Good Friday...

Today, we commemorate Christ’s death on the Cross. Indeed, the most solemn and serious day in the Church’s year.

I love Good Friday as it gives me time to reflect on so many things in life. It also gives me a much needed respite from everything like work, etc. Oh well, I particularly love the fact that most people are out of town during Holy Week. It gives me a breather from the hustle and bustle of the usual city life.

Although, there's something that’s bothering me, it had been a quiet and relaxed day for me in general. I started the day with my usual morning prayer and enjoyed the rest of the day with the kids watching TV, eating, etc. I had pretty much accomplished the things that I wanted to do like working out and blogging/writing. After dinner, we prayed the rosary together as one family.

Before I go, let me share with you this wonderful prayer from the book, THE LENTEN PRAYER GUIDE FOR THE FAMILY courtesy of Chiara Lubich. I don’t really know her but from what I have read so far, she was an Italian Catholic Activist. Here is the prayer –

“My Jesus, if You have died for me – for me – how can I doubt Your mercy? And if I can believe in that mercy with faith which teaches me that God has died for me, how can I not risk everything to return this love? For me. For me, Jesus, all those sufferings? For me that cry?

Oh! You will certainly not let my poor soul be lost nor many others, but You will do everything, if only because we have cost You too much.

You give me more courage to live my Christian life than if I had the whole universe at my back to spur me on.

For me, yes, for me.


And so, Lord, let me also say, especially for the years that remain: for You.”


Don’t you just love it especially, the last line? Beautiful prayer, isn’t it? God bless us all! ♥♥♥


Note:
THE LENTEN PRAYER GUIDE FOR THE FAMILY was prepared and compiled by The Family Prayer Group, a division of the Filipino Family City Foundation, Inc.

Maundy Thursday, Stations of the Cross/Visita Iglesia…

Unlike the previous years when we used to visit seven churches for the traditional Visita Iglesia, our family planned to visit only one church this time. In last Sunday’s homily (Palm Sunday mass), the priest talked about the real meaning of Visita Iglesia. He explained that while most Filipino Catholic Faithful believe that seven churches are needed to carry out the Visita Iglesia, this belief is actually far from the truth. He said that one may choose to visit one church only and still fulfill the Visita Iglesia obligation. He explained further that the real essence of Visita Iglesia lies in our willingness to accompany Jesus in his moment of agony.

Anyway, we chose the St. Pio Chapel in Libis for two reasons: For family members to see the chapel for the first time and most importantly, to thank Padre Pio for his miraculous intercession for dad’s recovery from triple bypass and mild stroke. In this trying time, we asked for his intercession. We strongly believe that he was instrumental to dad’s gradual but sure recovery. We praise God for giving Padre Pio to us. Through his intercession, God heard and continues to hear our prayers. It was my second visit to the chapel but I was even more excited than my first visit.

My excitement did not falter. St. Pio Chapel had a unique way of doing the “Stations of the Cross”. When we came at around 6:00PM, the chapel was already jam-packed from outside. Many people were lining up for the Stations of the Cross. I thought it was very organized to have people lined up and take turns to avoid disorder inside the chapel.

Then, I learned that the line was actually headed to the chapel’s parking lot where the Stations of the Cross were strategically positioned. People from the chapel manned the entrance. Clothes (covering) were made available for those who were wearing shorts and sleeveless (Note: The chapel always reminds the faithful to wear the proper dress code inside the chapel).

Crosses of different sizes were also offered to give the faithful the chance to carry their own cross (while doing the Stations of the Cross) as a symbol of sacrifice the way Jesus did.

The place as well as this act of carrying the cross gave me goosebumps. I loved the solemnity of the place and the ritual. I guess everybody did. It was indeed a different kind of experience for all of us, very uplifting.

After completing the 15 stations (Yes, there were 15 stations there. It included, “Christ has Risen” as the 15th and the last station), we went inside the chapel to give reverence to Padre Pio. Then, we headed to Eastwood City for dinner. It was truly a meaningful and blissful Maundy Thursday for the family. We were in high spirits.


How about you? How was your Maundy Thursday/Visita Iglesia experience this year? ♥♥♥

Life is short...

Life is short. Last Sunday, 17 April, the entertainment industry lost another young yet remarkable talent. Star Magic talent, AJ Perez, 18, died in a car accident. Click here to see the full story.

I did not really know AJ as an artist. I only knew his face but, I must admit I got really affected by the news of his untimely demise. He was so full of life, living his dream. How can someone so young and talented like AJ be taken away so soon? My heart goes out to his family especially, to his dad who was with him in the car when the accident happened. I can feel the pain of his parents being a parent myself.

Oftentimes, we hear ourselves say, life is short so we must live it to the fullest. But what does living life to the fullest really mean? Is it having enough material possessions? Is it being able to travel around the world? Or is it being rich and famous?

Living life to the fullest may mean different things to different people. I do not claim to know the answer. I don’t think there is one best answer to this. I guess it really depends on how we view life and how we are guided by our faith. It could mean discovering ourselves and realizing our potentials. It could mean utilizing, to the best of our abilities, what God has given us. Or it is finding peace and contentment in our hearts.

I admit there were times in my life when I let negative vibes take over and rob the best of me. There were times when I would hold on to anger, frustration, depression, etc. And yes, there were times when I would worry and mope around unnecessarily. Then I would wake up and realize that a significant part of my life had been wasted on things I could not change.

Don’t get me wrong. It is okay to allow ourselves to “react” to life’s challenges/difficulties but, we must also learn to “respond” to it. I believe there are always two ways to approach life’s challenges/difficulties: pick yourself up after every fall, live and learn or wallow in self-pity and retreat.

Which one would you choose? Life is all about choices isn’t it? And truly, life is short and precious! ♥♥♥

Military/Police checkpoints...

We hear many gruesome stories about military/police checkpoints like illegal items being planted in one’s vehicle or upon a person allegedly by military/police officers themselves during inspection as one form of coercion or blackmail; or people get shot and killed or illegally detained at checkpoints; etc. No wonder most people dread the idea of checkpoints instead of seeing it as an effective tool to ensure their safety.

Last month, the Department of Justice (DOJ) issued an advisory opinion on rules on military/police checkpoints. According to Secretary Leila M. de Lima, they came out with this initiative to protect the public from abuses committed by law enforcers and to weed out illegal checkpoints. The ten (10) checkpoint rules outlined in the advisory are anchored on the constitutional guarantee against unreasonable searches and seizures (Section 2, Article III). These are:

1. Checkpoint must be well-lighted, properly identified and manned by uniformed personnel.
2. Upon approach, slow down, dim headlights and turn on cabin lights. Never step out of the vehicle.
3. Lock all doors. Only visual search is allowed.
4. Do not submit to a physical or bodily search.
5. You are not obliged to open glove compartment, trunk or bags.
6. Ordinary/routine questions may be asked. Be courteous but firm with answers.
7. Assert your rights, have presence of mind and do not panic.
8. Keep your driver’s license and car registration handy and within reach.
9. Be ready to use your cellphone at anytime. Speed-dial emergency number.
10.Report violations immediately. Your actions may save others.

These seem like sound rules to me and I am sure to a lot of people. But just like any rules, it must be monitored to ensure its effectiveness and strict implementation. I guess we just have to trust the system but at the same time remain vigilant against human rights violations.

Lastly and most importantly, I know you will agree with me that it always pays to be an informed citizen. So keep yourselves updated. Remember, ignorance of the law is not an excuse. ♥♥♥

For a full copy of the DOJ’s Advisory Opinion, click here.

Source:
The Official Website of Department of Justice

Boracay ranks no. 2 in top 25 beaches in the world…

The world’s largest travel site, TripAdvisor recently came up with a list of the top 25 beaches in the world for 2011. Among the top 25, the Philippines' Boracay was ranked no. 2 as one of the best beach destinations in the world. Isn’t that amazing?!


This photo of Boracay is courtesy of TripAdvisor

Voted the best beach in the world was Turks and Caicos’ Providenciales known for its white-sand beaches, calm clear water and a bountiful barrier reef. Rounding out the top 5 were Aruba’s Palm/Eagle Beach, Jamaica’s Negril, and Mexico’s Tulum. To view the complete list, please click here.

TripAdvisor spokesman, Brooke Ferencsik said, a number of factors make these beach destinations stand out as wonderful choices. He said that in addition to featuring remarkable stretches of sand, these hotspots offer a wide variety of quality hotels, restaurants and activities to accommodate virtually any vacation budget, and appeal to any traveler type.

I believe this is true for Boracay (Note: I can only speak for Boracay since, I come from the Philippines); however, several incidents in the past had put Boracay in a precarious situation. Some Boracay fanatics claim that the island is slowly dying because of its massive development that greatly affect Boracay’s environment. There are actually some movements to help save Boracay like the one on facebook - click here to see. Early this year, Boracay was on the limelight again when two foreigners were caught having sex on the beach and another topless woman making out with his partner. For more details, click here.


This photo of Boracay is courtesy of TripAdvisor

I agree that the Philippine government/tourism should take some measures to preserve the country’s tourist destinations. The Philippines has a lot of beautiful destinations that are at par with the world’s best. Indeed, the Philippines is a lot better than some Filipinos think it is. Let us all do our part in preserving our country’s wealth in our own little way. A simple act of concern like disposing off garbage properly can make a lot of difference. We always hear that if we want change to happen, we should start from ourselves. But do we really put this message to heart?

Ironically, I still see some people who offhandedly throw garbage everywhere and yet, complain about how filthy the Philippines is. The sad fact is, some people spend a big chunk of their lives complaining but do nothing about it. I believe it’s just all about “perspective”. If we hold on to pessimism, then there’s the danger of falling into the trap of negativity but, if we just let go, act and do our part in any way we can, surely, change can and bound to happen. We should not get tired of doing what’s best for our country even if others have already given up. Something or someone should start somewhere…

So, what can you do to help preserve the Philippines' tourist destinations? And on a lighter note, where do you plan to go this summer? Is Boracay in your list? ♥♥♥


Sources:
http://www.tripadvisor.com/
http://philstar.com/
http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/

St. Pio of Pietrelcina...

Let me share with you the excitement I feel because of a recent experience. I mentioned in my previous blog that apart from the St. Jude Shrine in Manila, I would also like to get the chance to visit the St. Pio Chapel in Libis. I am just so happy that I finally got to visit the chapel, for the first time!

I have always wanted to see the St. Pio Chapel in Libis. I’ve heard so many good feedback about this chapel and as a new devotee of St. Pio or Padre Pio for most Filipino devotees, I definitely would not want to miss the opportunity to see it. I consider myself a new addition to the growing number of Padre Pio devotees because I’m still at the stage of getting to know him. But even at this stage, St. Pio has already made great impact on my life. To better understand what I mean by this, please click here for my previous post on miraculous intercessors.

So, I planned to visit the chapel and it finally occurred on Wednesday, 6 April 2011. Since it is school break, I brought along with me my daughter Trisha. The countless feedback (all of which were pleasant) I read about the chapel couldn’t be more unfeigned. Just as we were about to enter the chapel, I could already feel Padre Pio’s strong presence. To say that I was so excited is an understatement.

The chapel is a tangible testament of the innumerable miracles of Padre Pio. The inside was very solemn. On the wall, at the right side facing the altar, were testimonials from both prominent and ordinary people of Padre Pio’s miraculous intercessions in their lives. As I read through the testimonials, my devotion to Padre Pio grew even deeper. His life, which was a life of prayer, is surely out of this world.

I believe God led me to Padre Pio. As I went around the chapel, I learned that most petitions offered to God through the intercession of Padre Pio were about healing. Now, isn’t it amazing that this experience transpired at a time when I so badly need Padre Pio’s intercession for my dad’s complete healing?

Beside the altar is Padre Pio’s life-size statue. Devotees line-up and take turns to get up close to the statue and pray. Trisha and I lined up and waited for our turn. It gave me goosebumps when I finally got close to Padre Pio's statue. Call me superstitious but I could feel through his eyes that he was talking to me. I prayed hard for dad’s speedy recovery and right there, I felt that he heard me. I then, knelt before Padre Pio’s relics that were placed in front of his statue and dropped my letter of petition in the petition box.

The Patio is the outdoor area behind the chapel. Here, you can also pray and drop your letter of petition. I love this place, very relaxing. Like in the province, it’s green and cool.

This is the mini chapel. Like the main chapel, this area is very solemn and quite private. This is also where the letters of petitions are kept.

The candle lighting stands, located just behind the smaller chapel.

The wishing fountain, located just behind the candle lighting stands.

Of course, this visit wouldn’t be complete without dropping by at the Gift Shop. I got the following: DVD of the Life Story of Padre Pio; St. Pio of Pietrelcina Prayer Booklet; and one whole set of small Padre Pio statue, rosary, cotton with healing oil, and small prayer note.

There you go… my first visit to the St. Pio Chapel in Libis, but definitely not the last. I am just so eager to come back, and I mean, often!

How about you? Come and visit. The experience will be all worth it! ♥♥♥


For more information about:
The St. Pio Chapel in Libis, click here
Direction and Map to the St. Pio Chapel, click here
Detailed Biography of St. Pio of Pietrelcina, click here

Reasons to celebrate...

The past days have been emotionally, mentally, and even physically draining for the entire family. We have been going through so much pain because of Dad’s health condition. I haven’t mentioned that dad’s triple bypass surgery had a complication that led to his mild stroke. It is indeed, a trying time for the family.

I’ve been too suck up with the torment that comes with all of this that I almost failed to see that there were still reasons to celebrate even in our darkest moments. For one, my son, Miguel just graduated from grade school. Time flies. He will be in high school this coming school year. Allow me to share with you this important milestone…


Friday, 25 March 2011
Farewell Party for the Graduating Students

This event was organized by the Parents’ Council. It was an “agape” party. Each parent brought food to be shared with everyone. Oh boy, the food was abundant. Here are some pictures –

There was a simple program prepared by the organizers. Each class section offered a dance or song number. There were video presentations too, which featured the students early days in school as well as the various school activities. It was truly heartwarming. Everything seems like yesterday.

Miguel is second from right...

Tribute to the teachers...


Thursday, 31 March 2011
Baccalaureate Mass

I wish I could tell you exactly how excited I was for my son. The students were required to wear a necktie to pair off with their long sleeves. The funny part was I didn’t even know how to tie a necktie, seriously! Good thing there was YouTube. We had to look for a demo video on how to actually tie a necktie! Believe me, it saved the day… lol… Miguel looked so good in his baccalaureate suit!

With school friends...

With sister, Trisha...

With the proud mom... yours truly... ;)















Friday, 1 April 2011
Graduation Day

The D-Day! Miguel was so handsome in his graduation suit, a fine-looking young man (though, he will forever be "my baby"). He is so tall for his age. Actually, Miguel was one of the tallest in Grade 6. He got it from his dad’s side. They are tall, some are actually basketball players.

It was a solemn ceremony. The church was beautifully and elegantly decorated. Bummer though we couldn’t take pictures up close. The area where students were positioned was strictly cordoned. Only the school’s official photographers were allowed to come close. In general, the ceremonial activities and the entire graduation ceremony went well. As usual, I was nearly in tears especially, when the students faced the parents to offer a “thank you” song.

The official ceremony...

Closing song...

The graduating batch 2011 (group picture)...

The handsome young men... soon to be heartthrobs in the high school department... ;)

My "miracle" of miracles...

The "man" in my life...























Graduation Celebration

We had a simple celebration after the graduation at the California Pizza Kitchen (CPK) in Trinoma. The whole family was present except, of course my dad and mom. Just the same, I know they were with us in spirit.

The kids enjoyed the food and the bottomless iced tea! haha… we specifically liked the garlic cream fettucine, hmm… yum, yum! I loved the Thai Crunch Salad too! Here are some pictures of the food –

Thai Crunch Salad, YUM!

Tortilla Spring Rolls

Our favorite! Garlic Cream Fettucine, heavenly!

Marinara Linguini

Pepperoni Pizza... the kids' favorite!

The Meat Cravers Pizza























We all look forward to another celebration this time, with dad and mom. We are confident that dad will be well soon. God is good and merciful.

How's your life now? Is there enough reason to celebrate? I'm sure there is... there will always be! ♥♥♥