Oprah's Lifeclass: What on Earth Am I here For?

In discussion with Oprah, one of my favorite Spiritual teachers, Rick Warren, gave an insight into one of the most essential questions of existence: What on earth am I here for? 

As a motivational speaker and writer, Rick Warren has inspired millions through his book 'The Purpose Driven Life,' my all-time favorite. 

Yes, we find an answer to this thought-provoking question, what on earth am I here for? Here are my insights on the topic. 

1.  According to Rick Warren, everybody lives at one of the three levels in life; the first level is survival--where people are putting in their time, waiting for the weekend, and just going through the motions. Would you consider yourself at the survival level? If so, why? 

I've been through this level in life. I was not sure about the path I was taking and the future that lay ahead. I have missed productive days and was contented with what's there. Day after day, I felt incomplete and empty deep inside. This was just a recent past; things have changed, and I have taken the vows of a more productive life and a life of purpose. 

2. What would it take to be more fulfilled in your life?

I follow my goals and do things as planned to become happy and achieve a sense of fulfillment. It is a strong positive emotion and always lasting. Happiness is just temporary, while fulfillment is something that leaves an imprint in the heart and mind. 

3. The second level is a success. People at this level live a comfortable life, have a roof over their heads, and most have what they want. Yet, they still feel unsatisfied and need help figuring out why. Are you at the success level? If so, describe your life.

I must say, 'I don't have everything, but I have enough.' I'm living a quiet, comfortable life where I can do things I desire. However, sometimes, I ask for more, but not for material and superficial things. I'm asking for what is truly essential in my life. Something that I could do for others and the commitment to serve.

4. What would it take for you to live with purpose?

To know our purpose, we must assess ourselves on what we are good at; our excellence. I have discovered my skills and am doing my best to cultivate them and make better use of them to achieve my goals of living a life of purpose. 

5. Question of existence. Why are you alive? 

I am alive because I have something to fulfill in life. I have goals and dreams that are yet to be accomplished. I live to serve, and there are tasks ahead of me for self-ministry. 

6. Question of intention. Is there a purpose for your life? If so, what is it?

I believe the most crucial purpose of living is 'service.' My goal is to give back what I have been given, to share what has been showered, and enjoy a meaningful life. 

7. Question of significance. Does your life matter?  

Everyone matters in their own way. I must believe in my issues in life because I have been blessed to serve in my own capacity and ability. I have asked for and received it, so I have something to give. It doesn't matter to be significant, but what matters is meaningful living--living with a purpose. 


© 2013 Del Cusay

Pope Francis: The New World Pontiff

"The Pope has a great responsibility towards his followers, and I hope he can finish what he started until the last breath of his reign. We need a leader who will resolve the issues that created trouble and confusion among his people. May His Holiness remain to be strong at all levels so he will be able to act on duties vested in him."

A few days ago, the conclave started electing a new pontiff to lead the Catholic Church. 115 Cardinals from around the world gathered in the Sistine Chapel to vote for whom they think can guide and lead a billion followers. After several voting attempts, a new Pope was finally declared. 

A humble man from Argentina, Jorge Mario Bergoglio was chosen by his fellow Cardinals to be the successor of Pope Benedict XVI, who declared his resignation last month. At the age of 76, he will be the guiding light of the faithful toward their spiritual path. 

His Holiness will be officially addressed as Pope Francis after he has chosen the papal name as his title. He was inspired by St. Francis of Assisi and decided to adopt it as his designation. I hope His Holiness will uphold the reputation of St. Francis as an icon of humility and peace. 

As a Christian, I adore St. Francis for his life stories and holiness, and I love to sing the prayer made in his name; The Prayer of St. Francis of Assisi. Pope Francis could be like him and radically transform the Catholic church. 

It would take willpower and great love for the Pope to reform the church against controversies that are left unresolved. However, like the late Pope John Paul II, Pope Francis has the charisma and heart for improving Christian values and will be able to influence people regardless of faith and religious beliefs. 

The Pope has a great responsibility towards his followers, and I hope he can finish what he started until the last breath of his reign. We need a leader who will resolve the issues that created trouble and confusion among his people. May His Holiness remain to be strong at all levels so He will be able to act on duties vested in Him. 

'The Pope' not only shows greatness as a title, but it is a great responsibility and accountability to uphold. I highly admire and respect 'The Pope' as my source of inspiration and religious wisdom and 'The Pope' who believes and teaches people that 'There is A Certain Holiness in You.'. 

The world is becoming more materialistic as we reach the modern age, but we must strengthen our spirituality and faith in our Divine as the ultimate source of life. We have a lot to improve, and there are 'Nature and Sources of Power' in the fulfillment of our Divine self-ministry.

I am grateful that now we have a new Pope that will lead us to Christ. He is our spiritual Father living on earth, chosen by his people. He will guide us and needs our support and prayers for spiritual devotion and evangelization.  


© 2013 Del Cusay

Meeting The Dalai Lama in New Delhi

"Meeting, The Dalai Lama is a rare opportunity and truly a blessing. His spirituality and compassionate nature give hope and faith to the people to appreciate life and realize that there is certain holiness in you.  It is for us to discover our 'Dharma' or life purpose and live in the holiness of our being."


Today was another great opportunity. I have met and attended His Holiness The Dalai Lama's teaching in Buddha Jayanti Park, New Delhi. Just a few days ago, I was blessed to travel -- 'Meeting The Dalai Lama in Dharamsala and attending'Meeting The Dalai Lama in Dharamsala and attending his lecture about 'Jataka Tales' which is about the story of Buddha's birth and rebirth. Today, he addressed thousands of attendees about 'The Three Principal Aspects of The Path,' significant to the Tibetans-in-exile and everyone present regardless of nationality and creed.

Most of the crowd are Tibetans, followed by Indians and some foreigners who are followers of The Dalai Lama. After falling in line towards the venue's entrance, it was good that I found a seat at the back which is more comfortable than sitting on the ground like my previous experience in his lecture in Dharamsala. Some people in groups are sitting on the lawn while others are busy roaming around organizing the event.

Image from: Tibet.net

At the entrance, people are welcomed by Tibetan ushers, and walking on the path are blossoming colorful flowers around. The chirping of birds and the vibrant surroundings relax the senses. Even rabbits and flocks of swans in a pond are visible and have been taken good care of. Walking further are some hilly pathways with petals scattered on the aisles, which are made especially for welcoming His Holiness. The weather is warm but tolerable since it is not the official summer yet. His lecture in Dharamsala was cold, while in Delhi, it was good weather for me since I like the tropical season.

As the open ground was about to be filled with attendees, The Dalai Lama and his entourage walked towards his elevated podium while greeting people with his smiles. This time there were no chanting ceremonies by the Namgyal monks before his lecture, which started at around 2 pm. The good thing about his speech was that an interpreter translated every part of The Dalai Lama's lecture into English for the benefit of the non-Tibetans. This is better since the previous lecture in Dharamsala was delivered in Tibetan, and only those with an FM radio could hear the English translation. 

However, if the same thing happened in the previous experience, I do not worry since seeing the Dalai Lama for me is enough, and I did not mind the language he used in his lecture. Still, since there was an English interpreter, I felt more grateful and happy that I understood his message better. It was also good to hear The Dalai Lama tried speaking in English to make his point. He still cracks some jokes accompanied by his world-renowned laugh and smile to uplift people's spirits. 

Being the living Buddha of compassion, the Dalai Lama has made his teachings as meaningful and lively as possible. Even though it was a long time sitting, it was not tiring, and one could feel his loving and compassionate energy toward the people. His teachings include human suffering, happiness, and enlightenment which is still significant today. 

According to His Holiness, the primary cause of suffering is discontentment. People of today are becoming more materialistic and want something more despite having enough already. Nevertheless, happiness can be attained by contentment and satisfaction with everything. The feeling of 'having enough' and being spiritual at the same time can be an ultimate source of internal happiness and peace of mind. 

Image from:  tibet.net

Likewise, a person can become happier and experience less suffering if enlightenment is achieved. In Buddhist philosophy, spiritual tools like prayer, 'The Power of Meditation,' and selfless services to people are indispensable in attaining a happy, fulfilled, and enlightened life'The Power of Meditation,,' and selfless services to the people are essential to achieve a happy, fulfilled, and enlightened life in Buddhist philosophy. 

Although I am a Christian, this principle is relevant and meaningful. We can learn these things from the Buddhist perspective of living. 

At the end of The Dalai Lama's lecture, he thanked everyone for making the event possible and successful. It was followed by his recessional ceremony going back to his destination. Before he finally vanished into sight, I met him up close while he waved his hand to the people who signaled his blessings. 

Meeting The Dalai Lama is a rare opportunity and truly a blessing. His spirituality and compassionate nature give hope and faith to the people to appreciate life and realize that 'There is Certain Holiness in You.'. It is for us to discover our 'Dharma' or life purpose and live in the holiness of our being. 

© 2013 Del Cusay