Living in the "if you care", the world will pave the way to happiness and longevity which are obtainable through the tablet of good health.
If you care for your lungs avoid smoking,
If you care for your heart avoid excess salt,
If you care for your liver avoid excessively fatty foods,
If you care for your stomach avoid cold foods,
If you care for your intestines replace junk foods with vegetables,
If you care for your pancreas avoid overfeeding,
If you care for your kidney drink a lot of water during the day; less water at night. Empty your bladder before going to sleep,
If you care for your brain sleep for 8 hours between every 16 hours.
And if you care for others, tell them about living in the "if you care' world.
*Your heart is the greatest ever of energy in your body. Though weighing only 11 ounces on average, a healthy heart pumps 2,000 gallons of blood through 60,000 miles of blood vessels each day. If this energy supply declines, serious problems occur. It's the number one cause of death.
*Your brain is 3 % of your body weight yet it uses 20 % of your energy.
* Your liver has an astounding 2,000 mitochondria in every single cell. Your liver acts like a fine screen that filters out health-wrecking toxins, bacteria, and viruses. It also processes anything you eat or drink and either reformulate it for your body to use or eliminates it.
* Your kidney process 200 quarts of blood to separate out 2 quarts of waste products. The waste and extra water, become urine, flowing to your bladder. this is an energy-intensive job. The Journal of the American Society of Nephrology says, "reduced mitochondrial function is a dominant feature of diabetic kidney illness."
Combat the Effects of Aging You Hate- By Jennifer Peterson, Editor, Anti-Aging News
A leading scientist just discovered a miraculous new coenzyme that counters cell age by up to 40 years. It's a key compound that supports creating new mitochondria - a key to vibrant health. Many health experts call this the greatest anti-aging discovery ever. It's about this anti-aging pill called MitoBoost with Niagen. TIME reports NIAGEN "extends your healthspan." ABC NEWS says NAD+ (Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide), is "the secret to immortality." This has been found by a Harvard geneticist, Dr. David Sinclair. This extraordinary new compound that literally de-ages your cells, keeping you vibrantly healthy as you age is NAD+ and it's inside every single cell in your body. It "switches on" the long -life genes that give you boundless energy and vitality. Studies reveal that NAD+ levels decline 78% as you age.
Age reversal is real. You can now live a healthy and vigorous life into your 80s, 90s, or 100.
When we exercise or diet, NAD+ levels go up and we become healthier. The problem is that as we age, our body makes less and less NAD+. MitoBoost with Niagen is the greatest anti-aging pill.
Scientist predicts the end of aging starts in 2019
Niagen is the next generation of anti-aging science. It took the Harvard Medical School and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology 18 years to reach this historic conclusion. By increasing your NAD+ level, you can actually reverse the aging process in your cells and recharge them with youthful energy. These doctors say with full confidence that NIAGEN is the most powerful, cutting-edge formula they've ever seen. In human studies, NIAGEN, raised NAD+ levels as much as 270%. In clinical studies, a single dose alone caused an immediate 33% increase, a significant rise.
Nothing else raises NAD+ levels. NIAGEN is the first and only commercially available formof nicotinamide riboside (NR), available in the country. After all this research, it is now clinically shown to raise your NAD+ levels which support the health of your mitochondria. Boosting your NAD+ level is essential for staying active and energetic through your 70s, 80s, 90s. Niagen's remarkable proprietary formula is protected by five patents because it works.
Thursday, December 27, 2018
Thursday, December 06, 2018
Sunday, October 21, 2018
Pres. Rodrigo Roa Duterte
President Rodrigo Roa Duterte of the Philippines
The Third Top Leader of the World and the Most Powerful President.
A prestigious Time Magazine published him as the number 3 among the 10 top leaders of t
he world. And to my understanding, in today's world, he is the most powerful president. Reason being that he has taken cared of the guardians of peace and order of his country- the police (PNP), the Army (AFP), the Navy (PN), the Coast Guard, and the Air Force (AF). This means that the powerful forces that guard the country have full loyalty and confidence in him as the Chief Executive and Commander-in-Chief. And he has completely renewed the scenario of the press without curtailing the freedom of expression. Besides, he has 80% that voted for him. A thunderous voice of 80% that voted for him. Vox populi, vox Dei - the voice of the people is the voice of God.
He said he was elected to serve his people and to protect the country. He is an employee, a worker. He is paid by the people and thus offer them the country that they so deserved, dreamed, and hoped for. And he has taken care of them, catering to their demands, to ameliorate them from the dregs of penury, from the dread of illegal drugs. In fact, he promised the National Peoples Army (NPA), the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) to come out of hiding and be a part, an asset and work with the government instead of fighting against it as they were out from their families for almost 50 years. Now on his administration, Malacanang Palace is open to their demands, to their clamors. As Filipinos, he wants them to enjoy their freedom, their aspirations, and be with their loved ones.
His only simple promise is to stop the flow of illegal drugs, minimize corruption, and criminality. He is performing and delivering his promises with less politicking as he is only good for a 6-year term plus he is already over 70 years old. He is almost done with the laurels but is much excited about the projects of build, build, build to change the picture of the country that has been devastated by the tsunami of corruption, the rising of criminality, and dysfunctional families wrecked by the havoc of illegal drug called shabu.
He is an elected president of a sovereign country who has a viable 3 branches of government- the Executive, the Legislative, and the Judiciary. He doesn't want to kowtow to any foreign leader. His campaign on the illegal shabu drug that consequently resulted in murder is only poised to the criminals. But why in the village, on the young, on the poor people because shabu is not expensive when compared to the other drugs that are for the rich and the moneyed. The other thing is, the less expensive shabu drug does more harm and even makes the family dysfunctional according to him.
This is the reason why he repeatedly said that if you'll destroy the young, I'll kill you!
The Third Top Leader of the World and the Most Powerful President.
A prestigious Time Magazine published him as the number 3 among the 10 top leaders of t
He said he was elected to serve his people and to protect the country. He is an employee, a worker. He is paid by the people and thus offer them the country that they so deserved, dreamed, and hoped for. And he has taken care of them, catering to their demands, to ameliorate them from the dregs of penury, from the dread of illegal drugs. In fact, he promised the National Peoples Army (NPA), the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) to come out of hiding and be a part, an asset and work with the government instead of fighting against it as they were out from their families for almost 50 years. Now on his administration, Malacanang Palace is open to their demands, to their clamors. As Filipinos, he wants them to enjoy their freedom, their aspirations, and be with their loved ones.
His only simple promise is to stop the flow of illegal drugs, minimize corruption, and criminality. He is performing and delivering his promises with less politicking as he is only good for a 6-year term plus he is already over 70 years old. He is almost done with the laurels but is much excited about the projects of build, build, build to change the picture of the country that has been devastated by the tsunami of corruption, the rising of criminality, and dysfunctional families wrecked by the havoc of illegal drug called shabu.
He is an elected president of a sovereign country who has a viable 3 branches of government- the Executive, the Legislative, and the Judiciary. He doesn't want to kowtow to any foreign leader. His campaign on the illegal shabu drug that consequently resulted in murder is only poised to the criminals. But why in the village, on the young, on the poor people because shabu is not expensive when compared to the other drugs that are for the rich and the moneyed. The other thing is, the less expensive shabu drug does more harm and even makes the family dysfunctional according to him.
This is the reason why he repeatedly said that if you'll destroy the young, I'll kill you!
Saturday, August 25, 2018
The Legacy of My Father: A Daughter's Eulogy
By: Evangeline Rueles Caermare Trabanca
"There is an appointed time for everything," goes the New American Bible," and a time for every affair under the heavens. A time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to uproot the plant..."
My father's time has arrived when the shadows totally disappeared from the face of the earth. It was seven in the evening when my father surrendered to a fully-lived life. And he has spent well his time, so that we, the living must appreciate the value of time. He has embraced the American time not the Filipino time. He never dilly-dallies.
My father had known that smoking was bad when as a young elementary pupil he was caught smoking and was punished. That incident made an indelible mark that proved to benefit him in his growing years. With that started the grain of discipline, obedience, honesty, and temperance that germinated into a purpose-driven life.
Teodorico Magallanes Caermare was born on that lovely first day of July, nineteen hundred and ten (07/01/1910) in Maralag, Polanco, Zamboanga del Norte. As a young man, he already saw the promise that the soil would bring. Instead of working in an office, or working with a company, he poised his vision to work in his own office, his own company, and with his own boss. And it was no bed of roses but thorns of struggles and sacrifices. Yet his attitude was different because he saw crowns, not thorns in his struggles. Then he fell in love with a woman and built a marital nest only to be uprooted by indifference and doubts. But he doubted not his heart as he saw a star in his gloomy nights.
He found a very young lady, " mutya sa buhat, salamin sa kakugi ug bililhon." He made a vow to protect, defend and love her as long as the Patawag River flows. He married Agapita Bahao Rueles on June 16, 1934. In 1935, a baby boy was born coiled with an umbilical cord. Life was short-lived. In 1936, a girl has christened Esperanza which means hope but that hope's spark lasted only for thirteen years.
1940 - the year I was born. I was named after the sweetheart of Gabriel in the high school story - Evangeline, The Tale of Acadie. After the demise of my sister Esperanza, I became the eldest and the Evangelizer. True to my name, I promised to be a role model to my brother and sisters. The yoke of responsibility was now on my shoulders and I followed the star of my dream to be a Florence Nightingale. 1942 - Antonietta came followed by Arturo in 1944 but witnessed the world only by three years. Then another boy arrived. He was baptized Luisito but fondly nicknamed Boy. Then Elizabeth (Abeth), Lucila (Baby), and Ruelca (Inday)
My father at this point in his life vowed to do his level best and held on as four children were down in the playing field of life. He fully consecrated himself, so to speak, to God, to his family, to his neighbor. He cultivated and developed his land and his talent. While others spent their time on worldly fun and frolics, he happily busied himself on his land, on his family with the ever-guiding, ever-providing, and ever-thinking wife. He woke up before dawn appeared. And gleefully greeted the world as the rays of the sun broke through the hills and valleys of the countryside. He found the bluebird of happiness in the honest daily toil of his jungle land. He discovered joy as he watched his plants grow. And the land was his. With his time, talent, and treasure, he toiled this land under the aegis of stewardship. This land became his retirement treasure. He gave his share to the church, to his God of which he is but a steward and so are we all. And to his family.
For the sake of our Father, who is now at peace with God, let us siblings and those linked with us preserve this land which is our precious LEGACY. Let us renew our vows through thick and thin, in good times and in bad times to take good care of this our Land, and not abandoned it nor let transgressors trample it- so that our children and their children and the children of their children will have the pride to relate the story of a man who loved the soil, loved life and loved his family.
My father has a musical inclination. He made a violin out of a Kamagong (a tree with fine lumber) that was comparable to the world-famous Stradivarius violin made by Antonio Stradivarius of Cremona, Italy. He proudly tackled this violin with his favorite classical tunes during his break time, and on moonlight nights when he was home after a hard day's labor, or when loneliness visited his agrarian life. My father can also strum/play the ukelele (small guitar), the banjo, and the tenor. All were string instruments.
He has an entrepreneurial prowess too, In fact, he pioneered the Evinrude/Pinta pump boat-outdoor motor water transportation in the 50s when there were no roads yet connecting Labason to the neighboring municipalities of Liloy and Salug. Excursion to Bayangan (Murceilagos) island was made possible by this mode of water transportation. It was also during those years that my father was involved in the fishing business (Baling-Sinsuro). And my mother was always there to be his secretary, treasurer, consultant, and home provider.
And, in all these, my father was a strict disciplinarian and markedly honest. He always tells the truth even though it hurts. He never dodges or hides an issue. Time to him is precious as he was always on the precise time when he has an appointment. To him, what is true is right, and what is false should be condemned. What I can't forget about my father was his very beautiful cursive handwriting which is rare nowadays in our highly technical world.
As Father Thomas Merton said, "Every moment and every event of every man's life on earth plants something in his soul. For just as the wind carries thousands of winged seeds, so each moment brings with it germs of spiritual vitality that come to rest imperceptibly in the minds and wills of men. Most of these unnumbered seeds perish and are lost because men are not prepared to receive them; for such seeds as these cannot spring up anywhere except in the good soil of freedom, spontaneity, and love."
As a farmer, a husband, and a provider- my father did not die he just fade away with his carabao, his outboard motor in a palm-silhouetted sunset.
On behalf of my brother, sisters-in-law, and relatives, I am grateful to all of you here. Your presence is highly appreciated in our moments of bereavement. Thank you very much!
By: Evangeline Rueles Caermare Trabanca
"There is an appointed time for everything," goes the New American Bible," and a time for every affair under the heavens. A time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to uproot the plant..."
My father's time has arrived when the shadows totally disappeared from the face of the earth. It was seven in the evening when my father surrendered to a fully-lived life. And he has spent well his time, so that we, the living must appreciate the value of time. He has embraced the American time not the Filipino time. He never dilly-dallies.
My father had known that smoking was bad when as a young elementary pupil he was caught smoking and was punished. That incident made an indelible mark that proved to benefit him in his growing years. With that started the grain of discipline, obedience, honesty, and temperance that germinated into a purpose-driven life.
Teodorico Magallanes Caermare was born on that lovely first day of July, nineteen hundred and ten (07/01/1910) in Maralag, Polanco, Zamboanga del Norte. As a young man, he already saw the promise that the soil would bring. Instead of working in an office, or working with a company, he poised his vision to work in his own office, his own company, and with his own boss. And it was no bed of roses but thorns of struggles and sacrifices. Yet his attitude was different because he saw crowns, not thorns in his struggles. Then he fell in love with a woman and built a marital nest only to be uprooted by indifference and doubts. But he doubted not his heart as he saw a star in his gloomy nights.
He found a very young lady, " mutya sa buhat, salamin sa kakugi ug bililhon." He made a vow to protect, defend and love her as long as the Patawag River flows. He married Agapita Bahao Rueles on June 16, 1934. In 1935, a baby boy was born coiled with an umbilical cord. Life was short-lived. In 1936, a girl has christened Esperanza which means hope but that hope's spark lasted only for thirteen years.
1940 - the year I was born. I was named after the sweetheart of Gabriel in the high school story - Evangeline, The Tale of Acadie. After the demise of my sister Esperanza, I became the eldest and the Evangelizer. True to my name, I promised to be a role model to my brother and sisters. The yoke of responsibility was now on my shoulders and I followed the star of my dream to be a Florence Nightingale. 1942 - Antonietta came followed by Arturo in 1944 but witnessed the world only by three years. Then another boy arrived. He was baptized Luisito but fondly nicknamed Boy. Then Elizabeth (Abeth), Lucila (Baby), and Ruelca (Inday)
My father at this point in his life vowed to do his level best and held on as four children were down in the playing field of life. He fully consecrated himself, so to speak, to God, to his family, to his neighbor. He cultivated and developed his land and his talent. While others spent their time on worldly fun and frolics, he happily busied himself on his land, on his family with the ever-guiding, ever-providing, and ever-thinking wife. He woke up before dawn appeared. And gleefully greeted the world as the rays of the sun broke through the hills and valleys of the countryside. He found the bluebird of happiness in the honest daily toil of his jungle land. He discovered joy as he watched his plants grow. And the land was his. With his time, talent, and treasure, he toiled this land under the aegis of stewardship. This land became his retirement treasure. He gave his share to the church, to his God of which he is but a steward and so are we all. And to his family.
For the sake of our Father, who is now at peace with God, let us siblings and those linked with us preserve this land which is our precious LEGACY. Let us renew our vows through thick and thin, in good times and in bad times to take good care of this our Land, and not abandoned it nor let transgressors trample it- so that our children and their children and the children of their children will have the pride to relate the story of a man who loved the soil, loved life and loved his family.
My father has a musical inclination. He made a violin out of a Kamagong (a tree with fine lumber) that was comparable to the world-famous Stradivarius violin made by Antonio Stradivarius of Cremona, Italy. He proudly tackled this violin with his favorite classical tunes during his break time, and on moonlight nights when he was home after a hard day's labor, or when loneliness visited his agrarian life. My father can also strum/play the ukelele (small guitar), the banjo, and the tenor. All were string instruments.
He has an entrepreneurial prowess too, In fact, he pioneered the Evinrude/Pinta pump boat-outdoor motor water transportation in the 50s when there were no roads yet connecting Labason to the neighboring municipalities of Liloy and Salug. Excursion to Bayangan (Murceilagos) island was made possible by this mode of water transportation. It was also during those years that my father was involved in the fishing business (Baling-Sinsuro). And my mother was always there to be his secretary, treasurer, consultant, and home provider.
And, in all these, my father was a strict disciplinarian and markedly honest. He always tells the truth even though it hurts. He never dodges or hides an issue. Time to him is precious as he was always on the precise time when he has an appointment. To him, what is true is right, and what is false should be condemned. What I can't forget about my father was his very beautiful cursive handwriting which is rare nowadays in our highly technical world.
As Father Thomas Merton said, "Every moment and every event of every man's life on earth plants something in his soul. For just as the wind carries thousands of winged seeds, so each moment brings with it germs of spiritual vitality that come to rest imperceptibly in the minds and wills of men. Most of these unnumbered seeds perish and are lost because men are not prepared to receive them; for such seeds as these cannot spring up anywhere except in the good soil of freedom, spontaneity, and love."
As a farmer, a husband, and a provider- my father did not die he just fade away with his carabao, his outboard motor in a palm-silhouetted sunset.
On behalf of my brother, sisters-in-law, and relatives, I am grateful to all of you here. Your presence is highly appreciated in our moments of bereavement. Thank you very much!
Sunday, August 19, 2018
Miracle or what?
On the Miracle of the Lord of Pardon
The whole world is a series of miracles... but we're so used to them; we call them ordinary things. (Hans Christian Andersen)
A miracle to my own understanding is a phenomenon that is unusual, or beyond everyday happening. Life is a miracle by itself because among many competitors, I came out triumphant. Of course, with the help and guidance of an Unseen Power. Like a plant growing in the forest. I was exposed to the vicissitudes of the elements of nature. Reaching maturity and beyond the bonus, age was by itself a miracle.
The travel from the village, to the town, and to the city is also a miracle being that there were no roads for motor vehicles so that travel was normally by walking on dusty roads, through a horse or carabao (water buffalo) or by water transportations. And to be invited to enroll in a school on the largest island of the country was also unusual to a farm boy. However, the twist and turn of life were tricky and my young mind dreamed of the impossible. Then the travel from the East to the West by air, in another country, a distant world, a different environment, a sophisticated lifestyle.
One night while at Project 6, Quezon City before I went to sleep, I found a thin rectangular small prayer book with the picture of Jesus Christ, and the first page was the picture of Jesus nailed on the cross with this inscription, Miracles Of Our Lord Of Pardon. As I flipped the next page I saw the Ten Commandments and The Chief Commandments of the Church.
Thus started my devotion to the Miracles of the Lord of Pardon. I have to say this prayer every night or sleep was a stranger. This devotion served as a sleeping pill. This is the prayer:
" My Lord Jesus Christ, remember that I am a sinner, Most Holy Virgin, pray for me. You shall always be praised and blessed. Pray for this sinner to your beloved Son, precious Beauty of the Angels ( more praises for Mother Mary, I just shortened it).....Mother of the living God, because you have delivered Him, pray for all of us sinners, so that He may pardon us, save us from the wicked enemy that is fighting us, and grant us eternal glory. Blessed be forever the Sacred Passion and death of our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen "
Then I have to recite 15 Our Fathers and Hail Marys in honor of His 5,455 wounds. I pray this every night before I go to sleep. I have been faithfully doing this devotion since that time when I found that thin rectangular booklet and I always have that in my wallet which serves as a weapon in face of danger. It serves the purpose and the miraculous effect is still intact.
I believed in the power of the Lord of Pardon. And later, in my life, I came across the Chaplet of the Divine Mercy which is the 3 O'clock Prayer devotion.
Every 3 o'clock either PM or AM I have to say this: "You died Jesus, but the source of life flowed out for souls and the ocean of mercy opened up for the whole world. O Fountain of Life, immeasurable Divine Mercy, cover the whole world and empty Yourself out upon us." " O Blood and Water which flowed out from the heart of Jesus as a fountain of Mercy for us, I trust in You!" " Holy God, Holy Mighty One, Holy Immortal One, have mercy on us and the whole world." (3x). Amen. Jesus King of Mercy we trust in You! Jesus, I trust in You.
And we know that we all have an end. However, we all will be with the good God that created us. This by itself is a miracle to reckon with. Please have FAITH!
The whole world is a series of miracles... but we're so used to them; we call them ordinary things. (Hans Christian Andersen)
A miracle to my own understanding is a phenomenon that is unusual, or beyond everyday happening. Life is a miracle by itself because among many competitors, I came out triumphant. Of course, with the help and guidance of an Unseen Power. Like a plant growing in the forest. I was exposed to the vicissitudes of the elements of nature. Reaching maturity and beyond the bonus, age was by itself a miracle.
The travel from the village, to the town, and to the city is also a miracle being that there were no roads for motor vehicles so that travel was normally by walking on dusty roads, through a horse or carabao (water buffalo) or by water transportations. And to be invited to enroll in a school on the largest island of the country was also unusual to a farm boy. However, the twist and turn of life were tricky and my young mind dreamed of the impossible. Then the travel from the East to the West by air, in another country, a distant world, a different environment, a sophisticated lifestyle.
One night while at Project 6, Quezon City before I went to sleep, I found a thin rectangular small prayer book with the picture of Jesus Christ, and the first page was the picture of Jesus nailed on the cross with this inscription, Miracles Of Our Lord Of Pardon. As I flipped the next page I saw the Ten Commandments and The Chief Commandments of the Church.
Thus started my devotion to the Miracles of the Lord of Pardon. I have to say this prayer every night or sleep was a stranger. This devotion served as a sleeping pill. This is the prayer:
" My Lord Jesus Christ, remember that I am a sinner, Most Holy Virgin, pray for me. You shall always be praised and blessed. Pray for this sinner to your beloved Son, precious Beauty of the Angels ( more praises for Mother Mary, I just shortened it).....Mother of the living God, because you have delivered Him, pray for all of us sinners, so that He may pardon us, save us from the wicked enemy that is fighting us, and grant us eternal glory. Blessed be forever the Sacred Passion and death of our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen "
Then I have to recite 15 Our Fathers and Hail Marys in honor of His 5,455 wounds. I pray this every night before I go to sleep. I have been faithfully doing this devotion since that time when I found that thin rectangular booklet and I always have that in my wallet which serves as a weapon in face of danger. It serves the purpose and the miraculous effect is still intact.
I believed in the power of the Lord of Pardon. And later, in my life, I came across the Chaplet of the Divine Mercy which is the 3 O'clock Prayer devotion.
Every 3 o'clock either PM or AM I have to say this: "You died Jesus, but the source of life flowed out for souls and the ocean of mercy opened up for the whole world. O Fountain of Life, immeasurable Divine Mercy, cover the whole world and empty Yourself out upon us." " O Blood and Water which flowed out from the heart of Jesus as a fountain of Mercy for us, I trust in You!" " Holy God, Holy Mighty One, Holy Immortal One, have mercy on us and the whole world." (3x). Amen. Jesus King of Mercy we trust in You! Jesus, I trust in You.
And we know that we all have an end. However, we all will be with the good God that created us. This by itself is a miracle to reckon with. Please have FAITH!
Friday, August 17, 2018
08/17/18 Night Before the Celebration of Sto. Nino' de Agosto
"Beautiful things happen when you distance yourself from the negative. You're given this life because you are strong enough to live it."
'Twas the night before the annual celebration of the Holy Infant devotion popularly known as the Sto. Nino', when devotees were busy decorating the church and the gym where the program will be held after the procession and Mass on Saturday (08/18/18).
The Sto. Nino' devotion is usually celebrated in the Philippines, on the first month of the year but due to the season here in America, an idea was hatched by Rev. Leoncio Santiago, former Pastor of St. Genevieve of 4835 W. Altgeld, Chicago, IL 60639.(1998-2008) to have a one grand celebration on the month of October to unite all the different devotional groups. The venue selected was St. Matthias Church in the north side of Chicago which was accessible for everybody.
This year's 14 participating groups were: (1) Senor Sto Nino Devotees of Zamboanga del Nortte, (2) Sto Nino devotees of St Lambert, Skokie, (3) Divino Nino/Divine Mercy group of Transfiguration, (4) Sto Nino Devotees/Divine Mercy Apostolate/Crusade, (5) Sto Nino of the Midwest, (6) Sto Nino/ Mother Cabrini Prayer Group, (7) Sto Nino Devotees - Tanghal Family,(8) Sto Nino del Ciudad de Zamboanga, ( 9) Sto Nino - St Matthias Legion of Mary, (10) Sto Nino/ Legion of Mary, Our Lady of Ransom, (11) Sto Nino/Society of Beloved Disciple, St. Matthias, (12) Sto Nino, Fil-Am Group of Skokie, (13) Cathedral Filipino Network, (14) Sto Nino Prayer Group of South Dupage.
On this night, barely before the departing time, I was engaged in a likable conversation with a man from Tarlac province of the island of Luzon, Philippines. He was a pleasing guy, a product of one of Manila's top universities. He said that the present president was running the country well as changes were felt and seen everywhere but only one thing he doesn't like is about justice on human rights, that a person is innocent until proven guilty.
Our conversation drifted to food, about the Filipino delicacies that lead to some nostalgic scenario about the culture of our country. We touched on the tasty frog legs. That frogs could only be caught at night on the ricefield with a flashlight or a petromax (a brand name for a type of pressurised paraffin lamp (US: kerosene lamp) that uses a mantle; synonymous with the paraffin lamp on the continent as Tilley lamps are in Britain and Coleman lamps are in the U.S.) and that not all frogs were edible. I said I have my first bite of tasty frog legs in a restaurant in Tarlac province on my way to Villasis, Pangasinan where I spent a summer vacation. I also continued that, it was at Villasis where I have my first taste of a native dog meat and also the intestines cooked like sausage, where the man's best friend was left to fast and only water was given to drink, days before this became man's food on his table. I was then in my 20's. The favorite drink with that was lambanog, a drink from a concoction of coconut sap or sugarcane juice.
In Mindanao, where I came from, our favorite drink which was affordable was tuba, a concoction from the sap of the coconut tree. This man from Tarlac province of Central Luzon said people of his ilk learned well the value of guts and survival as Mother Nature provided everything. So the people gathered edible things that grow from the fertile soil and converted them into food. And they cooked simply by practically boiling , grilling or maybe frying. They just boiled the vegetables, then sprinkled with salt to taste. These foods were fresh and healthy.
On the mass, Fr. Leoncio Santiago gave a homily that touched on simplicity and complexity. This complicated world's secret is to live a simple life with less stress by practicing the philosophy of simple living and cooking a poor man's meal. Make sense, really !
"Beautiful things happen when you distance yourself from the negative. You're given this life because you are strong enough to live it."
'Twas the night before the annual celebration of the Holy Infant devotion popularly known as the Sto. Nino', when devotees were busy decorating the church and the gym where the program will be held after the procession and Mass on Saturday (08/18/18).
The Sto. Nino' devotion is usually celebrated in the Philippines, on the first month of the year but due to the season here in America, an idea was hatched by Rev. Leoncio Santiago, former Pastor of St. Genevieve of 4835 W. Altgeld, Chicago, IL 60639.(1998-2008) to have a one grand celebration on the month of October to unite all the different devotional groups. The venue selected was St. Matthias Church in the north side of Chicago which was accessible for everybody.
This year's 14 participating groups were: (1) Senor Sto Nino Devotees of Zamboanga del Nortte, (2) Sto Nino devotees of St Lambert, Skokie, (3) Divino Nino/Divine Mercy group of Transfiguration, (4) Sto Nino Devotees/Divine Mercy Apostolate/Crusade, (5) Sto Nino of the Midwest, (6) Sto Nino/ Mother Cabrini Prayer Group, (7) Sto Nino Devotees - Tanghal Family,(8) Sto Nino del Ciudad de Zamboanga, ( 9) Sto Nino - St Matthias Legion of Mary, (10) Sto Nino/ Legion of Mary, Our Lady of Ransom, (11) Sto Nino/Society of Beloved Disciple, St. Matthias, (12) Sto Nino, Fil-Am Group of Skokie, (13) Cathedral Filipino Network, (14) Sto Nino Prayer Group of South Dupage.
On this night, barely before the departing time, I was engaged in a likable conversation with a man from Tarlac province of the island of Luzon, Philippines. He was a pleasing guy, a product of one of Manila's top universities. He said that the present president was running the country well as changes were felt and seen everywhere but only one thing he doesn't like is about justice on human rights, that a person is innocent until proven guilty.
Our conversation drifted to food, about the Filipino delicacies that lead to some nostalgic scenario about the culture of our country. We touched on the tasty frog legs. That frogs could only be caught at night on the ricefield with a flashlight or a petromax (a brand name for a type of pressurised paraffin lamp (US: kerosene lamp) that uses a mantle; synonymous with the paraffin lamp on the continent as Tilley lamps are in Britain and Coleman lamps are in the U.S.) and that not all frogs were edible. I said I have my first bite of tasty frog legs in a restaurant in Tarlac province on my way to Villasis, Pangasinan where I spent a summer vacation. I also continued that, it was at Villasis where I have my first taste of a native dog meat and also the intestines cooked like sausage, where the man's best friend was left to fast and only water was given to drink, days before this became man's food on his table. I was then in my 20's. The favorite drink with that was lambanog, a drink from a concoction of coconut sap or sugarcane juice.
In Mindanao, where I came from, our favorite drink which was affordable was tuba, a concoction from the sap of the coconut tree. This man from Tarlac province of Central Luzon said people of his ilk learned well the value of guts and survival as Mother Nature provided everything. So the people gathered edible things that grow from the fertile soil and converted them into food. And they cooked simply by practically boiling , grilling or maybe frying. They just boiled the vegetables, then sprinkled with salt to taste. These foods were fresh and healthy.
On the mass, Fr. Leoncio Santiago gave a homily that touched on simplicity and complexity. This complicated world's secret is to live a simple life with less stress by practicing the philosophy of simple living and cooking a poor man's meal. Make sense, really !
Tuesday, August 14, 2018
A Unique Politician
(8/13/18) Not an Ordinary Man
Is it not that " beneath every strong independent man lies a broken being who had to learn how to get back up and to never depend on anyone? "
The mayor who became the Chief Executive of his country, the Philippines, was no ordinary man. He inherited his unique personality from a lawyer-politician father and an educator mother. According to his sister, he was a "Mama's boy" and finished high school for 7 years, a record so to speak. I laughed at myself or LOL in the internet lingo as it took me years to have a Bachelor's degree as the other years were not in the Transcript of Records. My personal record showed that I matriculated at five institutions of learning in college. They were; (1) the School of Arts and Trades, (2) a Seventh-Day Adventist College, (3) a Jesuit Seminary (4) a Non-Sectarian College (5) another Non-Sectarian College. However, my freshman to junior years were all from a catholic co-ed high school while the Senior year was from an all-boys Ateneo school.
This guy by himself was not an ordinary man. He has a teenage life built on the solid ground of clean fun and frolics. Following his life on social media, FB, YouTube, newspapers, and from friends, I was reminded of the Adventures of Tom Sawyer and Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain (Samuel Langhorne Clemens), "about a lighthearted excursion into boyhood." Imagine a teenager coming home after midnight (1 or 2 A.M.) and his mother who loved him avoided the opening of the door by letting him sleep in the bunkhouse swarmed with mosquitoes but was smart enough to solve this problem with a mosquito net in which even to this day prides to bring this gadget (mosquito net) wherever he goes. He has the instinct of a problem solver.
Then, he sneaked out at night when his father, the governor was sound asleep, bringing the car out with the help of their driver and male helper to push the car and start it far from the hearing distance of the father's ears. And how about the overwhelming joy of passing the airplane driving license test! And when he piloted the plane that almost hit the window where his father was sleeping. Furthermore, the expulsion from Ateneo de Davao and the punishment at San Beda College for a mishap paved his way not to attain the Graduation ceremony. Still, he had a clever answer to this phenomenon but beyond all doubts, he passed the bar on this tumultuous period of the country's history, the Martial Law era. This man is no dummy. And he said, in one of his vignettes', that he was told to memorize the dictionary as a punishment for his mischief.
I wrote this because those episodes about this president's life had some sort of semblance ( who am I, anyway) in my adolescent years. I have that experience of coming home late past midnight and sometimes almost the break of dawn. You know life in a village (barrio) was beyond compare. Everybody loves everybody no spacing or discrimination whatsoever. All are children of the Author of Humanity. Pollution was a stranger. Foods were fresh and organic. Water was not bottled but from a well, You would go serenading with the village teenagers to beautiful, innocent rural maidens and they would love songs. I mean unadulterated tunes from unpretentious minds. You mingle and bond with sons of peasants, as you are one of them, to capture the essence of rural life pregnant with sweet dreams of mystery, with ambition, with meanings. And, in order to be better equipped on the rough and rugged road of life, one must enroll in the Academy of the streetwise, to the College of higher practical skills then would graduate from the University of Hard Knocks.
This president is not an ordinary man. He was not a graduate of the University of the Philippines where some presidents and leaders came from but from the Institute of Common Sense. a Private Religious College, and the University of Hard Knocks. This guy took his master's in the areas of legislation, prosecution, and executive (elected as mayor of Davao City), His doctorate degree's thesis was about peace and order, the elimination of the lethal drug, the demise of graft, and corruption. This was unanimously approved by his landslide win in the election. And you know why this leader was a graduate of Vox Populi University. He favors justice rather than the love of money he dislikes publicity and the appalling crimes of humanity like lethal drugs and terrorism. He profoundly loves his country and his people and loves peace rather than trouble.
Is it not that " beneath every strong independent man lies a broken being who had to learn how to get back up and to never depend on anyone? "
The mayor who became the Chief Executive of his country, the Philippines, was no ordinary man. He inherited his unique personality from a lawyer-politician father and an educator mother. According to his sister, he was a "Mama's boy" and finished high school for 7 years, a record so to speak. I laughed at myself or LOL in the internet lingo as it took me years to have a Bachelor's degree as the other years were not in the Transcript of Records. My personal record showed that I matriculated at five institutions of learning in college. They were; (1) the School of Arts and Trades, (2) a Seventh-Day Adventist College, (3) a Jesuit Seminary (4) a Non-Sectarian College (5) another Non-Sectarian College. However, my freshman to junior years were all from a catholic co-ed high school while the Senior year was from an all-boys Ateneo school.
This guy by himself was not an ordinary man. He has a teenage life built on the solid ground of clean fun and frolics. Following his life on social media, FB, YouTube, newspapers, and from friends, I was reminded of the Adventures of Tom Sawyer and Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain (Samuel Langhorne Clemens), "about a lighthearted excursion into boyhood." Imagine a teenager coming home after midnight (1 or 2 A.M.) and his mother who loved him avoided the opening of the door by letting him sleep in the bunkhouse swarmed with mosquitoes but was smart enough to solve this problem with a mosquito net in which even to this day prides to bring this gadget (mosquito net) wherever he goes. He has the instinct of a problem solver.
Then, he sneaked out at night when his father, the governor was sound asleep, bringing the car out with the help of their driver and male helper to push the car and start it far from the hearing distance of the father's ears. And how about the overwhelming joy of passing the airplane driving license test! And when he piloted the plane that almost hit the window where his father was sleeping. Furthermore, the expulsion from Ateneo de Davao and the punishment at San Beda College for a mishap paved his way not to attain the Graduation ceremony. Still, he had a clever answer to this phenomenon but beyond all doubts, he passed the bar on this tumultuous period of the country's history, the Martial Law era. This man is no dummy. And he said, in one of his vignettes', that he was told to memorize the dictionary as a punishment for his mischief.
I wrote this because those episodes about this president's life had some sort of semblance ( who am I, anyway) in my adolescent years. I have that experience of coming home late past midnight and sometimes almost the break of dawn. You know life in a village (barrio) was beyond compare. Everybody loves everybody no spacing or discrimination whatsoever. All are children of the Author of Humanity. Pollution was a stranger. Foods were fresh and organic. Water was not bottled but from a well, You would go serenading with the village teenagers to beautiful, innocent rural maidens and they would love songs. I mean unadulterated tunes from unpretentious minds. You mingle and bond with sons of peasants, as you are one of them, to capture the essence of rural life pregnant with sweet dreams of mystery, with ambition, with meanings. And, in order to be better equipped on the rough and rugged road of life, one must enroll in the Academy of the streetwise, to the College of higher practical skills then would graduate from the University of Hard Knocks.
This president is not an ordinary man. He was not a graduate of the University of the Philippines where some presidents and leaders came from but from the Institute of Common Sense. a Private Religious College, and the University of Hard Knocks. This guy took his master's in the areas of legislation, prosecution, and executive (elected as mayor of Davao City), His doctorate degree's thesis was about peace and order, the elimination of the lethal drug, the demise of graft, and corruption. This was unanimously approved by his landslide win in the election. And you know why this leader was a graduate of Vox Populi University. He favors justice rather than the love of money he dislikes publicity and the appalling crimes of humanity like lethal drugs and terrorism. He profoundly loves his country and his people and loves peace rather than trouble.
Observe and follow his rise from transforming a moribund city, of crime and punishment to a progressive, dynamic, safe metropolis as a mayor of Davao City in the South (Mindanao) to occupy the executive chair of Malacanan Palace (Luzon) in the North. When he spewed the common man's lingo his words were understood and accepted, as the down-to-earth sincere man from the province. When he talked, his countrymen and countrywomen listened. They laughed and they even cried because he did this with fervor, with passion, with sincerity, with a profound love for his people- the common masses. He has even sung in one of his rallies. What the college students before demonstrated against the government and why communism was hatched and thrived in the Philippines because of the fading trust of the people in the leaders that they hoped would emancipate them from the pangs of penury, the sharp claws of corruption, and the quagmire of the economic life which are now being uplifted by this new leader. He is doing his best version to help especially the poor like what his late father (former governor) had done for them in the undivided Davao province era. His leadership is a psalm that enlightens and heartens the people from the bondage of corruption, illegal drugs, criminality, and bitter economic life.
And by the way, amidst the critical atmosphere in his administration, he proceeded to pursue what he had promised which is now visible in his "build, build, build" project that drastically altered the country's landscape and diminished the destructive activities of the CPP, NPA, and NDF.
Yes, Juan de la Cruz, this president of the Philippines, Mayor Rodrigo Roa Duterte is not an ordinary man.
Yes, Juan de la Cruz, this president of the Philippines, Mayor Rodrigo Roa Duterte is not an ordinary man.
Sunday, August 12, 2018
Lincolnwood Town Center
A friend's call early in the morning that he is coming within 5 minutes to pick you up for a Lincolnwood Town Center cup of coffee perks you up and makes your day valuable. Yes, every one needs a friend that will call you and say, "Get dressed, we are going on an adventure".
Lincolnwood Town Center is frequented by retirees mostly Filipino-Americans who gathered by a round table of 6 comparable to travelers marooned by blizzard. Or like the round table of King Arthur's legend where everyone were equal even the King. And on this round table everybody has his tale to tell. They have cups of their favorite flavors ordered from the Beanery Coffee shop few steps away. Sometimes dozen of donuts from a generous retiree, or a bag of produce harvested from a friend's backyard. Over these cups of coffee, diverse topics were ventilated and discussed ranging from yester years love escapades, juvenile adventures, the teenage fling, vignettes of salad days and what have they to insert and inject on this round table of friendly discussions. Most especially about their first years in the US in the 70's and the subsequent years. Then about the current situations around them in particular and the world in general.
Lincolnwood Town Center is the hub of retirees and seniors.It is the forum for them to exchange their views and ideas about the beauty and the mystery of Life on their bonus years. It is also a place to exercise, to relax, to let life flow its normal course.You just have to listen and live in the moment. You have done your best. You have enough. You have to breathe extra deep and let go. Sip your morning's fave coffee. Meanwhile, others love to brisk walk alone or with partners/best half. They make several rounds daily which is a part of their longevity scheme to lessen doctor's visit.
You are here because you love yourself. You come to socialize, to exercise, to escape from the boredom. You come to expand your little world. Truthfully these are really your liveable moments. And you come because you care and love yourself which is the only person that will cling to you with your joy and pain ; that will be the only person you will be spending all your life. But be careful because not all have your idea of peace and goodwill towards humankind. Let understanding and empathy guide you.
However, only bring on the round table the topic that is pleasant and agreeable. By that, your morning is well spent like your favorite flavored cup of coffee, refreshing to the last drop!
A friend's call early in the morning that he is coming within 5 minutes to pick you up for a Lincolnwood Town Center cup of coffee perks you up and makes your day valuable. Yes, every one needs a friend that will call you and say, "Get dressed, we are going on an adventure".
Lincolnwood Town Center is frequented by retirees mostly Filipino-Americans who gathered by a round table of 6 comparable to travelers marooned by blizzard. Or like the round table of King Arthur's legend where everyone were equal even the King. And on this round table everybody has his tale to tell. They have cups of their favorite flavors ordered from the Beanery Coffee shop few steps away. Sometimes dozen of donuts from a generous retiree, or a bag of produce harvested from a friend's backyard. Over these cups of coffee, diverse topics were ventilated and discussed ranging from yester years love escapades, juvenile adventures, the teenage fling, vignettes of salad days and what have they to insert and inject on this round table of friendly discussions. Most especially about their first years in the US in the 70's and the subsequent years. Then about the current situations around them in particular and the world in general.
Lincolnwood Town Center is the hub of retirees and seniors.It is the forum for them to exchange their views and ideas about the beauty and the mystery of Life on their bonus years. It is also a place to exercise, to relax, to let life flow its normal course.You just have to listen and live in the moment. You have done your best. You have enough. You have to breathe extra deep and let go. Sip your morning's fave coffee. Meanwhile, others love to brisk walk alone or with partners/best half. They make several rounds daily which is a part of their longevity scheme to lessen doctor's visit.
You are here because you love yourself. You come to socialize, to exercise, to escape from the boredom. You come to expand your little world. Truthfully these are really your liveable moments. And you come because you care and love yourself which is the only person that will cling to you with your joy and pain ; that will be the only person you will be spending all your life. But be careful because not all have your idea of peace and goodwill towards humankind. Let understanding and empathy guide you.
However, only bring on the round table the topic that is pleasant and agreeable. By that, your morning is well spent like your favorite flavored cup of coffee, refreshing to the last drop!
Monday, June 04, 2018
6/04/2018 Monday
Joy and Sadness at the Olive Garden.
Why do we come to the Olive Garden? We will tell you why but we want you to
first, see the light, feel the experience, the joy of summer, and witness the green
leafy vegetables in your backyards, of the flowers in bloom welcoming
the excitement of life while fascinating people were on the move for a mission in
the intricate pattern of life.
We will tell you who we are and why we came. We came because we found joy in the garden of our lives, where hope awaits, where opportunity opens, where love blossoms, where peace beckons; where the tranquility of balmy nights brings solace to aching hearts.
We came to humbly tell you that in the Land of Uncle Sam, we serviced homers,
the offices, the churches, the hospitals. We took care of those that need tender loving care, of the sick, the aged and for those who must just have partners. We walked miles, We drove, Wwe dined. We sang. We danced. We laughed. We cried. We are your friends and neighbors; your brothers and sisters. But sadness crept in the inner recess of our mortality, in the sanctum of our being because you will soon depart to spread the carpet of the genius of Catholicism to the communities who were not really engaged in their religious practices. Your homilies and reflections manifested your untiring personality on the profound poring of the Words of God only to ponder the meaning of being a leader of a diverse flock and the miracle of your transformation.
By the way, Fr. Peter Fernandes belongs to the Society of the Missionaries of St. Francis Xavier (sfx). He is from Goa, India whose religious life revolves around prose and poetry. His first book of poem, "A Soul in Flight: Path to Contemplation", indirectly leads one on a path less traveled in this world fraught with distractions, The second is "Lead me on... Path to contemplation". Reading this book will direct one to the classroom of silence to submerge one's self to deep reflective thoughts. Fr. Fernandes has also written several articles for newspapers and magazines, on socio-political commentary to spiritual reflections". He is a prolific writer of prose and poetry and a great pastor.
And he came with his stirring youthful portrait of a missionary, "from India's coastal Konkan region on the bank of the Arabian Sea on the western coast. He left the much-loved tourist place with its famous beaches, astounding monuments, and churches, and bustling nightlife of Goa, the smallest Indian State" to Oregon, the Beaver State on the west coast of the Land of the Free and the Home of the Brave for 4 years.
Finally, he found himself drifted to the prairie land of the Midwest on the Windy City, Chicago, that is. He stayed for 13 years. Those were trying years in a new frontier and he was welcomed with open arms. He cloaked himself with the mettle that was acceptable and loved at St. Timothy parish whose Sunday attendance was dwindling. Slowly but surely, a revival came. Attendance shifted to high gear and excitement was around the corner. St. Timothy got a facelift, new paint for the rusted fence, a tall white cross at the northern entrance signifying that the 3-story rectangular building at Washtenaw Ave. is a Catholic church. And there were tall images of Saints besides the church.
The renovated interior has a chapel for daily Mass and a Mother of Perpetual Help novena every Wednesday, a haven for weary souls. And yes, Fr. Peter, as a pastor of St. Timothy was on the right course and the sailing went well in the fullness of time but farewell was inevitable.
We love you Fr. Peter because you trust and love us. The reason why we came to the Olive Garden was for a memorable moment with you. Wherever you will be: this is just a reminder note for you to read. Fr. Peter Fernandes, sfx. please remember us with our flaws and foibles in the endless flow of time, in the Breaking of the Bread. And, we will never forget those shared memories, the trust, the love, and the lessons we both learned.
We are Strangers. Opportunity Seekers. Immigrants. Parishioners of St. Timothy Church. Americans.
(Greg In. Trabanca)
Joy and Sadness at the Olive Garden.
Why do we come to the Olive Garden? We will tell you why but we want you to
first, see the light, feel the experience, the joy of summer, and witness the green
leafy vegetables in your backyards, of the flowers in bloom welcoming
the excitement of life while fascinating people were on the move for a mission in
the intricate pattern of life.
We will tell you who we are and why we came. We came because we found joy in the garden of our lives, where hope awaits, where opportunity opens, where love blossoms, where peace beckons; where the tranquility of balmy nights brings solace to aching hearts.
We came to humbly tell you that in the Land of Uncle Sam, we serviced homers,
the offices, the churches, the hospitals. We took care of those that need tender loving care, of the sick, the aged and for those who must just have partners. We walked miles, We drove, Wwe dined. We sang. We danced. We laughed. We cried. We are your friends and neighbors; your brothers and sisters. But sadness crept in the inner recess of our mortality, in the sanctum of our being because you will soon depart to spread the carpet of the genius of Catholicism to the communities who were not really engaged in their religious practices. Your homilies and reflections manifested your untiring personality on the profound poring of the Words of God only to ponder the meaning of being a leader of a diverse flock and the miracle of your transformation.
By the way, Fr. Peter Fernandes belongs to the Society of the Missionaries of St. Francis Xavier (sfx). He is from Goa, India whose religious life revolves around prose and poetry. His first book of poem, "A Soul in Flight: Path to Contemplation", indirectly leads one on a path less traveled in this world fraught with distractions, The second is "Lead me on... Path to contemplation". Reading this book will direct one to the classroom of silence to submerge one's self to deep reflective thoughts. Fr. Fernandes has also written several articles for newspapers and magazines, on socio-political commentary to spiritual reflections". He is a prolific writer of prose and poetry and a great pastor.
And he came with his stirring youthful portrait of a missionary, "from India's coastal Konkan region on the bank of the Arabian Sea on the western coast. He left the much-loved tourist place with its famous beaches, astounding monuments, and churches, and bustling nightlife of Goa, the smallest Indian State" to Oregon, the Beaver State on the west coast of the Land of the Free and the Home of the Brave for 4 years.
Finally, he found himself drifted to the prairie land of the Midwest on the Windy City, Chicago, that is. He stayed for 13 years. Those were trying years in a new frontier and he was welcomed with open arms. He cloaked himself with the mettle that was acceptable and loved at St. Timothy parish whose Sunday attendance was dwindling. Slowly but surely, a revival came. Attendance shifted to high gear and excitement was around the corner. St. Timothy got a facelift, new paint for the rusted fence, a tall white cross at the northern entrance signifying that the 3-story rectangular building at Washtenaw Ave. is a Catholic church. And there were tall images of Saints besides the church.
The renovated interior has a chapel for daily Mass and a Mother of Perpetual Help novena every Wednesday, a haven for weary souls. And yes, Fr. Peter, as a pastor of St. Timothy was on the right course and the sailing went well in the fullness of time but farewell was inevitable.
We love you Fr. Peter because you trust and love us. The reason why we came to the Olive Garden was for a memorable moment with you. Wherever you will be: this is just a reminder note for you to read. Fr. Peter Fernandes, sfx. please remember us with our flaws and foibles in the endless flow of time, in the Breaking of the Bread. And, we will never forget those shared memories, the trust, the love, and the lessons we both learned.
We are Strangers. Opportunity Seekers. Immigrants. Parishioners of St. Timothy Church. Americans.
(Greg In. Trabanca)
Thursday, May 10, 2018
5/10/18
The President That Plays No Favorites
Gleaning from his previous undertakings and the past presidential performances, it's time to say that this leader who wants to be introduced as the president, Mayor Rodrigo Roa Duterte plays no favorites; all are Filipinos who catapulted him to power. He loves them and the country.
The choice of his cabinet members and other positions in his administration was not because of favoritism but to disclose the best for his great love of the country and its people. He distributed his infrastructure programs to sections of the country that were in dire need of them irrespective of political affiliations. It's a manifestation of what he vowed to do to the best iota of his capability as a leader. He nipped in the bud the flowering of illegal drugs, the growing corruption and the rising criminality to the ire of his constituents and the opposition yet was acceptable as a panacea to the country's ills. He was able to thwart the Marawi siege that lasted for months and convinced some rebellious elements to surrender for a peaceful life and be assets of the government.
To be chosen to fill up the position is not a privilege but a responsibility to labor more on what the task is asked for. Should one fail to his/her commitment he/she knows the eventual consequence as seen already in the dismissal and the replacement of the involved personnel? It is not that the chosen person to fill a position is favored over the others but he/she has entrusted a job to be performed with dedication and honesty for the betterment of the government. With this gesture, the country is more favored than the individual person chosen to perform the task as he says, " We are only employees of the government who pays for us."
This president wants his performance not to be lauded with earthly status but for the ardent love of his people and country. In a speaking engagement, he always says," Thank you for your courtesy; you may sit down". He said that he is done with accolades and clapping of the hands. That he is even willing, by means of a lottery, to give up his portion of the Libingan ng Mga Bayani. He is just contented to be beside his parents' resting place.
The Filipinos hope to look forward to the day when the Philippines will be having a new form of government, a scenario of diverse people enjoying economic prosperity on more than 7,000 islands with less corruption, less criminality, and maybe the absence of illegal drugs.
Today, the Philippines has finally emerged from its long-time dream to become a nation worthy of world attention. This credit is due to the Filipino people's trust and confidence in their new-found president who truly leads and loves the country to progress and not to perdition.
We can now feel and see the closeness of the people in this time of distancing due to the pandemic Covit-19. Because of this, we can now unearth the hidden treasures that could only be found in the Philippines. Is it not a fact, that the Philippines has rich natural resources buried deep in its soil waiting to be tapped. Is it not that Filipino employments are in demand in areas of health care, medicine, engineering, science, etc. All because Filipinos are hardworking, honest, friendly, adaptable, and have no language barrier.
And lastly, the Philippines has a strategic location on the map between the East and the West.
The President That Plays No Favorites
Gleaning from his previous undertakings and the past presidential performances, it's time to say that this leader who wants to be introduced as the president, Mayor Rodrigo Roa Duterte plays no favorites; all are Filipinos who catapulted him to power. He loves them and the country.
The choice of his cabinet members and other positions in his administration was not because of favoritism but to disclose the best for his great love of the country and its people. He distributed his infrastructure programs to sections of the country that were in dire need of them irrespective of political affiliations. It's a manifestation of what he vowed to do to the best iota of his capability as a leader. He nipped in the bud the flowering of illegal drugs, the growing corruption and the rising criminality to the ire of his constituents and the opposition yet was acceptable as a panacea to the country's ills. He was able to thwart the Marawi siege that lasted for months and convinced some rebellious elements to surrender for a peaceful life and be assets of the government.
To be chosen to fill up the position is not a privilege but a responsibility to labor more on what the task is asked for. Should one fail to his/her commitment he/she knows the eventual consequence as seen already in the dismissal and the replacement of the involved personnel? It is not that the chosen person to fill a position is favored over the others but he/she has entrusted a job to be performed with dedication and honesty for the betterment of the government. With this gesture, the country is more favored than the individual person chosen to perform the task as he says, " We are only employees of the government who pays for us."
This president wants his performance not to be lauded with earthly status but for the ardent love of his people and country. In a speaking engagement, he always says," Thank you for your courtesy; you may sit down". He said that he is done with accolades and clapping of the hands. That he is even willing, by means of a lottery, to give up his portion of the Libingan ng Mga Bayani. He is just contented to be beside his parents' resting place.
The Filipinos hope to look forward to the day when the Philippines will be having a new form of government, a scenario of diverse people enjoying economic prosperity on more than 7,000 islands with less corruption, less criminality, and maybe the absence of illegal drugs.
Today, the Philippines has finally emerged from its long-time dream to become a nation worthy of world attention. This credit is due to the Filipino people's trust and confidence in their new-found president who truly leads and loves the country to progress and not to perdition.
We can now feel and see the closeness of the people in this time of distancing due to the pandemic Covit-19. Because of this, we can now unearth the hidden treasures that could only be found in the Philippines. Is it not a fact, that the Philippines has rich natural resources buried deep in its soil waiting to be tapped. Is it not that Filipino employments are in demand in areas of health care, medicine, engineering, science, etc. All because Filipinos are hardworking, honest, friendly, adaptable, and have no language barrier.
And lastly, the Philippines has a strategic location on the map between the East and the West.
Wednesday, May 02, 2018
The Protector
Dubbed as The Punisher, he has manifested himself, contrary to what the opposing camps said of him when he rode high on his track record of popularity, his being an employee and leader of the country he vowed to preserve and the people he promised to protect. Now, he has earned the merit of The Protector.
The issue is beyond a moot point about this Paradigm Shift. By vox populi, he won to lead the country named after the King of Spain. And Spain colonized it for over 300 years leaving on its wake the marks of Catholic Christianity through its cathedrals, churches, friars, haciendas, mestizos, respect for elders, and close family ties. But Spain was unsuccessful in converting the island of Mindanao in the South. However, the islands of Luzon in the North and the Visayas in the center were practicing Christians.
Some portions of Mindanao had been introduced into the Islam religion before the coming of Magellan on March 16, 1521. There were three groups that were converted into the Islam Religion. The first group to embrace Islam were the Tausogs ( people of the current) of the Sulu archipelago. The second to welcome Islam were the Maguindanaos (people of the flooded plains) of Cotabato province and the last to accept Islam were the Maranaos (people of the lake) of Lanao province and where recently the Marawi siege took place that lead to the Declaration of Martial Law in Mindanao.
With that scenario, emerged from the South a dedicated, humble person devoid of hubris to occupy the highest post of the country which politically should have been from the North. He is with mixed blood. His father is from the Visayas while his mother is from Mindanao of a Maranao ancestry. However at this point, the people need a Southern leadership, a breath of fresh air, a dream of a shall we say, a total freedom ride. They want a strong leader whose heart pulsates with a passion for the love of change for the country ravaged with corruption, criminality, illegal drugs, and a hampered economy. They want a recovered " Eden and Pearl of the Orient Sea."
Flashback: Spain colonized the Philippines for over 300 years and America for 50 years.
After the defeat of the Spanish Armada by the American Naval forces under the command of Commodore George Dewey at the Battle of Manila Bay, the American flag with its stars and stripes proudly waved on the Philippines skies. With that was the torch of Education, the emergence of Protestantism, a glimpse of Hollywood, and the gnawing memory of the Battle of Bud Dajo or the Moro Crater Massacre in Bud Dajo, Patikul, Sulu, Philippines (of the Sulu Archipelago) and the Balangiga Massacre in Eastern Samar, Philippines.
Proven that a pen is mightier than a sword, the writings of Jose' Protacio Realonda Mercado y Rizal and other illustrious Filipinos opened the American mind that leads to the declaration of Independence and the Treaty of Manila was signed on July 4, 1946, that granted the Philippines full independence from the United States of America. From that year until 1962, Independence Day was on the 4th of July until President Diosdado Macapagal issued Proclamation No. 28 moving the Independence Day celebration to the 12th of June. The 4th of July is now Filipino-American Friendship Day.
The Philippines' Declaration of Independence was signed on June 12, 1898, in Kawit, Cavite. This was the document in which the Filipino revolutionary forces under Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo proclaimed the sovereignty and independence of the Philippine Islands from the colonial rule of Spain.
The President, Mayor Rodrigo Roa Duterte !
He came. He dined. He sang. He talked with them. He befriended them through his love of the Flag and the population- the common people who have big dreams and big hopes. These are the locals, the peasants, the less educated, the poor, the common masses, the vulnerable. Yet the growing fire of dissent continues on burning as Groups rebelled against the odious practices of the elected and appointed people of the Palace. These elected and chosen people failed to listen to the wailing concerns of the people but continued their business as usual that paved their way to prosperity while the people were disgruntled, dismayed, and divided.
And he came...
His words enlighten. His valor and the strength of his Armed Forces defend. His achievements mirrored in the Build, Build, Build deliver. He epitomized the Filipino soul. His amazing love of his country and people protects him.
He is the Protector!
(05-02-2018)
Sunday, March 11, 2018
Verbom Dei Retreat
(03/10/2018) St. Eugene Parish Rectory Bible Class of Sr. Roselle Ruperto, V.D.
7958 W. Foster, Chicago, IL)
A Prayer
By: Greg In. Trabanca
Dear God what can I ask from you
When all I need you have given
With your Words so honest and true.
Thank you and let me be your friend.
Thanks for health in the family,
For the firm roof over the head,
For dear life and for being free,
For friends, neighbors, and daily bread.
Dear Lord attains to my succor.
I was reckless and I was wrong
Now I come to you to implore
Amidst the diversified throng.
Without you Lord I am nothing;
Your Words: my Will and Testament
Of my love with your true Being;
Your presence in the Sacrament.
I witness your real presence;
Through the glass window, the ray
Streams the truth of your pure essence.
Lord never forsake me today.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
(N.B.) An addendum on the subject of prayer. We wrestle
in our own little world about how to pray. How about this:
Prayer is directing our affections towards God; it is a devout
and friendly talk with Him. It is the tranquility of a mind
illumined from above.
Prayer is also a plea for temporal goods that are necessary
for earthly life. But those who pray ask the Lord with a true
Christian spirit to subordinate their own wills to His; only the
heavenly Father knows what one really needs in the temporal order.
Finally, prayer is thanksgiving, that is, an acknowledgment
of benefits received, and an offering of all our undertakings
to God so that our prayer may be a lasting one.
(From the Sermons of St. Anthony)
7958 W. Foster, Chicago, IL)
A Prayer
By: Greg In. Trabanca
Dear God what can I ask from you
When all I need you have given
With your Words so honest and true.
Thank you and let me be your friend.
Thanks for health in the family,
For the firm roof over the head,
For dear life and for being free,
For friends, neighbors, and daily bread.
Dear Lord attains to my succor.
I was reckless and I was wrong
Now I come to you to implore
Amidst the diversified throng.
Without you Lord I am nothing;
Your Words: my Will and Testament
Of my love with your true Being;
Your presence in the Sacrament.
I witness your real presence;
Through the glass window, the ray
Streams the truth of your pure essence.
Lord never forsake me today.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
(N.B.) An addendum on the subject of prayer. We wrestle
in our own little world about how to pray. How about this:
Prayer is directing our affections towards God; it is a devout
and friendly talk with Him. It is the tranquility of a mind
illumined from above.
Prayer is also a plea for temporal goods that are necessary
for earthly life. But those who pray ask the Lord with a true
Christian spirit to subordinate their own wills to His; only the
heavenly Father knows what one really needs in the temporal order.
Finally, prayer is thanksgiving, that is, an acknowledgment
of benefits received, and an offering of all our undertakings
to God so that our prayer may be a lasting one.
(From the Sermons of St. Anthony)
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