Social Commentary: Universal Healthcare for All Filipinos

It was in August 2018 that I fell in line to pay for the annual Philhealth contribution of my sister and her family. I was glad to see hundreds of people who were there to invest in health insurance in exchange for good Healthcare benefits offered by the agency.  As a healthcare worker, I have pledged not only to the healing of sick people but also to become an advocate for health promotion and prevention. That time as I was seated on a chair to wait for my priority number to flash on the screen, I had a realization that people, no matter their economic status, are now becoming more aware of the advantages of having a healthy family that is free of illnesses and diseases and becoming a productive contributor in the society. 

But how about those individuals or families without access to primary healthcare due to economic hardship? They may feel ineligible and intimidated by their Healthcare rights, and they remain vulnerable to health crises and threats. 

I'm glad that on February 20, 2019, the Universal Healthcare Act was finally enacted into law, granting all Filipinos access to affordable and better healthcare. This is a positive and perhaps the most significant measure towards healthier citizens leading to productivity and wellness. 

Talking about the agency that has the mandate for its implementation, the Philippine Health Insurance Company or Philhealth will have to ensure the automatic eligibility and membership of all Filipinos regardless of social and economic standing, more excellent service for our less privileged families and individuals. 

The Fight for Universal Healthcare

This new law is not just an achievement of the legislative and executive body but an outstanding achievement of all Filipinos who have long been hoping for this initiative.

Just imagine how Western countries could give Universal Healthcare to their citizens that started several years or decades back, and why couldn't our government do the same? This has been a puzzle to other Filipinos who had a glimpse of the Healthcare status in a foreign country and me. 

Now our time has come, but the implementing rules and regulations of the new law are yet to be laid, and we have to be aware of the Healthcare coverage, how we can truly benefit from it, and when shall we start to benefit from it. 

Benefits of the Universal Healthcare Law

Philhealth can guarantee essential Healthcare services to exist, premium contributors, indirect contributors, or indigents like our Senior Citizens and Persons with disabilities and non-indigent or non-premium contributors. That would mean free consultation, laboratory tests, and diagnostic tests are among the essential services covered by everyone. Almost all scope of health includes preventive, promotive, curative, rehabilitative, and palliative care, giving everyone holistic health and wellness. 

Sustainable Healthcare development 

Although we welcome the extraordinary Healthcare measures, we are yet to experience how they will be delivered. The funding source has been determined, and the implementation of this new law will be gradual, considering that the funding will come from a pool of different agency funds. 

The new law is very promising. However, we would also like to see its more tremendous success and development from now and in years to come and not be exploited and mismanaged by our people in the Healthcare authority. 

Issues in the Philippine Health Insurance

Our National Health Insurance Company, Philhealth, and private Health Management Organizations (HMO) have been delivering their healthcare services in partnership with our Healthcare institutions, hospitals, clinics, and health centers nationwide. They have always been to the rescue whenever we seek medical help. However, their insurance coverage needs to be more comprehensive as they do not cover all health conditions and other health services. This has been a challenge for those who couldn't afford or have financial difficulty seeking medical attention. 

While working at The Medical City in Iloilo, I learned about issues like non-payment or delay of payment of Philhealth for hospital claims to several member hospitals in the country. This would also cause a delay in the hospitals paying their medical providers. This has led to another issue: some medical providers would charge their clients an additional cash payment for a professional fee already covered by Philhealth. This issue happened to my sister, and she asserted her rights against the double charging of her provider.  This scenario will lose the confidence of other Philhealth members if such a case happens to them, which is against the primary goal of Philhealth its mandate to lessen the financial burden of Filipinos upon seeking medical treatment. 

Continuous Healthcare reform 

The Universal Healthcare law is a good start in providing Healthcare access to All Filipinos, a measure that no one will be excluded and left behind in Healthcare services due to poor economic status. 

However, challenges in Government and corporate social service are still something Filipinos must fight to achieve better healthcare. 

For Philhealth, may the agency uphold good governance and update its policies and coverage to package benefits that are not selective to a particular medical condition. This is a burden to the Filipino people because we do not choose the kind of disease once it strikes just to be covered by our insurance provider. We need to decide when to get sick and when to get treated. We don't select the end of our physical suffering and the end of our life. 

We don't have control over our health crisis, but we can do something for its promotion and prevention so we will not suffer and pay for its consequence. We must take good care of our health to avoid illnesses and diseases. Though inevitable, we can help ourselves, our families, and our communities by choosing a healthy lifestyle away from too much stress and vices to achieve health and longevity, leading to the productive citizen we can be.

As we continue to contribute towards nation-building, we have to be respectfully assertive of our healthcare bill of rights and, at the same time, be supportive of our Government's mandate to provide better healthcare to All Filipinos so we can achieve wellness can live our most extraordinary life.

© 2019 Del Cusay

Social Commentary: Lessons from Vaccination Scare and Disease Outbreak

On February 6, 2019, the Department of Health declared an outbreak of measles in the National Capital Region, including regions in Luzon, Central Luzon, and CALABARZON. Just a day after, it was reported that the outbreak expanded in the Visayas, Central, Eastern, and Western Visayas.

The disease outbreak is just a year after the controversial Dengvaxia scare, with several deaths of children linked with Dengvaxia: a vaccine for Dengue.

Although it was not medically proven through studies and investigation by the Department of Health, still the Public Attorney's Office, headed by its Chief, Persida Acosta, defended the human rights of her clients when she insisted that it was indeed the Dengvaxia vaccine that caused the death of children who received it.

How the deadly controversy started

It was revealed late last year by Acosta that the President himself ordered her office to pursue filing a criminal complaint against several personalities of the past administration who are allegedly involved in the Dengvaxia controversy, and that includes former President Aquino, Former Department of Health Secretary Garin, and the present DOH Secretary Duque.

Since then, Acosta has actively pushed for public information on the dangers of  Dengvaxia and the vaccination program, and this controversy led to discouragement and fear against vaccination. 

Dr. Acosta is interested in fighting for her client's rights and following his excellency, the President. As a Doctor of Social Development, she has the expertise and advocacy for human rights and legal aid; that is where she comes from.

From Advocacy to Disaster 

Apparently, Acosta's advocacy went wrong when her allegations about the Dengvaxia-related deaths caused a sudden drop in immunization records of the DOH starting in 2018 until the present. Parents are scared to have their children vaccinated by Dengvaxia and even other vaccinations, including MMR vaccines (Measles, Mumps, and Rubella) which have caused an epidemic of measles in several regions in the country and were reported to be thousands of cases and several deaths already. 

Disinformation and fake news can kill

With the Dengvaxia scare, over 2 million Filipino children are currently at risk of contracting measles, a highly infectious airborne disease-causing respiratory complications that can be lethal. 

This would not have happened if there had been no mass hysteria coming from several personalities from broadcast media and social media. The disinformation easily spread and was accepted by their followers to be an absolute truth. 

Nowadays, thousands or millions of Filipinos are victims of fake news or disinformation with social media. Social media influencers have to be responsible for their words or statement to not create confusion, and also for followers and the general public to learn how to decipher real news from fake ones.

Turnaround of circumstances.

With the rising number of measles cases across the country, the Department of Health and President Duterte has stepped up to lead a campaign on national television for families to have their children vaccinated against diseases. The public call was followed by Vice President Robredo and now, the Chief Public Attorney, Persida Acosta, who seemed to be remorseful when she expressed to the public not to be scared of vaccination to spare children from getting measles considering its alarming rates: a step she made just after the call for her resignation by our Senators and some people. 

Our leaders have the most significant role to play in all of these circumstances affecting the state of health of Filipino children. They may have reflected on their shortcomings and are now doing their part to correct the mistakes they have caused. For the Chief Public Attorney, her sudden active campaign for vaccination may not be an admission of guilt, hence taking responsibility for her actions if her advocacy to fight for her clients led to our country's health crisis. 

Our Call to action 

May this health crisis call other media personalities and social media influencers to do the same thing and stop disinformation campaigns causing trials by publicity and untoward events? The worst is the loss of lives. We have lost the confidence of our people in our Government's immunization campaign, and it might take time for others to regain their trust.

Full immunization is essential in developing immunity against highly communicable diseases. Imagine if all children received full immunization; we would be closer to eradicating diseases like measles.

We have already eradicated diseases like polio and maternal and neonatal tetanus. Hence we can also achieve a measles-free country and eliminate other conditions through full immunization. It may be a challenging task for our healthcare workers, but with our government's active campaign and the public's cooperation, the goal can be achieved. 

As a Healthcare advocate, I want to protect my family and the public through health education to live the best life they deserve. Whoever we are, we can become health advocates, and our advocacy can create a ripple effect toward a healthy citizenry and community. 

© 2019 Del Cusay

Starting The New Year Right: Wisdom from Master Del Pe

Two weeks after the New year's day celebration, people may be gaining momentum on their new year's resolutions. It's overwhelming! Since it takes discipline to keep going on and lots of patience in waiting for the desired result.

Whatever people may have set as their goal for 2019  would never be accessible from the start, but having a positive mindset and determination can help if serious about making things happen. There is no shortcut; there's no such thing as hacking our way to success. We must learn our past lessons and commit to improving ourselves. 

For this year, I've set my mind on starting my first week right. That means eliminating or avoiding those negative thoughts that harm or jeopardize my goals. The first week after the new year is crucial to determining how long we can hold on to our resolutions.

New Year 2019: Sunshine After The Rain talks about my goals for this year. I may have set it subconsciously a few years back, but I would want to regain the power back. When you lose, you get to start again, and willpower becomes activated with the intense and pure energy of the body, mind, and spirit.

Balanced Energy

Having balanced energy at all levels is a must to achieve our goals. I've learned this from Master Del Pe, a world-renowned life coach, and spiritual guru. Master Del Pe, known as "MDP" to his students, teaches about balancing our energy on all levels: physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual. For instance, having an active material and mental body that is less spiritual doesn't balance you. Likewise, having a higher level of mental capacity but with a poor physical body doesn't make your balance either. This is fundamental wisdom from a modern sage, Master Del Pe.

Together with Master Del Pe at Baguio City, Philippines, in May 2011

To know more about Master Del Pe and his services, visit his website at http://www.masterdelpe.com and http://www.masterdelpe.com, and you will discover his breakthrough programs for health and wellness.

Better Health

A positive and healthy mental state starts with a healthy physical body that is achieved through physical exercises and a proper diet. I started to like eating a vegan diet in 2011 when I joined Master Del Pe and was quite active in physical activities like powerful stamina and essential martial arts. I was slimmer during those years compared to the present, when it's hard to eliminate unwanted fats on the tummy. Now it's also hard to lower bad cholesterol. I just can't take those "Statins" and would rely on physical activities and a balanced diet.

To start my new year right, I resolved to avoid drinking soft drinks and take in less sugar. I am now into drinking lemon water, a natural colon cleanser or detox. I also like consuming turmeric for its anti-inflammation effect. I have been eating too many sweets, and reducing my consumption before it leads to foreseeable health problems would be good.

Personal Development 

I read many self-help articles which are beneficial for growth and success. It was also through the books of Master Del Pe that I learned about personal development most practically and efficiently. One of the best tools I have learned is meditation, and it was Master Del Pe, a master of 8 types of meditation, taught us how to meditate effectively with the use of "mudra," sanskit term for hand seals chanting those sacred mantras for transformation. 

When life gets tough and triggered by so much noise, it's good to spend at least 20 minutes meditating 2 to 3 times a week to regain life and have peace of mind. 

In Manila, where traffic congestion is the worst in the world, I would simply close my eyes, breathe in and breathe out along EDSA as I ride the bus from Ayala, Makati, to Monumento Circle Caloocan City. Meditation has saved me from enduring the long ride, and it doesn't cost a thing, but the benefits are priceless. In fact, my first-ever blog post is about The Power of Meditation. It has dramatically changed my life, and I believe this world would be a better place if more people would learn to practice the art and science of meditation. 

To start the year right, I would have put some time for pure thinking time which was advised by Master Del Pe. Before blogging and after it, I think and reflect deeply; that is also a great mental exercise and good for mental health. 

Starting the new year with a positive spirit and higher hopes gives an overwhelming feeling of joy. I feel Joyful whenever I overcome a challenge and continue doing so until I've made it. It's a commitment made for the entire year. It may not last or may have been broken, but willpower can help to make it happen. As I strengthen my personality, I prepare myself for something coming my way. I may never know it yet; it may be cloudy for now, but I know for sure that I can help myself rise up and break through the barriers of my personal journey to success and fulfillment not only this year but for a lifetime.

© 2019 Del Cusay

Weekend Fitness Inspirations for Better Health

It's summertime, and people are into different fun and exciting activities. It may be the ocean breeze that makes people swim on the beaches. Others may enjoy the long ride reaching the mountain peak, offering the best view of the valley and the sky. Some may enjoy bonding moments with their family in their hometown while on summer vacation. Endless bucket lists to fulfill desires to unwind, feel relaxed, and live the most significant moments of their lives. These are what different personalities are up to as they experience the hottest season just before the onset of the monsoon.

Summertime brings us closer to our goals as we finally execute plans in action. As my new year's resolution, I have set some goals to shed a few pounds, maintain an ideal weight, and get fit. Forget about Travel Inspirations momentarily and focus more on regaining better physical health. This way, I can do many activities and opportunities as I get back on track feeling lighter and healthier. It seems like a simple goal, but determination and the willpower to make a brand-new start is the key to making it happen. Often it's just a plan, and when a cycle of procrastination attacks, nothing happens, and the goal is dying, and worse is to have just expired. 

All these years, I have learned to put an expiration on the goal being set to accomplish. Never wait for the right or perfect moment, but have the will to start and discover ways to improve as you get closer to success. Nothing in life comes easily from the start. 

Willpower always sets us to burn our desires to become fast like a car or higher like an airplane. Our dream, it's limitless! Our pace sets us closer to the destination and to winning. Like a race, we burn the fuel of passion and perseverance and stay on track with agility and endurance. 

I am determined, so I have to start... on my own time... my own pace. This summer season is ideal for physical activities as fitness enthusiasts bring awareness to people about the value of health and wellness. I have witnessed the 2-day Fitstreet, an annual event at Bonifacio high street, BGC, offering various body, mind, and spirit activities. Non-stop Zumba of different classes encourages everyone to relieve stiffness and start swaying the hips and losing love handles. Marathon is fun for those who would love to go the extra mile and burn calories fast while strengthening their core.  Yoga and meditation are pure bliss. It's done just before the sun shines so bright in the serene environment. The Power of Meditation is alive! It's been a while since I last practiced it regularly, but the body, mind, and spirit must sync well for better awareness and moral consciousness. 

Fitstreet was created to inspire and motivate people to step up, move up, get started, and finish what they started. In years to come, we may live in a highly digital society, but being aware and conscious of what truly matters makes life precious. 

A lifetime commitment to physical fitness might not be a goal for now, but a single step is enough to start the game until we lose the energy and can no longer carry out the things we used to love. As long as we have the power and the will to live, we can go the farthest distance and live the most extraordinary life we deserve. 

© 2018 Del Cusay

Physical Fitness For Better Health

Lifestyle change is hard to commit since it requires discipline and consistency. A dietary change, for instance, is hard, especially when living and working surrounded by instant or fast food. That is more convenient for always-on-the-go people with little time to prepare food. The physical effect could be worse since it makes people obese and prone to hypertension and a higher cholesterol level. This urban lifestyle is making people unhealthy. Looking fit but in the process of developing symptoms like pre-hypertension or hypercholesterolemia.

It was in 2016 when I felt something was wrong with my health. The heaviness on my head, accompanied by cluster pain, makes me sick. I experienced an increase in heart rate and hyperventilation. That time I felt anxious about what was happening to me. Until I sought medical help and through diagnostic and laboratory tests, it was discovered that I have a very high total cholesterol and LDL or bad cholesterol. In medical parlance, I have hypercholesterolemia and am predisposed to cardiovascular diseases leading to heart attack or stroke if left untreated. That scares me whenever I think of the possible consequence of my chosen lifestyle.

I used to be a health trainer for about 4 years, and during those times, I have helped people get fit and healthier at all levels of health; physical, mental, emotional, and even spiritual. I used to teach physical exercises and breathing techniques for health and longevity. I have contacted more people in several cities in the Philippines and Asia. After leaving my role, I am back to the old ways; less exercise and a meat-based diet high in fat. I can't resist, or maybe I couldn't live without meat. I didn't bother since I could eat anything without getting sick. I am not obese, and I don't feel unhealthy. One day, I was convinced that an unhealthy and unbalanced diet was terrible for my physical health since its manifestations bothered me.

In November 2017, I consulted a physician again and had a laboratory check; the result was still the same. My cholesterol level remains high, and I was prescribed to take an anti-cholesterol drug and make a dietary change. Another test 2 months after, and the result was consistent though I have taken medicine but have ignored food choices. I just can't avoid eating fast food almost daily for about a year. However, I was alarmed about people getting strokes at a very young age, and I didn't want to experience it. So I have learned to ignore fast food, though not totally, and I try to drink less soda. I started eating a lighter and preferred pescetarian diet; fish with some vegetables. Then I felt good that I could survive the dietary change. One more thing is physical fitness is part of the lifestyle change. I used to be physically active, so I believe I can start again.

Living in a highly urbanized city should not be an excuse not to become physically fit and healthy. BGC, just a few steps from my new place, is suitable for exercise. Built as a recreation park, Track 30th  is for those interested in jogging, brisk walking, and breathing exercises.  You can see people of all ages, young and old, who are into fitness, even for a few hours. It's beautiful when urban planners now know the importance of having a piece of nature with trees and natural elements that make people grounded. There are more giant stones where one could sit to relax and meditate. That was bliss when I finally had the energy and enthusiasm to return to fitness for better health. Track 30th is an excellent place to start, and as I continue to explore, I should get more determined about the end result; to feel lighter, calmer, and healthier -- free from diseases and untoward symptoms.

The post-exercise meal should have been light, and to have dropped by at my favorite bakery is also a fitspiration. A few pieces of Pandesal stuffed with Spanish-style sardines and coffee are enough for carbohydrate and dietary protein requirements, plus the antioxidant for free radicals. I should learn to prepare healthy meals and snacks to improve my health and achieve wellness. With exercise and a proper diet, I can become a living testimony that we can achieve health and fitness and fight diseases through appropriate lifestyle changes.

I am inspired to share this journey with others who share the same story or those busy professionals struggling to commit to a total lifestyle change. Physical fitness starts with a commitment followed by endurance and perseverance. It's not only today; I want to maintain what is ideal.  A robust physical body also follows a strong mind and spirit. That's all we need.


© 2018 Del Cusay

A Soulful Holiday Retreat

A five-day holiday seems so long in a place where our heart belongs. A simple yet meaningful living away from the crowd and noise. It is genuinely home, where life seems unhurried and not preoccupied with chaotic city living when time seems slow while enjoying the moment. At last, after working tirelessly, there's a reward. It's priceless. Hence a short time vacation really matters.

What makes life significant is when we return to our place of birth once in a while to reconnect with how it all began. We've been too distant places to earn a living and provide for our needs and desires; being disconnected is temporary. The compass would always point us back to where we are most comfortable. A home is where our heart is. To listen to a different kind of story and express it with the most profound affinity. 

I always believe in the power of natural healing. It doesn't cost much. It's a priceless and significant renewal of self to gain a new perspective on people, places, things, and experiences. Indeed, a soul knows how to heal itself. It directs us somewhere to get revitalized, thus making us more robust and ready to handle complex tasks. 

Holistic healing involves the body, mind, and soul integrated into a personality. It needs time to heal and regain the lost positive energy in a low-frequency mode. It feels great to be whole again through a retreat, even for a while. The intense vibration makes us feel more confident that we can make things possible through our belief and effort. A positive vibration that draws people to get some inspiration and to believe in themselves for who they are and what they can accomplish.

Once, I experienced a highlands retreat in the northern state of Himachal Pradesh in India. I have entered The Land of Tibetans in Dharamsala, where life is heavenlike. The people have a deeper spiritual connection, and they seem to be happy and contented. Back in my hometown, people are enjoying spiritual bliss in a highland I can compare to Dharamsala. The place may not have the same grandeur and charm, but it is similar in some ways. The cool breeze on a foggy mountain, the birds chirping, the gentle blow of the wind, and the spiritual nature of the people. 

Looking farther into the surrounding mountains is a feeling of faith and hope; we can reach the summit as we envision a greater height of limitless capabilities. The road to the forum leads to a soulful retreat journey to a place closer to our hearts. Our endless desire and need for renewal make us a powerful personality that knows no limit. With endurance and perseverance, the summit is always within our reach. It's a cycle of life of a burning desire and soulful recollection, leading to the meaningful life we deserve. 

© 2017 Del Cusay

Evolution of The Mind: Path Towards Right Consciousness

I was in my mid-20s when I decided to live a different path of human consciousness. It's not an ordinary life where freedom is absolute, but it was a life full of challenges and sacrifices. At first, it was not so easy until I have discovered my capabilities and unique qualities that are beyond the limits. 

I struggled... I endured the pain and I persevered the uncertainties that come my way. During those times I have pondered on the meaning of my existence and my role in service to humanity and the world.

I am blessed with being born from a loving and supportive family. My parents have raised us well and able to send us to a good school to get the right education that eventually gave us a comfortable life. My parents valued the education of their children more than what they have accomplished. For them education is an opportunity to succeed in life; although it may not be a guarantee, still they pushed us to get the education that we wanted. 

I graduated with a bachelor's degree in nursing and became a registered nurse. Back then, I was fully supported by my family for what I would become -- to live my life as a nurse. Perhaps I would have become a bedside nurse abroad and live a more comfortable life just like other Filipino nurses that are enjoying the greener pasture. But those were just a missed opportunity and a fantasy to my vivid imaginations. I did not become a  nurse and I remain to live in my country. It was a failure since the goal was not hit and it diverted my attention to other things that can satisfy my senses and provoke my creative imagination. I started to think and asked questions about the future. What do I want? What will I become?  I needed a rescue out of the blue. Clueless about the future, I couldn't think but act like a happy-go-lucky; no destination ... nothing to see. It was dark and I needed a guiding light.

The Mid 20s is when I started to rewire my inner dialogue. Connecting the missing link helped me to regain my life for the greater opportunity. That was the time I entered an ashram. A school of initiation for higher consciousness. I developed some intelligence that is not attained by ordinary people not devoted to the spiritual journey. It was in the ashram that I learned to become a trainer and a public speaker. I decided to improve my skills both intrapersonal and interpersonal and it led to a magical journey -- I couldn't believe the things that I am capable of doing. I envision being the best version of myself, upgraded my skills and learned to decipher reality from obsolete beliefs. The learning was truly indispensable and that made me who I am today -- renewed and transformed. 

To evolve in consciousness is to change self-limiting beliefs and habits that don't give meaning to higher existence -- universal service through spirituality. I meditated, chanted, and used a special mantra to achieve a sense of contentment and bliss. It changed my personality and reached a certain level of maturity through service. It was then I have learned to appreciate the tagline "Live Your Greatest Life." I thought living a good life is just enough, but then to live one's life to the fullest is more meaningful and substantial -- truly a spiritual bliss. Then, going beyond esoteric practice is "Serving Humanity and The World." It was the ultimate realization and fulfillment of my goals. I discovered to unleash my hidden potentials and increased my self-worth. I became firm with my philosophies and elevated my personality to connect with stronger souls. If I didn't, then I wouldn't survive from the start. My inner compass would have directed me towards the path. 

I traveled and lived in India for more than a year and reached out to different groups. I became one with the people. I dressed up and maybe started to sound like them too. I met various groups; from the elite families and well-known personalities down to the grassroots level of the society. The experience gave me serenity and sense of purpose. I gained wisdom from eastern philosophies with an integration of western practicality and that contributed to confidence in exoteric teachings. In India, I taught different subjects that are mostly of spiritual origin. It was very fulfilling and memorable. My greatest achievement would have been the construction of the "Third Eye" which is spiritually guided. It was then I felt the Divine guidance that intervened in my being. 

I feel empowered and did extraordinary things. My life back then may not be a common path to some, but being enlightened to some degree gave me a better perspective about the kind of life that one must live. Service to humanity is truly a benchmark of man's existence. Service to improve their lives and for them to search for a brighter meaning of their so-called 'dharma' or soul purpose. 

It was in India that I became a master of my own thinking. I challenge my own self based on my choices and persuade others for what they believe in that's not aligned with the universal truth revealed in the ashram.

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How could I thrive years of service when I started to bring back my old self? I strive to become better, yet couldn't see the light. Perhaps I challenged myself, even more, then I realize that service to humanity is everywhere; in the community where we live or in a place where lives have brought us. Wherever we go is the place to leave a legacy. Maybe unknown to many, but popular to those whom we have touched lives. Our own 'dharma' is the legacy that is inherent to us. We may be wrong with our choices at times, but we can always choose to regain ourselves and become wiser and live a better life. We have been ridiculed, but our principles could help us to hit our target. There may be times when we no longer tune in to lower vibrations, yet we thrive to live an extraordinary life just like the old days -- deeper soul connection. 

Now that everything has changed, I am still evolving towards the right path. I am still uncertain about the future, but with the evolution and integration of Divine energies, nothing can be greater than our renewed self. We continue to develop and we keep the spark to give some illumination to others. 

Our evolution will be for a lifetime and when the time comes that we need to look back to assess our old versions, then we can say that 'I did my best and now the path that I am taking is the path towards the right consciousness -- not from a selected group, but a universal consciousness that everyone deserves. 

©  Del Cusay

Alluring Walk at the Japanese Garden

A little sanctuary in the busy Metropolis of Manila is a Japanese garden to honor the friendship between the two great cultures. The garden near Rizal Park offers nature lovers a serene environment suitable for strolling and meditating. 

Some essential elements make it an ideal Japanese garden with some Filipino twists. The park is well maintained but needs some improvement to make it more modern and Japanese-like.

A little Japanese pagoda serves as the main entrance, with Japanese grass on the aisle that is a pleasantly alluring walk towards the greener foliage of the garden. The landscape makes it a good place for the growing trees and shrubs and the lush greenery ambiance that genuinely soothes the senses making it healthy for an early morning walk and exercise.

Inside is the veranda for relaxation or other activities like meditation or recollection. One just needs to sit down and relax and enjoy the stillness of the place and the calmness it offers. A momentary relief from stress is experienced if one has to do deep breathing and physical awareness.

The lawn on the hilly side, with shrubs and Japanese bamboo, looks revitalizing. It made me realize its resilience against the wind breeze as it gently sways and bent but remains firmly rooted on the ground. Like in life, people are sometimes bent by struggles and miseries but must stay flexible and rooted like a Japanese bamboo. The most challenging moments in life may have been thrown out, but like a Japanese bamboo, it remains to stand still and go with the natural flow.

The Japanese bamboo looks thin and weak but has survived the extreme weather and even the aftermath of a typhoon. There's no room to look down on oneself or others despite who and what you are. Like bamboo, people may look weak but are strong and continue to grow and achieve the maximum result.

Although an arch bridge is more elegant, a flat bridge across the pond is fantastic if one has to reach the other side of the garden. Built-in concrete and wooden material add a little aesthetics and charm to the park.

A pebbled pathway offers an alluring walk while sightseeing the evergreen trees, rock formations, and ornaments. The garden is enclosed in a perimeter fence, giving exclusivity to some local and foreign tourists who have witnessed the place's attractiveness.

A piece of art commonly displayed in a Japanese garden is a 'gong,' a percussion instrument used in ancient Japanese tradition to honor the presence of a higher authority. It has a low and monotone sound, but when struck forcefully can reach its maximum loudness. A visitor can strike the gong with the mallet using minimal force to produce a sound. Succeeding strikes can be made strongly, producing different tones if desired.

Visiting the Japanese garden is worthwhile, and coming back can be irresistible. An excellent place to escape from too much environmental noise and to give oneself a rejuvenating experience⁠— not in a faraway place, but only in the heart of the metropolis.

© 2013 Del Cusay

Awakening our Spiritual Power

"A precious and brilliant gem is more polished and valuable. Just like problems - it is like polishing us to become the best we can be and become a person as brilliant as the diamond, which comes with great value and importance."


We have discussed spiritual power for this month in response to the second lecture of our spiritual mentor, Master Del Pe. He has shared insights on how to awaken our spiritual power and how it benefits our existence and life purpose.

I am sharing what I have learned from the lecture and our group discussion and how I will apply this extraordinary power.

What is Spiritual Power

We, humans have much human power that we have discovered or are yet to be found. Sometimes we use it unconsciously, which leads to unwise use of power. However, there is a superior or infinite power that no physical power can compare.

Spiritual Practitioners gain spiritual power through spiritual practices and guidance from spiritual mentors or masters.

It is priceless and can not be bought or taken away. It is inherent in nature but yet to be awakened if not fully discovered or misused.

Developing Intuitional Power

To become intuitive, we must be able to study ideas and principles. We may have many ideas and follow different directions, so we must ponder them deeply. Becoming more intuitive is essential for our survival instinct and guides us toward understanding higher truths regarding universal truths.

Sometimes, our belief is only definite if we seek the absolute truth. What we think is just a product of our mind alone, without knowing that we are guided by different laws or principles.

For instance, I have an idea about something, but I need to prove it to be absolute since that idea may come from past experience or just creative imagination. The best thing for me to do is to verify that idea or principle regarding what has been established already or the universal truth that many understand and accept.

I have used my intuition in my past experiences, but I have done the right thing. My intuition says to act on something or decide on something, but I base my actions and decisions on my personal beliefs, which are only limited. In this case, I may have made the wrong decision or action.

With this, I have learned that it is essential to seek the universal truth to avoid the fallacy of ideas and actions. Universal truths serve as my guiding principle for attaining intuitive power and wisdom.

Likewise, using creative imagination is also vital for developing intuitional power. Expressing our thoughts or ideas is a product of our creative vision. For instance, our brilliant input or output of something results from our mind's creativity.

The great things we see around us are a product of man's creative intelligence. In fact, we have to develop a creative imagination to achieve great things. Leaders in the global industry were able to create great products being used today because of their mind's creativity. In our own way, we can do something great if not for the benefit of the many, at least for ourselves, only if we use creative intelligence.

Another way of developing intuitional power is through the practice of meditation. I have been a practitioner for 8 months, which significantly impacted my present life. There is a gradual transformation in almost all aspects of my life; physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual well-being.

I consider meditation as my spiritual tool for nourishing my soul in a moment of silence. I also feel the divine oneness and the healing benefit after that. In fact, the first post I made is about the power of meditation since it has made a remarkable transformation in my life.

Developing Wisdom Power

There are some strategies to develop wisdom power, one of which is to study past experiences and digest life lessons.

In our lives, we have been experiencing different problems that we consider obstacles or hindrances to our plans and goals. However, if we are going to reflect deeply, problems are part of the challenges we must face to become much more robust and better people.

In my life, I have encountered so many problems, big or small, and I was able to face them and look at them as a challenge rather than an obstacle. It has made me a better person, and I have learned a lesson from it that will serve as my guiding principle whenever I encounter the same problem.

The world's most accomplished people have faced tough challenges that put them where they are. We may perceive them as if they don't have a problem since they have everything, but we may never know that they have gone through difficult times before attaining success and fulfillment.

Whenever a problem comes our way, we should never give up but must fight for it.  "A precious and brilliant gem is more polished and valuable. Just like problems - it is like polishing us to become the best we can be and become a person as brilliant as the diamond, which comes with great value and importance".

Another way of developing wisdom power is being in the company of wise people or having our own life coaches or mentors. These people are considered masters of life, and they are more accomplished. Their ideas are precious and can become a source of inspiration and guidance to live a better life.

Life coaches or mentors are devoted to helping us towards the right path to achieve lasting success and fulfillment.

I have followed some spiritual mentors like Bo Sanchez and other international life coaches like Jack Canfield, Bob Proctor, and Master Del Pe. I have been following their blogs, articles, webcasts, and wise teachings, and I have read some of their books and gained insights about mastering life.

Having a mentor is more likely to succeed in life than those who do not have one. Even the most famous celebrities in their expertise have their own coaches or mentors. However, we have to be cautious about whom to follow. We must look for a mentor who can change our lives and impact us significantly. Numerous life coaches exist, but only a few are genuinely qualified and masters of life.

We can also gain wisdom, power, and intelligence through metaphorical quotations. The quotable quotes of famous people serve as our inspiration in life, and we can learn from them if we deeply understand the content of their selections.

Some of them use metaphors that should not be interpreted literally because they have a deeper meaning. In fact, some metaphors can not get out of our minds once we have read or listened to them. It is instilled in our minds, and we use it to our benefit and to give wise sayings to others.

In our lives, we have noted several metaphorical quotations and uttered the same in our own way of thinking. These quotations might not be well-known or recognized by many, but unconsciously, we have inspired other people and, somehow it, might leave an imprint on their
minds.

Wisdom power can also be achieved through reading books and other forms of literature that are sources of knowledge and wisdom. The principles we have learned can be applied to living a better life.

One of the books I liked most is "Purpose Driven Life" by Rick Warren. The book is simple and easy to understand, and each chapter has challenging questions to ponder. It is a spiritual book that teaches life lessons as guiding principles.

I learned a lot from reading, and it is a lifetime education. I will continue to read and expand my mind and share the knowledge that I have gained.

Intuitive powers and wisdom powers are both indispensable to attaining spiritual powers. We must apply these teachings to direct us to the right life path. We must know our life's purpose for us to better understand our responsibility to serve and that our spiritual powers will be our best weapon to live the better life we deserve.



© 2011 Del Cusay

The Power of Meditation

Together with the yogis in New Delhi, India

Meditation is an ancient spiritual tool Yogis and Sages use, mainly in the Himalayan Region. Incredibly, this practice has been preserved and passed down through generations.

Many studies and research have been done to prove the claims of its healing results in the body and mind. Indeed, it's a beautiful life tool for everyone who wants relaxation and calmness of the body, mind, and spirit.

I've been a meditation practitioner for several months, which has dramatically impacted my life. I've become calmer with my emotions and can take control of difficult situations. It has also improved my memory. I became more focused and aware of my work and whatever was happening in my surroundings.

Meditation has helped to correct my breathing pattern since I am a shallow and fast breather. Still, now I've learned that deep and regular breathing habits are essential for physical health and emotional and mental health.

Meditation is a tool for spirituality, and it's true because I believe that the Divine Beings are present in moments of silence, especially when you are ready to have a quiet moment and able to listen to inner voices.

Meditation uses particular locations, body positions, and hand seals, which have significant meanings. To be able to concentrate well during meditation, you must be in a place that is free from noise and distraction. It is also appropriate to be in an open space or well-ventilated room. The back must be aligned and straight, and the legs should be placed in a lotus or semi-lotus position, or you may sit straight on a chair to make it more practical. Hands are placed on the lap with hands facing upward. Hand seals must be used because it's one of the core essences of meditation as a tool for spirituality. Joining your index finger and thumb together symbolizes spiritual power while joining the thumb and the middle finger together would mean material energy or power. Joining the thumb, index, and middle finger together would be the best practice as it is more balanced--the material and spiritual power combined.

I meditate whenever I feel stressed, fatigued, and bored, and I've proven it very effective in regaining vitality. It makes me feel more relaxed and have peace of mind. Meditation has become an indispensable tool for me, and I consider it valuable in all levels of health; physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual health and well-being.

Meditation was practiced initially using one's imagination and visualization, but for busy people, it's made more accessible and practical by purchasing a voice-guided reflection available in the market today.

There are some meditation DVDs and books on the market today. It can also be purchased through the online store and available on some of the popular video-sharing websites. However, carefully choose which meditation products to buy and consider the author's expertise and reputation.

I'm fortunate to have been taught by an absolute master of meditation. He spent some of his beautiful moments in the Himalayas and was mentored by great masters. He has a deeper understanding of meditation practices and their hidden dangers. The knowledge and wisdom I've gained from him are beneficial in my practice and teaching others through seminars on special meditation programs he designed and created.

If your life has been transformed through meditation's benefits and healing results, you must also start to try it and see how it changes your life's ideal and perspective.


© 2011 Del Cusay