Seriously Happy

Many of us can falsify happiness with many diversions to control our sorrow. We tend to keep the real condition of our hearts perhaps due to being afraid of embarrassment or because we are too proud to deal with our grief. Others also think that being sad is just for the weak and they keep themselves busy or some people resolves to be more talkative to cover up their burden. The most upsetting cover up I can think of is being angry and worst is to declare that it is an acceptable kind of anger.

Many years back, I remember covering all up my burdens and it became normal for me to deal with my sorrow instantly with anger. I thought being angry can get everything I want accordingly. Well, there are some things we really can not learn in school but has to be learned in life. (Click here to read the rest of the story at RJC Website).

Single, Busy and Proud!

Below is the list of things you can do while waiting for your Princess or Prince Charming. This might give you an idea why some people are staying single for a long time or literally made a personal decision to stay single or be a blessed single forever. I can't blame them. I honestly thought I would be a blessed single myself.

Here is the check list:

1.) Improve Thy Self

I am talking about your personality and perception in life. Search for the 'Better You' instead of searching Mr. Right. There are tons of Christian Self-Help book you may read such as "Become a Better You" By Joel Osteen and "Battlefield of the Mind" by Aunt Joyce Meyer and "A Woman and Her God" by Aunt Elizabeth Moore. I know some of you would prefer reading romantic chick flick novels like "Twilight" and "Hunger Games" but honestly, these books can not really make you a better person but are only teaching you to be someone that does not really exist. Come to think of it, these books are only in the Fiction section. Get it?

2.) Sharpen Thy Skills

If talent runs in your blood then why won't you take extra lessons to hone your skills? Don't be content by merely imitating someone. Be the one who rocks. If you have a niche in singing, acting, drawing, cooking, baking, dancing, playing musical instruments, writing, photography, beat-boxing or surfing then start somewhere. Join interest clubs, organizations or community groups to help you improve. You are never too young (or old) to start something.

3.) Spread the Love

I am not convincing you to be an extrovert but at least get out from your nutshell and let other people know that you are alive, existing and let them know that you love them. Enough with the 'emo style'. Put down your headphones and communicate with another human being. Ask your friends how are they doing. Surprise a friend (not your crush!) with a message, a tweet or maybe a post card. If it doesn't hurt you much, make new friends. Hug your mom, dad, uncles and aunty. Make coffee for everyone at home. Give your dog a walk and play with him/her in the park. Invite your sibling(s) to hang out. Just get out from your 'cave'.

4) Be a Volunteer

Be part of a community organization to help out the less fortunate. Start in your own school and/or church. You really don't have to be a super hero to help. Just lend your time and hands. Don't wait until you get a job and become rich. Ironically, you won't have the time and resources by then (Laugh out loud). You are already blessed so simply ignite the fire in you. It's time to shine!

Goodbye Lola Yoda

Thoughts: New things come after Old things. An old-long life has ended. I now hope that a new life will start. It is painful to have someone leave this world even if we knew it was her time. Now I wonder how much joy can we gain when someone new will be born..
Music: Amazing Grace by Leanne Rimes (I sang this song for her last night in Knox United Methodist Church, Sta. Cruz, Manila)



Moja's Blog:
Our Lola Yoda, real name Lola Emiliana, died last Wednesday January 16. She had reached 92 years and should be 93 on July 20. She died because of her old age. She was still singing hymns on her bed. She could still recognize some visitors. She didn't feel too much pain. She died happily. We thank God for his faithfulness to our grandmother. God has promised abundant blessings for us all because of her. She hoped hard. She prayed hard. We love her so much.

Lola Yoda, you told me I am your Princess. You love me and my name Lea because it was taken from the bible - your only granddaughter with a biblical name. You are always proud of me when I sing, your Princess Lea. But Lola, I always sing because I know my grandma will be so happy to hear me sing for her and her God.

I promise to pass on the richness of God's grace and mercy in our family. I'll do my best to hope in the Lord always. We will never waste what you have started. You are my inspiration. We will preserve and gain more of God's blessings. We will reach more souls as what you've accomplished even to your death. In Jesus'name. Amen.