Christmas in Our Hearts 2016: Breakthrough to Success

"Achieving my cherished goals and dreams is always a 'breakthrough to success' that I must cultivate. The year will always end with a brighter hope and aspirations in our hearts for a great year and the year ahead."



This is the season of loving and caring. When full of emotions, we are more compassionate to everyone who matters. We give and receive something, and we feel good about it. This is the spirit of Christmas—the most beautiful time of the year. Whenever the Christmas season comes, it excites us and makes us fully alive. There's more incredible energy everywhere and a feeling of abundance. These feelings create a wonderful memory that lasts for a lifetime.

Christmas is a beautiful season and gives us a magical experience utterly different from the ordinary months that have passed. I remember memories whenever I play and listen to Christmas instrumentals, the relaxing piano music, and the saxophone's romantic sound. Christmas is truly in the air. It gives a flashback of the remarkable past and gives hope to the unknown future. As I quietly lay down on the bed, I close my eyes and reminisce about the beautiful time I've experienced. I recall the ups and downs that brought laughter and tears from the past to the present. The memories that wouldn't just fade away but remain in my heart forever.

Christmas is a joyful season that brings hope to empty, lacking, and abandoned people. When this time comes, we hear the children singing Christmas carols. They may not feel empty, but they hope to be given a part of what we have. We provide them with a part of our success. Though not that much, it remains memorable, and they take gratitude for that simple way of giving. Singing Christmas carols in the neighborhood was a unique childhood experience. 

Aside from exercising our vocal powers, we enjoy the little money we receive. The happiness is accurate, and the excitement is unstoppable. I know how these kids feel when they receive something from every house and they sing a carol. That's an early practice of the virtue of gratitude. It's something that we must learn to value and practice. It brings more blessings and abundance. The more grateful we are, the more fulfilled we'll become. We don't feel empty, but we always have enough.

Christmas is a time of spiritual reflection. The year is about to end, and we affirm our goals, the desires we have accomplished, the directions we have taken, and the destination we have finally arrived at. A successful year doesn't mean being a winner in everything. There are times we feel defeated, unsure, and misguided. However, those emotions are just part of winning. To lose for a moment doesn't define the year-end success; it doesn't predict the following year's success or lead to demotivation and lack of meaning. Hence, it reminds us to renew our lives and make more extraordinary sacrifices for goals to achieve beyond the limits. This Christmas is to celebrate success and achievements that contribute to personal development. Reflecting on what I've achieved gives me a sense of fulfillment -- a blissful spirit.

The Past year has been a meaningful celebration. Christmas in Our Hearts 2015 brought us together with joy in our hearts. Since 2011, I've written Christmas in Our Hearts to reflect on the joyous season with my family. We anticipate a better year ahead of us when we're bonded. We are together in our hopes and aspirations for a bountiful new year full of blessings and mercy from God. This year, 2016, is another milestone in a beautiful journey. I've been taken to a place closer to home. A trip is full of hopes and plans for personal development. -- a destination where everything ends happily, feeling love and compassion.

Christmas 2016 is a simple yet meaningful celebration. The weather may not be favorable, but the rhythm goes unstoppable; music in a Christmas melody, and kids enjoy dancing to a Zumba beat. Celebrating "Misa de Gallo" commemorates the birth of Christ, the source of our Divine inspiration and power. This is followed by the traditional "Noche Buena" as thanksgiving.

Christmas is always in our hearts, and we hope for the best thing to come. I am hoping for more blessings, abundance, everlasting grace, and the loving mercy of God. This year, 2016, gave me a great life lesson. To live a life full of gratitude and a more positive spirit will be carried on the following year, 2017. I hope for the best for myself, my family, and everyone who truly matters. Achieving my cherished goals and dreams is always a 'breakthrough to success' that I must cultivate. The year will always end with brighter hopes and aspirations for a great year and the year ahead.

© 2016 Del Cusay

A Day to Remember

Celebrating another year of life is one of the most pleasant memories we can cherish. It is when we show gratitude for all our blessings and look forward to another year full of challenges and surprises. We may continue to be challenged along the way and be surprised by something unimaginable --when dreams and desires do come true.

As we journey onward, we find joy in giving happiness to those dear to us. The act of surprising them leaves an indelible imprint on their hearts and minds, bringing to life their unspoken dreams and desires. It's a joyous surprise that uplifts their spirits out of the blue, filling their hearts with warmth and happiness. 

The days when we had planned a surprise for someone so special were so exciting. Our mother is about to celebrate her 63rd birthday and deserves some treats. What special surprise could we give that is truly memorable? Aha! A trip abroad! A wonderful surprise. My parents have never been out of the country yet, and it would have been their first time to set foot in a not-so-distant place in the east.

On September 23, 2016, we were about to go to Palawan, which was voted the most beautiful island in the world for 2015 and 2016. However, our actual destination was a surprise-we were bound for the vibrant city of Hong Kong. The excitement was palpable, and the surprise was a delightful twist. Despite the initial confusion at the airport, the revelation of their international travel was a moment of pure joy and wonder. 

The excitement is accurate, and when we set foot at the Hong Kong airport, we're all eager to explore beautiful places. Though our siblings had been to Hong Kong before, we couldn't wait to show our homes to our parents. I got lost at some point, but walking along the promenade in Tsim Shan Tsui was fantastic. Spending some time overlooking the Hong Kong islands' famous skyscrapers is lovely. Victoria Harbor is awe-inspiring as one of the best places to see and experience. A romantic feel in the East. Though a bit tired of walking, crossing the island of Kowloon to Hong Kong aboard the Star Ferry offers a magnificent view of the harbor and the skyline, awakening the senses. The skyline is one of the world's best, and it's just in the east, blending with the west. 

The day that came, September 24, was a special day for my mother, and spending it at the happiest place on earth was a truly magical experience. We enjoyed ourselves so much with all the scenes. The Festival of the Lion King is a feast to the senses, just like a Broadway show; the 4D theater experience, the Jungle of Tarzan, and Disney in the Stars are the highlights. 

The third day was still full of energy. The picture-perfect ocean park's breathtaking view of the island and the sea is memorable. The highlight of the day was a roller coaster ride that gave me an adrenaline rush like no other. It was scary, but the thrill was unforgettable. The entire resort was an excellent place to appreciate the animal kingdom and their habitat, and it's about time to protect their kingdom and class before they're gone. Before sunset, we can meet "kababayans" or townmates and hear their stories. I know how it feels to be homesick since I have had the experience of being away for some time in the past, so a loud laugh would help to release some form of sadness. 

On the fourth day, we're all excited about our next destination. Heading to Macau: once a Portuguese colony in the east. Another memory that would uplift our spirits and make us look forward to a memorable stay in a glittering city of light. 

That was an incredible journey in Hong Kong; this story will remain in our hearts. We still have many places to explore. It is a small world, and we all deserve to be happy occasionally. A little surprise could change our perspective and our world. 

© 2016 Del Cusay

118th Philippine Independence Day: I Am a Filipino

Once popularly known as the "Pearl of the Orient Seas," the Philippines may have reached the summit of success in terms of political and economic growth and prosperity before it celebrated its 100th anniversary of independence in 1998. However, several successions of brilliant and brave leaders put the Philippines on the political map and enjoyed being the center of attention in Asia and the world.

I admire the greatest heroes the Philippines has ever produced. Rizal considered one of the most remarkable men of the Malayan race, has touched the minds and souls of Filipinos and other foreign nationalities through his bold and extraordinary works and writings.

As a kid, I've been keen on Rizal as a hero, and at my higher level of study, I've deeply understood his life and his sacrifices for the common good of the Filipino people. When the Philippines was under the rule of Spanish authorities, we were suppressed in our freedom to express and defend our rights as Filipino People. However, learning about his personality makes me emulate his ways, becoming keenly observant and inquisitive about the current events that are taking place in our political, economic, and social atmosphere. During Rizal's time, when liberty was invaded to keep in silence and follow the mighty tyrants, actions to defend the sovereignty failed numerous times; people fighting for freedom died with thorns in their hearts.

What could be the result of the massive war against giant oppressors versus the sharp bolos, stained rifles, and the power of writing of our heroes? Could the literary works of our geniuses make a significant impact on our freedom?

Today, after a hundred years of Philippine independence - 118th to be exact, we are looking back to the sacrifices fought by our heroes. We pay tribute to their greatness and valor as they died for the country without seeing the absolute freedom they aspired to. Rizal's teachings have been part of the educational curriculum so young Filipinos can imbibe his greatness and turn weaknesses into strengths. We now have the freedom of expression, and no one can take it away from us; this is the result of the battle our heroes fought centuries back. 

Today, we find ourselves in a world vastly different from the one our heroes lived in. We have embraced technological advances and enjoy instant communication. We are free to express our thoughts and views about political affairs with conviction. These freedoms stand in stark contrast to the struggles our heroes faced to express their ideas and criticism against leaders and the government.

Today, the 12th day of June 2016, is another year of celebrating the success achieved by the Filipinos. We are now reaping what our heroes have sown. We might constantly encounter challenges and problems, but we have proven our resilience. We continue to fight the battle and show inherent traits of bravery and valor inherited from valiant heroes. Our heroes today may not exhibit boldness and a strong sense of nationalism, but our national heroes have done enough, and now we live in a nation built with blood and tears. What could be their thoughts and emotions if they have also experienced what we are enjoying now?

Now that I have grown up as an adult, I will continue to fight for freedom and have full expression of my views and insights to protect and uphold our rights. We have a long way to go, and we are still living in an uncertain world where others show signs of personal advances and taking away our absolute freedom. I am a Filipino born of the Malayan race, and I will show patriotism, kindness, and heroic deeds if necessary. I am a Filipino and will show greatness in my work, delivering excellence and prestige. As a Filipino, I will show dedication and loyalty to our country and be an integral part of nation-building. I am a Filipino and will do my best in words, deeds, and thoughts.

© 2016 Del Cusay

Holy Week 2016: The Pilgrim's Journey

National Shrine of Our Lady of the Candles, Iloilo, Philippines

A long narrow road where darkness invades is where you can see a pilgrim who has nothing to see but total darkness. Illumined by a Divine light where the darkness is expelled, struggling with emptiness for the faded goodness.

This year's Holy Week is another journey of struggles and misery for every faithful who wants to see and feel the full illumination from within. The Divine light that showers us to empower our being also empowers us to dispel the negativity of the soul trapped in sorrowful darkness. Licensed by the guiding light to strengthen the spirit to become whole is to share the illumination with others as an obligation to follow. He is "the way, the truth, and the life" no one should contradict, but accept with grace and light.

Another chapter of life in a less-known land is a pilgrim who stands up, regaining the bravery of the soul. Pulled down by its own negativity and weakness of the spirit, but guided by a little spark that ignites the soul is not limited. I am lost along the way. Should I trust the instinct that comes my way? Lord, save me from disgrace and lift me with your loving grace.

This Jubilee Year of Mercy is to acknowledge the compassionate, merciful, and ever-mighty spirit that will renew the faith of a lost Pilgrim. The Holy Door is the portal of entry for examining the faith and strengthening the weakened soul. Blessed by the Holiness who touches my spirit; forever be loved and the message of love to live forever and be it.

Along the road is a Pilgrim who ignites the fire. At times loses from darkness but is still able to recover the light. The struggle of an illumined soul to resist the temptation of the dark. Cast away the evil, and preserve the purity of the heart. Guide us, oh Lord, when we are tempted by false beliefs; you are our savior; protect us from defeat.

As the Risen Lord gives us hope, may we live with Him in our journey along the road, with footprints in the sand, leaving the negativity and cleansing the spirit. It is our ultimate glory to live an eternal life without the limit.


 © 2016 Del Cusay

Heart's Desire: Living A Fantastic Life

There are times when life gives us a sweet taste of beautiful experiences. Often, life may also provide a bitter taste of painful memories. 

However, we reminisce about the sweetness and bitterness that haunt us, our thoughts and emotions that will either make or break us.

When a tough time comes, we challenge ourselves to overcome it. We are creating an emotional shield, a metaphorical armor made of our resilience and self-love, as a protective defense not to become broken but to shed the light of love to ourselves and others. We activate the inner light to guide us when we are lost and to be redirected toward the path of righteousness.

Our memories, like beacons of hope, are beautiful experiences that uplift us when things aren't right. They remind us of our strength and resilience. Our miseries can teach us to become challenging when we are halfway through... but a fading light. We are crafted by our imagination and desires that can spark a greater force of illumined self for the greater good and a better life.

Today, we direct ourselves based on the principles we inherit. We go on confidently and without hesitation; we pause and ponder when it seems doubtful. We continue to seek validation, not out of insecurity, but as a reaffirmation of our growth and progress: "Are we good enough, or is it just enough?"

As we continue the journey, we are "Following Our Heart's Desire," We are molded through life's hopelessness and challenges, turning miseries into bliss. Each challenge we overcome is a testament to our strength and resilience. The peak of temporary happiness is when we surpass the valley of tears, a cycle of life that is never-ending, always brief, but has a joyous end.

Our destiny is always unknown to us. However, a divinely inspired being, a part of us that is connected to a higher purpose or calling, will arise in us, sharing a light of hope with some and enlightenment with many... only then is it right to live in comfort and the precious life we deserve.

 © 2016 Del Cusay

Stars of the Galaxy: Reliving the Magical Moments

Sometimes, we reminisce about wonderful moments like taking a problematic exam, receiving a promotion, or even a simple act of kindness that once made us feel good about ourselves. We enjoyed those moments that captivated our imaginations and desires. 

We cherish the times when we feel ignited by our passion and aspirations. We feel great about ourselves and strive to show our best selves.

Today, we live and create our own reality, our version of life that guides our destiny. It's not just a dream, but to rekindle moments that will launch us to our destination -- our future success. We create a roadmap to guide us along the way, not to be overwhelmed by circumstances but to regain ourselves when we brave the stormy seas.

Our journey to success will always depend on how much power we unleash in ourselves. Once the untapped energy, the potential within us that we haven't fully realized, is activated, it will be ever-ready to launch us to something unimaginable. You may not believe it at first, but those dreams and desires are becoming closer to reality—your magical journey.

Life often throws us challenges that seem insurmountable, testing our mettle and resolve. But with unwavering faith, we can build a solid foundation, a rock to strengthen our core. When the storm comes, we'll be ready, our best defense fierce and mighty, ready to knock out adversity and bounce back to reality.

On the way to the peak, we often encounter hills and valleys. These are the moments of success and failure, joy and sorrow, that usually go unnoticed by many, disregarding the hidden struggles and dreaded misery. 

Others see the hollowness that breaks easily, though the barrier is still unbreakable to set you free -- you become a winner and will always be.

Our commitment to excellence is our bow and arrow, our tool for raising our standards and proving our worth to ourselves and others. Our goal is our target, our compass guiding us on the right path. We may stumble, but we can always find our way back and follow the guiding light.


© 2016 Del Cusay

Celebrating the Feast of Sto. Niño 2016

On this day, we celebrate the feast of the Child Jesus all over the Philippines. Venerating the holy image has been part of our culture and tradition since it was brought over by Spaniards to our country. Since then, Filipinos have embraced Christianity and made it their way of life.

The feast of Santo Niño is one of the most celebrated events in the Philippines, and millions of devotees all over the archipelago would join activities in honor of Him. From the oldest city of Cebu and the busy streets of Manila, the festivity is alive; it is vibrant, colorful, and energetic.

Today, I witnessed how we celebrate this famous religious event. Thousands of people participated in the parade as they marched to the beat of the drums. The long procession was full of energy as they carried the holy image while waving it in the air. Some holy images are uniquely dressed to portray occupations like policeman, nurse, doctor, and others. This concept has been a tradition among the faithful who believe it will bring them blessings and guide their living.

The Santo Niño de Tondo 2013 feast was memorable to me as I experienced a crowd of devotees celebrating the mass and having their holy image blessed with sacred water. I sacrificed falling in line to reach the top of the church in Tondo, Manila, where the divine image of Santo Niño is placed. Touching the sacred image and saying prayer is a symbol of faith and devotion—faith that is unique among us and will forever be observed with our grateful hearts. 

The Holy Child Jesus, in his image we call Santo Niño, reminds us of innocence and vigor. When we were young, we were full of wonders and had genuine happiness; we were robust and genuinely present. We don't mind negativity and feel we are being guided. Just like Santo Niño, it reflects the child within us. Our humility, graciousness, and innocence lead us to live a positive life despite the struggles and challenges we are going through.

With our faith, we learn to be strong and keep moving forward. The strong Divine force -- our God is there to watch over and guide us. When we are fearful, we turn to become fearless. When we are weak, we develop strength; when we are about to quit, we suddenly hold on and keep the faith. 

© 2016 Del Cusay

Nazareno 2016: Celebrating The Feast of The Black Nazarene

The feast of the Black Nazarene, or in Filipino, 'Pista ng Poong Nazareno,' has been a significant religious event in the Philippines. The Black Nazarene, a life-sized statue of Jesus Christ carrying the cross, is more than a cultural symbol. It represents courage and faith in God Almighty. The statue is believed to have miraculous powers, and Filipino devotees have venerated and shown piety for centuries through this holy image at the Quiapo Church in Manila.

I first celebrated the grand feast of the Black Nazarene three years ago. It was a solemn event near the church, where devotees flocked to celebrate the mass and have their religious items blessed with holy water. Despite the rainy weather, which we considered a blessing, I was caught in a sudden downpour. But instead of seeking shelter, I embraced the rain as a symbol of purification and a test of my faith. It was a sacrifice and a show of perseverance despite the unexpected obstacle. This experience taught me the value of endurance and the power of faith in overcoming challenges.

As I remember Nazareno (2013), the crowd around Quiapo church was more peaceful and orderly than in 'traslacion.' This annual procession, known as 'traslacion,' marks the transfer of the Black Nazarene image from its original place in Luneta (now Rizal Park) to its current home in Quiapo church. During the traslacion, millions of devotees brave the massive crowd along the streets where the procession passes. It is a powerful display of faith and devotion, with some devotees having the endurance and courage to hold the piece of long rope attached to the image, which they believe brings miracles to their lives. Others would have their hankies wiped over the image, assuming it can bring healing power.

Numerous stories have already been shared by devotees who could testify to the miraculous power of the divine image of the Black Nazarene. Even famous Filipino celebrities would also share the blessings they received from their devotion. However, the event is for everyone regardless of societal status; rich or poor, healthy or sick, young or old could show their faith and devotion.

On this day, the 9th of January 2016, I once again witnessed the deep sense of community among the Filipino devotees of the Black Nazarene. The vicinity of the Quiapo church was filled with the faithful who gathered to celebrate the mass and novena. For about 2 hours, I stood among them, listening to the holy sacrament and praying for my personal intentions. Individuals and families prayed together, united in their faith. Some parents even brought their little children, demonstrating the inclusivity of this spiritual event. And amidst the crowd, those who were physically sick endured, their sacrifice a testament to their unwavering faith.

Those who did not go to the traslacion or procession have just visited Quiapo church to celebrate the mass. A crowd of volunteers and devotees go barefoot, which symbolizes humility. They have been serving the Black Nazarene for several years to show their faith and more profound personal devotion.

While I may not be an active devotee of the Black Nazarene, I believe that God hears our prayers and intentions when we approach Him with all our hearts and humility. I am just one of the millions who have experienced Divine blessings and interventions. This journey is deeply personal, filled with hardships and struggles that ultimately lead to a sense of fulfillment. It's a journey we undertake in our own way, facing unique challenges and finding our own moments of grace.

The feast of the Black Nazarene is not just a display of religiosity. It is a transformative experience, a test of faith that we endure and sacrifice for. We find strength and completion in our moments of weakness and despair in God. It takes courage and humility to be part of this massive gathering of the faithful, to give thanks, seek forgiveness, and pray for our personal intentions. This is a spiritual journey for a day, a lifetime, and beyond. It's a journey that requires us to be brave in our faith and humble in our prayers.

 © 2016 Del Cusay

New Year 2016: A New Beginning

What an incredible year 2015! This might be the most straightforward statement of what I've been through for the previous year. There were ups and downs, but I was still able to conquer challenges and reach another milestone in life. 2015 brought me to another chapter of extraordinary living, where I stretched myself beyond my limits.

When I've been to places where my thoughts have brought me, it has been a fascinating journey. It is indeed a law of attraction that works whenever I need it. Years ago, when I started to believe that we become what we think, I learned to practice and incorporate this belief regularly to achieve whatever goals I desire. 

Reflecting on my journey, I realize that if I had believed in the power of attraction earlier, I could have achieved even more. This year, I've ticked off several goals from my list, with others well on their way to becoming reality. Life has taken on a magical quality, and with creativity and passion, I've experienced an unprecedented turning point. 

Embracing tough decisions has been a catalyst for change, leading to a fulfilling transformation. After a long period of service, I'm now embarking on a new adventure with a team of vibrant, confident individuals, all striving for a new level of success. 

The previous chapter has always been challenging; hence, it was full of challenges that made me a better person. I've been polished like a gem—a precious one that illuminates and sparkles. It is a product of enlightenment to a certain level and my deepest gratitude to the master of life that I once knew. 

Every lesson learned becomes a stepping stone to the next chapter. Each experience, when approached with honor and dignity, holds significance and merit. Gratitude for past successes paves the way for more abundance and blessings, a truth I hold dear. 

Life isn't always about reaching the pinnacle of happiness and success. There have been times when circumstances beyond my control have thrown me off course. But these experiences have taught me the value of resilience and the importance of moving forward. Life's challenges may be like hard rocks, but they can be transformed into polished, refined stones with the right mindset. 

It's genuinely fantastic to face obstacles toward success. It takes passion, courage, and desire to make it. Along the way, there are rough roads and intersections that will eventually lead in the right direction. It may seem like a very challenging year, but with perseverance, I surpass the trials that will launch a newer, more extraordinary version. 

© 2015 Del Cusay