Social Commentary: Why Can't We Speak?

"In the modern world that we live in, we are no longer voiceless but empowered citizens. People know its limitations and morality. People know when to become expressive and when to be quiet. So whatever happened to our freedom of expression?"

Social media plays a vital role as a means of communication. It has become part of our lives, and we are now becoming more interactive and aware of whatever is happening around us, not only to our family and friends but also to our favorite celebrities and favorite brands, and to be mindful of the latest global and local news and current events.

Social Media is now a trend and the newest tool for people empowerment. Many significant events in current world history are influenced by the active participation of netizens or online citizens, who share their voices silently but powerfully over the web. 

The downfall of dictators in some Arab countries is brought by a massive demonstration by netizens who triggered the sharing of information about how their freedom has been oppressed for so many years since their government directly controlled the internet. They can't speak against their leaders. They can't express their wishes and desires for change. They have lived their lives in hopelessness and misery.

With the advent of social media, some countries are still restricting the social media access of their citizens. However, it has been declared by the United Nations that internet access, in general, is a fundamental human right. Their leaders still need to be more resistant to change. Aren't they?

We are now globally connected through this impressive technological breakthrough mankind has produced. However, why shouldn't we utilize this tool for the common good and intense globalization? Is there something to hide? Is there something to be afraid of? 

In a country where cybercrime law is taking effect, I can't imagine how people are being robbed of their freedom of expression. In a country where democracy rules, I can't believe the media and the citizens are dictated to what to say and what must be censored.

The power of the country lies in its citizens. Therefore there is a need to respect and hear the people's voices. Our people are hungry for change and the truth. Our people need a heart of a leader who takes the time to listen. We're tired of speeches, tired of false promises, and tired of insincerity in public leadership.

Let our people rule and let them be free to express their thoughts on the current events that our nation or the world is facing. After all, people deserve better services than their country has to offer. The people choose their leaders, and the leaders must listen to their people.

In the modern world that we live in, we no longer have to be voiceless but empowered and informed citizens. People know its limitations and morality. People know when to become expressive and when to be reserved. So whatever happened to freedom of expression?

Online censorship and media harassment happen in many countries, it may happen to other nations, and now our time has arrived and may become worst in the years to come. This shouldn't happen. Let the people speak their minds freely in a just manner. Let the media be the public's eye and ears in delivering the truth. 

Could we have responsible freedom of expression? Can't I express my disappointment about our own government and leaders? Will our own government try to shut down the press and the dedicated press people?  Will my own government suppress my public opinion? In today's time, why is it hard to speak? 

© 2012 Del Cusay

Social Commentary: A Violent God in Our Time

"I believe that God is perfect, but what the world can see is a violent God? The answer lies in your own interpretation of events and personal beliefs. Listen to your inner voice and get enlightened."

It was just recently when the news about the Libya rebellion took place. It was a violent protest and massive assault that resulted in vandalism, injuries, and the loss of lives. This is almost the same thing that happened a few months ago when Libyan leader Gaddafi was captured and killed by his own people. However, that was a more violent event in the country's history.

Violence happens worldwide, and history tells how rampant and cruel these events are and end in a bad fate; destroying human dignity, censoring freedom of expression, distorting peace, and controlling the populace.

People would always fight for freedom. Who doesn't want to express thoughts and sentiments freely? It is human nature to defend oneself if attacked... protect oneself if assaulted... fight for life if in danger. You always have a choice that's based on instincts. You are not expected to be quiet in times of rage. You are supposed to speak with your mind and protect your dignity.

Why is it that the world is constantly being shocked by Muslims? Why is it that Muslims always spread terrorism? Why are Muslims always wanted to kill and enjoy being a headline of world news? These may sound stereotypical, but isn't it that a particular behavior of an individual or a group is considered a culture. There might be a radical Muslim community spreading globally, but they are totally unwanted and don't represent the religious philosophy of Islam.

Upon deeper reflection, some thoughts arise about terrorism linked with a particular religion.  Is a Muslim country a culture of violence? Is it biblical teaching to kill people for the sake of faith? Extremists may be narcissistic and need the constant attention of the world, but it is to be stopped. There is nothing good about violent attacks...not good to hear about terror acts... not good news about honor killing, even in the name of religion.

I respect every religion but condemn what I believe is not upright. There is always an alternative to violence. Remember the power of the 'peace process and bloodless revolution.' There is always a better way to act that will not harm people, destroy a country and affect the world. I believe God is perfect, but what can the world see as a violent God? The answer lies in your own interpretation of events and personal beliefs. Listen to your inner voice and get enlightened. 


© 2012 Del Cusay

Once in a Blue Moon I Got an Award

"Tonight, I had a wonderful moment to glimpse the full moon. It's not just an ordinary occurrence because it's a rare celestial phenomenon. Looking up at the sky, I feel grateful and blessed that once in a blue moon, I've been appreciated and recognized."



On this day, it may seem to be just an ordinary day, nothing extraordinary, and there's no reason to celebrate. I woke up early this morning with a pleasant feeling after Thanksgiving. I read the latest news and visited my favorite blog sites while drinking coffee. This is how I would start my day.

It's also essential for me to check my email daily. To my surprise, I received a message from a blogger, Leslie Alba, the author of the blog 'Proud Mom's Corner.' She informed me that I was chosen as one of the 'Liebster Blog Award recipients.

I am ranked 8th among the 11 Blog sites she has chosen. This was the first I had heard of the term, and I searched for its meaning.

Leslie Alba writes her valuable insights about 'Parenting.' Here's the blog link: Ihttp://proudmomscorner.blogspot.com/2012/08/one-proud-mom-two-liebster-blog-awards.html#.UECm2U9v8TI

"Liebster" is a German word that means dearest or beloved. Upon knowing the award's significance, I wrote a message to her to express my gratitude and appreciation. It's a good feeling to be recognized by someone. 

I write my thoughts whenever I feel like doing it. I write when I strongly desire to express my ideas about a topic. I write in no particular date and time of the day. My content usually reflects my dominant feelings or experiences in a specific month. 

I write infrequently, usually one or two blog posts in a month. I am okay with the number of blog posts because I always believe that creating quality content is better. I plan ahead of time and organize my thoughts to produce good quality content that could be a timeless piece of content that would still be relevant even a few years from now or ahead of our time.

I am grateful, and it's such an honor to be a 'Liebster Awardee' recognized by a fellow blogger. It may not be the most prestigious award-giving body in the blogosphere, but it means so much to me, knowing that someone's following my work anywhere in the world where my blog has reached.

Writing is my passion, and I hope I will never be tired of it. It's my wish to inspire others through my way of writing. It's not just fun but also gives me a sense of freedom and fulfillment.

Today is just an ordinary day? I was wrong because it was a wonderful and memorable day for me.

Tonight, I had a wonderful moment glimpsing the full moon. It's not just an ordinary occurrence because it's a rare celestial phenomenon. Looking up at the sky, I feel grateful and blessed that I've been appreciated and recognized once in a blue moon.


© 2012 Del Cusay