Happy Birthday Mom!

Today is a very special day for a person whom I considered the greatest person in my entire life. Without her, I will not be here pursuing the purpose of my existence. Every mother on earth is considered the “light” of each every home. Mothers are the greatest gift God had created. Like Mother Mary, the mother of Jesus Christ, she is a symbol of piety, compassion, and love. I would like to consider this day so special for her although we are miles away from each other. I missed my mom so much that I could not give her a hug and kisses, that’s why this essay is dedicated to her for all the good things she had shared and given us. Her sacrifices, untiring love, compassion, and kindness will forever be remembered by me together with my brothers and sisters. Words are not enough to describe her dedication as a mother. We are very grateful to God that he gave us a mother like her. Today she is celebrating her 68th birthday, still very strong and healthy. We are praying to God to make her life longer so we can take care and serve her more. Personnally, I don’t know the repercussions if she ever leaves us. I may not be able to bear the emptiness of her presence. We also pray to God for her good health and lasting life. She deserves our care and in return to give our support and love for her.

Mom, we LOVE you so much. Happy Birthday and thank you for being there always. Take care of yourself. God bless you and may happiness and love reign unto you for the rest of your life.

You Came Into My Life

You came into my life when I'm alone

In the darkness you became my light.

You came into my life when there is fear

In my anxiety you became my reassurance.

You came into my life when I'm in doubt

In my questions you became my answers.

You came into my life when I feel insecure

In my worries you became my comfort.

You came into my life when I'm in despair

In my misery you became my happiness.

You came into my life when I'm just one

In my loneliness you became my companion.

Jesus Christ, you came when I needed you most

In my life, you are the center and everything to me.

I'm grateful to you for giving this life of mine.

Christmas

It's the happiest season
In the Christian world

A child named Jesus
Was born in a manger

To save the world
To spread love, peace, and hope

Season of reaching and giving
Season of joy and happiness

To remember his birth
Embrace the Word and Spirit

Everyone rejoices
In the name of Jesus

Hallelujah! Christ is born
A time for love called Christmas!

Let's make Jesus Christ the center of this Yuletide Season celebration. Let us refresh our hearts and minds and remember the great things He endures for the sake of God's great creation (Mankind). Remember the Love and Goodness of God through HIS only begotten Son Christ Jesus who came to this sinful world as a humble child. Merry Christmas to all!

11:00 AM

“Though you cannot see the outcome. Trust the Lord – He knows what’s best; Be assured He sees your trial, And He’s with you in your test” -Hess-

Exactly 11:00 am in the morning of a cold December, forty five years ago, a healthy child was born by a loving and caring mother from the city of Mandaluyong. 11:00 am the cry of a new born baby gave a new life and hope for a simple yet hardworking family. The child was nurtured by his parents to be a good, bright and brave individual. He attended his primary school with his brother and sister at San Felipe Neri Parochial School in Mandaluyong and continued to finished elementary school in Manila after their family transferred to Calolocan City. There the child became a consistent honor student, eventually graduating as a Model Student and With Honors. He continued to study at Torres High School, became a consistent honor student, Literary Editor of the school newspaper, an orator and declaimer, and an active member of the Student Catholic Action (SCA). He was very active as a writer, writing poems and essays, and two of his poems were published by MOD magazine. Dreaming to become a journalist, he was persuaded by his parents to abandon his plans because there’s no money for this profession. After his high school graduation, he passed the entrance examination at Pamantansan ng Lungsod ng Maynila (University of the City of Manila), an elite school for scholars where students are practically called “Scholar ng Bayan” (Scholar of the State). He finished college with flying colors earning his Bachelors degree in Business Administration major in Management. He became an employee of a medium scale sales company in Makati and Mandaluyong City for eight years. After the Gulf war ended in 1992, he along with a co-employee decided to apply in an agency in Makati looking for male secretary/clerk in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Luckily, after one week he received a telegram requesting him to report for medical examination, eventually hiring him as a secretary in Saudi Arabia. This was the start of the good things that happened to him working hard for many years away from his family. Along with his job in the Middle East, he never forget to write poems and essays every now and then. He helped his parents financially in sending younger brother and sisters to school. He continued to worked hard and transferred to Vinnell Arabia Corporation (an American contractor training the Saudi Arabian National Guard) as Admin Specialist. He worked then for five years. Looking for a more challenging job, he finished his contract with Vinnell and was hired as a Technical/Admin Staff for Middle East Battery Company in Dammam, Saudi Arabia. For eleven years he dedicated himself to his work and was then promoted as Coordinator/Secretary. It was indeed a story of success, patience and perseverance to attain such goals. During this period of his employment, he was able to purchased a house and lot, a parcel of land, and able to helped his parents. He is sending one of his nephew to school and continued his unconditional support to his family. Along with his success, he never forgets his passion for writing poems with a wide and interesting themes such as love, loneliness, war, peace, religion, family, patience, man, woman, and so on.

After forty five years of existence, this child who was born exactly 11:00 am on that peaceful morning is now a fulfilled and successful man. On this day of December 14, he is thanking God for all the blessings he received not only for him as well for his family. He will never forget the very day of his existence on this earth for God has given this precious life to him. Wishing that for years to come, he will still be able to serve and help his family, to have a healthy and peaceful life.

My Activities During the Eid Holiday

Good day to everyone! It's been a relaxing and stress free week for me. We have five days of holiday in Saudi Arabia celebrating Eid. This is the time I organized and cleaned my room, having a grand time sleeping, resting, shopping, and going to Corniche every morning and evening. I had a chance to spend the time listening to Classical music. Surprisingly, it's really relaxing and enjoyable to listen to the works of Tchaikovsky, Brahms, Chopin, Beethoven, Mozart, Bach, Verdi, Erik Satie, and Debossy. It makes my mind free from tension and strain, as if I'm flying like a free bird enjoying and thinking the beauty and good things of life, away from the pressures of work. To add to this stress free environment during this period is the excellent weather condition of December. I really like the cold season. This morning I was able to bring my digital camera during my early brisk walked at the Corniche. It was really a very lovely morning, indeed. Thank God! I'm sharing some snapshots I had taken and see the beauty of Corniche and Al-Khobar area.

(Few cars are passing along the highway going

to Khobar area in the early hours of the morning)

(A view of the Corniche and seaside area)

(This flower caught my attention along

the road, fresh and blooming)

A Prayer

It's the start of the month of December, my favorite month of the year. Why? Because it's the start of the Christmas season throughout the Christian world. Second, this is the month I was born. A Prayer, I believe is a fitting message I would like to share with you, a food for our soul.

"Lord, my desire is to live for You whether circumstances are good or bad.

Help me to focus on Your purposes.

Show me today in Your Word what You want me to do."

- Our Daily Bread-

Shades of Inspiration

Blessing for Better Days

When we keep an open mind, new opportunities open up. Sometimes when things don't go our way, it may seem that the world is coming to an end or that situation is hopeless. However, one way is just that, one way. There are many ways to achieve the goal and multiple solutions for a given situation. In fact, when one door slams shut, we should be alert for a new direction and new opportunities. All in all, when one door closes, it can actually be a blessing for better days.

-Anonymous-

Raven

Today is your very special day

Seven years you make us proud in so many ways
You are special because you are an excellent child
With a mind of an adult so sharp and so brilliant.

You are full of life and playful
Enjoying your time with your fellow playmates
You lead them to enjoy those precious time
Running and playing like there's no end for the night.

You are so warm and so sweet
You never forget to say "good morning" to your mom
You hug her so tight because she is your only guide
When you grow up, give her the love she had rendered to your life.

You are so thoughtful you never forget to say hello
Whenever I call and talk to you
The loneliness in my heart seems to fade
You're my inspiration wherever I go.

Raven, you make our world so joyful
In the family you are so adorable
In times of despair you make us happy
Sharing your own wit and humor our day is very lucky.

I stand as your second father, my son
My only wish for you is to continue your good behavior
Keep your studies as your high priority
Always pray to God and go to church constantly.

Remember this my son, my dear loving son
I will always support you whatever your endeavor
As you grow up you will understand this life
A life that is precious, full of colors, and very bright.

(This poem is dedicated to my loving son, Raven on his 7th birthday last September 26. Although the piece is supposed to be published last September at the time of his birthday, it is only now that I finally completed the poem. Nevertheless, its worth waiting for, and the poem is an inspiration for me).

The Start of the Cold Weather

The cold season in Saudi Arabia had just started on the first day of November. It is really enjoyable to take a walk at night and in the early hours of the morning while the untiring blow of the wind kisses my face and my skin. It's time to unwind to have a brisk walk after work along the Corniche. Last November 06, my friend Tony and I enjoyed the long walk at the Corniche area at Al-Khobar. Here are some snapshots I took during our journey.

"Soon shall the morning gild

The dark horizon rim,

Thy heart's desire shall be fullfilled

Wait patiently for Him."

-Havergal-

Myself taking time to relax.

This white bird caught my attention.
Saudi's taking a relaxing walk & conversation.
The tree of "Dates"

My friend Tony, having a grand time posing
behind the baywalk.

Waiting for our Kudu chicken lunch meal
order at Giant Store.

Wish I Could

Lots of pain and loneliness
This life of mine seems meaningless
Nobody cares, nobody dares
Wish I could have your happiness

Alone in the park, waiting for someone
Whom I can talk and partake my dreams
To share my feelings, my innermost thoughts
To listen with me and my life's history

Wish I could have all the key, of life's beautiful story
So I can live my life without to worry
To hold your hands and give me sympathy
Embrace my wholeness and warm my body

Wish I could be with you forever
So I will never cry and surrender
Someone I can love and be together
Until I die and at the end of time

Wish I could reach the rainbows end
So I can find the pot of joy that is God's send
The joy I'm longing to be with me
Forever and ever in a lifetime journey

Be Yourself

Believe in yourself
Stand by your own principle
Do what is right
And everything will be bright

Free yourself from worry
Create your own true identity
Preserve your dignity
Respect the rights of everybody

Enjoy your precious life
Be positive in your deeds
Smile and make others happy
Involve yourself in charity

Strengthen your faith to God
Make your life according to your belief
Just be your inner you
Be yourself
That's what you need to do

My Eleven Fruitful Years at MEBC

Looking back the past is not as easy it may be. There are past that are memorable and will be a guiding experience and learning in our life. For this reason, I would like to remember my eleven years of work at Middle East Battery Company a remarkable and unforgettable one.

Today, October 08, 2008, I’m celebrating my 11 years of employment with Middle East Battery Company (MEBC). I was hired on 1997 and it seems it was only like yesterday I was with my family in the Philippines. Eleven years of dedication of work, patience, perseverance, and fruitful years is how I describe my existence with my present company. For eleven years of hard work, I accomplished things that needs to be done. In other words, I was able to fulfill a significant part of my goals. I bought a parcel of land for future investment and completed to pay the house and lot I bought which I can say my very own. I had no regrets leaving my company in the Philippines because I can proudly say that I'm financially stable at this moment investing my money wisely. I know it’s not easy to work away from your family and love ones. This is the essence of sacrifice in order to uplift the condition of your economic status. I'm exultant to say that I helped and still helping my family and sending one of my nephew to school. My support to my family is unconditional and this makes me happy, contended, and fulfilled. You cannot explain the feelings inside if your intentions to do good things are sincere and wholeheartedly. Aside from these accomplishments, are experiences that I gained working in a foreign land. I had learned the culture of Saudi Arabia, its religion, the language, and most importantly the hospitality of the people in general. Working with other nationalities is a challenge for me to know their culture and traditions. Saudi Arabia is a good friend of our country and people. They welcome us to work with them and we became part of their success and development.

Eleven years seems too long for others. But for me, it was like a short period of time. If you look back and reminisce at the past, there are so many things to cherish and talk about. There are ups and downs, tears and laughter, frustrations and jubilations. This is a part of the process of moving and growing up, staying within the circle of time. I still believe that I can stay for two or three more years with MEBC, who knows. Only time can tell. For the meantime, I’m celebrating tonight my 11th anniversary going to my favorite restaurant at Al-Khobar area. Cheers!

Eid Mubarak!

Eid Mubarak! This is the greetings of every Muslims all over the world after the holy month of Ramadan has ended. I would like to congratulate our Muslim brothers on the occasion of Eid Al-Fitr (September 30, 2008). I hope that the Eid would bring a new period of peace, progress and prosperity in the Islamic world. I have a deep respect for Islam. And one thing I admire to this religion is their fasting and performing prayers during this holy month seeking God's forgiveness and blessing. This is one of the pillars of Islam. Again, my congratulations to our Muslim brethren for this occasion.

Two days before the end of Ramadan, I was able to capture the night mood of Corniche area in Al-Khobar. It was absolutely quite and peaceful. People are still at home during that hour. Only few cars are passing along the highway and a small number of cars are parked at a nearby mall along the Corniche road. You can feel a little coldness of the night with intermittent blow of the wind, a sign that the cold season is approaching in Saudi Arabia. Needless to say, I'm the first person who will be glad to have the cold season fast approach as I personnally adore the climate intimately.

"No one has the right to deny another their life, even though they disagree with it, because everyone has the right to live the life they so desire if it doesn't harm another."

- Brad Pitt -

Lucky Shirt

"This Is My Lucky Shirt". I bought this t-shirt two weeks ago. I was fascinated by the text written at the back of it, and I immediately bought it without a second thought. Wonders of wonders, since then, many good and positive things had happened to me. Because of this, I wear it every week going to my work. Sounds weird and crazy, huh!

I'm For Freedom

Democracy rules
In my great nation
I can say what I want
You call it freedom of expression.

I can write my ideas
Without fear and repression
I can wear anything that is accepted by society
With honor and dignity.

I can practice my faith
With confidence and devotion
I can live my life on my own choice
With no one dictating how it will be going.

This is the essence of democracy
You live according to your will and nothing to worry
Everybody is enjoying, life is free
I'm for freedom and personal liberty.

The Successful Man

Here is a story worth reading for. This was e-mailed to me by a good friend and since then I was amazed and proud to tell that I agree with the authors point of view with regards to the subject matter. The story is straightforward and frank with no pretentions. I always believe in the essence of a man measured not by his masculinity or virility, but the reputation he built during his lifetime that makes him respected and valued. As what the author emphasized, success lies on individual’s happiness and I truly agree with him. I therefore acknowledged his opinion regarding this matter. Whoever the author of this short essay, I salute him with his definitive frankness. I would like to share his thoughts through my blog so others might have an idea of what a successful man is.

He may be a business tycoon, political figure or from a prominent and influential family – he’s successful. But it doesn’t really matter your economic, professional and social status. At the end of the day, it is the character and value that will matter most. Success doesn’t mean the power, title, and fame. A man is not rich and multi-awarded person but he can say life has been practically okay – it’s success. When he earned the respect of the intelligent and righteous people, when he got the love of the innocent children – he is successful. When he left the world better than when he found it, either by an improved idea, sweet poem and song or a rescued soul, he is successful.

It is not even the marriage and children that can call you successful. Parenthood is a matter of choice. Having children and being a family man doesn’t weight more determination, perseverance and inspiration to succeed. It’s a matter of responsibility. Whether you’re happily married or unmarried by choice, the sense of responsibility makes the difference. A childless old man is better than a young father of great number of offspring who can not perform the obligations and responsibilities for his children’s welfare. The true measure of a man is not his masculinity, virility, vigor and being valiant. The stand of a man is the reputation he built during his life that makes him respected.

Success lies on individual’s happiness. As long as you are contented and enjoying the peace of mind, you are indeed happy – you are successful. You don’t have million dollar properties but you are happy with what you have – it’s success. Success is not wealth – it’s contentment. You’re not in any position but in your humble contribution as good citizen make you important in the community - then you are successful. Success is not popularity, it’s legacy.

If you value word of honor and conviction, you have no difference with the successful people. It is the honor that you built and duties you performed that will make you a man. It is better to be innocent than corrupted. The essence of a man is the life he lived that he will be best remembered when he died – these are the meaning of successful man.

Moral Story: Having no child is not failure. And so with being indigent. Success can measure in your happiness. As long as you have peace of mind - you are successful.

September Forever

Songs and poems are written about September

What is so special for this month to remember

Is this the beginning to celebrate the winter

And enjoy the alluring of the enjoyable weather

"September in the Rain" sang by the Beatles

"September Songs" sang by Kurt Weill

"September" sang by Earth, Wind and Fire

"September Mourn" sang by Neil Diamond

Are songs dedicated to this month of evermore

September is a season full of meaning

Sapphire is the birthstone that is so enticing

Morning Glory is the flower month of caring

September, September you are so appealing

In September rainy days and gentle breeze are here

The cold and windy morning intertwines together

Dew drops, fresh air around and the blooming flowers

A sight to behold to the eyes of lovers

September is here to stay forever

That brings answer to our everyday prayers

So mystifying, inexplicable and bewilder

A prelude for celebration until the time of December

If You Were A Dream

Your sweet smile
Your endearing face
Your kissable lips
Your soft touch

Your smooth skin
Your shiny hair
Your well chiseled nose
Your expressive eyes

Your gentle voice
Your fresh and feminine scent
Your candle like hands
Your beautiful body

It's you who fill the emptiness in my life
You are the perfect woman in my sight
That I've been looking for long
In my dreams I will love you more

You are an angel coming from heaven
Who shared wonderful things to brethren
You make things so enlighten
And brings happiness to human being

If you were a dream
I would like to make it happen!

The Cat

I envy this little feline

Who is free from worry and pressure

I realize that his world is different from us

Sleeping, resting and relaxing

I wish, I could had his time also.

A Man's Plea to Serenity

Down through the alley of darkness
I found nothing but isolation
With total silence and confusion
I reach to get out of this man's subjugation

With nowhere to go, no one to rely on
Man will never perceive the picture of peace
With everybody's mind is domination
To kill and slaughter each other

Why is religion a factor of war
Does anybody realize that there is only one creator
Why we cannot settle those differences
And live with peace, till next generation

Why don't we forget the bitter past of disagreement
Heal the wounds of hatred, and free the generous heart
Why everybody's fooling around to get even
In destroying the essence of humankind

We live to love life, we live just that
Are we not afraid of our divine God
For he is the creator, he can ruin us
Why we cannot cherish his sole gift to human race

My brothers, my sisters on earth
I'm begging you to value the souls of birth
We are here to live in peace
Not to fight and destroy each race

Stop the killings and halt the slaughter
Our children will never see the beauty of life
They will never endure the essence of forever
If we continue to fight one another

God, help us to reach your kingdom!

When Heaven Comes To Earth

As I was browsing the internet for the past week, the conflict between Russia and Georgia was on the headline. Even in the news from BBC or CNN, the situation on both countries are significantly on the top of news broadcast side by side on the ongoing Beijing Olympics. This reminds me of the conflict during the 90s of Serbia (formerly Yugoslavia) and Bosnia Herzegovina (the breakaway republic of Yugoslavia). The horrors and genocide of that war still lingers on my mind. It was horrific and unimaginable. Whenever I saw the pictures of the dead people and stories about torture and rape, I cannot wonder why these things could happened. How human beings could inflict such ungodly behavior to fellow human beings in the name of religion, nationalistic pride or whatever. Needless to say, people should think of peaceful means and not intimidation to resolve an issue. It is the civilian population who are being affected whenever war is being impose, the innocent children and the elderly ones who are helpless during the conflict. My message is very clear, and I believe that this is universally accepted that we need peace not war during this time.

I had written about the conflict of Russia and Georgia because I had accidentally found an old poem I had written way back 1995 during the conflict at Yugoslavia. Actually, it was included on my supposed collection of poems that I planned to publish for a book (I’m still searching for a publisher who is interested to finance it). Hence, it is only now I will publish the poem on this blog, about the war in Yugoslavia during that time. I hope and pray that the conflict in Russia and Georgia would stop but also in other countries who are experiencing the same situation. All we need is to live in peace and harmony, to live without fear, and free from oppression. I'm dedicating this poem to the people of Georgia and to my fellow brothers in Mindanao, especially in Lanao who were relentlessly attacked by rouge, renegade and disoriented people. I still believe that the power of God will stop this war .......

When Heaven Comes to Earth

The nights of Grozny are filled of fire

That blazes upons skin which nevers decline

The littered dead bodies in the streets are lined

Will never be forgotten in one man's eyes

The wrath of scourge had not one enough ....

In Bosnia you can hear the cries and anguish

Of mothers longing to her childs vanguish

The rape of the flesh, the pain of the mind

Is a picture of ones earth, and pillar of its kind

The wrath of scourge had not one enough .....

When the birds prey are seen to the world

The blood of innocence are bound to be called

The thirsty that craves in the midst of the cold

Will grace upon man's imagination and thoughts

The vivid slaughter and deprivation to exist

Had been shown to the world and no one had resist

Bloodsheds and killings because of every man's faith

Is the scheme of everyone that has to be played

The heaven's of earth are full of tears

Crying for the dead, weeping for the less

Seeking for an answer that has to be relish

That never cease to flow till it has to bear

When heaven comes to earth

The singing and dancing has to be started

Man's folly to forget is not a bliss

Reasons of ignorance is not the road for peace

Stop the killings, heaven is nearing on earth

Celebration of Life

People smiling, full of glee and happiness
Cheering the rites of a bright new morning
Full of colors with the mood of rejoicing
A new day has come that is so dazzling

Mornings are merriment of a fresh day
A sign of life that reminds us to care
A beginning that extends till nightfall
A whole day of existence that is truly admirable

Celebration of life, God’s gift to our time
Cherish the moment of our very existence
A period of life, a sign of uniqueness
So precious and feast of joyfulness!

Alone (Again)

I can't go out of this darkness
Now that I'm alone
Waiting for someone to rescue me
From the solitude of my existence

I feel the emptiness
Void of sentiment
Absence of colors
My life has to offer

Wanting to be love
But nowhere to be found
Tears flowing, crying for help
Deep inside I'm really hurt

Taken by my time
The silence is only mine
Alone in the stillness
Of my own subsistence

Road to Success

Sometimes our road to our destination is rough
It makes us wonder why it is so tough
The journey seems so long to reach
As we struggle our goal to become complete.

In every each person course to his life
There are challenges that we need to fight
Reach out for our aim and aspiration
In the end, we will succeed with our own intention.

Songs In My Life

I considered music or songs a very essential part of my life. Needless to say, some way or the other they touches and influences my mood and the way I carry out my day to day activities. Through the years, songs are my refuge whenever I feel sad, happy, and satisfied. And today, as part of my recollections, I will list down these songs that nearly become attached in my life.

1. Love Will Lead You Back (Taylor Dayne) - This song evokes the emotions you would feel after being separated when all the love you had for that person remains in your heart. Through all the pain and suffering, you feel that love will lead you back again. The song remains the number one on my list as this is the most fitting song that evolves in my life. You love, you hurt, you give everything to please that person but in the end you separated and hurt each others feeling. At the end of the day, somehow, somewhere, love will find it's way.

2. True (Spandau Ballet) - Since my college days, I had been a fan of Spandau Ballet. Their hit song "True" is one of the best songs I considered that came out during the 80s. It's a purely blue-eyed soul music (very relaxing and calming) that I listen from time to time. Timeless classic. And its a beautiful love song.

3. This Used To Be My Playground (Madonna) - I admit that I'm a Madonna fan as I considered her the greatest female pop/rock artist. Most of her songs are controversial, but this is one of my favourite ballad songs she had sang. This song make you think about your life and all the things that have happened to you. It's a song about us. It makes me feel like I'm about to burst into tears when I used to listen with it.

4. Dust In The Wind (Kansas) - This song is about the true value of material things and success. All the material things and success we had in our life is nothing after we die just everyone else. Eventually, as the song narrates, "for all we are is dust in the wind". One of the best Kansas songs and it keeps haunting me wherever I go.

5. Sailing (Christopher Cross) - The song is about the singer's memories of sailing every summer with a friend. Yes, I always remember this song during my summer escapades in Batangas. Going to the beach with my friends sailing in a small banca and enjoying every minute of it without the hassles of city life. Away from the concrete jungle.

6. Overjoyed (Stevie Wonder) - its about someone with dreams of finding their true love and they actually find that love and is pleading for that one you love to have those same "overjoyed" feelings towards you. The song is very inspiring and you feel estatic about finding ones love.

7. Places That Belong To You (Barbra Streisand) - The song is the theme song of the film "The Prince of Tides" starring Nick Nolte and Barbra Streisand.

8. Another Day in Paradise (Phil Collins) - This song addresses the problem of ignoring the needy and the homeless. It's a great song that makes people think ... to look back and help the less fortunate. "Oh think twice, its another day for you and me in paradise."

9. Oh Mother (Christina Aguillera) - This is obviously dedicated to my endearing Mother, the wind beneath my wings. The song implies the hardship a mother had gone through an abusive relationship with her husband. Somehow, there is a similar meaning the song has to convey about my dear mother who has endured hard and painful times in raising seven children in our family. Whenever I played this song, tears will always flow in my eyes remembering her love, patience, hardship, kindhearted and devout character.
 

10. Cuts Both Ways (Gloria Estefan) - This is my favourite song of Gloria Estefan. The song is mellow and sweet and it brings back nice memories in your life. I first heard this song when I was in Riyadh way back 1996. Until then, it never fades on my list of songs I listened.

11. Water Runs Dry (Boyz II Men) - This song is about two people who split up and have yet to rectify what broke them up in the first place. The persona is coming upon a moment of realization that if they don't attempt to fix this, then they could regret it terribly. Everyone can relate to this song, the lyrics are beautiful and the vocals are really breathtaking.

12. Somebody (Depeche Mode) - Is a love song in which the lead singer of Depeche Mode Martin Gore sings of his desire to find someone to be his lover and his confidant and who respects his opinions about "the world we live in and life in general," though she may not necessarily agree with them. This song is considered as universal because everyone can relate to this song whatever gender he belongs to. "Somebody" is a song I considered more on religion because this is a song of renewal of faith.

13. Everybody Wants to Rule the World (Tears for Fears) - This is my favorite and ultimate song of Tears for Fears. It is considered the pinnacle of Tears for Fears' chart success. The message of the song is quite serious and it's about everybody wanting power and domination, about war and misery, sufferings it causes.

Mystery

After the rain, a rainbow appears
That mystifies the nature of different hues
At the end of its point is a pot of gold
It creates a mystery that has long been told.

The scent of a perfume that rouse constantly
So magical and remains a mystery
Creating a potion that is irresistibly
That captures the senses of everybody

Songs that creates joy and pleasure
It brings contentment to our inner soul
A wonderful emotion, full of composure
So difficult to describe, thus unexplainable

The sun that kisses to the coldness of the sea
The waves dancing to the flow of glee
It amazes the stillness and tranquility
In the vast ocean of serenity

The mountains, the spring, and the valley
Is a sight to behold on its lush greenery
So marvelous that anyone can see
The creation of divinity will forever a mystery

Tips for an Exceptional, Superb and Powerful Life

The tips below was send to me via e-mail by a good friend. I want to share it to all the bloggers and readers out there about these tips because they are good pointers for us to practice it in our everyday life. I acknowledged whoever the author or the originator of these tips. Its very well made and said. I hope one way or the other, this will serve as a guide for us to live in a positive and peaceful life. Take time to read and you will realize that life is so wonderful.

1.) Take a 10-30 minute walk every day. And while you walk, smile. It is the ultimate anti-depressant.

2.) Sit in silence for at least 10 minutes each day. Buy a lock if you have to.

3.) Always pray and make time to exercise.

4.) Spend more time with people over the age of 70 and under the age of Six.

5.) Eat more foods that grow on trees and plants. And eat less foods that are manufactured in plants and factories.

6.) Drink green tea and plenty of water. Eat broccoli, almonds & walnuts.

7.) Try to make at least three people smile each day.

8.) Clear your clutter from your house, car, desk and let new and flowing energy into your life.

9.) Don't waste your precious energy on gossip, issues of the past, negative thoughts or things you cannot control. Instead, invest your energy in the positive present moment.

10.) Realize that life is a school and you are here to learn. Problems are simply part of the curriculum that appear and fade away like Algebra class .......but the lessons you learn will last a lifetime.

11.) Eat breakfast like a king, lunch like a prince, and dinner like a college kid with a maxed out charge Card.

12.) Life isn't fair, but it's still good.

13.) Life is too short to waste time hating anyone.

14.) Don't take yourself so seriously. No one else does.

15.) You don't have to win every argument. Agree to disagree.

16.) Make peace with your past so it won't screw up the present.

17.) Don't compare your life to others. You have no idea what their journey is all about.

18.) Ladies - Go on and burn those 'special' scented candles, use the 600 thread count sheets, the good China and wear fancy lingerie now. Stop waiting for a special occasion. Every day is special.

19.) No one is in charge of your happiness except you.

20.) Frame every so-called disaster with these words: 'In five years, will this matter?'

21.) Forgive everyone for everything.

22.) What other people think of you is none of your business.

23.) Time heals almost everything. Give time, time!

24.) However good or bad a situation is, it will Change.

25.) Your job won't take care of you when you are sick. Your friends will. Stay in touch with them.

26.) Get rid of anything that isn't useful, beautiful or joyful.

27.) Envy is a waste of time. You already have all You need. God provides, remember?!

28.) The best is yet to come.

29.) No matter how you feel, get up, dress up and show up.

30.) Do the right thing!

31.) Call your family often.

32.) Each night before you go to bed complete the following statements: 'I am thankful for __________.' Today I accomplished _________.

33.) Remember that you are too blessed to be stressed.

34.) Enjoy the ride. Remember that this is not Disney World and you certainly don't want a fast pass. You only have one ride through life so make the most of it and enjoy the ride.

LIVE, LOVE, LAUGH! LIFE'S A PRESENT ... UNWRAP IT!

Have a Blessed day!

Nature Trip

Shadow of My Soul

As I walk through the shadows of time
I never thought this life of mine
Complicated, full of struggles and sorrow
I had realized that I need a life of joy to borrow

The loneliness that I feel
In the darkness of my solitude
Nobody knows the pain that I bear
In my world that is so hard to explain

Wounds in my heart that needs to be heal
So deep, so hurtful, and so real
That cuts in the threshold of my flesh
And invades to my soul of sadness

The searching continues to hound
As the shadows of my soul abound
To the chamber of misery and despair
That grips to the inner self of solitaire

25 Things You Didn't Know About Me

Most bloggers on the net prepare "20 Things You Didn't Know About Me" trivia. I do believe that twenty is not enough to enumerate those things. It's too short for me. For a change, I will break the rule of this trivia. I will make it to 25 just to satisfy my yearning to outnumber the details. Sounds interesting but I hope you will learn some meaning about my life. I don't consider myself to be "somebody" but I'm trying to be humane in the sense that I want to share what my thoughts and aspirations in life are. To others I may be boring, but to my friends, I may be worthy of a human being. Please consider me your friend as I'm longing to be one.

25 Things You Didn't Know About Me

1. I strongly believe in Karma. If you do good things, then good things will happen to you.

2. Poetry writing is my first passion in life. I used to write poems when I was in elementary school. I have several poems that was published in MOD Magazine and in our school newspaper during my high school years (I was the Literary Editor then).

3. I'm passionate about perfumes and colognes. My favourite are JOOP Go, Dunhill Fresh, Cool Water, Acqua de Gio, Cold of Benetton, and Tommy Hilfiger.

4. I like wearing jeans and T's. That's my idea of a casual and comfortable wear.

5. I'm a nature tripper. I love going to the beach and watch the serenity of the sea, watch the sunset to its glory and watch the children playing in the sand innocently.

6. I'm a cinephile. I like watching art and documentary films. My favourite film is "The Shawshank Redemption" starring Tim Robbins and Morgan Freeman. I cry at the end everytime I watch it. "Fear can hold you prisoner. Hope can set you free" is my favourite quote based on the film's tagline.

7. The first movie I watched at the theatre when I was a child is "The Sound of Music" starring Julie Andrews. The whole family watched it when we are still three kids then.

8. I'm also a music lover. I cannot sleep without playing my favourite songs, especially Love Will Lead You Back by Taylor Dayne, True by Spandau Ballet, Somebody by Depeche Mode, All My Life by America, This Used To Be My Playground by Madonna, Sailing by Christopher Cross, All I Asked of You by Barbra Streisand and Lady by Kenny Rogers.

9. I considered my Mother the greatest person I've ever encountered in my life. She is caring, patient, devout, piety, unselfish, and loving. I don't know what will happen to me if she ever leaves us.

10. I dreamed of becoming a Journalist and I end up becoming a Secretary.

11. I hate smokers, liars, untidy, and conceited people.

12. Red and turquoise are my favourite color.

13. I like to take pictures a lot using my digital cam. I enjoy photography more and more. I like to capture nature and life's color.

14. Broast Chicken, Chicken Lunch Meal (Kudu), Cheeseburger, and Pizza Pie are my favourite food.

15. I'm on water therapy since I undergone a Uteroscopic Stone Removal last August 2007. I drink 1 liter of water as I wake up in the morning before brushing my teeth. This is my morning ritual everyday. After 45 minutes it is only then I will eat my breakfast. I only drink water the whole day and successfully avoided to drink coffee, tea, and soft drinks.

16. I collect mugs, stamps, caps, backpacks, and coins.

17. My very first job after graduating from College is Data Encoder.

18. I owned five different kind of cellphones at the moment. And I'm wondering why.

19. I have a complete CDs of Madonna albums. From her very first album titled "Madonna", to her latest one, "Hard Candy". I consider her the greatest female rock artist.

20. My favorite TV series is the widely acclaimed "X-FILES" starring David Duchovny and Gillian Anderson. I love the characters of Agent Fox Mulder and Dana Scully.

21. I love staying in the water for a long time. It will take me 30 minutes to perform my shower in the morning and in the evening. My element I assume is water.

22. I had been to Batangas more often than any other place in my life as far as I remember. I had been to Lobo, Lemery, Calatagan, Anilao, Taal, Nasugbu, Calaca, Tanauan, Matabungkay. The beaches are so enchanting that I keep coming back to these places.

23. I did not attend my high school graduation day in protest to my non-inclusion in the honor list.

24. I got my professional drivers license - Year 1996.

25. There are three important things you can find in my backpack or any carrying bag I bring, the Bible, the Rosary, and my Cellphones.