#Trending2014 : God's Version of His Dreams for Thina

Time flies so fast. 2014 is about to bid goodbye, while 2015 will say hi.

If 2013 was my Bibo Year and 2012 was my Hyped Year.

I'm very happy to say (err. I mean to write) that 2014's a mixture of bold and light colors in my life, thus I'll name my year at the conclusion part.

So, sit back and relax. Join me in reading this fun ride! :D

January 2014

January 10, 2014- The seven year old relationship of MeAnt (Meanne and Anthony) two of the most beautiful persons I know took it in a higher level- their engagement. Sooo Kilig and happy for them. <3

They're really 'meant' to be.

 Glad that our past and current friends were present to witness this lovely event.

January 26, 2014- Pao and I auditioned for the Voice of the Philippines at Lucky Chinatown, Binondo. Braving the longest line ever, eating solely our Presto Peanut butter biscuits with our water, talking to aspirants co-auditionees about their singing contest experiences, praying, sometimes sleeping and alas' grasping the heart pounding moment of audition.

Thank you Lord, for this awesome experience! :)

still went to the Feast after such ngarag moment.

February 2014

February 02, 2014-I distinctly remember that I had a jampacked Sunday the week after The Voice auds:

* Carl invited me to be part of his shirt biz's shoot with Tony, Niko and Joyce.

Do we look awesome, don't we? :) Ask our Daddy in Heaven. :)

 I served with my loves in Chorus Ministry.

Celebrating the birthdays of Migs, Coco, and Mark :)

February 14, 2014- I sang at the stunning wedding at church at the Hill, Tagaytay. I can call the couple as super servants, who fell inlove with each other while serving at He Cares Foundation. The venue was parallel to the wonderful sight of Mt. Batulao.

The Legally Blonde ladies

February 19, 2014- My first of class at the Feast Bible Study. This made me love History more, stronger and deeper. :)

With Melo, my baby girl :)

March 2014

March 15, 2014- I sang Let It Go at Singles Min's Kilig uch Conference.

I literally let it all gooo my heart, soul, throat, diaphragm, and voice! Wooh! :)

March 28, 2014- Last Screening for the Blind Auds. Didn't make it. But it's okay. I know God has a better plan and He surely does. :)

April 2014

April 08, 2014- Tita C, my favorite EIC sent me an email admitting to me her mistake, asking for my forgiveness, and telling me that she's proud and happy for me. I must say, that repentance is one of the most beautiful things in the world. I felt like I opened a closed window and allowed the fresh air to embrace me again! :)

April 12, 2014- Teltrade, PLDT supplier company's recollection at Tagaytay.

April 20, 2014- Grand Easter Feast at MOA Arena. :) Celebrating the Feast of the Risen Lord, with 18,000 throng of people.

Chorus, the singing bees and sunflowers

April 27, 2014- A week before this event, Bugs surprised me with an invitation to be part of the Praise Team for Popes John Paul II and John VI's canonization at Smart Araneta Coliseum.

Someone remarked me that this was better than The Voice, indeed! Praise God!

May 2014

May 1-2, 2014- Chorus Team Building at Philip Sanctuary, Antipolo.

This acting workshop stirs us to unleash our energy to its 2000th power!

May 17, 2014- My team and I coordinated Uyan-Tan Nuptial at Bayanihan Events Center. I can do such coordination for long hours, because it made me alive!

I had a convesation with Meanne regarding this.

Me: Sis, I love weddings.

Meanne: No, Thina. Weddings love you! hihihi

June 2014

June 14, 2014- My family and I went to Tagaytay. :)

Thank you Lord, for their presence :)

June 18, 2014- Pre-auds for Quartet. What happened next? Idk. But, I'm thankful for the indefinite hold, maybe it's not yet the right time.

June 21, 2014- For fighting a good fight last Pistara in Rizal Stadium.

Let it Blue: Ansaya-saya sa legs! ^_^

June 28, 2014- Tony invited his intimate friends and some of his R4 brothers to attend the SAFE seminar. It actually opened more my radical soul and stirred a certain maturity in me.

Fight for Life! 

July 2014

July 06, 2014- I was invited to be one of the facilitators for the Feast Bible Study Batch 5... Answered prayer. :)

Tama si Ate Che, gagawin ko lahat para kay Lord...=)

July 12, 2014- I applied in Accenture, then watched Carl and UPeepz's HHI fund raising concert at SM North Skydome. :)

July 14, 2014- I wrote a narrative prompt about Cris, my favorite photographer friend. :)

July 18, 2014- Wedding of Mayi and Didoy, Single's darling couple. I sang again for their AfterParty (what's new?hahaha)

With Bibo Sibs :)

July 31, 2014- Bayanihan Events Center, once more?!? This time, I sang Girl on Fire for the first ever Single's GIG (Gathering In God).

Orange is complemented with aqua! Perfect! =)

August 2014

August 12, 2014- Pao and I were asked to join as Music Ministers at BCBP (Brotherhood of Christian Businessmen and Professionals).

We love Tito Danny and Tita Beck! =)

August 29, 2014- Mass Choir auds. Chorus has never been the same again. I know God will win that battle.

September Saturdays made us busy for ministering the participants in Metropolitan Club, Rockwell.

October 2014

October 12, 2014- For the first time in four-ever, I'll be dancing Crazy in love. haha!

Let us be grateful to people who make us happy, they are the charming gardeners who make our souls blossom. – Marcel Proust

October 19, 2014- Batch 4's GIG! Praise God for the awesome Praise Team! :)

Who Wants to be a Millionaire: Be R.I.C.H to Reach

October 27, 2014- My 2nd year to judge with Pao and Coco, Write 'N Play Preschool Costume Party.

We didn't expect that 3 Queen Elsa's won their best costume

October 31, 2014- I received love letters from Chorus Ministry.

Ganu ako mahal ni Loooord???? 

Supeeeer! Megaaaa! Ubeeeer! (Just imagine me shouting these words!:D)

November 2014

November 02, 2014- I felt an incredible love from the people of Feast. God had a way of making my birthday special through the people. <3

November 03, 2014- My Amazing Birthday! <3

Meanne: Describe your birthday sis!

Me: My birthday is happy, contented, loved, matured and certain. :)

Meanne: Ulala. Love the adjectives. It sounds so 27 ;)

November 04, 2014- I celebrated my birthday in the office and with BCBP family. <3

November 23, 2014- Kerygma Conference Grand Feast. 

Sinung mag-aakalang sasayaw ako sa MOA Arena with these versatile and multi-talented people??? Galing ng Panginoon!

November 24, 2014- Bonding with Dreamteam @ Yakimix and Starbucks. Updating our current life status and reminiscin' some from our past-- as always it's laughtrip! :D

I have more friends than I know!

November 30, 2014- Pao, Tony, JL, Cris, Meanne and I celebrated our birthmonth altogether. :D We ate thrice on that day! We really spent our quality time together...<3 It was also the birthday of the best dancer at the Feast, Carl Flor, and I gave him a letter. :)

Pagkakaibigang Pinaglaban! =)

December 2014

December 06, 2014- Single's Christmas Party. Team Bravo (Bibo and Brave) bragged the best presentation as we performed, All I want for Christmas is You. Ahem! :)

We're the Dreamgirls... :)

December 07, 2014- Carl and I had a friendly date and bonding at Greenbelt. It was great that we're getting to know each other in a better, funnier, more realistic, and deeper perspective. :) Then he unexpectedly joined Pao and I in BCBP's Christmas Disco Party at AIM. Katuwaaaa! :D

Carl, are you our long lost brother? :)

Mejo kamukha ka na namin. haha

....And the winner is... MARJ! ^_^

Bongga ka 'day! :)

December 13, 2014- We annually visit Carmel of Our Lady of Mary Mediatrix of all Grace at Lipa City. We also went to Lomi King and ate their the luscious Lomi in town. :)

Mama Mary's face is the most beautiful face I've ever seen--altogether lovely and graceful!:)

December 17, 2014- I led and hosted our Project's Christmas Party in IDX. :) Natuwa naman sila. hahaha

December 21, 2014- Music Min's Christmas party at San Andres Ele School which centers at the theme, Palarong Pinoy Kiddie Style.

As every one unchained their inner child :D

December 28, 2014- We went to Padre Pio and asked him to intercede for us in granting our prayer for 2015. :)

December 30, 2014- Christmas Party with Dreamteam. :))

2014 is a colorful year for me.

I know the hope and love that I have brings out my faith in another level. My faith kept me alive and active. Unstoppable, maybe.

For the Catholic church, 2014 is the year of the laity which centers with the theme: Choose to be Brave!

I praise God, for I think I obeyed it, not perfectly, but in the best and most colorful that I can! 

"Let everything that has breath praise the LORD. 
Praise the LORD!"(Psalm 150:6)

--30--

On Loving Long Walk

Time’s up! 4 o’clock striked! Sometimes pressure at work takes hold on me, so instead it completely eats me up, finding ways to recharge comes out naturally.

I invited a new friend by the name of Princess to grab an ice cream in a nearby Mini Stop. Instead of staying inside and looking around the gondollas with its stare-all-you-can snacks. I decided to go out with her to walk around.

While we’re both loosening up the unseemingly tightness grip of our job, I asked Princess if we could walk longer. There’s an endless joy and giddiness in me when I walk. Whether I’m alone, with someone, or with a group of crazy friends.

It makes me reflect. Reminisce. Laugh--lots of that actually. I can even invite someone to know me, get interested to other person’s life and story too.

I’m loving Ayala Triangle and Greenbelt more as it unveils the beauty of nature.

We almost talk about our family, loved-ones, importance of faith—even trivial things like our fave cartoons to movies. As we cycled those topic, work wasn’t included in the picture. The Task Master in me faded. Did I say faded for a while?

And during those precious time—it’s only me, Princess and the simplicity of life. I’m sure I could walk longer in this life’s adventure believing that friendship is far better than anything else.

Swooosh!!! How time flies. 4:30 ticks! Alright, gonna go back to work but this time with a boost spirit and mind.

Greeny sidewalk

The fourth phone booth

Do you believe in foreshadowing?

Ok, whether your answer is Yes or No, or you don’t have an idea what it means, I do.

Alright, let’s get in to my point. I want to tell you a story on how I got in my new job. So, for more than  two months, I’m a job hunter and the days in between— a bummer or a freelancer.

I literally see myself as a hunter holding a riffle, ready to hunt an eagle or any animal that I could see in a wild forest, or sometimes getting lost in that unknown place, and praying for a survival against the vicious creatures surrounding that place.

I’ve done researches and applications from jobstreet to walk-in to referral to newspaper ads. I’ve submitted my resume plenty of times.

Whenever I got an invitation for an interview via call or text, I’ m like a giggly teenager, jumping and rolling around because my crush have texted me. I’m done with my teaching experience, so this time I’m targeting to work in my one and only cup of tea- COMMUNICATION. Whether it’s a copywriting/content writing, marketing, advertising and public relations, I swear to be the happiest.

I’ve crazily applied to more than 200 companies and it’s not funny though, especially when my money is tight. Honestly, whenever an Interviewer found out that I had a good credentials, I felt like convincing them that I’m good, and I can be their company’s asset, then I’ll be hired immediately. 


“Congratulations, you’ve got a job offer!” No ifs. No Buts—or so I thought.

However, the word “but” is always included in the picture. My credentials are impressive, but not qualified on their standards. I look confident, but I’m shortlisted. I’m good but not enough. During those times, it made me doubt my capacity. I felt rejected, but since I’m surrounded by God’s Grace, I learn to bounce back. I told myself that they didn’t reject me as who I am, but as what I can give. And I’m grateful to remain wise in separating my character to my capacity. Enough for self-pity and doubt again. So, I continue to hustle and bustle in job hunting and keep on asking…and asking..and asking others for referrals. There’s no room for quitting.

As I persevere, some of my friend will give me a company’s phone number. I will hurriedly go to the PLDT payphone booth near our house. Actually, there are four booths but the last and farthest booth is the only one functioning.

Then, last April, I received a call from one of the companies that I’m dying to work at. The recruitment manager asked me if I’m available to work on their company. Of course, I said yes. So I went to their office immediately, talked about the pre-employment stuff and pay. All I have to do is to wait for the President’s approval about completing my requirements.

I finally sighed with all my hopes to that company. I’m even excited to start on that day. Yet….days and weeks have passed by, I’ve got neither text nor call.

“Oh come on! Am I going to be a bummer?” I disgustingly asked myself.

WAITING is indeed the hardest part and leaving without an option—I give in.

However, during those days of praying deeply and working hard, Tita Chay, our Ministry Editor-in-chief became God’s instrument to regain my trust in my capacity. She gave me a task as an Editorial Assistant on our Feast Bulletin and it feels good at the moment. I know that its part of the ebb and flow before a better job arrives.

Truly, our humorous and creative God listened to my plea. Remember the fourth phone booth? It unexpectedly bridges the gap between my request and dreams. One sister from the same ministry called and interviewed me to work in PLDT as a Marketing Product Admin Assistant. I said yes without a battling of eyelashes. Though, I’ve waited for quite awhile to start— it’s all worth itIt’s now my 2^nd week now in the country’s leading Telecommunication Company.

I’m praying for longevity, productivity and success.

TRIVIA:

• PLDT stands for Philippine Long Distance Company.
• Our PLDT landline # before was: 8532323.. (I miss those days when I’ll stay for hours talking over that gray phone.)

Tagline: Bahagi na ng Buhay

Perfect love story

 Love is patient. Everytime I fall short on my sins, you patiently look into my heart until I ask for forgiveness, repent and to sin no more; love is kind. When you gave me a very kind family and friends who love and support me even if I’m sometimes unloving; It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. Yours is confident, humble and gentle just like a voice of my favorite student who always made my day; It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Whenever I feel like I’m going to burst into anger and would dishonor my brother and sister, I’d just pray instead and pour to you my negative outburst. You asked me to shake it off, until I become better, normal and healthy again. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. The bible and its scripture is the best tool to defeat the devil. It is your words that wash away all fears and worries. I’m grateful for the Feast and my brothers and sisters there; It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Thank you for the mantle of your protection against my enemies, and also for asking me to surrender my future and dreams into your hand, because you have a greater plan for my life and it’s to make me prosperous with the use of my talents and capabilities. And lastly some of my friends gave a remark that I’m always doing my best and that is my gift to you.

  Love never fails. Your love for me soars high. It strengthens me and sends me to a beautiful place wherein your love would be shown and appeared. :)

(1 Corinthians 13:4-8)

Journey To The Past

Heart, don't fail me now!
Courage, don't desert me!
Don't turnback
Now that we're here
People always say
Life is full of choices
No one ever mentions fear!
Or how a road can seem so long
How the world can seem so vast
Courage see me through
Heart I'm trusting you
On this journey...to the past


Somewhere down this road
I know someone's waiting
Years of dreams
Just can't be wrong
Arms will open wide
I'll be safe and wanted
Fin'lly home where I belong
Well, starting here, my life begins
Starting now, I'm learning fast
Courage see me through
Heart I'm trusting you
On this journey...to the past


Heart don't fail me now!
Courage don't desert me!


Home, Love, Family
There was once a time
I must have had them too
Home, Love, Family
I will never be complete
Until I find you...


One step at a time
One hope, then another
Who knows where
This road may go-
Back to who i was
On to find my future
Things my heartstill
Needs to know
Yes, let this be a sign!
Let, this road be mine!
Let it lead me to my past
Courage see me through
Heart I'm trusting you
To bring me home...
At last!
At Last!

This may seem backward. But ironically as it may seem people look at their pasts-whether ugly or beautiful one. Everyone has his/her shared story of her past. We journey backward, yet we returned at the present moment with a WONDERFUL LESSON OF YESTERDAY’S OLD SCARS.

If people would ask how my past was. I’ll tell you that it was colorful. I had a bank of stories in my mind when I was a kid. I was a combination of an active and obedient student-ask my mom about it. Haha.. Of course, I was just a normal tall kid who played with neighbors and classmates, who was scolded by my parents-btw, I’m a product of a broken family so I lived with my mom,younger sister, 2 aunts and I had a puppy crushes too. I was very close with my aunt because my mom was very close with my younger sister. But as I can see now, it doesn’t bother me much knowing in my heart that everything has a purpose. (To my fellow readers, don’t worry I won’t overshare because I’m still feeling the need to share it privately.) I met the Lord through my grandfather who kept on reminding me to thank the Lord before and after the meal; before leaving the house; for his blessings in the family and through going to the mass. His words were sometimes kind, yet sometimes fearful. Yes, he came from an Armed Forces of the Philippines. He was such a tough man who became soft because of my lola’s kindness. I awe him some of my principles and faith. He was my Father-figure, because my father left us when I was innocently 6 years old. He was a man of discipline, of action and of rules. Yet, he can’t help to use his “yantok” to discipline us. It was the pain from my childhood. When I was a kid, I’d either felt thankful and fearful of him. He would sometimes challenge me if I was really bright in the class or not and I proved him that I was. And that’s how I trust more the LORD TODAY to heal my heart from all the pains that he brought me and my family. And I will confess that there were moments in my journey to my faith that I saw the Lord as kind yet sometimes cruel. That’s why I believe in the saying be careful with your words and actions for it may make or break you.

Anyway, he may be with the Lord now. I’m praying for his soul along with my lola. He still linger in my memories. He still stays in my heart. And in the moment I could meet him again in heaven, I’ll tell him: I love you. Thank you. Forgive me.

He died, after fulfilling his dreams to have a house in Bicol. He was too far from us but not with my aunt. He left us hanging and confuse of what will life awaits us. Yes, our finances came from his pension. He left me working hard for my mom and my sister. He left without sending notices. He left us crazy.

And in the very same place where he left us, I found a home in my Divine Father’s arms. He gently asked me not to bore hatred but to understand the situation. I wrote in my journals that I should be flexible and adjustable with the situation. I obeyed him. But mind you there were times that I failed to do so. He blessed me with faith in myself, family and work. Now, I’m working as a Video English teacher for Koreans. I experienced moving from one place to another thrice in a year, but in the kindness of the Lord, I can pay now our rent.
I’m maintaining my friendship with my old and new friends. I’m learning to prioritize things. I’m just a normal woman with dreams and talents. I’m also at times acting on impulse and craziness. I am who I am because of the learning that I lock in my heart and with God's mercy using His people. No more questions of, "What if lolo is still alive, how would our life w be?"

In relation to this, when I was 10 years old, this song Journey to the past became my favorite. I was a fan of Leah Salonga and the late-Aaliyah. I kept on singing this with my cassette tape and radio. It has a melody and lyrics that made me realize how journey can be tough, yet exciting. I had always dream of singing this with a big audience- BIG DREAMS ARE ALWAYS GREAT!=))

Looking at life as a whole and as a detailed one can make us think that LIFE IS BEAUTIFUL AND MASTERPIECE. LIFE IS WHAT YOU MAKE IT YET A BYPRODUCT OF YOUR PAST LEARNINGS-as the saying goes and as I edit it.

Empty vessel

Forest are said to be a sanctuary of wild animals, chirping crickets, idle grasses and empty vessel. Yes, empty vessel. For a hundreds of years, this mysterious vessel was hidden and seated in the heart of this abandoned forest. Travelers from different races and nations desire this vessel. It is said to heal sickness, regenerate youth, and defense against enemies.

An old soldier with a white beard and thick moustache wearing his red and blue dirty uniform gasped this alas’, 

“Aha!” “I could fin’lly ventured this place alone. I could have it now.”

His wrinkled face equates to the number of years of service in a far-away kingdom. He rarely thinks of himself for he decided to offer it to his masters. One gloomy day, he felt a need to have his own family. For living in solitude life in his age meant survival for another lonely battle. So he sufficed his need through being a father to the kingdom’s servant’s daughter. Along taking care of her, suddenly everyone in the kingdom find out that she was sick. So as the lonely and worried soldier and keeping the story of an empty vessel as his mighty sword, went along the trip alone.

Meanwhile, a deep sigh was also given by a muddy with ruthless faced, middle-aged pirate. He was traveling on the sea all his life. His sturdy walk depicted a sign of fierceness he had. But it’s only seen in the outside, for he had an inner turmoil about his long suffering heart ailment.

In the heart of the forest was a glowing and golden empty vessel.. Surrounding it were the travelers who died upon grasping it. Some died out of tiresome. Some died  amidst the fight over the vicious creatures living there.

When the pirate saw the vessel, he run directly to it and his eyes feasted on its superficial beauty. He came first though along the way his sickness assailed, yet he ignored it and continued walking.

”

“Aaahh.. pain won’t cease me in getting this.” said the pirate to himself. His sweats were like pearls on his forehead. He was catching his breath. His palms were cold and a little shaking.

Then, the old soldier entered the place, face to face he saw the pirate with his suffering looked. There was an air of stinginess between these two eager men. There was a need to compete over the vessel. One man with a big fist and great stamina could win. Ironically, both of them are physically weak at the moment. But the truth was the vessel’s strength comes from a person’s faith.

Who would get healed? Was it the soldier’s servant’s daughter or the pirate’s sickness?

As they looked at the vessel, all the fierceness and eagerness to get their selfish ambitions melt down. It has a power to soften a heart of stone, to cleanse a malicious mind, to empty a heart of worries, lust and envy.  

The two men’s defenses were surrendered. No more swords, conflicts. Because the vessel absorbed everything until it became one in gold, glow and power.

A mystique smoke came out from the vessel and surrounded both of their worries. It washed away all of it. The secret was faith and humility. After the peculiar fortunate happened the soldier went home with faith that the servant’s daughter will get healed. While the pirate’s spirit was awed with the divine happenings in his heart and mind.

Both are saved.

Both are secured.

Both are one with the empty vessel.