Lux Thinking Aloud Ramblings Of A Neophyte Michael Jackson Fan 5:35 PM I think the reason why God entrusted such a huge amount of talent to Michael Jackson is because He knew only a heart as humble as Michael's could handle it. Ramblings Of A Neophyte Michael Jackson Fan They say an artist will only be truly appreciated when he's gone. I guess it's true for Michael Jackson and this neophyte Michael Jackson fan. Much to my regret, I only got to appreciate him as an artist a few weeks ago. In my defense, I was busy playing with my Barbies when Michael Jackson was at the prime of his career. I would also hear more negative things about him then that his talent was overshadowed so to speak. So I ignored this man who could walk backwards and moved like no other. Then one fateful day I decided to watch Superbowl videos on YouTube and it was his video I clicked first. I didn't know what was coming. I didn't know I'd be hooked and be in awe for the next few hours. I watched every interviews, every live performances and every music videos I could find. I was entranced. I was suddenly under Michael Jackson's spell. More than his exceptional talent though, I was drawn by this star, this legend, this record-breaking artist's mystery...and the sadness in his eyes. When you read between the lines, when you look at him, you'd know deep down that despite his stardom, the phenomenon, the inexplicable adoration of his fans and obsession of the paparazzi, he was a lonely vulnerable man. A deprived kid trapped in a man's body. A lost soul. I believe that he was a kind, gentle, generous, pure and humble person. All he wanted was help others, experience how it is to be a normal child, live normally and be loved and appreciated. All he wanted was give what he could and what he had to those who need it more. In return, he received bashing, criticism, condemnation. I think his haters knew they couldn't bring him down attacking him as an artist because he was perfection. No one could ever move and sing like Michael Jackson. No one else has that same passion and magic. No one could give it all like Michael Jackson could. Or maybe that's just the amateur fan girl me talking. But, whatever. For me, Michael Jackson was and will remain the ultimate undisputed best artist in all history. No one comes close. They couldn't say anything wrong about his talent so they attack him in other aspects instead. Those trolls. Heartless, cruel, selfish, greedy creatures. Why can't they just applaud with the rest of the world? Why can't they write about this superstar who instead of strutting the streets with arrogance, wasting money on booze and prostitutes, was out there helping children in need, trying with all he had and with all he could to make others happy and change the world? Why do they have to point at his flaws? Fabricate stories and call him names? They made Michael Jackson who he was because of what they say---a freak. He said in an interview that people does not know the effect of the words they say. He was hurt and devastated. Do people care? Maybe some did. But majority loved to turn his life into a fiasco. Using his weakness, his vulnerability to try to put him down. He's just human. He maybe the brightest star to ever shine, but he's got feelings too. He got hurt. Deeply apparently. There are many things he missed just to give the world the kind of entertainer that they wanted. How ungrateful of the world to treat him like a joke instead. The world destroyed Michael Jackson. What could a single man do against the whole world ganging up on him? In retrospect, where were his friends then? Where were those who hero-worshiped him when he was crying himself to sleep? We should have paid more attention to the message of his songs. Most of them are a cry for help, a cry of a lonely hurt heart desperate to make the world a better place. He wasn't eccentric. He wasn't weird. He wasn't a wacko. We don't know half the truth of what the man went through. I believe he's innocent. No monster could write songs about healing the world, protecting the children and being there for someone and sing it with all his soul. No monster could have done what he did for the children in need. No sick, selfish person could have donated his time and money to charities. The only thing Michael Jackson was guilty of was that he cared too much. He cared too much about the world, about the children's future, about other people. He cared too much about what people say about him to the point that he let it destroy him. He was vulnerable and naive because there was no evil thought or ill emotions in his heart. Someone so loving and genuine like him couldn't do what they said he did. And for the police to invade his privacy like that? It was inhuman. I hope they're happy now. Whatever happened to Michael Jackson was a thing of the past. But you can never erase someone as great as Michael Jackson in the history of mankind. For all it's worth I think he's happy now. At peace. Surrounded by great Love and appreciation. I think he's dancing for God and singing with the angels. I want to always remember him alive, invincible, awe-inspiring, historical. He will remain the brightest and biggest start this world will ever see. Michael Jackson, gone to soon, forever the king of pop. August 29, 1958 - June 25, 2009 All photos from Google images See also: This World Was Not Ready For Michael Jackson 5 Reasons To Love Michael Jackson Hey, did you find this post helpful or entertaining? Please go ahead and share. Share buttons on the left and at the bottom of the article. Big thanks! Subscribe to About Life And Love by Email
Dating Why Dating Can Be More Successful As You Get Older 2:11 PM Dating advice from a guest blogger:As we age, it’s natural that our views on dating change. As a young man, I was giving off plenty of male pheromones while I was in search of a partner. I focused a lot on the attraction aspect of dating and did my best in that area. Looking back on it now I admit I had an immature view about dating. I was looking for things that were superficial. I never thought those things could or would diminish with age. With every year that passes, we learn. And the more we learn, the more successful we could get in dating...and in life. I’m going to explore the ways I’ve found dating to be more successful as I’ve gotten older. And if you’re at the later stage of your life and dating or dating older women, I’m sure you can relate. Why Dating Can be More Successful as You Get Older 1. You’re more sure of yourself When you’re younger, you can more likely change for your partner. And in doing so, you'll lose yourself.When I was in my early 20's, I met someone and fell head over heels. I adapted to her taste in music, television, and whatnot. I wasn’t pretending because I genuinely appreciated the things she loved. But the problem was that...I ended up focusing on her interests and ignoring my own. In the end, I didn’t like the person I had become. I wasn't myself anymore. As an adult, I’ve got time to focus on my own interests and become more self-assured. I now understand the importance of staying true to myself. And that it's a good place to find a partner.2. You may be financially stable There’s something to be said about having a supportive partner who supports you through anything. But it can also be rewarding to find a partner when you’ve already passed the pains in your career. You may now be working fewer nights and have some money set aside. This is the ideal time to focus on a new relationship. Couples are likely to argue over finances, and may even break up over money. So when you date later in life and are more stable, this issue could be off the table.3. You’ve made your mistakes Sometimes you reach a certain age, you look back on your relationship choices...and cringe. Or even regret it.None of us are perfect, and it’s important to see where we’ve made mistakes. Because if we can’t see it, we’re doomed to repeat the ghosts of bad relationships past. When you're more mature, you’ve probably sorted out the skeletons in your closet and are ready to give and accept love in a healthy way. You know what you want, but more importantly, you know who you are. 4. Your goals are different Dating when you’re younger is often focused on one goal: to get married and have kids. But if you’ve already been there and done that, you can take things slow. There’s no rush to find out if the person you’re dating is the one. You don't worry about the body clock anymore.Getting past that child-rearing age can take a ton of pressure off your love life.When you find yourself dating later in life, you may be in a better place to find true love. There are no deadlines and you can be in a place to make her feel secure ---financially and emotionally. Most people don’t set out to date in their 30's, 40's and beyond. But if you look at it the right way, it may be considered a blessing.
Entertainment Top 7 Good Vibes Podcasts on Spotify Philippines 5:39 PM Top 7 Good Vibes Podcasts on Spotify Philippines Need a dose of good vibes and inspiration? I'm a daily Spotify podcast listener, and I have my favorites to jumpstart my day or keep me company while doing my chores.I'm sharing my top 7 good vibes podcasts on Spotify Philippines, perfect for you if you're looking for a break from the daily grind. These shows cover a wide range of topics and are hosted by some of the most entertaining personalities in the country. So sit back, relax, and prepare to add positivity to your day with these top-rated podcasts.Good Vibes Podcasts Criteria for SelectionWhat makes you engrossed when listening to a podcast? I love the light, funny ones, but I also want something that feeds my soul and makes me think.So here are my personal criteria when choosing my top favorite good vibes-bringing podcasts:EntertainingInformativeRelevantEngagingMind-provokingFunnyClearI like shows that are fun to listen to and provide value to their listeners.I looked for podcasts that cover various topics and interests and appeal to podcasters of varying age groups or tribes.Lastly, I considered the production quality of each podcast. They have high-quality audio, clear and concise delivery, and engaging content. Podcast 1: Umagang Kay GognaUmagang Kay Gogna is hosted by husband and wife Arun and Lallaine Gogna. Bro Arun is a preacher at The Feast and a bestselling author. He and his wife, Lallaine, often give inspirational talks about marriage and navigating life with faith. Bro Arun is known as the Wacky Speaker, and I love that about him. His speaking style is truly engaging because he makes you laugh out loud and then hits you with a serious nugget of wisdom. And Lallaine always has the most beautiful, genuine, and heartwarming prayers. It is the perfect podcast to listen to if you want a dose of hope and a beautiful reminder of life with Christ to start your day. (Note: Mostly spoken in Taglish)Podcast 2: The Bo Sanchez PodcastAnother podcast to listen to if you want good vibes is The Bo Sanchez Podcast. It is the podcast version of Bro Bo's short inspirational video, Full Tank, where he shares God's word with inspiring stories and practical advice. He shares lessons about faith, relationships, and even finances which are all relevant and helpful to everyday life. Bro Bo founded the Light of Jesus Family and The Feast. His podcast is an excellent source of inspiration and positive vibes. I love that he mostly speaks in English in his podcast - because my husband gets to also listen without me translating. 😁 He listens more regularly to his podcast than I do. Podcast 3: Wake Up with Jim and SaabWake Up with Jim and Saab is a Spotify Exclusive by husband and wife and cool pod parents Jim and Saab Bacaro. They started in 2018 and feature interviews with interesting personalities and discussions about culture, current events, life, and relationships. They answer questions and advise letter senders, engage with their pod kids live, and sometimes rant about toxic Filipino practices, discombobulating policies and politicians (only in the Philippines 🙄), making their listeners feel heard and making them one of the most relatable people on Spotify. I like that regardless of their rants - which are entirely understandable - they can turn the discussion around and make you laugh, think, and still leave the pod with some happy vibes.(Mostly Taglish)Podcast 4: Only Fun with Chico and GinoIf you love movies and TV shows, particularly KDramas, listen to Spotify Exclusive Only Fun with Chico and Gino. They watch an episode or two (or more, depending on how hot the characters are - or how exciting the show is) and share what they think every Wednesday. I've been a fan of the legendary Chico Garcia on their morning radio show, The Morning Rush, since high school. They were former partners in the show, and listeners have loved their funny banters and informative conversations. Listen to them as they fanboy on their favorite Marvel and DC characters, and give a blow-by-blow discussion on the hottest shows, such as House of the Dragons and The Last of Us. Listening to Only Fun is like chatting with your two jokester friends, laughing carelessly together, making you forget about the stresses of life. As their tagline goes, this podcast is no drama, only fun. (Mostly Taglish)Podcast 5: TMR Top 10The Morning Rush Top 10 is a radio show on Monster RX 93.1. The show is hosted by Chico, Hazel, and Markki. I've loved it since the Chico and Delamar tandem (I was heartbroken when Del left for good). They ask their listeners for a topic and pick the top ten entries. For example, the Top 10 Lost Etiquette, Top 10 Signs You're a Tita (my favorite LOL episode so far), and Top 10 My Rebranding Story. They also discuss the recent news in entertainment and share their current favorites. They keep the discussion positive throughout the show and help keep the energy up which is badly needed by people who have to start their day early. (Mostly Taglish)Podcast 6: Paano Ba 'To: The PodcastWe've all gone through a phase in life where we ask ourselves, 'How do I do this?'. The show Paano Ba 'To answers these questions through podcast host Bianca Gonzales and her impressive lineup of guests. The podcast shares wisdom and advice on navigating career challenges, life changes, relationships, and building confidence.It is perfect for anyone who wants to feel good about themselves, find their path, and learn lessons from those who went through what they're going through. (Mostly Taglish)Podcast 7: #AskBo: Hard Questions PodcastAsk Bo is also hosted by Bro Bo Sanchez, where he answers difficult questions and makes a deep dive into life. The podcast answers hard questions we mostly avoid or are sometimes ashamed to admit, such as failure, suicide, fears, sins, abuse, and faith. Ask Bo is perfect for anyone feeling lost and wanting to learn more about different perspectives and experiences. It's the podcast for those searching for hope, healing, and happiness in the face of distress. (Mostly English)Top 7 Good Vibes Podcasts on Spotify PhilippinesWhether you're searching for career and relationship advice or just need a good laugh and a reminder of how amazing you are, these podcasts will brighten your day. So, if you're looking for a way to pass the time during your daily commute or unwind after a long day, check out these top 7 podcasts on Spotify Philippines for a much-needed dose of good vibes. You might just find your new favorite show!What podcast are you currently listening to?
Lux Thinking Aloud Ending 6:20 PM Enhanced Community Q uarantine has been lifted a week ago in specific areas. Since we're not included in the hot zone, we've now moved to General Quarantine. I honestly am not keeping track as my husband takes care of that. I'm just glad we finally reached an ending.EndingYou may have heard before that an ending is just another beginning. Agree to that. This end of quarantine for us seems to be the start of new cases. 🙄 Because look at the road situation as soon as the lockdown has been lifted.RapplerIn life, end of a career is start of a new one. Or a new business.End of a relationship is the beginning of another. It could be about you finding yourself again, renewing your relationship with some people in your life or a new person walking into your life.End of your Netflix show means you can binge-watch a new one. That is, if you even wait for one to end before you start another.I know endings could be hard sometimes. Heartbreaking. Life-changing.Especially when it ends because it's beyond your control. Like a loved one's death.It's a new journey for the departed (if you believe in the afterlife).Ending opens new doors you didn't even know exists.I hope the end of this quarantine is the beginning of a step closer to the healing of our land.I'm both happy and sad that my Lockdown Diary is finally over.TenorI think I'm having separation anxiety to my daily entry about my life in the time of c oronavirus.Maybe I'll start on a new series soon. What do you think?Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.-Isaiah 43:18-19Thank you for journeying with me during this lockdown; in all the ups and downs, during my sleepless nights and unproductive days, on my grief and in my joy.It's been only 50 days and so much has happened. Even without me having to leave the house.Writing keeps me sane. I hope reading my lockdown diary helped you realized you're not alone in your journey too. Hang in there. We'll see the ending of this crisis soon. Meanwhile, stay safe!
Faith The 7 Fruits of Suffering 9:06 AM Sometimes it takes a painful experience to make us change our ways. -Proverbs 20:30 The Seven Fruits of Suffering shared by Bo Sanchez on yesterday's Talk 2: Why Am I Suffering? From the series Your Toughest Questions Answered. The Seven Fruits of Suffering 1. Hunger. "The enemy of great success is small success." Success causes you to slow down, demotivate you and makes you content. You will no longer aim for a better life if you're comfortable living your good life. Suffering makes you hungry again, motivates you and propels you to greater success. 2. Harvest. When we suffer, we must pull away or walk away from our "bullies"; toxic people, stressful career, self-inflicted problems or bad habits or addictions that are affecting our lives so we can have a momentum. The greater the hunger, the greater the harvest. 3. Humility. There are two teachers in life---Teacher Trial and Teacher Triumph. Both are great teachers but Teacher Trial is more effective. When you suffer from trials you become teachable. Triumph makes you proud and so you're not open to what life teaches you. You learn more when you suffer because you're humble enough to accept the lessons that life presents. 4. Hardiness. You become more enduring and tougher when you suffer. There's a direct connection between the size of your comfort zone and the size of your success. The bigger your comfort zone the more successful you are, because you'll stretch out more to make your comfort zone wider. 5. Healing. You get wounds when you suffer, and these wounds turn into scars in time. Your scars can inspire others who are in the same situation that you used to be in. You become a wounded healer. 6. Holiness. There are times when there's nothing left for you to do but pray, even when you don't feel like praying. Personally, I'm glad we Catholics have memorized prayers. It came to a point when I don't know what to pray for anymore. I was all prayed up, I said. That's when I learned to appreciate the power of memorized prayers. It's an instant relief when you don't know what to do anymore. Suffering pushes you to converse more often with God. 7. Heaven. In all your sufferings on earth, you'll realize that your real happiness will only be in heaven. "Tough times don't last but tough people do." You will outlive all your problems. God is not a sadistic selfish God who sits on His throne and takes delight when He sees His people suffer. Our faith tells us that everything is part of His divine plan. All things are intended for our good. Let's focus on the prize and not on the obstacles. We all suffered (or are still suffering) at some point. The important thing to remember is not why we suffer but what we get after we suffer; what the fruit of our suffering will be. The big message: The greater the pull back, the greater the come back. If life is pulling you back and you feel like time is standing still, nothing is happening and your suffering seems endless, it just means that life is preparing you for a great come back. If God brought us to it, He will bring us through it. Hey, did you find this post helpful or entertaining? Please go ahead and share. Share buttons on the left and at the bottom of the article. Big thanks! Subscribe to About Life And Love by Email
Listicle How Millennials Are Redefining The Wedding Industry 5:23 PM Although there has been a trend in marriages declining among millennials, the wedding industry is thriving. According to IBIS World, the wedding industry generated a revenue of about $76 billion in 2019. Social media is putting a little pressure on soon-to-be-wed couples that wedding suppliers must be on top of their games. There's wedding planning career training available for those who want to be the best of the best in the wedding industry. Because a wedding may be a fun event but it's serious business.While millennials might not be getting married or as early in age as other generations, they are spending a lot and going all out when they do get hitched.Millennials are redefining the wedding industry in the types of weddings they are having and going against tradition. Here are just a few ways the industry is changing thanks to millennials: How Millennials are Redefining the Wedding Industry 1. Variety of VenuesA growing trend in weddings is to stray away from the traditional church wedding and banquet hall for the reception. Millennials are instead booking venues that double as both the wedding ceremony and reception area. A growing trend in unconventional wedding spaces such as barns and vineyards is increasing too. These venues allow for more customizable decorating and give great options for indoor or outdoor weddings. Many couples are also choosing venues that hold some sort of special meaning in their relationships such as the place they met or museums that they enjoy.2. DIYEven though millennials are spending more on their weddings than any other generation, they still seek out ways to cut costs.DIY elements can often easily be incorporated into little aspects of a wedding such as with giveaways or little decor accents. This allows couples to incorporate something more personalized and customized to their wedding. DIY helps keep their wedding on budget while also incorporating something unique to their wedding instead of just having another “cookie-cutter” wedding. 3. PersonalizationAlong with DIY, millennials are obsessed with incorporating personalization elements into their weddings.This comes down to every single element of the wedding planning process. Even engagement rings are experiencing a trend in personalization. More and more couples are looking for custom rings that they design together. This makes it easier to select the best quality diamond to put in a custom setting. This trend towards designed weddings can be traced to the surge in the role of social media in weddings. And what could be cuter than a customized wedding ring? It's the symbol of your love and loyalty. Why not make it your own?Custom-made wedding rings Sydney will complete your personalized wedding dream. You can only wear your wedding gown once. But your ring is something you'll wear for a lifetime. Make a wise investment in that wedding band.4. Social MediaSocial media is the biggest reason the wedding industry has been redefined and navigated by millennials. Instagram and Pinterest are the wedding industry’s go-to for figuring out wedding trends.Instead of looking at wedding magazines or consulting wedding planners, couples are instead looking to these two platforms for ideas and inspiration for their own ceremonies. Both platforms can explain why couples are so image-conscious over their weddings. Couples now take into consideration how photo-friendly their weddings are because of Instagram and Pinterest. This investment in creating photogenic weddings also pushes couples to add some customization and unique experiences to their weddings.5. Experiences over TraditionsMillennial couples are also changing the wedding industry by the type of weddings they favor. More and more millennials are opting to choose experiences over traditions. A clear sign of that is the growth in destination weddings. According to WeddingWire, one in four weddings are destination weddings and that statistic seems to be growing. Couples are also looking to include experiences within their wedding by things like a cigar bar and trendy entertainment such as aura photography. Millennials are redefining the wedding industry by choosing more personalized decorations and experiences for their weddings. Weddings today are all about incorporating unique elements that reflect the experiences of a couple’s relationship. While this may be the trend for millennials who are getting married now, the wedding industry may see a change in the future.
Faith Adaptable 7:39 PM Adaptable Notice the glorious bamboo tree. It is tall and sturdy but when the wind blows strongly, it bends. It's resilient even during a raging storm. Because it is adaptable. It goes all the way down to the bottom and all the way up that the camera can't capture the actual size 📸: Instagram husband We need to learn this important life lesson from a bamboo tree. Now more than ever, we need to be adaptable. Because all of us are going through a crisis. The whole damn world. No one's exempted. This p andemic is perhaps the biggest change and challenge the modern world has experienced so far. And I couldn't agree more. Giphy Aside from this global crisis, we each are going through major life-altering events. We need to adjust. If we keep resisting change, we will break. Personal change I've seen this change in my career recently. I know it will be tough in the coming days and if I keep thinking about the what ifs, I will be having fresh breakouts and be losing sleep again. Anxiety ain't pretty. So, instead I decided to declare this: My God is bigger than this crisis. My God is more powerful than this p andemic. He will never let my cup run dry. Here are other encouragement I keep in my heart to help me get through this like a warrior I was born to be: You prepare a feast for me in the presence of my enemies. You honor me by anointing my head with oil. My cup overflows with blessings. -Psalm 23:5 And God will generously provide all you need. Then you will always have everything you need and plenty left over to share with others. -2 Corinthians 9:8 The LORD will send rain at the proper time from his rich treasury in the heavens and will bless all the work you do. You will lend to many nations, but you will never need to borrow from them. -Deuteronomy 28:12 And this same God who takes care of me will supply all your needs from his glorious riches, which have been given to us in Christ Jesus. - Philippians 4:19 The LORD gave me what I had, and the LORD has taken it away. Praise the name of the LORD! - Job 1:21 Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus. - 1 Thessalonians 5:18 And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose. -Romans 8:28 But in that coming day no weapon turned against you will succeed. You will silence every voice raised up to accuse you. These benefits are enjoyed by the servants of the LORD; their vindication will come from me. I, the LORD, have spoken! - Isaiah 54:17 Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever. -Hebrews 13:8 Whatever is good and perfect is a gift coming down to us from God our Father, who created all the lights in the heavens. He never changes or casts a shifting shadow. -James 1:17 I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full. -John 10:10 And when it gets overwhelming I have to remind myself of this verse: I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world. -John 16:33 Realizations I don't think I'll be standing here today if not for God's grace. He is my hope and my strength. There are many times in my life when He delivered me and fulfilled His promises. He never fails and He won't stop now. (I got that from this song. 😛) I've realized that if we want to thrive in our lives during this c oronavirus p andemic, we need to adapt. In the end, the strongest among us is not the one who looks and acts tough. It is the one who learns to bend. Be strong. Be adaptable. Your turn What quotes or verses do you read when things get tough? How do you adapt to change?
Fashion & Style Simple Things To Do To Improve Your Life Right Now 9:00 PM You may have written down the things you need to leave in the past for a lighter life journey (like I did). But how about things you need to do and bring with you? Here's a list of some simple things to do to improve your life right now. Simple Things To Do To Improve Your Life Right Now Be grateful Bring gratitude with you. I've always been a believer of the power of gratitude. It makes you a blessing magnet. Gratitude fills your heart with joy and makes you ready to receive more. It is a product of abundance mentality and changes it your perspective on life. The more grateful you are, the more you attract the things you are grateful for. That's how the universe works. (Thanks to Bo Sanchez for this wonderful idea) Be teachable Bring your openness to learning and willingness to be taught. If you believe you know everything then you stop growing. Be humble enough to know that you need other people to teach you, that each person you meet has a lesson for you to learn, that you don't know everything. Because seriously, you don't. Be an eternal student. Learn from your mistakes, learn from other people's stories and examples, learn from the expert, learn from children, learn from animals, learn from the past. Use what you have learned in making better decisions, in improving your skills and thus increasing your career value, in avoiding detours by hanging out with the wrong people and being in the wrong situations, and in speeding up your way to a better life. Be more optimistic Bring your humor and optimism. Author Elbert Hubbard said it best, "Don't take life too seriously. You'll never get out of it alive." Cut yourself some slack. Don't be too hard on yourself (a lesson I needed to learn). Learn to laugh at yourself and your boo boos. Nobody's perfect anyway. Everyone has tripped and slipped---alone or in front of a crowd. I have. Everyone has had a fashion flop history (except maybe for some like Selena Gomez and Audrey Hepburn who can't go wrong with fashion). Everyone has a flaw. You may not be perfect but you are made exactly as God intended you to be. Always remember that things work out even when you think they don't. If your life is on a detour, it is God's redirection, and not His rejection Always look at the bright side. Never lose your sense of wonder. Be more trusting Bring your faith and trust. You may not see where your path takes you. You may be struggling for so long, trying so hard, working double and you are tired and discouraged because it seems nothing is happening. Your life feels like running on a treadmill. You're exhausted but you're still stuck. But you look around and everyone around you seems to be moving forward. Like in a marathon. I know that feeling so much. Have a little faith. Never compare your story with theirs. God has a different plan for you. "No eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love Him." (1 Corinthians 2:9) Things will not always go your way but it always works for the best. Trust the process. Trust God's plans no matter how difficult it may seem. Remember who you are Bring your value wherever you go. Remember who you are. Never shortchange yourself. You are worth more than gold. You're worth every drop of blood and sweat of God's only Son. You are the apple of God's eyes. "The Lord will rejoice over you with gladness, He will renew you in His love." (Zephaniah 3:17) Keep your standards high. Have non-negotiables. "Never apologize for having high standards. People who really want to be in your life will rise up to meet them." (Ziad K. Abdelnour) In short, don't allow other people to treat you like crap. It's not about arrogance. It's staying true to who you are. It's about self-respect and self-love. It's about knowing you are meant to live an abundant life. Are you ready to improve your life right now? It's not that complicated. As for me, I'll be bringing a pocketful of sunshine, a heart full of hope and gratitude, and an expectant mindset. I'll also be bringing my water-resistant elegant black Zaful satchel perfect for anywhere, and my red Roman numerals Quartz watch to remind me that every minute spent on earth is precious. Simple fashion for a look that never goes out of style. What are you doing and bringing to improve your life? Satchel bag and wrist watch from Zaful Photos by Carlo Vicente Hey, did you find this post helpful or entertaining? Please go ahead and share. Share buttons on the left and at the bottom of the article. Big thanks! Subscribe to About Life And Love by Email
Health & Wellness Counselling For Individuals Coping with Autism 9:24 PM One-to-one counselling can be the starting point for many people as they begin their recovery from depression, addiction, or other mental health issues. But counselling for individuals with autism can be a much different journey. While many autistic people find counselling effective and worthwhile, their needs can vary greatly, with more focus on coping strategies and relaxation techniques. Counselling for Individuals Coping with Autism What is autism? Autism is a lifelong developmental condition. Caused by irregularities in the way the brain develops and works, it affects how a person might interact or communicate with other people socially, as well as how they view and understand the world around them. Communication difficulties Many autistic people find it difficult to interact socially with others - and communication plays a big part in this. People without autism can instinctively rely on both verbal and non-verbal communication - such as visual clues in body language, appearance, and spatial awareness as well as someone’s tone of voice, sarcasm, or jokes when they speak. But without the ability to pick up on these visual or verbal clues effectively, autistic people can have difficulty feeling comfortable in group situations or understanding conversations. Overwhelming feelings or emotions They can also be overwhelmed by intense feelings and emotions. This can be a confusing experience as they might be suffering a high state of anxiety or nervousness, but not know or understand why they feel this way. Over time, many autistic people develop their own personal coping strategies to help them when faced with such situations. And while they may be seen as unconventional to a non-autistic person, they should be accepted as the best way for that individual to help themselves. Senses and sensitivity Other common traits of autism can include feelings of hypersensitivity - to sound for example - or the experience of either high or low extremes of the physical senses of sight, sound, touch, taste, or smell.It’s also common to see extremes inability - some autistic people can be exceptionally skilled in certain areas, but struggle greatly in others. What’s known as Executive Function Disorder can also play a big role in the lives of autistic people. This means they can find it difficult to plan, organise, or schedule everyday duties or tasks - especially those that involve certain timescales. Such difficulties can leave them feeling tired and emotionally drained. While many autistic people may share similar characteristics and mannerisms, being a spectrum condition, every diagnosis is different. Therefore, every autistic person can have experiences that differ greatly, but with some common similarities. Why is counselling for autism needed? Life with autism can be difficult and, at times, the daily challenges can get the better of all people living with it. This will obviously affect the mental health of some, so talking with a counselling professional can make a big difference. But counselling for autism can also be helpful for friends, family, or carers too, giving everyone extra support as and when they might need it. While there are no cures, counselling and talking therapy can help people on the spectrum, and everyone who is living with autism, find ways to face up to or cope with their daily lives. Getting a formal diagnosis is also important or helpful for some people with autism. Some prefer not to be put into an official ‘pigeon hole’, preferring to celebrate their uniqueness. But for some, having a diagnosis can be beneficial, giving them an understanding of why they might feel different from others, as well as opening avenues of support for them. Addressing mental health The number of people with autism affected by mental health issues is likely to be higher than those who aren’t on the spectrum. But sometimes their issues can be missed or overshadowed by some autistic behaviour patterns. Anxiety can be an area of concern in many autistic people as they struggle with the effects of stressful situations in a social context. Another highly common issue is depression. Coping with any potential anxiety issues as well as the daily challenges autism brings can make lives harder. But while dealing with these challenges is a positive step forward, it can be difficult for autistic people to reach out for help. Change can be unsettling and talking about their feelings can be hard, but the right counsellor, especially one with experience in cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), can help with the range of emotions, anxieties, and confusion. CBT therapy Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is a recognised and common therapy treatment for people suffering from symptoms of anxiety and depression, which is why some autistic people benefit greatly from it. Looking to change the way autistic people think and behave, CBT can help patients deal with the bigger problems or emotions that overwhelm them by breaking them down into smaller pieces. As CBT deals with issues and problems that are felt by the patient currently (rather than focusing on issues that have taken place in the past like other talking therapies), it gives them realistic ways to help improve their state of mind and the way they feel day-to-day. To provide successful therapy to autistic people, counsellors may have to modify and adapt their methods. But a counsellor with specific training in or experience of CBT would be best placed to deliver the recommended treatment for a positive outcome. Chrysalis training courses Whatever area of talking therapy you work - or want to work - and specialise in, CBT counselling is a perfect way to help autistic adults and children. With more on offer than just a job, it’s a chance to make a difference in their lives and help them overcome their daily challenges. And a counselling course with Chrysalis can be the first step of your journey. Chrysalis is the UK’s leading trainer of counselling and therapy courses. Accredited by the National Counselling Society, all courses can help you gain valuable qualifications - whether you’re taking an introductory course or if you’re an already qualified counsellor looking for career development. So if you want to specialise in counselling for autism, achieving accredited qualifications from Chrysalis Courses can be a rewarding step to take. For more information and more details about all Chrysalis counselling and therapy courses, visit www.chrysaliscourses.ac.uk, email enquiries@chrysaliscourses.co.uk, or call 01278 401352 today.
