Sunday, October 16, 2016

A Day to Remember

Celebrating another year of life is one of the most pleasant memories we can cherish. It is when we show gratitude for all our blessings and look forward to another year full of challenges and surprises. We may continue to be challenged along the way and be surprised by something unimaginable --when dreams and desires do come true.

As we journey onward, we give happiness to those dear to us. Happiness leaves an imprint on their hearts and minds. Those things that they have yet to think of would come true. A surprise that would uplift joyful spirit out of the blue. 

The days when we had planned a surprise for someone so special were so exciting. Our mother is about to celebrate her 63rd birthday and deserves some treats. What special surprise could we give that is truly memorable? Aha! A trip abroad! A wonderful surprise. My parents have never been out of the country yet, and it would have been their first time to set foot in a not-so-distant place in the east.


On September 23, 2016, we were about to go to Palawan. Voted as the most beautiful island in the world for 2015 and 2016. I am also excited to visit that magnificent island, as they say, but we're really bound for Hongkong. And that's the surprise. Though it was a funny story at the airport, with such clueless faces on their actual destination, finally it was revealed that they were bound to travel abroad. 

The excitement is accurate, and when we set foot at the Hongkong airport, we're all eager to explore beautiful places. Though we siblings had been to Hongkong before, we couldn't wait to show homes to our parents. I got lost at some point, but walking along the promenade in Tsim Shan Tsui was fantastic. Spending some time overlooking the Hongkong islands' famous skyscrapers is lovely. Victoria Harbor is awe-inspiring as one of the best places to see and experience. A romantic feel in the East. Though a bit tired of walking, crossing the island of Kowloon to Hongkong aboard the star ferry offers a magnificent view of the harbor and the skyline, awakening the senses. The skyline is one of the world's best, and it's just in the east, blending with the west. 


The day that came, September 24, was a special day for my mother, and spending it at the happiest place on earth was a truly magical experience. We enjoyed ourselves so much with all scenes. The Festival of the lion king is such a feast to the senses showing, just like a Broadway show, the 4D theater experience, the Jungle of Tarzan, and Disney in the Stars as the highlight. 

The third day was still full of energy. The picture-perfect ocean park's breathtaking view of the island and the sea is memorable. A roller coaster ride gave me an adrenaline rush that would never be repeated. I did it, but so scary. The entire resort was an excellent place to appreciate the animal kingdom and their habitat, and it's about time to protect their kingdom and class before they're gone. Before sunset, we can meet "kababayans" or townmates and hear their stories. I know how it feels to be homesick since I have had the experience of being away for some time in the past, so a loud laugh would help to release some form of sadness. 


On the fourth day, we're all excited about our next destination. Heading to Macau: once a Portuguese colony in the east. Another memory that would uplift our spirits and make us look forward to a memorable stay in a glittering city of light. 

That was an incredible journey in Hongkong; this story will remain in our hearts. We still have many places to explore. It is a small world, and we all deserve to be happy occasionally. And a little surprise could change our perspective and our world. 

© 2016 Del Cusay

Sunday, June 12, 2016

118th Philippine Independence Day: I Am a Filipino


Once popularly known as the "Pearl of the Orient Seas," the Philippines may have reached the summit of success in terms of political and economic growth and prosperity before it celebrated its 100th anniversary of independence in 1998. However, it took several successions of brilliant and brave leaders that put the Philippines on the political map and enjoyed being the center of attention in Asia and the world.

I always admire the greatest heroes the Philippines has ever produced. Rizal considered one of the most remarkable men of the Malayan race, has touched the minds and souls of  Filipinos and other foreign nationalities through his works and writings that are bold and extraordinary.

As a kid, I've been keen on Rizal as a hero, and at my higher level of study, I've deeply understood his life and his sacrifices for the common good of the Filipino people. When the Philippines was under the rule of Spanish authorities, we were suppressed in our freedom; to express and defend our rights as Filipino People. However, learning about his personality makes me emulate his ways, becoming keenly observant and inquisitive about the current events that are taking place in our political, economic, and social atmosphere. During Rizal's time, when liberty was invaded to keep in silence and follow the mighty tyrants, actions to defend the sovereignty failed numerous times; people fighting for freedom died with thorns in their hearts.

What could be the result of the massive war against giant oppressors versus the sharp bolos, stained rifles, and the power of writing of our heroes? Could the literary works of our geniuses make a significant impact on our freedom?

Today after hundred years of Philippine independence - 118th to be exact, we are looking back to the sacrifices fought by our heroes. We pay tribute to their greatness and valor as they died for the country without seeing the absolute freedom they aspired to. Rizal's teachings have been part of the educational curriculum for young Filipinos to imbibe his greatness and turn weaknesses into strengths. We now have the freedom of expression, and no one can take it away from us; this is the result of the battle our heroes fought centuries back

Now we have been invaded by a colonial mentality where we almost copy and adopt technological advances; communications have improved and delivers instantly and in real time, and anyone is free to express their thoughts and views about political affairs with conviction. These changes are precisely opposite to what heroes from the past have experienced just to express their ideas and criticism against leaders and the government.

Today, the 12th day of June 2016, is another year of celebrating the success achieved by the Filipinos. We are now reaping what our heroes have sown. We might constantly encounter challenges and problems but we have proven our resilience. We continue to fight the battle and show inherent traits of bravery and valor inherited from valiant heroes. Our heroes of today may not exhibit boldness and a strong sense of nationalism, but our national heroes have done enough, and now we live in a nation built with blood and tears. What could be their thoughts and emotions if they have also experienced what we are enjoying now?


Now that I have grown up as an adult, I will continue to fight for freedom and have full expression of my views and insights to protect and uphold our rights. We have a long way to go, and we are still living in an uncertain world where others show signs of personal advances and taking away our absolute freedom. I am a Filipino born of the Malayan race, and I will show patriotism, kindness, and heroic deeds if necessary. I am a Filipino and will show greatness in my work, delivering excellence and prestige. As a Filipino, I will show dedication and loyalty to our country and be part of nation-building. I am a Filipino and will do my best in words, deeds, and thoughts.

© 2016 Del Cusay



Saturday, March 26, 2016

Holy Week 2016: The Pilgrim's Journey

National Shrine of Our Lady of the Candles, Iloilo, Philippines

A long narrow road where darkness invades is where you can see a pilgrim who has nothing to see but total darkness. Illumined by a Divine light where the darkness is expelled, struggling with emptiness for the faded goodness.

This year's Holy Week is another journey of struggles and misery for every faithful who wants to see and feel the full illumination from within. The Divine light that showers us to empower our being also empowers us to dispel the negativity of the soul trapped in sorrowful darkness. Licensed by the guiding light to strengthen the spirit to become whole is to share the illumination with others as an obligation to follow. He is "the way, the truth, and the life" no one should contradict, but accept with grace and light.

Another chapter of life in a less-known land is a pilgrim who stands up, regaining the bravery of the soul. Pulled down by its own negativity and weakness of the spirit, but guided by a little spark that ignites the soul is not limited. I am lost along the way. Should I trust the instinct that comes my way? Lord, save me from disgrace and lift me with your loving grace.

This Jubilee Year of Mercy is to acknowledge the compassionate, merciful, and ever-mighty spirit that will renew the faith of a lost Pilgrim. The Holy Door is the portal of entry for examining the faith and strengthening the weakened soul. Blessed by the Holiness who touches my spirit; forever be loved and the message of love to live forever and be it.

Along the road is a Pilgrim who ignites the fire. At times loses from darkness but is still able to recover the light. The struggle of an illumined soul to resist the temptation of the dark. Cast away the evil, and preserve the purity of the heart. Guide us, oh Lord, when we are tempted by false beliefs; you are our savior; protect us from defeat.

As the Risen Lord gives us hope, may we live with Him in our journey along the road, with footprints in the sand, leaving the negativity and cleansing the spirit. It is our ultimate glory to live an eternal life without the limit.


 © 2016 Del Cusay