Blessed by a Great God: SFC Lord's Day and Christmas Party

There's no better way of ending something so good but by celebrating it for not just one, but two days. Finally, the day we were waiting for has arrived. My three month journey is about to end, but my service is just about to stride anew.

It was Talk 12 of the Christian Life Program, the Lord's Day, the penultimate event of the CLP for the participants like me. This program started exactly three months ago. Time flies so fast. The past 90 days has been filled with fun, faith, praise, worship, prayers, greetings, learning, and so on. I am very blessed for being introduced to the SFC Napico 2 chapter. Since I joined the CLP, I have received countless blessings: in my work, family, social relationships, and many more. I am truly grateful for all of these, and I will keep on dedicating myself to service, the same way the Lord God has continued loving me despite my shortcomings.

Saturday, December 1

This day will be the last talk for the CLP Participants. We will be celebrating the day with the rest of the SFC East A Sector community. We arrived at the venue by around 5 in the afternoon, registered for the event, took our seats and watched and listened to the sector Music Min as they rehearse for the songs to be played later. Most of them were songs we have already sang within the duration of the program. Let me remember some of those here:
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I am blessed by your love
And I'll never be the same
Blessed by your love oh Lord
I am blessed by your love
And forever I'll be yours
Blessed by your love oh Lord
===
You are the lord let my heart sing praise
Oh, oh let my heart sing praise to you
Halle, Hallelujah,
Halle, Hallelujah..
===
God is enough for me
Nothing else will ever be
And I am satisfied
For I have found my peace
===
You are praiseworthy
You are praiseworthy
You are praiseworthy oh my Lord.
===
Here I am to worship
Here I am to bow down
Here I am to say that You're my God

You're altogether lovely
Altogether worthy
Altogether wonderful to me
== =
I will lift your name on high
And I'll forever worship you
And I will serve you with all of my heart
Coz you are my God
I'll forever be grateful
===
I am ablaze for You Lord
I wanna go out and spread Your love
Ablaze for You Lord
Together we're setting the world on fire
===
We sang a couple more songs but I can't exactly recall all of those. Nonetheless, those are songs that will resound in my head for a long time.

I love the atmosphere at the venue. It reminds me of my Press Con days back at Elementary and High School and the school-wide events in college. Being in the company of this community makes me feel younger. I can absorb the energy of the youth everywhere around me. I really feel blessed by that time. Each chapter was introduced in a roll call.

Moments later, the Lord's Day proper has started. Bro. John and Sis. Lea from the Couples for Christ, our presenters of Talks 5 and 6, were also the facilitators of the Lord's Day. It is my first time to witness and take part in this kind of event, though I heard about this before. The event was characterized by the blessing of the candle, wine and bread, along with the leader and the response of the community, and with the praise and worship songs in between the festivities. The experience is really great. I look forward to more of these experiences, now as a new member of the community.

Next is the Talk 12 proper. Bro. Rob Escano conducted the talk. He delivered the talk in such a lively manner, that I can't help but laugh and smile all the time, and be seriously listening and absorbing his shared stories and the talk proper itself. Transformation in the Holy Spirit/Christian Life is the theme of the talk. His first question was how many times we have felt that we're down. He followed this up with questions on standing up and what have we done to do so. I am sure that the participants will have the same reflection as I did. Two things I can remember exactly from the talk: First, we joined the CLP to transform, to change for the good. Second, a description of the way we pray- as we joined our hands in a prayer, each finger symbolizes the following : Thumb - our closest loved ones; Point - friends, community; Middle - Leaders ; Ring - weak ones; and Pinky - ourselves. This also brings us back to the Theme of Napico 2's CLP : iPlant God. The seeds have already been planted in everyone. It's just a matter of how we will accept Jesus, so that the seeds will grow into a fully-bloomed tree.

After the talk, we signified our covenant with the community. In my all effort, I will abide by this covenant and hope to serve God by staying and taking an active part in this community. We are now official members of the Singles for Christ. We were overwhelmed for being welcomed to the family in such a joyous manner. I really have found my peace here.

Next comes the Dinner, something that showed the sharing of blessings within all the chapters. Shortly after having ourselves stuffed, we prepared for the presentations. This time, I'll be Dolphy, and my co- participants will be playing the roles of people who took part in the wonderful life of the late comedian. Thank God that our presentation has been a good one.

Capping off the Lord's Day/ Talk 12 is the praise fest. We were all singing to our heart's content. It is but proper to give the Lord God all the praises and worships, for this is just one of our ways of showing Him the Love he first gave us.

It is now time for another celebration. It will be the Chapter's Christmas Party shortly. We immediately went to Alpadi Resort in Antipolo to hold our party.
===

Sunday, December 2

We went to Antipolo with Bro. Denden leading the way for the participants, and took the ride with Sis. CJ, a young professional who went out her way to celebrate our graduation. We initially planned of partying after the Lord's Day, that is, by 12 midnight onwards. But due to the fatigue and drowsiness, we cancelled and reserved it for the next day.

Our call time was 7 in the morning on Sunday. The schedule has been set for the activities all day long. I slept by around 1 am, woke up by 6 and had my morning routine. By around 8, we had a short exercise and our first activity: morning worship with Bro. Jhat and Sis. Gemma, our chapter heads, leading the way. Bro. Elmar read the daily Gospel, and we had a group sharing/reflection after. "Are you prepared to face Jesus?" "Can you see Him every day?" "In what ways can you prepare for this meeting?" We all had our share of stories, and I really enjoyed listening to the bigger group. Breakfast comes next, and we prepared for the next activity. Dressed as Gods and Goddesses, we started our second activity for the day; the awarding/ conferring of SFC Kits for us, the graduates/new members, and the awarding of the Service Team as well. Overall, it was a fun session. We had a couple of pictures, and a dozen of laughs as we enjoyed the creative awards Bro. Jhat and Sis. Gemma came up for the ST. It is worth noting that it rained while the awarding is in progress. It seems that the skies are celebrating with us . We started the CLP back in those rainy days. It is nice to end this with the downpour as well. This marks the start of something great for all of us.

We had our lunch shortly after, and proceeded with the exchange gift. To end the fun with a blast, we had the swimming "sessions". I really enjoyed the whole day with the community.

Time to look forward. Time to serve God. I will continue nurturing the seed planted within me. I know that all of us think the same. Let us grow together in Christ. And with this, May God be Praised.

===

Let me end this by thanking all the people who have been a part of this wonderful experience. The CLP is something I will always look back to. A life-turning point, indeed. I am really blessed by a Great God.

To Sis. Melai, the first person from the community whom I had a conversation with. Thank you for all the text messages, and for handing me the bookmark/invitation that started it all.

To Bro. Elmar, our Team Leader for this CLP and also one of the first from the group who welcomed me.

To Bro. Denden (Pogi :D). For the continuous support, reminders, messages, and for being such a good facilitator to me. Thanks for listening willingly to all my stories and for following up each time with your own views, advice, and throughts. I look up to you as a "Kuya".

To Bro. Jhat, our Chapter Head, who welcomed us with a short pep talk and the instructions on the weekly songs.

To Bro. Vic, our assistant facilitator, for the same messages and stories he shared to us.

To Sis. Kathy, for picking up my paper plane that could not fly, yet heard my first sharing in the community :)

To Bro. Ross, for the coin and bottle magic trick, which I can't still figure out how it happened. Also, for thanks for the warm greeting.

To Sis. Eden, for the nice chat we had about joining the community and our careers.

To Bro. Icep, for the silent but warm welcome gestures.

To Bro. Brian, for the advice on how to learn playing a guitar.

To Sis. Shai, the first sister/co-participant who I had a chat with. Thanks for the free-flowing conversation we had back then. :)

To Brothers Rix, Arjay, and Jervie (the Pogi Group). I really enjoyed the sharing we had. I learned something from all of you, aside from the Pogi Clap and the Likes. Thank you.

To Bro. Mark, for the first greetings and short stories you shared with me.

To fellow participant Brothers Bent, Crist, Aries, Tien, John and Lawrence. Thanks for the company and the short talks we had, and for looking at me as a Kuya. We have a long way to go, brothers.

To Sis. Angie, for being just bubbly and always wearing a smile in her face. Now I understand why she deserve the Crush ng Bayan award :D

To Bro. Jeff, for the instructions during our presentation practices, and for the understanding. And of course, for the gift I received in our party.

To Sisters Angela and Princess. Looking forward to more jolly chats with you two :)

To Sister Jen, for sharing her stories about career and also a good conversation.

And to all who can't be mentioned by names, for offering the friendly handshakes and smiles before/during/after our Saturday talks. I am truly grateful for accepting me as a part of the community.


Forever I'll be grateful.
For I have found my peace.
I am Truly Home.

ShinKayCoy sa E.K.

Ehemmmm. Testing.

Okay, pwede pa pala akong gumawa ng write-up sa sarili kong wika. Mahirap na , baka makalimot. Isa pa, mas madaling magpahayag kapag tagalog lang, may ibang terms kasi na mahihirapan akong itranslate sa English lalo pa at ginamit ko ito kasama ang dalawa sa pinakakwela at pinakamalapit kong mga kaibigan. 

Dahil nakarequest ang little girl na gumawa uli ako ng note sa mga escapade namin, eto na. Medyo delayed dahil yung unang meetup pa lang ang nagawan ko. Babawi ako ngayon, yung latest naman. Haha!

Welcome to Enchanted Kingdom, ShinKayCoy.

---

25 November 2012

Sa wakas! Natuloy din ang matagal nang pinaplanong makadayo sa lugar ng mga pangarap. Matapos ang ilang buwang hindi pagkikita dahil sa kabusy-han sa trabaho, nakapagtakda din ng isang petsa para dito. Nakareserve na ang budget, nacancel na ang kung anumang lakad para sa parehong araw, at nakapaghanda na din ng mga gagamitin  (meron ba?) sa pagpunta sa EK. Tayo na!

Na-late ako ng dating sa meeting place namin. Malabo na kasi ang mata ko, maling jeep ang nasakyan ko. Imbes na MRT eh Rob Galleria lang pala yun. Napilitan tuloy akong maglakad mula Galleria hanggang Starmall. Isang magandang ehersisyo ang paglalakad, looking at the brighter side :D Naghihintay na ang dalawang little girls sa big boy :p . Halos 10:00 am na ako dumating, diretso na sa van at ilang minute lang ay nakaalis na din. Sinimulan namin ang araw sa usual na kwentuhan, biruan, at stolen pics. Mahaba pa ang araw, madami-dami pa kaming mapapag-usapan.

EK. Pang apat ko nang balik dito, kasama ngayon. Last year pa pala yung huling punta ko dito, nalimutan ko na ang date. Naaalala ko pa naman yung huling punta ko dito, pati yung kasama ko. Nagsimula nang manukso yung dalawa, baka daw may namimiss ako. Magkaiba naman yung naaalala sa sa namimiss, di ba? Syempre, hindi naman madaling burahin ang mga alaala, lalo pa kung masaya. Dito nagsimula ang minsan kong kabaliwan. Nabalot ng mahika sa loob ng mahigit isang taon. Naging masaya naman ako noon, kaya normal lang na bawat makita ko sa lugar na ‘yon ay nakakapag-paalala sakin sa minsang nakasama ko. Tapos na ang kwentong ‘yon, masaya na ako ngayon (pati siya), at hindi ko ugaling dugtungan ang isang kwentong tinuldukan ko na. Sapat na ang alaala, nakatingin na lang ako sa ngayon. Mahika ng pag-ibig ang una kong naranasan dito, ngayon, mahika ng pagkakaibigan at kabaliwan naman.

Kain sa Mcdo, sakay ng tricycle, at andito na kami! Nabitin ang picture taking dahil sa sobrang init. Babalikan ka namin, Eldar the Wizard. Nagmahal na pala ang entrance kumpara last year. Antagal ko na talagang di nakapunta dito. Halos isang oras din kaming nag-ikot ikot, yung dalawa ayaw pang sumakay. Kelangan pa ata ng pampalakas ng loob, haha! Dahil sobrang init, unang stop-over namin sa Rialto na agad. Pampalamig din yun, covered nga daw sabi nila. Matapos makakuha ng ilang pictures sa may No Entry na sign at St. James Bank (na supposedly ay para sa iba pa naming kaibigan mula sa Uzzap world), diretso na kami sa pila sa Rialto. Now Showing: Polar Express. Nadampian din ng lamig ang nasusunog na naming mga balat. Yung isang bata, lumupagi na habang nakapila, nakahawak sa binti ng nanay nya (Peace Kwek ;p) . (ilagay ko na din ba dito yung pics? Haha!) Ayos naman yung mini movie, nakakaexcite na magspace shuttle dahil sa riles na nagmukhang roller coaster. Isinunod na namin ang iba pang rides.

Next: Flying Fiesta. Nagkasya na kami sa tig-iisang upuan. Ang hirap palang kumuha ng pic pag nakasakay na dito. Panay pa ang pose nina Mardz at Kwek, nakaharang naman yung mga chain ng upuan(anong tawag dun?) Medyo nahilo ako ng konte this time, nagtatry pa kasi kumuha ng pics. Konting pahinga, inalok ko sila na mag roller skater na para light lang uli. Eh mukhang natipuhan na nila yung Anchor’s Away. Eh di go (with an evil smirk ^_^). Sabi ko, maghanda na sila. At doon na nagsimula ang pagkahilo ko at pagsakit ng ulo… sa katatawa :DD Peace Mardz at Kwek! :DD Buti na lang hindi masyadong mahaba ang pila. Ilang minuto lang nakasalang na kami. Dun kami nakapwesto sa bandang gitna, sayang. Mas enjoy sana kung sa dulo. Nagsimula nang gumalaw na parang pendulum yung barko. Nagsigawan na karamihan sa mga kasabay namin, lalo na yung katabi ko (di ba Shin? :D) At dahil ilang beses na din ako nakasakay dito, parang di na ganun katindi ang tama sakin ng barkong ‘to. Siguro dahil isa na akong pirate. Haha! Ehemmm. At ‘yung isang bata, bagaman hindi sumisigaw, nangangatog na pala ang tuhod. Nakakatakot ba talaga dun Mardz? :o Para lang akong si Luffy sa One Piece na mas nageenjoy kapag nasa panganib. Mauutas ako sa kakatawa :DD Enjoy! Huminto din ang barko, mukhang back to normal naman sina Shin at Kay. Umupo muna kami sa may Bump ‘n Splash, nagparecover. Back to normal naman nga sila, medyo lumamlam nga lang ang mga kulay. Sabi ko nga maglipstick sila para hindi halata :P .

Matapos ang isang crazy ride, nagpagala-gala lang muna ulit kami. Sumubok ako dun sa shootout. Malaking ring, malapit, maliit na bola. Ang 100 ko, ½ lang nashoot ko. Good for one small prize. Hindi na talaga ako marunong magbasketball. Haha! Halos naikot na namin ang buong EK. At ayun, nakaramdam din ng gutom. Nagkasya na sa isang regular size na pizza at carbonara. Solve. Dagdag pampagana pa ang performance ng Zion Show (yung mag-asawang sirkero na nasa Hall of Fame ng Talentadong Pinoy).  Ayos. Round 2 na.  Pinagsunod-sunod namin ang roller skater, dodgem at jungle log jam. Halos isang oras na pila para sa tig-isa hanggang dalawang minuto ng kasiyahan. Sulit na din, madami naman kaming extra curriculars. Enjoy kaya panoorin yung mga sumisigaw habang nababasa sa log jam, pati yung bungguan sa dodgem, pati yung reaksyon ng mga beki sa EKstreme. Palakpakan talaga yung ibang nanood pagbaba nila mula sa tuktok. Nakipagkulitan na din dun sa nagma-mime. Ubos na hininga ko sa kakatawa.

Ambilis ng oras. Malapit na pala dumilim. Bagaman nakailang rides pa lang kami, sulit na din. Madami na din naman kaming mga pics. Madami ng itetakehome. At kapag nasa EK, hindi dapat pwedeng mamiss ang Wheel of Fate at Space Shuttle. Nakabukas na ang mga ilaw sa ferris wheel. Mas lalong gumanda ang view. Pila ulit, at nakasakay din sa Gondola # 34. Anlamig sa taas. Mahangin pa. Pictorial ulit, nililipad-lipad pa ng hangin. Hindi pa tapos ang araw. Pang-finale na ride ang Space Shuttle. Low batt na si Mardz, kaya kami na lang ni Kwek ang pumila at sumakay. After 45 minutes, nakasakay din. Nakakakaba pa din pag paangat pa lang, pero pag umaandar na, ayos na. Nakakatawa ulit! Sarap sa pakiramdam na ambilis ng galaw tas tumitiwarik, umiikot at bumabaligtad ka. Salamat sa One Piece, naeenjoy ko na talaga ang mga extreme na ride :D . Naubos na ata ang boses ni Kwek kakasigaw :D.

First time ko inabot ng ganto kagabi sa EK. Nakapamili na ng souvenir si Mardz. Halos 8:30 na at sa wakas, naabutan ko din ang fireworks dito. Huling hirit, nag-ikot ulit kami, nag DQ, and it’s time to go home.

November 25 on the books. Nasulit ko na ang isang araw kasama ang dalawa sa pinakamalapit at pinakapinagkakatiwalaan kong mga kaibigan. Madami pa kaming pagsasamahan. Sana matuloy ang Cebu at Bohol adventure. Cross Fingers :D 

Eleven

That’s the count. It was Talk 11 of CLP, The Life and Mission of Singles for Christ. I’m almost there.  Just one more step, and I can finally reach what I am aiming for since Day 1.

The day started with a (cancelled) practice session for our Lord’s Day presentation. I won’t make it to the practice tomorrow so I made sure to attend this one. Unfortunately, we weren't able to have this today. I guess I’ll have to try to make it up some other day, at least within the week.

The CLP today was held at Saint Joseph the Worker Chapel, the first time we had it there.  We had to wait a couple of minutes outside the chapel for the Homeowners were still having their meeting. A few cleaning chores within the chapel and off we go. The Music Min immediately practiced the songs for the night. Since I attended the Thursday practice, the same day they initially prepared for the eleventh, I already knew the songs. Time to sing again:

===

It’s you that I am living for

For you Lord I will worship more

I will raise my hands and worship

Worship you

===

I will follow Your way 

For Your love has taken my heart

My life, my praise is all for You

And Your heart has captured me

For I am taken by Your

Endless mercies and Your graces, my God

 ===

You are the Lord let my heart sing praise

Oh, oh let my heart sing praise to you

Halle, Hallelujah

Halle, Hallelujah

Bro. Jerico was the talk giver for the eleventh. It was also a brief talk. He started with a question on what Singles for Christ is. My first idea is a community. A better term would be “a support group” for every man and woman, to help them in preparation for either the married life or single blessedness. He also discussed about the history of SFC. Bro. Echo shared some experiences on how SFC made wonders for him. I believe every member of the community has his/her own story to share. I can’t wait to hear those, and I know I will be listening to lots of them by next week, and in the coming months, after being certified as an SFC member.

I found a community where I enjoy every single moment of my stay. I may be silent at times, I may be smiling without any reason at all, I may be talking nonstop, and I may look serious and have my game face on. All these are just manifestations on how I really loved being here. I have found my peace in the community, with the new friends, and with the Lord God in the center of our lives. I look forward to the coming days, weeks, months, and years to come as a member of this community. 

A Short yet Meaningful Session: CLP Talk 10

I came earlier than my usual arrival time at the Risen Christ Chapel for the Talk 10 of CLP. There were only a few Service Team members for the other chapter will be holding their baptism today.

Summary for the day: Short Yet Meaningful Session.

I was introduced by Bro. Den to one of the ST members who I have noticed for quite some time, Sis. Angie. She’s bubbly, energetic and has a good singing voice. I hope I can have more conversations with her as well as the rest of the ST whom I still haven’t had a chat with. This, after all, is one of my reasons for joining this: to belong to a community where I will be accepted and just be myself.

Sis. Angie led the practice along with Sis. Zel. I’m quite surprised, or better yet delighted, because one of the songs we will be practicing today is Grateful. I have just created another note earlier this day with the same title, and have posted the song in my FB account last night. What a coincidence! Anyways, this highlights my gratefulness for all the blessings I received this week. Thank you, Lord God.

Let’s continue with the musical:

I will lift your name on high

And I’ll forever worship you

And I will serve you with all of my heart

Coz you are my God

I’ll forever be grateful

===

I will shout forever

You are my Lord

All throughout eternity

You are the king

You are praiseworthy Lord

You are praiseworthy

You are praiseworthy

Oh my Lord

===

Here I am to worship

Here I am to bow down

Here I am to say that You’re my God

You’re altogether lovely

Altogether worthy

Altogether wonderful to me

===

Bro. Jerome is the talk giver for the night. Growing in the Spirit is the theme of Talk 10. First, he asked us about our experience the day after baptism. I said what I really felt: that day I was overflowing, ablaze and overjoyed. I know that I have received the gifts of the Holy Spirit, although they have yet to manifest in the most obvious manner. We had a fun discussion for Bro. Jerome facilitated like we’re in a teambuilding or Boy Scout session: a talk filled with a variety of Yes Claps. That made me feel young again (I’m still young at heart, anyway :D). Bro. further discussed the 5 tools (for Catholics) to grow in the spirit: Prayer, Study, Service, Fellowship, and Sacraments. I’ve been praying daily since my retreat. I just have to practice to be more spontaneous, which I think Bro. Den has advised me on in one of our sessions. I’ve been reading the daily Bible readings back on that same day. I think I still need to work on Service since I have some weak points for this one. Same goes with Fellowship. I need to improve big time for this since I am naturally an introvert. Bit by bit I’ve been enjoying and getting used to the fellowship within the community, as well as with my colleagues and other friends. I will be better at this in God’s time. I’ve been observing the usual sacraments during Sunday Masses and have experienced the others since childhood. There’s still a lot of work to do for me to let the see planted within me grow into a tree.

Metanoia: Accepting the changes. Not to miss this particular word since this is something that we should observe since the day that the Holy Spirit was reawakened within us on Baptism.

The fun never stops as we had a Pinoy Henyo type of game. It’s quite difficult to guess a word, well, congratulations to the other team for scoring a point.

We ended the session by 9:00pm, the earliest since we started the CLP. Most of the Service Team went to the other chapter’s session for the Baptism of the participants there. Before ending, Bro. Elmar announced that we won’t be having CLP next week. Talk 11 will be on the week after, and our Graduation/ Lord’s Day will be by December 1-2, together with the other chapters. We also need to prepare a presentation for the said day. I’ve got a full schedule ahead of me; I even have reserved those dates for our teambuilding. I pray to Lord God to help me decide how to manage my time. I will find my answer in God’s grace.

We’re almost there. Thank you, Lord God! 

Grateful

I attended CLP with the mindset of strengthening and further renewing my faith. Just like my first try, I was overwhelmed by how fast and effective prayers work, and if we chose to be by His side. A friend told me that nothing can go wrong if we are with Him. True enough, because right now, I’ve been receiving the blessings of my revived belief.

It’s been two months since CLP started. As of writing this, we only need to complete 3 more talks before we can be officially called “graduates”, thus becoming members of Singles for Christ. Three more weeks, and I will have finally accomplished something I really wanted to complete. Back on my solo retreat, I vowed to dedicate myself to serve Him in any way possible. Having experienced this before, attending the CLP was the first idea I had. Everything conspired to let me attend this program. And everything has never been the same since then.

Before CLP, I embraced silence to heal my broken heart from a failed relationship. Something so good had ended, and I can’t cope immediately back then. A beautiful music ceased from playing, and everything was just so quiet. I loved silence once more, but remnants of that music kept playing for seconds in short intervals. I can’t easily close a chapter from my life. The only way I thought of was to keep myself occupied with matters just to keep myself awake in reality. Then I found what I was looking for in silence. A voice called me, welcomed me once more despite me turning my back to Him so many times before. I was healed. I started listening to that voice, and I enjoyed it better than any music I’ve heard.

I have already received so many blessings since I started CLP. I’ve been doing well at work. My family has become united once more. What seemed to be a long shot to make this possible happened in an instant. I found ways to be open to others once again, something I restricted myself from when I was enjoying that wonderful music of a platonic love. I realized the mistakes I committed, my shortcomings to my family, friends, loved ones, and my former love. I asked for forgiveness, and I believed I was already forgiven by God’s great mercy. I enjoyed listening to a new kind of music. I enjoyed reading and writing again. I found a shining star and was inspired by its light. I found a community where I can be just myself. I was renewed. And right now, I am working on clearing any traces of my sorrow and suffering in the past, keeping their lessons but not the bitter memories. Everything happened according to God’s will. Everything I’m wishing for, I’m raising it to God’s will as well. I believe in His plans for me.

For all these, I’ll forever be grateful. I praise and I thank God for letting me experience His love.

I hope to finally complete CLP in the next two weeks. Just a little bit closer, I’ll be there in time.

To God be the Glory!

Overflowing. Ablaze. Overjoyed: CLP Day 10

I have no exact description of what I'm feeling right now. The first words I can think of are those that are in the title of this note. I am overflowing with joy. I am ablaze by His love. I can say words which I myself won't be able to comprehend. I thank Lord God for the gifts of the Holy Spirit I received today. 

It is Day 10, Talk 9 of the CLP. This marks one, if not, the penultimate events in the program û our Baptism. Today we uttered the same words our parents and godparents once said during our first Baptism. This time, it's our turn to be conscious and put those words into reality. A special day needs special preparations. Within the week, I had my one-to-one session with Bro. Den and another confession. I feel refreshed after fulfilling the prerequisites. With a happy heart, I started praying for the gifts I wanted to receive. 

I had my first CLP Baptism six years ago. I can't exactly remember the details of my previous experience, except that I started my day picking up a good friend so we can come together at the venue, listened to some instructions from the leaders, selected a gift of Holy Spirit, closed my eyes and opened my hands as a trio of Brothers prayed over me, and the day ended with a free meal. That was the last day of my first CLP. Now that I am here on the same day once more, I can't explain what I feel. I'm very thankful for this second chance. I have reached the checkpoint, and I'm looking forward to completing the remainder of the program. 

Today, I almost had the same experience, but this time, we had done a lot more. We started with the free meal (thanks to the Service Team for the food), anticipating that we will end up by midnight. We haven't practiced much of the songs. I must say one of the highlights of the day was from Bro. Marlon, our facilitator/speaker. He kept the introduction and the activity lively with his animated sharing and talk. There was never any dead-air while he's delivering the talk and giving out further instructions. Of all the lessons he shared, the one that struck me the most is the option to receive all the gifts of the Holy Spirit. We may have chosen at least three, but there's nothing wrong with receiving all of them since they are gifts from God. With these gifts (which I pray I have wholeheartedly received), I hope to use them wisely so I can also be an instrument of God in sharing his teachings and blessings to others. This, after all, is one of my main intentions for joining CLP once again. I have opened my hands, closed my eyes, felt like floating, shed tears, and felt myself burning with the Holy Spirit. I really cannot say the exact words for this experience. It was good. I can still feel it inside me. I hope this will reside in me and never leave my body, so the tongue of fire will keep burning within me. 

The entire chapel in dim light, the Music Min softly singing worship songs, prayer sessions all around, my co-participants with our eyes closed, and our dedicated prayer partners telling God our wishes: I will never forget this scene. For the most of the session I kept my head bowed down and my eyes closed with a silent prayer in my head. To bring more light in the place, and to close the baptism, we lighted our candles û a symbol of the burning Holy Spirit in us; also a symbol of the light God first showed us, and the same light we will use to guide others. 

All the lights were turned on once again, and there goes the music marathon. This has been the best day of CLP for me so far. I never get tired of singing and clapping (though I don't know most of the songs, I just enjoyed the melody and the lyrics of course) together with the community. 

The seed has been planted. A sapling has started growing. I will continue to water this until it grows into a full-bloomed tree.

Wind and Fire: CLP Talk 8

Finally, it’s Saturday once more. I have been waiting for this day to come for two reasons: First, I will have another time to rest after a busy week at work and; Second, I will be attending the Talk 8 of the CLP.

I first woke up at around 1 in the afternoon, watched a few One Piece episodes, read “It’s not that Complicated”; fell asleep by 4, woke up by the alarm at 5:30; fell asleep again; and woke up at 7:00 pm. I AM LATE! I moved as quickly as a fox and prepared for the program. Thank God I made it; I arrived at exactly the opening Praise songs. Unfortunately I wasn’t able to sing with the group for I don’t know the lyrics and rhythm of the songs, except for one. I have been waiting to sing this one as this is the song I can best remember from my first CLP.

Ablaze

I am ablaze for You Lord

I wanna go out and spread Your love

Ablaze for You Lord

Together we're setting the world on fire

 ===

Whom Shall I Fear

The Lord is my light and my salvation

Whom shall I fear?

Whom shall I fear?

The Lord is the stronghold of my life

Whom shall I fear?

Whom shall I fear?

 ===

Consuming Fire

Consuming fire fan into flame

A passion for Your Name

Spirit of God won't you fall in this place

Lord have Your way

Lord have Your way with us

 ===

Our topic for tonight is Life in the Holy Spirit. This is the second to the last topic I was able to attend from my first CLP. I can barely remember the entire details of my first try, though I can still recall something remarkable back then. Bro. Lance, a full-time SFC member, is our speaker. Life in the Holy Spirit is fun and meaningful. Among the ideas one can think of when talking about the Holy Spirit are the Three Personas in One God, and its wind and tongues of fire form. The story of the Ascension and the Pentecost has been tackled. And of course, we should never miss the Gifts of the Holy Spirit. Come next week, we will be choosing at least 3 of the 9 gifts we want to receive. I initially thought of receiving just one, but this time, they said we can select 3. I have already thought of mine and pray that I will be worthy come our Baptism. 

Now I can’t wait for the next week to come. But before that, we need to have One to One sessions again, have a confession, and come early next Saturday in semi-formal attire. It’s been six years since my first CLP Baptism. That was the last day of CLP for me back then. This time, I will make sure to finish the remainder of the program, and be a certified SFC member. There are so many things I’m looking forward to: conferences, outreach programs, teaching sessions, and so many more.

I’m so blessed for being here. I really have found my peace. 

FAther Mother ILY : CLP Talk 7

For once, we finally had clear skies on a Saturday night. I haven't brought my umbrella with me this time, and I felt good about it. My instinct was right. Rain did not fall on that Saturday night. Let's celebrate Day 8, Talk 7 of the CLP. 

This week's theme is the "Christian Family". The speaker of the night is Bro. Rhed, the man who had the greatest influence to Bro. Elmar in the community. The community is already a family. It is heartwarming to see this extended relationships go along for years. I'm hoping to stay here longer , coz this is where I found my peace.

As the routine goes, we practiced the songs for the night. The praise songs were the same ones we sang on our orientation: Truly Home and By Your Side. I enjoyed singing them this time (though a number of times I heard myself out of tune, and hid it with a smile) for I feel freer with the clapping of my hands and stomping of my feet. Our worship song is something new to me. Here goes:

How great is our God sing with me

How great is our God and all will see

How great, How great is our God....

Name above all names

You are worthy of all praise

My heart will sing

How great is our God...

Bro. Rhed started on a high note, throwing as quick questions along with little jokes. One of the questions I had the most interest with is the difference between knowledge and wisdom. Before he asked that, I have used those terms interchangeably. Now that it has opened up for explanations, I suddenly realized that there was a big difference between the two; and I was struck at bull's eye. All along, I only had knowledge, but lack wisdom. With this, I might have to rethink the gift I want to receive come baptism. 

He talked of how can one be called a Christian Family. Based from the talk, it has to be (1) a basic unit of the society; (2) a place for teaching and training; (3) a training ground for leaders; and (4) a domestic church. I tried to categorize if my family belongs to one. I admit that we lack of a lot of things, but I believe that we have even more positive hopes than those shortcomings. I will work on bringing my family a step closer to being a "Christian" one. It's a long road, but this CLP taught me the value of patience, hard-work, and most of all, faith. I believe, God always has a better plan. 

We even had a livelier group sharing. Team Pogi (I just came up with this name, thanks to our Pogi Clap)  is complete. This time, I had a better share of listening to their stories. And as always, I felt loads better as we finished the sharing. Bro. Den also gave notice on the upcoming baptism and how we should prepare for it. So I'm getting closer to the day when I stopped the first time. I pray to go further in this second serving. 

Talk 8 is just a week from now. I can't wait for that day to come. 

Inching closer and closer towards my first goal. Thank you, Lord God!

A Bright Star over the Half Moon - CLP Day 6

It was a rainy Saturday night once more, but then the skies were cleared to show a bright star (could be a planet for its brightness) over the half moon. Today is Day 6 of the CLP, and we had a double talk: Talk 5, Christian Ideal of Loving God and Talk 6, Loving your Neighbor  I came early because I have yet to have an OTO with Bro. Den. A mass was being held at the chapel when I came in; nonetheless we proceeded with the OTO. I was glad to confide myself with someone who I only met just a couple of weeks ago. I trust him, and I trust the whole community. I felt the sense of belongingness here, so I will no longer be the shy and reserved guy I always was.

One by one, the participants arrived along with the Service Team. While waiting for others, I had a chat with one of them, Sis. Eden. I hope to have more conversations like this with the others.

I also thought that we will be changing locations this time since the chapel is being prepared for the festivities tomorrow. Rosario will celebrate its Feast on Sunday, so all the chapels were being reserved as such. Thank God that Bro. Elmar was able to settle things out with the authorities, and so we continued.

Not to miss the praise and worship songs for today. This time, since we’re already on Module 2, we can now be more expressive in our songs through clapping or raising our hands.

You came from heaven to earth to show the way

From the earth to the cross my debt to pay

From the cross to the grave

From the grave to the sky

Lord I lift your name on high

===

There’s nothing more I want

There’s nothing more I need

Than to be with you

===

I give you a new commandment

Love one another

As I have loved you

You must also love one another

This is how they will know that you are My disciples

If you love one another

===

Our speakers for the day were long-time members of SFC, and are now part of Couples for Christ, Bro. John and Sis. Lea. Bro. John was the first to take the stage with his lessons on the Christian Ideal of loving God. The topic revolved on the first commandment: to Love God as he loves us. This can be done by loving him with all our heart, all our mind, all our soul, and all our strength (Mt 22:36-38; Mk 12:28-30). This is characterized by a personal commitment, a decision, a clean and holy mind, and giving our 3 Ts (Time, Talent, Treasure).  It is good to say “I love God” in our happy times, but the real challenge is saying the same words in our times of trial. This is how Sis. Melai showed the strength of her faith, despite the grief her family is in right now for losing one of their members (and also a Bro in SFC), Bro. Matthew. I can’t help but shed a tear as Sis. Melai shares how she withstood this challenge and continued loving God at that time. It brought me back to a similar situation, probably the longest and most cruel 40 minutes of my life: seeing my father on his deathbed. How I wish I was as strong as her back then. I am sending my sympathies to her family. 

Next to talk is Bro. John’s, GGG (nice term, I hope to use this also someday :) ), Sis. Lea. Jesus simplified the 10 Commandments sent through Moses into two:  first, to Love God, and second, to love our neighbors  She mentioned a lot of bible verses on love, mostly from the Gospel of John and from the Letter to the Corinthians. “God is love” is one of the widely known definitions of love. I smiled when my best-loved definition of love was also brought up, from 1 Cor 13: 1-13. This time I learned something new, to replace “Love” with “I”. With this, we will not only get a characteristic of love, but also a way on how we should act according to His will. Bro. Jhat is the sharer for this talk. I wish I can do what he had done for his family and how he dedicated himself to the community.

The usual group sharing after the talks immediately came next, and I’m really getting used to the “pogi clap” we devised. Let me be one just this time ^_^.

There ends Day 6 of CLP.

After the session, I joined the service team along with some participants to Bro. Matthew’s wake. We had a vigil ‘til 1 am. Again, I’m praying for the eternal repose of his soul, and may God have mercy on him.

Simula na naman ng Pyestahan

Nagsimula na pala ang filing ng mga Cetificates of Candidacy (COC) ng mga gustong tumakbo sa darating na halalan. Unang araw pa lang ay isinalarawan na nito ang magaganap sa mga susunod na mga buwan hanggang Mayo 2013: makulay at maingay na tila ba isang Pyesta.

Nakakatawa sapagkat may ilan sa mga tagasuporta ng mga pulitikong ito ay nagmistulan pang mga cheering squad habang nagsusumite ng kanilang mga COC ang mga idolo nila. Hindi naman ito ipinagbabawal, nakakatawa lang talaga. Hindi ko alam kung hahanga ako sa kanila dahil napakatapat nila sa kanilang mga idolo or kung anuman. Katulad lang siguro sila ng ilang mga estudyante na sinusuportahan ang mga barista sa apat na linggo ng Bar Exams. Kung masaya silang ginagawa iyon, hayaan na natin sila. Pampaingay nga eh, pampasigla ng mood daw.

At muli, napapatawa na naman ako nang ipakita ang hanay ng mga tatakbong Senador sa magkabilang panig. Nakagawa na ako ng opinyon minsan tungkol sa eleksyon, at hindi nakapagtatakang patuloy pa din ang nakagawian na ng mga masusugid nating tagapaglingkod. Ang dating magkakaaway, magkakampi na, at vice versa. May tatlo ang tila ba namamangka sa dalawang ilog sapagkat pareho silang naanyayahan ng magkabilang panig. Abangan kung ano ang patutunguhan nito sa mga susunod na kabanata.

Maraming mga pangalang ilang ulit ng lumabas sa mga balota. Hindi pa yata ako ipinapanganak, tumatakbo na sila. Bilang isang botante, muli, napapatawa at napapailing na lang ako. Nasa kamay ba nila ang pagbabagong hinahangad ko para sa bansa? Mahirap nang umasa, pero hindi ko pa din isinusuko ang laban. Kahit sa sarili ko man lang, alam kong may pag-asa pa din. Kung hindi man ngayon, maaaring bukas.

At magsisimula lang ang pagbabagong ito sa ating mga sarili. Maging matalino na sana tayo sa pagpili ng mga itatalaga natin sa pwesto. Madilim man ang paligid, umasa pa din tayong may maliwanag na bukas na naghihintay sa atin. Lugmok man, may pag-asa pa ding makabangon tayo. Maghintay lang tayo at kumilos. Ang malawakang pagbabago ay dapat simulan sa pinakamaliit na bahagi ng lipunan. Sarili, pamilya, komunidad, pataas hanggang sa unti-uting maramdaman ang kabutihang dulot ng demokrasya. May boses tayo, bagaman hindi marinig ng iba. Wag lang tayong mapagod sa pagsigaw. Tulad nga ng isang pahayag sa Bibliya, kung patuloy tayong hihingi, tayo'y bibigyan; maghahanap at tayo'y makasusumpong; at kakatok at tayo'y pagbubuksan ng pinto.

Patuloy tayong mangarap. May bukas pa ang bansang Pilipinas.

Sa ngayon, maging mapagmatyag tayo habang idinadaos ang pista ng pulitika. Isang tamang hakbang, at may maganda nang simula ang ating tatahaking daan: Ang TOTOONG tuwid na landas.

Thank you, September

The first Ber month of the year is about to end. There are a lot of things I've got to thank for this past month. 

My post count here started to increase again. It's been a while since I had this many posts in a month, perhaps when I was just starting this blog 3 years ago. I'm glad to be back to my good old self. I am so happy to be writing like this again. 

One of the reasons for this is the CLP. My retreat had really started the change I wanted to see in me. After all the trials, sorrows, endings and misfortunes, there's no better way to restart but to turn to Him. With this in mind, I went on that fateful two-day retreat - had total silence, a perfect time for self-reflection and listening to what God wants me to hear. A broken heart has been healed. I'm back to the light, and I will continue along this way as long as I can. I have found my peace with Him. 

A weekly account of the events in CLP gave me a motivation to write here. With those records, I can look back at what I have learned, and hopefully, share this with others. It was one of my missions for joining after all.

Another one: I am thankful for the heaven's brightest star. It was like I was back at school due to my daily/weekly assignment. I have never "forced" myself to write literary works (if those will really qualify as one) just to express myself. I was proud of the product of my labor. I was able to deliver my message, my only intention for taking my pen and notebook with me. I wish that my message went through. Now, I had the response which I was expecting. Though not the result I was hoping for (hoping and expecting are two different things),  I'm still proud of it anyway. It is my own work after all, though it may have had a different meaning to her. I'm glad that I prepared myself for the outcome of my literary work. Thanks to the peace I found, I can feel like I'll be strong enough to face any trial or misfortune that will come my way. 

I just tried to reach a dream. I may have failed, but I'm more than happy that I tried. I have no regrets. My intention to be heard have reached her. I will welcome the result with open arms and a peaceful heart. It is good to move forward with a bit of courage, something I have learned from my past experiences. 

I will continue my journey. I will still be amazed by the beauty of that star. I will still cherish the light she shared with me and use it as a motivation to keep on the reaching my other dreams. But this time, I will stop chasing her light. I can't thank God enough for letting me see that light of revival in the time I was in total darkness. That light made me better.

September has been a great month for me. For my writing, faith, heart, and dreams. I pray that the next months will be the same like this one, or perhaps even better. Along with the prayer, I will commit myself to choose the right path, and take a stand on everything. 

Thank you, September. 

Repentance and Faith: CLP Day 5 Talk 4

Here goes the last talk to complete Module 1. Majority of the brothers and sisters mentioned that this is one of the talks that change their outlook in life. With an overview of the theme, I guess this will also apply to me. 

The skies are quite clear by 6:00 in the evening this Saturday - an indication that there will be more participants this time. And yet, it is. I'm glad that we're almost double in numbers compared last week. 

It is unusual not seeing Bro. Elmar around as he is the Team Leader for this CLP. Apparently, he can't come this session. Bro. Ross took over his role for this day. (Speaking of Bro. Ross, he showed me a magic trick just before the talk started, something to entertain us. I guess I'm not really good at those hand tricks. I wanna thank him for reaching out to us and giving a warm welcome.) Bro. Jhat, the Chapter Head, was back as well. He's the one of those who told us how this talk has changed him. Not just the talk, but also the worship song. 

It is also the first time that I had a chat with one of the sister participants , though I haven't asked her name (I've heard it was Shy, will ask her next week). It is nice having this short conversations with the people around you, it boosts up my sense of belongingness, something good for a naturally silent and timid person like me. 

Let's proceed with the songs. I don't feel like my voice is in good condition today, but nonetheless, I will sing Him praises and worship. 

Oh God is enough for me

Nothing else will ever be

And I am satisfied 

For I have found my peace

==

I stand on higher ground

I was lost but now I'm here

With you, my refuge

My stronghold, always

With you, faithful one

Holding on

I am always with you

==

Jesus, I believe in you

And I would go 

To the ends of the earth

For you alone are the son of God

And all the world will see

That you are God

You are God

Bro. Arnold, a member of Couples for Christ and previously SFC as well was our speaker for the day. He started with a short tale on the wrongdoings he'd committed as a child and before joining SFC. Somehow, I can connect to what he is saying, for I myself have done those in the past. For all these, we need repentance: not just a simple mindset of avoiding the sins, but actually working on it. It is about taking that step. It doesn't need to be all at once. A step at a time is enough. I have just had my confession last July on my solo retreat, so I felt like I'm feeling lesser guilt for the sins I previously committed. But as Bro. Arnold said, they will come back. There will be temptations to lure as away from God, for us to commit those sins once more. I for one have seen those temptations: most I was able to withstand, but some are still coming back. This battle will continue for quite some time. But with God, I know I will always emerge victorious. Because along with repentance, we need Faith to keep us away from sins. The stronger our faith, the weaker the other forces will be.

Faith is believing without seeing.  Our eyes alone is not enough in faith. What we need is our hearts - and the conviction to follow Him. So we ask, Open the eyes of my heart, Lord.

Since the topic is about repentance and faith, the story of the Prodigal Son will never be missed. The sharers also told of stories similar to the Prodigal Son. I can relate to the story. I have just returned, and I pray that I will keep on threading this path.  I was once blinded by a relationship, that I failed to observe the other things in life, specially my faith in Him. I was glad to be back here. And of course, it is Bro. Den (Pogi ^_^)'s turn to share. The group sharing we had is also an eye opener to me. I had a flashback of my past, and smiled after thinking how those memories had molded me. 

Before the start of the new module next week, we have scheduled our One-To-Ones with our facilitators. I'll be looking forward to my OTO with Bro. Den. I hope to share some more, and learn more as well. 

I have found my peace.

Till next time!

My Poem

Unspoken words
Unwritten letters
Random lines
Misquoted passages
Broken rhymes
Miscalculated syllables
Misused styles
Unstructured verses
Thoughts and messages
Dressed as poetry

Day 4 Session 3: What it means to be a Christian

I guess every Saturday night will be a rainy one. God showers His grace, and we are blessed to receive it.

It was quite a quiet day as there were only 6 of us (participants) for this session. Could be attributed to the continuous downpour, I assume. I hope that we’ll gain numbers again by next week.

The talk started at around 8 in the evening. Again, I seem to recall the praise songs we had that night. It’s time to sing once more:

We will rise

We will run

We will exalt the name of Jesus

By His blood we overcome

We will sing

We will dance

Come on and celebrate the kingdom of our God

==

There’s nothing more I want

There’s nothing more I need

There’s nothing more I want

There’s nothing more I need

Than to be with You

==

Lord I wanna be in heaven with You

Right by your side I stay

Worshipping you all day

I will live and die for you

Anything I will do

For Heaven is here in my heart…

Bro. Sid, the former Chapter Head, conducted the talk. He started by sharing how he have been invited to do the talk on the same topic three times already, but could not make the first two. God is good, for he felt that he was really meant to share his thoughts on the theme, and has finally done it with us. His talk revolved on three parts: misconceptions, essence, and practical implications of Christianity in our lives. I for one have experienced/believed the misconceptions or incomplete notions about Christianity. It is not a mere religious, moral, social or humanitarian system. It is not even an escape to the realities of life. We tend to think about it in one or more of the following. What we fail to see is that there is a deeper meaning to being a Christian. Being a Christian means a union with God, made possible through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ (as what was mentioned in Talk 2). It is about accepting God in our lives, making Him lead it. He has a good plan for us after all (Jr: 29:11-13). God is our Father; we are all brothers and sisters. We should not worry for God will provide for us (Lk 12:22-31).

While hearing these bible verses and insights, I remembered the retreat I previously had at Tagaytay. These are the same verses I have read and pondered in those two days of solitude. I was glad to hear them again. Since then, I’ve been feeling better, for I know “heaven is here in my heart”.  And of all the things I really appreciate right now is the peace and joy in my heart despite anything that happens around me. I feel like I’m doing better at work and in my relationship with other people with this peace and joy. At times, negative thoughts are trying to creep in my mind. This same peace and joy helps me overpower those negative thoughts and see the brighter side of things. Also, this will keep my heart happy and contented although I just failed to reach something that only exists in my dreams. It is God’s will, so be it. I believe He has a better plan for me. :)

The first module is almost done. See you in Session 4. 

Day 3 Talk 2: Who is Jesus Christ?

I wasn’t able to attend this session due to a separate commitment. Nonetheless, I thank God for Bro. Den (Pogi ^_^) for granting my previous request to save me a copy of the participant’s handout. Now I can share something regarding the topic. I hope that after the makeup session two weeks from now, I can make some changes here and add a few more insights. Also, I want to add the “musical” side of the day, as it was one of the things I’m looking forward to every session. After all, it is my chance to sing my heart out and loud (though out of tune) with praises and worship to Him.

Way back to the Old Testament, the coming of Jesus has been announced a couple of times. And with his birth, He made such an impact in history that it also made way for the division of those times to BC and AD. He came into the world not to live, but to die for us and to save us. They say that Christianity started on that fateful day.

Through the daily readings, Jesus was described in many ways: First, Jesus as the bread of life (Jn 6:32-40); Second, Jesus as the good shepherd (Jn 10:7-15); third, Jesus as the Way, the Truth, and the Life; fourth, Jesus working as the Son of God (Jn 5 : 18-24); and so on and so forth. Jesus claimed to be a God, something no other religious leader was able to do so. He has done the work of God through the miracles of healing the sick and raising the dead.

Again, I hope to share more regarding the topic by the time I attended the makeup session for this talk. I will go back here, and look forward to a better story. 

Long Time No See

"Long time no see!"

--- The very first line I can remember when I think of the first days we met back in our elementary days. I can only say the same line right now, 'coz it's been so long since I last saw you.

Six years ago --  those were the days I considered the "golden age of my cellphone". That was when I found your account in Friendster, we became textmates, you've mistaken me for a namesake, but still, we ended up being good , if not, close friends. Going back to those days makes me realize that it was the year when I started to experience the best of my times. My life has been filled with thrill, music, excitement, friendship, love, heartaches, hello's and goodbye's since then. It all began when I met you, the bestfriend who changed half of my life back then.

I will never forget the days when I got so hooked on my radio, waiting for the "song without title", while you're listening there . I miss singing thru text messages, exchanging lines to somehow render a duet of "Alipin".  I miss the words of wisdom, the memorable quotes, our "hopeless romantic" love stories back then, texting from day to night, sharing stories of what happened the entire day. I miss everything. Even when you lost your phone, we continued the exchange of messages thru FS. I miss giving you updates on Bituing Walang Ningning, Dorina and Lavina. I miss giving you a report on my school performance, schedule and subjects for the next semester, and my hopeless stories of the girl I wanted to take care of. I miss your advice on school, family, and even on lovelife (though there really is none back then, ^_^). I considered you a sister, a mother, my best friend, and of course, my Kambal. My life turned from nothing to something. That is how much your friendship meant to me.

Times change. And so do people. I can still remember at one point, we made a promise that no matter what happens, that we may fail to keep in touch with one another, yet, we will remain as good friends. We've been busy with our lives, our studies, families, friends and career. So it happened. We've been parted in silence, just like most childhood friends. During those days, I enjoyed the company of another circle of friends, but most of the time, I was alone. I can only read your 1-3 year old messages to save a smile in my face. I was so attached to our friendship back then, that I can only write a couple of notes carrying my sentiments to the most missed bestfriend. I was weak, you are strong. Moving forward has been difficult for me. Just then, I must apologize if some of those notes made you cry. It was never my intention to bring you into tears. I'm just a selfish guy who wants to be with his bestfriend back then. I'm sorry.

Then we found a way to communicate once more. Though not the same as it used to be, I'm just glad to learn more about you again, the bestfriend who had the most influence over me during my transition from school life to the corporate world. I've accepted that things change. It's human nature. We've grown apart. We had our share of great experiences while we're away. I was hoping to share a new set of stories with you again. I became a better storyteller because of you. I became a good listener as well, as you said, an "absorber". This time, we're older, wiser. Though things have changed, and we may not be like how we once were, I'm still looking forward to the day I can tell you those stories again. I'm hoping to receive and share the old text messages/quotes I memorized before. And finally, I'm hoping to call you "kambal" again, even for just one last time.

I haven't really given you a birthday present ever since I met you again. I owe you six years worth of gifts. I hope this works as one. I'll compensate for the remaining somehow :D

Happy Birthday, my good old bestfriend!

Thank you for the life-changing lessons you taught me. And of course, for the great friendship you offered. I'll treasure them here ----> <3 .="." br="br">
And of course...

Long time no see!

To my dream star

i

Dashing ahead
She passed by my seat
A split second eye contact
A familiar face I thought it was


ii

Standing beside her in a crowd
Inches separating us
I glanced at her and leapt for joy
The familiar face now has a name


iii

Her name appeared again
First conversation
A training session
And a silent film


iv

First question
First response
First pages of the book opened
First thread of knowledge shared


v

The star grew wiser
Another year on the record
A stranger can only offer
A short greeting and a note


vi

A few more questions
A couple of even better answers
The learning gets deeper
The respect and admiration grew stronger


vii

The unlucky day's the exact opposite
I never learned more enough
I never smiled longer enough
The first smile of the star - Priceless


viii

The teacher became a master
Conversations with a bit of laughter
A few words of encouragement
Made the disciple a whole lot better


ix

A self-professed fan
To a noteworthy star
Admiring from afar
Silently wishing for an unexpected plan


x

Try-to-stay-awake-Mondays
Even a star gets sleepy these days
What will keep her up?
A cup of coffee and a pudding cup?


xi

A tough problem
A new lesson
I took it as a challenge
From the star of the endless horizon


xii

A goal declared
Try and be like her
With her unsolicited advice
On patience and willingness


xiii

A present for her
A sign of gratitude
The first time I heard her voice
The first real conversation


xiv

Taking accountability a notch higher
Holding myself back from asking
Another words of encouragement
So my direction indeed is right


xv

Another broken note
Along the strong wind
And a heavy downpour
Wishing the star a safe trip back home


xvi

A surprise greeting from the star
Along with a question
My turn to give back something
Turned out to be another failure


xvii

"Curiosity kills the cat
But you're not a cat so..."
Can I be curious not about the subject matter
But of the subject master?


xviii

Accepted defeat before the battle started
Revived hope as the star initiated
My pen and notebook became lively again
A hopeless romantic in action once more

God's Love: CLP Day 2 Talk 1

"For God so love the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life."

John 3: 16 . One of the most popular descriptions of how God loves us.

Again, it is a rainy Saturday night. We're off to the first talk of the program. Everything went well, as always.

The talk started at around 8. We have to wait for the other participants to come in before session went on. New faces, new people, new conversation. These greeted me on the second day. I was looking forward to the main theme/talk since it's been a while since I had one like this. Off we go.

To heat things up, the usual two-praise songs and a worship song put everyone on fire (especially me). I recognize some of the songs from my first CLP experience, so I can't help but smile all the way until the last line of the songs 'coz the nostalgia is just overflowing in me. Another LSS, it seems. Here goes:

And you lived
You died
You rose again on high
You opened the way
For the world to live again
Hallelujah
For all you've done

Another one! Here's the song that brought memories back to me.

And I will climb this mountain
And I'll step off the shore
And I have chosen to follow
To be by Your side forevermore

Our worship song:

You are God of this world I am living
You are God of these dreams I've been longing
You are God of this life that I've been striving for
You're larger than life


"We feel Love when there is acceptance, belongingness, companionship, encouragement, and so on."
"When we are alone, grieving, lost a loved one, abused and hurt, we tend to doubt ourselves and the love of God."

I admit that at a certain point in my life, I have experienced both. But after I have seen that light once more, I will no longer doubt the absence of love. I may be alone sometimes, I may lost another love one, I may be rejected and be hurt once again, but this time, I won't question the existence of God and the love He has given us. His Love gives me the will to accept anything. I'm holding on to this Love, and make this my guiding light.

Bro. Rodel from SFC Taguig Chapter conducted the talk. His presentation contained the definitions of love, a flashback of the stories from the Bible (Creation, Original Sin, Cain and Abel, Noah's Ark, The Promise to Abraham, Tower of Babel, destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah, etc), and some video clips. The first one was from the movie "Most". It was the second time I have seen the clip "Bridgemaster" , which shows the same sacrifice God has done to save the world he loves the most. Another clip reenacting Einstein's discussion with his professor on the Presence of God, on how the some things (cold, darkness, evil) we're not really present as they were only there due to the absence of their counterparts. As parting theme, there's another presentation on "God's Love Letter to You", a well-crafted "letter" from several bible verses (fathersloveletter.com).  I remember hearing this once in my Faith and Revelation class 8 years ago. Good thing I got to learn of this again. And of course, one of the "twists" I really liked from the presentation was the "theme song" on God's Love. "Wag ka Nang Umiyak", by Sugarfree, my favorite band. Let me sing again.

Kung wala ka nang maintindihan
Kung wala ka nang malapitan
Kapit ka sa amin
Kumapit ka sa amin
Hindi kita bibitawan

I never thought of singing this song as a manifestation of God's love. Now that I've "heard" of it, I'll be playing this song over and over again.

And since this is the start of the Talks, we also had our group sharing. I was group with fellow brothers Cyril, Rix, and Bent. Bro. Den and Vic were our facilitators. It was a fun sharing that we had. Bro. Den epitomized the "age doesn't matter" factor and kept the discussion lively (I guess I have to do the same, being one of the older participants). I also can't help but smile as I hear the young ones say that they believe that joining the CLP will change their life and make it better. In that group sharing, I was able to speak myself out, freely and spontaneously. I hope to be better at this, in sharing my experiences, and how God has been a great part of it.

Not to miss is the sharing of two SFC members. Sis. Melai and Bro. Elmar, two of the first from the group who entertained me. Sis. Melai had such an upbeat tone, and story of course. She said that nobody from her class and circle of friends thought that she really joined SFC. But look how she's doing now. Inspiring stories indeed. I'm looking forward to hear more stories, the same way I wanted to share mine.

Til my next tale. See you in Day 3.

One Piece Music - A Compilation of Quotable Lyrics

One Piece is not just an "EPIC" Manga and Anime; it also features a great genre of music and of course, meaningful lyrics (a common characteristic of Japanese anime theme songs). There are just too many of these lines on dreams, inspiration, friendship, love, journeys, etc. I was so caught up with these words/lines that I unconsciously used them in most of my writings.

Instead of simply making those as FB Status updates, let me share some of the best ones I consider.

Here goes:



===

Gathering up all of our dreams
Going to search for our desires -- One Piece


(We Are!)


===
It is our promise to keep going ahead.
From that day when our dream began,
we have always aimed for the same future.
We can't just stay still! We can't let ourselves stop!
The sun in our heart will never set.
One, two, three (sunshine), four... We go!


We...have come this far.
We are heading...for where our dream is.
We will not leave anyone behind!


(We Go!)


===


The sky, the sea, and everything, Ah, it sparkles beautifully
Because I love you
Always, always beside, Ah, the one I love
Forever, mm, and ever


(Watashi Ga Iru Yo / I'm Here with You)

===

I sensed it when I saw you for the first time
you and I will be comrades


I want my first dream to come true
I'm totally confident that I can'd do it alone


(Wanted)


===


Taking the helm, I spread out the map of miracles I had shut in my heart
And thought, "What course can I set that will lead to a more amazing tomorrow?


There were times I lost my way, aiming for the sky and searching for a dream
But it wasn't a dream: I found my amazing self when I met you


With a small bit of courage, we attained big things
Right now, change your "wish" into a "vow"


Shining ray! Find your brand new way
A never ending journey to be together
I'll chase it anywhere, Shining Ray


Etching the memories of my journey in my heart, I came this far
But even now, I can't find that answer


I don't mind taking detours, I just want to learn what it means to live
As long as this light is shining on my heart


(Shining Ray)

===

Until we reach the huge sky above I'm gonna try and try again
Let's go and make it right now I believe towards the one tomorrow
You're there waiting for me at the other side of an unseen wall
I'll come to you soon as possible I believe towards the one tomorrow


(Share the World)
===

I wanted to catch the running feeling
I even outrun my own self
just wanting to embrace the overflowed dream
if we're together, I can continue to run


I continue to believe that this feeling will reach you someday


(Run, Run, Run)
===
Ready to, steady go the overwhelming
feeling becomes one and
at that moment it dripped
please grant my wish
lovin' you, lovin' me the light hidden
within my heart is true
the eternal shooting star that
shines forever and ever


(Ready)


===
Every time I look at the sky after the rain
I think of the past when I was only a crybaby
I was frantically going after
someone's back
And saying "I wanna become stronger"


Now there's the "Thank you" the wind faded
Can I really become stronger?
I wonder because it seems there's no answer yet
As I thought,
I have to go even farther


Come on, let's go
Never having a break
Trying not to lose to the time that passes by
I'll face it up all the times that it'll need
Because I don't wanna lose anything important


(One Day)

=== if the world ever changes
take me to myself that never knew a thing
making sure that memories won't fade away


making sure that loneliness can't catch up


(Memories)

===
So bright, when I look up at the blue sky
I don't even worry about the direction of the wind, I don't turn around
As I search for the puzzle of my dreams
Between the endless sky and sea, I'm being guided


Searching for the words that were carved and then neglected, longing for an imitation
Even as I fought with you, saying "I won't back down", I noticed your kindness


I'll stop pretending to be strong now and tell you; let's be united in our strength now

(Mabushikute/ So Bright)

===
Though it’s a voyage full of injury, something precious is there.
Even when we’re in trouble, no matter what, because I will protect you.


If we do it together, we can succeed!Combining our Hearts.
The song of the migrating birds. Turns to courage.


Even though we don’t have wings, we are flying at ease in freedom.
The sky is capricious, so let’s be allies.


It’s alright! Yes, let’s move forward to those rainlike tears
When we return to the blue ocean, passion shines brightly.
As heated thoughts gather, they call the endless winds.
Always together under the same star, because we have an unbreakable bond.
Let’s share these miracles.


(Kokoro no Chizu/ Map of the Heart)

===
Feel the wind, just feel the wind
Let's go looking for the wind that will dry our tears away
The journey of adventures is for meeting someone special
I won't stop here
Look, just ahead there's you, my dear,who's waiting for me.


The time I couldn't help being sad
You were the one who cried with me
The time I cannot help being happy
There is always a smiling friend
The 6 billion ONE PIECE
We met like a miracle
At the same time watching the same scenery
It comes blowing into our dreams (Yeah)


The time people shed their tears they become stronger
The time we shed our tears our memories
Rapidly keep growing (yeah)


(Kaze o Sagashite/ Search the Wind)
===

Maybe to wake up the lingering heart?
Or is the lingering heart itself the dream?
Sometimes the truth is calm
but no one knows it yet...


(Katayoku no Taka / One - Winged Hawk)

===
I've just now begun to search, over the splashing waves,
For the everlasting world
With this overflowing passion in my chest, I will go anywhere,
Seeking the light yet unseen

A current of repetitious days and mundane clouds
I see reflected in you a future you can't possibly know
Even if I avoid pain by not changing
That leaves me without dreams or even hope -- so let's go!


(Hikari e / To the Light)
===
always wanted to tell you, but couldn't even tell half
I was able to meet those gaze that surrounds me everytime we met
I'll be near, the dreams shine everytime we tell it
that soft smile of yours made me happy, it was kind


even the flowing clouds and the swaying wind
changes into courage because of you
without letting go of these warmth in my hands


glory glory you're my shine no matter when
I can still see dreams because of you
I want to be strong, understand each other, probably to arrive someday


(Glory -kimi ga iru kara / Glory - Because you're Here)


===
even if the dream happens to be impossible
believe in the small hope
there are days I feel like losing to myself
but there was a warm place for me
the thing I was proud of, it probably pushed my back


under this sky where stars rain upon
I etch out this moment that'll never come again in my heart
I'll deliver this endless dream on
a free bird that can fly to anywhere


moving on without fearing being hurt
you were always shining like that
if you were to get lost someday, I want to encourage you


on such days that the stars whisper
I feel this time as it turns into memories
I'll someday grasp that future I saw in
the freely continuing endless sky


(Free Will)

==== So let's start
A new world is calling
Hey, look there
No matter how many seas will separate us
I'll always be there for you
Without any fear, heading straight
Don't ever forget
We fight together


I do believe it
One day we'll go find together
The future that connect us as one
There's no one who can substitute you
Don't ever forget
We fight together


(Fight Together)

===
Start running, start running, with the flag waving up high in the sky
Let's cross this endless sea and search
for the miracle of a world no one has discovered yet
Just as we imagined, only our pounding hearts are plunging forward
Following the footsteps left by the people that follow their dreams


Whatever night of storm may come, if we make our hearts as one
We'll get across it, always


(Brand New World)

===
Back when we set sail, everyone has drawn his own goal, the horizon he had imagined.
But now we can all see through the same telescope.


Fate is a ruthless compass forcing your heart into frenzy.
I'll make sure I take it from your hands.


Bon Voyage! Leave behind the remains of our past;
I'm sure we can still laugh no matter what comes.
If it were to make our dreams come true,
I'll never regret those priceless tears I shed.


Bon Voyage! The bottled letter riding on the roaring waves,
That's our promise that will never fade.
Let's go! We can do it with that courage in our very souls.
This exact moment is just so precious to me.


I can see our ship heading to a bright tomorrow.

(Bon Voyage)
===
I'll keep believing in the future, not caring if anyone laughs at me
The passion running within you makes you shine
It's too dazzling, but I want to keep watching you
Somehow, sensing those aesthetics makes me really really stuck on you


Chasing, chasing after the one in my dreams
That is like no one else
With a feeling that burns like it's kindling the dawn
I don't know yet what the consequences will be
Instead of these boring times, it's gotta be dramatic
Until we achieve that, believe in wonderland!


Holding on, we keep holding on
To a dream that no one else can see
Because I'm with you, we have such hot feelings
We don't really need consistency
Instead of a mundane routine,
Run towards paradise and believe in wonderland!


(Believe)
===
We couldn't wait for the light to change, so we drove on through
The more painful the memory, the better it is to forget it
I want you to always watch as I advance without hesitating


I felt your kindness, even if you didn't put it into words
You stayed with me, without any questions
Before dawn


(Before Dawn)
===

I know I'm a fool, but there are things that I just gotta do!
trying to reach an impossible dream is a good ambition, afterall

(Shōchi no suke / That's a Fact)
===

The more I tried to stop carrying it, the more I embraced the starry sky
Trying to release and leave it behind
Like the adventures I dreamed of when I was a child
I’ll continue extending the limits of these feelings

(Fish)
===

The future will begin to change color
With strong faith
No matter how many detours you take
I know someday you'll get there


We talked til dawn on the phone
Forgetting the passage of time
You always gave me courage
With your casual words


So we don't regret the present, which will never come again
Let's not look back at the hurt in our past...


I won't give up our distant love
I won't let it end as a dream


The eternal light everyone searches for
Is surely in your hands


(Faith)
===
A future lies before us waiting to begin
Let's take to the wind!
and search the world for answers
to all the questions in our minds


Exploring day and night we'll...
...live out our dreams in paradise!


(Dreamship)
===
A small memory, I quietly open my notebook
This notebook detailing long-past actions
It's a precious treasure even now
Stuck in the very back of my drawer
The content of the dreams that come in my sleep
Changes form little by little and without realizing it, I've grown up


How to make my dream come true
There's no way to know, so I'm blue
The hard times come, making me cry, but my dreaming heart still remains


Fragments of a dream, scattered like stardust
They've disappeared now, but the light
Is still a precious treasure forever, somewhere deep within our hearts


A childhood dream, following the unforgettable thread of a memory
So that the embers that still burn my heart won't go out
With my friends, I entrust our hopes to this familiar, clear sky
Across the changing times to eternity, eternity...


Can I say it's fate?
We all met because we had the same thing
We talked through the night, laughed and played
That night we found the first star
I wrote those memories in a new notebook
The method and direction to get to the next page
Now we're putting up the sail and finally racing off together
Down the course we've set, go!
Spending many seasons together


(Eternal Pose)

===
I'm a dreamer,
But that's just how I am.
It's alright if you don't
Want to be broken like a jigsaw puzzle


When the wind blows toward tomorrow,
Even if the puzzle is broken,

No one will blame us.


That day, we believed
That our dreams weren't so wrong.
We just traveled across
The rough seas.


I always knew about
The pain you carried in your heart...


Even if you leave this ship,
And end up in another world,
I'm sure we'll all be able to smile in the end.


Even now,
We'll keep on dreaming.
Keep riding along with those
Dearest dreams...


We'll fight over the rough seas,
Even through our pain,
So that our promises won't become lies.


I will send that completed puzzle...


(Dear Friends)
===

In a distant, faraway corner of the universe
The two of us met by chance
I want to call it a miracle, this feeling,
And I want you alone to know


But I'm no good at saying what I really want to say
Wandering, searching...that's how I've lived
Now, I think I've found my one and only light
But if I chase after it, it only flees away... the future is so uncertain

v While stopping along the way over and over again,
We've shared smiles and tears alike
You and I have made this journey
And that's the only truth of which I am certain

When rain falls, I'll be the umbrella that covers you
When the wind blows, I'll be the wall that shields you
But no matter how deep the darkness of night may be,
Tomorrow will always come


(Asu wa Kuru Kara/ Because Tomorrow Comes)

===

We're not acquaintances.
We're not friends...
We are family! (Never be alone!)
We're not relatives... We're not even siblings!
We are family!


(Family)
===

Farewell to the harbor, To my old hometown
Lets all sing out with a Don! As the ship sets sail
Waves of gold and silver dissolve to salty spray
As we all set sail to the ends of the sea


Going to deliver Binks' Sake!
Today, and tomorrow, our dreams through the night!
Waving our goodbyes, we'll never meet again!
But don't look so down, For at night the moon will rise!


(Bink's Sake)
===

since I have a dream, I can become stronger
If I say I can, then I can do it
"I'm going to become the Pirate King!"


(Jungle Fever)

===

Tears of farewell, the happiness of meeting,
Like a baton, it'll unite us from now on,
The journey continues with new nakama

(A Thousand Dreamers)

===
Even a thick fog that seems to continue forever
Disappears in an instant and we see the blue sky


Today is the day　Depart and set sail to dreams
Let's go kick around in the world we long for


(New World)
===

There's still a lot more. It may take me 10 pages if I were to include everything that I love. Yes, I am a One Piece addict, and I'm proud of it :)



Set Sail!!!