Keyboard, Mouse, USB Hub - Very Important for your Laptop

The quick brown fox jumps over the lazy dog. I have to try this new keyboard, so I have to type
in this very famous line, which contains all the letters in the alphabet. Yey!
finally I have my own keyboard and mouse.  I need this so as not to strain my hands with my laptop
as it gets warmer as the hours pass of using it.
This is cool keyboard! And a cheep one too. It is smooth and easy to use.
Finally. After several months of just planning it, I actually was able to buy it.
Now, I need to test this more.  This is truly amazing new stuff for me.  Using another keyboard
for my laptop.  One of our mentors in internet marketing told us to use a separate keyboard if we are
using a laptop so as not to burn our hands in typing directly from the laptop.
So, here it is. New set of keyboard, mouse, and of course I have to buy a USB hub to connect the
two accessories. It's so cool! My hands does not feel burning sensations anymore because
I am not typing in directly from the keyboard of my laptop. Try it.

Travel Via Bus From Manila to Tacloban + Pasay Tacloban Bus Terminal

This is my story on how I traveled via bus from Pasay to Tacloban last Dec 23, 2014.  My flight was cancelled that day so I had to take my chances with the bus.

Below are the steps on how I did it.  This was my first time to ride a bus to Tacloban and we had to ask our way.

1.  The bus station is located a few blocks away from MRT Taft Station.  It is at the right side of the road going north.

2.  Inside the bus station, there are several bus lines. All buses were fully booked, but I was able to ride on a bus that caters "jump seat".  These are small mono block seats that they place on the isle of the bus.  There are buses that does not allow this type of seat.  But some of these bus lines allow this.  The cost of my trip was P 1,500.00.

This bus does not look conditioned, but I took it anyway.  I heard from the passengers that this bus was "colorum".

3.  We waited inside the bus to start between 12 noon to 2 pm.  Finally it started.

4.  After an hour, one of the wheels needed to be changed.  I checked the area, we were still somewhere in Muntinlupa. We waited for about an hour for them to change the wheels of the bus.  I was already thinking of backing out with this situation.

4.  At about 4 pm, we continued our way.

5.  At 7:30 pm, we arrived at Lucena.  We ate our diner in a canteen nearby.  After more than 30 minutes, we were again on our way.  

6.  A few hours after, the air conditioner jammed.  So the bus had to stop and they tried to fix it.  The passengers pleaded the driver to move along, and not to worry about it.

7.  At 9 am Dec 24, we arrived at Camarines Sur.  We had a late breakfast.  They were also able to fix the aircon.

8.  At 11:30 am, we arrived at Matnog.  This was where we had to cross the sea via ro-ro.  There was a really long queue of buses, trucks, and private cars.  Everyone wanted to go home.

In Matnog, I was not oriented on how to go about before going inside the boat.  I was glad that some of the passengers know how it is done. So here are the following notes that you should know:

a.  You need to go outside the bus and buy a terminal fee worth P30.00 in their office.  Leave your things           inside the bus and just bring what is important, like food, toothbrush, soap, and your bus ticket.

      You can also buy food outside.  There are many canteens and stores in the area.

b.  You have to enter inside the terminal since this is where you will be waiting for your bus to be called.

      But if you are already inside, you could no longer go out until the name of your bus is announced.

      So, before you go inside be sure to check that you brought along everything that you need and leave the           things that you don't need inside the bus.   

     The guard had to explain to the passengers that it is prohibited to go outside.  But the people inside                did not know that that was the rule. And by the time they knew it, it was already too late for them.

c.   When your bus is announced, show your terminal ticket to the guard as you go outside.

d.   On the way to the boat, exchange your bus ticket with boat ticket.  An assigned person outside the boat        will do this.

e.   Fall in line as you go inside the boat.  When you go up the boat, you need to write your name on a sheet of paper provided.

9.  We waited in Matnog for hours! We were able to board the boat at around 5:30 pm, and the boat started at 7 pm already. 

10.  The wind was a bit strong when the boat started, and the waves were high.  It rocked our boat. Maybe this was the reason why, before the boat started, there were food vendors inside.  Some were selling Bonamin (something to drink so you don't get sea sick).   One passenger vomited.  But thank God after less than 2 hours, we arrived across safely in Allen Northern Samar. We got off the boat and looked for our bus.

11.  At 9 pm, the bus started again.

12.  Our bus stopped over Calbayog at around 11:15 pm.  

13. The bus left again at 11:30 pm.

14. Finally we arrived Tacloban at 3:30 am December 25!  Thank God I'm home!

So in total for this trip, from Pasay to Tacloban, it took us 1 day and 8 hrs or  32 hours 

(Dec. 23,2014, 2 pm to Dec 25, 2014, 3:30 am)

This was an exceptional time of the year due to Christmas rush.  Everyone wants to go home.  I think on normal days, it takes only 24 hours to travel.

By the way, some other expected costs for this travel is for your food. In some stop overs, the food is a bit expensive (P100+ per meal).  So, if you are on a budget mode, I would suggest that you bring your own food.  

I hope this will help you in your travel from Manila to Tacloban via bus.

Thank God we are all safe home. God is truly good.

The Feast Talk - Look Up - Push Mo Yan - Notes

I attended another powerful talk at the Feast PICC.  The series is entitled Look Up, and this was talk number 3 - Push Mo Yan.  As to not forget what this talk was all about, I am placing my notes here. 

Dean Pax Lapid, one of the leaders in business shared about how God blessed his business specially when he was already in his second part of his life.

 

He gave us an exam - fill in the blanks, on the story of his life.  Almost all of us answered "CANCER" and "DIED".   This just shows how we see retirement.

 But this was the correct answer.

 

 He shared to us another perspective of what retirement is all about.  Retirement is not equated to being "expired", nor it is equated with being "retarded".  He showed us that there is a brighter and a fuller life in retirement.

 

 

 

Bro Bo Sanchez added more to what Dean Pax Lapid shared. 

 

Recent studies shows that older people are happier people.  He sited examples on why this is so.  One example was that older people experience more freedom.  Freedom from what other people might say.  They realize that since they have lesser time to live, they would no longer care on what others may think, but they do what they think is most important for them to do.

The first question in mind when you get old is, "What have I lost?"  He sited one example about there will come a time that you start to lose family members and friends as you go old.

 But this is another encouraging bible verse he showed.

 

Instead of asking what have I lost, ask What have I gained?

He sited an example on how you gain wisdom through the years.

In order for you to gain more at the second act of your life, you need to prepare for it.  With 3 simple yet powerful tips, we can all be prepared to receive the blessings from God on our second phase.  Because what you sow, in the end is what you reap.  

First one is to plant healthy seeds.  You need to keep a healthy lifestyle.  Eat fruits and vegetables.  Exercise daily. 

 The second is to plant wealthy seeds.  Be a good steward of the wealth that God have provided for you.  Invest and create multiple income streams.  Develop your talent and skills so that others will be blessed as well.

This abundance formula has always been taught at the Feast.  When you receive your salary, or income, give 10 percent to God, keep 20 percent and invest it in the stock market or other good investment facilities, and 70 percent is for your daily expenses.  As a Catholic, we are not required to tithe or to give 10 percent to God.  We are taught to give with a cheerful heart.  We give because we love God.  We give because we cannot contain the blessings that God has given to us.  But I believe that this is a great way to start giving to God. 

 

Finally, plant holy seeds.  Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness.  God is the source of all happiness and joy in this world.  Always seek God's wisdom.  Always seek God's mercy and grace.  Read the bible, attend mass.  You can also attend the Feast weekly.  It is one of the best way that you can seek God.

 

Note:  This is not exactly the talk, I added some comments and reflections as I wrote this. 

May God bless you who would read this.

So What Now? After Retrenchment

Some tidbits on how to live after retrenchment. 

Either you apply for another job, or do something new and interesting.  Try out and learn new stuff.  Of course, since you are still in the learning curve, don't forget to check your wallet.  Do you still have enough funds to do it?  For how long?  After trying out this new stuff, and still does not work, then that is the time that you need to go back and apply for a new job. Maybe a job that is not that toxic.  In a way, you still can continue learning what you have started off.  But be sure to make time to learn.  Don't be content and relaxed and think that you have a stable job.  Learn something new.  That way, you won't be insecure of losing your job.  This will be your fallback.  Or better, this would be your main source of income. 

MAPS From Ayala To Makati Square

Here are different ways on how you can go from Ayala to Makati Square.  You can ride a jeepney, take a   taxi, or walk. 

  There are 3 options: 

  1. Greenbelt 1 to Makati Square
  2. Park Square to Makati Square
  3. Near Landmark to Makati Square

  Anyhow, you can always ask if you get lost. :)

 

Ayala to makati square from yzero8

The Road Less Traveled - Towards Financial Freedom

People don't want to take the difficult path.  I could say this, because there are times that I too don't want to take this road.  We want to take the easiest path.  That's the reason why a lot of people fall into a trap of the SCAM.  Why?  It's because they are willing to pay, but not willing to investigate first before jumping on board the world of investment.  They are blinded by  the promises of those scammers.  They want an easy rich quick scheme. When someone says -- "double your money in just 1 month!" -- wow! Many will surely invest in that Scam.

There are still others that do not fall into a scam, but would spend their money in attending seminars.  Those seminars that promises that you will get rich after attending them.  Don't get me wrong.  Yes, these seminars are helpful.  They open the minds of the people.  There are quite a number of people who's lives were transformed by these and that their income shoot up.   What I'm saying is this.  You don't jump from one seminar to the other.  And not apply what you learned from those seminars.  A number of people have that kind of mindset.  They think that after they attending a very pricy seminar, their income would shoot up afterwards.  That is partially true.  But there is another bigger price to pay after you attend that.  And that is, to apply what you learned. Because if you don't apply it, no matter how expensive the seminar is, it wont work.

Apply what you learned and see the change that you are looking for.  Share what you learned and be a blessing to others.  Then you will see a big difference.

How about you?  Which category do you belong?  Do you also attend seminars and not apply what you learned?  Or are you also blinded by the promises of those people who says  "double your money in just one month?

Do you want to learn how to grow and manage your wealth?  Learn from the expert.  My mentors can teach you step by step on how you can do it.  Email yzero8per@gmail.com today.  Or you can visit this website here Solid Financial Foundation.

God bless you!

Light of Jesus Lyrics + Chords

I don't see the lyrics of this beautiful song from our community Light of Jesus founded and composed
by Bro Bo Sanchez.  So, I took the liberty of posting it here in my blog.

This is what we want to do.  We want to share God's love to the world.

Enjoy and be blessed!

 
Light of Jesus
Bo Sanchez

G                        Bm
There is a dream within that drives
                             Em
Like a blazing fire deep in us
     Am7                   G                               Dsus-D
A vision to conquer world with God's own love.
G                                 Bm
There is a fire that compels us
                              Em
To surrender all to Jesus
            Am7                  G                           Dsus-D
And to raise the gaze of men on the things above.

             G     C
Light of Jesus
                      G    C
We shine your light
                       Em            D
We shine your light to the world
             G      C
Light of Jesus
                       G    C
We shine your light
                       Em             D
We shine your light to the world
                 G      C    G    C    G
Shine your light


You may visit the following sites to know more of our community

www.thefeastpicc.com
www.kerygmafamily.com

Tips, Lessons Learned From Pinoy Pao

I just received an email from a reader.  And I would like to share to you what he wrote, and what I replied to him.

"HI Mam,

I was inspired landing on your blog page and reading your experience on cart business, particularly pinoy pao, But i really do wonder how is your pinoy pao business going? and the system which almost all of them are saying is simple and reliable? I'm about to open similar cart but still wary of the location.

Your blog helped me picture running the business in someway. pls. le me know more about your Pinoy Pao experience.

Regards and thanks! "

Here is my reply to him:

Hi,

I'm glad that I was able to share with you some of my insights and experiences with the Pinoy Pao. 

Our Pinoy Pao was short lived.  It lasted only for 6 months, and we finally decided to give up on it. 

They said that in a business, the first 2 years is survival.  But since we have only minimal capital, we could no longer afford to lose.  

I'm sorry I could not really give you much of the tips since we easily gave up on this.

But I was able to ask some of my friends who were successful with this kind of biz.

So let me give you some crucial points on this. 

1. Location - very important in the biz.

    STUDY YOUR LOCATION.  This means that if you have already a proposed location, you need to COUNT foot traffic.  Use a "counter machine" (not sure of the term).  You may borrow or you can buy one.  I think this is an affordable tool.  

Try this out for 1 week.  Daily counting.  I'm not really sure on the days.  You can search in the internet for more details on this.  Or look for a mentor regarding this.

How to calculate if this is a profitable location:  Usually, only 10% of the foot traffic would buy your product.  So you need to calculate your sales based on the 10%.  If the result is profit and not loss -- (of course you need to consider the overhead costs like the payment for the crew, electricity, rent, etc), then the probability that you will earn would be high.  

2.  If the company promises to provide a locator for you, never fully trust that locator.  He might be able to find a location, but I'm sure he did not study that location.  Just do step 1.

3.  Usually, you need to have a hands-on on the business.  Then, when the system is stable, you could already delegate this.  

4.  Attend more seminars on this.  There are free seminars usually done in WTC.  You may check on the net for the schedules.  

5.  Look for MENTORS.  These people already experienced failures.  You just need to learn from them and not from your experience.  BIG MISTAKE FOR US.  We just plunge into the business without looking for mentors to guide us.  We just trusted the company who told us that they will take care of us.  

6.  Be on guard for competitors.  Have a unique product.  Look for a franchise that offers a unique product.  

If not, the computation of your foot traffic would be divided among those competitors around the vicinity and  you.  Check if the total computation would still be profit and not loss.

The products of Pinoy Pao really tastes good.  But for lack of foot traffic, and for lack of knowledge as to how to run this business (from location, to looking for a crew, to buying of stocks, inventory, etc.), lack of guidance, that was the reason for our failure in the business.  

But then again, failure is part of life.  It's up to you if you are willing to take the challenge.  

Again, I cannot overemphasize the need for MENTORS.  Study and look for mentors before you start the business.  Very important also, is you start the business.  Not just end up in the planning stage.

I hope I was able to effectively share to you what you need for your new business.

God bless you!

yzero

You may also read:


My 1st Pinoy Pao Opening Experience at Guadalupe Commercial Complex
Why A Business Fails - MOP

Outpouring Blessings Last Christmas and New Year 2011

How I Spent My Christmas Holidays 2011?


I was filled with blessings this Christmas season, and I would like to share it with all of you.
Since there are outpouring blessings to share, I would like to do it part by part, so as not to bore you with a long read.  Even during my writing of this post is already a blessing.  God sends me messages from time to time as I went along with this sharing.
So, here it goes.  I believe you will also be blessed with this sharing of mine.

My First Blessing:

I wasn't sure if I was going home or not.  I have a deadline on January 1, and I needed to finish everything before this date.  Since I was still very hopeful that I could go home for Christmas, I already bought a round trip ticket to Tacloban.  I am not sure if this was a good idea.  I don't know if they will allow me to go home.  And I was afraid to make that request since I was still in my probationary period.  It was already expensive since I bought it a few weeks before the vacation. After several days, my boss suggested that I just connect from our home to our office so that I could go home.  But I need to be in the office by January 2, since we need to do implementation on site.  I really felt so grateful that I was alowed to go home. I felt God's love through this. God just made a way for me to go home. And I thank God for this great miracle.

My Second Blessing:

I was able to arrive at terminal 2 airport a bit early, so I had the time to take an early lunch. I went to the 3rd floor of the terminal where the restaurants are located.  I wanted to eat something really good but I did not know what food to eat.  So I searched which restaurant to dine in.  Finally, I found a perfect place -- Kenny Rogers.  I missed this restaurant.  I ordered classic healthy plate.  It was one of the best lunch I ever had.  I brought my book with me (How To Be A Millionaire God's Way). While waiting for my order, I was able to read.  Double treat! That was a complete course.  Food for the mind, and body. And that was one of my perfect Lunch.

After eating, I headed to the pre-departure area.  There were many people waiting.  There was a long line of chair with people sitting.  Finally, almost at the end of the line, I found 1 vacant chair.  I sat beside a friendly lady.  I found out from her that the flights were delayed that's why there were many people in our area.  These people had different destination all mixed up in 1 pre-departure gate. We had a nice chat while waiting.  Even if our flight was delayed, I did not feel any tiredness or boredom because of this.  Finally, it was boarding time.  The flight was really smooth.  That was another double blessing from God.

My 3rd Blessing:

When I finally arrived home, I found out that Mama was still sick with severe cough. She was just lying in bed when I saw her. Yet I felt so happy seeing my family again. And I saw them really happy seeing me again. I thank God that I got to be with my family this Christmas Season.

My stay at home was a colorful one.  It was not purely a joyful one.  There was the joyful, sorrowful, and the glorious part. :)
There were series of events that happened that created chaos and joy.  I found out that Mama was not just sick physically.  She was also sick emotionally and spiritually.  I think it was the other way around.  The reason why Mama is sick physically, is because of her emotional and spiritual sickness.  And that created a snowball effect.  Because she is sick physically, her emotions weakens.  And because her emotions weakens, her sickness would not heal. And it greatly affected the rest of our family. But nevertheless, I was still happy since I was home.

My 4th Blessing:

Because no medicine could  cure her, she was advised to go to Cebu to have her further check up.  Papa and I went with her to Cebu, and during our way to Cebu, we had so much fun. Mama did not experience any more fever.  Yes she was still coughing, but she was a lot more rested during our trip.

We had a nice chat in the bus to Ormoc.  The best part was I was able to open up to Mama some of my thoughts on staying positive. I was able to share with her the negative moments of my life and how I became really restless and not at peace during those times. But when I shifted my mind and decided to think positive, it became lighter for me.  And I gained true freedom and peace.
I told her that it is only how we misinterpret things that makes us truly miserable.  Of course everything I said was based on my very own experience.  I'm not really sure though if Mama got my message.  But it was worth a shot. And it was truly a great ride.

My 5th Blessing:

Upon arriving at Ormoc, we hurriedly bought our ticket to Cebu.  The Supercat was already fully booked, but it was good since there was still available ticket in the slow boat (Roble).

We had a nice breakfast at a bakery in Ormoc since the boat was leaving at 1pm. We bought coffee and 3 bread.  But our main course was a very delicious food that Mama prepared.  We had a hearty meal and more laughter during our meal.
After eating, we cleaned up the table, and went in the boat.

My 6th Blessing:

When we got on the boat, Mama continued sharing her thoughts.   After an hour, I felt tired and wanted to go to sleep.  But I did not want Mama to cut her sharing.  But when she saw me that I was already closing my eyes, she just gave in and told me to go to sleep.  Finally! He-he-he!  I was able to restfully sleep.  Mama woke me up since she was already hungry.  She asked me if I wanted something for lunch.  I told her that we already ate brunch.  She told me, that was not brunch (branch), those were just "leaves".  It took me a few minutes to realize that that was a joke.  And I started laughing in the inside since I was still too tired to wake up.

My 7th Blessing:

When we arrived in Cebu, my sister and her husband picked us up at the terminal.  We were not able to go to the hospital that day since it was already late in the afternoon.  So, we decided to go home in my sister's house.

When we arrived, I was so happy to see my pamangkins.  I was specially surprised by how the youngest of them had grown.  The last time I saw her was she was still a baby.  And now, she was already walking and talking a bit clearly.
After diner, we played Monopoly.  I felt like a kid again.  I remembered when we were young, we used to play Millionaires Game.  And I often ended really rich by the end of the game.  We had so much fun. We just ended the game since it was already late in the evening.  I was almost bankrupt when we ended it.  But we had so much fun.

My 8th Blessing:

The next day we went to the hospital for mama's check-up.  She needed to undergo several tests.  The last test of mama was a long procedure.  My sister and I just bought food outside and we ate it inside the hospital.  It was like we had a picnic.

Those were the few of my blessings during my Christmas Vacation.  I could go on and on listing these blessings.  Isn't it that we should be the one who should give Jesus our gift?  Isn't it that it's His birthday?  But yet, it was Jesus who gave me a lot of present during His day.  And those are truly beautiful presents that I certainly would like to keep.  And now, I think it's my turn to give.  I pray that this year, God would grant me the grace to be able to give back to Him.  To give more to Him who truly loves me dearly.

What about you? How did you celebrate Jesus' birthday?

Focus On Your Goal

I attended a very powerful talk in Macau last  October 2011.  One of the striking points that was  instilled in my mind was about the 3 P's to become successful.  The first one was Patience, the second  one was Persistence, and the third one was  "Pocus"  (Focus).  Everyone laughed.  But the message was crystal clear not just to me, but to all of us.


Yes, it's true.  If we have a goal that we want to  reach, we need patience and persistence.  Or else, we would give up easily really soon specially when we come to the difficult part on reaching this.  Since there will be hurdles and bumps along the way, therefore we need these first two P's.


Another major ingredient in success is the 3rd P - "Pocus" (Focus).  The question now is - what are we constantly focusing on today?


"...Seek and you shall find..." Matthew 7:7


Even if we have loads of patience and persistence but focuses on the wrong stuff, the goal will never  be reached. Most people misses opportunities.They  miss these things that would lead them to their  success,  not for the lack of focus, but for focusing on stuff that would lead them nowhere.
   
Let me share to you 1 experience I had just recently.  This experience is very simple,  yet the message it gave me was like a megaphone to remind me to stay focused.


Trash Can Experience

One relaxing weekend afternoon, I went to the dining table to eat my merienda.  After eating, I then went in the kitchen to throw away the plastic that contained my food.  I looked for the 2 small trash cans that used to be found in one part of the kitchen, but could not find it.  I looked again, and again.  Searching in all areas of the kitchen but still I could not find it.  When I was about to give up, suddenly, I noticed that there was a bigger trash can just right in front of me, waiting for me to throw my trash! I did not see that because I was looking for the 2 small trash cans.


What is your goal this 2012?


Do you have a goal that you want to achieve?  Did you have a goal last 2011 that you were not able to finish it yet?  It's never too late to finish the run.


As for me, one of my goals is to reach a certain income level in one of my businesses. It has been  more than a year that I started the business, and found out that it was not that easy.  I encountered a lot of rejections and failures along the way, and it really weakened me.  Because of this, there are several attempts to quit in the business.  I no longer have the energy to go on. I became focused on the rejections and feared more rejections.  Because of this, I became slow in spotting opportunities that would potentially help me in growing my business. When I became aware of that opportunity, it was already gone.  And these opportunities often times just shows up right in front of my face!  Even if I could have acted upon it with lesser effort.  But since I focus on my failures and fears of rejections, it just slips away.  And there is a sense of regret.


But then again, missed opportunities doesn't mean failure.  "It's part of growing" (a friend of mine likes saying this line).  It's a constant reminder to stay focused and adjust your focus so that it will point to the right one.  There will always be opportunities coming.  It will never cease to flow.  So, just focus and keep on looking for this so you won't miss it.  And that you may finish this strong.

My Top 10 Reasons To Win

I was supposed to write my Top 10 Reasons To Win, months ago, but it was only today that I had that momentum to do it.  So, even if it is already 1 in the morning, I'm still hyped to do it.  Hmmm.. I just might be a little bit inspired this evening.  It surely pays off whenever I attend inspiring gatherings.  It makes my spirit soar up again.  


So, here are my reasons.  My very own Top 10 Reasons To Win.


1.  To be one with God while I'm still here on Earth  through God's
      love and friendship.


2.  To love, by teaching to friends, family and to the whole world on
     how to win in all areas of life.  
     And to be able to do that, I would have to win in all areas of my
     life myself.


3.  To be with my family as often as I want to.  At least once a
     month.


4.  To be able to build a foundation for all ages that would allow
     each individual to discover and develop his/her gifts and talents. 


5.  To be totally financially free.  


6.  To travel arround the wold with an always ready full budget.


7.  To have my very own 300 sqm. 2-story high home here in
     Makati. With friendly neighbor and a clean and safe
     environment.


8.  To give my parents a 100% travel allowance to visit the Holy
     Land.


9.  To have my very own VW (newest model) car by  
     the end of this year 2011.


10.  To be able to go out for leisure with an always ready full
       budget.


How about you? What are your Top 10 Reasons to Win?  

Wanted QA Position - A Sole Experience

June 24, 2011

Today is my last day of work in a very recently applied job as a QA.   This is also the day when typhoon Falcon is still on its peak.  The office administration suddenly declared earlier during the afternoon that our work was suspended.  We could already go home at 1 in the afternoon.   Wow. I thought that was quick.  I packed my small stuff, said goodbye to my officemates and left around 2 PM.  There were no mushy goodbyes, just plane goodbyes.

My Application

Beginning the end of the month last year, I saw my finances going below critical point.  I had to look for a job really fast.  This was not part of my initial plan, but I had no other choice.  

It was almost 1 year that we tried and failed our first business.  I used up half of my separation pay that I received on my retrenchment).  I realized that starting a new business was not that easy, especially when the business is not part of my “core gift”.      It was a wise choice that I did not spend everything for that business.  And we had to let go of that business.  

I discovered 2 new great business opportunities late last year.  I fell in love with these businesses because of its core values— reaching out, teaching and helping people how to be healthy and how to properly manage their finances.   And the great thing was that I could do this on a part time basis.  

So while learning these new businesses, I also prayed to God for a job, and started looking and applying for one.  I did a mass application.  I applied to every company that I see an IT position opened.  

By January, I was able to apply to many companies.  They started calling me and setting up interviews and exams.  I took all exams and interviews that was scheduled-- one exam after another, one interview after another.  It was a tough journey for me since I have not done this for more than ten years now.  And the interviews made by the HR were often times really quick.  It was as if they were blabbering.  It was like a mechanical thing for them.  I could barely understand the questions that they were throwing at me.  The exams were tough as well.  I asked myself if the exams were really difficult, or was it just me.

Finally, an answered prayer-- someone called me up for an interview.  I went to their office.  They let me fill up an application form.  After a few minutes of waiting, the receptionist signaled that it was my turn already.  I went inside the room.  A sweet HR lady was sitting in the table and warmly greeted me.  It was my first time to encounter such a warm HR person.  Though she had a cold at that time, yet she was warm.  The interview was a conversational type.  It was not a mechanical one unlike my previous interviews.  I had a pleasant time with that interview.  After the interview, she told me to wait for them to call me.

The next day, I got a call from them.  I was set up again for another interview on the client site.  The interview went well.   They gave me an informal examination.  The following day, I received another phone call telling me that I was already hired and that I can start working the next week.  That was really quick.  

My First Day of Duty

I had one last problem with regards to the schedule of my work.  During the interview, I was told that we had to do overtime work during weekdays, and sometimes even during weekends.  I told her that it was ok for me to do overtime.  But when I left the office, I realized that I could not do overtime work since I am doing my part time business in the evening.  I called up the agency that directly hired me, and told them this.  They told me that they will be the one to tell the client.  But when I went for my first day of work, the agency still did not mention this yet to the client.  So I have to do it myself.  I was really scared.  I prayed to God for peace and wisdom as to what I’m going to say.  I waited for the right moment.  

Finally, during lunch time, I found the courage to tell my boss.  She told me that it was not possible for her to make an exception for me.  I thought I would get fired at that moment.  But she told me this.  Therefore, since it was not possible for me to do overtime, she will transfer me to another team.  That was a great relief for me.  She then led me to a conference room where I was assigned.  There were less than 10 young, good looking people inside the conference room.  I was introduced to all of them, and they said hi to me.  It was such a relief for me that I could still continue working in this company with my new team mates.  God truly works wonders and miracles.

My New Office Environment

My experience in this new environment is truly a very unique one.

This was how my usual day went… One of my colleagues would tell a story on how her/his day went.  Or maybe he/she would share a joke.  Each and every one of us laughs.  Someone would make a comment.  There will be interactions.  More laughter…  I would laugh…, they would laugh.  Every one of us would laugh.  It’s a very lively and happy time… I would really laugh hard… I almost could not breathe laughing…. They could not stop laughing…  Imagine this in a slow motion mode…  Each face is focused – laughing…  Such a lively and happy day… Such a joyful day….But there’s just one thing… They hardly spoke with me, and I hardly spoke with them.  If you ask me, why this, my answer would be… I really don’t know.  On my first few days in that office, I tried going with them during lunch time.  But I felt like everyone just moved away from me every time I tried going near them.  It’s like I’m a magnet that have “like signs” as them… it’s impossible for us to be together.   Maybe we have different wavelengths.  I’m like oil that tried to mix in water. So, after a few try… I decided to withdraw myself from them and be in seclusion inside the room where we are working during lunch time.   I just totally gave up the struggle.  Good thing, my landlady prepares food for me for lunch.  The great thing about this was that I was able to be in silence, reflect and talk more often to God.  I felt God’s greatest love on those moments.  I could hear Him speak clearer during those moments.  And I was truly blessed.   I was also able to read great books during those moments.  And I felt God spoke to me through those great books.  Slowly, everything made sense.  Every thing that happened and is happening to me is slowly making sense.  My good and bad experiences are transformed to really great experience.  

My Short Lived Job

When I applied for QA, I had no idea what was the job role for this position.  Learning their new system and this new job role was really tough.  After the first 2 months, our boss called me for my evaluation.  It was not a good one.  She was mad, and she did not like my performance at all.  She wanted to end my contract after the 3rd month.  But she decided to give me another chance and made another 3 months extension.  I really appreciated her decision to give me another chance.   

But only a few weeks after, “failure” upon “failure” in my work again was encountered.  My boss was losing her patience on me.  

Finally, I decided to talk to my boss.  I prayed and asked God for wisdom, strength and the opportunity to do this.  I realized that the major portion of the job that I took was not part of my strengths.  Our conversation went well.  God is truly good.  My boss was very professional.   She even wanted very much to help me, but did not know how.  The resolution – she decided to give me a much lighter work load.  But she told me that it was almost impossible for her to extend my contract after the 6th month.  I agreed on her decision.  Even if that was so, I felt so much more at peace in my work.   I just made the most out of the work load that was given to me.  

After a few weeks, she called me again.  She made another change in her decision.  She would like to shorten my stay   to 2 weeks (instead of 1 month).  She told me that it was pointless for her to allow me to stay until the end of the month.  And that the work loads that she is giving me is not helping me to grow in my skills.  My reaction? Instead of being heart broken, I felt much more at peace.  It was like a big load that was unloaded from my shoulders.  It was a great relief for both of us.  I got really excited on what new surprises would arise.

A day after I received the news, one of my teammates talked to me (through chat).  She was deeply concerned as to what had happened.  She offered if there was a way that she could help me.  I was really moved by this gesture.  This made me realize that even if we were not really verbally communicating, there was still that kind of connection between me and the team -- that there was still communication in the midst of our silence.  I felt the concern of each and every one of them.  She opened up to me, and we talked for hours (through chat).  I felt the love of God through that gesture.  And that gave me a sense of joy and peace.

My Last Day at Work

Because of typhoon Falcon, we were told to go home earlier than usual.  I felt a bit sorry that I could not stay a few hours more.  Wow. I thought that was quick.  I packed my small stuff, said goodbye to my officemates and left around 2 PM.  There were no mushy goodbyes, just plane goodbyes.  But during the last few minutes of my stay there, I felt that I wanted to talk to them for the last time.  But then again, all I could say was – good bye.  And they said good bye as well.  And then I left.

This is the end of another very short chapter of my life.  And I’m excited and looking forward for another great adventure.  Another adventure filled with God’s love.  

My Reflection, Realizations and God’s Messages

Here are the Tot 10 reflection, realization and God’s messages during this period.  There is still more of this, but I decided to write the Top 10 only.  So here it is.  

• For every person, there are certain environments that would fit for them.  Look for that environment, and don’t stop looking for it until you find it.

• In a crowd, you will find a friend.  But not all people will be your friend.  Not all people will be your enemy.   Don’t be discouraged, if you don’t encounter a friend in that particular crowd, look for another  crowd.

• “Failure” is not really failure in the eyes of God.  It’s one of His ways of telling me that I must do something. That this is another opportunity that would lead me in the fulfillment of my purpose.  

• Where there your heart is, lies your treasure.  Don’t stop searching for your treasure until you find it. Search in the depths of your heart.  

• Dream, Act – with excellence, but at the end of the day, surrender everything to God.  He will turn your work into a great work. 

•  God has given me the strength I needed on that period.  He was and is still is my greatest and constant companion to this journey.

• Often times, I don’t understand God’s great plan.  But eventually, it is slowly revealed to me.  Piece by piece.  It is truly an amazing and great plan.  I’m excited for more of His surprise for me.

• God often times tells me – Relax!!! Don’t worry too much… I’m right beside, behind, in front of  you. You are completely covered by Me.

• Verbal communication is not the only communication for you to express your love.  And I experienced immense love given by my colleagues through non verbal communication.  God’s love flowed from them to me, and vice versa.  It was an amazing experience.

• Everything is God’s grace.  And that’s more than enough reason to thank and praise God!  To God be the glory!

The Feast Live Streaming Link

You're unable to attend The Feast and would want to view it from home? Here is a good news :)
A friend of mine shared this wonderful link where you could view The Feast PICC via JustineTV live streaming.  Enjoy viewing!


Watch live video from The Feast on Justin.tv

My Unseen Blessings-A Reflection

As I am waiting for my boarding time, I cannot wait to tell you about my experience on how I was blessed.
There were so many of them that I don't know how to start this.


My Fist Blessing


This is the first Christmas that I did not do some Christmas shopping.  I don't have enough budget to buy gifts for my family.  But I wished and was hoping that I would have something to give even just to my small pamangkins.  They might be expecting something from their tita.  But I could not afford it.

On the morning of my departure, one of my friends texted me asking when would we meet again. Then I told her that we would be celebrating our Christmas party by January when I return to Manila.
She told me that we need to meet because she had to give me her gifts to my pamangkins! Wow! She have gifts for my pamangkins! They  would really be very happy.  Although it's not from me, that would not matter to them. So, I hurriedly went to our meeting place (at Jollibee).


Finally we met, and she gave a bag of gifts. I was very much grateful to her. She even treated me for a free meriyenda at Jolibee.  Wow! Double blessing! We chatted and exchanged a few laughs.  I had a most heartwarming meryenda with her.


"God is truly a great God. He is full of surprises."


My Second Blessing


It was a bit late when I went back to our house to finish up packing.  Finally, I was finished at around 2pm.  My flight was 4:35pm.  So I need to be there by 3pm.  I went out to get a cab, but it was difficult to get one.  I prayed to God for the right cab.   I just relaxed myself - in full trust to God that He will give me one. I was thankful that my prayer was answered at once. And He gave me a really kind driver.

There was light traffic, so I arrived early at the airport. The line was not too long, but the service was slow, due to the overbaggage of the other passengers. So, when it was my turn, I was a bit exhausted and nearing to getting irritated.  Finally, it was already my turn. I'm glad that the transaction for my boarding pass was not that complicated since I had only 1 check-in baggage and it was really light.  I finished quick and I went to the final checking of the baggage.  Suddenly the lady checking our things asked me to remove the umbrella inside my bag.  So, I removed it, and she snatched it from me.  She told me that umbrellas are not allowed and that it was already confiscated! She dropped my umbrella inside a container below the table.  I was really shocked and angry at the same time at that very instance. I asked her if I could get my umbrella, and that I would be checking it in.  She agreed, so, I took it from the container and went back to the check-in counter.  I told the teller that I did not know that umbrellas are not allowed to be hand carried.  He confirmed and told me that it was prohibited to hand carry any umbrella.  So, I told him to check-in this.  He told me that I need to place it inside a bag.  I said, "what????!!!?? I don't have any extra bag!"  He asked me to use my other bag that I was carrying with me.  I said that I don't want to check in that bag.  Fortunately, I recalled that I still have the bag of gifts.  So, finally, I agreed to check-in my other bag. But I was able to remove the stuff first inside this bag and transfer it to the bags with the gifts inside.  The bag of gifts was a double blessing to me.

My Third Blessing


As I was finally finished and was starting to leave the counter, I noticed an ID and a paper on the counter table.  When I looked at it, it was my ID and my printed ticket!  I did not know that I forgot to take back my ID after my initial check in! That means that if my umbrella was not confiscated, I would have lost my ID plus my printed ticket! Wow! That means that God used that incident for me to go back to the counter.


"Our trials are God's way to lead us to the right path."


My Reflection


Whatever happens to us, whether trials or blessing, let's not miss the point.  In doing so we won't miss the blessing after the trial.  I thank God that His message to me is still clear.  Although I still have the compulsion of complaining. But after that, I still get His message.  God's love for me still reigns in me.
I know these things that I told you are just petty things.  But it gave me clear messages of God in action in me.  That even on small things, God never left me. God was, is, and will always be with me.

My Prayer


Dear Lord,  I praise You Oh Lord for all the wonderful things that you are doing in my life.
Thank you, for giving me a clearer vision amidst the clouds of trials that I am going through right now.  Thank you Lord for clarity and peace in my heart and my soul.  You truly are worthy of all praises. You truly are my Lord.  Though unworthy of your Love, you still Love me anyway. And I thank you for that.