Last June 27, I celebrated my birthday; and unlike any other birthday, I kept things sweetly low-key--meaning I didn't feel the need to throw a bash, expect presents, write a celebratory blog post, or drink with friends. 'Twas a totally normal day (in a humbling and beautiful way). I've never been flooded by such a peaceful sense of content ('til recently); because for some miraculous reason, I've felt FULL these days. I've been blessed with the most amazing life opportunities, and the best present I can ever have from God: BRAVERY.
Signs of maturity? Signs of wisdom? Signs of aging--gracefully? :))
SO YES. Fears are going down, one faithful stride at a time. I'm punching fear in the face over and over 'til it's reached KO status. Everyone has them, and I've got my TOP TEN (in no particular order)--so let me divide AND CONQUER. ;)
Taking public transport in the rain (or in the scorching Philippine heat). Being pushed and shoved in a train--equivalent to a can of violent sardines. Walking 'til your toes get blistered. Eating an affordable dinner when you can have a hearty meal at home.
We can complain ALL DAY LONG. But what's the point?
<<< An opportunity to travel to. No traffic. Toes, Feet, and Legs! Food in my belly.
GET THE POINT: I do what I have to do to get there.
2) FEAR OF OTHERS' OPINIONS
Opinion is a cheap commodity. Everyone has opinions. If you are influenced by opinions, you will not succeed. You have a brain and mind of your own. Use it and reach YOUR OWN decisions.
Others will always have something to say, but I constantly keep what counts in mind: "People will always have opinions about you. BUT you live for God because he's the only one who has intimate knowledge of you." - Ann Voskamp
God looks into your heart, and HE should be the only ONE that counts! If you have His approval, the rest are just extras. ;)
I've learned to appreciate the journey, instead of obsessing over results. :)
If you can't handle failure gracefully, don't expect your dreams to happen anytime soon!
So at some point in time, reality TV was a guilty pleasure; but I guess I'd rather LIVE LIFE like a Kardashian than watch one! Makes sense? I mean the reason why there aren't any Lamborghini ads on TV: because the people who could actually afford them are out there hustling! Millionaires aren't exactly couch potaters, am I right?
We spend so much time on useless activity that don't exactly contribute to our growth as people, so I'm slowly giving those things up. Three weeks and going strong!!! Think long term when it comes to your daily habits. Do something that your future self will thank you for! You owe it to YOU.
There are times when I have to be ALL FAITH or nothing. There is a certain anxiety and exhilaration when it comes to dreaming HUMONGOUS--but uncertainty brings out the worst in me. I stress myself out over my future, and panic about things I have no control over. I can only do my VERY BEST today, and entrust my future to God, whole-heartedly--bumps, twists, and turns on the road less traveled and all!
When your faith is being challenged,
From an online features writer, to a high school art teacher, to an entrepreneur! Life is beautiful this way. I've adjusted to riding the wave of change. It's the only constant thing in life; so instead of fearing it, I approach it like a roller coaster ride. There's so much excitement to be hungry for! I've learned so much about myself, and what I'm truly capable of just because I was open to the challenge of change; so feel free to cross that bridge when you get there. :)
It's hard to see this from a mere human being's point of view, but man's rejection is actually God's protection. We tend to see things in the NOW, but God sees our dream life; so when it seems like we're heading towards a path far from our liking, God is probably redirecting. Try not to fight it too much.
I remember having applied for my dream course at my dream university. I had wanted to become a fashion designer for the longest time, so I aimed to get in the Clothing Technology course of UP Diliman. I did so bad at the entrance test, that the next best thing was to enter the university through a talent test--except I would have had to take up a Fine Art course instead of pursuing fashion. It didn't feel all too good to take up Plan B---THEN!
Fast forward to (more or less) a decade later: I'm exhibiting my work at galleries, and I have a list of clients who'd like to have my paintings on their wall! I'm earning from something I'm absolutely passionate about.
TRUST me, God knows what He's doing.
God will always love us in our most vulnerable state; so when we win, let's say thank you, while offering up our failures when we lose. In every so-called failure, there is a jewel of wisdom gained; and it's up to us to recognize that as we evolve into better versions of ourselves. Know in your heart that it's always a win-win.
We're all Davids fighting the Goliaths of the world. When you know your intentions are pure, then rest in the fact that it becomes God's battle, not yours.
It's always comforting to know that I'm playing for a PURPOSE. I'm on His team and I have faith that my Captain won't let me down. :)
There's no I in L-O-V-E---> and THAT scares people. They say that people are naturally narcissistic, so to love purely and unconditionally is of divine nature. It's unnatural for us to put others before ourselves. A love driven by heart (not ego) can only come from an acceptance of God's love, because when we accept His PURE LOVE, our cup becomes full--and we allow it to overflow onto others. Let someone's happiness be your happiness without expecting anything in return. It feels amazingly peaceful. :)
How can we live life to the fullest when we constantly choose a safety box? Reality check: we're all bound for mortality. Embrace the fact that God might take you tomorrow, so make sure you live fully TODAY!
Having said this, I couldn't be any more grateful to join the experience that is #DaniGirlMNL. <3
In the face of death, we are on sensory overload. We are honest, naive, childlike, and intuitive.
The Sandbox Collective will be mounting the Off-Broadway musical, Dani Girl, a heartwarming and uplifting tale of a young girl’s battle with leukemia.
Far from sitting back and letting her condition take over her, nine year-old Dani Lyons embarks on an imaginary adventure alongside her teddy bear Mr. Fritz, her guardian angel Raph, and her geeky roommate Marty to win back her beloved hair and find the answer to the question, “Why is cancer?”
This provocative musical that's good for the soul has invited me to do a bit of live art (an hour) before the 8:30 pm l July18 l Friday production.
Can't wait! The production, full of much love and sincerity, will surely pull on those heartstrings of yours! A MUST SEE for anyone human.
I finally know what freedom feels like, and my soul can no longer contain its happiness or choose a lesser path.
Lots of hope + faith + love,
