As the sun sets and I walk alone, my thoughts drift to the paths I've walked, mostly by myself. It's not that I don't have people in my life, but when it comes to the significant moments, it's often just me. And, surprisingly, I've come to realize that this is okay. Life can be incredibly challenging, and there are moments when we must become our own heroes because no one else can step into that role for us. Those times when big decisions land heavily on our shoulders, or when we reach out for support and find only empty air—these moments have taught me the most valuable lesson: I need to plan for myself because I am the one person I can always count on. At night, the world could feel silent, and in that stillness, I often think of how much strength I have within me. I don’t need to wait for someone to come and rescue me from my doubts and fears. I am always my own rescue. Cliché, “The only person you are destined to become is the person you decide to be”. This understanding isn't about distancing myself from others or losing trust in them. It's about the comforting knowledge that, at the end of the day, the one who will always be there for me is the person I see in the mirror. Crafting plans that rely on me means setting personal goals, ensuring my financial security, and embracing growth in my quiet, solitary moments.
But this isn't a tale of sadness—it's one of strength and discovery. Each time I've had to stand alone, I've unearthed a little more courage and resilience within myself. I've come to see that self-reliance isn't about being lonely; it's about being empowered. It's the reassuring knowledge that, regardless of what life throws my way, I can handle it. During my recent solo trip to Andorra, I hiked up a mountain trail, feeling the weight of the world on my shoulders. With each step, I felt more connected to myself, more capable of facing my challenges. By the time I reached the viewpoint, the view was breathtaking—not just because of the landscape, but because I realized I had climbed both the mountain and my inner doubts. I’m not perfect and sometimes, I also feel afraid, being alone in pursuing my dreams. In those moments, I close my eyes and pray for the strength and capability I sometimes doubt I possess. I hold onto the belief that there’s something profoundly beautiful in this realization. Achieving my dreams on my own isn’t just possible—it’s a testament to my incredible resilience and something I can be truly proud of. Every step I take alone is a step towards discovering the extraordinary person I am meant to be.
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Faith has always been a part of my life. Growing up Catholic, my parents encouraged us to be close to God. They believed, as I did, that everything is controlled and managed by one ultimate power. This belief stayed with me, even as my life took me far from my roots. When I moved to Saudi Arabia, the center of Islam, I worked with a very devout Muslim, our Director of Pharmacy. Around the same time, I married a converted Muslim man. He was deeply committed to his faith, always going for Umrah, a pilgrimage, and praying regularly. His dedication piqued my curiosity about Islam. I started reading about it, trying to understand why he was so devoted. As I read more, I felt my heart drawing closer to God in a way I hadn’t felt before.
One day, I told my boss that I wanted to go on a pilgrimage. He explained that I needed to be a Muslim to go, so I decided to convert. With the help of a Muslim organization, I went through the conversion process from Catholicism to Islam. When we were preparing for the pilgrimage, I was unsure how to pray properly. My boss told me that when I reached the holiest place in Islam, I should close my eyes and whisper to God whatever my heart truly desired, and He would listen. For many years, I had been suffering from uterine bleeding. Doctors told me that having a child would be difficult. I shared this with my husband, and we resigned ourselves to the possibility that it might take years for us to conceive. Standing in the grand mosque on the last day of Ramadan, surrounded by worshippers, I felt an overwhelming sense of peace and awe. I closed my eyes, and tears streamed down my face. In that powerful moment, I whispered to God, asking for the blessing of a child. When we returned home, my bleeding continued for a while but then stopped. A few months later, I noticed changes in my body and decided to take a pregnancy test. To my amazement, it was positive. It felt like a miracle. When we saw the doctor for an ultrasound, we realized that the conception likely happened around the time of my heartfelt prayer during the pilgrimage. This experience deepened my faith and made me realize that everyone has their own unique relationship with God. I am not saying that everyone should convert to Islam; faith is indeed a very personal journey. But I am grateful for my special relationship with God. It has carried me through the hardest times in my life and continues to be a source of strength and comfort. I may not be religious in the traditional sense, but I know that God loves me deeply. His love has blessed me in ways I never imagined possible. My faith, though unconventional, is profound and unwavering. For this incredible journey and the countless blessings I've received, I am eternally grateful, and I give Him all the glory. ![]() Today, I read a touching post about a grandma patiently waiting for her grandkids to reach home through the Uber app, and it reminded me deeply of my father. My dad had a unique kind of patience. Every time one of us was late coming home from school or anywhere else, there he was, waiting. He seemed to have a calmness that only dads possess. His excitement for our school events always topped ours—every single time. With our mom working far away, it was always him at our school activities, whether it was recollections, graduations, or anything in between. I remember seeing him in the crowd during processions, his eyes tracking us the whole way. Some of our relatives used to tease us, saying he was so strict because he didn't want anyone chasing after us. Maybe they were right, but to us, he was just being protective. Every Tuesday and Thursday, like clockwork, he'd wake us up early for holy mass. More than being just a school requirement—it was his way of strengthening our faith, something he valued deeply even though he was born a Seventh-day Adventist but raised us as Catholics. Despite his tough exterior, he surprised us by quoting Bible verses when we least expected it. Those moments would always make us smile; it was a side of him that didn't match his tough dad image. He called us his princesses, and to us, he was nothing short of a king. When I moved to Manila for my studies, and later when I started teaching at a university, he’d visit me. He’d bring food, and we’d spend time together after my classes. I could see the pride in his eyes—I was one of the youngest instructors at the university, and he loved telling everyone about it. My sister wasn't left out of his caring gestures either. Working at a local bank, she'd find our dad waiting with a meal for her, ready to drive her home each afternoon. Our dad was our biggest fan and supporter, always there, always watching over us. Even now, years after he’s gone, I still feel his presence in those moments of quiet patience and unwavering support. When life gets tough, I close my eyes and remember his calm, steady gaze, his protective embrace, and the way he made us feel like princesses. His memory is always my guiding light, reminding me of the depth of his love and the strength of his spirit. Dad, you were, and always will be, our king. Happy Father’s Day, Sarge. Tuwing madaling araw, habang ang sinag ng araw ay tumatagos sa malayong kalangitan,
Nagtatanong sa sarili, isang tahimik na bulong, "Para kanino ako bumabangon?" Para sa ngiti ng aking mga anak, na ang mga pangarap ay lumulutang sa taas, Ang kanilang kinabukasan ay unti-unting nabubuksan, sila ang dahilan kung bakit. Para sa kanila, ako'y bumabangon. Sa gitna ng kalungkutan kung saan nagtatago ang mga anino, Kapag ang puso'y mabigat at ang diwa'y umiiyak, Ako'y patuloy na bumabangon para sa kanila. Sa bawat tawag sa bahay, kung saan nakasalalay ang aking mga pag-asa, Sa mga ngiting ibinabahagi at mga kuwentong hindi kailanman nagwawakas, Para sa pagmamahal ng isang ina, ako'y bumabangon. Sa mga kalye ng ibang bayan, sa ilalim ng dayuhang kalangitan, Ako'y humaharap sa bawat araw nang may matatag na tingin. Pagod, oo—ngunit sumuko? Hindi ko susubukan. Para sa mga pangakong binitawan, na aking tutuparin, Para sa mas magandang buhay, doon ako umaasa, Para sa kanila, ako'y bumabangon. Sila ang aking lakas, ang hindi binibigkas na ugnayan, Sa kabila ng mga dagat, kung saan lumilipad ang aking mga pangarap. Para sa aking puso, para sa kanilang kasiyahan, ako'y bumabangon. Sa madilim na gabi o malakas na ulan, Laging nasa isip at puso ko ang layunin Para sa kanila, para sa kanilang pagmamahal, magpakailanman, ako'y bumabangon. I remember the day vividly. It was a warm Tuesday afternoon, and tensions were high at work. I had just had a heated argument with a colleague. I was furious, my heart pounding, ready to say things I knew would hurt deeply. Just as I was about to let my anger spill over, my boss, a knowledgeable man whom I respect much, quietly took me aside. He looked at me with a calm, understanding gaze and said something that I will never forget: "Words are like seeds. If you plant kindness, you'll grow happiness. If you plant harshness, you'll grow loneliness." His words stopped me in my tracks. They were a direct reminder of the power our words hold. In that moment, I felt a wave of shame wash over me. I realized how close I was to saying something I would later regret. Anger is a powerful emotion that can cloud our judgment and make us lash out. It's so easy to let it take control and hurt those around us with our words. But once spoken, those words can't be taken back. They can leave scars that last long after the anger has faded. My boss continued, "Never say mean words when you're angry. Your anger will pass, but the hurtful words can scar someone for life. Instead, use kind words or choose to stay silent." His gentle advice touched me deeply. He just didn’t want me to avoid conflict but he was encouraging me to become a better person. I felt a mix of emotions – guilt for my angry outburst, gratitude for his wisdom, and a newfound resolve to be more mindful of my words. Since that day, his words have been my guiding light. Whenever I feel anger bubbling up, I remember his calm voice and wise words. I think of how his kindness turned my anger into reflection, and reflection into understanding. I’ve learned that silence can be powerful, especially when words might only cause harm.
This experience taught me that our words have the power to heal or hurt. By choosing to speak with kindness or staying silent when we’re angry, we can build stronger, more caring relationships. This choice not only helps our relationships but also shapes who we are. Every time we choose kindness over anger, we grow into better versions of ourselves. I wish I could share this lesson with everyone. Let's try to be careful with our words, especially when we're angry. Remember that in every interaction, we have the chance to spread kindness, understanding, and positivity. In a world that can often be harsh and unkind, what we say to each other matters more than ever. Whenever anger tries to take hold of me, I pause and take a deep breath. I remind myself of the impact my words can have, like seeds growing into something bigger. So, I choose to be kind. Because you never know, the words I say could either heal someone’s heart or break it. Why Does Everything Change When We Grow Older? As I grow older, I see how everything changes. People I thought would be in my life forever have vanished, while those I never imagined being close to have become dear friends. It's surprising and sometimes bittersweet, but it's a part of life that I’m learning to accept. I've realized that as we age, we start to save our energy for things that truly matter. We stop wasting time on meaningless connections and focus on relationships that uplift us. This doesn't mean we stop caring about others, but we become more careful about where we invest our emotions. Outgrowing people is part of this journey. It’s not easy, and it doesn’t mean we love them any less. It means we recognize when a relationship no longer helps us grow. We have the right to outgrow people who aren't growing with us, and we don't need to apologize for it. It’s a sign of our own growth and self-respect. Discovering new parts of myself has been one of the most rewarding parts of getting older. I’ve learned more about who I am and what I need to be happy and fulfilled. This self-discovery brings me closer to the person I want to be. So, if you find yourself feeling the same way, remember that it’s okay to let go. Embrace the changes and cherish the new connections that come into your life. Every change, every new friendship, and every moment of self-discovery is a step towards becoming the best version of ourselves. Life is a journey, and with each change, we grow stronger, wiser, and more loving. Don’t be afraid to embrace it. I often wonder why life seems like a long road filled with all sorts of twists and turns. Sometimes, while walking this road, it feels like everyone else is sprinting past me, holding trophies and smiling big. There were days when I used to sit by the side, wondering when it would be my turn, feeling a little lost and a lot left out. I often wonder why life seems like a long road filled with all sorts of twists and turns. Sometimes, while walking this road, it feels like everyone else is sprinting past me, holding trophies and smiling big. There were days when I used to sit by the side, wondering when it would be my turn, feeling a little lost and a lot left out. But over time, I started to see things differently. I began to understand that each of us has our own unique road to travel, and it's not helpful to compare my journey with someone else's. I used to envy seeing someone else's success— friends landing on their dream jobs, some going on fancy vacations, buying all those expensive bags and jewelries. Until I've learned to find a deeper happiness in celebrating other people's victories. Im not sure how, but it just sort of hit me one day— I realized that when I'm cheering for others, I'm adding more happiness to the world, and that joy bounces back to me too.
Being patient isn’t always easy. It’s hard to wait for your sunshine when it feels like you’re stuck in the shade. Yet, I've realized that waiting can be powerful. While I waited, I didnt just sit around. I've tried to improve myself, learn more, and get stronger. I’ve also found out that there’s a special kind of peace that comes from acknowledging our own blessings, no matter how small they might seem. Instead of looking at what others have, I’ve started to look at what I have— a loving family, good health, a job that keeps me going. These are my blessings, and they are worth celebrating. So, here's what I hold onto: every season has its reason. If this isn't the season of my grand victories, it’s my season to prepare, to support others, and to grow in quiet strength. And when someone else succeeds, I let their happiness lift me up too. In recognizing and celebrating the unique beauty of our own paths, we find that our blessings are many, and our hearts are full. Let's cherish where we are on our journeys and look forward to where we're headed with hope and a spirit of generosity. In our own story of life, in each of our own timing, every step forward, every smile, and every act of kindness makes the path worth In the heart of our company lies a group of cheerful souls who make our days brighter with their smiles and the delicious drinks they serve. Every morning, they greet us with a warm smile and a cup of something wonderful, from black coffee to latte, from lemonade to iced tea or mojitos. It's not just the drinks that make them special; it's their spirit. They manage to stay happy and spread cheer, even when times are hard. This cheerfulness has won them many friends here, bridging the gap between different cultures and making them beloved by all. Each of these amazing people has their own story, filled with dreams and challenges, yet you'll never hear them complain. They keep their troubles to themselves and focus instead on making our day a little better. Just last week, to add a little fun to our routine, I organized a simple contest for them: who could make the best karak tea. It turned into a joyful event that everyone enjoyed. I saw creativity and laughter, and for a moment, the pressures of work and life seemed to melt away. These guys may be subcontractors, but to us, they are as much a part of our company as anyone else. They teach us valuable lessons about resilience and finding happiness, no matter what. So here's to our drink-makers—our everyday heroes whose smiles are as refreshing as the teas they brew. Thank you for not just the drinks you make, but for the warmth and joy you share with us every day. What does love really mean to you? In the rush of our daily lives, love finds ways to reach out to us quietly, often in moments we might not notice unless we're really paying attention. Have you ever paused during a busy morning to enjoy how someone made your coffee just right? Or noticed when someone really listened to you, showing they care about what you think? Maybe someone cheered you up when you were feeling low, or a friend was truly happy for you when things went well. These small acts are love's gentle way of saying, "I'm here for you." Everyone has his/her own silent language of love, often spoken through simple actions rather than words. Have you noticed the small things the people around you do just because they care? Take my dad, for example. He might not have said “I love you” much, but I vividly remember how he would come home with little treats for me and my siblings, lift me up when I was down, or quietly fix things around the house. And my mom, although far away for many years, filled her letters with so much care and guidance, each one felt like a warm hug from across the miles. My sisters, too, show their love without needing to say a word. They look after my kids, pouring out affection that words can't fully capture. Their endless patience and the joy in their smiles and hugs speak volumes about the depth of their love. My brother's love language is service and his wife affirms it. Love isn't just about the big gestures like kisses and hugs. My daughters see this when I find and return their lost or misplaced treasures, almost magically. My friends might not always bring gifts or make grand gestures, but they're always there to listen when I need them, sticking by my side through thick and thin. Their loyalty and support tell me I’m valued, no matter the circumstances.
We often overlook these quiet acts of love, or we might feel disappointed because they're not as dramatic as what we see on TV. But what if the real essence of love is in these simple, everyday moments? By paying attention to these gentle expressions of love, we start to appreciate our relationships in a richer, more meaningful way. Love doesn’t need to be loud or flashy to be deep and true. Often, it’s the consistent, small acts done with great love that leave the biggest mark on our hearts. In this complicated world, every kind gesture, every moment of connection, and every small sacrifice for someone else’s happiness is a beautiful testament to love. By listening to these quiet messages, we deepen our relationships and broaden our understanding of what it truly means to love. Let’s keep our hearts open to all the ways love speaks to us, even in its gentlest whispers. ---------- Show your love with the enchanting allure of perfumes. Try Seventeen Scents Perfume to create a magical connection and make any moment truly special. Last night, my daughter experienced one of those unforgettable high school moments—her prom. She shared her excitement with me this morning, and her happiness was so contagious that I couldn’t help but feel overjoyed for her. She told me about her prom partner, a tall guy from the 12th grade, who made her evening quite extra special. She danced, laughed, and captured memories in photographs with her friends who made her night truly magical. Now, as the school year wraps up and we talk about her future, the next big question looms: where will she go for senior high? She’s considering FEU in Manila, which is a great school. I even suggested she could stay with me and study in one of the few international schools here.
Deciding isn’t easy, and I see her struggling with these choices. It’s a challenging time for any teenager—having to make decisions that start shaping their future. As a parent, I want to make all her burdens light, but some choices she has to make on her own. All I can do is support her, guide her, and be there to help her navigate through these decisions. It’s tough watching your child on the brink of adulthood, but it’s also incredibly rewarding to see them become their own person. |
HappinessMy happiness comes from the people who believe in me and inspire me every day. They are my strength.
Life is a beautiful, fleeting journey. Despite the challenges, I see beauty and miracles everywhere. Growing up was tough, but my Dad was my beacon of hope. He taught me to believe in myself and to embrace life's limitless possibilities. His lessons and spirit guide me still. I lost him years ago, but I carry his memory everywhere I go, hoping he's proud of me—as I've always been of him. I promised him I'd live life to the fullest. Now, I find joy in writing, traveling, and simply living, cherishing each moment. This, I believe, is something we all should embrace: finding happiness in every part of life. ![]() Archives
October 2024
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