Holy Week 2013 : Christ As Our Guiding Light

"The solemn observance of the 'Good Friday' and 'Black Saturday' is a message that Christ has died to save the sins of humanity. This is the centering thought of the Holy Week and this is a call to follow Christ  to lead and be the guiding light in our lives forever."

The last week of the Lenten season is the highlight in commemorating the passion, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. During the past 40 days, we have observed liturgical events that are significant in understanding the life story of Christ on His suffering, crucifixion, and ascension to heaven. We started Lent on ash Wednesday with the message of  Embracing Christ in Our Lives. On this day we begin our journey by following the path of Jesus and emulating the virtues that He has taught.

Every year, the observance of Lent gives us a unique perspective about life as we reflect on ourselves. It gives us the opportunity to acknowledge our misconduct and to have the act of repentance. This leads us to achieve peace of mind and opens our hearts to give more time for self-ministry in the fulfillment of our 'life purpose'. 

Last Sunday, Christians celebrated the Lord's coming by waving palm leaves to welcome the great 'Rabbi'. The event symbolizes humility when Christ came into the crowd riding a donkey. This would remind us to practice the virtue that we must serve everyone selflessly with all our strength. 

On this year's Holy Week, I have been observing it in a non-dominant Christian world. It may be a different experience, yet my devotion and faith are strengthened in a solitary moment of contemplation. This is the right time to know thyself and be with Christ's loving presence. 

My observance of  Holy Week 2012  is meaningful and memorable as I have seen fellow Christians of a different nationality expressed their faith in Christ. Though we may have different cultures, still we are united in faith before Christ. It was a great Lenten experience since I have visited some of the Churches that are famous among Christian devotees. 

In the Philippines where Christianity dominates, the faithful would have an extraordinary observance of the Holy Week, especially during Good Friday. Some would perform the religious tradition called 'Senakulo' which reenacts the passion and death of Jesus. Some men would even allow themselves to be crucified to experience the suffering of Jesus and with the belief that their sins would be forgiven. Other traditions include, 'Visita Iglesia' or visiting different churches and pilgrimage sites and offer a prayer. The old way of reciting a prayer with a melody that is called 'Pasyon' is still practiced by devotees. 

On Good Friday, there are the 'Seven Last Words' that are celebrated in a holy mass. It offers a deeper understanding of the passion of Christ and his last words until his death on the cross. The solemn observance of the 'Good Friday' and 'Black Saturday' is a message that Christ has died to save the sins of humanity. This is the centering thought of the Holy Week and this is a call to follow Christ to lead and be the guiding light in our lives forever.

© 2013 Del Cusay

Celebrating Holi Festival 2013

"At the near end of the celebration, some faces look funny with all the colors on their skin. Even the colors would take some time to wear off, but the memories would remain forever. After all the true significance of Holi is not on the outward expression but it is through unity, freedom, and peace to prevail forever."

It is officially the end of the winter season in India, and today people are celebrating the most colorful festival known mostly among Hindus as the Holi festival. For the second time, I had the opportunity to witness and experience this vibrant festivity. 

A day before the main event, people are already celebrating with their families and group of friends. I have witnessed how they make fun of the colored powder called 'gulaal'. Almost everyone of any age groups is having fun while putting these colors on the face of each other, hug and greet each other. In the evening is the bonfire which is a tradition that has a spiritual significance. According to the Hindus, the Holi festival is to commemorate the victory of virtue over evil. 

On this day is the main celebration. People in every place in India and expatriates abroad are celebrating with a joyful spirit. This is the best time to become boisterous but in a polite manner. Whatever you do is acceptable and memorable to others. This is also the time to be at peace with someone for any conflicts you have had. People temporarily set aside negative feelings towards someone. Enemies became friends again, thus creating a healing atmosphere.

It was fun watching kids carrying their water guns filled with colors and running after other kids while spraying them to them. Although some may have been hurt a little bit, still the laughter continues. No anger, no irritability, but full of enjoyment. 

Some ladies and gentlemen are dancing in a tune of Bollywood music and they danced gracefully. I have seen familiar faces from last year's event and this time I have more fun and appreciation. Although I haven't got any colors compared to the previous year, still I'm satisfied with what I have experienced.

Celebrating Holi Festival last year was as vibrant as the event today. The park is full of people, mostly small children guided by adults. The lawn became muddy because of heavy water and the children playing in it. However, the entire day is full of joy and positive spirits. 

At the near end of the celebration, some faces look funny with all the colors on their skin. Even the colors would take some time to wear off, but the memories would remain forever. After all the true significance of Holi is not on the outward expression but it is through unity, freedom, and peace to prevail forever. 

© 2013 Del Cusay

Oprah's Lifeclass: What on Earth Am I here For?

In a discussion with Oprah, one of my favorite Spiritual teachers, Rick Warren gave an insight to one of the most important questions of existence: What on earth am I here for? 

As a motivational speaker and writer, Rick Warren has inspired millions of people through his book 'The Purpose Driven Life' which is my all-time favorite. 

Yes, we tend to find an answer to this thought-provoking question, what on earth am I here for? Here are my insights on the topic. 

1.  According to Rick Warren, everybody lives at one of the three levels in life, the first level is survival--where people are putting in their time, waiting for the weekend, and just going through the motions. Would you consider yourself at the survival level? If so, why? 

I've been through this level in life. I was not certain about the path I'm taking and the future that lies ahead. I have missed productive days and I was contented with what's there at the moment. Day after day, I felt incomplete and empty deep inside. This was just a recent past; now things have changed and I have taken the vows of a more productive life and a life of purpose. 

2. What would it take for you to be more fulfilled in your life?

I follow my goals and do things as planned not just to become happy, but to achieve a sense of fulfillment. It is a strong positive emotion and always lasting. Happiness is just temporary while fulfillment is something that leaves an imprint in heart and mind. 

3. The second level is a success. People at this level live a comfortable life, have a roof over their heads, and for the most part, have what they want. Yet, they still feel unsatisfied and can't figure out why. Are you at the success level? If so, describe your life.

For now, I must say 'I don't have everything, but I have enough'. I'm living a quiet comfortable life where I have the freedom to do things that I desire. However, there are times that 'I ask for more; but not for material and superficial things. I'm asking for what is truly essential in my life. Things that I could do to others and the commitment to serve.

4. What would it take for you to live with purpose?

To be able to know our purpose, we have to assess ourselves on what are we good at; our excellence. I have discovered my skills and doing my best to cultivate them and make better use of them for the achievement of my goals of living a life of purpose. 

5. Question of existence. Why are you alive? 

I am alive because I have something to fulfill in life. I have goals and dreams that are yet to be accomplished. I live to serve and there are tasks ahead of me for self-ministry. 

6. Question of intention. Is there a purpose for your life? If so, what is it?

I believe that the single most important purpose of living is 'service'. My purpose is to give back what I have been given; to share what has been showered and to enjoy a meaningful life. 

7. Question of significance. Does your life matter?  

Everyone matters in their own way. For, me I must believe that my life matters because I have been blessed to serve on my own capacity and ability. I have asked, I received,  and so I have something to give. It doesn't matter to be significant, but what matters is significant living--living with a purpose. 


© 2013 Del Cusay

Pope Francis: The New World Pontiff

"The Pope has a great responsibility towards his followers and I hope that he will be able to finish what he started until the last breath of his reign. We need a leader who will resolve the issues that created trouble and confusion among his people. May His Holiness remain to be strong in all levels so he will be able to act on duties vested in him."

It was just a few days ago when the conclave started to elect a new pontiff to lead the Catholic Church. There were 115 Cardinals from around the world gathered in the Sistine chapel to vote whom they think is capable of guiding and leading a billion followers. After several attempts for the voting, finally, a new Pope was declared. 

A humble man from Argentina, Jorge Mario Bergoglio was chosen by his fellow Cardinals to be the successor of Pope Benedict XVI who declared his resignation last month. At the age of 76, he will be the guiding light of the faithful towards their spiritual path. 

His Holiness will be officially addressed as Pope Francis after he has chosen the papal name as his title. I must believe he was inspired by St. Francis of Assisi and decided to adopt as his designation. I hope that His Holiness will be able to uphold the reputation of St. Francis as an icon of humility and peace. 

As a Christian, I adore St. Francis for his life stories and holiness and I love to sing the prayer that was made in his name; The Prayer of St. Francis of Assisi. Pope Francis could be like him and start the great transformation in the Catholic church. 

It would take willpower and great love for the Pope to reform the church against controversies that are left unresolved. However, like the late Pope John Paul II; I believe that Pope Francis has the charisma and heart for the reformation of Christian values and will be able to influence people regardless of faith and religious beliefs. 

The Pope has a great responsibility towards his followers and I hope that he will be able to finish what he started until the last breath of his reign. We need a leader who will resolve the issues that created trouble and confusion among his people. May His Holiness remain to be strong in all levels so he will be able to act on duties vested in him. 

'The Pope' not only shows greatness as a title, but it is such a great responsibility and accountability to uphold. I highly admire and respect 'The Pope' as my source of inspiration and religious wisdom and 'The Pope' who believes and teaches people that 'There is A Certain Holiness in You'. 

The world is becoming more materialistic as we reach the modern age, but we have to strengthen our spirituality and faith in our Divine as the ultimate source of life. We have a lot to improve and there are 'Nature and Sources of Power' in the fulfillment of our Divine self ministry.

I am grateful that now we have a new Pope that will lead us to Christ. He is our spiritual Father living on earth that was chosen by his people. He will guide us and he needs our support and prayers for spiritual devotion and evangelization.  


© 2013 Del Cusay

Meeting The Dalai Lama in New Delhi

"Meeting The Dalai Lama is a rare opportunity and truly a blessing. His spirituality and compassionate nature give hope and faith to the people to appreciate life and realize that there is certain holiness in you.  It is for us to discover our 'Dharma' or life purpose and live in the holiness of our being."


Today it was another great opportunity that I have met and attended His Holiness The Dalai Lama's teaching in Buddha Jayanti Park, New Delhi. It was just a few days ago when I was blessed to travel -- 'Meeting The Dalai Lama in Dharamsala and attended his lecture about 'Jataka Tales' which is about the story of Buddha's birth and rebirth. Today, he addressed to thousands of attendees about 'The Three Principal Aspects of The Path' which is significant to the Tibetans-in-exile and also to everyone present regardless of nationality and creed.

The majority of the crowd are Tibetans followed by Indians and some foreigners who are followers of The Dalai Lama. After falling in line towards the entrance of the venue, it was good that I have found a seat at the back which is more comfortable than sitting on the ground like my previous experience in his lecture in Dharamsala. Some people in groups are sitting on the lawn while others are busy roaming around organizing the event.

Image from: Tibet.net

At the entrance, people are welcomed with Tibetan ushers, and walking on the path are blossoming colorful flowers around. The chirping of birds and the vibrant surroundings makes it relaxing to the senses. Even rabbits and flocks of swans in a pond are visible and have been taken good care of. Walking further are some hilly pathways with petals scattered on the aisles which are made especially for welcoming His Holiness. The weather is warm but tolerable since it is not the official summer yet. In his lecture in Dharamsala, it was cold while in Delhi it was good weather for me since I like the tropical season.

As the open ground is about to be filled by attendees, The Dalai Lama together with his entourage walked towards his elevated podium while greeting people with his smiles. This time there were no chanting ceremonies by the Namgyal monks before his lecture which started at around 2 pm. The good thing about his lecture is that there was an interpreter who translates every part of The Dalai Lama's lecture in the English language for the benefit of the non-Tibetans. This is better since the previous lecture in Dharamsala was delivered in Tibetan language and only those who had an FM radio were able to hear the English translation. 

However, if the same thing happened as the previous experience, I do not worry since seeing the Dalai Lama for me is enough and I do not mind the language he will use in his lecture; but since there was an English interpreter, I felt more grateful and happy that I understood his message better. It was also good to hear The Dalai Lama have tried speaking in English to give his point. He still cracks some jokes accompanied by his world-renowned laugh and smile to uplift people's spirit. 

The Dalai Lama, being the living Buddha of compassion has made his teachings as meaningful and lively as possible. Even though it was a long time sitting, it was not tiring and one can feel his loving and compassionate energy to the people. His teachings include human suffering, happiness, and enlightenment which is still significant in today's time. 

According to His Holiness, the primary cause of suffering is discontentment. People of today are becoming more materialistic and want something more despite having enough already. Nevertheless, happiness can be attained by contentment and satisfaction with everything. The feeling of 'have enough' and being spiritual at the same time can be an ultimate source of internal happiness and peace of mind. 

Image from:  tibet.net

Likewise, a person can become happier and experience less suffering if enlightenment is achieved. A spiritual tool like prayer, 'The Power of Meditation', and selfless services to the people are indispensable in attaining a happy, fulfilled, and enlightened life in Buddhist philosophy. 

Although I am a Christian, I find this principle relevant and meaningful. These are the things that we can learn from the Buddhist's perspective of living. 

At the end of The Dalai Lama's lecture, he expressed his gratitude to everyone for making the event possible and successful. It was followed by his recessional ceremony going back to his destination. Before he finally vanished to our sight, I got the chance to meet him up close while he waved his hand to the people that signals his blessings. 

Meeting The Dalai Lama is a rare opportunity and truly a blessing. His spirituality and compassionate nature give hope and faith to the people to appreciate life and realize that 'There is A Certain Holiness in You'. It is for us to discover our 'Dharma' or life purpose and live in the holiness of our being. 

© 2013 Del Cusay