Merry Christmas!
It is a special Christmas for me because it is the first time for me to celebrate it in another country, outside my motherland. It also means celebrating it without my family. But I do have relatives here in the land down under so no need to be sad.
In previous years, Christmas was usually busy with my family as godchildren and relatives go to our place to ask for presents or money. So it is the time to share blessings.
However, I am not happy that Christmas has become commercialised. All the Christmas shopping and scrambling for discounts. It is usually traffic in my hometown, so that is what I do not like.
Where I am now, it is quiet, there are still Christmas decorations and shopping but not as much. Or maybe because there are less people here.
Since there is no Christmas rush here, I reflected on what Christmas truly represents and I came up with three : Love, Reflection and Oneness with Christ.
"Give love on Christmas day" is the popular line from the song. Yes, we get to share our love by spending time with family and friends and giving gifts. Time and gifts are two love languages according to Dr. Gary Chapman's popular book "The Five Love Languages". Let us not be too absorbed on giving the best presents, as our presence is really the best gift, and let us not forget to give appreciation and affirmation, a hug (physical touch), and to serve our loved ones in order to complete the love languages.
Reflection during Christmas for me is to think of the blessings of God, since this was the time the best blessing was given : the Saviour. Although Easter is the bigger celebration because of the resurrection, there would have been no Saviour if the roles of father (Joseph) and mother (Mary) were not filled. By sending a baby instead of a grown man, God teaches us patience. He really wanted to be with us.
And since Christmas is just a week away from New Year, it is the time to reflect on the year that is about to end and to be hopeful for the coming year.
Immanuel, meaning God with us, was the name given to Jesus. He became flesh, lived amongst us, experienced joys and sorrows. Whenever we feel hopeless, we can always remember how Jesus was dejected, despised, crucified, so we know He experienced our sorrows and more. But with Christmas we should also remember a new birth means hope, and how Jesus was loved by Joseph and Mary, how the three Kings traveled to see the Messiah, how the angels and shepherd glorified the King. Christmas represented Majesty with humility through the manger.
Each Christmas is special. It is the day of the King, shared with us.
Wednesday, 25 December 2013
Saturday, 23 November 2013
The Ps of Holiness: Praise and Prayer
"O praise the LORD, all ye nations: praise him, all ye people.
For his merciful kindness is great toward us: and the truth of the LORD endureth for ever. Praise ye the LORD." - PSALM 117:1-2
Praise the Lord!
The Lord is always gracious and merciful, so He deserves all our praise and glory, and more.
It has been a while since my last blog entry, and how I missed it!
The last two months has been busy for me.
September was a project-filled month at work.
Last month, I was finally able to see my family when I went home for a brief moment. It was both busy and fun. Got to see a few friends too, and my special someone.
This month, we were busy with a relative's wedding and I was with relatives who flew in for the wedding and stayed for more than 2 weeks. We had bonding moments and ate a lot!
Having fun can also be exhausting. Unhealthy eating can take a toll on one's health.
During that time, I also learned my mom was pushing through with surgery back home. That one made me sad, anxious. I was with her in her last surgery when she had her ovaries removed and I also wanted to be with her this time but I am too far away. Major or minor, it's hard to be away from a family member during a time like that.
All I can do is pray, to lift it to God.
Add to that, I felt lonely seeing the victims of typhoon Haiyan (Yolanda) on television. I remembered what we experienced when Typhoon Ondoy flooded our house. But these people had their homes and livelihood destroyed. :(
One time, as I was going home, I felt nauseous, maybe a mix of tiredness, worry, and the effect of unhealthy eating habits. Mostly when I feel sick, my mind wanders a lot. And it complains, and focuses on the negative things, which I hate. So I usually pray to God that I want to rest in His Love.
During that particular nauseous episode at the bus, my mind did not stop thinking negative thoughts. So what I did was to praise God! Yes, pray God for the nausea, for all the things happening in my life - both good and bad.
Just like a miracle, I felt the nausea slowly going away.
Praise is healing, praying is healing.
Praise God, my mother's surgery went well and she is recuperating at home.
Most of the time, I still forget that FAITH is the best antidote to worry and fear.
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A few months ago, I dedicated my morning commute time to praying the rosary.
Praying during commute gives me peace. Although my mind still wanders, it focuses on the positive rather than mindless things that can only worry me.
One time, I had a reflection while praying the Catholic prayers "Our Father" and "Hail Mary".
Both of these prayers are prayers that start with praise :
"Our Father, who art in Heaven, Hallowed be Thy Name"
Then we affirm His greatness and presence:
"Thy Kingdom come, Thy Will be Done on Earth as it is in heaven"
Hallowed means sanctified, greatly honored.
In Hail Mary, we pray:
"Hail Mary, full of grace"
"Blessed are you among women"
After praising, then comes supplication.
"Give us this day our daily bread"
"Forgive us our trespasses"
"Pray for us sinners now and at the hour of death"
These prayers teach us how to communicate.
We should always start with praise. This should be how we communicate not only to our God but to people, because we are brothers and sisters in Christ.
Find what is praiseworthy and tell it to people.
Stop the gossip, stop the blame, stop the backstabbing.
Focus on what is praiseworthy!
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In the church group, where I belonged to, CFC Singles for Christ (I am not yet a member here in my new town), we were taught the prayer ACTS.
A is for adoration. We adore Christ for all He is and what He does in our life.
C is for contrition. We ask forgiveness for our sins.
T is for thanksgiving. We thank God for all His blessings.
S is for supplication. We ask for favors based on His grace and will.
In supplication, let us not forget to pray for others. Surely we are blessed because someone else prayed for us.
I remember my late paternal grandmother, Lola Petra, who every night prays for us, her grandchildren. She remembers all our names and prays for us chronologically, from eldest to the youngest grandchild.
Prayers do work, as all of us are doing good in our careers and family life.
ACTS - a brief guide on how to pray.
Our life is a prayer. We praise, make mistakes, are grateful, need help.
Let us make a life a beautiful prayer.
Saturday, 24 August 2013
The Joys of Winter
Last week, the sun was shining brightly, the temperature rose and alas spring has come!
Or so we thought. After one week, the coldness came back, temperature was again down to 4 degrees. Winter is here to stay.
Three months ago, I wrote about how I prepared for winter.
Now, winter is almost over.
Most of the time, winter is gloomy. There is a feeling of sadness in a cold, dark, winter night. So most of I time I just sleep hehe.
There is the challenge of waking up and taking a shower (thankfully, there is hot water) when the thermometer (actually, an Android app) shows 5 degrees.
But come to think of it, there are many good things that winter offers. Let me count the ways.
4. Since the nights are longer, it actually promotes bonding for parents and children as everyone is forced to stay at home.
5. The abundance of winter season fruits. My favorites are berries! I am having a grand time eating strawberries and blueberries. They are so affordable during winter, and gives a dose of antioxidants too.
So there it is, my take on winter.
Soon it will be over and I will see the beautiful flowers blooming in spring.
Winter is not all that bad.
Winter is the equivalent of troubled times in our lives - there is darkness, gloominess. We feel it is never-ending but everything does come to an end. And new hope springs after challenging times.
Good thing I bought things I needed for winter like blankets, heater, boots and sweaters. In life, problems may suddenly arise. We are taken aback and caught by surprise, feeling helpless. But even if we feel that way, I believe God has been preparing us all along. Problems are in itself preparation for times ahead.
Tropical countries like my homeland, the Philippines, do not experience winter. Instead, harsh storms hit hard. Lately, storms have been ruthless, bringing much rain, damaging properties, taking lives. It is devastating.
Winters and storms, nature's way of preparation. We should be brave, we should stay strong. For if we do not endure the winters and storms of our lives, how can we enjoy the loveliness of spring or bask in the summer sun?
Or so we thought. After one week, the coldness came back, temperature was again down to 4 degrees. Winter is here to stay.
Three months ago, I wrote about how I prepared for winter.
Now, winter is almost over.
Most of the time, winter is gloomy. There is a feeling of sadness in a cold, dark, winter night. So most of I time I just sleep hehe.
There is the challenge of waking up and taking a shower (thankfully, there is hot water) when the thermometer (actually, an Android app) shows 5 degrees.
But come to think of it, there are many good things that winter offers. Let me count the ways.
- Ironing can be bypassed. Since most of the time, a jacket or sweater is worn, the inner clothing needs not be ironed, saving time and electricity.
- Winter brings out the fashionista. Boots and sweater can make you feel like a New Yorker, ala Anne Hathaway in "The Devil Wears Prada". It's cold so keeping warm is a must, and do it in style. Presenting my winter boots and sweater collection :)
4. Since the nights are longer, it actually promotes bonding for parents and children as everyone is forced to stay at home.
5. The abundance of winter season fruits. My favorites are berries! I am having a grand time eating strawberries and blueberries. They are so affordable during winter, and gives a dose of antioxidants too.
Soon it will be over and I will see the beautiful flowers blooming in spring.
Winter is not all that bad.
Winter is the equivalent of troubled times in our lives - there is darkness, gloominess. We feel it is never-ending but everything does come to an end. And new hope springs after challenging times.
Good thing I bought things I needed for winter like blankets, heater, boots and sweaters. In life, problems may suddenly arise. We are taken aback and caught by surprise, feeling helpless. But even if we feel that way, I believe God has been preparing us all along. Problems are in itself preparation for times ahead.
Tropical countries like my homeland, the Philippines, do not experience winter. Instead, harsh storms hit hard. Lately, storms have been ruthless, bringing much rain, damaging properties, taking lives. It is devastating.
Winters and storms, nature's way of preparation. We should be brave, we should stay strong. For if we do not endure the winters and storms of our lives, how can we enjoy the loveliness of spring or bask in the summer sun?
Sunday, 23 June 2013
Forgiveness and Faith
Then David said to Nathan, “I have sinned against the LORD.”
Nathan answered David: “The LORD on his part has forgiven your sin: you shall not die.”
2 Samuel 12:13
A person is not justified by works of the law but through faith in Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Christ Jesus that we may be justified by faith in Christ and not by works of the law, because by works of the law no one will be justified.
Galatians 2:16
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Love, forgiveness, faith. These are what is taught by the Church and most parents. These are also key ingredients in a relationship of any kind.
The two verses above where from last week's readings. The first one shows God's forgiveness. He has not only forgiven David, but in the New Testament, Jesus forgave the adulteress and other people on different instances. It shows that God is a God of mercy, embracing us despite our weaknesses and sinfulness, as long as we recognise our faults and repent. Change is gradual, and most of us have our favorite sin. But we can change, if we change by opening ourselves to transformation through the Holy Spirit, and knowing that we do what is right because we love God.
We receive forgiveness from God. But do we forgive? At times, I have a difficult time forgiving. Yes, I say I have forgiven but still there is this heaviness in my heart over the wrong done to me.
Last week, I had a misunderstanding with my loved one. They say that we are only hurt by ones we trust. Yes, because we are so open to them that when they hurt us, knowingly or unknowingly, we feel it deeply. I am one who can be sensitive. We did resolve the issue, because my loved one said sorry and recognised his mistake. I know it is also a part of me that is at fault for giving a different meaning to words at times.
Part of getting hurt is expecting too much. What should be is to have more understanding of why a person says or does something. It usually has to do with a person's upbringing. Some people are tactless by nature because they were brought up to speak out their feelings. Opinions are also shaped by ones environment and experiences.
When someone else hurt me, I asked God, why do I hold a grudge? How can I forgive? And the answer was simple: LOVE. Think how much you love that person, of things that a person did to you to feel loved. Oh yes, it did work. Love melts away the hurt.
God also reminded me that no one is perfect. Like in the second verse mentioned at the beginning, we are only justified by faith not by law. No one can boast because no one follows the law consistently. People are flawed. Everyone has a weakness and strength. This also depends on the context. One's strength can also be his weakness. In my case, my sensitivity causes me to be hurt, but it is also why I am more in tune with what other people need. I am sensitive to other's needs.
Forgiveness is not always easy. And for those who truly got hurt, it will not come instantly. But trust that love - of God, of people who truly care, will wipe away the hurt if only we allow ourselves to live, to love, to forgive.
Nathan answered David: “The LORD on his part has forgiven your sin: you shall not die.”
2 Samuel 12:13
A person is not justified by works of the law but through faith in Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Christ Jesus that we may be justified by faith in Christ and not by works of the law, because by works of the law no one will be justified.
Galatians 2:16
---------------------------------------------------
Love, forgiveness, faith. These are what is taught by the Church and most parents. These are also key ingredients in a relationship of any kind.
The two verses above where from last week's readings. The first one shows God's forgiveness. He has not only forgiven David, but in the New Testament, Jesus forgave the adulteress and other people on different instances. It shows that God is a God of mercy, embracing us despite our weaknesses and sinfulness, as long as we recognise our faults and repent. Change is gradual, and most of us have our favorite sin. But we can change, if we change by opening ourselves to transformation through the Holy Spirit, and knowing that we do what is right because we love God.
We receive forgiveness from God. But do we forgive? At times, I have a difficult time forgiving. Yes, I say I have forgiven but still there is this heaviness in my heart over the wrong done to me.
Last week, I had a misunderstanding with my loved one. They say that we are only hurt by ones we trust. Yes, because we are so open to them that when they hurt us, knowingly or unknowingly, we feel it deeply. I am one who can be sensitive. We did resolve the issue, because my loved one said sorry and recognised his mistake. I know it is also a part of me that is at fault for giving a different meaning to words at times.
Part of getting hurt is expecting too much. What should be is to have more understanding of why a person says or does something. It usually has to do with a person's upbringing. Some people are tactless by nature because they were brought up to speak out their feelings. Opinions are also shaped by ones environment and experiences.
When someone else hurt me, I asked God, why do I hold a grudge? How can I forgive? And the answer was simple: LOVE. Think how much you love that person, of things that a person did to you to feel loved. Oh yes, it did work. Love melts away the hurt.
God also reminded me that no one is perfect. Like in the second verse mentioned at the beginning, we are only justified by faith not by law. No one can boast because no one follows the law consistently. People are flawed. Everyone has a weakness and strength. This also depends on the context. One's strength can also be his weakness. In my case, my sensitivity causes me to be hurt, but it is also why I am more in tune with what other people need. I am sensitive to other's needs.
Forgiveness is not always easy. And for those who truly got hurt, it will not come instantly. But trust that love - of God, of people who truly care, will wipe away the hurt if only we allow ourselves to live, to love, to forgive.
Thursday, 30 May 2013
My Favorites
My favorite food as a child was fried chicken! I think most kids love that food, it's crispy, tasty though not too healthy. As an adult, I still like it but my palate has grown to love different flavors but chicken still remains one of my favorites.
Now that I am learning to be independent, I have to prepare my own lunch. Since fried food is the easiest to prepare, one of the mainstays in my lunch menu is - guess what ... Of course, fried chicken!
I marinade the chicken (usually drumsticks) in calamansi and fish sauce. After some hours (or minutes if there's no time), it's ready to cook.
Easy at it may seem, but I failed in cooking my fried chicken perfectly.
I always use the chicken drumstick and it is so meaty. The first time I fried it, oh my, it was undercooked. I still saw pinkish parts, so I did not finish it. My mistake there was not putting enough oil and using a very flat pan, instead of a deeper wok.
The second time I cooked it, I used the correct pan and added more oil. However, I did not cook it long enough. So yes, less pinkish parts and still undercooked.
The third time, I made sure I had all the elements right - the pan, the oil, the heat, the cooking time. And finally, yes, I had the perfect fried chicken - fried to the bones :)
This simple recipe and simple act of frying taught me that little things matter. Each element - pan, oil, heat and cooking time all mattered. Like in our life, our body parts/systems matter for our overall health; our mind, body, spirit create a whole being; physical, mental, emotional/psychological aspects all need to be sound for us to live well.
Frying a chicken also taught me to be patient and thus proving the adage "Haste makes waste". Cooking is both an art and a science. I am blessed to have food to cook. Thanks be to God.
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Today is Thursday. It is actually my favorite day. Well, it shares the same spot as Sunday.
I think it started in my third year of primary school, when I sat on the fourth row, thus we were the "Thursday " group. We were assigned as cleaners on Thursday - to arrange and wipe the seats, sweep the floor.
Even though it may sound like child labor, I enjoyed those moments bonding with my groupmates while cleaning.
In my now country of residence, Thursday is shopping day! It is when the shops are open until 9PM. On other days, shops are open only until 6PM, except for groceries and KMart. I think it is good to have a designated shopping day, so it's not too tempting to buy stuff.
Thursday is also St. Jude's day. Those with devotion to St. Jude, the patron for hopeless cases, pray novena to him. St. Jude, for me, is one of the most popular patron saints, especially in Manila where people flock to St. Jude church in Mendiola.
I believe in novenas, as I prayed novenas to St. Therese of Lisieux and St. Joseph, and my prayer to have work was granted. It is one Catholic tradition that I am learning more about.
Even if I am away from my homeland, I do my best to keep Thursday a prayer day for St. Jude.
Thursday is one day away from Friday, the last day of the work week for most people. It is an anticipatory day, anticipating the last day of work after which people can relax, have fun and do what that wish because they do not need to wake up so early the following day.
It is one reason why I like Thursday too, because it represents hope.
We thank God it's Friday. But we need Thursday before getting Friday.
Happy anticipated weekend, my dear readers! I thank God for you. May you be blessed in ways more than you can imagine!
Now that I am learning to be independent, I have to prepare my own lunch. Since fried food is the easiest to prepare, one of the mainstays in my lunch menu is - guess what ... Of course, fried chicken!
I marinade the chicken (usually drumsticks) in calamansi and fish sauce. After some hours (or minutes if there's no time), it's ready to cook.
Easy at it may seem, but I failed in cooking my fried chicken perfectly.
I always use the chicken drumstick and it is so meaty. The first time I fried it, oh my, it was undercooked. I still saw pinkish parts, so I did not finish it. My mistake there was not putting enough oil and using a very flat pan, instead of a deeper wok.
The second time I cooked it, I used the correct pan and added more oil. However, I did not cook it long enough. So yes, less pinkish parts and still undercooked.
The third time, I made sure I had all the elements right - the pan, the oil, the heat, the cooking time. And finally, yes, I had the perfect fried chicken - fried to the bones :)
This simple recipe and simple act of frying taught me that little things matter. Each element - pan, oil, heat and cooking time all mattered. Like in our life, our body parts/systems matter for our overall health; our mind, body, spirit create a whole being; physical, mental, emotional/psychological aspects all need to be sound for us to live well.
Frying a chicken also taught me to be patient and thus proving the adage "Haste makes waste". Cooking is both an art and a science. I am blessed to have food to cook. Thanks be to God.
--------------------------------------------
Today is Thursday. It is actually my favorite day. Well, it shares the same spot as Sunday.
I think it started in my third year of primary school, when I sat on the fourth row, thus we were the "Thursday " group. We were assigned as cleaners on Thursday - to arrange and wipe the seats, sweep the floor.
Even though it may sound like child labor, I enjoyed those moments bonding with my groupmates while cleaning.
In my now country of residence, Thursday is shopping day! It is when the shops are open until 9PM. On other days, shops are open only until 6PM, except for groceries and KMart. I think it is good to have a designated shopping day, so it's not too tempting to buy stuff.
Thursday is also St. Jude's day. Those with devotion to St. Jude, the patron for hopeless cases, pray novena to him. St. Jude, for me, is one of the most popular patron saints, especially in Manila where people flock to St. Jude church in Mendiola.
I believe in novenas, as I prayed novenas to St. Therese of Lisieux and St. Joseph, and my prayer to have work was granted. It is one Catholic tradition that I am learning more about.
Even if I am away from my homeland, I do my best to keep Thursday a prayer day for St. Jude.
Thursday is one day away from Friday, the last day of the work week for most people. It is an anticipatory day, anticipating the last day of work after which people can relax, have fun and do what that wish because they do not need to wake up so early the following day.
It is one reason why I like Thursday too, because it represents hope.
We thank God it's Friday. But we need Thursday before getting Friday.
Happy anticipated weekend, my dear readers! I thank God for you. May you be blessed in ways more than you can imagine!
Sunday, 19 May 2013
God Makes Dreams Come True
While watching one of my favorite Filipino tv shows, "Be Careful with my Heart", I related to one of the scenes. It was when the protagonist, Maya, was preparing for her first flight as an official flight attendant/stewardess. She thanked God that at last her dream has come true. In the story, Maya's childhood dream was to become a stewardess. But she was cheated by an illegal recruiter and had to work as a nanny.
In many ways I can relate because one of my childhood dreams was to go to my now country of residence. I wanted to visit my relatives here. It took many years before I was finally able to visit them, but still it was an answered prayer. And then I dreamt of going back and God granted that dream too.
In many ways, God made many of my dreams come true. In big and small ways, He is more than a genie. He said "Ask and you shall receive" (Matthew 7:7). He created the universe and He has the power to give anything we ask.
But there is a catch - God gives us things in His own perfect time. He first plants dreams in our hearts, allows it to grow and when we are mature enough, the dream comes into fruition.
Just like how I wanted to go abroad, I first had to work at my home country, increase my faith in Him, get close with my family, meet great friends. All these I had to experience so I am better prepared. Though I admit, it is still very hard without the people I love most. But I believe this serves a purpose for me to grow. And God allowed me to be here now that advances in technology allows me to talk to family and friends in a click of a Android phone :)
In simple ways, God has been granting my dreams. Like me wanting to buy boots and sweater at a reasonable price and I bought those for a really great bargain. When my keychain with flashlight was broken, I hoped I could replace it and I got one for free. For a facial scrub, I got a discount voucher. God guides me in shopping wisely so I can be a better steward of his provisions.
In the type of work I wanted, I got most of it in my present job. I am able to coordinate with people, work with data, and give service. With regards to leisure, I realized some years back that the dream destinations I had in mind, I was able to visit. Now I added more places to visit to my list, hoping that one day I can visit them all :)
God is truly a generous God. Though at times, we really don't get what we like. It's because God knows where we should be - where we will grow, where we can better make use of our talents, where we will meet the people who can help us be better.
Before I went to college, I had a dream university. But God did not grant that dream. But where He led me, to the university where I was meant to be, I got to be involved in lots of activities while still getting good grades and also met a lot of great people, mostly whom are still my friends.
Same goes with companies I worked for. I applied for big companies, dream companies of most. But where I was accepted, I was challenged, and met wonderful officemates who became friends.
Truly, each place or situation I was in, taught me something which I specifically asked to learn. Same goes for people God sends our way. Each one, whether the experience was good or bad, taught us a lesson.
Just today, God granted another dream. That of jogging in a nearby park. I woke up early, ate light breakfast, put on my running gear and went off. Oh how lovely to jog in a cold weather! I barely felt tired but only realized it when I dozed off while watching tv an hour later...zzzz
Thank you God for making dreams come true. Guide my heart so my dreams will be in line with Your will.
So the next time we want something, we should pray for it, but be ready to be surprised for God's best.
In many ways I can relate because one of my childhood dreams was to go to my now country of residence. I wanted to visit my relatives here. It took many years before I was finally able to visit them, but still it was an answered prayer. And then I dreamt of going back and God granted that dream too.
In many ways, God made many of my dreams come true. In big and small ways, He is more than a genie. He said "Ask and you shall receive" (Matthew 7:7). He created the universe and He has the power to give anything we ask.
But there is a catch - God gives us things in His own perfect time. He first plants dreams in our hearts, allows it to grow and when we are mature enough, the dream comes into fruition.
Just like how I wanted to go abroad, I first had to work at my home country, increase my faith in Him, get close with my family, meet great friends. All these I had to experience so I am better prepared. Though I admit, it is still very hard without the people I love most. But I believe this serves a purpose for me to grow. And God allowed me to be here now that advances in technology allows me to talk to family and friends in a click of a Android phone :)
In simple ways, God has been granting my dreams. Like me wanting to buy boots and sweater at a reasonable price and I bought those for a really great bargain. When my keychain with flashlight was broken, I hoped I could replace it and I got one for free. For a facial scrub, I got a discount voucher. God guides me in shopping wisely so I can be a better steward of his provisions.
In the type of work I wanted, I got most of it in my present job. I am able to coordinate with people, work with data, and give service. With regards to leisure, I realized some years back that the dream destinations I had in mind, I was able to visit. Now I added more places to visit to my list, hoping that one day I can visit them all :)
God is truly a generous God. Though at times, we really don't get what we like. It's because God knows where we should be - where we will grow, where we can better make use of our talents, where we will meet the people who can help us be better.
Before I went to college, I had a dream university. But God did not grant that dream. But where He led me, to the university where I was meant to be, I got to be involved in lots of activities while still getting good grades and also met a lot of great people, mostly whom are still my friends.
Same goes with companies I worked for. I applied for big companies, dream companies of most. But where I was accepted, I was challenged, and met wonderful officemates who became friends.
Truly, each place or situation I was in, taught me something which I specifically asked to learn. Same goes for people God sends our way. Each one, whether the experience was good or bad, taught us a lesson.
Just today, God granted another dream. That of jogging in a nearby park. I woke up early, ate light breakfast, put on my running gear and went off. Oh how lovely to jog in a cold weather! I barely felt tired but only realized it when I dozed off while watching tv an hour later...zzzz
Thank you God for making dreams come true. Guide my heart so my dreams will be in line with Your will.
So the next time we want something, we should pray for it, but be ready to be surprised for God's best.
Sunday, 12 May 2013
Preparing for Winter
I lived in a tropical country. We studied in school that we only have a dry and wet season. But when I was working, my boss from Canada said that is no such thing as dry and wet season. There are four seasons - spring, summer, fall/autumn and winter.
Now that I am living in a country where there are four seasons, I know what my boss meant. It is now autumn where I am and it's cold for me, coming from a tropical country. Temperature has been gradual dropping in the early morning. It starting from 13 degrees, then 12, 11, 10 and now it's 9 degrees. The forecast says it's going to be 8 degrees tomorrow.
Afternoons are fine because it shoots up to 20-23 degrees. But in the evening, the temperature drops again.
It's hard for people like me to commute because walking in the cold is a must, so is waiting on the bus stop and train stations.
I have been preparing. I bought winter clothes, though I feel I should buy more. I bought a small heater. I bought boots, which is enjoyable to wear because it looks good and keeps me feet and legs warm. I have yet to buy an electric blanket.
There's so much preparation because they say winter is so cold. And it does not even snow in this part of the country.
It is a drastic change of weather for me. But nature prepares us gradually. There is always an in-between from hot to cold and vice versa. After winter, it's a chilly weather again on spring then hot during summer.
It's also the way God prepares us for things. Though at times we feel we are caught off-guard, when we look back, some of the things we went through before are only preparations for things to come. Because God promised that His grace will be sufficient for our trials. And He will not give us something we cannot bear.
As humans, we forget that. We complain, we sulk. It's a normal human instinct. But God is preparing us for winter. And let's never forget that God will soon give us summer.
Now that I am living in a country where there are four seasons, I know what my boss meant. It is now autumn where I am and it's cold for me, coming from a tropical country. Temperature has been gradual dropping in the early morning. It starting from 13 degrees, then 12, 11, 10 and now it's 9 degrees. The forecast says it's going to be 8 degrees tomorrow.
Afternoons are fine because it shoots up to 20-23 degrees. But in the evening, the temperature drops again.
It's hard for people like me to commute because walking in the cold is a must, so is waiting on the bus stop and train stations.
I have been preparing. I bought winter clothes, though I feel I should buy more. I bought a small heater. I bought boots, which is enjoyable to wear because it looks good and keeps me feet and legs warm. I have yet to buy an electric blanket.
There's so much preparation because they say winter is so cold. And it does not even snow in this part of the country.
It is a drastic change of weather for me. But nature prepares us gradually. There is always an in-between from hot to cold and vice versa. After winter, it's a chilly weather again on spring then hot during summer.
It's also the way God prepares us for things. Though at times we feel we are caught off-guard, when we look back, some of the things we went through before are only preparations for things to come. Because God promised that His grace will be sufficient for our trials. And He will not give us something we cannot bear.
As humans, we forget that. We complain, we sulk. It's a normal human instinct. But God is preparing us for winter. And let's never forget that God will soon give us summer.
Saturday, 20 April 2013
God's time and creations
I used to struggled with time - being on time - especially in my native land where there is "Filipino time" which connotes being late.
But God wants us to be conscious of time. Psalm 90:12 says "Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom." I am sure God also wants to number our hours, minutes and seconds.
Being punctual was one of my goals.
But in this new country I am in, I needed to be on time! Everyone is on time!
And most especially because I needed to get on the bus, which arrives every 30 minutes or even every hour. So imagine missing the bus and having to wait for the next one. Surely a time waster.
I also cannot arrive on the bus stop at the exact time. I have to arrive earlier than the bus.
It's a double punch on punctuality and patience that God is teaching me.
I have a choice if I should wait idly or be productive. Thankfully, a good book, an audiobook or a good song keeps me company.
(Thankfully, there are free Catholic/Christian talks available online. My favorites are at www.kerygmafamily.com and www.febc.ph)
Awhile ago, I was waiting for the bus. In the bus schedule I got off the internet, the bus should arrive at 10:30am, but it was 10:35am and the bus has not arrived. I prayed and the Lord confirmed the bus would arrive.
I listened to praise music on my mp3 player while waiting for the bus.
10:40am came and I was getting worried. It was a Sunday and I thought, maybe there is no bus? Or perhaps the schedule changes on Sundays?
I suddenly remembered that I had an application on my phone that shows the bus and train schedules. Looking at it, I saw that indeed the schedule is different and the bus was bound to arrive at 10:52am.
I was there at the bus stop, feeling the heat on a breezy autumn day. A dog even scared me coz it was barking at dogs passing by, accompanied by their owners. But I prayed and remained steadfast.
At last the bus arrived and I was so relieved.
This day I learned faith, to use God's resources and patience in waiting for the perfect time. It's not always easy, but everyday grants us the grace to be victorious!
Thank you Lord for allowing me to learn lessons I need to learn.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Another prayer granted by God is that I take a picture of a lake I pass by on the way to work.
This lake was near a bus stop but the view when the bus stops is not on a good angle to take a picture. So I'll either have a not so good picture or a blurry one.
Before the adjustment of the Daylight saving time (DST), I used to see the lake in the afternoon with swans swimming on it. But after the DST adjustment, it is already dark when I pass by it. So I only get to enjoy it's beauty in the morning.
For a few days, whenever I pass the lake, I longed to capture its beauty.
One day, it was traffic and it was on the spot where the lake was. I finally got to capture a photo of the lake!
It is so calm and peaceful.
I was elated to learn that there is another lake near my office. When I arrived early this week, I passed by it first and saw ducks swimming!
I am enjoying sightseeing in my new country of residence.
Though I truly miss the people I love in my home country, God gives me glimpses of His wonderful creations which made me realize even more that wherever I may be, God is with me.
But God wants us to be conscious of time. Psalm 90:12 says "Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom." I am sure God also wants to number our hours, minutes and seconds.
Being punctual was one of my goals.
But in this new country I am in, I needed to be on time! Everyone is on time!
And most especially because I needed to get on the bus, which arrives every 30 minutes or even every hour. So imagine missing the bus and having to wait for the next one. Surely a time waster.
I also cannot arrive on the bus stop at the exact time. I have to arrive earlier than the bus.
It's a double punch on punctuality and patience that God is teaching me.
I have a choice if I should wait idly or be productive. Thankfully, a good book, an audiobook or a good song keeps me company.
(Thankfully, there are free Catholic/Christian talks available online. My favorites are at www.kerygmafamily.com and www.febc.ph)
Awhile ago, I was waiting for the bus. In the bus schedule I got off the internet, the bus should arrive at 10:30am, but it was 10:35am and the bus has not arrived. I prayed and the Lord confirmed the bus would arrive.
I listened to praise music on my mp3 player while waiting for the bus.
10:40am came and I was getting worried. It was a Sunday and I thought, maybe there is no bus? Or perhaps the schedule changes on Sundays?
I suddenly remembered that I had an application on my phone that shows the bus and train schedules. Looking at it, I saw that indeed the schedule is different and the bus was bound to arrive at 10:52am.
I was there at the bus stop, feeling the heat on a breezy autumn day. A dog even scared me coz it was barking at dogs passing by, accompanied by their owners. But I prayed and remained steadfast.
At last the bus arrived and I was so relieved.
This day I learned faith, to use God's resources and patience in waiting for the perfect time. It's not always easy, but everyday grants us the grace to be victorious!
Thank you Lord for allowing me to learn lessons I need to learn.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Another prayer granted by God is that I take a picture of a lake I pass by on the way to work.
This lake was near a bus stop but the view when the bus stops is not on a good angle to take a picture. So I'll either have a not so good picture or a blurry one.
Before the adjustment of the Daylight saving time (DST), I used to see the lake in the afternoon with swans swimming on it. But after the DST adjustment, it is already dark when I pass by it. So I only get to enjoy it's beauty in the morning.
For a few days, whenever I pass the lake, I longed to capture its beauty.
One day, it was traffic and it was on the spot where the lake was. I finally got to capture a photo of the lake!
It is so calm and peaceful.
I am enjoying sightseeing in my new country of residence.
Though I truly miss the people I love in my home country, God gives me glimpses of His wonderful creations which made me realize even more that wherever I may be, God is with me.
Saturday, 6 April 2013
Strength and Mothers
Another week has passed and we are blessed in many ways. Thank God for the gift of life, of friendship, and most especially, of love.
-------------------------------------
My first week at work has been good. I was supposed to start on a Thursday but I dropped by on Tuesday just to experience how to commute going to work. I dropped by the office to give the requirements, but since I was there, they decided to let me start working. :)
I was excited to be working again after quite some time.
The second day was a mixture of emotions as the weather became colder because of rain. Then I started to realize the volume of work I had to do. I was feeling overwhelmed, at the same time melancholic, because of the weather. I was teary-eyed going home, as I thought too much of what I had to do plus I was feeling cold. My jacket was not thick enough to warm me up.
As tears were welling up my eyes, I saw a mother with three children on the train. One of her kids was still a baby. The other two were about seven and four years old, and they were fighting. As I looked on them I realized that this mother had more problems than me because she had to take care of her baby, at the same time appease her other two children. But she was very gentle to her two fighting kids, so they finally stopped arguing.
When I went home, I talked to my boyfriend and he comforted me on the phone. He told me not to allow myself to be overwhelmed, and to always wear a jacket to protect me from the cold weather. He was calm in talking to me, and I thank God for that.
The next day, I felt better, I prayed and I realized that I did stress myself. That day, I strengthened myself by allowing positive thoughts by reading the word of God and other books that inspire me.
Stress and Strength both contain the letters "STRE".
We need to replace the "SS" with "NGTH" so that
STRESS -> STRENGTH
Let us not allow the "SS" (satan says) rob of us "NGTH" (Now, God told her/him).
-------------------------------------
Mothers are really strong.
I had migraines and nausea so I decided to see the doctor, and at the doctor's office were two mothers with their children.
One mother had a sick baby. The other mother brought her little son and little daughter. The son was sitting and sleeping, looking tired and not feeling well.
They were talking about their sick children and I can feel the worry in their tone.
I was not feeling well and I worried only about myself. These mothers, for me, felt worse because it is hard for them to see their child sick and if they can only take away the sickness they would do it.
Oh, a mother's love is one of the greatest things in the world.
-------------------------------------
It made me miss my mother even more because now I have to cook my own meals. My mother was a great cook.
I only learned to cook in my 20s, but I only did it occasionally.
I enjoy baking more than cooking, but recently I found the joy in cooking. I believe I got it from mom, who is always joyful in serving us hearty meals.
-------------------------------------
In times of loneliness, I pray the rosary.
As a Catholic, I still have a lot of questions on Mother Mary. But while praying the rosary, our Blessed Mother sends a message to "delight myself in the Lord".
What is delight? It is joy, pleasure, excitement. Not all things are pleasurable but exciting. Allowing ourselves to be excited by God's presence in our life is the way to acknowledge Him. But most importantly, we should obey His commands.
Mothers and their strength. What a miracle!
Thank you Lord for mothers. For us, women, who aspire to be mothers in the future, prepare us, strengthen us for that great role of motherhood. For all mothers in the world, give them great strength in taking care of their children and husbands. Thank you Lord for allowing your mother, Mary, to intercede for us. Amen.
-------------------------------------
My first week at work has been good. I was supposed to start on a Thursday but I dropped by on Tuesday just to experience how to commute going to work. I dropped by the office to give the requirements, but since I was there, they decided to let me start working. :)
I was excited to be working again after quite some time.
The second day was a mixture of emotions as the weather became colder because of rain. Then I started to realize the volume of work I had to do. I was feeling overwhelmed, at the same time melancholic, because of the weather. I was teary-eyed going home, as I thought too much of what I had to do plus I was feeling cold. My jacket was not thick enough to warm me up.
As tears were welling up my eyes, I saw a mother with three children on the train. One of her kids was still a baby. The other two were about seven and four years old, and they were fighting. As I looked on them I realized that this mother had more problems than me because she had to take care of her baby, at the same time appease her other two children. But she was very gentle to her two fighting kids, so they finally stopped arguing.
When I went home, I talked to my boyfriend and he comforted me on the phone. He told me not to allow myself to be overwhelmed, and to always wear a jacket to protect me from the cold weather. He was calm in talking to me, and I thank God for that.
The next day, I felt better, I prayed and I realized that I did stress myself. That day, I strengthened myself by allowing positive thoughts by reading the word of God and other books that inspire me.
Stress and Strength both contain the letters "STRE".
We need to replace the "SS" with "NGTH" so that
STRESS -> STRENGTH
Let us not allow the "SS" (satan says) rob of us "NGTH" (Now, God told her/him).
-------------------------------------
Mothers are really strong.
I had migraines and nausea so I decided to see the doctor, and at the doctor's office were two mothers with their children.
One mother had a sick baby. The other mother brought her little son and little daughter. The son was sitting and sleeping, looking tired and not feeling well.
They were talking about their sick children and I can feel the worry in their tone.
I was not feeling well and I worried only about myself. These mothers, for me, felt worse because it is hard for them to see their child sick and if they can only take away the sickness they would do it.
Oh, a mother's love is one of the greatest things in the world.
-------------------------------------
It made me miss my mother even more because now I have to cook my own meals. My mother was a great cook.
I only learned to cook in my 20s, but I only did it occasionally.
I enjoy baking more than cooking, but recently I found the joy in cooking. I believe I got it from mom, who is always joyful in serving us hearty meals.
-------------------------------------
In times of loneliness, I pray the rosary.
As a Catholic, I still have a lot of questions on Mother Mary. But while praying the rosary, our Blessed Mother sends a message to "delight myself in the Lord".
What is delight? It is joy, pleasure, excitement. Not all things are pleasurable but exciting. Allowing ourselves to be excited by God's presence in our life is the way to acknowledge Him. But most importantly, we should obey His commands.
Mothers and their strength. What a miracle!
Thank you Lord for mothers. For us, women, who aspire to be mothers in the future, prepare us, strengthen us for that great role of motherhood. For all mothers in the world, give them great strength in taking care of their children and husbands. Thank you Lord for allowing your mother, Mary, to intercede for us. Amen.
Sunday, 31 March 2013
Easter cleansing
Happy Easter everyone!
Easter is all about resurrection and new beginnings.
What a great time to start a new blog.
--------------------------------------------
This Easter I was blessed to attend several events to reflect on Jesus' passion and resurrection.
I attended the "senakulo", a re-enactment of the stations of the cross. There are actors that play the role of Jesus, Mary, Pilate, Veronica, Simon and the Roman guards. At each station, a prayer is said and a time to reflect on the meaning of each reflection.
I was truly touched at the station where Mary wept when she said Jesus. The reflection was about parents, if we recognise their pains and sacrifices. Many times, our parents are taken for granted especially as we become busy. It's not we don't love them but tend to ignore them because we think, they are always there. Many times, I am guilty of not acknowledging their words of advice, thinking it has been said before. Rather, I should have just thanked them for their tireless concern for me. It is one of the things I should resurrect this Easter, the recognition of the love of my parents, even if what they say is the same thing. Because it is the same love of a parent to a child, regardless of age.
Early Easter morning, I attended mass. Before the mass there was a "salubong", it is a procession of the image of the resurrected Jesus and of Mary. There are two processions. The women will be behind the image of Mary, carrying candles and singing songs or praying. The men will be behind the image of the resurrected Jesus. Then in front of the church, the two images - Jesus and Mary - will meet. "Salubong" is a Filipino term meaning: meet or receive someone who has come. (from http://www.seasite.niu.edu/Tagalog/).
At the mass, the priest told a story of war prisoners during World War II who were once robbing each other of food but when two of them started Bible study, many joined. Then they had to divide groups. In the Bible, they saw how Jesus also was hungry and tempted but overcame.
One of the greatest lessons from Easter is that we too can be resurrected from our past life, and be renewed, changing our old ways into a new way - Jesus' way!
Both events - senakulo and salubong (with mass) - are Filipino traditions but I attended these in Australia, as I have recently migrated to this country. Kudos to Filipino communities in Australia which organized these events.
Being a Catholic, I am also friends with many other Christians. I respect our differences in religious traditions but I cherish our one belief in Christ. This is part of my journey as a believer in Christ.
A Christian friend was gracious enough to invite me to a Hillsong event and the guest speaker was Reinhard Bonnke. He preached that the blood of Jesus was pure because blood comes from the father, and Jesus had no earthly father but only God the father. The blood of Jesus cleanses our sins. The Hillsong event was attended by a large crowd. Congratulations to Hillsong Australia!
It is great to see that faith is alive in Australia.
Truly, God's love is alive all around the world.
--------------------------------------------
I have a cut in my finger. I accidentally wounded myself while cutting a tomato, and it was not a big knife that was a culprit, but a sharp bread knife.
I was also surprised when I had the cut. I am mostly careful when using a knife. But I underestimated the bread knife. I did not think it was sharp enough to inflict a wound, as most bread knifes I have used are dull and needed pressure to be able to cut into food. But not this bread knife.
The lesson for me is not to underestimate - people, events or even a knife.
Some people who I thought were less intelligent gave the best advice, some events which I thought would be boring became memorable, and things that we take for granted are things that could be more important - like a matchbox during a blackout, or a bread knife that is sharp.
Same way that the Pharisees underestimated Jesus. They thought He was just a carpenter, but He performed miracles. And they thought they could kill Him and get rid of Him but He resurrected!
-------------------------------------------
Happy Easter and God bless you the rest of the year!!!
Easter is all about resurrection and new beginnings.
What a great time to start a new blog.
--------------------------------------------
This Easter I was blessed to attend several events to reflect on Jesus' passion and resurrection.
I attended the "senakulo", a re-enactment of the stations of the cross. There are actors that play the role of Jesus, Mary, Pilate, Veronica, Simon and the Roman guards. At each station, a prayer is said and a time to reflect on the meaning of each reflection.
I was truly touched at the station where Mary wept when she said Jesus. The reflection was about parents, if we recognise their pains and sacrifices. Many times, our parents are taken for granted especially as we become busy. It's not we don't love them but tend to ignore them because we think, they are always there. Many times, I am guilty of not acknowledging their words of advice, thinking it has been said before. Rather, I should have just thanked them for their tireless concern for me. It is one of the things I should resurrect this Easter, the recognition of the love of my parents, even if what they say is the same thing. Because it is the same love of a parent to a child, regardless of age.
Early Easter morning, I attended mass. Before the mass there was a "salubong", it is a procession of the image of the resurrected Jesus and of Mary. There are two processions. The women will be behind the image of Mary, carrying candles and singing songs or praying. The men will be behind the image of the resurrected Jesus. Then in front of the church, the two images - Jesus and Mary - will meet. "Salubong" is a Filipino term meaning: meet or receive someone who has come. (from http://www.seasite.niu.edu/Tagalog/).
At the mass, the priest told a story of war prisoners during World War II who were once robbing each other of food but when two of them started Bible study, many joined. Then they had to divide groups. In the Bible, they saw how Jesus also was hungry and tempted but overcame.
One of the greatest lessons from Easter is that we too can be resurrected from our past life, and be renewed, changing our old ways into a new way - Jesus' way!
Both events - senakulo and salubong (with mass) - are Filipino traditions but I attended these in Australia, as I have recently migrated to this country. Kudos to Filipino communities in Australia which organized these events.
Being a Catholic, I am also friends with many other Christians. I respect our differences in religious traditions but I cherish our one belief in Christ. This is part of my journey as a believer in Christ.
A Christian friend was gracious enough to invite me to a Hillsong event and the guest speaker was Reinhard Bonnke. He preached that the blood of Jesus was pure because blood comes from the father, and Jesus had no earthly father but only God the father. The blood of Jesus cleanses our sins. The Hillsong event was attended by a large crowd. Congratulations to Hillsong Australia!
It is great to see that faith is alive in Australia.
Truly, God's love is alive all around the world.
--------------------------------------------
I have a cut in my finger. I accidentally wounded myself while cutting a tomato, and it was not a big knife that was a culprit, but a sharp bread knife.
I was also surprised when I had the cut. I am mostly careful when using a knife. But I underestimated the bread knife. I did not think it was sharp enough to inflict a wound, as most bread knifes I have used are dull and needed pressure to be able to cut into food. But not this bread knife.
The lesson for me is not to underestimate - people, events or even a knife.
Some people who I thought were less intelligent gave the best advice, some events which I thought would be boring became memorable, and things that we take for granted are things that could be more important - like a matchbox during a blackout, or a bread knife that is sharp.
Same way that the Pharisees underestimated Jesus. They thought He was just a carpenter, but He performed miracles. And they thought they could kill Him and get rid of Him but He resurrected!
-------------------------------------------
Happy Easter and God bless you the rest of the year!!!
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