Scared to RANT?

Having critical thought is one of the attributes I most admired with people. Being critical  specifies that one is able to analyze things or situations not just take them as they are. However, I presume that those who have the expertise of being critical are able to take criticisms as themselves and turn them into something positive. 

Sometimes comments or analysis made by some people have to be made in public to highlight not only the failure and incompetence of a leadership generally but more on the bad actors to be held accountable. The recent clusters of scams and scandals in our government that exposed vast corruption are truly alarming. Spending someone's precious time ranting against the wrong-doings of the bad government leaders should never be a crime. Though I also know that negative quips and criticism would not help create solutions, but there are times that people should speak up and express their call, disgust, grief and also even their approval and compliments to remind the persons leading of their responsibilities and duties to their people. Well, becoming passive about assessing our public servants' performances is of course not going to help either to solve the issues of the state I guess. 

( Source: stefanbarretto92.wordpress.com)

Every person sometimes has his her on views on some issues that differ from the others. Involvement in the public discourse is our duty in the society. Each of us has several rights and one of which is the freedom to speak one's mind but indeed those rights must go with responsibilities at all times. Discussing one's views and perspective to a large group of people in the community is in some ways advantageous to invite the exchange of good ideas between individuals. In some cases, keeping other people passive and obedient is limiting their spectrum to give their positive points and feedback. As for me, encountering an opposing point of view is a chance to gain a different perspective and an indication to a better and deeper understanding of the issues at stake. Primarily, to achieve a most positive exchange of ideas is by letting others speak and of course listening to other viewpoints as well. Encouraging critical and dissident views promotes better thinking. 

Expressing one's opinion is indeed an important element in a democratic country provided responsibility always has to be present. Choosing social media as outlets to share one's opinions, beliefs, conclusions on issues regarding politics, business, and religion constitutes social involvement. Every citizen has a right to offer his opinion and suggestions in the discussion of the problems confronting the community or the nation. View often stresses individuality on people's outlook in life thus, MY OPINION may never be the same as others'. Therefore, as far as one knows the purpose of his or her statement or impression and knows his or her responsibility as a social network user, I stand firm, DO NOT BE AFRAID TO VOICE YOUR THOUGHTS! SCARED TO RANT? You should not be. 

Hehehe, May I borrow this line, of course JUST THINK BEFORE YOU CLICK!

On Being a Superma'am

As public school teachers, we are swamped with a lot of problems and challenges most of the time. We usually handle children that come from the poor areas of our community. We deal with different kinds of people daily. We plan lessons, prepare visual materials, search on videos and PowerPoint presentations that correlate with the lessons, check workbooks and test papers, record pupils' scores, compute grades, attend NAT reviews on Saturdays, attend training and workshops, do home visits, organize remedial classes for slow students, teach  everything from discipline to all the things about different subject areas and a lot more. I have one question for you my dear fellow lovers of the academe. Are you enjoying your work? Are you always excited in doing your tasks? Or would you want to resign and forget all about your responsibilities to your more than fifty pupils? It is typical to feel engulfed and shaken sometimes. We are not wonderwomen or superma'ams.

I know that the kind of work required for us does not compensate the salary that we get. The work involved in public school teaching is different to the work of a teacher rendering service in the private school. Teaching in the Philippine public schools requires commitment, dedication and sacrifice to the service.  But we chose this profession for a purpose of changing the lives of our pupils. Although there are a lot of problems in the system and the challenges are vast, our commitment to our pupils  as public school teachers has to remain resolute and untarnished.                                           
                                                                                                                    (Photo credit myhomequote.com)

And because of the overwhelming tasks in front of us and we are not even superma'ams after all,  here are some recommendations for you.

*Set your priorities clearly.

Determine the order for dealing with the number of tasks according to their relative importance. Cramming should never be a strategy for educators.

*Recognize your boundary.

It is really needed to finish all the necessary assignments given to you by your administrator. But as a worker, you need to consider your work limits. Pushing yourselves outside the said limits may result to sickness and fatigue.

*Focus and forget about your fear of having multiple assignments and numerous reports.

Shape your perspective in a stimulating and fun-filled approach and strategy.

Do not be afraid of multi-tasking. Enjoy your daily journey as a teacher who values what she can do for  her pupils than what she can do for herself. You may never know, you are done with your tasks just in time.

*Be contented with your job

Being satisfied and happy with your job invites optimism and positivity in your life. If you value your work and you feel contented, it could create positive  work environment.

Just always remember that teaching is more than a noble profession. It is a mission, a vocation, a calling...Superma'ams are not teachers who can do several things in school. Superma'ams are not only the efficient and effective teachers. Superma'ams for me are the affectionate teachers, they are those who love teaching and are those who love children. They are those who teach children meaningful experiences.They are the teacher-heroes that pave learners' way in their quest for education. Although teaching surely does not guarantee financial security, it is indeed fulfilling to know that every child entrusted under your care becomes a better person with meaningful purpose and ideals. Sometimes teaching means investing almost twenty-fours of your time, resources, and even energy. And sometimes it means pain, heartaches, and disappointments as well. It is not important that you are never called a SUPERMA'AM, touching the hearts of the children, opening their minds to greater possibilities and opportunities are the ones that matter most. And especially bringing joy, smiles, and contentment to their lives that no amount of money can buy is the most significant of all.

  

What Michael Christian Martinez' Olympic Debut Taught Us

(Photo courtesy of Sports.inquirer.net)

The seventeen-year-old Michael Christian Martinez started skating at the age of eight when he went to a shopping mall here in Manila. From then on his love for skating began and he managed to learn all steps in figure skating by watching videos and by doing them by himself. After a few years, he has mastered triple jumps by his own. In 2010, he began making trips to Los Angeles for training with coaches John Nicks and Ilia Kulik. A month before the Sochi Winter Olympics 2014, he went to Moscow to undergo training under Viktor Kudryavtsev.

       (Photo courtesy of Sports.inquirer.net)  

He experienced wonderful firsts in his Olympic Debut as a Filipino figure skater.

The first Filipino figure skater to compete at the Olympics.

The first to represent a SouthEast Asian country in the said event.

The very first skater to step foot in the practice rink before the Sochi Olympics 2014 start.

I happened to watch his performances on Thursday and Friday (February 13 and 14) although the telecast was shown very late. I have seen his passion in doing his craft. After the well-applauded performance during Michael's short program  to Romeo and Juliet which was choreographed by Phillip Mills, he landed on the 19th place  with the score of 64.81 and made him qualified for the free skate round. He was able to fulfill his goal and wowed the audience by his outstanding performance as the youngest competitor. His expertise in spins and jumps as well as his gift in musicality left the cheering crowd in awe. Skating to Malaguena, Martinez glided towards the hearts of all the spectators of the Iceberg Skating Palace during his free skate routine and scored an impressive 119.44. His historic performance drew a loud applause from the audience. The first Filipino Winter Olympian gave everything he's got and fought strong until the finish. His dazzling performances and remarkable achievement made all the Filipinos proud. Moreso, Martinez' Olympic debut taught us a few lessons in life.

First

That all mothers will do everything and anything to support their children's needs and dreams.

Second

That nothing is really impossible. There are ways that lead to everything if we have the will, patience, and love for what we do.

Third

That even a chronic ailment can not hinder us in seeking any of our objectives and aspiration in life as long as we believe that we have the talents, skills, and abilities.

Fourth

That even our country lacks suitable training facilities, it should never stop any athlete to continue pursuing his desires.

Fifth

That through hard work and dedication, one can achieve success.

Sixth

That it does not matter if you win or lose in a competition, what matters is that you have managed to fight and face the possibility of being defeated.

Seventh

That Filipinos are really talented in everything that they do.

Eighth

That your opponents are also there to inspire you.

Ninth

That Filipinos are indeed tough and resilient in times of struggles and hardships.

And as for me, the most important one is

Tenth

That Filipino athletes who excel at any sports and who work hard at their craft deserve support from the government. Other than the hero's welcome...I think THEY DESERVE MORE.

Loving the Crabs?

One of the dumbest things I usually do is to post my feelings and even my ordeals in my Facebook Status. I have always become so stupid and post statuses that tackle my sentiments regarding my day to day experiences in life. Statuses that hundreds of people might see, statuses that they may not understand and statuses that they do not care about most of the time. Frequently, I would do such in order for me to feel relieved in times of stress and despair. The fact that my friends would be able to put suggestive remarks, helpful comments and excellent advice,  I know it's a way that will surely inspire me more to face all my trials as I journey through life . 

I am definitely sure that most of us have experienced dealing with people who have crab mentality attitude. We all go through these infamous gossiping, backstabbing, slandering, character assassination, and other situations that make us depressed and stressed in some ways. Different people and different circumstances upset us. Some people pull us down when we are trying to pursue our goals in life. We are often victimized by crabs. 

I have experienced a number of situations like this. I had one painful experience during the time when we brought our youngest son for liver transplant operation in Taiwan. My husband and I were put down, ridiculed, humiliated until our spirit was torn into pieces leaving us so dejected and broken for almost a week. This was done by a fellow Pinoy in a foreign land. But after  a few days of thinking, I decided not to dwell much on the experience and just opted to move forward. We have triumphed the battle over my son's liver disease and the negative and damaging words thrown on us never restrained my hopes and my opportunities to pursue more of my goals. 

I am talking about a strange and negative mentality called crab mentality. Crab mentality is a metaphor that refers to a kind of egoistic behavior that means "If I can't have it, neither can you." This metaphoric term is being widely tagged among Filipino character traits but as a negative attribute. This kind of behavior refers to the action of people who pull others down, belittling them instead of helping them pursue their dreams. This behavior is often associated with envy, jealousy, and selfishness. Crabs are found in all levels of life. Some of our friends and even colleagues are having "crabby" thoughts and agenda for us sometimes. They refuse to support our plans into pushing with our endeavors. These crabs are our biggest challenge in life. They frequently talk negative about us, insult us, and even spread lies to the people that we know. Their mental mindset is truly different. This negative trait stops groups, organizations, corporations, the government and its people from attaining their purpose and achieving  success. And this stigma is still present up to this time in our society. This mentality is a dangerous lethal attitude that can destroy anyone's hopes. These weak-minded people who have this mindset often believe that people who have dreams are not supposed to succeed, are not to be loved but have to be hated more.

In my point of view, crab mentality is somewhat a product of insecurities, incapacities, and false competitiveness. The individuals who are insecure and incapacitated in doing what they want to do, and may not be as competitive like others feel worried and fearful. Thus in order for them to cover-up their weaknesses and be on top easily, they practice this negative attitude towards people who thrive  more to attain their goals. Those who toil suffer and are left behind. The problem then lies on dealing with these people who pull us into a place where a lot of sadness, stress, and depression dwell most. How are we going to manage being with persons having crab mentality in the place where we live, where we study or even where we work?

 

                                     (Photo courtesy of ssaapodcast.com)

Dealing with them is kind of difficult. Here are some suggestions that may help you handle the situation properly.

1. Know your circles well.

Stay close to people whom you trust the most.Persons with crab mentality will always try to know your plans and your dreams. They will find ways to make your plans shattered into pieces. Tell your plans only to real friends.They will definitely encourage you and inspire you to realize your dreams.

2. Let your negative feelings out.

Ranting is never a crime. You may share your ill feelings about the situation to someone you trust the most. Your real friends will surely understand you and will help you discuss the matter seriously to lessen your burden. Do not allow anxiety to ruin your dreams and disposition.

2. Avoid the mentality yourself.

Do not forget that people sometimes get envious and jealous to others. Keep away from having this mindset yourself. Be selfless and inspire others as well. Support your friends' dreams and help them reach their goals. Do not be involved in gossiping. Being part of this intensifies the fire of misunderstanding and conflict.

3. Treat people with crab mindset nicely.

This is one tough and awkward way to deal with those people. But being nice to them may control their chances of pulling you down. Most of them do not have true friends, you may help change their negative attitude into positive ones. In other words try to love the crabs.

4. Never ever complain.

Always stay focused on your job and purpose. Do not complain about the assignments and tasks given to you. Complaining may invite and incite  disagreement. Encourage yourself and co-workers to do both your jobs well instead. In this way, crab mentality may be avoided.

5. Watch out for saboteurs.(clever crabs)

Oftentimes your efforts in dealing with negative people are not working.They seem really sure to sabotage your plans and targets. In some cases,their deliberate actions affect your performance immensely. The only way now to deal with it is to get away with them. Confrontation may not always get positive results but may aggravate the situation somehow. Cut ties with them if necessary. Then create a new circle of friends that will bring the best in you.

In some cases that you are still having difficulty handling people with this kind of mentality. These scriptures will definitely aid you more.

Philippians 4:8 
Finally brothers, whatever is true, what ever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of your praise, think about these things.

Proverbs 12:18 
There is one whose rash words are like sword thrusts, but the tongue of the wise brings healing. 

Proverbs 15:1

A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.

Ephesians 4:29 
Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear.

Luke 6:27
But I say to you who hear, Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you.

CAN YOU SUGGEST MORE WAYS ON HOW TO DEAL WITH PEOPLE WHO HAVE CRAB MENTALITY? PLEASE FEEL FREE TO ADD THEM IN MY COMMENT BOX. TAKE CARE FRIENDS.

The Agonies that Brought Me to a New Perspective

 A lot of my experiences brought me to the verge of despair and hopelessness.  I went through a lot of spells of feeling down. I felt sadness during difficult times. My life episodes dealt more on challenges and struggles. I really felt the agony of battling with life daily. But such experiences brought me to a new perspective. I usually feel that I often fall short as a mother on providing the needs of my family. Thank God, I've got a real friend who always reminds me of things about how I managed to face life's journey. Thank you Dear Sally for always inspiring me to move forward. 

The agony started when I learned that my youngest son has gotten  a congenital liver disease called biliary atresia that is only curable by having him undergo a liver transplant operation. It has been already a decade when we came to know that our precious youngest son was afflicted with a dreadful disease that eventually might lead to his death anytime. But God worked in mysterious ways. He has given us a chance to save our son JC from dying. He has helped us to meet people who were very willing to help us in different ways.  We were able to raise funds for his liver transplant operation that cost so much. My son was able to have his new liver in 2009. My precious had a lot of complications before and during the transplantation for six long years. It was indeed agonizing to see my fragile son in and out of the hospitals fighting for his own life. The unbearable pain that my husband and I felt during the times we were looking for millions of pesos to fund the operation. The mockery and the rejection that were thrown to our faces by a lot of organizations, foundations, and even famous personalities as well torn us into pieces. But GOD STILL PROVIDED.  A lot of people came for help. Many people were used by God as instruments into helping us cope with the difficulty.  A number of people supported our family during the tormenting struggles. The agonies that I felt brought me triumph and joy. JC was discharged at the Chang Gung Memorial Hospital in Kaohsiung, Taiwan in March 2010 after almost six months of admission. Trials were also severe during those times. Funds were not enough then. But what was wonderful then was meeting a lot of people from different walks of life who treated us like their own family. And the tormenting pain helped me to become closer to God, reminding me of his faithfulness, love, and mercy. 

Another harrowing pain brought me to depression when I learned that JC had to be brought again to Kaohsiung for stent placement due to mild stenosis. God surely worked again in mysterious ways, Jan Ciryl did not have to undergo stent placement. The said diagnosis was proven otherwise in 2011. 

Two long years have passed, I have fully realized and proven that the quote "TOUGH TIMES DON'T LAST BUT TOUGH PEOPLE DO." is indeed real and true. The words struck me deep. My son's medication is lifetime and financially draining. Having four kids studying at the same time and providing medical needs for JC are my top and tough priorities. I work as a public school teacher and my husband Ronnie sells snacks daily in our neighborhood to support the family needs. Our income can not really provide the medical needs of my youngest child regularly. Expensive medicines and laboratory tests are really part of our periodic struggle. Trying times basically are chunks of my day to day crises. 


What indeed brought me to light after all these and shaped my thoughts were indeed Norman Vincent Peale's quotes. 

1. "The way to happiness: Keep your heart free from hate, your mind from worry. Live simply, expect little, give much. Scatter sunshine, forget self, think of others. Try this for a week and you will be surprised."

 2. "It's always too soon to quit."



 3. "Stand up to your obstacles and do something about them. You'll find  they haven't half the strength you think they have."


 4. "I place this day, my life, my loved ones, my work in the Lord's hands. There is no harm in the Lord's hands, only good. Whatever happens, whatever results, if I am in the Lord's hands, it is the Lord's will and it is good." 

5. "Become a possibilitarian. No matter how dark things seem to be or actually are, raise your sights and see possibilities, always see them, for they're always there." 

6. "Believe it is possible to solve your problem. Tremendous things happen to the believer. So believe the answer will come. It will." 


 And most importantly, verses from the bible 


7. Philippians 4:13
 "I can do all things through Christ, who strengthens me."

8. John 5:30  
"I can do nothing on My own initiative. As I hear, I judge; and My judgment is just, because I do not seek My own will, but the will of Him who sent Me."

9. Philippians 4:6-7

"Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, shall guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." 

10. James 1:2-4 

"Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. And let endurance have its perfect result, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing." 

11. Isaiah 43:2-3 "When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; And through the rivers, they will not overflow you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be scorched, Nor will the flame burn you. "For I am the LORD your GOD, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior; I have given Egypt as your ransom, Cush and Seba in your place." 

12. Jeremiah 29:11-13 
"For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans for welfare and not for calamity to give you a future and a hope. Then you will call upon Me and come and pray to Me, and I will listen to you. And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart." 

The agonies I felt brought me to a new perspective. We all could choose to begin the day with a thought that strengthens us or disempowering thoughts that will paralyze us. Coping with life brings a lot of glitches. Our hopes with God should exceptionally be impeccable. Life's voyage will surely not be always straight and serene, but with Him everything will always fall into the right perspective. Let us all choose God's words to guide us daily. Choose to become an optimist thinker rather than the pessimist one. The choice lies in our hearts, hands, and mind. We can all make things better with the thoughts that we think through Christ who always erases all our agonies in life. Our Christian life is indeed full of trials and hardest times as God wants us to turn over our problems to Him.Surrendering  to God all your worries and agonies during the midst of your trying times help you feel peaceful. Let us pray that God will help us use all these verses from the Bible to speak to us. 

And if you are also going through tough times, please read these quotes and scriptures again to give you encouragement and inspiration to face life's journey towards happiness.

Sources:

Norman Vincent Peale Quotes 
The Holy Bible-New American Standard Version

Are You a Supermom?

Mothers are society's most courageous, tireless and lion-hearted warriors. Filipino mommies are also fit to be called supermoms nowadays. According to experts full-time moms spent 12 to 15 hours attending to household chores while working mothers with a combination of career workloads and home duties spent about 15 to 16 hours doing both. Also according to some authorities, women suffer physical and emotional stress than men do. Most of these strenuous problems  are felt by working mothers. And some stretched-out mothers are reported to eat a lot during worn-out periods that is usually caused by deep stress.  As mothers, we want our family to feel loved, happy, and worry-free. Because of this, we take on additional workloads and responsibilities, doing everything within our means to make our family's life wonderful and easier. These are the things being done by supermoms yet overburdened ones. Balancing things about money, work, and family made supermoms superstressed. Are you a supermom? Are you a woman who performs the traditional duties of housekeeping and child-rearing while also having a full-time job? Have you ever experienced preparing your reports for work while waiting for your washing machine to stop spinning, and preparing your children's school things at the same time waiting for  a lunch menu to be cooked on the stove? If yes, you are truly a supermom. How then do you deal with stress that being a supermom may bring? Most of our supermoms of today are also superstressed. Nowadays, becoming  a mother comes with a pressure of becoming a supermom. While the word supermom is very positive as it seems, it also demands  a very different perspective when it comes to our roles as mothers. Many expect a lot from a supermom. Supermoms have a very big risk of experiencing fatigue, mental concerns, health problems, weight gain, marital issues, and personal problems as well.How? Almost all the mother  responsibilities make supermoms overstretched and stressed out. Working moms face difficulties with their bosses, colleagues, friends, husband, and of course their children. The results of this chronic stress may not be helpful to become a better mom. One way that you can provide better things for the members of your family is to lessen your stress by having a proper health care system. 

Because Valentines Day is fast approaching, it is indeed a great time for mothers to know the significance of addressing and managing the stress you're getting by being a supermom. Learn to love yourselves by caring for yourselves in a healthy way. Here are some strategies to help you a bit. 

One, Pray, Eat, and Play 
Pray for a few minutes to God to ask for guidance in making your mind and soul ready for daily tasks or enjoy a moment of silence before you start the day.
Eat but be very mindful of what you eat. Most of us mothers eat sweet and high in carbohydrates foods when strained. These make us more stressed. Make healthy food choices then.
Play in order for you to reduce your stress. Play includes various relaxing activities, exercise, and meditation. Do something nice for yourselves by having activities that you enjoy and value. 

Two-Plan, Evaluate, and Balance 
Plan your daily schedules with utmost attention. Create a proportionally graph that shows proper distribution of your tasks. Choose the things that require your attention and prioritize. Put things in perspective. Prioritize things that really matter most. This enable you not to cram on issues that need prioritization. Reflect on your real priorities.

Evaluate your idea or concept of being a supermom. Unhealthy behaviors and unhealthy concepts will never reduce stress but escalate it more. Make realistic approaches and strategies to finish your targets that will not sacrifice your health.You will never be a good or great mom if you have personal or health issues.You may delegate responsibilities.You may also ask the support of family members to lessen the loads that you are carrying. Do not also forget to say no to things that are least important. 

 Balance all the aspects of your life. Establish symmetry in all your duties to avoid burn out. Create a well-balanced strategy to meet your spiritual, physical, psychological, emotional, social, sexual, and personal needs. 

Three-Laugh, Live, and Love 

Laugh because laughter is the best medicine to an ailing life. Remember to be with people that matter to you. Laugh at each other's jokes during special times. And always find humor in your problems.

Live your life with optimism and enthusiasm. Do activities that will bring balance, happiness, and triumphs to your life. Embrace your imperfections. Nobody is perfect, remember? 

Love your partner in life. Talking, hearing, understanding, and loving your partner improve your ability to persevere during stressful times. Love all the people that surround you with respect. Strengthen the relationship with all the members of your family to inspire each other. Forget about those things that exhaust and diminish your resilience. Mothers often put the needs of all the members of their families first before theirs. At the end, they usually neglect their own needs. Remember that supermoms are only a product of our imagination. Armoring ourselves with those mythical superstrength, superspeed, and supervulnerability powers may result to depression, anxiety, and unhappiness if goals are not met. We are real moms. We do not have to put a lot of pressure to ourselves. Do not compare yourselves to other mothers. Every mom is a real mom. All mothers experience challenges and struggles. Every real mom faces difficulties in life. Do not live so much with others' expectations. Avoid things and people that contribute to the reduction of your full potential and depletion of your self-esteem.Forget about your supermom capes. You do not really have superpowers, let go of being a supermom. Forget perfection and choose happiness. Make realistic goals for yourself and your family.

Just remember the happiest moms are not the supermoms but the real moms. What is more wonderful than being real moms ourselves. Enjoy our family life by savoring the tiny things that we can do to all the members of our family  daily. Do not push yourselves too hard. PUSH for being nicer to yourselves instead. PUSH for a possibility that there are lot of kinder options in life. 

                                                           ( Courtesy of Kids Social Network)

Am I a Woman of Value?

Yesterday, I just realized that being able to do my job as a teacher, a wife, and a mother doesn't make me a  real successful woman. Being able to prioritize things about my job and my family as well as balancing a  ton of activities does not make me a success either. Well, Albert Einstein once said, "Strive not to be a success, but rather to be of value." I am now pretty sure that the feeling of success comes with me knowing that all things I do bring value not only to myself but to those people I'm working with and to the members of my family. That every time, I should make sure that I am doing  valuable things for them. That activities that I do and I am part of are done to the best of my ability not because I want to gain success but because I love doing things for the school I teach, for the people I work with, and for my loved ones. It is really difficult to measure success. Success is perceived differently by each individual. My family that I treasure most would be seeing the things I do with greater value than my friends and co-workers do. Success should never be a sole indicator to become a person that matters or to become a woman of value?

        But the questions are, am I chasing success on fulfilling my dreams? Or do I just need to be identified as a woman of value? Forget about success girls. What you need to become right now is to be a woman of value. To be called a woman of value is the greatest compliment a woman can receive. What does a woman need in order to become a "woman of worth" then?

     The pressure to us women from our society nowadays is immensely different from that of the past. I really admire the likes of women who do not feel threatened  from all the expectations and demands of the people around them. Women who always remain calm, confident, and competent when they respond to chaos, crisis, and change. In my experience, I have learned a lot of things in my journey to difficult years. One important thing I learned is that I should not let criticisms affect me. I firmly believe that a woman of hope and optimism contributes to my worth as a woman. I just have to feel hopeful and happy all the time. Being what I am indeed signifies my value as a woman.

        What do we do then to become a woman of value?

First, Speak your mind and voice your opinion.

Stand up and use your voice to say your opinion on things you believe that matter. Make use of your voice that God has given you to say what you think is right. Express your feelings while respecting the feelings of others.

Second, Do something significant to your country and its people.

Whatever career or job you have, try to do things that matter not only to yourself but to others as well. An act of kindness is not measured as to how big it is but on how you put your heart in doing it. 

         

Third, Do not just  dream, pursue them.

We are all given by God the gift of wisdom and the ability to fulfill our dreams. Do not just dream but try to pursue them by giving your heart and passion in doing things that you love. Do things that not only please you and others but do things that make you happy and serve your purpose. Set your goals and desires. Always be inspired and motivated that all things are possible and that dreams can be a reality to those people who believe. Heed all opportunities that come your way.Do not forget to change challenges to opportunities.

Fourth, Be aware of good moral and right conduct.

During our childhood days, our parents and elders remind us always to be of good moral and realize our values. As we grow older, we tend to forget the basic need to become worthy as an individual, doing the right thing in the right manner always at the right time. Why don't we re-educate ourselves again about proper values? Understand that the power of your attitude matters a lot.

Fifth, Recognize your talents and abilities.

All of us are given talents and abilities by God. Recognize yours and develop them not only for your self esteem but know them to share them with others. Do not forget that you are wonderful, unique, and valuable creation of God that matters.

Sixth, Believe that you're truly a woman of value.

Allow yourself to believe that you are truly a woman of value. Choose to be determined, driven, and empowered to accomplish all your feats.

        A woman of value respects herself, appreciates her worth and all the things around her. Embrace all your roles as a mother, a wife, a girlfriend, or a friend with confidence.Always do something valuable to others. Remember not to let other people wear down your worth as a woman by their comments, criticisms, expectations, and attitudes. Be positive and optimistic. Believe that you are doing best with your talents that will greatly contribute to the society. Building your worth as a woman is truly healthy and essential.

Are there things that you want to add to this list? Are there other things that you know that  you find important to become a woman of value? Help me inspire more women or girls out there. Kindly leave your insights and comments below. 

I'm Getting Siksik and I Know It (Weight Doesn't Matter)

       How many of you have made new year resolutions about eating and diet? Some probably promised to eat better. Most of you may have promised to eat healthy foods. And a lot promised to finish their diet plans like me. And because 2014 is already starting and the holidays are really over, I am now focused on many things I have planned for this year. Of course, it's important to consider how am I going to start off this year. Tomorrow is the 18th day of the new year and the promise I told myself to lose some extra pounds is not yet happening. I have been telling myself now that #I'm getting siksik and I know it,  by hook or by crook, I need to lose some weight. I want to tell you that my plan to lose some weight is possible. I just needed to know some important factors to attain my goal of losing some pounds. Hmmm from 47 kilos to 50, to 53, to 55, and now I am already at 59 kilos. The weighing scale is becoming my enemy now. I am afraid I would gain more weight as the days pass by. It is a little alarming. Well, I am getting so unhappy about it. Most of the time, I dodge  my reflection at the mirror. My clothes.. ouch, a lot do not fit anymore. I really have to start my weight-loss journey. Though I am not really that fat, the increase on my weight makes me a little less confident. So I need to do something about it.  It has to be a healthy living. A healthy living  that involves: 

 1.   proper exercise 

 2.   healthy eating  

 3.   making sure that everything is in moderation

 4.   spending quality time with loved ones 

 5.   better stress management
A photo from clipArt.com 

        
   However, gaining some pounds does not define anyone. Neither losing some kilos may make you a better one. Weight definitely does not represent anybody's worth. Our weight is totally influenced by a number of factors (stress, undisciplined eating, ovulation period, etc. etc). Weight is just a number. It is not about how many pounds you've lost that make you fulfilled. It is about reaching your goals. Remember that you don't have to lose weight to please anyone. No matter what change you have to make to yourself,
you have to decide within yourself. Do not judge yourself by your weight as well as you do not have to judge others by theirs. The weighing scale is just a small something that does not indicate what weight loss really means. Being healthy is living a life that is not hurting and abusing others. Being healthy is living a life that you have planned and dreamed of. Learn to love yourself or do a few things that will bring you to caring about yourself more. It is not the pounds that matter. It is about the real you. Let us not be hard on ourselves girlfriends. You may also share your struggles with people who value and care for you. They will support you and be there for you. #Siksik or not, for real friends...weight doesn't matter.

                                                          A photo from clipArt.com

A Different Me This 2014

I plan to begin 2014 with a different me...a very positive me. With the help of Pantene Special Treatment #choosetoshine set delivered to me just yesterday by Xend, I promise to be a better me. I really choose to shine.

I have always loved using hair products that will make my long hair shiny, soft, and smooth. It is indeed every woman's dream to have a beautiful hair daily. Thus, I am truly excited to use my Pantene Daily Intensive Conditioner that will surely strengthen my hair from the roots out as well as my Pantene All Day Smooth Miracle Water, a light weight, non-sticky leave-on which will definitely help my hair maintain the perfect moisture level.

So for this year 2014, I am confidently saying goodbye to dry and damaged hair and I say hi to a healthy hair that shines.

Now is the right time and your turn to shine. You may also have a great Pantene experience and get your FREE Pantene Kit from BDJ by just signing up at http://group.ilovebdj.com, fill out a few necessary details and wait for your kit to be delivered at your doorsteps.

I would like to thank Ms. Roselle Toledo of snappedandscribbled for sharing how to get a free Pantene Pro-V Special Treatment kit through Belle de Jour.

Let us welcome this year with a positivity. Let's #choosetoshine.

Dear Jesus, Please Help Me Wrap This Gift For My Country

For the past two weeks, we felt the excitement and the enjoyment of opening a few gifts from our friends and loved ones. I also felt the joy of getting some and of course the bliss of giving more thus, I have managed to give a number of holiday presents to my close friends and members of my family. I have shared some simple material things that would be of  use to their studies and work.  I also  have volunteered a couple of times in the simplest form of helping the Yolanda survivors, I was at the Booth  7 of Villamor Airbase's  Oplan Salubong on December 8 and repacked goods at the Valenzuela City Action Center as part of my Christmas gifts to my fellowmen who were ravaged by the supertyphoon. But if I would be asked to give one most important gift for my country this new year, what then would I prepare to wrap? Over the years, the Philippines has been through a lot of struggles and challenges. Time and again the government's capacity to resolve the country's problems has been questioned. A lot of us Filipinos suffered pain, hunger, and even death during different disputes and calamities. If we spare a thought, perhaps we can list down priceless gifts to wrap and of course offer them to all of the Filipinos to make a difference to our entire country. I actually have a ton of wonderful and precious gifts in my head. But as much as I would want to enumerate thousands of gifts for our country and its people to enjoy that would bring not only smiles to Filipinos lips but a difference to our lives, I just chose the most significant one. However, I am not really capable of giving it. Therefore, I have prayed and asked our most powerful God to  help me wrap this paramount and most important gift for all of us. Because every good thing is started with a desire for a better life, a better Philippines, and a nation that promotes and supports #GlobeProjectWonderful2014, I know that Jesus has assisted me in preparing this gift. Let us not forget that " Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above."  "Dear Jesus, please help me give our country  a gift that is wrapped in Your love and tied with a beautiful ribbon of understanding, selflessness, and sacrifice."  A great leader is my gift for my entire country, a leader who has good gifts and substantial qualities that are innate. For the millions of  Filipinos in need of good leaders and hungry of  good governance, a Gift of Leadership is primarily what our country needs the soonest. As we enter this new year, we need to face the future with the gifts of faith, hope, strength, enlightenment, healing, wisdom, and forgiveness. And for that, having a leader armored with a great Gift of leadership will gear our country towards a better life, a better future,  and a better Philippines. 

I also wish that my gift be turned into reality, but my question is how? How could I gift my country a leader with great qualities? Well, I could never ever be able to do that. But as a public school teacher, I could train and teach our young people to be one.  Remember, "Teachers can make and unmake a child."  So I thought of one way to help my wish be realized. With the aid of #GlobeProjectWonderful2014, We could distribute a lot of free books to different colleges and universities about effective leadership, good governance, team building, and other books on building a better nation for college students. We could organize groups in all secondary and tertiary schools that will be supervised by Globe people whose mission and vision focus on quality leadership and helping the ones in need. We could also make and distribute big story books  about loving our country to preschoolers and primary pupils. With all these, the young Filipino generation will truly be inspired and understood what nationalism is all about.

My wish would also then be realized by training and leading our nation's future leaders. Hence, I would also love to be an instrument and a leader of  #GlobeProjectWonderful in rebuilding schools. A school is an anchor to a strong community that shapes great national leaders.  I already signed up at http://www.projectwonderful.ph/ because I want to be a part of Globe's wonderful projects to the Philippines in rebuilding schools where our next responsible frontrunners, innovators, and government leaders will be fashioned . Come and join me be a part of making the Philippines the most wonderful country in the world.

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WHAT ABOUT YOU?  IF THERE IS ONE THING THAT YOU CAN GIVE TO OUR COUNTRY, WHAT IS THAT GIFT? Feel free to state your wish for the Philippines by writing it here in my comment box. Doing this may get your wish be granted and also may give you the chance to win an iPad 2.