Faith Black Satruday 5:09 PM Black Satruday A day of total bleak silence for Jesus' followers after His death. Imagine their grief from losing a friend and a teacher. Their hope. Wow, imagine losing your hope! Man can live about forty days without food, about three days without water, about eight minutes without air...but only for one second without hope. -Hal Lindsey That must be one difficult time for the disciples. They had to deal with their personal loss, their confusion of what's happening, maybe even pain of betrayal (I really thought He was the One. Why did He let it happen? Why did he not fight back if He was powerful?). They also had fear. What if they would come after them next and make them suffer the same way? There was uncertainty of the future. Black is an apt word to describe that day. It must have been figuratively the darkest time of their lives. Our Black Friday It got me thinking about what we're going through today. Our present life is filled with uncertainties. When is this l ockdown going to end? What will happen after this? What changes await us? What kind of person are we becoming during the darkest moment of our lives? Do we doubt like Thomas did? Do we hide from the world like an injured dog? Or do we, like the women of Galilee continue our connection with the Lord and follow His commandments? The women who had come with Jesus from Galilee followed Joseph and saw the tomb and how his body was laid in it. They went home and prepared spices and ointments to anoint his body. But they rested on the Sabbath in obedience to the commandment. -Luke 23:55-56 I'd like to claim I did what those women did when I had my Black Friday. But I'm more of a hiding and doubting kind of person and it will take me a few days before I get a grip and move on. This crisis is like the longest, most silent, most excruciating Black Friday we're all experiencing at the present. This will be over soon. While it isn't, I will keep holding on to God's promises. That's all I can do really. He is my hope, my refuge, my source of strength, my inspiration. He went through all the pain of Good Friday and went radio silent on Black Saturday because He knew Sunday is coming. Your turn What is your Black Friday? How do you deal with times like these?
Faith Good Friday 12:21 AM In my Catholic faith, we commemorate Jesus' passion and death today. Good Friday. Have you seen the movie The Passion of the Christ? It's controversial. It's bloody. It's horrific. At every whip, splatter of blood, Christ's cry in pain and tears in Mother Mary's eyes, I could feel my heart crushing. And I find myself asking God, "Why me, Lord?" Why did you allow Yourself to go through all those pain and suffering to save someone like me? For all the sins I've committed, I deserve such punishment. But, not You. When I think about it, it makes me wonder why we call this day Good Friday. There wasn't good from what Jesus went through that day. That one movie's title is more fitting. Today is a terrible, horrible, no good very bad day. I watched today's The 7 Last Words Good Friday presentation by The Light of Jesus Family. And this is what I've learned. Good Friday It may seem for Jesus' enemies that He was defeated effortlessly today. He did not resist arrest. He allowed the mob to mock him. He didn't fight the soldiers. He didn't flee. He didn't perform any mind-blowing miracle to show off His power and glory. He was seized, scourged and persecuted like a common criminal. What's good about Good Friday? It's good because on this day, God manifested His great love. That while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. (Romans 5:8) Giphy It's good because God sent Jesus to bridge the gap between us and Him that was brought about by our sinful ways. It's good because Jesus showed us the best example of humility, obedience to the Father, surrender and faith. It's good because in Jesus' human form, He exhibited remarkable courage. That while He was praying at the garden of Gethsemane, Jesus was in such agony and fear that He sweat blood. Scientifically speaking, hematidrosis or sweating blood generally happens when a person feels intense fear or stress. Leonardo Da Vinci wrote that soldiers sweat blood before battle. This gives me hope. That even when situations get extremely scary, I can carry on knowing that God's is with me and His will I just need to pray and surrender. Good Friday is still good maybe not while it's happening, but because of the promised victory that comes after it. Giphy It may feel like we're defeated by the enemy, but the final battle is not over yet. We have this saying in Filipino, "Ang bida ng pagpapabugbog sa simula." The protagonist of the story---the hero---makes it look like the bad guys are winning at the start. Plot twist! He wins in the end. In our lives, many times it seems the enemy is winning. Good Friday is proof that suffering and setbacks happen. But it is only a set up for our success. Giphy Plot twist: God always wins. Ah, what a beautiful thought to carry in our hearts. Good Friday is a really, really REALLY good day. Your turn What is your Good Friday reflection?
Faith Holy Thursday 12:17 AM Holy Thursday I've said it before and I'm going to say it again: thank God for technology. Today I get to watch The Feast's Holy Thursday retreat. Reflection God's rejection is God's redirection. How many times have you experienced rejection? I think it's one of the most painful feelings in the world regardless of who or what caused it. It feels like somebody grabbed your heart from the inside your chest, crushed it mercilessly and threw it away. You feel helpless. Worthless. It's like all your dreams ended in just one snap. What to do now? What happens next? This is one of my favorite verses: 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 I like to go back to this verse especially when (1) my plans didn't work out or (2) when I face uncertainties. Like this life in the time of c oronavirus. When is this going to end? What do we do now? What happens after the l ockdown has been lifted? What if clients would stop paying because of this crisis? Too many questions. Even the experts can only give us an estimate. It feels like all the plans we have for 2020 and the years to follow have been put on hold. Is God rejecting my dreams? Are my plans not going to come to pass? Hundreds of questions sure kept me awake during the first few weeks of the C OVID-19 outbreak. I believe right now we are all being redirected to something better. Tenor Better for nature Hey, nature is thriving. People are enjoying cleaner air. Even water in famous Venice canal is now clearer. Animals freely strolling without the danger of humans and cars. Ducks in the streets. Cows at the beach. Deers and goats going around the cities. I don't know about you but I find it lovely seeing that we share this planet with these beautiful creatures. Giphy (A little scary too though because they also spotted a cheetah in India. Predators roaming around your neighborhood is not a good thing.) But live animal markets or meat markets are closing. What environmentalists and animal rights activists have been trying to do for decades, Mother Nature only did for months. Of course it's not over yet. The use of animals as commodity for food, accessories and lab testing is not going to end altogether soon. But it's a good start. People are realizing that growing your food in the garden is more practical especially during a p andemic. We are learning that plants are safer and better alternatives because you'll never find a broccoli with a flu. A carrot does not carry a virus. We're seeing how the earth thrives if we respect other creatures and care for nature. Be still We are so busy with our modern fast-paced life that sometimes it feels as though life is just passing us by. This l ockdown has forced us to stay still. If you're used to juggling many tasks and a busy lifestyle, you may feel restless at first. Just be in the moment. Enjoy this break while it lasts. Indeed there is a blessing behind this challenge. I declare with faith that there is something good that will happen to you and me. Your turn What are you thankful for during this l ockdown? Share you experience of rejection and how it redirected you to something better.
Lux Thinking Aloud Hustle 10:30 PM Hustle I have been working online as a copywriter and content writer even before the C OVI D-19 outbreak. But like the rest of the world, my life in the time of c oron avi rus has been drastically changed too. I've not been this anxious since after my wedding. (Brides will understand) For a few weeks, I was demotivated. I used to wake up as early as 5:30 am before this crisis. Now I can't sleep before midnight and the earliest time I get out of bed is 10:30 am. And only because my husband wakes me. What's happening right now is undeniably depressing. But as I mentioned in my previous post, I could be stubborn. I refuse to let this crisis get the better of me. I dismiss the thought that this invisible enemy will be the reason for my defeat. Not to sound dramatic or anything but after this l ock do w n, I choose to emerge as a winner. So, I decided to hustle again. Giphy Back to the grind I started to journal again. This time here on my blog as daily posts. I became active in my Freelance Tribe again. I participated in the challenges. I read the resources they send. I followed the tips they share. The Digital Marketer is generous enough to make their (expensive but valuable) training courses available for free. It's only for a limited time so I am hoping to finish all the training that I can apply in my online career. I am reaching out to my clients again. Not really to sell anything but to just check on them. Relationship building is crucial in online businesses. And also, I'm sincerely wishing them well. I will be scheduling emails for my subscribers and posts on my social media accounts soon. So if you're one of my subscribers (THANK YOU!) or if you follow me on socials, expect to hear from me soon. 😉 Giphy Shameless plug Follow me on my blog's: Instagram lifeandlove_blog Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/aboutlifeandloveblog/ I also have a vegan Instagram account. Follow vegancopywriter for tips, facts, memes, and beautiful photos of animals and nature. Physical hustle The other day, I was looking at simple yoga poses I can try at home. Sadly, I don't have a yoga mat, and doing it on a hard floor or soft bed is challenging. The first item I will purchase after the lockdown? A yoga mat. For now, I just did some stretching exercises on a ball. It's important to stay physically strong and healthy especially during a global p ande m ic. Giphy Keep hustling If you were like me who was hit emotionally and mentally by the crisis and felt like life knocked you down, here's my hope for you: that you get back up, dust yourself off, and keep on keeping on. This virus will soon be eradicated. This global crisis will soon end. As the saying goes: Tough times never last, but tough people do. -Robert H. Schuller When all this is over, I want to look back and say that I conquered my fears and I am still victorious. How about you? Your turn What is your biggest challenge during this C OVI D-19? How do you keep yourself motivated? What is the first thing you will buy after the l oc kd own?
Faith Trade Off 12:05 AM Trade Off I'm still listening to husband and wife Arun and Lallaine Gogna's Quaretreat every night. This helps me a lot with my mental health. The c oronavirus may only have infected a certain number of people but psychologically and mentally, we are all affected. On this day 8 of my l ockdown diary, they talked about trade off. Is there something you thought was important that during this q uarantine you realize you can trade off for essentials like food, sanitizer and masks? What are they? Best trade God always asks us to trade. In my life, He's asked me many times to let go of what I've been holding on to dearly: my work, old friends, failing relationships, my plans. It's hard. It takes a while. I could really be stubborn. Good thing is that God doesn't give up on us. He is patient and gentle. But He doesn't stop until He brings us safely to where He wants us to be. Until we are cut off from the people who bring us harm. Until we are protected from which we thought was good for us. Today, I remember yet again how blessed I am to have an amazing God. He has my best interest in mind. God's plans are better than what I have for myself. Pinterest This life in the time of c oronavirus may feel like a struggle for me many times but He has something special in store for me, that I'm sure. There is a purpose behind this predicament. There is a blessing behind this burden. There is a beautiful story waiting to unravel, a wonderful lesson that needs to be learned. I am trading off my comfortable life and temporary freewill to surrender to His will. I may not see it yet, but I know the ending will be amazing. For me and for all of us. We just need to trust in Him. After all, He traded His majesty to be with us and be one of us. All because He wants to save us. That is hands down the biggest trade off ever. Your turn What are you willing to trade off or let go? How has this crisis been affecting your mental health? P.S. Yesterday I shared about my fondness for gardening. So today I searched more videos about gardening. It's addicting. And my husband picked a branch of beautiful pink flowers for me on his way home from the groceries. It's a good day. 😊
Lux Thinking Aloud The Simple Life 10:43 PM The Simple Life This qu arantine life is forcing us to go back to the simple life, doesn't it? No excessive shopping, traveling or partying. Gardening My husband and I were talking the other day and thinking how nice it would be to grow our own garden. Just our usual meal staples like tomatoes, garlic, cucumber, carrots and some herbs. I've always been amazed by vertical gardens especially those in the kitchen. Generally, a house with greens and blooms in my opinion is both beautiful and practical. Not to mention refreshing. What do you think? Giphy I don't think I have the patience and the green thumb for starting a garden, but I'm glad my husband has. 🙂 Genuine connection Since I've been watching a lot of Friends lately, I miss those old times when people get together and REALLY connect. I'm lucky to grow up without gadgets. I feel nostalgic remembering that simple life pre-internet. Don't get me wrong. I'm thankful for this technology. I wouldn't have married my husband if not for it. Nowadays, even in family gatherings people are mostly busy with their gadgets. It would be nice to be in the moment and connect with the people around rather than online. Giphy Great equalizer Right now especially because of this crisis, there just seems to be so much noise outside. Do you agree that because of social media, there is more pressure in your life? Do you find yourself trying to keep up with your peers? I hope not. I hope you continue to revel in your quirks, stay comfortable in your individuality and be proud of your lifestyle choice no matter how simple it may be. As long as you're not hurting anyone with your choices, you do you! There's nothing ordinary about you. Remember that. Giphy One other good thing about this crisis that I can think of is that it became a great equalizer. Millionaire, poor, famous stars, ordinary people, young, old, regardless of a person's sexual orientation or religion, they can get infected by the virus. I hope we're coming to our senses now and seeing the huge difference between the essential and the excess. The necessity versus the fancy. I hope we realize now that we are all the same underneath. My life in the time of co ronavirus during this lo ckdown makes me appreciate the simple life I used to know and see things from a different perspective. How about you? Your turn What is your idea of a simple life? What do you miss most about your childhood?
Lux Thinking Aloud Friends and Chosen 12:57 PM Following what I did previously which was Disconnect, I spent today away from the social media. This day is about TV shows Friends and Chosen Friends and Chosen After watching the Palm Sunday service, I binge-watched Friends. I am late in the party, I know. I'm only on Season 5. But I'm happy I did. Especially at this time. Which Friends character do you identify with? My husband asked me this question. I said Monica. Because I like things organized. Though I don't cook, I do love watching cooking shows and daydream of cooking those delicious dishes myself. I took a fun quiz and it says I'm more of a Phoebe. Not bad. I've transitioned to veganism for the same reason Phoebe doesn't eat meat. Giphy We need shows like Friends. During this global crisis, we certainly need to find humor in things. To not forget to laugh. The Chosen is the first-ever-multi-season TV show about the life of Jesus. My husband discovered it through an ad and checked it out. Today we started watching episode 1. It has a different approach compared to other films about Christ. It is more about the people around him. On the first episode, Jesus only appeared in the last part. I hope to see more exciting scenes on this series. Today is the start of the Holy Week. What I got from the message in today's homily is this: God was able to make a big sacrifice because of His big love for us. Giving up Your one and only son is no easy feat. I don't know any parent who is willing to offer their child's life for the good of other people. Especially sinners. Do you want to understand God's great love better? We humans have a limited understanding. We cannot fathom God's wisdom and love. But here's something I can suggest. Watch this video about a man and his son who loves train. WARNING: You will need a lot of tissues. My disconnect post yesterday is perfect timing for the Holy Week. Social media and desserts is what I usually sacrifice during this time. That's nothing compared to God's ultimate sacrifice but it's something. And it really is a sacrifice for me. I'm a sweet tooth. Well, so far Day 6 is much better than the previous days. It made a huge difference not reading the news and checking social media. I think I can survive this qu arantine. I hope you can too. Hang in there. I can almost see the light at the end of the tunnel. Your turn Do you also give up something during the Holy Week? What is it? What did you do today that you didn't do during the previous days of qu arantine?
Lux Thinking Aloud Disconnect 9:46 PM What do you do with trash? The answer is simple. You throw it away. But when it comes to toxic friends or abusive partner, the answer could be complicated. It may take us a while to figure out if we should keep holding on or let go. Because well, relationships are like that. What do you do when something's messing up your life? You don't allow it. You stop it from getting worse. Thankfully, I don't have an abusive partner. I just said that to paint a picture. But right now, a lot of friends---well, social media "friends" that is, are getting a little too toxic. Online, everybody seems to be an expert on every field you can think of. Have you ever hang out with a know-it-all? How did it make you feel? Giphy That is why on my 5th day of this lo ck do wn, I disconnected from social media. Disconnect I like to keep myself updated about the current global crisis. Unfortunately, going online is messing up with my mental health lately. My anxiety level is high. I'm having breakouts. My sleeping pattern has been affected. The devil's having a field trip in my head. Giphy So I decided to remove my Facebook app on my phone. If you want to remove your newsfeed on your desktop, install the News Feed Eradicator extension. I also didn't check Twitter and Instagram. Disconnect from the internet and reconnect with yourself. Be honest. How important is your virtual image or social presence for you? Studies show that social media is negatively affecting your mental health. But don't just get rid of your habit of browsing social media. You will only experience withdrawal from it and the chances of you getting right back to the habit is high. Replace a toxic habit with a nourishing one. That way, you don't feel empty and desperate. Instead of browsing the internet, here's what you can do: Write down your feelings. Don't worry about your grammar or spelling. Just pour out your emotions into writing. When you finish, you'll feel lighter than when you started. I'm speaking from experience. Keep yourself busy with chores. Yes, that may sound boring or lame but doing chores could be therapeutic. It gets your mind off your problem. And seeing how clean and organized your surrounding adds to the calmness. Spend more time with your pets. If you're a dog owner, lucky you. You won't feel alone. They're the best therapists in the world. There's nothing a dog's cuddle can't cure. Gfycat Spend more time with your family. Even when you're locked together in one place, it's easy to take other people for granted when you're consumed by your time with your gadget. Disconnect with the people online so you can connect with the people around you. Watch a fun show/movie or listen to good music. Note: fun and good. Because you don't want to replace the toxicity of social media with unhealthy entertainment in another form. Workout. You don't have to do strenuous exercises. A simple stretching for a few minutes will do. YouTube has a gazillion of video tutorials of different forms of exercise. Check it out and choose something that suits you. Spend time with the Lord. Read a verse. Listen to an inspirational podcast. Watch preaching or attend a mass service online.Churches are now conducting their services through YouTube or Facebook Live or recorded video. After just one day of disconnecting, I feel much better. No kidding. Giphy When you drown the noise, you feel calmer, right? That's how I felt. I may not be 100% okay yet but at least I'm not depressed and worried anymore about something I have no control over. When you remove the weight you carry on your shoulder, you have more energy and strength to do what matters most. You give yourself more time to be productive. More importantly, you'll hear God's voice clearly. You'll feel His presence more powerfully. His perfect love casts out all fears. (1 John 4:18) Your turn What do you do when screen time gets you anxious? What good habits did you replace your bad habits with?
Lux Thinking Aloud People and Conversation 12:10 AM People and Conversation You know what I have realized during this day 4 of l ockdown? The importance of choosing the people you let into your life. When I was single, I would always get the advice about choosing a good conversationalist. Because lust doesn't last. When you're old and gray, sex will be out of the picture. What's left for you and your partner? Conversation. Choose someone YOU ENJOY TALKING WITH. Because a day will come and that beautiful body will shift. A day will come, there will be one thing left — conversations. - Bo Sanchez With friends, choose someone who can lift you higher with their words. Especially during this crisis, you need encouragers. CO VID-19 is affecting not only our physical health but our mental well-being too. Imagine dealing with the toxic situation externally and having to deal with the monsters in your head but not having someone to talk to about it. Or having someone you can talk with but adds to the burden you carry. I am thankful for technology. Because I get to talk to people online. It's good to have people to share joy, grief, fear and concerns with. Shared joy is double joy; Shared sorrow is half a sorrow. -Swedish proverb When it comes to conversation, both parties should benefit. How do you feel after talking to your partner? And how do you make your partner feel after conversing? Even when you don't get to a solution sometimes when talking about an issue, it's good to unburden yourself by sharing and letting out what's bothering you. Who are in your circle? Do you have people cheering you up or weighing you down? Now more than ever, you need people who will help you carry on. Giphy You don't need additional negativity in your life right now. There are already a lot of problems going around. Global crisis is no joke. There are people adding to the drama by being apologists of crook politicians and spreading fake news. You don't need another toxic person surrounding you at this time. Believe me, you'll have more than enough of toxicity on social media and the news. It would also be good to talk about a different topic that is totally unrelated to the v irus and politics. That is not turning a blind eye to what's happening right now. It's just taking a break. Giving yourself the chance to breathe from the current issue is good for you. Try this fast talk I did. It's fun and a good way of getting to know someone more. Your turn Who are in your support system? What's the best thing you said or was said to you during a conversation?
Lux Thinking Aloud King of the Jungle 10:19 PM We're on Day 3 and things are getting crazier. Not only does the number of deaths and new cases are still increasing, the government is politicizing what's happening. King of the Jungle It's disheartening what's going on right now. Instead of going after people who are not doing their part---or worse violating the protocol, the government goes after the competent ones. Maybe they are threatened. Because those who are doing their jobs are showing people how it should be done. Thus, revealing who are just here for the money. Who knows? I can never understand how the evil people mind's work. It feels like we're in a movie. Like Hunger Games. People are going after each other in the name of food and survival. And those who are in power just sit there and watch us tear each other apart. Tenor Are you also troubled like me? We're in this together. Let me give you some encouragement as I seek to find encouragement myself. Remember this: In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world. -John 16:33 Right now it is hard to believe. The evil seems to be winning. Especially since a lot of people still choose to be silent. Forgetting that choosing to be neutral in situations of injustice is choosing the side of the oppressor. (Desmond Tutu) But this is not new. In the books, movies or even in real life, I have seen evil rise in power. But I have also seen them fall. In all the times that I have experienced or witnessed injustice myself, the song King of the Jungle of Steven Curtis Chapman has always given me hope. Here are some lines: Well the day has just begun and I'm already running late With too many irons in the fire and too much on my plate I'd be pulling out my hair if I could just get one hand free And I'd stop this world if I could find the key What I see is telling me I'm going crazy, but What is real says God's still on His throne What I need is to remember one thing That the Lord of the gentle breeze is Lord of the rough and tumble And He is King of the Jungle Yes He is People say this world's a jungle and sometimes I must admit I'd be scared to death if I did not know who was King of it But the truth is God created this whole world with His own hand So everything is under His command Everything is still under His command. We have a big God. He's bigger than this crisis. Some people may abuse the gift of freewill given to them, but there is still the Law of the Harvest: You reap what you sow. This law works like the law of gravity. You can never defy it. You can never avoid it. Here's another verse to remember when you feel like the enemy is winning: You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. -Psalm 23:5 I am afraid. I am disheartened. I am even angry. Every day it seems the enemy is doing something to crush my spirit. But I hold on to these words and promises. I hope you will too. Your turn What quote or verse do you go back to when you feel burdened or troubled? What song do you play to remind you that everything will get better?
Lux Thinking Aloud Gratitude List 11:22 PM It's like everything is moving in slow motion. Days are dragging. Cases of COV ID-19 is rising. On the bright side, at least people are still recovering. We're still in qu arantine. How's your life in the time of c oronavirus? Here's my l ockdown diary day 2. Gratitude List Today, let me say how grateful I am for these things: My husband who makes sure everything we need are provided. Who risks his life to go out and get our basic necessities. Now I'm more aware of God's grace. I thought little of how it is grace that we still get to come home safely every time we leave the house. Anything could happen. There could be an accident. There could be crime. We could get infected by a deadly virus. But we're protected. I thank God every time my husband comes home safely after going to the stores. I am still working, thus earning, without leaving the house. I thank God I'm an introvert. My heart has always been set to working without interacting with the crowd. 😛 Technology is such a gift. I get to chat with my family and friends. I get the latest news. If I have a question about this virus, the information is just one click away. Everyone in my circle are healthy and safe so far. There are still government officials who are doing their job. There is still hope. The word of God. I make it a point to listen to an inspirational talk before I end my day. I also play worship songs while I'm working. Yes, I still get tempted to check the news and I get discouraged. But I find strength and hope in God's promises. Currently listening I am guilty of reading the news and even the comment section every day (which I promised I won't do this year). It's so toxic. It gets me down. It's demotivating. So here's what I listen to to uplift my spirit: 1. Hits Up will surely appeal to the millennial and Gen Z. They've got cool, hip praise songs. This is what I play while I go about my day. 2. Short but powerful talks by my favorite spiritual author and speaker Bro Bo Sanchez. Uplifting and inspirational. 3. Quaretreat by Bro Arun Gogna and his wife Lallaine Gogna. It helps me find the good and the quiet in this qu arantine. It could get crazy and loud outside (or online). So a quiet retreat is what we need. I know it's easier to look at the horrible things during this crisis. I still do! Hey, I'm a work in progress too. But every day there is still reason to be thankful. When it gets a little too loud, too toxic and too heavy, pause. Turn off your gadget. Tune in to God. Hang in there. We're in this together. Pray without ceasing. Give thanks in every circumstance, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. -1 Thessalonians 5:17-18 Your turn List down 5 things you are thankful for in the comment. What are you listening to or watching to help you stay hopeful during this time?
Lux Thinking Aloud Diary 12:14 AM Technically, our country has been on community q uarantine, enhanced community q uarantine and extreme community qua rantine for weeks now. Our government refuses to call it a l ockdown. But a lo ckdown is a protocol that prevents people from leaving an area. Since we can't leave our cities unless we have a valid reason like work or health emergency and I have neither, I'm going to start logging down my thoughts and day to day experience as we all go through this crisis together. Here's to start my l ockdown diary. Watch out for one-word titled daily posts following this. Diary Day 1 It seems tragedies keep happening since late 2019 up to the present. What is happening to 2020? Every day is like waking up to hear damage report. Make a meme My newsfeed is filled not only with horrific stories about c oronavirus or COV ID-19 but also about the people's lamentation about how the government is poorly handling the situation. I've been working from home full time for four years now. Needless to say, my lifestyle is only slightly affected by this lo ckdown. A lot of people lost their jobs though. My heart goes out to the daily wage earners whose employers could not extend them a little help during this crisis. More than ranting about the state of the world though, I want to record my life lessons and observations in the time of c oronav irus. Back to basic Decades ago, people thought that 2020 is the year we will finally see flying cars. Yes, our technology is more advanced now than it was in the previous years but no flying cars in sight. Giphy Instead, we are going back to the basic. We're teaching people how to properly wash their hands again. We're being reminded of the coughing and sneezing in public etiquette. We stay put in our homes. Nature is rejoicing Humans are supposed to be the most intellectual creatures on earth. But science shows us that earth was thriving before humans "invade" the planet. In only a few weeks of q uarantine, nature is rejoicing. Smog is clearing out. Water is cleaner. Animals that are rarely seen are coming out and roaming the city. Some to look for food because no one's feeding them anymore. Others felt safe in the streets without the danger of humans or cars in sight. Jim Carrey was right. We are the savages. Rebloggy Normal? When I hear people say that soon we'll be back to what's normal, I cringe. We've seen that the normal didn't work. What our society made normal is what brought us here. It's time to change. It's time to stop what is damaging the planet. It's time to rethink the wrongs we do. We can't be going back to the lifestyle and practice that led us to this pa ndemonium. We need to change before it's too late. Change may not be easy at first but it's not impossible. We can do it if we have enough will. Giphy Mind-setting I'm writing this (online) diary to also help encourage whoever comes across it. Change the way you see this situation. You are not stuck inside, you are safe inside. If you have enough food, if you and your family are safe and healthy, if you are sitting comfortably at home and have the luxury to relax, you are still blessed. Some people worry about where to get their next meal. Your worry is what movie or show to watch next on Netflix. Some people have to risk going out just to earn money and buy their basic necessities. Others could be stuck at home with an abusive partner or parent. The next time you feel bored or confined, think about the animals stuck in the zoo, slaughterhouses, test laboratories and cages. Imagine how they feel. It's nothing compared to your situation. At least you will still have your freedom again. Soon. I hope. Gfycat Your turn Share your life story in the time of C oronav irus. How was your day 1 of l ockdown? What are your realizations?
Health & Wellness Human Nature Sunflower Oil Review 10:47 PM Looking for your skin's perfect match is like searching for your soulmate. It could be frustrating, disappointing, or discouraging. (Hang in there, single ladies!)But...When you finally found your destiny...ah, sheer joy! You'll cherish that moment for the rest of your life and never let go.With that said, here's my long overdue Human Nature Sunflower Oil review. The perfect match for my sensitive skin.Human Nature Sunflower Oil ReviewI have sensitive skin. How sensitive? I accidentally brush my temple with the tip of my finger when I fix my hair in a ponytail. What happens next? A pimple on that spot I touched the next day.I slept with my face on my arm? Good morning, big zit!Anyone with sensitive skin would tell you it's hard to find the right product your skin will agree with.Comedy CentralI tried Human Nature Sunflower oilGod bless the day I walked down the supermarket lane and found Human Nature. First, I tried their Nourishing (tomato) Facial Wash. It was love at first use. I bought every product they launched after that.Their Human Nature Sunflower oil is, so far, my favorite.I didn't know how beneficial sunflower oil can be to our bodies until I discovered this product.25 reasons why sunflower oil is considered the Miracle Oil:Overall body moisturizerHelps lighten and soften underarmHelps lighten dark spots and pimple marksHelps make eyebrows thickerHelps relieve itch and redness caused by insect bites.Helps hydrate dry patches on the face.Helps relax tired, puffy eyes.Helps lighten lesions and scars.Adds shine to dull hair.Helps improve the appearance of underarm chicken skin.Helps improve skin condition after sunburn.Helps prevent and diminish the appearance of stretch marks.Helps lighten dark under-eye circles.Smoothens dry, rough skin from shaving.Helps soothe skin after waxing.Helps calm skin and ease rashes.Serves as an under-eye moisturizer.Removes stubborn makeup.Makes skin glow and helps keep it youthful.Helps soothe a dry and itchy scalp.Nourishes and conditions eyelashes.Helps soften cuticles.Helps relieve symptoms of skin infection.Helps lessen fine lines around the eyes.Softens feet soles, knees, and elbows.My personal experience with Human Nature Sunflower OilHere's how I use and personally experience sunflower oil's miracles.Human Nature Sunflower OilMoisturizer from head to toeIt's humid here in our country. So when we use the AC, my skin gets extra dry. Sunflower oil hydrates my skin effectively.💡 TIP: The best way to use it for soft, supple skin is to put a few drops (just 2-3) on your damp skin after a shower (or after washing your face).Gentle but potent makeup removerSunflower oil gently but thoroughly removes makeup.💡 TIP: Pump 2 drops and rub gently on the skin. Remove gently with a tissue. Rinse.Even before rinsing, I can already feel my skin breathing! It also makes it supple.Jacklyn ForbesRemoves chicken skin Shaving and plucking make my underarm skin rough. Sunflower oil makes it smooth and prevents darkening.After sun careI bring my sunflower oil when I travel. At night after a day of fun under the sun, I'd apply my sunflower oil and instantly feel the relief. No more "skin on fire" sensation.Enjoying Palawan with Human Nature productsRelieves itchy scalpWhen my scalp gets dry and itchy, I put a drop of Human Nature sunflower oil and gently massage it. 💡 TIP: Do this at least 15 minutes before showering and rinse well.You can also apply it at the tip of your hair to avoid split ends. I do this especially after spending long hours outside during summer.Stronger nailsThose unhealthy yellow nails after removing your nail polish! Ew.Getting a manicure regularly could damage nails. It becomes weak.One drop of Human Nature sunflower oil is enough to coat all my nails and make them stronger and healthier.A night owl's best friendBefore hitting the sack, put a little extra dab of this miracle oil under your eyes.No matter how stressed and exhausted you are before bed and how much sleep you get, you'll wake up looking like you had ten precious hours of rest.BONUS! An unintentional benefit of doing this: my eyelashes are longer and healthier.Hitting two birds with one stone while sleeping. Removes scarHow long does an insect bite mark stay on your skin? A few days? Mine stays for months!Thankfully, sunflower oil reduces the time the scars are erased.It depends on your type of skin. It could be faster than that for some users.More to love about Human Nature Sunflower Oil.I love that they'revegan and cruelty-freeall-naturalprioritizing local farmers and suppliers and buying from them with just and fair priceshelping back by building villages and supporting poor communitiesaward-winning and internationally recognizedHuman Nature has become the first Asian brand to win the prestigious Sustainable Beauty Awards.RatingDo you even have to ask after reading my Human Nature Sunflower Oil review?Of course, it's a 5! GiphyHuman Nature Sunflower Oil is my skin's a perfect match. What's yours?📸 Hero image: Human Nature
Life Lessons This Is The Word I Choose For 2020 8:45 PM If you don't do resolutions like me, how do you gear up for the new year? It's more powerful to choose a word and let it guide you. I have proven this through the years. This 2020, the start of a new decade, I have chosen the word to define my year. A quick throwback! But before that, a quick look back at the words I chose for the past years. Last 2014, I picked the word "more" to define my year and it ultimately changed my life. I'm happy to report that it was indeed the year I did more, became more, achieved more, traveled more, read more books, had more fun. I discovered more things about myself. Words are powerful. Since then, I would choose a word to be my theme or compass. A guiding principle of how I would live that year. Giphy My 2015 was all about getting better. I did things differently last 2016. It was unorthodox. I was winning last 2017. Winning over my doubts and fears. Winning over uncertainties. Winning over my critics. Winning over that inner voice that keeps on telling me I can't. Well, I can and I did. 2018 was a spontaneous year. I am such a control freak and I overthink a lot. But last 2018, I learned to let things be. It was a year of total and complete surrender. It was a year of leaping in faith. More than anything, it was a year when my heart was overflowing with gratitude for God's faithfulness in my life. It was when I have proven yet again that God will deliver His promise. We only have to wait in faith because His timetable is different from ours. It was when I was glad that I didn't listen to what others say and calmly trusted the process. I didn't listen to the facts people threw at me. Hey, I worship a God who can do the impossible after all. Last 2019 was a year of milestones. I did a lot of firsts. Isn't it amazing that year after year life has an incredible way of surprising us, shaping us and giving us opportunities that bring us from glory to glory? And now for this year... This Is The Word I Choose For 2020: Premium Merriam-Webster dictionary defines premium as of exceptional quality or amount. Or higher priced. According to Cambridge Dictionary, premium is something extra given or an extra amount charged, a great amount of importance, of higher than usual quality or value. Why am I choosing Premium as my word for 2020? Out of mediocrity and into a premium life Let's just say that being a middle child, I grew up receiving hand-me-downs. I was conditioned to always give way and I've learned to be content of what's being given to me. I was never a demanding child. Or adult. It's good that I find joy in the simplest things. I am fine with having my needs met and I don't have excessive wants. Thus, I never envy others. The downside of being content to what is good is missing out on what is great. I know I can do more and be more but I don't see the urgency when I'm already happy in my little corner. Ah, let them clamor for attention and promotion. As long as I get paid enough to buy my basic needs and have some extra left for a little self-indulgence, I'm good. That's how I used to think. But I fell in love with traveling and I know I want more of it. I desire a premium life that will enable me to travel more and conveniently at that, thanks to my husband who made me see the difference between sleeping inside a tent and on a soft comfortable mattress. Yes, I've traveled in a shoestring budget and it was fun when done with friends. But it's a whole new different experience to spend the night in a luxurious hotel and be chauffeured around. Giphy Premium health If you don't care about your health, the planet and the life of animals, your food option seems endless. But if you want food that nourishes your body, good for the planet and does not involve killing animals, you need premium food. It takes a lot of research, reading of labels and expanding your network to find these kinds of food. That's why a lot of people prefer to buy what is easy to prepare and cheap. But if you're not careful, you'll pay for it soon enough. Why be careless now and regret it later? Have you heard of a person who got sick because he's eating fruits and vegetables? Broccoli doesn't catch a flu. Kale doesn't have foot and mouth disease. Duh. The food you eat can either nourish you or make your sick. The food you eat can be either the safest and most powerful form of medicine or the slowest form of poison. -Ann Wigmore Other things I've started doing for my health late last year which I plan to continue are stretching and meditating first thing in the morning. A healthy body starts with a healthy mind. My husband and I also goes to a weekly spa date. You can be healthy without depriving yourself of good food. There are a lot of healthy options out there. With the help of the internet especially YouTube cooking shows, what you need to know is just one click away. Giphy Peace of mind What could be a more premium gift you can give yourself than the gift of peace of mind? I've always been talking about getting rid of toxic people in your life. Don't be sorry about cutting off people who don't contribute to your well-being. I've burned bridges that lead to nowhere. Last year, I've made the mistake of checking the comment section on socials. Gosh it's like seeing a speeding bus and jumping in front of it anyway. It's bad for the mental health. I also tolerated who have been abusing working with me since I was a newbie writer and made me believe that I'm getting a just rate. These are the kinds of clients that will make you feel bad for charging them higher than usual and call you selfish or greedy. For 2020, I'm staying out of the comment section and will be hitting that 'block sender' button as often as needed. Giphy How about you? Have you chosen a word for 2020 yet? Let me know in the comments below.
