Stars of the Galaxy: Reliving the Magical Moments

Sometimes, we reminisce about wonderful moments like taking a problematic exam, receiving a promotion, or even a simple act of kindness that once made us feel good about ourselves. We enjoyed those moments that captivated our imaginations and desires. 

We cherish the times when we feel ignited by our passion and aspirations. We feel great about ourselves and strive to show our best selves.

Today, we live and create our own reality, our version of life that guides our destiny. It's not just a dream, but to rekindle moments that will launch us to our destination -- our future success. We create a roadmap to guide us along the way, not to be overwhelmed by circumstances but to regain ourselves when we brave the stormy seas.

Our journey to success will always depend on how much power we unleash in ourselves. Once the untapped energy, the potential within us that we haven't fully realized, is activated, it will be ever-ready to launch us to something unimaginable. You may not believe it at first, but those dreams and desires are becoming closer to reality—your magical journey.

Life often throws us challenges that seem insurmountable, testing our mettle and resolve. But with unwavering faith, we can build a solid foundation, a rock to strengthen our core. When the storm comes, we'll be ready, our best defense fierce and mighty, ready to knock out adversity and bounce back to reality.

On the way to the peak, we often encounter hills and valleys. These are the moments of success and failure, joy and sorrow, that usually go unnoticed by many, disregarding the hidden struggles and dreaded misery. 

Others see the hollowness that breaks easily, though the barrier is still unbreakable to set you free -- you become a winner and will always be.

Our commitment to excellence is our bow and arrow, our tool for raising our standards and proving our worth to ourselves and others. Our goal is our target, our compass guiding us on the right path. We may stumble, but we can always find our way back and follow the guiding light.


© 2016 Del Cusay

Celebrating the Feast of Sto. Niño 2016

On this day, we celebrate the feast of the Child Jesus all over the Philippines. Venerating the holy image has been part of our culture and tradition since it was brought over by Spaniards to our country. Since then, Filipinos have embraced Christianity and made it their way of life.

The feast of Santo Niño is one of the most celebrated events in the Philippines, and millions of devotees all over the archipelago would join activities in honor of Him. From the oldest city of Cebu and the busy streets of Manila, the festivity is alive; it is vibrant, colorful, and energetic.

Today, I witnessed how we celebrate this famous religious event. Thousands of people participated in the parade as they marched to the beat of the drums. The long procession was full of energy as they carried the holy image while waving it in the air. Some holy images are uniquely dressed to portray occupations like policeman, nurse, doctor, and others. This concept has been a tradition among the faithful who believe it will bring them blessings and guide their living.

The Santo Niño de Tondo 2013 feast was memorable to me as I experienced a crowd of devotees celebrating the mass and having their holy image blessed with sacred water. I sacrificed falling in line to reach the top of the church in Tondo, Manila, where the divine image of Santo Niño is placed. Touching the sacred image and saying prayer is a symbol of faith and devotion—faith that is unique among us and will forever be observed with our grateful hearts. 

The Holy Child Jesus, in his image we call Santo Niño, reminds us of innocence and vigor. When we were young, we were full of wonders and had genuine happiness; we were robust and genuinely present. We don't mind negativity and feel we are being guided. Just like Santo Niño, it reflects the child within us. Our humility, graciousness, and innocence lead us to live a positive life despite the struggles and challenges we are going through.

With our faith, we learn to be strong and keep moving forward. The strong Divine force -- our God is there to watch over and guide us. When we are fearful, we turn to become fearless. When we are weak, we develop strength; when we are about to quit, we suddenly hold on and keep the faith. 

© 2016 Del Cusay

Nazareno 2016: Celebrating The Feast of The Black Nazarene

The feast of the Black Nazarene, or in Filipino, 'Pista ng Poong Nazareno,' has been a significant religious event in the Philippines. The Black Nazarene, a life-sized statue of Jesus Christ carrying the cross, is more than a cultural symbol. It represents courage and faith in God Almighty. The statue is believed to have miraculous powers, and Filipino devotees have venerated and shown piety for centuries through this holy image at the Quiapo Church in Manila.

I first celebrated the grand feast of the Black Nazarene three years ago. It was a solemn event near the church, where devotees flocked to celebrate the mass and have their religious items blessed with holy water. Despite the rainy weather, which we considered a blessing, I was caught in a sudden downpour. But instead of seeking shelter, I embraced the rain as a symbol of purification and a test of my faith. It was a sacrifice and a show of perseverance despite the unexpected obstacle. This experience taught me the value of endurance and the power of faith in overcoming challenges.

As I remember Nazareno (2013), the crowd around Quiapo church was more peaceful and orderly than in 'traslacion.' This annual procession, known as 'traslacion,' marks the transfer of the Black Nazarene image from its original place in Luneta (now Rizal Park) to its current home in Quiapo church. During the traslacion, millions of devotees brave the massive crowd along the streets where the procession passes. It is a powerful display of faith and devotion, with some devotees having the endurance and courage to hold the piece of long rope attached to the image, which they believe brings miracles to their lives. Others would have their hankies wiped over the image, assuming it can bring healing power.

Numerous stories have already been shared by devotees who could testify to the miraculous power of the divine image of the Black Nazarene. Even famous Filipino celebrities would also share the blessings they received from their devotion. However, the event is for everyone regardless of societal status; rich or poor, healthy or sick, young or old could show their faith and devotion.

On this day, the 9th of January 2016, I once again witnessed the deep sense of community among the Filipino devotees of the Black Nazarene. The vicinity of the Quiapo church was filled with the faithful who gathered to celebrate the mass and novena. For about 2 hours, I stood among them, listening to the holy sacrament and praying for my personal intentions. Individuals and families prayed together, united in their faith. Some parents even brought their little children, demonstrating the inclusivity of this spiritual event. And amidst the crowd, those who were physically sick endured, their sacrifice a testament to their unwavering faith.

Those who did not go to the traslacion or procession have just visited Quiapo church to celebrate the mass. A crowd of volunteers and devotees go barefoot, which symbolizes humility. They have been serving the Black Nazarene for several years to show their faith and more profound personal devotion.

While I may not be an active devotee of the Black Nazarene, I believe that God hears our prayers and intentions when we approach Him with all our hearts and humility. I am just one of the millions who have experienced Divine blessings and interventions. This journey is deeply personal, filled with hardships and struggles that ultimately lead to a sense of fulfillment. It's a journey we undertake in our own way, facing unique challenges and finding our own moments of grace.

The feast of the Black Nazarene is not just a display of religiosity. It is a transformative experience, a test of faith that we endure and sacrifice for. We find strength and completion in our moments of weakness and despair in God. It takes courage and humility to be part of this massive gathering of the faithful, to give thanks, seek forgiveness, and pray for our personal intentions. This is a spiritual journey for a day, a lifetime, and beyond. It's a journey that requires us to be brave in our faith and humble in our prayers.

 © 2016 Del Cusay