Grace-dependent

(This post is in relation to my previous entry...)

Last Monday (June 22), the result of our final exam for Manual Ticketing was released. All of us passed. I praised the Lord when I heard my trainer's announcement. During our morning break, my trainer said that they have deliberated about my case. In the end, they have considered me for the next course. They tracked back my record since our Domestic Ticketing Training in which I somehow excelled. In addition to that, my trainer told me to do better this time, probably to prove that I'm worthy of the consideration they have given me.

Once again, I have proved God's favor to me. When I texted those from whom I've requested for a prayer, most of them said, "You are favored by the Lord." I strongly believe that.

June 25, Thursday, was our first exam on Automated Ticketing. I still have some mistakes I know. I was sad after that. On our way home, I said to my friends, "Talagang grace-dependent ako..." One of them replied, "Bakit na-fail ka na ba nyang grace na sinasabi mo?" I just smiled and from her words I was encouraged. One of them also said, "Malakas yan (pertaining to me) kay Bro!" On my mind I said, "Truly, never in a moment God's grace had failed me." That's the sweetest thing with our God. He honors those who choose to honor Him.

Now, the training is still on-going. Our last exam will be on Tuesday. I have this hope that God will never leave me. I count to His promises. I'm praising Him not just because He's helping me out from every hard circumstance but also through all these, my batchmates saw how my God works in the impossible.

Here are some of the verses that I keep on meditating.

~"...and the one who trusts in him will never be put to shame." - Romans 9:33

~"being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus." - Philippians 1:6

~"in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us." - Romans 8:37

~" He mocks proud mockers but gives grace to the humble." - Proverbs 3:34

~"So do not throw away your confidence; it will be richly rewarded. You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what he has promised." - Hebrews 10:35-36

These verses encourage me and they remind me of who I am before the Lord. Praise be to our God who is the Lord of all comfort.

"Your day is not too good that you are not in need of God's grace and neither too worse that you are beyond His grace" - Joshua Harris, Not Even a Hint


DO THE POSSIBLE AND GOD WILL DO THE IMPOSSIBLE!

A Very Humbling Experience

Last week was the end of our International Manual Ticketing. As the course title implies, we didn't use a computer system for ticketing but a set of thick books called the "Passenger Airfare Tariff" or PAT Books. Those contain air fares published by different carriers (airlines), general rules, city,state and country codes and so on.



Aside from these four books, we have a thick manual. It was so exciting and I really enjoyed it though it (the entire course) bought me into a great test.

Part of my mind says, "nakakahiya namang i-share...so disappointing if people,especially those who have high expectations, would come to know it..." but I think I should be proud of my weakness because through this God's name will be glorified.



Each course, we have to take an exam and we have to pass in order to be qualified in taking the next course. For international ticketing we have 2 courses: Manual Ticketing and Automated Ticketing. Last June 5 was the first part of our exam for Manual Ticketing (using these books on the left), that's equal to 40% of our total rating. Sadly I wrongly answered the 2nd problem. My trainer told me that I must have a perfect grade for the 2nd Exam in order to go on with the training. But even if I get a perfect score, that won't give me a guarantee to stay. Wheeew! I almost cried... but I controlled my tears from falling. When she left...di ko na nakayanan. That happened before we left for Cebu, June 11. I tried to enjoy the trip while hardly thinking about it. Eventually I realized that God is really humbling me. Now I can really say in my heart (as that of my shout out in my Friendster account) that I am not in the business of proving myself to people. I, together with my batchmates, really felt the pressure brought by high expectations of people in our workplace. Once, I asked one of them, "...kailangan ba talagang patunayan ang ating sarili sa iba?" One more thing that makes it hard for me is that I have to face it alone. The scenario is totally different. I'm not anymore in my comfort zone where I can meet my churchmates any time and draw strength from them. I don't even have my family beside me because I'm staying in Manila. I don't have very close friends with me who can understand and be patient with long crying moments (you know, Christians are really bold in crying). All I really have is God. It's hard but it's really sweet at the same time. This is the time when I feel I'm very close to Him.

I said in my prayer one night, "Lord, I don't wanna carry the motive of competing with people, proving that I am better than others, that I am more capable and so on." Then, I realized why this thing happened, God wants to really purify my motive, to keep me humble.

Last week, that's Wednesday, we had our final exam covering the remaining 60% of our grade. By God's grace I was able to finish it. Special thanks to our trainer, Sir Bong, who was very patient with us. The result will be released on Monday. While waiting, I'm continuously having my training, now its Automated Ticketing.

I'm very thankful with God's special way of teaching His child. It's painful...knowing that in the eyes of some, I failed. But that's not the matter anyway. I would be glad that in God's eyes I am approved. I won't accept that I'm a failure either. God clearly stated that "I am more than a conqueror" through Paul in the book of Romans. Though I don't know what tomorrow brings, I have this confidence that nothing, neither those circumstances, will change the truth that God is God and that I have His favor. For as long as I am with You and You are with me Lord, I am so secure.

Press on Toward the Goal!

God has been so faithful to me, to the entire ministry. I want to thank Him for allowing us to be part of a bigger assignment all for His greater glory. :)

We joined a dance competition last November 29, Saturday (that was already the grand finals) at Folk Arts Theater, organized by Philippine Bible Society. That was not a mere dance competition but it's one way to promote the use of Bible using our craft - dancing. God paved the way for the team to be the champion. Truly, He answers sincere prayers.

We joined not because we want fame, not for the prize, but for one reason... to give glory to the Highest God! We want souls who will accept God. I could still remember how hard we prayed before we danced. That was really unforgettable! Our reward was God Himself.

Below is the video of the actual dance -- "B'lib ako sa Biblia ko!" (courtesy of Kua Firmo..thanks to you!)



But then, I don't want to dwell on past victories and will strain toward what is ahead... look forward to more assignments from God. Since this victory belongs to God, all the glory belongs to Him as well!

"Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus." Philippians 3:13-14

Worship Camp 2008

Thank You Lord for such a wonderful experience! I was really blessed that God made a way for me to join this camp. I wasn't expecting na possible pa since 'di ko na talaga pinagpray... but I could still remember na nasabi ko kay Lord, "If I need it, please let me join, kung kaya naman kahit hindi ako makasama, ok lang..." Hai (isang malalim na buntong hininga), sobrang amazing talaga. Ang daming tinuro sa'kin ni Lord.

> Sa sponsor, thank you very much. May God bless you all the more! Thanks din kay Kua JB... sponsor sa zip line! :D

Below are some pictures...

Please Fall in Line!!!

I went to NBI at FRC Mall, Imus to apply for a clearance yesterday. I was there at around 6:00am (hindi pa ako ang pinakamaaga sa lagay na un), pang-191 na akong applicant! wheew! Those who preceded me went there at 2:00am...hai, di ko yun kaya!

Sobrang exagge talaga ang haba ng pila. Nakakalungkot pa dun, may mga sumisingit...kanya-kanyang tactics, may mga fixers din as expected. May mga hindi marunong mahiya,as in harapan ang paniningit ah. Nasabi ko tuloy...

"Hai naku, hindi uunlad ang Pilipinas n'yan kung sa pila na lang hindi pa faithful."

I was reminded of one of Jessica Sojo's episodes (Kapuso Mo, Jessica Sojo). Ang pila daw sa Pilipinas ay sumasalamin sa sistemang meron ang bansa. Yung mga nagdodorm, 'pag gising pa lang pila na para makagamit ng c.r. then pila ulit para makasakay sa jeep...pila pa rin 'pag magwi-withdraw sa ATM, another line sa bills payment and so on. Conclusion dun, may kabagalan ang pagbibigay ng service sa mga Pinoy. Somehow, true... but I know there will still be changes in our system (with the help of computers)... hopefully and prayerfully.

Going back, I got my clearance by 4:00 pm, in short, buong maghapon ako dun. Akala ko nga magco-colapse ako, sobrang init at nakakainip!!!

At work...

After how many weeks or months, ngayon ko lang na-upload ang pictures ko with my co-teachers sa Academia. We had a summer training last May. I could still remember that some of the photos below were taken during the evaluation day (evaluation of our teaching demo). Habang may kinakausap ng one on one sa isang kubo sa likod ng NCST, tamang picture naman kami while waiting for our turn.

Naisip ko ring magtake ng pictures ng ilang native items na matatagpuan sa isang kubo dun. :D

The one on the left is a picture of chimes made of bamboo that's why when the wind blows it produces good sounds ('di ko maexplain kung anong sound, basta relaxing). On the right side is a native chandelier. Natuwa lang ako..hehehe.

(Balik sa photo slideshow) I also took pictures with some of my students after the class. Then, yung last 3 photos were taken last Thursday lang, during our Scouting Investiture at Regatta Covered Court, sa Anabu, Imus. That was my first time to be an MC...MC ng bigger event with more or less 200 participants (including the teachers and parents), wearing Girl Scout Uniform (blouse and skirt)..hehe. Busy kami sa packing up kaya medyo konting pictures lang natake ko. :)

Poem Writing Activity

I love to write poems, yun nga lang wala na kong time para magsulat pa. I could still remember the day when I wrote my latest poem, that's almost a year ago. I was at the hospital looking over my sick grandma. It's about how gloomy that room was. Nasa ward kasi ang lola ko nun so I can see other patients with their relatives. One of the patients was about to die kaya medyo may iyakan.

Today I was able to write another poem together with my grade 4 class. Nasa poem writing na kasi kami and it was fun! :D We wrote a poem together using a guide found in their textbook. I was writing my poem on the board while they write theirs on a piece of paper. Here's my composition:

"I am"

I am an imaginative and creative girl

I wonder how eagles fly above the storm

I hear them chirping

I see their wings wide open

I want to fly high like eagles

I am an imaginative and creative girl

I pretend that I'm flying

I feel the strong winds against my wings

I touch the heavy clouds

I worry that I will not able to face the strong winds

I cry thinking that I will not make it through the storm

I am and imaginative and creative girl

I understand that God is with me

I say I will make it because I have Him

I dream to see myself flying over the dark clouds

I try to fly higher than ever

I hope to have stronger wings and deeper faith to persevere

I am an imaginative and creative girl.

Nakakatuwa lang, kahit sa simpleng tula I was able to share God's goodness to my students! You're so good Lord!

A Leap of Faith

Since my scholarship was not approved for an unknown reason, I need to shoulder all the expenses. All in all I need to pay Php2+,+++ for the first trimester, consisting of 9 units or 3 subjects, and I have to pay it in full.

The on-line enrollment preceded the release of scholarship grants; I was enrolled before I came to know the result last May 20. The night before the said day, I prayed, "Lord, gamitin mo po lahat ng ka-imposiblehan sa mundo para ma-glorify ka sa buhay ko..." Indeed, God answers prayers. The next day, I was adviced that my scholarship application was not granted. Nasabi ko tuloy, "Lord, nagkamali yata ako ng prayer last night..." (sabay tawa). Ka-imposiblehan no.1 kasi na makapag-aral ako ng M.A. na shoulder ko lahat. I survived college at DLSU-D with scholarship grant every semester by God's grace.

I was scheduled to pay the tuition fee last Saturday and have my ID picture taken but since wala naman akong cash on hand, i just attended the graduate school orientation. I still have 2 weeks to settle my account (June 7) or else I will be removed from the official class list. My class will start tomorrow and of course, I will attend. hahaha!

I keep on praying that God will provide and make a way out for me. I was contemplating if I will continue or not. But then, I still have to pay 10% of the full assessment if I will choose not to continue, that's La Salle's policy.I was weighing if I have the right motive in taking my master's degree; Am I trying to insist what I want or this is what God wants? Am I following my own calendar or is it God's perfect time?

Actually, it's fine with me if I will not take my M.A. this school year. I don't want to be a burden to my parents considering that I still have younger siblings who must pursue their elementary/secondary/undergraduate education. I will be too selfish if I will ask support from my parents.

Naalala ko pa kung pa'no ako nakasubmit ng requirements noon, na-extend lang yung date of admission nila kaya ako nakahabol. I also remembered how God led me when it comes to the course I must take (nakwento ko yata yun sa isang post ko before). At 'pag iniisip ko lahat ng hirap na yun para makapasok, ang grace ni Lord sa bawat lakad ko, at sa lahat ng answered prayers, hindi talaga ako naniniwalang hindi ako makakapag-aral. Siguro para sa'kin, scholarship lang ang naiiisip kong way para makapag-aral, but God has so many ways... some of these, I can't understand because it's beyond my comprehension.

"Pa'no ngayon ang gagawin mo? Pa'no mo yan babayaran?" yan ang madalas na tanong sakin ng mga nakakaalam ng storya. Honestly, kahit ako, 'di ko alam ang sagot, 'di ko alam kung papa'no. But one thing is certain about this, GOD IS ABLE TO DO EXCEEDINGLY ABUNDANTLY MORE THAN WHAT I ASK AND IMAGINE! (Ephesians 3:20) Whatever happens, I know God is with me. This is a deeper level of test for me. This is a big leap of faith!

April Happenings (Part 2)

A continuation...

April 21: NEW LOOK!

Nagpa-hair cut kami ng 2 sisters ko at si mama. Nung sabihin ko sa hair stylist ang gupit na gusto ko, hindi sya pumayag. hmf! In short, hindi nya pinagbigyan ang kagustuhan ko, pinagtawanan pa ako (a little bit sarcastic). Side bangs ang ginawa nya sa buhok ko, then trim ng konti. Ang gusto ko kasi, "Dora bangs" kung tawagin nila. Umuwi ako ng hindi satisfied kaya pinagupit ko sa sister ko ung buhok ko..haha! Ngayon, since 'di ko pwedeng ibalik ang buhok na nagupit na, kailangan ko na itong panindigan. hahaha! thanks to Ate Eu and Ate Ann na nag-ayos ng bangs ko last Sunday. :D

April 26: FULL LOAD!
Sobrang daming naka-line up na activities ngayon (dalawa lang naman actually...hahaha!). Start ng Dance 101 today. Below are some pictures.

Nakakatuwa ang pagkilos ni Lord... We were entrusted to draw more youth closer to God. :D

After the Dance Training, we attended a crusade, "Angkla" in Lalaan. Nakakabless din ang work ni Lord sa lugar na 'yun.

April 28: TOGETHER AGAIN

After a year, nagkita ulit kami ni Agatha. I visited her in Biñan, Laguna (for some business). Nakakatawa lang talaga, kung kailan naman ako nasa ibang lugar, saka naman ako inatake ng dysmenorrhea. Nagulo tuloy ang maganda nilang opisina para lamang bigyan ako ng mahihigaan para makapagpahinga! grr... kakahiya talaga yun!

After about an hour, medyo narelieve na ang pain so kain to the max naman! haha. Before going home, nagmeet muna kami ni mama sa SM, nag-grocery lang. After that, kumain kami ng siopao na syang naging dahilan upang mag-tumbling ang cellphone ko sa lapag. Nabitawan ko kasi ang cellphone ko sa kagustuhang masalo ang mahuhulog na siopao sauce. In the end, wala akong nasalo sa dalawa. As a result, two days din akong walang cellphone, walang nag-aappear sa screen. May tinuro lang sa'kin si LORD, 'wag magtext ng magtext! ahaha! Now, ok na ang phone ko... kailangan lang pala ng rest.

April 29-30: FAMILY'S SUMMER BONDING

At last, natuloy din ang plano ng family na mag-outing. Since karamihan samin takot mangitim, we had an overnight swimming sa 'di kalayuang resort sa bahay, sa Double V Resort. Thank You Lord for that great family bonding.

That's the highlight of my April's happenings. For this month , I believe marami pa ring in store for me, for the family, for the ministry... I'm so blessed, God has entrusted me new tasks, more people, which I will lay down sooner.

"Thank You so much Lord! You are able to prove to me that You are ever faithful... Help me to love You more and please give me the consuming desire to know You even more."

April Happenings

After several weeks, I had the chance to update my blog. (Hirap pala `pag walang sariling computer and internet connection. I want to have a set of computer...hindi lang naman for blogging.)

Below is a summary of what transpired for the past few weeks.

April 10: ANOTHER SISTER IN CHRIST
I went to Manila to submit my application requirements to La Salle University-Taft. I`m applying for graduate studies major in Marketing Communication. Nakakatuwa nga ang leading ni Lord sa course na dapat kong kunin. I was supposed to take up Applied Media Studies but when I submitted my requirements, `di pala nila ino-offer ang course for this coming school year. Sabi ng staff pumili na lang daw ako ng iba. I was a bit pressured kasi I need to decide on the course right away because that was the last day of application for graduate studies. I scanned the list of courses offered and I noticed that Marketing Communication will be more useful. Haha! Thank You Lord for leading me!

I rode a bus back to Dasmarinas and sat beside a woman who was going to Batangas. She`s Nanay Teresita, with two sons and one daughter. She`s leaving for Japan in few days.We had a good conversation and I had the chance to share God`s love to her. I was glad to know that she`s a Christian too! She gave me this pony (pang-ipit sa buhok), natuwa siguro :)


April 15: BONDING MOMENTS
Sa La Salle Dasma naman ang aking tungo para asikasuhin ang aking credentials. After that, nagkita kami ni Charm sa SM, lakad dito, lakad doon... We stayed for more than an hour at the Food Court, nakaupo lang at text ng text! hahaha! Parang naghanap lang ng ibang ambiance para magtext! haha! I waited for my sister and mom kaya nagstay kami dun ng matagal. Si Kua Pob dun dumiretso after work para mag-withdraw... sweldo!!! Of course `di na sya nakahindi na i-treat kami. We had dinner at Chowking... natuwa din ako sa item na `to...

lalagyan ng toothpick :)

April 17: TEST TO THE MAX!
La Salle Taft- I took my entrance exam at 1:30 pm. Ok naman ang Verbal Test (English, written) at Quantitative Exam (more on Algebra, pero in fairness nakalimutan ko na ito ha... 1st year college ang huli kong subject na may math eh!). However, nosebleed naman `pag dating sa essay part na 1 and 1/2 hour ang itinagal. My chosen topic was `The Filipino Youth Today.` Di ganon kadali dahil may format na kailangang sundin, it`s a Problem-Solution Essay.

After taking the exam, balik Dasma and had a practice for Sunday Praise & Worship. :)

April 20: SACRIFICE OF PRAISE
Whole day ang team (Tehillah) sa Church... 6 services ito kaya nakakapagod pero nakakatuwa because God is extending our limitations! After ng sayaw, ito ang kinahinatnan ng mga tuhod ko...


Pero I had no regrets. I`m blessed to be used by a Mighty God! Ito ang sayaw namin that caused pain to my knees and to my heart... `Give Us Clean Hands`

...pain to my knees kasi may step na biglang luluhod at the same time pain to my heart because God is at work! "Lord, give me clean hands and a pure heart," this was my week-long prayer. And God is exposing the impurities of my heart (pati kabulukan ng attitude ko) of course, it`s painful. Thank You so much Lord for working in me.

April 22: A REWARD!
Manila again...I went to NSO to get my mom`s birth certificate. Haba ng pila!!!! Buong maghapon akong pinawisan ng matindi dahil sa hirap ng pagpila sa pagscreen ng application at pagclaim ng certificate. It was almost 5:00 pm nung matapos ako. It happened na nagkita kami ng dati kong ka-officemate sa NSO. After that, niyaya nya akong magpa-spa... pinagamit nya sakin ang isa nyang full-body massage gift certificate (worth P580.00). Bawal ang magtake ng pictures kaya kwento ko na lang briefly.
Step 1. Shower
Step 2. Jacuzzi (babad kami dun for 30 mins.)
Step 3. Sauna (steam bath for 3 mins. Supposedly 10-15 mins. kami dun kaso sobrang init, a taste of hell!!!)
Step 4. Shower (ulit)
Step 5. Full body massage (for one hour. Ang galing nung masahista, akalain mong nabuhat kami! Actually pede pang magstay dun sa room at matulog pero dahil gumagabi na, di na kami nagstay pa.)
Step 6. Buffet (To the max na kain naman! Eat all you can, kaso may bayad `pag may natira kaya super limited ang kinuha ko kaso napadami ang kuha ni Irish kaya... Hay, Lord, sorry na.)

Nakakatuwa talaga ang reward ni Lord! Napagod man ako buong maghapon, napawi naman sa masahe! hehehe!

Random updates

- WORK, WORK...

For almost one year, I worked with PACEOS. Nasanay akong nasa harap ng computer all day (kapag walang field work) . Nakakamiss din pala... This was my cubicle:

Maliit lang ang space kung tutuusin, pero enough na para makahinga ako..haha! Actually, these photos were taken after the effectivity of my resignation, which means nakapag-impake na ko. So lahat ng personal stuffs ko ay unti-unti ko nang nahakot. :)

I was reminded of those times na umiiyak ako in front of my computer, trying so hard to hide my tears from my officemates (syempre nakakahiya). I was praying with tears sa ganong mga pagkakataon (kapag may misunderstanding with my boss, may masakit na salitang narinig, etc.).

God has trained me both in technicals and in character sa work na 'to (I can say it's more on the character side).

Some things I've learned in my previous work (technical):

- various secretarial and administrative works

- business writing (sobra!)

- event management (from conceptualization & budget projection to egress)

- website management (sort of)

- basic of accounting (including issuing of checks, preparing financial reports, etc.)

- messengerial works (naging familiar ako sa areas ng Quezon City, Manila, Makati, etc.)

(On the spiritual side and character):

- submit to authorities

- humility

- have a sense of responsibility

- mean what you say and say what you mean

- be honest

- stand on your grounds (don't compromise your faith just to please somebody)

- don't defend yourself too much, let God do it

- go back to your goal from time to time

- be faithful in small things

- always look at something with expectancy to learn new things
- don't seek recognition

- be grateful at all times for small and big things

- be an example to your officemates (you don't have to please them, just do what pleases God)

- be careful with your words

- let your yes be yes and your no be no

- don't bad mouth your superiors nor back fight them

- learn to listen

- learn how to say "Sorry" (it will not degrade you as a person but will make you a better person)

- don't be afraid to speak

- follow instructions carefully

- be punctual

- always smile

- consider God first (don't foget to say a prayer, it's powerful!)

Kahit maraming beses akong umiyak dahil sa work na ito, it's all worth it!

As of the moment, wala pang nahahanap na kapalit ko kaya walang tumatayong executive assistant ang PACEOS. As much as I would want to be there, God is giving me so much assignments kaya un... Mamimiss ko lahat including the GMMs, BODs, at lahat ng boss ko at members ng association!

- HOMECOMING...

Last week, nagpunta kami ng thesis partner ko sa school. Imagine, after a year, ngayon lang kami magsusubmit ng thesis! haha. Ngayon lang namin napa-hard bound. Hopefully next week matapos na pati clearance namin para makuha ko na ang T.O.R. ko at diploma.

Nakakamiss din ang school ha...parang kelan lang, kami yung mga estudyanteng laging tumatakbo para hindi malate sa class, haggard to the max na tipong kung ano itsura pag pasok ganon na rin hanggang sa makauwi! hahaha.

Ang JFH Building kung saan umiikot ang mundo namin noon...

During that time, may job fair din pala sa alumni building kaya dumaan na rin kami. Iba pala talaga ang feeling 'pag ikaw na ang tumitingin sa ganitong board...

Nakakatuwang sariwain ang mga panahong ang iniisip ko lang ay kung paano matatapos ang project, paano maipapasa ang exams..hehe! Ngayon, mas mabigat ang responsibilities.

- CHURCH ACTIVITY...

We, Tehillah and Halal Team, had an overnight retreat last March 8 at COG. Nakakabless ang activity na yun. Ito ang group symbols ng bawat team:

'Di ko na masabi yung explanations bakit ganyan ang kinalabasan ng dalawang yan! hahaha. Basta, I'm thanking God for this activity, very helpful in restoring unity. :D

- EXTRA...

Nagpagupit kami ni Ate Eu last Monday, March 10. Finally, natuloy din! Medyo naligaw pa kami on our way to K & Q Salon sa Manggahan. Ang naggupit samin... si Kua Gani, friend ni Jacob ng Praise and Worship at attendee rin ng church! cool! Thanks to him...

Si Ate Eu ung nasa left side, ako naman ung nasa right.hehe. Ang haba ng buhok ko at lalong humaba after the treatment, nanghinayang tuloy gupitan ni Kua Gani, trim nalang daw...

> Namiss ko rin ang blogging... sa ngayon, wala akong gaanong time to update. Ganon pa man, masaya ako sa kung ano man ang mga naging decision ko.

Thank you Lord for leading me. I will patiently wait for You...

Field Work Again...

I realized how tiring it was to apply for a business permit. I thought 'pag tapos kong magbayad ng tax sa City Hall, I can claim the permit a week after. When I went back to Pasay City Hall I was told to accomplish a clearance form. Whew! So, last friday I went to Pasay Fire Department for Clearance then to Pasay General Hospital. Inauguration pala ng General Hospital kasi ni-renovate kaya ang daming tao. I looked for the City Veterenarian's office, it was on the 6th floor. Medyo scary nga lang ung floor na yun kasi ginagawa pa. I took some pictures. It was a good shooting location (ng horror film? hehe! medyo)...

Sa magulong bahaging ito ng ospital hindi ko akalaing may nag-oopisina na dito...

A Happy Trip

Finally, I was able to ride on Erjohn's new bus called "Golden Dragon". Last night was my second time. Na-appreciate ko ang magandang ambiance na tipong nasa airplane lang.

Sa bus, I hate sitting at the back dahil feeling ko wala na kong makita bukod pa sa sobrang bouncy na halos hindi ka na makasandal ng maayos. Isa pa, ang init na sa likod at parang nasisikipan ako.


However, for the very first time, na-enjoy ko ang pwesto sa dulo. Elevated ang seats kaya sobrang kita ko ang daan at ang magandang sea and cityscape sa part ng Coastal Road. Hindi rin siksikan since there are only five seats compared to most of the buses na anim ang uupo.

Also, 'pag nasa dulong seat ako (sa aircon ibang bus), maliwanag na sa'kin na hindi ako magkakaroon ng tyansang makapanood o makasulyap man lamang sa telebisyon. Pero natuwa ako sa makabagong bus na 'ito na LCD nga ang tv at dahil dyan naunawaan ko ang palabas (a movie starring Jackie Chan).

May microphone system ding gamit ang driver kaya madaling sabihan ang mga paseherong bababa (parang MRT lang na every station ina-announce ng driver).

Na-appreciate ko talaga ng sobra ang bus na ito, very comfortable! Kaya isang bagsak para sa iyo Golden Dragon! :D

Consider these when riding a bus...

Monday morning, around 8:00, I rode a San Agustin bus going to Manila. My fare was P43.00 and gave a 500 peso-bill to the conductor, that's all I have in my wallet. That was their first trip I guess, so wala pang panukli. The conductor wrote 500 at the back of my ticket and said he'll be back for my change. Few minutes after, I fell asleep. The moment I opened my eyes, we're already in Baclaran. I got off the bus in Buendia and I forgot my change!!! It was time for lunch when I realized what happened. I almost cried (secretly) sabay sabing "Lord, P457.00 din un!"

I looked for my ticket and searched for San Agustin's telephone number but it wasn't there. I didn't even know the bus number (wheew!). I grabbed the telephone directory but I didn't find it. I called the emergency hotline of PLDT but the number they've given me was unreachable. I looked at the ticket once again and found San Agustin's TIN (Tax Identification No.) so I called BIR and they gave me the telephone number (different from the first one). I dialed the number but it's not working too! I just prayed, "Lord, bahala ka na po." Then I went back to work.

I was supposed to stay in Manila but I decided to go back to Dasma having this in mind, "sasakay ulit ako ng San Agustin at magpapababa sa terminal nila," and I did. I sat beside the driver (sa may hagdan na halos kasi standing na) and opened the matter to him and to the conductor as well. When we reached the terminal, I met the conductor and he gave me my change. Thank GOD!

Now, I need to consider these things when riding a bus:
1. Keep the ticket. (It's really my habit not to throw my ticket until the end of the day and now I see the importance.)
2. Get the bus number. You can also see it on your ticket (the first 4 digits of your ticket number).
3. As much as possible, pay with a smaller bill.
4. If you have a change, let the conductor write it at the back of your ticket and let him sign.
5. Check everything before getting off the bus.




The bus tickets issued by Erjohn & Almark Bus Line is better than San Agustin's. Almost all the important details are provided (except the telephone no. wheew!), including the driver and conductor's name.

I learned so much from this and hopefully it won't happen again.

Lakad to the Max!

I'm currently renewing our (PACEOS) business permit for 2008. In effect, I have to go to Pasay City Hall over and over again to complete and submit the requirements.

Yesterday, I went to the following places:

- Barangay Hall (to claim our renewed Barangay Clearance)

- Pasay City Hall (for tax assessment)

- Philhealth Office in Taft Ave. (to submit 2007 last quarter contribution record)

- BPI- United Nations Ave. (to activate my E-cash. singit lang 'to! hehehe)

- Banco de Oro - United Nations Ave. (to encash check. kailangan ko ng allowance sa lakad eh)

- Break muna... so lunch sa Chowking - UN Ave.

Sa sobrang dami ng nilakad ko, nasira na ng tuluyan ang shoes ko.. huhu.

Nabiyak yung swelas! wheew! Napabili tuloy ako ng bagong pair kasi 'di ko na matiis yung pain na dulot nito. I went straight to Quiapo para mura-mura naman. Supposedly, pupunta pa ko ng SSS, Macapagal Branch to submit contribution record din kaso 'di ko na kinaya kaya after bumili ng shoes sa office na ko dumiretso.

I uttered, "Lord, bakit kailangang ako ang maglakad ng lahat ng ito? Sabay sagot sa sariling tanong, "Kasi naman po Karen, ikaw lang ang staff ng PACEOS remember? So, walang ibang gagawa n'yan kundi ikaw!" God must really have a purpose. Before, I went to the Embassy for my superior's VISA to Thailand. Ngayon naman, business permit. Probably, God is training me this early because sooner or later sarili ko ng VISA (as in Tourist VISA not Working VISA) at ng family ko ang aasikasuhin ko. Same thing, with the business permit...maybe we'll manage our own family business and my own business as well. Ayoko kasing forever maging employee. I want to put up a business in God's time. Yeepee!

When I reached home (apartment), I said that exact statement to God and this is His Word to me...

- Ephesians 3:20: "Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us..." (NIV)

I love the King James Translation:

"Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us..."

I can only think this much with my limited imagination but God has a greater plan that is far beyond what I can fathom. (I'll patiently wait for You, Lord)

Time to Relax

In a year, it's too seldom for leaders to have some time to rest. When I say "rest" i mean spending time together outside, making ourselves free from worries, unwinding and having some fun! :)

Last December 30, Sunday, we went out for lunch. Take note, nagpapicture pa sila Mark, Mitch and Mae kay Jollibee tapos sa McDo pala ang punta! tsk tsk tsk... After that, balik agad sa Church to prepare for 3:30 service.

January 5, Saturday, ibang gimik naman. We went to Robinsons Imus around 7:00 pm at nag-bowling and billiards. Napagsarhan na nga kami ng mall.

Hindi nga pala kami nagbilliard ni Ate Eu kaya picture-picture na lang kami. Hihi!

Nakakalungkot nga lang dahil merong hindi nakasama (Ate Peps, Ate Thine, Ate Kath, Mina, Eca, Chayanne) pero nandun naman si Kua Jer, Jerich at ung Barak.

Thank God for giving me true friends... they are real treasures!

How to Read the Bible?

I was about to go to Hypermarket, Mall of Asia to buy some food for dinner last Monday (after attending a meeting at Science Discovery Center) when I passed by a book store - Book for Less. Feeling ko parang Book Sale sya na may mga books worth P20.00 only so I went inside. I saw good books; there were Bibles, devotional books, cook books, academic, etc. but they're quite expensive pa rin (for used books) .

I got one book (wheew! I forgot the title!) and scanned the pages. Nabasa ko ung part na "How to read the Bible" (something like that). I could still remember some points...

- Read the Bible per theme. Have a specific topic and read passages about it (e.g. purity, worship, etc.). The use of Concordance may help.
- Read per book. Like any other books, it's good to read by chapter to establish continuity. Eventually, this will give you better understanding.
- Memorize a verse. It's good to read even a verse in the morning, memorize it and keep that in mind for the whole day. (Ginagawa ko 'to at masaya! hihi. Like for today I have Psalm 58:11 "Then men will say: 'Surely the righteous still are rewarded; surely there is a God who judges the earth."
- Read more. Use other reading materials/references that will help you understand the passage (Bible dictionaries, History, etc.).
- Make your reading creative. Have questions in mind and find out the answer; "Why did God say this?", "What happened after this or that?", "Who was behind this?" and so on.

There are lot of ways on how we can enjoy Bible reading. I'm discovering my own strategy... ;)

Random Thoughts

I don't really have something specific to post. Naisip ko lang sayang ang opportunity. It's my first time to be alone here in office (during office hours).

May event kasi ang mga officemates ko. They're divided into two groups. One group handled AHPADA, the 1st International Arts & Crafts Expo held at SMX Convention Center last Nov.21-25. The other team handled the 2nd North Philippines International Tourism Fair in SM Clark, on the same dates. So last week wala rin sila dito sa office but the president and v.p. of the company were here (kaya 'di rin ako naging malaya! in fact, nag mistula akong call center agent kasasagot ng calls nila). Since last day ng 2 events yesterday, medyo rest ata sila kaya wala silang lahat dito.

I was thinking of...
- filing my resignation effective by early January.
- surfing the net to look for other job.
- doing something with regard to the ministry's project for 2008 ('di ko pa ma-mention kasi we, sa dance, are still praying for this). I'll draft the proposal.
- leaving the apartment at mag-uwian na lang sa Dasma.
- going home today earlier at matulog agad.

One Spirit

Finally, I have the chance to share these stories. Hahaha! Both happened weeks ago.

*That was Sunday, November 11, the last day of our Expo. I arrived late at World Tade, around 3:00 pm, 'cause I came straight from the church (attended the worship service). I visited the booths and talked to our exhibitors, one of such was Ate Marissa. She approached me and said, "Alam mo, wala pa kaming benta. Kararating lang kasi namin, nag-church pa kasi kami eh." I replied, "Ako rin po." By that, we discovered that we were both Christians. Sobrang tuwang tuwa sya at napaiyak pa! She embraced me and said, "Sabi ko na eh, may iba sa'yo una pa lang kitang makita." Then, she gave me a set of earrings and necklace. Kwentuhan to the max na kami. She has a son who was a pastor and their church was located in Bacoor (parang may Victory Church akong narinig...'di ko na maalala yung exact name).

Another one...

*I rode a bus, San Agustin, last Wednesday. I was on my way to the office around 9:30 am. I sat beside a guy (with his friend on his left). They were talking about a certain person and some of the lines I heard..."hindi mo talaga mapipilit ang isang tao kung ayaw. May perfect time din si Lord sa kanya," and "ganon talaga 'pag nandun ang favor ni Lord." After an hour (nasa Baclaran na kami), hindi ko na napigilan ang sarili ko and I said to them, "Excuse me, Kuya pwedeng magtanong? (and they said "yes") Are you Christians?" I was correct! They were Christians. I said I didn't intend to listen to their conversation, I just kept on hearing the name of the LORD. Their names: Kuya Roy, 24 and Kuya Noli, 22. Both of them were youth leaders. Kuya Roy was also a dancer and a worship leader. They're part of the Jesus Reigns Church in Buho, Silang. Ini-invite nga nila ako sa Sunday, November 25, it's their church's anniversary. Alam din nila ang Church of God-Dasma, sabi ni Kuya Noli, naging professor nya daw si Kuya Warren Pangilinan during college at TUP.

It's glad to know that Christians have the same spirit and that spirit becomes our identity. We can easily feel whenever our spiritual brothers and sisters are near us (even without knowing them personally). Sobrang na-bless lang ako.

Event Updates

Hay... [isang malalim na buntong hininga]. Tiring pala talaga ang mag-organize ng event lalo na kung ikaw lang mag-isa.

Anyway, below are brief stories of what happened for the past 2 days:

• Opening Day - As expected, agang-aga ng Friday haggard na. Dahil nga sa mga pasaway na exhibitors na hindi nag-ingress last Thursday sobrang cramming sa pag-seset up the following day. Feeling ko, hindi ako napirme sa isang lugar...lakad dito, lakad dun...explain dito, usap doon...lahat na! Hanggang sa nagstart na ang opening ceremony, may nag-aayos pa sa loob ng hall, sa booth nila! Lunch time, I went back to the office to get some documents necessary for the event. Nung makita naman ako ng boss ko, more utos ito. So, until 4pm nasa office pa rin ako to think na I have a meeting with a researcher at 2:30 at World Trade. Pag-labas ko naman ng office, sobrang lakas ng ulan at baha...no choice, sugod ito. Thank God I was wearing black slocks that time so hindi halatang hanggang tuhod basa ako. ahuhu. Buti na lang mabait yung kameet ko...
• Second day (that was Saturday) - May humabol pang exhibitor so may nag-set up pa rin that morning. Yesterday was easier than the past two days. Medyo nakalibot-libot na sa buong exhibit area. But still, I received no text from my superiors kahit pangungumusta lang (ang thoughtful nila di ba? hay...). Anyway, I thank God that there were still people who are appreciative...May ilang mga exhibitors na binigyan ako ng items nila. At the end of the day, I received a watch, a necklace, 2 pairs of earrings, a brooch, 2 shirts and 2 bracelets...all from our exhibitors. :) Umuwi ako sa Dasma one hour before the closing para makahabol sa CLDP class, ayun nakarating naman pero 20 minutes late.
• Last day - Today is Sunday! Remember natatakot akong hindi makapagservice today because of this event? God is really great! Actually Siya pa rin ang nauna sa araw na 'to. I went to church and attended the 7:30 worship and left after the 10:30 service. Nagkita-kita pa kami nila Myk, Pangj and the rest of the youth at nakapagkwentuhan pa sa co-leaders sa dance. After that, dito na ko dumiretso sa office...at nagpost! hehehe!

I'll leave muna for a while for the Egress (na according sa mga organizers ay madugo ding part. Kaguluhang ganap ito!) Then, I'll continue...

Prayer: Lord, thank you so much for strengthening me and for giving me the courage to face this challenge. Truly enough, "those who seek You will find You and will never be disappointed." I claim the victory in Your name for I fight every battle as I put my trust not in chariots nor in swords but in Your victorious and powerful Name! All the glory is Yours, my Master.