Brenda Starr

Adaptability is for the Strong Hearted

2011-03-25T08:58:00.006+08:00

Who says adapting to change is easy? Not when it will cost you your comfort zone. It’s not when the odds are against you. It’s hard when some of your workmates are not with you in going forward. And it hurts when you lose something precious to you.
This month was another learning experience as looking upon adaptability through life’s magnifying glass. We were so involved in learning through the books (John Maxwell’s 17 Essential Qualities of a Team Player) that we miss to learn about it through life’s experiences. It’s the best teacher of all.
You know the Lord never miss to make you savour the real thing. As work progresses for the month, we met challenges that brought us to really think well, strategize and make use of our time to our best efforts. We thought we were doing it right until, bammm, it hits you like a tsunami, you are down with no resolved. You took a few misses, you blame it to some lapses, but deep within you know it was another day inside the classroom of the university of life.

Our team may go through foul balls, a few home runs and some bruises along the way, but what made the game even memorable are the scenes of life where we stood up, pat each other’s back and told each one they gave their best and that there’s always the next day.

Adaptability is for the strong hearts, for the willing souls, for the person who looked at the bigger picture, beyond himself, yet he knows he has to be part of the change. It’s for the faithful, one who believes that he lacks and that God supplies without reproach.

Thank you Oh Lord, for making us see that every small detail of our lives comes from you and when weave together it creates a beautiful scene of memorable, learned experiences that makes us better and more fulfilled people of hope.

A tourist at my own country: Of Peanut Kisses, Kalamay and Quirky Cutlure

2011-03-02T19:40:00.004+08:00

Every time I come to Bohol, I never get to fully see the beauty of it. The last trip I was here, our bus couldn’t make it to the Chocolate Hills due to a landslide. That was my 2nd attempt to go to the famous hills as last time’s trip was also cut short due to time constraint.

As I look at the many foreigners who come and go in this island, I can’t help but feel envious of how they get to appreciate our islands first before we get to see the very beauty of it. The island invites it’s visitors to savor it’s distinct taste of blue beaches and white sands, exotic caves, sites that shows God’s beautiful creation and exciting extreme activities, from bungee jumping to zipline rides and the sweetness of their “bol-anong delicacies” from kalamay to peanut kisses. This island offers a relaxing avenue of the Philippines. Surely a place worth seeing as you lists down your “bucket list” of islands to visit.

Next stop was Dumaguete. It must be my more than 5th time visit to this place, yet its uniqueness never fails to calm my spirit as I walk its boulevard shores. I believe each island has its own unusual culture and I came about one behaviour people in Dumaguete have as far as paying their jeepney fares in concerned. While we in Cebu pay our fares just before we disembark the jeep (bayad muna bago baba), in Dumaguete, it’s the other way around, (baba muna tapos bayad) passengers will go down and go to the driver’s seat and pay their fares. Regardless whether their money is of exact amount or in bills, you are force to wait up until payment is made. I thought this was just another random act that's done as an exception but as I further noticed, it’s the norm around the city. I couldn’t help but laugh of its quirkiness and thought how preposterous the action is, but the longer I thought about it, I couldn’t help but smile as I have come to appreciate our distinctiveness as a Filipino race.

I couldn't wait to what the next island will reveal. The tourist attraction continues.

What I Learned While Editing My Life

2011-02-23T23:06:00.005+08:00

The New You

Don’t put your mind into slumber.
Don’t put your life on hold.
Dream big! Take risks!
Let it all be told, that the new you,
Never settles for the status quo.

Our theme for this month gave me much thought of how important it is to be constantly growing, constantly improving and moving forward.
I had my share of wanting to put my life on FREEZE or ON HOLD. These were moments when you just want to look and see how far you’ve gone, how much you’ve accomplished and if life still has significant meaning.

It’s been almost 7 years in the ministry that God called me, and thank God, every mornings has always been a warm welcome of new beginnings and exciting undertakings. Life taught me to remind myself to ask for what purpose I’m doing the things I do each day. And always it leads me back to what I see at our bookshops, at our bookfairs at the different bookstores where our books are, the many faces and lives that are transformed and changed as they encounter God and His love. Nothing beats that kind of experience. With this, you can’t help but be move to raise your bar of excellence, to reach your fullest potential, to never settle for the status quo. To never let failure paralyze you, to fail forward, admit mistakes, stay current, to dare to dream big!

Friends, continuous improvement is not just because you would want to see yourself on top of things, it’s giving God the honor he so greatly deserve, of the many talents and gifts that He bestowed to us and making it of use for others. Let our lives be fully surrendered to Him as we attempt great things for our great God.
(An entry for our work "slogan contest" dubbed Write What is Right)

The High School Reunion of Batch 90 (Cebu Central Colleges/University of Cebu)

2011-02-21T08:07:00.014+08:00

I just woke up this morning with the lingering thought, still very vivid in my mind of last Saturday's (Feb. 19, 2011) High School reunion. I told myself this is another experience worth telling about, cause it's not just another ordinary get together party, but as I steal the words of our classmate Father Borres, seeing all of us together that morning would let us acknowledge that God has truly been good to have given us the gift of life.

It has been 21 years since we graduated from High school. I wouldn't trade my experiences from those years. Those were the best ones that talked much about triumphs, defeats, friendships and new adventures and undertakings. It was the introduction of how far youthfulness, strength and energy can make you invisible at times. Life was ahead of you and you have that feeling that you can conquer the world and be hopeful about it. High School years were by far the greatest and best chapter of your youthful life.

So it was February 19, Saturday and everyone was gathered at the Don Bosco Seminary in Lawaan, Talisay.
As I looked around, I felt such peace and joy to see my batchmates and how much the years have changed us physically, individually, professionally, socially and even culturally, yet that day we were all of the same ground reminiscing the fun years of high school. It was as if we were transported back in time when our teen years reminded us of the many "kalokohan" and the endless naughty stuff we did that brought so much laughter and tears. It was indeed a beautiful, memorable day.

As the day ended, I couldn't help but be excited of what the future brings for us. I believe God made it all possible for us to be all together, not just for reminiscing the year's past, but looking forward to know what greater purpose we can accomplish. The future is truly bright for we rest it in God's hands.

To HS Batch 90 of CCC/UC, wherever you may be, may the Lord bring you great blessings and more years to count.

Kudos everyone!

An Afternoon with Horton and the persons of Whoville

2011-01-09T20:49:00.007+08:00

It was another Sunday afternoon with an unscheduled trip to one of my favorite bookshops. I have to bring two of my pamangkins there to take them off from my sister-in-law's hands as she makes her groceries. For me it was another opportunity to get them excited with reading and what more treat would it be than enjoying unlimited reading at one of the biggest bookshops in town. The next challenge for me was to choose the right book for I need to keep the attention of my 7 year old nephew.

Pj is more of a picture reader (he only reads books because of it's graphic photos)and gets impatient with reading a book. So what best book to introduce to him than an all time favorite of a Dr. Seuss collection. And who could ever resist the book Horton Hears a Who. After watching the animated film of this book, I decided to hook my nephew to the real thing, and lo and behold he really seemed to enjoy it.

What made the book extra special is how Horton remained a noble elephant as he fights for the right of every persons (no matter how small) of Whoville to survived from destruction. Horton stands by the motto that, "After all, a person is a person, no matter how small."

When it was time to leave the bookshop, both kids unanimously asked me to bring them back again to more book reading on their next Sunday trip. Another mission accomplished as the afternoon babysitter.

Dig In More, Says the Lord

2011-01-03T16:29:00.013+08:00

One of my goals this year is read more of the books I've collected and gathered from last year. Sounds like a big plan, but from what I've learned in an article I ran through this morning, How to Eat an Elephant, I was reminded that one just need to take small steps in reaching one's goal. And that's just what I intend to do with my reading collection. Paired with listening to one of my soundtrack albums (Titanic Vol 2 CD), I dabbed into my mini laptop and couldn't wait to tell you initially of what I've learned from my first few chapters of the latest book from Joshua Harris DUG DOWN DEEP.

Deep in my heart, I've always longed to know more about God, thus three years ago, I decided to buy my own NLT Life Application Bible (a gift from my sister) and promised to read the whole Bible for a year. Three years have passed and I'm barely even making it halfway (stuck at the Book of Kings, yet loving Elijah's triumphs and travails)

Last Sunday's sermon was another reminder for me of what should be my priorities this year. I learned that a God-scripted life is a life that 1. Denies oneself to the purposes of God, 2. Delight myself in God's Word and 3. Depend on God's grace. The more I'm to stay focus in studying and applying God's teachings.

So back to Joshua's book, it gives and teaches me a fresh way of knowing more about my God. What he talks about in his first two chapters literally describes my own shortcomings and mishaps as what the idea of knowing or studying God is all about.

This verse has opened my spiritual eyes to what I must do first as I dig in deeper in the nature of God and who He should be in my life:

ASK FOR THE ANCIENT PATHS

"Thus says the Lord: "Stand by the roads and look, and ask for the ancient paths,
where the good way is; and walk in it,
and find rest for your souls." (Jeremiah 6:16)

The writer further explains: What are the ancient paths? When the Old Testament prophet Jeremiah used the phrase, he was describing obedience to the Law of Moses. But today the ancient paths have been transformed by the coming of Jesus Christ. Now we see that those ancient paths ultimately led to Jesus. We have not only truth to obey but a person to trust in--a person who perfectly obeyed the Law and who died on the cross in our place.

But just as in the days of Jeremiah, the ancient paths still represent life based on a true knowledge of God--a God who is holy, a God who is just, a God who is full of mercy towards sinners. Walking in the ancient paths still means relating to God on his terms. It still means receiving and obeying his self-revelation with humility and awe.

BE THE WISE BUILDER

Who is the wise builder? The wise builder is the one who comes to Jesus, listens to his words, and then puts them into practice. This activity--this faith-filled approach to Jesus, the acceptance of his truth and then the application of the truth--is what Jesus said is like a man who dug down deep and built on a solid foundation. When problems and trials and the storms of life came, the "house" of his life kept standing.

The author continues, What hit me that morning on the beach is that digging down and building on the rock isn't a picture of being normally religious or knowing Jesus from a distance. Being a Christian means being a person who labors to establish his beliefs, his dreams, his choices, his very view of the world on the truth of who Jesus is and what he has accomplished--a Christian who cares about truth, who cares about sound doctrine.

I was reminded furthermore, that the wise builder digs. Digging that requires thinking and reading and grappling with sometimes challenging truths. But the hardest work of all is putting the truth into practice.

True enough I am filled with anticipation (and dread as well) of how obedient I can be in following Christ. Yet, I'm filled with hope knowing, that as long as I have the Lord with me, this will be one year to look forward too. I'm reminded by my pastor's personal text message, Keep close to God, Lynnie. And that's what I intend to do, with God's saving grace.

More additions to this post as my reading continues.

Yogurt and Waffles

2010-12-30T14:37:00.010+08:00

It was supposed to be an afternoon of comedy movie that turned out to be a date with Yogurt and Waffles. Had my dose of the latest yogurt cafe in Ayala and my palate says its not as good as the one I tasted at Yogorino (another yogurt cafe inside Cybergate mall).

The added consolation is the fast wifi server it has that made me blog about this "unexpected" moment. Hmmm... Now i can smell the mouthwatering effects of its blueberries N Cream waffles. Should i indulge my palate? We'll wait for the verdict.

The waffles is a winner!

2010: A Year One Never Forgets

2010-12-29T20:24:00.025+08:00

Where will I start as I begin a long litany of events? How can you fit in 365 days of experiences, friendships, triumphs, undertakings and good health. Here are some highlights of this year's event:

Career:
Gave birth to a new OMF Lit Branch, The Banilad Branch (March 31, 2010)

Expanded our reach in Bacolod and Iloilo with our new Merchandiser (May)
Extended our SHE DAY event as we reach the island of Davao (May)

Had our last SHE DAY for Cebu with guests Diane Castillejo, Timmy Cruz, Vic Garcia and author Nelson Dy. (May)

Had my experience with the Manila Intl. Bookfair, learned a lot.

On a sidetrip, went to Laguna and saw the house of Rizal. (September)

Had series of bookfairs at Robinsons Malls (October & December)

Health:
Discovered that I now have 3 Myomas and a growing cyst in my left ovary. Need treatment asap (October)
Gaining weight due to my hypothyroidism
Experience my first vertigo (August)
Had my bout of muscles problem (November)

Friendships:
My friend Bettina has helped my team with our series of trainings. She has been my confidante in all my undertakings. (March)
My friend Shawn is a friend whom you can enjoy food at its best and have a good time as well. (March)

My friend Abigail finally had her time to march the aisle. She has her heart's desire more than she have imagined. (October)

Books on my list:
Karen Kingsbury and Francine Rivers titles (the collection lengthens)

Crazy Love by Francis Chan ( a keeper)
Ted Dekker collection
Joshua Harries latests Dug Down Deep
Movies on my Top List:
Chronicles of Narnia, the Voyage of the Dawn Treader is definitely a topper
Harry Potter was awesome in effects
some chick flicks that are fun to watch over and over: The Proposal, Letters to Juliet, Confessions of a Shopaholic, The Time Traveler's Wife

Some experiences I couldn't forget:

Went to watch and be part of Hinilawod (Dumaguete)
Said my goodbyes to my pamangkins Nadine and Dondon as they joined my brother in Canada

Have to witness the end of Bread of Life Zamboanga Church (painful)

When one looks back at how life was this year, I only wished I've given more time to spend it with people I loved, given more time to take a pause and enjoy the view freely given and never counted the times I gave myself to others but should have counted how I should have unselfishly followed the Lord.

Yet, I consider it a year of triumphs because in my own way, I've learned to understand what "flowing with the Lord" means, why things never happened the way one plans, yet through it all, you know, God has my back covered.

Thank you Lord for the gift of 2010.

Christmas of 2009

2009-12-29T11:34:00.000+08:00

I couldn't forget the time the SHE DOLLS went out for their first overnight Christmas party. Highlights of the eve were:

Dress up for the Occasion: We all enjoyed dressing up for the occasion, not to mention, dazzled by the "vibrating mascara."

A new SHE DOLL addition to the group: Carol aka "Sandra" is the newly added member
of the 4 year She Dolls.

Food choice has to be well remembered: True enough we marvel with lots of "oohs" and "ahhs" as we savor the mexican savor of Maya's Resto. Can't miss out the white wine "Sandra" got for us. It helped lighten up the mood.

Free Facial for Four: How could we forget the teary-eyed (literally as our face were pricked much) experience at Prana Spa. Thanks to "Sandra" again for this awesome treat.

Night at the Marriott: To capped the evening celebration, we all dressed up in our bedtime fave outfits (Sofia and Sandra got into their nigties and Sabrina and I in
our dependable boxer shorts.

Exchange of Presents: We had a fun time opening presents. We are all reminded most of how our friendship has become stronger as seasoned by time and experiences. We look forward to a fruitful 2010, even if time and space would be a difference.

To the She Dolls, may our friendship move and grow beyond we hope and imagine. May God be always the strongest link of us all.

Things I’ve learned in my journey with Caleb’s Quest (Part 2)

2009-02-14T20:37:00.005+08:00

CALEB ASKED FOR HIS DREAM

One of Caleb’s smart moves was he asked for his dream from God. The author, said that if we are bold in our prayer lives as Caleb, we’d see a lot more of our dreams coming true.

Praying people have always moved God. In fact, praying people actually been known to change God’s mind! Sometimes we just need to look within if what we are asking is to satisfy our desires. Do we seek God’s approval for what we already plan to do?

Our prayers will become powerful when we allow God to change our desires so that they perfectly correspond to His will for us.

Don’t close your mind to such awesome possibilities of where God can bring you next in fulfilling your dreams.

Believe in your heart that God is not only capable but he also delights in doing such things.

“Now all glory to God, who is able, through his mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think.” Ephesians 3:20

tagged: the big four

2009-02-14T11:50:00.007+08:00

from pizza, to bookshops and mc dreamy shows, get to know me more…

Got this blog entry from Sillyserious (my friend Aleks) and I got tagged of my best big fours!

Here’s rule:

Click copy/paste, type in your answers and tag four people in your blogroll! Don’t forget to change my answers to the questions with that of yours.

Question # 1. Four places I go to over and over:
Bookshops (Fully Booked & Powerbooks) I seem to be at home in these places… must be the smell of books; love my native Zamboanga City, the place where I discovered myself; Ayala Center Cebu, the mall made just for my liking.

Question # 2. Four people who e-mail me regularly
hmmm... my team at work, my sister Leah and brother, Paul, who are now both abroad and my blendyahoogroup… my sassy group of SAD (Single and Desirable) ladies from church.

Question # 3. Four of my favorite places to eat?
I love pizza at Don Henricos, the health food of Persian Palate, Japanese style food of Rai-rai Ken and sumptuous Jo’s Chicken Inato, home of best grilled chicken!

Question # 4. Four places you’d rather be?
My bedroom, pretty much my haven; my office nook, just built the way I like it; our OMF Lit bookshop, I have great pride of God’s work; and Europe, my all time dream of "best first-stop place" for my series of world tours.

Question #5. Four TV shows I could watch over and over.
Grey’s Anatomy (I keep a photo of Dr. Mc Dreamy, how kewl is that!); Heroes (amazingly fantastic!); Ang Babaeng Hinugot sa Aking Tadyang (u can’t get enuf of the gorgeous Dingdong Dantes); American Idol (I got hooked with watching and enjoying the contestants, not to mention Mr. Simon “Judge Dread” Cowell)

Thanks Aleks for this entry, made me appreciate again the best parts of this life.

Things I’ve learned in my journey with Caleb’s Quest

2009-02-14T10:09:00.008+08:00

I’ve started a quest together with one of the Bible’s significant characters. He’s name is Caleb. He’s the boldest dreamer in the bible. He’s faith and trust in God is vibrant and strong. Even at the age of 85, it’s just as strong as ever. He’s quest is not much only on conquering the promise land but more on knowing his one true God.

The Caleb Quest is all about, really: a God-sized dream, living and growing way down inside us, causing a desire so strong it can only be satisfied by our heeding it—heeding it and giving everything we have to making it come true.

I took heed of the call to further lead myself to a greater task of knowing our God. So, in one of those days where you are driven to share your learning to some significant few, I was all psyche to tell my team at work about it.

Here are some things that might just be helpful for you too…

Health is wealth. Or so we continually remind ourselves. But what does the Bible say about it.

Mark Atteberry, the author of The Caleb Quest book, said “Wouldn’t it awful if you carried a dream in your heart for forty years and finally got a chance to make it come true, only to have health problems shut you out?”

True, this realization helped me decide to be conscious with my efforts of keeping myself fit and strong and made sure my team also benefits from the lessons.

Bible verses to help you find wisdom in staying fit:

Don’t you realize that all of you together are the temple of God and that the Spirit of God lives in you? God will destroy anyone who destroys this temple. For God’s temple is holy and you are that temple.
1 Cor. 3: 16-17

LESSON ONE: JESUS’ EXERCISE

Did you know that Jesus’ way of exercise was walking. Jesus walked during 3 years of his public ministry of a total of 3,125 miles. Added to this mileage of Egypt to Nazareth, Galilee to Jerusalem total of 21,595 miles. Amazing walk indeed!

Exercise promotes psychological well-being. Reduces stress and anxiety enabling the person to burn off the stress chemicals that fuel anxiety.

LESSON 2: PUT A KNIFE TO YOUR THROAT (Not literal please)

While dining with a ruler, (or dining out in parties etc.), pay attention to what is put before you. If you are a big eater, put a knife to your throat; don’t desire all the delicacies, for he might be trying to trick you.
Proverbs 23: 1-3

We may have no control over some health problems. But studies have shown that we can greatly reduce the risk of most illnesses by eating right. Exercising and lowering stress.

If you’re serious about your dream, you need to think about your health habits. You need to see a doctor regularly. Don’t ask for something bad to happen!

So what are you waiting for. Sign up now to the nearest gym! Or keep away from harmful fats and sugars! Most of all be determined to keep your dream alive as you keep God’s promise in your heart and see that you get to be healthy to see it through.

A Letter to a Sister

2008-03-01T17:13:00.007+08:00

Hi sis,

I heard from the folks that you have passed the exam. Answered prayer ba? I know that "The Lord watches over the path of the godly, but the path of the wicked leads to destruction." Ps. 1:6, such awesome and amazing promise indeed! I hope the end all of this accomplishment will be used to further God's kingdom. How? that's between you and God alone. Other than that, I'm just mighty proud of you...

Yesterday's prayer and fast brought a lot of realizations as we read Psalm 119. It's the longest chapter in the Bible, aside from being the longest psalm. It has 176 verses, almost fell asleep reading it. It may have been written by Ezra after the Temple was rebuilt. It was actually a repetitive meditation on the beauty of God's Word and how it helps us stay pure and grow in faith. Honestly, I wouldn't know where I'll find myself if God's Word isn't part of my life. Yes, sure, I get lazy in reading His word, but God never fails to transform my heart and brings so much joy every after i meditate upon His word. Would like to share some verses that will show that His Word is the wellspring of our lives:

Psalm 119:160 The very essence of your Word is truth; all your just regulations will stand forever.
v. 162: "I rejoice in your Word like one who discovers a great treasure." This verse reminds me where my treasure is.
v. 165: "Those who love your instructions have great peace and do not stumble." What can I say… it gives understanding to my folly mind.
v.56: "This is how I spend my life: obeying your commandments"
I'm pretty sure, more will be revealed of our Father as you continue your journey with Him. Let His Word be a lamp to guide our feet and a light for our path.

The last photo with my sister,Leah, before she flew for the US.

I consider my sister as my best friend. She knows me much to indulge me most of the time with my whims… mostly because she has one big heart as far as her family is concerned. Don’t miss to show your appreciation to your sister or brother today. Now that she lives in the US, I regret not spending much time with her before, but then, God never miss to make all things grow, in every possible way.

Reward for Happiness

2008-02-26T22:51:00.005+08:00

This principle might be of help in your constant search for happiness...

"Don't work for happiness. Work for excellence. The happiness will follow from a job excellently done."

My own version...

"Don't work for happiness. Instead, commit your ways to the Lord as he brings joy that never runs out."

Oh, How the Year Goes By

2008-02-25T20:04:00.009+08:00

And oh how the years go by
And oh how the love brings tears to my eyes
All through the changes the soul never dies
We fight, we laugh, we cry
As the years go by

As a look back at year 2007, I couldn't help but be amazed and awed of God's awesome love and grace. Couldn't keep track of the things that He has done for me. God never is late or early... He is sweetly on time... even if you thought he wasn't, when you get to see the real big picture... that's when you realize that He is indeed way beyond your wildest imagination or your own understanding.

Here are some highlighs of 2007:
May a month that God taught me the essence of humility and dependence on Him as he brought the gift of giving She Day to the women of Cebu
July a month of saying goodbyes to a mentor and friend... Sir Cris you have left a legacy of mountful of learnings!
Twas also the month that a best friend has battled "breast cancer." Seeing her courage to face it was awe inspiring.
October God gave the trip to visit a place close to my heart, my beloved Zamboanga. Twas a reunion of families!
December a month of thanksgiving parties and blessing friends and families. I've never felt so blessed in my entire life not only because of the material things God gave but more so that I am living the life He wills me to have.

My prayer for 2008 is I'll continue to dwell in the house of the Lord and bring my family in the knowledge and experience of Him. That He continues to work in me and life with Him be a blessing for others.

And if we lose our way
Any night or day
Well we'll always be
Where we should be
I'm there for you
And I know you're there for me
2008 here I come!

Facing Your Giants

2007-07-10T14:11:00.000+08:00

Are your "giants" in life looming over you and your feeling helpless? The first moment I watched the film I couldn't resist to tell my friends about it. The only way that I can make it readily available is to buy a video copy. It took two months later when my workmates also have appreciated the film and bought their own copies as they shared the experience with their friends. Up until now, it's the film that has been sweeping every churches and workplaces. That's why it's hightime that you too should check it out. Read on and be amazed of how God works is an awesome way in the lives of His people! And once you see the movie, make sure to tell others too. Here's a synopsis of the film:

From the award-winning producers of FLYWHEEL comes a new, action-packed, family-friendly drama about a high school football coach who draws up a new game plan for his team … and himself.
In his six years of coaching, Grant Taylor has never had a winning season. Even the hope of a new season is squelched when the best player on his Shiloh Eagles decides to transfer schools. After losing their first three games of the season, the coach discovers a group of fathers are plotting to have him fired. Combined with pressures at home, Coach Taylor has lost hope in his battle against fear and failure.

However, an unexpected challenge helps him find a purpose bigger than just victories. Daring to trust God to do the impossible, Coach Taylor and the Eagles discover how faith plays out on the field … and off.

With God, all things are possible …

Verse from the Life Manual:

David as he fought his giant, Goliath:

1 Samuel 17:40,42
"And he took his stick on his hand and chose for himself five smooth stones from the brook, and put them in the shepherd's bag which he had, even in his pouch, and his sling was in his hand; and he approached the Philistine.
Then David said to the Philistine, 'You come to me with a sword, a spear, and a javelin, but i come to you int he name of the Lord of hosts, the God of armies of Israel, who you have taunted.'"

The Guy's Rules

2007-07-07T21:28:00.000+08:00

Recently a friend of mine from another radio station sent me this email that really gave me a good heart's laugh. Women, read 'em and be dazzled!

At last a guy has taken the time to write this all down

Finally, the guys' side of the story.(I must admit, it's pretty good.)
We always hear "the rules" from the female side.

Now here are the rules from the male side.
Please note.. these are all numbered "1"
ON PURPOSE!

1. Men are NOT mind readers.

1. Learn to work the toilet seat.
You're a big girl. If it's up, put it down.
We need it up, you need it down.
You don't hear us complaining about you leaving it down.

1. Sunday sports. It's like the full moon
or the changing of the tides.
Let it be.

1. Shopping is NOT a sport.
And no, we are never going to think of it that way.

1. Crying is blackmail.

1. Ask for what you want.
Let us be clear on this one:
Subtle hints do not work!
Strong hints do not work!
Obvious hints do not work!
Just say it!

1. Yes and No are perfectly acceptable answers to almost every question.

1. Come to us with a problem only if you want help solving it. That's what we do.
Sympathy is what your girlfriends are for.

1. A headache that lasts for 17 months is a Problem.
See a doctor.

1. Anything we said 6 months ago is inadmissible in an argument.
In fact, all comments become null and void after 7 Days.

1. If you won't dress like the Victoria's Secret girls, don't Expect us to act like soap opera guys.

1. If you think you're fat, you probably are.
Don't ask us.

1. If something we said can be interpreted two ways and one of the ways makes you sad or angry, we meant the other one

1. You can either ask us to do something
Or tell us how you want it done.
Not both.
If you already know best how to do it, just do it yourself.

1. Whenever possible, Please say whatever you have to say during commercials.

1. Christopher Columbus did NOT need directions and neither do we.

1. ALL men see in only 16 colors, like Windows default settings.
Peach, for example, is a fruit, not A color. Pumpkin is also a fruit. We have no idea what mauve is.

1. If it itches, it will be scratched.
We do that.

1. If we ask what is wrong and you say "nothing," We will act like nothing's wrong.
We know you are lying, but it is just not worth the hassle.

1. If you ask a question you don't want an answer to, Expect an answer you don't want to hear.

1. When we have to go somewhere, absolute ly anything you wear is fine. Really.

1. Don't ask us what we're thinking about unless you are prepared to discuss such topics as SEX, CARS, the shotgun formation,or BASKETBALL.

1. You have enough clothes.

1. You have too many shoes.

1. I am in shape. Round IS a shape!

1. Thank you for reading this.
Yes, I know, I have to sleep on the couch tonight;

But did you know men really don't mind that? It's like camping.

Pass this to as many men as you can -
to give them a laugh.

Pass this to as many women as you can -
to give them a bigger laugh

Verse from the Life Manual:

Genesis 2: 7

The the Lord God formed the man from the dust of the ground. He breathed the breath of life into the man's nostrils, and the man became a living person.

One of those Songs

2007-07-07T19:56:00.000+08:00

Caught myself singing these lyrics...

How can something so wrong, feel so right all along.
Catch me, I’m falling for you.
Yep, that’s the latest song running through my mind and that keeps me up at work. Probably because this song has been playing like crazy in one of today’s hottest Korean novella featured on the local channels. Corny, as it may sound, but I kinda like how this singer/actress and tv host sounds with her alto-melodic voice. Soothing and refreshing too. It’s one of those tunes that you can easily carry with you and you can ‘t help but listen to it over and over and over again…

Here, are some of my all time favorites:

Who Am I by Casting Crowns
Kiss from a Rose by Seal
Angels by Robbie Williams
Until by Sting (from soundtrack Kate and Leopold)
Beautiful Day by U2
In My Bed by Korean Singer Rain
Waiting in Vain by Annie Lennox

and the list goes on...

Without music to decorate it, time is just a bunch of boring production deadlines or dates by which bills must be paid.
Frank Zappa (rock/jazz composer and musician)

I would love to know your fave songs these days, too.

Verse from the Life Manual:
Psalm 40:3

"He has given me a new song to sing,
a hymn of praise to our God.

Stuck in a Moment

2007-07-04T10:00:00.001+08:00

Erwin Raphael McManus, the new author that I have heard so much about, is now one of my few favorite choices of writers. His book Chasing Daylight has brought new meaning of the word “moment” for me. He said,

“Moments move in a timely manner, and time waits for no one.”

He was right… we need to seize the power of every moment. Moments are to be treasured—not just the moments that you’ve already lived, but the moments brimming with life. I can’t miss to seize the moment that awaits me.

U2 with Bono just happens to be one of my favorite bands. The lyrics of their song Stuck in a Moment reverberate on my ears…

And if the night runs over and if the day won’t last
And if your way should falter along the stony pass
It’s just a moment
This time will pass

My mind runs through quickly on how I should face and respond to uncalled and unplanned moments. God’s interruptions may just proved to be the best moments to notice.

Seize the day! Don’t get stuck in a moment you can’t get out of.

Hey, get a copy of the book too…

SHE DAY 2007: Woman, you are made to bloom!

2007-07-04T09:56:00.000+08:00

Bestselling author Elisabeth Elliot said

“Women were told that they ought to get out of the house and do something ‘fulfilling.’ They listened, and many discovered what men could easily have told them: By no means is fulfillment necessarily to be found in any job—in ditch digging or in the office of a CEO—any more than in the kitchen.”

OMF Literature Inc., which offers many titles for women in its catalog, agrees. Women are destined to do great things because God desired them to be the best they can be. Woman, if you are in search for something fulfilling in your life, She Day 2007 might just open doors for you.

She Day 2007: Let’s Talk, Let’s Celebrate, Let’s be Women of Difference is one of OMF Literature’s offering as it celebrates its 50th year anniversary. Women can learn from three women, all accomplished in their own fields. First on the list of seminar speakers is Ida Marie Miranda-Bernasconi. A newscaster for four years for IBC 13’s evening news, she was recognized for her exemplary service in media. Most notable is her being the first news anchor to have covered the PAL hijacking in 2000, during the tail end of the incident. Having switched careers, she is presently the Corporate Operations and Service Development Manager of Planet Infinity, a wellness facility with a vision of equipping the corporate athlete. Yet despite her significant achievements, what she feels most proud of is being a mother of three girls. This career woman believes that no amount of success in the workplace can ever compensate for failure in the home. The title of her topic is “Women, we have a nation to build!: How we can bloom in our workplace.”

Focusing more on the woman’s role in the family is Tricia Amper-Jimenez. She finally makes the leap into the public speaking pool as she will be sharing stories as mother of four boys and wife of GMA Films producer Butch Jimenez. Being an OPM premier gospel singer, she will also share her heart through her music. Songs from her latest album, a collaborative project with veteran songwriter Andrei Dionisio, are sure to touch and inspire women. She will be speaking on “Women, we have a family to raise!: Our role as homemakers.”

There’s something in She Day 2007 for women of all ages. Longtime and prolific
writer Evelyn Miranda-Feliciano, taking the cue from her latest book Enjoy the Sunset, will speak on how women could grow old gracefully. She advises,

“Eventually, everyone will grow old. So why fear it when, instead, we can face it with grace, confidence, and appreciation of the life that we have?”

This author speaks from her own experience as she enjoys her sunset years in a home tucked away among the trees in Barangay Adlas, Silang Cavite—where a dog, a cat, some chickens, and an aquarium keep them company, along with the occasional gecko, owl and bird-couple. Women can relish the passing of years when they listen to her speak on “Women, we have a mind and spirit to nurture!”

Aren’t these three great reasons why She Day 2007 could make you bloom? Truly, this is a significant women’s event you wouldn’t want to miss!

Here are some photos out from this exciting and inspiring event of my life.

With the She Dolls: (Left: Moi, Alpha, Gail, Lyn, Mai-mai and Debbie (top Right)

Real beauties, up close and personal!

An Encounter with the Heavenly Man

2006-12-01T19:38:00.000+08:00

T'was a heavenly experience!

The book, Heavenly Man of the experiences of Bro. Yun, didn't just do good justice on him, but meeting him in person was truly refreshing. I was honored to accept the hosting role of one of his speaking engagements in his trip to Cebu. I knew that he doesn't speak English and i thought this is going to be pretty hard understanding him. God was gracious enough to deliver His message through Bro. Yun and Bro. Ren, his interpreter.

I believe that not even the language barrier can limit the power of God. We were not awed by the man himself, but of the God that he is serving and how much He was at work in him.

This day was not only inspiring but an experience of God's boundless grace and mercy.

With the Heavenly Man, Bro. Yun. November 28, 2006, Grand Convention Center

Why We think The Way We Do

2006-11-28T18:14:00.000+08:00

A new book explains female intuition, long phone calls, love at first sight.

These excerpts, from a column I’ve read from the only magazine I subscribe (Oprah Magazine, not to mention, kinda costly but worth every dollar), explains a lot why women think and act the way they do. Believe me, this entry gave a lot of “no wonder whys” revelation to me. Ladies, (and gentlemen who are reading this) read ‘em and learn and celebrate how we are fearfully and wonderfully made by our maker.

Do men and women think alike? Well, that’s a no-brainer: Of course not. Although 99 percent of our genes are the same, that 1 percent makes all the difference, as neurologist Louann Brizendine explains in her elegant new book, The Female Brain.

A few nuggets:
Although male brains are larger by about 9 percent, women have the same number of brain cells packed more densely into a smaller skull.

My thoughts: No wonder we use the expression bloated egos… men have bigger brains… ouch! That explains.

A baby girl’s skills in eye contact and face studying improve more than 400 percent during the first three months of life. Making eye contact is “at the bottom of (the boy’s baby’s)list of interesting things to do.”

My thoughts: That explains why my friend Rosemel introduced me to the enjoyable wonder of “boy watching.” You got it in you girl!

Men use about 7,000 words a day, women about 20,000.

My thoughts: Is this for real? I think women can go as far as 20,000 words a day. My mom broke this record.

“Oxytocin (the “love” hormone) is released in the brain after a 20-second hug from a partner—triggering the brain’s trust circuits.
My thoughts: Yap, love lots of hugs! The sexual desire trigger for both genders is the androgen testoteron… Men have on average ten to 100 times more testosterone than women.

My thoughts: Yap, when you have two brothers who married early, you kinda got it already.

When she’s under stress, a woman’s desire for sex and physical touch shuts down, perhaps because “the stress hormone cortisol blocks oxytocin’s action in the female brain.”

My thoughts: Men, I hope you’re reading this well and understanding it good, too.

Men have two and a half times the brain space devoted to sexual drive as women do, as well as larger brain centers for action and aggression.

My thoughts: Whoa! It becomes clearer to me than ever.

The areas of the brain that track emotion and memory formation are larger and more sensitive in the female brain.

“Rejection, it turns out, actually hurts like physical pain because it triggers the same circuits in the brain.”

Men notice subtle signs of sadness in a face only 40 percent of the time; women pick up on them 90 percent of the time.

Our brains size up a potential partner, and if he fits our ancestral wish list, we get a jolt of chemicals that dizzy us with a laser of lasr-focused attraction.”

My thoughts:

Imagine how much a 1 percent can explain of why we think the way we do. Still I’m grateful that I’m created the way I am. Wouldn’t you be?

Verse from the Life Manual

Psalm 139:14

“I will give thanks to You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Wonderful are Your works, And my soul knows it very well.”

Caught By An Angel

2006-11-08T18:10:00.001+08:00

1.21pm (took a sick leave, got nothing much to do but write)

“I shouldn’t have worn these heels.” I grudgingly told myself. It has not only proven itself as an instrument for self-defense (you can poke someone’s eyes with it), these gears can also be your death. Expound please? Before I do so, let me remind you that this entry will be about how I got saved from falling flat on my face (I mean literally) and how an angel saved me from such.

Going home through a jeepney ride isn’t exactly my cup of tea. But it’s one experience I train myself to look forward to after work. It teaches me to be appreciative with what I have. It gives me a sense of connection as I look over the faces of other passengers after a hard day’s work. It makes me realize that I’m not alone in going through this day. So that night was just like the other nights, couldn’t wait to be home and have a hearty dinner. As I was going off the jeep, I was carrying my bulky bag and my heavy laptop, when suddenly I felt myself losing balance… and was about to trip over. Stop! For a second (or half of it) I cried in my mind “Lord, catch me!” and the half of it… “Oh, no this is the end of me.” And then a miracle happened. For some reason, I saw myself safe and unharmed. I was able to regain my balance. Forget the high heels, but I was standing tall and safe. There wasn’t a single doubt that an angel caught me and save me from that mishap. That’s what lingered in my mind and while walking on my last ride home (it would take me 3 rides going home), I couldn’t help but praise God as He rescued me from harm.

Friends, it’s true, Angels are our unknown rescuers. They delivered us from harm. I was going over this book that we recently published, it’s titled The Gift of Angels. It shared a lot of inputs about how Angels serve as our guardians, as God’s messengers, as ministers to our needs, how they tell us the future, how they worship our God and how they carry out the purposes of God. I couldn’t help but restate one author as he said “Today I stumbled and once again was lifted up by an unseen hand. What comfort and joy that knowledge brings for I hear the whisper of angel wings.” I definitely heard its wings. And forever I’m grateful to God as He constantly guards me through His heavenly army. Do you believe in angels? You will never do until you get to know more about God first. Just call upon Him and he’ll be there to give you more than what you’ll ask.

Get a copy of this book at National Bookstores and PCBS (Retail Price: P195)
Verse from the Life Manual:

Psalm 91:11-12

“The Lord will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways; they will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.”

I Got Paid a Million Dollars

2006-11-06T11:36:00.000+08:00

Believe or not I got paid 1Million Dollars for my first most expensive talk. Got your attention? Well I’m sure I did. And for a minute there, I would like to believe that you will end reading this essay and feel a million dollars richer too.

It all started one morning, Oct. 28, when I thought to myself, life can never be this hard. Endless reports to make, a big event to manage this Monday (Oct. 30), the nagging feeling of finally having a long weekend before me, and then all came to a stop when that call came. At first I was having a hard time remembering who the person was on the other line, until it dawned on me that this guy happens to be one of our clients. And then the invitation came. I was invited to talk before students from a school called Academy for Creating Enterprises. “Is this for real?” I thought to myself. This will be my first ever talk on a subject that I’m still a student myself, that I’m still trying to figure out and master at the same time. But the other part of me wouldn’t want to turn this opportunity down. I have been given the task to share something that is just way important for me, the same thing that fills most of my time in a day. A talk about my work. Great, now forgot the long weekend… I’m up for research to prep up this talk! Should I say yes… you bet I did. But what came after the talk surprised me more… the reward was far beyond I have imagined… you still reading… stay with me on this. The best is yet to come.

So, the next thing I did was to pack up the office laptop, brought it home and dug into my notes. Took me a day just to go over and organized them. “Now, this is going to be a problem.” I mused. After learning tons of marketing inputs from our ever sharp and intellectual Director, not to mention workaholic and bossy, (did I just say that out loud, hehehhe), it was even a bigger dilemma of which of these stuff should I use for my talk. Not to miss the fact that my own personal experiences have proved to be countless as well. I have never prayed harder for God’s wisdom for the pass few days… I even told my team (begged them was the word) to back me up in prayer… So, the next thing I did was to pack up the office laptop, brought it home and dug in my notes. Took me a day just to go over and organized them. “Now, this is going to be a problem.” I mused. After learning tons of marketing inputs from our ever sharp and intellectual Director, not to mention workaholic and bossy, (did I just say that out loud, hehehhe), it was even a bigger dilemma of which of these stuff should I use for my talk. Not to miss the fact that my own personal experiences have proved to be countless as well. I have never prayed harder for God’s wisdom for the pass few days… I even told my team (begged them was the word) to back me up in prayer… God was gracious enough to supply what I just need…and even more.

Nine pages was the length of my talk. “Is this enough for an hour talk?” I brood over. This got to be enough. And it took me two grueling midnights to prepare for my presentation. Of course, this has to be enough. I went over my presentation many times over until I collapse in bed and fell asleep.

The day has finally come to do my presentation. November 3, Friday, it was a supposed to be a day-off for me, did I tell you that… this was suppose be part of the long weekend that I was telling you earlier. But hey, I’m not complaining…

Then series of unfortunate events came. On my way to the office (where I need to print out my presentation) I got an earful of stuffs from my parents as they grudgingly told me how life can be really tough nowadays. But that part of the talk would be enough for another essay… and wouldn’t be even interesting for you to read… but believe me when I say that the 25mins ride to my destination wasn’t really pleasant. After an hour, I was more than ready to face the battle. As I sat back at the cab, willingly trusting the cab driver, who assures me he knows the address of our destination, I saw myself being driven around in circles as he finally told me that we are never even close to where we’re going to. Took us 20 minutes to finally locate the place and at the same time was composing myself that things will turn out just fine when the day’s over. Took a deep breath and… “This is it Lynnie, an experience worth talking or even writing about.”

As I did my presentation before 27 students, all I was thinking was… please let me not reel over my presentation… let me not see someone get bored, worst, fall asleep. I search for friendly and responsive faces, to console myself that I’m doing fine. Well, I got both reactions… saw some faces responding and answering to my questions… as well as two or three students who were about to fall over their seats as they doze off. Embarrassing truly, but it was a consolation as they really tried hard to wake up and focus their ears on me.

An hour and a half went on and I was all fired up. I felt God’s assurance and His thumbs up that I can do it. I surely did. The most fun of it all is that I get to talk about something that is truly dear to me. All I can remember was to encourage myself that I have to tell them something that will forever change their perspective in life. That being passionate in what you’re doing is what really matters. That pursuing excellence in what you do is more than the money your job can bring in for you.

So, how was I able to earn a million dollars for this talk? Look below and see what these students got me as a souvenir.

Pretty neat huh… my first 1 Million Dollars for me to keep and show as I hung it somewhere in my room.

My special thanks to Mr. and Mrs. James & Cynthia Fantone and the students of Academy for Creating Enterprise for making me feel a million dollars worth and the priceless experience of sharing things that meant most to me.

Verse from the Life Manual:

1 Timothy 6: 17

“Tell those who are rich in this world not to be proud and not to trust in their money, which will soon be gone. But their trust should be in the living God, who richly gives us all we need for our enjoyment.”

Start my blog at Starbucks

2006-10-22T13:15:00.000+08:00

It's another refreshing sunday for moi. Got a dose of refreshing time with the Lord. Thank God this day will end with something to look forward to for the week...

Our pastor talked about Discernment today. One thing for sure i learned, you need to earnestly ask for it from Him.