Faith Encounters With The Devil 12:04 AM Encounters With The Devil Be alert and of a sober mind. Your enemy, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. -1 Peter 5:8 I don't often share my encounters with the devil. I don't think people believe in such things anymore. People have nightmares. They dream about being chased, drowning, getting stuck, or falling. I don't know if I can call my encounters nightmares because they usually happen when I'm half awake. Sharing my encounters with the devil here: First encounter with the devil The first encounter was too long ago; I couldn't remember when it happened exactly. It was after I read the illustrated Children's Bible. I went to a Catholic school from kindergarten to college. But I remember that while reading the children's Bible, I was saying, "Ah, so that's what happened?" It was so long ago I really can't remember what it was. Then I fell asleep. Or was about to when I felt a presence standing beside my bed, scolding me. It (not sure if it's a he or a she) was so furious, shouting and reprimanding. It said, "Why did you read the Bible?! You shouldn't have read it! Now, you know!" I was taunting it. "Now I know. You're a loser." It was a long conversation. The entity told me off, and I told him he was losing. All the while, I was trying to turn to take a look at this "thing" I was talking to. But I couldn't, just like having a nightmare. I felt paralyzed. I was trying to open my eyes, and I could somehow see my feet, my sister's feet, and the shelves on the wall, but I couldn't open them fully. It was heavy. But I was not giving up on this verbal combat. Because I knew I was on the winning team. Then I felt its presence "dissolve" (it sure felt that way). I woke up exhausted. I told my sister, with whom I was sharing a bed then, about the encounter. After a few days, when she was about to say her early morning prayer, a visitor intervened. The visitor was not mad at her, though. In fact, it was bribing her. It told her, "Bow down to me, and I'll give you your heart's desires." That's what it told Jesus during the temptation, right? It didn't work. Both encounters happened when we were not fully asleep. Me, drifting off. Her, waking up. Second encounter with the enemy Second encounter. I was in our dorm. At that time, I was emotionally on a roller coaster. I literally didn't laugh or smile for one whole week. I was weak. This time, I was sleeping but felt a pain in my chest. It must be the result of not laughing for a week. But it felt like someone was gripping my heart. The pain woke me up, but again, not entirely. I knew I was on my bed, but that's all. Muscles paralyzed. My heart literally aching. I felt someone saying, "Your heart is mine now." Again, the fighter in me rose. In my head, I was shouting, "You will never, never have my heart! It belongs to Jesus." Of course, it felt like lying then. I can't remember praying for days. I was spiritually parched. But there's power in the name of Jesus. Slowly, I was able to open my eyes. Slowly, I felt the presence at my bedside backed off. And I decided to be happy again. I didn't want darkness to enslave me and something to claim ownership of my heart again. Third encounter with the devilThe third encounter happened just recently. Right after watching Heaven Is For Real. Such impeccable timing, if you'd ask me, like the first encounter. After crying my eyes out and watching the movie, I slept peacefully. That is until I felt a chill (imagine Harry Potter sensing the presence of a Dementor). I thought I was awake, but maybe I wasn't. Nightmare? Maybe. It always felt that way. Only that, you're aware of a presence, you can't move, so try as you may to turn around and look at the invader, you can't. This is a recent encounter, but I couldn't remember what it told me. I just remember it was something stupid. Maybe a threat. Perhaps it was taunting. I remember sitting on the chair beside my bed and feeling its stare. Angry stare. I'm not easily intimidated, though. Yes, I was terrified, I won't lie. But I have Back Up. At first, my prayer didn't work. The invader just laughed. I realized it didn't come from the heart. Then I made it personal. I felt revived. I was telling it to back off. To stop whatever it is it's trying to do to me. To quit it because it's already lost, to begin with. Again, I won the verbal combat. Again, I woke up drained. Like, I ran 100 miles or something. I know the battle is not yet over. The enemy is gaining strength. Many believers are giving up their faith. I stumble and fall to sin all the time. I found this Tony Evans sermon powerful and helpful when faced with the enemy. We have authority over them.But we're not alone. We have an army and a sturdy Back Up who will fight alongside us. A mother whom the enemy fears, a battalion of angels ready for war, and a Champion for a God. That's enough reason to never back down when the enemy attacks.Have you ever encountered the devil in your sleep?
Lux Thinking Aloud To Be Truly Free 10:55 PM To be truly free is to follow your heart. To Be Truly Free Since it's the 4th of July, what better thing to talk about but freedom. What does it mean to be truly free? To be free, as defined in the dictionary is to have the power or right to act, speak, or think as one wants without hindrance or restraint. To be liberated or to be independent. Having said that, how can you say that you are truly free? For me, to be truly free, is to be no longer enslaved by your past. To remember what happened may be, but to not feel the same resentment, hatred, or regret for what did not occur. To be truly free is to not hinder yourself from doing what you want. To be truly free is to follow your heart. To be truly free is to wake up and go to bed without worrying, because you know that whatever life gives you, you can handle. To be truly free is to not let fear paralyze you from moving forward. To be truly free is to do it afraid. Are we truly free? 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
Rants Ramblings Of An "Old" Woman 5:22 AM Women may be the one group that grows more radical with age. -Gloria Steinem Ramblings Of An "Old" Woman What’s the fuss about getting old? I've never made it a big deal. I actually still feel like I’m just starting. Call it Peter Pan Syndrome, call it immaturity, call it denial, if you please. Honestly, age never bothered me. What bothers me are the people who are making a fuss about it. I started working when I was 20. At that time, my youngest colleague was 27. The rest are in their early and mid thirties and even fifties. I never called them “old” because I don't consider them as such. I never made snide comments about their age and their status though majority were still single at that time. First, because I think it’s rude and inappropriate. Second, because I don't think being old is a bad thing. Why would it be? And third, because I think it’s none of my business what they do with their lives. When people tell me I'm old I don't argue, because I know I am definitely not that young anymore. But, when people say it like it’s a bad thing, like it’s a curse, like I’m suffering from this pathetic life and doomed to be alone and lonely forever, it bugs me. It shocked me at first. It also bothers me that there are people who have such an idiotic mindset. You'd think people will be more progressive in this modern world, but no. There are still those who choose to live backwards. I didn't realize we are living in a world full of morons until I hit 27. It was then when people started asking me the stupidest questions from, “You’re really that old?” (which is flattering at some point because it is followed by “You look so young!”) to “Are you gonna be an old maid?” and “Don’t you want to have babies?” Valid questions, yes. But to a 27-year old who just got out of a toxic relationship, and is finally starting to enjoy being single? Unfair. Some of these people? They’re 27 now or thereabouts, and they claim that they're still young. Uhm, okay. I think I'm missing something here. Fast forward to today, comments are getting worse, nastier and somewhat more hilarious. I know that some of these people are only concerned with my well-being. They are good friends with good intentions. They just want me to be happy. They just want to see me “normal”, and I'm thankful for that. Not everyone's blessed to have people looking out for them. On the other hand, there are still those who see me as a freak. "Single and over 30? Oh, dear. What's wrong with you? You're doomed." Am I really? Funny, because most of those who are pushing me to be in a relationship are those who are not happy with where they are, some obviously miserable and would want to get out of their relationships given the chance. Others are not even half as experienced as I am. What do they know about what I need and what’s best for me? Modesty aside, it’s not like I don't have a choice. There are those who express their interest. I still have strangers approach me for my number and send random messages online saying they want to get to know me (Now, that’s not flattering. It’s creepy and annoying). If I wanted to, I could easily text someone to come to my place and bring some foods (Filipino inside joke). If I wanted to. But, I don’t. When I say I don’t like this guy, it’s not me playing hard to get. It’s just that I respect their time, and I don't want to waste it as much as I don't want them to waste mine. If I think it’s not going anywhere, why give my attention? Now, you may be asking, how do I know if it’s going nowhere if I don’t give it a try? My answer is, if he really, truly, seriously, undoubtedly, sincerely wants to get to know you, he will find a way. He won't easily give up. Nothing worth having comes easy. And I'd like to believe that I am worth having. So, suck it up. It’s not because I have sky-high standards. After dating frogs, my image of the prince just got clearer. I now know what I want. I have non-negotiables. I think when you've had your fair share of unsuccessful relationships, and have been single for quite a while, you realize that, to be alone is not scary. To be with the wrong person is. Biologically, I know they have a point that my body clock is ticking. I may or may not get pregnant and if I would, it will be risky. So, what about Sarah (wife of Abraham)? What about Elizabeth? Or Ruth? Weren't they way past pregnancy age, and were still blessed? Are you saying they're more favored than you and me? That God has stopped making miracles with the people in the Bible? Even in the present, there are women I know, or whose stories I've heard of that are over 30, but are still able to give birth. I know I sound over-confident here, but I believe that if God is calling me to be a mother, He will make me. There’s a reason why He is infinite. There’s no limit to what He can do. If He’s got other plans, it surely is for the best. I've also got friends who are happily married, in a relationship, and also happily single who tell me to take my time, never rush it, never force it, and be grateful for this special time I have for myself. Guess who I listen to? If your relationship status defines your worth and is tied up to your identity, then you are doomed. If your relationship is making you a better person, by all means, stay in that relationship. If it makes you a miserable human being, leave. Difficult, but not impossible. Same goes with being single. If being alone makes you lonely, it’s best to go out there and meet new people. But, if you’re comfortable and at peace with yourself, there’s no rush in changing that. You can’t stop people from thinking the way they do. Everyone’s entitled to their own opinion---no matter how moronic they may be sometimes. At the end of the day, it’s your opinion that matters, because it is your life. When all the noise of the world fades away, it’s about what your heart whispers. It’s not about what the society dictates, it’s where you feet leads you. When you’re alone in a cold rainy night, are you wishing to be somewhere else, or are you happy exactly where you are? In solitude, it’s not those comments, or insults, or genius suggestions from people who don’t even know what you went through that you will hear. It is your inner voice that will resonate in the silence. What does it say? via Some eCards Photo credit: The Odyssey Online 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
People Bo Sanchez, Truly Admirable 3:48 AM People don't care how much you know until they know how much you care. -John C. Maxwell Bo Sanchez, Truly Admirable If you've heard him talk, read his articles, and especially know his story, you will undoubtedly admire Bo Sanchez. Bo Sanchez is a lay preacher, most sought after corporate and inspirational speaker in the country, best selling author, and founder of the Light of Jesus Family and Truly Rich Club, among many things. Why do people admire Bo Sanchez aside from what has been mentioned above? He is a very humble person. People are drawn to him---which is the reason why LOJF has grown phenomenally in the last few years, because despite his status, he has remained down to earth. You can approach him and talk to him (that is after working your way through the crowd asking for his autograph and photos), and he doesn't have this "I'm a leader and a celebrity now and I don't have time for you" kind of attitude. He always has a ready smile for everyone. He admits his faults and frailties. He shows people his wounds and flaws and assure them that their past does not define their future. He walks his talks. He has been bold enough to step out, revealing his struggles as a porn addict after having been sexually molested by people close to him. People who have addictions find hope in his story. People who struggle and are burdened can relate to him. We are all wounded in one way or another. And here's a spiritual guy, living a normal happy life with his wife and kids, assuring you that it's okay to fail. It's okay to fall into sin. It's okay to feel angry. It's okay to be human. As long as you learn to control your emotions, as long as you surrender everything to God, as long as you make a decision that you will not stay stuck but continue to move forward. Everyday, we are bombarded by different information that can trigger a lot of emotions. It is therefore very refreshing to hear encouraging words, to receive inspiration, and to be reminded that you are loved, and are beautiful no matter what the world say. Here's a wounded healer assuring you that you too can be healed. Bo Sanchez admits that he is not perfect. He is very human. He is sinful. He is still struggling. He is faced with temptations everyday. He is very like you and me. But, that is why people admire him. They see themselves in him. But not just as a sinner, but a saint in the making. Not just as a victim but a victor. Temporarily broke, but will be eternally rich. Broken, but blessed. Lost, but has always been and will always be loved by God. Hurt, but hopeful. He believes in you, that you can be truly rich in all areas of your life. That's what people need. Hope. That's what Bo Sanchez gives. People need someone who believes in them. That's what Bo Sanchez do. And that's what makes him truly admirable. photo credit: Google images
Lux Thinking Aloud Why I Write And Keep On Writing 2:03 AM I think a lot. I talk so little. That's why I write. Why I Write And Keep On Writing We all have our own coping technique. For me, it's writing. Why do I write? At first, it was just a place for venting out. Expressing how I feel and airing out my opinion. I like to observe events and people. I write down my observations. I write to preserve my thoughts and ideas (I get forgetful). After a while, my blog evolved. Now I blog about events, my travels, food, book and movie reviews, my faith, about being single and about being a woman, quotes I like, wealth and finances, and almost anything and everything that has caught my interest. Those are the reasons why I write. But, here are the reasons why I keep on writing. I keep on writing because it lightens the load I carry. I keep on writing because I want to share my experiences and the lessons I learned from them. I keep on writing because of the heart-warming and ego-boosting appreciative comments from friends and strangers alike. I keep on writing because I hope that through my opinions and even my rants I might enlighten someone who's confused.I might give hope to those who are on the verge of giving up.I might make someone smile and make their day better, and I might just make someone realize that they're not alone in what they're going through. I write because it makes me happy. And I keep on writing because making someone happy gives me a sense of purpose.
Books Book Review: Fangirl (Rainbow Rowell) 3:35 AM Book Review: Fangirl (Rainbow Rowell) Happily ever after, or even just together ever after, is not cheesy. It’s the noblest, like, the most courageous thing two people can shoot for. Just finished reading another Rainbow Rowell's YA novel Fangirl. Here's what I think about this cute story. Book Review: Fangirl (Rainbow Rowell)Just finished reading another Rainbow Rowell's YA novel Fangirl. I expected too much from Rainbow Rowell after reading Eleanor & Park. That’s why Fangirl in my opinion pales in comparison. Still Rainbow Rowell managed to make me fall in love with the main guy character Levi (and his untiring smile). I understand Cath because I’m a fangirl myself. Although I don’t spend thousands of hours writing fan fiction online, I know how it feels obsessing about the magical world and the characters in it. The Harry Potter characters grew up right in front of my eyes and I feel protective of them, just as Cath is as defensive with her favorite fictional characters Simon and Baz. I can stay up late discussing the could-have-been and what might-have-been with other HP fans. I don’t like meeting people and unnecessary social obligations (attending parties). So, Cath for me is normal. Fangirl is a fun and entertaining novel. You sort of get two fictions in one book: Cath’s world, and a glimpse of the world she’s obsessing over.Reading Fangirl makes you wish you have a sister or a friend like Cath (if you’re into writing or if you love fictions). It makes you want to meet someone as warm and comforting as Levi. Having a boyfriend like him is like coming home to a cup of hot chocolate with marshmallows in a cold and windy weather. Fangirl by Rainbow Rowell makes you want to head to the nearest Starbucks for a hot Gingerbread Latte Grande. Rating I give Fangirl 3.5 stars. Then again, who am I to say it’s a good or a not-so-good book. Go get your copy and see for yourself. See also: Life After Eleanor & Park (Book Review And Raving)
Rants The Not So Legendary Ending Of How I Met Your Mother 8:21 PM The Not So Legendary Ending Of How I Met Your Mother Spoiler alert! Just finished watching the not so legendary ending of How I Met Your Mother. I can’t believe that’s how How I Met Your Mother ended! Not cool. After all the heartaches Ted had to endure for nine long seasons, he will end up with Robin? Ugh! It was not mentioned that Ted and Robin got back together in the end. But, it’s not rocket science. Ted has and will always love Robin. Robin finally saw the light and realized that Ted is every woman’s ideal husband. Robin deserves Barney. Duh. But, Ted? He doesn’t deserve Robin. He deserves Tracy. Then again, CBS left us with no choice. Somewhere along the story, Tracy died. As if Ted hasn't been through a lot yet. As if he didn't have enough heartaches in the past yet. So what will poor Theodore do? Go back to his old love Robin who is (surprise, surprise) still single and living with her dogs. As if Robin can just trash and recycle Ted every time. I’m happy that Ted finally found her one true love in Tracy. I’m happy that Lily and Marshall are still together (they are the happily ever after every couple need to emulate). I’m not surprised that Barney is still living his legendary life the way he thinks it must be lived. Although now, he's priority is his love child. I’m just disappointed that after finally living his dream life, Ted will again fall back with Robin. Because he's got no choice anymore. Because his one big love Tracy died. Can life be more cruel? I've got nothing against Robin. She's a loyal friend. She's brave and bold enough to know what she wants and live her life at her own terms. She's not afraid to be alone. She gets what she wants and she's tough. No wonder men go after her. It's just that---I'll say it again and again, Ted doesn't deserve her. Ted deserves more. Ted is too good for her. There must be another way to end this series. It must be--- like the rest of the episodes in the nine long series, legendary. Please. Photo credit: Google images 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
Travels Baler Adventures 11:31 PM Here's more of our Baler Adventures on camera. Click on individual photos for full size. Related post: Baler On a Budget we were trying to show what's written on our backs. fonts not big enough obviously before we climbed the 275 steps going to the White Cross on top of the hill this is inside the tree at the "exit" after a brief tour inside the tree this is where the escape from the tidal wave happened we needed to chill after one whole day of wanderlusting surfers for a day 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 Photos from my and my friends' smartphones.
Travels Baler On A Budget 2:44 AM Baler On A Budget Want to explore Baler, but on a budget? That's possible. Baler has become a popular vacation destination in the Philippines. It is famous for its waves which attract experienced surfers and those who want to learn how to surf, largest Balete tree in Asia, ice-cold fresh clear waterfalls, and other postcard worthy and historical places. Here's how we explored Baler on a budget: How To Get There: Travel time from Manila to Baler is about six to seven hours. We took the Genesis Bus from Cubao Terminal at around 2:30 am. We were told that that was the last direct trip (Manila to Baler) for the day. No reservation required, so I advise you to come early if you want to arrive early in Baler without the hassle. (Click on individual photos to view in full size) we passed this breathtaking view along the road Tour Package: We were lucky that the trike driver we hired from the terminal to Secret Spot Sabang Beach was an accredited tourist guide as well. He's ardent and he knows where to go and what to do best when in Baler. He took care of our itinerary. His name is Kuya Christian and you may contact him at 09066820356. We paid 800Php for the whole day trip visiting different places. Accomodation: We stayed at the Secret Spot in Sabang Beach. We pitched tents and paid 200Php each for a night. For reservations, you may contact them at +63 928 453 1777. Secret Spot Food: We had our lunch at the Rolling Store; plenty of viands to choose from at affordable prices. It's one trike ride from Sabang Beach and just beside Baler Museum. Tour: 1. Baler Museum Our first stop after lunch was in Baler Museum. No entrance fee, only donation. You also need to register at the entrance. most of the displays at the museum are props from the award winning movie Baler Team Baler at the Museum 2. Ermita Hill and White Cross We climbed 275 steps at the Ermita Hill to get to the White Cross at the top. It was tiring, and almost noon time so we had to endure the scorching heat of the sun. The view at the left side of the hill was breath taking though and seeing the big cross up close was rewarding (at least for Catholics like us). On December 27, 1735, Baler was hit by a tidal wave and the Ermita Hill is where the locals escaped for safety 3. Diguisit Falls One of the four falls in Baler that's worth visiting is the Diguisit Falls. It is located along the highway facing the beautiful Diguisit Beach. The water was cool and fresh. A few people were bathing at the topmost falls when we arrived. It is a small falls, and the way up is steep, rocky and muddy. Lucky we have a tour guide and boys in the group that helped us get to the top and back down without falling. Diguisit Falls is at Barangay Zabali, Baler. The way to the top is rocky, muddy, slippery, but worth the short trek. 4. Diguisit Beach Facing Diguisit Falls is the Diguisit Beach. There is an entrance fee of 20Php. The cottages were full when we arrived, which was fine because we only went there for pictures and to see the place. There were rock formations. Since it was low tide when we went there, we were able to take pictures on the rocks. We even got the chance to stand on corals and see a variety of fish swimming nearby. happy kids a jump shot is required here ^_^ 5. Doña Aurora Quezon’s House Doña Aurora Quezon is the wife of the first president of the Republic of the Philippines. We loved her native and simple yet elegant house. I especially loved her library/study. It was a little humid outside but because her house is made of wood, bamboo and Nipa, it was cool inside. Doña Aurora Quezon's house is just across Baler Church. the 1st Presidential Car 4. Balete Tree The huge Balete tree in Baler is not your ordinary Balete tree. It is the largest Balete tree in Asia and the second largest Balete tree in the world. The enchanting Balete tree is in Barangay Quirino. this is inside the tree 5. Mother Falls Ditumabo Falls or Mother Falls is a must see when in Baler. True to its name, Mother Falls is around 140 feet high amidst After about 40 minutes of trekking, walking on and climbing slippery rocks, passing through rivers, seeing the Mother Falls even from afar is rewarding. You wont mind your sore muscles and fatigue anymore. The water was literally ice cold! Since it is around 4pm when we started the trek, a looooot of people were already at the site when we arrived. Still, we got to enjoy our time there. So worth it! this is what you'll see just before the Mother Falls the glorious Mother Falls left us in awe the first time we saw it 7. Surf! Surf! Surf! On our second day, we went surfing in Sabang Beach! I was hesitant at first. I'm not sporty, and I don't like trying new things. Watching surfers and beginners riding the waves though, I thought it's now or never. Plus, the waves weren't that intimidating that day. Perfect for beginners like us! The best time to go surfing according to the locals is from September to February. The waves are much bigger then. One on one surfing lesson is 350Php for one hour. Since we were three, they gave us a discount so we paid 300Php each. We were lucky to have eager, knowledgeable, enthusiastic and patient instructors. Ian was my instructor and he was beaming when I was able to stand (on my 3rd attempt) and when I was able to do the "walling", which at first I had no idea I was already doing. He also taught me how to paddle, how to surf without an instructor pushing you (although I didn't try doing it on my own yet), and he even explained to me every part of the surf board and it's functions before we started. It was an amazing experience. And addicting, too! You'd want to do it again and again. I don't have a sense of balance, honestly speaking. I never learned how to ride a bicycle. So, this is an accomplishment for me. Another item in my "New things to try" to-do list this year added. our instructor showing us the how-to's trying not to lose my new found balance posing proudly. feeling pros! haha 8. Baler Church We had to go back to Baler Church the following day. We were late for the mass, so we just spent some quiet moment there. Baler Church is just across Doña Aurora Quezon’s House. It is actually walking distance from the Baler Museum. It is historical and famous for the Siege of Baler. After Spain sold the Philippines to America, a group of Spanish soldiers still continued with their battle and occupied Baler Church for almost a year before they surrendered. Eats!!! 1. Gerry Shan's Place Aside from the Rolling Store which we frequent for its affordable lutong bahay food, I recommend Gerry Shan's eat all you can. For 185Php only, you get to enjoy a variety of viands, fruits, and soups and drinks. 2. Alfonso's Pizza Just across Gerry Shan's is Alfonso's Pizza. Tastes like homemade pizza at a reasonable price. 3. Surfer's Grill Located in Sabang Beach, facing the sea, the cute red Beetle outside where they grill the food is an attraction. People who pass by stop for a picture. Nothing special with the food, but it's palatable enough and it's reasonably priced. 4. Hungry Surfer The Hungry Surfer is just a few steps away from Surfer's Grill. Although I will not recommend the place for the service (very lousy!) and onion rings (too thick flour coating), I'd recommend their mojos. It rivals that of Shakey's. If you want to travel, see not just one tourist attraction and experience something new, e.g. surfing, Baler is the place to go to. If you are a budget traveler, Baler is the perfect destination. See more Baler photos on Baler Adventures. 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
