At last...

Im going to write...

My Brother’s Laugh

You are just seven years old when God talked to you and said, “My child, I will entrust a special gift to you. Remember that this one is a very exceptional present. This is fragile; you need to handle it with care. In my own perfect time, he will bloom, and I need you to assist him”. What will then be your reaction?

I was shocked. I am only seven years old when we thought that in the family, it will only be me and my eldest sister. It was just a plain day, a magical indeed, when we were blessed by a cute little angel, a baby boy crafted in God’s perfect hand. We named him Dexter, which is derived from the Greek Word Dexi meaning worship. And from that time, I became his eldest sister.

He grew up, he started to discover and learn things around him, the environment he belongs. He began to find out his innate talents, a guitarist, and an ear for music. He little by little appreciates the gift of wisdom, and the future that awaits him. In small steps, he began to draw near to his Creator. And I was there, in every milestones of his life.

We are just the same as with other siblings. We do have quarrels, and oftentimes, a silent war. I used to write notes to him for the words that I can't explain vocal. I knew he read it. And keep it.

Yesterday, I saw tiredness in his eyes. He was so exhausted with the 8:00pm study schedule. I was in my bed waiting for him so that we could have our dinner together. He enters the door so swiftly without dropping any word. He slump his bag, and directly go to the dining table. I thought he is mad at me. But then, he smiled and hugs me so warm. He started to share all his experiences, dilemmas, and funny moments in school. We started to laugh with all the events that are happening.

We call the day off. Dex asks me to sleep near to him. So, I got up and get a pillow. Until I found myself hugging my little brother.

Yes, I love the sound of his laugh. But most of all, I love my brother’s body, spirit and soul.

When the Rooster Cocks

It’s already 5:30 in the morning. The sun is diminutive mounting in the east. You smell the sweet aroma of the breeze coming from your half-opened window. You hear the rooster cocks, the house living alarm clock. You rise up, get a whiff of the freshly baked bread and brewed coffee. You then conclude, “What a great and peaceful day”.

Time flies so fast and you find yourself in the midst of rushing environment, a very hastening one. No sun rays can be seen as it is block by the tallest building around you. Fragrant winds are substituted by a polluted one. No natural alarm clock. You hurry yourself to have a grab of biscuit and a 3-in-1 coffee. You sigh and said, “Why I need to experience this every day?”

Transitions and adjustments are sometimes too difficult to embrace. Oftentimes, you need to easily shift from one environment to another as it is what the current scenario is provoking you. You have to have a bulk of courage and endurance to pursue changes. A strong heart, focused mind and capable body are just few of the things you should possess.

For almost eight years of my life, I struggle this battle. I am so attached with the slow pace life, but, opportunities lead me to go with the flow of rushing days. I cried hard every single day missing the life of a typical province girl. I love my life there, but I learn more when I seize the day of a metropolitan population. Learning’s, yes, I’ve learned a lot. I’ve seen different people, rubbing elbows with them. My knowledge cup flows more and more. I became more in love with the wisdom urbanity can provide. But most of all, I grow more in love with Great Provider. No distinct days have I missed calling Him. He stood by me, and until now, He is standing by my side.

I yearn to hear the rooster cocks once again. That even though I am not in my hometown, I’ll be able to perceive that sound as it reminds me of my life there and the majestic solemnity that God is offering me every time I am in the province.

I close my eyes that day. Until early in the morning…

I heed the wonderful noise of the rooster in the midst of a busy atmosphere.

Thank you Lord. I love you.

SOULFUL RELATIONSHIP

I was busy doing my work stuffs when I received this email from a friend. I was struck with the title that I paused from my load and take a break to read this. I hope you find it strucking too.

**********

SOULFUL RELATIONSHIP

by Reverend Ronald McFadden

If you're not married yet, share this with a friend. If you are married, share it with your spouse or other married couples.. and reflect on it.


An African proverb states, "Before you get married, keep both eyes open, and after you marry, close one eye." Before you get involved and make a commitment to someone, don't let lust, desperation, immaturity, ignorance, pressure from others or a low self-esteem make you blind to warning signs. Keep your eyes open, and don't fool yourself that you can change someone or that what you see as faults aren't really important.


Once you decide to commit to someone, over time their flaws, vulnerabilities, pet peeves, and differences will become more obvious. If you love your mate and want the relationship to grow and evolve, you've got to learn to close one eye and not let every little thing bother you. You and your mate have many different expectations, emotional needs, values, dreams, weaknesses, and strengths. You are two unique individuals who have decided to share a life together. Neither of you are perfect, but are you perfect for each other? Do you bring out the best of each other? Do you compliment and compromise with each other, or do you compete, compare, and control? What do you bring to the relationship? Do you bring past relationships, past hurt, past mistrust, past pain?


You can't take someone to the altar to alter him or her. You can't make someone love you or make someone stay. If you develop self-esteem, spiritual discernment, and "a life", you won't find yourself making someone else responsible for your happiness or responsible for your pain. Manipulation, control, jealousy, neediness, and selfishness are not the ingredients of a thriving, healthy, loving and lasting relationship.


Seeking status,sex, wealth, and security are the wrong reasons to be in a relationship. What keeps a relationship strong? Communication, intimacy, trust, a sense of humor, sharing household tasks, some getaway time without business or children and daily exchanges (a meal, shared activity, a hug, a call, a touch, a note). Leave a nice message on their voicemail or send a nice email. Sharing common goals and interests.


Growth is important. Grow together, not away from each other, giving each other space to grow without feeling insecure. Allow your mate to have outside interest. You can't always be together. Give each other a sense of belonging and assurances of commitment. Don't try to control one another. Learn each other's family situation. Respect his or her parents regardless.


Don't put pressure on each other for material goods. Remember for richer or for poorer. If t hese qualities are missing, the relationship will erode as resentment, withdrawal, abuse, neglect, dishonesty, and pain replace the passion.


" Nurture your mind with great thoughts, for you will never go any higher than you think." The grass withers, the flowers fade, but the word of God stands forever. Isaiah 40:8


Shall we make a new rule of life from tonight. Always to try to be a little kinder than is necessary.


The difference between 'United' and 'Untied' is where you put the i.


Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away!

Let’s gets Kiddie!!!

This post is intended for kids, for those who have the heart of a Kid, those who love kids, and those who are willing to be Kid again! :D

I LOVE WATCHING Cartoons!! I really do… I enjoy listening to their cute voices, I like their songs, I love their bubbly faces. But most of all, I love the lessons and teachings delivered through these cartoons. Very basic, very simple, yet heartwarming, true, pure and clear.

Today, I want to introduce to you the two cartoons I love,,. Veggietales and Hermie and Friends. Both films are Christian cartoons that intends to instill values to Kids and Adults. :D Veggietales are led by Larry the Cucumber and Bob the Tomato. Each episodes really makes me smile... To confess, I've watched each series 5 times. On the other hand, Hermie and Friends are led by no other than, Hermie, a very very cute Caterpillar.

******

Come on, let's get Kiddie again! :)

Acquitted…are you?

Order in the court...Order in the court…

I therefore swear to state the truth, and nothing but the truth. So help me God…

I dream of becoming a lawyer someday. That is the reason why I took the course I am exercising with as a profession, as people said that this is a Pre-Law path. I love to defend people when they are in trouble provided that they are on right position and not guilty of the crime they are being accused of. I love to search for supporting documents, evidences, testimonials of witnesses and the like. I regarded that becoming a lawyer is a vocation, a ministry, rather than profession.

So, that’s it. Did you get my point why I started this post like that? :D and how it is related with the word acquitted I am mentioning?

Well, for us to better understand, my thoughts lingered with the word acquitted after reading a Matthew 18. Normally, we used to hear the word acquitted in a lawsuit, in a courtroom. There are plaintiffs, the one who filed the case, the defendants or the one being sued, the counsels for each party, the witnesses, clerks, sheriffs and judge. And the most awaited portion is the time the verdict will be given, Guilty or not guilty.

ACQUITTED. A pardon, declaring not guilty at all. Blameless, innocent. Sometimes I just wonder what will be the courtroom scenario in heaven… ahh,,will there be stuffs, judges, witnesses there? I kept on thinking weird things, and inquiring my inner soul about it.

Until

God answered me in a very special way. He gave me a vision, a thought, a situation. I am the defendant, the one who made the mistake, the one who created trouble, the one who sinned. And I found Jesus as my counsel, the one who takes care of my case, the one who justifies me with God as the judge. But the amazing thing that happens, though I should be verdict as guilty, God declares that I AM ACQUITTED. Why? Because my lawyer bear the weight of my sin. He is…

Now, I am living an acquitted life. Are you?

Sightless

When I can’t see, I am afraid.

We often match the word fear with seeing. Why can I say that? I experienced that long time ago.

It was way back 2002 when I and my family planned to go to a beach 30minutes away from our home. Packed with foods, clothing and other stuffs, my dad as our driver, mom beside her while cuddling my younger brother, grandparents along with me at the back seat, we were then looking forward for a great vacation, a time for relaxation and enjoyment. But then, an inescapable event happened. A transport company van coming from a wrong direction suddenly appeared in front of us, which lead my dad to step the break so hard to avoid it. However, it was so near that even though dad did that, our auto still bumps to the van that results to a very traumatic experienced for me. My mom was then diagnosed to have an internal bleeding that leads to operation and my dad, grandparents, and ‘lil bro got into bruises and muscle pain. And I, yes, I was the one who first rode the ambulance near that place, because of the so much blood I’ve lost. And the reason why? I can’t see. My right eye was deeply blooding (if there’s a term like that). I remember that time when my dad told me, “Belle, keep your eyes open, please please don’t close it my child”. I was worried and afraid then. Things were getting blurred. I then asked the people around me, “Will I be able to still see things?”

It was a struggle. Having a minute of no sight at all is really frightening. It chills my bone to know the fact that I’ll be losing my sense of seeing. But God is so good. And He gives me another chance to live and perceive the beauty of life He offered, the art He made for me.

Well, what I have experience is a state of being unsighted, no light, darkness, a physical one. But, have you ever imagined what if our spirits are blind? Can we still be able to distinguish right and wrong? Can we still be able to know His plans and visions for us? Will we still be capable to see His great mission for us? Spiritual blindness is more frightening than being physically blind. We sometimes experienced that, well, oftentimes. Our spiritual eyes are often the enemy’s target, as it is connected to our spiritual mind that is being used for discernment. Yet beyond all these attacks, God is always there to help us in order to clearly see things in spiritual realm. He is there, our guide, paving the way, making us equipped always.

And yes. When I can’t see, I am afraid. But, when I have my Lord and trust Him with all my heart, I am fearless and will never be sightless, ever.

Small Beginnings… Bigger Endings

A puppy into a dog. A caterpillar into a butterfly. A seed into a tree. A stone into a home.

Have you ever noticed how things come from little start? How great things are created on small mini stuff? If you don’t, well, I advise you to read this post.

I am fixing my stuffs until I observed an old box beneath my bed. I check out its content, and to my surprise, it’s my collection of scribbled notes, sermons, letters, etc. I opened the little notebook I have there, and started to read some poems and stories that I’ve written in the past. One that caught me most is the poem of a stone talking to God. Here it goes.

**
One day, a little stone ask God
Lord, why I am little, why I am sad?
I don’t know why you create me, or why I am here
I just need to know my existence; I need you to be near

Why I am small, why I’m not strong?
I can’t do anything, always wrong
I am not recognize with my tiny size
And my playmates always tease me I am not nice

I am constantly at the back so no one can see
Because I am ugly, and so itsy bitsy
So please explain me why you made me like this
Because I really don’t feel at ease

Then God hear the little stone hurt
And tries to console his heart
He picked him up and let him saw the future
Because God is wise, it’s His nature

The little stone was amazed by what he saw
He can’t imagine the future, still in awe
He was part of a great kingdom built
A sanctuary for the Great King

The little stone cried and talked again to God
“I’m sorry from the bottom of my heart”
“You are special, you are strong”, the Lord replied
“You just need to be trust me, and know that you belong”.

**
We may sometimes be sad because we think we cannot do right things because we are small. But think of the mustard seed that became a great tree. The Great King has the best plans for us. We just need to have faith and know that we belong to him. From there, His Kingdom will be established.

Authentic Heart

“You may be genuine to them, but not all people are authentic”

Authenticity… The quality of being authentic or of established authority for truth and correctness. It is an undisputed credibility, of genuiness and reliability. It’s a state of being valid, faithful and trustworthy. And basically, being honest, being true.

Have you ever come to a point that you feel something, somewhere; somehow, not authentic? Perhaps, you would say yes. Because in this world, not all things are genuine. There are many imitations, bogus, artificial, synthetic. Foods, clothing, houses, monies, work, companies, medicines, books, faces, lifestyle, music…almost everything. But what hurt’s most is the authenticity of the heart. Sad to say, yes.

We can make a “replica” of our heart, of our attitudes, of our emotions, and of how we deal to other people. We can counterfeit the feelings we have when we converse to a particular person, change moods depending on what response we want to get. We can fool people, we can make believe. I can do that, you can do that. We can do that. And it sucks…its painful.

I received a message today regarding the people’s authenticity. Somehow, I just felt a little sad. What I am with the people around is the true me, no hidden masks or any social bubble. Well, there are times I am guilty of that, but my conscience speaks up whenever I’m doing that. But I tell you, I will be sad if those entire groups I deal with, people I have interacted with are not genuine. Hello, all of us will be upset if someone will just play around and deceive us. But that’s the commodity people are displaying.

So, what are we going to do? As the bible speaks up, be shrewd like snakes and be innocent like doves (Matthew 10:16). Though people can deceived us, only Jesus sets the true meaning of authenticity. Only Him can display and love us the very true way. And He can break barriers of fraud and deception. He is strong. He is true.

Well, I pray that all persons I am dealing with are true and genuine. But nevertheless, my prayer will always be “Lord, give me an authentic heart, that I may serve You and Your vineyard with a true soul”.

Bread talk

Alms, alms, alms. Spare me a piece of bread. Spare me your mercy.

This popular line was derived from a declamation piece Vengeance is not ours, its God, a high school melodramatic piece that is being performed many years ago. Bursting in emotions, this was delivered with full of heartaches, tears and hatred. Well, I myself used to recite this during a competition held in our school, on top on The Inevitable Day oratorical piece.

That’s it...Does it make sense after all?

Well, reflecting on the above lines, I wonder why the author used the word BREAD as an item to be spared of. Basically, he could pick “Spare me a piece of MONEY”, or “Spare me some DRINK’. Maybe “Spare me a piece of CLOTHING” and many more. What’s with bread then? Questions keep on banging in my head. I still can’t find the answer.

Until…

4:00pm, July 5, 2010. I am still busy working with numerous transactions and tons of accounting, balancing, numbers, closing and etc. I am hungry but I can’t go to buy some foods to relieve my appetite. I went to my Mommy Janey’s work station and ask if she have something to nibble. And oh, out of her gratitude and kind hearted mom, she gave me bread, pandesal with mayo.

***

Bread. One of Filipinos basic foods, a substitute to rice and corn, a source of carbohydrates. Almost all of us are eating this kind of provision. A source of strength and energy, it gives us power to endure the whole day activity and carry on with our daily tasks. Pondering on these things, bread can really please our physical desires. However, have we asked ourselves about the bread that would satisfy our spiritual life?

In John 6:25-59, John and the people there are eagerly waiting for the food that will last. They are consistently asking Jesus of that magic bread that will satisfy their cravings and enough for their needs. They wanted Jesus to perform the miraculous things that happened to their ancestors, the manna and quail thing. Little did they know that the person they are talking with is the BREAD that will last forever. Jesus is not the bread that will spoil nor rotten, He is the one that will suffice all the needs that we have. He is not just a food for the body, but definitely, He is food for our souls. What we just need is to accept the food, and share it to others.

Yes, the Great King is definitely our BREAD.

***
I and my younger brother enjoyed the bread that we take. But what excites me more, is the fact the Jesus is the provider of all these things. And most of all, HE is the food of our souls.

LONG LIVE GREAT KING!

FOREVERMORE

**writing this blog while listening to Zoe Girl’s Forevermore**

Today is July 1, 2010. Seven months have passed, and we are almost completed for year 2010 cycle. Time really flies very fast, that in a blink of an eye, everything seems to be just memories that happened in the past.

Any connection with this blog title?

Well, I am just amazed by the swift rotation of the calendar dates. Nevertheless, my day was a tiring one. After a holiday pause, I wake up early to go to the office and carry out my daily tasks. I think I’ve started my day great, (that is why until now, I am smiling). I’ve attended series of meetings and townhalls today, in preparation for the June 2010 closing (well, there’s a monthly closing of books for accountants, haha). Postings, numbers, unbalance figures, tons of papers in my desk, calculator…it bombards my day. So, to take a breather, I rise up and went to my officemate’s desk. I’ve checked some of her stuffs there, and found a CD on top of her desk. I checked it out, look at the cover, read some of the lines, and decide to borrow it from her. Without further ado, she gave me the CD entitled Room to breathe by ZOE Girl.

The music then started to play. Its genre is kinda soft alternative (the genre I love most). I skip track 1, 2, 3, 4… then stop, I check out the track 5. I played it again, listen with my heart. Played it once more… until now.
And the music goes like this.

FOREVERMORE
Oh God, in Your perfection
Your love confounds the wise
Sinners are made heroes, and the humble lifted high
Unchained hearts are singing out
Songs that reach the sky

**Lift up your eyes to the One who reigns
Lift up your hands, oh sweet surrender it brings
Forevermore, You are holy
Forevermore, You are worthy

In Your light we see light
In Your eyes we shine
All my life, all that I hope
It rests inside Your plan
Your love, Your grace, Your truth alone

Forevermore will stand
You have called me Your redeemed
And hidden me in the shadow of Your wings
Peace like a river, Joy like a fountain flow
Wherever you go

I repeatedly played the song… and astonishingly, the Lord speaks to me. Yes, He conversed with me through this music. I one by one studied the lyrics, and gratefully, formulate my own version of ZOE Girls Forevermore (though there’s no melody on it J).

O Lord Your grace is abundant
Your name is like a sweet fragrant
Your mercy falls in every way
To you my heart belongs each day

**Forevermore I will sing praises
Forevermore I will shout worship
Raise my voice in freedom and glory
So all people will know You’re holy
Forevermore

Yes, Jesus is my reason for all these things. And I will make HIM renown.

FOREVERMORE.

10 Million Smiley

I’ve exceeded the 10 million smileys.

The clock tick tacks 7:00am. I wake up a bit late today, maybe because it is a special non working holiday due to the inauguration of our new President. I have rested well the past night that I was able to recover my sick days. Rise up no coughing syndromes, bit colds, and in good shape. I’m ready to seize the day.

So…

I get up, talk to my Great King, and immediately rush up to go to the bathroom to wash up. While brushing my teeth, and idea pops up in my mind. A bit weird, I guess, and a bit impossible to fulfill. The thought I have is to collate 10million smileys from different person. Yes, bizarre right? “Hello Belle”, I said to myself, “how can you have 10MILLION SMILEYS in ONE DAY??? Do you think that is possible?” I’ve grasped a 5minute pause, and tried to think if that’s possible. “Well”, I utter again, “let’s try”. And that’s it. I’ve tried.

So…

Here are the lists I’ve made today that I believed I’ve garnered a smileys.
1. Wake up early, even though its holiday. I thank God. – one smiley
2. Got my phone; texted my daddy and naynay Good morning and God bless. – two smileys for two person
3. Texted Prince Max Good morning. – one smiley
4. Texted my mentor Good morning. – one smiley
5. Texted 5 other people in my phone Good morning. – five smileys
6. Went to my brother’s bed; hug him tight and kiss him. – one smiley
7. Cleaned our house- two smileys (one for me, and one for my brother)
8. Opened the FB account; commented on one of my friends status- one smiley
9. Greeted a friend happy birthday. – one smiley
10. Greeted our landowner great day. – one smiley
11. Greeted our neighbors’ great day. – two smileys (cause they are couple)
12. Greeted the security guards on my way to the office. – 4 smileys (cause I have to encounter 4 security guards before I can get in the office itself)
13. Cracked a joke to my office mates. – five smileys (cause they are five there)
14. Sung a song for my friends. – five smileys (cause they are five as well)
15. Thanked the driver because of bringing me home safe. – one smiley

And the list goes on and on. I review it again. Ohhhh,,, 10 million smileys not attained.

I closed my eyes. Deep thoughts… I reached out my bible and read some verses. Psalm, Proverbs, Isaiah, Zephaniah… they all mentioned God’s wonderful and amazing stories. I scroll a bit; flip the pages one by one. And yes, I found the word… Jesus smile.

I will not definitely reach the 10million smileys I wanted if I’ll be relying only on the responses people will gave. But, what I’ve realized is that the Great God we have will really be the one to give us the smiles that we need. People may react badly on us, but, if we are pleasing in Gods’ eyes, His smile are worth enough.

I ended the day great. I look up, thank my Creator. And I know He is smiling back at me.
And yes, I’ve exceeded the 10million smileys… because one Smile from God is greater than the trillion smileys of the world.

**written on the 30th of June 2010**

Rauha…

Rauha…meaning peace.

I received a text message this morning, and it goes like “Hey, I named your kingdom na. Parehong finnish ang language. Toivoa sakin, meaning hope… Rauha sayo, meaning peace”.

Peace, a term to denote quietness, serenity, tranquility. People always wanted to have peace in their hearts and mind, but still, they fail to achieve it. They try many things, such as drowning to liquors, travelling to other places, burning to cigars and caffeine, and the like. But still, nothing can give the serenity their inner soul longing for.

Peace… it’s very easy to achieve. You really don’t need any fancy things, nor doing stuffs I’ve mention earlier to grab it. Peace is readily available and offered by the Great King. And this stillness can never ever be compared to any other peace the world is substituting. It goes deep down the heart, the soul, the spirit. It boost and energize, it gives life. It brings hope and joy, fulfillment. Its free, no price is offered. You just need to listen, to be quiet, and to read the Great King’s proclamation and word. You just need to look and view the majestic kingdom He created here on earth. And you just need to talk and have plain exchanges of thoughts and words to those people who can bring peace in your heart… like what I’ve experienced yesterday evening.

Be still…and know the Great King.

Hmmm.. I wonder why Prince Max named my kingdom Rauha. But whatever the reason is, I just replied to him and say “Ayyy…I love it. Super ganda. Thank you!”

A call for Royal Highness

For we are called to be prince and princess… of HIS Royal Kingdom.

I am a traveler, a wanderer. I’ve left my empire to have an alliance with another neighboring kingdom. My purpose is to establish a strong treaty with them in order to fortify our economy; enhance our warriors; develop our skills and knowledge and harness our abilities and talents. My sovereignty was known for producing good musicians and writers; hence, I am journeying a long course to find that monarchy.

Until…

I found my feet stepping in the Kingdom of Toivoa, a land full of colorful places. The fancy outlook of the castle plus the bright shades makes me wonder what was this kingdom all about. Without any second thoughts, I enter the empire and saw its wonderful sceneries. People are smiling and greeted me a Great morning as I walked closely to the palace. The way of living there was simple, yet very classy and innovative. They continue to invent more and more equipments that will make their economy prosper. They have different means of transportation and one of those is their so called “Kalesa”, a box type carrier that is being pulled by a horse. They also have buildings and classrooms for music and writers, same as with ours. They all have great stuffs there.

But…

The things that inspired me most are the sanctuaries that are build on every corner. People there recognized the sovereignty and greatness of our Great King, same as with ours. And the beautiful gardens alongside makes me admire the place, and the ruler that was entrusted by the GREAT KING. These trigger me more to meet the prince, their leader. I’ve heard that his name is Prince Max.

I’ll be meeting the prince this evening over dinner and a cup of coffee. I hope we will have a great talk.

This is really a call for Royal Highness.

BTW, this is Princess Belle, signing off. J

Horizon

Where the sky and sea meets, there’s horizon…

I’ve been thinking so many things lately that my mind was totally swarming up. My body just wanted to take a deep slumber but my head keeps on being grumpy that it wants to blast of its crowded ideas. I tried to keep my eyes shut off, hoping I could grab the sleep I wanted. But, it wasn’t successful. So, instead of counting sheep, what I did is I grab my pc, sit up straight, wear my eye glasses, and started writing this blog.

During our 15min break on the afternoon, I and my officemate, whom I called “Mommy Janey”, went to the store to buy some foods to nibble. We got some talk about what our lives are currently encountering. I find her a little bit stress with her present status, a working mom raising a baby alone with her husband working overseas. Somehow, I just felt her deep breath and long sigh. Well, I just commented that “we really do have different experiences and tasks; we should have to have an outlet to release stress”.

We then go straight to the pantry to eat our donuts. Amazingly, I turned my head in the window and gazed on a very wide horizon, as if it slowly attaching the earth and the sky. The yellow-red color of the sky produced by the sun that little by little bids goodbye seems to perfectly match with the indigo color of the sea, as it gives me fresh hope that hey, everything will be fine. The never ending horizon, completely embraced me, while the great Creator solemnly whispered in my ear, I LOVE YOU.

Horizon… It’s where the sky and sea meets.

Thank you Lord for the wonderful horizon.

Who’s with you in your future?

Thank God it’s FRIDAY!

Friday is always been one of the exciting day for me. As a young professional who’s working in Makati, living independently in a rented studio type apartment, eating dinner alone with your IPOD attached to mini speaker, I constantly awaits for Friday to arrive as it gives me a hint that working days is over and I’ll be going home in our province. Yeah, I always look forward for a spectacular weekend to spend with my family. Well, for other yuppies like me, Friday is a night out mode, party and wild stuffs. But I choose a party in my own way, a gathering I understand fully.

Oopss… so how’s the title of this blog relate with this whole Friday thingy???

It goes like this.

I am riding the LRT one Friday afternoon to reach the Victory bus station in Caloocan until one weird thought came in my mind that almost shook my sanity. Yep, super bizarre. I was kinda struck out why it crossed my mind, why he crossed my mind. He lingers my thought that whole Friday, maybe because I bump his FB account and saw his new status there. Well, I don’t have any not-so-good intention, I just remember those days, long long time ago.

I was third Year College then, when he took courage to stand and got to know me. We were classmates then, both Accounting students, a tough course I guess. We talk, we laugh, and we converse. During our “got to know” dialogue, we found out that we have the same ride going to our home. So, then, we just found ourselves riding the same jeepney going home. He used to wait me before classes ends, and that effort makes him more recognize by me. Exchange of ideas continues. Hobbies, likes, dreams, etc. We both also love to sing. He played guitar and use to hum notes so melodically. We jive then. Our genre of interests binds us more. And one more, we study together. There was one time when he used to spend four hours in our home to study and finish our research. It was really fun then.

Well, to cut the story short, we just found ourselves in the same feeling. But, that was ended. And the ending was painful. It was really hurting that to be honest, I’m still sensing a part of it.

That’s it.

Now, let’s go back to the LRT ride. Okay. I’m wondering why we didn’t last forever, why waiting is so hard for him. I guess we are just not meant to be.

Now, who’s with me in the future?

Until, I find myself uttering a prayer. Lord, I trust you with all my heart that I know, even the soul mate of my heart are in Your mighty hands. Lord, I know You ultimately know who’s gonna be with me in the future. And Lord, as you prepare Him, prepare me as well. Until the sweet memory of our eyes meet, and the blood pumps excitingly in our heart. Until such time, we are going to be with each other’s arm, gearing toward the future of worshipping you.

I ended the LRT ride, and got to ride the Victory bus. I paid for my ticket, I bought my food, I seated on No.6 seat. I smiled. I rested. And I thank HIM for him, in advance.

Be right Back..

i miss writing...

but i'll soon be back..soon....

you'll see me again..in symbols and scripts..

in scribbled scrambled letters..

in bold, italized letters..i'll open up my heart again..

for you to hear...

for Him to be glorified..

SOON...

Got Renewed!

I was busy doing my paper works when our company messenger dropped in my workstation and delivered something. It was a small card handed by him, of which I am excited to accept, plus curious what is it about. So as a norm, he asked me to sign the delivery sheet substantiating that I’ve already received the package. After that, he gave me the card and alas, it was my new PRC License ID. I’ve checked in the details and found all are correct and in order, i.e. my name is correctly spelled out (Donnabele Cristobal Amgao), License number is right, birth date and the expiration date is accurate, profession is exact, and the photo attached is my lovely formal shot. It was perfect! Seeing that card makes me feel that I’m already renewed with my profession, and with that, I can continue to exercise my career as an Accountant. Added to that is because this is a valid government ID, I can present it to all official engagements I’ll be dealing with.

So, that’s it. I am renewed with my vocation. At the back of my mind, I am thinking, how can I relate this picky thing in my life with my daily life experiences, particularly my spiritual growth? Wait, let me rephrase. Since you will be reading this blog, I am thinking how I can relate it, to OUR spiritual growth. I close my eyes then, for 10mins… Blink 3 times ...Until I found myself writing (don’t worry, its lunch break).

Renew. When we heard the word renew, we basically think of words like replenish, restore, mend, renovate, restart, recharge, revive, rejuvenate. Notice that in each word describe, there two letters constant, i.e. RE. In English vocabulary, RE means again. When you say again, something has already happened in the past and you’re just doing it another time. It’s like renewing expired driver’s license, renewing vows and marriage, and the like.
In the bible, we can find many stories of renewing covenant to God. Both in old and new testament, it was explained in details how the Israelites renewed their commitment to God. They do sometimes offer burnt offerings and sacrifices in times they are committing sins in order to rectify their lost relationship to and with Him. Well, basically, that’s it. However, in the New Testament, we could find different perspective of renewed bond with God. It was Jesus, who mediates us to have a renewed commitment with God… to be saved…for He is the way, the truth, and the light.

It is so amazing to have Jesus with us. And renewing our vows and devotion to Him serves as our dedication and worship to His never ending love and affection. :)

Alas, my PRC licensed is already renewed. But my heart and spirit will continue to renew and devote my life to Him, more than before.

Using our native language..:)

Kamusta? Hayaan nyong gumawa naman ako ng artikulo gamit ang sarili nating lenguahe..(pangako, walang paduguan ng ilong..hahaha :P)...

Habang ako'y nagmumuni-muni, naisip ko, anu nga ba ang dahilan ko bakit ako sumusulat ngayon at gumagamit ng makabagong teknolohiya? Simple lang... ang ilabas mula sa aking damdamin ang sumisilakbong pagnanais na makilala ang aking pinakatatanging kaibigan sa pamamagitan ng aking mga panulat...

Oo, magkaibigan na kami simula pa lang ng ako'y isilang sa mundong ibabaw. Kilala nya ako, at kahit kailanma'y di ako nakapaglihim sa kanya. Nuong una'y nagtataka ako at bakit nya ako kilala, eh nasa sinapupunan pa naman ako ng aking ina. Ewan ko kung bakit alam nya na babae pala ako, pati ang aking magiging itsura. Kakaiba diba? Pero totoo, walang halong kasinungalan, kilala nya na ako nuong una pa lang.

Ng ako'y lumalaki na at nagsimulang mag-aral, kasama ko sya sa paaralan. Alam nya na mayroon akong isang kamag-aral na aking sinisinta,,pero di ko masabi. Kilala nya rin ang aking mga guro at kaklase. Minsan, nakalimutan kong gumawa ng asignatura. Biruin nyo, alam nya rin yun, eh hindi ko naman sinabi sa kanya. Oo, tama ka..sobrang kakaiba. Ako rin noong una'y naguguluhan bakit ganoon. Pero ayun, nasanay na ako. Wala namang masama kung malaman nya ang lahat sa akin. Hangang sa dumating ang isang pagkakataon.

Ng tumuntong ako sa sekondarya, may mga bagay na nais na akong ilihim sa kanya. May isa kasi akong nakilalang ibang kaibigan.. Nag-aaral sya sa ibang paaralan. Naging malapit kami sa isa't isa, kaso lang, noong mangyari iyon, nagsimula na akong manlamig sa aking pinakatatanging kaibigan. Hindi ko na nga sya minsan nakakausap kapag gabi eh. Nalimutan ko na rin ang magsulat ng mga tula para sa kanya. Napako ang tingin ko sa bago.. Hanggang sa ayun, dumating ang oras na di pala totoo lahat ng pangako ng bago.. sa madaling salita, iniwan ako ng nakilala kong kaibigan. Di pala ganun kadali yun, ang iwan ka. Pero alam nyo, ang pinakatatangi kong kaibigan, di nya ako iniwan. Nilapitan nya ako at niyakap ng mahigpit, habang inaawitan. Simula noon, tinanggap ko syang muli. At biruin nyo, ang nasambit nya lang sa akin. "di naman kita iniwan".

Nag kolehiyo ako, at magkasama pa rin kami. Matatag kaming bumabagtas sa agos ng buhay. At madalas kaming nagaawitan. Habang tumatagal, tumitibay ako. Dahil alam kong kasama ko sya palagi.

Hanggang ngayon na ako'y nagtra-trabaho na sa propesyong sya rin ang nag udyok sa akin na kunin ay kasama ko pa rin sya. At nagtitiwala ako na kasama ko pa rin sya hanggang sa makamit ko ang tugatog ng tagumpay. Ay, oo nga pala, kahit ngayong ginagawa ko ang akdang ito'y katabi ko sya.

Oo, sya nga..sana makilala mo rin sya. Hindi ko sya ipagkakait sayo. Sana maging pinakatatangi mo rin syang Kaibigan.

:D

He Unchained me...

I am chained...

Yes, I was..

My hands and feet are shackled with iron chains that can't be broken nor removed...

It was painful, it was hurting...

But what hurts most was not the blood that flashes out of my flesh...

Or the tight grip that tore my veins up to the sole strand...

Nor the crushed heart and spirit...

It was the fact that no one, not even a single person can untied me..

One, two, three, four....ninety nine... one thousand and three... If the numbers can only complain, they would yell at me and would shout "STOP COUNTING, NO ONE WILL SAVE YOU!" YOU'LL BE FOREVER CHAINED"...

It was really excruciating...I'm really agonizing...CAN SOMEONE HEAR MY HEART'S THROBBING? I wanted to be free...Tell me, what are the things I need to do to taste that liberty? Do I need to sell all my possessions? Do I need to do good works? Do I need to dance, sing, act, and shout? I'm begging.

I fell down, slept...

Until I saw four things. No, not four. It was eight.

Death.

Blood.

Cross.

Stripe.

With the word Forgiven.

Justified.

Sanctified.

Healed.

I saw a nail pierced hand. I saw a crown with thorns. Yes, I saw it...

And then I saw an empty tomb.

I woke up.

I felt an unusual feeling. It was light, it was never that light. I looked at my hands and my feet. Chains were all gone.

Yes, more than 2000 years ago. I was unchained, by that nail pierced hand, by the crown with thorns and an empty tomb.

He paid it. Jesus paid it.

And for the first time of my life, I kneel down...and sincerely pray!

Into the depth of my angels heart

He flies nearby within me

and touches my heart so easily

He whisper so softly

words that are so mild and gently

He knew when I'm mad

And makes me smile when I'm sad

He painted sweet slumber when I'm tired

and makes me at peace

He's an angel indeed

That in every sunrise he gives fresh reason to live

But the most wonderful of it all

Is that He taught me how to Worship

My Heavenly Dad..

*thanks for inspiring me to write this,,*

Clinging in Gods ways > Dilemmas

...Shhh..hush my Child..listen to Me... I am in control...

I was in the middle of something when I got to view a not-so-ordinary wall post in Facebook. It says that "Di madali tong dilemma nato a.. still, Im clinging to the fact that His ways are higher than mine. :)" Well, I can say that somehow, from others point of view, this was just a simple statement of declaring that a problem is not easy (well, I guess, 90% of dilemmas are difficult to handle). However, when I tried to view and read between the lines, I have pondered few points regarding this one. :)

Dilemmas are difficult to handle as this is an argument that offers many possible solutions that do have equal bearing or conclusion. You have many choices, and the very hard on it, is that it offers contradicting solutions with both logical reason. This will lead you to a very hard decision making process, which in turn, will make your mind upside down.

Dilemmas involve a wide range of consideration. Since there's a need to rationalize, you need to consider many things, visualize the end result, and somehow predict or check the outcome. Well, it may require to reflect as well on the pros and cons, and find yourself in the midst of balancing things.

Dilemmas are really painful. It is somehow hurting, especially when you have chosen the wrong one.

Well, that's the point...And I can attest that the person who posted this shout out is really in DILEMMA. However, continuing his post, what caught me more is the phrase that he is still clinging on SOMEONE's ways that is better that his. That makes me ponder more...

Clinging is an action on which you are holding tightly or adhering to something or someone you are believing with. So, when this person says he is clinging, he is embracing.

His ways... this denotes God's ways, our Dad in heaven ways.. and that is a fact...a reality,. the truth..

Equating the said post, this will gives us Clinging+Fact+God's ways is > Dilemmas.

Well, what can I say..Just continue to cling to that fact... and submit your ways to Him... for He knows all, and He cares.. Listen to your heart..You will definitely hear..

* you've inspired me to write this bro..thank you!*