Rej Speak

Because I Love You

Rej — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 02:45:00 +0000

Mothers wake up early to prepare breakfast for the family.
Why?
Because of love.

Teachers go to remote areas to educate poor kids.
Why?
Because of love.

Doctors and medical practitioners work in public hospitals and earn a lot smaller compare to those who work abroad.
Why?
Because of love.

Parents seek greener pasture in a foreign land even though it means being away from the family for as long as they can.
Why?
Because of love.

Employees give their 100% in their job no matter how demanding the job is.
Why?
Because of love.

Husband or boyfriend remains faithful to his partner despite a lot of temptations that this world offers.

Why?
Because of love.

Volunteers gather to render help for the victims of immense calamity.
Why?
Because of love.

Priests have chosen a celebate life in full service for the Lord and His people.
Why?
Because of love.

Amateur players continue to showcase their talent and skills even though they are not receiving much or even a single centavo.
Why?
Because of love.

God, the Father allowed His only son to be crucified on the cross.
Why?
Because of love.

Sometimes, suffering is the ultimate expression of love.

Don’t you think?

_____________________________________________

P.S. I’ll be OUT for a while. I will temporarily leave this blog with some of my fave compositions. Hope you’ll have fun!

Everything will be alright – Bren Bataclan

Juan dela Cruz, Paki English Nga

Rej — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 02:36:00 +0000

Flex your brain muscles. It’s Talasalitaan with a Twist. Let’s see how good you are! When you’re done you may leave your answers to feedback or send it to my email. Then, I will give you the correct answers. Or you may upload this activity by clicking this Paki English

Publish at Scribd or explore others: Academic Work Other art english

P.S. I just finished this activity 10 minutes ago. At last, after 48 years. Hehe! Have fun and Good luck!

Posted 2/26/09 8:08 PM

Runaways

Rej — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 02:32:00 +0000

I was born in Manila, Philippines. Twenty-two years old. A college graduate. And one of the millions of Filipinos we called “jobless.”

It was March 26, 2004, when I saw all my college classmates in their best suit ever. The entire university ground was wrapped with mixed emotions of happiness, tension and a bit of melancholy as the marching jingle starts to come out of the large speaker. Yes, it was Graduation Day – the day when we gave our final bow to our beloved university.

Unlike past school years, if I was ecstatic to reach the month of April, last 2004 the entire scenario had changed drastically. I wasn’t that thrilled to have a grand vacation because at the back of my mind I did not deserve to have one. The time has come to face greater responsibility.

Fortunately, I had my first job (if you can call it) four days after I graduated from college. I worked as encoder in Ortigas. Honestly, the nature of my job did not excite me at all. The workplace was so monotonous if I may describe it. A lot of computers and a mountain of documents were overflowing. But there was one thing that I considered odd – the tranquility that envelops the whole milieu. The silence was very unusual considering the numerous employees. Because there were no words coming out of their mouth only murmur that even normal people couldn’t understand. In short, the majority are deaf and mute. Sign language has become the primary means of communication. I’m just glad everyone had a cell phone at least the conversation was easier. I just thought I entered a whole new world. And so apparently, I lasted for only nine days.

Two months had passed, almost all tv programs from morning till evening were already stockpiled in my memory and yet a good job opportunity was still a huge reverie. Until one night I received a text message inviting me for a job interview. It was like wining the fifty million jackpot prize in Mega Lotto. Happiness was overflowing in my room as if all furniture and appliances were rejoicing with me.

Eventually I became the Booking Officer of a theater company located in the heart of Pasay City. At first, it was complicated because I really had a hard time adjusting. I had no formal background about theater so I was not so familiar with theater terminologies. Most of them I had to learn through personal observations or by unfortunate encounter with the most horrific chief. Next, dealing with not less than ten people a day is on the first list of the job’s major obligations which I am not really good at. A pack of tensions were really razing my spirit. But since I accepted the job I decided to just live with it. As a result, I had fun because it gave me a chance to meet people from all walks of life. It’s convoluted, confounding and frustrating on bad days, but on good days, fulfillment was overflowing. But certainly everything has an end. Three months after I decided to leave my job for some personal reasons. For a while it was very depressing because it had to end so quickly.

Another job followed after few weeks of being free. And this time, it was no sweat getting hired. Surprisingly, I was hired through exchange of text messages. When I got an offer I felt so blessed because never in my wildest dreams did I think that my least feasible endeavor of becoming a Production Assistant was just a text message away. And since I strongly believed that it would be a magnificent experience, I immediately replied “YES” without knowing the full description of the job and its location. For this reason, I just did whatever my boss asks me to do. I was involved in a multi-task (clerical duties and production works) for a theater/events company that my boss owned. Almost everything was so new including trudging the entire Metro Manila from North to South six days a week. Actually I worked in Parañaque while I dwell in Caloocan. The whole thing was a huge challenge, so to speak. But the sad part was I had to give up everything when I really wanted to take the risk. In short, after two months, I quit. And that was the end of my career in theater.

Saying goodbye to being a Production Assistant was the most throbbing decision I’ve ever made since I finished college. It was like entering in a dungeon with nothing except concrete walls, rectangular bars and a padlock. I could no longer recall how long I stayed inside but I am sure that it was one of the most dreadful places I’ve ever been with. All of these, of course, are just symbols of the real emotions that haunted me for a very long period of time. Until, I have found myself facing another day with hope that one day I will courageously rise again. It took me one year to have another chance. At first, there were hesitations because it wasn’t really the kind of work I would like to do. But since, opportunity knocks only once in a life time, I decided to give it try.

Business Process Outsourcing is one of the most prominent occupations today maybe next to Call Center Agent. I was assigned in Araneta Center, Cubao. With easy transport access and more favorable location, I was a bit pleased. Before the training had started, I was excited and pressured at the same time. I was afraid it would end up just the same as my past experiences. But there was one spirit telling me “It’s just a matter of adjustment!” As the training progress, my attention was trudging a different route. I was lost. For this reason, I made another pathetic job record of four days.

Honestly, all my past experiences were truly unforgettable. There were exultant moments; boring seconds; and annoying incidents that caused disordered thinking and a lot of sleepless nights. I also met new friends or even saw old buddy. Everything that has happened to me was truly overwhelming. But on top of this, the equal denominator behind these experiences is the word “RUNAWAY.”

I am aware that running away is not a solution to any problem or difficulties. But why it seems to be my favorite habit? Is this a result of having no concrete plans or no vivid ambition in life? Or is it a part of my inescapable fate? Am I being punished for what I did or did not do? Am I a victim of Quarter-life Crisis? Or am I too startled in facing real and complex situations?

Ten years ago, I usually hear the adage “Life is unfair.” Before, I believe that these three words were only an opinion about what life is. It does not necessarily denote the general meaning of life. But as I grow older I am starting to believe that it is true.

When I was in school, I savored the sensation of being on top. I was a consistent honor student or if not I never run out of special award at the end of the school year. I struggled greatly just to get high grades. It was not often that I became contented with just having a passing mark. And in my final year in college, I knew I did my best. This might be one of the foremost reasons why I couldn’t understand the rationale of this adversity.

I am so anxious about everything, or perhaps, the sentiments of being a failure or a disappointment. I have not yet gotten over the frustration of not being able to do what I want for myself. Sometimes I think the world is against me; that everyone thinks I am a failure. Now, I’m afraid to start again. I’m scared that the road ahead will be gloomy and will lead me to nowhere.

At this time, however, I am starting to admit that my foolish ways of weighing my aspirations versus realism is too often the bona fide grounds for failing. I have to learn to strike a balance between being ambitious and being practical. Actually I still feel guilty about some decisions that I have made. I lament having no income every month but more than that I regret not giving myself a chance to prove myself and experience the marvels behind it.

To sum it up, I guess Bo Sanchez is right in saying “Your past does not define your future.” Our happiness and success frequently lies within ourselves. We should be present with the real situation and not with what went before. The decisions we make will either drive us forward or backward, depending on how we direct our course. Thus, if I can fully embrace this fact, reconciling with my inner spirit and perking up my philosophy in life might be easier to do than continue running away without definite path.

Posted 6/6/06 10:32 PM

Take a Stand

Rej — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 02:31:00 +0000

Today, it is so difficult to have a strong political outlook when on one channel you can see Cong. Escudero and some Party-List Representatives filing impeachment complain against the president and on the other station there is Sec. Defensor defending PGMA and the government’s plan for economic growth.

It is a given fact that there are so many (if not all) corrupt government officials in all parts of this country. We do not know exactly where the worker’s taxes go. Is it in public schools renovation? Or in anti-drug campaign? Or in housing projects for the poor? Or in the mansion of a High General? Or in BMW of an administration or opposition leader?

On the other hand, you would wonder why there are so many people always rallying in Mendiola? Don’t they have jobs? Why they seem to enjoy putting busy people on a heavy traffic while their only wish is to be in office or school and use their energies in more productive purposes?

In my opinion, as citizen of this country, I should take a stand. But how can I do that when I can hardly identify which party is telling the truth and has a sincere intention in serving the nation. Is it the administration? Or the opposition?

There are so many questions which I believe will always remain – unanswered. In the preceding paragraph, I said “I should take a stand.” I have just realized, why should I be slave of other’s principle? It is not really the politicians or the communists that I should be supporting. There are so many people who have bigger dreams for this country and I should be one of them. I can start by doing small things at home and from there I can work on achieving higher aspirations. But then, I salute people who are sincerely fighting for what they believe is right. It also takes a lot of courage and compassion to speak in front of a large crowd. I guess they are here to strike a balance in the society.

Posted 7/19/06 2:23 AM

Today’s Jackpot Prize: P288M

Rej — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 02:28:00 +0000

When I was in elementary and high school, a long line of people signifies the start of flag ceremony. Today, a long line of folks means the jackpot prize in lotto hits P288M. OMG! Almost everyone is going crazy.

Imagine this: You wake up one morning, grabbed the newspaper and saw the six digit numbers that you bet last night. Voila! You are P288 million richer.

Question: What will you do with the money that you have just won?

I will make your life easier by giving you choices:

(a) Buy a house in the most expensive subdivision in the metro
(b) Experience a luxury cruise vacation to all seven continents
(c) Get the latest model of high-speed car
(d) Invest it in the stock market
(e) Venture into a lucrative business
(f) Throw a feast for your family and friends
(g) Assist those who are unemployed
(h) Pay all your debts
(i) Donate a million to your parish
(j) Save it in bank
(k) Build houses for street children and abandoned elders
(l) Acquire the latest gizmos
(m) Run for mayor in your municipality
(n) Have a membership in all resorts exclusive for elites
(o) Eat all you want
(p) Splurge on night bars
(q) Invite your most favorite celebrity for a private concert
(r) Help the poor sick people in public hospitals
(s) Gamble in casinos
(t) Have a billboard in EDSA
(u) Submit a business proposal to Lucio Tan or Henry Sy
(v) Participate in all events for a good cause
(w) Attend seminars to increase your financial literacy

(x) Study in the most classy university in the Philippines
(y) Contribute to all charitable institutions that you know
(z) Deposit a hundred thousand to my bank account (the best choice. hehe!)

The options are actually 10 exponentially raised to the nth power.

Whatever you want to do with your wealth I hope you will invest it wisely, spend it properly and share your blessings generously because the world needs a cheerful giver.

Actually, this post is not just about winning the lottery or a way of enticing you to bet. It’s a simple reminder that any amount of money can quickly disappear if not properly manage. We can either waste it to non-sense activities or use it to bless the world. :p

Posted 6/19/09 1:28 PM

I Object!

Rej — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 02:25:00 +0000

When I was in college, my professors would always address the importance of business planning. Planning is the most basic of all managerial functions. Without it, the other functions such as organizing, staffing, directing and controlling are of no use.

Let’s take a small review on the basic steps in planning.

1. Define the business idea.

2. Establish goals and objectives.

3. Forecast cash needs.

4. Identify sources of funds.

5. Write a business plan.

(Source: Management for Filipinos)

Actually, my main subject matter isn’t really about a lecture on business planning. It’s about a book entitled “NEGOSYO Joey Concepcions’s 50 Inspiring Entrepreneurial Stories.” Ok, it’s still about business minus the planning (or maybe not).

Two week ago, my uncle barrowed this book, gave it back after a week and told me that he didn’t like it. Of course, I was a bit disappointed. Disappointed not because he hated the book but because of his reason for not liking it. I respected his opinion though. However, I could not agree with it.

He did not like the book for two reasons. First, the word “entrepreneurship” is present in all stories which he considered a tongue twister (He was right, don’t you think?). Next, he was convinced that the entrepreneurs featured in that book are financially well-off. Therefore, it is not impossible for these people to succeed since they have the resources and probably government support too. For me, this is not arguable. On the other hand, it’s not just about money. It’s the non-monetary substance that should matter. And that is what I was hoping my uncle would notice.

Successful entrepreneurs who are already rich from the time they started their business may be considered very lucky. But I don’t think they become successful just because of the amount of assets they possess. It is their brilliant mind, hard work, patience and commitment that should be given more credit. And probably their great business plan too. The book is not created to make us envy but with a purpose of stirring up our business mindset. It also tells us that everyone is doomed to fail (in different ways)but our survival highly depends on our outlook and attitude in life.

My uncle and I may have different views on this matter nevertheless, we both agree that putting up a business is risky that is why business planning is important.

Posted 9/14/07 6:05 PM

Inside Three Stars and a Sun

Rej — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 02:18:00 +0000

One of my ultimate dreams in life is to travel my own country, the Philippines.

This morning, as I tried looking for a Filipino-made blog, I came to see a journal of a foreigner. To my surprise the title of her blog is “The Philippine Experience.” But her most recent post is even more astonishing “The Philippines – the country that I love.” Oh, I had goose bumps!

Near the closing part, I suddenly felt like a foreigner to my own country. OMG! I’ve never been to places she visited. I was envious. In Filipino “Buti pa sya…Inggit ako.” But seriously, I am delighted to hear someone from a foreign region appreciates the wonders of my own native land.

Philippines may not have snow like in Western nations (which I believe will never fall in Philippine soil) or gigantic entertainment theater or theme park like Hollywood and Walt Disney World, but we have breath taking natural sceneries, best beaches on earth and world heritage sites to take pride.

Let me give you a glimpse of some of the finest places inside three stars and a sun. I’ve never been here but these are definitely included in my long list of dream destinations.

Luzon

Marlboro Hills in Batanes is a dwelling place suited for relaxation-seeker. The cool and windy weather and the pristine beauty of the scenery will absolutely loosen up any exhausted soul.

Paoay Church in Ilocos Norte is one of the oldest churches in the Philippines and is inscribed in UNESCO World Heritage list.

Villa Escudero, Quezon Province, a perfect paradise for a family gathering. It is surrounded with majestic volcanic mountains, rows of coconut trees, luxuriant fields and cool waterfalls.

Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, Palawan is a river that runs beneath the ground surface. It is nominated in the New 7 Wonders of the World.

Visayas

Chocolate Hills is the most famous tourist attraction in Bohol. It is composed of around 1,268 perfectly cone-shaped hills of about the same size.

Boracay in Aklan is popular for its white sand and very clear seawater. It’s a tropical island that offers a surely unforgettable experience.

Mindanao

Are you looking for a real water adventure? Siargao Island, Surigao del Norte is what you are looking for. It has a reputation of having the top surfing waves in the world.

Are you excited? Pack your clothes.Tara na, byahe tayo (Let’s go)!!!

For more details about the Philippines please visit Wow Philippines

Posted 2/5/09 3:27 PM

The Old Me and The Changed Lass

Rej — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 02:13:00 +0000

What is change?

Why do people need to change?

My dear friends, what you are about to read are not the answers to my questions above. This is about me again. Yes, for the nth time. This is about a fraction of my past, my present and some very simple changes I never thought would make incredible effect in my life.

(Drum Roll)

On Food Intake

3 cups of rice, 3 chicken drumsticks, 1 whole tomato and 12 oz. bottle of soda. No, that’s not my meal for the whole day. That’s an illustration of my lunch when I was in Grade 2. So, would you still be surprised if I tell you I once weighed 50 kilos? 50 kilos for a Grade School student, just imagine that.

Now, I am 25 years old. I can go to Departmentstore and buy t-shirt in Kids section. Surgical hospital will not earn profit from me for two reasons: (1) surgical procedure is exclusive for millionaires and (2) I don’t need it. Halleluiah!

On Tasting Siopao

I dreaded eating siopao. Not because I believe in the rumor that siopao contains cat meat. Eww!!! I hated it! I cursed it! I swear to myself never will that circular white Chinese food touch even the tip of my tongue. Ok, I’m exaggerating. Hehe! In short, the first time I tasted it I didn’t like it. Period.

Well, not until my mom made a few. My perception about siopao has instantly disappeared. Still not my most favorite food but at least the Chinese people would no longer hate me. My mom is the best cook in the world, I swear! :p

On Writing Essays

When I was a kid and a teenager, I never had an interest in writing. I never experienced being part of school paper because my journalism knowledge will not qualify. I also rarely got high grades in essay quizzes. Though my ideas were all written still my teachers didn’t get my point. Dammit!

In college, I saw the year book of Quezon City Science High School batch 1997. It was composed of few paragraphs describing every student who graduated in that year. I scrutinized it. I made sure I understood every page; grasped new words; learned from their creativity. After that, I experimented. If you want to see my first attempt in writing composition, click here. Today, I manage five blogs. My grammar still fails, the use of punctuation mark is usually incorrect, wrong spelling is a common mistake and my vocabulary is so simple. However, my product nowadays if to be compared way back elementary and high school my teachers will absolutely understand my point of view. And blogging has a lot of thing to do with this high leap.

On Book Collection

When I was a student, the only books you can see in my bag and cabinet were academic-related. The books that I bought were part of my teachers’ requirements. I would enter the library only because I had assignments or I had to memorize the history of mankind because we’re going to have a graded recitation the following day.

At a time when life is starting to hit me and begin to miss school, I have learned to love National Bookstores and Powerbooks; to honor writers and novelists; and to embrace non-fictional stories. Academic books are out; novels, inspirational and humorous manuscripts are in. Not to mention a few fashion and home magazines.

On Meeting People

At first glance, you may have an impression that I am a snob, in tagalong suplada. If you have never seen a raging tiger, just look at my face you will have a perfect picture of what it looks like. Most people think I’m always like ready for a boxing match. I say “Don’t worry because I don’t have plans of following Manny Pacquiao’s career path.”

Its 2009. Still nothing has changed. No, there’s a bit. I’m still the kind of person that I was but I have good news. If I was the type of person who would never make a first move to make friends because I’m kinda shy and moody, I can do that now. Really. As I have said, my face usually resembles the look of a furious tiger, so there are times that I really try to make an effort to reach out to people just to assure these people that I don’t bite; that I’m also a human being just like them. Hehe! Perhaps, circumstances have also trained me to become more sociable.

On My Relationship with My Mom

Have you heard the saying “Birds of the same feather flock together.” Well, my mom and I have different feather. We’re so different in many aspects. She loves cooking; I don’t. She sleeps early; I sometimes sleep when she is about to wake up. I like listening to music; she would only listen to music if I turn on the radio. I’m a minor lakwatsera; she’s a certified homebody. We frequently argue over small things.

My mother was my mother and I was her child. Well, that was before. Now, my mom is also my best friend. We’re still very different but we both have learned how to adjust to each other’s likes and dislikes. She respects my opinion as much as I respect hers. She values my decision the way I value her authority. She loves me and I love her too. J

On Catholic Faith

Few years back, I rarely go to church to hear mass. I must admit I once considered Catholic mass dull and unnecessary. I only went to church maybe because if I didn’t hear the first and second reading I might fail in our religion quiz the next day; or possibly because of my upbringing. I didn’t really understand what Catholicism is all about; why having strong faith in God is important.

Today, I regard Sunday as my favorite day of the week. Going to church excites me. Hearing mass has become a celebration of life. It’s a day of glorifying God together with my brothers and sisters in faith. I’m happy I’m a Catholic.

The Conclusion

Things do not change, we change – Henry David Thoreau

*Imagine if I didn’t control my eating habit, you might think Doraemon and I are twins.
*Imagine if I didn’t taste the siopao that my mom cooked, I missed one of my mom’s masterpieces.
*Imagine if I didn’t try composing essays, my inner thoughts and feelings might be buried for a long time.
*Imagine if I didn’t buy new books, dust and pest would have built a home in my bookshelf.
*Imagine if I didn’t open my mouth and make friends, the people around me might really think I’m a tiger hiding in a human form.
*Imagine if I didn’t try to understand my mom and vice versa, maybe our house is like a war zone minus wire barricades and medical assistants.

*Imagine if I didn’t choose to go to church every Sunday, I maybe living in devastation by now.

Imagine if I didn’t decide to change, I ignored seven wonderful blessings.

Tangible objects do not change. It will remain lifeless forever because it is man who created it. But human beings are made different because it is God who crafted us. We have a brain and a heart. And we all know the purpose of these two major body parts, right?

To change is a brilliant decision. It can lead you to a happier life. But change doesn’t always work that way. Sometimes, it’s the other way around. So I hope when we decide to change something about ourselves it’s for the better, not for worse. If simple changes can make enormous difference, what more are the big changes can do to our lives (and maybe to others)?

What are the simple changes you did that left an incredible effect in your life? I would love to know yours…

Posted 6/2/09 1:44 AM

You’re Always a Star (Repost)

Rej — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 02:11:00 +0000

By Bo Sanchez
You Have the Power to Create Love
(Take Another Step on the Simple Path to Happiness)

Imagine I’m an inspiring actor. You must agree that with my looks, it wouldn’t be too difficult to picture this scenario. After all, the horror genre is aplenty.

They tell me that there are five stages that every tinsel town personality must go through. Let me show you the anatomy of fame.

Stage 1: “Who is Bo Sanchez?” This is the starting point of every fame-hungry person: you’re a nobody. You have to make your first appearance on film, even if your role is that of a costumed freakish alien that gets pulverized by the star at the opening scene of the movie. It might be difficult to imagine now, but even Madonna, Demi Moore and Julia Roberts went through the stage where people asked, “Who’s she?”

Stage 2: “Get Bo Sanchez” This second level is intoxicating. By some stroke of luck, you get recognized for your thrilling talent or thrilling body. Your name is bandied around in the studios, and a small fans club is forming- no longer organized by your mother. Your price tag is still ascending, so all movie outfits fight for the right to make your first box-office. As you walk in the mall, you count the number of times people ask for your autograph. When you get tired of this, you start wearing shades. Ahhh. You have arrived.

Stage 3: “Get me Bo Sanchez look-alike.” The peak! Your face is seen on ads, tabloids, billboards, and TV gossip programs. You’re everywhere! Only the biggest producers can afford you now. So smaller media companies will settle for young artists who look like you. You’re now royalty (e.g. concert queen, king pop, box-office king, soap opera queen). Finally, you know you’ve reached this high point when you can no longer walk in a mall without a huge crowd following you hysterically screaming “Aaaaaaaayyyyyyyy!”

Stage 4: “Get me a younger Bo Sanchez.” But before you know it, the inevitable hits you. You hear your director ask for someone like you who’s ten years younger, ten years sexier, ten years bolder. You feel offended when scriptwriters offer you motherly roles. Soon, however, no other roles come except motherly roles. Your price tag gets slashed. Your name shrinks in movie and when they congregate around you, you wonder if you’re in some high school reunion of class ’27.

Stage 5: “Who is Bo Sanchez?” You meet some teens walking down the street and they pass you by like you were a telephone post. Ouch. Once in a while, a grandmother points to you and her family looks at you quizzically. You feel like a prehistoric artifact in a museum being surveyed. And then they walk you by. Double-ouch.

And then it hits you: You’re a nobody.

And you realize-wasn’t I here before?

Never go after fame.

In the heart of God, you’re always a star.

Always were, always will be.

____________________________________________________________________

In any part of this world when you’re famous, it is very normal that you experience the five stages mentioned above. However, I believe that most of us, if not all, go through the same path as celebrities do.

My dad, for example, is a seafarer. When he was in his 30’s, job offers were left and right. I can still see vivid pictures of my dad’s co-workers personally visiting him in our house; telling my dad that their employer want him back. He was like a celebrity in the maritime world. But that’s long time ago. Now that my dad’s hair is turning salt and pepper, the scenario has drastically changed. He’s having a hard time looking for a shipping company wherein age doesn’t matter. My dad is apparently getting a lot of rejections. Though he is not telling us, I know he is hurt.

My dad’s life is about being in bodies of water (rivers, seas, oceans etc.), enduring gigantic waves, facing fear in the middle of great storms and bearing extreme heat inside the engine room. Along with the physical struggle he seldom sees his family, his loved ones. He has obviously lived a difficult life but he loves his job. He is a committed sailorman.

My dad started as nobody. But through hardwork and God’s grace he is able to reach his goal. A priest once told “When God blesses your work, there lies your vocation.”I believe God has blessed my dad. I believe it’s his calling. It’s where God wants him to be. Now that my dad is facing some difficulties in getting a job, does it mean God has decided to stop blessing my dad?

No.

God’s love for us will never decrease. If good things will soon come to an end for my dad, perhaps God has a better plan – better than we can imagine. We just have to keep the faith and trust God’s eternal promise. The scripture says:

“It is the Lord who goes before you. He will be with you; he will not fail you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed.” -Deuteronomy 31:8

“But the Lord is faithful, and he will strengthen and protect you from the evil one.” – 2 Thessalonians 3:3

“Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the deliverance the Lord will bring you today. The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.” – Exodus 14:13a,14

“My presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.” – Exodus 33:14

“Be strong and courageous; do not be frightened or dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” – Joshua 1:9

“Be strong and courageous; do not be frightened or dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” – Joshua 1:9

“God is not unjust; he will not forget your work and the love you have shown him as you have helped his people and continue to help them.” – Hebrews 6:10

My dad’s celebrity status (in his field) may soon be over. But in God’s heart, I know he’s always a star. Always were, always will be.

Posted 5/27/09 8:18 PM

Spread Generosity

Rej — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 01:56:00 +0000

Why do millions of people mourned when the entire world learned the death of Princess Diana, Mother Teresa, Pope John Paul II and Michael Jackson?

Because of their famous status?

Yes.

Let’s admit it. Many of us don’t know these people personally and vice versa. We only know them because of their numerous tv appearance and various writtent interviews. Thus, their lives became a public interest. By means of media, we were able to follow their ups and downs in their career and perhaps a gist of their personal activities. The fact that we will no longer see them alive on the tv screen or hear any recent story makes us sad somehow. But there is absolutely deeper basis for crying over a person we don’t know personally.

Princess Diana was known not only for having a pretty face and being the wife of a British king. The mass recognize her as a woman with a benevolent heart. The Princess used her energy, her compassion, and her position to seek solution to some of the most important humanitarian issues.

Mother Teresa of Calcutta devoted most of her days on earth in worshipping the Lord by being faithful to her mission. She responded to the physical and spiritual needs of the poor in India.

Pope John Paul II, according to the website zpub.com, is said to be the most recognized person in the world. He is the most travelled pope in the 2,000 year history of the church. He bravely travelled the world to spread the gospel and to give hope to the entire humanity.

Michael Jackson is recently regarded as the greatest entertainer of all time. His talent mixed with serious dedication amazed people from all walks of life. His dance moves, meaninful lyrics and incredible music videos will forever be remembered.

People follow their lives for so many good reasons. I think being generous is one of their common qualities. They were very generous in sharing not only their material possession, but they unselfishly shared their time, talent, wisdom and goodness with a purpose to help change the world. Yes, to help change the world not to change the world. Because changing the world requires everybodys cooperation. We are all responsible. We are all in charge.

When Michael Jackson was still alive, many attempted to emulate his skills. In their effort to be like their idol, some of them discover their talent in dancing or maybe in singing or maybe MJ’s commitment towards his work. His generosity in sharing his extreme talent resulted with positive impact. What more if everyone will imitate the works of Princess Diana, Mother Teresa and Pope John Paul II or any noble man?

In reality, no one can ever change the world. That’s why we need to share our blessings. We have to learn the value of generosity. We have to spread generosity.

Many Peope grieved over their death not only because they are popular and are being idolized. People cried because they are loved; because they touched our lives; because they brought joy; because when they were still alive they were so generous.

Let me end this by sharing with you one interesting question in the Kerygma Feast handout last Sunday

When God blesses you, what do you do?”

Posted 7/20/09 3:19 PM