Christmas in Our Hearts 2012: A Joyous Journey

"Christmas is all about remembering Jesus Christ and celebrating his presence in us. He is our guiding light, the way to the right path and our greatest hope.  May we live the spirit of Christmas in our hearts, leads us towards a joyous journey and  brings us joy, love and everlasting peace."

Here comes the most wonderful season of the year--the Christmas. It is this time of the year where I feel joyful and more blessed. The season where I can express my gratitude by way of giving thanks to the Lord Christ for a year that is abundant and meaningful.

This Christmas, is the time to give and to share; to express our loving spirit. It may not be through material presents, but the kind thought of giving good wishes and blessings to others as it gives more sense of fulfillment.

I am always fascinated by the way people around the world would celebrate Christmas regardless of culture and religion or spiritual affiliations. It is through this kind of recognition that the world feels united as one in Christs' loving spirit. 

Oprah's Lifeclass: Dreaming Big Life Work

When working for a dream, Joel Osteen, an American motivational speaker, shared with Oprah that it's more important to look back at how far you've come rather than focusing on how farther you have to go with your dreams. Gratitude is also an important factor in dreaming something big and it is done through recognition of the blessings that come. 

I'm sharing my thoughts on several questions on working with 'Dreaming a Big Life'. 

1.  What do you believe is possible for yourself? If your answer is "nothing," why do you believe that?

I believe that everything is possible to acquire or achieve if I have a strong will-power and then followed by actions. I have proven to myself that whatever I wanted to achieve, I have to ask for it, believe that it will happen and then celebrate the achievement.

2.  Are you wishing or dreaming for something to happen? How can you change your wish so that it becomes a dream?

To wish or to dream could be synonymous. Wishful thinking is to create thoughts to produce future results while dreaming is a goal in mind that is waiting to be materialized any time in the future. What's more important is to conceive ideas first through a wish or a dream; have the will to achieve it and reap the rewards thereafter.

3.  Things don't happen overnight. What do you wholeheartedly believe you're meant to do?

Success in any endeavor is a cumulative effect  of constant positive actions. What I do presently will be a predictor of who I am and what will I destined to become. I believe that the present time is the key to the future. I may never know what the future holds, but I am determined to achieve whatever desires that I have.

4.  What is your heart's dream (not material stuff like making a lot of money or getting a fancy car)? What truly fulfills you?

Material things are not my ultimate source of joy, although it makes me feel good. Success is short-lived, but to become fulfilled leaves a lasting bliss. What can I offer to my family and other people is what makes me fulfilled. Fulfillment is not based on age nor it is a destination, but it is a deeper and constant emotion of something that is achieved no matter what status you're holding and whatever adversities that will come.

5.  Are you pursuing a life or chasing a dream that isn't yours? If so, what is it?

Whatever I do is the result of my personal choice. I have the freedom to follow what I wanted to become. However, I need people to guide me on where I am heading to in life. I still follow my life mentor, my spiritual teachers and even advice from family and friends. They all have a big part and contribution to my life and to the achievement of my dreams.


6.  Instead of looking at the road ahead, Joel Osteen says, you sometimes need to look back and be grateful for what you already have. What are you most grateful for? What goodness has been brought into your life already?

It is important to look at what lies ahead; that is vision. Nevertheless, looking back could lead to being stuck in the past especially if there's an intense emotional attachment of certain events. What I truly believe is to be grateful for the blessings that have happened--may it be from the past or the present time. Gratitude is something that makes us  open for more blessing that will come our way. In my life, I am grateful for having a supportive family and for the special skills/talents that I have. It gives me joy and the feeling of prosperity--that life is abundant of blessings once recognized

7.  Has anyone told you that your dream isn't possible? If you're feeling negative or discourage, how will you use your energy to believe and not worry?

There were moments from the past that I have been told 'I can't make it' or 'I'm not that good' followed by facial grimace and degrading statements. However, I choose to be optimistic rather than being affected. I know my capabilities and my limitations. I'm not easily discourage and I don't give up despite of hindrances. I believe some people are just afraid that you will make it, and would rather criticize than to support. 

In my blog post entitled  "Following Our Heart's Desire", I've shared my thoughts that we can achieve everything we wanted if we truly aspire and need it. Otherwise, some will think our dreams are impossible until it is done.

8.  Every time a negative thought comes into your mind, replace it with a positive one. Do this for an entire day. Then, rate your day. Did it feel life-changing?

In some instances it works, but it is also good not to block it right away; I have to feel it and understand it. It only means that my instincts is working and would depend on the right judgement. If I think that I've made the right decision and judgement, that's the time I feel the inner peace and contentment.

9.  Is there an example of a time a door closed in your life--and a door to something even better opened? Can you see now why the first door was closed on a purpose?

There were instances that I do not get what I want. There were unanswered wishes and dreams or still maybe working in progress, but I believe it happens for a reason. I realized that I am not ready to receive the blessings. whenever, I get something unexpectedly and opposite to what I've wished for, then that's the right opportunity for me.

10.  Do you expect good things in your life? What do you expect now? or what will you start expecting?

I see the bright side of life and that good things is about to happen anytime soon or in the near future. I don't want to expect because it means I am very certain of what lies ahead, but I believe in myself that something good is already happening.


© 2012 Del Cusay

Reminiscence of the Glorious Times

"Looking back through the years, a lot has changed, and it is for the better. There is a bright light in more days to come. It is a good start of creating the life that is envisioned and not just imagined." 

Several moments in our lives have been experienced that brought life lessons. There were moments of joy and sorrow, perseverance and despair, struggles and survival; yet all these have made tremendous impact on our well-being.

No matter what life may bring, still there is a need to embrace and learn from it. Nothing in life is an absolute liberty from misery and discomfort. Thus, I have written about 'Perseverance in Times of Despair'. It is an insight about how life struggles can be taken as a challenge and not a hindrance.

I remember how many times I failed in whatever endeavor, but failure is not an obstacle towards the achievement of most cherished hopes and dreams. In my post entitled 'How Failure Turned Into Success', I have shared my lesson that failure is part of winning and not bad at all. Failure is like a fuel that helps to ignite and sparkle. It is a blessing in disguise if it is viewed positively and can lead to ultimate success.

I have learned that life can be tough at times; and to be able to take full responsibility of uncertainties, there is a need of 'Getting Way Ahead of Life's Adversities'. If we have experienced unpleasant events, we can better prepared and be alert the next time that the same misfortune happens. This time we have wisdom and the power to deal with it better the second time around.

Through all these years, I always believe that there is an infinite power within that is subtle and untapped. If we are 'Reaching Our Highest Potential'; we can do the things that once we thought is impossible. We are now becoming what we think and we can do almost everything that we desire if we put our undivided focus on it.

Whatever life may present us, it is a must to have a sense of gratitude. Life is flowing with positive energy if we are 'Cultivating Gratitude for Success'. Fulfillment in life comes from being generous of what you have to offer that creates a difference. Gratitude can open the door for opportunities that can also lead to success.

Today, I am not only joyful, but also grateful as I look back and reminisce the time when I started to write for this blog which I considered as an online journal. I write on the same time as the previous year when I conceptualized how my blog would appear to the web and the readers. The same place where I used to write my first blog post about 'The Power of Meditation' and how it has change my life's perspective and ideals. The same time and place of the year, yet different emotions experienced. 

Today marks the first year of my blogging. This is more than a hobby, hence I call it passion. More than speaking is the joy felt when everything is put into writing. It is there, and will continue to exist and evolve. I will continue to write as long as I am inspired to do so. Someone may relate to it; others may have shared the same fate; and you may have learned from it.

Looking back through the years, a lot has changed, and it is for the better. There is a bright light in more days to come. It is a good start of creating the life that is envisioned and not just imagined. 

© 2012 Del Cusay

There is A Certain Holiness in You

"It takes courage, perseverance and sacrifice for life to become a saint and it takes purity of the heart and Godly actions to become holy. You will neither become a saint, nor holy. As long as you follow your life's purpose in good ways, you may not become a saint, but you are closer to becoming holy. "

What does it take to become a saint? How can you become holy? In today's modern era, people have experienced drastic change in way of living. To live is becoming more comfortable and convenient with the advent of rapid technological advancement. In some ways, this could mean progress and the other way could be destruction--the good and the bad effects of what life has to offer.

Advanced civilization has changed how people think and act. It has change certain behaviors and values that was once good in nature. People have been so cruel, mean and greedy. Understanding became confusion; peace turned into war; openness became selfishness and love turned into hatred.

However, no matter how bad people will become, there's a certain goodness that is left in his heart. People sometimes are tough, yet gentle. Some could be mean, yet straightforward. Others could be cruel, yet compassionate. There is a certain goodness hidden to whatever dark side that people carry. 

Everything that happens can be understood better if you know both the bad and the good. Sometimes, you need to experience how it feels like to become bad so you appreciate the goodness in others. You need to do bad things to gauge how good you truly become. It is only then you distinguish which is better--the bad or the good.

We are commanded to do things in accordance to what is good and avoid the bad ones. But the world we live in may be full of negativity that will test our faith. There are some invisible forces that will challenge you to your limits. It may be hard to escape, but to take it and live it.

Is it possible for bad people to become holy in the end? Is holiness only for the good ones? Can you become a saint if you've committed terrible bad deeds? Well, why not? biblical history would tell that the famous saints that we venerate today are once a sinner. They may have been so cruel and unloving in their past, yet they have made a great changes and transformation in their lives. They had the power to change who they are and in the later part of their lives became holy. They mastered the purity of their heart and spiritual service. In the end, the goodness in them prevailed.

Just like us, we can't be good all the time. It is a human nature to commit mistakes and become bad once in a while. There is no such thing as absolute human being, but only divine being does have. Even the newly canonized saints did not live their lives in absolute good. They have been bad even before they attained ultimate realization of spiritual enlightenment.

There is no need to worry if you became bad as long as you did your best to change yourself for the better. Your life is not your past. Your past does not define your future. Your future will depend on what you do to the present. 

Not everyone will become a saint since it is only for the chosen ones. No matter what good things you've done to humanity, there is no assurance that you will  become a canonized saint. There is a certain holiness in your being. Your goal is not to become a saint, but to live a kind of life that is Christ-like.

It takes courage, perseverance and sacrifice for life to become a saint and it takes purity of the heart and Godly actions to become holy. You will neither become a saint, nor holy. As long as you follow your life's purpose in good ways, you may not become a saint, but you may be closer to becoming holy. 

© 2012 Del Cusay

Social Commentary: Why Can't We Speak?

"In a modern world that we live in, we are no longer voiceless, but empowered citizens. People know its limitations and morality. People know when to become expressive and when to be quiet. So whatever happened to our freedom of expression?"

The social media plays a vital role as a means of communication. It has become part of our lives and we are now becoming more interactive and aware of whatever is happening around, not only to our family and friends but also to our favorite celebrities, favorite brands and be aware of the latest global and local news and the current events.

Social Media is now a trend and the newest tool for people empowerment. A lot of big events that took place in the current world history is influenced by active participation of the so-called netizens or online citizens, who shares their voices silently but powerfully over the web. 

The downfall of dictators in some of the Arab countries is brought by a massive demonstration by netizens who triggered the sharing of information about how their freedom have been oppressed for so many years since their government directly controlled the internet. They can't speak against their leaders. They can't express their wishes and desires for change. They have lived their lives in hopelessness and misery.

With the advent of social media, some countries are still restricting the social media access of their citizens although it has been declared by the United Nations that internet access in general is a basic human right. It seems that their leaders are still resistant to change. Aren't they?

We are now globally connected through this impressive breakthrough in technology the mankind has produced. However, why shouldn't we utilize this tool for common good and for strong globalization? Is there something to hide? Is there something to be afraid of? 

In a country where cyber crime law is taking into effect, I can't imagine how the people are being robbed of their freedom of expression. In a country where democracy rules, I can't believe the media and the citizens are being dictated of what to say and what must be censored.

The power of the country lies on its citizens, therefore there is a need to respect and to hear the voice of the people. Our people are hungry for change and the truth. Our people need a heart of a leader who takes time to listen. We're tired of speeches, tired of false promises and tired of insincerity in public leadership.

Let our people rule and let them be free to express their thoughts to the current events that our nation or the world is facing. After all, people deserve better services that his country has to offer. It is the people who choose their leaders and it is the duty of the leaders to listen to his people.

In a modern world that we live in, we no longer have to be voiceless, but empowered and informed citizens. People know its limitations and morality. People know when to become expressive and when to be reserve. So whatever happened to freedom of expression?

Online censorship and media harassment happens in many countries, it may happen to other nations and now our time has arrived and may become worst in the years to come. This shouldn't happen. Let the people speak their mind freely in a just manner. Let the media be the public's eye and ears in delivering the truth. 

Wouldn't it be nice if we can have a responsible freedom of expression? Can't I express my disappointment about our own government and leaders? Will our own government try to shutdown the press and the dedicated press people?  Will my own government suppress my public opinion? In today's time why is it hard to speak? 

© 2012 Del Cusay

Social Commentary: A Violent God in Our Time

"I believe that God is absolutely good, but what the world can see is a violent God? The answer lies to your own interpretation of events and personal beliefs. Listen to your inner voice and get enlightened."

It was just recently when the world news about the rebellion in Libya took place. It was a violent protest and massive assault that resulted to vandalism, injuries and worst is, loss of lives.This is almost the same thing that happened few months ago when Libyan leader Gaddafi was captured and got killed by his own people. However, that was more violent event in the country's history.

Violence happens all over the world and history would tell how rampant and cruel these event and ended in a bad fate; destroyed human dignity, censored  freedom of expression, distorted peace and controlled populace.

People would always fight for freedom. I mean, who doesn't want to express thoughts and sentiments freely? It is a human-nature to defend oneself if attacked... protect oneself if assaulted... fight for life if in danger. You always have the choice that's based on instincts. You are not expected to be quiet in times of rage. You are supposed to speak with your mind and protect your dignity.

Why is it that the world is always being shocked by the Muslims? Why is it that the Muslims always spread terrorism? Why is the Muslims always wanted to kill and enjoys being a headline of world news? These may sound stereotype, but isn't it that a certain behavior of an individual or a group is considered as a culture. There might be a radical Muslim community spreading globally, but they are totally unwanted and doesn't represent the religious philosophy of Islam.

Upon deeper reflection, some thoughts arise about terrorism that is linked with certain religion.  Is a Muslim country, a culture of violence? Is it a biblical teaching to kill people for the sake of religion? Extremists may be narcissistic and needs constant attention of the world, but it is to be stopped. There is nothing good about violent attacks...not good to hear about terror acts... not good news about honor killing even in the name of religion.

I have respect to every religion, but I condemn what I believe is not upright. There is always an alternative to violence. Never to forget the power of 'peace process and bloodless revolution'. There is always a better way to act that will not harm people, destroy a country and affect the world at large. I believe that God is absolutely good, but what the world can see is a violent God? The answer lies to your own interpretation of events and personal beliefs. Listen to your inner voice and get enlightened. 


© 2012 Del Cusay

Once in a Blue Moon I Got an Award

"Tonight, I had a wonderful moment to have a glimpse of the full moon. It's not just ordinary occurrence because it's a rare celestial phenomenon. When I look up the sky, I feel grateful and blessed that once in a blue moon, I've been appreciated and recognized."



On this day, it may seem to be just an ordinary day; nothing really special, and there's no reason to celebrate. I woke up early this morning with a nice feeling after thanksgiving. I read the latest news and visited my favorite blogsites while having a cup of coffee. This is how I would start my day.

It's also important for me to check my email daily. To my surprise, I received a message from a blogger, who is Leslie Alba, the author of a blog 'Proud Mom's Corner'. She informed me that I was chosen as one of the recipient of 'Liebster Blog Award'.

I am ranked 8th among the 11 Blogsites she have chosen. I never heard of the term before and I searched its meaning.

Leslie Alba writes her valuable insights about 'Parenting'. Here's the blog link: Ihttp://proudmomscorner.blogspot.com/2012/08/one-proud-mom-two-liebster-blog-awards.html#.UECm2U9v8TI

"Liebster", is a German word, which means dearest or beloved. Upon knowing the significance of the award, I wrote a message to her to express my gratitude and appreciation. It's a good feeling to be recognized by someone. 

I write my thoughts whenever I feel like doing it. I write when I have a strong desire to express my ideas about a certain topic. I write in no particular date and time of the day. The content that I make usually reflects the dominant feelings or experiences that I had on a particular month. 

I don't write often, usually one or two blog posts in a month. I don't mind the quantity of blog post because I always believe that creating a quality content is better. I plan ahead of time and organize my thoughts to produce a good quality content which could be a timeless piece of content that would still be relevant even  few years from now or ahead of our time.

I am grateful and it's such an honor to be a 'Liebster Awardee' recognized by a fellow blogger. It may not be the most prestigious award giving body in the blogosphere, but it means so much to me, knowing that someone's following my work in any locations of the world where my blog has reached.

Writing is my passion and I just hope that I will never be tired of it. It's my wish to inspire others through my way of writing. It's not just fun, but it  also gives me a sense of freedom and fulfillment.

Today is just an ordinary day? I was wrong, because it's an extraordinary and special day for me.

Tonight, I had a wonderful moment to have a glimpse of the full moon. It's not just ordinary occurrence because it's a rare celestial phenomenon. When I look up the sky, I feel grateful and blessed that once in a blue moon, I've been appreciated and recognized.


© 2012 Del Cusay

Oprah's Lifeclass: On Living Fearlessly

Lifeclass, live in New York, was one of the hottest topic participated by a large audience, and I've got the opportunity to participate though live webcast.

I have learned that fear is inevitable, and is not bad at all. You only need to recognize the fear, but still have the courage to pursue whatever you endeavor. Fear can sabotage success if you listen to it more than just ignoring it. In my life, I used to have a lot of fear, but I have learned to persevere and conquer the fear that's pulling me down.

Oprah, on the interview asked 10 questions about 'living on fear' based on the discussion with Tony Robbins. It was indeed a thought-provoking queries that challenged me. Here's my answer to the questions:

1.    What is the story you are telling yourself right now? What self-limiting beliefs within that story?

I always tell myself that I have the courage and will to do things as planned. I have affirmations and beliefs that success follows if I put my concentration to whatever I need to accomplish.

Perseverance in Times of Despair

"In moments of despair, you must never lose hope. When feeling down, there is a reason to rise up. When feeling lost, there is always a chance to win. Dare to persevere and accept everything as it happens. Dare to survive and live a better and fulfilling life."

Winning in life is not all about the achievement of your highest hope and aspiration. It is about the challenges that you have to go through before you reach the peak of success. Sometimes, you are on the crossroads of finding the right path and choices. However, when things go differently than what you expect, you may lose hope and feel uninspired to move forward.

Failure is part of winning if you view it with optimism. To persevere and learn from mistakes is a challenge to make you become a better person. Nevertheless, absence of inspiration could lead to hopelessness; but enthusiasm drives you with energy to keep on fighting.

Despair could happen in the absence of inspiration. In hopeless situations, you are not giving a chance for the right opportunity to come, resulting to desperate actions, that may turn into regrets and suffering.

TAKING THE CHALLENGE

Life may present challenges to be accepted and not to take something for granted. What you have gone through in life have a great impact on your self-esteem. All experiences teach you a certain lesson: to overcome weakness and to develop strength.

Unfortunately, despair is something that is surprising. You must have faith that everything has a purpose and meaning. If you persist, you will reap a fulfilling reward thereafter.

Being desperate towards uncertainties will only lead to pessimism. It will result to another problem or failure if not acted upon in a right way. Thus, there may be no other way to control of what may happen in life, but there is a way to wholeheartedly accept it.

BECOMING A BETTER YOU

Overcoming the challenges is a lifelong undertaking. It never stops and gives us the chance to become stronger and better. There is no reason to quit, but a chance to revive; because challenges may continue to strike until lessons are learned.

You must never lose hope in moments of despair. When feeling down, there is a reason to rise up; and when feeling lost, there is always a chance to win. Dare to persevere and accept everything as it happens. Dare to survive and live a better and fulfilling life.

© 2012 Del Cusay

A Sparkling Life of Generosity

"We give light to those who are in the darkness; we give a light to those who are lost... and like a   light, we can live a sparkling life of generosity."

Blessings come in our lives at any moment and circumstance. There are times when it comes unexpectedly when we are already in our deepest despair, and lose hope to what we are praying for. Sometimes, we interpret blessings as God's way of letting us know that we are being heard for what we are wishing and aspiring.

In our lives we have received numerous blessing that's an answer to our prayers. We have asked for it and now it has been granted. Whatever we enjoy are first conceived in our mind that now becomes a reality. We have it because of our faith and firm belief that we will achieve our highest desires.  Everything that we are enjoying at the moment is the result of our 'wishful thinking' or imagination because we are a product of our mind's incredible power. If we think about something and put our greatest concentration, affirmation and action, then chances are we will get our wishes to come true.

ON GIVING BACK...

In life, we don't only receive graces, but we have to give back in return. If we have been successful of our desires, then we have to share the positive energy to make our lives meaningful. I believe that in today's world, it should be a two-way process of giving and receiving to make it more balanced and fair. 

Those who are well-off and financially capable have a social responsibility. They can give their share through philanthropy. Hence, in the corporate world, they must do their corporate responsibilities of giving a part of what they have earned. People who are less fortunate also deserve some blessings. Some people would be living a life of discomfort and misery and their hopelessness makes them to feel that life is not worth living. 

I believe that it is in giving that we feel happy and contented. Giving something would mean we have enough. Giving away shows we care. Giving wholeheartedly without expecting something in return; that is generosity.

Generosity is a good quality that we must practice. Even our little contribution makes us feel whole and having a sense of purpose. However, generosity comes in various ways and has its limitations; 

TO OUR FAMILY

We are loved and we give love in return. No matter what happens our family would be there to support us in all our aspirations. They provide comfort and guidance in our way of living. When we are having separate lives, we must not forget our family ties and still be generous to give back our love and care and time.

TO THE SOCIETY

We can be generous by sharing our knowledge and expertise and our resources. It is a good feeling to become part of building up a better and responsible society. What we do to our society will get back on us by providing a safer, active and purposeful society. 

TO OUR GOD

It is good to give thanks with a grateful heart. Everything that we have is a blessing from the Divine and it is borrowed for a limited time. The generosity that we do is a reflection of an 'open and big heart' and such is an act of being spiritually connected towards our purpose.

We give light to someone and to our environment through simple means of giving; we give light to those who are in the darkness; we give a light to those who are lost... and like a light, we can live a sparkling life of generosity.

© 2012 Del Cusay

Cultivating Gratitude for Success

"Live life to the fullest and express appreciation and gratitude. Every day is a chance to succeed and to feel blessed—and that is a cultivating gratitude."

How does it feel like to live in a chaotic world and remain to be positive all the time? How can we say thank you in times of difficulty? How can we be grateful to life if we suffer from frustrations and pain?

Life could have been better if we all experience all the goodness that it has to offer, but it is not easy as what we think. Life simply means to experience the good and the bad things; the ups and downs—the cycle of life. Sometimes, life may not be fair to us; but fairness happens when we all share the same misery even once in our lives.

THE KEY TO ABUNDANCE

Being thankful no matter what situation we are experiencing will give us the power to receive abundance. Gratitude is a way of appreciating and giving recognition to the blessings that comes to our lives—smaller or bigger.

There are so many things that we should be grateful for; good health and happy family, success and fulfilled living. Likewise, be grateful for things that make your work easier. Also to friends whom you can depend, and family that supports you all the way makes you feel grateful.

Cultivating gratitude would mean to improve or to train ourselves to become grateful in everything. Awareness of what is abundant in our lives is a key towards happiness. For instance, hug from a loved one, a bright and sunny day, a smile from a friend or stranger, and love and support from family and friends can be a source of gratitude.

BEING GRATEFUL TO LIFE

Eventually, we will realize that even the smallest things we often take for granted could have been a good opportunity to express our gratitude. There are times when we are thankful for the good things that we received but we do not express gratitude for the not-so-good things in life. We don't fully understand its implications as to why do we have to suffer or what lessons can we learn from it. We only give thanks for what is 'seen' compared to what is 'hidden'—objective expression versus subjective realization. The latter being the source of genuine happiness and contentment.

I have dealt with people who are physically ill and those who consider themselves as balanced in all life aspects. They may have opposite views in life, but illness could be a way for someone to realize how abundant his life must be; only if he is keen and aware of it. 

It is through physical illness that sometimes people learn to change bad habits or obsolete beliefs that converts him to become more spiritual and humanitarian. This way, he may feel like whole again and as balanced as the person whom he thinks he is. 

Indeed, gratitude is a life-saving force. It is an energy that once uttered can give us relief and the power to experience and express abundance. Life is supposed to be filled with gratitude since without it; the world would become dull, unproductive and no alive. It is with gratitude where we experience true living. It is in appreciation where we experience true satisfaction.

LESSON ABOUT GRATITUDE

In our daily living, it is a good way to express gratitude in our hearts for whatever we have accomplished or for what we could offer or contribute. When we activate this powerful universal law, we attract more for which we can be grateful. 

Never chase more of what is not on sight, but rather be grateful of what is already there. Also we can appreciate more of what we can do, instead of what we cannot.

I'm not perfect, and sometimes I do complain if bad situations arise. However, I keep myself back on the right track if I believe my perspective can do more harm than good. It is then, I activate the power of gratitude and everything starts to become normal again. 

We can learn to be more grateful to life and we shall remember that we are blessed with the people who are so dear to us, and in almost all circumstance that life may bring. Live your life to the fullest and express appreciation and gratitude. Every day is a chance to succeed and to feel blessed—and that is cultivating gratitude.

© 2012 Del Cusay

Getting Way Ahead of Life's Adversities

"Life is full of challenges, and we need to face it with courage and acceptance. Every day is a learning experience; and we become the person that we can be through the test of time—getting way ahead of adversities."

How do we deal with difficulties in life? In today's world, we are being confronted with several adversities that can be viewed as nuisance or blockages that prevents us from moving forward. Some would have rationalized this event as undeserving despite of being good.

Adversities come in different way; it could be a loss of loved ones, failed relationships, financial problems, even natural and man-made disasters and many others. How we interpret these things has something to do with our personal beliefs and values; and acknowledging it helps us to prepare ourselves better in taking the best actions in anticipation of future unexpected occurrence.

A BLESSING IN DISGUISE

Whether we like it or not, we will be facing adversities that teaches us valuable lessons, and challenges continue to arise until it is learned. Sometimes, we have to experience bad things to show up the best in us, and to teach us better ways to live and become more responsible with our lives.

It is through recognition of these blessings shall we experience the benefits thereafter. Some would tend to resist, but it is wiser to accept it with absolute faith and believing that blessings will come any moment in the future.

If sacrifice is one of the keys towards greater living; then, great things come when we endure and persevere through life's challenges. I believe that it is in hardship that we learn to grow up and become wiser. It only takes courage to rise up and face life with gratitude.

A VALUABLE LESSON

Adversity teaches us the value of humility, that life is not all about prosperity. Sometimes, we need to change ourselves for the better. It brings greater results by highlighting our personal responsibility and integrity.

If we observe closely every time we face adversity, it makes us stronger and more resilient. The moment we encounter the same problem, we already know how to deal with it; this time, we become wiser and emotionally intelligent.

We experience painful emotions, but eventually it will subside in due time; and we collect these pieces of painful circumstance, and learn to move forward from the emotions of grief and pain.

It is true that life presents tough challenges as lessons, and not to be viewed as hindrance. However, it depends on how we view adversity—can be either negative or positive. Repeated adversity would mean unlearned life lesson, and so it keeps on coming back until learned.

Life is full of challenges, and we need to face it with courage and acceptance. Every day is a learning experience and we become the person that we can be through the test of time—getting way ahead of adversities.

© 2012 Del Cusay

Holy Week 2012 : Leading us To Jesus

"We have our own battle in life and like Jesus, we carry our own cross everyday. It is for us to take it or to give up; to move forward or surrender; to follow or redirect."

The 40-day Lenten season has been observed by Christians all over the world. The last week of the season before the Easter Sunday  is the celebration of the "Holy Week" which is the commemoration of the passion, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

During the Holy Week, we celebrate the most important events such as Maundy Thursday, the Good Friday, and the Black Saturday. These are all celebrated by devout Christians who reflects on the life and death of Jesus. 

Holy week is the time of repentance. It does not only mean we are being sorry for our sins. This is the time where we have to change our thinking, actions and visions. This is the good time to reflect about our life and to change it for the better. 

It is good to repent as it gives a feeling of being a renewed person; someone who is complete and whole. What I have learned about repentance is the act of humility to acknowledge that I have sinned and to ask for forgiveness. 

Being renewed person gives us the courage to stand up and face the world with selfless love and compassion to others. We give our service wholeheartedly especially to those who needs it but cannot pay us back. Such act makes us to become 'Christ-like' which is the message of the lent.

We may be living in today's world that is full of material aspirations and worldly ambitions, but it is good to ponder on what is the necessary things in life and what is our true life purpose. What on earth are we living for? It is not only material possessions, it is not just the daily survival, but it is through following the right path and what God has commanded us to do. 

St. Peter's Church, Bandra (West), Mumbai

The season of Lent is not just about repentance, praying and fasting. This is also the season of sacrifice. Like Jesus, He suffered the consequence of being upright and moral, and at the end He was sentenced to death. We too can sacrifice condemnation for being righteous. We can persevere in humiliation. We can endure in persecution. However, in the end what matters is the sense of righteousness that we have chosen that leads to fulfillment in life.

We can compare the struggle of Jesus in today's modern world by becoming more courageous to speak for ourselves. Jesus did righteously even though he knew he will be persecuted. He never got scared of the people in authority; people in higher rank and power. Just like us, we can stand up for what we believe is right. We can be ourselves as long as we live a good life and have the sacrifice for the common good. We have our own battle in life and like Jesus, we carry our own cross everyday. It is for us to take it or to give up; to move forward or surrender; to follow or redirect.

© 2012 Del Cusay

Celebrating Holi Festival

"We may have different creed and faith. We may have different culture and festivities. But one thing that i learned most, is to respect each other's differences towards unity, peace and understanding."



Today, I am fortunate to have experienced a colorful and joyful celebration of the Holi festival in New Delhi. It has been celebrated by everyone who shared fun and laughter while playing with colorful powders and putting on each other.

Holi festival is also known as the festival of colors. It marks the end of the winter season and the beginning of the spring where they welcome the season with vibrant colors—also known as the Spring festival. It is widely celebrated by the Hindus throughout the country and also in other parts of the world where an Indian community exist.

In this festival, people gather regardless of gender, age and social status. It is also believed to bring closer relationship between two different caste, as practiced on a recent past or maybe at the present time— the lower and upper caste system of India.


Holi starts with a bonfire the eve before the day of the festival. It is followed by a gathering on the following day to celebrate this festivity. Holi would tend to bring back broken relationships, forgive enemies and bring back the closer ties of the community.

In a world where everyone should possess the values of politeness and courtesy, Holi festival would have broke that social norm. Children and adults does not bother to become well behaved on this day, but to become boisterous for even a short period time celebrating this festival.

As i have observed, people have different interests on how they would have fun. Some kids and even adults played water gun and rumbled on the muddy water. Some would love to dance in a tune of bollywood music and western music. Some would just love to watch and have not wanted to get some colors.

We may have different creed and faith. We may have different culture and festivities. But one thing that i learned most is to respect each other's differences towards unity, peace and understanding.

Following Our Heart's Desire

"Life is like a valentine. We never know when an arrow will strike us. We never know whether it will give us hurt or joy. But whenever it comes, we accept it and follow with all our hearts—our relentless desire."


At the present time, we may have been experiencing a lot of struggles in order to survive life's endearing challenges. Some people might be constantly worrying about how to find the right path of life. Some wanted to achieve their goals and dreams despite of limited internal resources. Some would have been giving up and let life as it happens.

The fact that life is difficult is not the ultimate reason for us to quit but to face life with faith and gratitude. There are so many things to be grateful for in life. One of which is our existence to find our purpose of living. We are here to follow the right path of life—the key to living a good life.

How do we get there, is a question that sometimes we are out of an answer. We may have tried to solve so many never-ending problems. Some of which cannot be handled well, resulting to frustrations and distress. However, it is not just the mind we should work for, but also the heart—the love center.

A good heart

Oftentimes, we follow our mind. Yes, it is superior and controls our well-being. Nevertheless, we should consider our heart in our way of living. Our heart carries several functions aside from pumping blood. Hence, its importance is something we should consider and not taken for granted.

If we feel like giving and loving, we activate our heart. Whenever we feel being compassionate and altruistic, we use the heart. Therefore, our heart is as important as what our mind does. There is mind that interprets, but there is a heart that feels.

I believe that man is good in nature, thus we have a good heart. I recalled what our college teacher have taught us that no matter how bad a person is, there is still certain goodness in him. He still has a natural gift of a good heart. In that sense, we are given the chance to renew and to make a better use of it.

Our desire

In our lives, we may have made wrong decisions that somehow made us to have some regrets. We have followed what other people have told us. Whereas, we followed the advise of a friend, we listened to what a stranger have said, and we pondered on wrong thoughts without following our real and own desires.

For instance, in our society, we may know someone who is living in a dream of his parents. Pursuing a course or career opposite to what he truly loves. It is due to respect and love that he cannot refuse but to follow. He cannot live his own life but to accept and persevere.

If this is the kind of life we want, then we become a prisoner of our fate—our heart's desire. It seems that we do not have a mind and heart of our own. We never realize that life would depend on how we make it and not just living with somebody's wishes.

Something to ponder

Perhaps what keeps us from not following our own will and desire is for the reason that we are not certain of our capabilities. We still have doubts that haunt us to move forward.

We may ask ourselves, who am I? Yet, we are still struggling to know who we truly are. What do I want? Yet, unsure of what lies ahead. Where am I going? Yet, do not know where heading to in life. When do I get there? Yet, have not started. Why shall I do it? Yet, doubting own self. And how do I get there? And yet, not utilizing inherent resources.

The questions above are true, because I used to be like that. There are times I question myself to have a better understanding of who, what, where, when, why and how do I want. It is good to constantly re-evaluate ourselves to keep track of our goals and desires.

Keep going on

Like a valentine, we may have full of hearts around on this day expressing love and affection to dear ones. Everyone gives flowers, chocolates and whatever they think is special and worth remembering. Truly, that reminds us that the spirit of love is alive. Our heart is in working mode, and it teaches valuable lesson to keep going —to follow our heart's desire.

Life is not just about finding our self, but it is about how we create it. Certainly, we are responsible for our own life and like a sailor it is our choice on where we are heading to. We have the choice, and it depends on how we use it and make a better play of the game.

Life is like a valentine. We never know when an arrow will strike us. We never know whether it will give us hurt or joy. But whenever it comes, we accept it and follow with all our hearts—our relentless desire. We give our best wholeheartedly, and we have to follow what our mind and heart dictates.

 © 2012 Del Cusay

Reaching Our Highest Potential

There will be some failure. There will be obstacles to the path of happiness and success. There will be times we think of giving up; but we have to persevere and continue on living a life with sense of responsibility and purpose."

Sometimes we think of being incapable of reaching our dreams and desires. It seems that we recede from our ambition to reach our destinations in life. Suddenly, we get scared and we lose the momentum of achieving better results.  However, there are times when we are at our highest peak. We have reached our goals and dreams because of our strong desire and commitment. Our faith leads us to get there—the path towards glorious success.

If life is a cycle, I must agree! — We experience how it is to be on the "peaks and valleys". Life teaches us that no matter how difficult it may seem, still we have to move forward like a cycle that keeps moving on. We have a human potential to achieve something better that we should not fear.

NEVER DOUBT

Perhaps one of the reasons why we do not have progress is due to lack of confidence and belief in ourselves. We fear of committing mistakes, we fear to be judged, we fear to rise up and shine.

I used to have fear of failure that I would have not tried my best in the past. I was shy then, and not able to speak my mind. I never thought that fear would have sabotage my chances of success for not giving my best. Now, I have built confidence and positive outlook in life, and it amazes me whenever I think of what my life would have been if I never decided to reform.

Some people may still be living a life full of doubts and self-criticism. It is not too late to step up from the shadow. I must believe we start to analyze our self and have the courage to give more of what we have. There is indeed a dormant positive force within us that is waiting to be tapped.

WE CAN BE

I have learned that we have to unleash our potentials. We have been gifted of a great mind to think beyond the limits—to think in an extraordinary way. There is something within us that is hidden and would be useful once we have learned to develop it. We can be someone that others would not have thought of. We can be a person who once believed that 'it is impossible'.

Possibility only happens once the result is seen. We may have been condemned and ridiculed of our wishes, and they may have doubt about our capabilities. However, people do not truly know the hidden potential that lies within us.

HUMAN POTENTIAL

Anyone can unleash potentials no matter whom and what he is. We may be familiar of some real life stories of how a poor man became a CEO of a company, how a college dropped out became successful and has a massive influence or even how an uneducated man became a leader.

Educational status is not a mere factor to become who we are. It is the use of our mind power—our hidden potential. We are all capable of tapping on this potential but we have the huge responsibility to carry.

What about people in late adulthood who have discovered their abilities in artistic activities like painting, film-making or in public speaking and leading a group? It must be that they have learned to unleash their full potential. It was there hidden in their younger years, but only then they have finally make a better use of it.

If only we have the talent and the skills about something, it is now the time to improve it and make the best things possible through it. This time, you should not have more doubts and negative beliefs but must have confidence and competence.

THE LESSON

In our pursuit to happiness, we may still encounter mistakes along the way leading to unhappiness; but we have to keep up with our hopes and high spirit. We have to learn how to live with our fullest potential.

I admit I am not perfect, and never will be; but I have the relentless desire to live what I am capable of and that enables me to move closer towards the goal I have set.

There will be some failure. There will be obstacles to the path of happiness and success. There will be times we think of giving up; but we have to persevere and continue on living a life with sense of responsibility and purpose.

We can be ourselves and start to light up our world unleashing our true and full potential. We deserve the best in life, and it is now the time to offer our best in return.

© 2012 Del Cusay

How Failure Turned Into Success

"In whatever way we have failed from the past or the present time, we need to redefine our past failures and realize what we did right and disregard what we did wrong and then turn that into wisdom for a winning future."

There are times when I felt like a failure when things turned out as opposed to my expectations. I have set a goal and planned about it, but at the end it failed. It makes me feel bad and it is just a natural feeling. Nevertheless, prolong sadness is not that good as it may invite negative and harmful thoughts.

In our lives, we have been experiencing almost everything that it may bring—good or bad. Sometimes we end up feeling lost resulting from failure. We fail to achieve... we fail to succeed.

I heard stories from people that they failed; failed in major exams, failed in career, failed in reaching their goals and dreams, etc. Then I realized that failure is not that bad for the reason that we can learn from these failures and use it as experience to our next success. Hence, I call 'failure' as 'success in disguise'.

FAILURE IS A GREAT WAY TO LEARN

We can learn from our failure and able to recall what have we missed or what went wrong. It is an opportunity to reflect on our actions that led to failure. Likewise, we need to fail to realize that there is a mistake in the process of what we are aiming for. Thus, there is a need to correct it and be as successful as we can in our next try.

I remember way back college that our teacher would return our essays if she can spot grammatical errors or even wrong spelling. I tried to correct it as much as possible but I had to edit my work again and again as advised. Somehow, with that experience I have learned something that is useful to my way of writing, although there are times when someone has to send me a message to correct some mistakes. I am still thankful for the enthusiasm to learn from mistakes—can be considered as a failure.

TRYING TO FAIL

I have tried this approach and indeed it works. It teaches me a lesson that I should never fear of failure and never to chase for perfection but rather excellence.

What is good about trying to fail is that we do not have to worry about being perfect. The good thing is we just might succeed by accident. Think of great inventions by accident, they may have thought of failure, but it turned out to be another great invention.

There are times I fail, but now I do not worry about it, I just divert my attention towards more optimistic thoughts and thinking that today I fail, but next time I will have it!—gives me more courage to pursue my goals despite the odds.

TRYING AGAIN

There is no reason for us to give up, but to keep on trying. If we failed once, twice or thrice... it is all right. It only means we are persistent with our goal to achieve. The next time we try, we succeed! We did it! Moreover, we are grateful for it.

REDEFINING THE CONCEPT OF FAILURE AND SUCCESS

We have our own definition of success and failure based on our personal experiences. For me, instead of saying 'I tried, but it failed' better to say, 'I tried and I failed, but I have learned and tried again and I succeed!'

We can be negative at times, but we need to be more balanced and weigh in the circumstances. Some of the good things in life can be attained through re-framing our state of mind.

FROM FAILURE TO SUCCESS

Persistence can have a great impact to achieve tremendous success. Just like some famous people who have persevered so many times until they achieved the status of greatness and success.

Take the case of Steve Jobs, the late CEO of Apple company. He was fired from the company he co-founded, and then failed from another company he founded. However, in the end he succeeded and gained the admiration of many people.

We may fail so many times, but if we have the persistence and the courage to face our failure, then surely we will attain success.

In whatever way we have failed from the past or the present time, we need to redefine our past failures and realize what we did right and disregard what we did wrong and then turn that into wisdom for a winning future.

© 2012 Del Cusay