I Am Mrs. Tee

Modern Communication

2011-12-03T10:55:00.001+08:00

Today we have more ways of communicating with one another. In addition to the traditional face-to-face communication, telephones, written letters, notes, and memos, we have computer emails, cell phones, and many more. But just because we have all these great ways to stay in touch with one another doesn’t mean freelance writing jobs would not be practiced.

Freelance writing jobs give way to many people who have talents for writing but could not penetrate the industry because of the absence of proper connections. Thanks to the new trend. Penetrating the industry is not anymore a problem to freelance writers. Today, writers already found ways to get paid for their talents after being provided with writing jobs. They are professional or freelance writers, retirees and students who consider writing as their passion.

Writing is a versatile profession. Most students and retirees earn great money doing what they enjoy. Having freelance writing jobs students can decide whether to work at home or in office while retirees work in the comfort of their homes. They both earn competitive salaries because of their writing skills and abilities, and join a team of professionals whose interests are common to theirs. What is important is they still learn many things about writing, yet they already enjoy the salary they receive.

Producing quality documents is the key to becoming a freelance writer. Many companies offer freelance writing jobs to writers who enjoy doing their jobs. Working with others especially in teams gives way to an easier prospect. Team members constantly seek new and better ways of writing abilities and responding to customer needs and desires. Most people today cannot afford to sit back and wait for good Samaritans to come to them with writing jobs to offer.
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Freelance writing jobs gave a positive and lasting impact not just to my career but also to my friends who became freelance writers like me.

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Importance of Proofreading

2011-12-03T10:45:00.003+08:00

As a retired college professor, I'd like to share my thoughts about the importance of proofreading. I know I am not in a classroom to impart any knowledge that I feel worth sharing but dreaming is not forbidden. So, here are my thoughts.

Proofreading is detecting and correcting errors on text by comparing the master copy with the text on the computer monitor or with the printed text. It is a requirement for writers to include proofreading job as part of their writing skills. Though it is twice as hard to detect mistakes in your own work than when proofreading somebody else’s work, a proofreading skill would make the whole task easier and faster.

A proof reader is expected to detect mistakes easier and faster and be consistently accurate because the proofreading job is considered to be the last stage in any article production before publication. A proof reader cannot take things for granted. His job is the spark that keeps publishing houses moving upward and onward.

Proofreading skills contribute to one’s career as it moves upward and onward. Most proofreading jobs are created to help with some pressing need of the organization: better or faster services, lower costs, and fewer problems. A secretarial job, for example, involves a lot of proofreading. Any document which is submitted for signature of the employer requires careful proofreading or review. That means the article is free from spelling errors as well as typographical mistakes.

A document or article may appeal to the readers if it is free of typographical errors or mistakes. The author may not be a professional writer but if the document was prepared carefully and without unconscious mistakes, doing business would emerge. With the advent of computers, cellular phones, fax machines and other technological advances in the workplace, there is no reason why proofreading jobs could not be performed for each document.

Taking time to assess what qualities and abilities one could offer as an employee is a starting point for improving his worth to himself and his employer. Since most employees’ job involves paper works, and most development occurs within their current job responsibilities, mastering a new work procedure, such as a proofreading job, could be initiated and executed willingly. It takes no effort to get somewhere in life or in business.

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A New Discovery

2011-11-28T17:24:00.003+08:00

I received a gift - a beauty soap. It was a "Dove" beauty cream bar in a new package. I used to buy the white box of Dove but this one is a blue box. However, the scent was good and I opened it to wash my face during bath. But I ran out of shampoo and use my Dove beauty cream bar to wash also my hair. To my surprise, it worked for me like a shampoo. My hair became soft and bouncy. Even without a conditioner, Dove beauty cream bar works the same. From then on I used Dove for my body and hair.

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Living, Loving and Learning

2011-11-15T15:03:00.002+08:00

I love to read Dr. Leo F. Buscaglia's collection of amusing lectures. For him, the study of love, brought him to the study of life. To live in love is to live in life, and to live in life is to live in love. In performing this, he wrote a list of words that guide us to what is essential.

1. Right knowledge - to supply you with the tools necessary for your voyage.

2. Wisdom - to assure you that you are using the accumulated knowledge of the past in a manner that will best serve the discovery of your presence, your "now".

3. Compassion - to help you accept others whose ways may be different from yours, with gentleness and understanding, as you move with them or through them or around them on your own way.

4. Harmony - to be able to accept the natural flow of life.

5. Creativity - to help you realize and recognize new alternatives and unchartered paths along the way.

6. Love - to be your continual guide towards the highest level of consciousness of which man is capable.

Let us accept, life is God's gift to us. The way we live our life is our gift to God. So let is make it a fantastic one.

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How to Start Writing

2011-11-15T13:54:00.004+08:00

I am not a writer. I finished Business Education in one of the universities in Manila, took up the Masters Degree and later started the Doctoral, but writing like a journalist was never achieved. I love writing and that is my only strength to hold on to what I want. I use to call all my angels and saints to help me finish my piece. That's how I work.

I have a few minutes of focused quieting at the beginning. I call it entrance meditation. The purpose is to quiet down my head chatter or rants and give way to the internal pump. To start my session depends on my internal preference for assimilating information. If I cannot recognize any topic, or do not know my own preference, I close my eyes and focus my attention on the memory of a pleasant event. I recall this event and open my eyes.

If I saw the faces of my loved one or anything visual related to that pleasant event, I process information through my visual sense. If I heard their voices, I am likely to prefer an auditory way of assimilating information. If I felt their presence, then I might be a kinesthetic person.

I use this exercise to help me determine the type of meditation that will best fit my purpose. You can use it, too. However, your entrance meditation will change according to your mood. Whatever else you do, and if you don't do anything else, breathe. Deep breathing changes your whole metabolism and is the most relaxing thing you can do for yourself. Five good, deep, slow inhales and exhales will do wonders for your concentration and focus. If you don't believe it, try it!

There are a number of online writing jobs today which we can do to exercise our writing skills while earning some extra dollars. Let's have fun and involvement in fighting poverty.

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2011-11-15T13:54:00.000+08:00

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Lindsay Lohan

2011-11-15T13:43:00.002+08:00

While it is worrying that an intoxicated or addicted person will be put in jail first rather than a rehabilitation center, California’s laws and penalties regarding driving under the influence of alcohols and/or drugs may be reasonable.

Last November 2, Lindsay Lohan, the famous pop singer and actress, was sentenced to 30 days in jail and 400 hours of community service. But on November 7, Lohan had only spent less than five hours in a detention facility in Lynwood due to overcrowding. The incident was Lohan’s 5th jail sentence, which some of them were related to alcohol and drugs. Luckily for her, the overcrowded jail has been a blessing in disguise because this meant a lighter penalty for her unlawful acts. Lindsay is a poor mentally ill woman amidst all the real evil in the world.

Lohan is a non-violent criminal offender with serious mental issues that are driving her to commit a slow suicide. She has never actually hurt anyone as far as I know and read from articles about her. I really doubt if she enjoys being out of control and hopelessly addicted to drugs. So why do I read people hurling insults whenever her name is mentioned? She's a sick person who keeps hurting herself and can't stop. I can understand being irritated with all the media coverage, but certainly that should not create the sheer hatred I see directed towards her.

Looking back at Lohan’s first case last 2007, she was arrested by the police for driving under the influence of alcohol. She was jailed for a while then she took rehabilitation. These processes were legal as long there are bases.

The actress’ next court appearance will take place on December 14, by which time she will need to have met the first obligation in that series of deadlines: completion of four, 45-minute therapy sessions and 12 days of community service. If Lohan meets each series of monthly deadlines, on March 29 her probation and remaining jail time will be permanently stayed and she will be a free woman. The judge also noted that she is welcome to complete her service and therapy requirements early.

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2011-11-15T13:42:00.000+08:00

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Love's Executioner

2011-11-13T00:15:00.003+08:00

The author of the book presents an excellent account of how psychotherapy might unfold for both patient and clinician. I am not a therapist myself but it was refreshing to read an honest representation of what actually occurs in therapy rather than a self-serving and white-washed version of what happened. Yalom presents the cases into prose which leads the readers into the depths of human condition for utmost suspense and momentum.

Utmost suspense and momentum was demonstrated in one of the cases which I repeatedly read and reviewed, Love’s Executioner, the first chapter in the book. The chapter deals with a woman, Thelma, who was intensely in love with her former therapist named Mathew. Thelma was so deeply in love that her life was ruined. She not only failed to live responsibly, but also she failed to live at all.

Thelma, a 70-year old infatuated, lovesick woman, turned to psychotherapy to deal with existence pain that almost drove her to kill herself. Twenty years back, Thelma was treated for chronic depression by series of trainees at a local county mental health clinic. Mathew, a handsome psychology intern, met her weekly and continued to see him in his private practice for another year. However, when Mathew took a full time position at a state hospital, he terminated his therapy services with all his private patients. This caused so much pain to Thelma who thought she and Mathew had a love affair. As a psychology intern and a therapist, Mathew was caring to his patients and Thelma misunderstood it.

Thelma imagined that lying in Mathew’s arms was transporting and considered it the greatest moment in her life. In twenty seven days, which she described as magical, she spoke on the phone with Mathew several times a day and saw one another fourteen times.

I agree with Dr. Yalom’s therapy style. He did not use detailed techniques to come to any exact conclusion. Instead, he let Thelma come up with her own answers by asking the right questions. As a non-therapist, I am convinced that this treatment shows us the fact that we are all responsible for our life choices. He had laid everything on the table and did not let his first impression affect his style. He asked effective questions, like: “Tell me about what happened next” rather than making judgments and giving misleading advise. His question was thought provoking. However, it helps the client see things their own way. By allowing them to make a conscious effort to help themselves, it will mean more and last longer.

Dr. Yalom was still not satisfied with Thelma’s progress so he decided to have Mathew participate in a three-way therapy session. I still agree with this treatment. This is telling us and the patients that we can confront the truth of existence and connect their power for personal change. The therapist did not consider the feelings of the patient if there was really a love affair between them. All he wanted was to discover the truth of the existence of what the patient was claiming to have. Even if I were also a therapist, I would have opted to this technique. A life truth was present in this case: Mathew was as much a patient as Thelma. Dr. Yalom’s evaluation was “You cannot re-create a state of shared romantic love of the two of you being deeply in love with one another because it was never there in the first place.”

Another suspense and momentum was also present in another chapter of the book, titled The Wrong One Died. The patient here was Penny, the woman whose life was a struggle ever since the tragedy of losing her daughter. Penny felt responsible for the horrible death of her daughter, the reason why she is not able to let it go even after such a long time.

If you were a therapist or clinician would you have handled the cases differently?

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The Night of the Living Dead: A Reflection

2011-11-13T00:05:00.002+08:00

Who was responsible for the late Michael Jackson’s death? I read a news article by Helen Kumari and David Li entitled “The Night of the Living Dead: Jacko Doc Trial Opens with ‘Thriller’ pix of the King of Pill Pop” from the online NY Post. My interest was piqued as the article header mentioned a movie title (Night of the Living Dead), a music album (Thriller) and alleging that MJ pops pills like a junkie. I thought must be biased even before I read the whole article. A quick scan proved otherwise as it showed how the prosecution and the defense parried about how Dr. Conrad Murray, Michael Jackson’s personal physician, is responsible for the latter’s death.

The first part of the report focused on how the prosecution presented their evidence as to how the physician’s action and some form of neglect ended in Michael Jackson’s homicide. The prosecution showed that the singer was very optimistic about the revenues of his comeback concert “This is It” so that he could build a children’s hospital. Jackson’s attorneys believed that Dr. Murray ignored the needs of his patient and instead of weaning him off, addictive medication continued to supply the singer with it and caused his premature death. On the other hand, Dr Murray’s defense was that it was not because of him but due to Jackson’s obsessive self-medication that killed him. The doctor admitted to giving him prescription drugs for sleep as he knew that the lack of it will affect Jackson’s performance in rehearsals and concerts. The legal defense for Murray said that it was the actor’s fault taking medication without his doctor’s permission. The case is ongoing as of this time.

I believe the defense of Dr. Murray is in opposition of the Code of Ethics. I based this judgment on the Code of Ethics and Ethics Standards of 2010. As a medical doctor, if he knew that Mr Jackson was engaged in self-medication, he should have removed medications within the vicinity of the latter especially the ones that will cause lethal cocktails. He should have used his professional judgment and referred to a team of medical professionals to help overcome Mr Jackson’s insomnia and physiologic dependence on anesthetics. Dr Murray should not have given anesthetics in the first place as he knew the proper medical protocols for giving such medications. His unscrupulous means of writing off prescriptions for medications is an absolute violation of the Food and Drug Administration’s advisory on the indications for such drugs.

I was appalled that he asked USD 5,000,000.00 upfront for prescription peddling in the first place. In his defense, Dr Murray’s lawyers stated that the doctor would not kill the singer as he received a hefty sum of USD150,000.000.00 a month to keep him alive. That was a worthy argument but then again, why would the doctor leave his drug crazed patient for 45 minutes to make eight phone calls? I believe that Dr Murray had been negligent in his duty to keep his patient safe and to look after their well being.

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Justin Bieber

2011-11-12T23:59:00.002+08:00

Will taking a DNA test set the record straight for Justin Bieber’s fathering Mariah Yeater’s baby? I don’t think so. Bieber has flatly denied having met Yeater, a Bieber fan, after one of his concerts and worst, having sex with her at the backstage. Yeater became pregnant and maintained that Bieber is the father of her baby. Bieber stated with conviction that he is not the father, so he agreed for a paternity test. I support his opinion.

Applying the Code of Ethics, I believe that there is mutual fondness before love, and there must be love before sex. If a baby is formed as a result of sex, there must be a reason why it happened. However, if each baby takes 30 seconds to make, imagine the army of little Biebers he could make before he even reaches the age of consent. Yeater’s claim has no merit if we will analyze it carefully. She must be after the support. What if she did have an encounter with Bieber, but it was "someone who looked like Bieber" yet was indeed an imposter posing (and succeeding) in passing himself off as the young lad.

Feeling like a constant target has transformed the pop star from a happy-go-lucky kid to a young man who often fears for his own safety. He wanted to end the turmoil. For him and his camp, it is sad that someone would fabricate malicious, defamatory, and demonstrably false claims. Hence, his agreement to a paternity testing.

DNA is a set of bodily instructions, a catalog of our evolutionary past and a personal warning label about our health risks according to Dizikes (2009). It is also a secret. No one knows what my DNA says. It is an absolute invasion of the right to biological privacy if it is imposed on me. No one has the right to know what I have inside my body. That belongs only to me. I can give it up voluntarily, but no one can obligate me to deliver it.

Yet, Bieber agreed to undergo this parental testing hoping that it will set his record straight—that he is not the father of Yeater’s baby. A case has been filed in court and we could not guess the result. Bieber may not be the father of the baby but knowing the financial status of Bieber, will Yeater’s lawyers stop there?

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Taking Care of Clients

2011-11-12T23:24:00.002+08:00

Even before my retirement, I was toying an idea of being a salon owner. This is within the service industry where I dreamed to be in once I am out of employment. I would be orienting my staff about the service industry environment.

Working in this industry, you are legally obliged to provide safe and hygienic environment. This applies whether you are working in a hotel, a department store, a leisure center or a private beauty salon, or operating a mobile beauty therapy service. You must pay careful attention to health and safety and to security. Exactly the same is true when working in clients' homes: it is essential to follow the normal health and safety guidelines, just as you would when working in a salon.

If you cause harm to your client, you will be held responsible and you will be liable to prosecution with the possibility of being fined.

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Forward-Looking Statements

2011-10-29T20:24:00.002+08:00

A forward-looking statement may include a statement of the assumptions or bases underlying the statement. Such statements are generally identified by forward-looking words such as: believe, plan, anticipate, continue, estimate, expect, may, will or other similar words. However, forward-looking statements assumed facts or bases which almost always vary from actual results. In light of these risks and uncertainties, it is not encouraged to depend on these statements as actual, it sometimes depend on the circumstances.

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My New Favorite Author

2011-10-29T20:02:00.003+08:00

Bestselling author, Nora Roberts, is a storyteller of immeasurable diversity and talent. According to research, she has published a number of novels; her work has been optioned and made into films. Her books have been translated into over twenty-five different languages and published all over the world. Nora has a large and loyal category-romance audience, including myself.

The latest book I have read is "Bridges". The story is thoughtfully plotted, well-written and with awesome precision. It draws readers into a world of family-centered warmth.

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English Plurals

2011-10-22T11:35:00.003+08:00

We'll begin with a box, and the plural is boxes, But the plural of ox becomes oxen, not oxes.
One fowl is a goose, but two are called geese, Yet the plural of moose should never be meese.
You may find a lone mouse or a nest full of mice, Yet the plural of house is houses, not hice.

If the plural of man is always called men, Why shouldn't the plural of pan be called pen?
If I speak of my foot and show you my feet, And I give you a boot, would a pair be called beet?
If one is a tooth and a whole set are teeth, Why shouldn't the plural of booth be called beeth?

Then one may be that, and there would be those, Yet hat in the plural would never be hose,
And the plural of cat is cats, not cose. We speak of a brother and also of brethren,
But though we say mother, we never say methren. Then the masculine pronouns are he, his and him,
But imagine the feminine: she, shis and shim!

Let's face it - English is a crazy language. There is no egg in eggplant nor ham in hamburger;
Neither apple nor pine in pineapple. English muffins weren't invented in England.

We take English for granted, but if we explore its paradoxes, We find that quicksand can work slowly, boxing rings are square, And a guinea pig is neither from Guinea nor is it a pig. And why is it that writers write, but fingers don't fing,
Grocers don't groce and hammers don't ham?

Doesn't it seem crazy that you can make amends but not one amend?
If you have a bunch of odds and ends and get rid of all but one of them,
What do you call it?

If teachers taught, why didn't preachers praught? If a vegetarian eats vegetables, what does a humanitarian eat?

Sometimes I think all the folks who grew up speaking English

Should be committed to an asylum for the verbally insane.
In what other language do people recite at a play and play at a recital?

We ship by truck but send cargo by ship...
We have noses that run and feet that smell.
We park in a driveway and drive in a parkway.
And how can a slim chance and a fat chance be the same,
While a wise man and a wise guy are opposites?

You have to marvel at the unique lunacy of a language
In which your house can burn up as it burns down,
In which you fill in a form by filling it out,
And in which an alarm goes off by going on.

And in closing..........

If Father is Pop, how come Mother's not Mop.???

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Getting More Things Done

2011-10-20T21:20:00.004+08:00

We all know people who accomplish a great deal to their lives, and others who never seem to get anything done. You probably view yourself somewhere in between happy to be doing a few things,

but wishing you could get more of what you have been wanting to do for so long.

The major difference between these two broad types of people are their skills in planning projects, their ability to manage their time, and their degree of self-control. If you want to make more of your leisure time, then you also need to develop and enhance these skills. This, you should aim to get more things done.

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Teacher Accountability

2011-10-20T20:16:00.004+08:00

Teachers are being required more frequently today to account for their instructional stewardship. School administrators and general public are demanding greater evidence of what students have learned upon completing a course than merely displaying a series of achievement grades. The consensus seems to be that grades per se often have only limited valued and do not necessarily reflect a student's ability to actually demonstrate a mastery of skills and knowledge. Hence, a teacher no longer can get by simply stating categorically that a course is designed to cover a particular phase of learning.

Educational accountability must become a viable force if the educative process is to meet the current demands of the taxpayers. Schools and faculties must realistically face the issue that they are being held accountable for the achievement of their students.

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Seeing the Big Picture

2011-10-17T19:09:00.003+08:00

To be able to take initiative in your job, you first need to see how you and your position relate to the larger scheme of things at work. In most jobs, this role is not explicitly explained so you need to investigate how you fit into your organization's overall operation.

Ask your self: why was my job created? Most jobs are created to help with some pressing need of the organization: better or faster service, lower costs, fewer problems, improved opportunities. If you can understand the initial needs for your position, you will be better able to consistently address those needs--and go beyond them.

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The Pavillion: A Haven for Ambulatory Patients

2011-10-16T12:45:00.002+08:00

The Pavilion is one of the leading facilities in joint replacement rehabilitation. Its joint replacement rehabilitation program is conducted in another designated floor of the Pavilion. Comprehensive care plans are formulated by the medical and nursing teams, on an individual basis, to meet the specific needs of each patient. Pain management is closely monitored to maximize active participation in rehabilitation programs. State-of-the-art equipment and adaptive devices help speed the recovery process. To ensure proper healing and joint mobility, patients are instructed in safe and appropriate techniques regarding daily-living activities. A discharge plan is designed to make sure each patient has a successful transition upon leaving the facility.

High quality of life for all patients and staff under the care of the Pavilion is ensured. This is the philosophy of its founder.

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Perceptual Factors Involved in a Chosen Activity

2011-10-16T12:21:00.003+08:00

In psychology and in other cognitive sciences, perceptual factors allow people to understand and determine how others affect their personal lives. Perceptual factors are also interlinked with visuo-spatial perception, figure-ground discrimination, eye-hand coordination, and stereognosis.

Visuo-spatial functions represent the brain's highest level of visual processing. When hands are used to find inside a handbag if wallet was inside, visuo-spatial function was displayed. Figure-ground discrimination refers to a cognitive ability to separate elements based upon contrast, as when I was able to choose the right color for my needs. Eye-hand coordination involves the coordinated vision and hand movement to execute a task, as the use of my eyes and hands while filling up a form. Stereognosis refers to the faculty of perceiving and understanding the form and nature of objects by the sense of touch. When I looked into my handbag if the wallet was inside, its presence was affirmatively confirmed by my touch.

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Love's Executioner

2011-10-15T15:15:00.001+08:00

Dr. Irvin Yalom’s engrossing book, Love’s Executioner & Other Tales of Psychotherapy, gives detailed and deeply affecting accounts of his works in ten chapters. This includes the chapters which I would like to focus my review. The author presents an excellent account of how psychotherapy might unfold for both patient and clinician. I am not a therapist myself but it was refreshing to read an honest representation of what actually occurs in therapy rather than a self-serving and white-washed version of what happened. Yalom presents the cases into prose which leads the readers into the depths of human condition for utmost suspense and momentum.

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My Plea

2011-10-15T14:58:00.001+08:00

"I shall pass this way but ONCE.
Any Goodness I can DO; Any Kindness I can SHOW
Let me do it NOW. For I shall Never Pass this way,.. AGAIN."

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Macrame

2011-10-15T14:53:00.001+08:00

Macrame is a form of low endurance therapy for people with wrist injuries, those requiring cognitive participation or for younger clients who need to hone their manual dexterity. It has very minimal activity demands as it involves manipulating colorful cords by hand with different types of knots by following certain sequences in order to form an item. Performance patterns that needed to change are modified as the hands are made busy and concentration is focused on knot formation. Performance skills gained in the activity have a significant meaning and a defined purpose that are achievable as these must be utilized to enable to complete the project.

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A True Follower

2011-10-15T14:44:00.002+08:00

The most important characteristic of a follower is the willingness to tell the truth. A truth that speaks the voice of the majority. A truth that coincides with fair justice. A truth that leads to the uplifting of a unified nation under the guidance of the moral values we have. But be reminded that the truth hurts. It’s a complex word full of power and pain. It can shutter ones mind and aura to the extent of one’s downfall and seizure. However, followers who tell the truth and leaders who listen to it are an unbeatable combination. But this does that not include the “extra-constitutional means” of forcing down a duly elected public official to resign against not only to her will but also to the mandate of the majority.

However, there is one thing that totally confuses my mind. In the principles of ideal followership, one must recognize the authority a leader possesses. A recognition that requires great respect given to the leader itself. Now then, can we be both an upbeat follower at the same time tailoring our actions and beliefs to accord with the leaders’ position? Or can we be just like the bamboo tree, able to change its side to the strung of the winds? Whatever is your answer, one thing is for sure, leaders need its followers; followers too need their leaders. It’s a symbiotic process that is proven and tested since time immemorial.

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Importance of a Secretariat

2011-05-14T11:33:00.003+08:00

In our Parish, there are organizations that support the priest in building our church. Each organization has its set of elected officers who represent the group. Among these organizations, the PPC or Parish Pastoral Council is the core. In our Parish, officers were elected but the parish priest added different coordinators of different sectors in the parish.

A Secretariat was also created; this is where I was assigned. I did not receive any TOR so I tried to learn myself the function of my office. I gathered that it should make information available and provide advice to the organization, as well as take note of important management of the organisation. Its functions should be::

(a) To arrange for and service meetings of the PPC or as provided for in the PPC constitution;

(b) To perform the functions assigned to it by any protocol;

(d) to perform such other functions as may be determined by the PPC.

Since I have no TOR in our own Secretariat, I am wondering what I should do. The only thing I know is that I have signified my willingness to carry out the secretariat functions under the PPC.

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Consequentialism: What is it?

2011-03-08T15:28:00.004+08:00

Consequentialism is the theory that human actions derive their moral worth solely from their outcomes or consequences. It refers to those moral theories which hold that the consequences of one's conduct are the true basis for any judgment about the morality of that conduct. Thus, from a consequentialist standpoint, a morally right act (or omission) is one that will produce a good outcome, or consequence.

The theory denotes that a morally right act (or omission) is one that will produce a good outcome, or consequence. Moral “codes” are based upon generally or relatively good projected results. Since there are no absolute inconsequentialist theory; therefore morality becomes a relative term defined by environment and actions.

The view of consequentialism is often expressed as "The ends justify the means"; and as Bentham puts it, if the game of push-pin gives more pleasure to players it must be because they are calculated to gratify those individuals who are most difficult to please.

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The Oceans

2011-01-26T21:27:00.004+08:00

I don't swim so I hate going to beaches. But as I celebrate my last birthday, something went through my mind like, how were the oceans made. With the help of science books, I found the answer.

The oceans were made when the earth was forming. For a long time the fiery hot earth was covered with thick clouds. As the earth cooled, rain fell from these clouds. The water flowed from higher places to lower ones, and as it got deeper it formed oceans.

The earth began as a hot cloud of swirling gas. In the cloud tiny bits of matter kept bumping into each other. As the cloud cooled, the matter began to stick together and form a bigger and bigger mass. All this time the mass was spinning, so the earth began to take on a round shape. As the earth spun, it got smaller. The heavier materials went to the center and the lighter ones to the outside. This caused much pressure inside the earth. It started to heat up again, and water inside was forced out in volcanoes and through cracks in the earth's surface. The steam formed thick clouds and covered the earth.

As the earth became cool again these clouds also cooled and water began to fall to the surface as rain. This rain continued for a long, long time. The water ran off to the low places and stayed there. When enough of it had come together this water became the oceans.

So that is how oceans, and other bodies of water form. Another concern that comes to my mind is the earth's changes. Some scientists believe that the earth is warming up. If it ever became warm enough to melt all the ice at the North and South Poles, the ocean level would rise. Many coastal cities would be covered with water. Such a change is really alarming.

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The Wonders of Science

2011-01-26T20:39:00.003+08:00

We sometimes disregard the things around us when in fact we should have knowledge about them because of their co-existence. Starting with the earth where we live, let us explore its components. The earth is made up of three parts like an apple: crust, mantle and core. The apple's skin is like the earth's crust. Part of the apple that we eat is like the earth's mantle or heavy coat. Where we find the seeds is like the earth's core. It is not like jelly as people used to think.

The crust is as thick as 20 miles (35 km) beneath land but only about 3 miles (5 km) thick under the oceans. Part of the earth's mantle is made of rocks, so hot that it has melted. The molten rock can seep through cracks in the crust and pour out of volcanoes. It is then called lava. When fiery lava cools it turns hard as stone. Molten rock in the mantle pushes through the ocean floor and forms plates that flow both ways. When plates meet, one is pushed beneath the other, making trenches and causing earthquakes.

Scientists believe that the core of the earth is made up of very heavy metals like iron and nickel. The outer core is made of molten rock. The inner core might be liquid too but scientists don't know for certain.

The earth can not only be compared to an apple but also to an egg; the shell as the crust, the white as the mantle and the yolk as the core. With this simple comparison, we may now say that we know our earth. That is good enough.

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Morality

2011-01-21T20:58:00.005+08:00

I was surprised to receive a book on Ethics the other day and wondered why I was given such a gift. The book was a precious one for me as I love to read anything about ethics. Most of the authors are famous philosophers, i.e., Confucius, Plato, Aristotle, Kant, Hume, and many others.

Ethics include theories on morality, the nature of man, affection of humanity, reasons and passion, etc. Simply put, ethics involves learning what is right or wrong, and then doing the right thing. The first topic that catches my interest was morality. You will be surprised to note that different philosophers have different views on morality. How much more on other issues.

I have collected few insights of morality as viewed by different philosophers. An example is the views of Immanuel Kant: the ultimate principle of morality must be a moral law conceived so abstractly that it is capable of guiding us to the right action in application to every possible set of circumstances. Such is the nature of the genuine incentive of pure practical reason. It is nothing else than the pure moral law itself.

While taking doctoral classes, I paid attention to comparative education. I hope I can find a book on comparative views on morality.

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Hats Off to Lady Doctors!

2011-01-13T10:41:00.005+08:00

Back in the days, when little girls are asked about their ambitions, the usual reply would be "to be a nurse." Women were expected to assist men in every aspect in life - including at work. And so, it was often expected that doctors in white lab coats are men and nurses in scrubs are women. It was the norm for quite some time.

Fortunately,over the years, women have shown how excellent they are in the medical industry that they can work hand-in-hand with men as lady doctors. In the Philippines for instance, there are lady doctors who have initiated medical breakthroughs. There's Dr. Fe del Mundo who was able to design a low cost incubator to help premature babies born in poor villages.

Women are equal to men in every aspect in life including the medical industry. So if you have daughters who want to be doctors, then let them be especially if you have the means to do so. Start asking friends where to buy medical scrubs and medical equipment. May more little girls become lady doctors in the future!

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Our Life Span

2010-11-30T13:00:00.002+08:00

We never knew when our life ends and in what manner. Which is why birthdays are celebrated as a thanksgiving for extending our life for one more year. Some people are aware when they are nearing their end. Some even write letters to a surviving kin expressing their wishes when they are finally recalled.

A 31-year old diabetic niece of mine had been writing about death and about her wishes for her family to move on as normal as possible. After almost a year dealing with the "death" topic and even engaging a death calculator on fb she finally gave in and passed away last November 25. Obviously, there was much pain on her countenance. It was as if she really would not want to go with Mr. Death but had no more option left.

I am wondering if she is still with us but on another dimension which could not be seen by the living. If so, it could be possible that she is talking to us but could not be heard. I wish she could tell me the answers to many questions I have regarding life beyond.

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A Change

2010-08-16T20:07:00.004+08:00

People change, so do I. Change occur as normal as possible to all of us. This change does not only refer to material things we see but also unearthly things we could only feel.

About five years ago, I was a regular viewer of the classified ads. It makes me happy to see job vacancies especially when I know that the position fits me. I feel my usefulness though I would not want to go out and apply for the vacancy. I feel a sense of pride that I have the skills the job is requiring. But it is only up to that point. I don't get hired because I don't apply.

I will pass another stage in my life by next month - my birth month. I welcome this stage and want to pass it. I will become a SC and when I secure my ID for that stage, I will enjoy the percentage discounts at groceries, drugstores and restaurants, to mention a few. But I am not excited and keep asking myself "why?" Is it because I know that people will give me more privilege because I am nearing my end? Is it a consolation for my being a grandma and so I have to stick on the conventional practice by grandmas?

Hope I can accept the change.

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Life

2010-07-27T20:50:00.003+08:00

Great things always begin from within. When an outside force breaks an egg, life ends; but when the force comes from within to break the egg, life begins. Wonderful!

This philosophy tells us that whatever you do, the force should always emanate from within you. Do not allow anybody to push you or to dictate what you should do. It is always wise to stand on your own feet and try your own strategy. You will never discover your own strength and what you can do if there is fear of being on your own.

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Body Changes and Youth

2010-07-24T20:57:00.003+08:00

There is an old saying among adults that "only animals grow old, people don't". That aging is only in the mind. If you keep on saying that you are old, then you are old. But whatever lies we tell ourselves, there are body changes that are so noticeable.

Our lines on the neck tell us that even the best moisturizers cannot conceal them. The skin on our neck cannot be tightened to conceal the lines.

Some people, especially women, have loose thighs when they reach the retirement age. Their breasts sag and their fingers and toes become slender and bony. There is nothing to worry about. They are natural body changes. There are cosmetic surgeons but they only get your money, not your youth.

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No Negative Thoughts

2010-07-24T20:36:00.005+08:00

Are your thoughts worthy of you? If not - NOW is the time to change them. You can begin right were you are right now. Nothing matters but this moment and what you are focusing your attention on.

Write your script. When you see things you don't want, don't think about them; don't write about them; don't talk about them, push against them, or join groups that focus on the don't wants... remove your attention from don't wants.. and place them on do wants.

Focus on do wants. That is positive. Build this thoughts; think about them; talk about them and write about them. That will become real.

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Imagination

2010-07-20T12:26:00.004+08:00

Imagination is the preview of life's coming attractions according to Albert Einstein. Therefore if we want to have something, we let our imagination work. Decide what you want .. believe you can have it, believe you deserve it, believe it is possible for you. Close your eyes and visualize having what you already want - and the feeling of having it already. Imagination is free, you don't have to worry how much it will cost you.

Focus on being grateful for what you have already .. enjoy it!! Then release into the universe. The universe will manifest it. You will be surprise that what you had imagined becomes real.

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SPEED

2010-07-20T11:41:00.002+08:00

The universe likes SPEED. Don't delay, don't second-guess, don't doubt..

As a living individual, we should move with speed. If you will notice, one day is consumed within 24 hours; an hour is consumed within 60 minutes; and a minute is consumed within 60 seconds. If we delay our moves and we second guess because of doubts, then the universe will leave us behind. Which means that another cycle will be taken. What we should do is act with speed. The universe will rearrange itself accordingly.

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The Golden Rule

2010-06-22T08:40:00.001+08:00

LIFE is a MIRROR, as well as an ECHO. It gives back what you give. MAKE A DIFFERENCE

I read a very inspiring article from a friend which made me think about the truth behind it. When you look at yourself in the mirror you see your real looks. That is why before we go outside of our room, we look at our face and overall appearance. Then either we change our clothes with a better one or we put something in our faces or change hairstyle just to look better.

Life is a mirror. During our struggles for something, we find that whatever our input is, we get results according to what we had invested. It is not right for some people to expect wealth when they do not put their efforts to getting wealth. And it is not right for people to live in luxury when they do not have the means to to achieve it. Most importantly, it is not right for anybody to steal the property of somebody just to live up a good life.

Life is an echo. When you say good things about your neighbor, he will in turn say the same things about you to other people. It is as if your words bounces back to you. So be careful because if you say anything bad about anybody, whether he heard it not not, you will have a bad image according to that somebody. What is bad about an 'echo' is that whoever hears it, puts it back even if he is not guilty or he is not the object of that echo.

We do not want to receive anything bad. So how do we make a difference. Simple, just follow the old adage, 'do unto others as you would have others do unto you'.

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Serving Drinks

2010-06-15T15:49:00.002+08:00

Sometimes we wanted to appear "social" in the eyes of our friends when we host dinners or lunches to celebrate a promotion or any special day. Drinks or wines served with meals are a trademark of admirable styles of convention.

Drinks are served before, during and after a meal depending on the occasion. These drinks add zing or punch to many occasions and we are offered a variety to choose from.

Before meals - APERITIF
An aperitif is a drink served before a meal, either luncheon or dinner, for the purpose of exciting the taste buds and arousing appetite. For this reason drinks before food should be dry and simple with a zesty tang. However, there are those who will always select a sweet drink regardless of the occasion. Common aperitifs are sherry, vermouth, campari, bourbon, gin, vodka, rum, champagne, and beer.

During meals - Red wines are usually served with meat, pasta dishes, stews and a good strong cheddar cheese. Red wine should be served at room temperature. White wines usually complement delicate fish and seafood dishes, chicken and turkey. White wine should be served chilled (at least 1 hour in the refrigerator).

After meals - Brandy, port or liquors may be offered when coffee is served. Apricot brandy, Benedictine, Chartreuse Grand Marnier, Creme de Menthe are examples of after dinner drinks.

What to serve for a party is a familiar question and problem for many. However, if the hosts are equipped with serving ideas, they could be helped with their problems and familiar questions get answers.

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Emceeing An Event

2010-06-15T14:02:00.003+08:00

Our organization of former employees at the same organization will hold its annual get-together party in November this year. Everyone of us was excited and everyone was given a task to do. In my case, I was assigned the emceeing task. I am not a master of this task as I have not done any similar jobs before but I am willing to do it. So, I researched tips from great speakers like Jeff Civillico, and authors, like Dr. Steve Adubato, author of "Speak from the Heart" and gathered the following tips:

Do not do most of the talking but keep things moving. Put the attention on those the event is recognizing; keep introductions brief (1 minute or less).
Actually know something who is being honored or recognized; read about their backgrounds before you show up and understand why that honoree is being recognized.
Be clear on the overall objective of the event.
Create a relaxed informal mood; show your genuine enthusiasm and talk about why everyone has gathered in that event.
Dress the part; if it is a casual event, dress accordingly.
Don't be a jerk; be nice to everyone.
Avoid joke telling, you are not there to be a comedian.
Force yourself to play the part - you're the glue holding the event together.
Review the emotional highlights of the event.
Know when to "wrap it up" when someone is going too long with the microphone.
Know how to pick up the pace and energy level in the room when a speaker or presenter is flat or dull.
Do not leave the stage before the next guest or act comes on.
Keep your eyes on the audience and observe how they are responding to things happening in the event.
As the emcee, keep a pace close to the high energy opening. Look and sound bright and you will boost the mood of the audience.
Leave them wanting more. Get off the stage while the audience still feels entertained.
Wrap things up at the end of the event and once again congratulate everyone who were given recognition. Thank everyone for coming and keeping things on a high note.

The above tips and etiquette are important in order to become a successful emcee. You need to do your homework to effectively do your job, or else ruin the event.

Emceeing job is really a big deal.

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Money is Not Yours Until You Spend It

2010-06-07T00:30:00.002+08:00

One Yahoo groupmate reminds us some important arguments about money. I felt blessed being with the group to learn these lessons in life. She said that money kept in banks may not be really ours. When it is time to spend, use it! Treat yourself well before getting old. Whatever you feel like eating, just eat. It is important to be happy.

Food which are good for health - eat more more and often. But food which are not good for health, eat less once in a while but do not abstain totally. Treat sickness with optimism. Rich or poor people do suffer illnesses. Spend your money for treatment. Spend your money for other luxuries in life before it becomes too late. That is the time you can say that the money you had kept is yours.

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Points to Ponder

2010-06-06T23:55:00.003+08:00

Blogging inspires me when I know that somebody reads my blogs. I was reminded by a friend this afternoon to write a new blog. It was then that I remembered my last blog was dated mid-May. Since that time, I have some things to share with my readers, especially those within my age bracket, or nearing my age bracket. This is the secret of old age.

Before middle-age, do not fear.
After middle-age, do not regret.
Enjoy your life while you can. Do not wait till you cannot even walk
just to be sorry and to regret.
As long as it is physically possible, visit places you wish to visit.
When there is an opportunity, get together with old classmates, old colleagues or old friends; the gathering is not just about eating, it's just that THERE IS NOT MUCH TIME LEFT.

Believe me, there is truth in this secret. I am retiree but I find happiness in it because I am free of the hassles in the office - I don't mind the time anymore; I am carefree. So why fear and regret? Enjoy!

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Is There a Take Two?

2010-05-13T16:58:00.003+08:00

Have you ever been asked a question and when you gave answer you later blame yourself for not giving the best? When it happens, you would like to request a "take two" so that you can amend your reply.

In trying to discern who among the parishioners could lead the next set of officers, our parish priest asked some of us: Can you be a leader at the Parish Pastoral Council? If yes, why?; if no, why? I was not satisfied with my answer. I could have said, I can be a leader but I know I am not fully equipped with the skill of a leader. However, if it is God's will, I will be able to perform the job satisfactorily. But what I said was so different. I kept saying "I don't want to lead -- just follow. I am not assertive." Isn't it so weak and disobedient?

If only there is a take two, I could give a better answer. I know that if you reply to God's call, even if you know you can't, every good thing will follow.

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A Required System to be Systematic

2010-05-13T15:54:00.002+08:00

Inasmuch as we had experienced our first automated electronic system in choosing our future leaders, and it was all right, we should also initiate some changes in the way our election is conducted. Let the experience in the past election be a lesson learned so that we perform better next time. What I am trying to point out are the following:

1. The voters' list that came from the COMELEC should have been reviewed thoroughly so that those who died and those who transferred residences after the last election were removed from the list. In our village, we found three names who had died after the last election.

2. The BEIs should have been given orientations so that they have only one manner, style, or practice in dealing with the voters. For instance, the usual practice was voters approach the BEI, identifies himself/herself, signs on the EDCVL, and receive the official ballot inserted in a secrecy folder. I questioned one BEI in one of our clustered precincts because she distributed the official ballots to all the voters queing for identification. When asked why she has a different style, the answer was: it was allowed by COMELEC so there will be fast processing of the election. Of course we did not allow that practice and convinced that precinct to do what the other precincts were doing.

3. The 'voters' assistance desk' section is the first stop of the voters to check if their names are on the list. Different kinds of special people flock to this section: the hypertensives, the senior citizens, and the wheel chair riders. Maybe next election time, four lines will be provided in this section so that these special people will not be mixing with the ordinary ones. The hypertensives will remain cool, the senior citizens will feel cared, and the wheel chair riders will have enough space for their vehicles.

These are some of the changes in the system that the PPCRV of our village would like to have during the next election. Overall, the election was honest, successful, and peaceful.

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The Recent Automated Philippine Election

2010-05-13T15:11:00.003+08:00

I could not remember how it happened that I became too involved in the Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting (PPCRV). I found myself attending orientations and seminars convened by PPCRV of the diocesan level and COMELEC at the municipal level. However, it was an exciting new experience to do something for the Filipino people.

I was tasked to be one of the coordinators (there were 3 of us). We recruited a total of 65 volunteers to work as poll watchers. These volunteers understood that they will be working without any fee in exchange for their services. The only thing they got was food for the duration of the election (breakfast to dinner) and a T-shirt with a PPCRV print.

What inspired me was the fact that in every orientation that we conducted, all the volunteers attended. There were still some people who were offering their services as volunteers but we only had 6 clustered precincts and we only accommodated the required number of people.

The first automated election turned out to be very successful and peaceful in our village. At 7 p.m. reading of the election results, transmitting and printing started. The volunteers left but we, the coordinators waited until all the PCOS machines were packed and loaded in a truck that returned them to the Municipal Treasurer.

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A Model Blog

2010-03-06T17:34:00.005+08:00

It was a hot afternoon in the blogosphere when I chanced to read Annamanila's blog about retirement. It was a nice blog and immediately I felt entertained. Then after that article I read another one, then another one, until I thought I was addicted to her articles. I love the way she writes. Bakit ang galing ng style niya. Even if the article is long, you will finish reading it up to the end. Some articles of new writers are lengthy and the substance you are expecting is not there. Or if it is there, you will find that substance far behind. But Annamanila's articles are super!

Sometimes I asked myself what else I will need to be at par with these very good writers. Will I blame my teachers? No, I have great respect to my English teachers. Maybe the defect is in me. Kahit na sana hindi very good writer -- good man lang sana, at least. But no, I'm not used to give up. I'll be a very good writer also like them, particularly Annamanila.

I accepted a tiring job in our community -- incharge of documentation during parties and important events. This job combines photography and depiction of the event. I suppose I am developing my essay writing ability though it is late. But better late than not.

Though this is another venture after retirement, it keeps me moving literally. Being out of the office, and out of school as well, I need to feed my brains with a lot of other things, especially writing. It interests me and gives me some administrative activities. I wish I'm still young to dream these dreams.

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Election 2010

2010-02-11T18:02:00.002+08:00

Who do you vote on May 2010? By this time we, the intelligent voters, would have been screening the candidates to be supported on May. We have Aquino/Roxas, Erap/Binay, Villar/Loren, Gordon/Bayani, Gibo/Edu, JC Delos Reyes/____, Eddie Villanueva?____
Jamby Madrigal/______. In my list of presidentiables, I do not have the VPs of Delos Reyes, Villanueva, and Madrigal. However, we do not vote for a VP because he is under the ticket of a certain Presidentiable. We should consider their individual qualifications. For instance, we can pair Binay with Villar or the other VP candidates with other Presidential candidates. This is only an example but I think, if we do not stick to the Party, we can have the best choices of the people who we can trust to be our leaders for the next two years.

Let us all vote wisely.

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Just for Money

2009-10-25T19:45:00.004+08:00

I am a fan of the famous Big Brother which we tagged here as Pinoy (Filipino) Big Brother contest. This was used to be a wholesome show as displayed by the previous seasons and versions (teen, celebrity, and regular) but lately I did not want to watch it. Its "values" deteriorated that it was not anymore suited for family entertainment.

The participants who were all eager to win the pot money were given very slim choices between: to earn additional points or to reduce any point that they may already have accumulated. The participants would have to show their most private parts while dancing in order to earn additional points. For me this kind of performance should not be allowed. Television programs are watched by the family including small children for entertainment. But if the show cannot entertain everybody anymore, the producers should think twice.

There is money, of course, generated by the show. But are we selling our dignity and self-respect just to have more money? Big Brother has nothing to be ashamed of; he is behind his mask. The participants suffer JUST FOR MONEY.

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The Flood Victims of Montalban, Rizal

2009-10-15T22:14:00.002+08:00

This morning I woke up early to prepare for an occular inspection to the typhoon victims of Montalban, Rizal. The group of CWL Diocese of Antipolo Board Members and Officers met at the Immaculate Conception Parish Church in Marikina so that we go to the venue together in one coaster. Our mission was only to search for 100 poor of the poorest typhoon victims, list them, and issue them tickets to qualify for our 100 packed goods for them.

We visited the church at Kasiglahan Village in Montalban and met with the parish priest who happened to be a very jolly God's follower. We were not allowed to go to the muddy houses in the surrounding areas and instead requested us to just give the tickets to the Head of the Social Ministry who will distribute the tickets to the intended recipients. The priest (I forgot the name, I'm sorry Father) toured us around his parochial area including the interior of their church. The church was simple but elegant (next time I'll post a picture) and was appropriate to their divine patroness "Maria, Ina ng Kapayapaan" or in English: Mary, Mother of Peace.

The goods that we will distribute to each of the selected 100 consist of a kettle, charcoal stove, pail, broom and 2 kilos of rice. The money used to buy these goods came from the National Board of the Catholic Women's League and from two of the Diocesan Board members, Sister Del Biason and Sister Lingay Pacleb. The distribution will be on Monday, October 19 so that the roads will be more dried and clear and the CWL members concerned are free from our usual church responsibilities.

The Catholic Women's League from the Diocese of Antipolo could surely make these chosen people happy. As a Catholic woman, I am C-ommitted to W-ork with L-ove and that's the real essence of Charity, Work and Loyalty.

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I am a Food Victim

2009-10-15T21:19:00.004+08:00

After two weeks of flood waters in front of my house, thanks God, we survive. Yes, our village was flooded again -- after almost twelve years. The first time I experienced flood was when I was still working. Our company had been very compassionate with its employees who reside at Greenwoods. It dispatches two coasters in the morning to pick us up and return in the afternoon after office hours for almost a month during the flood. That was a very clear picture of what a responsible employer should be. The result was, no one among us got itchy foot and remained healthy until MY retirement.

Going back to the flood, it was a horrible Saturday afternoon on September 26 when the waters went up so fast that our place instantly became unpassable. Only trucks and makeshift bancas could pass our street. Then it went dark - brown out. No radios, no TVs, no internet (of course). I felt we were isolated from the rest of the world. When power rekindled in the morning and our TV was switched on, it was a depression to see the scope of the damages caused by the typhoon. Our municipality was one of the worst hit by the catastrophe. Then I called my children in their respective houses. My children relayed there own experiences which I don't even want to recollect.

It has been two weeks last Sunday but our street was still knee deep with waters. During the Mass, I offered prayers for the continuous healing of my husband and a special prayer for the immediate drying of our street. To our surprise, coming home from the coaster of our priest who happened to pass by our house, we were able to step on our garage without wetting our feet. The following morning all the waters were gone and our street was dried as if it were again summer. See what God can do. He must also have surprises for you.

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DSL Connections VS Internet Router

2009-08-16T17:48:00.004+08:00

OMG! I did not notice that my last post was dated July 14. Being so busy with my article writing activities, I thought I was also posting my blogs. Its all right, now I allocate Sundays as my blog day unless there are very very important events to be written. But sometimes these events are not worth writing anymore because you can read them everywhere. All bloggers write about them. So I'd rather just read what they wrote. Anyway, if their articles are somewhat missing important points, there are newspapers to read.

One other reason why I was not able to concentrate on my blogging is because of my internet connection. I have not filed my DSL yet, instead my daughter bought a router for me so that our two PCs will only have one Internet connection. It looks okey but you know the reception is so slow. There are times when I thought I had typed a line but nothing appears so I repeat but the keys won't work. By waiting a little longer the words you have typed appears. Its like that. So I plan to push through my DSL application.

See you new next week.

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Prolong Your Life With Fun - Continuation

2009-07-14T16:38:00.002+08:00

As promised here is the continuation of our fun. (5) Relax. When we are relaxed, our heart rate and our blood pressure are normal. Let us learn to relax even if there are things trying to cause us stress. As I've said, senior citizens passed that stage already. (6) Exercise. For some people, exercise is a work, when it should be play. When you play there is fun. You don't feel tired. But be careful because there are sports that are tiresome. Bowling is a strenuous sports, so don't engage in that.

(7) Sleep a lot. Sleep will give your body relaxation and boost your immune system. But do not sleep the whole day. There are 24 hours a day. If we sleep for 8 hours, we still have 16 hours left for our activities. We still can have lots of fun and productive activities to do.
(8) Remember your loved ones. Some of our children or relatives are away from us. Remembering them without doing anything will give us loneliness that may lead to depression or mental illness. Stay connected with them. The internet is the best way of getting in touch with them. Wherever they are they will only be a click away from us.

(9) Solve puzzles to exercise your brains. Our brains should not be left stagnant. We should also have an account with Facebook or Friendster. And we should YM our friends to stay connected and have our brains work. Write articles about anything, or be a blogger like me. (10) Cultivate positive attitude. Remember that positive poles attract positive energies and negative poles do the same. Research said that being positive will give us years of fun and meaning of life.

Let us live long and be happy. Even if they say that life after death is happier, who can prove it?

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Prolong Your Life With Fun

2009-07-14T16:02:00.004+08:00

Everyone dreams to live long. That is why even senior citizens queue at drugstores to buy medicines to prolong their lives. For them vitamins protect them from illnesses usually suffered by people in their senior stages.

There are other ways to prolong our lives, not so seriously but with fun. Let's find out what they are: (1) Two glasses of red wine a day. Expensive - but if it will provide us antioxidant to prevent aging, then why not. Pull out our savings and give ourselves a little fun. (2) Eat dark chocolate. Another expensive item but again dark chocolates contain antioxidant that lowers our blood pressure and of course, prevent aging. Just a little bit everyday will give us fun. But I sold my personal ref in my bedroom, how will I hide this from my children!

(3) Smile. Change your attitude by smiling even if there are things that don't make us smile. Let us trick ourselves, anyway, we are not supposed to be stressed. We had passed that stage already. So let's have fun by smiling. It will change our mood and prolong our life.
(4) Have sex, of course with your partner. If you don't have partner anymore, just keep on smiling and don't ever think about sex. Instead of prolonging your life, it might be cut short. But for those who have partners, having frequent sex may extend your life for years according to research. When you have sex, the body releases some assortment of beneficial chemicals.

There is a continuation so you can watch for it.

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Applying for a DSL Connection

2009-07-12T16:54:00.002+08:00

I did not realize that a DSL connection is better than the wireless broadband service that I have now. My daughter has been giving me specific instructions on applying for a DSL service. She says that I should be taking advvantage of my phone line and should link a DSL service to it.

I have been using my wireless broadband for more than two years. When weather is bad, my internet connection is affected. Now that I am retired, internet is my life. I am online everyday as the internet helps me get connected with my old life in some ways. I get to talk to my nephews and nieces who are abroad and I also get to exchange emails with my former officemates.

So, yes, I am quite convince that I should get a DSL connection now. I am currrently reading some DSL Service reviews that give me insights on raves and rants of my current phone line provider. If you are not really a tech savvy person like me, I recommend that you brush up on your DSL review readings. If you are in the States, you may check reviews of DSL services that are available in your area. Discover great telecom deals and plans from Spectrotel. Find more information about Spectrotel company here.

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Continuous Training for Professionals

2009-07-11T20:06:00.000+08:00

Learning does not end in school. Even in our present careers, we need to be constantly on our toes and improve our craft. We should not settle on what we have studied in school because technology is ever changing and it is inevitable so as to make our jobs easier.

Although most employees realize the need for continuous training, the fact that attending trainings and seminars cost money prevent them to pursue further studies. Some fortunate ones have employers who hire a production company for corporate training video and make the initiative to train their employees. I hope that this is the case for everyone in the corporate world. You see, employers should realize that this is only a small investment for the good of the whole organization. Through continuous training, work is maximized for greater profits. It will then be a win-win situation for both the company and the employer.

Employees are part of a company's asset. Employers should realize that, as with any other asset, taking care of their employees through giving them continuous trainings is vital to the overall success of the organization.

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Surviving The Hard Times

2009-07-04T22:38:00.002+08:00

We Filipinos have a saying that when the blanket is short, one must know how to crouch. That means that when there is financial difficulty, you should know how to spend less and make more money. It is often easier said than done, believe me. Many have fallen into the trap of overspending and just making loans to make up for what they owe. It should never be this way... EVER.

I believe that during hard times, it is best to find ways to make ends meet. We should not be contented with just what we are making. If we are, then, we will never rise from these financial difficulties. I, for example, have not stopped in finding ways to earn income even after I retired. Other working women, on the other hand, have even discovered how to sell gold jewelry for extra cash. In fact, in the US, this is becoming a trend. The latest news about the US to trade gold for cash through Cash4Gold has gotten everyone pretty excited for the economy. Discover selling gold online from the Cash4Gold company here.

How about you? What are you doing to survive these hard times?

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Health of the Body, Health of the Nation

2009-07-02T19:53:00.004+08:00

I felt guilty by not writing for several weeks. I became used to my regular blogging and now I feel bad because I feel I did not do my duty. What duty am I talking!

Thinking of many things that would make you move is a healthy habit. My experience is that as I try to figure out the solution to whatever problem I think I have, the more active my adrenalin pours. So if it happens while I am cleaning the house, I don't stop until I could think of the best solution. If the problem is easy, the cleaning stops. And that may not be healthy (?)

Speaking of health, I was relieved when I saw the former president's (President Cory) picture with a note that she is out of danger and out from the ICU. She has to be in good health because she can still contribute to the welfare of the country. President Gloria had herself quarantined after coming from a trip abroad. That is a good gesture for a leader.

Leaders and presidents... everybody is getting ready for the presidential race next year. Let's be optimistic in hoping that this computerization would bring the true winner.

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A Visit to the Pearl of the Pacific - Boracay

2009-06-26T08:08:00.002+08:00

Last June 17 to 22, I joined my husband in a vacation to Boracay. Since his family lives in Kalibo it was very easy for us to just take a ride to Caticlan then a motorboat to the island.

Boracay is not so busy these days because it is off season or maybe because people are afraid to go to crowded places where they can possible contact the most dreaded A(H1N1) virus. Good for us because the weather was then so cooperative. We stayed on the beach each morning go up the hotel after lunch for a nap. Sooooo grand vacation. No telephone calls, and no messages to read. Totally I was offline.

Pearl of the Pacific is a nice hotel along the beach of Boracay. Lots of guests of different nationalities are booked. I am thankful, I got a membership way back in 2000. Since then, we go there for a visit although my entitlement is once every two years which will end on 2032. For a studio type room which allows up to 4 persons inside for 3 nights and 4 days, the deal is not bad. What is important is your tired brain has been relaxed for a while.

Our next visit is 2011. Come and join us.

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2009 Catholic Women's League National Annual Meeting

2009-05-12T15:52:00.005+08:00

I had the opportunity as 1st Vice President of the Catholic Women's League of the Diocese of Antipolo to attend the National Annual Meeting at the Development Academy of the Philippines (DAP) in Tagaytay. It was a grand reunion of all the CWL members throughout the country as it was represented by nearly a 100% of its members. It could have been a 100% attendance if not for the typhoon Emong which prevented most of the participants from Central Luzon, the Visayas and Mindanao.

The official activity started on the evening of Friday and concluded on the evening of Saturday where a dance and fellowship gathering was held. It inspired me to see senior women in their best gowns and expensive jewelries dancing the boogie and the chacha. How I envey them because I can't dance. Almost all of the participants wore their international costumes.

After the party, there was an awarding for the best dressed sister, best performer and most jolly. I did not get any. On Sunday early morning we had our morning prayer before the celebration of the Eucharist. We had breakfast and received our certificates of attendance.

On our way back, there was a guided tour to the Calaruega in Batangas. We visited the place but the ladies from the Visayas and Mindanao and other regions outside Manila did not seem to appreciate the place. I could understand because outside the city you could also see beautiful places with really beautiful scenery. I could sense that what they were expecting was some sort of a place where they can buy souvenirs to be brought home.

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Environmental Ethics - What Man Can Do

2009-05-06T15:08:00.002+08:00

Environmental ethics may be defined as the study of man's moral obligation to preserve the environment and the natural order of things. Moral obligation is our duty to perform good acts and to avoid evil or bad acts. This means further that man's survival is interrelated with that of his environment. Therefore if the natural order of our environment is disturbed, then most likely we have to suffer. In ethics, man's relationship with the environment is the third level.

If we consider the environment as our home where we survive and live, it is not proper for man to intervene with the law of nature. Landslides are caused by the careless cutting of trees in our forests without planting small ones to replace the cut ones. Flash floods are caused by garbage that are not properly disposed. Because of large-scale mining operations, the Philippines is losing thousands of hectares of productive agricultural land per year. This causes erosion. Our waters are polluted. Our air is polluted.

Technological advancement have brought comfort to human life, but it is also this technological advancement that brought ecological problems threatening man's survival. It is not too late. We can do something. We have to rehabilitate nature. But basic to this, we have to rehabilitate human values.

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Stress and its Good Effects

2009-05-05T14:09:00.002+08:00

When we have problems we are stressed. When we are tired, we are also stressed. But some stress are necessary for normal functioning. Certain amount of stimulation is needed by the nervous system in order to function properly. Some people work fast when they are stressed. However, stress that is too intense or prolonged can have a destructive effect.

Prolonged stress can lead to physical disorders as ulcers, high blood pressure, and heart disease. If it is severe, it impairs the immune responses decreasing its ability to fight invading bacteria and viruses. Allergies, migraine, headaches, high blood pressure, heart disease, ulcers and even acne are among the illnesses that are related to psychological stress.

To have its good effects, we should be able to foresee the occurrence of a stressful event to reduce its severity. By perceiving it differently and controlling its duration would also reduce is intensity thus giving good effects rather than the opposite.

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The Role of Computers in the Classroom

2009-05-05T13:08:00.005+08:00

They said that the younger generation of teachers is admittedly better than the older generation when it comes to the use of the most recent classroom technology. This may be true -- although I am classified under the older generation of teachers-- but only in terms of the most recent technology, computers.

The explanation was that the younger crop of teachers, unlike their older counterparts, were blessed with basic computer courses in their college curriculum. However, if the older group would like to remain competitive and responsive by keeping their teaching fresh, interacting and challenging, there is no choice but to learn how to use them.

Speaking on behalf of the older generation of teachers, I can say that it will not be difficult for us to to learn computer because we can already see it anywhere and we are familiar with its uses. We can even do a self-study if we really wanted to explore the many uses of computers and I'm certain we will learn it. Our basic subjects in education were more difficult during our time but we succeeded.

Computers serve as a productivity tool. With Internet, technology has facilitated communication among people. Educational technology is a meaningful learning tool because it serves as a learning partner in the classroom.

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The Gift of New Technology

2009-05-05T12:12:00.003+08:00

When I was in high school I remember how I came up typing the final manuscript of Master's theses and doctoral dissertations for a fee. My clients were college and graduate students of the same school where I was studying and they liked my typewritten work because it included proofreading, correct left and right margins, and title and subtitle formatting. Of course there were lots of retyping and lots of wasted typing papers. Those were included in my overhead. They knew that I have a book on formatting research papers, theses, and dissertations. For P20 (or $0.40) per set of not less than 70 pages double spaced, I felt so blessed during those times if I can finish a set in two weeks.

Thanks God for the gift of new technology! We now have computers. There is no need to retype the whole page of a manuscript if you missed a word or line. We have the spell check in our computers that alerts us of any misspelled word. How convenient! What a liberation!

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Manny Pacquiao, the People's Champ

2009-05-05T07:13:00.004+08:00

I was in the middle of a religious all-women meeting last Sunday when one of the participants received a text from her husband announcing the winning of Manny against British boxer, Hatton. The meeting had a recess for 15 minutes so that everybody could rejoice.

While alone, I kept wondering what made Manny win against his ring opponents. And immediately I thought of his religious family, especially his mother, and of course he, himself. Do you notice that in every fight, whoever his opponent, he prays by himself before he starts to lift his hands to strike the opponent and look up to heaven after the fight to give his thanks. And, what is very remarkable is his tandem with his mother who do not bother to look at the TV screen during the fight but secludes herself in a room to pray for her son. This latest fight, his mother was brought to America to have a glimpse of her son during the fight. But she kept herself inside the hotel room to pray.

There are talks about the boxer's joining the politics. A lot of people including myself suggest that politics be left to the real politician. He is already successful in his present career and I wish he continue to savor that success even if he retires. Our politicians may encourage him to join their tickets because he has money. However, when he loses the race, he will also lose his money. I wish he should invest his money in a good venture. His children will need that.

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The Law of Attraction

2009-04-30T18:53:00.002+08:00

I read an article about the law of attraction. The law instructs the readers to be positive so that positive vibes radiates around us. This means that if we wanted something to happen for us, we must have that great desire and focus on it. Claim that it will happen and is happening to you now.

The law also tells the readers not to submit to any negative thinking. Always focus on the positive. And to be real, the thing that you really wanted should be written on a piece of paper, post it visibly and be excited to wait for its realization.

Somehow, this is a good way of blocking problems that may come to us once in a while. It is healthy because if one is happy, everything goes well. Even illnesses are not likely to affect a person whose mood is always positive. Why not.

Let's give it a chance.

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Mother's Day on May 10, 2009

2009-04-26T13:12:00.004+08:00

How time flies. Before I knew it, we are on the last week of April. That means Mother's Day again.

May 10 is Mother's Day this year. Every year I celebrate this event with an evaluation of what I have done with my role as a mother to my five children and an adopted nephew. I know I've been a good mother but sometimes I have doubts. It is because not all of my children are doing good in their family lives. Not doing good in the sense that not all of them have financial freedom. I know these things could not be influenced by anybody. It is their own lives but if one has much why do the others lack.

It is Mother's Day again and am planning to have some family activities at home. For events like this my children have all been very thoughtful. I know they will visit us to greet me during this special day. Most of the time they have gifts and I feel very happy when they are all with me. I feel broken when one by one leaves.

I hope I am not overacting.

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The Importance of Blogging

2009-04-17T09:11:00.004+08:00

When I started blogging I thought it was just a way for me to release my stress and on the other side to communicate my ideas and feelings. But as I hop to other blogs there are messages that say they earn that much and this much through blogging. How could it happen? How will I also earn like them?

If I have queries about blogging, to whom will I send the message? I wish we have a sort of blog administrator (or do we already have one) who can feed answers to some of our concerns.

I am a novice blogger who wants to learn more about it. I love blogging; I can share my ideas about the experiences I have. But how will I know if my blogs are read.

I use to log in to My Lot and contribute to the discussions. Is is worth my time and effort. I also log in (from time to time) to PayPerPost and Neobux. There are lots of advert for work-at-home jobs. But when you register with them, you end up filling a form calling for a credit card where the membership fee could be collected. What I'm expecting is when you write something there is a corresponding cent to accumulate and eventually become a withdrawable money. Is there such a thing like that?

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Free Information

2009-04-13T08:47:00.004+08:00

Holy Week is finished. How fast time flies. After a week of prayerful activities and offering sacrifices, here we are on our normal activities. But you know, I cannot do my regular blogging activities.

There are so many reasons. One is, other activities stop me from blogging because I feel, that other activity is more pressing. Another reason is you become empty - meaning you have nothing to write. Oh, what an excuse! Still another reason is you just wanted to read fellow bloggers' articles. I feel like I am recharged when I read other blogs, especially those which are worth reading for my age.

I chose blogs to read. But I do visit at least 30 blogs in one day whenever I have the opportunity to do so. Some blogs are inspiring and some are informative. I love those blogs that are informative. It updates me of things that I don't know. That's healthy. Even if you miss the daily paper, when you read blogs you will know at least one-half of the world -- free.

So, let's blog to learn and to enjoy.

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Stroke and your Direction

2009-04-09T15:52:00.005+08:00

After more than three months since my husband was hospitalized because of stroke, he got over his paralyzed left body and can now produce at least three-inch steps walking around the house. This Maundy Thursday he will be one of the 12 legendary disciples whose feet will be washed by Jesus. Of course I prepared him for the event and had him pedicured. Nobody could drive for us so we took a tricycle to go to the parlor. When we were done we went out and decided for a walk since the distance was not so far from our home. My husband was arguing with me because he wanted to walk to the opposite direction thinking that our house was there. I forced him to join me to the right direction but still he could not be convinced. He lost his sense of direction which explains maybe why he was lost the other day.

Every morning I allow him to go for a walk in the small park near our house. That has been his ritual for a week but last Tuesday, it was almost 12 noon when he arrived home sweating and dusty. He complained that nobody could show him his house. During our conversation, I found out that he lost his direction and walk farther and farther until he could not identify the place anymore. Then he said he asked some bystanders where his house was. The problem was he could not remember the street. After walking and walking his direction was changed and he was able to recognize the place. He arrived tired and sweating and was almost crying when he told me his experience. I could not laugh but had pity on him. Was it an effect of the stroke?

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The Transfirguation of Christ

2009-04-08T14:11:00.004+08:00

Hi, I'm back. I've been so busy the past days so I could not write anything. Now let me give you some updates on what made me busy. As one of the participants of the recently concluded retreat that the Diocese of Antipolo had in Tagaytay, I was among those who conducted a re-echo seminar to our fellow members of the Catholic Women's League. My topic was about the Transfiguration of Christ. In events like this participants usually get sleepy or bored but this time, thanks God, everyone was alert. After my talk everyone gave their own insights on so many "whys". Maybe a sign of maturity in faith, or may be in age.

Why was there a transfiguration? It was made to happen to prove to the Jews the divinity of Jesus. It took place in Mt. Tabor where Moses and Elijah appeared. They were talking to Jesus who was shining all white as bright as the sun, then God Almighty's voice was heard: "This is my beloved Son, whom I am so pleased, listen to Him."

Moses was there to prove that Jesus' miraculous deeds were not against the laws which God gave to the people through him. Elijah was there also to show to the Jews and the apostles that Jesus is the real messiah. Elijah was the first to announce that the Son of God is coming and he is preparing his way. God said, "listen to Him". Most of the time, when we pray, we just ask and ask and ask for the things we wanted on our favor. We never give ourselves time to listen to God's voice. God hears us and answers our prayers. Sometimes he says, later; sometimes he says, no because he has other things for us better than the one we are praying. He has his own time when to grant us the things we are praying for. Never did He disappoints us!

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Memorization

2009-03-21T18:39:00.002+08:00

My observation with our students is that there are lots of things they don't understand in the subject and sometimes do not even remember what has been discussed that very day.

Memorization is still acceptable in today's school provided it serves certain learning purposes and more importantly if it is done coupled with understanding. What is discouraging with it is when students are engaged in it without deriving any insight from the lesson. Students do memorize because teacher tends to emphasize more on facts rather than on the insights that could be drawn out from these facts. Memorization without these insights makes learning a meaningless routine, a useless undertaking, and therefore a big waste on the student's time and efforts

Teachers who indulge in the undesirable practice are doing their students a big disservice since it fails to achieve more legitimate outcomes of learning like the development of the higher mental processes like analysis, synthesis, and judgment.

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Effects of Mirrors in our Lives

2009-03-19T22:08:00.002+08:00

Somebody gave me a make up mirror last Christmas as a gift. I was looking at it this morning, it was round and I remembered one Chinese who talked to me about the effects of mirrors in our lives.

He said that mirrors should be one piece, not sectional. They should be hung so as not to cut off the head of the tallest person in the household. Round mirrors are good but octagonal mirrors are exceptionally powerful. The mirror should not reflect a door to the outside.

A mirror can be placed behind a buffet table where the food is served. This will imply a multiplication of food and suggest abundance and prosperity. If the mirror is large make sure it is not on the rear wall of the house. Do not put a mirror on the ceiling over a dining table. It will disturb the equilibrium of the diners.

Broken mirrors are believed to be unfortunate so do not use them. Mirror tiles are not recommended because they give a distorted view of whatever or whoever they reflect.

So, these are the proper use of mirrors. There is nothing bad if we observe and follow.

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Know Your Prime Time

2009-03-19T00:39:00.003+08:00

Each of us tends to have a particular part of the day when we work well. Working well at this time may be responsive to individual physiology and to work conditions that allow for continuous attention to the priority project (early in the morning, when others are at lunch, late in the day). Take advantage of this prime time for you.

My prime time is late in the day when my patient is asleep. I know that for the rest of the day next day I'll never be able to accomplish what I can do during my prime time. Blogging is done during my prime time while copywriting is done either in the early morning or late in the evening. How do you manage your prime time?

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Writing To Communicate

2009-03-16T23:58:00.004+08:00

I have just concluded a conversation with a friend who happens to be a colleague in my former office. We talked about a lot of things from farming to writing. She stays in Cavite, the last town next to Tagaytay and she grows coffee. I don't know how many hectares she has bought out of her retirement. It seems that she enjoys the business. Now she knows about composting to convert the soil to be fertile. One tip from her is saving vegetable peelings by mixing them with the soil in order to become fertile for your vegetables to grow. Now I can talk to her not about project administration or consultants' contract anymore but some things about our other interests.

We talked about blogging and copywriting. Of course when you are out of office for some time you would be missing the things that you've been doing. I encouraged her to write. Writing could give us a renewed feeling of accomplishment everytime you finished an article. Your communication skills is enhanced. Improving the mechanics of your writing -- spelling, grammar, punctuation -- is something you need to work on

So, join the wagon my friend. Let's write. It's fun!

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Education and Training for the Youth

2009-02-24T23:13:00.002+08:00

The youth problem is not new. For the past decades it has been a familiar and well documented phenomenon in most industralized countries. But in spite of growing attention devoted to youth concerns, of protective legal measures, of the greater freedom and choice of opportunities, and of their improved material well-being, in many respects many young people today are experiencing greater difficulties in managing their transition to adulthood.

This arises from the combined effect of the sharp decline in job opportunities and the apparent inability to set up alternative schemes that adequately respond to the needs and interests of the youth. A growing number of young people coming out from compulsory schools do not enter employment. This may be attributed to the standard of education and inappropriate training.

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Message from a Guest Speaker

2009-02-21T22:19:00.004+08:00

I attended a meeting this afternoon for the Catholic Women's League, Vicariate level, at San Lorenzo Ruiz Parish in Taytay, Rizal. The message of the guest speaker priest kept banging in my head regarding the dogma of the catholic faith. He said that only a few of the churchgoers really know why they are in church. Some do not even know how to recite the Lord's Prayer alone. With the group, yes they can recite. Some do not know the Ten Commandments, when in fact this is a basic christian commandment.

He was right. Some of us have been mechanical. When in group, we know but when alone, we fumble. In other words, we have to dig deeper to prove that we are Catholics.

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Mother Theresa

2009-02-20T14:19:00.004+08:00

Early this morning I received a text message allowing me to ask 3 wishes because Mother Theresa is to be canonized very soon in Rome. Mother Theresa will soon be declared a saint. I felt rewarded to have seen a saint in real life - in my time. She was a very down-to-earth person who I saw at the airport in India. I don't know if we came from the same plane.

I read a book saying heroes, saints and martyrs are not born - they are made. What they have in common is character. They nurtured those attitudes and habits that set them apart from the ordinary men. - Mother Theresa mingled with ordinary people like me. They shaped their own character and directed their destiny. They are the models, the "light" for the rest of mankind. That I believe, she was really a model for the rest of mankind. That was Mother Theresa, the "Living Saint".

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A Day at Home With My Compter

2009-02-17T20:54:00.003+08:00

Sitting all day in front of a computer is not easy. This past days I became so occupied doing copywriting jobs with my blogger friend. Actually it is not yet over. We will work together to finish everything by 28 February--our deadline.

We are writing about insurance: medical, dental, family, short-term, student, individual, group, etc. These are the key ideas coupled with related words or places to make the whole key word. It increases one's vocabulary and communication skills. Apart from giving me something worthwhile to do, it teaches me so many things about the topics. It also gives me a virtual experience on the locations of the insurance company.

Without leaving home, I earn and enjoy.

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Thankful Thursday-6

2009-02-12T22:53:00.003+08:00

My son, Leo was given added responsibility in his job. He brings home most of his paper works which has to be done in the computer. Every time he comes home I am seated in front of our one and only computer doing my copywriting job. When I have a deadline I tell him to wait until I'm done but most of the time I gave in to him because I know how it is to be working with a boss.

I don't have a boss, my job is home-based but have a daily quota imposed by my friend who gives me the job. And I love this job because I don't leave the house and experience the traffic outside. Having only one computer is the only problem we have.

Our computer is never idle. When I attend to personal calls, either Leo or Lucky or Lloyd sits in my chair and work on their tasks. Once I am back, I am the priority user. I feel sorry for them and promise myself to give way for them next time. Thanks for their generosity!

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Whatever Happens to the Hostages in the Hands of the The Notorious ASG

2009-02-11T02:24:00.004+08:00

I was reading a hand out on Standard First Aid Training from the Philippine National Red Cross a while ago when it came to my mind the three hostages who are employees of the National Red Cross. How I wish these hostage takers wake up one day and give up their ugly deeds by releasing the hostages.

The ASG, as what they wanted them to be known, are purely terrorists whose brains are corrupted by their selfish motives, whatever they are. I am happy with the government's stand not to offer any amount of ransom money because this money will only give them more wickedness to brag about their success.

I am also wondering why they cannot be eliminated. Our soldiers know where they are hiding, a local official was once permitted to pose a picture with them, but how come they are not caught and put to jail. Please advise.

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Fr. Fernando Suarez' Gift - Slice of Life

2009-02-08T11:47:00.004+08:00

Yesterday, Saturday, the family brought my husband to the healing mass of Fr. Fernando Suarez. During the homily, the priest shared that he was a graduate of Adamson University from the Chemical Engineering department in 1989. His former professors were very happy while waving their hands for acknowledgement.

The healer priest also mentioned that while he was a working student at the university, he became a member of the Children of Mary (COM) group whose assignment is to take charge of all Eucharistic services and the mainstay choir of the school. The COM went rowdy but inspired to have one of their former members famous not only in the eyes of his fellow Adamsonians but in the eyes of the whole country.

I was surprised to see life in my husband after the prayover. He was able to stand and climb the 3-steps stairs where his wheelchair was parked. Of course not on his own but at least he became strong enough to stretch his arms and legs for a try. His faith and ours healed him -- if not totally, there was a start.

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Are Peanuts Food for the Brain?

2009-02-06T16:58:00.002+08:00

I've been so busy the past days. We have lots of writing assignments. My friend said, we will make money in writing. That has still to be waited. But there are lots of advantages in writing. One is, it keeps your mind busy. For me who is a stroke survivor and sometimes experiencing the most dreaded "senior moments" writing enhances my writing skills.

Another advantage is the research work. In a research work, the researcher always find something new, something educational, something to be kept. Imagine if I do research for the rest of my life, I'll be learning so many things to keep me rich in ideas for my writing.

My brain works non-stop. That is why I sometimes cook peanuts for my brain.

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Thankful Thursday-5

2009-02-05T23:14:00.000+08:00

I received my telephone bill this morning. Thanks to my son, Lloyd for giving money to settle the bill.

Sister Julie of CWL phoned me today. I was thankful because she asked me for retreat program. She will print it and distribute one copy to our Assistant Spiritual Director, Fr. Butch and one copy to our Diocesan President.

My ironlady did her Thursday duty of ironing our clothes. She noticed some sewing works on some clothes and did them. Thanks Ampie for an extra job well done.

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The CWL From Cardona

2009-02-02T14:47:00.003+08:00

Being the 1st Vice President of the Diocesan Board for the Diocese of Antipolo, I attended our regular board meeting scheduled every first Sunday of the Month. Yesterday's meeting included the CWL vicariates and units of the diocese. We had the meeting at the Our Lady of Light parish in Cainta.

The agenda of the meeting included the scheduled annual retreat of the whole CWL belonging to the diocese. It will be held in the St. John Marello Retreat House in Tagaytay on 6-8 March 2009. The retreat fee is P1,600 excluding transportation.

During the meeting, the President gave the schedule of CWL units assignment for the rosary prayers and stations of the cross. One CWL sister from Cardona kept on interrupting the president because she was suggesting for a written list. I told her that I will prepare the program where each unit will see their respective assignments. The sister said she lives in Cardona and I should send the program to her house before the retreat. I could have argued with her had I not remembered good manners and etiquette.

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Whatever Happens to the Bloggers from QCSHS

2009-01-30T08:06:00.005+08:00

Bloggers are journalists whose writings appeal to current popular taste or public interest. They are intelligent writers that is why their articles appeal to worldwide readers. I am sure the four bloggers from the Quezon City Science High School are among its brilliant students.

QCHSC is a public school whose students graduate from elementary with grades in science as top. They are required to pass an entrance exams where only the fittest pass. Surely they will graduate from the school bringing with them the knowledge they gained and using them in their struggle not only in their college lives but in their everyday lives. How will it be possible for them to use this knowledge if in so doing they will be penalized. They have the right to voice out their observations without fear of suspension or penalties. Let their opinions count.

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Thankful Thursday-4

2009-01-29T20:44:00.003+08:00

I was thankful that even if my nephew was not hired by the fireworks factory in Trece Martirez when he applied last year, his life was saved.

My internet connection has given me problem since early morning. I was waiting for my friend's feed but we could not get through. When finally it was restored, my friend emailed me saying she will just give me another batch. Thanks God for the consideration.

About 1 PM my husband received the president of our pastoral council as a visitor. He informed us that Fr. Faller will be at Mega Mall for a healing mass on Wednesday, February 4. I promised to bring my husband.

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Work at Home - Does it Work

2009-01-28T14:12:00.002+08:00

For people like me who has just started being a "caregiver", work at home made sense. Besides giving extra income it will also give variation to the caregiving job. I tried typing/editing with materials coming from my friend and found it a brain practice. It enhances memory especially mine who is a senior.

There are a lot of ads in the internet about work at home. The catch is, you will have to pay for membership, or you will pay their manual, or you will pay for the training, etc. In short, they earn before you are ever given the "work at home" job you desire.

I also wanted to expand my tutorial service business -- one which will turn ordinary people extraordinary. I need to invest in computers and people who will work with me to achieve this dream. The problem is financial. In the meantime, blogging will keep me busy. This is work at home.

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The Senate and the Senators

2009-01-28T08:11:00.004+08:00

I watched TV last night and could not help but admire the intelligence and courage of Sen Mirriam Santiago in interrogating the head of the alleged blacklisted World Bank contractor. In her you will find the sincerity of a government official who is really doing her job. We have lots of senators and congressmen but they can only be counted on my fingers those who are really performing their jobs. Most of them are just onlookers during sessions. They are only counted during signature campaigns and of course on the payroll.

I have a high regard for my idol senator. Her detractors branded her as somebody who is a "brenda", meaning brain damage. Why can people not admire a brilliant head but go for one whose only participation is being "part of the group". Or, is it because they themselves do not know the issue?

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Will I Gain Something Through Writing?

2009-01-27T07:14:00.003+08:00

During the past two days, I was so busy assisting my friend doing her articles about insurance. I noticed that in doing so, my nerve stricken brain increased its ability to remember immediately things or names I had been so familiar with in the past.

Since I got a mild stroke five years ago, I usually get blank while talking or writing because I could not immediately remember familiar things I had been used to. One time, even the restaurant where we booked for our wedding reception 34 years ago, I could not immediately recall.

Writing practiced my brain. I appreciate the job given to me by my friend. Twenty different articles with related key words were done in 2 days. Some more articles, Dine.

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The Charisma of Fr. Marvin

2009-01-25T19:33:00.003+08:00

I may be looking for a saint who cannot be found in the personalities of our priests. Will there ever be a saintly priest in our community?

One time I walked out of the room (in my former office) where the Wednesday mass was being held because of the hair style of the officiating priest and his single earring. On another instance, I intentionally did not attend to a meeting called by the priest in our chapel because I did not like his appointing himself as the president of our pastoral council.

This morning I found a priest who would quite fit my ideal priest. When Fr. Marvin presided the mass in our chapel this morning, I felt the presence of an ideal priest. The parishioners gladly participated in the celebration and listened attentively to his homily. After the mass, the people clapped their hands. I clapped with them and wondered what his charisma was. I hope he would always be an ideal priest for the community.

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Blogging is My New Job

2009-01-24T21:17:00.005+08:00

I had typed almost the whole day today. My friend gave me some typing works for a fee and why not? It could become my new career. Anyway, I studied typing in school and learned the computer in the office. (Mind you, during my college days there were no computers.)

Seriously speaking, working at home is a wonderful career. Imagine, at home I can do what I want. I can attend to the household chores, watch TV, attend to a sick husband and yet can do some typing jobs-- and yes, blogging also. I see to it that I visit the blog sites of my visitors. I had started Sneakin Design where I was given two trial articles to write. I already submitted "Walking - Exercise for the Older Population". I am deciding between "Hemorrhoids" and "E commerce" for my second article which I will write tomorrow.

I'm beginning to love writing. I can express my thoughts and wild ideas without committing a sin. Thanks God for my strength today. Please stretch it until tomorrow.

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Parish Priest Who Love Politics

2009-01-22T14:31:00.005+08:00

I was quite turned off upon learning that our parish priest appointed himself president of the chapel pastoral council. Is he not trusting the parishioners to form the council on their own?

For 15 years, our chapel has been under a parish which is run by foreign priests of different nationalities. We nominate possible officers for the pastoral council and the parish priest assigns the position of each nominee. Sometimes, the parish priest assigns people even if they were not nominated for the pastoral council. This year however, the parish priest appointed himself as the president of the pastoral council. The nominated person for the presidency was appointed as coordinator.

I don't find the practice normal. Do we have to obey blindly? We were assured by our bishop that very soon we will have our own priest because the chapel will be converted to a parish. Maybe we can conduct a new election of officers for the new parish.

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Thankful Thursday-3

2009-01-22T09:52:00.000+08:00

It's a Thursday again and thanks to my CWL sister for visiting me at home. She is the President of the CWL unit in our parish but she was absent during our meeting set on the 3rd Sunday of the month. Because of her visit, I was able to appraise her of the discussions during the meeting.

I did my usual marketing at 3 pm. In the market, I did control my temper for the little girl who offered to bring my baskets for a fee. She really induced me to carry my baskets saying, I am old and should not bring heavy baggage.

I thank my neighbor's maid who helped me clean the house even for a fee. We have an arrangement with her employer that on Tuesdays and Thursdays, she would clean my house and on Sundays, she will iron the clothes.

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Who Would be Barack Obama in 2010

2009-01-21T08:57:00.004+08:00

I watched TV early this morning to see the inauguration of US President Barak Obama. So many people attended the inauguration and even participated in the inaugural parade. You can see from their faces that they are fans of the new president. There may be some who were not really supporters during the campaign but after the election they have all become admirers of the president.

During the 2010 election in the Philippines, who would become a Barack Obama to lead us through. We should choose a candidate who is not impeachable, not forced to step down by coup d' tats, not forced to step down by "people power", not to be put in exile, nor forced to leave Malacañang because of court cases. Let us all be vigilant in choosing our future leaders. And when we do, let us all be supportive of his actions.

It is now time for us to change our approach in politics. I am not a politician but for me a true politician is also a good sport. If the candidate we are supporting loses the race, then let us support the winner. Let us not put into our heads that the winner won by cheating. Once we learn to change our mind-set with regard to elections, everyone would be working towards a peaceful and progressive community of the people of God.

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The Sound of Music

2009-01-20T12:45:00.003+08:00

I am really puzzled by people's ability to see things in music, I can't. But we learned in college that a piece of music can change the atmosphere in a classroom or prepare students for a new activity. It can amuse and entertain, it can make a satisfactory connection between the world of leisure and the world of learning.

Music is a powerful stimulus for student engagement because it speaks directly to our emotions while still allowing us to use our brains to analyze it and its effects if we wish. Appreciation of music is not a complex skill. Most students have little trouble perceiving clear changes of mood and style. In class, therefore, we can play film music and get students to say what kind of film they think it comes from. We can get them to listen to music which describes people and say what kind of people they are.

Take note Education students. Add the sound of music to your teaching strategies.

When Should We Eat?

2009-01-19T11:40:00.003+08:00

When I visited my niece in Vancouver she noticed that I was quite chubby. And she also knew that the reason why I opted for an early retirement was the mild stroke I experienced while working in the office. Because she is a nurse, she asked me about the food I eat and how often do I eat. Her last statement was, "you know auntie, we don't eat because it is time to eat, we only eat when we feel hungry". It was a new rule for me to follow. I don't miss eating during breakfast time, snack time, lunch time, afternoon snack time, and dinner time. Even if I feel still full, if it is time to eat, I do (and always heavy). When I heard my niece talking to me as if I was not her nanny when she was young, I began to analyze her statement. She was right. I do eat a lot.

So when do we eat? The normal processes of human digestion are designed for intermittent eating and not for continuous eating. The stomach should be allowed enough time to complete its handling of one meal before another is taken. Eating between meals handicaps the digestive organs. Snacks dull one's appetite for the next regular meal.

In choosing your foods, you do better to eat the heavier foods early in the day and the easily digested foods in the evening. Eating heavy foods in the evening may interfere with sound sleep. The taking of snack just before bedtime is not a healthful practice.

It is in Losing that You Recognize the Value of Something

2009-01-18T15:14:00.006+08:00

I was excited when I retired from my job in a global institution in May 2006 under an optional retirement package. I thought that was the best time for me to give time for myself after 26 years of working with that office and 10 years of previous employment with another international organization. When I came back after a grand vacation in America and Canada, I did not have anymore the excitement of being free. I miss my job, and I missed wearing my blazers and office clothes every morning. I miss my usual work environment!

Since I could not become a consultant, I put up a tutorial center in front of our home and a canteen for the students and nannies, and homeowners. They were making good. I have three teachers for the center and three salesgirls for the canteen. One day a parent glanced at our billboard which indicate “who we are”. He was interested in my background as an MA graduate with field of concentration in school administration and supervision. He invited me to work with his culinary school as director of operations and management. I accepted the offer and worked as a middle management executive.

At about 2:00 a.m. last 22 December 2008, I was awakened by the moaning sound coming from my husband. His body was twisting and his speech was slurred. He was having a stroke! We brought him to the hospital and spent Christmas Day at the ICU. He spent 5 days in the ICU; he could not move left body. It was paralyzed from his left cheek to his left foot. Thanks to the holidays declared by Madam President. It was long enough for me to spend time in the hospital as a “caregiver” (my children have their own families, except my eldest son who is still single and my youngest son who is in college).

My husband has not fully recovered but I requested the hospital to release him and have his therapy as an out patient. We went home on the eve of New Year. The question was, who would take care of him when all of us go out to our respective obligations. I accepted the responsibility and resigned from my job. I considered it a big slice from my life. Now I am home giving love and care to my helpless husband proving to him that “for better or for worse, in sickness and in health, till death do us part”.

What are Emotions For?

2009-01-17T14:27:00.003+08:00

Is it correct to advise our daughters to use their head over their heart when accepting a boyfriend? In most instances it should be "heart over head". Intelligence come to nothing when emotions hold sway. Our deepest feelings, our passions and longings are essential guides and that we owe much of the existence of emotions to their power in human affairs. Our emotions guide us in facing predicaments and tasks too important to leave to intellect alone.

It is only a potent love that could lead a parent override the impulse for personal survival in the urgency of saving a cherished child. When it comes to shaping our decisions and our actions, feeling counts every bit as much and often more than thought.

LEAP - Your Jumpstart to Academic Success

2009-01-16T14:03:00.003+08:00

LEAP is an acronym we use in our center which means: Learning English for Academic Purposes. We use this strategy in our tutorial center. Since our business is tutorial services, we doubly push our tutees to learn English first as a tool to learn their other subjects and to acquire academic skills. We assist our students in preparing their school assignments. However, they are first taught to understand and appreciate each question.

Our program develops English and academic skills of our students. (i) Speaking - students develop confidence, learn to interact with people, and learn to share opinions. (ii) Listening - students learn to follow conversations at natural speed, understand nonverbal communications, and use active listening skills. (iii) Reading - students enjoy local newspapers, use information to build vocabulary, and apply pre-reading skills. (iv) Writing - students understand the writing process, write in a variety of styles, and eventually learn editing skills.

The above program will also be offered this summer to local students. Please call 642-9319 for inquiry.

Thankful Thursday-2

2009-01-15T13:31:00.002+08:00

As I wake up this morning I remembered it was Thursday. I have so many things to be thankful for.

My sick husband wet his bed but I wondered why I did not say my usual homily. Instead I changed his beddings and had him lie down again after changing his clothes. Of course I assured him that I always love him.

My son-1 brought home groceries, the problem I was trying to solve the night before. I have almost complete stock of everything that we need in the kitchen and in the bathroom.

Although I did not win in the lotto drawn last night, I am still thankful because God must have reasons why he is delaying my award.