Do you sometimes wonder why it is the good and almost faultless people who undergo a lot of suffering?
We are too familiar with lots of cases like these. Sometimes we can't help but ask why? Why them? Do they deserve this? I have heard a lot of people question this, even taking it as some sort of a punishment. They ask why God allowed these things to happen when these people had remained true to their faith, and had been good Christians all their lives.
Please bear in mind that it is not for us to question God's will. Of course God is aware of everything we do, and He is definitely not a revengeful God either. He has his reasons which maybe too complicated for us to comprehend.
I can only surmise that perhaps it is because He knows too well that these are the people who can endure all the suffering without blaming Him. He also knows too well that whatever happens, they will never turn their backs on their faith. Can you imagine if this happened to people of lesser faith? I'm sure they would have turned their backs on God.
I sometimes look at pain as a blessing because it allows us to share in the suffering that Jesus went through. Sometimes when I watch movies about the life and passion of Jesus and I am reminded of the suffering He had to endure for us, I get depressed that I was not able to help Him. And to think that every time we ask for his help, he is always there for us. So unfair.
I have something to share with you. Next time you undergo pain, be it physical or emotional, offer your pain to Jesus and you will see that the pain will not be so much to bear because He is helping you carry your cross. (Something I regretfully wasn't able to do for Him.)
I have experienced this a lot of times and believe me, it works.
Sunday, July 26, 2009
Sunday, July 19, 2009
RAIN THERAPHY
The rains have stopped. Finally after days of rain and flood, I saw the sun timidly peeping out from the horizon this morning.
What is it about the rain that so entices me?
I love rainy days, except when it transforms into storms that destroy property or even lives.
I look at the rain as more of a blessing than a misfortune. For without it, there would be no nourishment for our plants and rice fields, and no replenishment of our water supply.
I love looking out from my window and seeing and hearing the rain falling on the ground. To me it's therapeutic. I also love the smell of a rain-drenched soil.
I wrote my first poem ( a tribute to my mom ) on a stormy afternoon. I was in high school then and classes were suspended due to a storm. For lack of anything to do, I started scribbling notes on my note pad without realizing that I was already writing a poem. That started my passion for writing. The sound of rain inspires me to write even more.
So when rains come, don't feel sad. Welcome it with open arms. After all, heavy rains are like challenges in life. We shouldn't ask for lighter rain, just a bigger and better umbrella.
By the way, do you know the saddest quote said by the funniest man ever born on this planet ( Charlie Chaplin)? " I always like walking in the rain, so no one can see me crying. "
I'll take note of that.
Next time I feel like crying, I'll wait for the rains to fall to hide away my tears.
What is it about the rain that so entices me?
I love rainy days, except when it transforms into storms that destroy property or even lives.
I look at the rain as more of a blessing than a misfortune. For without it, there would be no nourishment for our plants and rice fields, and no replenishment of our water supply.
I love looking out from my window and seeing and hearing the rain falling on the ground. To me it's therapeutic. I also love the smell of a rain-drenched soil.
I wrote my first poem ( a tribute to my mom ) on a stormy afternoon. I was in high school then and classes were suspended due to a storm. For lack of anything to do, I started scribbling notes on my note pad without realizing that I was already writing a poem. That started my passion for writing. The sound of rain inspires me to write even more.
So when rains come, don't feel sad. Welcome it with open arms. After all, heavy rains are like challenges in life. We shouldn't ask for lighter rain, just a bigger and better umbrella.
By the way, do you know the saddest quote said by the funniest man ever born on this planet ( Charlie Chaplin)? " I always like walking in the rain, so no one can see me crying. "
I'll take note of that.
Next time I feel like crying, I'll wait for the rains to fall to hide away my tears.
Monday, July 13, 2009
TRIBUTE TO MY MOM
A PRICELESS TREASURE
When I feel so downhearted and trouble comes my way
You're there to guide and understand every word I say
When I'm in my darkest hour, you're a light that shines on me
And I offer God endless thanks, for having given you Mom to me
With you by my side, I know I can't do wrong
I'll fulfill your every dream and it wouldn't be for long
I'll always cherish your memory up to the time I grow old
For what you've been to me is a treasure that can't be sold.
I wrote this poem for my mom way back my high school days. It was her death anniversary last July 12, and her birthday is on July 16. My mom's name is Carmen, having been born on the feast day of our Lady of Mount Carmel, from whom she was named. This explains her devotion to the Scapular, which she passed on to me. To this day, I never leave the house without my scapular.
My mom died after a lingering illness. She was hospitalized for several months. Although her doctors told us that hers was a terminal case, I kept praying and hoping that she would get well.
I was very close to my mom, being an only daughter. She was my best friend, confidante, the sister I never had. That 12 th day of July was the saddest day of my life. It was on that fateful day that my mom was reunited with her Creator. The death of a loved one is something we cannot prepare ourselves for. Even though we know that sooner or later they are going to die, still when the inevitable comes, we still find ourselves unprepared for the tragedy.
For you out there, who are lucky to still have your parents around, take the time to show them you care. Value them and tell them you love them every chance you've got. Cherish your time with them, before it is too late. Time is running out.
When I feel so downhearted and trouble comes my way
You're there to guide and understand every word I say
When I'm in my darkest hour, you're a light that shines on me
And I offer God endless thanks, for having given you Mom to me
With you by my side, I know I can't do wrong
I'll fulfill your every dream and it wouldn't be for long
I'll always cherish your memory up to the time I grow old
For what you've been to me is a treasure that can't be sold.
I wrote this poem for my mom way back my high school days. It was her death anniversary last July 12, and her birthday is on July 16. My mom's name is Carmen, having been born on the feast day of our Lady of Mount Carmel, from whom she was named. This explains her devotion to the Scapular, which she passed on to me. To this day, I never leave the house without my scapular.
My mom died after a lingering illness. She was hospitalized for several months. Although her doctors told us that hers was a terminal case, I kept praying and hoping that she would get well.
I was very close to my mom, being an only daughter. She was my best friend, confidante, the sister I never had. That 12 th day of July was the saddest day of my life. It was on that fateful day that my mom was reunited with her Creator. The death of a loved one is something we cannot prepare ourselves for. Even though we know that sooner or later they are going to die, still when the inevitable comes, we still find ourselves unprepared for the tragedy.
For you out there, who are lucky to still have your parents around, take the time to show them you care. Value them and tell them you love them every chance you've got. Cherish your time with them, before it is too late. Time is running out.
Saturday, July 11, 2009
SMALL THINGS END UP BIG
Maybe you and I can't do great things
We may not change the world in one day
But we still can change the world today
In our small way........
Those are lines from MJ's song "In Our Small Way".
I was reminded of those lines because about two weeks ago I sent a message to Noynoy Aquino telling him that I was praying for his mom. I told him that I am just a small voice compared to his big time friends, but this small voice cares for his mom a lot.
He answered and said that the smallest prayer is part of a powerful collective prayer. He also said the smallest voice is equally important as the loudest voice.
I agree.
Small things when put together end up being one great thing. So we should not hesitate to do whatever we think is right, no matter how small. It is the value of small things that matter a lot.
We may not change the world in one day
But we still can change the world today
In our small way........
Those are lines from MJ's song "In Our Small Way".
I was reminded of those lines because about two weeks ago I sent a message to Noynoy Aquino telling him that I was praying for his mom. I told him that I am just a small voice compared to his big time friends, but this small voice cares for his mom a lot.
He answered and said that the smallest prayer is part of a powerful collective prayer. He also said the smallest voice is equally important as the loudest voice.
I agree.
Small things when put together end up being one great thing. So we should not hesitate to do whatever we think is right, no matter how small. It is the value of small things that matter a lot.
Thursday, July 9, 2009
LIFE IS SHORT
Life is short, in fact too short.
We'll never really know when our time is up. So while we are here, while the people we care for and love are still around, treasure every moment with them.
Let them know how much they mean to you. Show them that you care and appreciate everything they do. For all you know, you may never get the chance to tell them.
They say you'll never know the value of someone until you lose him / her. Why wait until that time?
Tell them now. Tomorrow might be too late.
To all my friends, thank you for the friendship and the love. Thank you for accepting me for who I am, despite my shortcomings and my faults. Thank you for being part of my book of wonderful memories.
We'll never really know when our time is up. So while we are here, while the people we care for and love are still around, treasure every moment with them.
Let them know how much they mean to you. Show them that you care and appreciate everything they do. For all you know, you may never get the chance to tell them.
They say you'll never know the value of someone until you lose him / her. Why wait until that time?
Tell them now. Tomorrow might be too late.
To all my friends, thank you for the friendship and the love. Thank you for accepting me for who I am, despite my shortcomings and my faults. Thank you for being part of my book of wonderful memories.
Sunday, July 5, 2009
THE MJ PEOPLE DON'T KNOW
People can't seem to get over MJ's sudden demise.
They say only the good die young. I agree.
Maybe most people will remember MJ only as a great singer. They will remember only the white glove, the white socks, the great voice.
I will however remember him as someone with a big heart, a compassionate person who cares about the unfortunate members of society. I read an article this morning regarding his visit to the Philippines several years ago. He was billeted at the Manila Hotel. When he found out that the hotel staff will be celebrating the annual gift giving for orphans, he asked them how he could help or participate in the affair, much to the surprise of everyone. He donated loot bags filled with candies and toys for the children and distributed them himself. His security wanted him to get over with the distribution so that they could whisk him off to a not so crowded place, but he told his men that he was staying because it was Christmas time. He even sang "Give Love on Christmas Day" even without being asked to. Not even once did he complain about the heat either. He was just too happy being able to help people.
This is probably the MJ most people do not know.
But oh yes, there is one friend who knows him inside out. This friend is devastated now. He lost the only friend he ever had, the only friend who took him for what he is despite what he is not. His name is Ben.
They say only the good die young. I agree.
Maybe most people will remember MJ only as a great singer. They will remember only the white glove, the white socks, the great voice.
I will however remember him as someone with a big heart, a compassionate person who cares about the unfortunate members of society. I read an article this morning regarding his visit to the Philippines several years ago. He was billeted at the Manila Hotel. When he found out that the hotel staff will be celebrating the annual gift giving for orphans, he asked them how he could help or participate in the affair, much to the surprise of everyone. He donated loot bags filled with candies and toys for the children and distributed them himself. His security wanted him to get over with the distribution so that they could whisk him off to a not so crowded place, but he told his men that he was staying because it was Christmas time. He even sang "Give Love on Christmas Day" even without being asked to. Not even once did he complain about the heat either. He was just too happy being able to help people.
This is probably the MJ most people do not know.
But oh yes, there is one friend who knows him inside out. This friend is devastated now. He lost the only friend he ever had, the only friend who took him for what he is despite what he is not. His name is Ben.
Friday, July 3, 2009
LETTER TO JESUS
Dear Jesus,
This is the first time ever that I've written you a letter, but I just had to thank you now that everything's better.
I came to you a while back so troubled and distressed, I did not know what course to take, what action would be best.
I told you all my troubles and felt your presence near, and as I talked, the clouds broke up and seemed to disappear.
So thank you Jesus for listening and keeping me from harm, for wiping away my tears and holding me within your loving arms.
Your friend,
Tonette
This is the first time ever that I've written you a letter, but I just had to thank you now that everything's better.
I came to you a while back so troubled and distressed, I did not know what course to take, what action would be best.
I told you all my troubles and felt your presence near, and as I talked, the clouds broke up and seemed to disappear.
So thank you Jesus for listening and keeping me from harm, for wiping away my tears and holding me within your loving arms.
Your friend,
Tonette
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)