Commitment is a need that says, “no matter how bad the weather become, I’m willing to stay.”

GOD blesses us with people who appreciate our very being when our hearts are too hurt. Whenever I feel that life gets a little too tiring, I go back thinking of wonderful people who remind me that I am important and valuable. GOD uses them to restore my strength and faith in myself. It's really amazing how GOD comes to our rescue by using individuals to touch our lives in ways too astonishing to describe. Sometimes, life's struggles are too hard to face and little defeats drain our energy. All us need lifting every now and then. And because it's not always that we're sensitive enough to feel GOD's embrace, HE sends us people to comfort us and make us feel loved.

In my life, however, there's not a lot of people who can be vocal enough to express how they feel about me. Their appreciation remains within them. (If they even appreciate me, at all. ) But, hey. I gotta say that just like everyone else I, too, need some words of appreciation and encouragement. We all do. But, this doesn't come as often with me, though. So, I thank the people who are bold enough to tell me how I changed their lives...how I have become a blessing to them...and all that. Simple yet meaningful words. They penetrate right into my core.

It's not my birthday. The 1st image was sent by Fely. She sent me an online greeting card on the day of my birth anniversary. I have no clue as to how I changed her life but, I feel so honored to receive such compliment from a person I 've NEVER met. She sent me an online greeting card with that short note. Tis one of the reasons why my 2010 birthday I consider the happiest although without a big bash. It did made my day knowing that, somewhere out there, someone's life has been changed because of me. At least, I can tell myself that my life makes sense. That I don't just exist. I matter and I offer something to the world. And more than anyone, I thank GOD for enabling me to be this kind of person I am now to touch hearts and lives. It's all about HIS grace.

Lila... she's been a sweet, loving friend. We started out as online friends and now, we're so attached to each other like we're real sisters. FYI: she's in Bacolod and we rarely see each other. Seldom do we get to chat, as well. With her I feel that I can just be myself. Without being too cautious that I might shoo her away. She doesn't hesitate to throw praises at me -- loving, kind and encouraging words. Never grows tired of sending greetings through sms or ym no matter how long she has to wait to get a response. A friend who requires nothing. Who doesn't demand and ask for something in return. We argue a lot. We have a lot of differences in opinion and views but at the end of the day, we still respect each other with full acceptance and without question. Such a wonderful feeling.


Then, another cyber friend, Marc. I remember I used to call him my avid blog reader because he's always the first one to read my posts and the first (often only) one to post comments. His thoughts are deep and he encouraged me during the time in my life where even I can't appreciate my own self. I have witnessed how GOD is present in my life through these people who out of the blue just happen and influence me in countless ways. I am thankful. What else is missing?

Still, I have a few more people to include but, I wasn't able to capture their actual messages. Some are stored in my mobile phone. Yet, I want them to know that they are appreciated, loved and thought of. I need them to know that they made a very big impact in my life. Whatever I am now...well, am just a product of each one who moved and touched me as I walk this journey...I owe it all to GOD and to the blessings HE keeps sending my way. If it wasn't for you guys, I will never be who I am. Love you all.

Know that worrying is as effective as trying to solve an algebra equation by chewing bubble gum.

Only once in your life, I truly believe, you find someone who can completely turn your world around. You tell them things that you’ve never shared with another soul and they absorb everything you say and, actually, want to hear more. You share hopes for the future, dreams that will never come true, goals that were never achieved and the many disappointments life has thrown at you. When something wonderful happens, you can’t wait to tell them about it, knowing they will share in your excitement.

They are not embarrassed to cry with you when you are hurting or laugh with you when you make a fool of yourself. Never do they hurt your feelings or make you feel like you are not good enough, but rather they build you up and show you the things about yourself that make you special and even beautiful.

There is never any pressure, jealousy or competition but only a quiet calmness when they are around. You can be yourself and not worry about what they will think of you because they love you for who you are.

The things that seem insignificant to most people such as a note, song or walk become invaluable treasures kept safe in your heart to cherish forever. Memories of your childhood come back and are so clear and vivid it’s like being young again.

Colors seem brighter and more brilliant. Laughter seems part of daily life where before it was infrequent or didn’t exist at all. A phone call or two during the day helps to get you through a long day’s work and always brings a smile to your face.

In their presence, there’s no need for continuous conversation, but you find you’re quite content in just having them nearby. Things that never interested you before become fascinating because you know they are important to this person who is so special to you.

You think of this person on every occasion and in everything you do. Simple things bring them to mind like a pale blue sky, gentle wind or even a storm cloud on the horizon. You open your heart knowing that there’s a chance it may be broken one day and in opening your heart, you experience a love and joy that you never dreamed possible.

You find that being vulnerable is the only way to allow your heart to feel true pleasure that’s so real it scares you. You find strength in knowing you have a true friend and possibly a soul mate who will remain loyal to the end. Life seems completely different, exciting and worthwhile. Your only hope and security is in knowing that they are a part of your life.