FOOD FOR THE BRAIN PROGRAM

CYWTAC is now accepting donations of workbooks/activity books for the children displaced by MAyon Volcano Eruption. I personally thought of launching this program after working with kids in the evacuation centers. These kids needs cognitive stimulation in fun and interactive ways. From the time the were forcibly evacuated, these kids never got hold of any book..with no stress relieving activities and as equally disturbed like their parents. In this program, we hope to collect workbooks from generous donors and distribute them to the kids to at least lessen their distress symptoms.

Should anybody is interested to support this program, please feel free to email me at mpenetrante@yahoo.com or text me in any of the following numbers: 09178651901 or 09215883900.

Smiling Angels

Today I am blessed to see face to face genuine smiles of angels.

The sudden eruption of Mayon Volcano came as a surprise to all Albayanos. This catastrophe frightened children and adults alike. After spending some time with the kids, I definitely knew that these young survivors are pretty well aware of their parents' worries and fears from the time the local government imposed the forced evacuation to the people living within the dangerous zones. LIke other trauma victims, these kids became particularly sensitive. For some visitors of the evacuation centers, these kids may appear normal especially because they seem to have huge energy-deposits for playing and rolling over the dusty classrooms. But as I observed and talked to some kids, distress symptoms became apparent like clinging to parents, persistent fear of another disaster, loss of concentration and even jumpiness. These are red flags that should alert every mental health professionals serving these special populations.

Driven by the thought of providing fun and interactive activites for the kids, I organized a kids day in one of the evacuation centers of the province. This activity became a reality with the help of the young people who said "yes" to the informal invitation (the facebook power!). These volunteers unconsiously made great deposits of life points in heaven! I was tremendously touched by their dedication and ability to respond. How I wish I was given the same oppurtunity to reach out voluntarily to causes that makes a difference in the world one step at a time.

The volunteers willingly shared their gifts to the kids and invested efforts in facilitating the games, storytelling activity, leading the group singing, showing their magical abilities and even dancing for the kids. The smile on the faces of the children were priceless! I hope the volunteers saw and felt the ripple effect of what they did for the most vulnerable members of the population. They may not know it but a whole bunch of kids (160 in exact figure) benefited from their participation. I hope the experience will continue to broaden their perspective on what is actually happening in the world around them. The commitment they exhibited was sky beyond the limit!

Dios mabalos to the volunteers! I hope you let the fire for service burning! Truly--you made angels smile with your commitment and care!

Sa uulitin!

Loving "Sa Buhay Ko"

This morning my niece asked me to drop her off to school. While driving the car, she turned on the cd player and suddenly told me to listen to her new favorite song--then--the music played---I knew i've heared of the song many times--but this morning--that song had a very different effect on me--I don't know why--maybe because I was curious why my little 9 year old niece loved it--or maybe because I felt the love and spiritual bug so my spirit inspired me to deeply listen beyond the melody and the lyrics of the song. When I asked my niece why she loved it--she innocently told me (with her little twang!)--"kasi tita its about buhay--its about life, kaya nga sa buhay ko!."

On my way to the office alone, I can't help but listen to the song for the second time. While listening, I felt so--different--so weird yet so peaceful. It was as if my spirit drifted to a spiritual wonderland. Balancing my thoughts--I told myself that maybe its the melody--it was slow and relaxing awakening my melancholic persona--or maybe its the lyrics--so dramatic yet so real--or maybe it was the voice behind the song-- so up front that made this song so unforgettably raw--producing an intimate quality of adoration. Later in my introspection--my mind and my heart agreed to one conclusion--its the over-all package that made this song so spiritually enriching. The song inspired me to readdress my feelings about God's lingering love for me.

Sa Buhay ko is a song in the album Called by Love of Fr. Raul Caga, SVD--I've heared the songs in the album over and over again but this special track moved my spirit! This song embraced a new wave of modern gospel in a traditional musical stance. I find the music so peaceful (be it spiritually or romantically!) the consistency of the song in one course of moving music line and melody made it so spiritually unique.

When I reviewed the details of the song--luckily I found out that it was written and put to music by two good people I personally know--Raymund Marcaida (RAMA) and Nez Marcelo (NEZ). After knowing this, the more the song felt closer to me. With proper promotion and exposure, I know this song would reach its stratospheric height!

Now I am spreading the good news---try listening to this song and you will be as spiritually-struck as I am! We now live in the world that is increasingly becoming hostile to gospel--this song will give us the avenue to renew our wonderful and loving relationship with Christ.

Happy Listening!

Note:

The album, CALLED BY LOVE by Fr. Raul Caga and the Arnoldus Company is available at all CAtholic Trade Stores and SVD Seminaries. You can likewise inquire at any SVD run schools for the availability of the album.

Change is Possible!

In recent years, changes in the economy, globalization and market pressures have forced many organizations to change the way they do business. In rapid changes, usually it's the administration that initiates change. Unfortunately, not all employees have the right attitude to embrace these changes. Given the fact that change is here to stay, I don't personally understand why people would dig their heads high just to resist these changes (at all cost!) and instead of giving the enthusiastic attitude to be part of these challenges---they are the ones who makes everything (work, relationships, etc..) difficult. As I slowly reflect, the following theories came into my mind:

1. That maybe people resist change because they are AFRAID-- afraid of the unknown! It's easier to cling on to the past because it is more secure and predictable. Maybe they think that--with a new scheme-- they may not achieve what they did in the past. Not seeing the big picture--they will not see the effect of the change!

2. Or maybe because they became too COMFORTABLE. Doing what is routinary for a long time in a predictable manner becomes their comfort zone. And going beyond the thin line of comfort and pressure might be difficult for them. "We have been doing this since time immemorial--so why change this routine?" a known battlecry! Or because change will disrupt their sense of control--familiar routines will always give them sense of control!

3. Or when new people comes in (as part of the change) people may resist his/her presence because it will shake their confidence on their support system. Will this person make my job difficult? or will this person impose new trends and strategies I am not prepared of

4. Or is it because of their unwillingness to learn? the hesitance to learn new tricks and new routines may make them resistant to change. Thinking that they already learned what they need to learn will precisely halt the process of transformation.

On a personal note, I always believe that CHANGE IS NOT THE PROBLEM--ITS THE RESISTANCE AND THE ATTITUDE OF THE PEOPLE IN THE RECEIVING END. Believing that getting what you want when you want it is a clear indication of resistance. Change don't happen overnight and I believe that realizing that change is going to happen or is happening should be the key step. In life, no one could live and work by yesterdays reality--transformation involves change!

Bipolar Simplified!

Ms. Tin (from Holy Child Educational Center) asked me to write a little about Bipolar Disorder. Although I am tempted to ask why. i didnt because I'd like to leave the real story to her. :-) I hope this will give you answers to your questions Ms. Tin! Happy Reading!

Bipolar Disorder is a brain disorder that causes unusual and erratic changes in moods, energy, activity levels and the ability to carry out day to day activities. Bipolar is not your typical mood shifts because bipolar disoder symptoms can result to damage relationships, ineffective job performance and worst--even suicide for some! Many studies stated that bipolar disorder usually become apparent in late teens or early adulthood stage. Some symptoms may appear in childhood and for some, symptoms develop late in life.

The symptoms of bipolar can either be through an overly joyful and excited state (manic episodes) or through extremely hopeless or sad state (depressive episodes) or sometimes (and worst!) if these two episodes come together at the same time (mixed state). Along with the shifts in moods, changes in sleeping, activity and behavior may accompany the symptoms. Severe cases may exhibit these symptoms everyday, all day or at least one or two times week (not severe).

To date there is no cure for bipolar disorder, however, pharmacological intervetions are available to help the person control and manage his/her mood swings and the other related symptoms. Because bipolar is a lifelong and recurrent condition, long term treatment is required. MOOD STABILIZING medications are the first line of medication. Although most of the medications are anti-convulsants, this form of medication controls mood swings more than other types of drugs.

With the medications available in the market now, bipolar disorder can be treated and patients can still live a full and productive life!

Ask your professional mental health experts for additional information on Bipolar Disorder.

The Happiness Merchant

I always believe that happiness is a mental state and a fuel to a sound mental health. However, maintaining happiness in this lifetime (and in this country?!!!) is a challenge. The constant pressure and stresses of life (health and financial problems, national issues, etc..) make happiness a fantasy, elusive to life for the majority! Happiness seem to be a simple and natural concept but how come it's difficult to attain?

Many people look for happiness outside--thinking that happiness is just around the corner--waiting for them to be found! By not looking so far---one can find happiness. After 32 years of existence I knew that happiness is inside us--never outside us. It cannot come from outside sources--relying happiness from the outside world can just give us transitory pleasures but surely--these will lead to disappointments in the end.

Being happy and getting the happiness we deserve is our birthright! It exist within us--infinite, powerful and always available. Finding little pleasures and happiness in what we do is the key element. BY just thinking that you can be happy anytime, anywhere and not costing you anything to make things happen--that should console all of us. Believe that happiness is a choice! The more you open yourself to that belief, the more it will come continously. Allow me to share 5 simple life lessons to help you find the happiness within:

• Dont be afraid to COMMUNICATE.... open communication lines with the significant people in your life, be it your partner, your classmate, trusted adults, etc.. Ignite your innate soft skills by injecting fun and clean humor, cool conversations and light moments. Happiness is infectious and be the virus-carrier! LAUGH as often as you can! This will exercise your heart muscle, increase your immune system and will give you the much needed "feel good" hormones!
• Find a constructive hobby that will absorb all the pressing problems in your current life. Something that will completely absorb you to overcome the meager problems around you.


• Always find satisfaction from the available opportunities in your life! Many of life's frustrations comes from overly high expectations which are not met simply because they were not achievable!


• Be your own bestfriend! spend sometime for yourself--appraise yourself often--take time to enjoy doing what you love!


• Face problems with sporting spirit! Dont be afraid of the little problems--they are spices of life!

The challenge remains---find the always available bliss in your life! Make positive thinking as your choice! Believe me--when you believe that you are happy--you can move mountains!

The MOURNING After

Navigating the swirling emotions of letting go of a loved one (in death or in other circumstances) needs a quentessential people skills. Talking about grieving is a nostalgic event for me. Recently, I lost a friend--she finally succumb to cancer. Our relationship started on a professional level--as counselor-counsellee. After going through series of life-moving sessions, we finally ended the relationship as she flew to the States for a much more advanced mode of treatment. Our constant communication continued while she battled with the disease in a foreign land. After a year, she came back and finally chose to die in her home, with her family and with what she described as " dying in the warmth of friends". Two days before she died, she asked for me and we had the most meaningful talk ever--not as counselor-counsellee but as friends, as life companions. Her readiness to face her mortality was amazing!

Her family though appeared to be more ready than her. This somehow bothered me... Her mother told me that they will easily move on after her passing. Somehow, it was a consolation but it bothered me so much. Knowing my own feelings--I cannot help but ask if there's a need to ressurect grieving! I know we are in an instant society--after losing someone--we are expected to move on easily and immediately. we have the technical and environmental tools to help us move on--but are we forgetting really that grieving and mourning is a natural phenomenon in men. Grief is a natural and normal reaction to loss, that is a reality.

I attended my friends final burial rites and I felt so heavy when instead of finding a rather melancholic atmosphere--it was too joyful (there was videoke, 24 hours television, bingo games, card games, drinking spree, etc..)The family were part of these celebration--the mother managing the card games, the brother was singing so loudly in the videoke, the aunt loudly ranting the bingo card numbers, etc...

I fairly know that people vary in their reactions to loss but what shook me from this experience was the fact that the family seem not to show their emotions of grief. I know my friend's family love her so much. They fought with her when she battled with cancer. They invested so much when she was sent to the US for treatment. I cannot question the love of her family---I knew how much they love her.

After reflecting, with a common thread running through my mind--i came up with simple reflection that maybe--grieving now is not a pressing human-option because of the incorrect information we got from our society --that it is not proper to show your real feelings at any cost. We were taught to bury our feelings with statements like "im fine" although deep inside we are hurting. We were taught to bury all feelings that has something to do with sadness. We were conditioned to think that "when you laugh--the whole world will laugh with you--and when you cry--you will cry alone!"...These and other cliches about grieving has taught us to deny our true feelings--concealing it in the presence of technology and fun activities while we are supposed to grieve. Unresolved and unexpressed grief are cummulative--the effect will also be cummulative...let us all reflect on that.

I always believe that in moving on after a love one dies, we must be willing to re-experience the grief and the feeling of loss and make ways to recognize the incompleteness. From there, our healing starts....

My Favorite Movie Quotes!

Allow me to share with you all my favorite movie quotes( short but catchy, enticing phrases or conversations that sums up the plot, tone or theme of the story)....enjoy reminiscing some of them!

Ace Ventura (1995): "Pride is an abomination. One must forego the self to obtain spiritual creaminess, and avoid the chewy chunks of degradation"

Dennis the Menace (1993): " Why is it that when everyone else feasts on the pleasures of life, I get indigestions?" or "keep your mouth open but dont talk!"

The Last Samurai (2003): "Tell me how he died..." reply: "No, I will tell you how he lived!"
"You believe a man can change his destiny?" reply: "I think a man can do what he can, until destiny is revealed to him"

American Pie (1999): "I need you to reattached your balls!"

Pretty Woman (1990): "We both screw for money!"

Scent of a Woman (1992): "Women. What could you say? Who made em?God must've been funcking genius!" "The day we stop looking, we stop living!"

Angels Among Us (Part 2)

My 8 days vacation with friends was a realization of a much needed dream to finally leave work (temporarily) and just focus on smelling the flowers around me! For the past 3 years I know I've been working so hard.....that vacation truly rejuvenated me physically, emotionally and of course..spiritually. Thanks to Fr. Rikki, Iris, Ronan and Frat Gilbert who willingly shared those beautiful days with me. Our shared experiences was a refreshing change in my world.

Now that I am back home, I cannot help but really appreciate the special angels who made our trip an exceptional experience. These people provided us with quick service, support, attention to details, warm hospitality and great comfort!! WE had such a relaxing time at the Holy Name University SVD House with the SVD Fathers. Special mention goes to Fr. Ted (the ever articulate and smart rector of the community), Fr Andy (his charm and friendship is unquestionable!Thank you Father for the inspiring experience!Your gentle presence and friendship was a gift we will keep in our hearts for a lifetime!), FR, Kito (whose warmth and hospitality made our stay extra special! Thank you for the Bee Farm Experience!), Fr. Milo (and his scary stories!) and Fr. Boboy (with his serious but unexpectedly funny persona!). It is not often that you meet and make friends instantly--we did when we stayed at HNU. Their personal touches, all the little extras, advices and suggestions made our stay extraordinarily beautiful. All of them became our special angels! Our stay with them will become part of the unforgettable memories of beauty, friendship, tranquility, kindness and hospitality beyond expectations! Thank you for opening your home and hearts for us!

Our Cebu vacation of course will never be complete without the support and friendship of the San Carlos University Community. Fr. Jingjong (the vice provincial) became an amazing host and surely, we will never forget our extra pasta experience (with balls!) and the amazingly beautiful "busay". HIs willingness to make special arrangements were admirable. Thank you so much Fr, Jungjong!

Thank you to all of you! We had fantastic time with you all! We look forward to hosting you in Legazpi soon! WE shall never forget your hospitality and will sincerely treausure your friendship!

Angels Among us

I always believe that among us are angels--sending hope and inspiration during beautiful and trying times..

The word angel has always been associated with supernatural beings clothed in white and suddenly appearing from nowhere to rescue people from impending danger----the old conservative idea of angels exists. But--lets open our eyes and see beyond what our consciousness tells us...

You? how about Me? the taxi driver you just met this morning? or the gentle baker when you regularly buy "pandesal" after a morning jog? or the student in your class with the sweetest look? or how about the mechanic who help you out when you suddenly had an unexpected flat tire? Are they angels too?

MY recent experiences of meeting "angels" among us--in human forms--penetrated my consciousness lately. I bet they were God-sent for me! They came to me in different forms, faces and sizes...all of them in one instant--placed a genuine grin on my face and made me appreciate the warmth of God's love.

Few days ago, while enjoying the rainy morning (while driving), I suddenly heared a strong bang! I knew immediately knew it was a flat tire. With heavy heart, I went out of the car and got even frustrated when I saw the damage. While staring at the totally flat-lined tire--two men came out of the passing jeepney and offered help. Scared, fearful and doubtful, I tried telling them that I am okay and that I would just call my mechanic---but these two young men chose to stay and see how they could help. Eventually I gave in and allowed them to do wonder on my car... after an hour---they told me that the car is ready to bring me home! With so much happiness, I tried giving them some little amount but they refused..they told me that knowing that I will be home safely is already a reward for them. They boarded another jeepney--and soon--they were out of my sight--in that instant!

While driving back home, countless memories came of the same incidents as if reminding me of the numerous people who became angels in my life. People who came to comfort, to inspire, to teach me, to lift me up, to save me and much more.

Look around you---count the angels in your midst..I bet God sent you one today!

24 Things to Remember

Your presence is a present to the world.
You are unique and one of a kind.
Your life can be what you want it to be.
Take the days just one at a time.

Count your blessings, not your troubles.
You will make it through whatever comes along.
Within you are so many answers.
Understand, have courage, be strong.

Do not put limits on yourself.
So many dreams are waiting to be realized.
Decisions are too important to leave to chance.
Reach for your peak, your goal and you prize.

Nothing wastes more energy than worrying.
The longer one carries a problem the heavier it gets.
Do not take things too seriously.
Live a life of serenity, not a life of regrets.

Remember that a little love goes a long way.
Remember that a lot … goes forever.
Remember that friendship is a wise investment.
Life’s treasure are people together.

Realize that it is never too late.
Do ordinary things in an extraordinary way.
Have hearth and hope and happiness.
Take the time to wish upon a start.

AND DO NOT EVER FORGET ….
FOR EVEN A DAY
HOW VERY SPECIAL YOU ARE !

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Loving Natalie Grant

I'm so hooked with Natalie Grant's music! A friend of mine sent me 3 albums of Natalie Grant a week ago--I played them on my cd player--and alas--I loved it from the start to her last song! Her music is all about the things of the spirit and a perfect example of a gospel music mainstreamed in a secular world. The special factor that makes her music so different from other gospel music is the "depth" of its message (faith, values, families, etc.), the style and its melody (usually with so much live instrumentation!). Unlike other disposable pop singles---Natalie's music is always captivating. With her powerhouse vocals, heart gripping melody and her charisma when she sings---Natalie Grant is no doubt a household name in gospel music. Her "awaken" cd has so much emotion in it! When I listen to each of her songs, I can't help but really journey within--to feel everything in her song and feel what's deep inside. True to her single--I'm captured!


I can't help but play her songs over and over again--especially when I need a lift from the Lord.





Try listening (free streaming) these songs:

1. Held (so beautiful! my favorite so far!)

2. Captured (i'm truly captured by this song!)

3. You Move me

4. At Your Feet (so humbling!)

5. Breath on Me

6. When God Made you

7. In better hands (I started looking forward to death when I heared this song!)

8. Something Beautiful

9. Wonderful Life

10. In Christ Alone

One-Way Love

"What will you do if you are in a one-way love? A relationship that only one person can relate with--not the other one...in other words its unrequited love." This is the question asked to me by a young high school student I saw for counseling today. Such a million dollar question to be answered by a single (& loveless?)-counselor! Anyway, she expects me to put my thoughts in this blog--so as promised--i'm burning my eyebrow (its 11:45 PM) in writing this post. I believe I already published a related article about this problem but still, allow me to share some of the excerpts in that issue which I believe will help not only Beebs (name changed) but others who are in the same situation.

If your love is one-way, how about reflecting on these thoughts?

1. Honesty and Open-mindedness are big deal! Be willing to be honest with yourself. Opening yourself to the idea that the person you love is probably better off without you is painful but that's the reality. Truly, reality bites and when it does--it really sucks!If your beloved needed or wanted you he would probably have some desire to be with you and that desire would have already shown you enough reciprocation to stop you from trying to get over the love.

2. Don't be selfish. If being with this person would make you happy, but in reality, your presence makes your beloved unhappy, then you should prefer them to be with someone else. Love is about wanting what's best for the person you love, not what's best for you. This may seem a brutal advice--but girl, life is not only about gaining but it is also about losing! What matters most is how you cope with that loss!

3. Love can not be controlled and they can't force themselves to love you. You can't force anyone to love you either. What we should then prioritize is to MAKE OURSELVES MORE LOVABLE--not for the one who rejected you--but for yourself and for others who might take interests in you.

4. If you refuse to be with anyone else, then be alone. It's not so bad, contrary to what the movies and magazines will say. After a while you learn to deal with loneliness. Do not underestimate your ability to cope.

Finally---LOOK AT ALL THE WONDERFUL OPTIONS LIFE CAN OFFER! go out and open yourself to new people and new experiences. Dont die of desperation--It's expected that you feel hurt and depressed, but don't become a pathetic putz! Just LET GO and EXPLORE ways to cope. Instant gratification is great, but in this case you're just gonna have to let time do the healing.

I dont know if I made sense in this entry--but i hope the litle reflections above will be a tiny light for those who are in the same situation!

Just remember--HUWAG MATATAKOT MAGMAHAL! Never Stop Loving!

Mayaman at Mahirap

A friend of mine sent me this article via email. True--it made me smile but--this piece of article also made me reflect...ganito na nga ba ang difference ng mayaman at mahirap? reality truly strikes and when they do--it sucks!

Kung mayaman ka, meron kang "allergy" Kung mahirap ka, ang tawag dyan ay "galis" o "bakokang"

Sa mayaman, "nervous breakdown" dahil sa "tension and stress" Sa mahirap, "sira ang ulo"

Kung mayaman ka, "pneumonia" daw ang sakit mo Kung mahirap, "TB" yon

Sa mayaman, "hyperacidity" Kapag mahirap, "ulcer" dahil walang laman ang tiyan

Sa mayamang "malikot ang kamay", ang tawag ay "kleptomaniac" Sa mahirap, ang tawag ay "magnanakaw" o "kawatan"

Pag mayaman ka, you're "eccentric" Kung mahirap ka, "may toyo ka sa ulo" o "may topak" o "may sayad"

Kung mayaman ka at sumakit ang ulo mo, ikaw ay may "migraine" Kung mahirap ka naman at sumakit ang ulo mo, ikaw ay "nalipasan ng gutom"

Kung mayaman ka, you are referred to as someone who is "scoliotic" Pero kung mahirap ka, ikaw ay "kuba"

Kung ang señorita mo ay maitim, ang tawag ay "morena" o "sun tanned" Pero kung isa kang domestic na maitim, ikaw ay "ita" o "negrita" o "baluga"

Kung nasa high society ka at ikaw ay maliit, ang tawag sa iyo ay "petite" Kung mahirap ka lang, ikaw ay "pandak" o "bansot" o minsan "tiyanak"

Kung socialite ka, ikaw ay "pleasingly plump" Kapag mahirap ka, ika'y "tabatsoy" o "lumba-lumba" ...pagminamalas ka, "baboy"

Kapag mayaman, "fasting" ang hindi kumain Kung mahirap, "nagtitiis"

Kung well-off ka at date ka rito, date ka roon, ang tawag sa iyo ay "socialite" Kung mahirap ka, ikaw ay "pakawala" o "pok-pok"

Kung mayamang alembong ka, ang tawag sa iyo ay "liberated" Pero kung isa kang dukha, ang tawag sa iyo "malandi"

Kapag mayaman, "misguided" o "spoiled" ka Kung mahirap ka, "addict" o "durugista"

Kung may pera ka, ang tawag sa iyo "single parent" Pero kung wala kang trabaho, ang tawag sa iyo "disgrasyada"

Kapag mayaman at sexy, "fashionable" daw Kung mahirap, sigurado "GRO" o "japayuki" ka

Ang tawag sa mayayamang puro gulay ang kinakain, "vegetarian" Habang kakaawa ang mahirap na " kumakain ng damo."

Sa exclusive school, "assertive" ang mga batang sumasagot sa mga guro Pero pag ang mga mahihirap na bata ang sumasagot sa mga guro, ang tawag sa kanila ay "bastos!"

Ang mayamang tumatanda, "are graduating gracefully into senior citizenhood" Ang mga mahihirap ay "gumugurang"

Ang anak ng mayaman ay "slow learner" Ang anak ng mahirap ay "bobo" o "gung-gong"

Kung mayaman ka at marami kang kumain, you flatter your host who says, "masarap kang kumain and I like you, you do justice to my cooking" Kung ghastly peasant ka eating the same amount in the same house, your host will say to himself na ikaw ay "patay-gutom"

Kung graduate ka ng exclusive school at sa ibang bansa ka nagtatrabaho, ang tawag sa iyo "expat" Kung mahirap ka lang, ikaw ay "contract worker"

Kung boss ka at binabasa mo ito sa office mo, "okay lang" Pero kung ikaw ay hamak na empleyado lamang, ikaw ay" nagbubulakbol" ...

Just to make you smile and reflect also! Can we do something about it?

My Touch Addiction!

I'm super excited for my scheduled (regular) massage tomorrow! With the busy life I lead, massage have always provided me with benefits I cannot quantify! (thanks to ate Marlyn--my ever reliable therapist!). Many young professionals are turning to therapeutic massage treatment to provide relaxation, relieve tension associated with the daily stresses of their busy lives, or simply to help maintain good health and achieve a balanced lifestyle. Pesonally, I cannot get off from this addiction (which I refer to as touch addiction!) because of the tactile pleasure it gives and how great it feels to be treated by a professional massage therapist ( I love the swedish and indigebous "hilot" types!). I remember my friends would tease me a lot when we travel because the first thing I would do is to look for a spa where I can try diverse versions of swedish or thai massages! (Fr. Nes even freaked out when I had 4 days consecutive massage therapy in Bohol and Davao!). The basic goal of massage therapy is to help the body heal itself and to increase health and well-being. For the past years, I have proven what the sientific researhes says that massage therapy increases immune function, decreases stress levels and reduces recovery time in many medical conditions. Looking back---with God's grace and my regular massage in tow--I cannot remember the last time I was hospitalized! Touch is the core ingredient of massage therapy and also combines science and art. Touch, as a human need when used in massage, gives incredible benefits. There is so much care, so much touch, so much goodness conveyed through massage.

An increasing number of research studies show that massage reduces heart rate, lowers blood pressure, increases blood circulation and lymph flow, relaxes muscles, improves range of motion, and increases endorphins (enhancing medical treatment). Massage improves circulation, which increases blood flow, bringing fresh oxygen to body tissues. Although therapeutic massage does not increase muscle strength, it can stimulate weak, inactive muscles and, thus, partially compensate for the lack of exercise and inactivity resulting from illness or injury. It also can hasten and lead to a more complete recovery from exercise or injury.

Allow me to share with you the research based benefits of massage therapy:

• Medical school students at the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey-New Jersey Medical School who were massaged before an exam showed a significant decrease in anxiety and respiratory rates, as well as a significant increase in white blood cells and natural killer cell activity, suggesting a benefit to the immune system.



• Preliminary results suggested cancer patients had less pain and anxiety after receiving therapeutic massage at the James Cancer Hospital and Research Institute in Columbus, Ohio.


• Women who had experienced the recent death of a child were less depressed after receiving therapeutic massage, according to preliminary results of a study at the University of South Carolina.

For busy career people like us research has verified that:

• Office workers massaged regularly were more alert, performed better and were less stressed than those who weren't massaged.

I am a firm believer that massage therapy is absolutely a key in the healing process and rejuvenating any time and anywhere for all people.

Massage anyone? TRy and see for yourself.

Heaven is Never Too Far (Part 2)

Losing a family member, a friend and love ones to death is never easy and at times beyond bearable. Recently--I've been a witness to many losses. Writing about death is hard but it is only by understanding the purpose of death that I also understand the purpose of life. As if God was reminding me of my own mortality, their death came into my life like a thief in the night. It is heartbreaking to imagine that people you once shared your life with --- previously so active and full of life--can just one day disappear. Truly, losing someone special to you can bring incomprehensible grief and sadness.

A year ago, my family lost our grandmother whom we fondly call Lola Nanay. Losing Lola Nanay is like losing the strongest force in the family. She was our family’s chieftain, adviser and nurturer rolled into one. Lola Nanay was not only a grandmother to us and a mother to my mother but she was the respectable head of the clan. Her passing made everything in our lives different.

A little over Lola Nanay’s death, a friend of mine died of an accident overseas. April’s death was over long distance, but it did not make the pain any less real. April's death caught me off-guard. So young and so fresh for death! For 4 years, April became a little sister to me. We shared not only the magnificent experiences of friendship but also the extraordinary affections of real and genuine friendship (Ape was my housemate for 4 years in Manila!). Few weeks before she died, we were planning then to have a reunion in Hong Kong and really have the time of our lives! these plans were now on air...Few months after the crossing over of April, our family lost Lola A.

Lola A spent most of her lifetime with my family. She was my mother’s nanny when she (my mother) was only 11 years old. She remained such until my mother (an only child) got married, gave birth to 6 children and until all her wards graduated college. Lola A was not your ordinary and typical nanny—her love for my grandmother (Lola A vowed to take care of the family until the end), for my mother and us was something extraordinary, magical and unconditional. She was more than a nanny—she was like a mother—a doting mother actually. The loyalty and faithfulness she showed to my family was something one cannot fathom easily.

As months and years passed by, I personally discovered that I’ve been grieving each of the important deaths in my life until now. My mind still wanders around their burial memories, their memorial services and other closure rituals. My heart and my mind confirms the emotional fact that I miss them terribly! However, from time to time, I am comforted by my spiritual belief that in the end of our respective timelines, my family will have reunion in heaven. Because each of them had played unique role in my life, losing each of them left a tender void in my entire being—casting a shadow in my present life and most probably in my future. Now I can say that I’m bouncing back beautifully after these deaths but still, denying the fact that my grieving is not yet over will be a lie to my being. I am making ways to cope with grief and the thought that I was loved by these people comforts me so much in ways I cannot comprehend.

In my prayers, I always tell them that as they now start their journey in heaven---may our love bring them home and show them the way to eternal happiness. The love and care they showed to us through the years will be enough to sustain us through our lifetime. They have taught me so much but I know there is still so much to learn about life, love and death. I am doubly comforted by my belief that with their love, heaven is never too far.

The Hidden Paradise in CamSur!

I'm proud to be a CamSur resident! Little has been known about the little secret paradise in my province. My priest-brother first introduced me to this beautiful island. It was love at first sight for me! From the first time I laid my eyes on this tropical island--I knew I was hooked! Last year I was given the chance again to visit this secret paradise in my province. Some friends invited me to give a parent training int his island. Very little is known about Caramoan except when survivor russia and france came! Isolated from the rest of Camarines Sur, it is no surprise why Philippine's Secret Paradise remains unexploited from commercial tourism. This island is perfect for couple (honeymooning), friends (bonding) and for solo traveller as well (personal retreat and relaxation). Get captivated by the rugged coastline, trod the powdery white sand beach surrounded by crystal clear blue/green water. Nobody can resist falling in love with this hidden treasure. I cant wait to visit this island again and maybe share this paradise with friends. I hope this island will stay as it is today--unexploited and a true virgin for people to enjoy! Discover this island for yourself!

Her Gentle Presence

If there would be one person who can anticipate all my needs, read my deep-seated emotions and interpret my experiences meaningfully, it would be my mother. Call it mental telepathy--but my mom is a true mind and heart reader! Her concern for me and my siblings is something so wonderful and pressingly lasting. My gratitude for my mom, for her gentle presence is something I will not let loose. In moments of despair and loneliness, mama lyd's smile always calm us, always reassuring us that everything will fall into places. Mama Lyd spells out all the qualities a loving and nurturing mother could be. Today she reassured us that despite of the impending danger (typhoon), we will all be okay. Her virtues and capacity to love unconditionally are her investments. How blessed I am to have been born to such a wonderful mother. Her strength and wisdom guides me, her zest for life inspires me, her kindness and grace warms me. I can only wish to have the light that she gives for my siblings and the people she served-for she touches all around her with a kindred grace. I cant help but be truly grateful to God for giving me this wonderful woman--our gentle shield, comfort and friend.

Grace to See the Beauty

When I opened my email today I was shocked to find 137 new emails. The biggest number so far--- breaking my daily record of emails received. The emails were mostly from friends and relatives abroad who, like any other Filipinos overseas-- were extremely concerned with the effect of Typhoon Ondoy and now--the coming of the second typhoon, Pepeng. Many of my friends and relatives even more panicked when they heared of the tsunami and earthquake in Indonesia, knowing the proximity of Indonesia to the Philippines. For the past days I cant help but be affected emotionally by this disaster. Memories of my personal experience of typhoon reming (2006) and the Hubo landslide (2008) kept coming in. I tried making myself extra busy at work and in my center but I would be a hypocrite if I will not admit that the news, the pictures, the videos kept on reminding me of the past. As the massive devastation of the record downpour from Typhoon "Ondoy" unraveled few days ago, I cannot help but feel a little depressed...Bicolanos can swear how hard the road to recovery was and personally, I do not want other Filipinos to go through that again! The stories of tragedy, separation, displacement of families, etc.. it pains me so much. It shakes me to my very core. With the coming of typhoon pepeng, its double victimization for the people. Four days after the nce-in-a-lifetime flood that submerged most of Manila and neighboring areas, claiming nearly 250 lives, now---Typhoon Pepeng is lurking in the eastern part of the country making people more afraid as its course signals more storms, more destruction, more tragic stories and maybe more deaths. I can't help but imagine the scene after typhoon reming--people crammed into hundreds of schools, gymnasiums and other makeshift evacuation shelters---together with the discomfort, the emotional victimization is even more devastating.

I hope the Philippines will beautifully emerge as survivor after these large scale disasters. Now I am determined to be more prayerful and take responsibility not only to myself but my fellowmen and my country. I know how resilient the Filipinos are--and I am praying that God will even bless us with courage and the grace to see beauty in the midst of chaos.

A Night of Spiritual Inspiration: SVD Gospel Concert

Watching high-energy shows like the SVD Gospel Concert last friday and saturday was truly a different experience--spiritually and emotionally! The performers (Fr. Raul Caga, SVD, the ARnoldus Company, the DWCL Chorale and Dance Company) led by the superb musical director, Nez Marcelo and the ever artistic choreographer, Raymund Marcaida, the concert united the Albayanos in spirit and delivered God's message of love, joy, peace, hope and healing through their common passion: singing! Their animated delivery made the night even more memorable. The songs ignited gently the spirits within. After witnessing the two nights of spiritual inspiration, I knew our efforts were worth it!

Preparing for this concert was a stressful task. The organizers were given very limited time to really prepare for the big event. I remember being asked by my bosses to be a part of the few core members who will organize and brainstorm on the concert. After meeting the members of the core group--I knew everything will be okay. With Fr. Rikki, Frat Gilbert and Iris (and Ronan too!) as my partners--I knew immediately that everything will turn out right. The work started a month before the concert. Multi-tasking was the name of the game for each of us. I remember working on my backlogs, going to my center regularly for my therapy sessions with clients, preparing my talks (for my trainings), rushing my PhD papers and working on my third book while heading the secretariat for the concert--I don't even know why I remained sane despite of the complexities!

Meeting Fr. Raul again was a refreshing experience. I remember his first gig a year ago--it was a blast!When I learned that Fr Raul will be the lead singer--I knew I need not worry. He is a total performer. Fr Raul's singing was simply awesome especially with his scaling stratospheric octaves that wowed the 1000+ audience. Meeting Rama and Nez (Chereographer & Director) for the first time in a posh hotel even more assured me that the concert will turn out right! Rama's energy and beautiful disposition made everything so easy! Nez's simplicity and impressive musicality brought the house down! No wonder why Rama and Nez were super loved by the DWCL kids (grade school chorale)!

Meeting the SVD Fratres completed the picture! Their warmth and youthfullness made everything so light and enjoyable! JOnas was the clown of the group--with his playfullness and inocence (really?:)) --laughter became an easy commodity! Junjun's serious but so loving pesonality made all of us look forward to his visit (bitin eh!), Jerome's comic antic entertained us in the midst of energy depletion, John's happy disposition made all the hardwork really light, Dennis' good looks and shy personality made the college girls jump for joy and Louie's magnificient voice and intelligence (proven when I sat down with him and discussed scholarly issues during our midnight healthy break) completed the perfect picture.

The two days spirit filled musical activity became a true festival of music, prayer and dances.Many friends who watched the concert told me how the show touched their lives!Truly God works in magnificient ways--those two nights were a proof of that! I counted myself extra lucky watching the concert upclose! I knew instantly that the show was amazing when the audience started to roar in screams!

Bravo to Fr. Raul, the Arnoldus Company, the DWCL Performers, Rama and Nez! Hope to see you all in Legazpi again!

New Feel Good Movies!

Due to insisitent public demand--i am sharing with you new feel good movies I recently watched which mental health professionals could use in their diverse ministries (teaching, therapy, counseling, etc..).

UP (Pixar Film)

The story is about a 78 year old adventurer named Carl Fredricksen who tied his house with thousands of baloons and flies away to South America.From there, he met a stowaway named russel and they found hilarious journey ina lost world full of adventure, danger and fun!

In My Life (Star Cinema)

This movie is about Sherley, a school librarian, who was forced by circumstances to live in America with her gay son and his lover. There, she tries to start a new life with the help of her son's lover but soon discovered a dark secret. The ending was more of a surprise and tragic! believe me--this movie made me really cry (though not so much!). I have all praises for the actors and actresses in the movie for showing the difficult journey of a family with complex life storiesn and choices. Though the story did not have much direction in its story --it was somehow heart warming.

Fame



This sory is about the life of actors, actresses and musicians at the New York City High School of Performing Arts where they all were given the chance to live their dreams and succeed. On the way to fame--they all experienced hardships, self-doubt, competitive atmosphere, etc.. As time goes by, they all discovered their self-worth and their own journey to suceed. The movie was highlighted by each of their passion as they fight for the limelight and FAME!


Great movie for HS and College students.


HAPPY VIEWING!