New Years Eve

Tonight, I was able to go to New Year's eve Mass, as we look forward to the New Year of 2012. I feel so blessed because I spent my last few hours of 2011 in the presence of the Holy Eucharist.

I love everything that happened to me this year, I can say that with the help of God and my faith in Him, I was able to survive my struggles.

I have listed my resolutions just now, and I intend to follow Christ and be a courageous light in the dark. It took me  a little longer than others, but I am ready to take my personal legend further. Please God, help me!

HAPPY NEW YEAR, CHEERS TO THE 2012!!!

GOD BE GLORIFIED!

Happiness out of the Box--- out of your comfort zone

Perhaps people can call me crazy--- I let go of a stable job, with a stable schedule, with a stable income. Things got scary when I went out of my comfort zone, and yes, I almost got drowned in despair since I didn't know where to go after that. I only relied on my ability in my perseverance and resourcefulness. With that I remained strong.

But like a rock which is constantly beat up by water, my resolve slowly crumbled and eroded as trials after trials, criticism after criticism, discouragement after discouragement came my way. I had nowhere else to go, yet I certainly didn't want to return to my old self-- there must be something more out there for me!

With a lot of trials and uncertainties, I continued to struggle--- until I suddenly realized that aside from material things as a measure of success, one's sincerity and dedication in his efforts is the most important thing a person must have in order for him to be successful in all his undertakings.

A person who perfects and masters his craft will never want demands for his skills. Paid or not, I patiently did my work. I trained in so many fields, not getting my fee due to me. I still did my best, despite all that. And soon, my clientele grew big, and my former clients added a bonus for me. I am so thankful. I want to build my character, thus I do things I did. I want to be my best in all my undertakings---- and of course, in all things--- please help me God!

2012 is the best year!

"All things are already complete in us. There is no greater delight than on self-examination to be conscious of sincerity" - Mencius

I miss the times when things were simpler!

Oh yeah--- I came all the way here because I have my dreams. There was no one to weigh me down--- but why is it that I am not yet there where I wanted to be?

I get tired so easily and I get so impatient--- perhaps my love for my dreams is starting to wane already. Am I losing sight of my goals? It's quite sad--- I don't know. Perhaps the turmoil inside me comes from the numerous grind I face each day... no matter how hard I try to discipline myself--- I still end up losing my grip as some unforeseen problems rise up when time is no longer available.

I could keep on fighting--- but at times I just wanted to retreat in the quiet corner of my soul and try to go to a place where I can be alone.

No one is to blame--- I guess these things happen to everyone-- I guess I just needed time off.
I know I'll get over this hurdle--- it's just the world is too busy around me that I'm in a daze, caught up in daze--- but everything will turn out fine I know. I will eventually see the end of the tunnel.

"Great success comes only with great ambition." - Jackie Chan

Perhaps this is yet another blow in the Catholic Church- Hypocrisy

“I like your Christ. I do not like your Christians. They are so unlike your Christ.” Gandhi

The teachings of the Catholic Church perhaps is an ideal doctrine that anyone who follows its mandate without using it for his/her own selfishness but use it to imitate Christ will definitely be a saint. But alas! This horrific news in the midst of confusion will surely leave the faithful in utter disappointment and a feeling of betrayal by their pastors... it is sad that this had to happen. At such a time when all Christians need to stay strong in the midst of attack against their beliefs... what will the followers do when the leaders themselves betray what they teach? 

Who will take their stand seriously when they themselves appear to lose their respect for their own beliefs? 

This is such a devastating news--- I know some well meaning Catholics are dumbfounded by this shocking events... we are all sinners... and sometimes it's just so hard to carry out the idealistic views of the Christian mandates...
Jesus Christ hated the hypocrites, and sadly, all of us are guilty of it.
At times like these, our courage dissipates when everyone else seemed to lose their resolve. It is not in my position to judge these people, but I am sure a lot of the flock will be confused... and responses to vocations will decrease----I just hope and pray that there are still people in the Catholic Church who will continue to be what a Catholic is supposed to be, a follower of Jesus Christ... let's pray for everyone's spirituality... for me, you, and everybody.

This is a reaction to the recent news in Germany. So sad :(
But then again, to follow Christ is an individual choice--- that no amount of faults from an outside influence could persuade one to live it.

It can be done

."After all, happiness is not a matter of chance, but of choice. So, people who say it cannot be done, should not interrupt those who are doing it. Yes to life! Yes to love! Yes to happiness,"

I was born a lion

"I was not delivered into this world in defeat-nor does failure course in my veins. I am not a sheep waiting to be prodded by my shepherd. I am a lion and I refuse to talk, to walk, to sleep with the sheep. I will not hear those who weep and complain, for their disease is contagious. Let them join the sheep. The slaughterhouse of failure is not my destiny."
-Og Mandino

It's not to play God that I'm after

After so many months of self study and soul searching, I finally realized what it is that I have been looking for in my life.
I am not in pursuit of playing God, nor wanting to be a terror boss. It's distasteful, wanting to prove to other people I am the best by constantly putting other people down.

Highlighting and magnifying other people's shortcomings won't make me the best that I can be, but it is the constant training and the discipline I inflict on myself that will make me eventually reach my goal. So looking at other people's lack of capabilities will not make me happier.

This world is full of miracles, that's me and you--- and anyone in this world who was created. No one has the right to label anybody as a no good. I cringe now when people say that about other people--- they are even proud and gloating when they tell me they called other people stupid.

I chose to be free of these false illusion of 'greatness', because at the end of the day, what people will remember about you is not the position you had when you lived in the world, but the ripple you made in making this world a little better.

I get a lot of raised eyebrows, everytime I say I want to be free of the restrictions of an office life---- other people preferred to believe that I was not able to get accepted in the office arena, other people think I am just lazy, or impractical even... I don't know. I guess I want to live my life. I want to constantly ponder about the things and find meaning in what happens to me....

The most important thing for me, and what I appreciate right now, is that I am constantly looking forward to my everyday blessings---- I am constantly asking God for so many things--- yeah, I can say that I always  treasure my daily reflections and my realizations that there is a God who watches over me. I feel safer and happier---- I do get some misfortunes, but my faith only gets stronger with that.

I can now say--- I won't exchange this for anything else--- I live in constant adventure, and God's fidelity is constantly keeping up with my crooked pace.

I promise to shine my light and be the good representative of a Christian----

That is why, the world must not be my priority. Amen

World Youth Day 2011: Madrid, Spain

World Youth Day 2011 held in Madrid Spain is happening right now. August 15-21, 2011.

Pope Benedict XVI leads the youths all over the world with the theme: "Rooted and Built Up in Jesus Christ, Firm in the Faith." (Colossians 2:7)

What exactly is rooted and built up in Christ?
For me it's when you go through a lot of trials in your journey in life. And through these trials and storms, you get to know the one person who stays with you after you are stripped of everything is Jesus alone.
Through the trials, God shows you His mighty hand, to help you through.

For the full article of the message of Pope Benedict the XVI in World Youth Day 2011 in Madrid, Spain. please click here

Discernment Phase --- how to succeed in life

There are just those days when you are presented with those choices. And you know that choosing the right thing is one bumpy road, yet in your heart of hearts, it is the one thing that will make you happy.

I felt so burdened for days because I felt so little compared to a lot of people. I do know however that I am talented in so many ways *(trying to encourage myself here so don't be too harsh on me hehehe)*, just that I don't know who the people I should go to for guidance.

If I was thinking of only myself, then I won't have to be so troubled. It was lately that I came to realize that my destiny is a lot different than what I expected and what I had planned. I used to be so carefree, but now I can no longer do that. There are people who looked up to me as a budding employer, and the realization shook me. Even my dad's former caretakers were asking if they could have their grandchildren work under me....

All of a sudden, I am the head? I feel so incompetent. But what will happen to them? For days I have been pondering about it. I lost sleep thinking how I will pull things through. And so I attended workshops and seminars just so I will know the first things to take in setting up my enterprise.

I was glad I did, I was able to meet a lot of people who made it to the top, and some of them were way lot younger than me. They are employers already, and little by little, my mind's misgivings began to fade. I was excited with the possibilities. With my new discoveries, I could take the reins of my life, own a business, and employ a lot of people! I became uplifted and I realized that this had been with me all along. When I was a kid I had dreamed of becoming a boss at a very young age. Very cocky right? But I wasn't thinking of ruling over people at that time, I just thought it would be fun to achieve a lot of things whilst still very young...

First step, change your mindset. Remove gossips, negativity, remove idle talks, useless and nonsensical jibber jabber. Go with people who have the same drive as you. Talk to them, apply what you learned from the people you respected.

Second Step, Be with the people who have the same goals as you. Change your environment, be with the people who could inspire you and advice you on your endeavors. People who do not have the same mindset as yours will always discourage or mock you. So limit your time with them.

Third, act on your dreams. Even little by little, act on it. Wake up with a list of to do's. And begin and end your day with a prayer. Accomplish everything as much as you can.

And always pray. Discouragement always come to you, only when you rely on your own efforts.

My journey is just beginning... :)

amy winehouse dead

Amy winehouse was found dead at her London home at the age of 27.
She is a troubled Grammy Award winner musician who is very talented.

And here's the news of how Amy Winehouse was found dead.



"Police were called by London Ambulance Service to an address in Camden Square NW1 shortly before 16.05hrs today, Saturday 23 July, following reports of a woman found deceased. On arrival officers found the body of a 27-year-old female who was pronounced dead at the scene. Enquiries continue into the circumstances of the death. At this early stage it is being treated as unexplained."

Pretty creepy... another musician died at 27 years of age, what is in the number of 27 for musicians? Is that an honorary way of passing away to be a music legend? Think about Jimi Hendrix and Curt Cobain who also died at the age of 27.

The Beauty of Silence

I am in bed for days, and was advised to get some rest. My former sickness have been plaguing me and my only companion is my laptop to help me look into the window of the world through the internet. Not much of a comfort really, because I get a lot of ideas in my head that made me want to execute it already.

My body feels sudden gushes of chills, and at times I couldn't control my hand muscles. I originally would have wanted to draw while recuperating, but I found it impossible to hold a pencil to make straight lines.

I am a little depressed because instead of being up and about as I was scheduled, I had to patiently rest for a while (which seemed like an eternity) because my fever doesn't seem to wane, I stay in my bed, looking at the ceiling.... fearing that the world goes by without me.

But then it hit me... in my solitude and varied train of thoughts... I began to appreciate the beauty of silence. I think this is the time when all of your being revisits you again.

You get the chance to ponder on your dreams... you sort out which is important and which is secondary in your priorities. You go back to your starting point, and slowly, you see the YOU again. Untarnished by the nagging harshness of reality. Not polluted by other people's influences. You see you... you're pure identity.

Yes... that is what happened to me during this period. And with a new strong resolve, I wanted to recreate my goals... the original ones that up until now have kept my determination going.

Every now and then I am delighted that I get the chance to fan the flames of my dreams, because as I saw it in my generation, there are only few people now who dare to pursue their goals. It is a sad reality, but it is a hard road to travel as many people will come along to discourage you.

I am revisiting my old thoughts again. My old journals have helped me recognize the real me. I am happy to have met me from fifteen years ago...seeing her again in my old yellow-leafed journals that I kept made me laugh again. Her innocent and daring challenge to the world was honest and strong... I wish I was that again. I had been that... but unfortunately I let things burst my bubbles. But it's okay. With a new set of lessons in my hands, and the former me reunited in my soul... I think I can start anew again. Ready to take whole new challenges from this world.

PSALM 27:8 "Your face, LORD, I will seek."

Discernment: A new strength of purpose

Yeah, a lot of things happen. You get to know a lot of people that doesn't seem to fit in your mission in life, yet they are there.

Sometimes you get to question why they even existed... but why don't we stop for a while and ask ourselves if we ever were the people that we are supposed to be?

I often find myself irritated with other people for being this and being that... but to what point? It is a total waste of time. Now that I am older, I realized that it's me I have to change... that I can never change anyone other than myself. That feeling made me feel freedom.

I now live a life of finding answers and as much as I can, try to live to my ideals. And sadly, I encountered a lot of people who wanted to curb me to their own idea of what life should be for people. At times, I get discouraged... who wouldn't be? Because almost all people have told me to live a life like theirs. After all I am only a human being who do not have anything to hold on to, except my instincts and I guess, discernment and my sometimes wavering faith.

Life offers a lot of confusion... you make good and bad choices as you journey through life. Yet it is comforting to know that God will make straight the crooked lines that we make.

We make mistakes... but God did not make a mistake when He created each one of us!

And so, I now have something to look forward to. I can't afford to be misled by other people's principles... because their lot in life is not mine. As Fr. Armand Robleza SDB said in one of his seminars which I recently attended:

"Each one has a unique personal vocation, no two of us hear exactly the same call from the Lord"

I found new hope with what he said. That was embedded deep in my soul. For I know that God has called me in a different journey. Others turned left, while I turned right... there's no right or wrong. God loves me the same... because He created me with freedom and has given me dignity.

Anyhow, everyone deserves respect for the path they had chosen. They are perfect in God's eyes. They make mistakes, but God patiently awaits with a loving heart the children he created. For God's only fault is that He cannot not love.

I think I will listen to my heart more and be open to God's gentle guidance. Only then will I know what will truly make me happy rather than to listen to what others say could make me happy.

With a new strength of purpose, I am ready to face my tomorrows with new excitement and anticipation! ^_^

Solomon's words of wisdom

"Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy."
--Proverbs 31: 8-9

People CAN BE RICH, But...

Just had a revolutionary (not quite revolutionary, in fact the system had been in existence for a very long time now that I am surprised about how stupid I was in not finding out about it in a very long time) seminar. And it taught me how to get away from the rat race, and start having a safety net while I pursue my dreams.

I was naturally fired up... but what disappointed me was that I was willing to share the information given to me--for FREE (I got to pay an expensive fee for that), but no one wanted it! That left me dumbfounded... here people complain about poverty, and overpopulation of the poor... yet they don't want to lift a finger in order to get rich and help the poor.

Yes, it's true! At first I didn't believe I could get money without hardwork... or build my own business, but I was proved wrong!

Why the wealthy get richer? And the poor get poorer? I know I know, cliche, they couldn't make ends meet blah blah blah... If it's poverty they wanted, then let them have it.

I am all out to help people. But I guess I scared them away... by being so over enthusiastic. Hahaha... it's just I guess I really wanted to help them... I really really really do. It's sad, deep down people are afraid to let go of slacking off... that people would rather look at the negative side of things, than look at the opportunities... YES.... LIFE AND DREAMS exist! IT IS TRUE! I will be up there I guess, to the road less traveled... But I now know, the future is so much brighter! :)... I am now, LIVING THAT DREAM!... I refuse to be stopped. :)

Hanging out with Inspiring People

To date, I am still so elated, overly excited, and overly enthusiastic... why, I just recently found out that it is I who dictate what should happen with my life... they are right! I'm a blank page right now... still need to figure out what I should focus on.

Anyhow, I have decided to spend the rest of my life with the best people in the world. I decided that my companions should only be the best. ^____^ and so I have compiled my recent finds... my inspiration friends who I look up to when people would rather be mediocre... Thanks to these people, I have the fire to be my best too!:P


Takehiko Inoue is not only a superb illustrator, but also a great philosopher and storyteller. He has the power to draw out characters in three-dimensional. I cried at one point in Slam Dunk.... which was a little surprising since the series was light and funny... but the determination of the characters that Mr. Inoue had created came from real life struggles and frustrations. People at some point could relate to what the characters have gone through... I will reread it over and over again until I get old. Takehiko writes about hope and success in step by step process that if it's applied in each person's field, it will bring out the best in each person. Entertaining and full of lessons in life. Awesome... just so awesome!



I did like Michael Jordan, but not a hard core basketball fan...but since I watched Slam Dunk, my admiration for him elevated... plus he practiced a thousand times in shooting like no other basketball player did... he was the one reponsible for the game to flourish and be looked up to. He is a true legend... I will imitate his discipline and his determination. A goal oriented person like no other. What a great and phenomenal human being!



In Japan, a writer must also know how to draw... and oh boy, this guy, Masakazu Katsura really inspired me to appreciate love stories because of his genius way of weaving the story of I"s... I cried at the end... which is not my usual personality. But his way of telling a story hit a cord. I love how he presented everything, the thoughts, the anxieties, and the humorous situations... I am lucky to have stumbled across a good read.

I came to understand that in order for me to be the best in my field, I should also try to be assertive and always keep these kind of people around me. Forget the people who wanted mediocrity... because everyone's destined to be great... and my tomorrows belong only to me, not anyone else's... so I have the right to decide to be great!

These people I listed down, they will one day become my friends! ^__^

Smile... Life is full of pleasant surprises!

I now remember... the blankness for months in my creative world was because I forgot the motto that put me in the field of all my passions in the first place!

I used to have fun! And my goal is to see all the good things in this world through my eyes. I took a liking in photography so that I could freeze a certain emotion, a certain feeling, and atmosphere of an event. Yes, just like in my drawings... I wanted to capture everything according to my own interpretation. And a promise to myself was born. HOW DID I EVER FORGET?

One thing I like about Photography, is that I'm forced to look at the world in a beautiful perspective. Anything can be interesting, all I need to do is to just have a keen eye for things. I noticed that having my camera with me and having the opportunity to shoot could rejuvenate my tired mindset. When I feel irritable and frustrated, just being able to see the world through my lens makes my day. I guess I will never get tired of photography ^_^

That's what I said before... the ME before was awesome.... and I want to bring it back. I now know what to change about myself... MUST LOOK AT THE WORLD IN A BEAUTIFUL PERSPECTIVE!

THANK YOU WORLD!!! I AM BACK!!! ^____^

Why it's called Beatification/Canonization and not Worship

Last May 1, 2011, The Catholic Church has beatified Pope John Paul II as a recognition that he has lived an exemplary life for Catholics to imitate.

It is not for the purpose of worshiping him,but rather, it is for the purpose of the people to always remember his living examples on how to follow Christ. The Church has always believed that after this life, the souls go to heaven when they have lived a perfect life. Pope John Paul II does not seek self glorification through this, that is why it is useless for people to get angry at him for being beatified.

The purpose for this is to show the people still living on Earth that this is how one should live life since we believe in the communication with the saints. And since we believe that Pope John Paul II is in heaven, and that he is alive in heaven, we understand that he could pray for us from there, thus the 'intercession' is in progress.

I feel sad that most Catholics have lost their faith in the Church and the shepherds of the church, i.e., the priests and bishops and the pope because of the numerous scandals inside the Church. But we must refrain from judging others and see when is authentic holiness.

The Church had been tarnished with scandals and abuses, but we must always hope that there are people who honestly lead a holy life. Once we believe that there are such people, only then can we follow Christ and be holy ourselves.

Beatification is NOT worshiping! It is only Jesus Christ and the Holy Trinity that the Catholic worship and nothing else!

Tribute to Pope John Paul II's Beatification

This coming May 1, 2011, the people of the Universal Church will be watching for the Beatification of Pope John Paul II who had made a lot of landmarks in history. Few knew about the history of this remarkable successor to the chair of St. Peter, and so here I will list down some of what I read about him.

- While still a child, his classmates used to tease him that he'll be a saint one day.
- While still a young priest, Karol Wojtyla went to confession, and the Franciscan priest Padre Pio told him that one day he will become the Pope.
- He was the Fatima Pope of which the Blessed Virgin Mary talks about in Fatima when she said that she asked a priest from her Son to sit in the chair of St. Peter to crush the communist party of in Europe (true enough, he had been friends with Mikhail Gurbachev of Russia and had been in tireless opposition of Russia's communist movement)
- He has Totus Tuus as his apostolic motto (latin for I'm all yours) which is a response to the Blessed Virgin's call to him.
- His coat of arms is the only coat of arms among all the popes which bears the letter M for Mary. A proof that he indeed embodied the personalty of the predicted pope of Fatima.
- His papacy reached out to the hearts of the leaders of the world. The most traveled pope, or the "gypsy" pope, and appealed to the youths.

There are so many things that proves that this man is truly a builder of Bridges.
Other people and even some Catholic bishops and priests may have hated him, which is sad, but there is no denying that Christ is truly faithful to His Church and had given the keys to St. Peter and his successors.

Pope John Paul II has called the Jews "Older brothers" since Jesus Christ is a Jew himself. Without the Jews, there will be no Christ for the Catholics to know, contrary to what others say about Catholics condemning the Jews. (Well, some traditional Catholics refuse to obey the pope and still insist on hating the Jews)

Pope John Paul II was the only man who united the world leaders at his burial. Iran and Iraqi leaders were sitting side by side, even though they were at war at that time. But they had to go there to pay their last respects to this holy man.

Pope John Paul II has truly become an inspiration through his courage and perseverance. The faith he showed when he led the Church was undoubtedly alive.

To be honest, I myself have a lot of doubts about my faith, but seeing him with steadfast belief and hope made me want to see the God he sees. He truly is an inspiration. An example to all, a saint through and through. I am happy to have lived at the time of his Papacy! I caught a glimpse of what a true Catholic should be!

True, priests, bishops and some of the Catholic officials have tarnished the reputation of the Universal Church with scandals and abuses that made the lay people leave the fold, but they are not the Church. There are people who are determined to make things right. Pope John Paul II, you're a hero! Reflecting Christ in this time of confusion.

May the Church produce more people like him!

Cool! A role model!

Happy Easter - Thoughts on my Birthday Contemplation

It was by choice that I declined two invites to go out of town for the Holy week. Not that I am the best in everything or that my choices are far more grand than others. It's just that I knew what I needed in my life right now... I need to meditate.

Holy week for me is an exciting event wherein I could have a chance to contemplate on the God who continually reach out to me amidst the chaotic world and confusing variety of philosophies and pseudo-theologies. (Being born in a family with lots of books, I tend to read a lot)

Those who knew me (or rather thought they knew me) decided that I needed this or that in order for me to be happy. Suggestions from different people came pouring in, from people who are sincere in their efforts to guide me to 'happiness'. At times, I believe them, but at the back of my mind, I was restless. There was a nagging feeling that cannot be silenced.

I came to realize in the silence of the walls of the Church and the guidance of the recollections and retreats that I attended, that I find comfort and clarity of my purpose when I immerse myself to the study of God who I believe made every cells in my body function as He planned it in the greater scheme of things. Only then have I come to catch a glimpse of pure happiness that is untarnished and not fleeting as some temporary joys the secular world offers.

I dare say, my choices may not be appealing to all, but it is the best thing that ever happened to me. I wanted to be at the forefront alongside the people who have fought the good fight and died for what they believe was right. Holy week for me is a time to recharge my soul in union with my Creator.

I am not a fan of short term happiness, and I am not afraid to be labeled as weird and odd just because I refused to follow what most people do. For me, happiness is the feeling of an undying hope, and the knowledge that you are alive for a reason much nobler than what mere people decide you to be.

It is easy to judge others as inferior when they do not concede to what we believe in, but for me, the true measure of joy is what good it does to one's soul. I would rather die looking for the eternal bliss, than lose myself to temporal joys which are often times meaningless in years to come.

I look up to great people who already found inner peace and make them my guide in determining my decisions, making them my role models. I try to emulate their discipline and adapt it in my life.

On some occasions, some people belittle me and think they are much more accomplished because they experienced a lot of "fun" and advised me to do the same. I had detours in my life, and I must admit that the devil may care attitude of the youths give us lessons as we go through the course of life, but I don't believe in being stagnant and not moving on from mediocrity. I believe that until you fulfill what you have come to accomplish in this world, you cannot be truly happy. You also outgrow these 'joys' and trying to bring back its glory is futile.

The pursuit of meaningless happiness in repetition doesn't make any sense at all. Detours are only a waste of time when you already know what you want out of life. Make one mistake and take the lessons you need in order to do better next time. Make progress, that is the only way to be able to reach happiness in its totality. Get out of your comfort zone if you must, even when it means being laughed at for not joining the pack.

Believe in your path for you are the only one who knows where you can truly be happy... there's no one who can hinder your progress to greatness but only you. People and unfortunate circumstances cannot do anything as long as you refuse to let go of your goals and dreams. Be brave amidst endless mockeries and close your ears to the endless discouragements people throw at you.

Turn the tables with your perseverance until your stubbornness prove that they were wrong about you. Lead them with your great example, refuse to allow them to put out your fire. And make this world a better place to live in. Fight for your dreams... life is short, and there's only one chance for all of us to prove ourselves. Cut yourself out from the rest. :)

Face the world with a new fuel of determination! Fight a good fight! Shine your Light! Happy Easter to all! ^_^

A learned a Great Deal in My Cathoic Faith this Holy Week

In my years of existence and of being a member of the Catholic Faith since birth, this was the first time I heard about the truth as to why Christ had to die on the cross for the sins of mankind.

For so long, I thought that He died on the cross to redeem us, by shedding his blood in order to expiate and placate the justice that God thirsts for.. But this isn't what redemption is all about!

Theologians have twisted this story over the years... it was all a mistake taught by the bishops and priests and so called theologians.... but never the Pope!

Cardinal Ratzinger, now Pope Benedict XVI pointed out that this theory, that God needed His Son's blood in order to redeem us, that only the Person of equal rights and stature has the right to redeem us is all a misunderstanding and it came from mankind's mis-representation of salvation of mankind which they based on the feudal system... wherein the offended party could only be appeased if the offensive party shed blood of a person of the same noble birth! It is in direct contradiction to the parable of the Prodigal Son wherein the father loves his son and welcomed him home unconditionally.



Just as Hell wasn't made by God to punish the demons who betrayed Him (For they themselves made hell because they cannot live in a place that God made because they hated God and everything that God created.), so the story of redemption was twisted!

According to the original doctrines of the Church, Jesus came here not to appease the father with His shedding of blood, but to show God's love for us. He sent His only begotten Son to bridge His love to us, with Jesus becoming man and telling the people about God's love. The people, who are full of violence and hatred were anxious to inflict Jesus with sufferings. Thus, Jesus, knowing this, underwent the suffering till the end, till man was satisfied. He went through it all without complaining so that He could send the message that God loves mankind, contrary to the lies that the devil feeds them. And by the power of His infinite mercy, he won man over... not all, but at least there were those who responded to His sufferings and understood why He came to Earth.

Only Christianity have a God like this... a loving God who is willing to die for His people. Such a good story. It's hard to imagine that for so long, I knew an angry and vengeful God. Clearly, what the media feed us are all distorted truths!

I am lucky to have found Christ like this! Lucky to be in a 3-day recollection of knowing Christ this holy week... I wouldn't exchange this time with Him for anything! :)

I sometimes learn about attitude towards life in my favorite cartoon shows ^_^

Yeah, I have a confession to make... and it's kinda funny but I think it's not a crime to share. I was lately becoming bummed out because I felt that my progress in all my undertakings were really slow.
I was really uninspired lately, talk about grown up stuffs people ask me to face... (It is boring really... and it's no fun!) And at times like these I look outside my window and reminisce about my old days.... yeah, back when I was a healthy dreamer.



I dream a lot, really. Thank goodness for that... and because I used to watch a lot of cartoons where tha main characters are driven towards success, I picked some of the champion's mindset. Yes, you won't believe it, but you really can get a lot of a leader's mindset in quality animes. And just by watching, I slowly remembered what kind of a person I was---- Dreamer and Driven.


As of now, I picked up Takehito Inoue's Slam Dunk. It is a very good anime. I was really inspired to be myself and be disciplined as I watched the main characters practice more and more each day to surpass their old selves. Animes like these are really good... if only the Philippine society is like this, then everything will be cool--- i mean if they only start putting an end to making excuses and blaming other people why they are not progressing.

I used to watch this in college for entertainment's sake, it was a  rerun in the local network for the nth time. It's a really funny series and I almost fell on the floor when I was able to watch it in dubbed Tagalog... the dubbers' ad lib were hilarious and used languages that the ordinary Filipinos use in everyday life... it's really worth re-watching a thousand times! I still love it after more than a decade of its existence.

Takehiko is a guy full of wisdom to create such a story, strong and deep words overflow as I watch slam dunk... It deals with the slices of life, on how to live up to the challenge of life and be the best a person can be. Slam Dunk, you made my day. Now, Takehiko Inoue is now one of those people who inspire me... great story.... the best I've seen in my life. “Play hard so you will have no regrets” - Kaede Rukawa- Slam Dunk (Takehiko Inoue)

Devastation in Japan

A few days ago, an earthquake took place at 8.9 magnitude in Japan. It was devastating, and a very sad event. The country is the world's most advanced in technology, but lo and behold, they cannot do anything against the natural disasters.

At times like these, I am left to wonder about life and how fleeting it is. Those who died in the calamity are not the most evil people in the world, the Japanese people are generally honest and respectable people if I may say so, yet their lives were taken away just like that.

Perhaps, this is a chance for all the people in the world to reflect on their lives, and realize, that when death comes, you come to realize that riches will make no sense at all when your life is suddenly taken away. (I of course am referring to corrupt people who amass wealth unlawfully)... This may come off as a little preachy I know, but just think about it.

Man can never control his life after all...

As for Japan, it's scary. But I believe in their goodness, and their strong bond with each other as a community. They could go through it. God bless them!

Flipped: Finding more about someone is like finding a buried treasure

To begin with, I was never fond of love stories... EVER.... but this is an exception! I loved the movie that it made my heart Flipped! It's nostalgic and I kind of missed seeing people as sensitive to other people's feelings as the people here in the story...
Talk about something everyone has lost nowadays. I think people who are selfish needed to learn so many things from this movie. Love is not a 5 minute talk or a text message affair....


To learn how to love a person, after getting to know who they really are is supposed to be what love really is... It tramples the culture of touch and go love affair, objectifying people and not loving them as a person.
Someday, when I get to find someone I could give my devotion to.... I hope he will do something grand for me, like planting a sycamore tree for me too, i mean who will be thoughtful enough to look into my innermost thoughts and try to make me smile ^__^...

I do like someone who'd make the effort for me... After all, I do believe that what we give, will always come back to you. So I promise to give love whatever the cost! :D

To date, I only meet guys who fan their egos when they try to win me over. I don't like that... I want to be with someone who drink life in... someone who doesn't need other people to validate them. Someone who embraces life because he relishes every moment.... that kind of enthusiasm somehow draws me in. Too bad, most people I meet nowadays are all pretentious... I don't know. I want to preserve my authenticity... and I hope I'll find someone who's equally real


Juli Baker is definitely the girl who has substance. The kind of girl foolish guys overlook in favor of girls who are all show and has no substance. She is different because although she is obsessed with Bryce, the boy with those dazzling eyes, she still had her individuality intact.

She is a real person. Someone who was never pretentious. She had put Bryce on a pedestal, pursuing what was not at all there, in the end, the pursuit somehow started to lose its value, and the pursuer was pursued.


Although she was not at first valued for who she is by other people, her self respect and reason won him over.

She is unique and real, and not all girls have that strength of character and brilliance that Juli Baker showed. She maintained her individuality. Her zest and enthusiasm for life was what helped her to recognize people for who they were. She was raised in a loving family, that is why she too could only give what was given her. Unfortunately, not all people could appreciate it for they were all pretentious and materialistic.

Brilliant acting of the two stars who played Juli and Bryce... I think they were soooo right for their parts. Too bad this movie didn't come out in theaters. I give it 5 stars! :D

Far Away

Wherever I go
Far away and anywhere
Time after time you always shine
Through dark of night calling after me

And wherever I climb
Far away and anywhere
You raise me high beyond the sky
Through stormy night lifting me above

No need to Rush

No need to rush things. What is most needed now is to focus on what is important. Time is of essence, that is why there is no time for mediocrity.

Most of the time I am faced with a dilemma of compromising my principles just so I could have fleeting gratification.... but good thing, my sanity got the better of me.

A person's principle is what he acquired over the years of his existence on Earth, what determines who he is are the principles and beliefs he retained in his journey. The decision making is quite crucial, and it tells a lot about a person about his choices. I am happy, that although my principles are a little bit outdated, I am happy to keep my stand. People can laugh at me for being a little old-fashioned, but this is me. What's important is that I could look at the mirror with a clear conscience.

I can cry about it, but in the end, I am still happy because I stood for what is right. I love my life, and I do hope I am strong enough to withstand any storm and trials that will come my way... no compromising of my principles! Go Go Go!

Work on your Salvation with Fear and Trembling...

Ephesians 6:11-17

11 Put on the armor of God so that you may be able to stand firm against the tactics of the devil.12For our struggle is not with flesh and blood but with the principalities, with the powers, with the world rulers of this present darkness, with the evil spirits in the heavens.13 Therefore, put on the armor of God, that you may be able to resist on the evil day and, having done everything, to hold your ground.14 So stand fast with your loins girded in truth, clothed with righteousness as a breastplate,15 and your feet shod in readiness for the gospel of peace. 16 In all circumstances, hold faith as a shield, to quench all (the) flaming arrows of the evil one.17 And take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.


Just saw the movie THE RITE tonight.
It was an Exorcism story.... I was taken aback and was deeply disturbed. I think I have encountered a situation like that. When I was a child, I didn't know better. Perhaps it was our customary recitation of the Holy Rosary that led us to the path to Light... way back, we were not fully aware of the troubles that we were in. We had spiritual warfare and belief in God was so so-so.

I still had mixed emotions as I watched the film, but deep down, I know my spiritual journey is different from a lot of people. I couldn't even begin the story on how i believe what I believe now. DEVILS do Exist, and so does God.

In the movie, the charm worn by the possessed victims played a vital role. It was repeatedly stressed throughout the movie. I think they forgot to explain why they kept on highlighting the charm. The charm is used most of the time for occult practices, and anyone who uses it will be susceptible to demonic possessions. So the next time people buy things, they have to know its origin to make sure it wasn't used for any kind of occult practices.

The Devil is cunning.... they fool people into not believing them so that it would be easy for them to go around playing with people.

I don't know if I am biased... I just want to be vigilant for my own sake. As I am writing this, I am fully aware of my role as a person who understand what it means to be a Catholic. And with that, I think I will live as one... I hope I can make my God proud of me, as I once said strongly in my dream. Such bold words... I can't forget it. I hope I have the will and the capacity to live it through.

From this point on, the amazing journey begins.... Help me God!

Be A Voice in the Society

"Be A voice in the Society"

That's what the homily was about when I attended the first Friday Mass this February 4, 2011.

Another sign for me.... gosh I really needed to execute my task already. I admit I am a little scared and a little lost... but I will be guided accordingly.

God help me! This is it. The defining moments of my life!

BRING IT ON!!! ^____________^

Make the World Better! :)

Because he himself was tested through what he suffered, he is able to help those who are being tested. – Hebrews 2:18

Yeah, cheesy as it may sound, but I am positive to want to make this world a better place to live in. I don't know, I just feel so energized at the thought of making people feel better.... especially the oppressed.

I have been through a lot of my own difficulties of my own in life, and seeing other people go through difficult times really troubles me.

I guess this is what people call "Superhero COMPLEX?" :D....
I admit, I can't do everything... but I just can't let things stay miserable when it's in my power to help. The downside there though, is when I encounter people who just wanted to take advantage of my help... screw them! I wanna give a good example... but they're just cheapos.. so I try not to associate with the likes of them.

Anyhow, let's make this world a whole lot better... be cool and help others be cool and as awesome as we are :D

On my Forkroad: I have decided which way to go...

Really, after months of debate and inner struggle, I finally made a decision. I am happy and contented.
For now, I need to rest my mind and do everything I have in my power to focus all my attention on my present situation. I smile even though I have no certainty where I am heading. All I needed is to have faith in myself, and everything will be okay. Soon, opportunities will open to welcome me, and with that in mind, I have no need to be worried. I am casting all my cares away, as for now, I need to rediscover my self, and from nothing again, I will build all the things I want to do and rediscover my passions and talents. I don't have anything in my name ... all I have is this determination and honesty to myself. What's important is that I know for now that I am not easily vacuumed and fashioned by other people's interpretation of who I am.




The worst thing a person could do to himself, is to conform to other people's mediocre ideas of him... hindering him from evolving to be himself in all his entirety.... it is a sorry sight if that happens. Because he/she can never be happy, conforming to other people's idea of who he is; which is vague and incomplete.

To shine as your best is something you owe to yourself. Never let other people influence you. Learn to discern who you really are, only YOU can pin down what works best for you.

Good days... I welcome you! ^__^

Refocusing my Dreams, to make it into a Reality

A few more days from now, and I am on my way towards my goals. I know that I will lose a lot of things, i.e., Ripened friendships, familiar atmosphere, consistent source of money, but oddly, I am perfectly fine with it. Not that they lost their value, but it just didn't fit in my plans anymore.

I overstayed, I think. Because I had been unhappy for months now, doing everything like a robot would. And I fell into a trap of seeking validation of my work from other people...

I got tired of those empty pursuits of praises from people. I got some, but lost some. To seek validation from others is indeed addictive, and I fell into a trap of spreading myself too thin, doing a lot of tricks just to get attention... but in the long run, it lacks satisfaction. The false luster it promised waned as the time passed me by.

Reflecting on my life as I was wont to do at intervals when I am alone with myself, I realized to my great surprise, that I'm the only one I needed to believe in.

I suffered for months now. I did function, doing what others wanted, but inside, I was struggling. They applauded me, yet why wasn't I happy? Then it dawned on me, I wasn't carrying out my passion, my identity... I let other people take me according to their whims... that I eventually lost myself on the way. I lost my sense of identity because of my folly.

My stupidity eventually took its toll. I have produced mediocrity... I wasn't fooling anyone anymore. My works have no enthusiasm and lacked the heart it needed to stand and speak for itself. I was in turmoil... I knew I needed to let go... but I continued on... stubbornly, until I couldn't look at my works anymore. I was repulsed by it.

That's why I needed to let go... and when I finally gave in to the idea, a sense of peace gradually took over me. I discovered that in order to show people that individual side of you, you mustn't be too competitive of other people... look inside you, and it's okay to fail. I discovered that there was never a competition with other people because I am a unique individual. The only person I should try to please is myself and make my God proud of me.

Little by little, my enthusiasm is already coming back to me... it's gonna be a good life! ^___^
I owe it to myself and to others, to be my very best, to be able to function well in society by being myself! It's good to know that I am important in this world, just as I am... :D

Voice from Oblivion

So all of these faces
And brand new places
And a fresh start to my life
And now I know where I wanna go
I'm gonna make sure I do it just right
Cause if I dont I know things wont feel right



I am excited to start on this project... someday, I will be having a voice, enough to be heard. I will be the voice of the ones whose cries were silenced, by no less than their own mothers who should be the ones to protect them and love them. I feel so much love for these little ones, and I cry for their stifled cries. May their cry for justice reach the hearts of the people...and may they stop the abuse and murder for the little ones.

There are 3 kinds of people in this world. Those that make things happen. Those that watch things happen, and those that say: 'what happened?!' :)

Sports personalities -- A pleasant surprise in the Catholic Priesthood today!

Fatherhood and being married to the church was the calling of these popular, good-looking athletes who, at the peak of their talents, have decided to enter the seminary. Priestly calling is not a job, but a calling and a privilege given by God. To be called to this service is a gift. I am still at loss for words as I read about these amazing people... who had fame, girls, image, looks.... they had everything, but they were humble enough to strip themselves of the glories of the world, and embrace the life with God.

Grant Desme

Joseph Freedy

I think they're amazing. Masculinity is so much distorted nowadays. The media feeds the people with trash... that to be a true alpha male, is to get the girls, be rich, and be famous... Well, these people knew that life... and they found out that it's not the peak of happiness!

The Foolish traveler - - my story

Have you ever read the story of the foolish traveler that I posted here months ago? Well, it's a very good story. Click here to read it.

He's foolish alright, but he was kind. And he was happy because he had no malice in his body. He doesn't care what he loses. He wants to see people happy.

Well, I remembered the tale because I used the title. Well, all of us are travelers here on Earth... we journey until we find our place in this world. I am starting a new chapter of my life. New job, new dreams to weave, new path to follow... My dreams are the only fuel that keeps me going. :)

From ground zero, I need to rehash my life. Clear my head of all the unnecessary things that bother me. I am very excited. I can see the future ahead of me is so bright. I will of course find some hurdles along the way, but I can manage... for now, move on. It doesn't matter how little my steps will be, what's important is that I have decided to have change in my life.

It's really odd that I have a very strong sense of purpose... My path is a foolish path and risky, but what are dreamers for if not being crazy and taking risks? The reason why they are called dreamers is because they dare to do the impossible... make the invisible visible... enough said... :D