Heart's Desire and The Purple Sky

A purple sky and purple rain, with their ethereal beauty, symbolize our roller coaster of emotions. This roller coaster is our journey through the highs and lows of life, where the 'purple sky' represents our most profound moments of joy, and the 'purple rain' symbolizes our times of profound sadness and despair.

That's life! We feel the roller coaster of emotions that brings out our best. The rarity of the purple sky, so unique and beautiful, is like the love I have found. It's a color that symbolizes the uniqueness and beauty of my love, a love that is as rare and precious as the purple sky.

Not long ago, I discovered some spirituality acquired from a Master of Life and revered Spiritual teacher who unifies Eastern wisdom and Western practicality. That was a higher level of Spiritual love for service to humanity through charity work.

Many do not know that purple symbolizes spiritual awakening. It has a calming effect, soothing the mind, enhancing creativity, and uplifting our spirit. When we achieve such enlightenment, the spiritual color is revealed to us in unexpected places and moments, bringing peace and serenity. The significance of the purple color in this awakening is profound, a testament to the power of enlightenment.

As we live our purpose, we continue to experience giving and receiving love. It's not just a feeling but the most essential spiritual gift, a treasure we carry within, and the most crucial emotion to nurture and cherish.

As we celebrate Valentine's Day, we experience the color of love that is revealed to us. It may be the fierce energy of red to some, the calming effect of blue to others, or a combination of red and blue, and that's purple—a highly significant spiritual color.

Love will always be more than and beyond ourselves. When we have found love, it gives us the purple color, a romantic, lovely, and royalty color in our lives that our hearts desire. This 'purple color' is not just a hue but a symbol of the deep, spiritual love that we experience.

© 2020 Del Cusay

The Sacred Heart on a Hilltop

The Christ the Redeemer statue in Brazil is giant and tall. It is a famous symbol of faith among Christians in that part of the world and is also known to most Christians worldwide as a pilgrimage destination worth visiting.

Despite being a thousand miles away from the Philippines, my home country, and the millions of Catholic faithful it houses, I feel an intimate connection to the faith symbolized by the Sacred Heart of Jesus. This connection is not just geographical but intensely personal, rooted in my upbringing and the values my family and community instilled in me.

The uphill road to the summit may be rough, but it offers a breathtaking panoramic view of Roxas City in the Western Visayas region. On the top of the mountain is the 132 ft statue of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, constructed at the beginning of the decade in 2010 and finished in 2015.

Since then, the statue visible on the lowland highway of the newly constructed business district has become a famous pilgrimage site and is considered the tallest statue of Christ in the Philippines.

While I haven't had the opportunity to visit the summit and see the statue up close since it was opened to the public, I often find myself gazing at it from a distance. I yearn to understand its significance and to appreciate the sanctity of the place atop the mountain.

Finally, in January 2020, a significant moment in my life arrived. I could see the Sacred Heart of Jesus statue, and the experience was beyond words. The anticipation, the journey to the summit, and the first sight of the statue were all filled with a profound sense of awe and reverence. Sharing this experience with my parents in February was a soulful journey and a fitting way to celebrate the month of love.

The physical structure of the statue is not just a symbol of our faith but a testament to the Christ who watches over and protects us. It is a powerful reminder of His love and care, especially when feeling abandoned. I firmly believe that the Sacred Heart of Jesus embraces and loves us for who we are, and I hold this belief with the utmost reverence. The Sacred Heart of Jesus is a religious symbol and a source of comfort and strength in my daily life.

The Sacred Heart of Jesus is a constant reminder of the inherent sanctity of our hearts, no matter how tarnished they may have become. It inspires us to strive for goodness and to let our sacred hearts guide us in touching the lives of others, just as the Sacred Heart of Jesus does. It is the way, the truth, and the life. 

© 2020 Del Cusay

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The Mighty and The Candle in The Wind

There were so many untoward events in January 2020! From natural disasters to pandemic health issues, we have experienced a crisis, a threat to our health and well-being. However, this continues and is within our control.

The start of the year may not be good, but it gives us tough lessons about our strengths and weaknesses—our vulnerabilities as human beings.

We can not be sure about what will happen next, but one thing that can help us survive is faith in things beyond our control—that a higher and Supreme being is in charge.

We feel mighty at times, feeling powerful. However, there are moments when we are crushed in spirit.

When we are weak and feel helpless and powerless, our Divine master is there to rescue us. And when the road is rough, and the surroundings are dark, we seek the Divine light.

When we feel blessed and grateful, we always see the guiding light. And so, in bad times and good times, we need the Divine light. We never stop following and seeking the truth and life.

Today, the 2nd of February, is the Feast day of Nuestra Señora de La Candelaria, or the Our Lady of the Candles. Known as the Patroness of the entire Western Visayas, Philippines.

The Holy Image, canonically crowned in 1981 by St. John Paul II, brought miracles, healings, and blessings to the people in the Region and the entire country when flocks of faithful from every place visited the blessed Marian image and prayed to God for Her intercession.

Back in 2016, when I lived and worked in Iloilo, I always felt the serenity of the National Shrine of Our Lady of Candles. I had celebrated Sunday masses and Holy Week, which was brought to light when I was a Candle in the wind, weak and vulnerable.

The devotion started in recent years, in the late 90s, when our dear mother brought us to celebrate the feast day mass. Years after knowing its miracles, I visit to offer a prayer and thanksgiving. That is faith: to continue the devotion for years and for a lifetime.

Our Lady of the Candles is just one of the many Marian titles given to the Mother of Christ. We always pray for her intercession for all our wishes and whatever our hearts desire.

For the happenings in the world today, we go beyond our personal intentions and petitions. We pray for our people, our country, and the world. We pray that healing will take place and peace will reign in the world and our hearts forever. 

© 2020 Del Cusay

A Moment of Solitude

You need some time to be alone in addition to your basic physiological needs. It is a time when you can be yourself and know yourself better and more profoundly.

I have enjoyed a moment of solitude since I discovered its healing powers. Nature does healing wonders for those who walk alone and seek life and truth. There are moments of self-discovery of who we are and what we can do—our purpose of living.

With the sound of silence, we go through the deafening stage until we get used to it. There is a miracle in silence, and being in a state of solitude, we can hear our voice out loud from deep within. We are quiet and in stillness. We listen and respond to our being. That's a fundamental truth of our soulful desires of being.

There are always great things about having some moment of solitude. Our 'me time', a term often used to describe the time we spend alone, reminds us that we must heal ourselves as we return to the present reality of dealing with the most important people. It's not about being selfish or neglecting others, but about recognizing our own needs and taking the time to meet them. This 'me time' is what really matters for our personal growth and well-being. 

For many years, I have lived in solitude. Although not entirely, I find meaning in silence, just being alone. And when I share my precious moments with people, I glow and show what is hidden in me. It is a soulful time spent connecting, expressing, being heard, and understanding.

Each day, as we wake up, we have personal moments of reflection. We listen to our inner voice and to the Divine's voice. We get back to our goals—our dreams, ambitions, and wishful desires.

In our busy day and for those living in bigger cities and dealing with so much noise and distractions, there is time to walk away and experience absolute solitude. Some would live in the more relaxed countryside. Others would have a weekend getaway in the mountains and on the beach to contemplate. A homecoming holiday vacation even once a year. Such a thing contributes to soulful healing. For instance, you could start your day with a few minutes of quiet reflection or take a solitary walk during your lunch break. These small moments of solitude can have a significant impact on your well-being. 

A moment of solitude is what we all need to keep us alive and always living in the present. It improves our ability to focus and increases our awareness and consciousness. But more than that, solitude can lead to self-discovery and personal growth. It's a time when we can reflect on our lives, choices, and values and gain a deeper understanding of ourselves. And from that moment of solitude, we can stand still and walk straight, knowing who we are and our self-worth.

© 2020 Del Cusay

Celebrating Chinese New Year 2020: Love, Peace and Harmony

Tikoy (Nián gāo) and Ampao (Hóngbāo) are famous Chinese symbols of good luck and prosperity. These two are a must-have in the Philippines and among the Chinese-Filipino community during special holidays like the Lunar Chinese New Year and other special occasions. 

Ang Pao, or the red envelope, evolved into an all-season object for gift-giving. It is given during the Chinese New Year and during birthdays and weddings. In the Philippines, we have adopted the giving of Ang Pao during Christmas and other events. 

I always like special delicacies, so I also enjoy eating Tikoy, which signifies harmony and closeness among the family. Its stickiness symbolizes bonding and togetherness. 

The past couple of years in Binondo have been truly auspicious, as I have had the joy of immersing myself in the vibrant and enchanting Chinese New Year celebration. The streets of Binondo come alive with the best of Chinese culture and tradition, passed down from generation to generation. 

I remember the kilometer-long street of Ongpin in Binondo when fun-filled activities happened during the Chinese New Year. The lion and the dragon dance are always colorful and graceful, giving positive energy to the watchers. The firecrackers ward off evil spirits and negativity, as they would believe. It's fun, and the excellent vibe would bring in a positive mindset and emotion, and that's the essence. 

The Chinese influence my beliefs about prosperity, so I follow the feng shui and the Chinese zodiac in some ways. They just guide us to a positive life. 

These past years have been more than just celebrations; they have been live-action experiences filled with stories that will forever be etched in my memory, and I'm thrilled to share them with you.

• Celebrating the Chinese New Year 2013: A New Beginning

• Celebrating Chinese New Year 2017: An Auspicious Celebration

• Celebrating Chinese New Year 2018: Prosperity and Abundance

• Celebrating Chinese New Year 2019: Luck, Prosperity, and Faith

Those were the years of celebrating abundance and prosperity. And so, for this year and the years to come, while I may not be able to celebrate in Binondo, I am eagerly open to embracing the culture and tradition that gives life meaning from different perspectives, and I look forward to the new experiences that await.

But above all, this year is not just about prosperity; it's about love, peace, and harmony that must reign in our hearts. That's what we all need at this very moment.

© 2020 Del Cusay

Journey of Love

Staring at the first full moon in 2020 was a great homecoming welcome after long-distance travel.

Meeting families, sharing love stories, having a sumptuous meal, having beautiful conversations, and making heartfelt dedications—that was a fantastic and romantic day—a day of smiles, laughter, and tears—a memory that will last a lifetime.

Lying in bed at night, I was amazed by the moon's excellent illumination on the balcony, as seen through the glass door. I rushed to get up and saw the full moon shining so brightly. A Romantic scene of saying, "I love you to the moon and back." That was a great day and a fantastic night to remember.

Then comes Soulful Sunday, a moment of breathing in and out at sea. Watching the gentle waves, looking at the horizon, and enjoying the moment of soulful conversation.

An incredible journey ahead starts with a grateful heart. We are blessed with the people there to be with and counsel us.

As we move on to the next level, the journey of love will grow and be strengthened by faith. Just like the grand illumination of the moon, it will shine brighter and fuller.

Until next, we will continue the shining moment and the journey of love, always living in the present moment. 

© 2020 Del Cusay

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The Highlands of Bucari

The holiday continues! It's the first week of 2020 and the first week of the new decade, but the joyful and soulful moment never ends.

The new year 2020 was welcomed with enthusiasm and a positive spirit. It was the most straightforward, fun, and memorable celebration. 

We reflect on the past year as the holiday rush and noise fade into the background. We've missed the playful kids, the laughter, and the great conversations, but we've also learned valuable life lessons. These experiences have given us renewed hope and determination to make the most of the new year.

Today, the first Sunday of the year is a day we've come to cherish. We call it 'Soulful Sunday, a time to step away from the hustle and bustle of daily life and reconnect with ourselves and nature. This particular 'Soulful Sunday' was spent in the nearby province of Iloilo, in the Municipality of Leon. 

This is my first visit, and on my bucket list is to see and experience the highlands of Bucari. I was accompanied by a beautiful, adventurous person who also loves nature. This was our first time visiting the so-called Summer capital of Iloilo, and we had an incredible journey on the road. What a blissful experience I will never forget!

The road to Bucari is a sensory delight, with the wind in our hair and the scent of pine trees filling the air. As we ascended, the landscape transformed, and we were enveloped in a cool mist, the fog adding an element of mystery to the scenery. It was a view that rivaled the famous highlands of Tagaytay and Baguio.

After half an hour of a motorcycle ride, I was amazed at the development when we entered the camping site where cottages and tents were built and set up. I never thought of the development and the crowd of people who visit to experience the place. Visitors are cheerful and seem excited to explore what the area offers. We explored and saw it with ourselves. No regrets! 

We have climbed the highest peak and have passed by the 14 stations of the cross. That was hundreds of steps, and to reach the final station, we climbed the rock formation. We have conquered our fears, and we have reached the summit. No fears! 

That was a fantastic view—perhaps one of the best I've ever seen. The peak offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the Municipality of Leon and other towns of Iloilo. We were on cloud nine! The surrounding area was covered with clouds until they disappeared momentarily, offering a clear view of the mountains and small villages from afar. It was a sight that left us in awe, a reminder of the beauty and grandeur of nature.

The majestic view from the top was a perfect moment to appreciate nature and have good conversations about future travel and adventures. This is just the beginning, and hoping for the best journey. 

Before we ended our short trip, we stopped by the chapel and had a final glimpse of the mountains. I suddenly reminisced about my soulful moment in the highlands of Dharamsala in India, quite similar to the view of the mountains that seemed closer.

What a great adventure! And a great start to the year. Again, that was another breathing out and a way to calm down despite the adrenaline rush. We did it! We made it! As we stood there, taking in the last moments of the trip, a sense of peace and contentment washed over us, a perfect end to a thrilling adventure. 

That was an incredible Soulful Sunday moment. Living well and at the present moment. 

© 2020 Del Cusay

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New Year 2020: A New Decade

It's now the 20s! The new decade has started. It is a new beginning, with new hope and new aspirations.

The decade of the 2010s  has ended, and the new 2020s has started and seems brighter. We have welcomed the new year and decade with a more excellent vision. And so our mission will go a long way toward reaching other milestones and breakthroughs over the next decade. 

The previous year, 2019, was a great moment for our family as we welcomed blessings that will leave a lasting impact— a living legacy.

In 2020, the new decade offered a glimpse of a shining and promising future—a vision of a distant future that we eagerly anticipate. 

We celebrated the new year with a simple yet meaningful family gathering at the farm. This was the first-ever New Year we spent outdoors and in nature, a joyous occasion that brought us closer together. 

What the future is like 

As we enjoy the serenity, we are already looking forward to the life our grandparents envisioned for their family and offspring.

My grandfather is a great visionary. He sees opportunities for sustainable living such as [specific opportunities] and is there to tell the great story of his humble beginnings—how he started it all. 

For us, his grandchildren, that was a story and an inspiration to realize our potential and live better lives. Through his example, he not only inspires us but also instills in us the importance of family values and virtues. 

Teaching the minds of young ones

When I was at the farm, I was eager to listen to my father's words of wisdom. This may be why I have learned to embrace farm life the way they do. 

Again, for the new year, my Father inspired us all, including his grandchildren, about the value of nature through a simple tree-planting activity. The kids were eager to plant a dwarf coconut tree under my Father's guidance. To touch the soil isn't to get a dirty hand but to reap what they have sowed in years to come.

That tree-planting activity was momentous since they planted in the new year and a new decade, 2020. When they visit the farm, they will see how it will grow and bear fruits in years to come.

A promising future awaits 

In the next two decades, about twenty years from now, our hometown will be more livable and offer more excellent and sustainable opportunities. 

We were born and raised in this place we call home, and we will always come back to see its development and create the future we envisioned. 

What a great start to the year. We took a deep breath and breathed it out. We feel lighter and calmer. We are more inspired, and we would want a life that is on the positive side.

A new year and a new decade, 2020! A new journey, a new road ahead, a new crossroads to overcome, and a unique, soulful moment to live.

© 2020 Del Cusay

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A Decade in Review: 2010- 2019

The decade of the 2010s was the beginning of real-life stories about opportunities, commitments, achievements, and milestones. This is a decade of actual application of learning after graduation. 

Despite the hardships that marked the 2010s, I recall the moments when I rose above the pains, sorrows, losses, and defeats. This is the essence of life's bittersweet journey: victories and losses, regain and conquests, shape our path. The 2010s were a decade of resilience, a testament to the human spirit's ability to overcome. Each year of the past decade holds profound stories of growth and triumph, a testament to the power of perseverance and the human spirit.

2010

The beginning of the decade brought us together away from home and my parents. Our siblings live and bond in Manila to celebrate meaningful moments and milestones.

2010 was the time when I gathered enough strength and regained my confidence to be more independent and unleash my inner powers.

2011- 2015

The first half of the decade was a period of significant personal growth. A pivotal moment was when I joined Master Del Pe's BELife organization in April 2011. This marked the beginning of a transformative journey towards personal development and higher consciousness through a series of empowering programs aimed at self-mastery.

The year 2011 was meaningful for me since I discovered the esoteric world, was exposed to and trained for Charity work led by Master Del Pe, and traveled to the tremendous spiritual country of India and visited some of its major cities to reach individuals, families, and groups and impart the teachings of Master de Pe, a renowned International Life mentor and spiritual leader. It was a year of new discoveries and exciting opportunities.

During my 4 years of service at BELife and MDP Foundation, I gained knowledge and wisdom about life and other subjects taught by Master Del Pe. I have improved on different levels and will continue that valuable learning forever.

2015

A short and soulful journey happened in Baguio City, Cordillera, in May 2015. I have lived in this place and appreciate nature while enjoying its vibrant city life.

I trekked the mountains while enjoying the scenery and the cool weather. This is the kind of life I would want to live; a developed place where nature is abundant, protected, and preserved.

In September 2015, I joined the BPO sector as a Skills Enhancement Trainer. It was a great experience to manage a group of eager trainees who wanted to become contact agents in the BPO industry. The role was challenging, requiring patience and perseverance, as the trainees had to adapt to the fast-paced and demanding nature of the industry.

2016

In April 2016, I became part of The Medical City team in Iloilo City. I was a Patient Partnership Experience Manager and handled 4 units under its umbrella. I managed the Customer Service, Information, Patient Education, and Corporate Communications units. These units are the frontliners in hospital service, and we had to ensure that the patients and clients would have an excellent patient experience during their stay at the medical center.

2017-2018

In March 2017, I joined the automotive industry as a sales consultant and trainer at Ford Global City.

I never considered selling cars, but life brought me here. Here, I also applied my knowledge of customer experience, which I had learned earlier in my previous work.

That was a promising career but a tough one. You needed more patience and perseverance to stay in this fast-paced job.

2019

The Last year of the decade was freedom—being free from the noisy world I used to live in. I chose to stay quiet for a while and gain enough energy before the start of the new decade. This year, I focused on personal growth, introspection, and self-care, which prepared me for the new decade.

This year, 2019, I was at home with my parents. I live simply and comfortably, and we have built a farmhouse where we can unwind. This is life away from the city—not a fast-paced life, but living in the Now! Living in the present moment, cherishing each day as it comes.

As the 2010s drew close, I reflected on a decade filled with surprises, growth, and meaningful experiences. These experiences, including my work in the BPO sector, my time at The Medical City, and my unexpected career in the automotive industry, all contributed to my personal growth. It began a beautiful journey, and I am grateful for every moment.

The dawn of the 2020s, a new decade, is on the horizon, promising a fresh chapter and more surprises. I eagerly await the journey ahead, filled with hope and the anticipation of new experiences and growth.

© 2019 Del Cusay

2019 Year in Review: The Greatest Love

The year 2019 is about to end, and it's the time of the year to review another roller coaster ride of life events and milestones.

This year 2019, is like a deep slumber. I am in a deeper state of rest and slow-paced living. As I experience this life, I learn life lessons about simple living and natural healing.

Religious Devotion

It was my first-ever experience seeing the flock of thousands of devotees of the Black Nazarene on its feast day in January 2019. That was followed by the feast of Santo Niño, or the Child Jesus, in the same month. These religious events strengthen my faith and belief in a Supreme higher Divine power who does miracles in our lives.

It was also my first time celebrating the feast day of The Our Lady of Perpetual Help Lomboy Parish on June 27, 2019. The Blessed image is known to bring miracles for those who believe and pray through the intercession of the Blessed Mary, the Mother of Christ. 

I may not be able to celebrate the feast day of the Our Lady of Perpetual Help Lomboy Parish in the coming years. Still, my parents and loved ones will be there to express devotion through prayers and religious activities.

Personal Development

• Health.   This year I have learned to listen to my body and slow down. A balanced and healthy diet gives nourishment and healing from illnesses. Although it's hard to fully commit, it teaches me about health consciousness for a better living. 

• Meditation. As I swing through a hammock, I am relaxed and at peace. While sitting on a chair and seeing the sunrise and sunset gives a beautiful feeling about God's loving presence. That's my meditation. Feeling great and sometimes in a trance state but with eyes wide open. 

• Developing Habits. Waking up early morning and early at bedtime makes an excellent daily habit. I didn't have the luxury of quality sleep in the past years, so I feel great upon waking up fully recharged. 

Celebrating Victories

On May 14, 2019, our father was elected by the people to serve another term as a Sangguniang Bayan Member in our town. This is his 5th term in service since he started in 1998-2007 and returned to do in 2016 after 9 years. We are part of my father's victory as we fully support his candidacy and commitment to helping the people. 

Welcoming Opportunities 

On October 30, 2019, the Sorosoro Ibaba Development Cooperative, or SIDC, was opened in our Community at the R&L Commercial building. We're grateful for this excellent opportunity to serve the people through various products and services offered by the country's largest Agricultural - based Cooperative. This is the greatest blessing not only for my family but also for the whole Community. We're blessed and hoping for more opportunities in the years to come. 

Sustainable Farm Development 

My parents have finally initiated their plans for sustainable environmental development. The newly developed integrated farm features Mahogany trees, different kinds of fruit-bearing trees, and plants that help cool off the surroundings. This is where we unwind and have a good conversation while having coffee. In the years to come, this farm will achieve sustainability as we open some livelihood opportunities.

Some of my Soulful Sunday moments were inspired by the farm. A natural environment is truly a gift from God, and we're healed naturally from being connected with nature. 

Christmas in our hearts

We gathered again as a big family. It feels great to see the kids growing up as a teen. We had a grand Holiday celebration over the past years, and that was memorable and meaningful. This year we celebrate the Christmas eve mass or Misa de Gallo at the Our Lady of Perpetual Help Lomboy Parish, followed by a Noche Buena, a good night meal to share with the family.

Christmas is about celebrating the birth of Christ as the center of our faith, and it's the time to get together as a family. This is the best time to enjoy the year-end and renew old habits and beliefs. 

We may have a stormy Christmas day and a shaky earth experience, yet we're comforted and saved by His Divine Mercy. We remain resilient through the calamities we encounter, and it'll help us deal with future crises. 

One thing that moved me was the Christmas message of Pope Francis when he shared about the unconditional love of Christ, saying, "God continues to love us all, even the worst of us. You may have mistaken ideas, but you have made a complete mess of things, but the Lord continues to love you." and that's the expression of His greatest love. 

We all have wronged with our thoughts, intentions, and actions at some point, but God continues showing us His love and mercy. He cleanses our spirits and uplifts our souls, so we may continue showing our love to others.

I celebrate the holidays with the people who matter in my life. We may have differences and life choices, but we bond stronger as one family. This Christmas is about love and understanding; we would want a New year with a new beginning. 

© 2019 Del Cusay

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