Celebrating Chinese New Year 2019: Luck, Prosperity and Faith

Lion and Dragon Dance 

Chinese new year has been part of the Philippine culture for centuries and is celebrated by Filipinos from all walks of life, especially of Chinese descent, we call Tsinoy or Intsik.

In Binondo, a district in Manila, a vibrant and colorful celebration happens every Chinese New year to welcome prosperity and abundance in businesses established by the Tsinoys, with a majority of the community coming from Fujian and Guangdong provinces in China.

Grand Parade at Ongpin St. in Binondo

Centuries has passed. They have endured wars and conflicts in their little community, Chinatown in Binondo, and communities established in other places in the Philippine archipelago. But today, their businesses thrive in Binondo and have conquered almost all commerce and industries, becoming business leaders.

Our Philippine culture is greatly influenced by the Tsinoys, as evidenced by the food we serve during holidays, beliefs in luck through Chinese astrology or horoscope, Chinese martial arts, Chinese feng shui, Chinese arts, and architectural designs and structures. Today, all of these influences are alive in Binondo, particularly in the famous street of Ongpin - - the center of the Chinese New year celebration in the country.

Fruits and lucky charms 

Even in politics and governance, Tsinoys have been elected to serve the country. Beyond their business interests, they have proven to be an effective public servant, becoming truly Filipino by heart. From their ancestors as Chinese immigrants to the Philippines, they now have a massive influence in Philippine politics, and Filipinos patronize their brand of leadership.

My journey in Binondo started back in 2013. Celebrating the Chinese New Year 2013: A New Beginning was a meaningful and joyful experience. That was the beginning of a Chinese-Filipino culture immersion for a greater understanding of the country's deeply-rooted Chinese culture and influence.

Five years after, Celebrating Chinese New Year 2018: Prosperity and Abundance was a celebration of success and thanksgiving for a greater year that has passed and a greater optimism for the current year. That's the essence; becoming better and bolder every year.

According to Chinese culture, this year of the Pig brings wealth and prosperity through the beliefs and symbols one must possess. This has been adopted by most Filipinos, and every year we strive to become a better version of ourselves and free ourselves from obsolete beliefs. Every new year is a renewal and a vow through the lists of resolutions. We may believe in luck, but our faith and personal devotion to a higher source also bring success and prosperity in life.

May our dreams and hopes become higher and brighter as we celebrate a new year with optimism and grace this year and beyond.

© 2019 Del Cusay

Pasinaya 2019: Rights, Freedom and Culture

Pasinaya 2019 Opening Ceremony 

Philippine arts and culture are truly alive, and this year we celebrate our Filipino identity through the Pasinaya Festival. This is the 15th year celebration since it started in 2005.

"Pasinaya" means an inauguration or a grand opening of the many arts and cultural presentations offered by the Cultural Center of the Philippines to Filipinos and even foreigners who want to explore more about our culture.

I had just found out about this festival several years when I discovered the festival's opening ceremony in the vicinity of the Cultural Center of the Philippines in 2013. We were having a Sunday workout (essential martial arts and meditation) with my colleagues at the ASEAN Garden of the CCP complex. With my curiosity about the event and interest in cultural programs, I returned in the afternoon. I was able to catch up with the shows presented by the CCP resident companies and other presentations in the CCP main ramp and alleys.

That was my first time watching the presentations of the CCP resident companies like the Madrigal Singers, Bayanihan Folk Dance Company, and the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra, who have given honor and prestige to the Philippines on the world stage through their world-class performances.

Pasinaya 2019 Art displays

Pasinaya 2013: Rediscovering Philippine Arts and Culture was my first ever experience of this great festival. It was very memorable, and I was grateful to have a glimpse of our diverse culture through arts, music, and dance brought to life by performers from different places in the country.

The fascination followed the year after, in 2014, when I introduced my sister to the festival, who appreciates such a cultural event. After missing the event in 2015 and 2016, I was able to experience the festival again in 2017.

Pasinaya 2017: Arts for Peace was even bigger and more significant when Filipinos could be united through arts despite the wars and conflicts we experienced during that time. Even today, when conflicts still happen due to terrorism and religious differences, we can be united through our appreciation of Philippine Arts and music. Various musical instruments and melodies bring harmony and camaraderie to everyone regardless of age, creed, and social status.

Last year was also memorable when I invited a friend who appreciates Philippine Arts and culture.

Pasinaya 2019 Performers from different schools

Pasinaya 2018: Love for the Philippine Arts is about giving our highest appreciation and respect to Philippine Arts and culture, which is considered the soul of our nation and our identity to the world.

I have witnessed and experienced the past 4 years of Pasinaya celebrations. It makes me proud to be a Filipino as I continue to explore the depth of our culture and national identity.

Pasinaya 2019 CCP Resident Companies

For the year 2019, I was able to watch performances from different participating schools and all the performances from the CCP resident companies: the Ballet Philippines, UST Symphony Orchestra, Philippine Ballet Theater, NAMCYA, Ramon Obusan Folkloric Group, Philippine Madrigal Singers, Bayanihan Dance Company and the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra. This year's theme is Karapatan, Kalayaan at Kultura (Rights, Freedom, and Culture), and thousands of Filipino arts and culture enthusiasts are gathered to celebrate their being Filipino. This year's theme reminds us of our rights to express our thoughts and emotions about the current events affecting our nation. Just like freedom of expression, we must remain to be vocal and not be silent about the issues confronting our nation. We must be free to express our sentiments whenever we are suppressed from our rights
and freedom.

Every Filipino has a voice, and our collective voices can make a difference in nation-building and strengthen our culture. We have our own identity that even globalization couldn't break us apart, but instead unite as one nation and be truly Filipino in words, deeds, and thought.

© 2019 Del Cusay

Celebrating the Feast of Sto. Niño 2019

I'm always fascinated with Philippine culture, especially how Filipinos celebrate festivals, showcasing the best in arts with a modern twist.

This month of January is a month-long celebration of one of the grandest festivals in the country - - the Feast of Sto. Niño. This is perhaps one of the oldest religious festivals in honor of the Holy Child Jesus, which was brought into the archipelago in the 16th century. Five centuries have passed, and we are still celebrating the presence of the Holy Child Jesus. It is everywhere; in churches, chapels, our home altars, and our hearts.

What makes it significant in our lives is the innocent appeal of the image of Sto. Niño. As Christians, we are called to emulate his character and strengthen our faith in his name. 

I may not have witnessed the grandest festival in honor of Sto. Niño like Sinulog, Dinagyang, and Ati-than, but I have been celebrating a long procession of the different images of Sto. Niño in Tondo, Manila, and Caloocan City for 4 years, and  My previous years' celebrations are below:

• Celebrating The Feast of Sto. Niño de Tondo
• Celebrating the Feast of Sto. Niño 2016
• Celebrating the Feast of Sto. Niño 2018

Here, people are dancing to the loud beat of the drums while carrying a Sto. Niño image. The young and the old, the rich and the poor, are together in this celebration.

Our endless devotion to Sto. Niño is about accepting Jesus in our lives. When we are weak, then comes strength. When there is sadness comes happiness. And in desperate cases comes hope.


© 2019 Del Cusay

Mother's Day Special: Unconditional Love

A Mother is someone who loves us with all her heart. That is the definition that most of us would describe to our mother. Being loving and caring is beyond her duty of motherhood; it is a commitment and eternal. When we were young, we were helpless, and we ended up crying and clinging to our mother, who would then comfort us, making us feel safe and protected. As we grow up, our mother is still there, who watches us embrace our own world, ensuring that we can stand up on our own.

Today, we celebrate Mother's Day, a celebration of life; we are here in this world because of her and continue to live better with her undying love and support. Mother's Day Special: A Celebration of Love is not just a one-day celebration. It is to be remembered and celebrated at any time of the year whenever we feel the need to appreciate them and make them feel special. We may not be showing off how deeply we love them, but somehow we get to make them feel good with our sweet gestures.  

Distance may not become a hindrance in showing our love to our mother. She is there to listen when we feel weak or frightened. She assures us that everything will be fine and you will keep fighting. The world is harsh, and we need to become a fighter in the real world. Mother's Day Special: Compassionate Care is a way of raising us to become better people and to realize our purpose in the community where we live in. We are taught never to give up easily, but a victory comes our way whenever we feel lost. We just need to be prepared to accept and live it wholeheartedly.

Today, some children may not have a biological mother on their side. But someone has given them hope and stood up to be their mother. It is a commitment and a testament to unconditional love. Blessed are those kids with a second mother to be at their side and guide them on their way up. When the time comes that they are living independently, they will reminisce and look back to their second mother and honor them for raising them well and for giving them a life worth living. 

Our mother, our heroes! Our fighter and our defender! They will always protect and love us, and we give them back by following them because mother knows what is suitable for their kids. We honor and give them thanks. To our mothers, we pray they have more strength and power to live in this world and continue loving us children today and forever.

© 2018 Del Cusay

Holy Week 2018: A Loving and Merciful God

Visita Iglesia 2018: Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish; Divine Mercy Shrine; San Roque Parish - Mandaluyong

This year's  Holy Week reflection may differ from my previous years' celebration since I have contemplated the reality in today's society, where there's no light in the hearts just for cleansing or renewal. 

In our country, where the battle between good versus evil is such a big challenge to be won when thousands of lives were not saved but have left a scar and darkness from deep within. It's a terrible and sad reality where darkness has invaded the souls, not just of the sinners but also the righteous men, the so-called protector of the state and its people.

When killing has been a normal thing produced in the mouth of the most powerful man...
When abuses of women have been a standard form of mockery...
When the biggest offenders are protected while the poor men are executed...
When young minds are becoming influenced and confused about right and wrong...
When violently dealing with things to prove righteousness and justice...

In this new generation of believers and non-believers, we have allowed ourselves to be defeated by the darkness. We have permitted being tempted to commit a sin to eradicate the dark, yet it's done wickedly, a barbaric practice that is unacceptable today.

Is there some light hidden in our hearts that needs to blossom and enlighten the people that surrounds us? That might be a reality to some, but indeed a mystery that only a few understand. Today's society is focusing on wars that will never be triumphant. The absence of love and inhumane behavior to defeat evil is never easy. Just like defeating our inner demons is a challenge that we have to fight forever. We have not resorted to other means but to seek the Divine light to renew us and strengthen our faith that we could defeat evil in our hearts and minds.

Our society is becoming sick that we have allowed anger, resentment, aggression, and violence to solve the unending problems. It has become an instant solution to ward off negativity. This created a cycle of violence in our emotional, mental, and physical states. We have been defeated by the darkness, and our solution is not to seek the light but to create chaos, another darkness that has enslaved our souls.

Let this Holy Week remind us that we have goodness in everyone's heart, no matter how evil people may have become. We may have sinned in the eyes of men, yet there's always a loving and merciful God who can forgive us and renew our life. A God will always take us out of the darkness and allow us to live illumined lives. Evil will always exist in this world, but we can always defeat them through the purity of our hearts and thoughts.

Let this Holy week be the time to renew our faith to be strengthened by God's love and mercy. Let us not allow evil to influence our thoughts and intentions. Let us remain to be meek and humble like a child. Let us stay innocent and forgiving and not plant seeds of harmful intentions or harm to other people.

Let our Divinity rule us to be kind and loving...
Let our conscience dictate what is right and wrong...
Let our humanity rule instead of insecurity and bigotry...
Let us be the light in the world of wickedness and lies...

Our society is dying regarding human values and virtues; let us help resurrect our old and good ways. When raised as a good child, we will never forget that goodness in us no matter how sinful we may have become. We can better appreciate the light when we have been in the dark, but let us not prosecute those who are already in the night, but lift them up and help them towards spiritual renewal so that they may appreciate the light after a long journey of the darkest moment of their lives. If God is loving and merciful, how could we not forgive and help them lead better lives?

There's always the opposite in this world...
There's a light after the dark...
There's a day after the longest night...
There's joy after loneliness and sorrow...

Let the resurrected Christ be our shield to rule our hearts, win over evil, and bring light to our society and the world today and forever.

© 2018 Del Cusay

Related Post:

👉 Holy Week 2017: Leading the Way

Celebrating Chinese New Year 2018: Prosperity and Abundance

Chinese culture and tradition were preserved by the Chinese-Filipino living in the Philippines for several generations, and they have continued to influence Filipinos in many ways.

Our lifestyle, which includes food, clothing, belief system, and even modern technology, is embraced and valued. We are always delighted by the colorful sights and architectural designs and entertained by classical musical instruments. These are some of the influences we've adapted for centuries and will continue to exist for generations. 

Chinese tradition is worthy of preservation since they show us how to love our culture, show respect to older people and share blessings with others.

It was in 2013 when I first experienced the Chinese new year in Binondo. The street was less crowded than at the celebration in 2018, yet people enjoyed the scenes and the Chinese cultural presentation. Celebrating the Chinese New Year 2013: A New Beginning is worth reminiscing about since it awakened my curiosity and fascination with Chinese history and culture and their massive influence on Filipino culture. Today, Binondo is a great cultural hub and an important economic center in Manila. 

The district is vibrant and creates nostalgia as the world's oldest Chinatown. Centuries of cultural and economic ties have formed great friendships and closer relationships. There's a particular bond that unites us, and by embracing each other's culture and beliefs, we're leaving a legacy to future generations of the lasting friendships we have formed through the years. 

The video above; click the arrow to view

Celebrating Chinese New Year 2017: An Auspicious Celebration was about optimism and higher hopes of what will happen or a prediction of fate. Truly a magnificent celebration becomes surreal, and it does a beautiful thing about present and future living. The forecast has become magical with the Chinese zodiac, bringing a wondrous surprise. Being hopeful to the highest degree attracts opportunities, which was a reality in 2017. Something extraordinary happened, and another chapter has opened, which is bigger and brighter. 

2018 was also welcomed, with hopes and aspirations for a more abundant and prosperous life. We have been dreaming of a comfortable and simple life dedicated to service. No matter what influences we have embraced, still, we are Filipino in words, deeds, and thoughts. 

We will continue to be more optimistic about what is unknown and not live in fear but dare to face the challenges with perseverance and a positive attitude. Like the Tsinoy or the Chinese-Filipino, they have succeeded because of their mindset of abundance, having enough, and always asking for more to share what they have. 

Prosperity is about receiving and acknowledging the blessings coming into our lives and taking a part of it to give back and become a blessing to others in need.

May 2018 give you a meaningful life, a prosperous and abundant life, and dreams coming true in the years to come. 

© 2018 Del Cusay

Celebrating the Feast of Sto. Niño 2018

Devotion to the Holy Child Jesus or popularly known as Sto. Niño has been celebrated in the Philippine archipelago yearly, particularly in January. This is not just a tradition among the faithful but a meaningful celebration of being a youthful and cheerful servant or believer of the Holy Child. The image brought by the Spaniards was the reason for our celebration. Since then, Christianity has spread in the Philippine Islands, and our ancestors have embraced Christ, our Lord, and Savior. 

Several generations have passed, and we're still allured by the charming image of the Holy Infant. In the Philippines, there are several parishes whose patron is Sto. Niño. Being the recipient of the first Holy image given as a gift, Cebu City celebrates the Sinulog festival on the third Sunday of January. In Iloilo City, they also celebrate the Dinagyang festival the same week as the Sinulog. These two festivals have become one of the most significant religious events in the country and have attracted thousands of followers who are witnesses to the grandeur of this festivity.

On January 21, I witnessed the devotion to Sto again. Niño. From the old commercial district of Pajo in Caloocan and passing along the Parish of San Roque, thousands of devotees, including children, have shown their faith through a long procession of the Holy image. Devotees have been creative and vibrant in showcasing their images. Some parents would carry their children on their shoulders as they dance to the beat of the drums. 

Indeed, the significance of this celebration is the innocence of the child, who is full of wonders and gives a sense of happiness and joy to the parents and everyone. It was in 2013 that I witnessed one of the biggest celebrations of Sto. Niño in Luzon. Celebrating The Feast of Sto. Niño de Tondo gave meaning to personal devotion, a reflection of one's faith in the Divine. 

Celebrating the Feast of Sto. Nino 2016 was another chance to witness and glimpse this celebration. Two years after, it became more upbeat and alive. Unlike another religious processions, this is not the solemn type since they would carry the image and have it move or dance. This, however, is a personal devotion and belief. In the end, it is our faith that matters.

Like the Holy Child Jesus, we must show innocence, but our faith must not be stagnant; it must keep growing and flowing. We keep expanding our faith to reach people to keep believing and having faith in God no matter their challenges. 

© 2018 Del Cusay

6th Year Blogging Anniversary: Reminiscence of The Glorious Times

We will never know how far we have gone or how great we have become when we don't push ourselves to our limits, knowing who we really are and what we can do. That's when we start our journey to limitless potential and possibilities. Enjoying the moment of overcoming obstacles on the way to the peak. We may have conquered the summit and felt victorious, but that moment isn't forever, and we continue the journey back to where life seems normal and easy. That's the cycle of life. No permanence, but just unending highs' and lows.'

I reminisce about the days when I followed my soulful desire and committed. It's not a major one. Not even an absolute commitment. I call it a passion — a lifestyle for a chosen few. This is to follow my desire to put my stories into writing. Blogging is a lifestyle that triggers emotions and can move people, not to be idolized but an inspiration that life is a series of levels comparable to a book. It has chapters and stands alone, pages, and a title.

As I write a title on every page or chapter, it highlights the wondrous journey of past, present, and future living. Not merely dwelling on the past but enjoying the moment, the power of now. That's the way it is. However, we envision a life ahead of our time. That's a gift of time travel; living may be light years earlier — to the extreme.

Today, November 5, is about remembering the past. On this day, about 6 years ago, I started to become a writer of my journey and destiny. As I recall, "Insights For A Fulfilling Life" was significant as I documented life's precious learning turned into wisdom from Sages of the East and West. It's about living in a more profound consciousness, a different state of being and planes of existence. That was surreal, for sure. 

As I began to be awakened, my life was still continuously changing. Some old ways of living and some great deeds are done. Awakening starts when we explore the deeper core of our being. Our soulful quest for meaning and understanding the chaos and adversity happens to everyone and our world.

On November 5, 2011, I started to share about the gentle awakening through The Power of Meditation. It all started with light, an inspiration, a spark leading to action. Tremendous energy that was so powerful enough to change a personality. That's how it all began. Whenever I look back, it was a simple wish, a desire for something different and meaningful. It was granted, and I have gone through the test of time. Rough as it may have been, still on the journey of fine-tuning.

The first year of the blogging anniversary was about the Reminiscence of The Glorious Times. A run-through of the insights on my travels: interaction with people and exposure to different and bizarre cultures. A year after, the 2nd year was like a viral post the Western readers when I posted about Following Our Heart's Desire. Since then and up to date, it's the most read and shared blog post. I describe it as an ordinary but meaningful and significant post.

My ebook entitled "Heart's Desire: Journey to Success" came into reality as inspired by that post and was even accepted by Amazon for international readers. It was never easy, but I have learned to do it on my own, and beyond my wildest dreams, I have faith in myself to live upon my future desires that may be unimaginable. It's a journey, and along the way are crossroads. Sometimes, it will be good to feel defeated, and some days, like a champion — a winner.

On the 6th anniversary, a new chapter is celebrated: The Road Ahead is about living your most extraordinary life inspired by the light from within. This new chapter, it's about meaningful silence and experiencing and overcoming challenges. To overcome defeat and emerge as a winner based on personal definition of success.

As I said, this personal blog site, delcusay.com, is a masterpiece: a collection of stories shared by great people from great places, cultures, and events. This will continue to exist in the coming years, and I will always be delighted to share it with people who aspire to awaken their inner giant from within and share the light today and beyond.

© 2017 Del Cusay

The Resilience of The Filipino Spirit: Dealing with the Impact of Climate Change

The recent environmental issue of climate change significantly affects humanity and the world. We are all living testimony of how our lives have changed in many ways; we either adapt to it or become victims of circumstances. This is more than just the present situation since we look forward to its massive destruction in the succeeding years and generations.

With the most significant issue of global warming leading to climate change, how can we foresee the future ahead of us? How can we ensure that the next generations will live harmoniously with nature? Is the human race losing the battle and on its way to extinction? We may never know, but one thing for sure is that we now live in uncertainty due to the destructive Power of Nature and the consequence of greediness and negligence for personal gains.

The great debate on climate change started several years back. It has become a significant issue confronting several nations, especially the Philippines, one of the most disaster-prone countries in Asia and the world. This small archipelago of brave Filipinos have suffered tremendously at some point in time due to significant natural calamity; typhoons, landslides, earthquakes, and storm surge that have killed thousands of Filipinos. 

Natural disasters may be inevitable. However, the  Resilience of the Filipino Spirit made us more robust, and we became the ultimate survivor. Our survival instinct enables us to better prepare ahead and anticipate more destructive forces beyond our control. We may have a bended knee, but that's only temporary, as we can bounce back to live a fully recovered life. 

Philippine Government, NGOs, and even private companies and organizations are doing their mandate in response to their environmental duties and contribution to a more livable community. Media Company, Rappler has been a leader in its humanitarian effort concerning the effect of climate change.

Their AGOS project, in partnership and coordination with several Government and  Non-Government agencies, calls for an action to raise awareness among every Filipino that we can do something in our very own simple ways. We can be empowered to send and receive reports about calamities and disaster-related occurrences through social media.

The AGOS project introduced a way of making a difference through a practical and achievable 3-way goal: to "Prepare - Respond - Recover" applicable before, during, and after a disaster or calamity. 

The 2-day AGOS Disaster Preparedness on July 14-15 was a remarkable achievement of the Government and Private organizations working together for a common goal to achieve zero casualties in times of natural disaster. Rappler, in partnership with Humanitarian Organizations, was successful in attracting members, followers, and volunteers willing to spend their precious time and devote positive energy to a humanitarian cause. 

Present at the event is our Philippine Senator, Richard Gordon, who is the Chairman of the Philippine National Red Cross. He shared about the power of volunteerism and what they can achieve to alleviate the suffering and restore the dignity of calamity victims. Senator Loren Legarda also shared about the environmental law she has authored since the early 90s. Her concept of zero waste management, "Reuse - Reduce - Recycle," is her environmental advocacy teaching people to save our environment from further damage or harm. Other invited speakers talked about their respective offices or agencies' role in minimizing the effect of climate change and our ways of adaptation and survival. 

Together with Maria Ressa, CEO, Rappler

The initiative of Maria Ressa, CEO of  Rappler, and her whole team is truly commendable as they have proven their leadership in disaster management and advocacy for a more resilient community.  Maria's approach to public-private partnership doesn't need a huge budget but to empower Filipino people, especially the younger generations, to become active change agents capable of influencing others to have their commitments to Environmental causes.

The Summit was empowering, inspiring us to have a voice even in digital media. We can actively communicate ideas and solutions that benefit disaster management through social media. The humanitarian drive creates goodwill among its followers and will further influence young people to actively participate in nation-building.

The great thing about being Filipino is that our 'Bayahihan' culture has become digital. Its evolution enables humanitarians and advocates to continue living with a sense of purpose and direction. We have already proven the Resilience of The Filipino Spirit: A Year After Typhoon Yolanda, and unfortunate events may hit us no matter what. Still, we're ready to break the barriers for a smooth-sailing journey to recovery.

We join hands together, and our soul-purpose will lead us to uplift the lives of other Filipinos who are lost, misguided, and victims of this sad fate. A resilient spirit will always be unshakable and always create a ripple.                                                                

© 2017 Del Cusay

Eid'l Fitr: A Moment of Peace

After a month-long battle between the Philippine Government forces and the local terrorist group, finally, our Muslim and Christian brothers and sisters in the city of Marawi in Mindanao have a glimpse of a peaceful hour for today's celebration of Eid'l Fitr, or the end of Ramadan — a meaningful religious festival to break the 30-day fasting. Though a short ceasefire, it may have given them hope to escape and live peacefully away from their devastated city. 

As I reflect on the significance of this religious celebration, we are in solidarity with our Muslim brothers and sisters who sacrificed their lives to achieve a peaceful life. Islam, as a religion of peace, brings hope and does not instill fear and terror among fellow Islamic faithful; it may be the opposite of the current events where fearful people cry for the justice, unity, solidarity, and peace they deserve. As a Christian in faith, I condemn the evil acts of terrorism and wars brought by greed and selfishness. Even the religion of peace would have condemned the same adversity they have experienced for a long time. A never-ending conflict and war in the region resulted in political instability and has affected the social and moral welfare of the people. The psychological traumas in children and even adults will forever leave a permanent scar on their being. Unless they rise to adversity, they will continue to suffer until the end of their days. 

We are unsure what the future will bring to the people of Marawi, but we are one in prayers for their rehabilitation — their hopeful journey to recovery. It may be a spiritual test, but part of the recovery is understanding the nature of the Divine. A Violent God in Our Time would punish his people for the greater good and eventually achieve a heaven-on-earth life. Everyone can become a victim and a sacrifice for the future of humanity. It may be unjust, but that's the present reality in this world. People can kill others for wealth, power, and influence; a dictator can order a massive killing of his people; countries may bomb a non-allied nation. There's really evil in this world that is trapped in the hearts and minds of the radicals. 

People are getting anxious, fearful, and powerless. Nations are getting upset and always on fire. The world is getting so chaotic that we sometimes ask, Is There A Divine Light in A troubled Nation? This might give clarity and answer to the untoward events happening everywhere. In situations like this, we remain steadfast and faithful to the most powerful force in the universe. When a human being has lost its divinity, we again go through the process of purification to regain the divinity that is lost. With perseverance and faith in God, we can become whole again if there's a belief that There's A Certain Holiness in Us. Humanity must regain the lost being, so we can live in harmony and camaraderie with our brothers and sisters with a different faith. We are one nation that belongs to one world with universal feelings and emotions. We can always make a difference in other people's well-being through our loving and compassionate nature. No matter what race you and I belong to, our spiritual nature guides and directs us toward our purpose — to live and reign peace and harmony in our hearts forever.

© 2017 Del Cusay

Father's Day Special: The Greatest Gift

I remember when my father would give us practical advice about living our life based on our choices. He might have gained an ocean of insight through personal struggles and miseries in his early days of fatherhood. As I grew up, I heard several stories that were inspirational and worth emulating; they would have pushed me to follow his path, and I was almost there. His life stories in the form of wise sayings, cliché, and hyperbole profoundly impacted me and will forever be in my heart and mind. 

It might be hard to emulate his ways, but I have learned from my father all these years to be generous and kind to people. As a public servant, he has the heart to serve the people in our locality and is driven and committed to giving back to society in any way he can. His kindness created a ripple effect of goodwill, and people were quickly drawn to his personality. His values and character make him win people's hearts, and it is his best weapon in staying on the ground and remains to be strong. 

As courageous as he is, I have learned to be challenging yet gentle and always do my best to be on the good side -- never to allow defeat when fighting for the right. His way of handling issues is always simple; he gives outright advice to inspire and move your spirit.

My father may have won several battles, but he is brave enough to surrender everything beyond his control to the Divine. As a wise man, he believes and surrenders to God his challenges and can surpass all those trials through his faith. As our provider, he is 'leading the way' and is always responsible as a father to our family and community.

He always thinks of the welfare of other people and would think of ways how to be of service to a greater whole. I may never know what the future holds, but I will continue to follow the path he has shown and cultivate kindness to others. 

It is always a challenge to me how to become a better person, and it would take commitment and perseverance to become a better version of oneself. It's a choice we make, and when our soul purpose ignites the sleeping giant within, we can move the mountains if we keep our faith on a higher level. 

His journey in life is never easy, as he is confronted with obstacles that make him stronger. As he punches the barriers, he can envision limitless possibilities that we can achieve. He may have started to be a nobody, but with his determination and willpower, he has reached a milestone that we are all proud of. I will forever be a follower and continue the path that was started. After all, the greatest gift is not through materialism, fame, and riches but the gift of everlasting joy and fulfillment through service. 

© 2017 Del Cusay

Mother's Day Special: Compassionate Care

Reflecting on my younger days always brings back wonderful memories of the kind of parenthood my mother showed. Being the youngest in the family got extra attention and care, perhaps due to vulnerability and immaturity. I felt the love and care of my mother, who was there to look after all my needs and would protect me from harm and danger.

Though there were times that I would feel grown-up already and didn't need much help from her, I still longed for her presence whenever I felt lost and misguided. Growing up increased dependence. However, I couldn't help but rely on strength when I couldn't even care for myself when I was sick. My mother was there from sickness until regaining strength and got back to wellness again.

Growing up is only accessible with the role played by mothers. Although it's a right to be taken care of, the kind of love one gets from a mother is always a privilege. As a grown-up adult, I've seen different kinds of parenting, from elite families to the underprivileged. Immersing myself in the kind of living of upper-class families gave me a different perspective on where others greatly suffer. Some families live in extreme luxury while others sleep on the streets, defying all the security and safety threats and uncomfortable conditions. Although it is an eyesore to many passersby, I profoundly reflect on the kind of suffering. Why do people like them suffer in extreme poverty? Why do mothers can't give an extra level of care and love to their kids? Why do parents allow their kids to go and run naked on the street? There are many questions about suffering and how they can help themselves let go of it. 

In a deeper reflection about suffering, I've realized that it's a natural occurrence at any moment of our lives. Some had lived in poverty when they started but eventually escaped from it and now living their most extraordinary life in abundance and balanced living. Lost and helpless people will continue to suffer when they haven't learned a lesson from their past life until the present time, and the cycle goes on. Some people enjoy a life they deserve based on the energy they possess and the perseverance to live a resilient life -- an indispensable trait. 

When people start to give up on us, we remain resilient; when we lose faith in ourselves, we also remain resilient. When unshakable, we learn to fight the struggles and leave all the miseries behind. When we are young and can't fight for ourselves, our mother is there to rescue us, stand up for us, and become our voice when we can't speak for ourselves. A mother's unconditional love is always felt, and an inherent nature to always look after our well-being. 

From birth to adulthood, and when we are separated by great distance, there's always a feeling of mutual connection. A mother's compassionate care is felt miles away, giving a sense of greater love. We celebrate this loving connection at any moment in our lifetime by providing a special treat and making her feel loved and cared for. When we can't express it through words, we can always offer it through actions, and the bonding becomes much more vital than ever. A mother guides us all the way out and will always be with us in our minds and heart -- Mother's Day: A Celebration of Love makes us fully alive because of a different level of love we receive and the compassionate nature that we have learned to give it out to others who may need it most. 

The greatest give from our mother is to be loving and compassionate, and we extend this to other people in our lives. When others lose faith in humanity, we learn to understand and give ourselves a chance to serve unconditionally, just like what our mothers are showing us. No distance can separate us no matter where we are, and we learn to give back in any way that they will be more inspired to live the better life they truly deserve. A mother's compassionate care will always persevere, and her undying will always be forever in our hearts. 

Holy Week 2017: Leading The Way

Holy week has been a tradition passed from generations of devoted Christians, from Christian ancestors like Peter until the present descendant, His Holiness Pope Francis. Christians are celebrating the passion, death, and resurrection of the Christ who promised the salvation of humanity through the Holy Cross, where he suffered and died and became a symbol of our Christian faith.

We have a great tradition of commemorating the Holy Week in the Philippines. It's all about Christ, the center of our faith. Our devotion is directed to Him as he saved us from sins. Like most Filipinos, we honor Christ in many ways. Some would show their faith in deeper self-infliction, similar to the suffering of Christ. Others would celebrate at home in a deeper self-reflection and meditation. We have ways of showing piety and devotion to Christ, which is the culture to be passed on to the next generations of faithful Christians.

Good Friday at Manila Cathedral

The Good Friday is a symbol of our personal suffering as a reflection of the passion of Christ on the cross. As Christians, we have our cross to carry and overcome the challenges. Life has been meaningful as we remember the sufferings we embraced with Christ at the center of our life. Our savior will always be Christ as our guiding light no matter what obstacles we are going through; the light of the universe and the light of all.

The negativity of the world is a reflection of individual thoughts toward humanity. Conflicts and wars resulting in the destruction of life are significant source of stress and devastated self. Inhumane treatment of others is a result of selfishness and greed. The world has never been peaceful, even at the early age of time, but the greatest gift we can offer to the world is a little peace inside our hearts and soul. 

We give out peace, and we receive peace of mind in return. It's always good to be reminded that the holy week is about getting out of our personal sufferings that we have created. Our sick mind could manifest into the sickness of our soul and physical body. To escape from hell is understanding the cause and way out of suffering.

On this Holy week

, we hit the negativity that haunts us, even those closest to us. We repel the dark light and replace it with pure light from the Divine. People will poke us for our misdeeds and be our guide Leading us to Jesus, our most significant source of strength in our lowest moment in time. We take the path we have chosen, and we have to understand and accept the Divine power, love, and light bestowed on us.

 © 2017 Del Cusay

Pasinaya 2017: Arts for Peace

The preservation and restoration of the Philippine Arts and Culture have been a significant cause for Filipino artists and nationalists. Through the years, we have been slowly transformed into following a Western lifestyle where we have accepted and embraced the modern way of living. Our entertainment has become Westernized through contemporary music, dances, and other performances. We have somehow lost our cultural identity of being Filipino by heart.

The Pasinaya Festival 2017, the largest multi-arts festival, aims to regain our Filipino arts and culture in all genres. They have successfully attracted followers and viewers to this festival over the years.  Through this initiative, we recover the glory days of the past as experienced in our modern time. It brings a nostalgic feeling and an even past life regression to some extent. It's a vivid imagination of the refined and beautiful days of the past.

This year's theme is about bringing peace through arts and culture. When we have national peace issues due to political and cultural divisions and beliefs, we Filipinos are pulling the strings that connect us as one nation. Our dear brothers, who may have different philosophical and political views, may have caused damage to our cultural identity as they may not have helped our government preserve culture and arts. We have been divided through the years and struggle to fight for a peaceful nation of firm yet gentle people. This year's theme, "Arts for Peace, " symbolizes unity through diversity. We may have different voices, various faith, and religion, yet we can become one nation through arts and culture. Filipino artists and viewers from around the country and worldwide convene together to witness and celebrate our national identity. That we are Filipino, and we are proud to say that I Am Filipino in words, deeds, and thoughts.

The Pasinaya 2013 was a previous experience where Filipino-Chinese culture was embraced. We can live in harmony and camaraderie by sharing our culture, no matter how different. We can appreciate and embrace it as part of our culture and tradition. This year 2017, is no different from previous Pasinaya events. The message is always clear that we can not move forward if we fail to deeply understand our national identity through arts, culture, and heritage.

I advocate for our country's arts, Culture, and heritage preservation, and we deserve a national identity that is truly Filipino. Remember our culture and heritage as we work together for peace and progress. This will be passed on to the next generation of heroic Filipinos. The future generation is braver and more decisive. A citizen who will continue to raise the voice to the world that we are One Filipino-- today and forever.

© 2017 Del Cusay

Celebrating Chinese New Year 2017: An Auspicious Celebration

For centuries, Chinese immigrants from mainland China have established closer ties with the Filipinos. Since then, we have mutually embraced religious traditions and appreciated the rich culture and heritage that remains to be solid and lasting. Chinese merchants in the Philippines existed during the early years of civilization and became a great trading partner contributing to the robust economy and fortifying stronger relationships. 

Chinese people who have chosen to live and work in the Philippines were accepted by most Filipinos, and they have greatly influenced our culture and way of living.

Embracing the Chinese culture made a significant impact on our lives. Their beliefs, wisdom, and character are worth emulating. Chinese people have taught us how to live based on their life principles from the teachings of their religions. Buddhism brought to China, became a foundation of wisdom, humility, and compassion. These traits, which embody Buddhist philosophy, are the same guiding principles on how to live a meaningful and fulfilling life, a better life worth living. 

Looking back, celebrating the Chinese new year 2013 was a memorable experience in Binondo, Manila. Known as the oldest Chinatown in the world, it has shown great transformation and preservation of Chinese-Filipino culture. The old and preserved houses and commercial buildings symbolize love and respect for its culture and heritage. For years, Manila Chinatown has given positive energy and vibrance to visitors and traders, and they hold on to their beliefs passed on from generation to generation.

The Graceful Dragon and Lion Dance 

Good luck and prosperity are attributed to the colorful dance presentation where dancers have to mimic the movement of a lion and a dragon, a mythical creature. Both symbolize strength, wisdom, and power in Chinese ideology. These dances are more prevalent during the Chinese new year but are also presented in various Chinese cultural, religious, and political events. It is also a belief that these creatures ward off evil spirit and brings luck and fortune in business and life. Dancing graciously in the form of Chinese martial arts is a skill and has entertained visitors for its graciousness.

The lighting of firecrackers and fireworks

Lion dance with firecrackers lighting up on the street makes a joyous and wonderful celebration. During new year's Eve, the street lights up with colorful fireworks and fireworks, creating noise that is believed to drive away bad luck and attracts prosperity. The noise which irritates some is the same noise that brings wealth to the believers in the new year. This kind of activity initially enjoyed by the Chinese was also adopted by Filipinos and the world — such a significant influence they had.

Ang Pao is a symbol of wealth and abundance

On the busy street is a parade of generous people giving away 'ang pao' to the visitors. These small red envelopes with money on them give luck to the receiver. Financial abundance is significant to the Chinese; a year filled with economic prosperity is a blessing from God. Being poor is a mental disease, and an abundance mindset is the key to success — a belief that brings wealth into our lives.

Chinese people hold many beliefs for personal, career, business, and life in general. Some ideas include a collection of round-shaped fruits for never-ending prosperity. Tikoy, a gelatinous delicacy, is very popular and symbolizes sweetness and a closer relationship with the family. Restaurants offering authentic Chinese foods, including noodles, dumplings, and other treats, are essential for good luck. What else is on the list? Feng shui for prosperity and Chinese martial arts are many influences from years of Filipino-Chinese partnership.

The year of the fire rooster in Chinese astrology will bring positivity to everyone. A hopeful year starts with having a positive mindset and clearing off negative past experiences that prevent us from moving forward. 

Faith is essential for success; all the symbolism can bring prosperity if accompanied by hard work and perseverance.

The Filipino and Chinese friendship will remain strong in years to come as we build trusting relationships with camaraderie and warm acceptance regardless of one's cultural upbringing and philosophical beliefs.

© 2017 Del Cusay