A Nanogenarian's Thoughts

The Holy Rosary

2009-11-20T11:13:00.002+08:00

Many know the Holy Rosary as the recitation of the Apostle's Creed, followed by the mere repetition of Our Fathers, Hail Marys, and Glory Bes.

The Holy Rosary is a powerful prayer to honor the Blessed Mother and ask the intercession of the Blessed Mother to our God in Heaven.

October has been set aside as Rosary month with October 7 as the feast day. It was Pope Gregory XIII who established the feast in 1573 in thanksgiving for the victory of the Christian forces from Europe over the Turks' fleet in the naval battle of Lepanto in 1571. Pope Clement XI made the feast of the Holy Rosary one of the Universal Church in 1716.

The Dominicans did much in the spread of the Holy Rosary.

People who prayed the rosary need small pebbles to keep count. A certain Hermit Paul of Egypt in 300 AD filled his pocket with 300 pebbles and removed them one by one with each prayer. Later a knotted cord is easier to carry, and that later, a string of beads is prettier than a knotted cord.

At first the 150 Psalms were used as prayers but not all Christians knew these Psalms by heart the Our Father was used. In the 15th century, the salutation of Angel Gabriel was used. Different regions prayed different versions of the Rosary at a time.

Pope John Paul II added the mystery of Light to the three mysteries of Joy, Sorrows and Glorious.

A Black Sheep? Don't be sad if you're called so. God has something good for you.

2009-11-20T11:04:00.002+08:00

After reading an article on what a sheep that is black among those in a flock, I realized that the black sheep does a big help for the shepherd.

The black-colored sheep is oftentimes a problem for the shepherd as it is rebellious and tends to go on their own way. As sheep are sort of dumb, they follow the one in front of them and don't look beyond him. Black is an attractive color so the whole line of sheep follows the black sheep in front of the flock.

The shepherd breaks the hind legs of the black sheep to prevent him from running. He puts the black sheep in front of the flock and pulls him with his staff by the neck. As a result of this, the rest of the flock follows him and not one is lost.

The Lord has a way of breaking the black sheep in a family. Who knows someday, he will lead the members of the family to God.

Remember the Prodigal Son?

He came back to ask forgiveness for his past. What rejoicing he experienced.

There are so many dark areas in our life to be broken. Reflect and repent. The Lord loves a sinner who goes to Him for forgiveness.

Remember: There never was a saint without a past, a sinner without a future.

Rent A Family? Let Love Prevail

2009-11-20T10:58:00.000+08:00

If a family would like to go out of town and doesn't own a car, the family can rent a car. Many don't own the houses they live in, so they rent a house. Have you ever heard of renting a family? It is something hard to happen in Philippine culture, where strong relationships can be found. There is no reason to spend for the service of others just to have a few hours of fun, having lunch and carrying on a conversation.

This is common in Japan according to an article I read. WIth the amount of JPY1180, old people can have three hours of fun and relaxation with a "fake family". They can just dial a number, give their specifications for the kind of family desired and the family arrives like long-lost relatives.

The amount doesn't even include transportation expenses.

Perhaps this can not happen in the Filipino culture, knowing how closely knit families are, with caring neighbors around and the formation of Catholic and other religious communities. However, with the fast pace of modern life, exodus of family members abroad, the explosion of technological know-how, the young learning to live independent of family elders, will the concept be present in our midst?

Let us pray that it does not become a pattern in family life. Jesus taught us to love one another, to share love, not to rent or borrow love for love is never for rent or for borrowing. It is for giving free.

Words of Wisdom in the Moments of Despair, Temptations and Hopelessness (For my own Reflection)

2009-11-20T10:21:00.003+08:00

1. Life is a prayer and the prayer we say shapes the life that we live just as the ~~prayer~~ life we ~~say~~ live shapes the prayer we say.

Questions for my reflection: What do I pray for in my dialog with God? Do I
live the way of God?

2. Counter the trails and problems with a great sense of gratitude.

Reflection - Am I a negative thinker? Do I see the good things that I
receive after an experience that I thought was a punishment for me? Were there
blessings for me?

3. Let not your face contradict your faith.

Reflection - Is it easy for me to smile? Do I consider individual differences
among those I come in contact with? How can I be not judgmental in dealing with
others?

4. In the midst of a storm, remember the rainbow.

Reflection - How prayerful am I? How do I show trust in the Lord's works and
words? Do I listen to witnesses of God's mercy in times of want and need? What
is my response to the blessings I received? Do I give with the heart? Do I share
experiences related to the Lord's generosity? A witness to God's words?

5. The evil way will not take you to Hell, remaining there will.
Reflection - Do I do my best to avoid sin? Is it easy for me to say "I'm sorry"? What kind of friends do I have? Am I a person who is dependable, nurturing and encouraging to others? Do I commune with the saints? What acts of contritions do I do? Prayers?

6. The Lord is in control of everything. Change - The humility to accept the things I cannot change. The courage to change the things I can change. Wisdom to know the difference - To offer to the Lord to bring change to those I cannot change.

Reflection - What do I do if I can not bring change? Nothing is impossible
with God - I pray to the Holy Spirit for their enlightenment. I pray to my
guardian angel to commune with their guardian angels for help? (God will make a
way)

Husbands and wives

complete and compete with

one another.

Traffic Signs in My Life (The Way, The Truth, and the Life)

2009-11-20T10:13:00.002+08:00

Traffic signs along the way are very important. If we did not put up these signs there will be chaos, disasters and deaths. Even with these, we can not avoid accidents due to arrogance, inconsideration of motorists, disobedience to the signs and undescribable personalities of drivers. We can only refer to statistics to prove destruction to life and property although there are traffic signs.

I believe we also need traffic signs in our life. Here are some helpful ones; warning signs in our daily life.

Stop

I've learned not to rush, calling on the wisdom of the Holy Spirit in making
decisions. It is worthwhile to pause and pray to derive wisdom to go on with the
action I would like to do based on the knowledge I have on the matter.

Look

It is wise to look ahead, to find out people who may be affected by my action,
ones I may hurt, ones I must help, ones who can be with me in the decision I
make.

Listen

It is wise to pause and listen. Open your heart and mind to God. After prayer,
listen to what God has to say. Listen to words of the elders, others who know
how to help you make right judgments and correct choices.

Avoid overspeeding, have someone push you when you are slow. Be aware of the Lord's words when you are about to lose your way. Watch for traffic jams in your life. Listen to God's siren and obey.

I've learned to do these things.

2009-11-20T09:45:00.003+08:00

[whew, a long time since I last posted. so now, the trail of thoughts continue...]

My Guardian Angel

We all have guardian angels, to light and guide, to rule and guard, don't we? A guardian angel we don't see. Aside from an angel, I don't see, I have one who cares for me.

When Linda isn't around, she attends to my personal needs. She fills up the empty plastic bottles with water I need to clean up myself. She prepares the sandwiches and whatever there is for my breakfast. She sees to it that I have the bottled water to drink.

At dinner time, she sets the table and helps prepare the food for the meals, making sure the sauce for the viands are present including the water to drink.

Acts of Love

She does all these without a scowl on her face. At times, I have to prohibit her from doing things when she shows signs of an epileptic attack.

My angel is Manang Paring's daughter. She is an epileptic since childhood. She is a little abnormal in her speech, however not mentally retarded.

After all these years, I can say that with the advanced knowledge on the treatment ~~of knowledge~~ on care of special children, she could have been more productive. Corrie is my guardian angel. Bless her, Lord.

2009-03-18T14:48:00.003+08:00

Manong Berting, Our Big Brother

Let me tell you why our Manong Berting was our Big Brother.

Even at a young age, he knew his role as a substitute for our Tatay when Tatay was absent. He helped us with our school problems, helping us with our assignments. He kept us safe from unruly playmates, keeping us company when at work and at play.

Manong was friendly. His group of friends were children of parents of different nationality and state of life. There were children of Spanish descent, the sone of the Chinese owner of the store at our street corner, children of prominent families in the neighborhood.

Love Among Siblings, Peers

With his playmates and friends, he showed his creativity in creating things for their leisure. They had tops, yoyo and kites to play with. They knew how to make use of the things in the environment for their games. Shells, beautiful pebbles, wooden playthings were their playthings. With his group, he was already signs of leadership and what a true friend is. Even after the group reached maturity, they still maintained the bonding they had.

Manong had a charisma with our elders. The elderlies in the family always had a special comment for him. When we grew up, during visits to homes of our relatives, they are always eager to hear him talk on things of concern, current events, family problems & blessings.

Being Big With Love

His being the eldest was no reason for him to have the best. He was thoughtful of everyone especially the elders. He knew what things to avoid so as not to make our Father angry.

He was loving especially to our Lola Tina. When our Lola Tina comments on his behavior, he lifts our Lola TIna and sways her around. He is the one who helps our grandma caring for the pig, Lola Tina fattens up for special occasions. He goes to the neighbors for leftover food for the pig's feed.

Our Manong learned to play the harmonica. He had a sweet-singing voice.

Ours were days when family values were stressed. There were no rambols [street fights] in the neighborhood. Children were at home at Angelus time. Parents were aware of their roles in the home.

Joyful Days

"Simbang gabi" was a happy time for Manong and his friends. They tied strings around their wrists which they dropped below to pull to wake up one another. Attendance at church services was a joyous activity for the group, at fiesta time they participated in contests and joined the procession in honor of the patron saint, Lady of Loreto.

Values We Lived By

Our Manong Berting was a caring and thoughtful brother, loving, gentle and respectful to his elders, and a faithful and dependable friend to his peers. Just like our Father, he had a big heart, a storage of God's love and goodness for us and for others as well. This, he had up to the time when he had a family of his own.

He was one person with a big heart, our Big Brother, Our Maong Berting.

2009-03-18T14:34:00.002+08:00

Life With Father

Life with our Father gave us valuable virtues we have carried throughout life. He showed us Christian values through examples in words, and actions.

He was properly groomed most especially at mealtime, very different from what some family members show these days, especially the male, half naked and lousy table manners. A hat was a part of his clothing needs, and a coat (overcoat) when needed.

He was careful with the words he said when reprimanding us, a proper disciplinarian - as to the ways he used to punish us. We only had to look at his eyes and see how he moved his head to know what he wanted us to do.

Remembering Loved Ones

We always looked forward to moments of joy on paydays when he takes us out for lunch for the different recipes from what our Inang Tina prepares, Chinese cuisine at Ongpin, T. Pinpin and other China town eateries, Ambos Mundos & Antigua.

After a long vacation for two months, he makes sure that we will have the needed clothes for our school days. He takes us to Gandara for new pairs of footwear. Saturdays were days of making sure we were tidied up. He gives us hair cuts and nail-trimming.

Tatay taught at San Nicolas Elem. School at night. Before he leaves, he takes dinner with us. But we know that we will always have something to eat when he comes home after 9:00 p.m. San Nicolas Elem. School is located in Binondo, China town.

We enjoy walking to school with our Tatay ahead taking small steps on the way to keep us on time and stopping at street corners when traffic is carried out.

With our Lola Tina, he sends us to venerate the Virgin of Peace and Good Voyage at Antipolo for a nine day pilgrimage. He takes us along to his roots to know our kins at where he grew up at San Miguel, Bulacan and to venerate the patron saint, St. Michael the Archangel, whose feast day is May 8.

Death Ends Life, Relationships of Love Live On

Christmas day was a day for the family to have a reunion with relatives and friends.

He made sure to take us to relatives to greet and pay respect. How happy we were to receive the twenty centavo coins we received from our elders and the pan de sal with a slice of Chinese ham and cups of steaming hot chocolate.

He was with us at study time. We had a family doctor to attend to us when we were sick. He stayed with us to see to our needs.

Tatay knew the importance of education for life. We had good reading materials, dailies to know current events, and books on history, and prayer books for knowing about God.

Values We Live By

When we came home from school, he looked into our bags. We were taught to avoid taking things not ours. Anything not ours has to be returned to the owner.

Ours was a time when children had to listen, we were trained to know, give meaning and understand what our parents wanted us to do to become good, obedient and loving children. We grew up knowing about the value of the family, the need for respect and love for others and above all the love and fear of God.

We praise the good Lord for giving us our Parents and Elders, examples of God's instruments of love.

Bless our Parents & Elders, Lord.

2009-03-18T10:56:00.001+08:00

12.1.2006 Looking Toward The Future With Hope Peace and Love

Precious Old Age
Experiences to strengthen one's faith
Happy memories of the innocence of youth
Sweet discipline of caring elders
Sweet secrets of adventurous souls
Opportunities for knowing about life
Moments of grace realized
Few true friends
Strong family ties
Nothing wanting as we face the future with God
God alone suffices.
Do not fear. Mama Mary is near.

Journal II: My Second Journal 2006-2007

2009-03-18T10:31:00.002+08:00

Cover Passage:

Memories of good relationships never die if one has shown love with those touched and cherished when together. Develop good relationships with God's creation.

---
Manang at 88, I at 86 - Old in years but young at heart.

Life is Relationships, Death ends life. Relationship lives forever.

2009-03-17T07:55:00.009+08:00

01.15.2006 Ang ngayon ay bukas ng nagdaang kahapon

(Apologies for the blurred pictures, just took this via my camera phone..will upload better ones soon)

Where and what am I now?

(the card says: To Ma'am Cruz, Merry Christmas & a Very Happy New Year
From: the LEGARDANS Nena J. Acop, Arlet, Mary Adore Caeg)

In the care of loved ones, relatives and friends, a grateful child of God.

(Nena Acop & Arleta (+) )

Lord - My hands are folded...in supplication. I need your help. I need to relax. I need light, peace. I need calm, courage, and forgiveness.

From you, Lord, I can expect these things. You said, "Ask and you shall receive, seek and you shall find, knock and it shall be opened to you." You are my Savior, my only hope, my haven of peace. Amen.

2008-12-18T17:09:00.002+08:00

01.16.2006 The Lord closes the door but He opens windows for His graces to come in

A single person may miss many things in life. However, the Lord in His infinite wisdom compensates for graces missed. Hence, we say "Single Blessedness".

When one is alone and no one to talk to, one can dialog with God through prayers. Send Him your words in despaid, when in joy, in gratitude, ask for help. He is always ready to listen. Wait for His answer.

You can find Him in the people you meet, most especially in the innocent, sincere-hearted children around. You can see Him among your loyal friends, poor neighbors, and needy people.

He send you blessings through the experiences you have and opportunities for progress. He is most happy when you can reach out to others and share the talents and blessings you have.

We believe in the Communion with saints, the help of our beloved dead so we pray to them to pray for us. The Lord knows our needs before we know them. We should only ask Him for help. He is true to His word.

2008-12-18T17:03:00.002+08:00

01.15.2005

The two of us; Manang Paring and I. The Lord in His infinite wisdom has blessed us!

Manang - Joyful Motherhood
I - Single Blessedness
"Thank you, Lord."

2008-12-18T13:26:00.003+08:00

01.15.2006 In My Little Room

In my younger days I was fascinated in living in a chalet-form of home, I used to see along the way and in magazines that came to my hand. Sure enough when I became a teacher, I was able to buy a one story house in a housing project of the government. I had a little garden with two caimito trees. I was often surprised that there were smaller trees and plants that came up without my planting them. Sili shrubs, a guava tree and even an atis tree. (a camias seedling from Mila). I was even able to give away pabaon [give away] to my friends who came for a visit - some bananas. Best of all, I put up a grotto of the Blessed Mother of Lourdes in a corner in my yard. I also had a trees isis from which I got leaves to scrub my table tops with. In this house, I learned many things that sustained my faith and trust in the Lord's love and care.

Everyone has a purpose and vision in life, but God has a better plan, which often times we can not understand until finally, with His crooked ways, He straightens our life and then we realize that the life He has for us becomes meaningful.

My house is now a one-room place, but it is a place I can do in my former home. (what I did in my older home).

It is my prayer room where I can hear mass every day, listen and participate in every novena for the day. It is also my news room for my daily happenings. I am up-dated on events that happen. All these I get from a transistor radio. I have books to read, weekly magazines and periodicals. Jing supplies me with religious readings. I took along my religious imagaes of saints for my altar. Linda ang Corry make sure that I have the things I need for my personal use.

From my small window, views of people doing their daily chores, earning their daily bread, having fun provide me the reason to look up and remember to pray & thank God that He is present, caring & loving.

2008-12-18T13:11:00.004+08:00

01.13.2006 Mother Mary's Apparitions

1. May 13, 1917; Oct. 13, 1917 - At Fatima, Portugal to 3 peasant children, Francisco, Lucia & Jacinta

2. 1858 - At Lourdes, France to Bernadette

3. At Akita, Japan - Repeated what has been said in previous apparitions. Repentance & a terrible chastisement on all if men do not repent.

4. Sept. 18, 1846 - La Salette - Appeared to Melanie, predicted a frightful crisis - Penance for sins

5. February 2, 1634 - Mother of Good Succor to Marianna de Jesus Torres. Dark night for the church, triumph of the Blessed Mother

6. Sister Elena, 1961 - Need for Russia to be converted.

7. Blessed Anna Maria Taigi (1837) - Chastisement from war, revolutions & other evils from Heaven - darkness, pestilence, danger from faith.

Sister Lucia of the Fatima Apparition is the only living person who knows the third Secret of Fatima. From the approved apparitions, it is the danger of faith that is contained in the third Secret. Danger in the Church itself, grave pastoral negligence of the Upper hierarchy -

Predicting apocalyptic events in the near future.

It is therefore for us the nations to heed the call of the Blessed Mother to change our ways. At the Church of Sta. Cruz Manila, the throne of the Blessed Mother of the Pillar, the Blessed Sacrament is exposed for the hourly vigil of devotees.

Parents bring their children to pray to the Blessed Mother de Remedios at Malate for Saturday blessings.

Big religious events are carried out at the Metropolitan Church - Manila Cathedral at Intramuros. Ordination of priests, Feast of the Immaculate Conception & others.

Let us all go to the Blessed Mother to help us in the many disasteres to come. Pray the Rosary.

2008-12-18T13:06:00.002+08:00

01.13.2006 Prayers Against Blasphemy

The Golden Arrow

May the most holy, most mysterious and most unalterable name of God be praised, blessed, adored, loved and glorifies in Heaven, on Earth and in hell, by all God's creatures & by the Sacred Heart of our Lord & Savior Jesus Christ in the most Holy Sacrament of the Altar.

Sins of blasphemy - Avoid these:
1. Against the Immaculate Conception
2. Against Her Perpetual Virginity
3. Againstr Her Divine Maternity
4. Sowing indifferences & scorn in the hearts of children of the Immaculate maternity
5. Directly outrage for Her Holy images

Messages at Fatima -
1. Emphasizing the Rosary
2. Devotion tothe Immaculate Heart of Mary
3. Value of the Brown Scapular
4. Truth of Purgatory
5. Authority of the Papacy
6. Sacrament of Confession
7. The Holy Eucharist as the Body, Blood and Divinity of Jesus Christ

2008-12-18T08:47:00.003+08:00

01.12.2006

This is Sai with Lola Paz. Full of trust, joy and love. Bless her always, Lord.

What a picture of joy from an innocent child. Let us be joyful like a child.

I always have special prayers for every child who comes to me.

The child is the greatest gift to its parents. What the parents make of the child is their greatest gift to the Lord. A big challenge parents have.

2008-12-17T16:55:00.003+08:00

1.10.2006 A Marian Devotee

At the foot of the Cross, Jesus gave us His Beloved Mother. He gave His Mother to us as our Refuge in times of danger and great help. Let us then call on Her. Let us honor, praise, adore and be greatful for this great blessing.

As a devotee, thank you, Lord, for the experiences and opportunities I had to venerate Her.

As a child, I had a many occasions to pray before the Blessed Virgin of Lourdes at her shrine in Intramuros. I grew up in Sampaloc district where the Blessed Mother of Loreto is ~~adored~~ venerated. It was here where I was taught the foundation of my Catholic faith. With the help of the church catechist we had our first communion.

The Blessed Mother of Mt. Carmel is enshrined at the Basilica of Mt. Carmel along R. Hidalgo St. at the San Sebastian Church, the church built of steel. On our way to school at the Quiapo Primary School we came to greet Her everyday.

With my co-teachers during the month of May, I had the experience of attending mass and novena at Antipolo, Rizal where the Blessed Mother of Peace and Good Voyage is venerated. With our grandmother, we stayed nine days to pray to the Blessed Mother and prayed the 9-day novena (Inang Tina, Tatay's mother).

During the time, we were promoting the books we prepared at the Abiva Publishing House, my co-writers and I had the opportunity to pay homage to the Virgin of Penafrancia at Albay. During a seminar at Baguio City, the image of the Virgin of Manaoag was brought to the Basilica, then we were able to attend a mass in Her honor.

Every year in the month of October, the Virgin Mary of the Holy Rosary is honored with a 9-day novena and a pilgrimage is made on the occasion. Here, again, is a great occasion for celebrating.

The Virgin Mother of Perpetual Help, found in Baclaran, is truly a mother always near and ready to help. Wednesday is a special day for Her to me.

I had the good fortune of living in the housing project of the government Project 4. Within the project is the church dedicated to the Blessed Mother of the Miraculous Medal. Being a resident, I spent my time doing my prayer vigil, mass and novena prayers. Truly, the Blessed Mother did miraculous things for me, I got well from sicknesses I had. My prayers were answered. It was here where I retired, but still was able to re-tire myself for a new role as a senior citizen. With her help, I had a better meaning of life.

The feast of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Mother is celebrated in all churches (Dec. 8).

Our Lady of Fatima - May 13
Our Lady of Mt. Carmel - July 16
Our Lady of Guadalupe - Dec. 12
Feast Day of our Blessed Mother - May 1, Jan. 1
Solemnity of Mothers' Motherhood

Short prayers to the Blessed Mother -

" O, Mary conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee."
"Mother, we put our cause in your hand."
"Pray for us now and at the hour of our death."

Call on Mary, anytime, anywhere you are. She is always near. Do not fear, She is our Mother.

Mama Mary loves us all. All the time.

2008-12-12T10:20:00.002+08:00

12.20.2005 Concepts for Reflections

1. Heaven is not a place to look for or to find. It is a decision to make. It is here for you to make it.
2. Life is a test. Life is a trust.
3. Big things come from small beginnings.
4. The lost, the least and the last the Lord's beloved.
5. The impotency of money in the face of the will of God.
6. The good Samaritan

Pity -> Compassion -> Action -> Sacrifice -> Commitment

7. Man always wants certainty of things. Hence the cause of sins (control of things).
8. Look beyond one's behavior (reason for bad acts). Seek the innocence - focus on the beauty of life.
9. Make peace with imperfections.
10. What you practice you will become.
11. Think of problems as potential teachers.
12. Hope with humility.
13. A true Christian's way of life

Less for oneself, more for others, enough for all.

14. There never was a saint without a past; a sinner without a future. (Contrition and a sincere desire for amendment)
15. God answers all prayers in His time and is the way that is best for us.
16. It takes time for fruits to mature and ripen. (Patience)
17. Thought -> Action -> Habit -> Character -> Destiny
18. Best expression of love is time.
19. Fear of God is the beginning of wisdom.
20. A little thing is a little thing but faithfulness in a little thing is a great thing.
21. Without God, life has no purpose, without purpose life has no meaning, without meaning life has no significance.

2008-12-12T10:10:00.002+08:00

12.27.2005 Thank You for Your Love on Christmas 2005

To you, Lord

for your gift of Life at 87 & 5 months the blessing of normal mind set to
understand the physical needs of a senior citizen; adjustments to the
environment the answer to my prayer that I may learn the true meaning of
Christmas; peace in my heart

To you, Lord

for the kindness & thoughtfulness of my relative & friends

1. for the material gifts I got:
(a) fruit cake from Alvin
(b) greetings from Boboy, Obet & Patrik, Dinkie Boy, Manang
(c) pasalubong from Cebu - Dany
(d) an amount for Christmas from Abet; goodies from Jun-Jun &
Lory
(e) goodies from Liddy
(f) dusters from Jenny, Jing & Mayette
(g) phone call from Arleta, a friend
(h) card-greeting from Norming - U.S.A.
(i) Christmas delicacies from Ipang
(j) Bag- card from Jing

2. for the care of Linda & Lovely - personal needs
3. for the personal attention of Corry
4. for the company of Lily, an elderly, too
5. greeting from Lily's grandson & wife
6. visit of Jo-Jo & friend
7. shawl from K.C. & Kiko
8. a gallon of mayonnaise dressing - Janet, a friend
9. Senior Citizens' gift from the Barangay
10. one month pension bonus - G.S.I.S.
11. a small book from Ipang - 12 Little Things Every Filipino Can Do To
Help Our Country - Alexander Lacson
12. joy given by the innocent ways of children in the family

2008-12-12T10:01:00.002+08:00

12.24.2005 Bless Them, Lord Wherever They Are

They made my teaching days joyful and memorable.

One's workplace must be conducive to bring about effective and excellent results for the accomplishment of the goals of the office. We were blessed with one - The Legarda Elementary School. I remember co-workers who made it so.

1. Mrs. Soly Meneses was a Mother Teresa to all of us.
2. Mary Andres who was always ready to be my maid of honor.
3. Teresa Robles who was ready with snacks to fill up our hunger.
4. Elvira del Prado our marriage counselor, although very single.
5. Nena Pangilinan was always willing to go on a date.
6. Venusto Aquino, a lover to everyone.
7. Mr. David - Father Pio to all of us, our Assistant Principal.
8. Julia Singson - our Ate Julie
9. Amy Nakpil - Ever ready to sew a dress for any occasion, "utang muna"
10. Mrs. Felicing Garcia, another A.P., our office TV patrol; Mr. Arturo Coronel, our Big Brother.
11. Nena Penalosa and Mandang Gabriel were the bagsakan of the children who come the first time.
12. Merla Oteyza - the school nightingale
13. Naty Gonzales - Anthem conductor
14. Mr. Piano - School dance ~~cheographer~~ choreographer
15. Pacing Haber - Small but terrible- my dear komadre
16. There was always our school principal, the soft-spoken Miss Soledad Gomez who took care of our teaching excellencies as well as our spirituality. Who can forget our First Sunday mass every month at Nazareth School and our Rosary Hour at the DZRH radio station and the November 13th exodus on her birthday get together?
17. Our school helpers and others who made life one to remember always.

2008-12-12T09:48:00.003+08:00

12.22.2005 Give thanks to the Lord for the love and care of the family

Happiness is a way of life. Even at 80 and above there is joy in living. There is love and tender loving care from loved ones. If God is with us, no one can be against us.

2008-12-12T09:41:00.002+08:00

12.24-12.25.2005 Christmas 2005 at 87 (soon to be 88 years of age)

1. The coldest day recorded 23oC.
2. Burial of NBI Director - Reynaldo Wycoco
3. Heavy traffic as usual - one day before Christmas
4. Mla. Film Festival parade - 3:00 p.m.
5. Gift giving for the less fortunate going on.
6. Another death recorded - Senator Robert Barbers died of throat cancer.
7. Minimized destruction from use of fire crackers.
8. More number of fire incidents - 6
9. Rise of prices of prime commodities.
10. Tiangge sales more than mall sales.
11. Gov't. benefits still wanting - bonus and increases.
12. More fortunate people aware of the meaning of Christmas - entertainment, civil & social organizations & private citizens (individuals).
11. Politically minded people still on their antics - rallies, radio talks
12. More peaceful than other Christmas days "Praise the good Lord."

2008-12-12T09:32:00.002+08:00

12.25.2005 "Thoughts on Christmas Day"

1. The reason why we have Christmas Day is to celebrate the birth of the child Jesus; not to carry out activities for us to enjoy our material wealth. Let us instead remember the sacrifice Jesus did for our salvation. Focus on the true celebrator.

2. Let us remember the lost, the least, and the last among us on Christmas Day. This does not mean, however, that Christmas Day is celebrated only on Dec. 25. Let Christmas be every day in our hearts.

3. To whom much is given, much is expected. Christmas is loving and giving. No matter how poor one is, one has always something to give; no matter how rich one is, one has still a need. Acts of kindness with love can be carried out by everyone of us.

4. Christmas means love, peace, humility, compassion, joy, gratitude and goodness.

5. Love is the greatest.

2008-12-11T16:37:00.002+08:00

12.22.2005 Are We Ready to Answer?

After all is said and done at the end of one's life - the questions to be asked are:

Not what you have got but how much you have given;
Not what you have won, but how much you have done;
Not how much you have saved but how much you have sacrificed
Not how much you have been honored, but how much you have served.

* Heaven is not a place to look for, a place to find,
It is a decision to make.
It is here.
Seek the Kingdom of God first and Heaven will be yours,

*Love God, our Father
Love others as you love yourself.

2008-12-11T16:28:00.003+08:00

12.22.2005 The Word of the Lord in My Experiences: What has God taught me?

a. from failure - Thy will be done, Lord. Do your best and leave to God the rest. Leave the consequences to God's mercy. Look for positive results to my failure.

b. from a lack of money - Lack of money is not a reason for not reaching out to others. There will always be instruments of God to provide. Lack of money lessens one's concern for one who has more of it.

c. pain, sorrow or depression - Have faith in the Lord. Claim His promise to ease one's burden and give rest if only we come to Him. Supplications to saints and departed ones. Pray to the Holy Spirit to send you the gifts and fruits He gives. Unceasing prayers to the Lord.

d. through waiting - Patience is bitter but its fruit is sweet. Good luck comes to those who wait and pray. Fruits ripen and mature a long time. Reflect on what you are waiting for. Is it beneficial or not?

e. through illness - Have trust in the Lord. All prayers are answered. Strengthen faith. Take good care of yourself. Recall witnesses to God's help. Be prayerful.

f. from disappointments - People differ in their beliefs, attitudes and perceptions. Forget the good that you do. Never expect return of good deeds you do. Do what is right.

g. from my family, my church, my relationships and my critics - There is a great need for understanding of other people - members of groups one belongs to - family, neighborhood, community and other groups.

We can choose our friends, not our relatives. Be humble. Learn to listen. Learn how to argue and to disagree but do not be disagreeable. Watch your words. Know what flattery and praise mean. Let others be righteous. Be graceful during your bad moods.

2008-12-11T08:16:00.003+08:00

12.17.2005 Learn from Trees

There is a poem we have learned in grade school that I consider a beautiful prayer. Here it goes:

Trees

I think that I shall never see

A poem as lovely as a tree,

A tree whose hungry mouth is pressed.

Against the earth's sweet flowing breast

A tree that looks at God all day

And lifts her leafy arms to pray,

A tree that may in summer wear

A nest of robins in her hair,

Upon whose bosom snow has lain

Who intimately lives with rain

Poems are made by fools like me

But only God can make a tree.

One can derive desirable traits to show gratitude to the Lord's blessings, for the rain and the sun; think how a big tree grows from a tiny seed. How prayerful a tree is! Even the feathery snow flakes take refuge on the branches and leaves of trees.

The sight of a treeless mountain side can remind us of the sinful hands of man as the cause of floods and big destruction brought about by loggers.

I still think the writer of the poem is not a fool, for I find my sense of spirituality enhanced by the images I have in mind as I read the poem. I see humility in the last line. In grade school, we were even taught to sing the song - Trees.

If we can only pause every now and then as we go - on our way and reflect on the messages the good Lord sends us to tell us His everlasting love and care for us, then we can truly be grateful for the graces we receive and love Him more and more.

Let us give thanks to the Lord.

Look around and discover small creations of God and reflect on what good things or how these show the Lord's love for the human beings He created.

2008-12-10T08:14:00.002+08:00

12.16.2005 God is good all the time. Adore, glorify and praise Him!

Adam and Eve were created in the image of God. Without sin, in the likeness of God. Unfortunately Adam and Eve sinned. They abused their knowledge and wisdom of God, making themselves God.

We were created to be holy and blameless kaya lang [however]...

There is still hope to regain the lost Immaculate Conception. As sin begins in the mind, it is therefore necessary to have a clean mind, free from sin, a clear conscience.

Learn to say "I am sorry" "I love you"

Original sin is wiped out through the sacrament of Baptism.

All creations act according to the will of God. It is only man that is given a free will. Hence the occasion of sin. Avoid sin by having clean thoughts so our actions will be clean. Clean actions will make for clean habits that will result in clean character.

2008-12-10T08:09:00.003+08:00

12.11.2005 Implication of the Immaculate Conception on our Lives - As gleaned from the homily of Father Arnol Yap

The Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary is a source of great graces. Countless miracles and favors have never ceased since the apparition at Lourdes have come to us. Whoever desires to obtain special favors from the Blessed Mother should not hesitate to ask from her through the Immaculate Conception. In order to experience God's aid and protection, we should not only turn to the Sacred Heart of Jesus but also confidently venerate and invoke the Immaculate Heart of Mary.

Four thousand years before she appeared on earth, she was the aurora of the day of Redemption. God Himself announced to her to our fallen parents in paradise as the sinless, ever holy Mediatrix.

2008-12-10T07:33:00.005+08:00

12.10.2005 We love you, Lord.

(Kat-Kat with Lola Paz)

The peace we can have when the elders among us can find joy when at play with an innocent being as a child. There may not be an exchange of words, but more can be said through the smiles and the laughter and the body language from both.

Age does not matter in being joyful as long as there is love. Imagine yourself in the presence of a child and an adult 100 years of age. You should have the patience, and tolerance to be able to take care of the child and a lot of understanding for the desires, needs and actions of the 100 year-old adult.

Simple are the needs of an elderly; a hankie for a head band and one for a sore throat, a cozy chair to sit on, a cup of coffee or milk, a bottle of mineral water, tissue paper, fruits and biscuits. Personal needs can be seen in the photo.

The child? the soft and assuring touch of someone with an understanding heart; warm lap to lay down its body and a belief that it can partake of whatever there is to eat of the food on the elderly's table. Bless them, Lord.

Bless their caregiver, Lord.

2008-12-09T10:17:00.002+08:00

12.07.2005 "Are you a Nothing People"? Don't be one.

One who doesn't hate but cannot love, does not rock the boat but cannot use the oar to bring the boat to safety?

Do you -

(a) wait for returns when you give something to others?

You should -

(b) make service an integral part of your life - doing unnoticed signs of kindness.
(c) think life is a great deal more fun when you stop blaming others.
(d) become an early riser, think more time to life than work, children and sleep - instead try to enjoy the blessings of the sunrise, the quietness of the environment, the many wonderful things God does when we are quiet and there is peace about.
(e) let others be right most of the time.
(f) spend a moment every day thinking of someone to thank.
(g) smile at strangers, look into their eyes and say, "Hello".
(h) make peace with imperfections.

Learn to love the unlovable. It pays.

Let us always remember how much the good Lord loves us. Teach the little ones all the wonders He made for us. Let us proclaim His love always - This poem tells us why. (Adapted)

All things bright and beautiful; all creatures great and small (can you name some?)

All things wise and wonderful; the Lord God made them all (have you seen them?)

Each little flower that opens; each little bird that sings

He made their glowing colors; He made their tiny wings

The purple headed mountain; the river running by

The morning and the sunset; He made them everyone

He gave us eyes to see them and lips that we might tell

How great is our God, our Father

Who doeth all things well.

There may be lines that I cannot remember.

What other wonders God made for you and me? How do we show our gratitude for them?

2008-12-09T09:39:00.004+08:00

12.06.2005 Self Evaluation: The Gift of Life - The greatest gift of all

Nothing happens without the will of God. I ask myself why then I was born? The Lord gave me the answer - I read, I listened, I searched for the answer and the good Lord told me why. He had five reasons for doing so for me, and for all of us.

1. God wants us to be happy, and at the same time He wants to know that in creating us we can show our happiness for life. He created us for His pleasure. Let us then bless, adore, praise and love Him.

Do I show adoration, love and praise for Him?

2. Before creating man, the God, Lord of love made assurance that there will be provisions for us to live on. He created the wonderful things around us, things we need for life, to take care of, to nurture. He created us for all His creations.

3. He would like us to be prepared for a life with Him after our life on earth. To live a life like His son, Jesus. How loving our God is. He will prepare a life for us with Him in Heaven. Have I learned to know and live His words? to love others?

4. He gave me all the means I can go by - a mind to think, eyes to behold His creations, hands to work with, feet to follow His way, and a heart to feel what He feels for persons like me.

Do I use the abilities, capabilities I have for service of others? How?

5. He expects me to widen my idea of life not only by myself but with others - in small group, in a family, in a neighborhood, as a community, as a member of a nation, spreading the good news that He is the way, the truth, and the life.

Think - As you wake up each day - a new day is born, will you let it slip useless away? Carry out the purpose the good Lord has created you.

Pray, Reflect & Listen to God's reply.

---}~@~{---

The Lord gave us "talents" just as He gave talents in the parables we have learned from the Bible. What "talents" did He give me? What are yours?

I Just Taught School

I wrote no poems men's hearts to thrill,

I sang no songs to lift men's soul

To battlefields no soldiers led

In halls of state I boast no skill

I just taught school, but

In that little groups where I just taught school,

Were poets, singers, soldiers, statesmen and all,

I saw them in the smiling eyes

In faces aglow with purpose strong

In straightened bodies, tense and tall

Where I just taught school.

And they uplifted gazed intent

On cherished heights they shoon shall reach

And I inspired therefore content

I just taught school.

Do small acts of kindness with great love.

"Mine the hands that led them all

And I inspired therefore content"

I still taught school.

(Adapted)

---}~@~{---

Miracles Do Happen : Prophecies from Our Lady

Apparitions of the Blessed Mother have appeared to many people in many places. Words from the Blessed Mother were spoken to many religious and even to the simple children and lowly people in rural and distant places.

Mama Mary calls for the change of heart of all of us; contrition for the many sins being committed against God. She tells of the terrible things to happen in case we do not go back to Christ. While it is true that the big miracles were for the holy ones, there are a number of miracles for the ordinary people is only we believe in Him, listen to His voice and believe that everything depends on His will and we are truly grateful for the many blessings we receive. Let us count the little things that give joy and happiness to us - Small miracles from the Lord.

1. the miracle of life to us

2. the birth of a baby to a mother

3. the return of a loved one

4. the warm hand clasp of a friend

5. the love in the family

6. the forgiveness of our sins

7. the rising of the sun

8. the rains on a hot summer day

9. warm embrace of forgiveness

10. think of many more, etc.

2008-12-09T08:52:00.007+08:00

12.03.2005 Lord, Bless my friends!

[Lola Paz is on the first row, sitting third from the right]

My loyal, true friends at Legarda Elementary School.

Mandang Gabriel

Pilang Campos

Esang Robles

Coz Belen Capulong

Mary Andres

Coring Alfiles

Carol Malabanan

Relationships will live forever.

(+) Arlet Maghirang
(+) Prima Mendoza
Amy Nakpil
Myself
Pacing Haber
Angie de la Rosa

The heart is a love storage. The Lord is the supplier.

I shall remember them with much love - a life of joy

We cannot choose our relatives but we can, our friends. After the passing of so many years, with many experiences along the way, how wonderful it is to recall fond memories of days gone by spent with friends with whom one had shared moments at play and at work.

Birthdays, meetings, field trips, provide reasons to pose and project the joy in our hearts through the glow in our eyes, the smile on our lips that will always be there to show the love that friendship can bring. Looking at the picture, the mind rolls out scenes that will surely brings tears of love which the Lord has stored in our hearts.

God of beauty and of love, bless our friends.

Thank you for helping me be one.

Thank you for calling me a friend.

Thank you for coming to me

through the love of a friend -

the love of many friends.

2008-12-09T08:21:00.006+08:00

(Inside front cover)

Handwritten note by Lola Paz in front of the card:

Praise the Lord for my friend, Gloria Reyes

Wherever you are - Be at peace with God.

Ate Pacing

My friend, Gloria was a Supervisor in Pilipino D.C.S. Manila. We worked at the Abiva Pub. House as textbook writers after our retirement. Bless her, Lord.

Abiva Publishing House, Co-Worker

Pilipino Writer, High School Supervisor

Wealth and fame may pass away

Faithful friends abide all way.

Thru the world I'd gladly go,

If one faithful friend I know.

Journal I: My First Journal 2005

2008-12-08T09:30:00.003+08:00

Cover Passage:

Faith is belief in what you do not see and having a firm conviction in what you believe. Love God with all your heart with all your mind and with all your soul. Trust God.

----
11/29/2005
A gift from my new friends from F.E.U. (This photo album.)

Ailyne Molano
Aimee Montemayor

New found friends from the School of Nursing of F.E.U.

The good Lord in His infinite wisdom and immesurable love answers prayers.

How can one who has lost the means to reach out to others to share the good news? God will make a way --

Two fine ladies came to make the day for me and interviewed me on the conditions of life for the senior citizen: sharing of minds and exchange of views resulted with joy for us all.

2008-12-08T08:56:00.005+08:00

The first time I met Lola Paz, my then-boyfriend-now-hubby Albert and I were just about a few months into our relationship. Several months passed before I saw her again and this time, she asked me what my major was and when she learned that I'm also an Applied Physics major she had another question to ask - "Ah, scientist ka pala. Anong ginagawa nyo dun? Sa computer ba? May mga nuclear ba dun sa laboratory nyo? Mag-iingat kayo lagi ha delikado yun..." [So, you're a scientist? What do you do? Does it involve computers? Are there nuclear stuff in your laboratory? Always take care, those are dangerous...]

That's Lola Paz, her mind is still very inquisitive and eager to know new things even though she's already 88 oops, 90 yrs old. She buys a broadsheet every Sunday ("Linggo lang, mahal din magparasyon ng araw-araw") [Only on Sundays, it would be too expensive to have a daily ration] and shares it with Mama (Lory).

She also takes clippings of articles, pastes it on her journal and write her thoughts about the article. She asks for pictures of her family and writes about them (I especially love these stories). She writes about anything under the sun, her prayers, her hopes and dreams, her memories, even her resolutions - everything is a hodgepodge of thoughts - all these in a penmanship that evokes memories of my grade school teachers (Is that a requirement for grade school teachers? - their penmanship looks similar to me). Here's a sample:

----
Just some stuff about her journals and how I'll be translating it to this blog:

- Her journals have a label in front containing a passage. I'll include those as an introduction everytime I start transcribing a journal.
- Pictures, articles, cards will be scanned and posted along with her thoughts
- So far, Lola Paz has always included the date for each journal entry, I'll place those in the title of each entry.
- I'll be copying her entries, as is. That means no editing, whatsoever. If she crosses out words from her entry, I'll mark those as words with a strikethrough as well - Thank God I know how to do that with HTML hehe.
- I'll be adding translations, indicated by [ ]