Wednesday, May 7, 2014

The Road Ahead: The Rising Challenges Along The Way


"Time to heal and to start another chapter of a more meaningful life. A life that gives us second chances and letting go. A life that gives unlimited potential and opportunities for growth. There will be challenges along the way; however, it is indispensable to keep our flow and live life in harmony and with a sense of fulfillment."


That was a long break, and now back to writing again. It's been several months of untold memorable stories and events that would have been special and worth remembering through writing. Sometimes in our lives, we slow down and need much inspiration and will to do something we love. Inspiration comes anytime, and the will to do things is the most important. 


Action is necessary to get things done, and no matter how hard we try in the planning phase, we still get stuck- and remain stationary. We do things with much gratitude for starting into something, but in the process, we also encounter the signal to slow down until we are out of sight. It's not that we lose, but we're starting to get back on track and regain things missed. 


Writing on the 2nd quarter of the year would be nice to reflect on the latest journey that keeps me alive. One of the most favorable times of the year is summer; although hot and humid, we still endure and continue to have fun and experience this wonderful season of the year--the preservation phase. 


There may have been down moments this season, but they have enough will to rise again. Life has become more challenging as we move along in another milestone of a not-so-distant future. After all, we have proven to ourselves how resilient we are and keep moving on when the road seems rough. We learn best through experience, and it keeps us more vital than ever, no matter how hard it may seem. 



Some of the most beautiful moments this summer were when I got the chance to travel with family and friends. Enjoying precious time with loved ones is incomparable and something to cherish and worth reminiscing about. 


Traveling and exploring places would nourish my mind and body as I meditate in different areas, from the calm and turquoise water of Guimaras Island to the green and relaxing ambiance at the foothill of Mt. Arayat-- such a pleasant surprise.

Not so far from Manila, there could have been a better escape from the hustle and bustle of city living for Lenten's reflection. From the glorious Christ, the Redeemer in Monasterio de Tarlac, going to the mountainous and highly spiritual place in  Lucban, Quezon. These places do not offer such overrated experiences, but the memories are worthwhile and will remain in our hearts. 


Time to heal and start another chapter of a more meaningful life. A life that gives us second chances and letting go. A life that offers unlimited potential and opportunities for growth. There will be challenges along the way; however, in the end, keeping our flow and living life in harmony and with a sense of fulfillment is indispensable. 



Saturday, November 23, 2013

Resilience of the Filipino Spirit



"Filipinos worldwide are united as one and will continue to do so to be able to live a good life and the greatest life that we truly deserve."

The Philippines experienced another calamity that was considered one of the strongest and deadliest typhoons in the world. Typhoon "Haiyan," or the local name "Yolanda,"  brought misery to the Filipinos affected by the devastation it caused. 

In the Central Philippines, where the typhoon hit, thousands of people were victims of this natural calamity that has extended to several regions in Visayas Island. Some have survived, while others have lost their lives. 

Weather disturbances are common in the Philippines, and the Filipino people have learned to embrace this uncontrollable phenomenon. It had existed for several centuries, even before the talks about climate change started. This would be massive destruction of property and the loss of lives. It happens, and we are not in total control of these so-called acts of God.


Filipinos are known to have a strong spirit in times of calamities, and the world somehow acknowledges this, considering the numerous typhoons and earthquakes experienced. However, no matter how strong we are, our being still has limitations. Filipinos still suffer from anxiety and post-traumatic stress despite being resilient. We can put smiles on our faces, but there is still some pain inside that we carry. Filipinos are like that; the entire archipelago would share the same attitude when life faces challenges... when life seems unfair.


In any challenge, good or bad, there is something to learn. It is the time to reflect on our ways of dealing with life. Both the strongest and the weakest are tested, if you have   Perseverance in Times of Despair, you remain strong, but if you play as a victim and do not take responsibility, you may want to become one of the weakest links.

There are several talks and debates about climate change and its global impact. Some would be interested in the subject and take action, while others would ignore it and let it be. Indeed, what we do to our environment could bounce back on us. If people still seem careless and continue with their business interests, not minding its environmental effect, then we are in danger. 

We have already seen the effects of climate change, and it continues to manifest its power of destruction to the nations and the people. We've seen how it affected so many lives in several countries, and now the same fate happened in the Philippines. How many lives will still be at risk? I believe it's time to ponder on our simple yet meaningful gesture of care for the environment.

People are now starting to realize and believe that there is a natural force beyond our control from The Power of Natureand we have a call to action to make. There may be many factors why this massive destruction happens, but Filipinos will continue to rise up and begin a new life again and again.


Let's help each other and do our share to serve and show love and affection. We can learn how to Get Ahead of Life's Adversities and believe that something good is coming to our life after we have survived the most significant obstacle that has shaken our spirit. Filipinos worldwide are united and will continue to do so to live a good life and the most extraordinary life we truly deserve.


© 2014 Del Cusay


Monday, October 28, 2013

Incredible India: My Life's Greatest Challenge

"It is not the applause nor the pat on the back that inspires me the most, but the simple appreciation makes me feel special and valued. When the time is up, the next question would be, what comes next? What is there waiting for me?... and it goes on..."



It's been 8 months since I arrived in Delhi, and it's a great experience to live independently while doing the work that I love. Some days excite me, and some days I need to calm my senses. Those days when I traveled a long distance and enjoyed the moment while on holiday; those days when I traveled a long distance to do my duties and responsibilities.


My second trip back to India was challenging; this time, I had to do my best even on a solitary journey. I rushed and slipped... I ran and fell... I moved on and got stuck. However, it was still a challenge despite the obstacles I had gone through. I never stopped, but I learned to move forward and realize that reaching goals isn't easy. 


In my travels, I have gained many memorable stories and insights. Sometimes, it's not the place that puts a smile on my face, but the people captivate my spirit.  I have learned to discover the beauty in every person I have interacted with and also from their inspiring stories that can be a source of wisdom.   



It is nice to have known some friends that are kind and cheerful. It is their helpful gestures that make my stay in India genuinely remarkable. A heartwarming welcome from people is something I will cherish. They have shown great hospitality, which has made a lasting impression. 


I have met people from different places where I have served. Young and old, the fortunate and underprivileged, the yogis and meditators, and if still recognized, perhaps the Brahmins and the Sudras. They have impacted my life in the quest to understand the nature of humanity and our world.


Indian society couldn't be much favorable to some, but upon my observation, it could be a better place to live in and start making a good influence on others. A country that is truly diverse in many ways; the people, the culture, and the tradition. Here, I have experienced the chaos in the city and where different major religions exist without much prejudice and conflict. 


For the past 8 months, I have seen the many faces of India and its diverse culture. From the freezing cold mountains of Dharamsala in the north and the humid climate of Kolkata in the east. The industrial city of Ludhiana in Punjab and the Magical pink city of Jaipur in Rajasthan. Different places with a unique identities yet share a common language of smiles and hospitality. 


What makes life challenging in India is to reach out to people and offer something for their own benefit. When the clock starts to wake me up in the dawn, it is a non-stop action towards the destination. It is the people that make you move and their spirituality that touches your soul. I talk, and they listen... they discuss, and I get more wisdom. It is the reciprocity of events that makes learning enjoyable.




When the spotlight is on and everyone is watching, nothing could be brighter when you see the smiles, hear the laughter, feel the positive emotions, and sense the good energy of the people. I feel special...I feel blessed. 


It is not the applause or the pat on the back that inspires me the most, but the simple appreciation makes me feel unique and valued. When the time is up, the next question would be, what comes next? What is there waiting for me?... and it goes on...


When life gets tough, it reminds me of my achievements. Never to return...never to surrender...never to quit.  Life is passing all the challenges and reaping the rewards after that. It's a game of life; you win some, and you lose some. In the end, the battle remains, and the journey continues. 

© 2013 Del Cusay