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.
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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. Today, during our usual video call, a simple, spontaneous question I asked to my daughter unveiled depths of thought and emotion I hadn’t anticipated. Out of the blue, I asked her, “Would you rather be a bird with wings or a flower that blooms?” I was expecting a playful or straightforward answer, something light to share between us across the miles. But her response touched a chord deep within me. She chose to be a bird with wings. Her reasoning? “Because,” she said, with a seriousness that belied her young age, “a bird with wings has the freedom to go anywhere. It isn’t confined to one place.” Her words were simple, yet they carried the weight of profound longing— for the skies, for freedom. Then she reflected on the life of a flower. “A flower might seem beautiful with its only job to bloom, but what if the environment is harsh? It struggles to bloom eventhough the soil is poor or the weather is unfriendly. And even at its most beautiful, a flower is rooted to the spot. It doesn’t get to choose where it grows or explore the world beyond.” Her insight moved me deeply. It wasn’t just about birds and flowers. Her words mirrored our lives— her life as a young girl and mine as a parent working far away from home to provide for us. The longing in her voice for the freedom to soar high and the choice to explore resonated with my own heartaches and hopes.
I understood then, more clearly than ever, why the sacrifices I make are necessary. They are for her future, for her right to choose her path, to have the freedom that comes with having wings. In her young wisdom, my daughter reminded me of the vast skies awaiting her, of all the flights she dreams of taking. As I continue my journey far from home, I will always be reminded of the lesson she taught me today: the precious value of freedom, the significance of choice, and the deep connections that simple questions can forge. Sometimes, the most casual conversations reveal the most profound truths, connecting our hearts across any distance with the tender strength of shared understanding. Her words, so full of hope and wisdom, linger with me. They remind me of why I wake up each day, why I face each challenge—so that one day, she, too, can spread her wings and choose her sky. “To fall in love with yourself is the first secret to happiness.” - Robert Morley Life is short and full of fleeting moments. As I think about my life, all the people who had been in and out of it, I realize how important it is to love ourselves. Many times, we dream of getting love from others and forget that we can give love to ourselves. Growing up, I had a loving family. My parents worked hard to take care of us. Even though we were not rich with material things and we were often apart as a family, our bond was strong. The love that our parents taught us stayed with me and showed me how to love myself. As an adult working overseas, I have faced many challenges. Being away from my family, meeting work targets, and losing my parents have all been tough. It’s easy to feel lonely and wish for comfort from others. But I’ve learned that the love I seek should start from within me. Life is short, and the small things matter the most. It’s in the quiet moments alone, the small acts of self-care, and the simple joys of daily life that we find real happiness. We need to learn to love ourselves as much as we dream of being loved by others. This means being kind to ourselves, forgiving our mistakes, and celebrating our successes, no matter how small.
These moments are short but stay with us forever. It is in knowing how to value the little things that matter for they are the moments that make up our lives. Life is short, but it’s also beautiful. As we think about loving ourselves and enjoying the small moments, may we all find peace and joy. Remember, we deserve the love we seek, and it starts within ourselves. Today, while sitting in my office during a brief pause, I struck up a chat with a friend. We wandered down memory lane, questioning if we felt happier as children than the kids of today. This thought often crosses my mind, especially when I look back at how different life used to be. Back when we were young, our days were filled with boundless energy and simple joys. We would run around the neighborhood with cousins and neighbors until the streetlights came on at 6 PM. Climbing trees, jumping over fences, and playing all sorts of games that usually ended with skinned knees and elbows were our everyday activities. I still remember how my brother once almost broke his jaw when a game got a bit too rough; we just shrugged it off though as part of the fun (but of course we had a word with our Dad and a trip to the hospital for that!) Contrast that with today’s children, whose lives seem so intertwined with digital technology. Even when they are in the same room, they often communicate through devices. It feels like they are missing out on the physical play that taught us so much about friendship and resilience. While technology has its advantages, like keeping us connected across distances and making learning more accessible, I sometimes wonder if it also takes away from the simple pleasures of being a child.
Reflecting on these changes, I feel a blend of nostalgia and hope. Nostalgic for the world we grew up in, where imaginations ran as wild as we did, and hopeful that today’s children will also find joy and fulfillment, albeit in different ways. Maybe it's about finding a balance, where there's time for screens and time for screams of laughter under the open sky. As the world changes, so do the experiences that shape our children. Yet, the essence of childhood—discovery, friendship, and joy—remains the same, just in new forms. I hope we can all encourage the little ones to enjoy all aspects of life, both digital and real, and to find happiness in both. After all, every generation has its own version of fun and adventure, and that’s what makes reminiscing so beautiful and looking forward so exciting. Today was a big day for my family back home—my oldest daughter graduated from senior high school and her younger sister moved up from junior high. I should have been there, cheering loudly, clapping, and maybe shedding a few tears of joy. But here I am, thousands of miles away, glued to a screen trying to catch every moment. I know exactly how this feels because I’ve been in their shoes. I graduated from sixth grade and then from high school, with my own mother far away in another country, working hard just like I am now. Back in those days, we didn’t have all this technology. My mom in KSA and us in Philippines would wait weeks, sometimes months, to hear from each other through letters that took forever to arrive. Each word was precious, each faded photograph a treasure, because sending them cost so much. I often think about how hard it must have been for my mom, how her heart must have ached to be away from us. There was no way to make a quick call or send a message saying “I miss you” or “I’m proud of you.” But despite all that, her love always reached us, quiet and steady, across the miles.
Now, even with all the ways we can connect instantly, I find myself wondering about my daughters’ feelings on their special day. Did they look out into the crowd wishing I was there? Did they feel that pang of sadness amidst their joy? Seeing them today, so grown up and stepping forward into new chapters of their lives, filled me with pride but also a deep, unshakeable longing to be with them. I wanted to hold them, to tell them right then and there how proud I am, how they mean the world to me. Every milestone they reach is a reminder of why I’m here, so far from home—working not for myself, but for them, to give them chances and opportunities I never had. But it doesn’t make missing these moments any easier. It’s a sacrifice that weighs heavily on my heart, a choice that comes with its own pain and regret. To my dear daughters, if someday you read this, know that my heart was with you every second today. I may not have been there to throw my arms around you, but in every cheer, every applause that filled the air, my love was whispering alongside, just as strong, just as proud. To other parents out there, feeling the ache of distance, let’s remind ourselves why we do this. It’s for those smiles, those achievements, for the futures we dream of for our children. And hold onto the hope that soon, we’ll be celebrating together—not just through a screen, but in person, feeling the warmth of a hug, the joy of being close. And though today I celebrate from afar, I dream of all the tomorrows we will share. Each day apart is hard, but every reunion will be sweeter for it. This journey of being an OFW is tough, made of sacrifices and silent tears, but it is also built on love—a love that knows no bounds, no distance, too great to overcome. As I close this chapter of today, I look forward to the day when distance is just a word, not a barrier, and I can be there to share in every joy, every success, every moment that matters, together. I love you girls and thank you for making me proud. In our busy lives, it's easy to forget the importance of being kind. Every day, we meet many people, and each one of them has their own problems. Some people seem to handle their struggles better than others, but we all have our battles. This is why it's always best to be kind to everyone. Everyone Has Their Own Struggles Behind every smile and every friendly chat, there's a story. Some stories are happy, but many are filled with pain and hardship. The truth is, we never really know what someone else is going through. A coworker might be grieving a loss, a friend could be struggling with depression, or a stranger might be facing money problems. These hidden battles shape how we act and feel. When we remember that everyone we meet is carrying some kind of burden, it becomes easier to be kind and understanding. Different Ways of Coping People handle their struggles in different ways. Some seem to bounce back from problems easily, while others find even small setbacks very hard. This range of resilience doesn't change the fact that everyone has their own difficulties. Understanding this helps us avoid judging others. Just because someone seems to be doing well doesn't mean they aren't hurting inside. On the other hand, those who visibly struggle might be dealing with much bigger issues than we know. Kindness helps us support each other, no matter how well someone appears to be handling their problems. Kindness: The Right Thing to Do At its heart, kindness is about recognizing that we are all human. It's a simple but powerful way to make the world a better place. When we choose to be kind, we show that we care about others. Kindness doesn't have to be a big deal. It can be as simple as a smile, a kind word, or offering to help. These small acts can make a big difference in someone's day, and they are often remembered long after. The Ripple Effect of Kindness One of the best things about kindness is that it spreads. When you are kind to someone, they are more likely to be kind to others. This creates a chain reaction of good deeds that can improve our communities and the world.
In a world where everyone has their own struggles, choosing to be kind is not just nice—it's necessary. It helps us connect with others and creates a more caring and supportive world. So, next time you meet someone, remember that they might be dealing with something tough. Choose kindness. It's always the right thing to do. Today, a simple photo swept me back in time. It captured a friend and his mom sharing a laugh over coffee in a mall back in the Philippines. Seeing their joy, my heart ached with the weight of missing my own mom, taken from us too soon. My thoughts drifted to a cherished visit to Hereford in the UK, where my family and I spent time with Ms. H and her mother. It was our second meeting; the first was during a trip to Switzerland. Both times, Ms. H's mom embodied the spirit of my own mother. In Hereford, despite appearing more fragile with age, her vibrancy and warmth were undiminished. Her embrace overwhelmed me, and tears streamed down my face uncontrollably. It was deeply comforting, so genuinely motherly. She whispered, "I missed you, and I love you." In that moment, it felt as though my own mom was there, her arms wrapped around me, her voice soothing my soul. Goosebumps covered my skin as her presence seemed to fill the space around me. My daughter noticed my tears and came over to hold my hand. Her gentle voice urged, "Calm down, Mom." Her touch anchored me back to reality, yet the emotion lingered. Reflecting on this now, I understand how deeply those we love influence us. My mom may no longer be physically here, but her love still reaches me, especially in moments like these. It's as if she lives on through the kindness others show me, a comforting continuation of her presence. To anyone who has lost a loved one, you understand this bond. Their love never truly leaves us; it echoes in the laughter we remember, in the tears we shed, and in the embraces that remind us of theirs. These are whispers from them, assurances that they are still with us, still loving us. This enduring connection is a source of comfort that never fades. "Distance teaches us to appreciate the days that we are able to spend together and the waiting only makes these moments more precious." This quote hits home every single day as I navigate life thousands of miles away from the ones I hold dearest. Being an Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) is a difficult job and it’s indeed commitment to sacrifice for my family's future, a promise made with every sunrise in a foreign land. I still remember the morning my Mom left to work in Saudi Arabia. I was barely eight, I clung to her leg while she bid goodbye to us, her eyes were clouded with tears. It was many years ago and I was not sure if I understood why my Mom had to go so far away. Fast forward, my children had to go back to Philippines while I stay here in Saudi. As I hugged them, feeling their fingers grip me tighter, a part of me wanted to drop everything and go with them. But the harsh sting of my own childhood memories - days clouded with doubt and half-fulfilled hopes, and nights spent dreaming of a brighter tomorrow- fueled my resolve. I kissed them and whispered promises of a better life, a future where they wouldn’t have to face the hardships I did. The daily grind here is tough. Work is more than just the hours I put in; it's also navigating through a maze of office drama and politics. It feels like walking a tightrope, trying to balance maintaining peace and standing up for myself. And amidst this, the loneliness of being away from home often sweeps over me like a cold wave. But then, I think of my children’s laughter, the dreams I have for them, and I find the strength to push forward. I have a lot of side hustles not because I want to but because I must. Each extra effort I do, every additional riyal I save, is for them. It’s for my eldest’s dream to go to college without the shadow of uncertainty hanging over her future. It’s for the little one who dreams of being a forensic doctor, because she thinks mysteries are cool. It’s for every time they need something or when they want to enjoy their youthfulness, I would be able to provide. These aren’t just aspirations; they are the fuel that keeps me going when my body screams for sleep and my heart aches for home. Despite the distance, I strive to be there for my kids in any way I can. Whenever we chat or catch up over video calls, I get to hear all about their stories and small victories. My heart swells with pride, yet it breaks a little because I couldn’t be there to share such moments in person. To my children, know that every sacrifice is made with you in mind, borne out of a love so deep and enduring that no ocean can dilute it. And to those who share this path of sacrifice, remember why we embarked on this journey. Our dreams for our families are worth every hardship. With each day that passes, I count down the moments until I can hug my children again. Those last hugs and whispered promises we shared before I left are what keep me going. They remind me that every hard day is worth it because it brings me closer to a future where we can be together, laughing and sharing life face-to-face. I imagine that happy day a lot, a future where we are together again, sharing not just dreams, but everyday moments of laughter and love. Eight years ago today, I was here in Saudi Arabia, thousands of miles away from home, when my phone rang early morning. It was one of those calls you never want to get. My sister was on the other end, and her voice broke as she told me that Dad had passed away. That moment knocked the wind out of me. I felt like the ground had been pulled from under my feet. Dad was my hero. He wasn’t just the person who was my biggest fan or the one who held my hand whenever I was afraid; he was my go-to person for any problem, big or small. Losing him felt like losing my way in the world. Nothing seemed right without him, and everything reminded me of him- the memories we shared and the lessons he taught me. He was a man of integrity, kindness, and strength. He taught me the importance of hard work, honesty, and compassion. He showed me what it means to be a good person, and how we should strive every day to live up to the example he set.
When we finally arrived, stepping into our neighborhood was like stepping into a different life. We entered the funeral house, which was full of people who loved Dad, all sharing stories about him. Tito Del told us about the time Dad and him were both young and they were chasing pretty girls. We all laughed through our tears. It was painful but beautiful to remember not just that we lost him, but how wonderfully he had lived.
These memories, these shared laughs and tears, they keep Dad alive for us. Even though there’s this dad-shaped hole in my life, there’s also a treasure trove of moments like these that no one can take away. Every day, I try to live in a way that would make him proud. I hope he knows how much I miss him and how much I love him. So today, I just want to say: Dad, thank you for every laugh, every lesson, and every moment. I miss you more than words can say, and I love you forever. You were the best dad anyone could ask for, and every day, I carry a part of you with me. I hope I’m making you proud and until next time we see each other again. |
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
July 2024
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