===+=== I love the winning, I can take the losing, but most of all I love to play. - Boris Becker ===+=== Okie, what's cooking now? ~LESSONS FROM THE lost CELLPHONE... ~BiTZ's Writing Prowess ~30 Days to 2011... Something NEW ahead! ~PlayProd Report No. 03 ===+===
(This is my first Short Story made for LIT-tie Monday. I just wrote this little story today. Sometimes, friendship is unbreakable, even death cannot break the bond that two persons have for each other. This is based on a true story, yet the characters and events given here are merely fictional. )
This one is for God's gift to me, Gigz, my best friend, and for Gigz (+), his old best friend.
GIGZ...
Totoo ba itong sandaling ito?
Ito ang tanong na umiikot sa aking diwa ngayon. Nakatayo ako ngayon sa harap ng aking kaibigan na pinakamamahal. Tinitignan ko ang kanyang maamong mukha. Halatang pagod na pagod na siya, pero pilit pa rin siyang lumalaban. Alam kong nais pa niyang magpatuloy, ngunit may pumipigil sa kanya. Ako man, kahit na nais ko siyang tulungan, ay walang magawa.
Alam kong dumating na naman ang puntong ako ay magpapaalam sa isang tao. Isang kaibigan. Ngunit bakit ganito? Kahit ang isipin ito ay napakahirap para sa akin! Napakahirap! Sapagkat siya ay aking matalik na kaibigan, ang aking best friend...
... siya si Randy, subalit mas kilala ko siya sa palayaw na Gigz.
At alam kong kukunin na siya sa ilang sandali dahil sa sakit niyang Leukemia.
JEM@Blogger is now opening its doors to listen to your problems and experiences!
Do you have any problems in any aspect of your life?
Lovelife ba yan?
Family problem?
Or something that threatens your faith?
I will be here to listen and give the enlightening, if not the right answer to your queries in life. Just send a message on my profile at Facebook.com (DO NOT POST IT ON MY WALL), and I would try my best to share a piece of advice to you (It will be posted on my blog.). Hihintayin ko yan, ah!
BiTZ of Advice... Coming this December 2010 at http://johnezekielmaria.blogspot.com :)
Evening Prayer for the Vigil of Nascent Human Life
November 27, 2010, 6pm to 12mn
Following the call of His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI to pray and have vigil for the defense of the Human life on the eve of the First Sunday of Advent, I would now share with you a copy of the Vespers to be used for tonight, November 27, 2010, the eve of the New Liturgical Year.
It shall be recited before the Rosary, either in the community or in the parish (which the Holy Father strongly recommends) or alone (in the instance that your community or parish does not have a vigil tonight, or you are still on work or at school like me).
We hope that through our efforts to pray for human life in the womb, we may altogether work for it in our government systems. I am one with the Holy Father in proclaiming: this is a call for us not to be silent anymore, but to prayandwork for human life!
I would like to thank 100% Katolikong Pinoy for the copy of the Vespers.
If you are reading this on the main page of the blogsite, please click the link 'read on...' to view the whole Vespers.
First Sunday of Advent The Beginning of the New Liturgical Year Cycle A, Year I Is 2,1-5 || Rom 13,11-14 Mt 24,37-44
STAY AWAKE! BE PREPARED!
I was writing my rendition of Ur Sunday Dose for the 33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time (entitled “Is It the End?”) when my friend passed by to see what I was doing. He was startled by the reflection and wondered why I was writing such. He tapped me (since I was facing the computer as I was in an internet café then) and said, “Bakit ka ganyan mag-type? Para saan yan? Si Ama lang ang nakakaalam ng wakas natin.”
At first, I wanted to tell him the real intention of such write-up. But eventually, I opted to zip my mouth and reflect on what the coincidence has to tell me. Yes. God alone knows when the end will be, or how will it happen. Even the thought of it takes us out of our minds, and yet, whatever we have in our minds is not enough to portray that horrific, yet glorious moment when the Son of Man will finally come to judge us, and to take the righteous into the ethereal gates of heaven, and the wicked into the burning realm of hell.
We now open the New Liturgical Year (Cycle A, Year I) with this season of Advent; we hear the voice of Jesus speaking to us, “Stay awake! Be Prepared!” At this time of the year, when we are in expectation of the humble coming of Our Lord on Christmas, we are also called to prepare for his Second Coming, the Parousia. We don’t know how it will happen, or when, what’s important is for us to look beyond what we have right now and prepare ourselves for this event. In today’s circumstances, we have seen and heard lots of stories how people nowadays thoughtlessly lean toward immorality and continue living in sin. Numerous terrorist attacks have been done, we’re hearing in the news of killings, robbery, and lustful activities every now and then. Our government is trying its best to pass bills which would end life and put more money into their pockets. Even our brothers in the faith are now participating in these worthless acts, putting oneself above the other and putting him in utmost shame. This is our world today, and we may admit it or not, but the planet is at its worst, way more sinful than the people of Sodom and Gomorrah.
Of this, Jesus tells us, “Just as in the days of Noah, so it will be at the coming of the Son of Man.” As we all know, the world of Noah is a world of prostitution, greed and gluttony. After Noah entered the Ark, all the Earth was washed up, with all its inhabitants. But our world today is way more evil than that of Noah’s. And given that situation, will the Son of Man come to judge each one of us.
Jesus continues, “Therefore, stay awake, for you do not know when the Son of Man will come.” Like a thief in the night, these things would take place. While everyone is sleeping, or awake enjoying their lives, Jesus would come and visit us. On that day, for sure, everyone will be of awe, repent for their sins but it may just be too late. Those who are found wearing the armor of light and living properly as in the day (Second Reading) will be with God to enjoy His graces as the fulfillment of their good deeds on Earth. All these things on that day and time we do not know, or even expect.
We now light the first candle of Advent, the candle of Hope. We wait for Jesus’ coming with hope in our hearts. We prepare ourselves for remembering his First coming as man there in the manger on that night; likewise, we prepare ourselves for his Second Coming as a merciful judge. We may not know when he will come to judge us, and for sure it will happen, but we are called to prepare for this event. We are to live a very holy life, and to shun the deeds of the night. We are to wake up from our sleep, to rise from our sins, and to hope for the coming of the Real Sun of salvation, which is Jesus Christ.
Yes, it is hard nowadays to live according to God’s will. That’s why we are to dwell ourselves into prayer, to converse with Him. I always say, not on my own strength, but on God’s grace. Yes, He is the only one who could help us live in the right path. Without his inspiration, everything we do would all be in vain. From him comes the grace, for us to use and share with others.
Once again, we begin our journey as Christians in this New Liturgical Year. His call is always fresh and new! Let us heed His call… “Stay Awake! Be Prepared!”
PRAYER
Lord Jesus, as we once again open ourselves to welcome you in this Season of Advent, help us to always stay awake for your coming, not only as a little infant at Bethlehem, but as a Powerful King at the end of time. We do not know when, or how, but we know that you would come in your full power to judge us as our Merciful God.
Jesus, come and enkindle in us that flame of living hope which would help us work untiringly and pray unceasingly as we wait for you. Never leave us in vain, but in your strength and grace, may we always stay awake and be prepared for your coming into our midst. May we always wear the armor of light, which is nobody else but You, and hope on that day when you will come to bring us to eternal happiness with You.
Maranatha! Come Lord Jesus! Amen.
Mary, our Queen and Mother, pray for us.
BïTZëëlöG_112410 :)
=== Nov. 28, 2010
To all our friends at 100% Katolikong Pinoy, and to all the Madlang Faithful, thank you very much from the bottom of my heart for giving me the chance of lighting the first candle of Advent of the Fanpage.
I would also want to thank my Professor, Mrs. Julianne S. Domingo, for the support that she conveyed to me, and for patiently examining my rendition of USD today for possible grammatical errors. You are certainly the Mother of All! Thanks, ma'am!
A chance like such comes once, that's why I would like to thank you all for your continued trust and support. This is something that I cherish and care for, through giving you posts that continue to shape and inspire us.
At the end, I am still the Lord's unworthy writing machine. I entrust all these to our God, the Emmanuel, the powerful King born in a stable for our salvation, with a prayer that he would continue to bless us and guide us especially at our down times.
Once again, thank you, 100% Katolikong Pinoy, and to all who read and support JEM@ Blogger. KUDOS TO ALL OF US!!!
Ever since I began rendering Gospel Reflections last July, Ur Sunday Dose has gained enough, if not much, credit from people, known or not. The comments and praises which I received from the whole blogosphere gave me the inspiration each and every Friday to continue serving you as God's humble writing machine.
I have nothing to say but Thank You! Maraming Salamat! To God, and to you all! For the support that you gave from the first post. For being my inspiration and critic. I said on the launching post, I'm not a master in giving Gospel Reflections, and I know I have a long way to go, but with you as my viewers and supporters, and with the Lord God as my guiding light, I know that I could carry on every Friday posting inspiring reflections which are words of hope for the despaired, and encouragement for those who are in their down moments.
Continue praying and supporting not only Ur Sunday Dose, but also the other post series of JEM@Blogger. Thank you guys!
And so, as we begin the New Liturgical Year in a few days, something new would also be added to the usual reflections that you see every Friday in Ur Sunday Dose. Watch out for it!
===+=== Finally, be strong in the Lord, and in the strength of his might. - St. Paul (Ephesians 6,10) ===+=== And so, what's for my post this week? ~Samu't saring disgrasya... ~With hope in the heart... ~PlayProd Report No. 02 ===+===
SAMU'T-SARING DISGRASYA...
The past week may be named as another week of disgraces and fallings. Thing led to another, to name a few...
~ My confusion of the flesh is on the rise again. ~ My MP4 was lost last Friday, due to negligence. ~ Our PC crashed; it so happened that I was using the computer when it occurred. ~ I left Threece Familia for study reasons... well, because I don't want be with some of them anymore. ~ My bike's front wheel boomed good. Pumutok ang interyor niya. ~ My fellow lay ministers had undergone a massive lay-off (If ever I am still serving by this time, I am sure I would also be included among the list.) of our Parish Priest. Fr. Rey! Bishop Deo! Mabasa ninyo sana ito! ~ Of course, I would count those petty offenses that I usually commit every now and then.
If I would sum it up, it is one of my most depressing weeks I ever undergone - wholistically - maybe third or fourth from the week I told my mommy the news that I am not already going to school. Bummer weeks, as I usually call it.
Maybe, this is not my week after all. Nope. I felt empty all the way from my last WedPost to this one. I needed enough strength, that I can't even catch some from my fount. Napakahirap humugot kung walang-wala ka sa hulog.
It is in these points of life when I draw myself to prayer. At a certain point, I felt a tap of comfort. Though it is not that common, still, I make good use of it, so that when it is lost already, I would feel strengthened.
This is but the start of everything that I need to undergo for the coming days and months leading to the end of the year. My prayer is but the same, and I know God is listening to me at this time.
Jesus! Son of David! Have mercy on me, a sinner!
===+===
WITH HOPE IN THE HEART...
Unusual, but inspiring...
That's my experience in the jeepney yesterday, Tuesday. I was going home from School, so I took a jeepney ride. My favorite place to sit on is beside the driver. I would like to see the same old view that I see every single day.
When the jeep arrived at Hulong Duhat (Malabon City, the last barangay before Tanza, Navotas City), the driver asked me, "Boy. Anung oras na?" He's asking me of the time. I don't have any watch, so I took my cellphone to see the time. I said, "Boss, 3:15 pm po."
Then he said, or shared, "Ang aga pa pala. Haay! Ang hirap kumita ng pera. Alam mo, boy? 35 years na akong namamasada ng jeep. Isipin mo, 35 years! Ang pamasahe noon, 15 sentimos lang. Ang mga anak ko, walang pakinabang. Ako ang nagpapagal, ako ang naghihirap. Ang hirap talaga."
I just smiled as I was listening to him. I don't know what to say, knowing the fact that I'm not in a proper disposition to tell him a very rude advice such as, "Naku po! Kawawa naman po pala kayo!" or something like that.
I asked the Lord to guide me on the proper words to say. I know that through me, he could comfort the driver. I just needed his help, and we're on the go.
When we arrived at the last stop-over, I smiled at the driver and, not knowing its source but saying it with confidence, I told him, "Sige lang po, tatay. Mahal tayo ng Diyos. Tutulungan po niya kayo."
As I go down the jeepney, I had a feeling of comfort. I know that the Lord used his sinful servant again to give words of comfort and hope for the afflicted. I continue to pray for Manong Driver, that he may continue to work and serve the community with hope in his heart that he would someday reap the fruit of his labor somewhere after this life.
God bless him!
===+===
PlayProd Report No. 2
What's for today? Well, we are going to have our auditions for our play, Purgatoryo. From the audition, we would come to know who would take the lead roles. The story? Maybe on the next WedPost, upon the approval of our director, I could share with you some bits of the story.
Sorry, if you don't feel contented with this report. I have this to say, just let us pass the next two months, then I can be safe already to share with you some events regarding the play of BSE2B. So, just watch out guys!
===+===
WHAT LIES AHEAD? (Greetings and Announcements...)
~ Neo Catechumenal Communities of Santa Cruz Parish, our Announcement of Advent and Christmas is on Friday, 7:00 PM, at Christ the King Chapel.
~ Also, our Re-echo Convivence will be held on December 4-5 at Claret Retreat House, Quezon City. Prepare Php1,400.00 for the house fee.
~ We are going to kickstart the Liturgical New Year with the first rendition of Ur Sunday Dose for Cycle A. Watch out for it on Friday. Also, I would be giving a reflection of the First Sunday of Advent on the Facebook Fanpage of 100% Katolikong Pinoy, so please pray for me that I could give a very good rendition, and with that inspire a lot of souls.
~ HAPPY BIRTHDAY this week to the following guys:
Nov. 24: Rowan Emerson Acupang
Nov. 25: Mark Francis Tambunting, May Margarette Santos, Mark Andrew Baron, Shawynn Morales
Nov. 26: Jefferson Esguerra Nov. 27: Karlo Ventilacion Nov. 28: Cairyl Cruz, Mary Monica Veedor Nov. 30: Roxanne Faye Laquindanum May God continue to bless you, your families, and all your dreams and aspirations in life!
~ Thanks for your continued patronage to all my blogposts here in JEM.blogger.com. May God continue to bless you and your day!
Out of the little nowhere, I hear Various echoes coming from within. Shingling, Shangling, consuming my soul, taking me out like there's no tomorrow.
Echoes in, and echoes out... Voices of care, of shame and comfort. "I love you," "I hate you, "I'm sorry." "Don't worry, I'll take good care of me."
I ask, what is this occurrence? What is this threatening coincidence? I may be out of my mind, but what the heck? This thing I remember may give the trick...
I have a girl, I love her so much; We fought, like there's no match. I ask her forgiveness, but to no avail. She left me, with memories all in a trail.
My Girl! What is happening? You left me, but your voice still echoes within! I go here and there, but you follow still. I remember how much you loved me.
You may leave me all the while... but as long as your love stays with me, I will be happy always to hear your voice, as it echoes from within.
ACT OF CONSECRATION OF THE WHOLE HUMAN RACETO JESUS CHRIST, OUR KING Most sweet Jesus, Redeemer of the human race, look down upon us humbly prostrate before Thy altar. We are Thine, and Thine we wish to be; but to be more surely united with Thee, behold each one of us freely consecrates himself today to Thy most Sacred Heart.
Many indeed have never known Thee; many too, despising Thy precepts, have rejected Thee. Have mercy on them all, most merciful Jesus, and draw them to Thy Sacred Heart. Be Thou King, O Lord, not only of the faithful who have never forsaken Thee, but also of the prodigal children who have abandoned Thee; grant that they may quickly return to their Father's house lest they die of wretchedness and hunger. Be Thou King of those who are deceived by erroneous opinions, or whom discord keeps aloof, and call them back to the harbor of truth and unity of faith, so that soon there may be but one flock and one Shepherd. Be Thou King of all those who are still involved in the darkness of idolatry or of Islamism, and refuse not to to draw them all into the light and kingdom of God. Turn Thine eyes of mercy towards the children of that race, once Thy chosen people: of old they called down upon themselves the Blood of the Savior; may It now descend upon them, a laver of redemption and of life.
Grant, O Lord, to Thy Church assurance of freedom and immunity from harm; give peace and order to all nations, and make the earth resound from pole to pole with one cry: "Praise be to the Divine Heart that wrought our salvation; to It be glory and honor for ever." Amen.
Indulgences: 5 years; plenary once a month for daily recitation on the usual conditions. On the feast of Christ the King, to be solemnly read with the Litany of the Sacred Heart before the blessed Sacrament exposed: then, 7 years, and a plenary indulgence supposing Confession and Communion (Pius XI, 1926, 1927, 1932)
Nov. 21, 2010 34th Sunday in Ordinary Time SOLEMNITY OF THE KINGSHIP OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST 2Sm 5,1-3 || Col 1,12-20 Lk 23,35-43
REMEMBER ME, MY JESUS...
And so, here comes the end of the year.
All throughout the Church, we celebrate the last Sunday of Ordinary Time as the Solemnity of Christ the King. We observe this day through Solemn Eucharistic Celebrations, Vigils, and Solemn Processions of the image of Christ the King, and the Blessed Sacrament.
This day is full of awe and sacredness for its religious nature. Even for just a day, we acclaim Christ as the King and Center of the whole human race. While we spend 364 days of the year committing sin and evil acts, still we allot a day to celebrate Christ as the victor King of all who are saved by His blood.
Among the 3-cycle Gospels of this solemnity, the Gospel of the Year C (that is, this year) is the one which I like the most, because of its very humble ambiance. Though it is sorrowful in form, we can still see some light through it.
We go back to the Cross. Jesus is that great King nailed and died for our salvation. We can never acclaim Him as king, if he never did offer his life for us. Every drop of blood, every scourge on his body, he accepted for the love of his brothers and sisters, for his Father's sons and daughters, for US!
Despite the jeers of the world, one sees God's mercy to him. We see the image of Saint Dimas, the repentant thief on the Cross. While everyone, including the other thief, threw words of remorse to our Lord, Dimas shouts out, "Have you no fear of God, for you are subject to the same condemnation? And indeed, we have been condemned justly, for the sentence we received corresponds to our crimes, but this man has done nothing criminal."
The thief "stole" the Kingdom on that frightful moment. While everyone stands there disgracing Jesus, one comes to Him in confidence. When no more recourse is to be found, Dimas shouts out, "Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom." He lays his full trust to the Lord, somebody whom he has heard a little of, being a criminal in jail for so long. Yet this little acquaintance did not stop him from asking Jesus a very special request. In the Crucified, St. Dimas saw God's glory! From the cross, and as if He wants to reach Dimas, Jesus answered his second last word, "Amen, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise." How sweet is this scenario! Despite all the odds, the repentant thief comes to Jesus asking him Life. On the brick of death, Jesus did not refused the request of the repentant thief. Now, Dimas is among the Numerous saints who sing God's praises every now and then.
We ask ourselves, when do we ask Jesus to remember us? Whenever we are in our darkest? At the point of despair? When the world does not have the solution to our problems? This may seem very much odd, but this is true. We always point out that we only pray to God when we are at our problems, and seldom when we are at the happy times.
We should have no fear of coming to Jesus. He always remembers us. Especially at times when we feel no security of riches, fame and power, we may come to Him, and ask him to remember us! I have never known of such a time when Jesus refused a request of a man in full recourse to him. He always remembers us at every place and every time. He looks after our every word and deed. He guides us continually. He loves us and listens to us. Why fear? If the repentant thief could steal the Kingdom of God, how much more can we do it?
In the Eucharist, Jesus reigns as the eternal King of all Creation. He wiped out the curse of sin from the Cross (Second Reading). At the Eucharist, he continues to offer his Body and Blood for us to be in full union with him. We continually acclaim him as King, especially at this Sacrament of love.
As the Liturgical year ends this week, we pray to Christ our King, that like St. Dimas, we may be able to snatch paradise for us to cherish at the end of our days, through our deeds and words. Like St. Dimas, we ask Jesus to always remember us, especially at the times when we are down on the trials of this world. Let Jesus Christ reign as the King and Center of all our Lives.
===+=== "Courage doesn't always roar. Sometimes courage is the quiet voice at the end of the day saying, 'I will try again tomorrow.'" -Mary Ann Radmacher ===+=== And so, what's for my post this week? ~Yes! we're good in English!!! ~NO more renewal for me, what's next? ~PlayProd Report No. 01 ===+===
YES! WE'RE GOOD IN ENGLISH!!!
This may seem very awkward, and people may think of me as somebody who uses the opportunity, but what the heck!?!
A few weeks ago, Ms. Lee Da Hae, a Korean Artist, tried to imitate how an English Teacher of three different accents would request for a glass of water. On the instance, she used the American, British and Filipino accents.
The result of the imitation? A video that is really insulting to us Filipinos. For those who do not know it yet, (practically, you don't know anything...)
When we informed our English Professor of this video, her reply was this... "The nerve! Mas malupit pang mag-ingles ang mga koreano, hapon at mga chinese kumpara sa mga Pilipino! Mas wild pa ang kanilang accent ng English compared to us, mas naiintindihan pa ang English natin compared sa kanila.
Filipinos were endowed with the gift of a tongue that can adapt to any situation. Look. When we are in front of an American audience, we can speak English without any lapses, walang mali. Still, when we are here in the Philippines, we can speak pure Tagalog or any dialect for the matter. Want some examples? CHARICE and LEA SALONGA. When they are in the US, they speak pure American English, yet when they are here, they can speak Tagalog and be a freak out of it."
And when my professor says it, I know it is true! Besides, this adaptable tongue had taken the Pinoy to global standards. The fact that youth from other nations study English here in the Philippines, and the innumerable Call Centers here in our land... Is it not a proof that we are good English Speakers? God!
I am a BSE student, taking English as my Major subject. The vid made me laugh alright, and I use it as a joke to my classmates, imitating the Filipino Teacher asking for a glass of water. Still, it hurts me that people of other races try to give a negative note on how we speak English. It may not be noticed first-hand, but look at how we try our best to speak the language fluently and accurately.
To Ms. Lee Da Hae, if ever you would read this, I understand that you only want to make Koreans laugh through your jokes. But it is not your job to ridicule other people, on their whole, be it the way they speak, walk or think. Please, ma'am, next time, when you try to strike a joke, give it in a way tht would not hurt others. Finally, ma'am, let me shout out. YES! WE ARE GOOD ENGLISH SPEAKERS!!!
SO, CAN I HAVE A GLASS OF WATER PLEASE?
===+===
No More Renewal for me, what's next?
The Diocesan Liturgical Commission of Kalookan had held its yearly renewal for members of Special Ministry of the Word last Saturday. According to my lector-friends, it was attended by the members of our Parish, lessened by the senior members who retired already, and other members who have their own reasons, I included.
My reason is practically my study leave. I told them to wait for me next year (which would not happen... awwts), when I'm already finished. But, they would never know the real reason behind my backing-out as a lector. It goes beyond studies. Way far beyond. (For privacy, I would opt not to speak of it anymore. Still, my past blogposts would give you a clue of what I mean.)
I ask myself, Now that I'm not renewed anymore, what's next?
Well, that would practically mean more time for myself, with no regrets. I would focus on studies and continue to live my life as a simple lay. That would mean lots of concentration on my other plans in life, away from the chisms inside the church, and the fuzz of schedules, and somebody who's pinning you at the back. You know who you are.
In other words, that would mean lots of time for my own rest. This is something which I virtually missed for more than six years. Now, I would have its totality.
I would have a very happy Christmas and New Year ahead perhaps. All this since I'm not tied anymore to such an organization which thinks of itself more than others. Out of a council full of plastic thoughts. Out of a holy person full of bad and insulting thoughts.
God, if this is the way in which you would want me to take, then may Your Holy Will be done! Guide me as your simple lay servant. Form me according to your desire. I entrust this matter to you.
By the way, if ever those concerned would read this, I'm very much sorry but I would never apologize with my views posted here in this section. You know how aggressive I am when it comes to you. I hope you understand my point. I'm always praying for you guys. God bless you!
===+===
PlayProd Repoort No. 1
ENG115 - Play Production. One of my most favorite subjects for a couple of reasons. This time, I would deal with the subject seriously, to the point that I would share with you some of the latest happenings with the subject, and with my classmates. Though it may not be all, still, I would like to share even a little of it with you.
Last week, we had elected our set of officers. I don't know them yet, except for the director, Ray Adrian Capuno. Maybe next week, I would give you the official list of Production Staff of the class.
We also had a little brainstorming on what genre to take, and its plot to be given focus on. Today, we would decide on what genre we should take, along with its story. We go bigtime, since it will be held at Malabon Amphitheater sometime in March 2011. This would mean a lot of money, time, props, and hard work.
Please pray for us, that we may have a very good rendition of the play. We may not give our excellent one, but we would exert all our efforts to give you guys an enjoyable one.
Still, as I always say, Not a yes, not a no. Always GOD-WILLING!!!
===+===
WHAT LIES AHEAD? (Greetings and Announcements...)
~ Neo Catechumenal Communities 2-4 of Santa Cruz Parish, our Re-echo Convivence will be held on December 4-5 at Claret Retreat House, Quezon City. Prepare Php1,400.00 for the house fee.
~ 3ce Fam's next GEB on Sunday, Nov. 21, at Pinuno's crib, Navotas City. Be there by 4:00 PM.
~ Talking about next Sunday, Year ends on Sunday, with the Solemnity of Christ the King. Please go to your respective Parish offices for the schedule of celebration in your own community. I would give my best to present a beautiful year-ender of Ur Sunday Dose, so watch out for it on Friday.
(I wrote this poem - I believe it is a poem - when I had a sit-in with Second Year BSE Students. I saw these set of words in the chalkboard, a quote. Here, it is italicized before the poem itself. My mind had gone thoughts with that, and so, the poem. I dedicate this to all who think that they have the capacity to do certain things, yet ridiculed by the mob, like I did.)
WORDS FROM THE CHALKBOARD... September 01, 2010
I know that they can do it, I can let go... I know that they can do it, I will let go... I see I can do it, I have let go...
I see my potentials. I see my skills. I can show the world that I can and I will. And yet, there are people around that continue to jeer me, telling me that I cannot do something well and good. With that reality I saw how the world can be too cruel, too vague.
They keep telling me that they can do more than I can. They are strong. They are mightier. They are way to cool than me. They are bad. They are rude. They are evil. Evil...
My conscience tells me never to give up, to continue fighting... ...my mind tells otherwise. It tells me to give others their turn. I must give it up.
And so, it happened. I gave them their long-awaited chance. I gave everything, leaving nothing for myself. Nothing at all.
Days passed. Months have came and gone...
They failed! After long hours of neglect, bad work, pride and riots between my jeerers, the project was not realized. Everyone left in guilt and remorse.
And I? I wished that I'd never gave them the chance. I wished time may go back. I close my eyes and see myself bringing success to the project. I see myself doing it and was happy with it...
...but all in vain...
...my eyes are closed for time and eternity. I can't do anything anymore. No more...
33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Mal 3,19-20a || 2Thes 3,7-12 Lk 21,5-19
IS IT THE END?
And so we join the people who ask, Is it the end? After every war, plague, typhoon and earthquake, we tend to ask, is it the end of the world?
We watched the movie 2012 and made ourselves horrified by the terror which will be brought about by the supposed end of the world. We see the earth's crust break before our very eyes, with the buildings atop of it shatter to the endless ground. We see a big asteroid fly its way towards earth swallowing everything in water and dust. People go nowhere in terror. Everyone dies in great devastation...
... and we ask, Is it the end? Will we experience it exactly on 2012, or sometime soon?
Jesus answers: When you hear of wars and insurrections, do not be terrified; for such things must happen first, but it will not immediately be the end... Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be powerful earthquakes, famines, and plagues from place to place; and awesome sights and mighty signs will come from the sky.
Yes, these things will take place according to God's plan, but for us to ask if this is it, well my answer would be one with Jesus': Such things must happen first, but it will not immediately be the end.
Is it our right to know when will it be? No, absolutely not! It is under the watchful, yet omniscient eye of God who knows when, and how. We are to stay watchful and awake, like the ten virgins somewhere in the Gospel. We are to see to it that we do everything according to God's will. We should continue to work, and pray, for the coming of God's Kingdom here on earth.
Such things require a lot of sacrifice and suffering, yet we will persevere the fight in good intentions. We have nothing to fear when we face our end, for as Christ said, You will be hated by all because of my name, but not a hair on your head will be destroyed. By your perseverance you will secure your lives.
This may be a little complicated reflection, because the passage this week covers a lot of things which the human mind tries to comprehend, yet does it in vain. Yet, we do it in God's grace, knowing that He has something in store for us this Sunday.
And we see this: Yes, the end is near, very much near; and we have to prepare for its coming through living a holy life. For all those who live God's will will be sure to experience the glory of Heaven where he reigns as Eternal King.
One final tip for those guys out there who believe in 2012: STOP BELIEVING IN SUPERSTITIONS! TRUST IN GOD INSTEAD!
...Post No. 10...Nov.10, 2010... ===+=== "Courage is clearly a readiness to risk self-humiliation." -Nigel Dennis ===+=== And so, what's for my post this week? ~Second Sem's here!!! ~Bandit Cleaning ~When everything's alright... ===+===
SECOND SEM'S HERE!!!
I've said a lot about this topic, still the thrill of the second semester ticked through my veins. It was like a breath of fresh air after all!!!
First day of classes was held yesterday, and instead of my usual 10:00 AM Wake-up time of SemBreak, I returned - miraculously - to my early WUT of 5:30 AM. I don't know what I'm feeling, yet I feel a lot energized though I have a very bad cold. It was like I am in a state of happiness and excitement, something which I missed the other sem.
My first experience with my present classmates is a lot confusing, though. Not to hurt their feelings, but I felt a little aloft with some of them. Just for a fact, I've entered a class having the smallest number of BSE-English Major students, and that feeling makes me empty a little bit. I've been used to having 30+ classmates; now, I have 15+. It was really a confusing and nerve-wracking situation.
Yet, when it comes to academics, I see their competencies in studying. Yes, they tend to help each other, and yet they still have to work on their own. Well, seems to me that it will be an interesting semester after all.
At the end of the day, I'd still entrust this semester to the Lord, as I always do. I always pray for Him to guide me with his divine Wisdom. I also pray for my classmates that I may adjust to their needs, and that they may welcome and accept me as I am.
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Bandit Cleaning
Well, days before the semester began, I've lent a hand in cleaning the school. It was through the project of the Supreme Stud Council, CMU Inter-org Clean-up Drive 2010. I came as a representative of the English Society, under the leadership of Ms. Jocelyn Rosas. We were little in number, yet we still did our best
Though one of my most love-hated jobs was cleaning the house, there was such spirit in me that made me clean my assigned classroom in a near-perfect state. I did not noticed it at first, but I saw it as an enlightening and enjoyable experience. Want an evidence? Is the picture enough?
Well, it gave me a way to end the SemBreak in a meningful manner, in anticipation of the second semester. Thanks to the SSC for providing us a project like this, and to my schoolmates which helped the Council in giving the school campus a bath.
Why was this sub-post entitled Bandit Cleaning? As I was cleaning kasi the classroom, I covered my nose with a hankie, just like in the pic above. I am prone to nasal allergies, that's why I need to do such. That was loved in the pic. Very much.
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When Everything's Alright...
Three sentences:
Next time, if you feel that you're not really invited in a birthday celebration, please don't show-off, even if you're the host.
If you are assigned for a particular job, do it to impress the boss. You are to do this step if your immediate boss is not for you.
If you and your immediate boss is in a quarrel and it is his birthday, show up... just for the food.
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WHAT LIES AHEAD? (Greetings and Announcements...)
~ In connection with my first sub-post, Second Sem's Here!!!, here is my schedule for this sem: = Tuesday (7AM-7PM, plus break of 4.5 hours) = Wednesday (that is today, 10AM-1PM) = Friday (7AM-2:30 PM, plus break of 1.5 hours) = Saturday (7AM-8:30 PM, plus break of 4.5 hours). I'm stating my schedule so that if ever you see me wandering around during these days, online on Facebook, or some other sort, you can have no fear whatever of reprimanding me.
~ HAPPY BIRTHDAY this week to the following:
Nov. 10: Robin Paulo Salanga, Ephraim de Leon
Nov. 11: Manuel Peredo III
Nov. 12: Khristian Mayrer Cruz Nov. 15: Edward John Torrefiel
May God continue to bless you, your families, and all your dreams and aspirations in life!
~ Kudos to you, my dear reader! May God bless you and your plans in life. Thank you for patronizing my blogposts here on JEM@ Blogger, One with You...
Nov. 07, 2010 32nd Sunday in Ordinary Time 2Mc 7,1-2;9-14 || 2Thes 2,16-3,5 Lk 20, 27-38
HOPE for the Life to Come
In three weeks time, we will have the start of a brand new liturgical year. As we go forward to this occurrence, we see our passages talk about the life to come. Though there may be sufferings and persecution (first reading), the Lord continues to sustain us and give us the strength we need to continue life all for the love of God and His will. (second reading). All this until the ultimate end of our life on Earth, towards the eternal joys of heaven.
Actually, the first idea that came into my mind was to talk about marriage, since that is what the sadducees brought up to Jesus. According to them, Moses had written a law stating thus, If someone's brother dies leaving a wife but no child,his brother must take the wifeand raise up descendants for his brother.
They asked Jesus this situation: Now there were seven brothers; the first married a woman but died childless. Then the second and the third married her, and likewise all the seven died childless. Finally the woman also died. Now at the resurrection whose wife will that woman be?For all seven had been married to her.
They may think that through the question, which is actually a boobie-trap, they may see a hole in Jesus' teachings, so that they may take him to the authorities and condemn him of faulty teaching.
But Jesus is leading us to another truth. The Gospel for today is not about marriage, which the sadducees want to pose on to us; rather, it is about the life to come, on how shall we cherish God's glory sometime soon.
We just finished celebrating the Solemnity of All the Saints, and the Day of our faithful departed. We have reflected well and good on the glory of the Saints in Heaven and the suffering of the souls in Purgatory. We prayed to the Saints for intercession, and likewise, we prayed for the souls for their eternal repose and peace.
We may ask ourselves, what would happen after we die? Sa langit kaya ako o sa impiyerno? It all depends on our way of life here in this world, if we follow Christ's words, then we are surely to enter Heaven, we are sure to be with God someday.
I think the words of Jesus is clear this week: "They can no longer die, for they are like angels; and they are the children of God because they are the ones who will rise." Yes! Those who followed God's will, even until death, will have a taste of what it is to be rewarded by God after their earthly sojourn. They suffered a lot in this world; surely, they will see the beatific vision with all the Army of Saints.
We always remember that due to sin and evil that we die in this world. But, in the eyes of God, there is no such thing as death. Everything - and all things - live in Him and for Him, that's why he is "not God of the dead, but of the living, for to him all are alive."
Remember that what we do today will be counted tomorrow. We should always pray and work for the glory of God here on Earth. Yes, it is hard, it is full of persecutions. But as we say in Filipino, kung may itinanim, may aanihin. Don't be afraid to face every trial for God. We are sure that after ever obstacle, every hindrance, there will surely be a life of greater glory in Heaven.
HOPE for the Life to come!Don't be afraid to live, and pray for God's Kingdom in this world!
===+=== "Without health life is not life; it is only a state of langour and suffering - an image of death." -Buddha ===+=== What's heating up this week? ~Second Sem, here we come!!! ~O Tannenbaum... ~My Dete's going on... ===+===
SECOND SEM, HERE WE COME!!!
After two weeks of reflection and recreation, here comes the semester that would determine it all. I have never been a secretive guy with you regarding this issue in my studies. And now I tell you this, kinakabahan na ako... kinakalabatutan.
For this semester, I would again take the same set of subjects that I took when I twisted up my studies last year. I'm back to third year.
At one point, it takes me to the point of excitement, since I would meet a new set of people whom I will consider as classmates. I have carefully been close with them on the past sem, and now, it is time to be with them for five months. I have past experiences with some of them, and they proved to me that they were a safe class. It's just that, since I came from a older level, I am to give out everything as expected of me.
Another point leads me to fear of my standing. Since I'm under a memo of agreement with the school, I only have one grade of 5.00 to determine if it is all over. It gives me fright, that though I could continue studying in another school if matters remain worse, the shadow of remorse would continue to follow me all along.
At the endpoint of this, I entrust my second sem to the Lord. When people ask me if I can graduate, or if I can pass the next sem, I always say, God-willing. As I've said in my former WedPost, I know he guided me throughout the past sem, and I know that He will continue to guide me on the next one, the "TRIAL SEM..."
I continue to ask for your prayers, people. May I walk in the straight path this time, give it all for my future, and be triumphant at the end.
My Jesus, Your Will be done!
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O TANNENBAUM...
My Status message yesterday at FB: ... and so, all things lead now to Christmas. Teka, won't we first celebrate the Kingship of Christ?
Yep! For Filipinos, after the observance of All Saints' day and All Souls' day, things lead to December, where the most joyful celebration of Christmas is celebrated. People begin to list their shopping lists, to browse through stores looking for gifts, and work hard for that bonus pay. At homes, families begin to set-up Christmas trees, lights and decorations.
As for us, we began setting-up our Christmas Tree and Lights yesterday. I was very excited on this that I even said, Naku naman! Hindi pa pinalipas ang araw ng mga patay, nag-ayos na ng Christmas Tree!
Nevertheless, it is our way of expressing the joy and anticipation for one of the great feasts of the year. I saw my nephews playing with the decors, dancing to the tune of Christmas Carols, and with that, I felt again that feeling when I was young, when I ask my mommy, Ma, kelan tayo mag-aayos ng Christmas Tree? Kelan?
Reality of this? We may grow old, but still when we talk about Christmas, the childish magic rekindles deep inside us.
And so, the tree will stand there up until next year. I hope that I would continue to live until that day when we would dismantle the tree, and up until next November when will set it up again!
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MY DETE'S GOING ON...
Well, this is just a short note. For those who would want to hear a piece of news about my sister, Lulu, here is some.
Come Nov. 10, she will depart for her new job, as a singer in a cruiseline. As far as I know, the said cruise would travel around the world, and would take her to many places. She would not be around for 6 months, up until May 2011.
Please pray for her safe travel come the appointed time. To my dete, enjoy the cruise and Bon voyage!
===+=== WHAT LIES AHEAD? (Greetings and Announcements)
~ Enrollment at the City of Malabon University for the Second Sem, AY 2010-2011. It continues up until next week. My friends at Fourth year, your enrollment is on Nov. 05. For my fellow irregular students, our enrollment is from Nov. 08-12. Classes start on Nov. 08. ~ THREECE FAMILIA'S GEB. According to the GM that I've received, the next GEB of the Fam will be on Nov. 07, at my place in Navotas City. Call time is from 3:00-4:30 PM At Malabon Citisquare. Don't forget to bring your Php200.00 for the T-shirt.
~ Happy Birthday this week to:
Nov. 03: Ysmack Fornelos (Mr. Education 2010), Gov. Vilma Santos-Recto, Mark Gilvy Caraang, Jimmy Romero
Nov. 04: Camille Lopez, Mira Advincula
Nov. 06: John Kevin Batanes, Fr. Jboy Gonzales,SJ Nov.08: Alvin Limosnero, Rev. Fr. Ildefonso "Junjun" de Guzman, Jr.
Nov. 09: Mitzt Rani Relucio, Karizza Cruz
May God continue to bless you, your families, and all your dreams and aspirations in life!
~ Kudos to you, my dear reader! May God bless you and your plans in life. Thank you for patronizing my blogposts here on JEM@ Blogger, One with You...
Just as yesterday I posted a special post for All Saints' Day, today I would like to share with you my very special sentiments on All Souls' Day.
We usually see or hear the term Poor (or Suffering) Souls in Purgatory. I grew up to this understanding that the souls in Purgatory are really suffering because of its flames, and because of its dreadful ambiance. We are always asked to recite prayers and novenas for their immediate release and entrance to Heaven.
There comes my contradicting point. If they are to enter heaven someday, then why consider them as suffering?
In the Neo Catechumenal Way, I learned that Death is not to be feared in anyway. Why? Because Jesus Christ died and Rose again for us. He conquered death through his dying, and He brought us life through His Resurrection.
And that is enough!
I have a chat today with a seminarian friend, Bro. Victor Angelo Parlan of the Diocese of Cubao, and my sentiments were same as his. Here is the unabridged string of our chat:
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Me: kapatid!
Victor:hi good morning
Me: good morning! I'm so much inspired today. Kapatid, may point ba ung status message ko? Pls, take time to criticize this:
A GLORIOUS OUTLOOK ON THE SOULS IN PURGATORY: Souls are not to be took pity of. Remember that though they lived a not-so holy life on Earth, and yearn for God's grace in Heaven, still they lived a very holy life, that's why they are to cherish Glory sometime soon. YES, THEY NEED OUR PRAYERS, BUT THEY ARE NOT PITIFUL... THEY ARE GLORIOUS!!!
Victor: yes
Me: Bakit ako nag-draw sa ganitong opinion?
Victor: there are lots of people who may not have been recognized by the church but still they achieve glory in heaven
Me: Yes, it is true! at isa pa, some are in a way wrong in considering them as suffering or poor.
Maybe it is correct because of its cleansing flames, but it is not to be taken at this point. Purgatory is longing, not suffering. I mean, Purgatory is meant for us to long for God, whose face we cannot see just yet because of our many sins. But it is not for us to suffer. That is reserved for hell. Ikaw, kapatid, anung point mo dun?
Victor: after all else we leave everything to the grace and mercy of God
Me: death is not to be feared of. It is never to be feared.
Why be afraid of death when Christ conquered it for us?
Victor: yes that's right
Me: salamat. Please allow me to post this to my blog...
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...For if with Him we die, With him we Live... With him we sing ALLELUIA!!!
(He Rose from Death, Kiko Arguello)
And so, I celebrate this day in this outlook. Though some continue to see the souls in purgatory as suffering because of their state, nonetheless, the Church still numbers them among its elect. They are still the "silent" saints who lived in holiness in their simple lives. No, they are not suffering since that are to see God sometime soon.
And for them to reach their perfect glory, our prayers are needed. We always continue to pray for our dead for their eternal repose. We should continue to do so since it is the key to their final admittance to Heaven, thus to God's bosom.
At the endpoint, we are still ought to prepare our present lives for the next one. We should always remember that what we do today will be counted tomorrow. We are not to be laxed at this point of our lives. We are to continue to work and strive for Holiness in every moment and every place.
Death is to be prepared but never to be feared of. Like the glorious souls in Purgatory, we always long for God. The difference is, while their time for working is up and now they depend on our prayers, we, in turn, still have our time to work according to God's Will.
It is never too late for us to be Holy! Remember, SAINTS HAVE A PAST, AND SINNERS HAVE A FUTURE... DARE TO BE HOLY!
And so we continue to pray for the glorious souls in purgatory and for all the faithful departed:
Eternal Rest you grant unto them, O Lord. And may perpetual light shine upon them. May the Souls of all our faithful departed, through the Mercy of God, Rest in Peace. AMEN.
...Post No. 13...Dec. 01, 2010...
