Pinoyskills

Things that I Learned

2009-06-25T10:08:00.007+08:00

Luckily for me, its not too late to realize the things that I learned from my past experiences...I'll share this article to you..which I got from my favorite blogsite. Enjoy and read on..

Sometimes I wish that I had known some of things I have learned over the last few years a bit earlier. That perhaps there had been a self-improvement class in school. And in some ways there probably was.

Because some of these 16 things in this article a teacher probably spoke about in class. But I forgot about them or didn’t pay attention.

Some of it would probably not have stuck in my mind anyway. Or just been too far outside my reality at the time for me to accept and use.

But I still think that taking a few hours from all those Mathematics classes and use them for some personal development classes would have been a good idea. Perhaps for just an hour a week in high school. It would probably be useful for many students and on a larger scale quite helpful for society in general.

So here are 16 things I wish they had taught me in school (or I just would like to have known about earlier).

1. The 80/20 rule.

This is one of the best ways to make better use of your time. The 80/20 rule – also known as The Pareto Principle – basically says that 80 percent of the value you will receive will come from 20 percent of your activities.

So a lot of what you do is probably not as useful or even necessary to do as you may think.

You can just drop – or vastly decrease the time you spend on – a whole bunch of things.

And if you do that you will have more time and energy to spend on those things that really brings your value, happiness, fulfilment and so on.

2. Parkinson’s Law.

You can do things quicker than you think. This law says that a task will expand in time and seeming complexity depending on the time you set aside for it. For instance, if you say to yourself that you’ll come up with a solution within a week then the problem will seem to grow more difficult and you’ll spend more and more time trying to come up with a solution.

So focus your time on finding solutions. Then just give yourself an hour (instead of the whole day) or the day (instead of the whole week) to solve the problem. This will force your mind to focus on solutions and action.

The result may not be exactly as perfect as if you had spent a week on the task, but as mentioned in the previous point, 80 percent of the value will come from 20 percent of the activities anyway. Or you may wind up with a better result because you haven’t overcomplicated or overpolished things. This will help you to get things done faster, to improve your ability to focus and give you more free time where you can totally focus on what’s in front of you instead of having some looming task creating stress in the back of your mind.

3. Batching.

Boring or routine tasks can create a lot of procrastination and low-level anxiety. One good way to get these things done quickly is to batch them. This means that you do them all in row. You will be able to do them quicker because there is less “start-up time” compared to if you spread them out. And when you are batching you become fully engaged in the tasks and more focused.

A batch of things to do in an hour today may look like this: Clean your desk / answer today’s emails / do the dishes / make three calls / write a grocery shopping list for tomorrow.

4. First, give value. Then, get value. Not the other way around.

This is a bit of a counter-intuitive thing. There is often an idea that someone should give us something or do something for us before we give back. The problem is just that a lot of people think that way. And so far less than possible is given either way.

If you want to increase the value you receive (money, love, kindness, opportunities etc.) you have to increase the value you give. Because over time you pretty much get what you give. It would perhaps be nice to get something for nothing. But that seldom happens.

5. Be proactive. Not reactive.

This one ties into the last point. If everyone is reactive then very little will get done. You could sit and wait and hope for someone else to do something. And that happens pretty often, but it can take a lot of time before it happens.

A more useful and beneficial way is to be proactive, to simply be the one to take the first practical action and get the ball rolling. This not only saves you a lot of waiting, but is also more pleasurable since you feel like you have the power over your life. Instead of feeling like you are run by a bunch of random outside forces.

6. Mistakes and failures are good.

When you are young you just try things and fail until you learn. As you grow a bit older, you learn from - for example - school to not make mistakes. And you try less and less things.

This may cause you to stop being proactive and to fall into a habit of being reactive, of waiting for someone else to do something. I mean, what if you actually tried something and failed? Perhaps people would laugh at you?

Perhaps they would. But when you experience that you soon realize that it is seldom the end of the world. And a lot of the time people don’t care that much. They have their own challenges and lives to worry about.

And success in life often comes from not giving up despite mistakes and failure. It comes from being persistent.

When you first learn to ride your bike you may fall over and over. Bruise a knee and cry a bit. But you get up, brush yourself off and get on the saddle again. And eventually you learn how to ride a bike. If you can just reconnect to your 5 year old self and do things that way - instead of giving up after a try/failure or two as grown-ups often do – you would probably experience a lot more interesting things, learn valuable lessons and have quite a bit more success.

7. Don’t beat yourself up.

Why do people give up after just few mistakes or failures? Well, I think one big reason is because they beat themselves up way too much. But it’s a kinda pointless habit. It only creates additional and unnecessary pain inside you and wastes your precious time. It’s best to try to drop this habit as much as you can.

8. Assume rapport.

Meeting new people is fun. But it can also induce nervousness. We all want to make a good first impression and not get stuck in an awkward conversation.

The best way to do this that I have found so far is to assume rapport. This means that you simply pretend that you are meeting one of your best friends. Then you start the interaction in that frame of mind instead of the nervous one.

This works surprisingly well. You can read more about it in How to Have Less Awkward Conversations: Assuming Rapport.

9. Use your reticular activation system to your advantage.

I learned about the organs and the inner workings of the body in class but nobody told me about the reticular activation system. And that’s a shame, because this is one of the most powerful things you can learn about. What this focus system, this R.A.S, in your mind does is to allow you to see in your surroundings what you focus your thoughts on. It pretty much always helps you to find what you are looking for.

So you really need to focus on what you want, not on what you don’t want. And keep that focus steady.

Setting goals and reviewing them frequently is one way to keep your focus on what’s important and to help you take action that will move your closer to toward where you want to go. Another way is just to use external reminders such as pieces of paper where you can, for instance, write down a few things from this post like “Give value” or “Assume rapport”. And then you can put those pieces of paper on your fridge, bathroom mirror etc.

10. Your attitude changes your reality.

We have all heard that you should keep a positive attitude or perhaps that “you need to change your attitude!”. That is a nice piece of advice I suppose, but without any more reasons to do it is very easy to just brush such suggestions off and continue using your old attitude.

But the thing that I’ve discovered the last few years is that if you change your attitude, you actually change your reality. When you for instance use a positive attitude instead of a negative one you start to see things and viewpoints that were invisible to you before. You may think to yourself “why haven’t I thought about things this way before?”.

When you change your attitude you change what you focus on. And all things in your world can now be seen in a different light.

This is of course very similar to the previous tip but I wanted to give this one some space. Because changing your attitude can create an insane change in your world. It might not look like it if you just think about it though. Pessimism might seem like realism. But that is mostly because your R.A.S is tuned into seeing all the negative things you want to see. And that makes you “right” a lot of the time. And perhaps that is what you want. On the other hand, there are more fun things than being right all the time.

If you try changing your attitude for real – instead of analysing such a concept in your mind - you’ll be surprised.

You may want to read more about this topic in Take the Positivity Challenge!

11. Gratitude is a simple way to make yourself feel happy.

Sure, I was probably told that I should be grateful. Perhaps because it was the right thing to do or just something I should do. But if someone had said that feeling grateful about things for minute or two is a great way to turn a negative mood into a happy one I would probably have practised gratitude more. It is also a good tool for keeping your attitude up and focusing on the right things. And to make other people happy. Which tends to make you even happier, since emotions are contagious.

12. Don’t compare yourself to others.

The ego wants to compare. It wants to find reasons for you to feel good about yourself (“I’ve got a new bike!”). But by doing that it also becomes very hard to not compare yourself to others who have more than you (“Oh no, Bill has bought an even nicer bike!”). And so you don’t feel so good about yourself once again. If you compare yourself to others you let the world around control how you feel about yourself. It always becomes a rollercoaster of emotions.

A more useful way is to compare yourself to yourself. To look at how far you have come, what you have accomplished and how you have grown. It may not sound like that much fun but in the long run it brings a lot more inner stillness, personal power and positive feelings.

13. 80-90% of what you fear will happen never really come into reality.

This is a big one. Most things you fear will happen never happen. They are just monsters in your own mind. And if they happen then they will most often not be as painful or bad as you expected. Worrying is most often just a waste of time.

This is of course easy to say. But if you remind yourself of how little of what you feared throughout your life that has actually happened you can start to release more and more of that worry from your thoughts.

14. Don’t take things too seriously.

It’s very easy to get wrapped up in things. But most of the things you worry about never come into reality. And what may seem like a big problem right now you may not even remember in three years.

Taking yourself, your thoughts and your emotions too seriously often just seems to lead to more unnecessary suffering. So relax a little more and lighten up a bit. It can do wonders for your mood and as an extension of that; your life.

15. Write everything down.

If your memory is anything like mine then it’s like a leaking bucket. Many of your good or great ideas may be lost forever if you don’t make a habit of writing things down. This is also a good way to keep your focus on what you want. Read more about it in Why You Should Write Things Down.

16. There are opportunities in just about every experience.

In pretty much any experience there are always things that you can learn from it and things within the experience that can help you to grow. Negative experiences, mistakes and failure can sometimes be even better than a success because it teaches you something totally new, something that another success could never teach you.

Whenever you have a “negative experience” ask yourself: where is the opportunity in this? What is good about this situation? One negative experience can – with time – help you create many very positive experiences.

12 laws that Im living with..its my secret weapon..

2009-01-01T00:53:00.002+08:00

12 Laws of Life

1. SELF-MANAGEMENT AND PEOPLE SKILLS ARE THE KEYS TO YOUR SUCCESS AND HAPPINESS.

This is a MAJOR fact of life. And it took me a long time to get this. If you want to be smarter than me you’ll give this first principle serious consideration. Your skill level in these two areas will determine the quality of your whole life. Every champion and high achiever knows this. These simple skills are the clear difference between winners in life, and losers.

If you learn to manage yourself you can accomplish anything you can dream up. You can deal with negative experiences wisely and you can add skills as you need them. You can become unstoppable. Self management puts you on the launching pad to all the success you desire.

Most people limit themselves by their unwillingness to consider personal change. They won’t learn new things and they won’t change their behaviors even when they discover they’ve been wrong.

The funny thing is, self-change is EASY. You are the one person that you can get to anytime you want. You don’t need permission or an appointment, and no one can stop you from learning and changing whenever you decide to. The only obstacle is you! Self-management is actually the first step to building people skills. Once you commit to changing yourself into who you can be, you will notice the people around you in a different way. Now you see them as fellow beings with their own fears and drives. And they will see you with new respect and attractiveness. You are surrounded by people who can help or harm you, based on how you treat them. Learning how people work is a skill, just like learning how you work. These people can multiply your efforts and supercharge your success It takes leadership and persuasion skills - people skills. People skills are like a booster rocket propelling you to your dreams. And the process of succeeding with others can be learned just like you learn to make toast. If you follow directions and practice, you can develop the skills that will make you very happy and prosperous.

2. YOU ARE AT THE CENTER OF YOUR UNIVERSE. STAY THERE!

As a young sailor I learned the hard way that when I was in a foreign port I needed to take my corners wide and keep my hands out of my pockets. In other words, I had to stay balanced, alert and ready to react to surprises. I’ve found that a lot of life’s situations are like “foreign ports.” They range from the bedroom to the boardroom, and you will encounter them throughout your life.

Keep your balance. Stay centered. Expect surprises.

Being centered has two sides; inner and outer.

Begin within.

Inner centeredness comes first; look there for your best self. It is how you will find peace of mind. There is a place in you that’s connected to something beyond you. Spending time there will keep your mind clear and your spirit refreshed. That “doorway” is your center.

Until you’re connected to your core you won’t be very good at handling the rest of the world. Few people really get this. It is the single most important and least understood fact of life Your center is easy to find. Every spiritual tradition in history teaches prayer and meditation - it’s the most important thing you can do for the quality of your life. Just take a little break a couple of times a day, and learn to be still and RELAX. If you give yourself this little time each day you will become calmer, stronger and your physical and mental health will improve. You will begin to focus more on what you think of yourself than what others may think of you.

For outer centeredness, you need to gain awareness of your personal boundaries. This is critical. Pay close attention to where you stop and others start. Protect your personal prerogatives and respect those of others. Allowing others to invade your boundaries will destroy your personal freedom and subject you to their tyranny.

If you cross the boundaries of others you become codependent with them, caring more about how they live their lives than how you live yours. You can care about others without having to run their lives. Let them go and feel the relief, once you get used to living only your own life.

3. WHAT YOU THINK ABOUT MOST IS WHAT YOU GET.

There is a Law of Attraction in human nature. What is in your mind is reflected “out there,” in what you experience as your reality.

Afraid? Then all the goblins that you fear will be attracted to you. The only useful purpose of fear is to remind you to plan. Plan so that you protect yourself from harm, but don’t become timid. If you play it TOO safe you’ll freeze in place and trade your life away for nothing.

Angry? Then you’ll get a lot of angry people to tussle with. Your life will fill up with honking horns and people pushing you around, and you’ll spend all your time pushing back.

It’s a good idea to choose your habitual thought patterns carefully. Love, optimism and gratitude are good choices. These states of mind inspire you to explore, to create, to grow and to give. People and opportunities will become attracted to you. And the goblins and angry people will get smaller and less important, and finally they’ll fade and go away.

The point of choice comes up when you have to deal with a challenging situation. Do you call it a “bad break” - some S.O.B. was out to get you? Or was it just something that happened, leaving it up to you to interpret in the most nourishing way? You might as well be positive. Bottom line - it works better. It makes you easier to be around and more creative and good-natured. And your immune system will be strengthened.

Events are just events until our thoughts and reactions turn them into experience. What the experience means, how useful it might be, those are the choices that we make -they’re the stories we tell ourselves about our lives.

We’re taught that it’s not ‘reasonable’ to expect to win all the time. Nonsense! That kind of thinking numbs ambition and smothers greatness. Even worse it leads to reasonable excuses. Excuses don’t accomplish anything so do NOT be reasonable. Actually, achieving the impossible is quite normal - you’ve done it thousands of times. EVERYTHING you do now was impossible for you before you did it the first time, from feeding yourself to balancing your checkbook.

Try this for a week. Focus on what you want instead of what you don’t want. Practice the skills of optimism, gratitude, generosity and forgiveness and your life will expand.

Yes, that’s right. PRACTICE.

Good attitudes are skills that you develop through repetition, just like swimming or math. And skills become second nature through practice. You will become stronger and more relaxed when you decide that you might as well thrive. Your commitment to expectancy is another skill, and it’s decisive and magnetic. It attracts luck and creates focus. People and opportunities will be drawn to you. Life starts to get easier. And more fun.

Go ahead and test it. What have you got to lose? The only way you can fail at anything is to quit trying!

4. YOU MAKE YOUR HABITS AND THEN YOUR HABITS MAKE YOU.

You’ve probably heard the saying, “As you sow, so shall you reap.” It means that our lives are created by what we do, not by what we intend. It means that we can harvest only what we plant. And every day you’re planting something, so choose wisely.

The biggest and most important influences in your life are created by small daily acts. For example - Meditate, Study, Set Goals, Save Money, Exercise, Floss, Smile, and Say Thank You.

When you do the right thing at the right time it makes more difference than if you make a big dramatic effort too late. Cramming may work in school, but not in real life. The school term is over in a few months; life lasts longer. Days turn into years and those years become your life.

The most important qualities in life - Spirituality, Health, Relationships, Wealth, and Your Personal Character - are developed by regular acts done on a daily basis. They’re called “practices.”

Daily practices - done on schedule. What? Just “can’t do anything on a schedule?” Baloney. You can do anything you want on a schedule, unless you’ve never gotten to a plane on time. It’s a matter of priorities. And your priorities create your quality of life. Choose the practices of your life as if you were a farmer. You can’t skip spring planting if you want a fall harvest. Master this principle and you will live your life to its fullest. Changing your life doesn’t take a lot of work - just repeat a single positive act daily for three weeks and it will become a habit. Good. Now add another one. Then another one. The force of good habits will automatically generate power and “good luck,” and your life will blossom.

5. GUILT ENSLAVES YOU. RESPONSIBILITY LIBERATES YOU.

Here’s a secret about “Original sin”. It’s guilt, and you get it from your parents.

Are you self-conscious? Most people are. They’re worried that they’re “unzipped.” They’re walking around thinking that people will notice their missing button, their bad hairdo, their poor credit and personal shortcomings. These feelings are universal - we all got them while we were being taught how to behave as infants (”No!” “Bad!” “Don’t!”).

When we become adults we are supposed to leave these feelings of inadequacy in childhood where they were needed.

The way to do this is to forgive your parents for their shortcomings, whether they were minor or major. And then forgive yourself for all your sins, real and imagined. Forgiving doesn’t mean that you think what happened was okay. It just means that you free yourself from the work of remembering it and getting mad at people that are not even around anymore. Including the younger “you.” You MUST do this if you want to be free.

6. “OBLIGATIONS” ARE A FRAUD.

Okay, take a deep breath here. This one gets a lot of people, because most of us have been brainwashed all of our lives to believe a huge lie. We’ve all been taught that we “owe” other people all sorts of obligations, and that we should expect lots of things from them in return.

That idea, in one word, is bullshit.

We waste an incredible amount of time either doing things we don’t want and don’t have to do, or feeling guilty because we didn’t do something we “should” have done. We also waste a lot of time and emotion being disappointed when we don’t get what we expect from others.

Freedom lies in the other direction.

The truth is, you don’t owe anyone anything and they don’t owe anything to you. This is all part of the “guilt” thing. It’s good for us to give to others, but ONLY when and how we choose.

The difference between free people who master their lives and those who are slaves is easy to spot.

Who sets their priorities?

Free people set their own priorities, while “slaves” allow them to be set by outsiders.

Your life belongs to you and you alone - and not anyone else. Want a formula for unhappiness? Make your welfare dependent upon someone else’s choices. Do you need “support” from those you love? Or approval from a parent or friend? Or permission from anybody to pursue your own path?

That’s not living - that’s slavery!

Don’t look to anyone else for your success or happiness. That’s your job and yours alone. You must tend to your own welfare. No one else will, nor should they.

7. EXPECT LESS FROM OTHERS AND MORE FROM YOURSELF.

Most people expect way too much from others while they themselves actually get very little done. Inertia and distraction are insidious and damn near universal - expect it in others but guard against it in your own behavior.

Everyone listens to his or her favorite mental radio station - W.I.I.F.M., which stands for, “What’s In It For Me?” So don’t take it personally when you’re overlooked, your call goes un-returned, and you go un-thanked.

Most of your fellow humans are so distracted and disorganized that they only get around to the most essential, familiar or urgent things in their lives. They’re on “autopilot” most of the time - aren’t we all on occasion?

This self-interest is natural and healthy. Use this knowledge of other’s desires in your plans and proposals.

Here’s the big principle. If you want something to happen, take control and do it yourself. Don’t get bitter if perhaps someone else didn’t keep a commitment to help you.

It is a waste of time to criticize others, and a bigger waste to pay attention to anyone’s criticism of you. Just know that you can get better at doing things on your own. It’s a LOT easier than trying to get someone else to change.

8. NOBODY WAKES UP IN THE MORNING CHOOSING TO BE THE VILLAIN.

Everyone alive thinks that they’re the “good guy.” He or she is the hero in their version of the story. They have a reason for what they do - even if it’s impractical or unworkable or has evil consequences.

People who are troublesome aren’t worth changing. Don’t even waste time complaining about them.

If someone hurts you, it’s not about you and you shouldn’t act like it was. People do what they do because of their own inner reality. Learn what you can do differently the next time, then forgive them and move on.

Really. Forgive them completely. And then, figure out how to manage, tolerate or avoid them in the future.

By the way, forgiving doesn’t mean that you think whatever they did is okay. It’s NOT okay. But here’s the thing - if you don’t forgive someone you can’t ever let it go. Then you have to go around with this burden of anger and sourness. Wasn’t the original hurt enough for you? Why would you want to preserve it and remember it? Or them?

Carrying grudges ties up brain cells that you could use to make life sweeter for yourself and those you love. So, after you forgive them, forgive yourself for getting hurt - and then LET IT GO!

9. THERE IS NO “HAPPILY EVER AFTER” IN THE REAL WORLD.

Friends and mates may change or leave, luck comes and goes, and there are no guarantees. The only certainty is that someday your life will be over, and only you can decide how it will be lived. If you want a happy ending you need to create it. Think about it. When would “Happily Ever After” start?

After you win the lottery? - Most lottery winners are broke within three years.

When the wedding bells ring? - Over half of all marriages fail.

When you retire? - 95% of those over 65 live from check to check.

Stories have to have happy endings, because the story ends before their characters do.

Real life is different. You’re going to live until you die, so you need to have a plan for every day of it.

Choose your goals, write them down, and track them daily. Your life will happen by accident unless you have a plan for it. Either way things will happen to you. On every day of your life, after every climax, every tragedy and every triumph, the sun will rise again.

You get a new day every morning of your life. And as long as you’re alive you’ll have to prepare for that next day and the one after that.

So respect reality.

Think as if you have a future, because that’s where you’re going to spend the rest of your life.

10. THERE IS A HELL, AND IT STARTS EARLY.

People create their own personal hell with moral shortcuts, regrets about lost opportunities, resentment, and guilt. Then they add jealousy and envy, and they’ve paid the toll to enter Hell’s suburbs.

What toll do they pay? They give up their peace of mind, and sometimes their self respect.

They trade it for short-term pleasure.

Those who avoid doing anything that requires effort - physical exercise or forgiving or doing something for someone else - grow more narrow and less flexible day by day. Stunted ambition strangles their dreams and their enthusiasm dies. By the time they enter “downtown Hell” they’ve got a bad attitude about most things in life. They complain and criticize because “life has let them down.” The truth is life didn’t let them down - they quit trying.

Pretty soon their immune system gets the message and then their physical afflictions begin - their relationships are desolate and life becomes an ordeal. They start looking and acting older than they really are.

When these people look ahead, the future looks just like the past. Stretching on and on, day after unhappy day.

And that is truly Hell.

11. YOU CAN CREATE PARADISE ON EARTH. MANY PEOPLE DO.

You can make your life sweeter bit by bit. It doesn’t take much, just some daily practice.

Spend some time in solitude each day renewing your peace of mind. Invest in good memories by managing your behavior so that you enjoy looking back on your life.

You create your Heaven by small acts of generosity to others, making them smile and feel better.

You create it by little acts of courage - doing the right thing when no one but you will ever know you did it.

By making promises to yourself and keeping them, which builds your self-respect. You create it by telling the truth even if it’s inconvenient or embarrassing. It makes you careful about what you do, or what you commit to doing. And that brings credibility and trust. And most important, you will know you’re liked for who you are instead of for some lie you’re living.

You’re in Heaven’s neighborhood when you notice the amazing number of things in life there are to be grateful for, especially as your gratitude becomes a constant part of your being.

Humans are the most flexible beings on this planet, and you build Heaven by stretching sometimes to try something new or a little scary.

Your reward is learning that you are more than you thought.

And you can always stretch more.

As you become older your personal Heaven becomes a bigger influence on those around you. Your life will expand faster than your physical abilities contract. You will laugh a lot more than most people, and enjoy more contentment and peace than you ever thought possible. And it just keeps getting better and better. If you choose to follow this path, you’ll be in Paradise long before you leave this life.

12. IT’S NEVER TOO LATE TO CHANGE.

Everyone alive gets the same amount of time. 1440 minutes a day. 168 hours in each week. As long as you live. The only difference is in how you spend those hours. You decide how to spend your time and you make that choice each minute.

You can begin to turn your life around in a second.

The only thing you need to do is decide to make it better. You can start to change immediately, beginning with a simple act and letting the acts pile up on each other, creating the change almost effortlessly.

You know the scriptural quote, “By their deeds you shall know them?” It was talking about us. It doesn’t really matter much what we think or what we intend, until the thought is expressed as action.

The quality of our lives comes from what we actually do.

Experience comes in moments - and the moments will keep coming for you until they finally stop. Each moment is a gift, and the chance to make your life different comes to you during each one of them.

Each of these “Facts” boils down to a single principle.

Decide

You can decide how your life will go during any moment you choose. This may be that moment.

It’s okay to dream big. Where do you want to go from here? How do you want your next moments to be? It’s up to you.

Reading the mind

2008-12-27T14:40:00.001+08:00

Just follow these instructions, and answer the questions one at a time and as quickly as you can! Again, as quickly as you can but don't advance until you've done each of them .... really. Now, scroll down (but not too fast, you might miss something).

THINK of a number from 1 to 10

MULTIPLY that number by 9

If the number is a 2-digit number, ADD the digits together

Now SUBTRACT 5

DETERMINE which letter in the alphabet corresponds to the number you ended up with (example: 1=a, 2=b, 3=c,etc.)

THINK of a country that starts with that letter

REMEMBER the last letter of the name of that country

THINK of the name of an animal that starts with that letter

REMEMBER the last letter in the name of that animal

THINK of the name of a fruit that starts with that letter

Are you thinking of a Kangaroo in Denmark eating an Orange?

Isn't that FREAKY!! If not for you, you're among the 2% of the population whose minds are different enough to think of something else. However, 98% of people will answer with kangaroos in Denmark eating oranges when given this exercise.

Girls

2008-12-27T01:53:00.000+08:00

Girls are like
apples on trees. The best
ones are at the top of the tree.
The boys don't want to reach for
the good ones because they are afraid
of falling and getting hurt. Instead, they
just get the rotten apples from the ground
that aren't as good, but easy. So the apples
at the top think something is wrong with
them, when in reality, they're amazing.
They just have to wait for the right
boy to come along, the one
who's brave enough
to climb
all the way
to the top
of the tree.

Tips for making a baby boy or a baby girl

2008-07-25T18:06:00.003+08:00

Choice of a baby BOY or GIRL

Hope it is useful for some of you in planning stage. For those of you do not have any plan in the near future, you can keep it for future reference.

Background:
Man’s sperm consists of X & Y spermatozoa, X spermatozoon decides the female whereas Y is the male. Referring to these physiological properties of the spermatozoa, gynecologists set up the theory of ‘Choice of a girl or a boy’.

1st factor: Food
If you want a baby girl:
Husband must eat more alkaline food, wife eats more acidic food.
If you want a baby boy:
Husband eats more acidic food, wife eats more alkaline food.

Alkaline food: vegetables, fruits, egg white, milk, algae, etc.
Acidic food: meat, seafood, etc.

2nd factor: Timing (When to do it?)
If you want a baby girl:
Frequent copulation during pre-ovulation period.
If you want a baby boy:
Copulating just before ovulation or just after ovulation.

How to confirm ovulation period:
Body temperature increases (you may want to use SPC chart to monitor your body temperature here).

3rd factor: Penetration (How to do it?)
If you want a baby girl:
Husband to avoid deep penetration in the female vagina during copulation.
If you want a baby boy:
Deep penetration by the husband is suggested.

Reasoning:
Characteristics of X & Y spermatozoa
- X: Marathon runner with good stamina
- Y: Sprinter but poor stamina
So, with deep penetration, the chances for Y to reach destination will be higher.

4th factor: Stimulation
If you want a baby girl:
Wife should avoid stimulation during copulation. Secretion from female vagina becomes alkaline when stimulated, therefore this promotes the activity of Y spermatozoon.
If you want a baby boy:
Husband ejaculates after wife has been stimulated.

5th factor: Wife’s Preparation
If you want a baby girl:
Rinse the vagina with solution dissolving 2 spoonfuls of white vinegar in 1 liter of water. Since an acidic condition decreases activity of Y spermatozoon.
If you want a baby boy:
Rinse the vagina with solution dissolving 2 spoonfuls of soda in 1 liter of water.

6th factor: Positioning
If you want a baby girl:
Female to be on the top position & male to be on the bottom position.
If you want a baby boy:
Male to be on the top position & female to be on the bottom position. This posture allows the Y spermatozoon to reach the destination faster.

*************************************************************************************************************
The wisdom of our (?) ancestors!
For those planning to have a baby & those who will need to plan in future, the chart below may help you to predict the sex of your future child.
The accuracy of the chart has been proved by thousands of People and is believed to be 99 percent accurate.
Believe it or not.

WOMAN’S CONCEIVING AGE

EXPLANATION
You can choose for yourself whether you want a boy or a girl by following the chart. The woman’s age from 18 to 45 (Chinese reckoning) is on the top line while the months Jan to Dec indicate the month when the baby is conceived. By following the chart you will be able to tell in advance whether your baby will be a boy or a girl. Thus, you can plan to have a boy or a girl.

This chart has been taken from a Royal tomb near Peking, China. The original copy is kept in the institute of Science of Peking. The accuracy of the chart has been proved by thousands of People and is believed to be 99 percent accurate. By reckoning, you follow a line drawn from the figure representing the woman’s age to a line drawn from the month the baby is conceived.
For instance, if the woman is 27 years old and her baby is conceived in Month 1 (according to the Chinese Lunar Calendar), then her baby will be a girl. The chart is based on the month the baby is conceived and not on the birth of the baby, B-Male, G-Female.

Remarks: A Chinese Scientist discovered and drew this chart which was buried in a Royal tomb about 700 years ago.

Hack the Fuel of Petron, Shell, Caltex, and SeaOil

2008-04-30T19:12:00.004+08:00

I have a friend who work in a gasoline company and advised me to post this to my blog for the information of my fellow countrymen who are experiencing crisis due to the high prices of the gasoline. Here's a great tips that is proven using scientific methods.

ONLY BUY OR FILL UP YOUR CAR OR MOTORCYLCLE EARLY MORNING WHEN THE GROUND TEMPERATURE IS

STILL COLD. Remember that all service stations have their

storage tanks buried below ground. The colder the ground,
the denser the fuel, when it gets warmer petrol expands, so
buying in the afternoon or in the evening.... your litre is not
exactly a litre.

In the petroleum business, the specific gravity and the
temperature of the petrol, diesel and jet fuel, ethanol and
other petroleum products play an important role. A
1degree rise in temperature is a big deal for this business.

WHEN YOU'RE FILLING UP, DO NOT SQUEEZE THE
TRIGGER OF THE NOZZLE TO A FAST MODE. If you look,
you will see that the trigger has three (3) stages: low,

middle, and high. In slow mode, you should be pumping on
low speed, thereby minimizing the vapours that are
created, while you are pumping. All hoses at the pump
have a vapour return. If you are pumping on the fast rate,
some of the liquid that goes to your tank becomes vapour.
Those vapours are being sucked up and back into the
underground storage tank so you're getting less worth for
your money.

ONE OF THE MOST IMPORTANT TIPS IS TO FILL UP
WHEN YOUR TANK IS HALF FULL. The reason for this is,
the more fuel you have in your tank, the less air occupying
its empty space. Petrol evaporates faster than you can
imagine. Petroleum storage tanks have an internal floating
roof. This roof serves as zero clearance between the petrol
and the atmosphere, so it minimizes the evaporation.

Unlike service stations, here where I work, every truck that
we load is temperature compensated, so that every litre is
actually the exact amount.

ANOTHER REMINDER, IF THERE IS A FUEL TRUCK
PUMPING INTO THE STORAGE TANKS, WHEN YOU STOP
TO BUY, DO NOT FILL UP - most likely the petrol/diesel is
being stirred up as the fuel is being delivered, and you
might pick up some of the dirt that normally settles on the
bottom.

My Mom Taught Me...

2008-04-17T15:55:00.000+08:00

Have you had your mother teach you some strange things? Mine has. Let me share you some of the things I learned from her….

TO APPRECIATE A JOB WELL DONE:"If you're going to fight with each other, do it outside - I just finished cleaning!"

TIME TRAVEL:"If you don't straighten up, I'm going to knock you into the middle of next week!"LOGIC:"Because I said so, that's why."

FORESIGHT:"Make sure you wear clean underwear, in case you're in an accident."

IRONY:"Keep laughing and I'll give you something to cry about."

The science of OSMOSIS:"Shut your mouth and eat your supper!"

CONTORTIONISM:"Will you look at the dirt on the back of your neck!"

STAMINA:"You'll sit there 'til all that spinach is finished."

WEATHER:"It looks as if a tornado swept through your room."

How to solve PHYSICS PROBLEMS:"If I yelled because I saw a meteor coming toward you; would you listen then?"

HYPOCRISY:"If I've told you once, I've told you a million times - Don't Exaggerate!!!"

THE CIRCLE OF LIFE:"I brought you into this world, and I can take you out."

BEHAVIOR MODIFICATION:"Stop acting like your father!"

ENVY:"There are millions of less fortunate children in this world who don't have wonderful parents like you do!"Yep! She is kind of wierd, alright!

Have a good relationship

2008-04-17T10:06:00.001+08:00

A relationship is a natural, logical, and harmonious association
This happens when people WANT to be with each other
and look forward to sharing goals, time, and activities together.
Here are fun and easy ways to a loving --- Ideal Relationship.

1. TALK. Always in pleasant tones. No shouting or swearing at each
other. Speak only positive words with gentleness and kindness.
Communicate daily. This is the highest and most caring form of love.

2. WALK TOGETHER more. Take 30 minutes a day. To exercise, communicate,
release emotions, share ideas, goals, and to clear up any
misunderstandings. It's okay to hold hands, too!

3. Do NEW and DIFFERENT ACTIVITIES together. Enjoy a new restaurant, a
different dish, a concert, a unique vacation, attend a class together
something exciting both of you can plan and look forward to. Learn
together and you'll be happier.

4. Give each other GIFTS often. Like a magazine subscription, a special
book, a warm bath and massage, flowers, surprise experiences, favorite
foods, and the many other special things your mate would enjoy and get
excited about.

5. Write LOVE NOTES. Hide them around the home --- in clothing, pockets,
in the kitchen drawer and secret places. Send some to his or her working
place. Write a passionate love letter. Express your love in writing on
exquisite stationery. Attach a gift certificate or a crispy $100 bill.
Use your imagination and make it a fun surprise. And do it often!

6. DO NOT CRITICIZE, CONDEMN or COMPLAIN! This is a NO-NO.
Only praises. Acknowledge the goodness in each other. There is no place
for negativity in a loving and lasting relationship ever! Your mate will do
the right thing --- as you lead by example.

7. ACHIEVE and MAINTAIN your IDEAL figure. It is a gift to yourself and
your mate. A healthy and attractive body also promotes a healthy
relationship.

8. Allow your partner to be RESPONSIBLE for his or her life. He or she
has the right to determine his or her own reality and destiny. Always
respect that choice. Both of you can live your lives in your own way
harmoniously. Treasure each other's differences. Do your very best to
make life easier and more fun for your mate.

9. Grow TOGETHER. At the same speed and direction --- by sharing similar
ideas and activites. This will bond you together even more while building on fond memories. (People who don't grow together will complete their relationship and move on to lead separate lives. This is why most people divorce.

10. DO NOT be POSSESSIVE. Don't act as though you "own" your mate.
Support, encourage each other's way of living and individual interests.
Be grateful in harmony.

11. TREASURE your TIME together. It could be your last. Look at it this
way and you'll always appreciate each other even more. Have NO reason
for regrets. Spend time with each other doing all the things you both
love to do. Do it now! Tomorrow may not come. So together --- plan now
for the best of the rest of your lives.

12. IT is OKAY to DO whatever pleases BOTH of you. In private, there are
no limits on what you can do together with each other...as long as both
benefit and agree. Whatever other people think of what you do or say is
none of your business! So, go ahead experiment --- and satisfy each
other to the limit!

13. Be OPEN. To new ideas, experiences, and relationships. This is the
way for fun, growth and expansion in your lives. The more you LEARN
together...the happier you both will be.

14. FORGIVE and LOVE. Release the past at every moment. Live in the
present. Plan for the future --- together...and joyously!

15. Be FREE of resentments, anger, jealousy, hatred, and envy toward
each other. This will open both of you to even greater respect for each
other. Be thankful for your mate's kindness.

16. Eliminate arguing totally. Anywhere, anytime. Especially while
eating or in bed. Each person has a right to his or her own opinion.
Respect each others ideas, philosophy, and outlook on life. Be a great
listener!

17. SMILE and LAUGH with each other. A prescription for aliveness and
health. Don't take yourself or your mate too seriously. Lighten up and
laugh more often. Remember, your smiles are true gifts to each other.

18. Look into each other's EYES often. See the love, truth, and beauty
in your mate. The more you look into each other's eyes lovingly --- the
more you will love each other more deeply! Do this daily. It's very
powerful and fun!

19. TOUCH each other TENDERLY every day. Hug. Kiss. Caress. These are
wonderful ways to show caring and love. We ALL need it. More than we
care to admit!

20. Develop a HEALTHY LIFESTYLE. Good food promotes a healthier state of
mind for a more meaningful relationship. Eat lots of fruits, vegetables,
whole wheat, grains, hi-fiber, low-fat, low-calorie foods. Drink more
water. Get more rest. Keep yourself cleansed, nourished, and balanced.

21. Keep your home, car, kitchen, closets, rooms --- simple, neat, clean
and organized. This will help promote a tranquil setting for greater
peace and happiness in your lives. It really works! Begin this ---
today!

22. Dress your best. Be appropriate, neat, clean, and proud of your
appearance. How you look, especially in public --- enhances your mate's
choice and appearance, too!

23. SHARE in Financial Matters. If you are married, communicate with
each other on all your finances. If you have a family business, be sure
both are informed on profits, losses, expenses, etc. Set your financial
priorities together. This will help to strengthen your relationship
which is built on trust and sharing. Enjoy building your financial
future together. This is important.

24. ACCEPT each other TOTALLY. Exactly the way both of you are. Do not
try to change each other's uniqueness. Allow your mate to change if and
when he or she desires. This promotes everlasting peace.

25. Say: "I LOVE YOU". Daily, many times. Especially when you wake up
and before you go to sleep. Say it for the rest of your lives together.
Never ever take love for granted. Express it verbally as well as with
action. We all need to hear that magical phrase. It reaffirms how we
feel at that moment. So, fill your lives with millions of moments of
love by saying: "I love you."

"Parting is all we know of heaven and all we need of hell" -- Emily
Dickinson

Campus Hero

2008-04-13T20:23:00.001+08:00

The leaves were falling, the sun had just risen and the birds were flying. It was a cool November morning in Konagawa City. Kennedy was on his way to school. He was very excited for this was the first day of his class. He was a fourth year college student.He arrived at school early and was very keen at listening to his professors. He studied well and seemed to have no problem at all that day. He was so engaged at his studies, he didn’t notice the time fly by.Moments later, the school bell rang. It was dismissal time. His classroom advisor told him to stay. Apparently, they have something to talk about.

“You look changed. You’re very different from the Kennedy I met several months ago. I congratulate you for that.” –Professor Zitski said.

“Thanks!” –Kennedy replied.

“I just wanted to tell you that I don’t want to see you tangled in a brawl again. You were given a warning last school year that if you were caught brawling again, you will be expelled from the school. I have received no reports of you causing trouble since then. I want you to keep it that way.” –The professor told Kennedy.

“You can count on me causing no commotion again, prof!” –Kennedy replied with a smile. After that, he went on his way home.

“It’s been months now since I last had a fight with somebody. I wish I never end up in a rumble again. I have acquired a name of being the worst trouble-maker of all the students here in Japan. Sheesh, what a shame!” –He thought.

He was soon near his home as he was not living very far from school. He was walking leisurely as he was not on a hurry when all of a sudden, he heard loud noises. A girl was screaming. He was startled.He quickly turned to find out where the noise was coming from. It was emanating from the park which was near where he was living. He couldn’t see what it was all about because of the trees that were blocking his view.He quickly dashed to the place of incident. He saw his classmate, Maya, on the ground, crying for help. A few steps away from her were three students from the other school. Two of them were carrying baseball bats and the third was clasping a metal tube.

“They’re harassing my classmate! I will not allow this to continue. It must be stopped!” –He said in his mind.

He was about to move closer to the scene when suddenly, the words from his advisor halted him.

“If I try to join the commotion, I might get expelled from school. I’m only one year away from graduating. I’ll probably just pretend I saw nothing.” –He reckoned.

But as he was about to turn around, away from them, he heard her cry for help again. When he looked, he saw the three ungentlemanlike mobsters pulling Maya to the bushes.

“I have to decide now. Will I risk getting kicked out of school just to rescue her? What must I do?” –He thought.

On the spur of the moment, he rapidly ran towards the three and speedily jumped at them. Intense fighting followed instantly. The three were caught on surprise as they did not notice him dashing towards them.Kennedy used the element of surprise well to his advantage. His punches were strong and quick, his kicks were worse. He attacked relentlessly. He was striking as if there is no tomorrow .The mobsters were soon on the ground.He quickly clutched Maya’s arm and they ran away. The escaped well before the enemy recovered. By the time the three had stood up, Kennedy and Maya were already very far away.Several hours passed and soon it was morning again. Kennedy arrived at school late this day. He seemed like he was ready to take on anything today. He was expecting that he would get expelled from school today.He was welcomed by his school principal that was waiting for him at his classroom.

“Kennedy! Kennedy Hao, come to my office immediately!” –The principal ordered.

Kennedy just gulped and followed him to the principal’s room.

“This is it. I’m gonna bid farewell to this school now. It’s no problem, anyways. I’d rather get expelled than let anybody get hurt by those bozos from the other school.” –He said to himself.

As if it was a twist of fate, the principal shook his hand and gave him an award as soon as he entered the room.

“Congratulations, Kennedy, for your act of heroism!” –The principal uttered.

In the room was also Maya.Kennedy was not only allowed to continue studying but he was also given the campus heroism award and was granted scholarship as well. He felt like he was floating on cloud nine right at that very moment.He graduated a year later and is now working abroad as a computer engineer.You see, every act of heroism and every sacrifice has its prize. So, if you get a chance to do good deeds, don’t let it pass. Use your every opportunity to do what is right. What do you know, you could be the next CAMPUS HERO!

Papaya Dance Craze becoming hit worldwide

2008-04-11T12:16:00.003+08:00

Yes, the Philippines is back to the international map as ABC News Good Morning America (GMA), a popular US morning TV show featured Papaya Dance, popularized by Edu Manzano through his game show, Pilipinas: Game K N B? (Philippines: Are You Ready?).

I was washing dishes after breakfast when I overheard Edu Manzano announcing how Papaya dance invades America, a minute after I hurried on my computer and search for the actual mimicking of the hosts of GMA via youtube. ALAS! It was really true. The Philippines is making some international headlines again.

Anyways based on my research, the song actually originated from Poland and was a worldwide hit back in the ’70s. It was written and sung by Polish singer Urszula Dudzia. In fact, Miss Dudziak is aware of the dance and she even did the Papaya Dance herself in her interview.

Forget the Chicken Dance, forget the Macarena, because the Papaya Dance is now being billed as the new Macarena. Congrats Philippines!

What is the Meaning of the word FAMILY?

2008-04-09T06:55:00.004+08:00

Many of us are neglecting of the word FAMILY especially those who are working and not giving too much attention to people beside them. I personally experienced the same thing but when I've read the story below, it all change my perspective about the people around me. It is a story of a son who wants to buy the time of his father. A very touching story, A simple but very effective in changing the person's life. I got it from an email to me, I don't know where this story originated so I consider this as a God's Letter to all the people who do not know the real meaning of the FAMILY. Here it goes....

A man came home from work late, tired and irritated, to find his 5 year-old son waiting for him at the door. "Daddy, may I ask you a question?"

"Yeah sure, what is it?" replied the man.

"Daddy, how much do you make an hour?"

"That's none of your business. Why do you ask such a thing?" the man said angrily.

"I just want to know. Please tell me, how much do you make an hour?" pleaded the little boy.

"If you must know, I make $20 an hour."

“Oh," the little boy replied, with his head down.

Looking up, he said, "Daddy, may I please borrow $10 from you?"

The father was furious, "If the only reason you asked that is so you can borrow some money to buy a silly toy or some other nonsense, then you march yourself straight to your room and go to bed. Think about why you are being so selfish. I work hard everyday for such this childish behaviour."

The little boy quietly went to his room and shut the door. The man sat down and started to get even angrier about the little boy's questions. How dare he ask such questions only to get some money? After about an hour or so, the man had calmed down, and started to think: Maybe there was something he really needed to buy with that $10 and he really didn't ask for money very often. The man went to the door of the little boy's room and opened the door.

"Are you asleep, son?" He asked.

"No daddy, I'm awake," replied the boy.

"I've been thinking, maybe I was too hard on you earlier," said the man, "It's been a long day and I took out my aggravation on you. Here's the $10 you asked for."

The little boy sat straight up, smiling. "Oh, thank you daddy!" He yelled. Then, reaching under his pillow he pulled out some crumpled up bills. The man, seeing that the boy already had money, started to get angry again. The little boy slowly counted out his money, then looked up at his father.

"Why do you want more money if you already have some?" the father grumbled.

"Because I didn't have enough, but now I do," the little boy replied.

"Daddy, I have $20 now. Can I buy an hour of your time? Please come home early tomorrow. I would like to have dinner with you."

Share this story with someone you like.... But even better, share $20 worth of time with someone you love. It's just a short reminder to all of you working so hard in life. We should not let time slip through our fingers without having spent some time with those who really matter to us, those close to our hearts.

If we die tomorrow, the company that we are working for could easily replace us in a matter of days. But the family & friends we left behind will feel the loss for the rest of their lives. And come to think of it, we pour ourselves more into work than to our family an unwise investment indeed.

So what is the moral of the story???? Don't work too hard... and know who you are working for...and....you know what's a family?

FAMILY = (F)ATHER (A)ND (M)OTHER, (I) (L)OVE (Y)OU

Pinoyskills - The Meaning in the Cyberworld

2008-04-06T23:58:00.003+08:00

Before I’ll go to bed. I have to post something for the world to know. Probably every visitors in every country who made this site powerful and bringing greatest hits in just 2 weeks are wondering what is the real concept or meaning of this site. First just put Pinoyskills in the search box of google. You’ll see this statement that google respond to your query “Did you mean: moneyskills”. Its weird right but that thing gives me hope to develop a skill which the world aspire to have. Well google thinks that my pinoyskills is just the same as moneyskills. Besides the google meaning of it. Pinoyskills is about a site wherein all the researches, stories, learnings, and etc. are shared and compiled in this site. It also talks about the greatest pinoys who bring inspiration to the world. My country needs inspirational people and you can only find it here.

Charice Pempengco a certified Pinoyskill

2008-04-06T21:31:00.006+08:00

Its early in the morning and I came from a very tiring hours of work, when times like this I always find a way light up my life and I watched a clip from youtube . It is a song that always put me in my throne whenever I'm down or tired from this busy world that I live in. I was amazed by this young Diva from my own country Philippines. She is no other than Ms. Charice Pempengco. A young girl with a big heart and an inspiration to all the Filipinos in the world. She has a great voice that will conquer the world. She is simple yet very impressive when it comes to her talent in singing. Well back to my favorite song it is called “One moment in Time” sang by Whitney Houston during the 80s. Every line of the song is significant to my life and since the 80s I’ve never seen an artist sang the song so powerful as the one featured below in youtube. I might say that my world will never end after seeing someone from my own country sang my Song of my Life and to Charice, you may not know me personally but in this cyberworld your name and your talent has something to do with my concept. A PINOYSKILL that will conquer the world and will always inspire my Life.

The country has Manny Paquiao as the famous boxing hero well for me he did great and hoping that the Filipinos will love also the greatness of Charice for she has a talent and the attitude to inspire my fellow countrymen. Manny has the fist and Charice has the voice. Their combination will make our country proud and will somehow light up the heart of every Filipinos out there. MABUHAY

10 Top Things to Give In Life

2008-04-05T12:39:00.001+08:00

1) Your Time
How many of you are too busy with your own lives to give your time
to
others? Being busy is an excuse and a reason not to go out of your
way.
People need you and love you. They want to see you. Let them have
some
time
with you.

2) Your Support
How many of you really support the people in your life? What I mean
by
support is encouragement and reasons to try something new, not 10
different
reasons why it won't work for them. Just because it didn't work
this time.
There's nothing better than telling a person that they can do
whatever
they
want in this world.

3) Your Acceptance
This may be a toughie for some. This means unconditional love and
the
ability to love someone for who they are and not what you want them
to be.

It means giving up how you think their life should go ... accepting
them
for what they want to do with their lives. This is the greatest
gift that
you can give to the people in your life.

4) Your Attention
How many of you really listen to the people in your life? For
everyone who

just said "Of course I do" then why are the people in your life
asking you

to repeat
what they have just said? It's because they know that you didn't
hear
them.
Take a few minutes, stop what you are doing, and focus on the
people who
you love. Aren't they worth it? And who knows, you may even learn
something
that you thought you already knew.

5) Your Forgiveness
Forgiving people for past mistakes and hurts is one of the greatest
gifts
you can give them. After all they are only human. Plus, I'm sure
that you
haven't been the perfect human being either. Keeping hurt and anger
in
your
life is just an excuse not to get close to people for fear that
they will
hurt you again.

6) Your Patience
How many of you can't even be with the people you love because they
are
taking too long to tell a story or are taking longer than "you
think" to
complete a project that you think should take a lesser time. How do
you
know
that there isn't a better way to do something if the people around
you
always have to do it your way? Having patience with people shows
that they

are respected
and loved. Isn't this a great gift to give to people around you?

7) Your Love
People want to know that they are special in your life and that you
care
about them. If there are things that are keeping you from loving
them such

as conversations that you want to have with them, but you're
afraid, my
advice is to say it. Sometimes you have to take risk to achieve an
open
and
rewarding relationship. Take the risk and give your love.

Your Ideas
Sometimes people want to move forward in their lives but they don't
know
how. You may know something that they never thought of. And who
knows,your

ideas may change somebody's life. So go ahead, don't be afraid to
share
what you know.

9) Your Smile
There is nothing better than entering a room seeing someone smile
when you

walk in. Right then and there you know that your presence makes a
difference in their
life. A smile is easy. You just grin upward. Plus, you burn many
more
calories then from frowning.

10) A Hug
Human touch warms the heart and keeps us connected. In addition, it
doesn't
take much effort, it costs nothing, and it makes someone's day.
Couldn't
you find time in your schedule to hug someone you love today?

"It's good to have money and the things money can buy. But it's
good too,
to check up once in a while and make sure you haven't lost the
things that

you can't buy."

TOUCHING STORY

2008-04-04T13:49:00.000+08:00

A young man was getting ready to graduates college. For many months he had admired a beautiful sports car in a dealer's showroom, and knowing his father could well afford it, he told him that was all he wanted.As Graduation Day approached, the young man awaited signs that his father had purchased the car. Finally, on the morning of his graduation his father called him into his private study. His father told him how proud he was to have such a fine son, and told him how much he loved him. He handed his son a beautiful wrapped gift box.Curious, but somewhat disappointed the young man opened the box and found a lovely, leather-bound Bible. Angrily, he raised his voice at his father and said, "With all your money you give me a Bible?" and stormed out of the house, leaving the holy book.Many years passed and the young man was very successful in business. He had a beautiful home and wonderful family, but realized his father was very old, and thought perhaps he should go to him. He had not seen him since that graduation day. Before he could make arrangements, he received a telegram telling him his father had passed away, and willed all of his possessions to his son. He needed to come home immediately and take care things. When he arrived at his father's house, sudden sadness and regret filled his heart.He began to search his father's important papers and saw the still new Bible, just as he had left in years ago. With tears, he opened the Bible and began to turn the pages. As he read those words, a car key dropped from an envelope taped behind the Bible. It had a tag with dealer's name, the same dealer who had the sports car he had desired. On the tag was the date of his graduation, and the words... PAID IN FULL.How many times do we miss God's blessings because they are not packaged as we expected?

THANK GOD I FINALLY FOUND YOU

2008-04-04T13:42:00.002+08:00

God can give us what we need. Even if what we need is a lovelife.The sun was almost down. Birds were flying in the air. Kennedy was walking down the road towards the Manila bay. He shivers as he feels the cold of the December night. He sat down on the grass near the water. He picks up a stone and throws it as tears start to form in his eyes.

“Why was I born like this? Why was I not born handsome?” –He said in his mind. He lied down on his back and watched the sun go down.

Somehow, the beautiful sunset eased him of some of his loneliness. A smile formed on his lips. After a while, night has come and covered the place. He looked up the skies and watched the stars twinkle. Slowly, he fell asleep. A little while more, he was on dreamland. In his dreams, he was holding an empty bucket and was in front of a well. He looked to his side and noticed that he was near the sea. He couldn’t understand this. He looked into the well and saw that it was empty. He decided to go to the sea and fetch water and put it into the well. Then he had an idea. He wanted to put the entire sea into the well. He went back and forth to the sea, fetching water into the well. He kept on doing it and noticed that he couldn’t put the whole sea into the well. The well just overflowed and the water went back to the sea. He then scooped the water again and put it into the well but to no avail. He tried again and again. The water just overflows back to the sea. Then he decided to give up.Suddenly, loud fireworks exploded. It woke him up. The people were celebrating new year’s eve in Manila. He saw the fireworks in the air. They were very colourful.

“What was my dream about?” -He thought. After a while, he saw a girl sitting just a few steps in front of him. She was all alone. He recognized her. She was Maya. He had met her a year ago.

“Hi!” –He said as he approached her. After a while, they started chatting.Just as Maya smiled at him, he realized what his dream meant. The water was God’s reasons and the well was his knowledge. No matter what he does, he could never fully understand what God means when He does things as his understanding cannot fully accommodate all of God’s reasons. What matters is that what God has done is the best.He then realized something.

“So that’s why I wasn’t born handsome!” –He said in his mind.

“If I was born handsome then I probably would have been engaged by now to somebody else. And what a lonely life that would be. Maya is the girl that I really love. So that was God’s purpose why he didn’t make me into a fine looking man. So that nobody else would fall in love with me so that I will be free. Free to love Maya, the one that I truly adore! Thank God!” –He thought.After a year from that day, they got engaged and are now set to marry in about two years.So, if you think God didn’t give you what you wanted, don’t fret. God has a reason for everything He does. He has a higher understanding than we do. What do you know, maybe he’s planning to give us something better than what we want. Don’t lose hope. Maybe someday, you’ll find somebody to whom you can say, “I thank God that I finally found you!”The End

Quotes about Learning

2008-04-04T13:29:00.000+08:00

“Nothing that is worth knowing can be taught.”
~ Oscar Wilde ~

“We learn more by looking for the answer to a question and not finding it than we do from learning the answer itself.”
~ Lloyd Alexander ~

“God allows us to experience the low points of life in order to teach us lessons we could not learn in any other way. The way we learn those lessons is not to deny the feelings but to find the meanings underlying them.”
~ Stanley Lindquist ~

“Learn from yesterday, live for today, hope for tomorrow.”
~ Albert Einstein ~

“I must learn to love the fool in me the one who feels too much, talks too much, takes too many chances, wins sometimes and loses often, lacks self-control, loves and hates, hurts and gets hurt, promises and breaks promises, laughs and cries”
~ Theodore Isaac Rubin ~

“Friends are helpful not only because they will listen to us, but because they will laugh at us; Through them we learn a little objectivity, a little modesty, a little courtesy; We learn the rules of life and become better players of the game”
~ Will Durant ~

“Learn everything you can, anytime you can, from anyone you can - there will always come a time when you will be grateful you did.”
~ Sarah Caldwell ~

“Tell me and I'll forget; show me and I may remember; involve me and I'll understand.”
~ Chinese Proverbs ~

“The purpose of learning is growth, and our minds, unlike our bodies, can continue growing as long as we live.”
~ Mortimer Adler ~

“Learn to get in touch with the silence within yourself, and know that everything in life has purpose. There are no mistakes, no coincidences, all events are blessings given to us to learn from.”
~ Elisabeth Kubler-Ross ~

“I never teach my pupils; I only attempt to provide the conditions in which they can learn.”
~ Albert Einstein ~

“I am learning all the time. The tombstone will be my diploma.”
~ Eartha Kitt ~

“Live as if you were to die tomorrow. Learn as if you were to live forever.”
~ Mahatma Gandhi ~

“Learning is not child's play; we cannot learn without pain”
~ Aristotle ~

“Human beings, who are almost unique in having the ability to learn from the experience of others, are also remarkable for their apparent disinclination to do so.”
~ Douglas Adams ~

“You learn something every day if you pay attention.”
~ Ray LeBlond ~

“When a man is pushed, tormented, defeated, he has a chance to learn something”
~ Ralph Waldo Emerson ~

“While we teach, we learn.”
~ Seneca ~

“A man only learns in two ways, one by reading, and the other by association with smarter people”
~ Will Rogers ~

*and*

“Education is learning what you didn't even know you didn't know.”
~ Daniel J. Boorstin ~

*and*
“The knack of flying is learning how to throw yourself at the ground and miss.”
~ Douglas Adams ~

Exercise can make people smarter

2008-04-03T13:58:00.000+08:00

A recent and rapidly growing movement in science is showing that exercise can make people smarter, Newsweek magazine reports in its upcoming issue.

Last week, in a landmark paper, researchers announced that they had coaxed the human brain into growing new nerve cells, a process that for decades had been thought impossible, simply by putting subjects on a three-month aerobic-workout regimen.

Other scientists, the magazine reports, have found that vigorous exercise can cause older nerve cells to form dense, interconnected webs that make the brain run faster and more efficiently. And there are clues that physical activity can stave off the beginnings of Alzheimer's disease, ADHD and other cognitive disorders.

The magazine says it examined with Harvard Medical School, the latest research and findings about how an active body is crucial for building a strong, active mind. "People have been slow to grasp that exercise can really affect cognition," says University of Illinois neuroscientist Charles Hillman.

Armed with brain-scanning tools and a sophisticated understanding of biochemistry, Newsweek reports, researchers are realising that the mental effects of exercise are far more profound and complex than they once thought.

Researchers, the article says, are learning more about how exercise affects mood: it decreases anxiety, improves sleep, improves resilience in the face of stress and raises self-esteem. All these benefits don't come because you notice what you've lost around your waist. Rather, they come from exercise-induced alterations inside your head, Michael Craig Miller, editor in chief of the Harvard Mental Health Letter, is quoted as saying.

If you are a couch potato, you have couch-potato tendencies. There are more opportunities to exercise than many people realise, the magazine says, adding find the time with exercise snacks that last as little as 10 minutes at a time.

Examples are pacing in your office while you're on the phone, taking the stairs instead of the elevator, trekking up the stairs at home during a TV commercial break. Or break up the day with two-minute walks -- to the mailbox, for example, or in a loop around your office corridor.

The magazine says that while moderate exercise is good for you, vigorous exercise is even better. Specifically, it's more effective at lowering blood pressure, improving insulin sensitivity (which can reduce the risk of developing diabetes) and raising one's aerobic capacity.

And one way to stick to a high-intensity routine is to participate in a competitive sport. Not only is it fun, but you have an obligation to show up for practices and events, the report notes.

Reams of research, it says, suggest that exercise -- an activity as old as the human race -- substantially reduces the odds of ever getting breast cancer, lengthens survival and considerably enhances quality of life for women with the disease.

Scientists don't completely understand why exercise is so important, but they're actively looking for answers, it adds.

5 bad food habits office-goers must change

2008-04-03T13:55:00.000+08:00

If you, like so many of us, are so caught up with work that you have little time to watch what you eat, it's time to take a breather before your lifestyle takes its toll on your health.

Here are five bad habits which you must avoid to salvage your health.
Get your stomach in order

1. Skipping breakfast

A lot of people leave home with just a cup of tea or coffee and then they wonder why they are always crabby, irritable and low on energy throughout the day.

Skipping this first, most important meal of the day is like starting a car without fuel. Your body is forced to call on its energy reserves and these do not last very long, making you irritable and snappy and lacking in concentration by the middle of the day.

What's more, you will end up eating a lot more servings or calorie-dense foods at lunch, which will cause your sugar levels to go up and then come crashing down, making you feel sluggish and tired.

Solution: A good breakfast does not have to be elaborate; a glass of skimmed milk with 2 handfuls of corn or wheat flakes and a fruit will suffice. For hot breakfast lovers, an egg, two slices of bread and a fruit or a bowl of oatmeal porridge accompanied by a fruit are enough.

2. Drinking too much tea/coffee

Sipping constantly can be a tough habit to break. But too much of either tea or coffee can do two things:
It may leave you feeling jittery, irritable, dehydrated, and even interrupt your sleep pattern at night so you do not get deep sleep or do not feel rested the next day.
If taken with your meals, tea and coffee inhibit the absorption of iron from your food. Your body throws out the nutrient as waste.

Solution: If you cannot cut down on the number of cups, cut down on the size of cups so you drink half the quantity. If you have a choice, opt for water.
Stressed? Eating smart can help

3. Not drinking enough water

Most corporate offices are air-conditioned, so we do not really sweat and therefore, do not feel so thirsty. What's more when you are used to drinking water below your requirement, your body adapts and when you do start drinking a little more water, your body treats it as excess -- in fact, initially, the body actually throws it out causing you to run to the toilet every few minutes.

In the long run, not drinking enough water can cause constipation, indigestion, gas, increased hunger pangs, dehydration and can make your skin look dull too.

Solution: Keep a 1 litre bottle of water at your table and aim to finish it before the end of the day. It may take you two to three days to adapt to an increased dose but when you do, you will notice the positive benefits immediately -- better skin, better bowel movements and better control on your hunger pangs.

4. Eating at odd hours

While you cannot be expected to leave in the middle of a meeting because the clock says lunch time, it is definitely possible to try to have a somewhat regular meal timing for the majority of the days in the week.

Having a somewhat fixed meal time helps keep your metabolic rate up and can help prevent gas and acidity, which result from long gaps between meals.

Timely eating will also prevent you from overeating as once your body is used to getting energy at a particular hour, it will stop demanding food at odd hours.

Solution: Try to have a fixed time-frame in which you can have your meal peacefully and finish it in a matter of 15 to 20 minutes.
Losing hair? Here's help

5. Weekend binging

Most of us put in endless hours during the week eating whatever is available, and then comes the weekend. We go on another binge that we feel we deserve. Hard drinks along with food add to the damage we cause to our health in the long run.

Solution: Try to take some time to relax at the end of each day and don't wait for the weekend to unwind. Take a relaxing massage, watch a movie or a play or read a good book. Eating is not the only way to pamper yourself!

What to Do When Someone Dies

2008-04-02T11:37:00.000+08:00

1. Don’t move the body unless you have medical permission or a permit to do so.

2. If the death was expected, you may call the attending physician or a hospice nurse to sign the death certificate. (A death certificate is always required and must be signed by the proper authority.)

3. If the death was unexpected or its cause was uncertain, violent, unusual, or due to a contagious disease, dial 911 or call the police.

4. Call a close friend or family member to come and help you. Emotional support and an extra pair of hands can make a big difference.

5. Ask whether the deceased had already made final arrangements or had expressed wishes about what he or she wanted. Check to see if any prepayments have been made for funeral expenses and whether or not a burial plot has been designated.

6. Determine whether and when there will be a funeral, prompt burial, or a cremation and select the funeral home or crematorium that will take care of the arrangements. Depending on the weather, a body can be left at home (as is) for as long as seventy-two hours. So don’t feel you must make a snap decision about where to send the remains if someone dies and no plans have been made.

7. If you need to relocate the body before burial plans are finalized, you can have the body picked up from a home or hospital and transferred to a funeral home for temporary storage, for which you pay only a transfer fee. Make sure this situation is understood by the funeral director so there is no mistake about your option to choose a different funeral home after you decide what you want to do.

8. Inform friends and family about the service once details have been finalized, or choose someone to do this for you. (See “Ten Facts You Should Know About the Death Care Business,” below.)

9. Keep careful track of the original death certificate and make several extra copies. The death certificate will be essential when dealing with Social Security and insurance companies, and when selling real estate or other personal property that belonged to the deceased.

10. If you don’t already know, ask someone close to the deceased where the obituary should appear. Consider alumni and trade magazines as well as newsletters for clubs and other special interest organizations. The funeral home generally places an obituary in the local paper for a small charge.

What to Carry in Your Car

2008-04-02T11:34:00.001+08:00

You never know when you might have a flat tire, a mechanical breakdown, or another roadside emergency. Thinking about emergencies ahead of time makes them much easier to deal with when they occur. Stock your car with the items on this checklist and you’ll be prepared to handle whatever comes along.

1. Cellular telephone. No longer a luxury item reserved for the tycoon set, a cell phone can be as important as a spare tire when you travel by car. Check with AAA for details about their inexpensive emergency cell phone service.

2. Proof of insurance, even if your state doesn’t require it.

3. Automobile registration papers.

4. An accident report guide. You can usually get one of these brief and simple guides from your insurance company or from AAA if you’re a member. They make it much easier to gather complete information at the scene, and are especially helpful if you’re feeling dazed or confused.

5. Warning devices such as flares and matches or reflective triangles.

6. Jumper cables with fully insulated handles.

7. A first aid kit plus any vital prescription medicines (see chapter 1).

8. Flashlight with extra batteries.

9. Water. Carry least a quart each for you and your car.

10. Quick-energy “power” bars, or other packaged food in case you’re stranded. (If you tend to skip meals when in a hurry, these can make a big difference, too. You’ll never get stuck with a growling stomach between errands again!)

11. Paper towels and window cleaning fluid. Driving at night with a smeared windshield (inside or out) can be extremely hazardous.

12. Fire extinguisher. Read the directions so you know how to use it quickly.

13. Fully inflated spare tire. Check it at least every few months.

14. Portable tire pump, plus a jack, lug wrench, and block of wood for emergency changes by the side of the road (when you’ll be glad you have those flares).

15. Aerosol flat fixer. These can be great quick fixes for certain kinds of tire damage.

16. Empty gas can.

17. Tool kit. Carry a small standard toolkit or at least an adjustable wrench, large and small screwdrivers, and pliers.

18. To be ultraprepared, carry an inexpensive instant-picture camera to take “eyewitness” photos in case of an accident. As an alternative, you might keep a disposable camera in the car. However, without immediate results, you won’t know in time if the picture turns out badly.

HOW TO RAISE MONEY FOR STARTING A BUSINESS

2008-04-01T19:05:00.001+08:00

The task of raising money for a business is not as difficult as most people seem to think. This is especially true when you have an idea that can make you and your backers rich. Actually, there's more money available for new business ventures than there are good business ideas.

A very important rule of the game to learn: Anytime you want to raise money, your first move should be to put together a proper prospectus.

This prospectus should include a resume of your background, your education, training, experience and any other personal qualities that might be counted as an asset to your potential success. It's also a good idea to list the various loans you've had in the past, what they were for, and your history in paying them off.

You'll have to explain in detail how the money you want is going to be used. If it's for an existing business, you'll need a profit and loss record for at least the preceding six months, and a plan showing how this additional money will produce greater profits. If it's a new business, you'll have to show your proposed business plan, your marketing research and projected costs, as well as anticipated income figures, with a summary for each year, over at least a three year period.

It'll be advantageous to you to base your cost estimates high, and your income projections on minimal returns. This will enable you to "ride thru" those extreme "ups and downs" inherent in any beginning business. You should also describe what makes your
business unique - how it differs from your competition, and the opportunities for expansion or secondary products.

This prospectus will have to state precisely what you're offering the investor in return for the use of his money. He'll want to know the percentage of interest you're willing to pay, and whether monthly, quarterly or on an annual basis. Are you offering a certain percentage of the profits? A percentage of the business? A seat on your board of directors?

An investor uses his money to make more money. He wants to make as much as he can, regardless whether it's a short term or long term deal. In order to attract him, interest him, and persuade him to "put up" the money you need, you'll not only have to offer him an opportunity for big profits, but you'll have to spell it out in detail, and further, back up your claims with proof from your marketing research.

Venture investors are usually quite familiar with "high risk" proposals, yet they all want to minimize that risk as much as possible. Therefore, your prospectus should include a listing of your business and personal assets with documentation - usually copies of your tax returns for the past three years or more. Your prospective investor may not know anything about you or your business, but if he wants to know, he can pick up his telephone and know everything there is to know within 24 hours. The point here is, don't ever try to "con" a potential investor. Be honest with him. Lay all the facts on the table for him. In most cases, if you've got a good idea and you've done your homework properly, an "interested investor" will understand your position and offer more help than you dared to ask.

When you have your prospectus prepared, know how much money you want, exactly how it will be used, and how you intend to repay it, you're ready to start looking for investors.

As simple as it seems, one of the easiest ways of raising money is by advertising in a newspaper or a national publication featuring such ads. Your ad should state the amount of money you want - always ask for more money than you need so you have room
for negotiating. Your ad should also state the type of business involved (to separate the curious from the truly interested), and the kind of return you're promising on the investment.

Take a page from the party plan merchandisers. Set up a party and invite your friends over. Explain your business plan, the profit potentials, and how much you need. Give them each a copy of your prospectus and ask that they pledge a thousand dollars as
a non-participating partner in your business. Check with the current tax regulations. You may be allowed up to 25 partners in Sub Chapter 5 enterprises, opening the door for anyone to gather a group of friends around himself with something to offer them in return for their assistance in capitalizing his business.

You can also issue and sell up to $300,000 worth of stock in your company with out going through the Federal Trade Commission. You'll need the help of an attorney to do this, however, and of course a good tax accountant as well wouldn't hurt.

It's always a good idea to have an attorney and an accountant help you make up your business prospectus. As you explain your plan to them, and ask for their advice, casually ask them if they'd mind letting you know of, or steer your way any potential investors they might happen to meet. Do the same with your banker. Give him a copy of your prospectus and ask him if he'd look it over and offer any suggestions for improving it, and of course, let you know of any potential investors. In either case, it's always a good idea to let them know you're willing to pay a "finder's fee" if you can be directed to the right investor.

Professional people such as doctors and dentists are known to have a tendency to join occupational investment groups. The next time you talk with your doctor or dentist, give him a prospectus and explain your plan. He may want to invest on his own or
perhaps set up an appointment for you to talk with the manager of his investment group. Either way, you win because when you're looking for money, it's essential that you get the word out to as many potential investors as possible.

Don't overlook the possibilities of the Small Business Investment Companies in your area. Look them up in your telephone book under "Investment Services." These companies exist for the sole purpose of lending money to businesses which they feel have a good chance of making money. In many instances, they trade their help for a small interest in your company.

Many states have Business Development Commissions whose goal is to assist in the establishment and growth of new businesses. Not only do they offer favorable taxes and business expertise, most also offer money or facilities to help a new business get
started. Your Chamber of Commerce is the place to check for further information on this idea.

Industrial banks are usually much more amenable to making business loans than regular banks, so be sure to check out these institutions in your area. Insurance companies are prime sources of long term business capital, but each company varies its policies regarding the type of business it will consider. Check your local agent for the name and address of the person to contact. It's also quite possible to get the directors of an other company to invest in your business. Look for a company that can benefit from your product or service. Also, be sure to check at your public library for available foundation grants. These can be the final answer to all your money needs if your business is perceived to be related to the objectives and activities of the foundation.

Finally, there's the Money Broker or Finder. These are the people who take your prospectus and circulate it with various known lenders or investors. They always require an up-front or retainer fee, and there's no way they can guarantee to get you the loan or the money you want.

There are many very good money brokers, and there are some that are not so good. They all take a percentage of the gross amount that's finally procured for your needs. The important thing is to check them out fully; find out about the successful loans or investment plans they've arranged, and what kind of investor contacts they have - all of this before you put up any front money or pay any retainer fees.

There are many ways to raise money - from staging garage sales to selling stocks. Don't make the mistake of thinking that the only place you can find the money you need is through the bank or finance company.

Start thinking about the idea of inviting investors to share in your business as silent partners. Think about the idea of obtaining financing for a primary business by arranging financing for another business that will support the start-up, establishment and development of the primary business. Consider the feasibility of merging with a company that's already organized, and with facilities that are compatible or related to your needs. Give some thought to the possibilities of getting the people supplying your production equipment to co-sign the loan you need for start-up capital.

Remember, there are thousands upon thousands of ways to obtain business start-up capital. This is truly the age of creative financing.

Disregard the stories you hear of "tight money," and start making phone calls, talking to people, and making appointments to discuss your plans with the people who have money to invest. There's more money now than there's ever been for new business
investment. The problem is that most beginning "business builders" don't know what to believe or which way to turn for help. They tend to believe the stories of "tight money," and they set aside their plans for a business of their own until a time when start-up money might be easier to find.

The truth is this: Now is the time to make your move. Now is the time to act. The person with a truly viable business plan, and determination to succeed, will make use of every possible idea that can be imagined. And the ideas I've suggested here should serve as just a few of the unlimited sources of monetary help available and waiting for you!your banker.

REORGANIZE YOUR TIME

2008-04-01T18:48:00.001+08:00

Almost everyone needs or wants more money coming in, and with this desire most would like to start some sort of extra income-producing project. The trouble is, not many of these people seem able to fit "a second job" into their time schedules.

It's true that most people are busy, but extra time for some sort of home-based extra income-producing project can almost always be found. It may mean giving up or changing a few of your favorite pastimes - such as having a couple of beers with the guys
or watching TV - but if you score big with your extra income project, you will have all the time you want for doing whatever you want to do.

The first thing to do is to sit down with pencil and paper and list your daily schedule. What time do you wake up? Then step-by-step, list everything you do each day. Most people will find that they have about three hours each day that can be utilized in a more constructive or efficient manner. As we've noted above, you may have to give up the time you waste in your local pub or a few television programs you watch, but it will be worth it in the long run.

Efficient time management boils down to planning what you're going to do, and then doing it without backtracking. Start by making a list of the things you want to do tomorrow, each evening before you go to bed. Schedule your trips to the store or wher
ever to coincide with the other things you have to do, and with your trips to or from work. Organize your trips to take care of as many things as possible while you're out of the house. Take stock of the time you spend standing around shooting the breeze - especially the time you spend on the telephone - and eliminate all that isn't necessary.

Whatever chores you have to do at home, set aside a specific time to do them, and a specific amount of time to devote to them. For instance, just one hour a day devoted to yard work would probably make your property the envy of all your neighbors. Don't try to do a week's work in one big flurry. Whether it's painting your house, fixing leaky faucets, or mowing your lawn and trimming your shrubs, do a part of it, or one particular job each day, and you'll be amazed at your progress.

Take care of all your mail the day you receive it. Don't let those bills and letters pile up on you. If you're unable to pay a bill immediately, file it in a special place that's visible, and note on the envelope the date you intend to pay it. Answer your letters the same day you get them.

The important thing is to think of time as your most valuable asset, because it is. So organize! Decide what you have to do, and what you want to do. From there, it's just a matter of arranging priorities.

Once you start listing and planning what you want to do, and then carry out your plans, you'll find plenty of "extra time" for handling virtually any kind of home-based income-producing project. People in general may not like routines or schedules, but without some sort of plan as to what is supposed to be done, the world would be mired in mass confusion

Laws, ordinances and regulations are for the purpose of guiding people. We live according to an accepted plan or way of life, and the better we can organize ourselves, the more productive and happy we become.

The secret of all financially successful people is simply that they are organized and do not waste time. Think about it. Review your own activities, and then see if you can't find a couple of extra hours in each day for more constructive accomplishments.

When you begin planning, and then when you really become involved in an extra in come-producing endeavor, you should work it exactly as you have organized your regular day-to-day activities - on a time-efficient basis. Do what has to be done immediately. Don't try to get done in an hour something that's realistically going to take a week. Plan out on paper what you have to do - what you want to do - and when you are going to do
it. Then get right on each project without procrastination.

Finally, and above all else, when you're organizing your time and your business, be sure to set aside some time for relaxation. Be sure to schedule time when you and your spouse can be together. You must not involve yourself in anything to an extent that you
exclude other people - particularly your loved ones - from your life.

Taking stock of the time you waste each day, and from there, reorganizing your activities is what it's all about. It's a matter of becoming more efficient in the use of your time. It's really easy to do, and you will not only accomplish a lot more, you will also find greater fulfillment in your life.

Automatic Hidden Shares

2008-04-01T18:28:00.002+08:00

Registry Settings
System Key: [HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\System\CurrentControlSet\Services\LanmanServer\
Parameters]
Value Name: AutoShareServer, AutoShareWks
Data Type: REG_DWORD (DWORD Value)
Value Data: (0 = disable shares, 1 = enable)

Microsoft Excel Keyboard Shortcuts

2008-04-01T18:25:00.000+08:00

Arrow keys: Move one cell up, down, left, or right

CTRL+arrow: key Move to the edge of the current data region

HOME: Move to the beginning of the row

CTRL+HOME: Move to the beginning of the worksheet

CTRL+END: Move to the last cell on the worksheet, which is the cell at the intersection of the rightmost used column and the bottom-most used row (in the lower-right corner), or the cell opposite the home cell, which is typically A1
PAGE DOWN: Move down one screen

PAGE UP: Move up one screen

ALT+PAGE DOWN: Move one screen to the right

ALT+PAGE UP: Move one screen to the left

CTRL+PAGE DOWN: Move to the next sheet in the workbook

CTRL+PAGE UP: Move to the previous sheet in the workbook

CTRL+F6 or CTRL+TAB: Move to the next workbook or window

CTRL+SHIFT+F6 or CTRL+SHIFT+TAB: Move to the previous workbook or window

F6: Move to the next pane in a workbook that has been split

SHIFT+F6: Move to the previous pane in a workbook that has been split

CTRL+BACKSPACE: Scroll to display the active cell

F5: Display the Go To dialog box

SHIFT+F5: Display the Find dialog box

SHIFT+F4: Repeat the last Find action (same as Find Next)

TAB: Move between unlocked cells on a protected worksheet

Keys for moving in a worksheet with End mode on

END: Turn End mode on or off

END, arrow key: Move by one block of data within a row or column

END, HOME: Move to the last cell on the worksheet, which is the cell at the intersection of the rightmost used column and the bottom-most used row (in the lower-right corner), or the cell opposite the home cell, which is typically A1

END, ENTER: Move to the last cell to the right in the current row that is not blank; unavailable if you have selected the Transition navigation keys check box on the Transition tab (Tools menu, Options command)

Keys for moving in a worksheet with SCROLL LOCK on

SCROLL LOCK: Turn SCROLL LOCK on or off

HOME: Move to the cell in the upper-left corner of the window

END: Move to the cell in the lower-right corner of the window

UP ARROW or DOWN ARROW: Scroll one row up or down

LEFT ARROW or RIGHT ARROW: Scroll one column left or right

Tip When you use scrolling keys (such as PAGE UP and PAGE DOWN) with SCROLL LOCK turned off, your selection moves the distance you scroll. If you want to preserve your selection while you scroll through the worksheet, turn on SCROLL LOCK first.

Keys for previewing and printing a document

CTRL+P or CTRL+SHIFT+F12: Display the Print dialog box

Work in print preview

Arrow keys: Move around the page when zoomed in

PAGE UP or PAGE DOWN: Move by one page when zoomed out

CTRL+UP ARROW or CTRL+LEFT ARROW: Move to the first page when zoomed out

CTRL+DOWN ARROW or CTRL+RIGHT ARROW: Move to the last page when zoomed out

Keys for working with worksheets, charts, and macros

SHIFT+F11 or ALT+SHIFT+F1: Insert a new worksheet

F11 or ALT+F1: Create a chart that uses the current range

ALT+F8: Display the Macro dialog box

ALT+F11: Display the Visual Basic Editor

CTRL+F11: Insert a M*cro$oft Excel 4.0 macro sheet

CTRL+PAGE DOWN: Move to the next sheet in the workbook

CTRL+PAGE UP: Move to the previous sheet in the workbook

SHIFT+CTRL+PAGE DOWN: Select the current and next sheet in the workbook

SHIFT+CTRL+PAGE UP: Select the current and previous sheet in the workbook

Keys for entering data on a worksheet

ENTER: Complete a cell entry and move down in the selection

ALT+ENTER: Start a new line in the same cell

CTRL+ENTER: Fill the selected cell range with the current entry

SHIFT+ENTER: Complete a cell entry and move up in the selection

TAB: Complete a cell entry and move to the right in the selection

SHIFT+TAB: Complete a cell entry and move to the left in the selection

ESC: Cancel a cell entry

BACKSPACE: Delete the character to the left of the insertion point, or delete the selection

DELETE: Delete the character to the right of the insertion point, or delete the selection

CTRL+DELETE: Delete text to the end of the line

Arrow keys: Move one character up, down, left, or right

HOME: Move to the beginning of the line

F4 or CTRL+Y: Repeat the last action

SHIFT+F2: Edit a cell comment

CTRL+SHIFT+F3: Create names from row and column labels

CTRL+D: Fill down

CTRL+R: Fill to the right

CTRL+F3: Define a name

Keys for working in cells or the formula bar

BACKSPACE: Edit the active cell and then clear it, or delete the preceding character in the active cell as you edit cell contents

ENTER: Complete a cell entry

CTRL+SHIFT+ENTER: Enter a formula as an array formula

ESC: Cancel an entry in the cell or formula bar

CTRL+A: Display the Formula Palette after you type a function name in a formula

CTRL+SHIFT+A: Insert the argument names and parentheses for a function after you type a function name in a formula

CTRL+K: Insert a hyperlink

ENTER (in a cell with a hyperlink): Activate a hyperlink

F2: Edit the active cell and position the insertion point at the end of the line

F3: Paste a defined name into a formula

SHIFT+F3: Paste a function into a formula

F9: Calculate all sheets in all open workbooks

CTRL+ALT+F9: Calculate all sheets in the active workbook

SHIFT+F9: Calculate the active worksheet

= (equal sign): Start a formula

ALT+= (equal sign): Insert the AutoSum formula

CTRL+; (semicolon): Enter the date

CTRL+SHIFT+: (colon): Enter the time

CTRL+SHIFT+" (quotation mark): Copy the value from the cell above the active cell into the cell or the formula bar

CTRL+` (single left quotation mark): Alternate between displaying cell values and displaying cell formulas

CTRL+' (apostrophe): Copy a formula from the cell above the active cell into the cell or the formula bar

ALT+DOWN ARROW: Display the AutoComplete list

Keys for formatting data

ALT+' (apostrophe): Display the Style dialog box

CTRL+1: Display the Format Cells dialog box

CTRL+SHIFT+~: Apply the General number format

CTRL+SHIFT+$: Apply the Currency format with two decimal places (negative numbers appear in parentheses)

CTRL+SHIFT+%: Apply the Percentage format with no decimal places

CTRL+SHIFT+^: Apply the Exponential number format with two decimal places

CTRL+SHIFT+#: Apply the Date format with the day, month, and year

CTRL+SHIFT+@: Apply the Time format with the hour and minute, and indicate A.M. or P.M.

CTRL+SHIFT+!: Apply the Number format with two decimal places, thousands separator, and minus sign (–) for negative values

CTRL+SHIFT+&: Apply the outline border

CTRL+SHIFT+_: Remove outline borders

CTRL+B: Apply or remove bold formatting

CTRL+I: Apply or remove italic formatting

CTRL+U: Apply or remove an underline

CTRL+5: Apply or remove strikethrough formatting

CTRL+9: Hide rows

CTRL+SHIFT+( (opening parenthesis): Unhide rows

CTRL+0 (zero): Hide columns

CTRL+SHIFT+) (closing parenthesis): Unhide columns

Keys for editing data

F2: Edit the active cell and put the insertion point at the end of the line

ESC: Cancel an entry in the cell or formula bar

BACKSPACE: Edit the active cell and then clear it, or delete the preceding character in the active cell as you edit the cell contents

F3: Paste a defined name into a formula

ENTER: Complete a cell entry

CTRL+SHIFT+ENTER: Enter a formula as an array formula

CTRL+A: Display the Formula Palette after you type a function name in a formula

CTRL+SHIFT+A: Insert the argument names and parentheses for a function, after you type a function name in a formula

F7: Display the Spelling dialog box

Keys for inserting, deleting, and copying a selection

CTRL+C: Copy the selection

CTRL+X: Cut the selection

CTRL+V: Paste the selection

DELETE: Clear the contents of the selection

CTRL+HYPHEN: Delete the selection

CTRL+Z: Undo the last action

CTRL+SHIFT+PLUS SIGN: Insert blank cells

Keys for moving within a selection

ENTER: Move from top to bottom within the selection (down), or move in the direction that is selected on the Edit tab (Tools menu, Options command)

SHIFT+ENTER: Move from bottom to top within the selection (up), or move opposite to the direction that is selected on the Edit tab (Tools menu, Options command)

TAB: Move from left to right within the selection, or move down one cell if only one column is selected

SHIFT+TAB: Move from right to left within the selection, or move up one cell if only one column is selected

CTRL+PERIOD: Move clockwise to the next corner of the selection

CTRL+ALT+RIGHT ARROW: Move to the right between nonadjacent selections

CTRL+ALT+LEFT ARROW: Move to the left between nonadjacent selections

Keys for selecting cells, columns, or rows

CTRL+SHIFT+* (asterisk): Select the current region around the active cell (the current region is a data area enclosed by blank rows and blank columns)

SHIFT+arrow key: Extend the selection by one cell

CTRL+SHIFT+arrow key: Extend the selection to the last nonblank cell in the same column or row as the active cell

SHIFT+HOME: Extend the selection to the beginning of the row

CTRL+SHIFT+HOME: Extend the selection to the beginning of the worksheet

CTRL+SHIFT+END: Extend the selection to the last used cell on the worksheet (lower-right corner)

CTRL+SPACEBAR: Select the entire column

SHIFT+SPACEBAR: Select the entire row

CTRL+A: Select the entire worksheet

SHIFT+BACKSPACE: Select only the active cell when multiple cells are selected

SHIFT+PAGE DOWN: Extend the selection down one screen

SHIFT+PAGE UP: Extend the selection up one screen

CTRL+SHIFT+SPACEBAR: With an object selected, select all objects on a sheet

CTRL+6: Alternate between hiding objects, displaying objects, and displaying placeholders for objects

CTRL+7: Show or hide the Standard toolbar

F8: Turn on extending a selection by using the arrow keys

SHIFT+F8: Add another range of cells to the selection; or use the arrow keys to move to the start of the range you want to add, and then press F8 and the arrow keys to select the next range

SCROLL LOCK, SHIFT+HOME: Extend the selection to the cell in the upper-left corner of the window

SCROLL LOCK, SHIFT+END: Extend the selection to the cell in the lower-right corner of the window

Tip When you use the scrolling keys (such as PAGE UP and PAGE DOWN) with SCROLL LOCK turned off, your selection moves the distance you scroll. If you want to keep the same selection as you scroll, turn on SCROLL LOCK first.

Keys for extending the selection with End mode on

END: Turn End mode on or off

END, SHIFT+arrow key: Extend the selection to the last nonblank cell in the same column or row as the active cell

END, SHIFT+HOME: Extend the selection to the last cell used on the worksheet (lower-right corner)

END, SHIFT+ENTER: Extend the selection to the last cell in the current row. This keystroke is unavailable if you selected the Transition navigation keys check box on the Transition tab (Tools menu, Options command).

Keys for selecting cells that have special characteristics

CTRL+SHIFT+* (asterisk): Select the current region around the active cell (the current region is a data area enclosed by blank rows and blank columns)

CTRL+/: Select the current array, which is the array that the active cell belongs to

CTRL+SHIFT+O (the letter O): Select all cells with comments

CTRL+\: Select cells in a row that don't match the value in the active cell in that row. You must select the row starting with the active cell.

CTRL+SHIFT+|: Select cells in a column that don't match the value in the active cell in that column. You must select the column starting with the active cell.

CTRL+[ (opening bracket): Select only cells that are directly referred to by formulas in the selection

CTRL+SHIFT+{ (opening brace): Select all cells that are directly or indirectly referred to by formulas in the selection

CTRL+] (closing bracket): Select only cells with formulas that refer directly to the active cell

CTRL+SHIFT+} (closing brace): Select all cells with formulas that refer directly or indirectly to the active cell

ALT+; (semicolon): Select only visible cells in the current selection

Keys for selecting a chart sheet

CTRL+PAGE DOWN: Select the next sheet in the workbook, until the chart sheet you want is selected

CTRL+PAGE UP: Select the previous sheet in the workbook, until the chart sheet you want is selected

Keys for selecting an embedded chart

Note The Drawing toolbar must already be displayed.

Press F10 to make the menu bar active.

Press CTRL+TAB or CTRL+SHIFT+TAB to select the Drawing toolbar

Press the RIGHT ARROW key to select the Select Objects button on the Drawing toolbar.

Press CTRL+ENTER to select the first object.

Press the TAB key to cycle forward (or SHIFT+TAB to cycle backward) through the objects until sizing handles appear on the embedded chart you want to select.

Press CTRL+ENTER to make the chart active.

Keys for selecting chart items

DOWN ARROW: Select the previous group of items

UP ARROW: Select the next group of items

RIGHT ARROW: Select the next item within the group

LEFT ARROW: Select the previous item within the group

Keys for working with a data form

ALT+key, where key is the underlined letter in the field or command name: Select a field or a command button

DOWN ARROW: Move to the same field in the next record

UP ARROW: Move to the same field in the previous record

TAB: Move to the next field you can edit in the record

SHIFT+TAB: Move to the previous field you can edit in the record

ENTER: Move to the first field in the next record

SHIFT+ENTER: Move to the first field in the previous record

PAGE DOWN: Move to the same field 10 records forward

CTRL+PAGE DOWN: Move to a new record

PAGE UP: Move to the same field 10 records back

CTRL+PAGE UP: Move to the first record

HOME or END: Move to the beginning or end of a field

SHIFT+END: Extend a selection to the end of a field

SHIFT+HOME: Extend a selection to the beginning of a field

LEFT ARROW or RIGHT ARROW: Move one character left or right within a field

SHIFT+LEFT ARROW: Select the character to the left

SHIFT+RIGHT ARROW: Select the character to the right

Keys for using AutoFilter

Arrow keys to select the cell that contains the column label, and then press ALT+DOWN ARROW: Display the AutoFilter list for the current column

DOWN ARROW: Select the next item in the AutoFilter list

UP ARROW: Select the previous item in the AutoFilter list

ALT+UP ARROW: Close the AutoFilter list for the current column

HOME: Select the first item (All) in the AutoFilter list

END: Select the last item in the AutoFilter list

ENTER: Filter the list by using the selected item in the AutoFilter list

Keys for outlining data

ALT+SHIFT+RIGHT ARROW: Group rows or columns

ALT+SHIFT+LEFT ARROW: Ungroup rows or columns

CTRL+8: Display or hide outline symbols

CTRL+9: Hide selected rows

CTRL+SHIFT+( (opening parenthesis): Unhide selected rows

CTRL+0 (zero): Hide selected columns

CTRL+SHIFT+) (closing parenthesis): Unhide selected columns

Keys for the PivotTable and PivotChart Wizard

UP ARROW or DOWN ARROW: Select the previous or next field button in the list

LEFT ARROW or RIGHT ARROW: Select the field button to the left or right in a multicolumn field button list

ALT+C: Move the selected field into the Column area

ALT+D: Move the selected field into the Data area

ALT+L: Display the PivotTable Field dialog box

ALT+P: Move the selected field into the Page area

ALT+R: Move the selected field into the Row area

Keys for page fields in a PivotTable or PivotChart report

CTRL+SHIFT+* (asterisk): Select the entire PivotTable report

Arrow keys to select the cell that contains the field, and then ALT+DOWN ARROW: Display the list for the current field in a PivotTable report

Arrow keys to select the page field in a PivotChart report, and then ALT+DOWN ARROW: Display the list for the current page field in a PivotChart report

UP ARROW: Select the previous item in the list

DOWN ARROW: Select the next item in the list

HOME: Select the first visible item in the list

END: Select the last visible item in the list

ENTER: Display the selected item

SPACEBAR: Select or clear a check box in the list

Keys for laying out a PivotTable or PivotChart report

Press F10 to make the menu bar active.

Press CTRL+TAB or CTRL+SHIFT+TAB to select the PivotTable toolbar.

Press the LEFT ARROW or RIGHT ARROW key to select the menu to the left or right or, when a submenu is visible, to switch between the main menu and submenu.

Press ENTER (on a field button) and the DOWN ARROW and UP ARROW keys to select the area you want to move the selected field to.

Note To scroll to the top or bottom of the field list, press ENTER on the More Fields or button.

Keys for grouping and ungrouping PivotTable items

ALT+SHIFT+RIGHT ARROW: Group selected PivotTable items

ALT+SHIFT+LEFT ARROW: Ungroup selected PivotTable items

Keys to use with the OLAP Cube Wizard

Use these keys to complete Step 2 in the OLAP Cube Wizard.

To move a field from the Source fields list to the Dimensions box

Press the TAB key to select the Source fields list.

Press the UP ARROW or DOWN ARROW key to select the field you want to move. Because you cannot change the order of a field after you move it, select first the field you want to appear at the top of the Dimensions box.

Press the TAB key to select the > button, and then press ENTER.

To move other fields, repeat steps 1 through 3.

To move a field to a lower or higher level in the Dimensions box

Press the TAB key to select the Dimensions box.

Press the UP ARROW or DOWN ARROW key to select the field you want to move.

Press CTRL+X.

Press the UP ARROW or DOWN ARROW key to select where you want to move the field.

Press CTRL+V.

Setting Capslock, Numlock, Scroll Lock

2008-04-01T16:16:00.000+08:00

If you want to set the startup state for any or all of these keys,
you just need to edit the registry.

Start Regedit
Go to HKEY_CURRENT_USER \ Control Panel \ Keyboard
Open InitialKeyboardIndicators
Change the value to one of the following numbers
0 - All Keys off
1 - Caps Lock on
2 - Num Lock on
4 - Scroll Lock on
For multiple keys, add their values:
3 - Caps Lock and Num Lock on
5 - Caps Lock and Scroll Lock on
6 - Num Lock and Scroll Lock on
7 - Caps Lock, Num Lock, and Scroll Lock on
Log off and back on again

Keyboard Symbols for MSWORD and others

2008-04-01T16:15:00.001+08:00

These Symbols can be used in MS Word, Excel,etc.

For © : Alt+0169
For ® : Alt+0174
For ™ : Alt+0153
For › : Alt+0155
For † : Alt+0134
For ø : Alt+0248
For ¤ : Alt+0164
For « : Alt+0171
For ° : Alt+0176
For ± : Alt+0177
For ² : Alt+0178
For ³ : Alt+0179
For µ : Alt+0181
For ¶ : Alt+0182
For ¹ : Alt+0185
For » : Alt+0187
For ¼ : Alt+0188
For ½ : Alt+0189
For ¾ : Alt+0190
For Å : Alt+0197
For × : Alt+0215
For Ø : Alt+0216
For Þ : Alt+0222
For ß : Alt+0223
For ?: Alt+1

Wanna move your cursor without mouse..

2008-03-31T22:35:00.000+08:00

Click Start.
Click Run.
Type "access.cpl"(without quotes).
Click on 'mouse' tab.
Check 'use mouse keys'.
Click ok.

Now make sure that num lock is on.
Now try to move the cursor with the numbers on the numeric key pad.
That's Working!!!!

U can even move a file with this techinque.
Move the cursor on to the file which is to be moved.
Hold insert on the numberic keypad i.e '0' and then move the cursor
using the numbers in the pad.
After moving the file to a desired location press del.
That's All.

Enjoy...

Increase your PLDT / SMART / GLOBE Internet Connection

2008-03-31T19:47:00.005+08:00

Here is a simple way to boost your Cable/DSL speed, just copy the ENTIRE ITALIC text in the "quote" box to Notepad, then save them as speed.reg files - Then all you have to do to modify/restore is double-click the *.reg file!!

INCREASE Cable/DSL SPEED

REGEDIT4

[HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Servic es\Tcpip\Parameters]
"GlobalMaxTcpWindowSize"=dword:0000ffff

DEFAULT Cable/DSL SPEED

REGEDIT4

[HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Servic es\Tcpip\Parameters]
"GlobalMaxTcpWindowSize"=dword:00007fff

Technorati Profile

SICK AND TIRED

2008-03-28T15:23:00.004+08:00

I have somewhat won the battle against fever. See, I am on the verge of getting well. It’s been more than a week that I was trapped from the shivers and the scorching warmth inside me. I was reminded of those days.I lie half-asleep and half-awake while my head rested on your lap. You brushed my hair with your tender fingers. The sensation seemed almost divine for I know I am loved –and I am cared for. Those sweet nothings you solemnly whispered assuring me that you will stay –perhaps, even ‘til forever, if forever do exist. I would, almost always, fall into a tranquil surrender whenever I am in your arms. And the moment I would open my eyes a renewed vigor and transformed strength would fill me just by the mere gleam of your eyes. As fast as my illness came –it went off just as quickly.But now, I am still trying to be fully-well. And it’s like more than a week now.I am now back into my old self -but not really. I will never be.The mind forgets but the heart won’t. If only memories are like old pictures that you can remove from the album that is our life. Would have been so much easier to walk away from the yesteryears and anticipate those that would follow. P.S. I hope I won’t get sick again. Or if ever I will be, I pray there’d be someone there for me rather than curing and caring for my own self. I have somewhat won the battle against fever. See, I am on the verge of getting well. It’s been more than a week that I was trapped from the shivers and the scorching warmth inside me. I was reminded of those days.I lie half-asleep and half-awake while my head rested on your lap. You brushed my hair with your tender fingers. The sensation seemed almost divine for I know I am loved –and I am cared for. Those sweet nothings you solemnly whispered assuring me that you will stay –perhaps, even ‘til forever, if forever do exist. I would, almost always, fall into a tranquil surrender whenever I am in your arms. And the moment I would open my eyes a renewed vigor and transformed strength would fill me just by the mere gleam of your eyes. As fast as my illness came –it went off just as quickly.But now, I am still trying to be fully-well. And it’s like more than a week now.I am now back into my old self -but not really. I will never be.The mind forgets but the heart won’t. If only memories are like old pictures that you can remove from the album that is our life. Would have been so much easier to walk away from the yesteryears and anticipate those that would follow. P.S. I hope I won’t get sick again. Or if ever I will be, I pray there’d be someone there for me rather than curing and caring for my own self. I have somewhat won the battle against fever. See, I am on the verge of getting well. It’s been more than a week that I was trapped from the shivers and the scorching warmth inside me. I was reminded of those days.I lie half-asleep and half-awake while my head rested on your lap. You brushed my hair with your tender fingers. The sensation seemed almost divine for I know I am loved –and I am cared for. Those sweet nothings you solemnly whispered assuring me that you will stay –perhaps, even ‘til forever, if forever do exist. I would, almost always, fall into a tranquil surrender whenever I am in your arms. And the moment I would open my eyes a renewed vigor and transformed strength would fill me just by the mere gleam of your eyes. As fast as my illness came –it went off just as quickly.But now, I am still trying to be fully-well. And it’s like more than a week now.I am now back into my old self -but not really. I will never be.The mind forgets but the heart won’t. If only memories are like old pictures that you can remove from the album that is our life. Would have been so much easier to walk away from the yesteryears and anticipate those that would follow. P.S. I hope I won’t get sick again. Or if ever I will be, I pray there’d be someone there for me rather than curing and caring for my own self. I have somewhat won the battle against fever. See, I am on the verge of getting well. It’s been more than a week that I was trapped from the shivers and the scorching warmth inside me. I was reminded of those days.I lie half-asleep and half-awake while my head rested on your lap. You brushed my hair with your tender fingers. The sensation seemed almost divine for I know I am loved –and I am cared for. Those sweet nothings you solemnly whispered assuring me that you will stay –perhaps, even ‘til forever, if forever do exist. I would, almost always, fall into a tranquil surrender whenever I am in your arms. And the moment I would open my eyes a renewed vigor and transformed strength would fill me just by the mere gleam of your eyes. As fast as my illness came –it went off just as quickly.But now, I am still trying to be fully-well. And it’s like more than a week now.I am now back into my old self -but not really. I will never be.The mind forgets but the heart won’t. If only memories are like old pictures that you can remove from the album that is our life. Would have been so much easier to walk away from the yesteryears and anticipate those that would follow. P.S. I hope I won’t get sick again. Or if ever I will be, I pray there’d be someone there for me rather than curing and caring for my own self.

AT LONG LAST

2008-03-28T15:23:00.001+08:00

The salty whiff of mid-summer’s afternoon reached my lungs while the multitude of thoughts overwhelmed my head. A single splashed of angry wave hit the cliff that was within my gaze, I saw how the different kind of rocks tumbled down and give on to the force it has imposed. It is no wonder what caused its steep impression. Seated unaccompanied, I cherished the feel of solitude -secluded from the concerns of the world but entrapped within my own emotions. My eyes were filled with the hazy moisture of tears and my heart trembles from the uncertainties of my being.Crumpled and torn inside my clenched palm was the picture of us bearing the unmistakable sense of joy, contentment and peace. It is not hatred or bitterness that gave strength to my tightened hands but rather the conviction of finally having the courage to let go.Triumphantly I could, now, raise my hand and scream and let the world know that I’m over you –over us! I harbored the bitterness long enough for me to realize that it’s not doing me any good. And even the false hopes I once held on was now washed up just like the calm tides that reached my feet. I could muster the courage to say your name and remember your face without any tinge of resentment. I moved on.The early sign of the sun’s powerful ray is now apparent. I have stayed quietly on this seashore for a couple of hours during the early dawn. I could already feel the warmth and breeze of the impending sunny day. It reenergized me. And the freedom it creates flowed right though my heart then directly to my soul. I smiled.Peebles and different sizes of rocks fell from that steep cliff –and joined the vastness of the ocean. Like anything else, everything happens for a reason. Just like those rocks pulverized and became the very sand that soothed my feet. Even after numerous of poundings from the waves it has persevered and eventually made its way through in the same manner that every one of us are being challenged and tested.I picked myself up, heading towards the hopeful life ahead of me. Looking back just for a moment, to be thankful of my past. The ocean’s comforting wind engulfed me as I take few measured strides and left my footprints behind. I looked up, and then I smiled.

FOR KEEPS

2008-03-28T15:22:00.002+08:00

Hey, glad you had the time to spare to read this one I was actually having some doubts if you’ll ever come across with this sentiments of mine structured through the myriads words. Forgive me though if I blabber of seemingly senseless thoughts but rest assured I mean something in here –and I mean it well.Things have been a blur. Days, weeks came so fast and so swift that I was left in utmost awe. Even though we’re in a whole different situation chance has given us the opportunity to cross each other path. I was mending my heart then, while you’re contemplating on your own relationship. It is quite ironic that I found console from your presence despite the turmoil that you’re going through. I appreciate it that much that I honestly would like to show my paramount appreciation by being there whenever you needed a soul –to talk to, to lean on to or even to just simply be with.It won’t take so much pondering just how much you helped me. You gave wisdom to figure things out that I knew all along was there but were so stubborn to actually realize it. You pointed out the things that I may have consciously neglected just to save my ego and feed my dejected heart. I craved for sympathy but you gave me hope instead. I yearn for sweet reassurances but rather you gave me the challenge to face my predicament with steadfast sense of faith. You picked me up –literally and figuratively speaking.Like a wandering ship in vast expanse of the ocean you steered me towards the right direction. I may be exaggerating your influence in my life lately but surely I mean all of it. The smile that I wear was and is painted by your guiding hands.I know things haven’t settled at your end yet, the way it has with mine. So here’s a prayer that you’ll find the right conclusion regarding your own concerns and have the unwavering strength in pursuit of your own happiness. You deserve to be happy –as everyone else does. Whatever sentiments you’ll find out or any pertinent set of judgment you’ll come up be assured that a friend wishes you all the best life has to offer.But for now, let me share with you the glow of the stars or the sweet moist of early night’s embrace. Let me share with you the endless conversation to feed our mind and build our sense of reasoning. Let me share with you the little blessings and the beautiful thoughts each day has to tender. And until such time you know what you want I’ll be here as someone indebted by your kind soul. Thank you for being you. I’ll stay, no matter what happen, for the long run.

SOLITUDE

2008-03-28T15:17:00.000+08:00

This night...I haven’t had the chance to smell the sweet scent of newly cut grasses nor was I able to feel the cool breeze of the night. For the past days it has been my wonderful routine to take the brisk walk and spend the most of the night under the wide expanse of the sky.I wasn’t able to suit my soul with a gleeful laughter nor was I able to watch the clouds above part and clear the horizon for us to marvel.I won’t be able to complain about some petty things like how it hurt to wear recently purchased shoes or to something of significance like how life would be if we are to make such a tough decision.I won’t be able to compliment the beauty of simple things such as the glow of a lamp posts that brightens the path we have so often took or how the silence of the dark seem to be filled with utmost peaceful reverie.I won’t be able to snuggle beside you and feed off of your warm embraces and breathtaking kisses nor would I be able to hear your voice fill my world. Surely, I won’t be able to stare at your eyes and share to you the deepest sentiments of my soul. Because…It is someone else’s hand that would fit so perfectly in the spaces of your own. It would be his familiar embrace you would feel and the very same moist lips you have tasted for the longest of time. It would be his face that you will carry unto your sleep. And his words and sweet thoughts you’d dream about.And for a time so fleeting –the world makes absolute sense, again, for both of you. And just as swiftly I’ll take a few steps back into my inevitable solitude.

DREAM

2008-03-28T15:15:00.002+08:00

I had a dream last night.after spending a long night watching a super funny series from cbs. it was another long night where my eyes are tired but are hesitant to close. my body was tired and my mind was succumb of flashes of memories,thoughts,reminders and things to do. Most of the day i wasted my precious minutes just staring around,not doing anything. and at the end of the day i feeling guilty about it.I have so many things to do, outlines,exams, essays, videotapes, debates, speeches,work and the constant reminder to myself that i should definitely watch my health.2 weeks... i've faced another relapse..i got depressed again...my body did not take the constant messages from my brain... bloodshot eyes everymorning, migraines, constant morning/midday/nighttime sickness, unable to speak well and so on...i gulped down 2 advils every 6 hours plus another medication, and from what i've noticed it didn't work. it made me worse...anyway...my dream...pardon me from rumbling my miseries...i was at a top of a building about to jump into the sea. and there was this man he was smiling at me and said "come on jump...i'll catch you..don't be afraid we're here"i was a bit hesitant, i closed my eyes and suddenly i jumped. he was there he caught me(although i am big..hehehe he did) he was laughing at me from being scared and i hugged him...then we get out of the water, sat at the bench his arms in my shoulder and me i was bowing my head and suddenly he placed a soft kiss on my lips that which my parents saw.in my dream i accepted that kiss and kissed him back. and my parents asked me if i loved that man...and i answered yes...i woke up and started to sob in my pillow...in reality, i am quite scared with my parents and i am sure i will dock that kiss and denied him in front of them..i tried to sleep again longing for my dream to continue...but i didn'ti just waited for the sun to rose and got ready for schoolwishing that i could jump at every opportunity that comes to my life.

The story of the 4 Wives

2008-03-28T06:57:00.000+08:00

Once upon a time...

there was a rich King who had 4 wives.

He loved the 4th wife the most and adorned her with rich robes and treated
her to the finest of delicacies. He gave her nothing but the best.

He also loved the 3rd wife very much and was always showing her off to
neighboring kingdoms. However, he feared that one day
she would leave him for another.

He also loved his 2nd wife. She was his confidante and was always kind,
considerate and patient with him. Whenever the King faced a problem, he
could confide in her to help him get through the difficult times.

The King's 1st wife was a very loyal partner and had made great
contributions in maintaining his wealth and kingdom. However, he did not
love the first wife and although she loved him deeply, he hardly took notice
of her.

One day, the King fell ill and he knew his time was short.

He thought of his luxurious life and pondered, "I now have 4 wives with me,
but when I die, I'll be all alone.

Thus, he asked the 4th wife, "I have loved you the most, endowed you with
the finest clothing and showered great care over you. Now that I'm dying,
will you follow me and keep me company?"

"No way!" replied the 4th wife and she walked away without another word.

Her answer cut like a sharp knife right into his heart.

The sad King then asked the 3rd wife, "I have loved you all my life. Now
that I'm dying, will you follow me and keep me company?"

"No!" replied the 3rd wife. "Life is too good!
When you die, I'm going to remarry!"

His heart sank and turned cold.

He then asked the 2nd wife, "I have always turned to you for help and you've
always been there for me. When I die, will you follow me
and keep me company?"

"I'm sorry, I can't help you out this time!" replied the 2nd wife. "At the
very most, I can only send you to your grave."

Her answer came like a bolt of thunder and the King was devastated.

Then a voice called out:

"I'll leave with you and follow you no matter where you go." The King looked
up and there was his first wife. She was so skinny,
she suffered from malnutrition.

Greatly grieved, the King said, "I should have taken much better care of you
when I had the chance!"

In Truth, we all have 4 wives in our lives ...

Our 4th wife is our body. No matter how much time and effort we lavish in
making it look good, it'll leave us when we die.

Our 3rd wife is our possessions, status and wealth.
When we die, it will all go to others.

Our 2nd wife is our family and friends. No matter how much they have been
there for us, the furthest they can stay by us is up to the grave.

And our 1st wife is our Soul,

often neglected in pursuit of wealth, power and pleasures of the ego.
However, our Soul is the only thing that will follow us wherever we go.

So cultivate, strengthen and cherish it now!
It is your greatest gift to offer the world.

Let it Shine!

GOD'S LOVE LETTER TO YOU AND TO ME

2008-03-28T06:55:00.000+08:00

You may not know me, but I know everything about you...
Psalm 139:1

I know when you sit down and when you rise up...
Psalm 139:2

I am familiar with all your ways...
Psalm 139:3

Even the very hairs on your head are numbered...
Matthew 10:29-31

For you were made in my image...
Genesis 1:27

In me you live and move and have your being...
Acts 17:28

For you are my offspring....
Acts 17:28

I knew you even before you were conceived...
Jeremiah 1:4-5

I chose you when I planned creation...
Ephesians 1: 11-12

You were not a mistake, for all your days are written in my book...
Psalm 139:15-16

I determined the exact time of your birth and where you would live...
Acts 17:26

You are fearfully and wonderfully made...
Psalm 139:14

I knit you together in your mother's womb...
Psalm 139:13

And brought you forth on the day you were born...
Psalm 71:6

I have been misrepresented by those who don't know me...
John 8:41-44

I am not distant and angry, but am the complete expression of love... I
John4:16

And it is my desire to lavish my love on you simply because you are my
child and I am your father... 1 John3:1

I offer you more than your earthly parents ever could...
Matthew 7:11

For I am the perfect Parent...
Matthew 5:48

Every good gift that you receive comes from my hand...
James 1:17

For I am your provider and I meet all your needs...
Matthew 6:31-33

My plan for your future has always been filled with hope...
Jeremiah 29:11

Because I love you with an everlasting love...
Jeremiah 31:3

My thoughts towards you are countless as the sand on the seashore...
Psalm 139:17-18

And I rejoice over you with singing...
Zephania 3:17

I will never stop doing good to you...
Jeremiah 32:40

For you are my treasured possession...
Exodus 19:5

I desire to establish you with all my heart and all my soul...
Jeremiah 32:41

And I want to show you great and marvelous things...
Jeremiah 33:3

If you seek me with all your heart, you will find me...
Deutronomy 4:29

Delight in me and I will give you the desires of your heart...
Psalm 37:4

For it is I who gave you those desires...
Phillipians 2:13

I am able to do more for you than you could possibly imagine...
Ephesians 3:20

For I am your greatest encourager...
2 Thessalonians 2:16-17

I am also the Father who comforts you in all your troubles...
2 Corinthians 1:3-4

When you are brokenhearted, I am close to you...
Psalm 34:18

As a shepherd carries a lamb, I have carried you close you my heart...
Isaiah 40:11

One day I will wipe away every tear from your eyes and will take away
all the pain you have suffered on this earth....
Revelation 21:3-4

I am your Father, and I love you even as I love my son, Jesus...
John 17:23

For in Jesus, my love for you is revealed...
John 17:26

He is the exact representation of my being...
Hebrews 1:3

He came to demonstrate that I am for you, not against you...
Romans 8:31

And to tell you that I am not counting your sins...
2 Corinthians 5:18-19

Jesus died so that I could be reconciled...
2 Corinthians 5:18-19

His death was the ultimate expression of my love for you...
I John 4:10

I gave up everything I loved that I might gain your love...
Romans 8:38-39

Come home and I'll throw the biggest party heaven has ever seen...
Luke 15:7

I have always been Father, and will always be Father...
Ephesians 3:14-15

My question is ... Will you be my child?
John 1:12-13

I am waiting for you ...
Luke 15:11-32

My Hero

2008-03-24T23:03:00.001+08:00

A hero is said to be as a person noted for feats of courage or nobility of purpose. Everyone has a hero to be called in their life. For some, it's a teacher; others might prefer a rock star, but for me, my hero is my mom. She never actually saved my life, but she has loved me ever since I was a baby even still a fetus then. I suppose that a hero doesn’t necessarily have to be a super hero who fights crime and laughs in the midst of danger. To me, a hero is someone who doesn't pretend to be someone who’s not, a simple person that possesses strength, faith and courage even in simple deeds and that is my mom. I have known my mother my whole life and she has been there for me through everything. She is an amazing woman, a symbol of inspiration, the best teacher, an understanding friend and a wonderful guide. I consider her as God’s instrument of my existence here on earth.

My mom has gone through a lot, and through it all she has managed to keep food on the table and keep a roof over our heads. She came to rescue me whenever I’m not feeling well and calms me down so I could go to sleep. My mom also helps me out a lot by helping me with my homework. Yes, She has done things in simplicity yet very heroic. She has been the most understanding person in the world because when there is a problem she talks to me and helps to make everything better. She has experienced many difficult obstacles and decisions in her life but has faced each one with integrity and courageousness.

My mom isn't just a hero to me. She also helps many people and does so much good in the neighborhood, that I believe a lot of people look up to her. She is always thinking of others before herself. A true hero, indeed!

“Full blooded Waraynon"

2008-03-16T13:18:00.004+08:00

According to the song entitled “Waray-waray” partly sang by Nida blanca in her movie with Gloria Romero,anak ni Waray vs.anak ni Biday… Samarnons, known also as the Waray-warays best to be known for being fierce and temperamental. Marked for their extreme and violent energy whenever they feel like being treated unjustly and ferociously. Notwithstanding their violent tempers, they are known for being domesticated and submissive by nature, like on willingness on sacrificing their career than a family. I remember one saying: When you marry a Waray, you marry her whole family, for the Warays are some of the most closely-tied families you could ever meet.

On the other hand, Samarnons are known for their unfettered love of music. There is a saying that all that a waray-wray needs is a guitar and a glass of coconut wine (Tuba’) and he will break into a singing frenzy, sometimes with a repertoire of songs and melodies known only to himself. The love of music made them naturally romantic by heart. In old days, courtship is expressed in harana.

The Waray people were clearly most positive to English. Despite their rough manner in speaking waray dialect, they were to be as good as Visayans in speaking English words. They were as competitive as others do.

For Warays, they use a lot of hand and facial gestures to communicate. In their communication with each other, speaking politely is important as is speaking with a gentle tone of voice especially in elders.

As being born in samar . A full blooded waraynon, I would like to see more of samar with

her lush green forests and beautiful beaches. When I’m in samar I see frequent scenic spot

known as Guinabot-an Resort where we frolic in waters that cascade down from the gold-plated

slopes of the Bagacay mountains. I simply love the place for despite the harshness the people

they could be, I am rest assured that deep within them is a heart of loving and kind carved by

natures deeds like I do.

IF JESUS CAME

2008-03-15T11:26:00.001+08:00

Would you have to change your clothes before you let Him in?
Or hide some magazines, and put the Bible where they had been?

If Jesus Came
Would you hide your worldly music and put some Christian music on?
Would you let Jesus walk right in, or would you rush about?
And I wonder, if the Savior spent a day or two with you,
Would you go right on doing the things you always do?

If Jesus Came
Would you go right on saying, the things you always say?
Would life continue as it does from day to day?

If Jesus Came
Would you take Jesus with you everywhere you go?
Or would you maybe change your plans just for a day or so?

If Jesus Came
Would you be glad to have Him meet your closest friends?
Or would you hope they stay away until His visit ends?

If Jesus Came
Would you be glad to have him stay forever on and on?
Or would you sigh with great relief when he at last was gone?

If Jesus Came
It might be interesting to know the things that you would do.
If Jesus came in person, to spend some time with you.

ISLE OF LATER

2008-03-15T11:20:00.001+08:00

Sometimes we isolate ourselves on our own personal island, doing what we deem
necessary to fulfill our lives. We get caught up with meal preparations,
household chores, driving the children here and there, or spending extra hours
pursuing our careers.

Recently I heard a sermon titled "The Isle of Later". As we sit on our island
of what we think is important, many ships of opportunity come by, beckoning us
to jump aboard and participate in their endeavor. We usually have good
intentions. Saying" Oh, yes, that's a good cause... I'll do it later." I'll
sing glorious songs to the Lord in the choir... later, when the issues in my
life are not as demanding ; I'll teach Sunday school, minister to the elderly,
be a coach, cook a meal for the needy, write a note of thanks to my minister or
a friend, be a good listener to someone in need, or share the gospel story to
someone... yes, I'll do it later ! When I have more time to give to theses
things.

Well, my husband and I have been to five funerals in the last month, and for
these folks there was no later. Each died suddenly, not having time to "do"
things of great importance which were probably on their "to do" list. These
funerals have made me take a second look at what I deem meaningful. The first
and foremost important thing is my relationship with God. Then, I want to spend
my time wisely - using it in matters of eternal value. I want to show my love
and respect to my husband, nurture my children and grandson with God's love,
extend grace and mercy to those I encounter, pray for myself and others as I am
led by the Lord, and invest my time here on earth sharing God's love and the
gospel of Jesus Christ. I want to shed the superficial, let go of the non
essential, and discard the selfish. From this day on, my desire is to live each
day as God directs me. If I do that, I know I will be on the right path.

How about you? I hope it doesn't take a funeral to jar you into the reality of
the brevity of our time here, and the opportunity we have to use our time
wisely - according to God's will. It may be time for all of us to reevaluate
the priorities in our lives. Ask God today for direction. He will keep you off
the Isle of Later.... Living each day for Him now !

IF YOU HAVE TIME FOR GOD

2008-03-13T22:54:00.000+08:00

One day Satan and Jesus were having aconversation.Satan had just departedfrom the Garden of Eden, and he wasgloating and boasting."Yes, sir, I just caughta World full of people down there. Iset me a trap and used a little bait.I knew they couldn't resist. Got 'emall!""What are you going todo with them?" Jesus asked.Satan replied, "Oh, I'mgonna have fun! I'm gonna teach themhow to marry and divorce each other,how to hate and abuse each other, howto drink and smoke and curse. I'mgonna teach them how to invent gunsand bombs and kill each other. I'mreally gonna have fun!""And what will you dowhen you get done with them?" Jesusasked."Oh, I'll kill 'em,"Satan glared proudly."How much do you wantfor them?" Jesus asked"Oh, you don't wantthose people. They ain't no good. See,you'll take them and they'll just hateyou. They'll spit on you, curse youthen kill you. You don't want thosepeople!!""How much?" He askedagain.Satan looked at Jesusand sneered, "All your blood, tears,and your life."Jesus said withouthesitation, "DONE!"Then He paid the price.- Isn't it funny howsimple it is for people to trash Godand then wonder why the World's goingto Hell?- Isn't it funny howsomeone can say "I believe in God" butstill follow Satan?- Isn't it funny how youcan repost a thousand jokes throughbulletins and they spread likewildfire, but when you start sendingbulletins regarding the Lord, peoplethink twice about sharing?- Isn't it funny how Ican be more worried about what otherpeople think of me than what Godthinks of me.- I pray, for everyonewho reposts this, they will be blessedby God in a way special for them- And send it back tothe person who sent it, to let themknow that indeed it was sent out tomany more.- If You Love God...And, are not ashamed of all themarvelous things HE has done for you...

STARS

2008-03-12T10:07:00.001+08:00

I've been staring at the night sky for some hours now not because I'm worrying about something or thinking about someone. Not because I'm lonely and not because there's nothing else to do. I'm here sitting at the doorway, my chin up, gazing tirelessly into the space above where the stars dance around the moon that stands out majestically. But I'm not fascinated by the moon. I like stars better. The moon is romantic as you see it but back in elementary they thought me that the moon's light isn't really her own. She is just reflecting the light of the sun. I was disappointed to know that. And it bothered me a lot.The stars. Yes, the stars. They are what amuse me. But it's not like I check on the internet or the Britannica just to know and memorize their names. Their virginity in my eyes is sacred. I don't want to know their age, their distance from the earth, their brightness, and all that crap. I'm afraid that I might learn something ugly about them. I'm afraid to feel the disappointment I felt when I found out that my Beautiful Moon was faking her light, stealing it from the sun. They say she reflects. It was the same for me.The stars somehow captivate me. Their dance, their enticing twinkles, piercing the velvet night skies. When I look at them, it seems like there's a song that they sing. Yeah, there must be a song. It'd be boring to dance without music. They flicker, they twinkle, they shine, and every move they make is like a butterfly in my stomach. I am fascinated. Their beauty is exceptional.Exceptional. That's what I believe they are. There are questions to which I answer and it all makes sense to me. Why do some stars fall? Are they tired of dancing with the music that only they can hear? Are they bored looking down on us mortals? Or are they just so kind to fall because we want them to so that we could ask for our selfish wishes? Selfish wishes. We wait for them to fall only to ask for what we've always lusted for. And when our wishes are fulfilled, we stay awake for another night waiting and wishing for another star to fall. That's what we do. We don't even consider if they ever get tired, if they ever run out. Oh, well, irony, I guess. They have to fall only to give joy to most people. Ironic when the stars are those that dance the nights away yet we long to see the Beautiful Moon who cheats us by stealing the Sun's (a star) light.Why are there no stars during the day? Is it because it is already so bright they think we don't need them anymore? Is it because there's already the blazing Sun? If it's so, then the Sun must be their queen. Well, the only reason why the Sun is brighter is that it's nearer the Earth. So it's nearer the people. Yeah, you must have people to be a queen.The rain. Where are the stars when it rains? Are raindrops really the tears of the stars? If it's true, then it'd make sense to me. We expect joy, contentment, and endurance from them. So when they cry, they hide. Like most people do. They don't want us to see them suffering. We look up to them so they shouldn't bring us down.STARS. They are what amuse me the most in the skies. There must be millions of them, but for me, they're all the same. They are my stars.I've decided that when I die, I'd visit each one of them.

Pruning Tomatoes and Forgiveness

2008-03-11T18:28:00.000+08:00

Are you still pruning and suckering your tomatoes, or do you just let them run
amok?

Now, I realize that city dwellers may not know exactly what I'm talking about.
Some years ago my daughter was at her friend's house in the city where they
were growing a few tomato plants in a flower bed. Michelle proceeded to sucker
off the middle growth in the Y formed by the tomato's new branch.

"What are you doing?" her friend yelled, aghast. Michelle tried to explain the
benefits of pruning off this extra growth, to allow more strength to go to the
development of tomatoes.

We were tardy tying up and pruning the tomatoes this year, so by the time I got
around to it back in June, some of the stalks had developed a very bad
structure: they were so bent that there was no way that I could immediately tie
them up to be straightened. But I knew that if I just got them started going up
in a straight line or pattern, that eventually they would overcome their bent
portion and straighten up to be a tall, productive, healthy tomato plant.

Training tomato vines is sometimes painful for me as the pruner. If I leave
them go too long before pinching out the suckers, the sucker goes on to
actually develop tomatoes on its branch. Yet I know if I don't lop off that
errant branch, it will suck (as its name implies) life and strength from the
rest of the tomato plant, ultimately resulting in a much weaker, less
productive plant. And so we sucker the tomatoes, knowing it will help them in
the long run.

That's how it is with forgiveness. Anger and bitterness sucks the life out of
you, drags you down, makes you bent; you are not a reflection of your true
potential. When we do the difficult work that is called for in
forgiveness-pruning out bitterness and anger, we can gradually-not right away,
go on to be healthy and straight. All it takes-like running a tomato up a
tomato stake-is a start in the right direction.

Hundreds of people have witnessed to the freeing power of forgiveness. Remember
the famed photo of the naked little girl running away from her village in
Vietnam after napalm was dropped on it? What a powerful image; it seared our
consciousness and consciences. In November, 1996 (then living in Canada with
her husband and child), she addressed a crowd at the Vietnam War Memorial. She
said, "If I could talk to the pilot who dropped napalm on my village, I would
say, 'I forgive you.'" What brought her to be able to say that? It probably was
a process, and it probably was simply a decision she made in trying to get on
with her life.

I think of the more ordinary stories of forgiveness closer to home. A
35-year-old man had been estranged from his family for several years; things
were at an impasse. No one knew how to sort out the
who-said-what-who-did-what-when did it start? He and his wife visited a
counselor, who recommended he just ask to start over with his family, and ask
forgiveness. So one day he went to see the parents and asked for forgiveness.
They gladly welcomed him back into their lives.

These are the stories that melt my heart and help me realize that someone's
willingness to take the first step and make a move toward forgiveness is what
makes the difference between forgiveness and impasse; healing and hurt. It
takes awhile-sometimes years, sometimes a lifetime-to bring healing. But when
someone takes the first step, it is like the tomato vine that is finally
started up a straight and strong stake: it won't get straightened out right
away, but over time, it goes in the direction God intended it to grow.

MY HS GRADUATION SPEECH

2008-03-07T21:08:00.001+08:00

Sixteen years had passed swiftly. I never thought then that I’d still be here, standing firm onto my faith. Sixteen years--- not much problems, not much struggles, not much of any I have overcome yet. Not that much as compared to what our Lord Jesus Christ had. With all those past experiences--- could either be good or bad, I knew it all happened to help me grow up in faith; helped me to be who I am today. When I was young, I dreamed of a simple life. I never asked too much out of life. But now, I have understood that one must be wise in choosing, and one must be ready of the things that may come. I learned that there is something I must try to achieve and have duties to do and to fulfill. My dream is to find friends, the lost souls, to meet the less fortunate, the hungry, the forgotten, and all those rejected by human society, to share with them the hope that is in me, and to be a humble instrument of my great God, to announce that there is something beautiful and wonderful in store for them who were neglected by this present world. Though sometimes I have doubts in my heart, but for some reason, God find a way to reaffirm me and point me to the right direction. I really thank Him for everything because without Him, I would be nothing. As a child, I didn’t appreciate the sacrifices my family made for me. The decisions they made for my best interest and the love they always showed me. It took me years of learning to see that they are exactly what I needed in a family. So tonight, I want to thank them for always being there for me, for having faith in me and my capacity above anyone else. Thank you for being the family needed throughout my struggles in my studies. Merry Treasure School, thank you for all the wonderful memories. Thank you for being a family to me in this second home. And to the teachers for giving us the knowledge as preparation for bigger challenges. Highschool wouldn't have been the same without you, I wouldn't have been the same without you.

Pruning Tomatoes and Forgiveness

2008-03-06T20:56:00.002+08:00

The Leather Jacket

2008-03-06T20:36:00.000+08:00

The leather jacket, once the proud work of a skillful artisan, now lay on a
heap in a second-hand store. Once stiff and full of gloss, it lays now limp and
tattered. Once able to wrap itself around the handsomest of men and provide
great glory, its life is now at an end. Depressed and alone, it could only
reminisce about the life it had.

It was first purchased by a rich man for quite a hefty sum. Then passed down to
a chauffeur, where it graced the most wonderful cars imaginable. Then , while
it lay lazily across the seat at night in an unlocked car, right in the middle
of its life, it was stolen. Now keeping company with a thief, it was not as
happy, as a matter of fact, it was ashamed.

It was horrified at the gun and stolen cash that had been shoved in its ample
pockets. That's when it began to lose its shine. It did not get the proper care
and handling as before. It was the beginning of the end. The jacket was thrown
in corners and walked on, almost never hung up. It grew bitter and hard. Now
with its pockets torn it still held weapons and stolen property.

The leather jacket, never thinking much about its people before now, for some
unknown reason, began to like its owner. It happened one night when its
companion was very cold. The owner grasped the jacket and pulled it close
around his body, as he sat alone in the park.

The jacket realized no one loved the owner and the jacket was all he had. For
all his crimes he never kept anything, it was all quickly gone. All that stayed
was the jacket, because in its condition, it was not valuable to anyone else.
The hardness and the bitterness melted away. It now felt sorrow for the person
who clung to it so desperately.

One day, as weather permitted, it was taken off and left behind. It was found
by a woman and child and placed in a paper bag, with other used items, for the
needy.

Now here it lay.

Finally hands picked it up, assessed its value and hung it up, along with other
garments. There were cloth jackets, wool jackets, and corduroy but none were
leather like him. All were in better condition and all with tales to tell. Some
had been all over the world. Some had graced the shoulders of famous people,
but none had stories quite as exquisite or experiences quite as nasty as
Leather. He listened quietly, never revealing very much, so his companions had
begun to believe he'd had quite an unsavory life.

Some associated his color with bad, though it was not possible for a color to
influence abilities. He didn't care what they thought and didn't care when they
considered themselves better. Leather could not help where he had been and he
could not help what he had done.

Many people came by and touched the jackets, taking them out one by one,
looking them over and placing them back on the rack. Leather was quite
startled when one such person flung him across his arm. He recognized this
person. He had been in the park offering food to his previous owner. He was a
minister.

"Oh no, God don't let this person take me. I am sure I would not be suitable
for whatever he has in mind. I have been in the worst of places and done the
most despicable things. I am not worthy, let the man see my tears and tatters
and place me back."

Now God looked down at the little jacket and moved the man to lift Leather up
and examine it again. As the man's eyes fell on the rips and imperfections,
like magic, they were restored. Now the jacket hung on the hanger like new. All
the other jackets were amazed and were placed back on the rack.

Leather spoke to God again. "What are you doing? I am so unworthy."

"But," God explained, "you are exactly what I am looking for. You will be used
for the people you loved the most, the people with the most need. When you have
been bad yourself, you can forgive evil. Because you have been down in the
gutter, you can you understand the people there. You will know where the chill
is most severe, where the frost bites the hardest."

"You were not stolen by accident. You were being prepared. And now, you are
just what I need."

"One time I came down, to understand the people and someone stole something
that belonged to me, something I wrapped in leather. It was shamed and taken
to places it didn't want to go. He ripped and bruised it, thinking he had
surely destroyed its purpose. Now I'm sure, he must realize, he only filled my
worst need."

Been thinking - by aje_daw

2008-03-05T20:41:00.000+08:00

had the strange idea and I hope it doesn't sound like I'm preaching, because I think I'm more fascinated with it than anything else. Okay, well fascinated and a little ashamed of myself...okay very ashamed of myself.

I just noticed how bad I've been at trying to pray or like maintain what I believe my relationship with God should look like. And I think that varies in terms of what people think it should look like, but in general, I realized that I'm not alone.

It's strange that we value hard work and value results from it, but, for those of us who believe in God or a higher power, few of us do anything to really seek that out. It's so bizarre to me. And I'm not saying it in a pious way, more in a "wow that's weird," kind of way because unfortunately, I'm a recent addition to this group of people.

Maybe its because we work so hard at everything else and not much is handed to us that we believe this should be the one thing that we kind of just "let be." I do think that God loves us unconditionally, but I started to wonder why we act like that means we don't need to communicate (aside from the "God, lemme get a parking spot, God, lemme get this job" and then when it happens we forget to say thanks) at all.

Most of our parents love us unconditionally, but that doesn't mean we don't need to try to grow in our relationship with them or get closer to them. So why do we do that with God? And obviously that only applies to people who believe in God. That's why it's so ironic that so many pious nasty judgmental ( I could go on but i'll stop here) Christian people (and i'm christian so i'm not hating) who, aside from a few Hail Mary's, haven't prayed in who knows how long, think they're somehow better than atheists or agnostics. I thought I had this idea on my own but I realized I saw it in the Bible a while back: Who is better, the person who doesn't believe anything and does nothing, or the person who claims to have some sort of belief system and does nothing? Lol that being said, some folks have worked their "belief systems" to mean they have to do nothing, but isn't that just laziness/apathy masquerading as a very enlightened way of thinking? "Oh, I talk to God every day, maybe not really thinking anything directly, but God knows everything and knows how I feel anyway."

I have an idea about that too that I heard somewhere and can't take credit for. Look at married couples who are together for years, but never really TALK. The only difference is that God obviously knows everything about us. So great, think of a relationship where you're with someone all the time but you don't TALK. You may know each others' quirks and in God's case, your thoughts, but a lot of us do nothing at all to know anything about Him. No communication whatsoever. How deep or close can a relationship be on my end if I don't talk to whomever it is? Even if God knows all about us, I think I'd feel closer if I actually took the quiet time to say things in prayer. When I was doing that before I got dreadfully lazy recently, I was having the therapist result. You kind of come to conclusions on your own(not on our own, but ya know, not with anyone coming out and really SAYING anything to you because therapists usually just nod and say yeah yeah yeah, doodle on their pads you can't see, and then kind of steer you to figuring something out on your own and rumor has it God's got a leg up on them, being able to read our minds and all.)

I also think that it's hard for us to understand how someone communicates or even understand what they say when they use their little ways of communicating if we aren't used to talking to them. In terms of human relationships how many non-verbal cues do we miss? How much more do we think that happens with God?(that one was my idea, finally, haha.) So I realized just now that when I'm saying "Oh I don't feel close to God," or "God's not giving me guidance," maybe I'm the problem. And I know in the very humanistic mindset (if you don't know what humanism is you aren't smart enough to be my friend, go away.Lol just kidding but maybe look it up) its bad for me to say that, but kind of true. He's sending messages, I'm just missing them because I'm not speaking His language, which is everywhere, no? Don't we have to take inititative with every relationship we have? With God and with people?

So anyway, that's what I've been thinking when I woke up to go to the bathroom at 4:30am and I had to get it out!

From tree to Cross

2008-03-05T20:40:00.000+08:00

Did someone's hand sow the seed of the Tree?
Or, did the wind blowing in from the Galilee Sea,
Carry the seed that grew into the Tree that was used
for the cross of Calvary?
Did a bird drop the seed, from high in the air,
That grew the cross that Christ was to bear?
Did Christ Rest in it's shade and hear the birds sing?
Was the Tree fragrant with blossoms in spring?
When He came down the mountain, after His Prayer,
Did he See birds build their nests and feed their
young there?
Who stripped it of branches? Who cut down the Tree?
Who fashioned the cross of Calvary?
Who was the man? Was he cursed;
was he blest?
When he finished his labor and sat down to rest,
What were his thoughts? What did he think?
Did he realize that he was but a link
In the chain of events that were to take place?
Was there sadness uon his man's face?
Why was he chosen? Why was it he
Who fashioned the cross for Calvary?
A seed had been planted and a tree had grown,
And God our Saviour, alone had Known,
That all these things were meant to be,
For Christ was to die on Calvary.
A curse and a Blessing; this Cross this tree.
And Christ Died upon it for you and for me.

DON'T FORGET TO SMILE

2008-03-05T20:39:00.000+08:00

A little girl walked to and from school daily. Though the weather that morning was questionable and clouds were forming, she made her daily trek to the elementary school. As the afternoon progressed, the winds whipped up, along with thunder and lightning. The mother of the little girl felt concerned that her daughter would be frightened as she walked home from school and she herself feared that the electrical storm might harm her child.

Following the roar of thunder, lightning, like a flaming sword, would cut through the sky. Full of concern, the mother quickly got into her car and drove along the route to her child's school. As she did so, she saw her little girl walking along, but at each flash of lightning, the child would stop, look up and smile. Another and another were to follow quickly and with each the little girl would look at the streak of light and smile.

When the mother's car drove up beside the child she lowered the window and called to her, "What are you doing? Why do you keep stopping?"

The child answered, "I am trying to look pretty, God keeps taking my picture.

May God bless you today as you face the storms that come your way.

And don't forget to SMILE!

• Author Unknown

MABUHAY ANG PILIPINO

2008-03-05T20:38:00.000+08:00

The following was written by INTEL General Manager Robin Martin about the Philippines:

Filipinos (including the press, business people, and myself) tend to
dwell too much on the negative and this affects the perception
of foreigners, even the ones who have lived here for a while. The
negative perception of the Philippines is way too disproportionate to reality when compared to countries like Columbia, Egypt, Middle East, Africa, etc.

Let us all help our country by balancing the negative with the positive, especially when we talk to foreigners, whether based here or abroad. Looking back and comparing the Philippines today and 1995 (the year I came back), I was struck by how much our country had progressed physically.

Consider the following:

1. The great telecom infrastructure that we have now did not exist in 1995. 1995 was the year the telecom industry was deregulated. Since then, billions of dollars have been invested in both fixed line and cellular networks producing a system with over 5,000 kms of fiber optic backbone at a world competitive cost. From a fixed line capacity of about 900,000 in 1995, we now have over 7 million. Cellular phones practically did not exist in 1995; now we have over 11 million line capacity.

2. The MRT, many of the EDSA flyovers including the Ayala
Avenue flyover, the SKYWAY, Rockwell and Glorietta 4, the Fort, NAIA terminal 2, and most of the new skyscrapers were not yet built in 1995.

3. If you drive to the provinces, you will notice that national roads are now of good quality (international quality asphalt roads). I just went to Iba, Zambales last week and I was impressed that even a not so frequently traveled road was of very good quality.

4. Philippine exports have increased by 600% over the past eight years. There are many, many more examples of progress over the last eight years. Philippine mangoes are now exported to the US and Europe.

Additional tidbits to make our people prouder:

1. INTEL has been in the Philippines for 28 years. The Philippine plant is where Intel's most advanced products are launched, including the Pentium IV. By the end of 2002, the Philippine operations became Intel's biggest assembly and testing operations worldwide.

2. TEXAS INSTRUMENTS has been operating in Baguio for over 20
years. The Baguio plant is the largest producer of DSP chips in the
world. DSP chips are the brains behind cellphones. TI's Baguio plant produces the chip that powers 100% of all NOKIA cellphones and 80% of Erickson cellphones in the world.

3. TOSHIBA laptops are produced in Santa Rosa, Laguna.

4. If you drive a BENZ, BMW, or a VOLVO, chances are that
that the ABS system in your car was made in the Philippines.

5. TREND-MICRO, makers of one of the top anti-virus software,
PC-Cillin (I may have mispelled this), develops its "cures" for
viruses right here in Eastwood, Libis, Quezon City. When a virus
breaks into any computer system in the world, they try to find a solution within 45 minutes of identifying the virus.

6. By the end of this year, it is expected that a majority of the top-ten U.S. Call Center firms in the U.S. will have set up operations in the Philippines. This is one area in which I believe we are the best in the world in terms of value for money.

7. America Online (AOL) has 1,000 people in Clark answering 90% of AOL's global e-mail inquiries.

8. PROCTOR &GAMBLE has over 400 people right here in Makati
(average age 23 years) doing backroom office work for their Asian
operations, including finance, accounting, Human Resources, and payments processing.

9. Among many other things it does for its regional operations’
network in the Asia-Pacific region here in Manila, CITIBANK also does its global ATM programming locally.

10. This is the first year ever that the Philippines will be exporting cars in quantity courtesy of FORD Philippines.

Next time you travel abroad and meet business associates, tell
them the good news. A big part of our problem is perception and one of the biggest battles can be won simply by believing and by making others believe.

This message is shared by good citizens of the Philippines who persevere to hope and work for our country.

CHANCE... OR CHOICE?

2008-03-05T20:35:00.000+08:00

When you meet the right person to love at the right place and at the right
time, that's chance.

When you meet someone you you're attracted to, that's not a choice That's
chance.

Being caught up in a moment (and there's a lot of couples who get together
because of this) is not a choice. That's also a chance.

The difference is what happens afterward. When will you take that
infatuation, that crush, that mind-blowing attraction to the next level?
That's when all sanity goes back, you sit down and contemplate whether you
want to make this into a concrete relationship or just a fling.

If you decide to love a person, even with his/her flaws, that's not a
chance. That's choice.

When you choose to be with a person, no matter what, that's choice. Even if
you know there are many people out there who are more attractive, smarter,
and richer than your mate, yet, you decide to love your mate just the same,
that's choice.

Infatuation, crushes, attraction comes to us by chance. But true love that
lasts is truly a choice. A choice that we make.

Regarding soulmates, there's a beautiful movie quote that I believe is so
true about this: "Fate brings you together, but it's still up to you to make
it happen."

I do believe that soulmates do exist. There is truly someone made for you.
It is up to you to make the choice if you're going to do something about it
or not.

We may meet our soulmates by chance, but loving and staying with our
soulmate is still a choice we have to make.

The salty coffee

2008-03-04T06:33:00.001+08:00

He met her on a party, she was so
outstanding,many
guys
chasing after her,while he was so
normal, nobody paid
attention to him. At the end of
the party, he invited
her
to have coffee with him, she was
surprised, but due
to
politeness, she promised.

They sat in a nice coffee shop, he
was too nervous to
say
anything, she felt uncomfortable,
she thought,
"please,
let me back home..".

Suddenly he asked the waiter:
"Would you please give
me
some salt? I'd like to put it in
my coffee."

Everybody stared at him, so
strange! His face turned
red,
but still, he put the salt in his
coffee and drank
it.

She asked him curiously: "Why you
have this hobby?"
He replied: "When I was a little
boy, I was living
near the sea,
I like playing in the sea, I could
felt the taste of
the sea,
salty
and bite, just like the taste of
the salty coffee.
Now every
time
I have the salty coffee, I will
think of my
childhood, think
of my hometown, I miss my hometown
so much, I miss my
parents
who still living there." Saying
that, tears filled
his eyes.

She was deeply touched. That's his
true feeling, from
the bottom
of his heart. A man who can tell
out his homesick, he
must be a
man loves home, cares about home,
has responsibility
of home..
Then she also started to talk,
talked about her
faraway
hometown,
her childhood, her family.. that
was a really nice
talk, also a
beautiful beginning of their
story.

They continue to date. She found
actually he was a
man who
meets all her demands: he was
tolerance, kind
hearted, warm,
careful...he was such a good guy
but she almost
missed him!
Thanks to his salty coffee!

Then the story was just like every
beautiful love
story: the
princess married to the price,
then they were living
the happy
life...
And, every time she made coffee
for him, she put some
salt in
the coffee, as she knew that's the
way he liked.

After 40 years, he passed away,
left her a letter
which said:
My dearest, please forgive me,
forgive my whole life
lie.
This was the only lie I said to
you----the salty
coffee.
Remember the first time we dated?
I was so nervous
at that
time, actually I wanted some
sugar, but I said salt.
It's hard for me to change so I
just go ahead. I
never thought
that could be the start of our
communication! I tried
to tell
you the truth many times in my
life, but I was too
afraid to
do that, as I have promised not to
lie to you for
anything..

Now I'm dying, I afraid of nothing
so I tell you the
truth:
I don't like the salty coffee,
what a strange bad
taste..
but I have the salty coffee for my
whole life since
I knew
you, I never feel sorry for
anything I do for you.
Having you
with me is my biggest happiness
for my whole life.

If I can live for the second time,
I still want to
know you and
have you as my whole life wife,
even though I have
to drink
the salty coffee again.

Her tears made the letter totally
wet.
Someday, someone asked her:
"What's the taste of
salty coffee?"
"It's sweet." She replied.

Rocks: a meaning for life

2008-03-04T06:32:00.001+08:00

A philosophy professor stood before his class and had some items in
front of him. When the class began, wordlessly he picked up a large
empty mayonnaise jar and proceeded to fill it with rocks, rocks about
2" in diameter. He then asked the students if the jar was full? They
agreed that it was.

So the professor then picked up a box of pebbles and poured them into
the jar. He shook the jar lightly. The pebbles, of course, rolled into the
open
areas between the rocks. He then asked the students again if the jar was
full. They agreed it was.

The students laughed. The professor picked up a box of sand and poured
it into the jar. Of course, the sand filled up everything else. "Now,"
said
the
professor, "I want you to recognise that this is your life. The rocks are
the
important things - your family, your partner, your health, your children -
things
that if everything else was lost and only they remained, your life would
still be full.

The pebbles are the other things that matter like your job, your
house,
your car.
The sand is everything else. The small stuff." "If you put the sand into
the
jar
first, there is no room for the pebbles or the rocks. The same goes for
your
life.
If you spend all your time and energy on the small stuff, you will never
have room
for the things that are important to you.

Pay attention to the things that are critical to your happiness. Play
with your
children. Take time to get medical checkups. Take your partner out
dancing.
There will always be time to go to work, clean the house, give a dinner
party and
fix the disposal." "Take care of the rocks first - the things that really
matter. Set
your priorities. The rest is just sand."

But then...

A student then took the jar which the other students and the professor
agreed was full, and proceeded to pour in a glass of beer. Of course
the beer filled the remaining spaces within the jar making the jar truly
full.

The moral of this tale is:

- that no matter how full your life is, there is always room for BEER

15 Simple changes that will energise your life

2008-03-03T06:18:00.000+08:00

Stop drinking soft drinks and start drinking water.

When you feel stressed take 10 deep breaths. Focus on your breathing
.
Exercise at least 30 minutes a day. It's as easy as a walk around the block.

Drink Green Tea instead of Coffee.

Sleep at least 8 hours a night

Stay away from Hydrogenated Oils. Read the ingredients on the back of products.

Surround yourself with positive and supportive people.

Do one thing special for yourself every day.

Eat fruits with your breakfast and eat vegetables with your lunch and dinner.

Say a prayer or affirmation before you go to bed and when you wake up.

Read one inspirational book a month .

Listen to your favorite song whenever you need a pick-me-up.

Eat breakfast. It will increase your energy and productivity at work.

Don't be too busy for lunch. Researchers agree that performance scores plunge when people miss lunch

Take short breaks throughout the day. Get up from your chair and take a little walk. Stop looking at the computer screen. Stretch. Go get a cold drink of water. Short breaks help you refocus and reenergize.

Remember this everyday!!

2008-03-03T06:17:00.001+08:00

This should probably be taped to your bathroom mirror where one could
read it everyday. You may not realize it, but it's 100% true.

1. There are at least two people in this world that you would die for.
2. At least 15 people in this world love you in some way.
3. The only reason anyone would ever hate you is because they want to
be just like you.
4. A smile from you can bring happiness to anyone, even if they don't
like you.
5. Every night,
SOMEONE thinks about you before they go to sleep.
6. You mean the world to someone.
7. You are special and unique.
8. Someone that you don't even know exists loves you.
9. When you make the biggest mistake ever, something good comes from
it.
10. When you think the world has turned its back on you, take another
look.
11. Always remember the compliments you received. Forget about the rude
remarks.

Love and Time

2008-03-03T06:15:00.000+08:00

Once upon a time, there was an island where all the feelings lived: Happiness, Sadness, Knowledge, and all of the others, including Love. One day it was announced to the feelings that the island would sink, so all constructed boats and left. Except for Love.

Love was the only one who stayed. Love wanted to hold out until the last possible moment.

When the island had almost sunk, Love decided to ask for help.

Richness was passing by Love in a grand boat. Love said,
"Richness, can you take me with you?"
Richness answered, "No, I can't. There is a lot of gold and silver in my boat. There is no place here for you."

Love decided to ask Vanity who was also passing by in a beautiful vessel. "Vanity, please help me!"
"I can't help you, Love. You are all wet and might damage my boat," Vanity answered.

Sadness was close by so Love asked, "Sadness, let me go with you."
"Oh . . . Love, I am so sad that I need to be by myself!"

Happiness passed by Love, too, but she was so happy that she did not even hear when Love called her.

Suddenly, there was a voice, "Come, Love, I will take you." It was an elder. So blessed and overjoyed, Love even forgot to ask the elder where they were going. When they arrived at dry land, the elder went her own way. Realizing how much was owed the elder,

Love asked Knowledge, another elder, "Who Helped me?"
"It was Time," Knowledge answered.
"Time?" asked Love. "But why did Time help me?"
Knowledge smiled with deep wisdom and answered, "Because only Time is capable of understanding how valuable Love

Being Twenty-Something to Thirty-Something

2008-03-01T10:44:00.001+08:00

Being Twenty-Something to Thirty-Something
(This puts it all into words perfectly.)

They call it the “Quarter-life Crisis.” It is when you stop going along with the crowd and start realizing that there are a lot of things about yourself that you didn’t know and may not like.
You start feeling insecure and wonder where you will be in a year or two, but then get scared because you barely know where you are now.
You start realizing that people are selfish and that, maybe, those friends that you thought you were so close to aren’t exactly the greatest people you have ever met and the people you have lost touch with are some of the most important ones. What you do not realize is that they are realizing that too and are not really cold or catty or mean or insincere, but that they are as confused as you.
You look at your job. It is not even close to what you thought you would be doing or maybe you are looking for one and realizing that you are going to have to start at the bottom and are scared.
You miss the comforts of college, of groups, of socializing with the same people on a constant basis. But then you realize that maybe they weren’t so great after all.
You are beginning to understand yourself and what you want and do not want. Your opinions have gotten stronger. You see what others are doing and find yourself judging a bit more than usual because suddenly you realize that you have certain boundaries in your life and add things to your list of what is acceptable and what is not.
You are insecure and then secure. You laugh and cry with the greatest force of your life. You feel alone and scared and confused. Suddenly change is the enemy and you try and cling on to the past with dear life but soon realize that the past is drifting further and further away and there is nothing to do but stay where you are or move forward.
You get your heart broken and wonder how someone you loved could do such damage to you or you lay in bed and wonder why you can’t meet anyone decent enough to get to know better.
You love someone but maybe love someone else too and cannot figure out why you are doing this because you are not a bad person.
One night stands and random hook ups start to look cheap and getting wasted and acting like an idiot starts to look pathetic.
You go through the same emotions and questions over and over and talk with your friends about the same topics because you cannot seem to make a decision.
You worry about loans and money and the future and making a life for yourself and while winning the race would be great, right now you’d just like to be a contender!
What you may not realize is that everyone reading this relates to it. We are in our best of times and our worst of times, trying as hard as we can to figure this whole thing out.
No need to send this to your twenty-something (to thirty-something) friends... but maybe it will help someone feel like they are not alone.

God is Awesome!

2008-03-01T10:33:00.001+08:00

One night I had worked hard to help a mother in the
labor ward; but in spite of all we could do she died
leaving us with a tiny premature baby and a crying
two-year-old daughter. We would have difficulty
keeping the baby alive, as we had no incubator. (We
had no electricity to run an incubator.) We also had
no special feeding facilities.

Although we lived on the equator, nights were often
chilly with treacherous drafts. One student midwife
went for the box we had for such babies and the cotton
wool the baby would be wrapped in. Another went to
stoke up the fire and fill a hot water bottle. She
came back shortly in distress to tell me that in
filling the bottle, it had burst. Rubber perishes
easily in tropical climates. "And it is our last hot
water bottle!" she exclaimed.

As in the West it is no good crying over spilled milk,
so in Central Africa it might be considered no good
crying over burst water bottles. They do not grow on
trees, and there are no drugstores down forest pathways.

"All right," I said, "put the baby as near the fire as
you safely can, and sleep between the baby and the
door to keep it free from drafts. "Your job is to keep
the baby warm."

The following noon, as I did most days, I went to have
prayers with any of the orphanage children who chose
to gather with me. I gave the youngsters various suggestions
of things to pray about and told them about the tiny baby.

I explained our problem about keeping the baby warm
enough, mentioning the hot water bottle. The baby
could so easily die if it got chills. I also told them of the
two-year-old sister, crying because her mother had died.

During the prayer time, one ten-year-old girl, Ruth,prayed
with the usual blunt conciseness of our African
children. "Please, God," she prayed, "send us a water
bottle. It'll be no good tomorrow, God, as the baby will be
dead, so please send it this afternoon."

While I gasped inwardly at the audacity of the prayer,
she added by way of a corollary, "And while You are
about it, would You please send a dolly for the little
girl so she'll know You really love her?"

As often with children's prayers, I was put on the
spot. Could I honestly say, "Amen?" I just did not
believe that God could do this. Oh, yes, I know that
He can do everything. The Bible says so. But there are
limits, aren't there? The only way God could answer
this particular prayer would be by sending me a parcel
from the homeland. I had been in Africa for almost
four years at that time, and I had never, ever
received a parcel from home.

Anyway, if anyone did send me a parcel, who would put
in a hot water bottle? I lived on the equator!

Halfway through the afternoon, while I was teaching in
the nurses' training school, a message was sent that
there was a car at my front door. By the time I
reached home, the car had gone, but there, on the
verandah, was a large twenty-two pound parcel. l felt
tears pricking my eyes. I could not open the parcel
alone, so I sent for the orphanage children. Together

we pulled off the string, carefully undoing each knot.
We folded the paper, taking care not to tear it
unduly. Excitement was mounting.

Some thirty or forty pairs of eyes were focused on the
large cardboard box. From the top, I lifted out
brightly colored, knitted jerseys. Eyes sparkled as I
gave them out. Then there were the knitted bandages
for the leprosy patients, and the children looked a
little bored.

Then came a box of mixed raisins and sultanas-that
would make a batch of buns for the weekend. Then, as I
put my hand in again, I felt the.....could it really
be? I grasped it and pulled it out-yes, a brand-new,
rubber hot water bottle I cried.

I had not asked God to send it; I had not truly
believed that He could. Ruth was in the front row of,
the children. She rushed forward, crying out, "If God
has sent the bottle, He must have sent the dolly,
too!" Rummaging down to the bottom of the box, she
pulled out the small, beautifully dressed dolly. Her
eyes shone! She had never doubted. Looking up at me,
she asked: "Can I go over with you, Mummy, and give
this dolly to that little girl, so she'll know that
Jesus really loves her?"

That parcel had been on the way for five whole months.
Packed up by my former Sunday school class, whose
leader had heard and obeyed God's prompting to send a
hot water bottle, even to the equator. And one of the
girls had put in a dolly for an African child-five
months before-in answer to the believing prayer of a
ten-year-old to bring it "that afternoon."

"Before they call, I will Answer!" Is 65:24
Live as if Christ died yesterday, arose this morning,
and is coming back tomorrow.