The musings of a wandergeselle about faith, literature, music, dancing, culture, food, travels, art, fashion, photography, life experiences, and everything in-between from journée to journée.
I first introduced an AI-generated image of Panganoron in the article, “Celebrating MAY-on,” without using a reference photo. I thought I’d let AI come up with its own version of Panganoron, and I just edited some details for the revised image. So, this guy is nonexistent in our world, but maybe he exists in the parallel universe. 😀
Here’s my step-by-step guide on creating the images of Daragang Magayon and Panganoron, which I generated through ChatGPT.
Step 1: Create a character profile (image version)by coming up with specific details for your initial prompts.
Panganoron V. 2.0Daragang MagayonV. 2.0
Step 2. Recreate the Daragang Magayon photo to an active combat stance w/ gritty expression.
Step 3: Combine these three images to create the movie poster or book cover design concept.
I requested ChatGPT to adjust the lighting for this photo.
Step 4: Add the movie or book title. You can indicate which words in the title you want to emphasize, i.e., capitalized, bigger font, font style, etc. Then include other design elements you want to see in your image. In this case, I added the “fire” element around the title.
Design Concept #1
Design Concept #2: I added a solo photo of Daragang Magayon. What I don’t like about this version is that you can no longer see the outline of the Mayon volcano.What do you think? 🙂
These are some of the design concepts I came up with, and I am still considering creating more, so there are more options to choose from. But I think the design concept above better fits the new narrative. But I’m still going to share the new image I generated of the heroines, which can be used as sort of a “teaser” copy.
Methinks the image below is perfect as a pre-nup photoshoot inspiration, though. lol
Version 1 (Portrait Mode)
Question: Bakit kaya si Panganoron naka-sandals at si Daragang Magayon ay nakapaa?
Answer: Naisip yata ni ChatGPT, para daw kapag tumuga si Mt. Mayon, kakargahin ni Panganoron si Daragang Magayon ala “hokage moves” para hindi mapaso ang paa ni Daragang Magayon ng hot lava.
Ay ambot saimo, ChatGPT. lol
Version 2 (Landscape Mode)
Seryoso na ngani. O di ba, no need umakyat ng Ligñon Hill para sa pre-nup photos nyo. 😀
Once again, ChatGPT just never underdelivers as long as you make very detailed prompts. The results always exceeded my expectations, and I only had to do some minor edits to achieve the concept design that I desired.
Aside from the combat stances, I also tried experimenting with other actions, such as “bathing in the river.” In the local legend, Daragang Magayon fell into the river and was saved by Panganoron. This was their first encounter.
Unfortunately, ChatGPT cannot generate exactly what I had in mind about a woman bathing in the river. Or maybe I need to tweak my prompts a bit more. But I am still satisfied with the results.
And I took the left photo above to yet another level to test how far AI can go by asking ChatGPT to incorporate it in fashion designing and styling. I just had to request some edits later on, so I’d get my desired results.
This includes replacing the accessories with a tribal or Boho-inspired necklace and earrings, adding a belt, and changing the background to a soft and mellow ambiance. My first prompt included the black, tight-fitting long sleeves with Sabrina neckline, the cream-colored wedge shoes, and the A-line, long skirt.
First AttemptFinal Version
I’ve always been fascinated by the concept of “artwear,”or art that you can wear, particularly with paintings. If you ask me if I will wear anything like what the model wears above, my answer is “yes.” Well, depending on the occasion, of course.
Do you think my chickens will love me more when they see me wearing this? I mean, they’re the only creatures outside of the house who see me often here since I don’t go out often. 😀
By the way, if you want to use some of these images, please don’t hesitate to send me a message or just comment down below. ❤ Oh, and yes, I am using the free version only of ChatGPT.
P.S. I mentioned in some of my previous articles that Mom designed her dresses when she was in her early 20s and had them sewn by a seamstress here in our town. She got her inspo from fashion magazines and made her own fashion creations, too. Sadly, these dresses don’t fit me anymore since I already weigh 58 kgs. lol
P.P.S. I am grateful that the provincial government of Albay has made considerations for preemptive evacuations of communities near the Mayon volcano in preparation for the rainy season. In case there are emergency evacuations during heavy lahar flows, I hope the LGU will prioritize less crowded and more evacuation sites. The Philippines is currently on standby for the possibility of a Hantavirus and/or an Ebola outbreak in the country.
Air ambulances might also be necessary if there are a lot of routes that are impassable due to lahar flows. If Mayon continues its activity for the rest of the year, we can expect more buildup of PDCs and other debris on the slopes of the volcano. This will increase the likelihood of path changes in the gullies, possibly extending beyond the 6km permanent danger zone. Weather experts have already warned that we will experience above-normal rainfall volume this year due to El Niño, which will persist until 2027.
I am also praying that no mining operations will be allowed near Mt. Mayon, whether privately funded or not, Filipino-owned or owned by a foreign investor.
Pirmi lang kirita magpangadyi, maghanda, nyan magsunod sa abiso. 🙏
Kapit lang tayo. Nag-promise ako kay Lord na hindi ako magko-comment sa Facebook sa mga balita about sa ganap sa mga bagay-bagay na madalas pag-debatehan. And yet hindi ko napigilan kagabi. Kaya dito na lang ako magsusulat, para mas safe. 😀
Don’t worry, hindi naman ako nam-bash doon, nag-share lang ako ng opinyon ko. And hindi ko alam kung may mga nag-reply ng harsh comments doon sa ni-post ko kasi hindi ko na nitignan notifications ko.
Kasi na-lesson learned ako dyan before noong pinatulan ko. ahahaha Ni-rebuke ako ni God at ito ang mga Bible verses na pinatagos sa akin na as in no choice na ako after that incident but to obey.
2 Timothy 2:23-24 (NIV): “Don’t have anything to do with foolish and stupid arguments, because you know they produce quarrels. And the Lord’s servant must not be quarrelsome but must be kind to everyone, able to teach, not resentful.”
Titus 3:9 (NLT): “Do not involve yourself in foolish arguments, genealogies, quarrels, and fights about the law. These things are useless and a waste of time.”
Proverbs 17:14 (NIV): “Starting a quarrel is like breaching a dam; so drop the matter before a dispute breaks out.”
1 Timothy 6:4-5 (NIV): Warns that a craving for controversy leads to envy, quarreling, and malicious talk. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]
Kaya ang naging goal ko after that na kapag hindi ko mapigilan mag-comment sa social media, the comment should be neutral, unbiased, and mapupulutan ng aral ng kung sinong makakabasa. AND ALSO, let them take it or leave it ang siste. To those who agree with you, makikinig sila.
Pero sa mga hindi, let them be. Ang goal lang is to share and not insist my side. In fact, tinuruan ako ng sitwasyon na ‘yun to welcome even the negative feedback. Kasi ang kagandahan doon e lumalawak ‘yung perspektibo mo sa mga bagay-bagay.
Hindi ka man agree doon sa sinabi ng isa pero iba din ang pinakita sa’yo ni Lord through that comment. But for an issue na sobrang madadala ka emotionally, my suggestion talaga is observe muna. Basa ng info from a lot of different sources tas saka mag-comment pero bago i-send basahin paulit-ulit ang ni-type at ‘wag agad agad i-send.
Parang kapag LQ nyo lang din ni labidabs mo, ‘wag agad ise-send sa kanya mga ni-type mo sa sobrang galit. Isulat mo muna sa Notes tas balik-balikan mo sya. Edit edit ganun, dagdag dito, bawas doon. Hanggang sa nakalimutan mo na i-send sa kanya.
O minsan umabot na ng short dissertation sa haba, kahit ikaw e inantok ka na basahin ulit. lol I-publish na lang kaya as libro, noh? Baka mapagkakitaan pa, sayang naman ng oras mo kaka-type at edit. 😅
‘Yung title syempre e gawin mong “Mga Hanash at Hugot Na Hindi Nabasa Ng Mahal Ko Kaya Sainyo Ko Na Lang Ipapabasa.” Di ba, title pa lang, alam mong ang haba-haba na ng babasahin mo.
Charla langs. Keep what is private as private unless need talaga sya i-share for context. But still, may discernment pa din dapat.
Kaya suggestion ko talaga, ‘wag na ‘wag ka mag-aasawa ng writer. Kasi ang reply nyan sa’yo lagi sa chat e hindi bababa sa 200 words.
Ang boring naman kasi kung ang reply mo e “Okay, pwede naman hehehe.” ‘Pag ganun talaga e i-block na yarn. Blocked agad, Beh?Joke lang syempre. Block nyo na ako kapag ‘di kayo natawa. ✌️
Pero sa Facebook, rule of thumb talaga is ‘wag nang babasahin ang comments sa comment mo kapag very controversial ang topic, not even the reactions. Believe me, you will be very tempted to defend your side.
Kaya refrain na lang tayo. Let those who want to hear you out, hear you out. Let those who oppose you, oppose you. And be okay with that.
Bible Verses on Training Your Inner Ears For Spiritual Sensitivity
9 Whoever has ears, let them hear.”
10 The disciples came to him and asked, “Why do you speak to the people in parables?”
11 He replied, “Because the knowledge of the secrets of the kingdom of heaven has been given to you, but not to them. 12 Whoever has will be given more, and they will have an abundance. Whoever does not have, even what they have will be taken from them. 13 This is why I speak to them in parables:
“Though seeing, they do not see; though hearing, they do not hear or understand.
14 In them is fulfilled the prophecy of Isaiah:
“‘You will be ever hearing but never understanding; you will be ever seeing but never perceiving. 15 For this people’s heart has become calloused; they hardly hear with their ears, and they have closed their eyes. Otherwise they might see with their eyes, hear with their ears, understand with their hearts and turn, and I would heal them.’[a]
16 But blessed are your eyes because they see, and your ears because they hear. 17 For truly I tell you, many prophets and righteous people longed to see what you see but did not see it, and to hear what you hear but did not hear it.
18 “Listen then to what the parable of the sower means: 19 When anyone hears the message about the kingdom and does not understand it, the evil one comes and snatches away what was sown in their heart. This is the seed sown along the path.
20 The seed falling on rocky ground refers to someone who hears the word and at once receives it with joy. 21 But since they have no root, they last only a short time. When trouble or persecution comes because of the word, they quickly fall away.
22 The seed falling among the thorns refers to someone who hears the word, but the worries of this life and the deceitfulness of wealth choke the word, making it unfruitful.
23 But the seed falling on good soil refers to someone who hears the word and understands it. This is the one who produces a crop, yielding a hundred, sixty or thirty times what was sown.” – Matthew 13: 9-23
Ah, yes, these are the days when we have so many things to pray for, and yet we cannot utter even a single word because we don’t know where to start. I believe we’re all having those days now.
The truth is, I really, really have a lot to say about what is going on around us, but a promise to God is a promise to God. I will keep this blog a safe place for everyone. Because this blog aims to edify the church and to pray for those who are suffering. And that would be all of us; we are all suffering now.
I know a lot of us are asking, “Why do we have to experience all of these?” No, we are not a cursed generation. But our proper posture for times such as these is this:
“What must come to pass will come to pass, if it is the will of the Father.”
Let His will be done; He is and will always be in control. PRAY. ❤
Chorus
Christ is my firm foundation The rock on which I stand When everything around me is shaken I’ve never been more glad That I put my faith in Jesus ‘Cause He’s never let me down He’s faithful through generations So why would He fail now?
He won’t, He won’t
Chorus 2
I’ve still got joy in chaos I’ve got peace that makes no sense So I won’t be going under I’m not held by my own strength ‘Cause I’ve built my life on Jesus He’s never let me down He’s faithful in every season So why would He fail now?
He won’t, He won’t He won’t fail, He won’t fail
Chorus
Christ is my firm foundation The rock on which I stand When everything around me is shaken I’ve never been more glad That I put my faith in Jesus ‘Cause He’s never let me down He’s faithful through generations So why would He fail now?
He won’t, He won’t He won’t fail, He won’t fail
Bridge
Rain came and wind blew But my house was built on You I’m safe with You I’m gonna make it through
Yeah, I’m gonna make it through ‘Cause I’m standing strong on You
Yeah, I’m gonna make it through ‘Cause my house is built on You
Chorus
Christ is my firm foundation The rock on which I stand When everything around me is shaken I’ve never been more glad That I put my faith in Jesus ‘Cause He’s never let me down He’s faithful through generations So why would He fail now?
He won’t, He won’t He won’t fail, He won’t fail
He won’t
The Destruction of the Temple and Signs of the End Times
5 Some of his disciples were remarking about how the temple was adorned with beautiful stones and with gifts dedicated to God. But Jesus said, 6 “As for what you see here, the time will come when not one stone will be left on another; every one of them will be thrown down.”
7 “Teacher,” they asked, “when will these things happen? And what will be the sign that they are about to take place?”
8 He replied: “Watch out that you are not deceived. For many will come in my name, claiming, ‘I am he,’ and, ‘The time is near.’ Do not follow them. 9 When you hear of wars and uprisings, do not be frightened. These things must happen first, but the end will not come right away.”
10 Then he said to them: “Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. 11 There will be great earthquakes, famines and pestilences in various places, and fearful events and great signs from heaven.
12 “But before all this, they will seize you and persecute you. They will hand you over to synagogues and put you in prison, and you will be brought before kings and governors, and all on account of my name.
13 And so you will bear testimony to me. 14 But make up your mind not to worry beforehand how you will defend yourselves. 15 For I will give you words and wisdom that none of your adversaries will be able to resist or contradict.
16 You will be betrayed even by parents, brothers and sisters, relatives and friends, and they will put some of you to death. 17 Everyone will hate you because of me. 18 But not a hair of your head will perish. 19 Stand firm, and you will win life.
20 “When you see Jerusalem being surrounded by armies, you will know that its desolation is near. 21 Then let those who are in Judea flee to the mountains, let those in the city get out, and let those in the country not enter the city.
22 For this is the time of punishment in fulfillment of all that has been written. 23 How dreadful it will be in those days for pregnant women and nursing mothers! There will be great distress in the land and wrath against this people. 24 They will fall by the sword and will be taken as prisoners to all the nations. Jerusalem will be trampled on by the Gentiles until the times of the Gentiles are fulfilled.
25 “There will be signs in the sun, moon and stars. On the earth, nations will be in anguish and perplexity at the roaring and tossing of the sea. 26 People will faint from terror, apprehensive of what is coming on the world, for the heavenly bodies will be shaken.
27 At that time they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. 28 When these things begin to take place, stand up and lift up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.”
29 He told them this parable: “Look at the fig tree and all the trees. 30 When they sprout leaves, you can see for yourselves and know that summer is near. 31 Even so, when you see these things happening, you know that the kingdom of God is near.
32 “Truly I tell you, this generation will certainly not pass away until all these things have happened. 33 Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away.
34 “Be careful, or your hearts will be weighed down with carousing, drunkenness and the anxieties of life, and that day will close on you suddenly like a trap. 35 For it will come on all those who live on the face of the whole earth. 36 Be always on the watch, and pray that you may be able to escape all that is about to happen, and that you may be able to stand before the Son of Man.”
37 Each day Jesus was teaching at the temple, and each evening he went out to spend the night on the hill called the Mount of Olives, 38 and all the people came early in the morning to hear him at the temple. – Luke 21:5-38
P.S. If you are currently preparing for you and your family to get through all the crises we are going through now, I pray the following links might give you a holistic approach to surviving. 🙏
Are there dynamics around you that you just find it difficult to explain? These are relational conflicts that seem to be dysfunctional, and yet you couldn’t really figure out what they are or what’s causing them. I thought I’d shed light on a very popular topic now on social media when it comes to mental health – narcissism. And I just recently found out about the term “scapegoat.”
The information below is all AI-generated since I am not an expert on this topic. This article will be an exception since I promised this blog would be AI-free, though I have nothing against AI. I just want to continue developing my creativity and originality in all of my work. That’s why I don’t rely on AI when writing.
I reviewed AI’s references, and they came from reliable sources. I hope the information below will help raise awareness about narcissism and scapegoats.
“Then you will know that I am the Lord; those who hope in me will not be disappointed.” (Isaiah 49:23)
Narcissists choose a scapegoat primarily to protect their own fragile self-image, manage deep-seated shame, and maintain control over their environment. By projecting their negative traits, mistakes, and insecurities onto a designated “scapegoat,” they avoid taking responsibility for their own actions. [1, 2, 3, 4]
Here are the primary reasons why narcissists utilize a scapegoat, according to experts and survivors:
Projection: Narcissists cannot process shame or guilt, so they project these feelings onto someone else. The scapegoat becomes a “human dumping ground” for the narcissist’s self-loathing.
Preventing Collapse: The scapegoat protects the narcissist from “narcissistic collapse”—a total loss of their false, perfect self-image when faced with their actual faults. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]
2. Maintaining Control and Superiority
Shifting Blame: When things go wrong, the narcissist blames the scapegoat to avoid being exposed as wrong or flawed.
Creating a “Bad” Object: By ensuring one person is seen as the “bad” one, the narcissist feels more powerful, moral, and superior.
The “Golden Child” Contrast: Narcissists often use a twin-system of a “golden child” (who represents their perfect, admired self) and a “scapegoat” (who represents all the negative traits they refuse to acknowledge). [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]
3. Targeting Threatening Qualities
Contrary to popular belief, the scapegoat is often chosen because they possess qualities the narcissist subconsciously fears or envies. These targets are typically: [1, 2]
Empathetic and Emotional: Making them vulnerable to manipulation.
Independent and Assertive: People who are not easily controlled.
Truth-Tellers: The scapegoat often sees through the narcissist’s façade, making them a threat to the illusion.
Highly Competent: Intelligence or talent is perceived as a threat to the narcissist’s superiority. [1, 2]
Avoiding Self-Reflection: It is easier for a narcissist to blame another person than to do the difficult work of self-examination.
Needing Negative Supply: When they cannot get positive attention (admiration), they seek negative supply (the satisfaction of controlling and punishing someone). [1, 2]
If you are being scapegoated, it is rarely a reflection of your true character, but rather a reflection of the narcissist’s desperate need to control their own dysfunction, often beginning with their [family system]. [1, 2]
Delving Deeper On Narcissism And Scapegoats
In a narcissistic family system, the “scapegoat” is often the member who gets blamed for problems, criticized unfairly, or positioned as the cause of tension. That role isn’t about reality—it’s about maintaining the family’s emotional balance. So the question isn’t really what the scapegoat can “fix” in the family. It’s what they can do to protect themselves and regain agency.
Here are practical, grounded strategies:
1. Recognize the pattern (without internalizing it). In narcissistic dynamics, roles are rigid: the “golden child,” the “scapegoat,” the “enabler,” etc. The scapegoat often becomes the emotional outlet for unresolved conflict. Understanding that the role is systemic—not personal—helps reduce self-blame.
2. Set boundaries where possible. Boundaries can be emotional (“I won’t engage in insults”), behavioral (“I will leave if yelling starts”), or informational (limiting what you share). In unhealthy systems, boundaries may be resisted, so consistency matters more than persuasion.
3. Reduce emotional reactivity. Narcissistic dynamics often thrive on conflict. Techniques like the “gray rock” approach—responding calmly, briefly, and without emotional escalation—can reduce fuel for drama. This isn’t about suppressing yourself; it’s about protecting your energy.
4. Avoid trying to “prove” your worth to the system. Scapegoats often over-function—trying harder, achieving more, explaining more—to win fairness. But in a narcissistic system, fairness isn’t the goal; control is. Shifting from “How do I fix this?” to “How do I protect myself?” is crucial.
5. Build external support. Because the family system may distort reality, outside validation is important. Trusted friends, partners, mentors, support groups, or therapists can help ground your perception. Many scapegoats benefit from trauma-informed therapy, especially approaches that address family systems and complex emotional trauma.
6. Consider distance if needed. Sometimes limited contact or no contact becomes the healthiest option—especially if there is ongoing emotional, verbal, or physical abuse. Distance can reduce re-triggering and allow identity development outside the family role.
7. Work on identity outside the family narrative. Scapegoats are often told who they are for years. Rebuilding self-concept through hobbies, education, career, community, and values-based living helps counteract internalized messages.
8. Grieve the reality. One of the hardest parts is accepting that the family may not change. Grieving unmet needs (protection, fairness, acknowledgment) is not weakness—it’s psychological integration.
Strategies for Surviving Narcissism
Planning for independence from a narcissistic family isn’t just about moving out. It’s about building stability in three areas: money, support, and identity. The goal is to reduce reliance—emotionally and practically—so you can make decisions freely.
Here’s a structured way to approach it:
1. Stabilize Your Finances First
Independence is much easier when you’re not financially vulnerable.
Create a basic budget (income, essentials, savings).
Build an emergency fund—even a small one (start with 1–3 months of expenses if possible).
Open a bank account that only you control (if you don’t already have one).
Avoid shared financial commitments where possible.
If needed, look for side income, remote work, freelance work, or skill-based gigs.
If money is tight, independence may need to be gradual rather than immediate.
2. Secure Practical Logistics
Start thinking ahead about the basics:
Where you could realistically live (roommates, relatives, rentals).
Having control over documents is especially important. Keep them in a secure place accessible only to you.
3. Build Emotional and Social Support Outside the Family
Narcissistic systems often isolate scapegoats. Independence becomes harder without outside anchors.
Strengthen friendships that feel respectful and stable.
Consider therapy or support groups.
Build connections through work, school, volunteering, or hobbies.
Identify at least one person who understands your situation and can be a reality check.
You’re essentially replacing the family system with healthier support structures.
4. Develop Skills That Increase Self-Sufficiency
Independence is easier when you feel competent in daily life.
Cooking simple meals.
Managing a household budget.
Basic maintenance tasks.
Time management.
Conflict communication skills.
These reduce dependence and increase confidence.
5. Plan the Transition Strategically
If leaving immediately isn’t safe or feasible:
Avoid announcing plans too early if that would increase conflict.
Quietly prepare.
Set a timeline (even if flexible).
Gradually move belongings out if possible.
Have a backup plan in case tensions escalate.
Safety comes first—especially if there’s emotional manipulation, financial control, or threats involved.
6. Strengthen Psychological Boundaries
Even before physically leaving:
Stop explaining yourself excessively.
Reduce arguments that go nowhere.
Practice neutral responses.
Limit sharing personal goals with people who undermine you.
This reduces emotional entanglement.
7. Prepare for Guilt and Pushback
When scapegoats become independent, families often react strongly. That can include guilt-tripping, sudden “niceness,” blame, or attempts to pull you back into the role.
Expect it. Don’t interpret it as proof you’re wrong. It’s often a system reacting to change.
8. After Moving Out: Continue Building Autonomy
Independence isn’t only physical distance. Keep:
Financial boundaries.
Limited or structured contact if necessary.
Ongoing support outside the family.
Personal goals that define your life—not the family narrative.
If you feel you are being “scapegoated” by a narcissistic parent, a narcissistic sibling, or, as the articles have said, the entire system, I am praying this article helped you in one way or another with practical tips on how to survive and heal from any form of trauma you experienced from the abuse. Seek professional help once you recognize the need.
More importantly, have faith that God sees everything, and He will give you the right people, the right resources, as well as the right opportunity to get out of any unfavorable situation you are in right now. He will expose the truth in His perfect time, and you will be vindicated.
Here’s a video from Dr. David Jeremiah to give us a better understanding of the role of narcissism during the end times:
“Are we living in the last days? In this powerful Bible teaching, Dr. David Jeremiah breaks down 2 Timothy 3 and reveals why people are becoming more selfish, unloving, and morally broken.
This message explains: • The biblical signs of the end times • Why society feels like it’s getting worse • How sin affects every person and culture • The collapse of families and rise of narcissism • How Christians can live as light in a dark world.
You’ll also hear a powerful real-life redemption story that proves no one is beyond God’s grace. End Times Warning: 2 Timothy 3 Explained | Why People Are Getting Worse (Bible Prophecy)”
P.P.S. I am currently conducting research on individuals with passive-aggressive behavior because conflict resolution is very challenging with these people without them resorting to outbursts.
A Prayer Against Narcissism And Deliverance From Narcissistic Abuse
Dear Lord,
We humbly come before You in all our brokenness and our weaknesses. May this shadow of pain, fear, shame, and suffering be lifted from our hearts, minds, bodies, and souls. We release any form of emotional bondage that has tied us to the darkness of our past and even the present. Help us, Lord, to cling to You as our only source of hope despite the struggle.
Change us, purify us, sanctify us, oh Lord, believing that You are the only one who can make changes that we have prayed for ourselves and for the systems that we have been praying over. You are a witness to how societies have changed because of what goes on in all family dynamics. May You break the curse of any generational trauma that has been handed on from one generation after another that prevents us from experiencing complete freedom in You.
May Your grace be sufficient enough for us each day as we continue to fight our battles silently and yet courageously. May Your ears not fall deaf to our pleas for help, Lord, even as we wait for You to move on our behalf, in the Mighty Name of Jesus, AMEN.
Why do I have the feeling that April despised me? 😀 Nope, “April” here is not a person. It’s the month. Have you had those moments where there was just too much going on in a month, and you felt like you were supposed to experience all of them in a year? This month was that month for me.
Plans changed, and methinks it’s God’s will. I was supposed to go back to Manila this April, along with my fur boy, to visit his Dad. But with the energy crisis we’re facing now, I had to stall the visit to a much later date (still to be decided if an opportunity permits), and the same goes for my job applications.
And we had a lot of engagements and ongoing projects here at home, too. My Dad will be needing help to oversee the multiple project management tasks that my sister and I are currently juggling left and right.
Household management, for one, requires that we still do some of the tasks here at home on top of our other obligations. Our stay-out house help can’t do everything here at home because sweeping the yard takes 2 hours, and watering the plants in the garden takes 4 hours or even more, especially during summer.
And for the remaining 2 hours, she had to squeeze in cleaning the chicken cages and washing the dishes. We have 2 turtles, 7 chickens, 1 dog, 4 cats, and Dad, who all have specific needs, and my sister and I are sharing the responsibilities of taking care of them. Oh, and it’s palay harvest time, too.
I am not complaining, though. lol Mom didn’t raise us to be Disney princesses or princes. 😀 It’s actually quite the opposite – know the value and importance of hard work if you want to succeed in any endeavor. And do so excellently. We’re more likely to be candidates of burnout than laziness. lol
I am writing this article to praise God for everything. I have no reason to complain because He continues to supply me with the wisdom, the strength, the courage, the rest, the provisions, and the motivation to keep moving forward.
Some things may not have worked out the way I planned, but I still got to get a lot of important tasks done. What matters is doing God’s will more than mine. And even if I don’t see His reasons why, faith requires complete trust in Him who sees everything and who’s got everything under control.
Here we are still breathing despite how crazy this world has been lately with its many pressing issues. And some say things can get worse. But if you have read the book of Revelation, you wouldn’t be surprised at all. They say that if God wakes us up, it’s because we all still have an unfulfilled purpose.
And this is how I would end this article, because this is actually just “stolen time,” so I have something to post for April. My OC tendencies don’t like seeing a gap in my blogging calendar, so I try my best to post here whenever I can. 😀
In one of my Bible readings and quiet times, I came across this Bible verse, which actually best fits the article I wrote before this: “When The World Starts To Break, Resist Apostasy.” I felt like most of us are so close already to feeling this apostasy that the Bible is warning us about. And yet, this is God’s reminder for us all:
“And we desire each one of you to show the same earnestness to have the full assurance of hope until the end, so that you maynot be sluggish, but imitators of those who through faith and patience inherit the promises.” – Hebrews 6:11-12
P.S. I have quite a lot to share, but getting into details will require me to go on a writer’s seclusion. Unfortunately, circumstances won’t allow for it now. I hope the photos below will suffice.
P.P.S. Please don’t pray to have a life like mine, in case this blog made you think that my life is better. Pray instead that God will show you His purpose for your life. That’s how I got to appreciate mine despite the gravity of the calling. Seek God’s leading first and then obey. ❤
“Seek His will in all you do, and He will show you which path to take.” – Proverbs 3:6
“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 we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.” – Romans 8:28
“We praise You, Lord, because we are fearfully and wonderfully made; Your works are wonderful, we know that full well.” – Psalm 139:14
Ongoing Construction Means More Inflammation
With my orens catto inspector.My second sister’s bedroom / main house extension (designed mostly by Dad and my 3rd sister).
Cute Boy Catto’s Recovery
He got a UTI last March. I am closely monitoring his health now. 😦Early morning cuddle with Meowmy.Finley and my Bible – I think he’s planning on becoming a pastor catto one day.He loves to scratch my Bible I had to wrap it with a towelette.Ah yes, how to focus on tasks when you have a kuletong like this.Dozing off where he’s not supposed to doze off. lolThat’s my orens micromanager observing me from his office table. “Find me, Meowmy.”Thefluffy Finley who follows you around 24/7.
Other Pets Edition
Torti, our 20-year-old male turtle, now has a partner. Her name’s Donatella. 😀Dona’s temporary pen arranged by my sister before we release them in the garden.Her first egg with us, but I’m not sure if this will hatch.The Chick-os and The Chick-as3 Eggs from 3 Hens: Brown (Small), Light Brown (Medium), White (Medium)Praise God for the harvests. ❤ Itlog at Bilog Na Talong = Bilog Na Tortang Talong 😀
Prabens Home Cooking Using Ingredients From Ze Garden
Talong IlocanoDad’s favorite eggplant recipe – talong fritters.Paired with my favorite protein source – garbanzos and mushrooms sauteed in butter, onion, tomatoes, and garlic sprinkled with herbs.Kamias/Iba FeverGulay Na IbaAlways paired with marinated bangus.Fave ko na kawali – wok. Refreshing Iba DrinkPara ma-iba naman. lolAng side dish na sinasama sa kada kain.Fresh Ubod: Ako na ang nagbalat at naghiwa sa next batch kasi sumakit ang siko ni Dad. 😀I love eating this raw.Gulay Na Ubod Sa Gata
Farmer Mode On
The many sacrifices of a farmer. Let’s pray for the future of Philippine agriculture. 🙏Farmshionista – a-Php129 lang itong mga sapatos namin. 😀That high mountain is the Bulusan volcano.I can’t wait for this Palawan Cherry Blossom to grow bigger, so I can hug it. 😁May God take good care of everything that lives on this farm. 🙏I experimented with ChatGPT again and asked it to create a design of a hospice room inside our farm by giving a prompt with all the design details I previously made. AI captured the ideas almost perfectly. The comfort room is behind the medicine cabinet, and the door near the kitchen leads to a ramp for easy access when transferring a patient. I am praying this vision will come true, even if not in my lifetime. 🙏
Dad’s Pampering Sesh
My 86-year-old Dad, who’s diligent as ever with everything record-keeping. 🙂For Dad’s hand and foot spa before I cut his nails.I love giving massages more than getting massages. 😀 This is my special combo for Dad’s weekly 30-minute full-body massage: 80% Lavender Massage Oil + 20% Efficasce
Naunsyaming Lakwatsa Mode 😀
All my bags are packed I’m ready to go….….swimming sana sa Pasig condo pa-presko any time.Sa SM City Sorsogon nga lang napadpad. lol
In the article before this, I mentioned seeing the name Amos often. I realized that I’ve been a born-again Christian for 13 years, and yet I still have a lot to learn about the Bible.
One of them is about the prophet Amos. I did a little bit of digging on the internet, and this is what I’ve got:
It looks like God is calling us out to be an “Amos” in our own circles of influence. If we are experiencing the birth pains already, that means this is now the time for us to “double” the harvest. All the more that we have to be praying harder and proclaiming the Gospel without hesitation and with much conviction while dealing with and defeating our own demons.
I think it isn’t a coincidence that the word “remnant” keeps on appearing in my random Bible reading, too. I did my research again, and this is what I found:
I believe now is also the perfect time to have those hard conversations with your kids. Help them understand everything “bad” that they see on the news and on the internet, in light of the Scripture and who Jesus Christ is, what is salvation through Him, and the Second Coming. On our end, our goal is to plant the seed; it will be God who will let it grow.
Being a parent is a calling. Some parents might think that it is very difficult to be a parent nowadays. But take heart that God has equipped you with everything that you need to raise your children well, despite the uncertainties of the future and the chaos of the present.
Since we are also in a season of preparing for future calamities and other disasters, I think most of us have been forgetting one essential item in our Emergency Go Bags – a mini Bible. I almost forgot actually. 😀
This mini Bible might not be complete, but it’s better than not having any Bible at all in the Bug Out Bag, especially if we can’t use our cellphones anymore.
My late maternal grandma had a lot of Bibles in the cabinets of the room where she used to stay, which I am occupying now. I was able to sequester an old copy (even older than me) of the New Testament Bible before we cleaned up the cabinets (sorry, Mama, I badly need the space for my stuff, too; I hope you understand ❤ ).
I read in a survival manual that even if you are trained with all the right survival skills, if your willpower wanes, these skills will become useless, and you have a very slim chance of surviving alone in the wild. Yes, it’s good that we are equipped with the right survival skills and tools, but Scripture says spiritual training is even better.
“Physical training is good, but training for godliness is much better, promising benefits in this life and in the life to come.” – 1 Timothy 4:8
Right now, I am seeing the enemy attacking what is very close to us and to our hearts – loved ones and families. And he will use our greatest weakness.
All the more that we have to make a public declaration of our faith again and again, because we just refuse to be silenced. Now is definitely not the right time to go quiet when persecution becomes louder and tougher.
Even if the enemy uses those that we value so much, we won’t turn back on our faith until it is God’s time for us to go. And our ultimate goal is for loved ones and for more families to accept Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior.
Nothing else matters except that. And yet, we do everything with love (a powerful reminder to me).
The Hill(2023)
I guess it isn’t a coincidence that all the recent events that took place are all pointing to the family, which also includes this movie that I stumbled upon on Netflix. I was browsing on Netflix a couple of days ago, just skimming through the one-line synopses of several movies for how many minutes already.
I couldn’t decide what to watch until I was led to this movie. This is a highly recommended movie, by the way, perfect for a family’s bonding moment over the weekend. ❤
After watching it, I had 2 questions regarding the movie:
1. Is Pastor Hill the one who is preventing God’s will from being fulfilled in Rickey’s life?
2. Or is it all part of God’s plans, sort of God’s protection and way of refining characters, so Rickey can accomplish his God-given mission?
“But mark this: There will be terrible times in the last days. People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, without love, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not lovers of the good, treacherous, rash, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God – having a form of godliness but denying its power. Have nothing to do with such people.” – 2 Timothy 3:1-5
It looks like there is only one thing God is asking us to do, even if things around us worsen: persevere. And that we must do. Even if I lose a lot here on earth, and I am not expecting they will be restored in my lifetime either, it’s okay. Because what I have lost and will be losing here is nothing compared to what I will gain in Heaven. I pray this is the hope that you cling to every day, too. 🙂
“However, I consider my life worth nothing to me; my only aim is to finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me—the task of testifying to the good news of God’s grace.” – Acts 20:24
It is often very easy to be caught up in the ways of the world that we fail to see the change, and yet other people can notice that we are slowly drifting apart from our faith because the world now governs our choices, even in our relationships with others. I stumbled upon one quotation on Facebook that says, “People will not remember you for your achievements, but for how you made them feel.” My prayer is that pride won’t take root in any of us, especially when we are surrounded by the comforts and conveniences this world offers, and we are at the peak of our successes. May we not depart from the reminder that it was God who made it all happen; we are merely receiving His grace.
CTTO
I was also never given the opportunity to raise my own family, but the set of rules above would’ve been among the templates for our moral compass, along with the Bible. 🙂
“These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up”. – Deuteronomy 6:6-7
P.S.
I am praying I won’t end up as someone na hindi marunong mag-regulate ng emotions at ibe-blame ang ibang tao as their triggers at sa mga responses nila. And yes, I know kung ano ang pakiramdam na walking on eggshells ka. Na hindi mo alam kung may nagawa ka bang masama o may nasabi kang hindi maganda bakit bigla na lang naging ganito ang treatment sa’yo ng tao. And kailangan mo pag-isipan ng maigi ang mga sasabihin mo kasi hindi mo alam ano ang makaka-trigger ng galit nila. And yes, it is also best to live with someone for at least a year, doon mo talaga mate-test ang totoong character ng isang tao. So if I retreat, that is because I am avoiding conversations that will affect my peace of mind and not because I am being dramatic. I also avoid conversations na puro gossip at buhay ng ibang tao ang pinaguusapan, and I have very low tolerance for energy vampires, those who complain often without any proposed solutions, and those who make an argument out of everything. And yes, Bipolar Disorder runs in families.Btw, until now hindi ko pa din ma-pronounce ng maayos surname ni Dok. Minsan nagiging Dr. Kangaroo. Peace, Dok. Sana hindi nya ito mabasa. lol Pero andami kong natutunan kay Doc Kilimanguru kaya really thankful na nag-pop up sya sa newsfeed ko. 😀
P.P.S.
To quote the late Emman Atienza, “Be a little kind to everyone.” Sabi naman ni Jesus, “love one another as I have loved you” and “love your enemies.” Worth it ba isakripisyo ang mental health para lang mahalin ang mga taong mahirap mahalin? Napakahirap na every day lagi kang fight or flight mode noh. Hindi mo alam kung kakayanin ba ng katawan mo ang cortisol na niri-release nya dahil palagi kang defensive. Napakahirap talaga, Lord. Pramis. Pero huhugot at huhugot pa din ng lakas from You hangga’t kaya. And if you have survived something like this for how many years or most of your life, that is definitely God’s saving grace through Jesus Christ when you accepted Him as your Lord and Savior. Because honestly, we just couldn’t survive on our own. ❤
I was compelled to write this article today while the ideas are still fresh in my mind and relevant to what is happening around us lately. If you’re wondering why I chose this topic to write about at the start of the year, events led me to make one fascinating discovery after another.
Why Now, Mt. Mayon?
If you’ve read the article before this, I mentioned the numbers 888, which, in Biblical numerology, represent a fresh start and Jesus’ resurrection. I just didn’t expect that personally, the fresh start would be painful, although not as painful, since I had seen it coming. I think it isn’t a coincidence that Mt. Mayon also started erupting again. And yet Mayon is the only creation I know that remains admirable even in her fury.
Last year, I was able to check one item on my bucket list, which is to get as close to Mt. Mayon as possible. I believe it isn’t a coincidence, too, that the Grab driver in Legazpi City who fetched us while we were having the new tires of our car aligned shared with us out of the blue about the quarrying projects in Mt. Mayon.
He said it’s easy and more money for the local government. I just had no idea of the extent of these quarrying sites, and I was able to see one during the ATV ride going up to Mt. Mayon (jump to 4:16 in this video).
Since January 6, 2026, the lava flows on Mt. Mayon have continued, and the gullies have widened and deepened with each pyroclastic flow, according to experts. I think the Albay government is already considering extending the 6-km permanent danger zone if alert level 4 is raised over Mt. Mayon. Given the unpredictable weather patterns that we are experiencing now, which are expected to worsen as we are in a climate emergency, heavy rainfall will pose a major threat to the communities near Mt. Mayon.
Beauty In Ashes
Quarrying plays a vital role in the construction industry as well as in creating local employment, but it also destroys the natural habitat. I hope the quarry sites were assessed properly before the start of the project, making sure each quarry site won’t contribute to biodiversity loss. Quarrying also changes the topography of the area, making the soil unstable and prone to soil erosion and surface water runoff.
Now that the gullies are wider and deeper, and combined with the high volume of rainwater coming from the mountain, lahar flows will be the bigger problem. I am hoping and praying that the local government will double its reforestation and rehabilitation efforts at the foot of the volcano to increase natural barriers and make the soil more compact as more roots grow.
Local legend has it that when Mt. Mayon erupts, Pagtuga is disturbing Daragang Magayon. I can hear myself telling her, “Tahan na, Mayon. When all of this is over, we will be refined. As experts say, through subsequent healing, your cone will be new again – perfect as ever. God will rebuild what was damaged, He will restore what we’ve lost. You will be back in your original beauty and will continue to be a spectacle.”
But for now, there will be a battle. We are going through a battle of some sort. Mine is a spiritual warfare – letting go of what God is asking me to let go. Because there’s a part of me that is resisting, and yet God was saying, it is about time – be firm and keep the faith.
ChatGPT Warrior
I wanted ChatGPT to come up with an image I have visualized, which best describes the season I am in, and it is an image of a woman warrior dressed up in a full body armor similar to knights in the Medieval Ages, or more like Joan of Arc. I initially asked ChatGPT to come up with a video.
I made a prompt with the complete details of the video concept showing a woman warrior in battle, but she’s exhausted. She kneeled and, with bowed head and sword lowered to the ground, she whispered, “I am tired, I cannot keep up with this fight.”
Then an angel appeared, kneeled down beside her, whispered something in the warrior’s ear, and left. The warrior stood up, and with an even fiercer stance, charged towards her enemies and let out a battlecry – Jehovah Nissi.
Unfortunately, ChatGPT is unable to generate a video but recommended an app. So I asked ChatGPT to create an avatar in my likeness instead, dressed up as a female knight, and I uploaded a smiling photo of mine. I was so amused when ChatGPT generated an image of a cute warrior instead. lol
So I asked ChatGPT again to recreate the image and change it to a warrior in the middle of a fighting scene. The image generated was a smiling warrior while in battle. How I wish I could still smile while fighting with all the strength I could muster. 😀
Ang gondo naman ng warrior na ito, sana ganito itsura ng anak ko kung magkakaanak pa ako. lol
I then requested another edit, and this time ChatGPT got the right facial expression. I would like to applaud ChatGPT, though, for capturing my flat nose perfectly – it’s my most prized asset, just in case some of you don’t know yet. lol
I do wish this image would be used as an avatar in a role-playing game similar to Assassin’s Creed and combined with Rurouni Kenshin’s sword-fighting techniques. Methinks it would be an awesome game. And I will name this warrior “Caden.” 🙂
Ah yes, I am so in love with my flat nose. It’s so cute, right?GGSS lang ang peg, saree. ahaha 😀
Seriously, I am in a spiritual battle, and I know why – no fellowship, no physical church, less quiet time, no actual Bible reading – all because I am becoming like Martha at home, God’s reminder that spiritual devotion is more important than busyness. I am also isolated, which makes me more vulnerable to the enemy’s attacks.
I decided to cut back on some tasks and randomly opened my Bible and stumbled upon the book of Numbers about offerings. When I read the chapters, none of them made sense to me, and to what I was currently going through.
Then I thought maybe it is about time I start watching the Morning Worship and Prayer at Victory Philippines on YouTube again regularly. I guess it was the Spirit’s tugging, because the message for January 22 was about the Feast of Tabernacles. I remembered reading it earlier in the Bible.
I opened my Bible again and read through the bookmarked page, and that’s when I realized why I was brought to the verses about the Offerings for the Feast of Booths – the Feast of Tabernacles is also called the Feast of Booths. This prompted me to do my research on what the feast is all about. It commemorates Israel’s release from 40 years of captivity.
I just turned 40 in December of last year, and the start of 2026, for me, was also a liberation of some sort. I’m sure that this isn’t a coincidence. The numbers 888 I mentioned in this article signified not just a new start, but also a resurrection.
And the receipt that was mistakenly dated to October 21, which I thought was referring to the birthday of this blog, because I was relating it to the past, also made me think that it might be referring to an event in the future as well. Some say that Jesus’ birthday actually falls during the Feast of Tabernacles, but there is just not enough data to prove this.
I also found out that the Feast of Tabernacles refers to Jesus Christ’s Second Coming. And I just want to share an experience I had during the recent typhoon Ada. News reports said that it’s not going to make landfall, but it will come near the land mass of the Bicol region, especially Southern Bicol, which includes our town.
We didn’t receive any NDRRMC updates of a rainfall warning or very strong winds. But around 2am of January 19, I woke up to the sound of very strong winds and a blowing horn. I thought it was the howling winds, but no, this was different. I can tell the sound of a howling wind during a very strong typhoon since our town is frequented by very strong typhoons.
I went outside to check on the chicken coops and made sure their covers were still intact. And there went the sound again as if someone was blowing a trumpet, similar to the sound of a ship’s horn. I went back to bed and thought that maybe there’s a ship docked near our port since we are a coastal town. But then again, at around 2am? The port is already closed during this time.
It was also the first time I heard it, and I never heard it again. It looked like I was given a first-hand experience of what we could possibly hear when Jesus starts descending during the Second Coming. 😀 Or if it signifies the start of battle, then maybe God is building an army, a huge one. If this article resonates with you, maybe you are among God’s warriors being called out to lift His banner high.
Padayon, Padagos, Paraoma
The Feast of Tabernacles also included a celebration after the agricultural harvest. For last year’s wet season, we harvested on October 23 in one of our rice fields. This rice field is located inside a farm, an agricultural property that’s been passed on from one generation to another, starting from our maternal great-grandparents.
Though we no longer grew up on the farm, we felt like we were still called to be keepers of that property, tend it, develop it, and utilize it according to God’s will and plans. Unfortunately, the income generated from last season’s harvest hit an all-time low, prompting me to ask Dad if we should still continue with palay production or not.
Hi, Daddy! I am taking a photo of you, errr, your back. 😀
We are among the micro agribusinesses that comprise the 2.9 million palay/rice farmers who feed this country. It wouldn’t create a dent in the rice production numbers if we stopped farming, and yet Dad’s answer was that if none of the other rice farmers stop, we will continue regardless of whether we hit an all-time low or not.
Padayon, padagos (move forward), even if my siblings and I feel like it’s a losing battle – the farmers are just not making enough profit from their produce. I was apprehensive, I had my doubts, my worries piled up, and I think God felt my need for an assurance.
When God Watches Over
Because right after we harvested the palay and we were waiting for the sacks of palay to be transported to the buyer’s warehouse, I went out to walk on the rice paddies. When I looked up, I witnessed this particularly interesting and beautiful cloud formation. I have never seen anything like it in my entire life.
And after I took the photo, I zoomed it in, and I can see an outline of a face or a creature, sort of like looking down on me peering through the clouds, which is why the clouds were somehow parted in the middle. Or it’s just my very imaginative mind working. lol But what do you think?
This farm is under God’s care, supervision, and protection, and no weapon formed against it will prosper in Jesus’ Name. ❤ This is a raw and unedited image, by the way. I only added my watermark.
The message from God was crystal clear, though – “I am with you always.” I have also been seeing perfect rainbows lately, similar to what I saw in Albay back in 2020, along with these promises:
“The rainbow that I have put in the sky will be my sign to you and to every living creature on earth. It will remind you that I will keep this promise forever.” – Genesis 9:12-13
“What’s more, I am with you, and I will protect you wherever you go. One day I will bring you back to this land. I will not leave you until I have finished giving you everything I have promised you.” – Genesis 28:15
Tending the Old Earth To Usher The New Earth
Going back to the Feast of Tabernacles, there’s also a mention of the new heaven and the new earth. My family and I have been planting new coconuts, fruiting plants, and flowering trees in this farm. My siblings and I also plan to add fruit-bearing trees that no one would eat because they’re too sour, etc., to discourage trespassing inside the farm, since we don’t have a caretaker yet. But these fruit trees will be a perfect addition to the food web of the wildlife inside the farm.
We also discussed the possibility of partnering with an investor (whoever God will give us) who will help us utilize the property on one condition – environmental conservation will be at the heart of the mission. God placed Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden to tend and care for it. Unfortunately, man has now altered so much of what nature has, or had.
Do you see the coconuts on the left side? That’s the slope where I had the vision to integrate the hospice I was talking about in this article: https://thejourneymansmoments.wordpress.com/2023/12/27/not-just-an-advocacy-but-a-higher-calling/. If you’re standing on that slope, the overlooking view is biophilia at its best. 🙂3-Year-Old Fire TreePalawan Cherry Blossom (before the typhoons)3-Year-Old PCBPalawan Cherry Blossom (w/ cracks after the typhoons)Farm GateGerolao-Ginete FamilyCoprahan/Niyugan HouseOyango Creek / NIA DamThe PondThe not-so-hidden Japanese tunnel.Bamboo to Mango: I will bend, but I will not break. Says our faith, too. 🙂
I’m currently experimenting with different sustainable planting solutions in our garden.
I traded the hands in this article for the hand below. And yet I have no regrets because the hand below accomplished more in terms of purposeful and meaningful work.
As a poultry keeper, I also traded the photo on the left below for the photo on the right. I am not sure if you get the connection, but if you do, please refrain from commenting about it. It’s our dirty (literally), little secret. lol 😀
Thanks to my siblings for these lovely gifts. ❤This is an AI-generated image.
Kidding aside, let’s wrap this article up. After reading this article, some of you might diagnose me as someone who is depressed, a narcissist, has Bipolar Disorder, has anxiety, has ADHD, has Autism, or even delusional. And I will not be mad at you because it might be true that I could have all of them. But they are just labels. I know who I am in Christ, and that’s what matters. 🙂
(You may want to read this article about discovering your identity in Jesus Christ: “Sentimental: Who Am I?”)
Thus, I will continue to share the message if that is my calling, and those called by God to also get the message will know what the message is. This is also why I keep on asking God why, why choose underqualified people, people that society sees as not normal, or do not fit in with the standards of this world, to deliver His message to the world?
Who will I be anointing? 😀 You may read more about the Spikenard Magdalena Perfume and the Anointing Oil in the “Mary Magdalene” hyperlinks below.
I got the message – just like Mary Magdalene, who was possessed by 7 demons, we are the kind of people who need God’s saving grace more for us to be delivered from the afflictions that we go through. Most of them, as I have mentioned above, are battles unseen. And yet when we overcome them all by faith and with the proper support, ours is a great testimony of what Jesus did on the Cross, and God’s glory, authority, and power over all creation.
Just like Mary Magdalene, it would be an honor and a great privilege, too, to be the first to witness the unfolding of Jesus Christ’s Second Coming and to celebrate the news that He is finally here with us for all eternity – it will truly be a spectacle. ❤
Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” – John 14:6
I can’t help but mention my cute, flat nose again in this photo. lol
Pangadyi Para Sa Paraoma
I will be ending this article with a prayer, which will be entitled “Pangadyi Para Sa Paraoma (A Prayer for the Farmers)”. Why the farmers? I feel like the Spirit is leading us to pray fervently for farmers as we encounter more environmental challenges and geopolitical tensions in the coming years, and food security will be one of the pressing issues that every nation all over the world will be tackling.
Why in Bikol? I kind of miss my maternal grandma and how she would always pray in the vernacular (Bikol-Albay) – she lived for a couple of years (half of her life, if I’m not mistaken) in Daraga. Her father, my great-grandfather (a former Protestant pastor), was also born in Bacacay, Albay.
There’s something very heartfelt in her prayers, even though I can only understand a couple of them. If I am to pray like her, I can only utter a line that goes “Ini po Kagurangnan an samuyang pamibi ngunyan…” and I don’t know how to continue that prayer because my Bikol-Albay vocabulary is very limited. Or maybe it’s Bikol-Naga (Central Bikol)? Libong much. lol Any Albayano out there who can help me out? 😀
Let’s pray for the safety of everyone in Albay who will be affected by the ongoing activity of Mt. Mayon. ❤
Here’s the Bikol-Bulan version of the prayer for the farmers:
“Pangadyi Para Sa Paraoma”
“Amang Kagurangnan, nagrarani kami saimo para sa intero na paraoma na nagpapadagos sa pagtanom sa butnga san mga kalamidad nan distroso na indadara sadi sa mga pananom. Naiimod namo an pagtios san kada paraoma para lang makatanom nan makaani para sa kakaunon nan ikakaayad san bilog na komunidad. Sa mga masunod na taon, hatagan mo tabi kami sin dunong kun pan-o masolusyunan an nagdadaghan na problema san saamo kapalibutan, nyan sin kusog san lawas nyan san boot para magpadagos lalo na sa panahon sin kaperwisyuhan. Inpapangadyi namo ini sa ngaran ni Hesu Kristo, Amen.”
My handwritten (cursive) version on a 2020 journal that I will be using just now. 😀
P.S.
I stumbled upon this playlist on YouTube, and it summarizes my faith for the start of 2026. ❤
P.P.S.
Since I just turned 40 last year, I am also praying for deliverance from another generational curse. I have been praying hard that our generation and the future generations be healed from this in Jesus’ Name, since genetics plays a huge role. Though we are not dismissing environmental factors and lifestyle choices. Kami na sana ang huling henerasyon na makakaranas nito sa pamamagitan ng dalangin at mga praktikal and medikal na solusyon galing sa mga eksperto.
Experts recommend a yearly mammogram to monitor any cancer cell growth, given a family’s breast cancer history, such as ours (both sides of our parents). Ah, yes, it will truly be a miracle if none of us (my siblings and I) have it. And yet, let God’s will be done. At age 40, I have nothing more to ask. God already gave me more than I asked for, and I am ready to go any time. My prayers now come down to 2 choices: let nature run its own course or allow Science to intervene should I have cancer. 🙂
Was there a time in your life when you opted to break a family tradition? It could be because you decided it is for the best that you remove it, or you had to stall following that tradition for the time being.
We had to do the latter and skipped putting up the Christmas tree and decorations from 2023 until 2024. For 2023, it was the first Christmas without Mom, as she passed away in August of that year. We also did not set up the Christmas tree last year because our town was one of the areas here in Bicol hit by Tropical Storm Kristine, leaving extensive damage in the entire region.
By the way, we always celebrated Christmas and New Year here at home ever since I was a kid because Mom was never fond of traveling, we wanted to avoid all the Christmas rush, and she was a true-blue homebody like me. It then became a family tradition to decorate the house during the holidays, which eventually became a family bonding activity, too, that my siblings and I always look forward to every year.
Christmas 2025
The Christmas tree has stood witness to stories of all kinds. But the most memorable is definitely the one where there was a Savior born in a manger. ❤
It’s a good thing we were able to finish a lot of errands (so we can focus on decorating the house unhurried), from getting the palay seeds for the next planting season, following up on some legal matters, to having Dad’s yearly blood work, including a visit to the ophthalmologist just to name a few. For the last errand, it was a last-minute decision to have his eyes checked at Chacon General Hospital & Eye Clinic because he was complaining of eye irritation.
Thanks, Kuya, for capturing this shot. 🙂
After we’re done with his eye checkup, we bought him a new cane because his old one was already brittle. I think I entered a time machine, though, when I went inside Metro Health Clinic to buy his cane. Because when I looked at the receipt that the pharmacy gave me, it was dated October 21, when it’s supposed to be December 6. lol It got me thinking, what happened last October 21? Only to realize that October 21 was the birthday of this blog. 😀
And speaking of receipts, the serial number in Dr. Chacon’s receipt also has the number of Jesus Christ – 888. Though I advise with caution those who will study Biblical numerology because there’s a tendency that it might lead you to divination, which the Bible strictly prohibits. Going back to 888, there are Biblical references that attribute it to a new creation, new beginnings, and the resurrection.
I always believe that things happen for a reason and not because of coincidence. The number 888, the resurrection, and the title of this article, which is about revival, all fall perfectly in place. Speaking of revival, aside from the “revival” of the Christmas decorations, we are also reviving Mom and Dad’s old phonograph, which they bought during the 1970s. I’ve never tried playing this when I was young; that’s why I was so overjoyed to finally have the privilege to play it now, and it still works! For how long, that we really don’t know. And the sound quality is not that excellent anymore.
There’s something about raw music that brings nostalgia at its best. Even the crackling noise of the speaker becomes part of the music.There’s something wrong with the speed adjuster of the turntable,though, so the music doesn’t sound like the original anymore. 😀
I am also reviving Mom’s old phone because there was a bug in the recent iOS update, and my phone’s screen just froze. So, I will be using Mom’s Nokia in the meantime while I am waiting for the new update. I missed this phone, though. I feel like I am having a mental declutter when I use it because it only has the basic features of a phone, just in time to do social media fasting in preparation for the holidays.
Speaking of social media, there are two Facebook pages that I recently followed on Facebook, which I find particularly interesting. They are Jam’s Germs and Bible Creation. Jam’s Germs is all about the microscopic world, and I don’t know how it got included in my Facebook algorithm. Maybe I was a tardigrade in my past life? lol One weird fact about me is that I never held a microscope in my entire life, and I was somehow wishing a couple of months back to have a glimpse of what it’s like to work in a lab if you’re a scientist.
It looks like God granted my wish. Through this Facebook page, I got to take a peek at the fascinating world of microorganisms and how they seem to be so otherworldly. As if they don’t coexist with us. By the way, I was also wondering how scientists flirt with their partners if they are both scientists. I can imagine their convo going something like: “Hey, love, let’s create a new cell – my cells and yours combined.” 😀
Okay, enough with the tardigrades, and let’s go now to the other Facebook page I mentioned earlier, before scientists start hating me. lol The name of the Facebook page is Bible Creation, and I am not sure who runs the page. But the authors did a very good job in combining science and faith through storytelling.
Sadly, I would have to cut this storytelling of mine short because it is time for me to get my much-needed rest for the day. And Mom will surely haunt me tonight for posting these photos and sharing about our family tradition. lol
I just want to share the message that family traditions don’t have to die, too, when a loved one passes away. In fact, it should be the other way around. We keep these traditions in memory of them. ❤
During Christmas Day, I always find this necklace inside a sock that Mom would hang on our main door’s knob. She would always tease me that Santa had left a gift. But she will take the necklace back the next day. lol That went on until I became a teenager, and then I could wear it any time. This is to make sure I wouldn’t lose this necklace. 😀
This will always be one of my fondest memories of Christmas Day – the necklace with the blue pendant inside a sock hanging on a doorknob (now, a door handle). ❤
I believe the following Bible verses are the perfect ending to this article about revival:
A Time for Everything (Ecclesiastes 3:1-8)
“There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens:
2 a time to be born and a time to die, a time to plant and a time to uproot, 3 a time to kill and a time to heal, a time to tear down and a time to build, 4 a time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance, 5 a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them, a time to embrace and a time to refrain from embracing, 6 a time to search and a time to give up, a time to keep and a time to throw away, 7 a time to tear and a time to mend, a time to be silent and a time to speak, 8 a time to love and a time to hate, a time for war and a time for peace.”
P.S. We miss you, Mommy. We know you’re happy because the house is well decorated again for the holidays. 😀 ❤
P.P.S. Our house, by the way, is about 50 years old already, and the Christmas decorations, including the Christmas tree, are around 20-30 years old, too. Some of the decorations were already brittle they had to be glued so we could still use them. lol
I decorated our condo’s terrace door with these curtain lights in 2020 when we couldn’t come to Bulan due to COVID-19.
These curtain lights now found their way to Bulan and blended perfectly with the Christmas stockings. Thank you, Kuya and Heather, for this photo and for helping me and Ate Boden decorate. 🙂 ❤
These photos may look beautiful, but we are actually dealing with a lot of wear and tear issues already with the house, which we plan to open to the public in the future, God willing, as a bed and breakfast. We’ve had visitors (even strangers) in the past who would take a photo of our house because they find it beautiful. So we thought, why not share the joy this house brings to the world? 😀
This house is Mom and Dad’s greatest achievement as a couple, slowly built over the past 40 years. They both designed this house with the help of an architect, and we have seen how the house transformed from being bare to becoming a masterpiece and a work of art. My siblings also contributed to the transformation, mostly with the interior design.
This house holds many memories and stories to tell, but it could someday come to ruin. But if it is still standing right now, it is because of its foundation – God. 🙂
It’s that time of year again when everybody will be busy – I am always busy, though. 😀 But because I feel the “tugging” to update this blog, I am writing this article even though I am physically exhausted. When I am too tired, it’s just hard for me to tap into the creative part of my brain.
Before we all get caught up with the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, I thought I’d share with you a song that I feel should be the “anthem” for this month. I first heard it last year, sang during the youth service of a church beside my apartment. The song is entitled “Praise” by Elevation Worship.
PRAISE (feat. Brandon Lake, Chris Brown & Chandler Moore) | Elevation Worship
Let’s clap, one, two, hey Oh, yeah
Let everything That has breath Praise the Lord (you got it) Praise the Lord Let everything (let everything) (Hey) that has breath (Hey) praise the Lord (Hey) praise the Lord
I’ll praise in the valley Praise on the mountain (yeah) I’ll praise when I’m sure And praise when I’m doubting (yes, sir)
I’ll praise when outnumbered Praise when surrounded ‘Cause praise is the water My enemies drown in
As long as I’m breathing I’ve got a reason to
Praise the Lord Oh, my soul (c’mon) Praise the Lord Oh, my soul (hey)
I’ll praise when I feel it And I’ll praise when I don’t I’ll praise ’cause I know You’re still in control
Because my praise is a weapon It’s more than a sound (more than a sound) Oh, my praise is the shout That brings Jericho down (oh)
As long as I’m breathing I’ve got a reason to
Praise the Lord (c’mon) Oh, my soul (So I’m gonna) praise the Lord Oh, my soul (oh)
I won’t be quiet, my God is alive So how could I keep it inside? Praise the Lord Oh, my soul (Praise the Lord)
Come on, let me see that dance Put a dance on it tonight If you’re grateful Come on, aye, aye (eh)
I’ll praise ’cause You’re sovereign Praise ’cause You reign Praise ’cause You rose and defeated the grave I’ll praise ’cause You’re faithful Praise ’cause You’re true Praise ’cause there’s nobody greater than You, I’ll praise
I’ll praise ’cause You’re sovereign (You reign) praise ’cause You reign Praise ’cause You rose and defeated the grave
I’ll praise ’cause You’re faithful Praise ’cause You’re true Praise ’cause there’s nobody greater than You
Praise the Lord Oh, my soul (come on, come on, come on, come on) I gotta praise the Lord Oh, my soul
Praise the Lord Oh, my soul (yes, my Lord) Praise the Lord Oh, my soul
I won’t be quiet, my God is alive How could I keep it inside? (Oh, I won’t be quiet)
I won’t be quiet (my God) My God is alive (how could I?) How could I keep it inside? (Oh, I won’t be quiet)
I won’t be quiet, my God is alive How could I keep it inside?
praise the Lord Oh, my soul
Let everything That has breath Hey, hey (praise the Lord) Hey, hey (praise the Lord)
Let everything (let everything) Come on, come on (that has breath) Come on, come on (praise the Lord) Come on, come on (praise the Lord)
Let everything (let everything) If you got breath in your body (that has breath) If you got breath in your body (praise the Lord) Praise the Lord, come on (praise the Lord)
Let everything (let everything) That has breath (that has breath) Praise the Lord (praise the Lord) What? (Praise the Lord)
A busking rendition of it also appeared on my Facebook news feed as performed by Ms. Kate Torres, who’s also an Autism advocate. Please do check out and follow her page through this link: https://www.facebook.com/katetorrestv/about. I am praying she’ll include Bicol in her future live performances. I’ll definitely be in all of them, even as far as Catanduanes. 😀
I love busking so much (playing the guitar is also my favorite hobby) because it is raw and simple music, highlighting only the artist’s voice and the musical instrument. I find this type of music very calming, uplifting, and soulful.
It is also my prayer that worship busking will become a regular, not just inside the malls, but also in parks, offices, hospitals, and just literally EVERYWHERE. Here are some of her Facebook videos and reels performing live in my favorite hangout place in Manila – BGC. Because BGC is near our condo, and there are a lot of music artists busking there. 😀
Tama ang sa Bible verse na, “For where two or three gather together as my followers, I am there among them.” – Matthew 18:20
I also encourage you to make this your dance number at your Christmas parties. 😉 You can check out the dance videos below for inspiration.
The energy in this first video reminds me of my spiritual journey in Victory GT Toyota and Victory Katipunan – churches near the Ateneo de Manila University and my alma mater, the University of the Philippines (Diliman) – from 2013 to 2018. I was a young professional back then, and being in a congregation of jumping worshippers composed mostly of students (youth service) during praise and worship is contagious. I am not that expressive when singing worship songs, but with an ecstatic crowd, you can’t help but join in the fun. 😀
I am not promoting any church, by the way, because I actually came from a family with diverse religions. For me, as long as the center of the church is Christ and you are spiritually growing, be in that church.
This second dance video has more complicated footwork and hand movements, but still not too difficult to execute.
And this third video is for “Zumba Titas,” me included. 😀
I would have to skip videos #1 and #2 because all the jumping is so “makulog” sa aking likod. 😆😆😆
In case you didn’t notice, I used 3 languages here – English, Bicol, and Filipino respectively.
If I have a kid, he’d most likely go, Moooooom, you’re speaking “chop suey” language again?!?!?!
Well, sweetheart, that’s the advantage of having a Mom who’s a Bicolana, a Filipina, and an English Studies major. How about you? Can you try the “pinakbet” language, too? Kay yaadi ka sa Bulan, mag-Bikol ka. 😆
Seriously, though, I don’t encourage using this kind of language. When I was a student in UP Diliman, there was a particular department notorious for using this “conyo” language (it’s from the College of Science 😁). I observed that culturally it represents the language of the elite, though I can’t really pinpoint how. I guess it’s similar to how branded clothes, muscle cars, or pets with specific breeds become a form of status symbol. I support the “Adopt, Don’t Shop” advocacy, by the way. It just so happens that my husband gave me a ginger Exotic British Shorthair as a surprise gift.
Society’s norms dictate that if you have these things, then you are now culturally accepted as “can afford” or “maykaya,” especially when you live in the province. Some of our English professors describe the “conyo” language as a totalabuse of both the English and the Filipino languages because it awkwardly breaks your sentences into fragments, making it difficult for your listeners to process and understand. So in our department, this language sort of became an object of sarcasm and was made into a joke.
But now, when I hear people talk or write using this language, I have to remind myself that “to each his own.” And that, as a born-again Christian, these prejudices should no longer dominate my relationships with other people. This means I will no longer make fun of the “conyo” language, but you won’t hear me using this language either. Unless…um…never mind. 😁
To end this article, AI can create music, poems, and visual art. But AI can’t replicate the collective experience that you’d get when artists and creatives come together. It’s just plain mesmerizing and at the same time overwhelming when you are physically rejoicing and celebrating with the body of Christ. Ramdam na ramdam mo ang presensya ni Lord. I guess that is the power of fellowship as expressed through praise and worship.
I believe this song is just right for the season – let’s praise the Lord because we survived 2025, and here we are still hoping AND giving hope moving forward. ❤
“Sing to Him, sing praises to Him; tell of all His wondrous works!” – Psalm 105:2
P.S. I am posting several versions of this song because I want it to be your last song syndrome for a month. lol Because God indeed deserves all our praise for sending His son, Jesus Christ, so man can be saved – this should be the only reason for celebrating the season. 🙏
Here’s another version featuring Tiffany Hudson. ❤
This blog turned 13 last October 21 – it’s officially a “teen.” 😄To celebrate this milestone, I thought about writing a letter instead because I need to write this quick.
We have had no internet connection for 2 weeks now, despite following up with Converge. I’m currently using my cellular network’s data just so I could post this – thank you, Globe. Still, God is good all the time. 🙏😊
To my dearly beloved The Journeyman’s Moments,
You were born in 2012out of a need to clear my name from a painful past. I never thought that you would become an online journal for my spiritual journey.
I also wasn’t expecting that I’d be able to post here regularly. And yet, the weekly posts turned to monthly posts, and eventually, to posting every year.
You bear witness to my every rise and fall, to my every tear and laughter – a testament of God’s saving grace day in and day out, year in and year out.
As my experiences grew, you grew with it. When I became wiser, your words became better.I changed, you changed, too.
You are more than an online journal for me. Because you are my constant reminderof a life lived in full despite the changing seasons.
When I need a good laugh, I come back to the old memories here. When I need encouragement, your words give me renewed hope and comfort.
But I guess the most important reason as to why you’re one of God’s greatest gifts is that because of you, a deeper sense of accountability was instilled in me over every single word I post here.
You are my testimony on how living by faith does not happen by mere words alone, but by living it out and letting itbe known through you for the whole world to see.
My dear, we still have so many stories to tell – I have more than a hundred drafts. lol You know what that means, we have a lot of work to do for as long as God is still working in us. 🥰
You are me, and I am you. Thanks be to WordPress – our memories will be preserved for future generations to laugh with, to cry with, and to be inspired by.
So, with internet or not, we will find a way to make our stories seen and heard – God will make a way. 😁
Always your creator made by another Creator,
Christine ❤️
“For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” – Ephesians 2:10
The Journeyman's Moments 