate to them because it is not just the super heroes who goes through this.

And according to Socrates of the movie "Peaceful Warrior" based on the best selling book The Way of A Peaceful Warrior:

A warrior is not about perfection or victory or invulnerability. He's about ABSOLUTE VULNERABILITY.

And in those moments.... we allow ourselves to be human.....



So... if you are going through something..... always mind the battles within.... because they are the ones that matters most. As within, so without. Life is a mirror. It reflects back your innermost thoughts, feelings and desires.

and always remember folks, a warrior is about ABSOLUTE VULNERABILITY.. and we all have those moments.




Image Source from: Diesel Fragrance

A Beautiful Scar

Rebecca sailed through childhood with a minimum of fuss, the usual scrapes, few illnesses and wonderful academics. Michael didn't sail. He skipped, ran, hopped, rolled, teetered and bounced. The only things he liked about school were recess, lunch and sports.
Mike loved to climb trees, the higher the better. Afraid of scaring him and causing him to fall, I have calmly talked him down, while my heart was in my throat and my knees felt like jelly. No scolding, spanking, or any other punishment kept him from climbing. (No, spanking wasn't illegal in those days.)

When Michael was fourteen, his dad bought him a Honda dirt bike, a purchase that caused me to consider divorce or murder. I had always stated that a motorcycle would take up residence on my property over my dead body. It was inconceivable that one of those deathtraps was going to carry my son all over the countryside - and with his father's approval!
Somehow, the boy survived. He grew up, married a beautiful, dark-eyed young woman, and fathered two children, a son and a daughter. Michael became a partner in his dad's business, a dangerous occupation that he grew to love: select cutting of timber. Safety measures are stressed above all else; and most of the time, Michael follows them. Shortcuts, no pun intended, are deadly in the timber. Two things especially are not done: "You never cut down trees alone" and "you cut smart and don't try to outrun a falling tree."

One day Michael did both. The tree splintered, snapped and the trunk flew upwards, striking Michael's head. He remembers being airborne. When he regained consciousness, he was draped across the trunk, one hand still on the running chainsaw, wedged beneath the tree. He freed his hand, but it took three attempts before he could stand up without passing out again. His hardhat saved his life, but I've always wondered if his hard head wasn't also a major factor...that and his guardian angel.

One day I received a call from my son in the middle of an afternoon, a rare occurrence. "Mom, I don't want to scare you, but I'm in trouble. There's something wrong with my heart. Joyce made me go to the doctor, and he's sending me to the ER. He told me I might not live to get there." Mike's heart had developed an irregular beat so severe that the doctors were afraid that he would go into cardiac arrest. A heart cath showed no damage, and medicines are controlling the irregularity, for which we are all very grateful.

Don't ever ask, "What next, Lord?" For years I have fussed at my children and four grandchildren about their laxness in using sunscreen. Most of them get periodic sunburns, sometimes waiting to see me until the redness has faded. They know that I'm going to react with frustration and impatience. I often told Michael that he wouldn't look very pretty without a nose.

That remark came back to haunt me. Mike's sweet wife finally convinced him to see a dermatologist about a small place beside his nose that bled every time he washed his face. I was convinced that the biopsy would reveal skin cancer, but I wasn't prepared for the report.
"Mom, I got gypped again," Mike told me on the phone. I chuckled a bit.
"You have skin cancer, don't you? Don't worry, Honey. Doctors can take it right off." There was a long pause before Mike answered.
"Mom, it's melanoma," he said. I felt as if someone had driven a fist into my stomach. I couldn't breathe. Oh Dear Lord! I cried silently. Melanoma kills people! Our families have already lost so much this year! My daughter-in-law's young brother and grandmother and Mike's grandmother all died within the year! Mike is already dealing with a heart problem! Enough, Lord!

The next few weeks were filled with alternating states of fear and hope and faith. Additional biopsies showed that the cancer filled a larger area than first thought, but the doctors were hopeful and encouraging. They felt confident that all of the cancer could be removed and that there was very little possibility that it had spread anywhere else in his body. Their main concern was the reconstructive process, since such a large area would have to be removed near his nose, even a small part of his nostril.

The surgery was successful; and for many days Mike had to wear a bandage in the middle of his face. After it was removed, there was a red, swollen area that wasn't very pretty; but it improved daily. I didn't care what it looked like. I was just happy that the cancer had not invaded a vital organ.

The other day, for the millionth time, I looked at my handsome son. With my eyes, I traced the fine line that runs from just below his eye to the curve of his nostril. The surgeons did a remarkable job repairing his face. I told Mike that his scar is a war wound, a badge of honor, regardless of how it looks, and that it adds character to a too-handsome face. He thought about that for a minute before he replied, "Huh! You're right. It is a war wound!"
I've learned that nothing hurts us more than watching our children hurt, regardless of how old they are. I've learned that faith isn't faith until it's tested, and I've learned that we don't know whether we really have it until we need it. We can walk away victorious in battle, but we often carry scars to prove the victory.

The remnant of cancer on Michael's face is a line about the width of two strands of thread, a fine scar...a beautiful scar. It is one of the most beautiful things I have ever seen, and I thank God for it, daily. It's a constant reminder of how fragile we are, a reminder that we are simply made of flesh and bone, held together with skin. Michael's scar is a token of mercy, grace, and healing, things I don't want to take for granted, ever again.

By: Barbara Elliott Carpenter

Loving 2009

It was a magical 2008. I spent my time celebrating ME... Every moment, I have chosen to always feel wonderful with ME.

and with that... I thank God - to whom I felt I have grown closer this year because I spent more time listening with the voice deep within me. A God... I see... who is very loving and was always around when I felt like there's nobody I feel safe to talk too. Whenever, I go crazy or distressed over things that often confuses me... He was always around like a light in the dark.. piercing my heart with love and melting all the worries away. To A God, a friend and a lover. Yes, a lover. My heart's bursting from all the love I never thought was possible. Yes, God. You sure showed me it's possible to experience an enchanted love. I thought, it happens to a select few only.... but you gave me a chance to experience it too - and in this world. And I know this year... I am experiencing it fully. 2008 was just the beginning.

I thank all the people who were endlessly patient with me, and who loved me unconditionally. THANK YOU, dear friends - this goes to everybody who visits my blog.... and to all those who supported me*murag Oscar's awardee*.. (you bring joy whenever I see messages from you guys). Thank you. Thank you. My endless gratitude to you guys for just BEING THERE.

2008 was a magical year. I felt sparks and saw glitters by the middle of the year. By, November another angel arrived... and another angel *that makes 2* who was a perfect gift for us.

The second angel brought everybody closer and I found what I have always yearned for - "friends.sisters who would listen to everything about me... with no judgment". Our relationship brought us to that point and I feel soooo safe with them.


This year, is LOVING 2009. If it was ME last year... I am choosing to have a WE this year. Spent a lot of time meditating about this.... although I need more time to meditate on the WE part. Haha. Ok. I know you might be lost in this post now...

but here's my LOVING 2009:

This year..... I choose to LIVE LIFE LOVINGLY.
I choose to be more AUTHENTIC to everybody.
I choose to say what is really from my HEART
I choose to Live with intention.
I choose to travel more and explore.

This year I choose to dedicate myself and every moment to my PURPOSE
I choose to support people in their journey back to LOVE.
I choose to support people around me in their WELL-BEING.
I choose to practice Wellness.

This year... I choose to bring out the best in other people.
I choose to accept people as they are and love them unconditionally.
I choose to appreciate my FRIENDS.
I choose to enjoy my journey with the people around me.

This year I choose to allow myself feel what I have deprived myself all along
I choose to share my LIFE and JUST BE with someone I love.
I choose to celebrate that experience.
I choose to create loving memories plus with magic.

This year I choose to always do WHAT I LOVE.
I choose to laugh and be care-free.
I choose to treat myself with respect.
I choose to dance in the rain... and fly like an eagle.
I choose to enjoy and be responsible for my FREEDOM.

This year I am choosing things with no regrets
I choose to nurture my mind with loving thoughts.
I choose to LIVE the MIRACLE.
I choose to trust the process called LIFE.

Because I know I am a magnificent being who can dance on any path......

May this Loving 2009 be yours as well.... I share this to everyone. =)

Love you guys!

Walk for the Land

Ever since I saw the documentary in ABS CBN about the Sumilao Farmers, I wanted to do something.

Then, I saw this online petition that's been going on for days already: Sumilao

At least online I get to support them. Return the Land to the Farmers.

They did it in a peaceful way and I admire them for that. T_T.

If only I'm there now.

But... I'm here. You have my support and prayers.

For their Position Paper - click HERE.

I encourage you to join the support for the Sumilao Farmers. Thank you. :)

The Choice

"The doors we open and close each day decide the lives we live"

How was your day???

You get to choose how you start your day despite the circumstances.

You get to choose to enjoy waking up with a smile despite the heat and noise or choose to be annoyed with how your day started.

You ride a jeepney and chanced upon a passenger who is annoying you to bits you can either choose to divert your attention to something other than the passenger or stay annoyed deep inside.

You get to college and knew about the change in the schedule, you can choose to complain or you can choose to accept it.

or if you are working your boss suddenly announces you to be transferred, you can choose to be excited with the change or fear what happens.

A colleague gets into your nerves, you can choose to react or choose to just smile and understand the person.

A friend asks you to go to lunch to meet his/her friends, you can choose to decline or choose to meet new friends.

When you ride a taxi and happened to chance upon an "angry driver", you can choose to ignore it or choose to react once again.

or if you are driving and another car cuts you off, you can chase that car and throw dagger-like looks at the driver when you catch up or just remain calm and understand.

You can always choose what type of day it is today. Is it a good one or a bad one? When you decide to choose how to feel and respond in every given situation, it may seem insignificant but when you look at the big picture it sums your day. In these cases, we know there are no right or wrongs just "simple choices".

The hidden secret of life is that we are a PRODUCT of the simple decisions we make each time.

Do you ever wonder that if we turned right instead of left we could have been a different person? We could have been happier , despite of everything that goes along our way.

Each day we make choices, consciously or unconsciously. We can either choose to be happy, respond, accept, change, improve, offer a smile, say hello, be generous and be every bit of a kind person deep within or we can choose to be sad, react, resist changes, ignore happiness, be grumpy and angry.


So, what type of day is it today?

The choice is up to you!

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BELATED HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO MY BELOVED BROTHER PAOLO!

LOVE YOU PAO! (busy lang diod si ate.. boohoo)

yeah, i choosed to be busy... but I'm happy =)

Seeeee......

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after a long day practicing......



there is always a time for a coffee break..... :)

Much has been given

It's been raining cats and dogs during mornings and evenings. And I'm lovin` it... hehe... because I'm always inside the office.

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Everything's moving fast.... well at least, for me. I spend most of my time in the office and a lot has been happening lately. The Service Center in Tagum will have it's new location and a big one at that. Everyone in the Davao Service Center is excited already and ready to conquer the place.

I noticed the favor, opportunity and privilege that was bestowed upon me.

They say.....

It comes, when you are ready.

The universe is aligning and positioning to what I want... and maybe that's why everything is happening fast. I am just amazed about how everything falls into place. New avenues are opening and I am excited because it's not routine like what most people have when they work. IT's so different...... and everyday is a new day.....

But then....

To whom much is given, much is required.

With greater power comes great responsibility.

Of course, one cannot shake the quotes above for they deemed true. Much has been given already for me..... and whatever it is that is required I surely would meet. Dapat lang. I am not trying to worry myself, it's just that I am aware of what these favors have in stored and the responsibility.

I have offered Isaacs(meaning "sacrifices") in my life. Made a lot of things a normal teenage girl wouldn't do and would find really boring. Sometimes, there would be diversions but then my parents would always remind me that there are better things to do and one should be productive and all. I am grateful to have parents, family and friends who constantly remind me to be a better person everyday........

It's true when one says "follow your heart". I did. It wasn't easy, I tell you. It was never easy. Following your heart means a lot of sacrifices. But, you must be clear with what you want..... and I have been clear with it....... and results are showing now.

Nothing is free in this world. Everything has a price... and one must pay for the price before you get what you want.

My goals and desires are coming true..... It also pays to be optimistic.

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Sorry, if I'm slow to make my entries but I do visit your places once in awhile... just not everyday like before.

HAVE A GREAT DAY!!

Convictions

I was tagged by Ate Dessie (Fingertalks).

Why do I blog?

I first encountered "blogging" when I was browsing MySpace and they have this new feature. 1.} I was thinking of trying it out and have my online journal. I was 16 back then, ignorant and pretty much engrossed with IRC-ing. I was basically, in front of the PC most of the time, because I assist in my parent's Service Center.

My first post was March 6, 2004. I only succeeded in having 5 posts, because after my posts we(me and the firstborns with their family) were "shipped" to Cebu for a wedding and our "going back to Davao" was pretty much endangered because we were encouraged to stay for a month or so at what we called the "Mission House". So, we lived with our spiritual family for a month with no internet connection. I think I only got to online once for that month and that was to stay online in IRC and check Friendster. Blogging in myspace was long forgotten.

Then, I was invited by Avy here at Blogger and started my own blog April 19, 2005. * 1st post *. I only managed to post one entry and then I forgot everything about it for a year, since I'm pretty much consumed with IRC and all my focus went there.

May 9, 2005, I also opened another blog in Friendster when they added a "blog" along with the "photo album". It became my-not-so-regular-blog, since blogging did not infect my system yet.

One time early 2006, I was browsing the internet and chanced upon blogs with cute layouts. So, I decided to revive my blog to 2.) learn how to make those fancy layouts. I decided to update my blog(May 2006), and then posted a Did you know? segment. From then on, I started getting hooked to blogging and each day my "addiction" to blogging grows. First few months of blogging 3.) was to chronicle what happened during the day and an 4.) outlet of my emotions . Check out the example of my chronicles complete with date and time.

But, as days progress and as I read different blogs... my reasons for blogging changes. Just like life, you meet different people and then meeting someone who inspired you.... you suddenly wanna be like that person but of course with a personal twist and ingredients that reflects YOU... and makes a UNIQUE you.

5.) I wanted to share a part of me, my experiences, and what I learned in life and of course to learn something from you bloggers, through your posts as well.

I have observed your posts and through it, I have come to understand you as YOU.

As my blogging experience progress, like Ate Dessie I have come to be much more sensitive to other people who reads my blog as well. Careful, not to offend and at the same time take it all out without REPRESSING my opinion. If I have offended some of your beliefs in some of my posts..... pardon me because I never meant it to be that way. I understand we all have different views, and these are my views... I'm just sharing them... and of course some of my views might change as I seek wisdom through knowledge and experiencing it.

Somehow, some of my posts may seem informative.. I don't want to be a person who gives the impression of knowing-it-all, because I don't. There are things, I wanna know... I wanna remember too.... and that's one of my quest in life.

Don't believe anything I write in this blog unless it RESONATES WITH YOUR SOUL.

6. )I am not here to impose anything to you.... but I am here to share... and relate... because for me that's part of life.

I chanced upon K.Blogie's post about Jayvee of A bugged life's project.

The project of defining one's own conviction.

I think it is quite important to know what our blog convictions are just like knowing our purpose in life. To know one's purpose is to know one's direction, and of course it gives greater meaning to your blog. It is not JUST ANOTHER BLOG but one with A PURPOSE.

My Blog Conviction: I want to share my experiences to fellow bloggers who might get a thing or two about loving life and living in abundance.

Ch-Changes

Change.

They say the only constant thing in this world is CHANGE. Life is all about changes. We cannot simply afford to just slack off when we are comfortable with something or a situation. We all need to GROW and in order to grow, we need to CHANGE. If nothing ever changed, there'd be no butterflies. It is inevitable.

Growth is the only evidence of life. ~John Henry Newman, Apologia pro vita sua, 1864

I've been hearing complaints about the government, in fact when was the last time people stopped complaining and started changing ? I mean yes, the government may have it's faults, and sure we have every right to complain.. but I hope for a change... those people who got nothing to do with their life would stop blaming the government and start changing for the better.

You see, part of what stops people from growing is "complaining". They see other people's faults without seeing theirs. They prefer to blame other people because they cannot afford to take responsibility for their own life.

Changes comes with responsibility. Your life would be better, if you stop complaining and blaming other people for what is happening in your life and start to accept the responsibilities that goes with "human rights". We should be aware that we are all responsible for our own actions. And whatever that is happening in our life is the result of our actions.

Q: So.. how do we effectively change our circumstances? Given that we cannot complain(oh, which is bliss!) and blame it on other people because we are supposed to be responsible for our own actions and circumstances which are the result....?

I'm not really saying that you cannot complain, I'm just pointing out that it's better to do some changing rather than complaining. Its much more productive... and it helps you grow.

Change starts within. So you will understand clearly why change starts from within.. I will take the example from Bob P. about the mirror images. :)

Take a look at that picture. So, you see a woman with a camera with her reflectionssss. And I mean reflectionssss.

The woman would represent you (never mind that you are a guy, imagine this time you are that woman). The images or the reflections she has has would be the "circumstances" in your life.

Now, you want to change the circumstances, because you are not happy with that result. Where do you think, (in this case the mirror image) would you try to change... "the certain mirror image" or the "woman holding the camera" ?

You see, people are so bent up in trying to change their circumstances, their home, the PEOPLE AROUND THEM, blah and blah except THEMSELVES.... and then when nothing happens they go about complaining nothing is changing.

They want to CHANGE THEIR LIFE... but they do not want to change themselves.

Things do not change, WE CHANGE.

Trying to change the circumstances would be like this "mirror image". You cannot change anything if you try to change the "reflections" of you.

Your circumstances are the reflections of WHO YOU ARE. If you want to change your reflection, do a little shifting of emotions..... listen to your spirit... listen to the voice within.

Before you complain, take a good look at yourself.... and see what needs to be changed inside of you.

Remember:

It is not the strongest of the species that survive, nor the most intelligent, but the one most responsive to change. ~Author unknown

It's the most unhappy people who most fear change. ~Mignon McLaughlin, The Second Neurotic's Notebook, 1966

since

They must often change, who would be constant in happiness or wisdom. ~Confucius

but.. also BE WEARY because...

All change is not growth, as all movement is not forward. ~Ellen Glasgow

Image from: Shanner

Mountains to Climb and Rivers to Cross

There comes a moment in everyone's life...

There comes a moment in time...

When you come to a river you just have to cross...

Or a mountain you just have to climb.

(song from B.P.'s Attitude series)

There really comes a time for happiness and so for dark days. One cannot experience happiness without having to experience a time for sadness. Whatever it is there will be dark days for the light to shine through... and we all need to go through it in order to appreciate the joy, peace, and the light. There are mountains to climb and rivers to cross... the process is hard but with all that's happening.... glory would be fleeting in the end.

"Have a little laugh at life and look around you for happiness instead of sadness. Laughter has always brought me out of unhappy situations. Even in your darkest moment, you usually can find something to laugh about if you try hard enough." - Red Skelton, Comedian

There are some experiences that brings us to some places where we do not want to be and we just have to remember its all part of the process. We all have our shares of disappointments, sadness, and you name it.

There are things that are unsettling, questions unanswered. In every why.. there is an answer.. we just need to look around... see the signs. There are things that don't work... there are signs that tells you why it doesn't.

There are actions we took that brings us to results that we do not want.... but we must endure it for we caused it. We do not need to blame... we just need to be responsible. We all need to accept everything and be responsible and from there start to live life the way we want it.

Things happen for a reason.... and ALL THINGS work together for GOOD even if what you see are all bad and there seems to be no hope. Don't let your candle flicker and go out in these moments of darkness.... but let it shine..

Along the way there are people who stayed and accepted us for who we are despite all the flaws.. they see the perfection. We must not fail to recognize, cherish, appreciate for what they contributed and shared.

Today, Im thanking one of them..one of the "kindered spirits" of my life... you know who you are. :) You are special, great as well as treasured. Thanks for everything.

And in every lifelong journey.. let us cherish the good times and never forget them.... never ignore the bad times(but never dwell on it)... learn from our actions.... and make the rest of our lives wonderful as we want it to be.

it is not good to hate all the roses because you got scratched with one thorn.
to give up on your dreams because one didn't came true to give up on your efforts because one of them failed.
to condemn all your friends because one betrayed you
to not believe in love because something did not work out..
to throw away all chances to be happy because you didn't succeed on the first
attempt.

Be an Inspiration

I was inspired to write a post about.. well.. "Inspiration". I read andianka's post about helping the people who were victims of the storm Reming.. and it reminded me of this topic that's been on my mind for months.

I believe one of the greatest gift one can give to a person is "Inspiration".

We can help people survive daily by giving them relief goods (yes, it's a big help too), some stuffs they need, aid them financially, treat them from this and that. But all that is temporary, after all that... what happens?

Don't get me wrong here ok? It's pretty much important to help them after the storm and give them exactly what they need physically and all that. And I do value and appreciate that there are people who shares and there are people who are getting all they help they need.

What I am trying to share is... that it's also great to give and live like an "Inspiration" to others as well.

It's like a kid getting sick and being treated kindly by a nurse or a doctor and she suddenly gets inspired that she wanted to be like a nurse or a doctor someday so that she could help many people as well.

It's like a kid who has been raised in a poverty-stricken place and that kid meets a person who is very much rich and yet down-to-earth who taught him or even just showed him that it does not need money to have money... and that EVERYONE has a chance to be like him and be MORE than what he is.

It's like Jesus who inspired Christians to live a righteous life (and i mean WHOLEHEARTEDLY) not for the sake of the religion but because it's how they see it fit. And just like Jesus who was an inspiration to His disciples telling everyone "yet, all this you can do and more."

It's like Mother Teresa who inspired many women (as well as men) to tend to the needy and was always sharing about world peace.

It's like Princess Diana who inspired many little girls (like me) to be strong and be a great help to the sick as well.

It's like Jose Rizal (well not the one about him being a womanizer but it could be as well) who inspired other writers to speak what is TRUE for them and was never afraid to die for the country and for what he believed in.

You see, every great person has an INSPIRATION. Every great master that lived in this planet somehow saw someone, envisioned someone that inspired them to be WHO THEY ARE and WHO THEY WANT TO BE.

and maybe even little things you do, might inspire somebody and wouldn't it be nice to hear about them becoming GREAT and achieving what they want someday just simply because one way or another he/she was inspired by something you did...

It's not about the material things that you give, but it's because you gave something to that person's soul to make him do more.

It's what everybody needs... an inspiration... to be who they want to be.

Our chief want is someone who will inspire us to be what we know we could be. -Ralph W. Emerson.

To do something, however small, to make others happier and better, is the highest ambition, the most elevating hope, which can inspire a human being -John Lubbock

This world would be a lovely place if everybody inspire each other right?

That's what leaders do...

Leaders establish the vision for the future and set the strategy for getting
there; they cause change. They motivate and inspire others to go in the right
direction and they, along with everyone else, sacrifice to get there. -John
Kotter

And of course one cannot be called a leader if he/she did not make other people leaders like himself/herself.

We all want to help each other and the best you can do is to inspire and enrich one another.

So, set out and be an inspiration to everyone. Have a great Sunday! :)

{ I just finished Birds of Prey by J.A. Jance. Me and Tin read it together i suppose but I guess she might be busy. Review on ESPRESSO BREAK WP. Don't worry tin no spoilers or anything... on second thought... dont read it tin. Haha. after na lang. Just posted a quote that mentioned PHILIPPINES there. }

Busy Bee

No updates in a few while. I'm drained. Haha. I don't know what to talk about. I dont want to bore you with my thesis details... and talking about it would not be exactly therapeutical for me. I'm still pondering on how to rig this whole thesis ordeal.

Our school's not giving us enough time to breathe. Every other week we have exams and our Final Defense was moved to Feb. 15, 16, 17, yesterday. Which is sooo shocking!! All eyes BULGED. O_O As in. HUWAAATTT ?

When asked the reason why the freaking defense for our Chapters 1-3 would be early, the admin says it's better not to prolong the agony and it's better that way since we have more time to "lamierda" afterwards. Yeah, right. As if we can. Although yeah we have the time but then we'd better use it wisely and work on our Thesis 2. Don't ask me why it's happening so fast, aside from the reason our admin stated. (Although yeah I do have an inkling why. It should involve $$$. Oops. Did I say that much ? haha)

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As to my 2 previous Inspiring posts. Seems like I know a lot about them and yeah I do. I've been reading a lot about happiness, life, spirituality last year..... and I've sorted them out. Tried the secrets to happiness, life, health, wealth. The ones I posted are the ones that worked for me. I've tried and tested them. But if it worked for me.. it doesn't mean it would work for you. We are all different and unique. We have different experiences. I'm sharing to you what I experienced and in the process might give you an idea, open your mind, inspire you.. or help you in any way.

Specially the one about Happiness being a choice. We can always choose to be happy despite the circumstance... but yeah sometimes we can't help but be sad by the events... but that's all part of the process. Just enjoy it! :)

Law of Polarity works in every way. We are living in the world of RELATIVITY. Where everything is related to each other. There'd be no happiness if there's no sadness. How can we appreciate happiness if we never go through sadness? Life. =)

And we all have our own definitions of happiness. Whichever way.. everyone's right. No one's wrong given their own model of the world.

Cheers to Happiness and Love! (Love you all!)

In pursuit of Happiness

A lot of people wants to be happy. If you ask people around you about what they really want in this world, mostly they would tell you: "I want to be happy". It's like they believe there is a place called "Happy" located in the map, and that they need to reach it. It seems like a faraway land to most.

But then happiness is not a place where you need to go (just like heaven and hell and that's another story.. I dont want to venture as of now.) , it's not a place that can be found in the world. In fact, you don't have to go anywhere or have "something" or have "someone" to find happiness.

It exists within you - in your mind and in your soul. - M. Hansen.

Can you define HAPPINESS in just one word? Guess not. It does not have one definition. Since every individual is unique, it means something entirely different to each person. Happiness does not exist in only the big things in life. It does not ruminate around an ipod or the latest gadget you acquired.

So where does one find happiness?

BEING happy. And i mean BE-ing HAPPY is a choice. It's a state of mind, an attitude we consciously choose to express. It's not a gift that would fall into your lap or that would knock at your doorstep. It's not what circumstances brings you (e.g. having a car, being with someone) it's how you see things the HAPPY way. It's not the RESULT but it's how you perceive the circumstances/situations. It's not because everything is so perfect but despite the imperfections you are happy.

The world may seem imperfect to most of you, people may seem unfair, parents may seem inconsiderate, friends may abandon you at one moment in time, lovers disappointing you, kids on the street going hungry, people in Africa getting AIDS, terrorists killing innocent people, politicians fooling the masses, graft and corruption, pain and poverty.

And you ask... "Where can i find HAPPINESS if this is the world I am living in?"

You need not wait for the world to turn away from what people call imperfections. Because you see we all need IMPERFECTIONS in order to appreciate PERFECTION. How can we say this is perfect if there is no imperfection? How can we say you are doing something good without the existence of evil? How can we say it's hot if there's no cold? Beauty without the beast ?

You need not rely on someone else to be happy, only you can be responsible for that. Accept the world, accept who you ARE completely the perfections and the imperfections... and make changes if you want to.

So where does one find happiness exactly?

Again, you need not wait for the big things to happen. Happiness can be found in simple things. Happiness can be found in the aroma of a coffee, the morning dew, the rainy Sundays you spend indoors or if you'd rather sing and dance in the rain. A silly joke that can make you laugh everytime you remember it. A movie or a song that enlightens you and gives you peace of mind. A character in a book or a movie that you can relate to. Watching kids smile... seeing the lone flower in the dusty road.. the little act of kindness...

You can make the smallest thing or scene, like the moon in the sky or the first rays of sunshine into a joyful experience.

Nothing can bring you happiness but yourself.

We don't need a reason to be happy. Everything hath been given by GOD it is up to you to notice the simplicity and the joy it brings.... even when there seems to be nothing.

Share it... live it...love it. Happiness is a lifestyle... and you can't help but share it to other people as well.