Heart's Desire: An Answered Prayer

If there is a tool that hears and grants our dreams and wishes, that tool would be the power of prayer to the Almighty. God hears, God listens, and God answers our heart's desires.

Prayer, a spiritual tool residing in the hearts of people, transcends religious boundaries. Whether it's in a Holy place, a mass, or a thanksgiving, these acts affirm our faith in the Divine, regardless of our religious affiliation.

In the Philippines, people sincerely believe in the powerful intercession of the Divine Mother, Mama Mary, the Mother of Christ.

At school, in religious studies, and in catechism, we were taught about Mama Mary's holiness for her obedience to God's revelation and plan. That virtue made her the most incredible Mother we adore.

Through the powerful intercession of the Blessed Mary, we find solace in our faith. The National Shrine of Mother of Perpetual Help, a beacon of hope, attracts thousands of Devotees and faithful due to the countless answered prayers and petitions. It is our unwavering faith that our prayers are granted, just as a loving mother fulfills her child's wishes.

In our hometown, where people and families flock in a peaceful sanctuary in her honor, the Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish Lomboy has blessed many people who call her name in her intercession.

As we joyfully celebrate Mama Mary's birthday, we give her thanks and praise for all the answered prayers to God. The Blessed Mother of God, a beacon of love and compassion, never fails a child who kneels and prays. Her Divinity inspires and blesses our hearts' intentions and desires, filling us with joy and gratitude.

At this moment, I am filled with gratitude for another answered prayer. My personal connection to the Divine Mother, whom I praise and adore, is a testament to her unwavering love and intercession. Our love for our earthly mothers is a reflection of our love for the Divine Mother, our Mama Mary, who loves us and prays for us. 

© 2019 Del Cusay

Birthday Special: Love and Gratitude

Birthdays mark a new beginning, a new cycle of life. They are a testament to our resilience, a day to remember how we've weathered life's storms, lived our best lives, and emerged stronger from every challenge.

Life, as I've come to understand, is a series of cycles. There are highs and lows, moments of joy, and times of struggle. Each cycle, like a roller-coaster, has its own unique challenges and rewards. Some cycles have empowered me, filling me with energy and determination to bring my ideas to life. Others have tested me, leading to moments of introspection and growth.

Just before the birthday, the life cycle was a purification time to break negative thoughts and obsolete beliefs. It involved letting go of unpleasant emotions and moving forward for a brighter side, a more excellent cycle of renewal and strong will. 

I was born more than three decades ago on this day, marking the first cycle of life that gives meaning and power. The most critical time of the year is celebrating our precious birthdate. This is when we extend our wishes

 to our loved ones. 

The gift of a good life is the fundamental source of gratitude, and I share its goodness with my family, friends, and dear ones with love and compassion. Their presence in my life is a constant reminder of my blessings.

As I embark on this new cycle of life, one of the best gifts I can give myself is the gift of 'a break'. This break is not about stopping or slowing down but about taking a moment to appreciate the journey so far and gather the energy to continue moving forward. I want to express my deepest love and gratitude for my parents, who have shown me the beauty of a simple, slow-paced life. 

As I embark on another life cycle, I aspire to be a beacon of love and light, not just for my family, but for all those I encounter. Age is just a number, and with each passing year, I strive to live a life that reflects Divine love and light.

Another life cycle will rock my world, but I want to keep my faith and stay above circumstances beyond my control. I have conquered my weaknesses, and this time is the beginning of making the best things possible through Divine power, love, and light. The cycle of life is God's greatest delight. 

© 2019 Del Cusay

Journey to Self-care and Personal Development

In 2013, I had a profound encounter with a wise man at an Elderly Home Care in New Delhi. Despite his immense wisdom, he was physically frail, a stark reminder of the importance of holistic well-being.

The volunteers, residents, and Founder of Panchvati Elderly Care Home, Ms. Neelam Mohan, in New Delhi on June 27, 2013.

During that conversation, he shared his mental and spiritual consciousness and life experiences with me. It was one of the most profound conversations I have ever had, and I am so thankful that I met someone like him. What an aha! Moment and a blissful encounter.

So yes! Some people may have reached the level of "intelligentsia, a Saint or a Sage," which is a developed mental and spiritual level of consciousness, but some have failed in physical health. However, some people may just be of average intelligence, but they are physically fit and enjoy what life can offer.

As I left the wise man's room, I was struck by the transformative potential of self-improvement. I realized that we can all strive to reach his level of consciousness, while also maintaining our physical well-being, enabling us to fully embrace the extraordinary lives we've been given.

Just like the elderly residents that I met in that home care, most of them had medicines for their health conditions. They used to become active in their younger years but later experienced some pains and suffering on physical, mental, and emotional levels of health.

During a health talk and practical exercises session I conducted at the home care, I witnessed the residents' strong desire to reclaim their physical health, a testament to the universal need for self-care.

Self-care is not a luxury, but a necessity. It is our shield against the physical suffering that often accompanies aging. No matter our life's successes, neglecting our health can lead to stress, anxiety, fatigue, illness, and imbalance.

Self-care is about activities promoting health and wellness; sometimes, we only have a little time and effort because we think we have limited time and must work harder and aspire for more to live more comfortably and successfully.

Self-care is about healing our well-being after a stressful day. It could also be healing our emotions when we feel sad or depressed. It is also about clearing our minds when troubled. It uplifts our souls when we are lost and in the dark. So, everything in life is a balancing act to soar high. We must balance physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual health for complete well-being.

Are you thinking that self-care is selfish and expensive? That weekend treat in a spa and wellness center could be costly, but some things in life are worthwhile for a bit of expense.

That weekend travel getaway with your family or friends could lead to rejuvenation. Spending time at the beach, river, or lake is like breathing out your inner toxicities, making you feel lighter and calmer. Barefoot walking in the sand or river stones promotes earthing or grounding, feeling more attached to nature and earth. Nature is lovely; spending time on it cleanses our souls and revives our spirits.

In our travels, there are some things we could do. We can meditate and do breathing exercises to relax and heal our body, mind, and soul. We can do some pure thinking while having our favorite cup of coffee or tea. We can have a meaningful conversation with family or friends. We could do some strolling in the garden or nearby park. We could appreciate historical sites, the arts, and cultural heritage. We could visit a church or chapel for a prayer or a mass.

Also, occasionally, even a little thing relaxes our senses and can have positive effects. For example, a body massage, aromatherapy, music therapy, and journaling. You see? That completes a meaningful and soulful journey. It promotes balanced health at all levels: physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual. That is the essence of self-care! to bring back our holistic being.

Returning to our homes or jobs, we feel renewed and whole again. However, self-care never ends. It is a lifestyle! It may be a struggle, but we need at least 8 hours of quality sleep, eat foods with nutritional value, and have some "me time" to evaluate ourselves. These self-care activities are essential for personal development.

Self-care isn't just for weekends or vacations; we should practice daily, especially in the workplace. By prioritizing self-care, we can protect ourselves from physical, mental, and emotional exhaustion. It also gives us the power to remove ourselves from toxic situations and harmful influences that can erode our self-worth.

Self-care is doing little things that matter to keep our balance and in perfect health. We must look into our being before extending our services to others. More excellent service comes with a great self, a love of beingness, and our holiness.

© 2019 Del Cusay