The Steps To Success

Year 2011 is quickly fading now, and 2012 is almost just around the corner! It is time to leave behind the past, and have a sense of "starting a new beginning" in whatever endeavor you might be in. This might not necessarily mean stopping from accomplishing the great works you have already started, but rather have a fresh new sets of motivation and inspiration to continue on your pursuit.

On this very early morning, it was a blessing to ponder on God's Word.
Don't you know that the Bible has everything you need to prepare you for the upcoming new year?

Let me share you some tips and guidelines from the Bible that would surely help you have that sense of accomplishment, and of course, success in whatever you do!

Four Steps to Success

(1) "I'm not going to worry about that."
Ask yourself, can worry really help you accomplish things? Absolutely not! In fact, worrying is bad for your health!

Here's a proof!

Is worrying bad for your heart? A prospective study of worry and coronary heart disease in the Normative Aging Study.

Abstract
BACKGROUND:

Worry is an important component of anxiety, which recent work suggests is related to increased incidence of coronary heart disease (CHD). Chronic worry has also been associated with decreased heart rate variability. We hypothesized that high levels of worry may increase CHD risk.

METHOD AND RESULTS:
We examined prospectively the relationship of worry with CHD incidence in the Normative Aging Study, an ongoing cohort of older men. In 1975, 1759 men free of diagnosed CHD completed a Worries Scale, indicating the extent to which they worried about each of five worry domains: social conditions, health, financial, self-definition, and aging. During 20 years of follow-up, 323 cases of incident CHD occurred: 113 cases of nonfatal myocardial infarction (MI); 86 cases of fatal CHD; and 124 cases of angina pectoris. Worry about social conditions was the domain most strongly associated with incident CHD. Compared with men reporting the lowest levels of social conditions worry, men reporting the highest levels had multivariate adjusted relative risks of 2.41 (95% CI, 1.40 to 4.13) for nonfatal MI and 1.48 (95% CI, 0.99 to 2.20) for total CHD (nonfatal MI and fatal CHD). A dose-response relation was found between level of worry and both nonfatal MI (P for trend, .002) and total CHD (P for trend, .04).

CONCLUSIONS:
These results suggest that high levels of worry in specific domains may increase the risk of CHD in older men.

Article Source: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/9054737

And the Bible's remedy for that?

"Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." ~Philippians 4:4-7

Notice one thing, the Bible does not just give the remedy, but the also the benefit - the peace that will guide your heart and your mind! The truth is, God knows you and your circumstances. He knows your needs, He understands your feelings, and your future is already on His hands. Why carry the weight of the world on your shoulders, when you can entrust these burdens to God?

(2) "I'm not going to try to figure that out."
This does not mean that you would just sit comfortably on your sofa, and sleep the whole day lazily because you know you have a God! This is a grave misunderstanding of the phrase "Don't worry, God knows what you need and He will help you." Remember, God hates the lazy!

I went by the field of the lazy man,
And by the vineyard of the man devoid of understanding;
And there it was, all overgrown with thorns;
Its surface was covered with nettles;
Its stone wall was broken down.
When I saw it, I considered it well;
I looked on it and received instruction:

A little sleep, a little slumber,
A little folding of the hands to rest;
So shall your poverty come like a prowler,
And your need like an armed man.
~Proverbs 24:30-34

 What this means is that before you start in whatever plans you have, consult it to God first. The truth is, God's ways are far better than ours!

For My thoughts are not your thoughts,
Nor are your ways My ways,” says the LORD.
For as the heavens are higher than the earth,
So are My ways higher than your ways,
And My thoughts than your thoughts.
~Isaiah 55:8-9

 (3) "I'm not going to try to make something happen."
Again, this does not mean being lazy! Quoting J. M Farro in the book "Life on Purpose for Men":

"But we'd be wise to remember that getting ahead of God and trying to make our own way can not only delay our blessings, but keep us from receiving God's best. The fact is that we are more likely to make mistakes when we fail to wait on God, than when we fail to move on His cue."

 Isaiah 30:18 says:

Therefore the LORD will wait, that He may be gracious to you;
And therefore He will be exalted, that He may have mercy on you.
For the LORD is a God of justice;
Blessed are all those who wait for Him.

(4) "I'm going to trust God." 
This is the most important step amongst the four. If we're trusting God, we would not worry about anything else. If we're trusting God, we would consult God first before you make your decisions. And if we're trusting God, we're going to wait for God's perfect time!

Trust in the LORD with all your heart,
And lean not on your own understanding;
In all your ways acknowledge Him,
And He shall direct your paths. 
~Proverbs 3:5-6

May you ponder on these things today, my friend.

 © 2011 Erickson Ibana

Mixed Emotions On a Christmas Season

As I remember it right, it was also on a December. It was one cool December night, just a few days more before the year 2000. There I was, a 14-year-old boy lying on my bed, so quiet and so still. Back then, it seemed to me that the night was so peaceful and so calm.

Reminiscing, I was surprised to remember that even as young as 14, thoughts of the future had troubled my heart so much at that time. Vaguely in my memory, I remember I was crying my heart out at that night for the fear of the coming "Millennium Bug". This train of thoughts haunted me that night:

• What if ALL of the computers shutdown because of the "Y2K" or "Millennium Bug", then ALL computer systems (including airport system, factories, malls, etc.) will shutdown too...
• What if businesses shutdown, then life will be so miserable...
• What if life becomes so miserable, then my life will be ended so early...
• What if my life ends abruptly, then I will not be able to meet my future wife...
• What if I and my wife will not meet, then we will not have children...
• What if we won't have any child, then those happy moments having picnics on the park will not happen...

In the midst of the calmness of the night, I remember crying so bitterly that I couldn't remember if my "silent cry" had not become silent at all... (I don't normally cry loud though.)


I remember saying this prayer amidst my cry, "Lord, please allow me to live after this Y2K thing..."


It is now December 23, on the year 2011, almost 11 years have past. Looking back, I now remember those happy times of growing up with my supportive family, and even memories of my "childhood crushes" have been bombarding me too! Along with those great and enjoyable memories, I also remember those ugly decisions that I made, people that I might have hurt because of my insensitivity, and those things I have done of which I am not proud of...


Above all these mixed emotions, a feeling of great contentment has filled my heart.

God really is the BEST! Of all those years, I could not remember even just one moment when He has abandoned me - even on those times when I was so stubborn...


I could say now that I could not ask for anything more...
The fact that Jesus has been my ever Best Friend, my Savior, my Lord, my Father (especially during those times when my dad was abroad), my Healer when I was hurt, my ever-reliable Companion on my darkest times....

I could not ask for more - my job, my income, my family, my friends, these are all mere bonuses!

Ecclesiastes 3:12-13 says:
"I know that there is nothing better for men than to be happy and do good while they live. That everyone may eat and drink, and find satisfaction in all his toil-this is the gift of God."

Friend, your life is a gift from God!

Proverbs 3:5-6 says:

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight."

© 2011 Erickson Ibana

When The Motivation Is Low

Have you ever experienced this kind of scenario before:

Almost out of the sudden you've felt so pumped up when you've started a new idea, and then out of the sudden, you've felt like giving up and you've tossed away everything you've worked hard for because you've lost your motivation?

Or perhaps you were so energetic for a couple of months because you were so inspired by someone that every phrase that comes out of your mouth is so romantic, and then out of the sudden, it seems that all of your energies have hit rock bottom because you were being neglected by that same person?

Or something like this, you were so passionate to learn how to play the violin that you even bought one, but suddenly the drive to acquire the skills were slowly fading that being an excellent violinist was now just an imagination? 

Then, what should you do when the time comes when the motivation to continue and the drive to complete the good work you've started have become so low?

What should you do when the passion that you've once had has been slowly fading away?

"Motivation is what gets you started. Habit is what keeps you going." ~Jim Ryun

 On an article titled: "Five Things You Need to Know About Effective Habit Change", Ian Newby-Clark, an associate professor of psychology at the University of Guelph in Ontario, Canada who studies habit change describes the practical ways to have an effective habit change.

1. Work on One Habit at a Time.
      If you work on changing more than one habit at a time you run a serious risk of overwhelming yourself and changing no habits at all.

One example is a person who wants to add more exercise hours daily, in spite of the fact that everyday he is already on a 12-hour work shift because of the work load! Contrary to his good motive (to be fit), this is not healthy at all because you are sacrificing your sleep hours.

2. Create a Plan and Write it Down.
     It’s in our nature to want to do better. We almost always want to do better. But wanting isn’t enough. You must make a plan. Write it down. Be as specific as possible.

It is not just enough to say to oneself, "I'm going to do better next time!" I think everyone wants that too, don't you think? What's critical here are the next steps one should make in order to be better.

If he wants to exercise regularly, and yet he wants to accomplish more at work, what are the steps he should make? Minimizing "Facebook" and idle times at work would mean he gets to finish his tasks quickly, and would mean he gets to go home early. How about his schedule? Will he go to the gym at a regular Monday-Wednesday-Friday? He needs to write these down.

3. Refine Your Plan.
     Now you need to refine your plan. In particular, you need to be realistic. Put your plan in a drawer for a day or so and come back to it with fresh eyes. Look at each sentence and ask yourself, “Really? I can do that?” Find someone who will give you an honest opinion. To avoid disappointment and discouragement, cast a critical eye on your plan and make sure that it is truly realistic.

Sometimes, when one plans, he plans for the "best-case scenario". I think one must review his plans and adapt them to the "real-case scenario".

If having a regular exercise on a weekend (rest day) is on his  plans, will he really accomplish it even if his friends would ask him  to go watch a movie together?

4. Make Mini-Plans. 
     You’ve worked on your plan and it is much improved. You’ve taken out all of the bits about you leaping tall buildings in a single bound and cooking a three course meal at the same time. But having a good plan isn’t enough. You have to make mini-plans (research psychologists call them ‘implementation intentions’).

Mini-plans are very helpful. For example, if one's regular exercise is on an M-W-F, he might have these in your mini-plans: "When the alarm clock goes off at 3:00 PM, I will shower immediately, get dressed quickly, have my meal, and must be at the gym before 4:30 PM. Then, have my workout for 1 and a half hours, shower quickly, and be at work before 8:00 PM." (That is, if the working schedule is on a graveyard one: starts at 8:00 PM and onwards...)

5. Repeat! Repeat! Repeat!
     Habits are behaviors that we do over and over again. They become almost automatic. How much thought did you put into your last habitual behavior? Not much, right? It kind of happened just by itself. Now that you have your refined plan and you have your mini-plans, it is time to make your new habit almost automatic. And the only way to do it is by repeating and repeating. And repeating. That’s because psychologists have shown that repeating a behavior over and over again means that it happens automatically or almost automatically. So, the great thing about repeating the behavior is that, eventually, you won’t really have to make yourself repeat it. The new behavior will just kind of happen on its own.

There you go! Repeat what you have just started.

However, if #5 is still hard for you, I think there is somehow a problem with the way you are thinking right now. How come?

Let me explain it through this illustration:

• Do you THINK a regular exercise CAN really help you attain that "dream body", or you would just do it because you were being forced (peer pressure) by your workmates?
• Do you THINK accomplishing more at work CAN really make you an effective employee, or you were just completing your tasks for the sake of a "Completed Task" status to the point that the quality of your work were already compromised?

 I think I have heard this from John C. Maxwell:

When you change your THINKING, you change your BELIEFS...
When you change your BELIEFS, you change your EXPECTATIONS...
When you change your EXPECTATIONS, you change your ATTITUDE...
When you change your ATTITUDE, you change your ACTIONS...
When you change your ACTIONS, you change your HABITS...
When you change your HABITS, you change your CHARACTER...

 In order to have a GREAT HABIT, you must begin first from a GREAT way of THINKING!

Actually, the Bible has something to say about how one should think:

"Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will." ~Romans 12:2

And there is this GOOD NEWS here - a GREAT way of THINKING will eventually develop into a GREAT CHARACTER!

Ask God to lead you before making your decisions today! Start with those tiny little decisions you make everyday.

As the author of "The Sherlock Holmes" Novel says:

"It has long been an axiom of mine that the little things are infinitely the most important." ~Arthur Conan Doyle

Start today, my friend! And make it a habit...

Article Source: http://zenhabits.net/five-things-you-need-to-know-about-effective-habit-change/ 

© 2011 Erickson Ibana

When Battered By Trials

Lead Me Lord
by Gary Valenciano

Lead me Lord, lead me by the hand
And make me face the rising sun
Comfort me through all the pain
That life may bring
There's no other hope
That I can lean upon

Chorus:
Lead me Lord
Lead me all my life
Walk by me, walk by me across
The lonely road that I may face
Take my arms and let your hand
Show me the way
Show the way to live inside your heart
All my days, all my life

Refrain:
You are my light
You're the lamp upon my feet
All the time my Lord
I need You there
You are my light
I (just) cannot live alone
Let me stay
By Your guiding love
All through my life
 
Repeat Chorus.
Repeat Refrain.

You are my light
You're the lamp upon my feet
All the time my Lord
I need You there
You are my light
I (just) cannot live alone
Let me stay
By Your guiding love
All through my life
All through my days
Lead me, Oh Lord
Lead me Lord

 There are times when we feel so strong. These are the times when it seems everything falls according to our plans. These are also the times when we think of ourselves as brave warriors ready to face any kind of battle, come what may.

I remember when I was a young Christian back then, when I have not experienced yet such great temptations, enormous defeats, multitude of unseen inner-self battles, and a number of painful betrayals. As young as I was, I thought life was so easy.

On the other hand, life is not so "pleasurable" as it seemed. There are times when God would let you feel pain, in order to remind you that you can always call upon Him for He is always at your side. There are times when you would encounter hurtful defeats, in order to remind you that the help comes from the Lord - the maker of heaven and earth. There are times when you would feel that you were abandoned and betrayed, in order for you not to build your world around people (or a person), instead build your world around God who knows you better than you know yourself - and He understands how you feel. There are times when all is left is to entrust everything up to God, in order to remind you not to lean on your own understanding, instead let go and let God help you. There are times when you experience a death of a loved one, in order to remind you that life is temporary and is fleeting so fast.

My friend, the Bible says:

The eyes of the LORD are on the righteous,
   and his ears are attentive to their cry;
but the face of the LORD is against those who do evil,
   to blot out their name from the earth.

 The righteous cry out, and the LORD hears them;
   he delivers them from all their troubles.
The LORD is close to the brokenhearted
   and saves those who are crushed in spirit. 
~Psalm 34:15-18

Let God lead you, especially when times come that you don't understand at all what's happening around you, and inside you. God will hear you, for He is a loving and just God.

© 2011 Erickson Ibana

Dealing With A Betrayal

"Is there any human feeling more powerful than that of betrayal? Ask a high school girl whose boyfriend has dumped her for a pretty cheerleader. Or tune your radio to a country-western station and listen to the lyrics of infidelity. Or check out the murders reported in the daily newspaper, an amazing number of which trace back to a quarrel with an estranged lover." ~Philip Yancey

Have you already been betrayed before?

• Have you been dumped by your partner for another else?
• Have you been cheated by a friend you trusted?
• Have you been deceived by someone into believing something and hoping that he would help you, but turned out it was all for his selfish gain?
• Has your spouse started loving someone else over you, that it makes you burning in jealousy and anger?

 But, don't you know that there is a similar story in the Bible?

When the Lord first began speaking to Israel through Hosea, he said to him, “Go and marry a prostitute, so that some of her children will be conceived in prostitution. This will illustrate how Israel has acted like a prostitute by turning against the Lord and worshiping other gods.” ~Hosea 1:2

In this book, God showed how furious He was and how He mourned when his children turns to idols to worship!

“For this reason I will fence her in with thorn-bushes.
      I will block her path with a wall
      to make her lose her way.
 When she runs after her lovers,
      she won’t be able to catch them.
   She will search for them
      but not find them.
   Then she will think,
   ‘I might as well return to my husband,
      for I was better off with him than I am now.’
 She doesn’t realize it was I who gave her everything she has—
      the grain, the new wine, the olive oil;
   I even gave her silver and gold.
      But she gave all my gifts to Baal." ~Hosea 2:6-8

The "she " here pertains to God's children of whom offered sacrifices to "Baal", a lifeless sculpture of a graven image of a man. God's jealousy was showed here. After all, Exodus 20:2-5 clearly says:

“I am the LORD your God, who brought you out of Egypt, out of the land of slavery.

 “You shall have no other gods before me.

 “You shall not make for yourself an image in the form of anything in heaven above or on the earth beneath or in the waters below. You shall not bow down to them or worship them; for I, the LORD your God, am a jealous God, punishing the children for the sin of the parents to the third and fourth generation of those who hate me...

Imagine the feeling of being betrayed by a close friend, deceived by your partner, or deliberately being fooled by your spouse! Imagine that burning passion within you. Then, how much more God feels when we sin against Him!

As a matter of fact, "Baal" is not just a lifeless sculpture. It can be in the form of:

• relationships (boyfriend/girlfriend)
• career
• hobby or recreational activity
• achievements or success
• ministry

And the list goes on...
Have you noticed something from the list? Actually, "Baal" can be anything that replaces God in your heart!
Everything in the list above is not bad, in fact these are God's gifts or blessings to us. It becomes an idol or "Baal" the moment we desire them more than desiring to love and please God!

Have you asked yourself before, "Is God egocentric or selfish that He wants me to love Him first before anything else?" Now, let me give you a definite answer:


God wants us to love Him above every "thing" or every "one" else, because these "things" and these "ones" would eventually leave us - these are just temporary, like a flower quickly fading, like a wave tossed in the ocean, like a vapor in the wind. And God knows that if these have already departed us, we would be left unloved, alone, and hurting. But  God will never die, and He will never betray you because He loves you!

God loves you so much! Why? Because you are His greatest creation! And He yearns your love so much, if only you could let Him love you.

But you must first surrender everything to Him, leave your life of sins, and completely let Him be the center of your life. God cannot force anyone to love Him, but He is always eager and waiting for you to run to Him.

God the lover does not desire to share His bride with anyone else. Yet, amazingly, when Israel turned her back on God, He stuck with her. He was willing to suffer, in hope that someday she would return to Him.
Hosea, and later Jesus, prove that God longs not to punish but to love. In fact, He loved us so much that He sent His Son to die for us! ~Philip Yancey

 In fact, Jesus Christ died on the cross to show His love for you! How? By receiving the punishment of death that we deserve because of our sins, but rising again on the third day - showing that He has already defeated death.

For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. ~Romans 6:23

And Revelations 3:20 describes Jesus waiting for you to respond to His love:

Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with Me.

 The truth is, the world may betray you - even your closest friend can betray you, consciously or unconsciously, your career may someday fall into ruins, your achievements will someday be forgotten, and your good deeds will someday be like just a wilted flower. But God will never leave you nor betray you!

Make Jesus the center of your life, and for sure, you can withstand even the most painful betrayal of your life.

© 2011 Erickson Ibana

I'm Waiting

I’m Waiting
by John Waller

I’m waiting
I’m waiting on You, Lord
And I am hopeful
I’m waiting on You, Lord
Though it is painful
But patiently, I will wait

I will move ahead, bold and confident
Taking every step in obedience

While I’m waiting
I will serve You
While I’m waiting
I will worship
While I’m waiting
I will not faint
I’ll be running the race
Even while I wait

I’m waiting
I’m waiting on You, Lord
And I am peaceful
I’m waiting on You, Lord
Though it’s not easy
But faithfully, I will wait

Yes, I will wait
I will serve You while I’m waiting
I will worship while I’m waiting
I will serve You while I’m waiting
I will worship while I’m waiting
I will serve you while I’m waiting
I will worship while I’m waiting on You, Lord

Sometimes, waiting isn’t fun at all…

I remember seeing the movie “Fireproof”. Caleb and his wife had a terrible fight that would be leading to an inevitable divorce. At first, due to his anger, Caleb would agree at once at his wife’s dare. But, as time went by, through the good counsel of his friend, his mother, and ultimately, by his father, Caleb started to realize the importance of his family – his wife.

It all started when he found the greatest love of all – the love of God through Jesus. It was only after he had let Christ be the center of his life that he started seeing life in a different way, in a better perspective. He realized he has hurt his wife so badly that her heart has gone so cold towards him. He tried every way possible just to win her back, but it seemed these attempts just made her farther away.

Then, the waiting began. However hard it was, Caleb waited, while doing everything to win her heart back. There were times that he would do the dishes, he would clean the whole house even after his job as a firefighter, he would make a meal for her, and even he would leave a bouquet of roses at home with a note! (The funny thing here is: before, he couldn't buy even just a stem with a petite flower, thinking it was just a waste of money!)

The ultimate sacrifice that he had made was when he sent his savings to pay the hospital bills when his mother-in-law became sick and also for the wheelchair needed. He paid those bills secretly. The interesting thing here is that those savings were supposed to be for his "Ultimate Dream of his life" yacht! And his wife knows that this dream was very important to Caleb.

While waiting, just like the song:
•    Caleb was hopeful, though it was painful,
•    Caleb was peaceful, though it was not easy,
•    Caleb was patient and faithful,
•    and most importantly, Caleb served and worshiped the Lord, even while waiting!

Just as Isaiah 40:31 says:

But those who hope in the LORD
will renew their strength.
They will soar on wings like eagles;
they will run and not grow weary,
they will walk and not be faint.

The once impossible became possible, and the once inevitable became evitable. Caleb’s wife began to see the changes in his life. She started to see Christ’s light shining in and through him that it also led her to believe the hope Caleb is holding on to. She did not carry out the divorce, and she opened her heart once again for Caleb.

Indeed, waiting could be so hard. But why not serve and worship God while waiting?
Why not put your hope on Jesus – who sees your needs, knows how you feel, and loves you so much?

He has a promise:
•    your strength will be renewed,
•    you will soar on wings like eagles,
•    you will run and not grow weary,
•    you will walk and not be faint.

But before the promise, there is a premise:
•    put your hope in the Lord!

© 2011 Erickson Ibana

A Time of Love

 The man came home from work late again, tired and irritated, to find his 5 year old son waiting for him at the door.

Daddy, may I ask you a question?”
“Yeah, sure, what is it?” replied the man.

“Daddy, how much money do you make an hour?”
“That’s none of your business! What makes you ask such a thing?” the man said angrily.

“I just want to know. Please tell me, how much do you make an hour?” pleaded the little boy.
“If you must know, I make $20.00 an hour.”

“Oh,” the little boy replied, head bowed.
Looking up, he said, “Daddy, may I borrow $10.00 please?”

 The father was furious. “If the only reason you wanted to know how much money I make is just so you can borrow some to buy a silly toy or some other nonsense, then you march yourself straight to your room and go to bed. Think about why you’re being so selfish. I work long, hard hours everyday and don’t have time for such childish games.”

The little boy quietly went to his room and shut the door.


The man sat down and started to get even madder about the little boy’s questioning. How dare he ask such questions only to get some money.

After an hour or so, the man had calmed down, and started to think he may have been a little hard on his son. Maybe there was something he really needed to buy with that $10.00, and he really didn’t ask for money very often.

The man went to the Door of the little boy’s room and opened the door. “Are you asleep son?” he asked.

“No daddy, I’m awake,” replied the boy.
“I’ve been thinking, maybe I was too hard on you earlier,” said the man. “It’s been a long day and I took my aggravation out on you. Here’s that $10.00 you asked for.”


The little boy sat straight up, beaming. “Oh, thank you daddy!” he yelled. Then, reaching under his pillow, he pulled out some more crumpled up bills. The man, since the boy already had money, started to get angry again. The little boy slowly counted out his money, then looked up at the man.

“Why did you want more money if you already had some?” the father grumbled.

“Because I didn’t have enough, but now I do,” the little boy replied.

“Daddy, I have $20.00 now. Can I buy an hour of your time?”

~Author Unknown

Source: http://www.touchinglovestories.com/lovestory247.htm

Pause for a while.

• How much time have you spent pleasing your boss – working so hard for the company?
• How much time have you spent talking with your son, asking him if he already has someone from school that he likes or has crush on with?

• How much time have you spent with your workmates during your recreational/team building activities?
• How much time have you spent appreciating the work-of-art drawing of your daughter, building your bond with her as you compliment her?

Then, how come when your children grew up to be a misguided and rebellious adult, you ask bitterly, “Where did I go wrong? Isn’t it that I worked so hard for them? Isn’t it that those Overtimes at work are for them – to have a better future?”

Really?

“Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes?

Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life?

“And why do you worry about clothes? See how the lilies of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith?

So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them.

But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own. (Matthew 6:25-34)

Choose what’s more important for you, and spend more time on it… more time of love!

© 2011 Erickson Ibana

Steve Jobs Died

Oct 5 (Reuters) - Apple Inc (AAPL.O) co-founder and former CEO Steve Jobs, counted among the greatest American CEOs of his generation, died on Wednesday at the age of 56, after a years-long and highly public battle with cancer and other health issues.

Jobs' death was announced by Apple in a statement late on Wednesday. The Apple.com homepage featured a black-and-white picture of him with the words "Steve Jobs, 1955-2011."

 But, who really was Steve Jobs besides being the former CEO of Apple Inc.?


Steve Jobs, as Forbes.com describes at a glance:

With $7 Billion Net Worth as of September 2011

Forbes Lists
#39 Forbes 400 (The Forbes 400 Richest People in America)
#110 Forbes Billionaires (The World's Billionaires)
    #34 in United States
#17 Powerful People (The World's Most Powerful People)

 And Steve Jobs' profile as described by Forbes last September 2011?

August should have been a triumphant month for Apple co-founder Steve Jobs; his once written-off tech company briefly topped Exxon Mobil as the most valuable U.S. corporation. But later that month he resigned as CEO to battle what most believe is his final bout with cancer. The Reed College dropout founded Apple in his garage. Jobs created the Macintosh in 1976 and was fired 9 years later after a power struggle with Chief Exec John Sculley. He returned to Apple in 1996. Still most of his wealth still comes from Disney, due to Disney's purchase of Pixar in 2006; as the largest individual shareholder, he owns about $4.47 billion of Disney stock.

Based on his profile, indeed Steve Jobs was a very wealthy person! With $7 B net worth, I think he won't have to work anymore just to enjoy life!

It is true, money is a very important commodity. In fact, almost every "thing" that we need has to be bought with money! The food that we need to eat, the clothes that we need to wear, the maintenance for the house that we live in, the bills that we accumulate as we use the electricity and as we consume water daily, the tuition fees for our children... You name it! You can add more things on the list.

In order to cope up with those above things, we really need to work hard and work smart! But, sometimes, it's really sad to hear news about people doing "everything" just to acquire money, even if it means to kill someone, or to steal from someone else.

Is really money "all" that we need? As 1 Timothy 6:10 says:

For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil, for which some have strayed from the faith in their greediness, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.

Hmm.. one thing that I've noticed: it did not say "money is the root of all evil", but rather the "love of money"... and the last part says: "and pierced themselves through with many sorrows." Incidentally, more and more cases of wealthy people committing suicide and doing nasty things are getting into the headlines!

Money, compared to a kitchen knife, if used properly could grant enormous benefits. The beef steak and chicken curry that you enjoy, all reap the benefits of a knife. Imagine eating a whole chunk of beef, or a whole chicken in just one meal!

But just like the kitchen knife, money if used improperly, could bring disastrous things to you and to your loved ones.

How about you? Have you been so obsessed with acquiring more and more money that you trample upon your own integrity?

1 Timothy 6:6-8 advises us:

But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that.

Steve Jobs' death reminds me that life really is short. When we die, everything that we acquire here on earth cannot be brought with us, and that is a reality of life. 

Let's evaluate ourselves, my friends...

© 2011 Erickson Ibana

Does the Clay Know Better Than the Potter?

The Potter's Hand (by Darlene Zschech - Hillsong)

Beautiful Lord, Wonderful savior, I know for sure all of my days are held in your hands, crafted into your perfect plans

You gently called me into your presence, guiding me by Your Holy Spirit, teach me dear Lord to live all of my life through your eyes

I'm captured by your holy calling, set me apart. I know you're drawing me to yourself... lead me, Lord. I pray

Oh Take me, mold me, use me, fill me. I give my life to the potter's hand
Oh Call me, guide me, lead me, walk beside me. I give my life to the potter's hand

You gently call me into your presence guiding me by your Holy Spirit teach me dear Lord to live all of my life through your eyes

I'm captured by your holy calling set me apart. I know you're drawing me to yourself, lead me, Lord. I pray

Oh Take me, mold me, use me, fill me. I give my life to the Potter's hand
Oh Call me, guide me, lead me, walk beside me. I give my life to the potter's hand

I first heard this song last 2000. It was my first Youth Camp at Highlands, Baguio City.

While listening to this song, I was challenged to totally surrender my life to God, just like the clay to the Potter's hand.

It's been 11 years, and as I evaluate myself, I remember those times that as a clay, I didn't like the design of the Potter in me. I remember those times when I become so stubborn that I hurt God so many times. I remember those times when I stray away from His path, and did what was pleasing in my own eyes.

But, as I remember those times, I can't cease to feel this pain in my heart. Those times when I hurt God, I was just hurting myself as well.

Come to think of it, does the clay really has the right to complain when he does not like the design of the potter on him? Does the clay know more than the potter? Does the clay know what's best than the potter?

In Isaiah 45:12, the Lord said, the Great Potter:

I have made the earth, And created man on it. I—My hands—stretched out the heavens, And all their host I have commanded. 

Indeed, I don't have any rights to question you my God, you know what's best for me.

Please forgive me for being so arrogant and stubborn...

© 2011 Erickson Ibana

I Miss You

I’m experiencing this really strange feeling of missing you every single second of the day, having  a picture of you in my mind and longing for your presence in my life, hoping that someday you’ll be mine..~Author Unknown 

Have you already felt this kind of feeling?

• Longing to be with that person;
• Wanting to see that person's face;
• Desiring to spend the day with that person, even though you've just met...

As Alfred Tennyson says:

I hold it true, whate’er befall; I feel it, when I sorrow most; ‘Tis better to have loved and lost than never to have loved at all.

But, before you label it as "LOVE", first evaluate yourself.

• Is it just a mere "crush" or as Dictionary.com says:

"A brief but intense infatuation for someone."

• Is it just because you admire something in that person, may it be looks, attitude, or a personality?

• Is it just because almost all of your interests are the the same with that person?

"Love" is much greater than those circumstances described above.

• Love knows how to wait. As Ecclesiastes 3:1,11 says:

 There is a time for everything,
and a season for every activity under heaven:
He has made everything beautiful in its time. 

• Love does not envy, is not proud, is not selfish. As 1 Corinthians 13:4-6 says:

Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.

It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.

• Love does not delight in evil, always trusts, always hopes.  As 1 Corinthians 13:7 says:

Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.

 Do not just trust what your heart dictates. The heart purely relies on emotions, and emotions are very quick to fade depending on circumstances, standards, or incidences.

In fact, Jeremiah 17:9 says:

 The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure.  Who can understand it?

Instead, ask God to lead your heart - for He knows what your heart truly desires and He knows everything that is in your mind as well. Jeremiah 17:10 says:

 “I the LORD search the heart and examine the mind, to reward each person according to their conduct, according to what their deeds deserve.”  

And Psalm 37:3-5 says:

Trust in the LORD, and do good;
         Dwell in the land, and feed on His faithfulness.
 Delight yourself also in the LORD,
         And He shall give you the desires of your heart.
       
 Commit your way to the LORD,
         Trust also in Him.

Entrust to God your heart, you will not be disappointed! :)

© 2011 Erickson Ibana

Types of Love: What is Yours?

“You come to love not by finding the perfect person, but by seeing an imperfect person perfectly.” ~ Sam Keen

I was given a sort of an assessment about love by a friend of mine who took up a course on Behavioral Science.

It was a test to find out what Style of Love I somehow possess.
Doing some little research, these are the 6 Different Types of Love:

1. Eros Love. Eros lovers tend to emphasize romantic relationships, physical beauty, desire, and physical attraction. Relationships based on eros love tend to fizzle quickly, because these types of lovers can’t maintain this high level of passion. An eros lover’s approach to a healthy romantic relationship involves an intense focus on the emotional aspects of love, including finding different ways to express love.

2. Pragma Love. Pragma lovers are rational and practical – and so is their approach to romance and healthy relationships. This type of lover decides to love someone who best fits their requirements and meets their needs. Pragma lovers assess potential partners for appropriate education levels, professions, income, social status, common interests, parent potential, and material possessions. A pragma lover’s approach to a healthy romantic relationship doesn’t focus on the emotional aspects of love.

3. Storge Love. Storge lovers focus on friendship to build a healthy relationship. This style of love usually begins with a strong friendship, which eventually develops into feelings of romantic love and intimacy. The sexual aspect of storge love tends to be less important than the friendship aspect (making the approach to romance a lower priority). A storge lover’s approach to a healthy romantic relationship focuses on caring, compassion, and heart-to-heart discussions.

4. Agape Love. Agape lovers are known for their selfless love or brotherly love. Agape love is also know as “divine love” because it’s self-sacrificing and altruistic love. An agape lover’s approach to a healthy relationship focuses on giving without any expectations or strings attached. Agape love is best suited for the love of God, saints and martyrs because healthy romantic relationships require a balance of giving and receiving (not just giving, as an agape lover would tend to do).

5. Ludus Love. Ludus lovers tend to be game players in romance. Ludus lovers are addicted to the excitement of forming a romantic relationship, and aren’t as enthralled by building a healthy long-term marriage. A ludus lover’s approach to a healthy romantic relationship involves the thrill of the chase and the thrill of new romance, not the work of building a long-term commitment.

6. Mania Love. Remember Glenn Close in Fatal Attraction? She was a manic lover: possessive, dependent, jealous, and controlling. These are signs of addictive relationships — not healthy romantic love! A manic lover’s approach to a “healthy” romantic relationship focuses on turmoil, extreme reactions, and even obsession. Mania love can involve threats, stalking, or worse.

These six styles of romance, intimacy, and friendship are based on Canadian sociologist John Allen Lee’s theory of love.
Source: http://psychology.suite101.com/article.cfm/6_styles_of_love

 Of the six, the test showed that Pragma is the most dominant for me, followed by Storge.

Hmm.. Perhaps, circumstances have led me into this state. Being the eldest among my siblings, and the major source of income for the family, I couldn’t help but think of my family’s status before entering into “serious relationships”.

Well, I really wish I have the Agape love, the unconditional love, the love Christ has showed me when He saved me from my wretched state and into His saving and loving arms.

When everything else around me seems to fail,
And when my faith seems to falter,
When all I hold on to seems to be gone,
And all my hopes and dreams  seem to vanish.
When things are not going as I first expected,
And frustrations seem to eat away my flickering faith…
Whenever I look at your love for me,
And focus on your unconditional love,
Everything around me starts to dim,
Giving me another reason to strive,
And run this race called “life”,
For You and only You, my God, my Friend.
~ © 2011 Erickson Ibana

© 2011 Erickson Ibana

The Love Languages

Have you heard of the Five Love Languages?

Ok, I guess you may be asking me now "Duh, why would I be interested in that thing? I know how to love anyway!"

Then, I have these questions for you…

Are you trying so hard to please your mom by your gifts, and yet a simple "I love you, Mom!" makes her day complete?

Have you been trying to make your girlfriend smile through your "How are you, dear?" using your mobile phone, and yet it's only when you accompany her shopping all day that has made her smile so bright?

Are you asking yourself now "I think Dad doesn't love me, I've been helping him diligently in every tasks, but why is it that it's when I give him some gifts that I get recognized?"

Have you been trying to buy monthsary (anniversary counted by months) gifts for your boyfriend, and yet it's when you say "Let me help you finish that task.." that you seem to make him happy?

Have you been with your friend in every occasion, but it seems a simple "pat in the back" is more appreciated?

Perhaps, your loved ones do have a different Love Language from what you've expected from them…

Dr. Gary Chapman in his book "The 5 Love Languages" clearly describes each love languages.

Words of Affirmation
Actions don't always speak louder than words. If this is your love language, unsolicited compliments mean the world to you. Hearing the words, "I love you," are important-hearing the reasons behind that love sends your spirits skyward. Insults can leave you shattered and are not easily forgotten.

Quality Time
In the vernacular of Quality Time, nothing says, "I love you," like full, undivided attention. Being there for this type of person is critical, but really being there-with the TV off, fork and knife down, and all chores and tasks on standby-makes your significant other feel truly special and loved. Distractions, postponed dates, or the failure to listen can be especially hurtful.

Receiving Gifts
Don't mistake this love language for materialism; the receiver of gifts thrives on the love, thoughtfulness, and effort behind the gift. If you speak this language, the perfect gift or gesture shows that you are known, you are cared for, and you are prized above whatever was sacrificed to bring the gift to you. A missed birthday, anniversary, or a hasty, thoughtless gift would be disastrous-so would the absence of everyday gestures.

Acts of Service
Can vacuuming the floors really be an expression of love? Absolutely! Anything you do to ease the burden of responsibilities weighing on an "Acts of Service" person will speak volumes. The words he or she most want to hear: "Let me do that for you." Laziness, broken commitments, and making more work for them tell speakers of this language their feelings don't matter.

Physical TouchThis language isn't all about the bedroom. A person whose primary language is Physical Touch is, not surprisingly, very touchy. Hugs, pats on the back, holding hands, and thoughtful touches on the arm, shoulder, or face-they can all be ways to show excitement, concern, care, and love. Physical presence and accessibility are crucial, while neglect or abuse can be unforgivable and destructive.

Source: http://www.5lovelanguages.com/learn-the-languages/the-five-love-languages/

Try to learn the Love Languages of your loved ones, and of course, learn your Love Languages too!

© 2011 Erickson Ibana

I've Learned...

I've learned... that when you're in love it shows.

I've learned... that just one person saying to me, "You've made my day!" makes my day.

I've learned... that having a child fall asleep in your arms is one of the most peacefulfeelings in the world.

I've learned...that being kind is more important than being right.

I've learned...that you should never say no to a gift from a child.

I've learned...that I can always pray for someone when I don't have the strength to helphim in some other way.

I've learned...that no matter how serious your life requires you to be, everyone needs afriend to act goofy with.

I've learned...that sometimes all a person needs is a hand to hold and a heart tounderstand.

I've learned...that simple walks with my father around the block on summer nightswhen I was a child did wonders for me as an adult.

I've learned...that life is like a roll of toilet paper. the closer it gets to the end, the fasterit goes.

I've learned...that we should be glad God doesn't give us everything we ask for.

I've learned...that money doesn't buy class.

I've learned...that it's those small daily happenings that make life so spectacular.

I've learned...that under everyone's hard shell is someone who wants to be appreciatedand loved.

I've learned...that the Lord didn't do it all in one day. What makes me think I can?

I've learned...that to ignore the facts does not change the facts.

I've learned...that when you plan to get even with someone, you are only letting thatperson continue to hurt you.

I've learned... never to humiliate another person. Always give him a way to back down or out of something and still save face.

I've learned... that if you're still talking about yesterday, you haven't done much today.

I've learned...that the easiest way for me to grow as a person is to surround myself withpeople smarter than I am.

I've learned...that everyone you meet deserves to be greeted with a smile.

I've learned...that no one is perfect until you fall in love with her.

I've learned...that life is tough, but I am tougher.

I've learned...that opportunities are never lost; someone will take the ones you miss.

I've learned...that when you harbor bitterness, happiness will dock elsewhere.

I've learned...that one should keep his words both soft and tender, because tomorrow hemay have to eat them.

I've learned...that a smile is an inexpensive way to improve your looks.

I've learned...that I can't choose how I feel, but I can choose what I do about it.

I've learned...that everyone wants to live on top of the mountain, but all the happinessand growth occurs while you're climbing it.

I've learned...that it is best to give advice in only two circumstances: when it isrequested and when it is a life-threatening situation.

I've learned...that love, not time, heals all wounds.

-Author Unknown 

Source:  http://www.febc.ph/stations/dzas/spots/Ive_Learned.pdf

A Wedding Saving Passbook

Monica married Nick this day. At the end of the wedding party, Monica's mother gave her a newly opened bank saving passbook with Rs.1000 deposit amount.

Mother: 'Monica, take this passbook. Keep it as a record of your marriage life. When there's something happy and memorable happened in your new life, put some money in. Write down what it's about next to the line. The more memorable the event is, the more money you can put in. I've done the first one for you today. Do the others with Nick.
When you look back after years, you can know how much happiness you've had.'

Monica shared this with Nick when getting home. They both thought it was a great idea and were anxious to know when the second deposit can be made. This was what they did after certain time:
* 7 Feb: Rs.100, first birthday celebration for Nick after marriage* 1 Mar: Rs.300, salary raise for Monica* 20 Mar: Rs.200, vacation trip to Bali* 15 Apr: Rs.2000, Monica got pregnant* 1 Jun: Rs.1000, Nick got promoted* ..... And so on...

However, after years, they started fighting and arguing for trivial things. They didn't talk much. They regretted that they had married the nastiest people in the world.... No more love... Kind of typical nowadays, huh?

One day Monica talked to her Mother: 'Mom, we can't stand it anymore. We agree to divorce. I can't imagine how I decided to marry this guy!!!"

Mother: 'Sure, girl, that's no big deal. Just do whatever you want if you really can't stand it. But before that, do one thing first.

Remember the saving passbook I gave you on your wedding day? Take out all money and spend it first. You shouldn't keep any record of such a poor marriage.'

Monica thought it was true. So she went to the bank, waiting at the queue and planning to cancel the account. While she was waiting, she took a look at the passbook record. She looked, and looked, and looked. Then the memory of all the previous joy and happiness just came up her mind. Her eyes were then filled with tears. She left and went home.

When she was home, she handed the passbook to Nick, asked him to spend the money before getting divorce.

The next day, Nick gave the passbook back to Monica. She found a new deposit of Rs.5000. And a line next to the record: 'This is the day I notice how much I've loved you thru out all these years. How much happiness you've brought me.'

They hugged and cried, putting the passbook back to the safe. Do you know how much money they had saved when they retired? I did not ask. I believe the money did not matter any more after they had gone thru all the good years in their life.

"When you fall in any way, don't see the place where you fell instead see the place from where you slipped. Life is about correcting mistakes."

-Author Unknown

Oftentimes, we just see the imperfections of this life. In fact, life has so many things to be thankful to God for! :)

Pause for a while, I believe you'll remember a lot of things to be grateful for!

© 2011 Erickson Ibana

Like A Child

An airplane on its return flight suddenly encountered a turbulence. Oxygen bags started to be dispensed, so all the passengers started to panic.. Except for one little boy who was playing with his PSP.

They asked him why he was so calm and why he was not afraid to die.He answered.. "My dad is the pilot."

-Author Unknown

I can't explain it, but I think I am learning to be like that child.

Before, I really cannot understand how it is to be like a child when facing life's hardships and trials. I once thought, "Hmm.. so, I need to act like a child..", and the result was: I did a lot of childish acts.

How did I say that I was childish? Let me explain further:

• When I didn't get what I need, I would go tantrums (well.. because I am an introvert person, it doesn't show much). I would complain to myself why others could easily get those things that I want, while I couldn't even acquire those things.
•  When I had experienced pleasant things, I would get easily disappointed and frustrated if these pleasures suddenly stop and another hardship was right in front of me (what I mean were healthy and clean-living pleasures).
• When I was in the middle of turbulence, there were times when I could not see the "good things" or those "unnoticeable blessings" while at the storm: like having your loved ones right beside you all the time supporting you.

But now, I believe I am learning to be like a child: trusting everything up to God completely, that whatever happens, He knows what's best for me... and because He is my Dad who knows me better than I know myself.

I did not say that I am now completely free of hardships and trials, but what I am reminding to myself now, is that everything happens for a purpose. And God knows what's best for me because His thoughts are way higher than my thoughts in the first place.

As Isaiah 55:8-9 says:

“ For My thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways My ways,” says the LORD.

“ For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways, and My thoughts than your thoughts." 

Indeed, God knows me better than I know myself! :)
To God be all the glory!

© 2011 Erickson Ibana

Special Someone For You

Everyone longs to give himself or herself completely to someone, to have a deep and committed soul relationship with another, to be loved thoroughly and unconditionally.


But God says:

No, not until you are satisfied, fulfilled and contented with being loved by Me alone, with giving yourself totally, unreservedly to Me alone.

I love you, My child, and until you discover that only in Me is your satisfaction to be found, you will not be capable of the perfect human relationship that I have planned for you. You will never be united with another until you are united with Me; exclusively of anyone or anything else; exclusively of any other desires and belongings.

I want you to stop planning, stop wishing and allow Me to give you the most thrilling plan existing -- one that you can't imagine. I want you to have the very best. Please allow Me to bring it to you.

Just keep your eyes on Me, expecting the greatest things.

Keep experiencing that satisfaction knowing that I AM.

Keep learning and listening to the things I tell you.

You must be patient.

Don't be anxious. Don't worry.

Don't look around at the things others have.

Don't look at the things you think you want.

Just keep looking up to Me, or you will miss what I want to give you.

And then, when you are ready, I will surprise you with a love far more wonderful than you could ever dream. You see, until you are ready, and until the one I have for you is ready (I am working even this minute to have both of you ready at the same time), until you are both satisfied exclusively with Me and the life I have prepared for you, you won't be able to experience the love that exemplifies your relationship with Me.

.. and this is perfect love.

-Author Unknown

The Attitude of Gratitude

“If you concentrate on finding whatever is good in every situation, you will discover that your life will suddenly be filled with gratitude, a feeling that nurtures the soul.“ – Rabbi Harold Kushner

Since the start of 2010, I could say that me and my family were bashed by life’s hardships and trials. I remember the passion of posting inspirational articles being gradually eroded by such tremendous storms of life.

But as I once again retrospect, there was one attitude I have forgotten to exercise, which could save my ever-burning passion…

• Though my dad was stabbed twice in the stomach last January 2010, the fact is, he is still alive and well; and actually, while I’m composing this blog, he is busy doing some woodwork stuffs (and it is just less than a year!).

• Though we have soaring financial debts, by God’s grace, we were back on track paying those bills in a regular basis.

• Though my parents were in the verge of separation due to having different opinions on many things, indeed by God’s grace, they are now as sweet as honey with each other.

• Though I could not travel abroad for now for vacation, I have spent some vacation in Cebu and Bohol last February 2010, and in Palawan last November 2010. (and perhaps my next goal is to bring my whole family to one of those places next time)

• Though I see myself many times as a wretched and hopeless man, God would still show Himself as a mighty yet loving God!

• Though we don’t have the great riches of this world, we have the riches of God’s mercy and grace.

• Though I am such a useless and despicable creature, God grants me forgiveness and grace through Jesus! He helps me in my struggles, and strengthens me up in every step of the way.

Have you guessed what attitude I forgot to practice?

Hmm.. well, I think you guessed it right!

…The Attitude of Gratitude!

Who among you does not have any problems at all?

Who among you has not encountered any hardships in life?

Who among you has not experienced pain?

Who among you has not lost a loved one?

Who among you has not hurt someone or perhaps been hurt by someone?

I think no one is exempted of all or some of the above situations!

But one thing can be common: of all those problems, hardships, pain, losing, and hurt, there are always things you can be thankful to God for!!!

Do you still have your job?
Thank God for that!

Do you still have your health and physical strength?
Thank God for that!

Are your family still complete and living happily?
Thank God for that!

Do you still have a roof to live in?
Thank God for that!

Do you have trusted and good friends around you, ever supporting you along the way?
Thank God for that!

As Psalm 136:1-9, 26 says:

Oh, give thanks to the LORD, for He is good!
For His mercy endures forever.

Oh, give thanks to the God of gods!
For His mercy endures forever.

Oh, give thanks to the Lord of lords!
For His mercy endures forever:

To Him who alone does great wonders,
For His mercy endures forever;

To Him who by wisdom made the heavens,
For His mercy endures forever;

To Him who laid out the earth above the waters,
For His mercy endures forever;

To Him who made great lights,
For His mercy endures forever—

The sun to rule by day,
For His mercy endures forever;

The moon and stars to rule by night,
For His mercy endures forever.

Oh, give thanks to the God of heaven!
For His mercy endures forever.

The psalmist even thanked God for His awesome works on His creation!

Indeed, God’s mercy endures forever!

May we excel acquiring the attitude of gratitude!

© 2011 Erickson Ibana

A Perfect Christmas

My Idea of a Perfect Christmas

(by Jose Mari Chan)

Verse 1:
Is to spend it with you
In a party
Or dinner for two
Anywhere would do

Celebrating the yuletide season
Always lights up our lives
Simple pleasures are made special too
When their shared with you

Verse 2:
Looking through some old photographs
Faces of friends we'll always remember
Watching busy shoppers rushing about
In the cool breeze of December

Sparkling lights, all over town
Children's carols in the air
By the Christmas tree
A shower of stardust on your hair

Chorus:
I can't think of a better Christmas
Than my wish coming true
And my wish is you'd let me spend my whole life with you

Repeat Verse 2

Chorus

My idea of a perfect Christmas is spending it with you...

While strolling around the mall yesterday with my friends, I heard this wonderful song. (By the way, the Christmas season here at the Philippines starts at the -ber months, September until December.) Suddenly, a sort of nostalgic feeling embraced me. For a while, I stood there, staring at nowhere - reminiscing my childhood when I first heard this song.

It seemed time flies by so fast. Born in the heart of Manila, amidst the chaos of my environment, amidst the noise of the vehicles rushing through the street, amidst the complications of a busy city, this song played. Though, as a 5-year old boy, I didn't care much about anything that was happening around me.

It has been what, 21 years, but the song seemed to be so lively in my heart as I was back then at that city.

Have a pleasant day my friend, and may this song chill you out today!

© 2011 Erickson Ibana

The Code of A Gentleman

I just wanted to share this nice code...

(taken from a booklet given to all first year students of Virginia Military Institute)

Without a strict observance of the fundamental Code of Honor, no man, no matter how `polished,’ can be considered a gentleman. The honor of a gentleman demands the inviolability of his word, and the incorruptibility of his principles. He is the descendant of the knight, the crusader; he is the defender of the defenseless and the champion of justice . . . or he is not a Gentleman.

A Gentleman . . .
Does not discuss his family affairs in public or with acquaintances.
Does not speak more than casually about his girl friend.
Does not go to a lady’s house if he is affected by alcohol. He is temperate in the use of alcohol.
Does not lose his temper; nor exhibit anger, fear, hate, embarrassment, ardor or hilarity in public.
Does not hail a lady from a club window.
A gentleman never discusses the merits or demerits of a lady.
Does not mention names exactly as he avoids the mention of what things cost.
Does not borrow money from a friend, except in dire need. Money borrowed is a debt of honor, and must be repaid as promptly as possible. Debts incurred by a deceased parent, brother, sister or grown child are assumed by honorable men as a debt of honor.
Does not display his wealth, money or possessions.
Does not put his manners on and off, whether in the club or in a ballroom. He treats people with courtesy, no matter what their social position may be.
Does not slap strangers on the back nor so much as lay a finger on a lady.
Does not `lick the boots of those above’ nor `kick the face of those below him on the social ladder.’
Does not take advantage of another’s helplessness or ignorance and assumes that no gentleman will take advantage of him.
A Gentleman respects the reserves of others, but demands that others respect those which are his.
A Gentleman can become what he wills to be. .

Full context found on: http://www.law.umkc.edu/faculty/projects/ftrials/conlaw/vmi.htm 

Remembering The 9-11 Incident

What was your memory of the 9-11 (September 11) incident?

Imagine this:

You were in front of the office's coffee-brewing machine waiting for your first round of hot energizing coffee. You were hearing subtle noises of people chattering with each other, soft sounds of people typing on their keyboards, and the pleasant humming of the airconditioner units. You were startled by a high-pitch sound of the machine - time to get your coffee now.

As you walk along the isle, you were greeted by your fellow workmates, some handshakes and some hello's. You were about to sit down when you saw your workplace crush, then exchanging sweet smiles with each others.

While organizing your tasks, you were tapped at the back by your boss, followed by a "You did a good job yesterday!" remark.

Oh, how peaceful and beautiful life is!

But, what if, after those pleasant things above, you heard a loud booming sound, window glasses shattered into pieces, there were flames everywhere, and all of the lights went out?

This was what had happened to Brian Clark, worked at the Euro Brokers, on the 84th floor of the south tower of the World Trade Center.

The Associated Press narrates:

Brian Clark was working at Euro Brokers, on the 84th floor of the south tower of the World Trade Center. He arrived at about 7:15 a.m., had his cup of coffee, went about the morning's chores. 

A "loud double boom" is the first thing he remembers. Then flickering of the lights in his office. Something caught his peripheral vision. He spun around. His view usually looked out over the Hudson River. The river and the sky.

"It was filled with flame," he says. "Two yards from my nose is the window, and it's right against the glass, almost swirling. I can't recall whether there was a flash of heat. But the bright glass — you were in the fire. The flames washed right up."

Suddenly, those pleasant and peaceful scenes were all replaced by scenes of chaos.

But amidst the chaos, as a volunteered fire marshal, he calmly guided his workmates, with a flashlight and a whistle, to the stairs down to evacuate the building. (The complete story can be found at the Yahoo News.)

Eventually, he and Stanley Praimnath (a friend he just met while escaping) managed to get out of the building safely.

Indeed, it was by God's grace that Clark managed to get out from the 84th floor before the whole building completely collapsed.

The 9-11 incident was really a shocking incident. Even here at the Philippines, we were so saddened by the news of more than 2,000 people dead because of the incident.

But, one thing I admire about Clark's attitude was that he did not just think of himself during the incident. He managed to help his fellow workmates, even by using just a flashlight and a whistle.

How about you, are you in a chaos right now?

May your first response be a quick lending of your hand to help a fellow in need.

It is the greatest of all mistakes to do nothing because you can only do little - do what you can.  ~Sydney Smith

© 2011 Erickson Ibana