The Greatest Lesson I learned from my Father

What's the most valuable lesson you've gained from your Father?

The recent interview about former Senator Bongbong Marcos brought back memories of my Father, a man I admire as a leader and provider in our family. His love and purpose extend beyond us to the people in our community, creating a shared sense of purpose and a strong bond.

It is a great privilege to be in public service and to influence and make a lasting impact on people. It's about exerting energy and great effort to look after the people's and the community's welfare above the Self. 

I remember in 1998 when my Father decided to be in public service as a Municipal councilor. I had just graduated from elementary school and was overwhelmed by the world of politics. My Father informed us about his plans and wanted to hear our opinions. I strongly opposed it, and perhaps it was unanimous among my siblings. His calling to serve our community helped him to run for public office. Later on, we were convinced and gave him our full support. He won a seat in the Municipal Council, which was the start of his political service.

He ran for the second term as Municipal Councilor and won in 2001 and his third term in 2004. For nine consecutive years (1998 - 2007), my Father dedicated his life to improving his constituents' welfare through public service.

During those years, my Father instilled in me the power of perseverance. He taught me to have a fighting spirit and to follow my calling and dreams with unwavering determination. His lessons transformed my fears and doubts into confidence and courage. 

He pushed me forward and left my fears behind when he convinced me to follow his path when I ran as a Municipal Youth Council President in our hometown. At first, it was against my will since I needed more confidence to face the people and the position's responsibilities. However, I trusted him to be there to guide me. I won and sat in the Municipal Council for five years, from 2002 - 2007. During those years, I saw how my Father performed and served well on the Council. At that moment, I thank him for believing in me and pushing me beyond my limits. He took away my doubts and fears and let me soar high. 

In 2016, my Father returned to public service after nine years. He wasn't inactive since he held a position as Office of Senior Citizen Affairs (OSCA) President from 2014 - 2016. He ran again for Municipal Councilor, and he won. I did not favor his comeback since I would want to see him live a simpler life away from politics. He was unstoppable and full of energy. His passion and support of the people motivated him to serve. He listened and didn't turn them down. When the people call you to be a leader and a servant, there's an overflowing love and trust, and you just follow their call.

From 2019 until now, he's still serving as a municipal councilor and has overcome several challenges. He fought hard for what he believed was right and for the greater good of the community. He stood up and spoke his mind on controversial issues confronting our society. He showed willpower to get things done and to achieve more for the progress of the community.

My Father taught me the importance of never giving up and never surrendering when you're right. He showed me the power of speaking up and believing in yourself. His example in public service taught me that you can always choose to serve, even without holding an office. He instilled in me the value of always looking back and giving back. And he showed me that when people support and express love, you're on the right track and have done an excellent job.

©️ 2021 Del Cusay

A Moment of Healing and Memories

Where do you go when you need to unwind, relax, and set free?

People go to Baguio City for a reason. It's a place like no other in the country. It relaxes the body, mind, and soul. It liberates from worries and fears. And it helps revitalize and heal.

That's the highlands in the northern Philippines. It is a city of Pines and Strawberries, a historically rich and vibrant city where people go for a beautiful journey filled with unique cultural experiences waiting to be discovered.

When we feel exhausted and need to rejuvenate, traveling to a particular destination helps us recover. It changes our mood and uplifts our spirit. Then, we feel good again and do great things again.

In Baguio City, you don't just feel welcome, you feel like you belong. The friendliness of the people makes you stay, although you'll have to leave anyway. With momentary healing and rejuvenation, you'll be ready to face another race in a much more challenging place.

Not just for friends and lovers, but Baguio City is also for the family. A getaway for fun, learning, and appreciation of arts and culture. Baguio City's charm invites everyone to learn about their stories, heritage, and identity.

If I choose, I'd rather live in a place that perfectly balances nature and city life. Living in Baguio is like living in a mountain resort, surrounded by natural wonders for healing and relaxation, yet with all the conveniences of urban life.

Amidst uncertainty, when time permits, I would love to travel a long distance and return to Baguio. I would love to recreate those memories and visit its finest places. The memories create a lasting impact as the place where learning and training started.

We couldn't go places as much as we wanted for now. All we can do is reminisce about the good times. And when we're set free, we can travel again endlessly.

©️  2021 Del Cusay

Birthday Special: Life's New Chapter

A birthday is a moment in life when we celebrate a new beginning. A fresh start that fuels our dreams and desires. A further goal to achieve and a new mission to fulfill.

September 1st has been the most anticipated date for most of us. It's when we look forward to a happier and merrier Christmas celebration. The earliest Christmas for Filipinos.

For me, September 2nd is a celebration of life. It's when I feel grateful for reaching another year—a year that may be full of ups and downs, from personal challenges to professional successes, but it's also full of love and happiness. 

The joy of celebrating with my family makes this day extra special. Their presence is a constant source of warmth and comfort, reminding me of the love and support surrounding me. They've been there through every twist and turn, adding to the joy and contentment of my life. Their love is a treasure that I hold dear in my heart.

I am deeply grateful for the love and support I've received over the years. I've never felt alone; I am always guided and directed by the love surrounding me. It's this love that has made my life so rich and meaningful; for that, I genuinely appreciate and value each and every one of you. 

Even in the face of this pandemic, we refuse to let it dampen our spirits. Life must go on despite the challenges and threats. We choose to be brave, thrive, and break through barriers with unwavering strength and determination. This is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, a source of inspiration and hope for us all. Our collective resilience is a beacon of hope in these challenging times.

As I continue to battle uncertainty, life has been good to me. The road may still be unclear sometimes, but I always have hope. Just carry on and move on. I wish you all the best and Live my most extraordinary life.

©️ 2021 Del Cusay

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👉 Birthday Special: Love and Gratitude

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The Silent Heroes of the Pandemic

Do you believe in Superman? Does he exist? Does he have supernatural powers? Today's Superman is the one who doesn't wear a cape. They don't fight a big enemy. And they don't possess physical and mental strength at all times.

Today's healthcare workers, our modern-day Supermen, are not invincible. They can be brought down by an invisible enemy, their stamina and endurance can wane, their healing may not be swift, and worst of all, they can succumb to the disease they fight against.

During my time at The Medical City Iloilo, I witnessed the many faces of our modern-day Supermen. These healthcare workers, from nurses to doctors and other personnel, have dedicated their lives to a mission of healing, survival, and recovery.

Today's pandemic has revealed our healthcare workers' real value and worth. They are the silent Heroes who have saved thousands and even millions of lives from Covid-19. They have made a big sacrifice to extend the lives of the sick and the dying. 

However, the stories we hear about our silent Heroes are not always uplifting. In some countries, we see them on the brink of giving up, not due to their own exhaustion or mental health struggles, but because of a lack of support from the Government.

In the Philippines, we see the effect of the Government's negligence regarding our healthcare workers' welfare, especially the nurses who are already losing hope and morale. They are the modern-day Superman, yet they cannot even protect themselves the way they protect and care for their patients. They extend people's lives, yet they die inside from frustrations and disappointments. They are Superman, yet sometimes they couldn't rise up but fall.

As a nurse, I will always advocate for the proper treatment and support for my fellow nurses and healthcare professionals. We don't seek recognition, but we need the government to ensure our welfare and provide the necessary resources to fight these challenging times of health crisis.

We are Superman, but we are also human. We get tired and burned out. We can be hopeless and depressed. And we are not limitless, but we can also suffer from powerlessness. 

When this pandemic ends, our best salute goes to the silent Heroes who continue to serve the health and well-being of the people. Give your best gratitude and appreciation to them. That's the greatest gift that can open their hearts. Because it's when we have an open and big heart that we give and love more.

©️ 2021 Del Cusay

Life's Toughest Fight

When asked about your life's toughest fight, what would it be?

Is it about your fiercest opponent? Is it your unexpected defeat? Or your victorious winning?

When we're punched hard by struggles, it's easy to be defeated. It gets harder to rise up and give our best counterpunch. Life's even harder to get up when we're knocked out. We lose and do not even shout out. That's the reality of life; we learn not just from our most remarkable wins but also from our worst defeats.

However, at times, our toughest fight comes inherent—from within. This internal conflict, these lower emotions that fight us inwardly, they are not to be dismissed. They are real, they are valid, and they are often the most challenging to defeat.

Our tendencies for resentment, grudge, and rage are our worst enemies and often the hardest to fight. It could be our most challenging battle. We win some, or we lose some.

But what if our worst enemy is just ourselves? We can't escape our worst tendencies, conflicting personalities, and lower emotions. After all, it may be just us. How could we escape? How could we cope? How could we win the battle, our internal fight and greatest struggle? One strategy is to practice self-awareness and self-compassion, acknowledging our flaws and working towards self-improvement.

Even when we're struggling and not even close to winning, the toughest fight gives us the courage to keep fighting and moving. It's a testament to our resilience, our ability to endure and overcome, that we keep going.

In the end, all our emotions are valid. It's not just about recognizing the good, but also the bad and the worst. This recognition contributes to realizing our true essence of living. It's a journey of acceptance and growth, and it's okay to hope for a triumphant victory.

©️ 2021 Del Cusay

Journey from Alpha to Lambda

Would you rather be an Alpha, Beta, Delta, or Gamma?

We've all journeyed from the unexpectedly painful beginning in early 2020 to the second half of 2021. This is not the joyous path we've imagined. This is different from the future we've envisioned, but we've walked it together.

Back at the year-end of 2019 and the welcome of 2020, that was all fun. Who would have thought we'd all suffer a sad fate of uncertain life and future. 

Yes, we've come this far, and it's been almost two years of struggles and miseries. But like a roller coaster ride, we've shown resilience in the face of ups and downs. Like a dead-end road, we've found detours and U-turns. And like a crossroad, we've sometimes headed straight ahead. We may occasionally be turning right, and we could be riding in the wrong direction, but we've kept moving forward.

Yes, we may have aspired to be an Alpha or Delta personality type. But given the title associated with a deadly unseen enemy, we may just want to be a Nada. To have nothing to worry about. To have nothing to suffer. To have no fear and no painful ending, but only meaningful suffering turned into a blessing.

©️ 2021 Del Cusay

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👉 The Journey Continues: From Lambda to Omicron

Making Golden Dreams come True

Life has a way of surprising us when we least expect it. Hidilyn Diaz's victory in the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, a triumph that no one saw coming, is a testament to this. It reminds us that our sacrifices, perseverance, hope, and faith can lead to unexpected rewards.

When Hidilyn Diaz won a gold medal in the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, she greatly surprised the Filipino people. At a time when we were accustomed to hearing about the nation's not-so-good state, Hidilyn Diaz's victory was a thrilling surprise, raising the bar and giving us the honor of the first-ever Olympic gold medal for the Philippines.

Her dedication, fighting spirit, and willpower made us all proud. Hidilyn Diaz's victory is not just hers but a victory for all Filipinos. It's a powerful reminder that we can achieve great things when we believe in ourselves and have faith. 

Hidilyn Diaz's journey to victory was not easy. She faced over a decade of waiting, setbacks, and challenges. But she never gave up. Her story is a testament to the power of perseverance and resilience, inspiring us all to keep fighting for our dreams.

Hidilyn Diaz ended the longest waiting time for the Philippines to get that gold medal. It's not just ordinary gold but a symbol of our greatness. It symbolizes the most profound love for the country and reverence for the Filipino people. 

Hidilyn Diaz's success is a testament to the Filipino spirit. We may not have been fully supported from the start and may have been ridiculed for our deepest desires, but our unwavering support and belief in her could not stop us from achieving our golden dreams. 

So, during this pandemic, we may stop momentarily, but we keep the fire burning and make our dreams happen. It may not be our moment for now, but with perseverance and willpower, we can win until it's our time and until we can make that golden dream happen.

©️ 2021 Del Cusay

Surviving the Pandemic: Resilience and Hope

How resilient can we be when facing tough challenges like the pandemic?

Several stories of resilience and the transformative power of hope inspire us daily for those facing their greatest battle. When people have the fighting spirit and the will to live, they become survivors. They not only survive but thrive, fueled by the power of hope.

Surviving this pandemic isn't about social and economic status, physical health, or intelligence. It's about our resilience in the face of adversity, the unwavering faith and hope that we cling to in the midst of difficulty and sorrow. 

When life serves us the bitter cup of suffering, it doesn't discriminate. The pandemic has brought us all face to face with the same fears, doubts, uncertainties, daily life struggles, and negative emotions. In this shared experience, we find our common humanity.

But when will we endure? How long will we persist in the struggle? When will we truly thrive? 

This pandemic makes us ponder our lives. If we have limited time to live and survive, how can we live our best life? If we die tomorrow, what are the good things we can do today? Reflection, the key to living a life of purpose and fulfillment, invites us to look within and find our true path. 

©️ 2021 Del Cusay

The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly of the Pandemic

What's that one thing you regret not doing before the Pandemic hit?

Is it about all work and no play? No travels? Does it have enough money? Is it about being cold and unable to extend a hand and give a warm embrace? 

What about your fitness goals? That dream job abroad? Or perhaps your dream house, 

dream car and the dream wedding?

This Pandemic brought chaos and lousy energy into our lives. It has caused anxiety, fear, apathy, and grief. It killed our dreams and highest hopes. It made a lot of people hopeless and helpless. It made us believe that life is short and could suddenly be gone.

Despite the chaos and lousy energy the Pandemic brought, it also brought out the best in us. It tested our resilience and faith, fostering kindness and understanding. It underscored the value of relationships and the realization that money isn't everything. It prompted us to ponder our existence and life purpose.

What's the ugly side and the bitter truth this Pandemic brings? We cannot understand the nature of suffering, our inability to prioritize what's essential versus what's unwanted, and our failure to see others' worth and even our worth.

The saddest truth is that the invisible enemy turns out to be our blind spots, our inability to spot our weaknesses, and our failure to unleash our hidden powers and energy. After all these years, we're still stuck with our society's false beliefs and the influence of the majority. It's okay to have struggled in the past; it's part of our journey. 

The good, the bad, and the ugly taste what we are and what we give out to this world. We may never know when this Pandemic will end, but it's not the end yet to make a restart, a new beginning, so we'll have a happy ending. This is our chance to start anew, to create a better future for ourselves and our loved ones. 

©️ 2021 Del Cusay

Patan Durbar Square and the Royal City

Never before have I encountered a city as enchanting as Patan Durbar Square, nestled just eight kilometers south of Kathmandu. Its unique charm is a sight to behold.

Patan, the ancient name of present-day Lalitpur, holds a significant place in Nepal's history as the third-largest city, following Kathmandu and Pokhara.

While the old city of Patan offers a nostalgic tour of its royal past, there's one place that stands out—the Patan Durbar Square. This unique site is a treasure trove of history, art, and culture, waiting to be explored and appreciated.

I'm lucky to have visited one of the three Durbar Squares in the Kathmandu Valley, also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The other two Durbar Squares are in Kathmandu and Bhaktapur, but I needed help to visit them.

But then, as I entered Patan Durbar Square, I could sense its rich cultural past and the magnificent royal palace worth visiting.

It has 155 courtyards and 55 major temples significant to Hindus and Buddhists. I was able to visit one of the main temples and gained a great appreciation for architecture and the arts.

Patan is a city of fine arts. Its marvelous architecture evokes how skills are ingrained in its culture, preserved, and passed on to future generations. The artisans' craftsmanship is superb and brilliant as they create wood, stone, and metal carvings. 

Patan has preserved its rich tradition of artistic craftsmanship from the local woodcarvers and handicraft makers. Creative skills have lived on since the time of Royal King Newar. 

I was fortunate to visit Patan Durbar Square in 2013 before it was hit by a strong earthquake in April 2015. Some of the temples and structures were heavily damaged, but the good news is that they were reconstructed just like the original structure.

Walking on the red-tiled bricks of Patan Durbar Square, surrounded by the red wall bricks, was like stepping back in time. The fine arts and excellent craftsmanship of the past seemed to come alive, making it a truly unforgettable experience.

©️ 2021 Del Cusay

Tranquility at the Lotus Temple

Where can we find peace in a world of noise, hatred, and wars? People would fight for their beliefs and feel superior to their religion. Country versus country, religion versus religion, people have endless fights about their ideas.

In a country of over one billion people, I've found a place where people unite to worship one God regardless of social status and religion.

The Bahá'í House of Worship, also known as the Bahá'í Temple or Lotus Temple, is a stunning modern structure that simply demands a visit to fully appreciate its awe-inspiring beauty. 

This architectural wonder was designed to resemble a lotus flower. It can be seen from the top, all sides, and even a kilometer away. It was built to house thousands of visitors from different places in India and nationalities worldwide.

It was a great moment when I challenged myself to visit the Lotus Temple in Delhi, India, sometime in December 2011. I remember the thousands of people inside the temple complex who endured the long lines to get inside the main temple. I had to follow the strict rules of patiently waiting in line and leaving the shoes barefooted inside the temple.

Stepping into the temple, I found a peaceful spot to sit. In the center, I meditated for an hour, surrounded by a serene silence. There were no religious objects, just the walls and interior designs. Being in the midst of people from all walks of life and different religions was a deeply calming and meditative experience, fostering a sense of unity and peace.

Witnessing people of opposing beliefs come together to worship in the same place filled me with a profound sense of inspiration and hope. This level of inclusivity is rare, as many religions impose exclusivity to protect their faith. Yet here, in the Bahá'í Temple, all are welcome, and all are equal.

At the Bahá'í Temple, everyone is a son of one God. And that all people believe in one God. That's the significance of the Bahá'į faith. It's about the oneness of humanity. No hatred, no prejudice, and no exclusive God. But only one God for all.

If every country had its Bahá'í Temple, people, and even atheists, could have a place to visit to ponder their existence and purpose, to find meaning, and to contemplate the joy of living.

Bahá'í faith taught me about the realization of one God for humanity. The same God I adore and pray for wherever I am and maybe.

©️ 2021 Del Cusay 

Fathers Day Special: A Hero in our Hearts

Who's your favorite hero? You may idolize Marvel superheroes or national heroes for their bravery and supernatural powers. Since we're kids, we look up to someone with the energy to make things happen.

A hero could be seen on TV or read in a book. But the hero we can't miss is there with us from the moment we are born until our grown-up years and even when we live independently. Their heroism is a constant, reassuring presence, guiding us as we follow our path and destiny.

Our Father is a hero and deserves honor and recognition from us, his children. His endearing sacrifice made us survive and become better. We become whole and complete because he fills in with what's missing in us. He continuously provides guidance when we're down and on our way up. He believes in us and that we can always make it in life. That we can fight even if we have doubts and fears. We are forever grateful for his sacrifices.

When we go beyond personal goals and dreams, we become selfless. Fathers, in their own way, embody this selflessness, serving their families and the community. Their selflessness is something for which we should always be grateful.

My Father has achieved his higher purpose as an elected official in public service. He served as a Town Councilor from 1998 to 2007 and 2016 to 2022. His dedication and service have impacted our community profoundly, from improving local infrastructure to advocating for education. I've witnessed his performance and commitment; he has proven his toughness and resilience in dealing with battles, and his efforts have left a lasting legacy in our community. 

There are things I may have yet to understand in the past. But today, I carry within the lessons imparted. The wisdom will always be cherished and to be shared with loved ones. It's always in my heart because a hero is immortal. He stays forever in our hearts, inspiring us and providing comfort and reassurance.

Fathers are real-life heroes. They are our superheroes. They are everywhere, and they serve with selfless love and compassion. Today, we celebrate Father's Day, giving special moments of reminiscing and remembering their contributions and impact on our lives.

©️ 2021 Del Cusay

The Desire for Freedom

We all have fears. Sometimes, we fear big things like past traumas. There are times we fear the unknown. We feel anxious and overwhelmed by circumstances. And that our fears will haunt us forever.

With the arrival of the Covid-19 vaccination, a wave of relief is sweeping over us. More and more people are seeing a glimmer of hope. It's a long-awaited solution to the pandemic, a beacon of light in these dark times. 

With the vaccine as our shield, we can't continue living in a world where people succumb to the virus every day. The time for action is now. We must confront our fears and make the decision to get vaccinated.

Some reasons for people's fears of the vaccine could be a lack of factual information and the spread of disinformation on social media. The latter is common and harms people's confidence.

Some also fear the side effects or adverse reactions they hear about or watch on the news. They perceive them as realistic, so they refuse to be victims.

As someone who has been fully vaccinated against COVID-19, I can attest to the sense of relief and empowerment it brings. My second dose coincided with the 123rd celebration of Philippine Independence, a testament to the courage and altruism required in these times. By getting vaccinated, we not only protect ourselves but also our families, loved ones, and communities. 

We've been suffering a lot for over a year since the pandemic. It made us keep our distance from our loved ones and other people. It created a barrier on our physical bodies by wearing masks and face shields. It has made people lonely and depressed. It affected the way we live. And it killed our higher hopes and dreams.

The time for widespread COVID-19 vaccination is approaching. We cannot afford to fall ill or lose our lives. It's crucial that we all get vaccinated to achieve herd immunity and reclaim our lives. 

Life has to move on despite the challenges we all face. Life is good, no matter how dire the circumstances. Regarding our desire for freedom, we have to make our greatest sacrifice. We need to show our love. 

©️ 2021 Del Cusay

Magical Night in Jaipur

To complete my journey to India's golden triangle, I was lucky to visit the lost Kingdom of Jaipur in Rajasthan.

Jaipur, the Pink City, is a unique and intriguing destination whose name derives from the pink hue of its many palaces and structures. This tradition dates back to the days of its monarchy.

It took us five hours from Delhi to reach Jaipur for a grand MDP talk about 'Harmonizing Power, love, and Light among Women. ' This talk, held at the Marriott Hotel, was a unique opportunity to learn about the empowerment of women in Indian society and the role of love and light in fostering harmony.

That was a well-organized event and an inspirational talk of Master Del Pe, as he empowered women about their societal role and awakened their inherent power.

Jaipur stands out among India's cities for its warm and welcoming nature. The hospitality of the Rajasthani people is not just a gesture but a heartfelt expression that makes every visitor feel appreciated and at home, even on a short visit.

Our visit to a Rajasthani specialty restaurant was a journey into enchantment. The cultural night, a celebration of their dance and music, was a mesmerizing experience. The vibrant colors of the traditional attire, the rhythmic beats of the music, and the graceful movements of the dancers left us captivated by the grace and beauty of their performances, offering a unique and unforgettable cultural experience.

It was time for dinner after the cultural presentation and the welcome drinks. We entered their indoor dining area and waited for the food to be served fresh and hot. 

It was a unique ambiance with a Rajasthani backdrop and a painting with dim lighting. We were seated on the floor in a typical Indian seating position. The servers carefully poured over the food on the plate for every meal course, including dessert. 

The Rajasthani cuisine was not just good; it was delicious. The light mood continued until we finished our meal, a delightful journey of flavors. The rich and diverse flavors of the cuisine left us craving for more, a perfect end to a satisfying meal. 

That was a fiery, hot night, from the cultural presentation to the sumptuous meal. I was enthralled by the performances and the delicious food. It was a night of fun and delight that I will never forget.

Magic happens when we see something unimaginable, and Jaipur showed us it's the best offering.

I finally completed the Golden Triangle from Delhi to Agra and Jaipur. Those were the best moments worth reminiscing about. The sense of accomplishment and the memories created along the journey inspire us to create more such memorable journeys.

© 2021 Del Cusay

Getting a Vaccine Against Covid-19

If there's one thing I would regret not doing during this pandemic, it's not being vaccinated against Covid-19.

When thousands of people are dying every day, and millions of people are infected, I couldn't care less about non-participation in mass vaccination.

We've all been waiting for this. Finally, the world will have its solution to protect humanity against deadly diseases. The world has produced highly effective vaccines to help us achieve herd immunity. The next move is on us. 

If I don't get vaccinated, I'll have a chance of getting infected. Also, I can infect many people, including my loved ones. I may have strong immunity, but there's also a chance I'll die if it's severe. When the people I've infected also infect others, the cycle continues, and more people are at risk for their health.

So, getting vaccinated isn't just a choice—it's an obligation. I care about my family, friends, and humanity because we all suffer from this pandemic.

We've suffered a lot already, and our way of living has changed tremendously. Several countries' economies were affected, and many companies closed. More people lost their jobs. Individual and family income has decreased, and more people are getting mental health issues.

We've learned a lesson from this pandemic. It tests our resilience, tolerance, and character in times of crisis.

This pandemic should teach us to be stronger. It shouldn't lead to misunderstandings, fights, and blame games. It shouldn't destroy relationships and humanity.

This pandemic is about our commitment to a new start. It's time to be more health-conscious because good health is valuable. We may have neglected our health, but we can't afford to get sick this time. Hence, we have to be in excellent health.

We may never know when we'll finally remove our masks and face shields or when we can get closer to hug and kiss our loved ones. But with proper health protocols and vaccination, we're on the way to reaching our goal. Finally, the day will come when everything returns to normal, and we'll no longer suffer daily.

Be brave. Be bold. Keep on fighting, and keep on living. Once this pandemic is gone, it'll be a battle we've fought so hard, but we've survived and will thrive.

©️ Del Cusay

Pashupatinath Temple: Of Life and Death

All life comes to an end. That's a reality that most of us are scared of or in denial of the fate of human existence. In short, we'll all die. But what happens when we depart on our earthly journey? And so, one day, I was brought to a place to see the dead bodies for cremation rites on the holiest Bagmati River in Kathmandu, Nepal. 

My tourist guide brought me to one of the holiest Hindu temples in Kathmandu. He thought my visit would only be complete with it since it's declared a UNESCO World Heritage site and is a highly revered place among Hindus.

It was a unique place since the temples and ashrams were on the riverside. The Bagmati River is holy among Hindus, where they bring the dead bodies of their love for cremation rites.

I can't believe I have witnessed cremation rites open to the public. More than five dead bodies were cremated in the first hour since I arrived.

I was on the hill portion of the riverside, where other locals also came to witness. You can see the greyish-white smoke emitted from the dead bodies as they burn. You can imagine the smoky air in the cremation area from afar. I initially felt uncomfortable, but I must respect and learn from their religious beliefs.

Hindus believe our physical body is irrelevant as we die, so they cremate it instead of burying it. In Pashupatinath, families bring the dead body of their loved ones. It's to perform the last rites before they bid farewell to their dearly departed.

As the dead body arrives on the Bagmati riverside, they wash their feet with water from the river. They sprinkle some rice and shower some marigolds on the face before it gets burned. Then the ashes are scattered in the river. The family members would also walk three times clockwise around a wooden funeral pyre before placing the dead body on top.

That was an unforgettable experience back in 2013. Suddenly, it flashed back to when I watched the mass cremation rites on television on open grounds in New Delhi. This time, families cremate their loved ones who died due to Covid-19.

Pashupatinath temple is a holy site in honor of Lord Shiva, the destroyer in Hinduism.

When I stepped out of the Pashupatinath complex, I had mixed emotions. The place and the cremation rites may not be for the faint-hearted, but I survived.

I may not have enjoyed visiting Pashupatinath much, but I'm glad for the learnings. It was like reliving a lesson from my world history class. 

I've learned that when we die, our families will be there until the end to care for us. Our bodies may have vanished, but great memories remain in their hearts. Like Hindus, we may believe in the concept of karma and reincarnation. That may be that we don't only live once, but we're just waiting on our rebirth when our time ends.

©️2021 Del Cusay

Mother's Day Special: Endless Love

What happens when we're no longer on our Mother's side? What happens when we have separate lives away from her Motherly touch and care?

Now that we're grown up and living challenging lives, our Mothers' love remains a constant, always there to check on us and make us feel loved and cared for from a distance.

Mother's loving instinct, guided by her wisdom, is always right. She checks on our well-being, our whereabouts, and our achievements, making us proud and uplifting us in our challenging battles. 

Mothers are known to be superwomen. They can sense struggles and can heal our emotions to keep us whole. They can communicate with us when we're at a crossroads and don't know what to do. A telepathic Mother who'll guide us wherever we are and whatever we do. Just call her name, and she'll surely be there to rescue you.

Mothers know best, and that is true. Sometimes, we think we are on the right track, but she'll be there to redirect us so we can find our direction. The path she knows is safer and for our good.

Mothers are great fighters. They will sacrifice everything to raise us well. And so we can stand on our own. Their sacrifices, often unknown to us, are the foundation of our success. Let's strive to be as selfless and caring as they are, not just on Mother's Day but every day.

Today, as we celebrate Mother's Day, we also think about all the Mothers in our lives. To our sisters who are great Mothers to their kids and families. To our relatives and friends who are mothers, who never give up and continue in their motherly roles. And to those women who may not be our biological mothers but have shown us the same love and care, we celebrate you, too.

Mother's Day special is about showing our gratitude and endless love to our Mother. She's the greatest love of our life, and her Endless presence will always be our guiding light.

©️ 2021 Del Cusay

Mental Health and Coping during Covid-19 Pandemic

Today's world is full of stress that makes us tired and sick. That's part of living, but we need to stay healthy and full of vitality. We need to let go of the stuck energies, such as negative thoughts, past traumas, and self-doubt, affecting our health. We have to release what's unwanted on our bodies. We need to be well.

How can we become healthy when our world becomes smaller, yet only a few choices are left? How can we show vigor when we're not feeling confident, positive, and at peace with ourselves, which is what it means to feel about our best selves?

The Covid-19 pandemic is an addition to our stressors. It's making us sick day by day. The news updates we read and hear regularly cause anxiety and sadness. 

We can't just ignore the news and stay calm at all times. To feel empathetic is fine. It's normal to feel the suffering of other people. It's normal to sympathize with those whose lives were lost and who are still fighting for their lives to survive.

We can't just be feeling that way again and again. We can choose to stay above our lower emotions, and we can start to build up ourselves to become strong and unbreakable.

Dealing with our mental health during this pandemic is essential to our well-being. We need to continue living with sanity and clear consciousness. A sound mind is what we need for clear and best judgment. 

We can always release our stress, anxiety, and fatigue wherever we are. We don't need to physically go to the beach at this time of the pandemic. We can sit still in the comfort of our homes or lie in bed.

Meditation is our best tool to release stress and find peace of mind. Even though we can't travel to our favorite beach destinations, we can still harness the power of our minds through meditation. It's a powerful way to find relief and calm in the midst of chaos.

We always choose an ocean or a beach whenever we meditate. The saltiness of the water extracts the stuck energy from our bodies. 

When we think of an ocean or a beach, its saltiness becomes a powerful extractor of our negativities. Same as physically visiting an actual beach, but this time we imagine and recall vividly the beautiful memories, such as a peaceful sunset or a joyful day with loved ones, that made us feel good about ourselves. 

Releasing the stuck energies in our physical, emotional, and mental bodies enables us to plan and energize our future. 

This pandemic shouldn't make us feel bad about ourselves and the world that we're living in. We always have the power to feel good and choose our thoughts, emotions, and intentions wisely. It's our choice to prioritize our mental health and wellness, even in challenging times.

We may be unable to do as much in our community or help save as many people as possible. However, in our little way, we can start the healing on ourselves first. The healing always starts within us. That's our gift to ourselves and our contribution to our community -- to stay healthy and happy.

Despite the pains and sufferings, we can choose to be our best selves by prioritizing wellness over illness. By staying physically fit, emotionally stable, and mentally healthy, we can navigate these uncertain times with determination and resilience.

©️ 2021 Del Cusay

Boracay's Environmentally Conscious Tourism

Boracay Island in the Philippines is a mesmerizing paradise. It stands as one of the top tourist destinations and continues to be hailed as one of the world's most stunning beaches. 

Boracay Island in the Philippines is one of the top tourist destinations and remains one of the top beaches in the world. Various international magazines and travel websites recognize this island annually as one of the world's best, which has contributed to the influx of tourists from all over the world.

What I like about Boracay is its diversity, from different nationalities and locations where it suits the tastes and preferences of the tourists. It's like a melting pot of cultures and personalities, making it a world-class tourist destination.

However, beneath its picturesque facade, Boracay Island harbors some less appealing truths. During my visit in April 2016, I witnessed the environmental degradation that had taken hold, two years before President Duterte's decisive action to close the island for rehabilitation in April 2018.

For years, big businesses like hotels have deceived tourists and guests by providing reading material explaining the algae that make the shoreline dark green and unsightly. I can't believe how they disseminate disinformation by making it appear to be a natural occurrence.

I saw the big pipes from establishments that excrete wastewater to the shore, where untreated sewage is flowing, making the water in the area dark green and dirty.

The president called it a cesspool, and that observation is very evident. Then, he ordered a 6-month closure of the island. That move was a big sacrifice for the thousands of businesses and island workers and the number of affected tourists. The projected billions of pesos lost for the island's tourism paved the way to pursue its rehabilitation for intended revitalization.

How can we help our tourism significantly impact its sustainability and environmental protection? I believe that the 6-month rehabilitation of Boracay made us realize that money from tourism alone won't make us truly rich and progressive. However, our environmental consciousness as tourists will help destinations like Boracay become sustainable and highly livable.

Tourism is our number one industry, booming before the COVID-19 pandemic. When the lockdown happened, tourism was down and almost dying, but we've seen the clear waters of Boracay. Business establishments and tourists mainly contribute to the island's pollution.

Do we need to rehab our topmost islands every six years for six months? Well, that would surely hurt tourism, but it's for the good of the environment. We must balance tourism and its environmental impact to call it a paradise.

There's progress in Boracay compared to the first time I visited the island in 1998. However, it's becoming too commercial, and due to its fast-growing present-day development, the island may have lost its serenity and ambiance.

We need to amplify our tourism efforts and promote responsible practices. We are blessed with the most exquisite islands and beaches but also need environmentally conscious tourists and accountable businessmen. Let's leave no trace but footprints and wonderful memories, and this is how we can make a significant difference. 

When we can travel again without restrictions, we'll become better tourists. And together, we can help revive our tourism and our God-given paradise, knowing that positive change is not just a dream, but a tangible reality within our reach.

©️ 2021 Del Cusay

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Easter Sunday 2021: The Promised Land

Where will our destination be after this Covid-19 pandemic? Will a promised land be waiting for us, just like God's command for the people's great exodus in ancient Egypt? Will our top leaders become like Moses, who will make a great sacrifice and lead its people safely away from threats and destruction? We must trust that our leaders, like Moses, will guide us to safety.

The hostility and uncertainty during this pandemic brought misery and deep suffering to modern life. The powerful and influential became more substantial, and the weak and poor became poorer.

That's our current reality. With billions of people suffering, we feel the oneness of humanity for a great plan of the massive exodus. This time is to end the pains and suffering of the pandemic that's killing us.

Moses, a figure of outstanding leadership in history, protected his people under his guidance, and they reached the promised land. Today, our leaders must emulate Moses's courage and wisdom and listen to the collective voice of their people to protect and fight for them against the unseen enemy.

The world's religions, with their teachings of compassion, unity, and service, can guide the decisions of our nation's government and leaders to save us and overcome this great challenge of our time. 

Our leaders should keep going even after the end. We may never know how long we will fight and remain steadfast, but one thing is sure: God speaks to the leaders of our land amidst the noise and chaos.

As we face the greatest challenge of our time, we must remember that God is testing our faith. Our leaders will guide us through this trial if they listen to God's voice and accept the crosses entrusted to them. We all have our crosses to bear, but with unwavering faith, we can overcome. 

We will find ourselves in a promised land when we finally emerge from this pandemic. Having weathered this storm, our nation and leaders will have grown wiser and more resilient. We will become great believers and enrich our lives in ways we cannot yet imagine.

©️ 2021 Del Cusay