To the Brave and Fallen

44 brave Filipino police officers proved their worth to be called members of the PNP- SAF.  This elite unite trained to serve and protect.  And they did.  With their lives on the line, they braved the treacherous undertaking to serve and protect.  44 brave Filipino police officers proved their worth to be called heroes.

In spite facing insurmountable odds, each faced the challenges with a steadfast heart.  With unwavering conviction to fulfill his duties, they laid down their lives.  May your sacrifices be forever remembered.

I weep not for the 44 souls that gave their lives but for their families and friends who have to endure the loss of a loved one.  I weep not for the brave officers who willingly gave their lives for peace but for a nation plagued by atrocities.

The last sentence of the Philippine National Anthem sums it up:

“Aming ligaya nang pag may mang-aapi ang mamatay ng dahil sayo.”

Not many could have sung this line as proudly as you might have.  And when we sing it, we will remember the price you had to pay to serve and protect our country.  Perhaps one day, more Filipinos will learn to be as brave and as convicted as you were to serving our country.

To the 44 brave officers, you make me proud to be a Filipino.

Do Good, The Clock Is Ticking

You make your life worth living.  You choose to be happy.  you choose to be faithful.  You choose to do good.  Of course life is not as simple as black and white.  But we all have the capacity to decide for ourselves.  Are you living the life that you choose?  a life that is your own?

Our lives are finite.  We came to be and soon or later we will cease to exist in this world.  Some may argue that we persist even after death.  While others may raise an eyebrow with the idea.  suffice to say, Our time on earth is limited.  Our lives are a mere speck when we compare it to how long the universe has existed.  What are you going to do with this life?  Will you live a life dictated upon by others or live one that is free?

Make your own mark in this world.  when all is done and you have to part with this world, all you have left is the legacy that you leave behind.  The memories of your existence will keep you alive.  Do good and and leave a lasting mark for all to remember and for all to be inspired.

Do good right now.  The clock is ticking.  It may end sooner than you think.

How Have You Lived So Far?

Where has life taken you?  What have you accomplished s far?  what is it that you still want to reach?  Have you reached out to others?  What is your purpose in life?  

I suppose not everyone contemplate on these questions.  Some would ponder for a moment and leave it hanging.  On the other hand, some are in continuous search for the answers.  Yet, others still think that it is a waste of time to dwell on these.  But the fact remains, we all live for a purpose.  What it is may be different for every person.  But sooner or later we have to think about our lives and how we live it.

Living is a gift.  And we have to return the favor in one way or another.  examining one;s life not just opens up philosophical questions.  But opens practical question about how we go about our lives.  Our decisions and our choices all make up what happens to us.  

How have you lived so far?

Love The Earth

When I think about how insignificant my life has been compared to what our world has seen it humbles me.  When we think about it, humans have been on the planet for a fraction of the time the earth has existed.  Moreover, the modern world has seen much of its its development only in the last few centuries.  Yet, we have torn away much of what earth has given us in these last few hundred of years.  Are we too arrogant to say we rule the world are are we just oblivious of what we are doing?

Love earth and perhaps we can exists longer.  Love earth and perhaps we can really change lives.

Now Is Always A Better Time

Of course this Chinese Proverb speaks directly about planting a tree and that is good.  But this suggestion proves important in other avenues of our lives as well.  What we can do now is best done right now. But if you fail to do something when it it should be done, we still have the opportunity to rectify the mistake by acting right now. 

Whether it is procrastination or some other powerful force, you have to act appropriately and immediately.  In many instances the outcome may not be seen at once.  But like missing the chance to plant a tree, effects are drastic and turning back time is not an option.  

Your Choices Right Now Dictate Your Future

Our lives are full of choices.  In essence we dictate how our lives would turn out.  Most of our choices involve how we react to situations.  Our perceptions of what goes around us and more importantly how we choose to to react to them allows us to open doors that will guide us into the future.  What ever door we choose to open and enter will affect what we find on the other side.

The choices we make are more important than you think.  At times it may seem trivial for you but the smallest things in your have a huge impact on your life.

Love Can Change Your Life Forever

Do you remember your first kiss?  Do you remember how your heart skipped a beat every time you were with the person you love?  Or how you can't sleep because you just can't get enough of thinking about your love?  That's the high that love provides all of us.

More than just an emotion, love allows us to open up and connect with another.  It provides reason for us to wake up everyday and greet it with gusto.  Love offers us the reason to enjoy life and become free.

Some people search their entire life for that one person.  And when you do, bliss is a gross understatement of how you will feel.  I have fallen in love and continue to do so.  I met her on June 13, 1996 in a Spanish class back in college.  I could still remember the beige blouse she wore.  It had brown flower prints.  She wore light blue jeans to match her top.  How can I ever forget that day.  It was the moment when my life changed for the better.  I found a friend and a partner.  And until today, she remains my very best friend.

Love can change your life forever.

True Friends Can Communicate Even In Silence

I have met a lot of people and not all of them have become really close to me.  It is nice to have people around to help you and have fun.  But you can count on true friends to stick around when the situation is dire.  And I have my share of great friends who continue to provide support even when things go bad.

True friends are quite hard to come by.  People in our lives come and go.  Those who stick longer in spite of the dismal situations are those worth keeping forever.  I remember a very close friend of mine who called me when her mom died.  Her family was leaving abroad when the her mom passed away.  As much as I wanted to fly over to her I could not.  In stead we stay on the phone the whole night just talking.  Although there were dead silence in between, We kept the phone to our ears because we know the other person is at the other line.  Jennifer has her own family now and still lives far from where I stay.  We rarely get to talk nowadays.  But it was a surprise when word got to her that I had to get a CT Scan to rule out a Tumor in my brain. She communicated with me to reassure me that everything was going to be OK.  And it did.

In spite of the long lull in our communication we continue to remain friends - the best of friends.  And I know that she is there when I need her.

Even in silence we can communicate so much with true friends.

God's Unrequited Love

For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.

John 3:16 (NIV)

God loves you even if you are a sinner.  That in itself is humbling if you take a moment to contemplate on it.  God pours His love for us even if it is not reciprocated.  That is how much He loves all of us.

Just imagine yourself loving someone and not being loved back.  How would you feel if this is the case?  It may seem hopeless to love someone who does not love you back.  But our Lord has immeasurable love for all of us.  And even if we continue to disobey Him and falter, we can always count on Him.

All He asks is to love Him back and Love our neighbors.  

Write Your Woes Away

Let your emotions run free by writing them.  Some find it relaxing to just write what burdens them.  This sounded ridiculous several years back.  In fact I never really like writing.  It was like opening up to the world the deep emotions that I had.  I felt vulnerable and that did not appeal to me. However, I slowly came ot love writing.

Start small.  And when I say small I mean really small.  I started out just smelling out the emotion that I felt.  it can be anger, frustration, love, or anything that fills you up.  I then slowly made sentences describing more about the emotions I felt.  It was painful at first because I was out of my comfort zone.  Soon after I begun writing longer.   I tried to analyze my situations, gave myself reminders, established goals and strategies to achieve them.  Soon after I was writing with more confidence.

Of course it is up to you if you want to publish it on the net.  But if that is still too much, a journal would be the best solution.  Writing is therapeutic - at least for me it is.

Send Our Positive Ripples To Change The World

One person can change the world.  One idea can spark a revolution.  One voice can tumble down empires.  But who will make that first move?  Are you willing to make that scary step towards change?

We are all connected and how we influence others has a tremendous effect on all of us.  Even the smallest of gestures can ripple across distances.  This is why we all have to work towards what is good and just.  Our actions can affect others.

Will your actions ripple into the hearts of others and become the catalyst for positive change?  Your actions can be that little spark needed to move forward.  Send out positive ripples and change the world.

Someone To Lean On

Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest

Mathew 11:28 (NIV)

"Lean on me when you are not strong...." Does that sound familiar?  Well, apart from the song, it is a sensible line and advice.  We need to depend on others whether you like or else.  And when you put your trust on the right person you can face any challenge.

Some turn to religion as I have.  God is a source of refuge and strength.  I lean on Him for guidance and more importantly the strength to face the difficulties.  And I must say there are a lot.  And when things become dire, there is no one else who can give everlasting comfort.

Do you have someone to lean on when you are not strong enough.  If you have none.  there is always god to turn to.

A Child Knows No Fear When Dancing

Children dance their heart out.  This is a behavior that I see in almost all kids I meet. Their carefree attitude allows them to sway their bodies into whatever music they want.  In fact, even without music, they can find the right tune to swing their bodies to.  But as we grow older, we lose this carefree attitude and succumb to social expectations.  Don't do this and don't that in public.  It is no wonder why many adults act like they have a huge stick up their you know where.

When was the last time you just danced your heart out?  Children do not mind if their dancing technique is off or when other people think they are ridiculous.  After all life is fun.  And they are the ones that are really enjoying life without the shackles of societal expectations.

sure, there are important norms and social decorum to follow.  But we must never lose the child in all of us.  When our hearts want us to sing, then sing.  Or when our hearts want us to dance, then dance.  Of course there is a place for everything.  But never forget that the songs play in our heads and move our hearts.  Dance to your heart's content and enjoy life.

Creepy Hospital

Do you like getting scared?  Well, i rarely get scared except if it involves my daughter or wife getting in trouble.  Otherwise,i am not easily scared.  However, there is a hospital near where I live that just gives me the creeps.  Don't get me wrong, it is a new hospital but the feeling is just to ominous.

I am not sure if you believe in ghost.  But this place shouts Come visit us see the ghosts.  Although I never really liked going to hospitals because it has lots of sick people, this one just makes me want to drive another 5 kilometers for the next medical facility.

Hospitals, cemeteries, asylums and old houses are great backdrops for horror stories.  I bet sooner or later, legends of the paranormal will spring from this place.  

Ridiculous Health and Fitness Ideas and Suggestions

I've listened to many health and fitness ideas since I was young.  Some of which I believed because someone who is supposedly more knowledgeable told me so.  But now that I am able to verify information through the internet and other experts, I've become more aware of what is real and what is not.

I remember people telling me that if I started lifting weights it will stunt my growth.  So obviously I did not lift weights.  I'm still short in spite refusing to lift weights when I was younger.  I should probably put more trust on genetics than my friend back in high school.

There was this person who told me to eat peanut butter right before going to the gym.  It was supposed to provide me the extra energy for the workout.  The guy usually eats half a jar before working out.  He grew muscles.  But he eventually developed diabetes.

During a judo training, one member suggested that we should not drink water so that our bodies will not crave for it during competitions.  Of course I did not follow that suggestion.  The rest were nauseated within several hours of the training.

Some people just have weird ideas about health and fitness.

Enslaved By My Phone

When we think about slavery we often picture people shackled and forced to do labor for others.  But as I have realized lately I am a slave.

Technology has given humanity convenience and efficiency.  Moreover, it provides us means to accomplish tasks we might have difficulty doing on our own.  And the simply gadget like the phone has evolved into a powerful tool - magical if you're living a few scores back.

But it is this same technology that has driven our lives.  And Unknowingly we bow down to its  every whim.  It has taken control of our lives.  we can't seem to accomplish anything without it.  From a mere communication tool it has become an indispensable gadget.  It can be said that it is an extension of our being.  Many of us can't seem to function without it.  Likewise, we become anxious without our phones next to us.

But I am changing this reality.  Our phones are merely tools and they should remain as such.  No matter how advance they are or how integral they are to our lives, we should not be slaves.

The Art of Making Love Letters

I grew up at in a time whern twitting, Facebook updates and Skype are unheard of. Although texting was already a major breakthrough in communication, the technology available to us was still outdated.  I suppose this is a blessing as I was able to write a lot of love letters to Grace, my wife.

Today, technology has taken over.  Where has writing love letters the old fashioned way gone to?

Nothing beats taking a pen and paper and writing your heart out.  Of course you can do the same thing with a computer using MS Word but it takes away the personal touch.  Putting your emotions into writing is an intimate way of sharing with someone a special bond - love. Your heart orchestrates what your hand will write.  Your pen is your brush and your paper is your canvass.  And you paint by opening up your heart.

Don't let the art of making love letters die. Grab a pen and paper and and start writing how much you love the person.

Put Positive Thoughts Into Action

Put positive thoughts into actions.  That is easier said than done.  But life is never meant to be always easy.  Rather, it provides challenges to make us stronger and wiser.  It all starts within each of us to trust in ourselves.

Positive thoughts allow us to see beyond the problem.  Moreover, it helps us gain a better perspective of the things to come.  Positive thoughts are powerful tools that we need to utilize everyday of our lives.

We can choose to be miserable when faced with a predicament.  But the problem will still exist.  ON the other hand, if we approach it is a more positive way, we gain better understanding of how to solve and.  Furthermore, it strengthens us along the way.

A Spectator in Your Own Life Story

Are you too busy to notice that life is passing you by?  Well, it is time for you to take it easy.  Sure, the project, work, task or whatever consumes your time is important.  But there are things in life that require your full attention.  For one, life itself!

There are only 24 hours in a day and most of it are spent sleeping or at work or at school.  the rest is usually spent contemplating on how life is too short and that you do not have enough time.  However, there is time and you can make use of it.

Life is a beautiful journey.  Do not be a spectator in your own life.  take control of it and live life right now.

Healthy Eating Is A Matter of Taste

Do you have a sweet tooth?  Does a juicy stake get your attention?  How about about the allure of fast food, does it call on to you?  I never really ate healthy until I met my wife more than a decade ago.  But I am thankful that I made the shift towards healthier eating...at least what I think resembles healthier eating.

I don't have the palette for many healthy foods since they usually taste bland or too earthy.  Well, that was a misconception I had back then.  But to my surprise healthy foods burst with amazing flavors.  I suppose healthy eating is just a matter of taste.

Choosing the right cuts in meats, proper cooking techniques and even the right spices can turn healthy dishes into masterful creations whose flavors will explode in your mouth.  I was proven wrong that healthy food tastes bad or lack the taste altogether.

It is never too late to make the switch to healthier eating.  After all healthy living requires healthy eating.

How Many Opportunities Have You Missed?

The fear of making mistakes often paralyzes people to take the right step.  We create the opportunities that will bring us success.  And when one just happens to show up on your door, one must take it.  In many instances, such opportunities may not present themselves again.

Success in whatever endeavor we choose depends greatly on how act on a particular moment.  And when the moment passes us by without making move, we will never know whether we can succeed or not.

Don't Just Watch People Die

Cancer continuous to kill people.  Although there have been advancement in medicine cancer patients continue to suffer.  Families and friends continue to carry the weight of having lost people they love.

Fighting cancer takes more than  just taking pills or subjecting one's self to excruciating procedures.   Cancer is fought in all battle fields from cancer research laboratories, to schools to every home where people are fighting for their lives. Moreover, everyone should enlist in the fight against cancer.  From cancer prevention campaigns to cancer support groups, everyone must pitch in.  In addition, cancer treatment goes beyond medicines.  Emotional healing, support and counselling are needed.

What is beautiful is that anyone can start the fight against cancer right now.  In our own little way, no matter how insignificant it may seem, we can slowly win.

You can help fight cancer or just watch people die.

We Used To Laugh At The Idea of Bottled Water

I remember the time when we laughed at the idea of buying bottled water.  We scoffed at the concept of water being bottled and sold as commodity.  Why should we buy such a ridiculous product?  we can drink straight from the faucet!  And even if you are uneasy with drinking straight from the tap, there are water filters that you can use.  We had one installed in our house when I was younger.  But now, bottled water is a huge industry and does not seem to be slowing down.

Is it because water from the faucet is not potable?  Well, according to the authorities it is.  But if you've seen the condition of the pipes that are used to run water from the filtration plants to the houses, you'd think twice before drinking from the tap.  It is fascinating to think that our planet is covered by a lot of water.  And what's even more amazing is that in spite of this, we are willing to pay a lot for bottled drinks.

Every drop counts and at the rate pollution and destruction is happening, I am afraid that sooner than later, we will find our selves without water to drink.  In fact, many places on earth have scarcely enough water for the day.  It is truly ironic to live in a planet covered by water and yet there are people who are dying of thirst.  

Teams Require Individual Commitment

I've never been a great basketball player.  Perhaps it's the lack of interest in the sport.  Or perhaps it is the lack of height required to be asked to join a team.  I suppose it is the height.  However, like any other team sports, basketball intrigues me.  Not just because it requires members working fluidly as one but because of the commitment required from each player.

I've been in numerous teams in my life.  Whether it is on a competition or a corporate project, teams require solidarity.  Of course I never always agree with everyone on the team.  But when a decision is made, I stick to it and fight for it.

This commitment asked from the team members is paramount to the success of the organization.  When one falters, the whole structure collapses.  When every person assumes his role and undertakes his duties, it is symphony playing in harmony.  No matter how good the team may be, it all boils down to the commitment of every person to take responsibility.  Great teams are made great by exemplary individuals working as one.

Life is Fragile and Beautiful

We take life for granted.  Living has become trivial that we rarely take notice of how fragile it is.  Underneath the pat-paced life we live in today, is a complex web of emotions and relationships that seem to run on auto-pilot.  But there is more.

The fragility of life hangs precariously on one's own behavior, beliefs, values and everything that makes up the person.  When decisions are made it affects the person not just on the physical plane.  Rather, it sends a ripple across time and distance.  What you do now will eventually affect others and yourself in the future.

However, it is this fragility that makes it equally beautiful.  We have the ability to influence others and our selves in ways that we cannot imagine.  Likewise, we have the capacity to form relationships when it is needed.  Moreover, Life itself is a precious gift that we have to nurture.  We are responsible and accountable.  it is to us that life is granted.  And it is up to us to make full use of life.

Life is fragile and beautiful.  we can make every minute of our lives more meaningful when we acknowledge these truths - life is fragile and beautiful.

Life Is Not Simply Where the Road Takes Us

Do not be a spectator in life.  refuse to simply go where the road may take you.  In stead, create your own path and pave the way for others.

Coasting through life seems like a logical thing to do. We are born to this world and then we eventually die.  What happens in between is up to you.  You have the choice to be a passive soul in this world.  Or you can opt to make ripples that will reach the farthest corners of the world.

life is a beautiful journey.  But it is one that we take control of the helm.  And when travelers in this life cross paths we create beautiful symphonies of relationships, connections and most importantly partnerships.  And the infinite possibilities that life presents us underscores the beauty of creating our own paths.

Sure, follow the road that is in front of you.  But do not be afraid to step off course every now and then.  It is when we create new paths that we begin to appreciate and understand that life is truly beautiful.

Healthy Life Style Requires A Healthy Attitude

So you have decided to make a life style change so you can become fit and healthy.  That is a great step towards living a happy and hopefully long life.  But there is more to telling yourself that you want to be healthy when it comes to health and fitness.  To sum it up, it is all about the right attitude.

We've heard the age old adage that health is wealth.  It can get sickening hearing it too often.  But there is some truth to that.   Unless we start living a healthier life we cannot enjoy life to the fullest.  However, we need to do more than just wish for it.  And the best way towards your healthy lifestyle goal is to have a healthy attitude.

If you open your mind to the changes that you will undertake it will be easier to adjust to the new lifestyle.  Just imagine pushing yourself beyond your limits when it comes to physical fitness.  How about trying to veer from foods that are unhealthy?  If that does not scare you think about the habits that you must break in order to achieve your fitness goals.

Changing to a healthier lifestyle is no walk in the park.  In fact, many people fail in their first try because they haven't tuned their attitude towards what is truly good for them.

In order to get the desired physical fitness or that sexy abs or legs that you always wanted you need to adjust the way you think.  when you change what you believe in, you can influence change in the way you do things.

Fighting Temptations

Yup, I am craving for something really unhealthy.  I want a huge burger with everything on it.  I know it is not healthy but I am seriously looking for some burger right now.  But you know what?  In spite of this craving, I choose not to indulge.

We live in a world full of temptations.  Whether it is about eating a deliciously sinful burger, a bar of chocolate or having these carnal desires every time the hot neighbor says hi in a flirting way at you.  But that is life.  We have wants but not everything is worth the risk.

And I fight this temptation by not surrounding myself with things that tempt me.  If your weakness is a takeout of pure beefy goodness that is bad for you, just veer away.  If it is that sexy co-worker, just focus on work.  It is by no means easy.  it will test your character and your convictions.

Remember, just one bite (regardless of what your biting) can be dangerous.

Are You A Person of Value

The greatest employees I've worked with have one thing in common - they are valuable assets to the company. Moreover, they are not just experts in their field, but they have expanded their knowledge and skills to every aspect of the company;s operations.  They have taken the idea of multi-tasking from merely doing several things at a time to adding value through their every action.

Although I have worked in human capital development for almost 20 years now, the capacity to learn continues to fascinate me.  And those that are valuable employees are usually those that take learning seriously.

All of us would like to be successful at work.  But those that truly make a difference are those that add value to themselves and their organization. Do you add value to yourself and your company?  Or are you simply coasting your way through every paycheck?

Are You Building Your Dreams Or Someone Else's?

are your efforts in pursuit of your own dreams or are they to build other's dreams?  We often neglect the fact that we all have dreams.  Some work hard for it while others fail to take the right steps towards their goals in life.

Simply put:  work towards your dreams not someone else's.

It is fascinating to see how much effort we put in in our work and still fail to reach the destination we want our lives to go to.  Sure, being employed provides us the means to financially support our family.  But I have seen really capable people simply reduced to being tools of the wealthy and the bosses.  They work tirelessly so that others can succeed.  But then again, it probably boils down to how you see success.

But here is an honest question that you need to ponder on - are your efforts really to achieve your own goals in life or are you simply a tool for others.  When you answer this question honestly, perhaps you can really direct your life towards your dreams.

Dreams will remain as such unless you act upon it.  But be careful, every stride you take can either take you closer or farther away.  Do not be blind to this reality.

Doing One's Best Is Not Always a Guarantee for Quality

Several months back we complained to one of the neighborhood officers that people are throwing their trash at our fence.  More than just an eyesore, it is a health concern.  But in spite of the complaints, nothing was done. However, one morning, when neighbors were piling their trash in front of our gate and dumping them near our fence I had to do something.

After confronting the people, the baranggay treasurer told my wife and I that he will put up a sign so that people will not throw their trash there.  But the trash had to be cleared first.  I told him that he had to get people who threw the trash to clear it out.  But he said no one will do that.  He even told me that the personnel from the baranggay office are not available.   Instead of waiting for help that was not going to come, I told him that I will clear the trash.  In return he will make sure to put up a sign to prevent people from throwing their trash in front of the property.  He will do his best to resolve the problem.

And guess what, I got a pathetic sign and that was his supposedly best.  Obviously doing one;s best is not always a guarantee for quality.  Just in case you are wondering, the property is in Baranggay Pasong Putik Proper in Novaliches, Quezon City.

If this is his best, I'm scared to know what he does on an ordinary day.

Kiss The Holidays Good Bye

Are you ready to go back to work?  After the long break it is just normal to feel some anxiety going back to work.  But the reality is, the holidays have passed.  It is a new year and work has to be done.  Don't worry, there are other holidays through out the year and I am pretty sure you will take advantage of these days.  

Here are some tips to make the transition easier:

• Have some goals and targets for the month - or at least for the first few days in the office
• Remove the decorations at home so you won't be reminded of the holidays that you so dearly want to have again  - remove the decorations at your office as well
• Focus on the tasks that you have to accomplish.

It's real, the holidays are over and you need to go back to work.  The transition can be frustrating but it can be done without hurting anyone.

Routines Make Sleep Time Easier for Everyone

Sleep time for toddlers has always been a difficult part of parenting.  You're tired and the kid has to sleep.  Unfortunately, they have lots of energy and are not really ready to call it a night.  So what do you do?

Stop yourself from slipping some sleeping pills into your child's milk bottle. Instead, consider these strategies that have worked for us...so far.

• Keep sleep time consistent.  It pays when your child knows when it is time to go to bed.
• Choose less active activities like reading a story.
• close the lights or at least dim them.  This will give the cue to power down
• Use a softer voice.  In fact, quiet time is a good prelude to sleeping time.

Kids have different temperaments and you should know your child's.  This will help create an environment that is suitable to his/her sleeping time.  There is no parenting manual that comes out when your child was born.  But with a little practice anyone can be great at it.

Love What You Do To Succeed

Find a job that you truly love and you will never work a day in your life.  This has been a mantra of mine and it pays off.  I've seen people pretending to like what they do.  They simply end up miserable.  In the end, we have to enjoy what we are doing so we can do it better.  The more we love our craft, the more effort we put in improving.

Many companies hire competent people.  What they fail to take into consideration is how much these new hires really love their work.  I believe it is important for companies to make work more fun for the employees.  If you fail to have fun doing your work, you fail to enrich and encourage them.  Just imagine spending a great portion of your day doing something you dislike. You'd be spending a miserable day.

Love what you do and start enjoying every minute at work.  If you haven't found it, there is still time.

Trust In Your Self

When we stop trusting in our own capabilities we stop ourselves from exploring more of what we can accomplish.  In the the end, we have to learn to rely on ourselves.  We will meet people who are willing to help.  And in many instances, they can go beyond our expectations.  But what is important to understand is that we have to commit ourselves to accomplishing the tasks we have set forth to accomplish.  It is great to have people beside us.  But we have to learn to stand on our own two feet and make things work even if there is no one beside to help us.

Trust in your self and be self sufficient.  This way, when others come out to help you, it's just icing on the cake.

A Sensible Recipe for Success

how many times have you stood at the crossroads of success but failed to walk towards the right path?  Many of us fail to take that initial step because of the unknown.  You are not alone in fearing what is unknown.  And many times our sensible side will dissuade us to take the gamble.  But we don not win unless we play.  Of course, we get rid of as much risks as we can so that success is easier.  But then again, we are often venturing out into the unknown.

Fear is a great motivator for many.  Either they push through and face fear head on or it makes people step back and turn down an opportunity.  Fear is a real reaction and emotion.  But those who succeed conquers their fears.  Not so much as to eradicate fear in their lives but to manage it so they won't be paralyzed when it sets in.  Moreover, when managed properly, one can make sound decisions.

How much to you want success?  Will it be enough to overcome your fear?

Kids and Technology

I first used a desktop computer when I was in grade 6 and that was already a big deal. Nowadays, however, children are exposed to tablets and notebooks even before they are two. There are of course several pros and cons in this regard.

They Love Their Chickens at BluRoze Farm

It was a different adventure for our family as we greeted 2015.  Unlike the usual beach destinations, we opted for a more terrestrial travel destinations.  We checked in at the Mt. Malarayat Golf and Country Club and decided to visit BluRoze Farm.  And I must say, they love their chickens pretty much!

Bluroze Farm is a haven for birds.  Although there are other animals like monkeys and sheep, birds are everywhere.

Beware though, visiting this place is a treat but get ready to smear some mosquito lotion on your body.  We went there late in the afternoon and Jurassic mosquitoes were everywhere.  I am not exaggerating, they were humongous! But for an entrance fee of only Php 120 per person, this was an interesting addition to our adventure.

  

Bluroze is an almost perfect place for the family especially if you like the outdoors and animals.  It is still a place worth visiting.

The Best Ways to Eat Ice Gems

Are you familiar with the little biscuits topped with colored sugar called Ice Gems?  I remember growing up as a kid and eating hundreds of these little delights.

Recently, my wife bought a large pack of these treats and it took me down memory lane.  I remember eating these little biscuits back in the early grades.  And as an avid ice gem eater, you'd know that the best way to eat them is to bite off the colored toppings firsts.  An equally fun way to eat ice gems is to start with the biscuits first and pile up the sugary goodness and munch them up in one go.  Of course the eating strategy depends on the person.  But regardless how you eat them, you'll surely enjoy it.

Yes, it is a lot of sugar if you think of eating hundreds of them in one sitting.  But it is a lot of fun.  I suppose our generation was not informed much about proper dieting, but we turned out alright - expect for the high diabetes and obesity rate.

But in spite of the ghastly possibilities of eating extra sugars, I enjoyed my stroll down memory lane with these little treats.

Sam Conquers Mt. Malarayat Summit...

Have you been to Mt. Malarayat in Lipa Batanggas, Philippines?  If you haven't then you are missing out on one of natures most beautiful places.

Ok, the truth is, this is not the summit of of Mt. Malarayat.  It's taken in Mt. Malarayat Golf and Country Club but it is close enough.  There is a hill near the swimming pool and I just had to get this picture of my nephew.

The place is wonderful and the staff were exemplary.  Although we did not get to play golf or swim, we all had a marvelous time.  This was one New Year destination that we would surely remember.  Among the places we've been to, this is definitely at the top of the cleanest and most gorgeous places we've been.

Although the cold wind and rain prevented us from really exploring the place, we still had a beautiful New Year as a family.

Rock Garden on My Dashboard

Here is a rock garden on my dashboard.  OK, it's not really a rock garden, but a few rocks placed on the non-slip pad on my car's dashboard.  My daughter does not want me to remove it there and I must admit, I like it there.

It is like my little zen area in the car.  And it helps me to keep calm whenever I begin to get irritated by other drivers on the road.  They're not magic rocks but they do the trick for me.