Tag Archives: hope

About Yesterday’s Holi-date

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This might be our last, only God knows, our last Christmas together as a married couple. Every goodbye is painful, and it would’ve been really easy to just walk away and leave everything behind.

But that is not what God is calling me to do. He’s asking me to wait a little longer because He still has some tasks for me to do here in Manila.

When I came here, I was asking God for an answer whether to fight for my marriage or not. An incident that took place on my birthday (sadly) prompted me to let go.

I was hurt. Deeply hurt. All the trauma of the past came back – lies, broken trust, and unfulfilled promises. I believe this is also why my infection got worse, my body was going through excessive emotional stress.

I was hoping for a change. But as they say, if people do not want to change, no amount of convincing is enough for them to do it. Unless they, themselves, decide that they want to change.

Finally, the right movie tickets this time. No need to change. 🙂

For the past 8 years, I have chosen to forgive even without the promise of change and at times the absence of apologies. It never mattered to me if I was disrespected or if boundaries had been violated.

Because the Bible says that if a brother sins against you and asks for forgiveness, forgive him every time. I was willing to endure. Though there were times when I asked God when will this suffering end.

A change in perspective. God, what else am I missing?

God’s answer to me was to endure until last December 22. I did cry a little bit, but a decision has been made. It was made in peace – a sign for me that God’s discipline is over. I endured, and God is releasing me from the bondage of sin and being unequally yoked.

I would’ve fought this decision over by being stubborn and by using my free will to fight for our marriage. But the day after, my infection got worse and God’s final words came:

“Your willpower is strong, Tin, but your body can no longer take it. I am giving you rest from everything, give you time to recharge, a time to heal so your body can recover, because I have more tasks for you to do. And the mission I am about to ask you to do requires that you are at your best self – healthy, at peace, and joyful. This mission requires helping others and you cannot help them if you, yourself, are dying on the inside and on the outside.”

I am claiming God’s beautiful promise that I will live long and die of old age though there are far too many times that I felt like maybe I would only make it this year or next year because all I ever did for the past years was to survive. So it does make sense if His first instruction to me for next year is to HEAL.

I will stay here in the city for now to help my husband because he needs a place to stay here in Manila while processing all the paperwork. This is the task that God is asking me to do while I am here. My husband is still my brother in Christ, and I will provide any help that I can give because that is the right thing to do in return for all the favors that he did for me and my family.

When awkward silences become unbearable, just take a photo. lol When you’re married, your best friend can also be your worst enemy. 😅

We all have our demons. We all have sinned. And yet, it is only God who can save us from these demons that haunt us every now and then and compel us to do things that we never want to do. And yet, this requires that we work with God, too. God can never save us if we feel like we don’t need any saving.

The acts of salvation and redemption always start with surrendering everything that is dark within us so God can eventually usher us out into the light. God is giving my husband another chance to change but without me this time, thus, God called my husband to work abroad.

My husband working abroad means it will be extremely difficult for us to navigate through every conflict that may arise in our marriage because of the distance especially if he still hasn’t learned from his past mistakes. Temptations will be even greater. If he comes back a changed man (for the better), then this marriage might still stand a chance until death parts us both.

But for now, we will pursue our dreams apart from each other because God wills it – his dream to work abroad and my dream to pursue agribusiness projects in Bicol. I may not see and understand the plans of God, but this separation is a divine calling, and God is asking me to obey.

The processing of my husband’s paperwork for his work abroad has also been smooth with very minimal hassle. I see this as a sign that this is what God is asking him to do for our own good. If my husband finds another woman to love while he’s abroad, then I will accept (though heartbreaking) the fact that I was never God’s intended true love for him.

And yet that will be another problem at another time. But for now, I will keep holding on to God’s promise for me when I saw my first perfect rainbow in Albay back in 2020 accompanied by the first Bible verse below. 🙏

“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

“Blessed is she who has believed that the Lord would fulfill His promises to her!” – Luke 1:45

Not My Usual Holiday Celebration

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This year is a year of many “firsts” for me. Holiday plans changed because I had to go to the ER yesterday because of lower abdominal pain though this is the only symptom I have for now. Only to find out it’s another UTI, which is becoming a recurring infection lately.

I did mention in a previous article that we plan to travel to Bicol on the 26th to celebrate New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day with my family. Unfortunately, I was advised by Dr. Jacqueline last night to follow up with an Internal Medicine doctor a week from now after I’m done taking the antibiotics. So, plans are canceled.

She explained to me that a recurring infection means my body might not be responding to the prescribed antibiotics so they will need to conduct a culture test to see what is causing the infection and change the treatment plan.

So, while waiting for my lab test results, we decided to walk around BGC. I actually love taking a stroll in the area. The crowd here is a mix of people from all walks of life.

It’s an ideal place for couples and families to hang out because of the great ambiance with plenty of shops and dining options to choose from and comfy places to just sit and relax.

While seated on a bench, a young man approached me. I didn’t know why he didn’t approach the other people beside me. It’s either I look gullible or I look too kind. So that means I succeeded in deceiving him because I am neither of the two. lol I’m kidding. 😅

He started his sales pitch, and I wasn’t totally convinced but I bought one box of pastillas that costs Php250. I think it’s a bit expensive, but I admire his tenacity and boldness to approach strangers even though there’s a 99.9% probability he will be rejected. He is a true-blue entrepreneur, and I really want to imitate entrepreneurs like him.

I pray that the little amount I gave him will help him one way or the other. I didn’t want to pass up this chance, because what if that stranger was actually God testing my heart if I’d be Mrs. Scrooge this holiday season? 😉

I’m not used to spending the holidays away from our families. But I believe this is all part of God’s plans. I read in the FB profile of one of the doctors that I am following on social media to gift yourself an executive check-up on your birthday.

I was having second thoughts about doing this because my birthday happens to be just 2 days away from Christmas. If ever test results turned out bad, that would somehow ruin 2 special occasions – my birthday and Christmas. 😃

But here I am having myself checked and tested because God willed it. He taught me last night that it’s about how we take every bad news that matters. It’s up to us if we let it affect our mood and control our emotions or take it with a positive mindset and focus on what needs to be done and still choose to be joyful and grateful.

Now I understand why some of the breast cancer warriors shared their sentiments about the holidays that they don’t feel like celebrating because of their fight against cancer. Some of them were concerned about what they’re allowed to eat this holiday season, while some were worried about where to have their treatments done because clinics are closed during the holidays.

I somehow feel them in a way and I think God is teaching me that if I really desire to understand what every breast cancer warrior is going through, I have to go through the process myself. Only then can I truly understand their deepest needs and thus, offer them the emotional and spiritual support they need.

This, I believe, is connected to the desire that God planted in my heart to put up a hospice facility in His perfect time if it is really part of His plans. I’ll discuss this in my next article because I need to cut this short as we will be watching a Netflix movie in the comfort of the condo munching on our simple Noche Buena of pasta, pizza, and mojos. 😃

I would like to dedicate this article to those who don’t feel like celebrating the holidays because of grief and sadness – me included because this is our first Christmas without Mom. It is okay to feel these emotions, but still choose to be grateful and joyful. What matters to God most is the condition of our hearts because it displays the attitude of worship that we have for Him despite the gravity of unfavorable circumstances around us.

So, my beautiful sisters and brothers in Christ, I wish thee and your family a blessed Christmas whatever it is that we are all going through right now. God loves us, and He is with us always through Jesus Christ, our Savior – this is the Good News and what Christmas is all about. 🙏❤️😊

P.S. Hopefully health issues will be cleared before I go back to my hometown. But if not, then it’ll be a change of healing environment for me with the help of Bicolano medical practitioners. 🙂

“Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.” – Romans 12:15

“Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.” – Romans 12:12

What Is Self-Control In A Christian’s Life?

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When it comes to self-control, there’s only one person that comes to my mind who makes me wish that every guy in this world is like him – my Dad. If only his soul can be cloned and injected in every male fetus now, the whole world will be a better place to live in. 😃

And no, when Dad was young, he used to have all the vices that a few men weren’t able to escape from – gambling, chain smoking, and excessive drinking. But by the grace of God and because of love, he changed.

Our Dad In Our Eyes

When my brother graduated from the Philippine Military Academy in 2005, his article about Dad entitled “The Unsung Hero,” was one of the articles recited and featured during the graduation ceremony. We all broke down to tears after hearing it. Oh, brother dear, must you also have the flair for the dramatic like me. lol My blog, on the one hand, intends to make our Dad “The Celebrated Hero.” 😃

My Dad is not perfect. He juggled farming on weekends and office work during weekdays and yet still finds the time to pick coconuts so my siblings and I can enjoy fresh coconut meat and coconut juice during summer. He still does that now with our other fruits in the garden at the age of 83, but now complains of sore muscles afterward. And he would still do it again even if we tell him that he doesn’t have to. 😅

I can list down a whole lot more of other childhood experiences with Dad that are now precious memories that I can happily recall every time nostalgia hits. That’s why I wish to celebrate all the Dads out there who are like my Dad though it is not Father’s Day.

Praise God For Godly Men And Fathers

I hope after reading this, it will bring joy to your hearts knowing that your children will remember you not for the material gifts you have given them, but the memories and sacrifices you have made with and for them. Fly kites with your kids, watch the stars together, go fishing and camping, hike the mountains together, ride that bike around the neighborhood – these are the joys of a kid that stay with them until they are old. Sadly, I do not have the opportunity to do these things.

That’s why for those who do, don’t let the chance pass by because you can never get it back once your children grows old or when you grow old. This is the kind of love that our Great Father has for us, His children, that’s why a sacrifice has been made through His one and only Son on our behalf. And this is also the reason why we are celebrating the holiday season.

Love You, Dad

Yes, my Dad isn’t perfect, but he tried his very best to be the perfect Dad to us and a perfect husband to my Mom – even when Mom was at her worst, and we were at our naughtiest. And I mean, naughtiest. He gets angry, but it’s always controlled anger – that kind of anger that disciplines, but teaches children about honor and respect. He is a man of few words, thus, showed his love through his actions and his (oftentimes corny 😅✌️) sense of humor.

I love my Dad so much, and I wish this blog can do more than just memorialize his life so his memory lives on and on even when he is gone. Because I believe his kind is getting rarer as each generation passes by. This is a sad reality, but it is the truth.

What Is Self-Control

Self-control in a Christian’s life is very important. For me, it is an all-encompassing word wherein all other moral values (fruits of the Holy Spirit) such as patience, peace, discipline, gentleness, kindness, humility, love, faithfulness, and goodness will fall under.

Self-control is the only thing that will help a born-again Christian to not fall into temptation and go back to who he/she was before being saved. This is why the Bible is intentional when it comes to fasting. Fasting teaches believers to take control of the mind, body, and emotions and not the other way around.

Fasting And Self-Control

This is why I prefer to have my own pre-holiday/birthday fasting so I can control my mind, body, and emotions and not be tempted during this holiday season by excessive drinking, overeating, careless partying, splurging on gifts, irritability due to the holiday rush, etc. Without self control, we are prone to making mistakes, to being tempted, and eventually to sinning.

The lack of self-control destroys boundaries, dishonors people you love, and breaks trust that takes years to build. And no, an apology from an unchanged heart is only made of empty words that do not have meaning and only speak of broken promises and chances that are wasted again and again and again.

Until the time comes that God says, “ENOUGH.” If promises get broken, then plans can change, too.

A Lesson That Is Hard To Forget

I thank God for giving me the courage to do what He is asking me to do – let go of things that I have been trying to hold onto because I am afraid of a lot of things. Because I used to have this limited perception of my purpose in this world.

But God showed me that in order for me to pursue a higher calling, I have to let go of some things, especially if they will hinder the tasks that He will ask me to do. God has bigger plans, and all I need is to trust Him that He is leading me towards them. That will be my next article because I now have lots of time to write though I still have articles to do at work.

Yes, thank God indeed for this talent that He has bestowed upon me so I can share my testimony of His saving grace in every season and help others who might be going through the same thing. 🙏🙂

P.S. By the way, it is my lack of self control that got me into this messiest mess I’m in right now because of the poor choices I made when I was young. I am living the repercussions and consequences now. And yet I am wholeheartedly accepting God’s discipline and I promised Him that I will show Him my loyalty and faithfulness by obeying even if it means enduring this season of painful discipline my entire life. I will endure and even if I ask God to take this suffering away now, like what Jesus said, “not my will but let God’s will be done.” 🙏

“For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.” – 2 Timothy 1:7

The Beauty Of Final Endings

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Something happened today that made me realize God is really closing a chapter in my life, a confirmation of something that I have been in denial for the longest time. Maybe now is the right time for it to take place.

Now I understand why the signs have been too many to not notice for the past months, and were getting clearer and clearer for the past days, especially the repeating numbers.

It’s as if God was telling me that I really have no control over how things will play out, especially if He’s the one controlling them. He brought me here in Manila for two reasons – closure and peace.

I may be talking in riddles, but one thing I am sure of is that He is taking me away from what is no longer serving His purpose for me. I am being called to pursue a new path even if it means pursuing this path alone (but with God).

Indeed, this will be my most painful year yet – this hasn’t changed. But I still chose to be grateful to God for giving me the opportunity to end chapters the right way, so I can move on in peace.

2024 is a new beginning, a fresh start. This is God’s promise to me, and I am claiming it now. I am ending 2023 by tying loose ends and setting boundaries, so I have no regrets and I can say that I did give it my all.

If this is how God intends it to be, then I have no fear of the future. I will obey, and I stand my ground. 🙏

“For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” – Jeremiah 29:11

38th: Panibagong Lakas Para Sa Panibagong Bukas

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Kaarawan.

Isang taon naman ang lumipas. Narito na naman ako at nagtatanong sa Panginoon, “Lord, ito na ba ang huli kong kaarawan?”

Minsan pabiro. Minsan seryoso. Pero bakit ko nga ba tinatanong? Marahil marami pa akong nais gawin, nais sabihin.

Pagkakataon.

Hindi ko mawari ilan pang pagkakataon ang lilipas. Masasayang kaya ang mga ito? Minsan lang kasi itong dumarating.

Sa bawat pagkakataon, hatid nito ay bagong istorya, bagong eksena, bagong artista. Ano kaya ang silbi nila? Marahil dahil may alaalang naiiwan na sadyang kay hirap kalimutan.

Pasasalamat.

Hindi ko man madalas sambitin, ngunit buong puso kong pinapanalangin. Nawa’y maramdaman ng mga taong naging bahagi ng buhay ko ang kagalakan ko sa lahat ng tulong na naibigay nila madalas man ito o minsan.

Ito lang ang tangi kong maibibigay dahil buo ang tiwala ko sa Maykapal na Syang nakakakita ng lahat at Sya rin ang magsusukli sa bawat mabuting gawa ayon sa Kanyang takdang panahon. Sapat din ba ang naitulong ko sa iba? Marahil ay kulang pa.

12222023.

Kaya sa aking kaarawan, gagamitin ko ang pagkakataon na ito para pasalamatan ang mga taong nagmamahal at nagbibigay ng lakas para ako’y magpatuloy sa bagong bukas. Kasama ka dyan, kapatid. At higit sa lahat, sa Dios na Syang maybigay ng buhay na ito. ❤️

Nagmamahal,

Tin (a. k. a. the young Charo Santos 😅✌️)

“The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ and the love of God and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.” – 2 Corinthians 13:14

Clinics And Little Boy

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Oh Manila, must you be so hostile to me? I never said I hated you. I only said we’re not compatible. lol Must you punish me for telling the truth? 😅

I’ve been here in Manila for only a week and here I am paying a visit to the clinic because of my skin rashes that do not subside and swollen lymph nodes. This is actually my body’s way of telling me that it’s fighting some sort of infection.

Doctors Are Out, The Boy Is In

Unfortunately, Gen med doctors aren’t available, booking a Grab to get to the nearest clinic is taking so long, and it’s already 2 PM, so I decided to go home. While contemplating on whether to commute via Grab, taxi, or public transportation, I decided to sit on a bench. Then a little boy sat beside me. I noticed from my peripheral vision that he can’t sit still so I thought he might have mild ADHD.

But then I also observed that it looked like he wanted to talk to me but was hesitating maybe because his parents warned him to never talk to strangers. lol So I looked at him and he smiled his sweetest smile at me and said “Hi.” I smiled my sweetest back at him too and I couldn’t help but laugh silently.

This handsome boy is quite a natural charmer. lol And he’s only about 6 or 7 years old. 😄 From my experience as a former grade school SpEd teacher, children don’t normally approach strangers and say “Hi” to them. So maybe I reminded him of his Mom.

Then his grandmother called him, and I also decided to go home via public transportation and took a jeepney. Because the traffic is worse going to my sister’s condo, I just decided to get off halfway through the trip and walked the remaining 1.9 km.

Physical Activity For A Better Body

It’s a good thing I did that because my body seemed to be craving for it. I felt a lot better and the symptoms subsided and I couldn’t explain how it happened (what the what? 😀). I love walking, by the way. Maybe because I was used to doing it back in UP Diliman when I was a college student. I remember walking more than 2 kilometers just to get to my next class when jeepneys were taking too long to arrive.

Back in my hometown, I am always going around doing something. Roaming around the farm is also similar to doing a 1-day hike. And at home, I do a lot of household chores because our house help is currently unable to work due to health concerns. I pray she’ll be able to come back next year because a big house is really hard to maintain. I just don’t know how Mom managed everything perfectly at home. (Oh, Mom. I missed you terribly.)

Anyway, it was a good thing I was wearing comfy gym clothes, so I was able to enjoy brisk walking going to the condo. And I can’t help but smile again. God surely knows how to cheer me up because though I wasn’t able to accomplish what I needed to do for the day, a handsome little boy put a smile back on my face.

A Trip To The Vet Clinic

It’s as if God was reminding me to never be anxious about everything. Just a couple of weeks ago, I got extremely worried when Peekah, our orange cat, couldn’t close her mouth, and she was drooling nonstop.

I thought she was going through some sort of paralysis. So I urged my sister that we bring her to the vet ASAP. Peekah seemed to have sensed my anxiety, she hid under my bed and only came out when I offered her cat treats.

When we reached the vet clinic, Doc JM checked her mouth and almost laughingly told us that it was only because of a loose tooth, and it was about to come off. lol Oh, you tooth. I almost had a heart attack because of you. 😅 I was so worried that I might also lose Peekah this year.

I was like, Lord, not now, please. I already lost so much. And yet not my will but Your will be done even if it is too painful. Doc JM told me that he can ease Peekah’s discomfort by extracting her tooth but she has to be sedated. The thing is, she’s already a senior cat – I got her in 2013. So he advised that we monitor her condition first and if the problem persisted, we bring her to the clinic again. Thankfully, Peekah was back to her normal self the next day as if nothing happened. And I don’t know how she got her tooth out. 😅

Peekah, btw, is an adopted stray cat from the streets of Cubao when we were still renting an apartment there in 2013. She was a tiny kitten back then when I adopted her and her sister. Unfortunately, her sister died unexpectedly a year later. I was glad though I brought them to my hometown because they got to explore the outdoors more often.

To wrap this up, everything ends well when we trust God to move on our behalf. As for that handsome little prince charming, I hope to see him again one day. Because I wanted to tell him this, “You melted my heart with your cute smile and sweet “Hi” and turned my bad day into a happy one – I’ll never forget you and that day.” ❤️

“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 4:6-7

Those Cracks And Crevices Made You Beautiful, Just Like Mt. Mayon

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There is something about Mt. Mayon that captivates me. I’m instantly drawn to her beauty just like a magnet. I guess it’s not just the perfect cone that got me hooked, but also the tragic story behind it – of love and death. More about the legend here: “Star-Crossed Lovers: The Story of Magayon and Pangaronon.”

I haven’t seen Mt. Mayon up close in person, and it’s actually one of the items on my bucket list. I don’t want to climb it though, I just want to be close enough to observe all its crevices and cracks and marvel at its beauty.

Ctto

These crevices and cracks are proof of centuries of outrage and yet they all made this volcano even more beautiful. It has always been a mystery to me how this perfect cone remained as it is even during the most destructive phases of Mt. Mayon.

And just like us, what was meant for destruction and to be torn apart, God can turn it into a beautiful masterpiece that will showcase His profound greatness. ❤️

P.S. On a practical note, methinks my going near Mayon is a bad idea given my severe allergic rhinitis and the amount of SO2 that the volcano releases every day. I also have eczema, and I’m actually taking Coaltria daily as prescribed by my ENT doctor to prevent any allergy flare-ups. When I stop taking my meds, hives appear on my face, and just recently, a couple of itchy rashes on my arms. When God created the immune system, I think He forgot the right anatomy in mine. lol Ah yes, always the sickly kid in the family – nothing’s new. 😀

P.P.S. But I really, really want to be near Mt. Mayon – as close as I can get. It’s dangerous for me, but I think it will all be worth it. 😍 I don’t know why but I just want to stare at her beauty and touch the grounds surrounding her. Every time we pass by Mayon, we always see the best of her – nothing’s hidden, everything’s bare and raw. And it is what makes her more captivating. ❤️

Circa 2010 – From Bulan en route to Manila.

It looks like God also answered my prayer because the LGU of Albay Province (all thanks to Rep. Zaldy Co) is planning on offering to the public a Hot Air Balloon Ride overlooking Mt. Mayon and the Pacific Ocean starting next year. Oh, my heart. I think it fell out. lol I’m just plain excited! 😍

I am praying it will be a yearly event so my husband and I can experience this together. But unfortunately, not in the next 2 years because he won’t be coming home. So, delayed gratification it is. Ah yes, when God teaches patience, you really have no choice but to learn it. 🙏

By the way, to the guys (Bicolano or not) who plan on proposing to their girlfriends, nothing can get more romantic than a hot air balloon marriage proposal. Now is your perfect chance – just make sure she’s not scared of heights. 😀👍

The LORD says, “I will give you back what you lost to the swarming locusts, the hopping locusts, the stripping locusts, and the cutting locusts. It was I who sent this great destroying army against you.” – Joel 2:25

The Black Knight: A New Love

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So, Chick-Chick’s love story has an unexpected twist – she already found a new love. Yay! And I really thought she’s going to be single for a looooong time. lol For the backstory of her love life, you may read it here.

The Black Knight

Who’s the new flame, then? I call him “Black Knight” because his legs are all black, and he’s a fierce-looking rooster. He’s also way younger than Chick, but very assertive and has an air of authority.

He’s also very protective, but at the same time gives Chick the freedom to roam around all by herself. He may not be the typical dashing prince, but he sure has the aura of a knight in shining armor. Just perfect for Chick who’s a damsel in distress. 😉

Boosting Egg Production

This means only one thing for us – egg production will continue. So far, Chick laid 10 eggs already (all thanks to Black Knight). We left 1 egg in her nest so she will lay eggs in 1 location only thinking her nest wasn’t disrupted. Though 1 egg was eaten by a rat in her previous nest.

Will cook some of these tomorrow to assess egg quality i.e. color of yolk, hardness of shell, etc. 👍👍

I am currently playing the role of an animal behaviorist to learn more about chickens. lol My findings are quite interesting actually. For one, hens have this maternal instinct to protect their eggs, so finding a good spot to lay their eggs on is crucial.

Finding The Right Location

She tried 3 locations and the 3rd one was the most difficult to find. Maybe she realized that after 2 failed attempts at protecting her nest, she had to find a spot that was completely hidden.

So, how did we find the 3rd nest? My sister followed her around, and she saw Chick go under a sakolin, which we use to cover the water pumps. Voila, in between the water pumps, we found the eggs.

Why Poultry Farming

I did ask God why He placed a desire on my husband’s heart to pursue poultry farming in 2021. This is actually the reason why we came here to my hometown last year to explore opportunities in poultry production.

When my husband told me his plan, I suggested to him that we ask my parents if it’s okay to utilize a portion of our farm for poultry production. When we got here and did a site inspection, my husband and I decided that it will need a lot of work in order to get it started.

This was actually one of his reasons for deciding to work abroad. He wants to be in charge of financing the poultry project, and he wants me to oversee and manage it. I believe this is what God has planned all along. I’ve already been doing my research on poultry farming, which started last year since my husband doesn’t have the time to do it.

I was able to find a lot of online resources already on poultry farming including choosing the chicken breed, making the poultry house, preparing the chicken feed, increasing egg production, and marketing live chickens, dressed chickens, and eggs.

All I did last year was conduct research, and this year, we started preparing a portion of the project site. Then the surprise came later this year – a rogue hen grazed our garden. It’s as if God was telling me that it is about time I apply what I learned. No escaping God’s will, eh? 😉

And indeed, here I am taking care of this rogue hen, and God also provided a rooster. Although I might buy the rooster from my nephew because he’s the original owner. 😊

I never planned any of this to happen, but God made them happen. I just did what the Spirit asked me to do and kind of just went along with how things played out.

All I am praying for now is for my nephew to keep the Black Knight so he would stay with Chick forever. lol Indeed, God (love) moves in mysterious ways. Oftentimes, it will just come when you least expect it. ❤️

The Lord God said, “It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him.” – Genesis 2:18

Found this bookmark inside a Bible that belonged to my late grandma – such a beautiful reminder. 🙂❤️🙏

High Hopes For The COP 28 – UN Climate Change Conference 2023

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The COP 28 or the 2023 United Nations Climate Change Conference is currently being held in the United Arab Emirates, which commenced on November 30, 2023 and will end on December 12, 2023. Here’s what we can expect from the Conference of Parties for this year:

“High on the agenda for COP28 is the conclusion of the first-ever Global Stocktake (GST), the main mechanism to assess progress on the goals set in the Paris Agreement. The GST will be an opportunity for countries to assess their climate efforts so far and to identify the gaps in current climate action.  

Beyond making COP 28 the “most inclusive” ever, the UAE has also announced three additional priorities for COP28:

  1. fast-tracking the energy transition and slashing emissions before 2030;
  2. transforming climate finance, by delivering on old promises and setting the framework for a new deal on finance; and
  3. putting nature, people, lives and livelihoods at the heart of climate action.” – Global Witness

Despite man’s inability to avert the impacts of climate change, I still remain hopeful that global leaders and respective government agencies will be able to help us adapt and mitigate all the risks involved.

Environmental Meltdown

The World Economic Forum shared this video and I believe it speaks volumes to all of us – ecological destruction has already reached its tipping point. The accelerated melting of ice caps in the Arctic region has drastically increased sea levels and it looks like the “Waterworld” scenario is no longer a far-fetched reality. Decreasing snow caps exacerbated warmer seas resulting in a high percentage of deaths of marine species and disrupted habitats.

Here in our hometown, which is a coastal area, there is already a decline in seafood supply. When I was young, wet market stalls were always teeming with different kinds of fish on any day of the week. Only a few of them are available now, and the sizes are also getting smaller.

I’m afraid an imbalance in the supply and demand, coupled with overfishing, climate change, political and social instability, and an increasing population will indeed confirm what experts have predicted that it is not possible to solve the problem of food insecurity by 2030. The question that all of us are asking now is what kind of climate action are we taking?

I am sure we’re all familiar with Greta Thunberg and all other climate activists who made waves in the internet for desperately calling out to the world that we are already in a climate emergency. It is no longer imperative that we look for ways to halt Earth’s degradation. Our approach now is more centered on how to survive the looming threats of climate change.

Combating Food Insecurity

So how do we prepare for the global food shortage? Let’s take into account our current world population that already reached 8,045,321,447 as of 2023. If marine biodiversity can no longer offer us with an abundant supply, we might have to consider indoor aquaculture.

During extreme heat waves and droughts, we can explore cultivating edible plants that grow in deserts and can withstand extended periods without irrigation. During the rainy season, floating gardens are a great alternative. We might also have to improve our hydroponic systems to make them more wide scale.

In the coming decades, we can expect more scientific breakthroughs and discoveries in bioengineering, cloning, and genetic modifications. We are racing against time, and I have high hopes that climate financing will focus on these developments because experts will need to work double time if we want to ensure the survival of humanity.

Btw, I am no scientist and environmental expert, though if I am given an opportunity (kun dire ako polpolon sa Math 😅), my preferred branches of Science to study are Biology and Botany.

A Collective Effort, Better Together

I hope our farm will be able to contribute towards climate change mitigation efforts. My family and I have a series of projects in the pipeline and yet I am asking God when and how we execute them. The tasks to do are a bit overwhelming, but I always make it a habit to start with small, achievable tasks related to these projects. And most importantly, we follow God’s timeline by seeking His will in every plan.

I support the idea that you have to be diligent and disciplined enough even in doing mundane tasks and routines in order to get good results. And if you want excellent results, you have to equip yourself with the necessary skills and knowledge in order to make modifications as needed.

One farming component that I am particularly interested in now is Bokashi composting. I see it playing an integral role in our farming activities to make our farm more sustainable. Although just like what I’ve mentioned in my previous articles, the fulfillment of some of these plans might not take place during our lifetime. But I firmly believe that God will assign people from the next generations to continue what we have started. And yet, not our will but let God’s will be done always.

But why, oh why, Daddy? A non biodegradable in a biodegradable bin??? But because you’re 83 years old already, love you still, Dad. 😀

I am praying for more breakthroughs in organic farming and the successful integration of climate-smart farming practices here on our farm. Even David Beckham is starting his own organic farm. If we are to do this as a collective whole, the impact will be greater compared if only a small number of individuals or organizations are performing their climate change mitigation initiatives in order to achieve sustainability.

We act now, then we let God lead us to do the rest according to His timeline. 🙏

P.S. In case you see me looking like a man and acting so manly and all, pls. don’t ever think I have gender issues or an identity crisis. lol I was driven by circumstances to behave in such a manner due to a lack of males in the household. 😃

This is how I cope with and adapt to a very masculine industry in order to survive. I can also be girly, cute, and sweet, but I actually have a Kraken inside me that I am trying so hard to keep hidden and is just waiting to be unleashed. lol Thanks to my faith, I have managed to keep it hidden in most circumstances. 😉

“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” – Galatians 6:9

The Chicken Couple: A Portrayal Of Our Own Love Story

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I oftentimes wonder why life sometimes has a funny way of mocking us. Just when hubby decided to go back to the city and I was left here in the province, Chick (our rogue hen) found herself a dashing young rooster owned by my nephew. They’re so smitten with one another, and they just seem inseparable. I was jealous, of course.

Maybe God is recreating Noah’s Ark here at home by giving us a pair (male and female) of every creature.

We named the rooster Chuck, and though he’s quite very young for Chick, he’s very protective of her and provides her with whatever bit of food he can scour in the garden. Of course, as with most love stories, theirs resulted in Chick getting pregnant.

The firstborn that will end up in the pan. Sorry, Chick. Don’t worry, we will leave your last 2 eggs to hatch so they can keep you company.
Picked the pineapple from the garden, it didn’t come out of the hen along with the eggs (I just want to be crystal clear on this). Hmmm, pwede na pala gumawa ng Pininyahang Manok. Unfortunately, Chick is already a beloved pet. So, she’s safe from the cooking pot.

Unfortunately, their ending wasn’t a fairytale, but a tragedy. When Chick started laying eggs, Chuck’s nowhere to be found. I’m not sure if he’s deserted her, my nephew put him in a cage, he’s found a new hen, or he’s been sold already (and eaten?). Chick’s back to her solitary self again. *sigh*

What’s The Moral Lesson Of The Story, Tin?

So the mockery was, am I seeing my very own love story being played out by Chick and Chuck? Although my husband leaving me here is not an abandonment, and there are also a lot of married couples who were successful in their marriages despite having a long distance relationship.

My separation anxiety just couldn’t accept him being far away though his leaving has a valid reason. I felt like this was God’s way of reminding me that being alone is okay, and love is not about insisting on one’s way. It always, always endures and perseveres.

“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 but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.” – 1 Corinthians 13:4-7

No, I wasn’t letting go as a wife. Love is at the very core of Christianity, and if I love my husband enough, then I should not let go. If I did let go, it was to be free from my own fears and to let God reign over them. As of late, I am always reminded by the Bible verses that in the end times, people will be lovers of self. If we are entering the end times as some prophets are saying, then we have to watch out for how the world would tempt us to conform when it comes to self-preservation.

“You should know this, Timothy, that in the last days there will be very difficult times. For people will love only themselves and their money.” 2 Timothy 3:1-3

Self-preservation is loving and putting oneself above others, and the world places such emphasis on this in light of mental health advocacies (domestic violence is a different case). And yet love in Christianity teaches the opposite – it is dying to ourselves every single day so we can share in the suffering of Christ on the Cross. Only when we become selfless do we have the love that is from the Father, a love that puts others above their own.

A Love Like God Because God Is Love

Is it possible to love like God? My answer is “yes.” If we are truly sons and daughters of God, then the love of the Father should be in us, which now enables us to love like how God loves us. Besides, to love others as He loved us is the second commandment of God. And December is the season that commemorates this great love. I believe it is no coincidence that I am writing about this topic the day before the month of December starts.

Thus, as a flawed human being born in December and yet have been born again through the blood of Christ, I have decided to spend the holidays and my birthday in Manila with my husband as a display of my love for God and to honor my commitment as a wife. Ever since my husband left, we never failed to communicate daily – he pursued me still just like how God continues to pursue us every single day. And yet I am not going to Manila to stay there, but only so we can both be at peace with our decision to go wherever God will call us to serve even if it means being apart for a while.

More so because God is calling my husband to work abroad for how many years on a contract. A great opportunity opened for him to fulfill his lifelong dream of becoming an overseas worker, and I can’t help but be overjoyed for him. It’s his answered prayer. Should everything go smoothly in the processing of his application because he’s already halfway through, I told him that his working abroad has God’s anointing and that God is calling him to that country.

Answering God’s Calling

As for me, however, the calling still remains – stay here in my province. I prayed to God if I am where He wanted me to be, and the answer was a clear “yes.” Once my husband works abroad, I am coming back here to my hometown. But I am coming back at peace with my heart whole. ❤️

A lot could happen to me and my husband while we’re apart. The brevity of life teaches us to number our days as the Bible puts it. I have a lot of fears and worries because nobody knows except for God what the future holds for us both. But I also have faith that God is with us, and He is asking me and my husband once again to step out in even greater faith and welcome a new season that we have yet to conquer.

Chick’s love story isn’t over yet, too, whether Chuck is with her or not. I am very much looking forward to the continuation of her life story and also with mine. 🙏

“There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love.” – 1 John 4:18

“Three things will last forever—faith, hope, and love—and the greatest of these is love.” – 1 Corinthians 13:13

“Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love.” – 1 John 4:8

“For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.” – John 3:16

“Do all that you can to live in peace with everyone.” – Romans 12:18

On to yet a new journey. ❤

P. S. Speaking of eggs, I just want to share these salted duck eggs from our regular supplier who lives near one of our rice fields. We got this for 12php apiece, cheaper than the ones sold at the market which costs 15php per piece. Maybe it’s because Dad allows their ducks to graze in our rice fields every after the palay harvest. 😉

It is the family’s 10-year-old son who markets these salted duck eggs to Dad when he sees Dad visiting the rice fields. What I love about these eggs is that they’re not too salty, and yet are perfectly preserved. If ever you know of any local farmers in your area, I’d like to encourage you to buy directly from them to help sell off their products fast. You can also be assured that the products you buy from them are fresh and of good quality but sold for an affordable price. ❤

The boy was selling 40 salted duck eggs. Dad bought 20 pieces, and another farmer bought the last 20 pieces. They’re all sold in just a few minutes after he got out of their house. 😀
We eat this with tomatoes and onions doused with a little bit of calamansi juice, and you now have a perfect side dish to pair with the other viands for your breakfast. Yummers! 😋