Sunday's Best at the Farm

How do you live your best life? Life coaches commonly ask this question to assess our present and future lives.

To live our best lives, we must enrich our lives with pleasant and beautiful memories. As we journey through life, we're bound to experience ups and downs, but what matters is how we live with more positive energy despite the odds.

Sunday is always the most peaceful time to experience being alive. It is a moment of healing and rejuvenation as we take a break, made possible by living in a natural environment ideal for the body, mind, and soul.

Visiting the farm on the weekend is pure joy. We feel more relaxed and grounded. This is where we can meditate or have some pure thinking time. This is the place where ideas and plans happen. 

We live in a world where noise and chaos would deplete our energy. However, we can always find a place to unwind and get energized fast. We need to regain our vitality and live a healthy life.

Since we're in the 3rd year of the pandemic, it's great to be closer to nature. Farm visits and gardening are healthy physical activities that make one happy. And that's the essence of living. We want to be happy and to radiate happiness to others.

Yes, life is so short in this uncertain time. So, we live each day with a positive spirit to achieve our highest hopes and dreams. With determination, divine blessing, and guidance, nothing is impossible. We can always make things happen in His time.

©️ 2022 Del Cusay

Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish: Heaven on Earth

It feels good to have celebrated the holidays of 2021 together with my family in my hometown. It was a meaningful year-end for the fulfillment of hopes and dreams. We've also welcomed the new year, 2022, with optimistic hopes and affirmations for a great year ahead.

As we embark on another year filled with aspirations and the inevitable challenges of the pandemic, let's take a moment to acknowledge our resilience. We've not only survived 2021, but we've also learned, adapted, and grown. The uncertainty of 2022 is just another hurdle we're ready to face head-on, knowing that we've discovered new strengths and opportunities during these challenging times.

I feel blessed to have celebrated the first Sunday mass of 2022 with my parents at the Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish in my hometown in Jamindan. It's been two years since my last visit during the pandemic. It's still the same feeling except for restrictions like physical distancing and wearing face masks. The previous year's pre-pandemic was more intimate when we could meet to hug and kiss each other. But now, we see each other and look at their faces. 

In the absence of Rev. Father Jeffrey Estrella, our new Parish administrator is Father Patrick Jay Parce, who actively calls on the Parishioners to be more faithful and continue to fulfill their religious obligations. As parishioners, we can contribute to building a better parish for everyone. It may take years to create a more stable and refined church. Still, with a commitment to the parishioners' spiritual service, we can experience a "Heaven on Earth" and live a beautiful and meaningful life. 

On January 13, 2022, we celebrated a significant milestone—the fourth anniversary of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish Jamindan. This four-year journey has been a testament to the parish's unwavering service to the community and its alignment with divine power, love, and light. The newly built Parish continues to be a beacon of hope, drawing believers and parishioners alike, all thanks to the intercession of Mother Mary and the parish's dedicated service.

Yes, heaven is a place on earth. We may feel small daily but we can do great things with God's grace. A miracle is waiting to happen, and it is already happening if we see and feel it. God's love creates benefits in our lives, and we must recognize the blessings poured upon us. God is good and always present in our lives. A heaven-on-earth experience happens when we call his name, sing a song of praise, and kneel to pray.

©️  2022 Del Cusay

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👉 Our Lady of Perpetual Help: A Divine Gift

Nazareno 2022: Unwavering Faith

The Feast of the Black Nazarene has been a significant event since I was a devotee in 2013. Since then, I have celebrated its feast day every January 9. This annual religious festivity gives meaning to my life as I strengthen my faith and spiritual beliefs.

For the 2nd year since 2020, the annual 'traslacion' was canceled due to the threat of the Covid-19 pandemic. However, a mass is celebrated at the Quiapo church, and only a few devotees are inside. The believers, with their unwavering faith, are unstoppable and dare to take risks to celebrate their faith. The pandemic, a formidable obstacle, didn't stop them from expressing their love and devotion, inspiring us all with their resilience.

On January 9, 2019, I celebrated and witnessed the "traslacion" in Manila. It was perfect timing and a blessing that I noticed the massive flocks of devotees for the first time. For many years, I've only seen it on TV until I've seen the activity before my eyes live as it happens.

I'm grateful for the opportunity to celebrate the annual feast through a TV Sunday mass this year. The place of the Black Nazarene in Quiapo, Manila, is home to several stories of miracles and hope. Thousands to millions of devotees have testimonies on how their faith and devotion brought meaning and strength into their lives.

I also testify how the Black Nazarene has improved my life. It has never failed me in my prayer requests and intentions. The Black Nazarene symbolizes unwavering faith for everyone who believes in His divine power, love, and light.

©️ 2022 Del Cusay 

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👉 Nazareno 2021: A Timeless Devotion

New Year 2022: Sing Our Hearts Out

A year full of meaningful and joyous journeys. A year full of willpower to survive and thrive. And a year full of perseverance, inspiration, and motivation. That's how the year 2021 brought meaning into our lives. 

We've ended the year 2021 with a melody. Singing our hearts out as we welcome the new year 2022 by belting old songs.

The Music Played

The new year may set the mood for the entire year ahead. We've had enough of the noise and haste. We've heard about the not-so-good things, the good, the bad, and the ugly. 

Whenever we feel overwhelmed by the noise, let the music play. When we feel joyful, the music plays. When we feel hopeful, the music plays. The ups and downs, the moments of uncertainty, the times of joy, and the roller coaster of emotions keep the music playing.

My Elusive Dreams

The last time we celebrated the new year as a complete family was long ago. But we can still feel connected in the spirit of the new year. 

I spent New Year's celebration with my sister's family in Manila. I also spent a unique year celebration with my parents in my hometown, revisiting our old traditions and sharing our hopes and dreams for the coming year. 

It's my elusive dream that we may celebrate the new year together as a complete family—with my siblings and their families and with our dear parents.

We may wear different colors for the new year, symbolizing our unique perspectives and experiences. Still, we're permanently bonded through colorful ideas, representing our shared values and traditions and bringing joy to our lives, signifying the joy and vibrancy our family brings. 

Life is even more colorful when we celebrate the new year as a clan. We may have different personalities and preferences, but we're united as a family with similar identities and familial traits. A family that stays together through thick and thin.

The Impossible Dream 

As we set new goals for the new year, let's remember that some plans may seem very hard or impossible to achieve. However, with a positive spirit, we can consistently reach great heights, instilling hope and motivation in our hearts. 

There's nothing impossible for a dreamer who believes in and dares to conquer limitless possibilities. Every year, we discover something new about ourselves, understand who we are, and unleash the power from within. Sometimes, we may have doubts and fears, but that doesn't stop us from achieving our heart's desire. 

I Know

As we step into the future, one thing is certain-a family is forever. No distance can separate us. Nobody can stop us. And no one can break us. Our strong foundation and excellent shield make us unstoppable, providing a sense of security and reassurance.

This new year, 2022, brings a new perspective on life. It gives us more vital energy and willpower. It brings a melody to our hearts. We can always choose to filter out noises and hear pleasant and melodious voices. We danced to the music and sang out loud. We can keep the music playing and sing our hearts out. 

©️ 2022 Del Cusay

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2021 Year in Review: Reunited in Love

It's been a year of surprises, meaningful experiences, and creating lasting memories. That's how I would describe the happenings in the year 2021. 

This is the year we fought hard to survive life's challenging moments. We've been breaking the walls that set boundaries, defying restrictions that set limitations. 

We've welcomed the year with a positive spirit that things will improve. And the first quarter of 2021 was a fulfillment of dreams and wishes. There were moments of fantasy-like experiences. Tears in our eyes, smiles, and moments of laughter make a rollercoaster of emotions.

A Great Family Bond

Family is love. That's how I feel at the beginning of the year 2021. A warm feeling that opens the heart and radiates light to everyone. 

Family is always there to guide and help along the way. I would be grateful for their overwhelming response and attention. I wouldn't be able to accomplish things alone, and with them by my side, it makes me feel relieved. I'm glad they're always there to the rescue when things aren't going well.

This year is extra special as I enter another chapter of my life. This may be the beginning of a more challenging life ahead. However, I look forward to more beautiful days as I envision what comes next and what lies ahead.

Lessons from the Pandemic

Covid-19 didn't hinder grand plans for this year. We've become more resilient and had increased willpower to push through what we have in mind. 

We celebrated birthdays and special occasions in a simple yet meaningful way. We traveled to places even on a short distance to spend time relaxing and unwinding. We spent our Soulful Sunday moments contemplating what life's about. 

Life shouldn't stop us from doing what we love despite our challenges. We've learned to adapt to the new normal and accept that Covid-19 will be part of our existence.

In mid-2021, we've done our part by being inoculated with the COVID-19 vaccine. It's a way of protecting our health, loved ones, and other people. It's wise to stay healthy during the pandemic. We can't afford to die, and we dare to survive this global health threat.

Christmas in our Hearts

I'm thankful to have celebrated Christmas with my family in my hometown. We may not be a complete family, but we feel connected. 

Christmas time brings us joy as we celebrate the remaining days of the year. This is when we're in a lighter mood as we look forward to a brighter new year. 

This year's Christmas may not be the brightest, but we can bring smiles and joy to other people who visit our home. This is our way of sharing something to give back for the blessings received. There are so many sad events this year, so it's good to bring back the smiles on each other's faces.

My "Year in Review" is about reflecting on the good things that have happened throughout the year. I'm grateful for all the life lessons, opportunities, and experiences that improved me. 

There are sorrowful moments, but I've learned to let go and move on. What's important is I've gained valuable insights for enlightenment and personal development. 

I am grateful to the Divine for the power, love, and light. I've made it this year and hope for the best as I welcome the new year with higher hopes and aspirations. I also look forward to another year full of inspiration.

©️ 2021 Del Cusay

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👉 Year in Review 2020: Overcoming Great Odds

Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas

Christmas time is the most anticipated season of the year. It brings joy, fun, and laughter. It also brings lovely and magical moments as we celebrate the Year-end.

What happens when we suddenly feel sad about untoward events like destructive typhoons hitting the country just before Christmas? It's supposed to be a "Merry Christmas" for all, but the natural calamity destroyed people's joyful and peaceful Christmas vibe.

The last time I experienced a stormy Christmas was on the eve of December 24 in my hometown in the Visayas, a few hours before Christmas day. After celebrating the Christmas Eve mass, a strong typhoon left us with a power outage. It was supposed to be a happy "Noche Buena," but we had candle lighting on a dark Christmas night. 

That was my first experience of a stormy Christmas. Since my childhood, the Christmas season has been dry. However, with the effect of climate change, we'll be experiencing a wet and stormy Christmas. It's becoming more destructive year after year, and it has left more families homeless for Christmas.

On December 17, 2021, super typhoon "Odette" hit many Philippine provinces in Visayas and Mindanao. It has caused massive damage to properties and businesses. It had caused injuries and casualties. That's a sorrowful moment for those families who have lost their loved ones in celebration of Christmas.

The devastating situation continues after the typhoon. Many families lost their homes and suffered from power outages and a lack of necessities like food and water. That's prolonged suffering for those affected individuals and families.

As Christmas day approaches, we come together as a community to help our affected fellow citizens in any way possible. This is a time when we feel connected as a nation, united in our efforts to lift the spirits of those who have suffered. We understand their pain because we've experienced it ourselves, and we know the power of community support in times of calamity.

This Christmas is about our optimistic hopes and wishes for everyone to become more resilient and to rise again despite the struggles and suffering brought by a calamity. We hope that people will remember the essence of celebrating Christmas and put even a little smile on their faces. The resilience and strength of these communities in the face of such adversity is truly inspiring. 

This Christmas is about expressing our gratitude. Despite the challenges we've faced, we're still thankful to the Divine for the good, the bad, and the worst experiences that have shaped our lives. This gratitude is a powerful reminder of the strength we can find in even the most difficult situations. 

We have a shared humanity. Wherever we are, we think about the welfare of others and this time, we send them good wishes of positivity and recovery. 

©️ 2021 Del Cusay

It's Beginning to look a lot like Christmas

It feels like Christmas. The tall, colorful Christmas trees with sparkling lights make us feel good and bring back memories of celebrating the Yuletide season.

This Christmas season holds the promise of being brighter than the past two years, when the looming threat of Covid-19 cast a shadow over our celebrations. 

This year's Christmas season feels different, as people visit any place where they can feel the Christmas spirit and bond with their families for a short while.

I remember when we decorated our Christmas tree in our hometown for two consecutive Christmases in 2019 and 2020. That was fun and made lasting, great memories worth reminiscing about.

We eagerly anticipate a Merry Christmas, the most joyous time of the year, as we savor each day with happiness before the year draws to a close.

This Christmas is about our highest hopes that things will improve despite what we've been through for the past two years.

As we wish for a meaningful celebration with our loved ones, let's remember that our family has been a beacon of hope, a reason to hold on and not give up, even in the face of adversity. We have faith that Christmas will heal us and bring out the best in us.

©️ 2021 Del Cusay

My Sister's Sky Garden

It feels good when we have a piece of nature at home. It gives us serenity and peace of mind when we need a break or relaxation.

Amidst the chaos and pollution of city life, the creation of a home garden is not just a retreat, but a testament to our ability to shape our environment. It's a living, breathing accomplishment that fuels us with incredible and healing power to live our most remarkable life.

Seeing how my sister turned her dream of a sky garden into reality is truly inspiring. The process was challenging, but her determination and creativity prevailed. From selecting the right plants to designing the layout, every step was a learning experience. Her roof deck, now transformed into a perfect spot for family gatherings, weekend fun, and relaxation, is a testament to the power of determination and creativity. 

The sky garden, with its al fresco charm, becomes the perfect backdrop for family gatherings and celebrations. The cool breeze, especially during Christmas, adds a touch of magic to these moments, making them even more memorable and heartwarming. 

A green space at home is more than just a garden. It's a connection to nature, a reminder of the lush landscapes we grew up with. Even in the city, creating our own little oasis is possible, bringing a sense of home and comfort wherever we go.

During this pandemic, everyone realized the importance of having a clean and green environment. More individuals and families became interested in plants and gardening. Beyond just a hobby, gardening became a source of solace and a way to stay connected to nature during these challenging times. They brought nature home, making them feel happier and more grounded than before.

My parent's love of nature influenced my sister's interest in plants and flowers. They love to develop a natural place for a happy and healthy family. My mother also loves indoor plants and flowers, so she feels satisfied even when not on the farm.

My Sister's Sky Garden is an excellent place to celebrate Christmas with the family. The bonding and happy moments always create beautiful memories worth remembering. A joyous season worth reminiscing about.

©️ 2021 Del Cusay

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👉 Coffee in the Sky Garden

The Journey Continues: From Lambda to Omicron

Just before the world celebrates Christmas on December 25, we are again threatened with the new Covid-19 variant, Omicron.

Our suffering is unending with every new variant discovered, and we're about to cover all the Greek alphabets already, from Alpha to Omega. 

The Delta variant was seen as the most contagious and deadliest. However, this newly named Omicron variant is said to be highly transmissible, with several countries in Africa now affected.

We've learned our lesson with the Delta variant. Several hospitals run out of beds due to overwhelming cases and admissions. And this scenario is bound to happen again if the government keeps borders from countries where the Omicron variant originated.

The Philippines recorded 26,000+ all-time high COVID-19 cases when the Delta variant peaked. We couldn't afford to match or even reach another all-time high number of cases once the Omicron variant is detected in the country.

It's about preparedness and alertness. Several countries have already closed their borders from African countries affected by Omicron, and the Philippines has followed suit. That sense of urgency in the decision-making of our government is commendable. 

We must be better at this time. We've learned our lesson about the importance of securing our border to prevent the transmission of any new Covid variants. However, just like health experts have predicted, it's a matter of time before the new Omicron variant is discovered in every country.

What we've learned from Alpha to Delta variants still applies to other variants, including Omicron. Basic health protocol must still be observed, and having been fully vaccinated gives a more substantial layer of protection and immunity.

No matter what happens, life goes on. We must learn to adapt to this pandemic, and it starts with an acceptance that it will now become part of our daily lives. We've learned to identify what's essential vs. non-essential. We've learned to prioritize people, events, and things that truly matter. And above all, we've learned to survive. This adaptability is a testament to our resilience and capability.

When this pandemic ends, we're all survivors. We can survive all other challenges and threats that may come our way. This must be part of the Divine Plan for humanity, and those who won't make it just fail to learn about the essence of survival instincts and skills, just like in any disaster.

It's still possible to better protect ourselves from the pandemic. We must always plan ahead and not become victims of this global health threat. Let's do our best to avoid becoming included in the tally of cases by being inoculated with the COVID-19 vaccine. This is a preventive measure and a powerful tool that empowers us to save the world and end our suffering.

As we welcome the New Year 2022, we're learning to live in a different world. A world that is harsh and full of suffering. And so, we better prepare ourselves for a more unforeseeable crisis. Always think, plan, and always dare to survive and thrive.

©️ 2021 Del Cusay

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👉 Journey from Alpha to Lambda

Remembering the Stars of the Galaxy

Discovering the BPO industry as a trainer was a delightful surprise. In August 2015, I was introduced to the thriving industry in the Philippines, a journey that sparked a newfound passion I never thought I'd embark on.

When asked how I would want to give my group a name, I had to think of the best description that reflected my personality—something that I couldn't forget and that would remain memorable and significant even in the years to come.

And so, I came up with "Stars of the Galaxy," with the Stars as the group and the Galaxy as its territory. That was my best name since I wanted my group to shine like stars, unleash their brilliance, and sparkle in the dark.

I could train more than 20 groups with 25-35 trainees per group per week. That was fun and exciting, as each week is something new. Each group showed their talents and creativity in every activity. They did their best, and they succeeded in every task.

There were moments of laughter and some moments of tears. The fast and unexpected turn of events, such as sudden changes in customer demands or technical issues, made each day a thrill. The exhilarating moments created a rollercoaster of emotions. Some were able to make it, while others didn't.

Working in a BPO is challenging. It's always tricky, and you have to be at a fast pace. Everything moves fast. You need to think and make decisions quickly. The pressure is high, and the expectations are even higher. It's a constant juggle between meeting targets, handling customer issues, and ensuring high team morale. 

Aside from inspiring and motivating my group, I've also challenged them to reach for their dreams and aspirations. Like stars, they have to shine wherever they are, even in the darkest moments of their lives. They must always believe that nobody can dim the lights that glow from within.

It was also a beautiful experience working with my co-trainers and supervisor. We had an incredible bond as a team of trainers, and we felt appreciated and remembered on our special day until our final moment to exit.

It's immensely gratifying to have positively impacted my group, even in a small way. Beyond the technical skills we learned together, the personal growth I witnessed was truly inspiring. As we parted ways, I was filled with pride as some became customer service/technical support representatives in the same company while others were promoted to higher positions.

Together with my co-trainers, we celebrated our achievements and the hard work we put in throughout the year during the 2015 Year-end Party. This event was not just a time to relax and bond but also a moment to recognize and appreciate the efforts of each individual in our team. It was a time to reflect on our journey together and set new goals for the coming year.

The pandemic has not stopped the BPO industry. They saved our economy when most industries were at a loss. They are the gainers and have proven resilient when other businesses have suffered tremendously.

I highly revere people working in the BPO since they sacrifice for personal gain and our economy. BPO is the topmost industry in the Philippines and will continue to prosper.

The BPO industry has allowed me to meet wonderful people and create cherished memories. I am deeply grateful for this experience; these memories will always hold a special place in my heart, reminding me of the value of every individual's journey in this industry.

©️ 2021 Del Cusay

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👉 Stars of the Galaxy: Reliving the Magical Moments

A Momentary Gloomy Life

We've all experienced the weight of sadness. It disrupts our peace of mind, and we feel down about ourselves or the circumstances that triggered it. But remember, it's a normal part of the human experience, and you're not alone in this. There are moments when we no longer feel good about the things or activities we used to do. Our energies are drained, and we lack the inspiration and motivation to achieve something worthwhile.

What makes us feel sad? How do we get over it? Life can be a roller coaster of emotions, and we experience all of it, from happiness to sadness.

Sadness, by its nature, is fleeting. It's a passing emotion that eventually dissipates. However, it's crucial to recognize that prolonged or intense feelings of sadness can lead to a more serious condition, depression. While sadness is a normal part of the human experience, depression is a severe mental health issue that may necessitate professional intervention.

Our emotional experiences, whether positive or negative, are a fundamental part of being human. When we find ourselves in a state of sadness, it's often a response to feeling rejected, disappointed, or not having our desires fulfilled. In these moments, having our emotions acknowledged and validated by others can be remarkably comforting and affirming. Conversely, when our feelings are disregarded or overlooked, it can exacerbate our sadness and deepen our sense of isolation.

Overcoming sadness is not about waiting for someone to come and rescue us. It's about tapping into our inner strength and resilience. Yes, the support of others can be invaluable, but ultimately, our determination and courage can lift us out of the depths of sadness, even when it feels like no one is there to listen. 

A moment of sadness makes our lives meaningful when we return to our best selves. Nobody wouldn't want to be sad. We want to be happy, feel good about our highest self, and be glad.

©️ 2021 Del Cusay

Coffee in the Sky Garden

What's that one thing you've given up on this year? It may be permanent or temporary, but that decision may impact your life.

Whether it's a vice, a bad habit, or a faulty diet, these are the things we hope to change. And when we take the first steps towards a new life, free from the shackles of our old ways, we're empowering ourselves for a brighter future.

Setting a resolution usually starts at the beginning of the year. But what happens when suddenly we decide in the middle of the year? 

In May of this year, I decided to stop drinking coffee. This is for health reasons, such as limiting sugar consumption. Our blood sugar levels may increase as we age due to dietary choices and other factors. Thus, we suffer in the long run.

For five months, I've been in control of my sugar intake. I've abstained from coffee and soft drinks, which I used to consume for several years. This dietary lifestyle change is a testament to my commitment to a healthier body, and it's a feeling of control I wouldn't trade for anything.

After five months, I reintroduced coffee and soda into my life, but I didn't succumb to the same cravings. I've learned to control my sugar consumption to maintain an ideal blood sugar level, and it's a small victory that brings a sense of accomplishment. 

Before, I couldn't function physically and mentally well without a cup of coffee. It helps me stay awake and more energetic. But there's a downside to drinking too much, and so I have to cut it before its irreversible effect happens.

Forming a habit couldn't be easier without the will and knowing its purpose. For me, I had to sacrifice my craving for health. Lifestyle diseases like diabetes can ruin our lives and better functioning, so there's a limit to everything. 

When we have a healthy physical body, we can also have a healthy mind. We can achieve freedom from diseases and illnesses brought about by our bad habits and choices. Yes, we only live once. And so, we also take the chance to live it well and to be well. 

©️ 2021 Del Cusay

Spooky Memories of Halloween

Halloween could be more fun for adults. But that doesn't mean we can never have as much fun as little kids do.

As a kid, we celebrated Halloween by wearing spooky costumes to scare each other. That was a yearly activity for us until it ended when such a thing wasn't exciting anymore, and we were already grown-up individuals.

Back then, we learned about the essence of celebrating Halloween and its hidden dangers. We knew that many people, especially young children, were doing it.

I still vividly recall our Halloween celebration in 2011. It was a joy to introduce the tradition to our nephews and niece. They were so excited, dressing up as spooky creatures and characters, their faces adorned with eerie makeup for that extra scare factor. 

They had fun, repeated in 2012 with a more scary look, dressing up as [specific scary characters or creatures]. During those years, we have yet to teach them the significance of Halloween. All we knew was the fun it brings until the year that follows when we no longer celebrate it.

In recent years, as a working adult, I've learned about the dangers of Halloween, especially to young children. That's why I would rather see them wearing a costume like a saint or holy person instead of a scary one. 

We never know about the afterlife, but we must celebrate the holiness of those who have lived clean lives. We celebrate the lives of the saints who have touched so many lives when they are living. 

We don't want to invite negative entities into our bodies and consciousness; we encourage people to celebrate people's holiness and not their negative and evil side. We denounce evil and strive for holiness no matter how sinful we are.

I'm glad to see that nowadays, more people are aware of the dangers of Halloween, and so they would want to correct their mistakes of celebrating wickedness and spooky culture copied from the West. 

Now, our nephews and niece are grown-up children, and they have stopped celebrating a spooky Halloween like we used to, opting instead for a more [specific type of celebration]. 

This realization about life after death happens when we deeply examine our lives. When we go to the afterlife, we want to see the good and the holy people. We would like to see heaven and not hell. We would like to see the Angels and not the demons. Because when we live a good life, we also look forward to a better afterlife.

©️ 2021 Del Cusay

The Last Quarter of 2021

We've entered the beginning of the final quarter of the year. This month of October brings energy and time to ponder many things -- from the pandemic to politics.

In the Philippines, the filing of Candidates for the May 2022 National and local elections has started, marking a crucial period in our nation's history. Political noises and dramas are becoming more intense daily, underscoring the gravity of our decisions in the coming months.

That's the political atmosphere in the Philippines, a dynamic landscape not just about fanaticism and involvement in election campaigns and propaganda but also about the formidable power of the people to shape it. Each voice and vote has the potential to steer our nation's course.

Being involved in the political process means being aware of our rights as citizens and understanding the issues and the candidates' platforms. The right to vote is a fundamental right of every Filipino, and we must use it wisely. Understanding the candidates' platforms is crucial, allowing us to make informed decisions. Now, people are more knowledgeable and awakened to the present realities affecting their daily lives and the future, and this awareness should guide their voting decisions.

Seeing people becoming more expressive and active in social and political issues is heartening. They discuss politics, have a debate, and can strongly oppose with conviction what they believe in. However, it's important to remember that these discussions should be civil and respectful. Respectful discourse is the essence of a healthy democracy. It makes people feel that they're part of a democratic society where their vote matters and is validated.

Election time brings hope to every citizen, especially those who aspire for a change in leadership and those who yearn for good governance. We all share the hope for a better country, a better Philippines, and better Filipino citizens, a hope that is not just a wish but a call to action.

©️ 2021 Del Cusay

Holding the Line with Maria Ressa

When I met Maria Ressa in July 2017, I had the opportunity to briefly interview her about her views on climate change and disaster resilience.

That's part of her mission with the AGOS Project. She's deeply committed to helping Filipinos build a more resilient and prepared community, a mission that is of utmost importance.

What struck me most about Maria Ressa was her unique role as a journalist. She's not just a reporter, but a champion of many things. Her brilliance and positive outlook are truly admirable. Her job is not just to bring news, but to bring investigative journalism to the people, a task she performs with exceptional skill and dedication.

Despite facing criticism and prejudice, Maria Ressa remains steadfast. Her endurance of online attacks, government opposition, and detractors is a testament to her unwavering courage and determination. Her resilience, a quality we can all aspire to, is truly inspiring.

Maria Ressa's work is not just important; it's crucial. Her strong voice and unwavering stance against the drug war killings, attacks on journalists, and suppression of news media organizations are a beacon of hope for justice and truth. Her work has had a significant impact on the prevention of such atrocities in the Philippines.

Maria Ressa has faced attacks from the country where she serves with love. Her role in mass media is beyond ordinary since she does things extraordinarily well.

On October 8, 2021, Maria Ressa made history by winning the Nobel Peace Prize, a momentous occasion for the Philippines. As the first Filipino to receive this prestigious honor, her extraordinary contributions to society are undeniable. The upcoming December 10, 2021, awarding ceremony in Oslo, Norway, will mark a significant event in Philippine history.

Maria Ressa will be my inspiration for holding the line. She will be known for her legacy of fighting against injustices and suppression of fearless journalism, press freedom, and freedom of expression. Only a few in her profession can be as challenging and bold as her. She fights with the giant bullies and the killers of press freedom and social justice.

Maria Ressa, the 2021 Nobel Peace Prize Laureate, will forever be remembered as a champion of truth. She is an admired leader and a fearless advocate for press freedom and freedom of expression. 

©️ 2021 Del Cusay

Welcoming October's Best

When September ends, we feel more energized moment. It's about welcoming a new month with enthusiasm and positivity.

When we feel good, we attract the best things in life. It fuels our passion and keeps us more alive. It's the best time to keep the inner fire burning and lasting.

This month is a testament to the power of optimism. It's about waking up each day with the unwavering belief that the best is yet to come, even when the future seems uncertain. It's about sharing a smile, laughing often, and feeling good because we have the power to shape our own happiness.

What's the best thing you're hopeful about this month and beyond? Is it the Yuletide season? A pleasant surprise? Or a new chapter? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and let's inspire each other. Your hopes and dreams can be a source of inspiration for someone else, so don't hesitate to share.

Despite the ongoing restrictions, we have the power to choose hope. Hope is our anchor, our guiding light, that keeps us optimistic about our plans and resilient in facing challenges. 

Blue skies, early morning sunshine, a gentle wind blowing, and a good conversation give us the energy to feel suitable all day. It keeps us youthful, like a playful child who teaches us to be carefree and free.

October's Best is about our mindset. Expectations that can empower our actions and unblock our limitations.

As October draws to a close, keeping our fire burning may seem more challenging. But in pursuing greater aspirations, let's not forget to keep our childlike nature alive. Remember to live, laugh, and love just like a carefree child. That's the best October we can hope for, and it's up to us to make it so.

©️ 2021 Del Cusay

Birthday Special: Celebrating our Mother's 68th Birthday

What are your most meaningful birthday wishes for your Mother? 

As children, we cherish the loving moments with our Mothers, the ones who have shaped our values and nurtured our beings. They are the ones who have cared for us and attended to our needs, filling our lives with joy and guiding us to completeness.

As we grow older, we still hold dear the days spent by our Mother's side. Her resilience in the face of challenges is a beacon of inspiration, often bringing to mind happy, fun-filled moments when we need a lift.

A birthday is a special moment of remembering. And no distance separates us from our Mother as we celebrate her day. We give thanks and send meaningful wishes. On this day, we gather and share the joy in her heart. 

We wish her a good life, to spend more time enjoying what she loves doing, and to fulfill her own goals and heart's desires. She devoted her life to raising us well, sacrificing her own needs for ours, and is now actively involved in building a community. It's her way of giving back to where she was born and allowing her to serve. We are truly grateful for all that she has done for us.

We will forever be on her side to accomplish her life's cherished goals. She has a deeper faith and is guided by Divine love and light.

On her 68th birthday, we celebrate her life and feel her love from a distance. Though we may not be physically together, she's always in our hearts. We are committed to supporting her aspirations and helping her achieve a fulfilled life, just as she has always done for us.

©️ 2021 Del Cusay