GOD is FaithfuL

It's Hard...

2010-08-30T20:55:00.000-07:00

There are times that you can't continue with what you're doing no matter how good and pure your intensions are. Maybe because it's not the perfect time or somebody else must be doing it and it's not supposed to be you.

Today's prayer

2010-07-02T21:20:00.000-07:00

Lord, let it stop na lang if it's not meant to be...

I will listen to You, focus on what You want me to do now. Help me to patiently wait for You even if it really hurts. Sustain me Lord, please.

True Worshiper

2010-06-14T10:03:00.000-07:00

I'm blessed with yesterday's preaching...

TRUE WORSHIP is LISTENING and OBEYING. God is also in the business of seeking me and you.

My Thought...

2010-06-10T20:58:00.000-07:00

I know there's a reason my everything. I may not understand it right now but later on I'll be thankful...

My Limited Strength, My Faithful God

2010-05-30T00:13:00.000-07:00

Oh Lord, I ca't hold my face up

and come before You.

I am full of shame

and there's no good thing in me.

How foolish I am to think

I can do it on my own.

How dare me forget that

I am but a filthy rug, just dust.

I tried to do it,

I tried to achieve,

but all these are meaningless.

Then, I was reminded that

I can't do it on my own

Even on my strength and knowledge

I can't rely on.

I need You Lord,

You are my strength and my foundation.

Without You I will be nothing

I can't achieve anything.

When I am weak,

You make me strong.

When I am strong,

You remind me that

it's my limited strength

with my faithful God at work.

Exactly three!

2009-10-17T04:53:00.000-07:00

Ang bilis ng panahon!!! It's been exactly 3 months since I updated my blog here.

I miss putting my stories into writing...

I miss reading posts...

I miss browsing photos...

I miss this.

While I'm Waiting

2009-07-17T23:30:00.000-07:00

Waiting...

-one of the hardest things to do.

I watched the film "Fireproof" few weeks ago. I must admit it made me cry for almost 10 minutes...haha! I really appreciate the movie and it's soundtrack...

Grace-dependent

2009-06-27T04:35:00.000-07:00

(This post is in relation to my previous entry...)

Last Monday (June 22), the result of our final exam for Manual Ticketing was released. All of us passed. I praised the Lord when I heard my trainer's announcement. During our morning break, my trainer said that they have deliberated about my case. In the end, they have considered me for the next course. They tracked back my record since our Domestic Ticketing Training in which I somehow excelled. In addition to that, my trainer told me to do better this time, probably to prove that I'm worthy of the consideration they have given me.

Once again, I have proved God's favor to me. When I texted those from whom I've requested for a prayer, most of them said, "You are favored by the Lord." I strongly believe that.

June 25, Thursday, was our first exam on Automated Ticketing. I still have some mistakes I know. I was sad after that. On our way home, I said to my friends, "Talagang grace-dependent ako..." One of them replied, "Bakit na-fail ka na ba nyang grace na sinasabi mo?" I just smiled and from her words I was encouraged. One of them also said, "Malakas yan (pertaining to me) kay Bro!" On my mind I said, "Truly, never in a moment God's grace had failed me." That's the sweetest thing with our God. He honors those who choose to honor Him.

Now, the training is still on-going. Our last exam will be on Tuesday. I have this hope that God will never leave me. I count to His promises. I'm praising Him not just because He's helping me out from every hard circumstance but also through all these, my batchmates saw how my God works in the impossible.

Here are some of the verses that I keep on meditating.

~"...and the one who trusts in him will never be put to shame." - Romans 9:33

~"being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus." - Philippians 1:6

~"in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us." - Romans 8:37

~" He mocks proud mockers but gives grace to the humble." - Proverbs 3:34

~"So do not throw away your confidence; it will be richly rewarded. You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what he has promised." - Hebrews 10:35-36

These verses encourage me and they remind me of who I am before the Lord. Praise be to our God who is the Lord of all comfort.

"Your day is not too good that you are not in need of God's grace and neither too worse that you are beyond His grace" - Joshua Harris, Not Even a Hint

DO THE POSSIBLE AND GOD WILL DO THE IMPOSSIBLE!

Joyful, Joyful

2009-06-23T15:30:00.000-07:00

A Very Humbling Experience

2009-06-20T15:15:00.000-07:00

Last week was the end of our International Manual Ticketing. As the course title implies, we didn't use a computer system for ticketing but a set of thick books called the "Passenger Airfare Tariff" or PAT Books. Those contain air fares published by different carriers (airlines), general rules, city,state and country codes and so on.

Aside from these four books, we have a thick manual. It was so exciting and I really enjoyed it though it (the entire course) bought me into a great test.

Part of my mind says, "nakakahiya namang i-share...so disappointing if people,especially those who have high expectations, would come to know it..." but I think I should be proud of my weakness because through this God's name will be glorified.

Each course, we have to take an exam and we have to pass in order to be qualified in taking the next course. For international ticketing we have 2 courses: Manual Ticketing and Automated Ticketing. Last June 5 was the first part of our exam for Manual Ticketing (using these books on the left), that's equal to 40% of our total rating. Sadly I wrongly answered the 2nd problem. My trainer told me that I must have a perfect grade for the 2nd Exam in order to go on with the training. But even if I get a perfect score, that won't give me a guarantee to stay. Wheeew! I almost cried... but I controlled my tears from falling. When she left...di ko na nakayanan. That happened before we left for Cebu, June 11. I tried to enjoy the trip while hardly thinking about it. Eventually I realized that God is really humbling me. Now I can really say in my heart (as that of my shout out in my Friendster account) that I am not in the business of proving myself to people. I, together with my batchmates, really felt the pressure brought by high expectations of people in our workplace. Once, I asked one of them, "...kailangan ba talagang patunayan ang ating sarili sa iba?" One more thing that makes it hard for me is that I have to face it alone. The scenario is totally different. I'm not anymore in my comfort zone where I can meet my churchmates any time and draw strength from them. I don't even have my family beside me because I'm staying in Manila. I don't have very close friends with me who can understand and be patient with long crying moments (you know, Christians are really bold in crying). All I really have is God. It's hard but it's really sweet at the same time. This is the time when I feel I'm very close to Him.

I said in my prayer one night, "Lord, I don't wanna carry the motive of competing with people, proving that I am better than others, that I am more capable and so on." Then, I realized why this thing happened, God wants to really purify my motive, to keep me humble.

Last week, that's Wednesday, we had our final exam covering the remaining 60% of our grade. By God's grace I was able to finish it. Special thanks to our trainer, Sir Bong, who was very patient with us. The result will be released on Monday. While waiting, I'm continuously having my training, now its Automated Ticketing.

I'm very thankful with God's special way of teaching His child. It's painful...knowing that in the eyes of some, I failed. But that's not the matter anyway. I would be glad that in God's eyes I am approved. I won't accept that I'm a failure either. God clearly stated that "I am more than a conqueror" through Paul in the book of Romans. Though I don't know what tomorrow brings, I have this confidence that nothing, neither those circumstances, will change the truth that God is God and that I have His favor. For as long as I am with You and You are with me Lord, I am so secure.

Alone...

2009-06-06T00:20:00.000-07:00

Few days ago, one of our lovebirds died...si Pipoy, mag-isa na lang si Pipay ngayon...

Today, mag-isa lang din ako sa bahay since my mom and younger siblings are in Tagaytay. Eventually baka magtransfer na rin kami dun from Dasma.

Though i'm with my friends, still I know I'm alone. I don't really feel like I'm kawawa...

This is just a point when God teaches me to stand on my own...
-make decisions without consulting somebody
-not be dependent on anyone

just alone...

"Garfield"

2009-05-02T20:20:00.000-07:00

....crying times with the Lord...

mukha na naman akong isda...

pero nung makita ako ng boardmate ko, may iba na syang tawag sakin...

"GARFIELD!!!"

New Book :D

2009-05-02T11:58:00.000-07:00

God has blessed me with another book. Actually few months ago na 'to...hehehe

Thank you Lord for your blessing. I could still remember, kasama ko si Kua JB and Mae pati si Joi sa PCBS nung nakita ko 'to. I laid my hands on this book and prayed, "Lord I want this and You know I need it..."

Ayun, after two days nabili ko na sya sponsored by my parents. 1 copy na lang to... amazing!

Words to Remember

2009-03-06T22:46:00.000-08:00

Listen.
Obey.
Learn.
Focus.

"Attitude matters," says my trainer.

distinction

2009-02-27T23:57:00.000-08:00

"ANNOINTING makes the difference."

love without respect?!

2009-02-27T23:18:00.000-08:00

Love and respect are inseparable.

Naalala ko lang...

Last Monday, we had a flag ceremony at PLC (PAL Learning Center). After how many years, ngayon lang ulit ako naka-attend ng flag ceremony. :) We had it in front of the building, within PLC premises naman. Pero kita namin yung mga taong dumadaan. Nakakatuwa lang isipin na may mga taong tumigil talaga sa paglakad nung marinig nila ung national anthem. Anyway, that's but natural naman. Nakakalungkot din dahil karamihan, diretso lang. Deadma.

We can't say we love our country when we don't know how to show respect...not just to the flag itself but to its meaning and to what it stands for. Small things matter. :)

Never Accept...

2009-02-20T23:11:00.000-08:00

We started our training at PAL Learning Center last Monday, Feb 16. It's not that easy...complicated. We have to absorb everything for a short span of time. Next week, ibang course naman.

Most of my batchmates worry about the result of our previous exam. It's a qualifying exam that will let them determine if we will go to the next level of training. Not passing the exam means elimination from training. But I strongly say to them....

"Never to accept the thought...
> 'di ko kaya
> sobrang hirap
> 'di ako papasa
> tinatamad ako

We need to remember that we are what we think of ourselves. We, especially those who accepted God, must be confident. We must have that confidence that doesn't come from ourselves-- thinking we are too good, but confidence coming from the Lord --knowing that God is too gracious and loving to leave us.

These verses encouraged me so much...
Romans 8:
^{> 15}For you did not receive a spirit that makes you a slave again to fear...
> ²⁴For in this hope we were saved. But hope that is seen is no hope at all. Who hopes for what he already has? ²⁵But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently.
> ³⁵Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? ³⁷No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. ³⁸For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons,^m]">[m] neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, ³⁹neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

NOTHING IS TOO HARD FOR THE LORD!

Sayaw One - SOP

2009-02-14T03:53:00.000-08:00

Wala lang... na-appreciate ko yung moves ni Ryza. First time ko makapanood ng SOP eh (this year ah...) hehehe

"KAREN"

2009-02-13T22:20:00.000-08:00

...an effortless name.

Yun ang lagi kong sinabi tungkol sa pangalan ko kasi nga naman simple, maikli, parang 'di pinag-isipan ng parents ko nung pinanganak ako. As a result, marami akong kapangalan.

Lately ko lang na-appreciate ang name ko na yan. That was when I had to fill out more than 30 documents, requirements for my employment.

February 12, 2009, the day I won't forget, when I write my name more than 30 times. Thanks to my parents who made my name simple. hahahaha!!! :)

I LOVE MY NAME!!!

His Answer

2009-02-05T23:11:00.000-08:00

For a long period of waiting, I once asked God (gently)...

"Lord, how long?"

He answered,

"It is not for you to know the times and dates the Father has set by His own authority."
- Acts 1:7

Strong Words

2009-02-05T23:07:00.000-08:00

God has His strong words to me last night. I really appreciate how He used my co-ministers to say these to me.

2 C's:
* Confront - learn how to confront those who are doing something wrong without offending them. Don't be too soft and too harsh as well.

* Confidence - always be confident that God is with you and that you are highly favored! Don't let the enemy deceive you that your worth is less than what God actually thinks of you.

> God is really concerned about us and He wants to change us from glory to glory!

Thank You Lord. May You always help me to be a better person each day for Your greater glory. :)

Welcome Khen!

2009-02-01T21:37:00.000-08:00

Finally, nakapagcreate na rin ako ng multiply account... nakapag-import narin ako ng blog.

Next time na lang ang page construction..hehe!

Welcome to me! ;)

Waiting...

2009-01-28T18:08:00.000-08:00

I'm in a waiting status now...

> waiting for God's answers...
> waiting for directions...
> waiting... *sigh*

I could still remember a message from a friend saying,

"The hardest part of faith is waiting...and the hardest part of waiting is the last half hour."

Some how true, if i'll use my present condition as a basis.

Sadly, there are times that waiting steals my joy. :'(

But I always want to keep in mind that...

"Waiting is not passive but always active."

Please help me Lord to patiently wait for you...

Greater Things for the Philippines

2009-01-01T19:51:00.000-08:00

Year 2009, What's in store for our country? No one knows...

I just wanna share these data I got from the news.

> For every 10 Filipinos, 7 say there is still hope in the Philippines.
> 54% says they would still choose to stay in our country even if they'll get the chance to migrate abroad.
> Sociologists say that our faith in God plays an important part for the country's progress.
- Source: Pulse Asia, 2008

I believe that God won't allow us to pray hard for something over a long period of time if He's not determined to answer it. I encourage those who faithfully prays for our country. God hears our prayers. Let's just remain faithful.

I love this song which a co-worker shared to me...

God of This City
Chris Tomlin

You're the God of this city
You're the King of these people
You're the Lord of these nation
You are

You're the light in this darkness
You're the hope to the hopeless
You're the peace to the restless
You are

There is no one like our God
There is no one like our God

For greater things
Have yet to come
And greater things
Are still to be done in this city

For greater things
Have yet to come
And greater things
Are still to be done here

God can do great and miraculous things in our nation! Let's believe!

Last Dance for 2008

2009-01-01T03:53:00.000-08:00

To God be the glory!!!!

I'm a BUM!

2008-12-26T17:30:00.000-08:00

I resigned from my previous work last August 2008. I have to undergo a minor operation during that time so I need to stop working. Since then, I'm staying at home. I'm not employed until now.

I could say...

I am a BUM! :_(

but then I choose to say...

Thank God I'm a B.U.M.!

B-eing
U-sed by God
M-ightily

I may not be employed but I can't say that I'm totally unproductive. In fact, God is giving so many tasks to me... some are too big and I just can't contain it. (Thank you Lord for trusting me!)

I just learned that being productive is not merely based on where you are or how much money you earn.

Being productive is always a choice! :)

Help me Lord to just trust Your promises... that You are the One who holds my future. Let me just accomplish the tasks You have given me. Prepare me for future assignments and may You always find me faithful no matter how small or big that task may be. :)

Press on Toward the Goal!

2008-12-03T16:45:00.000-08:00

God has been so faithful to me, to the entire ministry. I want to thank Him for allowing us to be part of a bigger assignment all for His greater glory. :)

We joined a dance competition last November 29, Saturday (that was already the grand finals) at Folk Arts Theater, organized by Philippine Bible Society. That was not a mere dance competition but it's one way to promote the use of Bible using our craft - dancing. God paved the way for the team to be the champion. Truly, He answers sincere prayers.

We joined not because we want fame, not for the prize, but for one reason... to give glory to the Highest God! We want souls who will accept God. I could still remember how hard we prayed before we danced. That was really unforgettable! Our reward was God Himself.

Below is the video of the actual dance -- "B'lib ako sa Biblia ko!" (courtesy of Kua Firmo..thanks to you!)

But then, I don't want to dwell on past victories and will strain toward what is ahead... look forward to more assignments from God. Since this victory belongs to God, all the glory belongs to Him as well!

"Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus." Philippians 3:13-14

My Last Day, My Last Words...

2008-11-23T12:10:00.000-08:00

This is my last day...

...as a 21 year old-lady. Tomorrow, i'm turning 22. hehehe!

My last words...

...God has been so faithful to me for 21 years and I'm looking forward to experience more of His love and mercy for another year.

I plan to end my 21st year by offering God praise and worship through a dance. After my operation (excision on the right breast due to breast mass), 'di na ko nakasayaw ulit...almost 2 and 1/2 months din yun. And this time, I want to make it really special. :D

Thank you so much Lord! I love You so much! Here's my song for you.

Thank You
by Katinas

My Prayer...

2008-11-04T20:51:00.000-08:00

Banal Mong Tahanan

Ang puso ko'y dinudulog Sa'yo
Nagpapakumbaba, nagsusumamo
Paging dapatin Mo'ng Ikaw ay mamasdan
Makaniig Ka at Sa'yo ay pumisan

Koro:
Loobin Mo'ng ang buhay ko'y maging
Banal Mong tahanan
Luklukan ng Iyong wagas na pagsinta
Daluyan ng walang hanggang mga
papuri't pagsamba
Maghari Ka, O Diyos
Ngayon at kaylanman

Worship Camp 2008

2008-11-03T20:00:00.000-08:00

Thank You Lord for such a wonderful experience! I was really blessed that God made a way for me to join this camp. I wasn't expecting na possible pa since 'di ko na talaga pinagpray... but I could still remember na nasabi ko kay Lord, "If I need it, please let me join, kung kaya naman kahit hindi ako makasama, ok lang..." Hai (isang malalim na buntong hininga), sobrang amazing talaga. Ang daming tinuro sa'kin ni Lord.

> Sa sponsor, thank you very much. May God bless you all the more! Thanks din kay Kua JB... sponsor sa zip line! :D

Below are some pictures...

What a Comfort!

2008-10-21T20:27:00.000-07:00

Every morning, when I wake up at naririnig ko ang chirping love birds namin (from Kuya JB), na sila Pipoy at Pipay, na-co-comfort ako. If these birds eat and live without working for it, how much more are we, who are God's chosen people. God will provide all our needs! Thank You Lord!

Devotions & Reflections

2008-10-21T20:17:00.000-07:00

October 16. "NEVER TOO BUSY"
Nothing on you agenda, no matter how pressing, is reason enough to ignore the voice of God when He tells you to stop and help.

October 15. "REST TO REFOCUS"
(a message of encouragement from the Lord)
"You can give everything you have to God's service and come away exhausted. God removed Elijah from the activity for a time so that he could spend time with God. If He needs to remove you from your work for a time, He will."

> I was able to relate with Elijah, who after doing everything for God's Kingdom including burning the altar, people still want to kill him. Eventually, he found himself tired & rested in a cave. God asked him, "what are you doing there?"... and comforted him with His gentle voice saying, "Go back..." Minsan, kailangan lang ng rest to clearly hear God's voice and to experience His presence. That's exactly what has happened to me. :D

October 14. "CLEAR MESSAGE"
If we walk with Him, in obedience to His Word, He will stand with us and ensure us victory over our challenges. "OUR DECISION WILL BE EVIDENT BY THE OUTCOME."

> I went to Manila to have my EEG Test at Makati Medical Center. On my way home, while riding on a bus, I saw a big billboard with the message, "Follow Me." - GOD. Feeling ko, ako lang ang nakakita ng billboard na yun. After I saw it, I prayed... "Lord, para sakin ba yun? Ano po bang utos Nyo?"

After few days... nalaman ko na what God wants me to do. :D

Answered Prayer :D

2008-10-08T04:31:00.000-07:00

I failed to update my blog for the past month for some reasons... at namiss ko talaga lalo na ang blog hopping. I will try my best to recall kung ano yung mga nangyari during those time so I can post it here... sa aking "modern diary."

August 14. I went to Manila, as far as I could remember... unintentionally, I went to Philippine Bible Society (PBS) along United Nations Ave. Nakakabless lang, I bought a Bible at a discounted price care of Ate Vicky. Naaalala ko pa nung minsang magkita kami ni Ate Weena sa PCBS-SM Pala Pala, we were both praying for a Bible since we have given ours to people na alam naming kailangan un. hehehe. :D

Investment nga talaga ang Bible... I hope and pray that I will love God's Words all the more... Thank You po Lord!!!

Please Fall in Line!!!

2008-10-04T08:26:00.000-07:00

I went to NBI at FRC Mall, Imus to apply for a clearance yesterday. I was there at around 6:00am (hindi pa ako ang pinakamaaga sa lagay na un), pang-191 na akong applicant! wheew! Those who preceded me went there at 2:00am...hai, di ko yun kaya!

Sobrang exagge talaga ang haba ng pila. Nakakalungkot pa dun, may mga sumisingit...kanya-kanyang tactics, may mga fixers din as expected. May mga hindi marunong mahiya,as in harapan ang paniningit ah. Nasabi ko tuloy...

"Hai naku, hindi uunlad ang Pilipinas n'yan kung sa pila na lang hindi pa faithful."

I was reminded of one of Jessica Sojo's episodes (Kapuso Mo, Jessica Sojo). Ang pila daw sa Pilipinas ay sumasalamin sa sistemang meron ang bansa. Yung mga nagdodorm, 'pag gising pa lang pila na para makagamit ng c.r. then pila ulit para makasakay sa jeep...pila pa rin 'pag magwi-withdraw sa ATM, another line sa bills payment and so on. Conclusion dun, may kabagalan ang pagbibigay ng service sa mga Pinoy. Somehow, true... but I know there will still be changes in our system (with the help of computers)... hopefully and prayerfully.

Going back, I got my clearance by 4:00 pm, in short, buong maghapon ako dun. Akala ko nga magco-colapse ako, sobrang init at nakakainip!!!

Period ( . )

2008-09-02T14:11:00.000-07:00

I said good-bye to elementary teaching last Friday, August 29, 2008. I resigned due some personal reasons. Now, no more....

> lesson plans
> examinations
> topic outlines
> class records
> textbooks
> teacher's manuals
> school memos
> classes
> school discussions

What's sad about this is that I will no longer have time to bond with my students. I could still remember how my advisory class cried before I leave, and how they prepared cards and letters. (Medyo nakakataba ng puso at nakakalungkot at the same time). Sa decision na aking ginawa, I believe they were the ones who were greatly affected... though may teacher naman na nag-take over right away.

I won't forget those times na nakikipagkulitan ako sa mga bata. 'Di kasi ako mahilig sa kids since I have younger siblings (at parang nagsawa na...), but through them, I learned to appreciate children. They are so honest (to the point na nakaka-offend na minsan ang mga sinasabi..hahaha!), so pure, cheerful and giving, nakakabless. I pray that I'll meet them again someday.

When it comes to teaching... will it be a "period" Lord?

yummy...

2008-08-29T18:45:00.000-07:00

I love the mocha frost of Mocha Blends... (Thanks to Ate Ansel for the treat)

and Kenny Roger's soup + Tuna Sandwich (Costly but worth it)

Hectic...

2008-08-12T15:12:00.000-07:00

Sobrang dami ng work na nakaline-up sakin...hai.

School Work:
- checking of students' project
- grading sheet
- student evaluation
- updating of lesson plan
- preparing quizzes
- Linggo ng Wika presentation (advisory class)
- topic outline for second grading

Iba pa yung sa bahay at ministry...

"Lord, please strengthen me.. help me to finish everything. Thank You po."

Childish Prayer

2008-08-06T14:50:00.000-07:00

It was the first day of our periodical exams. Nakakatuwa... dati ako lang ang nagtatake ng exam, pero ngayon ako na ang gumagawa, nagpapatake at nagbabantay sa mga students.hihi!

Before we start the second exam (second subject) my advisory class (specifically the girls) knelt down and prayed. Their prayer goes like this:

"Heavenly Father, sana po matanggal na ang malaking pimple ni teacher sa nose. Please remind her na 'wag na kumain ng shrimp para 'di na sya magkaroon ulit ng malaking pimple. Saka sana po 'wag na syang magka-asthma at wag na sya a-absent...

Tapos biglang may pahabol ung isa....

...tsaka sana po may magkagusto na kay teacher para magkaboyfriend na sya. Amen."

Hahaha! Natawa talaga ako lalo dun sa last part. I can't imagine that at a very young age mas naiisip pa nila yung ganong bagay than I do. pambihira! Anyway, I appreciate their simple but sincere prayer (lalo na ung sa pimple... ang laki kasi talaga!).

Nakakatuwang isipin kung ga'no ka-sweet ang prayer ng mga bata sa ears ni Lord. :D

Confession

2008-08-04T15:54:00.000-07:00

I was doing the periodical examinations of my students when I encountered this wonderful poem. Share ko lang... it's very humbling. :D

Confession
Francis Ridley Havergel

Last night, my little boy confessed to me
Some childish wrong;
And kneeling at my knee
He prayed with tears –
“Dear God, make me a man
Like Daddy— wise and strong.
I know You can.”

Then while he slept,
I knelt beside his bed,
Confessed my sins,
And prayed with low-bowed head,
“O God, make me a child
Like my child here –
Pure, guileless,
Trusting Thee with faith sincere.”

At work...

2008-08-02T15:10:00.000-07:00

After how many weeks or months, ngayon ko lang na-upload ang pictures ko with my co-teachers sa Academia. We had a summer training last May. I could still remember that some of the photos below were taken during the evaluation day (evaluation of our teaching demo). Habang may kinakausap ng one on one sa isang kubo sa likod ng NCST, tamang picture naman kami while waiting for our turn.

Naisip ko ring magtake ng pictures ng ilang native items na matatagpuan sa isang kubo dun. :D

The one on the left is a picture of chimes made of bamboo that's why when the wind blows it produces good sounds ('di ko maexplain kung anong sound, basta relaxing). On the right side is a native chandelier. Natuwa lang ako..hehehe.

(Balik sa photo slideshow) I also took pictures with some of my students after the class. Then, yung last 3 photos were taken last Thursday lang, during our Scouting Investiture at Regatta Covered Court, sa Anabu, Imus. That was my first time to be an MC...MC ng bigger event with more or less 200 participants (including the teachers and parents), wearing Girl Scout Uniform (blouse and skirt)..hehe. Busy kami sa packing up kaya medyo konting pictures lang natake ko. :)

Poem Writing Activity

2008-07-23T18:00:00.000-07:00

I love to write poems, yun nga lang wala na kong time para magsulat pa. I could still remember the day when I wrote my latest poem, that's almost a year ago. I was at the hospital looking over my sick grandma. It's about how gloomy that room was. Nasa ward kasi ang lola ko nun so I can see other patients with their relatives. One of the patients was about to die kaya medyo may iyakan.

Today I was able to write another poem together with my grade 4 class. Nasa poem writing na kasi kami and it was fun! :D We wrote a poem together using a guide found in their textbook. I was writing my poem on the board while they write theirs on a piece of paper. Here's my composition:

"I am"

I am an imaginative and creative girl

I wonder how eagles fly above the storm

I hear them chirping

I see their wings wide open

I want to fly high like eagles

I am an imaginative and creative girl

I pretend that I'm flying

I feel the strong winds against my wings

I touch the heavy clouds

I worry that I will not able to face the strong winds

I cry thinking that I will not make it through the storm

I am and imaginative and creative girl

I understand that God is with me

I say I will make it because I have Him

I dream to see myself flying over the dark clouds

I try to fly higher than ever

I hope to have stronger wings and deeper faith to persevere

I am an imaginative and creative girl.

Nakakatuwa lang, kahit sa simpleng tula I was able to share God's goodness to my students! You're so good Lord!

Double-minded

2008-07-10T17:10:00.000-07:00

"He is a double-minded man, unstable in all he does."

James 1:8

Lord, please help me not to be a double-minded person...

Help me to be wise in making decisions using Your Word as my basis.

Help me to stand firm in faith...

Life Seasons

2008-06-30T17:09:00.000-07:00

Below are pictures of the same place in different seasons (which I received from Ate Gil via email :D).

These photos reminded me of Joshua Harris' words in his book, "I Kissed Dating Goodbye."

"Each of the seasons of our lives has a different emphasis,

focus, and beauty. One is not better than another;

each season yields its own unique treasures.

We cannot skip ahead to experience the riches of another life season.

Each season builds on the one before it."

We might be in a season that seems to be difficult but anyhow, one is thing is for sure...through the seasons that change, God's love remain...

Recharged...

2008-06-30T17:02:00.000-07:00

Thank You Lord,

Your timing is really perfect.

You know exactly when to recharge me,

You made me really empty and even broken...

so that You can fill me once again.

Teaching...

2008-06-26T18:13:00.000-07:00

...is not only a profession,

but a calling.

Love for God is its foundation.

Do as What Pleases You

2008-06-16T19:25:00.000-07:00

Lord, it's like facing uncertainty...

I don't want to be selfish...

So if this would mean giving up a thing...

I will obey even if it hurts...

I know that I'm a clay in a Potter's hand, and I have no right to quarrel with my Maker (Isaiah 45:9). I know you are shaping me in a way that seems best for You (Jeremiah 18:4) for a noble purpose and not just for common use (Romans 9:21)....

So be it unto me as what pleases You...

Notes:
Jeremiah 18:4 But the pot he was shaping from the clay was marred in his hands; so the potter formed it into another pot, shaping it as seemed best to him.

Isaiah 45:9 Woe to him who quarrels with his Maker, to him who is but a potsherd among the potsherds on the ground. Does the clay say to the potter, 'What are you making?' Does your work say, 'He has no hands'?

Romans 9:21 Does not the potter have the right to make out of the same lump of clay some pottery for noble purposes and some for common use?

I had a dream...

2008-06-16T18:35:00.000-07:00

Last night, I had a dream that was very meaningful...

I walked with Charm (my co-leader in the ministry) and crossed a road (na parang may center island) going to a dark place. I couldn't remember other details but I could clearly recall that there were men who wanted to hurt us. Napahiga na nga kami sa kalsada sa kaiiwas sa kanila. After a while, we were cornered and there's no way to escape. One man, na parang distorted ang itsura, tried to hit us with a hammer (a bigger one, na parang old model), we embraced each other tightly. Suddenly a transparent shield covered us, so hindi nya kami nasaktan.

I felt like crying when I woke up this morning. Sobrang nabless ako sa protection ni Lord. Even if that's just a dream, I strongly believe that God does protect us even more in reality. Thank You so much Lord... You are our Defender and Refuge!

The Right Approach

2008-06-16T17:20:00.000-07:00

It is very true that God knows what we need. That's the reason why everytime I read His Words and pray or go to church on Sundays, I always ask God to give me an expectant heart. I know that the Sovereign God will speak to me, may it be a rebuke or an encouragement and so on. Yesterday, I just received a word from Him instructing me on how to face my problems, my Goliath.

The Right Approach in Facing Your Goliath

Text: 1 Samuel 17:37-40

1. Be Yourself. I don't need to pretend to be somebody else.
2. Use your talent. God has given me a full package of talent (this is somehow related to our team's devotion last Saturday) starting from planning, which means intelligence, up to execution, meaning skill and ability. (Exodus 35:30-35)
3. Use your faith. Indeed, believers live by faith and not by sight.

These words from the Lord strengthened my weak and tired soul. Thank you so much Lord!

Gurong Estudyante

2008-06-16T17:15:00.000-07:00

Mahirap maging estudyante...
- maraming assignments, projects
- nosebleed sa examinations
- may mga demanding na professors na tipong feeling nila yun lang ang subject mo kung maghain ng requirements
- mahirap magbudget ng allowance lalo na kung may biglaang photocopies and handouts na dapat bayaran

Mahirap ding maging guro...
- kailangang magprepare ng lesson plan everyday or for the whole week
- kailangang mahaba ang pasensya sa mga batang makukulit
- bawal ang mapikon
- masakit sa lalamunan ang magdiscuss ng magdiscuss
- mahirap sagutin ang ilang tanong ng students, dapat laging prepared sa pagsagot ng possible questions nila
- dapat iba ibang approach ang gagawin sa pagtuturo since mahirap hulihin ang attention ng bata at madali silang mabore (it's a must to squeeze out your creative juices)

pero higit pa lang mahirap kapag pareho kang estudyante at guro...
- dapat i-budget ng maigi ang oras
- madalas 3-4 hours lang ang tulog lalo na 'pag weekdays
- dapat maging handa sa pagbabago ng appearance (up to 3 layers ang eyebags, papayat, etc)
- medyo mahirap ang shifting ng status, sa umaga teacher mode, sa gabi student mode
- gumagawa ng ipapa-assignment sa mga tinuturuan at gumagawa ng ipina-assignment ng professor

Gayunpaman, ang kalakasan ay nasa Panginoon. 'Di Nya tayo bibigyan ng kahit ano mang higit sa kaya nating pasanin. :D

"Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might." - Ecclesiastes 9:10

I am confident of this...

2008-05-26T19:21:00.000-07:00

You are with me everywhere I go...

I claim Your promise Lord!

A Leap of Faith

2008-05-26T18:13:00.000-07:00

Since my scholarship was not approved for an unknown reason, I need to shoulder all the expenses. All in all I need to pay Php2+,+++ for the first trimester, consisting of 9 units or 3 subjects, and I have to pay it in full.

The on-line enrollment preceded the release of scholarship grants; I was enrolled before I came to know the result last May 20. The night before the said day, I prayed, "Lord, gamitin mo po lahat ng ka-imposiblehan sa mundo para ma-glorify ka sa buhay ko..." Indeed, God answers prayers. The next day, I was adviced that my scholarship application was not granted. Nasabi ko tuloy, "Lord, nagkamali yata ako ng prayer last night..." (sabay tawa). Ka-imposiblehan no.1 kasi na makapag-aral ako ng M.A. na shoulder ko lahat. I survived college at DLSU-D with scholarship grant every semester by God's grace.

I was scheduled to pay the tuition fee last Saturday and have my ID picture taken but since wala naman akong cash on hand, i just attended the graduate school orientation. I still have 2 weeks to settle my account (June 7) or else I will be removed from the official class list. My class will start tomorrow and of course, I will attend. hahaha!

I keep on praying that God will provide and make a way out for me. I was contemplating if I will continue or not. But then, I still have to pay 10% of the full assessment if I will choose not to continue, that's La Salle's policy.I was weighing if I have the right motive in taking my master's degree; Am I trying to insist what I want or this is what God wants? Am I following my own calendar or is it God's perfect time?

Actually, it's fine with me if I will not take my M.A. this school year. I don't want to be a burden to my parents considering that I still have younger siblings who must pursue their elementary/secondary/undergraduate education. I will be too selfish if I will ask support from my parents.

Naalala ko pa kung pa'no ako nakasubmit ng requirements noon, na-extend lang yung date of admission nila kaya ako nakahabol. I also remembered how God led me when it comes to the course I must take (nakwento ko yata yun sa isang post ko before). At 'pag iniisip ko lahat ng hirap na yun para makapasok, ang grace ni Lord sa bawat lakad ko, at sa lahat ng answered prayers, hindi talaga ako naniniwalang hindi ako makakapag-aral. Siguro para sa'kin, scholarship lang ang naiiisip kong way para makapag-aral, but God has so many ways... some of these, I can't understand because it's beyond my comprehension.

"Pa'no ngayon ang gagawin mo? Pa'no mo yan babayaran?" yan ang madalas na tanong sakin ng mga nakakaalam ng storya. Honestly, kahit ako, 'di ko alam ang sagot, 'di ko alam kung papa'no. But one thing is certain about this, GOD IS ABLE TO DO EXCEEDINGLY ABUNDANTLY MORE THAN WHAT I ASK AND IMAGINE! (Ephesians 3:20) Whatever happens, I know God is with me. This is a deeper level of test for me. This is a big leap of faith!

I will trust YOU...

2008-05-20T19:37:00.000-07:00

Sadly, my scholarship application was not approved...

...but then LORD, my heart will still praise YOU!

Isaiah 55:9 "As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts. "

I will trust You 'cause You know what's best for me.

Held

2008-05-19T16:15:00.000-07:00

A lyrical dance...

...na prayer naming (sa dance ministry) magawa.

April Happenings (Part 2)

2008-05-04T15:08:00.000-07:00

A continuation...

April 21: NEW LOOK!

Nagpa-hair cut kami ng 2 sisters ko at si mama. Nung sabihin ko sa hair stylist ang gupit na gusto ko, hindi sya pumayag. hmf! In short, hindi nya pinagbigyan ang kagustuhan ko, pinagtawanan pa ako (a little bit sarcastic). Side bangs ang ginawa nya sa buhok ko, then trim ng konti. Ang gusto ko kasi, "Dora bangs" kung tawagin nila. Umuwi ako ng hindi satisfied kaya pinagupit ko sa sister ko ung buhok ko..haha! Ngayon, since 'di ko pwedeng ibalik ang buhok na nagupit na, kailangan ko na itong panindigan. hahaha! thanks to Ate Eu and Ate Ann na nag-ayos ng bangs ko last Sunday. :D

April 26: FULL LOAD!
Sobrang daming naka-line up na activities ngayon (dalawa lang naman actually...hahaha!). Start ng Dance 101 today. Below are some pictures.

Nakakatuwa ang pagkilos ni Lord... We were entrusted to draw more youth closer to God. :D

After the Dance Training, we attended a crusade, "Angkla" in Lalaan. Nakakabless din ang work ni Lord sa lugar na 'yun.

April 28: TOGETHER AGAIN

After a year, nagkita ulit kami ni Agatha. I visited her in Biñan, Laguna (for some business). Nakakatawa lang talaga, kung kailan naman ako nasa ibang lugar, saka naman ako inatake ng dysmenorrhea. Nagulo tuloy ang maganda nilang opisina para lamang bigyan ako ng mahihigaan para makapagpahinga! grr... kakahiya talaga yun!

After about an hour, medyo narelieve na ang pain so kain to the max naman! haha. Before going home, nagmeet muna kami ni mama sa SM, nag-grocery lang. After that, kumain kami ng siopao na syang naging dahilan upang mag-tumbling ang cellphone ko sa lapag. Nabitawan ko kasi ang cellphone ko sa kagustuhang masalo ang mahuhulog na siopao sauce. In the end, wala akong nasalo sa dalawa. As a result, two days din akong walang cellphone, walang nag-aappear sa screen. May tinuro lang sa'kin si LORD, 'wag magtext ng magtext! ahaha! Now, ok na ang phone ko... kailangan lang pala ng rest.

April 29-30: FAMILY'S SUMMER BONDING

At last, natuloy din ang plano ng family na mag-outing. Since karamihan samin takot mangitim, we had an overnight swimming sa 'di kalayuang resort sa bahay, sa Double V Resort. Thank You Lord for that great family bonding.

That's the highlight of my April's happenings. For this month , I believe marami pa ring in store for me, for the family, for the ministry... I'm so blessed, God has entrusted me new tasks, more people, which I will lay down sooner.

"Thank You so much Lord! You are able to prove to me that You are ever faithful... Help me to love You more and please give me the consuming desire to know You even more."

April Happenings

2008-05-01T19:25:00.000-07:00

After several weeks, I had the chance to update my blog. (Hirap pala `pag walang sariling computer and internet connection. I want to have a set of computer...hindi lang naman for blogging.)

Below is a summary of what transpired for the past few weeks.

April 10: ANOTHER SISTER IN CHRIST
I went to Manila to submit my application requirements to La Salle University-Taft. I`m applying for graduate studies major in Marketing Communication. Nakakatuwa nga ang leading ni Lord sa course na dapat kong kunin. I was supposed to take up Applied Media Studies but when I submitted my requirements, `di pala nila ino-offer ang course for this coming school year. Sabi ng staff pumili na lang daw ako ng iba. I was a bit pressured kasi I need to decide on the course right away because that was the last day of application for graduate studies. I scanned the list of courses offered and I noticed that Marketing Communication will be more useful. Haha! Thank You Lord for leading me!

I rode a bus back to Dasmarinas and sat beside a woman who was going to Batangas. She`s Nanay Teresita, with two sons and one daughter. She`s leaving for Japan in few days.We had a good conversation and I had the chance to share God`s love to her. I was glad to know that she`s a Christian too! She gave me this pony (pang-ipit sa buhok), natuwa siguro :)

April 15: BONDING MOMENTS
Sa La Salle Dasma naman ang aking tungo para asikasuhin ang aking credentials. After that, nagkita kami ni Charm sa SM, lakad dito, lakad doon... We stayed for more than an hour at the Food Court, nakaupo lang at text ng text! hahaha! Parang naghanap lang ng ibang ambiance para magtext! haha! I waited for my sister and mom kaya nagstay kami dun ng matagal. Si Kua Pob dun dumiretso after work para mag-withdraw... sweldo!!! Of course `di na sya nakahindi na i-treat kami. We had dinner at Chowking... natuwa din ako sa item na `to...

lalagyan ng toothpick :)

April 17: TEST TO THE MAX!
La Salle Taft- I took my entrance exam at 1:30 pm. Ok naman ang Verbal Test (English, written) at Quantitative Exam (more on Algebra, pero in fairness nakalimutan ko na ito ha... 1st year college ang huli kong subject na may math eh!). However, nosebleed naman `pag dating sa essay part na 1 and 1/2 hour ang itinagal. My chosen topic was `The Filipino Youth Today.` Di ganon kadali dahil may format na kailangang sundin, it`s a Problem-Solution Essay.

After taking the exam, balik Dasma and had a practice for Sunday Praise & Worship. :)

April 20: SACRIFICE OF PRAISE
Whole day ang team (Tehillah) sa Church... 6 services ito kaya nakakapagod pero nakakatuwa because God is extending our limitations! After ng sayaw, ito ang kinahinatnan ng mga tuhod ko...

Pero I had no regrets. I`m blessed to be used by a Mighty God! Ito ang sayaw namin that caused pain to my knees and to my heart... `Give Us Clean Hands`

...pain to my knees kasi may step na biglang luluhod at the same time pain to my heart because God is at work! "Lord, give me clean hands and a pure heart," this was my week-long prayer. And God is exposing the impurities of my heart (pati kabulukan ng attitude ko) of course, it`s painful. Thank You so much Lord for working in me.

April 22: A REWARD!
Manila again...I went to NSO to get my mom`s birth certificate. Haba ng pila!!!! Buong maghapon akong pinawisan ng matindi dahil sa hirap ng pagpila sa pagscreen ng application at pagclaim ng certificate. It was almost 5:00 pm nung matapos ako. It happened na nagkita kami ng dati kong ka-officemate sa NSO. After that, niyaya nya akong magpa-spa... pinagamit nya sakin ang isa nyang full-body massage gift certificate (worth P580.00). Bawal ang magtake ng pictures kaya kwento ko na lang briefly.
Step 1. Shower
Step 2. Jacuzzi (babad kami dun for 30 mins.)
Step 3. Sauna (steam bath for 3 mins. Supposedly 10-15 mins. kami dun kaso sobrang init, a taste of hell!!!)
Step 4. Shower (ulit)
Step 5. Full body massage (for one hour. Ang galing nung masahista, akalain mong nabuhat kami! Actually pede pang magstay dun sa room at matulog pero dahil gumagabi na, di na kami nagstay pa.)
Step 6. Buffet (To the max na kain naman! Eat all you can, kaso may bayad `pag may natira kaya super limited ang kinuha ko kaso napadami ang kuha ni Irish kaya... Hay, Lord, sorry na.)

Nakakatuwa talaga ang reward ni Lord! Napagod man ako buong maghapon, napawi naman sa masahe! hehehe!

Miss ko na 'to!

2008-04-15T13:52:00.000-07:00

Nakakamiss din pala ang blogging at pati ang blog hopping. Nasanay kasi akong online lagi (dati) at nakakapanibagong hindi na ganon ngayon...hehe.

But then, I'm thankful because I have more time to read my Bible and to pray. I write down my thoughts on my devotion notebook instead of posting it here (syempre wala naman akong budget para regular na magrent ng computer and so on).

Naguguluhan ako sa maraming bagay...

but Lord, my eyes are upon YOU!

Thank You LORD

2008-04-04T14:16:00.000-07:00

God is giving me new task... medyo mas mabigat na responsibility.

Thank You Lord for trusting me though I fail You most of the time...

Dance Audition 2008

2008-03-28T11:01:00.000-07:00

Summer ulit... nag-open na naman ang dance ministry for auditions. We had 20 auditionees last March 25 and 38 yesterday, March 27.

photos were taken last March 25 (first batch)

Nakakatuwa si Lord, medyo marami ang pinagkatiwala nya sa'min this time. Excited na ko!!!

One thing I realized during the auditions, God can make use of the dance ministry to somehow lead the auditionees in knowing their calling. It's tough to fail someone pero ganon talaga... we always need to make a decision.

For the passers, congratulations! I'm excited to see how God will train you (as new members) and us (as leaders. wheew!).

For those wo failed, it's ok. There's no harm in trying. I pray that you will continue seeking God and try find some other way to glorify His most holy name!

Y.A. Camp 2008

2008-03-28T10:39:00.000-07:00

This was my first time to join a camp (sa church). I was recharged. I learned new things. I was reminded... and I realized a few things.

I love the place. Malaki ang alon kaya pala maraming surfers dun..hehe.

Below are some pictures (saka ko na idadagdag ang iba pa...):

Random updates

2008-03-13T13:44:00.000-07:00

- WORK, WORK...

For almost one year, I worked with PACEOS. Nasanay akong nasa harap ng computer all day (kapag walang field work) . Nakakamiss din pala... This was my cubicle:

Maliit lang ang space kung tutuusin, pero enough na para makahinga ako..haha! Actually, these photos were taken after the effectivity of my resignation, which means nakapag-impake na ko. So lahat ng personal stuffs ko ay unti-unti ko nang nahakot. :)

I was reminded of those times na umiiyak ako in front of my computer, trying so hard to hide my tears from my officemates (syempre nakakahiya). I was praying with tears sa ganong mga pagkakataon (kapag may misunderstanding with my boss, may masakit na salitang narinig, etc.).

God has trained me both in technicals and in character sa work na 'to (I can say it's more on the character side).

Some things I've learned in my previous work (technical):

- various secretarial and administrative works

- business writing (sobra!)

- event management (from conceptualization & budget projection to egress)

- website management (sort of)

- basic of accounting (including issuing of checks, preparing financial reports, etc.)

- messengerial works (naging familiar ako sa areas ng Quezon City, Manila, Makati, etc.)

(On the spiritual side and character):

- submit to authorities

- humility

- have a sense of responsibility

- mean what you say and say what you mean

- be honest

- stand on your grounds (don't compromise your faith just to please somebody)

- don't defend yourself too much, let God do it

- go back to your goal from time to time

- be faithful in small things

- always look at something with expectancy to learn new things
- don't seek recognition

- be grateful at all times for small and big things

- be an example to your officemates (you don't have to please them, just do what pleases God)

- be careful with your words

- let your yes be yes and your no be no

- don't bad mouth your superiors nor back fight them

- learn to listen

- learn how to say "Sorry" (it will not degrade you as a person but will make you a better person)

- don't be afraid to speak

- follow instructions carefully

- be punctual

- always smile

- consider God first (don't foget to say a prayer, it's powerful!)

Kahit maraming beses akong umiyak dahil sa work na ito, it's all worth it!

As of the moment, wala pang nahahanap na kapalit ko kaya walang tumatayong executive assistant ang PACEOS. As much as I would want to be there, God is giving me so much assignments kaya un... Mamimiss ko lahat including the GMMs, BODs, at lahat ng boss ko at members ng association!

- HOMECOMING...

Last week, nagpunta kami ng thesis partner ko sa school. Imagine, after a year, ngayon lang kami magsusubmit ng thesis! haha. Ngayon lang namin napa-hard bound. Hopefully next week matapos na pati clearance namin para makuha ko na ang T.O.R. ko at diploma.

Nakakamiss din ang school ha...parang kelan lang, kami yung mga estudyanteng laging tumatakbo para hindi malate sa class, haggard to the max na tipong kung ano itsura pag pasok ganon na rin hanggang sa makauwi! hahaha.

Ang JFH Building kung saan umiikot ang mundo namin noon...

During that time, may job fair din pala sa alumni building kaya dumaan na rin kami. Iba pala talaga ang feeling 'pag ikaw na ang tumitingin sa ganitong board...

Nakakatuwang sariwain ang mga panahong ang iniisip ko lang ay kung paano matatapos ang project, paano maipapasa ang exams..hehe! Ngayon, mas mabigat ang responsibilities.

- CHURCH ACTIVITY...

We, Tehillah and Halal Team, had an overnight retreat last March 8 at COG. Nakakabless ang activity na yun. Ito ang group symbols ng bawat team:

'Di ko na masabi yung explanations bakit ganyan ang kinalabasan ng dalawang yan! hahaha. Basta, I'm thanking God for this activity, very helpful in restoring unity. :D

- EXTRA...

Nagpagupit kami ni Ate Eu last Monday, March 10. Finally, natuloy din! Medyo naligaw pa kami on our way to K & Q Salon sa Manggahan. Ang naggupit samin... si Kua Gani, friend ni Jacob ng Praise and Worship at attendee rin ng church! cool! Thanks to him...

Si Ate Eu ung nasa left side, ako naman ung nasa right.hehe. Ang haba ng buhok ko at lalong humaba after the treatment, nanghinayang tuloy gupitan ni Kua Gani, trim nalang daw...

> Namiss ko rin ang blogging... sa ngayon, wala akong gaanong time to update. Ganon pa man, masaya ako sa kung ano man ang mga naging decision ko.

Thank you Lord for leading me. I will patiently wait for You...

Ma'am Edith's Birthday

2008-03-03T19:10:00.000-08:00

Kain to the max na naman kami sa office, it's Ms. Edith's golden birthday. Ang laman ng plate ko...

...Yang chow, sweet and sour fish, steamed vegetables with sauce (I don't know how to call it), chicken, pancit canton. For dessert, double dutch ice cream, mega mocca crunch ice cream and double dutch cake of Red Ribbon. :D

More birthdays to come Ma'am! May God bless you even more!

I am defenseless

2008-02-27T19:04:00.000-08:00

Lord, You know how defenseless I am against their painful accusations, their misjudgments. I can't say a word, I know I need not to explain myself...

(Numbers 12:1,3-9)

1 Miriam and Aaron began to talk against Moses...
3 (Now Moses was a very humble man, more humble than anyone else on the face of the earth.)
4 At once the LORD said to Moses, Aaron and Miriam, "Come out to the Tent of Meeting, all three of you." So the three of them came out.
5 Then the LORD came down in a pillar of cloud; he stood at the entrance to the Tent and summoned Aaron and Miriam. When both of them stepped forward,
6 he said, "Listen to my words: "When a prophet of the LORD is among you, I reveal myself to him in visions, I speak to him in dreams.
7 But this is not true of my servant Moses; he is faithful in all my house.
8 With him I speak face to face, clearly and not in riddles; he sees the form of the LORD. Why then were you not afraid to speak against my servant Moses?"
9 The anger of the LORD burned against them, and he left them.

I know I'm neither as humble as Moses nor as faithful as him but I am convinced that we have the same GOD. Now, can I ask You a favor?

"Can You please defend me Lord..."

Napansin ko lang...

2008-02-26T19:32:00.000-08:00

Nakakalungkot pa lang maghugas ng plato 'pag bareta ang gamit mo at hindi dish washing liquid, lalo na 'pag nasanay kang yun ang gamit mo...

I Missed Cooking!

2008-02-26T18:21:00.000-08:00

'Pag nasa bahay ako, pagluluto ang madalas kong ginagawa. Since I'm at work on weekdays and in church on weekends, wala na 'kong time para makapagluto pa. Kaya naman sobrang natuwa ako nung makapagluto ako ulit last weekend.

Saturday. Ginisang Manok sa sayote (I don't know how should I call it)
Sunday. Pork Sinigang
Monday (holiday). Chicken Afritada and for merienda, Champorado and tuyo. :)

na-realize ko lang, namimiss ko nang magluto...

Sorry Lord...

2008-02-21T13:32:00.000-08:00

Sa tuwing makikita ko ang...

- MMDA street sweepers na maagang nagwawalis kahit mainit...
- ponkan vendor na umaakyat sa bawat bus na nakapila sa terminal, masayang nakikipag-usap sa mga pasahero at sinasabing walang kamatayang 5 piso lang ang bawat piraso ng ponkan...
- kilalang burger vendor, na iba-iba ang hair style, na sinusuyod din ang mga bus sa terminal at nakangiting sinasabi, "Burger Ma'am, Sir, burger...with coleslaw na po, baon sa b'yahe"...
- masasayahing parking attendants sa compound ng Boom na Boom...
- babaeng traffic enforcer na nasa gitna ng daan buong maghapon...

...nahihiya ako Sa'yo Lord dahil feeling ko napaka-ungrateful ko sa work na binigay Mo sa'kin.

Naalala ko tuloy ang mga lines na ito:
* It's not important how big or small your task is, what matters is that you do it with joy and love.
* I can't do great things. I can do small things in great ways.

Lord, help me to be faithful up to the end. May everything I do give glory to Your Most Holy Name.

Never Give Up On Me

2008-02-19T15:00:00.000-08:00

- Josh Bates -

Time after time You’ve been left behind

like the sun when it’s starting to rain

Time after time You’ve been forgotten

like a picture that’s faded with age

Time after time You ran after me

when I was still running away

Chorus:

You never give up on me

No, You never give up on me

Though I’m weak You are strong

You told me I still belong

No, You never, never give up on me

Time after time I’ve used Your grace

as a way to do what I please

I’ve taken for granted prayers that You answered

never been all I could be

You are holding out Your hands

and now I clearly see

You always erase all my mistakes

You lift me up when I'm down

Through all the ages, Your love never changes

You welcome me just as I am

Never give up, never give up on me...

Field Work Again...

2008-02-18T18:28:00.000-08:00

I realized how tiring it was to apply for a business permit. I thought 'pag tapos kong magbayad ng tax sa City Hall, I can claim the permit a week after. When I went back to Pasay City Hall I was told to accomplish a clearance form. Whew! So, last friday I went to Pasay Fire Department for Clearance then to Pasay General Hospital. Inauguration pala ng General Hospital kasi ni-renovate kaya ang daming tao. I looked for the City Veterenarian's office, it was on the 6th floor. Medyo scary nga lang ung floor na yun kasi ginagawa pa. I took some pictures. It was a good shooting location (ng horror film? hehe! medyo)...

Sa magulong bahaging ito ng ospital hindi ko akalaing may nag-oopisina na dito...

Joyful Toons by Mike Waters

2008-02-13T12:06:00.000-08:00

- I received this email last week. Nakakabless lang... Indeed, we can use everything for God's glory. :)

7 Practices of the Effective Woman

2008-02-12T18:15:00.000-08:00

- a repost taken from Ate Gil's page.

1. She rises early
2. She maintains the spiritual disciplines
3. She focuses on relational priorities for every season
4. She sets up regular times for planning
5. She develops an effective to-do list system and calendar/planner system
6. She establishes an efficient routine for managing her home
7. She organizes her house systematically

A Happy Trip

2008-02-01T18:36:00.000-08:00

Finally, I was able to ride on Erjohn's new bus called "Golden Dragon". Last night was my second time. Na-appreciate ko ang magandang ambiance na tipong nasa airplane lang.

Sa bus, I hate sitting at the back dahil feeling ko wala na kong makita bukod pa sa sobrang bouncy na halos hindi ka na makasandal ng maayos. Isa pa, ang init na sa likod at parang nasisikipan ako.

However, for the very first time, na-enjoy ko ang pwesto sa dulo. Elevated ang seats kaya sobrang kita ko ang daan at ang magandang sea and cityscape sa part ng Coastal Road. Hindi rin siksikan since there are only five seats compared to most of the buses na anim ang uupo.

Also, 'pag nasa dulong seat ako (sa aircon ibang bus), maliwanag na sa'kin na hindi ako magkakaroon ng tyansang makapanood o makasulyap man lamang sa telebisyon. Pero natuwa ako sa makabagong bus na 'ito na LCD nga ang tv at dahil dyan naunawaan ko ang palabas (a movie starring Jackie Chan).

May microphone system ding gamit ang driver kaya madaling sabihan ang mga paseherong bababa (parang MRT lang na every station ina-announce ng driver).

Na-appreciate ko talaga ng sobra ang bus na ito, very comfortable! Kaya isang bagsak para sa iyo Golden Dragon! :D

Cellphone

2008-01-31T19:31:00.000-08:00

Sa blog ni Ate Gil, may phone na nakapost (ang kanyang dream phone). Ganon din naman sa page ni Ate Weena, ang kanyang bagong biling phone. Ito naman ang sa'kin...

Hindi yan bagong bili (obviously) at lalong hindi yan ang dream phone ko! LOL! That was my phone since I enter college (meaning to say 5 years na yan sa'kin) and now I will hand it over to my younger sister. Bumili kasi ng phone ang ate ko so ako naman ang gagamit ng lumang phone nya. Oh di ba, parang damit lang...ipinamamana!

Packing Up

2008-01-31T07:22:00.000-08:00

Last night, inimpake ko na ang iba ko pang gamit sa apartment. Yun na ang huling tulog ko sa lugar na 'yon.

Sabi ko nga sa sarili ko (at sa prayer) "Khen, kailangan bang mag-drama ka ng ganyan? haha! Feeling mo naman sa abroad ka pupunta!" (actually natatawa rin ako sa sarili ko) Buti na lang nagkakaintindihan kami ni Lord. Hay... *isang malalim na buntong-hininga. Hirap pala talaga iwan ang isang bagay na mahalaga para sayo...

Ate Malu's Birthday Celebration

2008-01-30T18:08:00.000-08:00

Thanks to Ate Malu for a bountiful lunch. Few weeks before, iniisip pa lang namin kung ano ang menu. Every one seems to be excited sa pagdating ng araw na ito... kung saan seafood ang maghahari sa hapag. :)

mapapansing wala ako sa mga larawang ito dahil ako ang cameraman :)

My plate was this full...

For main dish, we have:

- a tray of baked salmon of Conti's Restaurant

- sinigang na hipon

- baked talaba

- crab in garlic and cheese

- 2 whole Andok's chicken

For dessert:

- half gallon of Nestle Cookies & Cream Ice Cream

- half gallon of another flavor of Nestle Ice Cream (I don't know how it's called... it's a combination of chocolate and peanut butter I guess)

- mango bravo of Conti's Restaurant

The cake was about 4-5 inches tall with three layers. The first layer was chiffon, the second was a layer of mango and the bottom layer was crunchy (tipong toasted chiffon kung may ganon man). That was the only cake na nagustuhan ko ang icing. Yummy!

More blessed years to come Ate Malu... and more mango bravo for us! haha! :D

Revealing my Secret Place

2008-01-29T17:27:00.000-08:00

After 6 months of staying in an apartment in Pasay, it's sad to say that we're (my sister and I) leaving. I've decided to stay in Dasmariñas with my parents. So, uwian ulit just like before.

Actually, we attempted to leave the apartment for almost a hundred times for various reasons. Pero hanggang dun lang. I said, "Lord, there must be a reason kung bakit hindi kami makaalis dito..." Finally, mukhang totohanan na this time. I have with me a bag of clothes which I will bring home later.

Nakakalungkot din kahit papa'no dahil nasanay na rin akong umuwi dun. Yesterday, I had a chance to take some photos dahil ako lang mag-isa. :D

This photo shows almost all the parts of the house. It's not that big but the size is enough to accomodate 3 to 4 persons. (Apat nga pala kami dito. I, my sister, her workmate and her sister [replacing my officemate, umalis na kasi sya last November. She stays in Cavite City naman, uwian na sya ngayon.]) We're the first tenants. Medyo choosy kasi ang may-ari. He doesn't want a couple as tenant, neither those who have children (kasi baka daw sulatan ang pader), etc. gusto nya all girls para maalaga sa bahay.

Looking closer... the kitchen was not used as a place to cook but rather a place for laundry! :D Wala rin naman kaming masyadong gamit for cooking, ang madalas lang naming lutuin ay noodles! We often buy food or eat dinner outside. I also took a picture of the bathroom. Maliit lang pero cute. Sabi nga nga ng sister ko sosi daw ang CR namin... nasa third floor ang toilet bowl. LOL! Yan ang part ng bahay na madalas ako ang naglilinis. hmp. The bedroom turned out to be our closet. We were provided with a steel bed (I don't know how should I call it) but it's good for one person only. There's no window on this room and nobody from us dared to sleep here.

This area is the living room (supposedly) pero hindi na kami nag-abalang maglagay ng sofa or small chair man lang... hahahaha! That's where we spread our mats and sleep. That's the only part with good ventilation and enough space para matulugan. The window faces a firewall kaya safe naman kami... walang makakasilip!

This is my favorite spot. Pag-uwi ng apartment galing work, latag ko lang ito tapos salampak na! hahaha. That's where I read my Bible along with various devotional books and pray. But in some cases, sa kitchen ako nag-dedevotion, when all of them are sleeping and they don't want the lights on.

This is a very special place for me. This house used to be the mute witness of everything - of how God trained me and changed my attitude, how I spoke to God with all boldness, how I cried so hard when I was under great testing, how I learned to praise and worship God alone with singing and dancing, how I delved for a longer time in prayer, how I contended with my own weaknesses and how I learned to be submissive to God.

They say, 'In order to have an intimate relationship with God, find a specific time and a secret place where you and God can meet.' Well, this apartment was our secret place (which I'll be leaving soon). Too sad. :( But then, I know God will provide another place where we can meet. I might be leaving the place but definitely I'll be bringing all the learning and the sweet moments with my King!

How to Prevent Failure in your Ministry

2008-01-24T10:59:00.000-08:00

I received this email from Bro. Alex Solis. It's quite long but it's really worth reading.

Whitney Hopler

Editor's Note: The following is a report on the practical applications of Michael Todd Wilson & Brad Hoffmann's new book, Preventing Ministry Failure: A ShepherdCare Guide for Pastors, Ministers and Other Caregivers, (InterVarsity Press, 2007).

You hear about falls from ministry all the time, and sometimes you wonder if burnout, ineffectiveness, or moral failure could someday cause your own ministry to fail. But the good news is, failure doesn't just happen without warning, and you can take steps to prevent it.

Here's how you can prevent failure in your ministry:

1. Approach your ministry from the right perspective. Remember that it's ultimately God's ministry, not yours. Instead of trying to minister in your own limited power, decide to rely on God's unlimited power to work through you. Give yourself the freedom to be human and break free of unrealistic expectations to be perfect. Expect that you'll make some mistakes, but when you do, embrace the grace God offers you to learn from them and move on with confidence. Rather than imposing your own agenda on your ministry, seek to discover God's purposes for it. Then simply do your best to fulfill those purposes, trusting God for the outcome. Ask God to give you the humility you need to work to please Him alone, instead of trying to validate yourself or please other people.

2. Keep short accounts with God. Be aware of how much you sin on a daily basis, in both big and small ways. Realize that all sin, no matter what kind, can block your intimacy with God and drag you into bondage. Regularly thank God for the new mercy He offers you daily because of His great love for you. Don't ignore your sins; deal with them as soon as you recognize them. Make a daily habit of seeking spiritual restoration through confession, repentance, reconciliation, restitution, accountability, and renewing your mind.
Take care of yourself. Understand that if you don't take care of yourself, you can't take care of the people you serve through your ministry. Don't neglect your own physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual health. Make time every day to nurture your body (getting enough sleep, eating nutritious meals, exercising, etc.), mind (constantly learning something new, refreshing yourself through recreation, etc.), and spirit (spending prayer time in solitude and silence, reading and meditating on the Bible, etc.).

3. Value intimacy. Recognize that you need close relationships with God and other people just as much as any other human being. Make it a top priority to develop relationships where you can fully know others and be fully known yourself. Don't believe lie that as a minister, you can't safely be vulnerable with others. Realize that you can't afford not to be open and honest with others if your ministry is to survive, much less thrive. Guard yourself against isolation that will damage your soul and ministry. Pursue God and enjoy the love you experience as you connect with Him. Pay attention to your need for support, encouragement, and accountability from other people. Invest in close friendships with a few other believers of your same gender. Nurture an intimate relationship with your spouse if you're married, and rely on God's strength to help you meet your needs for intimacy in pure ways if you're single. Be willing to take the risks required to form healthy, close relationships. Learn how to identify and express your emotions and resolve conflict well. Welcome help from others when you need it, and be willing to help others when they need it. Learn how to express affection in appropriate physical ways, such as through hugs and handshakes. Don't hesitate to laugh often. Seek out adventurous experiences with others, such as by taking a trip to a new place with them or trying out a new sport with them. Take time off work regularly to play and enjoy yourself with other people. Pray for others and allow them to pray for you.

4. Understand and follow your calling. Discern honestly whether you're serving in ministry because of your own desires, or because God invited you to do so and you can't be at peace doing anything else. Recognize the common characteristics of a divine calling: It's not about you; it's about God's desire to use you in ministry to others. The calling is bigger than you are, so it requires you to depend on God to fulfill it. It represents your heart's greatest passion. The calling will make use of the experience you've already gained in life to accomplish ministry that's unique to your journey. And, once God calls you, it's to a lifetime of ministry service in some way. Even though you may try to resign the call, the call won't leave you. Understand that you may experience discouragement, struggling with sin, and being removed from a particular place of ministry and yet still be pursuing a true calling. But if you view ministry as simply a job, if you lack passion for it, if your ministry expresses self-centered desire, or if you find satisfaction doing something besides full-time ministry, God may not have called you to ministry, and you should seek His will in the matter. If you have been called to ministry work, ask God to give you clarity about what He's calling you to do, and the confidence you need to follow that calling despite the challenges you encounter along the way. Pray for perseverance and the ability to stay focused on your calling, so the difficult circumstances that are bound to come your way in ministry won't knock you off course. Live out your ministry role according to the natural talents and spiritual gifts God has given you -- rather than just according to your expectations and assumptions. Invite God to show you exactly how He has designed you for ministry. Devote yourself to pursuing God with a passion, making your relationship with Him -- not your work -- your top priority. Trust that, in the process, God will plant the desires He has for you in your heart. Create a personal purpose statement to guide your life and ministry. Once you've identified your calling, avoid wasting your time and energy on activities that distract you from pursuing it well. Every day, build your decisions around your priorities, while keeping your purpose in mind. Help other people who work alongside you in ministry to find and fulfill their callings, too. Encourage them and give them opportunities to expand their ministry work. Whenever God's calling for your own ministry work conflicts with other people's expectations, choose to follow God, no matter what others may think. Wait until a crisis or conflict is over before deciding whether you should stay or leave a particular ministry place, so you won't be just reacting to feeling tired, angry, frustrated, or overwhelmed. Spend a significant amount of time praying about whether or not to move on before actually making the decision. If God is calling you to stay, ask Him to give you the wisdom you'll need to solve the problems facing you and create positive change. If you think God may be calling you to pursue new ministry work, ask: "Am I spiritually discontent?", "What has God been speaking to me about?", "Do I possess a consuming new passion?", and "Is there an open door?". Make sure you won't be moving from a bad situation to a worse one, but from a good situation to a better one.

5. Manage stress wisely. Acknowledge how stressful serving in ministry truly is, and do your best to manage the stress you face well. Let go of an unhealthy need for accomplishment, an unhealthy desire for other people's approval, perfectionism, and hard-charging ambition. Resolve anger that's causing you stress. Surrender your ministry situation to God and ask Him to give you the peace you need. Rely on His power working through you instead of trying to do your ministry work through just your own efforts. Connect with God through spiritual disciplines, such as: meditation, prayer, fasting, simplicity, solitude, submission, and worship. Create margins in the pages of your life by eliminating activities that aren't truly important so you'll be free to spend time and energy on what matters most. Schedule enough downtime and rest for yourself. Make time regularly to get away from your ministry demands to spend time in quiet reflection. Plug into nurturing relationships with other people who care about you. Build short breaks into various points of your workday to refresh yourself, and take longer breaks for retreats, days off, vacations, sabbaticals, etc. If your thinking about the challenges you face is in a rut, confide in some people you trust and invite them to give you a fresh perspective on your situation. Pray for the Holy Spirit to bring Scripture to your mind that applies to your situation. Improve your work habits so you'll be more organized and efficient, which will decrease your stress level. Make sure you get enough sleep every night, eat a healthy diet, and exercise regularly. Know that even simple practices like deep breathing, affectionate touch (like a hug or handshake), therapeutic massage, and giving yourself small rewards (like a walk or a nap) for jobs done well can reduce stress. If you need help from a health care professional, don't hesitate to consult one, since stress can significantly damage your health when left unchecked.

6. Set boundaries. Establish and maintain clear personal boundaries so you can focus on what matters most, both professionally and personally. Whenever someone asks you to use your time, energy, and ministry resources to help them, ask: "Is this person typically responsible or irresponsible?", "Does this person own up to the problem, or is he or she blaming others for the lack of follow-through?", "What are my motives for and against helping this person?", and "How might God be glorified in this situation?". Recognize that the mere presence of a need doesn't necessarily mean that you're the one God has called to meet it. But also be willing to help if God is calling you, despite the inconvenience. Don't live from crisis to crisis; instead, try as much as possible to align your daily and weekly tasks with what's important (rather than just what's urgent). Protect the time you need to invest regularly in your relationships with God, your spouse, and close friends. Make time regularly to clarify your ministry vision through prayer, fasting, and reflection. Set boundaries around who can access you and when. Take the phone off the hook during family meals, don't call into the office on vacations, check e-mail only at predetermined times, assign another minister or a lay leader to be on call for hospital visitation on your days off, etc. When something urgent demands you attention during family time, don't be afraid to say that you have an appointment you can't break. Decide carefully who you will and won't let in as friends. Set boundaries that will help you resist sexual temptation and maintain purity if you're single or a healthy marriage if you're married. Place boundaries around the way you spend your time and money so you'll be a good steward of it. Think before you speak and before reacting to what others say to you, setting appropriate boundaries so you don't regret your conversations. Maintain strong boundaries around your inner life so you can resist attacks from evil spiritual forces and stay close to God through the Holy Spirit.

7. Energize your ministry through recreation. Recognize that God has designed life to operate in a rhythm that includes regular time for recreation. Understand that disrupting that balance by working too much will actually make you less effective in your ministry. Figure out how much time you really spend on ministry work -- both onsite and off -- by charting the number of hours you do anything that relates to your ministry during a typical week. Then figure out how to increase the number of hours you spend on recreation each week. Counter your excuses: If you don't think you have enough time, work on better stewardship. If you think you have other more important things to do, work on prioritizing better. If you think you have too many responsibilities to deal with, work on delegating. If you think that people expect you to be available, stop seeking approval through people and focus on pleasing God alone. If you don't feel like you need a break, stop denying the reality that you do. Get enough rest so your body and mind can recuperate. Take an afternoon nap or do something refreshing during your time off work. Make time to play through fun activities on a regular basis. Renew yourself spiritually through activities that help you grow closer to God. Set some goals for how you'd like to use recreation to improve your life physically (such as increasing your stamina), mentally (like learning about a new ministry area), emotionally (such as getting in touch with why you've been feeling sad or angry lately), and spiritually (drawing closer to God in a way He's leading you to do so). Make sure your goals are specific, achievable, and measurable. Be patient, making changes gradually so you can best incorporate them into your life. Evaluate your progress regularly and make whatever adjustments are necessary.

8. Develop people skills. Get to know your own personality well, and be aware that when you experience conflict with others, it may simply be because of how their personalities differ from yours. Learn how to work with different types of people so you can tailor your ministry efforts most successfully toward the various people you encounter. Resolve conflicts wisely, either by overlooking the offense or engaging those who have offended you in prayerful and loving dialogue aimed at solving the problem. Be willing to forgive as God forgives you. Listen to others well by eliminating distractions; giving your full attention to the people speaking; remembering your reason for listening (because the people to whom you minister are important); suspending judgment about the topic until you understand the other person's perspective on it; listening for themes in the person's story; reflecting the person's message back in your own words to clarify it; asking thoughtful questions; and responding to the content, feelings, and meaning of what the person tells you. Be assertive when others make requests of you, or when you make requests of others: Identify who owns the problem, describe the problem, state the consequences, describe your feelings, pause, and make a direct assertion. Negotiate "win-win" solutions to problems so both parties are satisfied. Respond to critics by either agreeing with the kernel of truth in their statements or by agreeing with their right to have an opinion, even though you disagree with it. Stand by your convictions while still respecting the people who criticize you.

9. Learn leadership skills. Invite the Holy Spirit to transform you from the inside out so you can become the leader God wants you to be. Practice integrity in every part of your life, relying on God's strength to live out a walk that aligns with your internal desire for holiness. Ask God to show you how you can maximize your strengths and overcome your weaknesses to be most effective in ministry. Keep up with changes in your ministry work due to technology shifts, changing needs and desires of people in your community, ethnic and age diversity in your congregation, and other factors. Get to know the people to whom you minister, learning their dreams, passions, and what makes them discontent. Whenever you must go through a change together, communicate clearly and regularly with them during the process. Lead as you are rather than trying to lead like someone else. Discover your unique leadership style and use it. Don't compare your ministry to other ministries; ask God to give you the confidence to do your work the way He has uniquely designed you to do it. Pray for God to constantly renew your love for the people you serve and help you stay focused on His vision for your ministry. Learn how to resolve conflict well. View yourself as part of a team of people whose ministry efforts are just as valuable as yours; do all you can to encourage and support them as you work toward common goals together.

Consider these when riding a bus...

2008-01-22T17:00:00.000-08:00

Monday morning, around 8:00, I rode a San Agustin bus going to Manila. My fare was P43.00 and gave a 500 peso-bill to the conductor, that's all I have in my wallet. That was their first trip I guess, so wala pang panukli. The conductor wrote 500 at the back of my ticket and said he'll be back for my change. Few minutes after, I fell asleep. The moment I opened my eyes, we're already in Baclaran. I got off the bus in Buendia and I forgot my change!!! It was time for lunch when I realized what happened. I almost cried (secretly) sabay sabing "Lord, P457.00 din un!"

I looked for my ticket and searched for San Agustin's telephone number but it wasn't there. I didn't even know the bus number (wheew!). I grabbed the telephone directory but I didn't find it. I called the emergency hotline of PLDT but the number they've given me was unreachable. I looked at the ticket once again and found San Agustin's TIN (Tax Identification No.) so I called BIR and they gave me the telephone number (different from the first one). I dialed the number but it's not working too! I just prayed, "Lord, bahala ka na po." Then I went back to work.

I was supposed to stay in Manila but I decided to go back to Dasma having this in mind, "sasakay ulit ako ng San Agustin at magpapababa sa terminal nila," and I did. I sat beside the driver (sa may hagdan na halos kasi standing na) and opened the matter to him and to the conductor as well. When we reached the terminal, I met the conductor and he gave me my change. Thank GOD!

Now, I need to consider these things when riding a bus:
1. Keep the ticket. (It's really my habit not to throw my ticket until the end of the day and now I see the importance.)
2. Get the bus number. You can also see it on your ticket (the first 4 digits of your ticket number).
3. As much as possible, pay with a smaller bill.
4. If you have a change, let the conductor write it at the back of your ticket and let him sign.
5. Check everything before getting off the bus.

The bus tickets issued by Erjohn & Almark Bus Line is better than San Agustin's. Almost all the important details are provided (except the telephone no. wheew!), including the driver and conductor's name.

I learned so much from this and hopefully it won't happen again.

COG Workers' Assembly

2008-01-21T11:27:00.000-08:00

Here are the photos taken last Friday at the Church's Workers' Assembly, yung dalawa dyan taken by Kua Jerome. Hindi malinaw ang karamihan jan 'cause i'm using MP4 not digital camera. :)

Trying so Hard :(

2008-01-17T18:55:00.000-08:00

Haayyy... ang hirap pala mag-customize ng blog. Sidebar pa nga lang yung tinatry kong i-modify 48 years!!! (exaggerating) Pero mahirap pala talaga ah, lalo na kung 'di ka masyadong familiar sa HTML codes (gaya ko). 'Di tuloy maayos yung side bar. huhu. Anyway, natutuwa naman ako kahit papa'no at least nailagay ko yung Bible search and Verse of the Day from Biblegateway. Sa susunod na lang ulit ako magta-try. :_(

Pinoy Style Action Movies

2008-01-17T11:11:00.000-08:00

Nagkaroon kami ng unang Board Meeting noong Martes sa Makati. Pagkatapos ang pulong, naisip kong dumaan sa Landmark kaya naman sumakay ako ng bus patungong Cubao. Bukas ang telebisyon at ang palabas... action movie na pinagbibidahan ni Fernando Foe Jr. Sobrang bigat ng daloy ng trapiko sa Ayala kaya nakapanood ako ng mahahaba-haba. Habang nanonood, nasabi ko, "ang mga senaryo sa action films ng Pinoy, iisa." Tulad na lang ng mga sumusunod:

Isa lamang ang pamamaraan upang malaman ang kinaroroonan ng nagtatagong grupo(mapa-grupo man ng bida o kalaban), huhulihin ang isa sa mga kaibigan o kakilala, pahihirapan hanggang sa mapaamin.
Sa sandaling malaman nila ang kinaroroonan, pupuntahan nila ang lugar sa'n mang sulok ng daigdig (sa probinsya, sa barko o sa terminal ng bus) at tiyak na matatagpuan nila ang mga ito. Hindi naliligaw!
Mabilis mapatay ang kalaban, isang bala lang ng baril ang katapat. Sa kabilang dako, ang bida, malapit na sa puso ang tama buhay pa at take note, nakakatakbo pa ng mabilis at nakikipagsuntukan pa! (Aba'y parang simpleng galos lang.)
Ang bida parang hindi nasasaktan. Tatalon yan mula sa ikalawa o ikatlong palapag (with matching babasagin ang salamin ng bintana) at mahuhulog sa lapag sabay takbo ng mabilis. (Pare, bakal ba ang buto mo? hindi nababali!)
'Pag ubos na ang lahat ng kalaban (as in dedo na), magtutuos naman ang bida at ang kontrabida. Sa likod ng mga kahon o pader magtatago ang bawat isa, hawak ang kani-kaniyang baril tapos mag-uusap pa yan. Sisigaw ng ganito: "tapusin na natin 'to!" (at kung anu-ano pa)
Ang importanteng karakter sa pelikula (kamag-anak man o kaibigan ng bida) kapag nabaril o nasaksak, makikipag-usap muna at makalipas ang ilang minutong usapan sabay mamamatay sa braso ng bida.
Ang mga pulis darating lang 'pag tapos na ang bakbakan. Tipong poposasan na lang nila ang suspect at isasakay sa police car.
Kung magkakaroon man ng engkwentro sa pagitan ng mga pulis at kalaban, mapapansin nating ang mga pulis na hindi naka-uniporme ay may nakataling puting towel sa may noo.
Ang kontrabida, kung hindi makukulong ay mapapatay ngunit ang bida, ano pa man ang mangyari sa bandang huli mananatiling buhay. (Syempre nga naman kasi 'pag namatay ang bida tapos ang storya!)

Ang layunin ng post na ito ay hindi upang pulaan ang action movies na sariling atin. Ang mga nasabi ay pawang obserbasyon lamang. Marahil sa mga susunod na pagkakataon, foreign action films naman ang ating titignan.

Sa aking panonood, hindi ko namalayang lumagpas na pala ako sa lugar kung saan ako dapat bumaba. Sa Buendia Station ng MRT, Edsa ako nakarating. At dahil sa tinamad na akong bumalik, umuwi na lamang ako! huhu!

Additional Inaanak

2008-01-16T15:05:00.000-08:00

Nadagdagan muli ang bilang ng aking inaanak, apat na sila ngayon. Last Sunday, bininyagan ang pinsan ko - Joaquin Antonio (pang-telenovela lang ang dating di ba?), kasabay ng kanyang 1st birthday celebration.

Natutuwa ako sa batang 'to kasi ang haba ng buhok nya sa side, kulot pa!

Naisip ko lang, mamimili ako ng Christmas gifts ng maaga para hindi ako magka-cram sa December! hahaha.

A Good Start

2008-01-14T14:20:00.000-08:00

"Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed." - Mark 1:35

It's good to begin a day with prayer and a dose of the Scripture. The same thing goes when starting a year. Last week was the church's prayer and fasting. I joined the fast last Friday night until the breaking, Sunday at 12 am.

The following I learned about fasting:
- Fasting is like declaring war against the enemy.
- We don't earn God's favor when we fast but it places us in a position of receiving from Him.
- Prayer and fasting is not a time for bonding and good time, it's a special time between you and God.
- It doesn't matter if you're on a partial, normal or absolute kind of fasting. It's not good to compare your commitment to others'. Fast without pride.
- Do not let others see that you are weak. Try to act normally.

Aside from the abovementioned, I took note of the following:
- Your god consumes you. Whatever consumes you and your time that is your god.
- Believing is what God wants us to do, absolute faith and not partial.
- When you fall in love with prayer, you will start falling in love with God.

I love this line from Pastor Anthony's prayer when we're breaking the fast, "Lord, we're serious, dead serious on our prayers to You." It's time to take God seriously because He is taking us too seriously!

This is one my prayers, "Lord, I want to start the year right and I want to start it right with You."

Saving Money Traditionally

2008-01-11T16:24:00.000-08:00

Cards - Ito ang nangigibaw sa mundo natin ngayon. 'Pag pumunta ka sa grocery or department store at bumili ng anuman, maririnig mong itatanong ng kahera, "Ma'am/Sir, may SM Advantage Card?" Sa National Bookstore naman, "Ma'am/Sir, may Laking National Card?" Sa Walter Mart naman, "...may Plus Card?" Lahat tipong may membership na.

Lahat halos ng transaction kailangan ng card at ito ang ilan...
- Renting DVD or VCD sa Video City (pinaliit ang version na pwedeng isabit sa zipper ng bag)
- Shopping using credit cards
- Applying for a loan (GSIS members)
- Withdrawing/Depositing money via ATM

Na-realize ko lang yan last night when I was withdrawing money... from my coin bank. hihi!

Probably, most people save their money in banks and only a few save traditionally using 'alkansya' (mas cute ang dating 'pag Filipino term). Sa bagay, hindi naman nakapagtataka yun dahil "computer age" na nga, lahat encoded. 'Pag alkansya lang, di pwede ang balance checking (except na lang kung bawat hulog mo ng coin recorded), hindi rin pwedeng ibayad sa items ng department store or pang bayad ng bills (gaya ng credit card) dahil walang debit, lalong hindi pwede ang money transfer. Haha!

Ganon pa man, kami ng mga kapatid ko (even my mom) nag-iipon pa rin sa alkansya, 10-peso and 5-peso coins only. Yun ang takbuhan 'pag biglang kinapos. Pero kagabi, na-withdraw ko na lahat (nag-iwan lang ako ng P50.00) kasi kailangan kong bayaran si Kua Nad sa MP4. (Don't worry ipapapalit ko naman ng bill yung coins. hehe)

Almost 1 hour din akong nagsungkit ng coins. As a result, lumaki ang butas ng alkansya ko (as in kasya na ang isang daliri) at sumakit ang braso ko... ang bigat eh! Lumabas nanaman ang pagka-maskulada ko! :D Masaya pala ang may coin bank.

Lakad to the Max!

2008-01-11T15:33:00.000-08:00

I'm currently renewing our (PACEOS) business permit for 2008. In effect, I have to go to Pasay City Hall over and over again to complete and submit the requirements.

Yesterday, I went to the following places:

- Barangay Hall (to claim our renewed Barangay Clearance)

- Pasay City Hall (for tax assessment)

- Philhealth Office in Taft Ave. (to submit 2007 last quarter contribution record)

- BPI- United Nations Ave. (to activate my E-cash. singit lang 'to! hehehe)

- Banco de Oro - United Nations Ave. (to encash check. kailangan ko ng allowance sa lakad eh)

- Break muna... so lunch sa Chowking - UN Ave.

Sa sobrang dami ng nilakad ko, nasira na ng tuluyan ang shoes ko.. huhu.

Nabiyak yung swelas! wheew! Napabili tuloy ako ng bagong pair kasi 'di ko na matiis yung pain na dulot nito. I went straight to Quiapo para mura-mura naman. Supposedly, pupunta pa ko ng SSS, Macapagal Branch to submit contribution record din kaso 'di ko na kinaya kaya after bumili ng shoes sa office na ko dumiretso.

I uttered, "Lord, bakit kailangang ako ang maglakad ng lahat ng ito? Sabay sagot sa sariling tanong, "Kasi naman po Karen, ikaw lang ang staff ng PACEOS remember? So, walang ibang gagawa n'yan kundi ikaw!" God must really have a purpose. Before, I went to the Embassy for my superior's VISA to Thailand. Ngayon naman, business permit. Probably, God is training me this early because sooner or later sarili ko ng VISA (as in Tourist VISA not Working VISA) at ng family ko ang aasikasuhin ko. Same thing, with the business permit...maybe we'll manage our own family business and my own business as well. Ayoko kasing forever maging employee. I want to put up a business in God's time. Yeepee!

When I reached home (apartment), I said that exact statement to God and this is His Word to me...

- Ephesians 3:20: "Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us..." (NIV)

I love the King James Translation:

"Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us..."

I can only think this much with my limited imagination but God has a greater plan that is far beyond what I can fathom. (I'll patiently wait for You, Lord)

No Rice for Dinner

2008-01-09T13:00:00.000-08:00

Since Monday, I was trying not to eat rice for dinner. Anyway, ganon naman usually whenever I stay in Manila. Minsan naman nakakatamad mag-isip kung ano ang kakainin ko 'pag uwi sa apartment kaya hindi na lang ako nagdi-dinner.

Last night ito ang dinner ko...

bread and spanish style sardines. Nung Monday, bread lang din with liver spread.

Naisip ko lang, kasalukuyang nagfa-fast ang workers sa church. I wish to participate kahit papano. :)

Time to Relax

2008-01-08T15:40:00.000-08:00

In a year, it's too seldom for leaders to have some time to rest. When I say "rest" i mean spending time together outside, making ourselves free from worries, unwinding and having some fun! :)

Last December 30, Sunday, we went out for lunch. Take note, nagpapicture pa sila Mark, Mitch and Mae kay Jollibee tapos sa McDo pala ang punta! tsk tsk tsk... After that, balik agad sa Church to prepare for 3:30 service.

January 5, Saturday, ibang gimik naman. We went to Robinsons Imus around 7:00 pm at nag-bowling and billiards. Napagsarhan na nga kami ng mall.

Hindi nga pala kami nagbilliard ni Ate Eu kaya picture-picture na lang kami. Hihi!

Nakakalungkot nga lang dahil merong hindi nakasama (Ate Peps, Ate Thine, Ate Kath, Mina, Eca, Chayanne) pero nandun naman si Kua Jer, Jerich at ung Barak.

Thank God for giving me true friends... they are real treasures!

Praise & Worship

2008-01-07T11:16:00.000-08:00

Ang tagal ko nang hindi nakapag-post, madalas kasi gusto ko lang magbasa ng posts ng iba. :D

I kept this as a draft since early December and finally I was able to post this today.

When I hear the words Praise and Worship, I always have these in mind:

A Praise & Worship Leader...

Choir and back up singers...

A music band...

Dancers...
Congregation...

(photos taken last December 30, 2007 - Sunday Service by Karen Novicio)

But I was reminded of a deeper kind of worship, Worshiping Him alone. "Alone" as in mag-isa ako, nobody sees, nobody hears, nobody knows... Just between God and I.

Last December 4, I started to have my own Praise and Worship (and believe me sobrang saya! yihee!) Bigla na lang may pumapasok sa isip ko na songs at ayun...praise & worship ako mag-isa sa apartment.

I appreciate the song "Alone" by Clint Brown.

You don't need majestic choirs

and awesome voices raised

You don't need a congregation

to offer Me your praise

You don't need a mighty orchestra

to bless Me with your song

You get all of My attention

When you worship Me alone

I love to hear it when you sing your song

and worship Me alone

I'm praying that God will give me a heart of worship not just for a day or on Sundays. I want it even on my darkest times and especially when I'm alone.

"Yet a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for they are the kind of worshipers the Father seeks." - John 4:23

Greetings!

2007-12-28T15:21:00.000-08:00

Glitter Graphics - GlitterLive.com

Genuine Christianity

2007-12-21T16:33:00.000-08:00

- These are my notes from Myk's post entitled "This changes everything," which contains an hour-long video of Paul David Washer's preaching in a youth conference.

Text: Matthew 7:13-29

How will I know that I am a Genuine Christian?

Below are questions that allowed me to assess myself.

1. Am I walking on a narrow road?
Matthew 7:13-14. "Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it."

- There is only ONE GATE, ONE ROAD, ONE GOD, ONE MEDIATOR-JESUS CHRIST. Walk in the way of righteousness like Jesus and if I step out of that path, God will discipline me and bring me back to that path again. If I profess to be a Christian but live like the people in the world, the Bible tells that I should be terribly afraid! Jesus says that there is not only a narrow gate but also a narrow road.

Romans 3:23 says, "For all have sinned and come short of the glory of God." The issue here is not that I have sinned but the point is I've never done anything but sin! Even my great works are filty rugs before God. Apart from the grace of God revealed in Jesus Christ, the only thing left for me is the wrath and fierce anger of God because of sin.

We say, "No, God can't hate me because God is love" but God must actually hate us because He is love. IF WE LOVE WHAT IS HOLY THEN WE MUST HATE WHAT IS UNHOLY. But the sad truth is more of the things we love, God hates. Most of our 'christianity' is based only on songs, culture but not on the Bible!

"Examine ourselves in the light of the Scripture. Compare ourselves not to other Christians nor to those who say they are Christians but compare ourselves to the Bible!"

People say that the cross is the sign of how much a man is worth, that's not true! The cross is the sign of how much depraved a man is that it took the death of Christ to save him!

2. Am I bearing good fruit?
Matthew 7:15-16a. "Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves. By their fruit you will recognize them."

Look at your life, look at how you talk, how you think, how you dress, your passion, etc. IS JESUS THERE? or do you look like the world, act like the world? or do you love sin and relish it?
How do you know that you are saved? because you prayed the sinner's prayer? because your parents told you? because you believe? how can say that you believe? You know you are saved because you are in a process of being changed and you are in a narrow way!

Why are there people who say they encounter Jesus but their lives aren't changed?
Remember:

"If you got something from the Lord genuinely, it will last!"

3. Am I doing the will of the Father?
Matthew 7:21. "Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only he who does the will of my Father who is in heaven."

This is not plainly about works but the evidence of faith, a style of life that pleases the Father.

Mattthew 7:22 and 23 say, "Many will say to me on that day, 'Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and in your name drive out demons and perform many miracles?' Then I will tell them plainly, 'I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!" We, most of the time, say, "The most important thing in the world is to know Jesus Christ," that's wrong! The most important thing is that God knows you."Does Jesus know you?

4. Am I applying what God teaches me?
Matthew 7:24-27. The story of the wise and foolish builders.

The point of the story in this context is not about strong or weak foundation. It's about those who hear the Word of God and apply it to their everyday life and those who hear the Word and do nothing about it.

It is important to put everything - the decisions you will make, your finances, the way you talk, the way you dress and so on, in subjection to Jesus by looking at what He says in His Word.

- Thanks to Myk for sharing the video...it rebuked me and challenged me to live genuinely as His servant.

We are set apart by God then, act as one!

My Vow this Christmas

2007-12-20T17:47:00.000-08:00

I Vow to Worship You

Chorus:
I vow to worship You
this Christmas day I stand and say
Glory, glory in the Highest
in Excelsis Deo

I pledge to celebrate the meaning
of this holiday
Giving praises to the beauty of
Your holy Name

Verse:
More than anything I do
More than anything I say
More than anything I say or do
I worship You

More than any card I write
More than any Christmas light I light
More than any gift I give
I give You my praises
from morning 'til night

I worship You this Christmas (3x)
Christ the Lord

For You alone are worthy (3x)
Christ the Lord

We'll praise Your name forever (3x)
Christ the Lord

Lead the Crowd

2007-12-18T10:55:00.000-08:00

I saw this site, http://www.acquirethefire.com/, on the book I mentioned in my previous post. By the way, I dropped by at the Book for Less store in Mall of Asia once again when we had our Christmas Party last December 11, Tuesday, at Science Discovery Center. The book that I was talking about is entitled "Live God Loud."

I visited the site to see what it's all about. Then, I watched some video clips and below is one of them.

Upon viewing this, I was reminded of some points from the book of Oswald Sanders, "Spiritual Leadership."

Responsibilities of a Leader
- Service. The true leader is concerned primarily with the welfare of others not with his own comfort or prestige.
- Discipline. "Train yourself to be godly" - 1 Timothy 4:7. Same way, don't be afraid to rebuke and correct others.
- Providing guidance. The leader must go before his flock. Therefore, he must know where he is going before presuming to lead others.
- Initiate. The leader must initiate plans for progress or recognize the worthy plans of others.
- Take responsibility willingly.

Some Tests of Leadership
- Compromise. Lowering standards is always a backward step and compromise nearly always requires it.
- Ambition. Instead of personal ambition, a leader must show selfless nobility, genuine concern for God's glory and compassion for the misguided people.
- The impossible situation. A true leader rises to face baffling circumstances and complex problems.
- Failure. How a leader handles failure will set much of the agenda for the future. Successful leaders have learned that no failure need be final, whether his own failure or someone else's. No one is perfect and we can not be right all the time.
- Jealousy. A leader will face the problem of jealous rival. His main concern must be God's glory and not his own privilege or position.

"Don't follow the crowd. Lead the crowd." Lead the crowd to Jesus!

How to Read the Bible?

2007-12-05T15:55:00.000-08:00

I was about to go to Hypermarket, Mall of Asia to buy some food for dinner last Monday (after attending a meeting at Science Discovery Center) when I passed by a book store - Book for Less. Feeling ko parang Book Sale sya na may mga books worth P20.00 only so I went inside. I saw good books; there were Bibles, devotional books, cook books, academic, etc. but they're quite expensive pa rin (for used books) .

I got one book (wheew! I forgot the title!) and scanned the pages. Nabasa ko ung part na "How to read the Bible" (something like that). I could still remember some points...

- Read the Bible per theme. Have a specific topic and read passages about it (e.g. purity, worship, etc.). The use of Concordance may help.
- Read per book. Like any other books, it's good to read by chapter to establish continuity. Eventually, this will give you better understanding.
- Memorize a verse. It's good to read even a verse in the morning, memorize it and keep that in mind for the whole day. (Ginagawa ko 'to at masaya! hihi. Like for today I have Psalm 58:11 "Then men will say: 'Surely the righteous still are rewarded; surely there is a God who judges the earth."
- Read more. Use other reading materials/references that will help you understand the passage (Bible dictionaries, History, etc.).
- Make your reading creative. Have questions in mind and find out the answer; "Why did God say this?", "What happened after this or that?", "Who was behind this?" and so on.

There are lot of ways on how we can enjoy Bible reading. I'm discovering my own strategy... ;)

Help!

2007-12-04T16:04:00.000-08:00

Hi people! Can you help me with this?

I'm in need of 3-4 Christmas Party Games na ma-eenjoy ng mga adults (starting 35 and up). We (the association-PACEOS) have a Christamas Party on December 11. Ako ang pinaghahanap nila ng games. I tried to surf the net kaso parang di naman nila ma-eenjoy.

Your suggestions are highly appreciated. Many thanks! God bless!

The God-given Ability to Succeed

2007-11-27T16:36:00.000-08:00

- posting from Word 4U Today -

Bible Text:
- Deuteronomy 8:18: "But remember the Lord your God, for it is He who gives you the ability to produce wealth, and so confirms His covenant, which He swore to your forefathers, as it is today."

Do you want your life to count in God's big plan for the planet?
1. Get seriously creative: When God gives you the ability to succeed, it often begins as an idea. But remember you have to do something with that idea, make a plan, talk to people, get it done! Your idea (or someone else's) might come from God. Stop and think: if God's a creator and we are made in His likeness, shouldn't we be creative too?

2.Use your gifts: The gift God gave you is your key to success. He didn't give it to you to be wasted on stuff that has no point or purpose or denied out of a false sense of humility. No, He gave it to you to be invested - to be used! Jesus told the story of three guys who were given money to invest. The first two double theirs; the third buried his in the ground because he was afraid of messing it up. Look out! FEAR IS ONE OF YOUR GREATEST ENEMIES. It numbs your spirit and bangs up your creativity. Use what God's given you. Trust God and take some risks.

3. Get on with it! Ok, sometimes it's wise to wait. But a lot of times, being over cautious will just lead to missed opportunities, disappointments and regrets. Your friends and leaders can help you work this out. But if you know in your heart that God has told you do something for Him, if you've got the ideas and the gifts, don't make excuses, get on with it! Make it happen. Seize the day! Grab the 'now' moments of your life - the 'right time' you're waiting for may never arrive.

Personal Reflection:
I also took note of some points from Deuteronomy 8:18.
- Remember God. "But remember the Lord your God..." Don't take God away from the picture.
- Utilize our ability to produce wealth. "...for it is He who gives you the ability to produce wealth..." If God has given us the ability, make use of it!
- Hold on to His promises and claim them. "...and so confirms His covenant..." God confirms His promises, so there's no room for doubt. It's also good to mention God's promises to us when we pray.
- Believe His consistency. "...which He swore to your forefathers, as it is today." God is unchanging. He's the same yesterday, today and forever. If He promised and gave success to our forefathers, He will do the same to us.

I was truly blessed with this. I was praying last night kasi...God did answer my query right away. He said, "Anak, go on! Make it happen! I'm with you all the way."

Birthday Prayer

2007-11-26T15:06:00.000-08:00

Lord,

create in me a pure heart with honest intentions (1 Chronicles 29:17)
bless me so I can bless others more (Deuteronomy 15:6)
give me a discerning heart and wisdom (1 Kings 3:9)
use me more for the benefit of others (Galatians 3:8)
help me to be humble and think less of my self (James 3:13)
strengthen me so I can do the work You've entrusted to me (Psalm 73:26)
give me a grateful heart and help me to keep myself from complaining (1 Thessalonians 5:18)
make my heart teachable (Psalm 119:27)
help me to persevere and be mature in faith (James 1:4)
give me patience and help me to understand that everything has its perfect time (Ecclesiastes 3:11)
help me to be decisive (Job 38:36)
draw me closer to You, I want to know You more (Psalm 119:20)
teach me how to love the way You do - agape love (John 3:16)

Can these be Your birthday gifts to me?

...though I know You have given so much

...and this will take time.

Thank you for another year of Your faithfulness and love.

Random Thoughts

2007-11-26T12:44:00.000-08:00

I don't really have something specific to post. Naisip ko lang sayang ang opportunity. It's my first time to be alone here in office (during office hours).

May event kasi ang mga officemates ko. They're divided into two groups. One group handled AHPADA, the 1st International Arts & Crafts Expo held at SMX Convention Center last Nov.21-25. The other team handled the 2nd North Philippines International Tourism Fair in SM Clark, on the same dates. So last week wala rin sila dito sa office but the president and v.p. of the company were here (kaya 'di rin ako naging malaya! in fact, nag mistula akong call center agent kasasagot ng calls nila). Since last day ng 2 events yesterday, medyo rest ata sila kaya wala silang lahat dito.

I was thinking of...
- filing my resignation effective by early January.
- surfing the net to look for other job.
- doing something with regard to the ministry's project for 2008 ('di ko pa ma-mention kasi we, sa dance, are still praying for this). I'll draft the proposal.
- leaving the apartment at mag-uwian na lang sa Dasma.
- going home today earlier at matulog agad.

Noon at Ngayon

2007-11-21T11:19:00.000-08:00

Natuwa ako dito kaya ko pinost...

Ito ang picture namin ni Ate Eu. This was taken during one of our practices (nag-water break lang kami sandali), almost one year ago na siguro.

Before, we handled the same team in the ministry - Towdah. She's the team leader and I was her assistant. More or less six months ago, nagkaron ng reshuffling of teams. Currently I'm handling Tehillah (may picture sa side bar of my page). S'ya naman, Towdah pa rin; a team with 4 members, all leaders.

Ngayon, ito na ang picture namin...

Taken last October 27, my sister's debut party. (Medyo formal naman ang effect :D ) Sobrang nakakamiss lang...

One Spirit

2007-11-19T16:49:00.000-08:00

Finally, I have the chance to share these stories. Hahaha! Both happened weeks ago.

*That was Sunday, November 11, the last day of our Expo. I arrived late at World Tade, around 3:00 pm, 'cause I came straight from the church (attended the worship service). I visited the booths and talked to our exhibitors, one of such was Ate Marissa. She approached me and said, "Alam mo, wala pa kaming benta. Kararating lang kasi namin, nag-church pa kasi kami eh." I replied, "Ako rin po." By that, we discovered that we were both Christians. Sobrang tuwang tuwa sya at napaiyak pa! She embraced me and said, "Sabi ko na eh, may iba sa'yo una pa lang kitang makita." Then, she gave me a set of earrings and necklace. Kwentuhan to the max na kami. She has a son who was a pastor and their church was located in Bacoor (parang may Victory Church akong narinig...'di ko na maalala yung exact name).

Another one...

*I rode a bus, San Agustin, last Wednesday. I was on my way to the office around 9:30 am. I sat beside a guy (with his friend on his left). They were talking about a certain person and some of the lines I heard..."hindi mo talaga mapipilit ang isang tao kung ayaw. May perfect time din si Lord sa kanya," and "ganon talaga 'pag nandun ang favor ni Lord." After an hour (nasa Baclaran na kami), hindi ko na napigilan ang sarili ko and I said to them, "Excuse me, Kuya pwedeng magtanong? (and they said "yes") Are you Christians?" I was correct! They were Christians. I said I didn't intend to listen to their conversation, I just kept on hearing the name of the LORD. Their names: Kuya Roy, 24 and Kuya Noli, 22. Both of them were youth leaders. Kuya Roy was also a dancer and a worship leader. They're part of the Jesus Reigns Church in Buho, Silang. Ini-invite nga nila ako sa Sunday, November 25, it's their church's anniversary. Alam din nila ang Church of God-Dasma, sabi ni Kuya Noli, naging professor nya daw si Kuya Warren Pangilinan during college at TUP.

It's glad to know that Christians have the same spirit and that spirit becomes our identity. We can easily feel whenever our spiritual brothers and sisters are near us (even without knowing them personally). Sobrang na-bless lang ako.

Counting our blessings (Part II)

2007-11-19T15:42:00.000-08:00

Medyo matagal na rin akong hindi nakapagpost though I used to visit various blogs. Minsan kasi mas feel kong magbasa lang...

Anyway, I want to continue mentioning some of God's blessings to me as I have said in my older post.

* My co-leaders sa ministry. Nakakatuwa yung relationship ng leaders, parang magkakapatid lang talaga. They are real blessings. They're true friends. Though may mga times na hindi nagkakaintindihan, mas nangingibabaw pa rin yung love.

* Tehillah Dance Team. This is the team that I handle in the ministry. The team is composed of 25 members (one is in Hongkong), all are teens. Medyo complicated ang stage na 'to (i mean the age) 'cause this is the stage wherein sobrang taas ng level ng curiousity, madalas ang mood swing at to the maximum level ang pagiging sensitive. But then, I love this team so much. God used them to train me not just in terms of leadership but more in character; how to care genuinely, to be patient, to listen, to understand, to love and to pray harder.

* Churchmates' blogs. Sobrang malaking tulong sa'kin ang posts ng churchmates ko. There are times na sobrang discouraged ako and then pag-nagbukas ako ng page at nagbasa, naeencourage ako sa stories nila.

* Church Pastors. "Anointed." Yun lang ang nasasabi ko minsan 'pag nakikita ko sila. They're being used by God to deliver His message to the congregation. Most of the time, sapul talaga ako sa sermon! :)

* Music. Sa buong maghapon na nakaharap ako sa computer doing various paper works, nagmiminister sa'kin yung songs na pinakikinggan ko (ngaun, We Speak to Nations ang tugtog).
When I'm sleepy, patugtog lang ako ng praise songs.

* My Bosses. As I have stated in my previous post, sobrang kakaiba ang superiors ko, madalas hindi makarecognize or maka-appreciate ng mga bagay bagay, demanding at times and so on. But then, I'm thankful for having them. I learned how to be independent, to be decisive and to be submissive.

* My CLDP teacher and classmates. Sobrang nag-eenjoy ako sa class namin sa CLDP. Actually wala namang something special sa class, lecture type lang talaga...makikinig ka lang, pwedeng mag-share if you want. But every meeting is an exciting one for me dahil sa dami ng natututunan ko when it comes to leadership. Saturday, November 24, is our last meeting at pot bless! hihi!

* Trials. If I'll enumerate lahat ng ito sobrang marami but still trials can't outnumber God's blessings. Thankful ako sa mga trials for they draw me closer to God, make me stronger, wiser and more mature.

Indeed, God has blessed me so much and this page might not be able to contain all those. I'm thankful for the sun, for the wind, for the air I breathe, for this life and so on.

*GOD, most of all, I am thankful that I have You. This life will never be as meaningful as this if I haven't come to know YOU.

Event Updates

2007-11-11T14:43:00.000-08:00

Hay... [isang malalim na buntong hininga]. Tiring pala talaga ang mag-organize ng event lalo na kung ikaw lang mag-isa.

Anyway, below are brief stories of what happened for the past 2 days:

Opening Day - As expected, agang-aga ng Friday haggard na. Dahil nga sa mga pasaway na exhibitors na hindi nag-ingress last Thursday sobrang cramming sa pag-seset up the following day. Feeling ko, hindi ako napirme sa isang lugar...lakad dito, lakad dun...explain dito, usap doon...lahat na! Hanggang sa nagstart na ang opening ceremony, may nag-aayos pa sa loob ng hall, sa booth nila! Lunch time, I went back to the office to get some documents necessary for the event. Nung makita naman ako ng boss ko, more utos ito. So, until 4pm nasa office pa rin ako to think na I have a meeting with a researcher at 2:30 at World Trade. Pag-labas ko naman ng office, sobrang lakas ng ulan at baha...no choice, sugod ito. Thank God I was wearing black slocks that time so hindi halatang hanggang tuhod basa ako. ahuhu. Buti na lang mabait yung kameet ko...
Second day (that was Saturday) - May humabol pang exhibitor so may nag-set up pa rin that morning. Yesterday was easier than the past two days. Medyo nakalibot-libot na sa buong exhibit area. But still, I received no text from my superiors kahit pangungumusta lang (ang thoughtful nila di ba? hay...). Anyway, I thank God that there were still people who are appreciative...May ilang mga exhibitors na binigyan ako ng items nila. At the end of the day, I received a watch, a necklace, 2 pairs of earrings, a brooch, 2 shirts and 2 bracelets...all from our exhibitors. :) Umuwi ako sa Dasma one hour before the closing para makahabol sa CLDP class, ayun nakarating naman pero 20 minutes late.
Last day - Today is Sunday! Remember natatakot akong hindi makapagservice today because of this event? God is really great! Actually Siya pa rin ang nauna sa araw na 'to. I went to church and attended the 7:30 worship and left after the 10:30 service. Nagkita-kita pa kami nila Myk, Pangj and the rest of the youth at nakapagkwentuhan pa sa co-leaders sa dance. After that, dito na ko dumiretso sa office...at nagpost! hehehe!

I'll leave muna for a while for the Egress (na according sa mga organizers ay madugo ding part. Kaguluhang ganap ito!) Then, I'll continue...

Prayer: Lord, thank you so much for strengthening me and for giving me the courage to face this challenge. Truly enough, "those who seek You will find You and will never be disappointed." I claim the victory in Your name for I fight every battle as I put my trust not in chariots nor in swords but in Your victorious and powerful Name! All the glory is Yours, my Master.

Khen's Firsts

2007-11-08T08:35:00.000-08:00

I was reminded of the church's giveaway for the Workers' General Assembly 2008. It's a calendar showcasing the first properties of the church: a guitar, light mixer, overhead projector and so on.

Now, I want to mention what are my firsts for this day.

November 9 (tomorrow), will be the opening of our event called the "PACEOS Christmas Pavilion," part of the Total Lifystyle Expo and Digital World at the World Trade Center. The Expo has approximately 200 exhibitors/booths selling different products such as cosmetics, cloths, bags, accessories, furniture, and lamps for the Total Lifestyle and printers, computers, electronic gadgets, appliances and cars for the Digital World. This will run for three consecutive days, meaning the event is until Sunday. And everyone is invited to come. It's free admission (sabay promote bah! hihi!).

In line with this, today is the Exhibitors' Ingress. Let me explain briefly what's going on during the Exhibitors' Ingress. Hhmmm...but I think it'll be better if I'll mention the Contractor's Ingress before this one ('cause contractor's ingress is prior to the exhibitors').

Contractors' Ingress. By this time, the booths are set up, carpets on the floor (the entire hall is carpeted), electrical works and overall design is done by the booth contractor (a booth contractor company). That was yesterday.
Exhibitor's Ingress. All the exhibitors will be coming in to display their products as well as to design their own booths. And my story will start here... (ang haba ng intro!)

Before an exhibitor enters the hall, he needs to register and fill out the forms: Pass In, Pass Out Form itemizing all the things he will bring inside; Waiver; and ID deposit slip. For those who will pay for the booth on site, I need to issue the O.R since I also do the collection. After accomplishing all the forms and settling the fees, sasamahan ko na sila sa booth nila and then, they'll set up.

- Wala namang problema sa bagay na ito, parang ang simple nga lang ng process. But the problem is nag-sabay sabay ng dating ang mga exhibitors at syempre ako lahat ang nag-aasikaso dahil ako lang naman ang staff ng PACEOS. I'm with the Global Link people (Global Link is the organizer of the entire event and is a member of PACEOS) but they can't entertain my exhibitors (PACEOS exhibitors) 'cause they're handling Total Lifestyle and Digital Exhibitors. Take note, eight people are in charge of the registration (for the Lifestyle and Digital). Sabi nga ni Ms. Tina, "mag-isa ka lang? kami nga walo na nahihirapan pa." So, Kumusta naman ako, nag-iisa! (ayun, ok naman, cool lang kahit nahihirapan...ganyan talaga 'pag may LORD sa puso!)

Now, what are my firsts?

- This is the first big event that I'll handle. I'm not into events naman kasi...remember I'm a communication graduate. hihi! Events like this one is more on marketing and management.

- This is my first Ingress. Since first time kong humawak ng event, first time ko rin maka-experience ng ingress. Indeed, it was exhausting! Lalo na 'pag wala si Lord, siguro makakasalita ka ng foul words sa sobrang inis. The people beside me, wala nang nasabi kundi s**t and the like (syempre pag nakatalikod na yung exhibitor ha).

- The event is my first major project. May mga events din naman akong na-handle over the past months pero those were only for the members of the association like general membership meetings with 40 to 50 pax.

- My first time to deal with exhibitors. For the Pavilion alone, we have 30 exhibitors. So, 30 silang nanggugulo sa'kin since Monday! Nandyan yung tatawagan ka maya't maya for clarifications, questions, etc. May kausap kang exhibitor tapos may tatawag sa cell mo, tapos may isa pang magrereklamo na exhibitor, etc. - All at a time - Kanina nga, sobrang galit yung isa naming exhibitor...pinagmukha naman nya kasing tiangge yung expo. As in nag-hang ng clothes sa may aisle and so on. When I approched her at sabihang bawal yun, nagsimula nang uminit ang ulo! Mag-baback out na daw sya. Hay! stressful ang makipagdeal sa mga pasaway na exhibitors! really! 'Di lang sya ang nag-iisang pasaway, marami sila. Some of the exhibitors naman, tomorrow pa raw sila mag-seset up..opening na kaya tomorrow! It's means hanggang bukas guguluhin nila ang mundo ko!

Though hindi pa tapos magset up ang ilang exhibitors, I left the hall by 6:00 and went straight to the office (at ito nga, nagpost muna ako...to rest and to unload!)

Nakakapagod pero masaya. I can't imagine that I was able to handle this one despite the fact that I'm doing everything on my own. Sabi nga ni Bola, one of my officemates but from other company, "Bilib ako sa'yo Karen, nakayanan mo mag-isa lahat yan! Lalo na ang Ingress...that's the most exhausting part of an event. Kung ako yan, magrereklamo talaga ako sa boss ko...sana man lang binigyan ka ng kasama kahit isa o kaya doblehin ang salary mo noh!" Well, I just smiled and said, "Thank God, He's my partner."

God enabled me to do things that are beyond my limits. I want to give Him all the glory and am not going to steal it from Him. Even ako sobrang na-amaze at masasabi kong, "Lord, that's You!" It takes months to organize an event. Like my collegues here (a group of 7), they are preparing for the 1st APHADA International Arts and Crafts Expo at SM X Convention Center on Nov.21-25. They are working for this since late July or early August. The Pavilion, on the other hand, was organized only for two weeks, in which 80% of the load is on my shoulder. That's what God can do!

This might be my first time when it comes to events but definitely it's not my first time to see how God works and to prove how faithful He is.

There are more stories to tell tomorrow until Sunday regarding this matter. But I know all of these stories will contain how God showed His power!

All the glory belongs to you Lord!