Shine on!

Dear Lord,

Thank you very much for this long and fruitful day!

Though tired, my spirit is rejoicing in the works of Your hands. Truly, every moment of my life is filled with Your love and mercy. Each day and each night is full of amazing manifestations of Your presence and guidance. You have blessed me with so many wonderful friends and acquaintances who are helping me grow more like You, Lord. I pray for them all - You know them by name and all that is in their hearts. Bless them and send them Your Holy Spirit so that they may be strengthened and filled with the wisdom they need to face the challenges and opportunities of each day.

Honor and glory and praise be to You, forever!

Amen.

The Parable of the Revealed Light

"No one, when he has lit a lamp, covers it with a vessel or puts it under a bed, but sets it on a lampstand, that those who enter may see the light. For nothing is secret that will not be revealed, nor anything hidden that will not be known and come to light. Therefore take heed how you hear. For whoever has, to him more will be given; and whoever does not have, even what he seems to have will be taken from him."

- Luke 8:16-18 (NKJV)

Well-being

I wasn't much of a girly-girl when I was growing up.

During my freshman year in high school, I still acted like 'one of the boys'. I had very short hair reaching only upto my ears. If not for our school uniform which was a blouse and skirt combination, I would have worn pants or shorts and t-shirts all the time. I was very active in sports and didn't mind having tangled hair, a sweaty face, and wrinkled clothes at the end of the day. Neat or not, I was happy with myself. It didn't occur to me just yet that perhaps boys like girls for being... well... girly. It didn't cross my mind until my mid-teens that at some point, I needed to start acting (even just a tiny bit) more lady-like.

Little did I know that time would present solutions to my problems.

Slowly, that little thing called "self-consciousness" started creeping in. I was starting to get annoyed with my bob cut and began growing my hair for as long as I can manage it and tried different hairstyles. I experimented with my clothes and tried on more girly outfits like skirts and dresses. I also accessorized - hairclips, bracelets, earrings, you name it.

Nevertheless, my discovery of a more feminine side of myself didn't turn out to be a crazy transformation from boyish girl to a fashion junkie. I wouldn't dare let myself get caught in "The Devil wears Prada" whirlwind of fashion. Instead, I made the styles out there fit my taste rather than let it run my life. Modesty is still the best policy. More importantly, I know who I am and I am happy with myself as long as I am growing up to be the woman of God He wanted me to be. :D

Honestly, I am still more of a t-shirt/blouse and jeans kind of person and I think it's going to stay that way. Of course, certain occasions in life would call for different fashion statements and more classy get-ups like formal dinners, awards nights, case conferences, weddings, and so on. I believe it's not going to be a problem. Flexibility has always been one of my great skills.

Moving on, I'm not a huge fan of make-up either.

In our humid country, I easily break into a sweat by just walking outside. I keep my face clean by washing it with a certain soap and applying sunblock during the day. I also use the basic powder and lip gloss but that's about it for everyday. I say: eat lots of fruits, get decent sleep, and drink lots of water. :) Anyhow, I also get regular facial treatments if I've been able to save for it. :D

Don't get me wrong though, there's nothing bad with wearing make-up. The Bible mentioned that women were made to exude beauty, which is told in the story of queen Esther. :) I just don't think my skin can handle the make-up on a daily basis.

By the way, just this year, I've rewarded myself with nail care, spa and massage treatments, too. I find it a very effective way to bring wellness to oneself. I am a firm believer that 'prevention is better than cure' and one way of doing that is by taking care of the body God has given you right now and not when it is already breaking down. Taking drugs or medicine isn't the cure to everything.

There is great truth in the mind-body-spirit connection and God has provided natural ways to heal our bodies long before the dawn of drugs. When I went to a chiropractor, Dr. Gary Bolen, for the first time during my trip to the US, I discovered a lot of new things about health and wellness. He gave me a book "Body by God" by Dr. Ben Lerner and I was glad that I read it.

I also believe that from good health and wellness springs true beauty. :) I read this book, "Who Calls Me Beautiful?" by Regina Franklin and I think every girl, young lady, and woman out there should read it. It tackles about how we are all created in the image and likeness of God while the world convinces us we're ugly by Hollywood standards. It's time to wake up to the truth that we are all beautiful people the way God sees us.

Speaking of this pursuit of health and wellness, I would love to go to The Farm, health and spa resort, at San Benito, when I have some money set aside.

Maximizing Human Potential Through Optimal Health

Rediscover the wellness within you at The Farm, one of the few truly medical and wellness resorts in the world. Located an easy two-hour drive south of the Philippine capital of Manila, this award-winning 48-hectare resort offers an exceptional healing environment for the holistic treatment of the body, mind and soul. Making use of Nature’s own remedies, our mission is to guide and educate you toward your maximum total health potential.

Read more...

The Farm is near where I live. It's a well-known place for health and wellness not only in the Philippines but all over the world. I've heard a lot of great feedback regarding the place but it's rather expensive. You don't need a lot of money to be and stay healthy. Going to The Farm is just a gift I would like to give myself and my family some day. :)

I have not been to The Farm yet but I have met the chief of their Medical Department, Dr. Marian Alonzo, in a seminar I attended at Protégé Special Education Learning Center in Xavierville, Loyola Heights, Quezon City entitled "Art Therapy for Children with Special Needs and Their Caregivers" last May where she was the facilitator. She gave a lot of insight regarding the topic at hand. In spite of our brief encounter, to me she looked like someone who considers health and wellness extremely important besides the fact that she is a medical doctor.

Anyway, my journey towards a work-life balance made prosperous by health and wellness continues. Let's be well and stay healthy. :)

TiEMPO

In the early months of 2006, the Psychology Society talent pool held auditions for those equipped with musical prowess. Thus, TiEMPO was born into the realm of music. And by a certain twist of fate, tiyempo - a Filipino term – means ‘timing’. True enough, it was perfect timing that brought very talented individuals together to create amazing melody.

TiEMPO music is deeply rooted from reggae fused with the elements of soul funk rock and jazz. Here’s what makes the band very much stand out: the infectious and groovy tunes of Ray Tadeo on bass, the steady reggae of Dianne Ponciano on keys, the jazzy rhythm of Ryan Gonzales on vocals and guitar, dancehall beats of Jigs Cabatit on drums, accentuated vibes of JB de Lemos on percussions.

In December of 2006, this group of brilliant students from the College of Science and the Conservatory of Music won champion in colliSCIon: the College of Science battle of the bands. During their college years, they have been a mainstay in many school events: acquaintance parties, the Recess concert sponsored by Science and many more. They also have gigs in different local music arenas.

Former members of TiEMPO include King Molina on vocals (2006) and Lou Aguinaldo on drums (2006-2007). The band also has a horn/wind section composed of Rickson Poonin on trombone, EJ, Lester, and Sid on trumpets, and Kiko on alto/soprano saxophone.

TiEMPO is driven to experiment and fuse roots reggae music with funk, jazz, and rock riddims. Listen and FEEL the vibes as TiEMPO captures every drop of the steady beat of reggae.

Watch their debut song "I Found You" on Flippish!

P.S. Yours truly is a big fan of TiEMPO and was one of their documentary persons a.k.a. camerawoman during their college performances. The excellent members of the band also happen to be my good friends. :D Cheers, mates!

Salamat, Tita Cory

Maria Corazon "Cory" Sumulong Cojuangco Aquino

January 25, 1933 - August 1, 2009

"Faith is not simply a patience that passively suffers until the storm is past. Rather, it is a spirit that bears things - with resignations, yes, but above all, with blazing, serene hope."

(Image from PCIJ.org)

Today is a national day of mourning for the passing away of a Philippine gem, former president Cory Aquino. Today she was laid to rest beside her one and only love, former senator and Filipino hero, Ninoy Aquino at the Manila Memorial Cemetery.

I am very humbled to be a part of this great moment in Philippine history.

My dad, who served in the Philippine Air Force during the Marcos regime and the Aquino administration, was part of the struggle during the Martial Law and the challenge to keep democracy attained after EDSA Revolution. He fought during the bloodiest coup d'etat in 1989 and experienced firsthand the battle for freedom. Years later, he remembers the important role former president Aquino played during the People Power.

"A day before December 1, 1989, at the height of the bloodiest coup d’etat. I brought the helicopter to Lucena because we had information na 'papasukin ang Sangley'. I was the only one able to bolt out of the base the day before, hence I was the only one called by the Chief of Staff to support them in Camp Aguinaldo at all costs. While supporting the friendly government troops, three F5 fighter planes from Basa Air Base supported the friendly forces in Sangley Point that cost the life of Major Danilo Atienza after disabling the tora-tora used by rebel soldiers. We were hit by enemy groundfire, luckily it hit the side of the armor plate, which was an inch away from the co-pilot.

Due to our wholehearted and unfailing support for President Corazon Aquino, our commander-in-chief, even with bullet holes from our main and tail rotor, we managed to fly the helicopter to give support to the government troops. We stayed overnight at Basa for it was the only safe place to stay then. On the wee hours of the following day, we supported again the friendly troops in Camp Aguinaldo firing the 2.75 rockets successively. That historic event ultimately contributed to the defeat and fall of the rebel forces, and there, frustrating again an attempt. For conspicuous gallantry acts of heroism and exemplary demonstration of utmost loyalty as combat pilot above and beyond the call of duty to preserve our democracy that led to the fall of the rebel soldiers, we were given the second highest award, the Distinguished Conduct Star."

Today, he and I went to Roxas Boulevard to await the funeral cortege of the late president Cory Aquino to pay our respects for all the sacrifices that she has made for us, for the the Filipino people.

Her story, for me, is that of a modern-day Esther. God had big plans for Cory that no one could even begin to imagine. When Cory's husband, Ninoy, was assassinated because of the ideals he stood for during a chaotic time in our history, the simple yet outstanding housewife became president of the Republic of the Philippines. I believe that it was destined to be so in God's plan. Ninoy and Cory's life is a beautiful story of unconditional love, enduring longsuffering, and brilliant heroism.

I wish to share so much more but words escape me that is why I decided to express myself with the pictures I took during today's emotional funeral for the late former president.

Hover on photos for captions. Click pictures for a larger resolution.

The entire time we waited for the funeral march, we were listening to the radio in order to know what was happening during the funeral mass at the Manila Cathedral. When Cory's youngest daughter, Kris, gave her speech - I tried to hold back my tears. So did my father. We were both sitting in the car quietly lost in our own thoughts.

The event today was a real awakening of history sleeping in the pages of millions of books. This is the authentic History 101. Memories of singing "Handog ng Pilipino sa Mundo" during my second grade Social Sciences class came into mind with much greater relevance. So this is what it was like. I now understand the importance of history. His story, her story, our story. It is still alive and flowing in my veins.

After hours of waiting, I finally had the chance to see the former president's casket and pay respect to this great woman of prayer and democracy.

Cory Aquino loved the Filipinos dearly up to the very end even after leaving the seat of presidency. Now it's our turn to show her and her family how much we love her in return.


My Sony Cybershot camera ran out of battery after taking the photo below, hence I used my Nokia phone to take the rest of the pictures.

According to the news, Cory's funeral was very similar to the funeral of Ninoy. Once again, thousands of people gathered as one family... this time to mourn the loss of such a great Filipina. Being a part of this lamentation as one with the nation is something I can share with my future children and grandchildren (God-willing). I promise myself this day that I will do my best to strive for the ideals that the Aquino couple stood for, fought for, and died for.

"True people power is prayer power." Indeed.

Maraming, maraming salamat po, Tita Cory.

You will live on forever in our hearts.

Hanggang sa muli...

Paalam.

Invisible Class

Whether we are aware of it or not, we are all enrolled in one huge classroom called 'the world' and we are all students of 'life'.

The young professional standing next to you waiting for the bus might be a 'classmate' learning how to commute around the city. On the other hand, the old lady vendor on the sidewalk who you discovered was able to send all her five kids to school because of small business may turn out to be your 'teacher'.

Not everything an individual knows is learned within the four walls of a classroom. Formal education offers only a partial view through the window of learning.

Geometry, Algebra, Trigonometry and Accounting are all good subjects involving numbers. In school, my classmates and I were taught how to compute whole numbers and decimals, solve mathematical problems, and analyze financial statements. However, we were never taught the practical hows and whys when it came to managing the coins and bills in our wallets or pockets.

I first learned the concept of money at home. Mom and Dad taught me the value of money and the importance of handling it well. They are good stewards of their finances and I consider them as role models.

My big break in actual, hands-on experience managing huge amounts of money was when I became the finance director (a.k.a. treasurer) of one of my college organizations, the UST Psychology Society. It was really serious business - a tremendous leap from budgeting just my allowance. I had to collect money by certain deadlines, allocate them in certain funds for different organization programs, file all receipts, record all transactions, and submit monthly financial statements to the dean's office. It was somewhat of a shock during my first few weeks in office because the Society had more or less a thousand members and, more importantly, I had other extracurricular activities and responsibilities as a student.

The challenges I went through during college definitely paid off because I have learned very valuable lessons that I know I wouldn't have learned elsewhere. I also knew that all of those were in preparation for other greater things after graduation.

From August to November of 2008, I attended Dave Ramsey's Financial Peace University through The Bridge Church in Venice, Florida. FPU is "is a life-changing program that teaches you how to make the right decisions with your money." In the FPU classes, I learned more about how the financial system works. I gained more knowledge about cash flow planning, debt reduction, investments, savings, insurance, tithing, wealth building and much more. In FPU, truly "you'll be empowered with the practical skills and confidence needed to achieve your financial goals and experience true financial peace!"

Of course, everything is useless until they are applied in one's life.

Recently, one of my friends, a financial planner, invited me to a financial wake-up call seminar under the International Marketing Group (IMG), the company he works for.

International Marketing Group is one of the few companies of its kind in the industry today - a marketing company that is dedicated to serving the financial needs of individuals and families from all walks of life.

International Marketing Group's independent associates do not just work with clients who have large amounts of discretionary income - instead they work with everyday people helping them make critical financial decisions that help move them from where they are to where they want to be.

International Marketing Group is one of the biggest and fastest growing financial distribution companies in the US, Canada, Taiwan, Hongkong, Philippines and going worldwide.

What I like most about the seminar is that everything is within the Filipino context. Lifestyles here and abroad are different; taking context into consideration is very important. Nevertheless, sound financial CONCEPTS and PERSPECTIVES are evidently universal and I realized that by the end of the first lecture.

Here are some simple lessons that many people often forget:

1. Do not spend more than you earn.

2. Save first before you spend.

3. It is in giving that we receive.

4. "The borrower is servant to the lender." - Proverbs 22:7

5. "Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal;" - Matthew 6:19

6. "The earth is the LORD’s, and all its fullness, The world and those who dwell therein." - Psalms 24:1

Understanding why you are here is the most important first step. We still have much to learn but knowing that we are here to know God, love God, and serve God - the rest will surely follow.

Pen and paper

I seem to write less and less as the years go by. I used to have so much time to jot down the details of what transpired during the day every day. But now the days turn to weeks, weeks to months and months to years.

Not that I'm complaining.

I still have the same 24-hour day like everybody else. It's just that more important things have taken over the time I used to dedicate to my diary writing.

I realized at some point during my mid-teens that it's much better that I live the moment to the fullest and share the time wholly with the people I'm with rather than soak in that instance to later on busy myself writing it down for no one in particular - one who can't even fully appreciate the importance of the events/connections that transpired. It is very similar to taking a picture wherein the photographer was too busy thinking about the perfect conditions for a brilliant capture that the glory of the moment already eluded him.

Writing in my diary has been (and still is at very certain occasions) a good outlet for me.

The big difference now, however, is this: In the past I used to write down my story, now I write down what God wants my story to be like.

"It is such an amazing feat to hear the resounding voices captured by the silence of words on a piece of paper even after inches of dust has accumulated on the pages with the passing of time."

I have more than 20 diaries to date and I am thankful for each one. When I have the chance to scan through them, I see how much I've changed and grown through the years. I can't help but burst into laughter, feel funny, hold back tears, and shake my head in disbelief over some of the things I wrote down in the now yellowing pages of my journals.

More often that not, I also feel like I'm reading about the life of someone else.

There was a time I thought of burning all of these diaries. One day I just felt that the person I am now doesn't want anything more to do with the person I was then. The present self regarded the past person as a complete stranger.

However, I realized later on that even if I did let fire consume those notebooks, God still has a record of all that I wrote down. He knows everything about me and everything that happened (and will happen) in my life - written or unwritten by me.

Truly, one must be aware of how he is living his life.

"Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it."

-Matthew 7:13

So I say, "let Thy will be done in my life."

ManilArt09 and more

I had the busiest and most enjoyable weekend I had in a while.

I had two meetings last Saturday: one in Dapitan, Manila near my college alma mater and one at the EDSA Shangri-la mall. It was wonderful to see old, familiar faces. The weather might have been unpleasant but we've accomplished so much that my somehow adventurous commute around the metro made it very much worthwhile. Besides, I don't like being cooped up in the house for a long time. The meeting at EDSA Shangri-la was a monthly gathering of the Association of Thomasian Psychology Alumni (ATPA) officers. Important organization matters, updates, and upcoming activities were discussed after a sumptuous Kimono Ken dinner. :)

Come Sunday after church, my college friends and I went to a birthday/graduation celebration in Caloocan City last Sunday. It was my first time to go in that area of Metro Manila. The party was set around lunch time. The food and the company was fantastic! We were all full, everyone was feeling a little sleepy afterwards. (Did I hear someone say nap time?) Good thing the fun and laughter managed to keep us all awake. ;)

The only souvenir photo I had on my camera during my Caloocan visit is the photo above of the little manhole with a smiling face. I was nicely surprised to see one like it but being in the metro, I knew it wasn't unusual. That's what I call 'street art'.

After the lunch date, my friends and I went to TriNoMa. In all the excitement listening to Michael Jackson songs on the music player and catching up on things, I forgot one tiny detail: malls are jampacked on Sundays - especially on Sundays. I think the TriNoMa photo at the beginning of this entry speaks for itself.

We didn't stay there very long. After a few fun arcade games, Tin and I bid our other friends farewell as we decided to go to the art exhibit at the NBC Tent, Global City, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig. July 19 was the last day and the venue is open only until 8pm. Tin had to be home by 7pm. Since watching a movie was out of the picture due to the time constraint, a trip to see amazing masterpieces was the perfect way to end the day.

Tin was given complimentary tickets by her boss, which meant we can view the artworks for free! Awesome. :) I had enough money to buy the commemorative issue of the Contemporary Art Philippines magazine they were selling and a few button pins from Children's Environmental Awareness and Action Foundation, Inc.

ManilArt09 is "is the first international art fair to be hosted in the Philippines. It is participated in by the country's leading art galleries and those of the Asian region. This is where art collectors and enthusiasts can view the finest examples of Contemporary Art today and gather together to exchange views and insights about the world of art."

It is a flagship project of the National Committee on Art Galleries (NCAG) of the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) in partnership with the Bonafide Art Galleries Association (BAGO).

Too bad I didn't have enough money to buy any of the original artworks. There were several oil on canvas paintings, mixed media masterpieces and excellent sculptures that I would love to take home. *Sigh*

The art exhibit was brilliant! I'm glad we ended up going. It was nice to get our minds off from work and from the unnecessary worries of life. Tin and I agreed to go to Global City more often and explore the place: go to more exhibits, grab a bite at the good restaurants, stroll around and what-have-you. It certainly sounds like a good plan to me.

Cheers to all the amazing artists!

...and cheers to more relaxing weekends!