Island Hopping in Guimaras

We need to regain ourselves. At times, we get stressed, and it's due to various stressors of daily living, such as multitasking work, daily commute, never-ending problems, and the pandemic.

This global health crisis, the pandemic, has brought our lives to a standstill. It's a battle we all fight, a choice between victim and survivor.

Since the lockdown early this year, we have been thinking of ways to stay mentally healthy daily. How to keep our sanity and not experience loneliness, apathy, and depression.

Every day is a battle for survival, but we have a powerful weapon-our thoughts. We can divert our consciousness toward happy thoughts, reminiscing about the happiest moments in our lives. These are the times when we truly live our best lives, and it's a reminder that we can always find joy even in the darkest times.

The boat ride from Iloilo to Guimaras Island

For me, there's one great way to relieve stress and rejuvenate: traveling to beautiful places and spending weekend getaways for pure thinking moments, distressing through meditation, and appreciating the healing wonders of nature.

Every Sunday, I reminisce about the times when I had my Soulful travel moments. Due to restrictions, we can't travel during this pandemic, so the best way is to have a mental vacation. 

It works! It's as good as visiting the place in real-time, with almost the same feeling. It's just that we process with our mental power—our wild imagination.

The power of the mind is a miraculous healer. It contributes significantly to our well-being. When we're in a state of sadness, loneliness, or depression, we lack the energy to do our daily tasks and be productive. But when we're happy, we're inspired to do great things and lift others with our positive energy. It's a reminder that our mental health is just as important as our physical health, and we should always prioritize it.

Positive energy is contagious, and so is negativity. That's what I believe.

I would rather be with someone or a group that inspires me or makes me happy than suffer from negative emotions brought by someone, a group, or, worst of all, a personal creation—becoming an enemy of oneself.

Creating a mental vacation is a powerful tool. It's a heavenly experience that doesn't require leaving the comfort of your home. With the power of our imagination, we can visit almost any place we dream of, those on our bucket list.

One of my favorite Islands in the Philippines is Guimaras. It's one of the most minor Islands in the Province, and I'd like to return whenever I am in the region.

Island Cove on Guimaras Island

Guimaras is just a 20-minute boat ride from the coast of Iloilo province on Panay Island, so near the distance that both islands are visible.

One thing I like about Guimaras is the serenity of nature. It's not a very touristy place, so definitely not crowded, and you'll enjoy soulful moments on the waters, on the shore, or on a cliff.

Guimaras is not overdeveloped as compared to Island destinations like Boracay or Siargao. That's one reason I like it even more, especially since there are Filipino-style cottages and not huge hotels that can pollute the place's ecosystem. 

I hope Guimaras will retain its grandeur. It's a natural environment and will not be subject to over-commercialization.

The naturally beautiful environment on Guimaras Island

Guimaras is already beautiful in its present state, and many people would appreciate its hidden beauty and natural charm.

Guimaras is not just a tiny island; it has friendly, hospitable people with good hearts, making them different. It has the heart and soul at its best.

© 2020 Del Cusay

Related Post:

👉 The Resilience of the Filipino Spirit: The People of Guimaras

The Palace in the Sky

There's something mysterious about the ruins—the old, well-preserved structure built to last a lifetime.

That's what the ruins are for. To stand the test of time. 

In the Philippines, just an hour from Manila is the ruins we call the "Palace in the Sky," now more popularly known as "People's Park in the Sky," which gives a chilly feel due to its geographical location on the summit of Mount Gonzales in the province of Cavite.

At the veranda overlooking the Shrine of Our Lady, Mother of Fair Love

The view deck overlooking the Taal Lake

The structures' old and rustic charm attracts local and foreign visitors due to its breathtaking view of the famous Taal Volcano and Lake. 

Truly captivating!

The highest point. That's the description of the place, as it is located on the summit of the highest mountain in Cavite at 709 meters (2,326 ft.) above sea level. And so, it offers a 360-degree view of the Tagaytay Highlands, including nearby recreational parks and villages.

The story of how this "Palace in the Sky" became a famous ruin is different from the stories of the other ruins in the country.

What sets this ruin apart is its unique story, a tale that's unlike any other in the country.

The view deck overlooking the mountains

In the late 70s, during the administration of the late President Marcos, "Palace in the Sky" was commissioned to serve as a guest house for the visit of then-US President Ronald Reagan. That's a show of Filipino hospitality at its best. 

A royalty welcome and treatment.

However, the construction was left unfinished when the visit of US President Reagan was canceled.

We have been left with the "Ruins in the Sky" since then.

The rustic and mossy Palace ruins 

It's a bittersweet sight, imagining the beauty that could have been if the construction of the Palace in the Sky had been completed, but instead, it was left abandoned.

That was supposed to be consistent with the Imeldific brand, the highest extravagance attributed to former First Lady Imelda Marcos.

Honestly, I love the place on the summit. Although the ruins can be a little creepy at first sight, their beautiful ambiance captures the heart. 

It's clear that the Palace in the Sky was built with love and admiration, a testament to the beauty of the place.

The next time you visit Tagaytay, you should never miss this place. 

A must-visit! 

It's a great weekend getaway for the family, partners, or even solo travelers. It's a romantic destination that captivates the soul of anyone.

The "Palace in the Sky" is not just an abandoned ruin. It possesses timeless elegance and natural charm. It represents our glorious past and creates beautiful memories to last.

© 2020 Del Cusay

Baywatch at Camp Rofelio

The West Coast of the Philippines is a treasure trove of summer destinations and the crown jewel? The picturesque coast of San Felipe is nestled in the province of Zambales. With its captivating beauty, this tranquil town in the North is a place that beckons to be explored.

The waves, the blue-green waters, and the greyish-powdery sand make it an excellent getaway for rejuvenating and having some pure thinking moments.

In May 2018, I discovered a newly built camping site on the coast of Liwliwa, a town in San Felipe.

It's a sanctuary of serenity, with several cottages and tents for overnight stays. As I woke up each morning, I felt the peace of the place, a place where I could truly unwind and connect with nature.

Standing barefoot at the seaside gate of Camp Rofelio, you can enjoy a perfect view of the horizon. The water is clear, and the waves are relaxing. You can also sit on the sand, meditate, and capture the best view of the surroundings.

A great weekend retreat. Camping at the beach. A soulful moment to watch the sunset. Fresh-grilled seafood for dinner and a bonfire night to remember.

It was indeed a memorable and fun moment at Camp Rofelio. It's a decent weekend destination—a solemn place where you can be at peace and one with nature. When you hear the waves inside the tent at night, you'll have the most relaxing and deep sleep ever.

But, hey! I'm supposed to be bay-watching!

A Baywatch, to appreciate the area, the surrounding waters, and the place facing the West Philippine Sea, had created controversy from unwanted intruders. The pirates of the sea had been inside our Philippine waters, causing tensions and threats to the fishing livelihood of the locals.

The Philippine government is supposed to protect those waters, defend our territorial seas, and secure what's best for our people.

There were spotted dredging foreign vessels in the territorial waters of Zambales that threaten our territorial rights and the fishing rights of several Fishermen on our territory.

We are standing as a Baywatch. Someone who sees intruders from afar. But our local fishermen are powerless, and even the regional and national governments must be more robust to defend the territory.

I love Zambales and would love to return for the next summer season. But the best Baywatch is to see happy people and not stories of intrusion—like thieves of the sea. Camp Rofelio is a good place for Baywatch, but be mindful and have a telescopic eye for the pirates of the sea.

We dream of creating and preserving safe and thriving tourist destinations. But to do so, we must be vigilant and informed about issues that threaten the rights of our people. Our silence could cost us our paradise. We must be vigilant and protect our haven.

San Felipe is a place of kind and peaceful people. Protect it and make it a heaven-on-earth experience—a paradise. Together, we can protect it and become a good Baywatch—a good Filipino.

© 2020 Del Cusay

The Breathtaking View of Taal Lake

As a tropical country, the Philippines is hot and humid almost year-round.

And so it's even hotter in summer!

When people need to relax and unwind over the weekend, there's a place we can travel to escape from the lowland heat.

It's Tagaytay! Overlooking Taal lake.

Tagaytay, with its cool climate, is a unique gem that I adore. A mountain resort just a short one-and-a-half-hour journey from the bustling Philippine capital, Manila.

It's not just the climate but also known for its scenic and breathtaking view of Taal Lake and, one of the world's smallest active volcanoes.

In June 2018, I had a great weekend in Tagaytay. It was just a brief moment to rejuvenate from the noise and stress of the metro. That was my third and last visit, and it was memorable.

But this charming tourist destination has a sad story about the recent volcanic eruption in January 2020. Its eruption was one of the most destructive, causing a struggle for livelihood, health, safety, and loss of lives in Taal, the province of Batangas. It affected nearby areas and reached as far as Metro Manila.

Will I ever come back to this place?

Yes, I will return. This enchanting place, nestled between the provinces of Batangas and Cavite, will always hold its allure. The people here are resilient, and their determination to bounce back after a natural disaster is truly inspiring.

The destruction of the ecosystem threatens the livelihoods of fishing and farming and will significantly reduce the tourism sector.

Now, during this Pandemic, the people in Taal and Tagaytay are again under a significant threat of livelihood due to the disruption of businesses caused by the lockdown. They have not fully recovered from the volcanic eruption in January, when the lockdown due to the Pandemic was ordered in March 2020.

That's like continuous disaster and suffering. I hope it will end.

Tourism was a big loser during this Pandemic. Given the strict travel restrictions and protocols on health standards, it could hardly recover. 

As we look forward to the end of this pandemic, it's crucial that we all play a part in reviving the tourism industry, which is a cornerstone of our country's economy.

Is it safe to visit?

Since it will take years for another volcanic eruption to happen.

Tagaytay, overlooking Taal Lake, is close to my heart. It has memories to cherish for a lifetime. It will be a breathtaking place to visit for a lifetime.

© 2020 Del Cusay

Weekend Getaway in Boracay

I need a vitamin sea. That's how millennials or young travelers would say whenever they need a break.

The sea is medicine, prescribed not by physicians but by none other than our very own friends, our colleagues, or people closer and special to us. We feel calm and relaxed when we are in a body of water. Our mind becomes clear, and our soul is uplifted. Our well-being is healed and rejuvenated, and that's the ultimate goal to achieve.

The truth is we want to escape reality once in a while, to live in a fantasy land where there are no pains and stresses. We pause, pack our things, and go on a travel and adventure.

Dream on and go on.

In April 2016, I had a breathtaking weekend getaway on a small island on the west coast of Panay Island in the Philippines—Boracay Island, a true gem of the world.

It's a hotspot for the world's beach and island lovers. A multi-cultural hub where the East meets the West.
That was my 5th time visiting Boracay in about two decades. And each time I saw it, its ecosystem and culture had undergone several transformations. I the old Island culture I missed.

 I may have seen Boracay during its pristine days when it was less developed and had its Island vibe. So that brings back vivid memories worth remembering. 

Last year, when it underwent temporary closure, it became like a ghost Island. Only a few tourists and businesses closed for about half a year. If we humans deserve a break, a busy Island deserves a much-needed break too.

When an ecosystem is damaged by commercialization, it has to clean and heal itself before serving people again. Other more popular Islands in the country and Southeast Asian region followed suit. They also rehabilitated their Island paradise. That's a great move, made with great sacrifice and love. 

Take a break from the crowd. The party. The noise. The pollution.

I love Boracay. It has a different vibe from other Philippine Islands and beaches. So, I am pro-rehabilitation if needed so it can breathe again and rejuvenate—just like us human beings.

The Nami Resort will take you over the hills and allow you to experience exhilarating fun from an old-style elevator reaching the hilltop. Nami Resort had the best view of the Island, which was just fantastic. The food, the music, and the ambiance are great. The experience was magical.

When people can travel again without restrictions, Boracay will open its paradise for responsible business owners and kind travelers who understand the importance of preserving its beauty.

Boracay is for everyone, and I look forward to the day when I can once again swim in its water, witness its captivating sunset, see the sandcastles, and leave footprints in the sand.

© 2020 Del Cusay

Father's Day at The Farm

Life at the farm is the best news every day during this Pandemic. We benefit from a clean and green environment for healing and rejuvenation.

Today, we bask in the joy of celebrating a special Father's Day. We've chosen to spend this Sunday at the farm, a sanctuary we've lovingly nurtured over the past year. It's a day filled with warmth, love, and the beauty of family bonds.

As I swing through a hammock, I reminisce about how it all started in June 2019, from when it was conceptualized until it materialized.

Today, a year after the pandemic, we're literally reaping the fruits of our labor. The fruits and vegetables my parents started to plant after the lockdown and home quarantine are now ready for harvest. Even in adversity, their unwavering commitment to organic farming is genuinely inspiring. This journey of growth and harvest is a testament to our resilience and determination, a beacon of hope in these challenging times.

Our farm is a cornucopia of nature's bounty. We have various vegetables like eggplant, bitter gourd, string beans, spinach, and squash. And that's just the beginning. We also have fruits like Philippine lime or Calamansi, tomatoes, avocado, banana, watermelon, and coconut. These and many more in weeks to come as we expand and develop other areas for planting.

We aim for sustainable farming practices to provide our own food on the table in this time of crisis and as a way of life—a new lifestyle.

In previous years, I may not have celebrated Father's Day at home, so this year is a precious opportunity to be present and to show gratitude and appreciation to our dear Father. It's a chance to create lasting memories and strengthen our bond.

I'm filled with gratitude for the love and inspiration that has guided us through this crisis. It's been a time of profound learning, allowing us to plant, grow, and harvest not just food, but also personal growth and resilience. We've learned to appreciate the simple joys of life and the power of family bonds.

Father's Day isn't just a day; we celebrate it throughout our lifetime. Wherever we are, he will always be in our hearts—our Father, our hero, our motivation, and our source of endless inspiration. 

© 2020 Del Cusay

A Journey of A Thousand Miles

Life brings us to the place of our dreams. That's the beginning of a beautiful journey ahead. We dream it, we believe it, and we live it.

We manifest and hold on to that dream; we bring our intentions to life, and it starts with a single with— a single step.

Life may bring us to several places in our lifetime. Some destinations may still need to be planned, but opportunities and destiny take us there.

In 2016, after a thousand-mile journey abroad, life brought me to a lovely place known as the city of love—Iloilo City, Philippines.

I hold a special place in my heart, having lived there for a year, from mid-2002 until mid-2003. It's where I embarked on my college journey in a city epitomizing the region's higher education. The city's charm, with its century-old churches and meticulously preserved ancestral houses, was a sight to behold—a beauty that transcends time.

True to its moniker, the city lives up to the expectation of being the 'City of Love.' But it's not just the name; it's the warmth and love of the people that truly make it a place that captivates the soul.

13 years after I left, I came back to live and practice my profession by working in a medical center near the esplanade, where I used to spend some morning strolls and sunset viewing. I have seen the city's growth as it embraced modern infrastructure development while preserving its old heritage. Now, the city is a fusion of the ancient and contemporary world. It has a more charming vibe among the developing cities in the Philippines.

That journey to the 'City of Love' brought memories to cherish for a lifetime, until one day, another journey began to another place; to the country's capital region of Metro Manila, back to the site where I started to work and discover places and the world.

Today, our world may have stopped. Life may have led me back to my greater comfort and security, to my birthplace, and to be with my family — my loved ones. This return to my roots, where I was born and raised, has brought me peace and stability during these uncertain times.

The thousand-mile journey brought meaning to life but also took me away from my family. Now, a journey of a thousand miles includes a 'home sweet home' closer to my family. Home, where I find comfort, security, and love, is not just a physical location but a feeling of belonging and connection.

Life is good to return to their loving and warm embrace during this crisis, where uncertainty unfolds. I was far away from them for years, searching for a living, but now I am living with them, searching for meaning.

Now, a journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. Wherever we are in this world, no matter how far the distance we've been, we'll always return to the most special place in our hearts-our home, where our family resides. It is the love and warmth of our family that makes any journey, no matter how long or difficult, worthwhile. 

Life will always protect and comfort us, leading us back, even after a thousand-mile journey and beyond. 

© 2020 Del Cusay

Living Our Best Normal

We want to live our best lives. That is not just an aspiration but a realization of our life purpose. Our goals and dreams fuel our being toward not just success but also fulfillment—our heart's desire.

In these times, we are now one world and one humanity, a beautiful tapestry of diversity that used to be divided by the color of our skin, the amount of money in our wallet or bank, and religious affiliation and social status. Our differences now unite us in a shared experience.

Today, we feel the oneness of humanity, that we are united through a shared experience. We are all vulnerable to the global threat to human health; either we survive or continue to suffer—we're all in this together.

We are slowly adapting to a 'new normal,' which is an initiation of how much we have learned about survival skills and the test of our life's top priorities.

In the 'new normal,' people may realize that money may sometimes not save a life, that it isn't our ultimate purpose, and that the health we sacrifice for cash will be gone when we lose the battle. 

Living in the city would start to lose appeal, and people would see the value of life in the rural area-- in the countryside.

The pandemic has been a profound teacher, revealing to us the beauty of the natural world that was once distant. The surrounding mountains, the chirping of the birds, and the clear blue skies, once the privilege of rural areas, have now become a part of our urban lives in isolation.

Now, more than ever, we realize the value of health and wellness over material wealth. Choosing a sustainable life in a safe and peaceful rural area can give us the peace of mind we crave. This shift in mindset will lead to healthier and more vibrant lives.

Between life in the city and in a rural area, the 'new normal' would point the arrow to the less crowded place where one can breathe fresher air and enjoy a fantastic view of the natural environment free from pollution.

And hearing from someone I highly respect, Master Del Pe, a Modern Sage, and an International Life Mentor, inspired people about living not just the 'new normal' but living our 'new best normal'-a life where we prioritize health and wellness, strive to live with our best self, and adapt to the challenges and threats that will arise in the future.

To live our most extraordinary life and our 'new best normal' is to go beyond a safe and secure life to a sustainable one we all deserve. Sustainable living promotes a healthier environment and enhances our well-being, allowing us to live our best lives. 

© 2020 Del Cusay

Life in The New Normal

Life on the beach. That is what people miss on a hot summer day. This is supposed to be a fun-filled dry season for families, groups of friends, coworkers, or solo travelers. But this season has fallen into isolation.

Last year's summer vacation was one of the best vacations ever. I never thought it would be the previous summer to get sunburned, the last time to enjoy the summer breeze and the serenity, the last time to leave footprints in the sand.

After several weeks, our economy and the rest of the world are slowly returning to life, but it may be hard for people to get back to life -- the kind of life we used to live. However, our resilience in adapting to this new normal is not just a testament to our strength and determination, but a source of empowerment and strength.

While viewing my digital photo album, I saw smiling and happy faces. I saw how we used to celebrate family gatherings without physical distancing. I saw how we used to travel and go to public places without a mask. That was just a recent past, but now it feels like we have wholly entered a new world with a new definition of love.

The new normal is tough love. When families at home cannot even give a hug and kiss, when old friends or acquaintances cannot recognize each other due to facial protective covering, when partners cannot hold their hands, and when young kids and our elderly are best protected by staying at home, all these are for the sake of love—love on the new normal. 

But I still believe in a profound human connection. We may still be able to give a smile to someone we know or anyone we meet along the road. A new definition of a smile—a smile of gratitude on the new normal—is in order.

Our new normal is not only about hygienic measures. It goes beyond our new lifestyle—a healthy one to which most people will prioritize. This is a time to focus on self-care and personal growth, which will be crucial in navigating this new world. Let this be a source of motivation and inspiration for all of us.

We will now be more health conscious, eat the right kind of food, get some physical exercise, get some nourishment from the sunlight, plant and harvest our own food, get adequate sleep, pray, meditate...

Activities that nourish our body, mind, and soul are most important. We can engage in activities like yoga for physical health, meditation for mental peace, and prayer for spiritual well-being. We should strive to avoid worries, fears, and anxiety. Though it's normal to feel that way sometimes, we can still escape, regain our best selves, and live our most extraordinary lives.

For now, we may have already learned some tools and techniques as we move on to a new normal. You may now know how to quiet the mind and relieve stress through meditation. You may have learned the art of flexibility of the physical body through yoga or internal stamina exercises. You may have started doing backyard gardening. You may have learned to follow your passion for visual/digital arts like painting and photography. You may have started to love reading books, articles, and blogs. You may have found joy in sharing your passion through vlogging.

At this time, we must have overcome our Fear zone and moved to the Learning zone. As we start living in the new normal, we are entering the Growth zone, where we must learn self-mastery and become a higher version of ourselves. This new normal is not a hindrance but a platform for personal growth and development. Let's embrace this potential for growth with hope and optimism.

A lot has changed in a matter of weeks in isolation. We may now still be dreaming about that planned summer vacation. You may now be ready to explore what awaits you in the new normal. 

Circumstances may have changed, but hoping they will not change our being, our beliefs and values, our humanity, and most of all, our faith in God.
© 2020 Del Cusay

Opportunities in Crisis

We feel people's fear. This pandemic teaches us to be sensitive to different kinds of emotions. Anxiety, panic, boredom, anger, irritability, and depression are some of our common reactions. People may not say it, but we sense the negative vibe of people's lower emotions. 

We all share this sense of fear, a collective consciousness that has detected a new threat to our humanity. It's a feeling that's average and expected, a part of our shared experience, a bond that unites us in these uncertain times.

But how can we escape this threat? How long shall we feel fear? How can we go back to living our everyday lives?

During these times, education experts say we live in 3 different crisis zones.

Fear Zone. This is our initial tendency to threaten. It's normal! Feel the fear. Acknowledge this feeling and not be in denial. Our physical expression can't mask our feelings deep within for one main reason: we are all together. We are wired to feel for each other.

Learning Zone. This is an excellent opportunity in times of crisis. We make use of the time we are in isolation. Most people might still be stuck in a fear zone, but learning shouldn't stop us. Students, working professionals, parents, young kids, and even old retirees can learn something new during this time. New knowledge and skills are our weapons as we return to living a 'new normal' during and post-pandemic.

Growth Zone. This is about taking control of our emotions and mind.
When we achieve a certain level of self-mastery, we grow and transform into a more fantastic version of ourselves. We succeed because we refuse to remain a victim of circumstance and prisoners of fate.

So, in what zone are we now?

From the 'fear zone' during the first few weeks of quarantine, where I was consumed by worry and uncertainty, I gradually transitioned to the 'learning zone.' I started attending webinars, reading educational articles, and listening to podcasts. These activities not only kept me occupied but also filled me with a sense of positivity and personal empowerment. 

For instance, I have attended several webinars offered by local and international organizations and learned from Thought leaders about different subjects of expertise. These could be excellent opportunities to delve into a new field or deepen your knowledge in your current area of interest.

I listen to educational podcasts and read valuable insights from online articles. I continue to learn and audit existing knowledge and beliefs, pondering and updating obsolete information that hinders growth.

There's growth in learning.

Soulful Sunday, a concept I've embraced, is an excellent opportunity to not get stuck but to learn to adapt and engage in new interests and habits. It's a day dedicated to self-care, learning, and personal growth. On this day, I set aside time for activities that nourish my soul, such as reading, meditation, and engaging in hobbies. It's a practice that has brought a sense of balance and joy to my life, and it's something you can easily incorporate into your routine.

Farming has been a great activity for us even before the pandemic, and we continue to plant seeds for a bounty harvest in this uncertain time. It's about growing food and nurturing a sense of responsibility, patience, and resilience. These are all essential aspects of personal growth that I've experienced firsthand through farming. It's also an opportunity to connect with nature and appreciate the simple things in life.

This is an opportunity to cultivate, develop, and create sustainable living. Organic farming practices are what we need for a healthier body and immunity to fight the unseen enemy.

Life in the countryside will always be exciting. It's just a matter of changing our mental state and the definition of success. There's a lot of learning and an opportunity to live a more comfortable and healthier life. 

As we journey forward, we'll understand that fear can sabotage and take control of our destiny. But we have an antidote, a potent dose of learning that can help us bounce back, stronger and more vital than ever. The future is not just a possibility; it's a promise of a better, brighter tomorrow that we can all look forward to.

© 2020 Del Cusay

Positivity in Uncertainty

Energy follows thoughts and intentions. This means that the energy we put into our thoughts and the intentions we set with those thoughts directly impact our lives. It's one of the most essential pieces of wisdom I have learned and adopted for years.

By harnessing the power of our thoughts and embracing optimism, we hold the key to making the seemingly impossible, possible. Our minds have the incredible ability to shape our reality.

But how can we stay positive in a world full of negativity? With the recent global crisis due to the pandemic, people are scared and anxious about what lies ahead of our uncertain future—the coming days and years.

We are all at risk, but at this time, somebody must be ahead of us. Someone must not be as scared as we are. They are our elders, our parents, and our grandparents.

Their resilience is a testament to the power of positivity in overcoming life's challenges.

Yes, they may be the most vulnerable but have the most positive spirit through these times.

They are not the weakest but the strongest because of their faith in the highest Divine power. Their religious or spiritual affiliations and activities make them truly alive. This faith gives them a sense of purpose and a belief that they are part of something greater, which, in turn, strengthens their resilience and positivity.

My Soulful Sunday is spent at the farm, and on this day, my parents show us how to live and survive this crisis.

The striking statement I have heard from them is that extensive farmland only serves its purpose if cultivated for sustainable farming. That's why they put their energy into it.

When I visit the farm after a week of home quarantine, I am glad to see the vegetable farm, where they have spent most of their time and energy.

They may never know what tomorrow will bring but know how to survive and thrive. There are no excuses, only developing habits and a positive mindset.

Our goal is to fortify our immune systems, starting with the nourishing food on our table. Fresh produce from our farm is our recipe for better health and stronger immunity.

There is a lot of positivity for today. There are a lot of flashbacks and realizations. These moments of reflection have brought me a deeper understanding of life and a renewed appreciation for the strength of the human spirit. There is a lot of energy, but there is also positivity in uncertainty.

© 2020 Del Cusay

Transfiguration in the Eyes of A Child

The child grows fast from birth to toddler, from the time they open their eyes until they start walking alone. This physical transformation delights us. A child was born and is yet to live a great life. 

This past Sunday, a day we often refer to as 'Soulful Sunday, 'we had a wonderful time at the farm. We brought our little one to explore a new world, just as we had done on New Year's Day, 2020, when he was just learning to walk. This Sunday also marked the second Sunday of Lent, a time of reflection and spiritual growth in the Christian tradition.

On New Year's Day 2020, when he was one year and one month old, we saw his curiosity to explore his environment. Although he couldn't speak or express his joyfulness, it could be seen in his smiles and actions.

At 13 months, he can walk by himself and is very playful. He can show different emotions. He laughs when feeling happy and cries when feeling uncomfortable.

A child lives in a different world, within our own but seen through a unique lens. They have the remarkable ability to influence our emotions. A child's laughter can brighten our day when we don't feel like smiling. When we feel tired, a child's energy can lift us up. Their powerful energy can transform our moods and emotions, showing us a different side of the world.

There are times when we may feel we've had enough, yet a child can find happiness and excitement in the simplest of things. We may feel weary or bored with our routine, but a child's endless curiosity and resilience can bring a sense of rejuvenation and hope. A child's journey of learning, falling, getting up, and smiling again is a testament to their endless fun and resilience.

This second Sunday of Lent discusses Jesus's transfiguration at Mount Tabor, which was witnessed by his chosen Disciples. Jesus transformed into a bright human being just before the disciples' eyes.

Here on Earth, our God may manifest in many ways through lavish living and even suffering. However, we may become blind in our faith and not see the bright side of life.

Unlike us, children see the world with a depth and gratitude that we often overlook. They remind us to appreciate the beauty and wonder that surrounds us. A child's perspective can be a source of enlightenment, teaching us to see the world with a profound sense of gratitude.

 Our Quest for Personal Transfiguration begins as we emulate the innocence of a little child, giving us a radiant glow as we live life with happiness, joy, and peace.

When we no longer see ourselves shining so brightly, we can find inspiration in a child's innocence and joy. In their eyes, we can see a reflection of Jesus's transfiguration, a reminder of the hope and potential for renewal that comes with learning to see the world through a child's eyes.

© 2020 Del Cusay