Invigorating Walk at the Lodi Garden

It's a great feeling when ancient architectural wonders are well-preserved and restored. Those structures were built to last and tell a tale as old as time.

My visit to a 15th-century tomb in New Delhi, India, was a unique experience. This architectural marvel, a blend of Hindu and Islamic styles, stood as a testament to the rich cultural history of the region. It was a decade ago, during my first trip to India in 2011, that I had the pleasure of exploring this historical gem.

The ancient tombs of India, with their grandeur and the evident love put into their construction, speak volumes about the character, status, and power of the individuals they were built for. They are not just structures, but living testaments to a bygone era. 

Lodi Garden is named after Sikander Lodi. He was an Afghan Sultan of Delhi Sultanate from the Sayyid dynasty who ruled places in Northern India, like Punjab and modern-day Pakistan. Together with three other rulers, their remains are in the tomb of this beautiful garden.

I have a deep admiration for Hindu and Islamic architecture, which exudes charm and character. The artistic expressions in the detailed carvings and designs are truly remarkable and worthy of appreciation.

As I strolled through the garden, the well-preserved structures whispered their stories. Touching these ancient surfaces was like reaching back in time, a soulful experience that left a lasting impression on me.

Lodi Garden, with its serene atmosphere, is perfect for a morning walk and exercise. It's a peaceful place to unwind, sit on the grass, and practice yoga and meditation. The calm and clean surroundings, along with the beautiful landscape and greenery, create a truly relaxing and revitalizing experience.

In our modern-day world, with advancements in architecture and technology, people will appreciate and value history and culture. It's valuable and priceless. It deserves recognition and respect. And so I did.

I had meaningful moments at the Lodi Garden. The history and culture fascinate me. I appreciate a place of such high historical value. It leaves a lasting memory and a pleasant reminiscence.

©️ 2021 Del Cusay

Nazareno 2021: A Timeless Devotion

The Feast of the Black Nazarene, a significant religious event in Filipino culture, is celebrated by millions of devotees this time of year. It is a time of deep spiritual reflection and unwavering faith. This black image of the 17th-century Jesus of Nazareth has been a source of inspiration and undying faith for Filipinos.

What makes the Holy Image of the Black Nazarene so special is the miracles that transpired for the believers. When a faithful sincerely prays, it's always granted—even the most impossible.

My first ever Nazareno experience was about eight years ago. I remember the anticipation and excitement as I prepared for the day. I celebrated the morning mass and prayed for blessings to happen in my life, a tradition that has become a part of my personal journey of faith. 

It was a pleasant experience to be with the flocks of the faithful. I celebrated again in 2016 and 2017. I did not miss it since I was in Manila for those years.

One of the most memorable experiences was the Nazareno 2019 when I witnessed the Traslacion. That was a day-long procession, but I had captured a glimpse of a holy hour near Binondo Chinatown.

How is this year's celebration possible amidst the threat of the pandemic? And when there's a threat of the new variant that's possibly been around undetected?

Despite the health threat posed by the pandemic, Filipinos continue to defy the odds in observance of centuries-old religious traditions and expression of faith. The unwavering devotion of the believers is a testament to the power of faith in overcoming adversity.

This year's celebration is marked by the strict observance of health protocols. Devotees are practicing physical distancing and wearing masks, ensuring their safety and protection.

This year, the Traslacion is declared canceled. However, the Minor Basilica of the Black Nazarene will celebrate the Holy Mass.

Compared to the previous year's experience, the Nazareno 2021 was something new we have yet to see. It was more orderly and quiet. This personal devotion is a celebration in the absence of chaos.

Millions of devotees may have yet to participate in this year's Feast Day of the Nazarene in Quiapo, but it's still possible in the comfort of our homes through online streaming.

The message was clear, and the hope of a better life is still my heart's desire. For this year, better health and protection will be of the utmost priority. 

Our hopes extend beyond personal intentions to encompass health, safety, and security. We fervently hope for the end of this pandemic, the end of suffering, and a fresh start to the year and decade.

Nazareno 2021 is about hoping for a brighter year in uncertain times. Our timeless devotion will always be in our hearts, and our unwavering faith will bring new hope, a renewed life, and a new beginning.

©️ 2021 Del Cusay

Related Post:

👉Nazareno 2019: Celebrating the Traslacion

👉Nazareno 2017: Devotion to the Feast of the Black Nazarene

👉Nazareno 2016: Feast of the Black Nazarene

👉Nazareno 2013: Celebrating the Feast of the Black Nazarene

New Year 2021: A New Hope

The year 2020 brought a lot of pain and suffering into our lives. It was a test of our resilience, a challenge we never expected, but one we've learned to accept and embrace. We've shown our strength in the face of the darkest era of our times.

If this is a preview of a new decade, the '20s, we could predict the future; uncertainty is now part of our daily lives. 

Things change instantaneously. It's like a blink of an eye, and our fate would change.

The year 2020 was the saddest and most unpredictable moment we've experienced. It ruined our hopes and dreams and redirected our compass to a crossroads. That was the end of the year 2020. Finally, we've all welcomed the new year 2021 with our greatest hopes. After the long agony, we can blur the sad memories from the deepest of our consciousness.

As we bid farewell to the year 2020, we welcome the new year 2021 with our greatest hopes. After the long agony, we can look forward to a fresh start, ready to create new, happier memories.

A new world

Whatever earth changes we've been experiencing, one thing I'm sure of is that this is part of the Divine plan. We're not in control; hence, we let things happen and make things happen in our human capacity.

If the world has to change this way, then a more significant force can move us and direct our path -- either to follow and have faith or to step back and have doubts.

So, in this new world order, some would be victims of a sad reality, while others would be victorious survivors.

New opportunities

We've seen people who have lost their livelihoods and missed some chances and opportunities over the past year.

Some may have struggled a lot in business, career, and life. This has also caused our fears, frustrations, and anger. It has made us express all kinds of emotions. It has caused inconvenience and a downgrade in the quality of living at some point.

This year, 2021, is about new opportunities that await us. The missed one is just a moment of pause, stopping for a while, re-calibrating, and being ready to stand up again.

This year, 2021, is about an opportunity to be together as a family again, to be reunited, and to recall how we started it all.

When we're lost, our family guides and lights our path. They're there to pick us up when we're down and cheer us on our way up. Their support is our strength, and it's what keeps us going.

Opportunities don't knock only once. We see opportunities everywhere. And if there seem to be none, we can create them ourselves. For instance, we can start a new business, learn a new skill, or volunteer in our community. We can also create opportunities for others by mentoring, sharing resources, or simply being a supportive friend.

A new dream

Yes, we've awakened from a deep slumber. It was somehow a nightmare! 

This year, we hope for a better night's sleep, a night free from worries and fears. And when we dream, we dream of a better world, a world where we can all live in peace and harmony. As we wake up, we'll turn that dream into a reality, working towards a future that is brighter and more hopeful.

And when we dream, we extend it to the special people in our lives. They are the source of our inspiration, happiness, and reason for living. Family is love, and family is forever. That's one thing I know for sure.

A night or a daydream is a pleasant experience of hoping for brighter days. 

A new hope

We're hopeful that no matter how life seems uncertain, we still believe that something good will happen.

Our hope will always keep us alive and make us believe that miracles happen daily, from when we wake up until we go to sleep. 

A new hope is there to give us the energy to live actively. A new hope gives us many chances to try again and never give up, but hope when things seem to be falling.

This year, 2021, is about hope in all aspects of life. We hope for the best things to happen, for the best wishes to come, and for the best life ahead.

 ©️ 2021 Del Cusay 

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👉 New Year 2020: A New Decade

2020 Year in Review: Overcoming Great Odds

What a challenging year it has been! It was full of surprises, chaos, and unmet expectations. It was a year of lost hopes and breaking barriers. That's how I sum up 2020. 

No matter how good the year 2020 has started, there are always obstacles. That's an uncertain moment of what the future holds. 

How the year started

Celebrating the New Year 2020 with my family was one of the best moments of my life. Being with my loved ones brought happiness and a joyful spirit.

We've shared many meaningful conversations, short travels, and family gatherings that have strongly bonded us. We don't get a chance to celebrate together as one big family yearly, but whenever we do, we make it very memorable.

Meaningful moments have been celebrated with a dear person in my life. I had a great time and sweet memories that I always reminisce about.

The Great Challenge

The end of the first quarter of 2020 brought misery to our lives. The pandemic caused by Covid-19 knocked us down. It made us paralyzed for a moment. It made us worry, fear, and angry over the unknown enemy. The sudden shift to remote work, the fear of contracting the virus, and the isolation from loved ones were some of our challenges.

COVID-19 caused a global freeze. There were no local and international flights, some travel restrictions, closed businesses, and bankrupt companies. 

It separated countries by closing the borders, made us feel disconnected through physical distancing, and taught us to set boundaries for our protection and our loved ones.

Before the lockdown in March this year, I shared a meaningful journey with special people. We never thought the worst was yet to come, but we celebrated the triumph with courage, faith, and love.

Despite the unexpected challenges of this century, we've not just survived; we've thrived. No matter how daunting the situations, we've persevered, determined to carve out a good life in this new normal. Our resilience is a testament to the human spirit, inspiring hope for the future.

Lessons from the Pandemic

This pandemic has been a profound teacher, offering us a glimpse of the potential disasters that humanity may face. It's a wake-up call to be better prepared and more courageous in adversity. Our lessons are invaluable, prompting us to reflect on our actions and be better prepared for the future.

That's a great lesson for humanity, but the pandemic made us realize that we're all globally connected and can feel people's suffering wherever they are.

However, it's not the end of the world. We had to do something. We don't have to feel miserable, lonely, or depressed. Instead, we have made things possible.

Food is essential for survival in times of pandemic. When people in the cities struggle with food supplies, people in the countryside or rural areas have a reason to be more grateful.

Integrated farming lifestyle

My parents decided to use their time while on lockdown. So, they started developing our farmland as our new lifestyle. This involved a shift towards self-sustainability, focusing on growing our food and living in harmony with nature.

Integrated farming has converted our farm into a mini forest with different kinds of trees. This place is where I bathe in the forest every time we visit the farm. Its healing effect is Wonderful as it helps to be more grounded. To be connected to the natural source.

We've also started to plant vegetables and fruits and have made farm-fresh harvests for our food. This time, health must be an utmost priority. We have to strengthen our immunity against diseases, so it's good to eat organic fruits and veggies that are more healthy and keep us strong and have more energy.

Overcoming challenges

We've had enough of COVID-19 and are helping to defeat it. If we keep the faith, it can never break us or kill us.

When we can travel again without restrictions and quarantine status is at the lowest level, we rejoice that finally, we are back to normal, although some health protocols are still in place.

We've had simple family gatherings to celebrate precious moments and religious devotions. This time, there were no kisses and hugs but a little distance to ensure safety. We gathered around a table, maintained a safe distance, and shared our thoughts and feelings, albeit with a sense of caution and a robotic feeling, but we must get used to it.

Christmas in our hearts

Our world brightened up when the 'Ber' month started. We're in a festive mood and celebrating Christmas early on.

From September to December, we anticipate a very long Christmas season unique among Filipinos. It brings hope that we can always be cheerful and win any battle of life's ups and downs.

And so, we celebrate Christmas. It may not be the most festive celebration this year, but we refuse to let go of the light of hope and our lofty aspirations. Our joy in celebrating Christmas, even amid a pandemic, is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and a beacon of hope for the future. 

This Christmas, during the pandemic, is a reminder to be with the people who truly matter and celebrate with simplicity and the highest gratitude. It's a time for introspection about our purpose and continued life journey. To give hope and bear the light.

Christmas is the most anticipated moment, so we make peace with ourselves over wrongful actions. This holiday is the time for a soulful evaluation of the previous year and the best time to plan for the following year.

So many turns of events. Some unexpected moments. Some unimaginable happenings. 2020 may be the beginning of a new earthly change, but it's also the beginning of a New personality and more refined energy.

©️ 2020 Del Cusay

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Stairway to the Ruins in Macau

The former British colony Hong Kong was a wonderful surprise for my parents as we explored the vibrant cosmopolitan East. At the end of the four-day trip, we had one last stop: a day visit and tour in a neighboring Special administrative region, Macau.

It was just an hour and a half ferry ride from Hong Kong, and there was a welcoming message: Bienvenido or welcome in Portuguese. Macau is a former Portuguese colony, and its preserved buildings and other structures are reminiscent of European heritage.

I always love cultural and heritage preservation, and Macau is home to a famous World Heritage site, the Ruins of St. Paul.

In the early morning, before heading to the airport for our flight back to the Philippines, we had a walking tour from our hotel to the Ruins. It was the proximity of about 15 15-minute walk until we reached Senado Square. Just a few steps away from the Ruins.

That was in September 2016. It was a surprise made possible to celebrate my mother's 64th birthday. That was our first family travel abroad, so it was truly memorable.

They built the St. Paul Cathedral in the 17th century. In the 19th century, it was destroyed by fire, leaving the façade as Ruins.

But even in its ruins, it's still beautiful and a work of art, just like the great churches of European craftsmanship. People of different creeds come to visit, and it attracts both local and international tourists eager to see and learn the history behind the ruins.

The Ruins of St. Paul in Macau had just preserved a piece of the structure. With the heritage preservation effort, they decided not to demolish it for the world to see. And to appreciate the once-largest Cathedral in Asia.

Macau may have been transforming into a bustling metropolitan, with beautiful lights from its mega and ultra-modern structures, but it remembered its history and culture.

Macau felt like a cultural city where its people lived simply amidst modernity. It may transform into a much more progressive metropolis in the future, but it will have a unique identity blending East and West cultural influences.

We may have yet to explore much about other tourist sites in Macau, but we've seen one of the image structures of our faith. 

The stairway to the Ruins of St. Paul will always be a memorable travel experience. It leaves an imprint in our hearts, making the whole experience worth remembering.

©️ 2020 Del Cusay

Kathmandu Valley and the lost Kingdom

My arrival at the Indira Gandhi International Airport was a thrilling race against time, reminiscent of The Amazing Race. Despite the rush, I checked in and boarded the plane, bound for the ancient Kingdom of Nepal. 

After six months in India, the thought of venturing into its northern neighbor, Nepal, filled me with an exhilarating sense of anticipation. I could already envision myself in the Kathmandu Valley, surrounded by the awe-inspiring Himalayas. The view from the plane as we descended only served to heighten my excitement. 

As I journeyed from the airport to downtown Kathmandu in a cab, I was immediately captivated by its distinct charm, even amidst the dry and dusty streets. I was eager to begin a walking tour, immersing myself in the vibrant daily life of the Nepalese people. 

Since I stayed in the city center, places of interest were almost within walking distance. The mall, park, pond, temples, street bazaar, and Durbar Square were nearby, and I started my journey on my first day.

My impression of Kathmandu is that it is a city of warm and kind-hearted people. I recall the welcoming smiles of the hotel staff, the lively banter with the street bazaar salespeople, and the playful interactions with the children in Durbar squares. Even the security personnel at tourist sites, the cab drivers, and the strangers I encountered were all friendly and engaging, making my stay in Kathmandu genuinely memorable.

Since they rely heavily on tourism, they must be congenial and give a great impression to every tourist they meet. 

Other cities, like Lalitpur and Bhaktapur, comprise the Kathmandu valley and overlook the heritage site on top of a hill. Swayambhunath offers a breathtaking view of the Kathmandu Valley on a bright sunny day with clear blue skies.

My first stop among the World Heritage sites recommended by my tour guide was Swayambhunath. The ancient structures, some dating back to the 5th century, were a testament to Nepal's rich history. Monkeys everywhere added a unique charm to the place, earning it the nickname 'Monkey Temple '.

I was happy to have visited one of the oldest heritage sites built in the 5th century, long before the birth of Buddhism in Nepal. But then, I knew that Nepal was an old country, just like India, so they had these heritage structures back in the early days of civilization.

Nepal is a great nation that was once ruled by a King as an absolute monarchy. However, in 2008, a constituent assembly created a federal democratic republic.

During my stay, I immersed myself in the rich culture and traditions of the Nepalese people. I learned about their unique festivals, such as Dashain and Tihar, and their reverence for the Himalayas. While Kathmandu may not be as extravagant or developed as other world cities, its natural charm and the warm hospitality of its people make it a must-visit for any tourist.

As much as I wanted to discover more about Nepal, my almost week-long vacation ended, and it was time to re-enter India.

On a short visit, I created meaningful memories that have left a lasting impression on my heart. Nepal is Amazing, and its charm is everlasting.

©️ 2020 Del Cusay

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Wellness in the Green Village

 

If there's one profound lesson the pandemic has taught us, it's the necessity to shift to a futuristic mindset. This experience has prompted us to reflect on our lives, choices, and impact on the world, leading us to embrace a more sustainable and mindful way of living. 

I want to create the next big thing, a sustainable farm village, out of a soulful desire to live a better and more comfortable life in a peaceful and green rural setting.

I call it the next big thing since sustainable farming is one thing that would thrive in the next pandemic or any future financial and health crisis.

During this pandemic, we've awakened the power of our intuition and creativity. We're making use of our productive time while in quarantine. It may not be easy; it requires passion, endurance, and perseverance to accomplish the plan and make things possible, even when times get rough.

After eight months of quarantine, we've achieved a significant milestone—the creation of a green village that will be our additional source of sustainable farm living. This accomplishment fills us with pride and inspiration, as we know we can overcome challenges and bring our dreams to life.

We've built two traditional Filipino farmhouses that serve as a rest house whenever we visit and do some farming activities. We plan to establish farm infrastructures such as concrete roads, multi-purpose halls, villas, ornamental gardens, and a tree park.

My parents dream of having a place where they can live a simple, serene, and meaningful life, and they're making it possible with their strength, willpower, and Divine guidance.

When living in Manila, I always considered returning to our hometown and presenting my parents with some dream farm ideas. Fortunately, they've accomplished some of them. Even if there's more to develop, I'm happy with what they've started.

We're looking forward to seeing a growing family within the decade and hope that the green village will bring us closer. We express a deep love of nature and a deeper connection to the Divine and its creation.

While I may be living away from home and unable to witness the physical development in the years to come, I'm filled with hope and optimism for the future of our green village. I'm grateful to have seen its humble beginnings and look forward to the futuristic glimpse of what it will become.

This pandemic might be a blessing in disguise because we have learned to keep going and believe there is always a great opportunity in adversity.

The making of a green village is not just about health and wellness. It's also about building a lasting legacy with our environmental responsibility and contribution. We protect the Greenville country farm with the love of nature. And a conscious connection with the Divine love to nurture.

©️ 2020 Del Cusay

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Walking Tour in Mumbai

I had a terrible experience in Mumbai, but it was unforgettable. Mumbai is India's financial and cultural capital and one of its finest and wealthiest cities.

But behind Mumbai's glamour lies the unique rhythm of city life for the Mumbaikars. Like other major world megacities, it's a bustling metropolis where chaos and order coexist. I was drawn into this vibrant tapestry of good times and bad during my month-long stay.

My stay in Bandra, a vibrant hub of street commerce, was filled with unique experiences. The streets, adorned with various businesses, offered a shopping experience. My limited wardrobe from New Delhi led me to local shopping, where I found a few shirts and a new pair of shoes at a Nike outlet store. These purchases became my companions as I explored Mumbai's streets and downtown areas.

In Bandra, I would take a daily walk along the bandstand and pass by the mansion of Shah Rukh Khan, one of the famous Bollywood actors. The Bollywood "Walk of Stars" was newly installed then. The names of stars like Kareena Kapoor, whom I've known from the movie "3 Idiots" and other celebrities whose expressions and body marks are inscribed and molded-- their version of the Hollywood "Walk of Fame."

On certain days, I would take a cab from Bandra and traverse the awe-inspiring Bandra-Worli Sea Link. This majestic bridge, a symbol of modern engineering, connects Mumbai's two most essential districts and serves as the gateway to the downtown area, where the world heritage sites are located. This structure's sheer scale and beauty never left me in awe.

During my explorations, I often passed by the tower mansion of the Ambanis, India's richest family and business tycoon. The sheer opulence of this million-dollar house in Mumbai's most expensive real estate location never failed to intrigue me, leaving me with a sense of wonder at its grandeur.

As I reached the old downtown area, my walking tour started with appreciating the old European structures like the Gateway of India and the magnificent Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, which was rich in colonial history and built during the British Raj.

I enjoyed the gallery viewing inside the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel. From its construction, the Royal visits, and the terrorist attack, I learned a piece of its glory and gruesome history.

One day, I decided to delve into Mumbai's local train system. I embarked on a journey from Bandra to Christchurch station, but my experience was marred by a misunderstanding with the ticketing system, resulting in a fine. This incident underscored the importance of understanding local transportation rules. Despite this setback, I continued my exploration, enjoying the sight of students playing cricket, a popular Indian sport, around the University of Mumbai and the nearby areas.

I spent more days in Bandra, and so I explored the streets. Some days, I enjoyed a cup of cappuccino in a café, and some days, I visited the nearby churches to pray. I went to a church on a hilltop, and it was a short car ride via Hill Road.

Before I left Mumbai, I had yet to find Bollywood. It's not a place, but it's a film center. I understand they're the largest producer of films in the world. I've watched some of Shah Rukh Khan and Amir Khan's films not in Mumbai but in Delhi cinema. There's more to Bollywood in Mumbai, but I needed more.

During that month-long stay, I learned about the place and its people, culture, food, music, and lifestyle.

Mumbai has a colorful heritage and history; whenever I have a chance to return in the future, it will be much more wonderful and truly memorable.

©️ 2020 Del Cusay