I lived too much in my head instead of the real world.

Has it ever occurred to you why you do the things you do? You work everyday. You work hard. I know a lotta people who are simply good at what they do. Expert. Connoisseur. And they still want to become better. Best. Some have achieved sooo many things not common to majority. There are those who have traveled much of the planet. At first, you'd be amazed. It's really impressive. But, at the end of the day, you'd ask "are they really happy?"

I believe it's not what we do, what we achieve, how far we have reached, what places have we gone to ... that makes us happy. Am convinced it's the meaning behind all these things. The purpose. The motive. Are we doing what we're doing because it makes us happy OR we're happy that's why we're doing what we're doing? 

Am reminded of the question, "what drives you?" It's worth the thinking, right? Hmmmm... I work hard to... blah blah blah... and those are my purpose. How about my goal? *at wits end* Well, am simply not a planner. I don't plan my life. I have strong desires, of course...like, I want to reach out to the homeless. Provide them a shelter. Educate them and give them livelihood. It's also my strong desire to give my grannies a comfy and convenient life in their old age. Because I love them. Does that mean I love the homeless, too? I sooo love my Lolo and my Lola that's why there's this strong desire to provide them a better life now that they're very old (in their 80s). But, what could be the reason for my desire to do what I said I wanna do for the homeless? What drives me?

When I was still active doing the feeding program I started as an activity a few years back, I felt a sense of fulfillment  in doing that kind of work. It kinda gave me sense of worth, which I never felt even after I had achieved so many wonderful things. NOT when I became a consistent Dean's Lister. NOT when I appeared on some TV programs. NOT when I was cast-ed in a movie. NOT when I (unbelievably) was able to make it to modeling. NOT when I was awarded for having done an exemplary performance when I joined the corporate world. NOT when (again unbelievably) started a biz (am totally not a business person!). NOT when I earned my first seven digits. Just to name a few or you might think I composed this entry to brag. *sticks out tongue* 

If there was anything I felt having achieved these things, I would say it's rather PRIDE. I was, of course, proud of myself. But, that's just about it. So what? And, I know that there are a lot more others who have achieved more than I did. 

But, there's something about sense of fulfillment. Being proud of what I have achieved only makes me wanna want MORE. It gives a longing to grab, grab and grab. I gotta overtake my previous achievement. I hafta think "what's next?" It's like a long list of TO DOs. And tomorrow, there's more.  There's still more that life offers. I wanna go to Sweden. I will grab an iPad 2 Gold History Edition. I will buy the 2009 Lamborghini Murcielago. I will try the 12 inch “Pizza Royale 007". I will carry a Mouawad's 1001 Nights Diamond Purse. I will wear a pair of Gucci Woven leather boots. And even if I already have these things, I will still want more. Am feeding my pride. And in order to keep feeding it, I am driven to do more. Work more. 

It's funny how we yearn to have certain things and when we already have them, it seems we don't want them anymore. I can't believe how Samsung i900 Omnia (this is my high-end gadget til now) is now nothing but a thing of the past. It isn't as desirable as it used to be when it was first released. How many gadgets have been released since? And, people just can't be satisfied. Now, there are what they call Tablets. I haven't even educated myself about the iPhone (4s, 4, 3GS) and the iPod (nano, shuffle, touch, classic)! Ok, ok...am not a gadget person, but still! I mean, we want a thing now and then we don't want it anymore later because there are still so many to grab. Lust of the eye!

I look at the stack of shoes in my room and I can't feel any sense of fulfillment having them when I bought them with my hard earned money. I don't even get to use them cause I am so loyal to one pair of shoes I wear almost ALWAYS. Those who observed prolly have in their hearts to give me a new pair, if you know what I mean. But, that's my point. NOTHING satisfies. And, things simply wear off. It's just a matter of time.

Reminds me of these lines found in Ecclesiastes 2...

But then I looked at everything I had done and the wealth I had gained. I decided it was all a waste of time! It was like trying to catch the wind. There is nothing to gain from anything we do in this life.

I began to hate all the hard work I had done, because I saw that the people who live after me would get the things that I worked for. I will not be able to take them with me. Some other person will control everything I worked and studied for. And I don’t know if that person will be wise or foolish. This is also senseless.

So I became sad about all the work I had done. People can work hard using all their wisdom and knowledge and skill. But they will die and other people will get the things they worked for. They did not do the work, but they will get everything. That makes me very sad. It is also not fair and is senseless.

What do people really have after all their work and struggling in this life?  Throughout their life, they have pain, frustrations, and hard work. Even at night, a person’s mind does not rest. This is also senseless. (ETRv)

    

Am not saying there's anything wrong with acquiring things. That's not what I meant. Like what the same author wrote in chapter 3...

I learned that the best thing for people to do is to be happy and enjoy themselves as long as they live. God wants everyone to eat, drink, and enjoy their work. These are gifts from God. (ETRv)

I guess, it's better if we start asking ourselves why do we do the things we do? Why do we want as many accomplishments? Are we getting sense of fulfillment out of these things? Can we say to ourselves... alone in our rooms ...without any spectator... that we're truly happy? That we have joy and peace in our hearts? 

More from the book of Ecclesiastes...

Then I thought, “Why do people work so hard?” I saw people try to succeed and be better than other people. They do this because they are jealous. They don’t want other people to have more than they have. This is senseless. It is like trying to catch the wind.

 Some people say, “It is foolish to fold your hands and do nothing. If you don’t work, you will starve to death.” Maybe that is true. But I say it is better to be satisfied with the few things you have than to always be struggling to get more.

Those who love money will never be satisfied with the money they have. Those who love wealth will not be satisfied when they get more and more. This is also senseless.

People work and work to feed themselves, but they are never satisfied. It is better to be happy with what you have than to always want more and more. Always wanting more and more is useless. It is like trying to catch the wind. (ETRv)

Some more things worth thinking ... Why do I want what I want? Why do I want MORE? What can satisfy me? What is enough for me?

So many questions! Oh, but these questions will reveal what's truly in our hearts.



Gotta sign off now. Toodle-oo!

“My life's an open book. Some of the pages are a little ripped, but it's open.”

In order to be really happy, I figured... we must understand that in this world, we own NOTHING. That anything can be taken away from us in an instant. Accepting this fact will help us to let go easily without leaving a desire in us to cling on to whatever we want to keep. 

I looked around and I see people who, just like me, are living their own lives, making their own decisions, moving around in accordance to their will. When I want some munchies, nothing and no one can stop me from grabbing the next bag of chips I like. I choose a big bag of chips. I choose the cheese flavored one. If you also want some munchies and you're only gonna ask me to divvy, you can't insist what flavor I should buy. Buy your own!

On the other hand, we can agree what flavor to buy. You don't really need to chip in. It is up to me if I want to consider your request. You cannot force what you want unless you decide it's your treat. I can also be very considerate, in fact, and pay for the snack. ...It's called generosity. 

Free will. Such a simple word yet hard to truly fathom. 

For many, it has become really hard to let go only because they haven't learned to understand freedom of choice. Or they have not learned to accept and respect another's choice, maybe.

When a love relationship ends, there's always one left and often stuck. The one left can't believe what just happened and, how in a blink of an eye, the other person changed. Surprised how love has gone in a flash. Often, they become too engrossed trying to figure out where they went wrong that it becomes their way of life. They keep reviewing the videotape in their head hoping to solve the puzzle. So, it's hard to move on. It just makes it hard to move on but nothing gets resolved, actually.

We're very curious about the WHYs. But, even if we get the answer, there are simply things that can't be fixed anymore. There are things when broken remain broken. Irreparable. You may have already learned what you needed to and promised never to do the same again; sadly, though, the other person already made a decision. And no matter what you do, they've already chosen to move on...without you. 

Regrets. Another reason why many still suffer. They hold on to "what could've beens", "should've"... Everything in life is nothing but LESSONS. We are all faulty beings. We'll always screw up. But, we must never feel sorry for the mistakes to the point of misery or depression. Just learn and try never to do them again. Apologize if it's gonna give you peace but throw regrets away and move forward.

Blame. I guess it's part of being human to point fingers at. In failed relationships, however, we often take the blame so we can't forgive ourselves. This causes us  to allow ourselves to be doormats. "I screwed up so I just deserve this." The guilt within makes us permit the other person to do whatever they wish just for us to keep them no matter it pierce us. Unconsciously, we also blame them that they're just as imperfect as we are. No help at all.

Regrets and blame aren't really the problem. The real problem is that we can't find it in our hearts to just accept that certain things happen. We don't need to know why. And knowing the reason why won't help even. So, why bother? (In fact, knowing just makes it more complicated.)

Or, maybe it helps to know WHY.

Ok...Why? Because of freedom of choice. Unless, of course, in case of death which none of us would choose. But, if you think again, if it's not anyone's choice then there's a Higher Being who willed it. 

Lovers get left behind because someone exercised their freedom of choice. They don't want the relationship anymore. They fell out of love. They got bored. Whatever their reason may be, it is not for us to question. It's simply what they want. It's their decision. Regardless of the motive, a choice has been made. We only have to accept and respect it. 

Nobody owes us any explanation. As the idiom goes, "Live and Let Live." We surely won't feel comfortable if people around us keep asking us why we dress the way we do, why we speak a certain way, why we sleep with our eyelids slightly apart. I think that's annoying. Of course, my examples are ridiculous but isn't it also ridiculous to keep asking questions as if the answers will change a thing? Don't we find ourselves annoying whenever we keep asking in our mind why we were left for another? It only makes us feel insecure. So, we start comparing ourselves to the new found partner. And it adds to the already present depression in us. We have to understand that most of the time it's not about us. It's simply about freedom of choice. Preference. Prerogative. 

I am amazed at how God respects our freedom of choice. In fact, I often mull over how HE must be hurting because of our choices; yet, HE lets us be. Isn't it totally selfless? HE doesn't insist what HE wants. HE searches our hearts so HE knows the motive behind every decision, but HE simply allows us to live the way we want. How HE desires the best for us but HE understands that we also have our own desires so HE allows us the freedom to make choices. I believe that's TRUE LOVE. No coercion. I mean, HE is our Creator. Our everything. Yet, HE practices humility by respecting our freedom. HE surely knows better but HE doesn't slap that to our faces. HE is powerful and HE can just make us love HIM, but HE rather wants us to love HIM by will.  

God shows us how we can live life to the full. How we can live in thanksgiving and joy. We only have to be selfless. Learn to get out of ourselves and realize that life is not about us. We aren't the center of the universe. We can't expect people to live for us or according to our wants. They have a life, too. So, stop looking for justifications, reasons or explanations and just realize that it's all because they have to make a decision. Their choices will not always be favorable to us, of course. And it's too much too expect that we get only the best things. Everything's part of life. That includes PAIN. Live with it.

Actually, pain is felt only because of selfishness. We want something. We don't get it. It hurts us. Of course, we'll always want something. But, knowing that we can't always have what we want will keep us from pain. Let's throw the bratty attitude and don't treat people as if they're lifeless, mindless... as if they can be owned. Like, look around and you'll see a few or maybe more people desiring you but you have preferences. You made a choice, too. Only not favorable to them. That makes it quits. *devilish green*  

 Til next time...

    

I don't fit into any stereotypes. I like myself that way.

So I got invited to share my wits by being a Wizpert. ^_^  Isn't it cool? I mean, I have not been consistent adding more scribblings to my almost oblivious page and someone actually found my thoughts ("knowledge" as he put it) of great value. Geesh! Whatta way to start Tuesday! Thanks to Michael Weinberg. Nothing else makes life a little more wonderful than appreciation.

This means, I hafta be active again. And I should better not be too critical of myself. Often, although I have brilliant ideas to share, I tend to brush them off and tell myself they might not make any sense to the world. I mean, there are like gazillion of bright minds across the globe confidently expressing their opinions, which are truly worth reading, in fact. So, as always, I take the back seat and keep mine to myself (or share them silently to those closest to me).

I'll hafta battle this inferiority thing inside of me to fulfill the prophecy given to me early this year. Exude positivity, Zhilaohu! Do not mind so much what other people will say. They always have something to say, anyway. I can't stop for anyone. Especially not for those who got nothing good to say. 

Made me realize that successful people aren't concerned. That's the key. They're aware that there are eyes watching their every move but they simply can't stop for anyone. They have to live. They are passionate to live. The I-don't-care-what-you-think attitude gives them freedom to do whatever they feel like doing. I don't think there's anything wrong with that for as long as they're not stepping on anyone's foot. Critics are nothing but hurdles along the way. We are not to treat them as red lights or walls.

"I can do ALL things through Christ who gives me strength!"

 Wanna share this inspiring video...

 

I became so used to being competitive. Gotta work hard to be better. Better than who? Whoa! This is the first time I ever asked this question. All I can remember is, I grew up wanting to make my dad appreciate me. I didn't mind making him proud of me, actually. Just appreciate me should've been enough. So, I gave my best to excel in almost everything. I was an achiever. I did excel in many things. Even things I never imagined I could do. But, twas never enough. And because I lived seeing myself through the eyes of my dad, I failed to appreciate my own self. Took a toll on me big time. So, I gave up and started to see myself through the eyes of others. Silly. Exhausting. I learned that the world demands a lot when you're more than willing to give more than you should. They'll even take advantage! Learned it the hard way. It will drain you. Not worth it.

I was freed when I finally started seeing myself through the eyes of God. HIS love for me helped me regain the confidence and self-esteem I lost only by making attempts to be appreciated. I wasn't aware of the thirst for some things -- love, appreciation, concern, etc -- and it actually affected me sooo much. But, God has always been faithful. HIS Word made me understand my worth...

“Before I made you in your mother’s womb, I knew you. Before you were born, I chose you for a special work...” [Jeremiah 1:5, ETRv]

But, then, it was not all bad. Truly, "in everything God works for the good of those who love HIM." [Romans 8:28]  Everything in my past made me who I am today. That strong desire to receive appreciation from Daddy simply turned me into a better person now. Still, it's all worth it. Nothing to regret at all. 

So...am coming back to doing my thing...WRITING! I won't hesitate anymore. Applying what the Word says, "Whatever you do, do it from the heart for the Lord and not for people." [Colossians 3:23, CEBv]

 Toodle-ooh!

 

Some people just need a pat... on the head... with a hammer.

I have something else in mind to write, actually. But, I don't think I can word it now in such a way no one will have a clue am talking about this one person. Or, in a way that this person won't know it's about h--. So, I thought of writing about Facebook. *big smile*

No, am not gonna write about its early beginnings nor facts about it. Just had some observations and came up with Dos and Don'ts in using this popular social networking site. Am sort of an FB junkie as its been part of my daily life. (Like it has to be on even I am doing something else.) This is where I get information, current events and others (Twitter, as well) from since I don't have TV. (Yes, I have none. So, please donate. Oh, I have preference, btw. PM me if you have a kind, generous heart.) 

Yeah, I just felt like I should share my two cents how people should conduct themselves in the FB environment... If you find them senseless, that's your problem! Kiddin'...

Here goes my wisecracks...

Don't ACCEPT a friend invite then REMOVE them after. It's kinda rude. Especially if it's for no apparent reason.

I've heard people say, "I can do whatever I feel like doing. It's my page, anyway!" Yeah yeah...but, be considerate of other people's feelings. Imagine how they jumped in elation upon seeing a notification showing you've accepted their friend request; then, out of nowhere, you come to a decision that can devastate them forever. Guess it's much better not to ACCEPT friend invitation at all. Don't break anyone's faith and have them thinking all their life whatever they'd done wrong. And, don't ever think they won't notice you "un-friended" them. They will.

Better not keep adding people you don't personally know.

Ok, it's another way to make friends. You must be hoping to be really friends with this person. Taken. Maybe, it's proper to also send them a private message with the request and a bit of introduction how you're acquainted with them. At least, do things a little ethical. But, be ready for possible rejection.

Facebook is not a BURN BOOK, so don't post your mean, uncouth remarks about people you dislike or worse hate.

Quoting Cady from the movie "Mean Girls", "Calling somebody else fat won't make you any skinnier. Calling someone stupid doesn't make you any smarter."

Gone are the days when people are urbane. Now, everyone seems to be taking advantage of their freedom of expression. They don't anymore know what are to be kept privately. Whatever pops into mind will conveniently be broadcasted. Whoever's reputation crushed doesn't matter!

Use your own photos. Bet everyone has a face to show.

Could be a strategy to invite more friends? Just it's nothing but a desperate move. You'll rather look pitiful you hafta rob another's photo who you deem far better looking than you. Heh. Try taking gazillions of photos and try different angles til you achieve the look or pose you like. TahDah! There you have your fantastic profile photo. *wink*

I won't assume anyone would sign up to have an FB account with the intention of remaining unidentified or something. Unless, stalking a crush, maybe. Geesh!

Not everyone is interested to read updates of what's going on in your life each day. No need to narrate how you feel, where you went, what you ate, what movie(s) you watched, what color of clothes you're choosing... seriously.  

Unless you're Paris Hilton or Lady Gaga, maybe. FB is that awesome it allows its users to tweak privacy setting. You may inform your closest friends who might be sincerely interested to know what you're currently doing. Doesn't have to be EVERYONE.

Stop the solicitation of fan signs, puh-lease!

If you're someone I admire, I'd prolly do one for you without you having to request. But, I won't even do that for any celebrity or famous icon. I dunno, but it just doesn't make sense to me. Am gonna take a picture of me with someone's name on any part of my body or written in a piece of paper. Then, I'll post it and tag the person who owns the name. For what?! Like am a fan?!

Your opinion may be brilliant but it doesn't have to be advertised. And if it isn't brilliant, the more it shouldn't be circulated.

I mean, so what if you think Jessica Sanchez should've won? No matter what you think should've happened, it won't change the fact that she didn't. Expressing opinion often leads to quarrel and unnecessary misunderstanding, or worse, trouble. One throws out his opinion for the purpose of showing off what (s)he knows. To prove something... which starts friction between another person or group. Then ends in provocative statements. There are issues we need to let die for the sake of peace.

Remember this..."Intelligence [opinion] is like an underwear. It is important that you have it, but not necessary that you show it off." 

Before posting or sharing information that causes panic, first find out if the source is reliable. Validate.

We don't wanna take part in causing heart attack, right? When posting anything of great importance to the society, might as well include the source of information. This way you do not lose your credibility.

No trash-talking allowed! 

Same as, it's not a Burn Book. Might as well start a private online/offline journal (in case paper and pen aren't anymore your thing) if you really need to unleash all those negative feelings. It isn't helpful that we infect others with all the negativeness, agree? As if, it makes us any beautiful, smarter, respectable publishing nasty rumors or comments about another!

Facebook is NOT like The Jerry Springer Show!

Except those who are under 15 years old, all of us are expected to conduct ourselves as educated individuals. We are not to expose shaming details concerning our parents, siblings, relatives, friends. Whatever issues are currently happening in your household, it is your duty as member of that family to not divulge private, sensitive matters. Keep them private. If you need to communicate to anyone your innermost thoughts and feelings, there is a better way to do that: privately send them a message. Or, why not talk to them in person, in stead? The world doesn't need to know the drama inside the walls of your home. 

....................................................

...just to mention a few. Still have a lot in mind but, but and but. 

Before I conclude this entry, I'll add two things more to the list. Difference of these two, they're POSITIVE!

So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.  1 Corinthians 10:31

And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.  Colossians 3:17

Toodle-ooh!

A time for reflection.

Night of 28th of this month, just two days ago, I was placed in a situation where the condition of my heart was revealed in full view. I was, myself, surprised. Wasn't expecting I could react that way. Where did that come from? Lotsa thoughts came into me. In my mind, I was tracing the root. There was fury, rage, and evident violence. Not that I was incapable of control. I believe twas a choice.

A fool gives full vent to his anger, but a wise man keeps himself under control. [Proverbs 29:11]

Yes, I repented and admitted to God that same night how a fool I was having given full vent to my anger. I wallowed in my emotions, that's my wrong. How many times have I given myself into excuses that it's my right to be human? "It's ok, because just like everyone else, I have feelings." "Someone wronged me and I simply reacted."

...and I know this is a battle. The injected lie has to be removed from my system. How I miss the "me" I used to know. But, I thank God for I am covered with an assurance that it's not what I can do but what Christ has already done for me that matters. Indeed, "His mercies and compassion are new every morning."

I found myself powerless left alone to myself. Without God's saving grace, I am reduced to nothing. That situation humbled me. I realized how true it is that "we are all work-in-progress". Knowledge is different from living what you know. Doesn't matter how much you know, in fact, but how involuntarily it reflects in your life -- the way you speak, act, react, etc. It's like you know first-aid and when you're brought into a situation where you need to use that knowledge, you resolve to evade. It's not how much you know of the Bible that counts. It's how you practice what you know in ANY given situation.

The good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and the evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart. For out of the overflow of his heart his mouth speaks. [Luke 6:45]

And how the Holy Spirit was convicting me at that very moment. My flesh was just too impervious to heed, however. I simply wanna be in that emotion. "Wait, this is my moment. Let me be." Makes me wonder why people just wanna wallow in their hurt. Why was I not able to let go right away? I was very aware that the Holy Spirit was already correcting me, but I can't understand why the pull from the flesh side was stronger.

If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me. [Luke 9:23]

This verse plays in mind most of the time. "Yeah, I know...deny myself, but..." I was just sooo yielding to my emotions. Excuses seem to be such justifiable rhyme or reason. For no apparent reason, I simply just wanna feel the emotion and be in it. Guess it's human nature. We know there isn't any good in staying angry. We know that we should just let go of baggage. We know things but we simply don't wanna do anything about them. I dunno if twas more convenient to let my emotions rule over me. Can't remember anything else but the time when I was already alone. How I was so disappointed with myself. How I regretted I had said so many harsh words.

With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in God's likeness. [James 3:9]

Only after everything was over that I came back to my senses. hmmmm...it shouldn't be said this way, actually. Because I was AWARE what was happening. I was fully aware that the Holy Spirit was speaking to me. Guess we all become deaf when selfishness sets in.

My dear brothers, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry... [James 3:10]

I was too quick to listen in that situation, by the way. I was actually provoked. The argument didn't start from me. I did my part in speaking slowly by explaining my side. For whatever reason, the other person involved kept on egging me on. I was trying to keep cool until the trigger word was uttered. And, I failed to do the last instruction.

Am so tempted to say, I tried to be "slow to become angry, but..." No, am not gonna give any more excuse. I know where I failed. I shouldn't have lived in the flesh.

Those who live according to the flesh have their minds set on what the flesh desires; but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires. The mind governed by the flesh is death, but the mind governed by the Spirit is life and peace. The mind governed by the flesh is hostile to God; it does not submit to God’s law, nor can it do so. Those who are in the realm of the flesh cannot please God. [Romans 8:5-8]

To live in the spirit is not really mystical, in fact. It's more of obedience. You hear a small voice inside instructing you what to do. You either follow it or ignore it. It's a choice. A decision.

I'd often share that we are just God's vessels and our captain is not ourselves but Christ. He knows what's best for us so He guides us and tells us what to do. But, we want to be at the helm. We rather be our own captain. We want to use our autopilot. So, we often fail and crash.

My heart broke big time knowing that not only did I hurt the feelings of another person, I also offended God. I failed in that test.

We know that the law is spiritual; but I am unspiritual, sold as a slave to sin. I do not understand what I do. For what I want to do I do not do, but what I hate I do. And if I do what I do not want to do, I agree that the law is good. As it is, it is no longer I myself who do it, but it is sin living in me. For I know that good itself does not dwell in me, that is, in my sinful nature. For I have the desire to do what is good, but I cannot carry it out. For I do not do the good I want to do, but the evil I do not want to do—this I keep on doing. Now if I do what I do not want to do, it is no longer I who do it, but it is sin living in me that does it. [Romans 7:14:20]

First time I fully understood this years back, I realized that there really is a battle. Most of the time, we know. We want to do what's good. Only we can't carry it out as naturally. Often, it requires great effort. And, last Monday night I was reminded of the verses again. No matter how calm I already was within during the next few minutes of mouthing off, I simply can't drop the matter. I still can't step out of that scene. I felt like I was waiting for the feeling to totally be gone before I can fully be appeased. I know it's crazy. I was actually telling myself this. I was being ridiculous. But, there was this urge to take advantage while supplies last! As if it's anything beneficial. It's totally against my will to remain rude and harsh, yet there's this feel of redress in doing it. I can definitely relate to what the apostle Paul said, "...I have the desire to do what is good, but I cannot carry it out."  

The other person may not know. It might not be obvious that there's an inner desire in me to just drop the matter. But, God sees my heart. He was witness to everything. I can only be thankful that God looks at the heart. Am sorry, though, that I failed to carry out my Christian duty.

...for the anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God. [James 1:20]

Indeed! I was so ashamed of myself. Funny thing is, I just wrote a blog where I said, I choose to love different. I failed to do so. Geesh!

Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, "Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord. " [Romans 12:19]

So, next time someone incites me again... I'll make sure am wearing the full armor of God. I'll remember that I must deny myself -- my hurt, my right, my opinion... -- and not be too concerned however people take pleasure in touching me off. God alone vindicates me. He is to avenge for me as He see fit.

And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work. [2 Corinthians 9:8]

I always forget that God has been overly gracious to me. He has already put good deposits in my heart. My duty is to cultivate them. Use them for His glory.

Still, am thankful that that night happened. Otherwise, I wouldn't have been refreshed. There wouldn't be any revelation or alarm. I would never be aware that I need to keep watch. Truly, "in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." [Romans 8:28]

Love and relationships are supposed to make people better.

I'd often say, "relationships are hard to handle". And, I believe that when a person has too many friends, (s)he don't really have a genuine one. Why? Because if we can't even maintain a good relationship with a family member or the closest friend we have because of their flaws and all, how much more that many? Too many irrational conduct to put up with. We'd even often complain about certain behavior of a friend. And, when they touch a vulnerable part of us, we simply dump them as if they'd never done us anything right. Then, bland things will be said about them from our very own mouth. It's that convenient to spread around tattles to even the score. Only for one offense, which could be, in fact, only our own perspective, we can easily vilify them. A terrible habit of injuring another being only because we are too coward to fix misunderstanding through proper communication. How vicious.

"You have to walk on eggshells for people because that’s about how strong they are these days. And you can’t confront people, because if you do, that brittle shell of confidence will crack. So we all become passive cowards that carry a fake smile wherever we go." 

...Makes me sad.

But, I am choosing to be different. To love different. If a relationship matters to me, I will make a choice to be true to it. Whatever that may be, which I don't like about another...whatever a person might have done, which hurt me...they will know or hear directly from me. An effort will be made to salvage the friendship. Whatever it takes. Ridiculous as it sounds. May appear unpopular even, but I will. My stand is this: relationship is of high importance to God. If it isn't, He couldn't have sent Jesus to suffer here on Earth and die the way He did just because GOD wants to restore our relationship with Him and with His people. If relationship isn't important to God, I don't think there's any warrant for the tolerance and patience He extends to us everyday for our small and big failings. In fact, we always make a choice to hurt Him. We know what hurts Him, but we can simply shrug off the idea that we shouldn't hurt Him. Yet, we do, with our decisions. The wonderful thing is, He also makes a choice EVERY SECOND to forgive and let go of the pain we cause Him. And, the more amazing thing is this... He knows exactly what we're gonna do the next moment... He knows we'll fail... He knows we're gonna hurt Him again... He knows how wicked we are inside... He knows who we really are... Be that as it may, He still accepts us, forgives us, and loves us.

If I will have to find a reason why I should deny myself and my own rights merely to save a relationship with another person, it is more than enough motivation that God shows me how by unconditionally loving me. Undeserving as I am.

People find it hard to forgive when the person who hurt them never apologized or never proved to be repentant. What I have in mind is... when God forgave all my sins... when He thought of restoring His relationship with me by sacrificing an innocent man... He didn't wait nor expect that I apologize first. He just did. Now, why must I require anyone to utter the word "sorry" before I can forgive? It used to be hard, I must admit. But I realized it's effortless to do anything if I live under God's grace. Whenever I look at the cross, I am humbled. For the truth is, I am not worthy of love, especially, not the kind of love that God readily gives me.

What I do is, I'd always look at my state. The real condition of my heart. Who I truly am behind the closet. I see things about me nobody else knows but God. Then, it sinks in to me how God always have to put up with who I am. He never said, "I don't like you anymore", nor did He just stay far away and have nothing to do with me. He can always opt to. In stead, He showers me with more love and compassion. He sees my state and He offers me a new self so I can become beautiful from ugly...fragrant from stinky. So, I tell myself... LOVE makes everything beautiful. If we only learn to love one another, we can have this strong desire to beautify each other. We see a crack, but we don't walk away. An urge within drives us to adorn our brother until the crack is fully covered.

Although, we are unsightly in God's eyes because of our sins, He still sees the beautiful in us. And, I believe that the very reason why there's such a thing as LOVE is so that beauty will be seen in us. LOVE doesn't make us blind to the disagreeable. It just covers the bad, the ugly, so we can only experience the good and the pleasing.  

In a world full of noise, silence has always been my sanctuary...

“But some people are broken. They don't know anything other than hatred... It's like their heart gets going in the wrong direction early on in life, and they can never quite manage to bring it back around to love. It's a sad thing and we should have compassion for them. Think of the joy they are missing in life.”  

― Tess Hilmo, With a Name like Love

.........................................................

Words like this helps strengthen me. Be more compassionate. People need it. But, it's tough. Yet, the Word reminds me, "Follow God’s example, therefore, as dearly loved children and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave Himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God." [Ephesians 5:1&2]  And, it's not MY strength after all. "...be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power." [Ephesians 6:10] 

Oh, and whatever our current situation may be, there are so many things to be thankful for. It's a matter of perspective. I don't bite at situation comparison, btw.  The "at least I still have something to eat..." kind of excuse. Doesn't work for me. I understand that people have their own tolerance threshold. What hurts me may not hurt you. And, what you find unbearable may be petty for me. I believe that it's all about renewing the mind. When we get our focus off our own concerns, we'll come to an understanding that we only need to allow God to carry us. And that is something to be thankful for.  

So, am looking forward to another beautiful day. If beauty won't be obvious, I'll ask God to give me eyes to see it and heart to appreciate it.

Reminds me of this classic children's song. Sometimes it helps when we relive our childhood, agree?

Show me, Lord, what You want me to be. *big smile*

"Rules from the Cradle"

I wish it rained, rather, in the afternoon and not in the evening. But, am still thankful it did rain. So, I went to the mall and spent the entire evening at a bookstore. Photographed a few books I wanna read and wanna finish reading soon.And I so love this one...

I found the guy's online scribblings and it's as enjoyable to read. Just sharing. 

Am not really in a good mood to touch-type my thoughts tonight, so I'll just share the rest of the readings I've had. I was given this "prophecy" that I should be going back to my first love ― writing ― so, am trying my best to add numbers to my monthly posts. My first for this month. Hurray! 

Here goes my "plagiarism"...

“Nobody can say anything about you. Whatsoever people say is about themselves. But you become very shaky, because you are still clinging to a false center. That false center depends on others, so you are always looking to what people are saying about you. And you are always following other people, you are always trying to satisfy them. You are always trying to be respectable, you are always trying to decorate your ego. This is suicidal. Rather than being disturbed by what others say, you should start looking inside yourself…

Whenever you are self-conscious you are simply showing that you are not conscious of the self at all. You don’t know who you are. If you had known, then there would have been no problem— then you are not seeking opinions. Then you are not worried what others say about you— it is irrelevant!

When you are self-conscious you are in trouble. When you are self-conscious you are really showing symptoms that you don’t know who you are. Your very self-consciousness indicates that you have not come home yet.”

 ―From someone called Osho

 .......................................................

The Rules

One, if you’re afraid to fight, then you’ll never win. 

Two, in times of tragedy and turmoil, you’ll learn who your true friends are. Treasure them because they are few and far between. 

Three, know your enemies, and never become your own worst one. 

Four, be grateful for those enemies. They will keep you honest and ever striving to better yourself. 

Five, listen to all good advice, but never substitute someone else’s judgment for your own. 

Six, all men and women lie. But never lie to yourself. 

Seven, many will flatter you. Befriend the ones who don’t, for they will remind you that you’re human and not infallible. 

Eight, never fear the truth. It’s the lies that will destroy you. 

Nine, your worst decisions will always be those that are made out of fear. Think all matters through with a clear head. 

Ten, your mistakes won’t define you, but your memories, good and bad, will. 

Eleven, be grateful for your mistakes as they will tell you who and what you’re not. 

Twelve, don’t be afraid to examine the past, it’s how you learn what you don’t want to do again. 

Thirteen, there’s a lot to be said for not knowing better. 

Fourteen, all men die. Not everyone lives. 

Fifteen, on your deathbed, your greatest regrets will be what you didn’t do. 

Sixteen, don’t be afraid to love. Yes, it’s a weakness that can be used against you. But it’s also a source of the greatest strength you will ever know. 

Seventeen, the past is history written in stone that can’t be altered. The future is transitory and never guaranteed. Today is the only thing you can change for certain. Have the courage to do so and make the most of it because it could be all you’ll ever have. 

Eighteen, you can be in a crowd, surrounded by people, and still be lonely. 

Nineteen, love all, regardless of what they do. Trust only those you have to. Harm none until they harm you.

And twenty… Never be afraid to kill or destroy your enemies. They won’t hesitate to kill or destroy you.

―  Darling Cruel, Sherilyn Kenyon

Bear with me til next time.


Toodle-oo!


 

Everything you do touches someone in some way, even though you might not understand that.

God is truly everywhere. Not necessarily inside each person, though, as how I thought. This is too much to expect, I learned. And, truly, when I allow myself get blinded by my own expectations, I'll surely face pain. I learned that I have to open my eyes to the truth of each individual, believer or non-believer. They have truths that I should be aware of and accept. This way, I can make necessary precautions and adjustments.

Human nature. Every individual has complexities, own nature, personality, attitudes, character, and so many other things that comprise them as persons. These are what make them who they uniquely are. If I try to re-create them the way I deem they should be, I only hurt myself and I hurt God who created them and me. I believe that God did not make a mistake in creating anyone. Even those everyone sees as ugly, bad, evil. God designed each one with wisdom and in His likeness. Who am I to complain? Who am I to say, "you gotta change, my friend..."? If I do, it's saying, I am better than God for I know how should people and things be. I resolved that I am not here on Earth to criticize anything, especially, people. Each one has their own purpose for walking here on Earth just like God has a very special purpose for putting me in this world. Each person is carefully designed for God's very own purpose not for my pleasure nor for my own personal satisfaction. 

I don't have to understand people. I don't have to know why criminals do what they do. It is not for me to give reasons to things. I was not put here on Earth to understand mysteries. What I know is I am placed in this world because God wants to use me as an example of love and compassion. I don't have to look at other people whether they're doing their job or not. I can only do my part in warning them, but never to dictate to them what they should do. As I do the tasks God assigned me to do, I shouldn't be critical of other people whether or not they're doing their parts. I am only responsible for myself. I should always guard myself from comparing myself to others. I always have to give my best and my excellent but without taking pride that I am better than others. I am aware that each one is doing their best. Just like me, everyone is struggling to be better everyday.  God has been patient with me as HE guides me to become the person HE wants me to be. In return, I should also be patient with people as God guides them through change.

Every now and then, the nature of people will prick me. One, two or more people will hurt me with their behavior. That will surely cause me pain. But, how I respond is a reflection of who I am inside. Certain people are simply being used by God to expose what I truly am, which I am trying to hide or keep within myself. I can't say, "I only reacted this way because of this or that person." ..."had he not done that, I wouldn't have reacted the way I did." It's so wrong to think that it's because of other people or it's because of situations that we show a certain attitude or behavior. The good or evil we do comes from the good or evil things stored up in our hearts. Most of the time, God places us in situations so these things will be exposed. And it's not because HE wants to over-expose the evil in us; but it is in order that we can be aware of it and repent; then, HE can help change us inwardly.

It's a tough job to love. But, I believe the very reason why Jesus had to walk on Earth is to show us how. He loved the people even He saw their hearts. He had compassion for them. He did not judge them; in stead, He looked at them with mercy. How wonderful will the world be if people start looking at each other not with critical mind nor with judgment but with mercy, love and compassion.

Jesus said, “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another." 

"God's work done in God's way will never lack God's supply."

"...I decided to open my newspaper and read about what was happening in the world. As I continued to read, it seemed that everywhere I looked there were stories of injustice, pain, suffering, and people losing hope. Finally, fueled by my tired, irritable state, I became overcome with compassion and frustration for the way things were. I got up and went to the bathroom and broke down.

With tears streaming down my face, I helplessly looked to the sky and yelled to God. “God, look at this mess. Look at all this pain and suffering. Look at all this killing and hate. God, how could you let this happen? Why don’t you do something?”

Just then, a quiet stillness pacified my heart. A feeling of peace I won’t ever forget engulfed my body. And, as I looked into my own eyes in the mirror, the answer to my own question came back to me… “...stop asking God to do something. God already did something, he gave you life. Now YOU do something!”" 

Life, the Truth, and Being Free

On LOVE

iBelieve.... My heart believes that love is a choice. Love is an act of selfless giving without expectations. Love is sacrifice. Love is seeing the best interest of another. It is not a feeling. Not a reaction to wonderful gestures of love from another. It is just a natural thing that drives one to do things willingly for another person out of a strong desire. An inexplicable desire to do something for someone for no reason at all but itself. It doesn't wait for anything to prompt it to function. It just does without needing an outside force to switch it on.

iPonder... What do you call a love that's looking for a reason? One that waits til a person does something to deserve the privilege of receiving love from the loved object? ...if it demands reason before it can give? Is it love?

iExpress... At this point, I feel like I need to be loved more. I feel like I've been drained from giving too much and receiving little. Yet, I am too cautious that I might just keep sucking affection from anyone available only because I am thirsty for it. Guess my love experiences in the past have caused so much trauma in me that every single decision involving love frightens me. I can't see myself standing anywhere between love and not loving. Am scared to love again and I am scared of not loving. This makes me so frustrated.

iProbe... But, as I remind myself that love is a verb...confusion kicks in. Must I decide to do it because it's an action word or must I wait to receive it because it's a noun...a thing? Or, the question really isn't about choosing what to do? ... but rather who to give it to?

Don't fondle my trigger then blame my gun.

“You're going to meet many people with domineering personalities: the loud, the obnoxious, those that noisily stake their claims in your territory and everywhere else they set foot on. This is the blueprint of a predator. Predators prey on gentleness, peace, calmness, sweetness and any positivity that they sniff out as weakness. Anything that is happy and at peace they mistake for weakness. It's not your job to change these people, but it's your job to show them that your peace and gentleness do not equate to weakness. I have always appeared to be fragile and delicate but the thing is, I am not fragile and I am not delicate. I am very gentle but I can show you that the gentle also possess a poison. I compare myself to silk. People mistake silk to be weak but a silk handkerchief can protect the wearer from a gunshot. There are many people who will want to befriend you if you fit the description of what they think is weak; predators want to have friends that they can dominate over because that makes them feel strong and important. The truth is that predators have no strength and no courage. It is you who are strong, and it is you who has courage. I have lost many a friend over the fact that when they attempt to rip me, they can't. They accuse me of being deceiving; I am not deceiving, I am just made of silk. It is they who are stupid and wrongly take gentleness and fairness for weakness. There are many more predators in this world, so I want you to be made of silk. You are silks.” ― C. JoyBell C.

It is possible to live 24hrs a day in a state of love.

“My aim is so true...
I wanna show you...
I'll try forever...
I'm never gonna say "surrender".”

"...suddenly, I realize that this is what I've been waiting for - a man who depends entirely on me. I dreamed for years of a man who couldn't live without me... a man who pictured my face when he closed his eyes... who loved me when I was a mess in the morning and when dinner was late and even when I overloaded the washing machine and burned out the motor ...stares up at me as if I can do no wrong."

What's wrong if there happens to be one person in the world who enjoys trying to understand you?

"No mistake about it. Ice is cold; roses are red; I'm in love. And this love is about to carry me off somewhere. The current's too overpowering; I don't have any choice. It may very well be a special place, some place I've never seen before. Danger may be lurking there, something that may end up wounding me deeply, fatally. I might end up losing everything. But there's no turning back. I can only go with the flow. Even if it means I'll be burned up, gone forever." — Haruki Murakami

She can't actually decide which of the lines caught her heart. All she knows is that each time they talk, he breaks down one brick from the walls she built up around her. Just one brick at a time. Slowly but surely. That's how strong his words are.

And she wonders where does his confidence come from. There is no trace of fear. He was boldly uttering his deepest feelings. Could it be that love truly conquers all?

...until finally, at last... it was verbalized. [8.30.11-01.45]

...Bleeding hearts will only cry out for more...

“A red rose is not selfish because it wants to be a red rose. It would be horribly selfish if it wanted all the other flowers in the garden to be both red and roses.”

"Why kid ourselves, people have nothing to say to one another... they all talk about their own troubles and nothing else. Each man for himself, the earth for us all. They try to unload their unhappiness on someone else...

...and in between they boast that they've succeeded in getting rid of their unhappiness, but everyone knows it's not true and they've simply kept it all to themselves. Since at the little game you get uglier and more repulsive as you grow older, you can't hope to hide your unhappiness, your bankruptcy, any longer. In the end your features are marked with that hideous grimace that takes twenty, thirty years or more to climb frm your belly to your face. That's all a man is good for, that and no more, a grimace that he takes a whole lifetime to compose. The grimace a man would need to express his true soul without losing any of it is so heavy and complicated that he doesn't always succeed in completing it."

People tend to make rules for others and exceptions for themselves.

The best way to sell yourself to others is first to sell the others to yourself. Check yourself against this list of obstacles to a pleasing personality:

• interrupting others
• sarcasm
• vanity
• being a poor listener
• insincere flattery
• finding fault
• challenging others without good cause
• giving unsolicited advice
• complaining
• attitude of superiority
• envy of others’ success
• poor posture and dress…

What is unacceptable is the fact that many people do not want to see their part in the mess. They refuse to see their own fault by pointing fingers at and highlighting the mistake of others. How many are sincerely willing to admit they provoked someone into acting like a monster? They don't want to acknowledge that there must be something about them that cause another to act a certain way.

Fault-finding is a dangerous game. While one is occupied scrutinizing the being of another person, (s)he fails to see what (s)he badly needs to see and change in him/herself. The more that (s)he passes the blame on others, the more that (s)he fails to improve his/her character. Hardly do people willingly forgive the mistakes of others the same way as they easily and willingly forgive their own. Nit-picking is probably the easiest way to divert people from seeing their flaws. But the damage is menacing.

Strangely enough, Christians do a lot of this. It is this holier-than-thou attitude that repels many unbelievers from receiving Christ's invitation for salvation. Many Christians abuse Biblical scriptures by pronouncing them aloud only to make the other follow what they feel this poor person needs to change in him/herself. In stead of letting GOD grow the seed, they force the seed open.

These are are just some of the lines you will hear from those who are supposed to show themselves "the light of the world": "do this" ..."do that" ..."I am right"... "you are wrong". "I know"... "you do not see the bigger picture, I do"... "You should've"... just to name a few.

They do not understand that their lives alone can move people, not their empty words. That their examples should've been enough. They do not realize that people observe what they say against what they do. They are not ashamed to point out the wrongs of others while they do the same wrongs. They claim to read the Bible, but just like what the apostle Paul said, "always learning and never able to arrive at a knowledge of the truth." They misunderstand the Word. They even misuse it for their own purpose -- to prove they are right and far superior than others.

Jesus Christ, HIMSELF, warned us,

"Do not judge so that you will not be judged. "For in the way you judge, you will be judged; and by your standard of measure, it will be measured to you. "Why do you look at the speck that is in your brother's eye, but do not notice the log that is in your own eye? "Or how can you say to your brother, 'Let me take the speck out of your eye,' and behold, the log is in your own eye? "You hypocrite, first take the log out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to take the speck out of your brother's eye."

Jesus didn't even say that we must not judge, at all. If we are to read carefully, HE emphasized that we are not to "hypocritically" judge our neighbors. Stop trying to remove someone else's mote while your own mote is evidently showing. Note that HE also used "speck" and "log". What you see is a speck and there is a log in your eye!

None of us is righteous, therefore, NONE of us has the right to judge anyone's life. We have more than enough flaws to deal with for us to have time to look at the flaws of others.

In fact, Jesus made it clear that He especially had a problem with the hypocrisy of the Jewish religious leaders of His time. In other confrontations with them, Jesus made some pretty strong statements against those leaders:

"Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you clean the outside of the cup and of the dish, but inside they are full of robbery and self-indulgence. You blind Pharisee, first clean the inside of the cup and of the dish, so that the outside of it may become clean also. Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you are like whitewashed tombs which on the outside appear beautiful, but inside they are full of dead men's bones and all uncleanness. So you, too, outwardly appear righteous to men, but inwardly you are full of hypocrisy and lawlessness..." (Matthew 23:25-28)

Many strive to look clean. They think they can deceive everyone because they do look sleek and neat. But, the hate inside them comes out as naturally in their speech. Truly, "out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks." We cannot successfully hide what we have inside. We can dress up decently, make all attempts to sound pleasing, show a bright smile at all times... but, "As water reflects a face, so a man's heart reflects the man."

We must all remember that our righteousness come from Christ alone. No good works (esp no pretension) will help us out of our miserable state. We don't do good works because we are good. We do good because of the Holy Spirit, so that no one can boast. Let us get rid of the holier-than-thou mentality. We all fall short of the glory of GOD.

It isn't what they say about you, it's what they whisper.

Here's how it works... something is said about someone. Doesn't matter whether it's good or bad or terrible; true or just hearsay. The recipient's perception of the information will judge it based on two conditions -- (1) if the recipient of the information is indifferent, (s)he will just ignore. (2) If the recipient already has some rancor or even mindset about the person being talked about, they're kinda biased. The information, then, ends up being a weapon. A deadly one. The recipient(s) become talebearer(s) themselves. Next thing you know, the information's been spread like a virus infecting anyone who dare touch it.

What many don't realize is that gossip doesn't do as much bad to the one being talked about than to the infected. It is a toxin. It infects everyone. It becomes part of their system. It pollutes their judgment.

Gossip is like a delicious delicacy everyone wants to feast on. Not knowing they are being poisoned from the inside out. Because it's not a delicacy, but a contagion. Yet, people find it enjoyable for as long as they're not the topic.

What's sad is that people don't even take time to think before believing hearsay. People will believe what they want to believe. Regardless of the source.

The hardest and the most painful thing to realize is the fact that you may be a victim. You can decide with your heart to be good, but if right from the start you've already been judged, no good deed can ever remove the venom from their system. More so, if their hearts are filled with envy and hate there is totally NOTHING noble or grand enough you can do to satisfy them.

Sometimes, I wonder how come when people hear something ill being said about another they don't ask themselves "why is this person telling me this?" It puzzles me why we allow others to pollute our minds with their sharp tongues. And why we engage into this kind of activity. Nonsensical.

It's oh so true...gossip is not a mouth problem, but a heart issue. "For out of the overflow of the heart the mouth speaks" -Matthew 12:34.

"Evil people look for ways to harm others; even their words burn with evil.
Gossip is spread by wicked people; they stir up trouble and break up friendships."
-Proverbs 16:27, 28

Another thing I realized... we have to be very careful WHO we trust. The friend smiling at you and having fun with you...telling you things like, "am just here when you need someone to listen" ...may end up backstabbing you. Be careful of their traps. They may show you they care, but what they're after is a little information to say against you behind your back. They're actually your enemies in disguise. Waiting to hear something they like about someone they don't.

"Count not him among your friends who will retail your privacies to the world."

The Family that Rocks Together...Stays Together!

"Rock n Roll!" ...I still can't get over last Monday night's (April 18) super fun time with "The Smiths". Love the conversation, laughter & learning. Awesome experience, indeed.

I joined Pinoy Rock'nRoll Legend -- Pepe (Joey), pasaway dad's girl -- Queenie, DJ & model -- Sanya and the Jr. Rockstar -- Beebop as they dined in at Chocolate Fire in Makati.

Twas so fun being with them as if we're like long time buddies. No dull moment whatsoever. Just all chuckling and memorable chats. *big smile*

To the staff...I salute y'all.

Episode will be aired on the 30th of April 2011. Let's all support "The Smiths" show. Rock-rakan na!

Also, you guys might also want to visit Chocolate Fire and get intoxicated with their various chocolate creations. Only top-quality chocolate guaranteed.

I highly recommend the Kick A Chili Bark (choco slabs mixed w/ chili flakes)! Yummmmie!!!

Other interesting selections to try (must try!):
Dark Gold Bark, Dark Truffles, Chocolate Fondue, Dark Chocolate Volcano, Chocolate Mousse, Dipped Pringles, and many others...

It is, actually, more than just a dessert place. Chocolate Fire also offers sandwiches, pasta, salads, hot and cold coffee and chocolate drinks.

Chocolate Fire is located at PDCP Building Leviste Street, (corner Rufino Street) Salcedo Village, Makati City.

Telephone #: 840.34.73
Business Hours: 11 a.m. – 9 p.m.
Price Range per Person: Php 201 – Php 500

My job is to love people. It is GOD's job to change them.

Each of us encounter at least one difficult person every day. Lucky if you're spared of dealing with an irritating individual even just once in a week. Some even have to put up being with another person who possess an unpleasant attitude on a daily basis. It's like castigation they have to endure. Many are struggling to get along with spiteful supervisors or co-workers. There are those who have to stomach their own family member for being irrational or for being harsh with words. This is not something new. Truth is, there will even be a time when our own trusted friend will fail or disappoint us. Nobody need to hate us to hurt us. It's just the plain fact that we are all in a way selfish people always trying to grab what we so desire even to the point of stepping on another's toe. Human nature. Survival of the fittest. Competition. We are all going to inevitably hurt each other because we differ in many ways -- attitudes, values, beliefs, aspirations... No wonder the Bible tells us to, "Be tolerant of one another and forgive each other if anyone has a complaint against another. Just as the Lord has forgiven you, you also should forgive." (Colosians 3:13 ISV)

It is NOT easy to be tolerant. We are all creatures of emotions with different levels of threshold. But, if we are to take the Bible seriously, we need to be self-controlled. It might help if we remind ourselves that each one of us, every person you see every day -- and, yes, even that difficult person you have to put up with -- is God's creation... perfectly crafted in HIS own image (read Genesis 1:27). We may strongly think that a person needs to change himself, but it is really not our business to pinpoint anyone's flaws. We already have more than enough imperfections to acknowledge and change. Although, it is good to help someone realize his blemish for his self-improvement, we are in no position to demand and expect them to change. It is not our duty to change others. Our duty is to change ourselves and our attitudes and responses toward situations and people and follow Christ's example (1 Peter 2:21). To change ourselves -- our bad habits, attitudes, behavior -- is not an easy task. If we find it hard to change ourselves, then, we must understand that it is the same with others. God did not create us to be each other's critic. Jesus even gave us the following commandments: "Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven. (Luke 6:37)

There is also a need for us to acknowledge that we have certain attitudes that may be annoying to others, as well. So, we need to show kindness and compassion to our fellowmen just as God showers us with kindness, mercy and patience. One day, we will be placed in situations where we are going to fall short of someone's expectations and we want them to forgive us and give us a chance to change. It is but wise to sow kindness and compassion now. Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. (Galatians 6:7) If you sow kindness and mercy, you will reap kindness and mercy. If you do not forgive, you will not be forgiven. If you demand and expect, the same measure will be used against you. Jesus Christ showed an example of kindness. "When people were near Him there was this incredible magnetism because of an absence of unrealistic expectations and subtle demands and manipulative devices. HE did not use pressure tactics. HE simply accepted people as they were." -Charles Swindoll

“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” (John 13:34-35) My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. (John 15:12) Jesus Christ commanded us to LOVE ONE ANOTHER. How do we love others? When Jesus Christ was asked which commandment in the law is the greatest, HE emphasized that the 2nd greatest commandment is "love your neighbor as yourself"(Matthew 22:39). How do we love ourselves? Here's a good example:

When you accidentally cut your finger and it bleeds, you don't tell yourself, "I don't have time to stop the bleeding now. I'll attend to it later." In stead, you are urgent in taking action. You love yourself enough that you don't even have to think twice whether you will get a first-aid kit or you will just rush to do whatever you deem more important than attending to your wound. Your thoughts, words and actions are driven by your self-love. If you are to love your neighbor as yourself, the same urgent kind of love is required. "It's a love that notices the needs of another person and won't rest until it's been met."

How else can we love our neighbor as ourselves? By following the golden rule: "So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets." Yes, the Golden Rule is Biblical! Read Matthew 7:12. If we are to be imitators of Christ, we have to practice sincere love and loving is doing what you would have others do to you. When we failed or hurt someone we love, our automatic response is to be sorry. We want to be forgiven. We want to be heard as we explain ourselves why have we done such a thing. We want them to give us a chance to change. Therefore, it is but wise to do the same. Let's not be judgmental. Let's stop complaining about someone else's flaws and shortcomings. Quit spreading nasty rumors about the person you dislike no matter how terrible his behavior may be. Remind yourself not to put pressure on anyone to change. “Consider how hard it is to change yourself and you'll understand what little chance you have in trying to change others.”

We make excuses for our behavior, but when someone else does the same thing we do, we are often merciless. It's so typical how we look at ourselves through rose-colored glasses, but look at others through a magnifying glass.

Christ's commandment is to "love one another". No buts. HE did not tell us to love our neighbor only when they deserve it. HE did not love us because we deserve love. HE loved us in our worst state. God doesn't love us because we're good, obedient, or whatever. HE just do. No reason required. Therefore, we must love one another. Period. In fact, we're even instructed to LOVE OUR ENEMIES. (Matthew 5:44) So, if you need to deal with who you consider a despicable person, just love the person. Do not hate him. "Love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins." (1 Peter 4:8)

We all need a daily check up from the neck up to avoid stinkin’ thinkin’ which ultimately leads to hardening of the attitudes.

People often think that when they get what they want, that's gonna make them happy. I didn't have lotsa wants; at least, I can't recall any strong desire to acquire or possess something. Have always been content with what comes along. Whatever is handed to me, am already good with that. No demands. No more complaining. Have always been thankful.

But, I guess it'll always come in anyone's life when they start really wanting something. They'd try to do whatever it takes to get it. In my case, however, in stead of really grabbing what I want, I kept bugging GOD. In my thoughts, I didn't want to exclude HIM. I wanted HIM to bless my desire and I wanted HIM to give it to me. As if, bargaining, if you may call it that. I'd tell HIM indignant reasoning like, "I have not been asking so many things from YOU and just wait for what YOU want to give me. Maybe, this time around, YOU would be kind enough to consider my request." It didn't sound wrong, at least at the moment when I said it. But, well, GOD will always be merciful. Even at my dumbest moment, HE looked at me smiling, told me gently, "you don't know what you're asking for." HE's right. Always right.

All a man's ways seem right to him, but the LORD weighs the heart. The Book of Proverbs tells so much about wisdom. Sometimes, though, people allow the enemy to deceive them by believing his lies -- his accusation, temptation and deception. And it's important to note that Proverbs is not talking about plain human or life wisdom. It talks about Spiritual wisdom. We all must be aware that we wage war against spiritual enemies. And these enemies know enough that the best way to attack a believer is through his thoughts. It's a battlefield of the mind. When a Christian choose to believe the enemy's lie, his daily victory will be far from becoming real. And this is the same reason why many Christians wonder how come the "freedom" they are hoping for has not yet taken place in their lives.

No Christian is expected to do what is right all the time. And that is why Christ, once and for all, offered Himself as atonement for our sins. Because it is NOT possible to live a sinless life. I'd quote a book I recently read by Neil Anderson. He said, "Christians are saints who sin." It's true. Because for as long as we're here in this world, there'll always be failures. Well, the Bible clearly states that, "there is none righteous; no not one." Nevertheless, a Christian's position and identity in Christ shouldn't be used as a ticket to sin. For the Bible also states that, If we deliberately keep on sinning after we have received the knowledge of the truth, no sacrifice for sins is left, but only a fearful expectation of judgment and of raging fire that will consume the enemies of God. - Hebrews 10-26-27

Christians always face spiritual warfare and it gets more intense and forceful as faith increase. Nobody is exempt from facing this truth because the enemy's aim is for us to not receive victory and disprove the faithful work of our Savior, Jesus Christ. Christ promised us victory and freedom. But, the enemy wants to deceive us to believe his lie that it's never gonna happen. How? By injecting certain thoughts in our minds. That is why it is very important to keep praying for Spiritual wisdom and Spiritual discernment so as not to be deceived. The Bible advise us, "whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable--if anything is excellent or praiseworthy--think about such things." - Philippians 4:8

So, whenever a thought starts to bug you, don't just entertain it. Our thoughts and opinion and belief...they can lure us and reason out for us so we can do the things that are considered not pleasing to God. I don't mean to say our thoughts are naturally filthy. It might not be the case. It could be that the enemy injects an idea in our mind that seem logical. Or, because we so desire something, we tell ourselves, "it couldn't be that bad". Our minds can deceive us. Our desires can, as well. But, we need to remain dependent on GOD's will. We must never live as if we can go ahead of God and see what happens. This is the very reason why many Christians don't fully enjoy their victory as Christ's co-heir--Independence from God's will and purpose.

If there is emptiness in you and you can't feel real joy even you are successful and have all the wonderful things in the world, you might want to give it a thought to consider surrendering to GOD's loving care. Give HIM the wheel and let HIM lead you and start living a life that does not anymore conform to the standards of this world and then strive to renew your mind. Use Spiritual wisdom and discernment so you'll have a clear understanding whether your wants or desires or ways are pleasing to GOD. This will significantly help you experience real freedom.