It's Okay Not To Be Okay

Things are not going well?  I am here to say...

Your friend/someone dear to you stopped talking to you for whatever reason it is. IT'S OKAY.

Overused as it may be, but it's true, not everyone is supposed to stay in your life. Some are meant to be just part of our memories. We sometimes meet people because there is something that we need to learn from them. It feels bad for sure but as we age we will be needing "quality friends" not "seasonal friends". We would want someone who would brace us as we face different seasons of our lives. We would want ourselves to be surrounded by people that are good for us.

You have not figured out yet what you wanted to do with your career/life. IT'S OKAY.

You are not the only person who have not figured out yet what to do with his career/life. Don't rush. Rushing might lead you to a wrong direction.

You want to try a lot of things? Go!There's no harm in trying. In time, I know you will find what's best for you. 

You haven't found the one for you. IT'S OKAY.

Love sees no age. Chances are God is still preparing you and so the one that's right for you. 

Get busy with your life. Hustle while you wait. The longer you wait, the more you'll value it when it is given to you.

You failed for so many times. IT'S OKAY.

I find it brave because that means you're still trying. I have heard a lot of success stories that started from failing. When you fail, you're getting a chance to do better the next try. Oftentimes, failing is a mark of a greater opportunity. So keep trying. You'll definitely make it.

And the list goes on...

In life, we don't have a hold on what is in-store for us. More so, the guarantee of always living a good life BUT we can always choose a good fight. Let me tell you this,  life is not always rainbows. Unfortunate things happen for us to value good times. For us to acknowledge that we can't do things alone.  That we need God. Call unto Him and these shall come to pass.

Head's up,lil warrior!  Keep fighting! 

Securing the Future

Many of us fail to save for the future. Oftentimes, we live in the moment and we forget to prepare for what tomorrow entails.

*CTTO*

I.AM.GUILTY

Listen guys. Listen. Totoong kaganapan ito. (on a side note, everything I write here are true of me) 

I've been working for 5 years and believe it or not, I have not saved anything yet (AND I AM NOT PROUD OF IT). I was once this lady who has an exact allowance-just enough pamasahe and konting pangkain. Yet I used to save my baon for other necessary things. Opted to use my savings for school stuff rather than asking my mom for extra money to cover school expenses. I also use them to buy clothes or what it is that I need. So my life as a schooler is technically not the pasarap-buhay type. But I am not complaining. I know I need to do that because what we have is sapat lang  and I love helping my mom. Plus, it was my choice. 

Fast forward to the day I started working and finally earning money. I got overwhelmed because I can now buy what I want. (But that's just on top of my household responsibility of course. What we're talking here are extra money.) I buy clothes, shoes and stuff I've been longing for. I know. I know. There's nothing wrong with that. But I become giddy that I become more concerned of wanting to get the things I can't have before. It's okay if it's paminsan-minsan, but if it becomes palagi and you don't need it, you gotta stop. It should serve as a reward. You don't always get a reward, right? If it becomes frequent and out of control. DEAR, THAT'S NOT GONNA BRING YOU GOOD. THAT'S SPLURGING. Take it from me. 

I was so thankful I got sick. Not actually thankful I got sick but the realization which I hope I was hit earlier. It taught me the lesson I refuse to see since then. I need to save for my future. I need it that when something unforeseen event happened, I am prepared. True enough- sometimes you know what to do, but you tend to wait for the situation to punch you in the face before you could actually practice it. Haaaay, buhay stubborn. 

So here I am now, making it right this time. Sharing you some tips that are working for me because I care. 

1. Write your 'fixed expenses'. This includes bills, groceries and other things you need to settle. 

2. Separate your 'fixed expenses',  the money you're gonna save, and what you're gonna budget for your daily NEEDS. 

3. Monitor your daily expenses. Write 'em down. Para may babalikan ka at pag-aaralan kung saan ka sumobra at nagkulang, bes.

Ayan, yang Jollibee ang magandang halimba ng unnecessary. HAHA Pero sabi ko naman magsave, 'di i-deprive ang sarili  (Nailusot ko b?? HAHA)

4.  Keep savings as savings. And open [another] bank account for your S.A.V.I.N.G.S which I'm gonna do on December. 

  

TANDAAN!

Don't say I didn't warn yah! :-) 

love,

Joyce Lauren

What CHRISTmas 2015 Means to Me

Yes, I haven't updated my blog for a really long time; (1) I've been super busy with work, (2) I don't know how to get back to writing, and (3) I don't know whether I have something interesting to share with you guys.

 Again, yes, today is Christmas day. I don't know but Christmas celebrations now are different from the celebrations I grew up with. We used to be so excited about Christmas.Our family would stay up 'til dawn just chatting, singing and laughing. Although we still did sort of the things I mentioned last night. There's still this feel that there's lacking. Maybe because almost half of my relatives were away from our place. We used to celebrate Christmas altogether, that's how Christmas celebration our lolo imparted us. I guess it's just the longing? The longing for people you love and used to share all this 'Christmassy' thingy.

BUT there are brighter sides that's why this feeling didn't takeover that much. I was still able to share the blessings I received this year. I was still touched by the unexpected Christmas messages from friends, workmates and I have to say this, from some unexpected people. Plus, I gave my room the reward called general cleaning. Of course, more importantly, I can't be sad on the day my Savior was born and the fact that despite all odd circumstances He has sustained me and He has proved to me that there comes blessings after adversities. I am that confident with my faith in God. I know He will finish what He has begun in my life. So yeah, I hope everyone thinks the same way 'cause life is more pleasing when you acknowledge that there's a God you can entrust every aspect of your life. And I hope I did inspire you with this entry 'cause if yes, it'll be a great Christmas gift.

Here's to remind you that HE IS THE REASON FOR THE SEASON. We are celebrating the birth of Christ. Merry Christmas! God bless us all!

Ode to Mister Life-Saver/Heart-Fixer

    I always tell you how you make my heart smile. I know once you've learned about it, you will say "weh?" na naman.
   Funny how I depressingly felt ditched for the past months e you were around. You're providing me a different perspective, helping me see a brighter side. Embarrassing! I'm too concerned with my filthy unhealthy feelings. I'M SO GLAD YOU NEVER GAVE UP.
   Stubborn as you love to describe me, yet you know that I honor your words and your opinion matters. I keep on wondering how you maximize the remaining pinch of confidence I have for myself.  Hmm, I must say YOU ARE THE BEST CONFIDENCE BOOSTER! Having tested your patience for 1... 2... 3... 4... ohh! countless times, it's proven. It is the longest! :)
   How on earth you maintain not to think of sinful thoughts about other people? I know some instances which you may be excused of creating one yet you chose to ignore and be nice anyway. Biggest heart of all! Out of your overly productive crazy days, a big space is always always intended for me. Your efforts scream P-R-I-O-R-I-TY! hihi Where will I find another person having great mind as you who tirelessly say I am also good. That I am smart and talented, too. That I can be anything I dream to be.
   Sigh :) I will never run out of pleasant words to describe you. You are truly an amazing person. I'm blessed it is me you've given the privilege to experience your contagious acts of generosity. You deserve all the love, happiness and respect! You've given me more that I deserve and I couldn't thank you enough for that.

Ending it with this:

Sincerely, thank you :")

I Can Do More!

     Looking back and comparing all the things happened and happening to me. Finally, I’m seeing a big difference. I was once a girl who’s afraid to go to a private school due to my poor communication skill especially when obliged to speak in English. If I was just brave enough to enroll in that high performing secondary school, more likely I am not a CLSU alumnus. I think I’ll take the risk of  studying in Manila (I even let the chance to take the admission exam at CSB-DLSU and apply for their scholarship program passed). Oh well CLSU contributed  a lot to who I am now and my Alma mater is just as good as other Uni’s in Manila.

     I remember, it was the end of the second semester during my freshman year. It’s the time where you have to think of the course that you’re gonna pursue. From elementary to high school, Education is on my first list. Then thought of taking Development Communication but  knowing my possible classmates made me back off. And also I have gauged that speaking in front of others was tough for me. Yes, I am that self-doubting. And I let others affect me. I ended up taking Psychology and enjoyed it. Doing a lot of researches improved my writing skill. And it’s crazy to deeply understand the way people think, react and behave (in a positive way). Now I’m more open to any kind of situation and people (including ignoring annoying people and being more patient with them). That’s what we do. Deal and listen to people.

     For the past years I let my fears rule over me. I have always been afraid. Afraid to go out alone, address what I feel, live independently, try new things, deal with changes, take the path I want. My lack of confidence and trust in my ability restrained me to the things I love doing. My fears and inferiority complex took away my opportunity to enjoy life.  Now  I want to be brave. Be brave enough to stand for what I believe would benefit me. Taking chances isn't bad. After all there’s no harm in trying. It’s better to tell yourself “better luck next time” than having “what if's?” and  “If only's” in mind.  As for every unsuccessful attempt comes a fruit of experience. 

God heals and provides; He does great things!

Yes, I'm in the mood of making a note!

My mom had a mild stroke last December 18 which is the cause of her hemiplegia (paralysis of half of the body; leg, arm and trunk).  During that situation, I am certain that we are not yet ready for a life without our mom though something inside me says "Do not worry, she'll get better". I prayed ceaselessly because I know my God won't turn me down. What happened to my mom proved us how blessed  we are for having a kind-hearted and thoughtful mom. A lot of people prayed, visited and helped her. She really made good friends. We were also blessed because we got to celebrate new year at our house although we spent our Christmas at the hospital. Well, celebrating Christmas there didn't made me feel sad. What's important for me is  we are complete, we have each other, we knew we have a lot to count on, we experienced the goodness of God and that's the true meaning of Christmas. 

-This has been in my drafts (in tumblr) for a year, I guess. (I only get the chance to edit and post it today tapos baka mgtampo pa tumblr followers ko dahil late na nga nirepost ko pa dito) My mom is still in her recovery process. She now can walk but still needs our assistance in doing other things. 

Seeing my mom inside an intensive care unit, almost lifeless is the worst nightmare I don't wanna happen again -We almost lost her. This instance made me love her more, appreciate her efforts and value the privilege to be with her and take care of her. Now, her capabilities maybe limited but her presence is enough for us to keep going and be inspired. 

Believe me, you wouldn't want to have regrets when the time comes that everything is too late and what you have are just "what ifs&if onlys"  and you cannot do anything to change it. You can have plenty of friends and relatives but you'll never have another mom. In our lives we are only given one mother who will do everything for us and who will love us more than our capabilities and beyond our shortcomings. So, tell your mom you love her , show her!

A Blessed Lady

I know not all of you know that I came from a broken family. My father  left us almost 7 years ago. That particular event wounded our heart and of course, the scar is still there.

                We’re all affected with what had happened in different ways. My sister took the responsibility to work for us though she should be enjoying her salary in buying what she wants instead of saving it for our bills and needs. My brother quit schooling and never had the thought to go back. My mom once become devastated and almost lost her mind due to finding ways to contact our father.  And I, planted anger in my heart and promised myself that I will make everything to make my father regret what he has done to us.

                Since Filipinos are known for being resilient, we bounced back and somehow get over with what happened though the issue was still sensitive for us. I have lots of questions in my mind which I tried asking my father but none of them were answered. As we stand strong, we learned not to focus on the most difficult crisis a family could face. We witnessed God’s faithfulness and the fulfillment of His promise. He never left us. He blessed us more and made our hearts braver. He sparkled us the hopes we need to face tomorrow. He touched others heart which made the absence of my father became the window for others to show their love and concern for us.

                Now, I already finished college, currently working and still, I don’t have the father whom I can share this milestone. But I am no longer sorry about it because I  am certain that a lot of people are proud of my accomplishments. They believed in me. They took care of me. They loved me-enough reason to stay with us. I lose one man in my life but God blessed me with countless gentlemen in my life. And they're all the reason behind my happiness and gratefulness(aside from my mom).

              Remember, you always have a choice. You can take the path of a wasted soul and be rebellious OR let it inspire you, stand strong, and tell the world nothing can knock you and your dreams down. Life is a matter of perspective.  It’s okay to feel bad but don’t forget to take a step closer to your dreams as you feel God’s glory.

Yes, I’m blessed to be surrounded by loving, caring and thoughtful people.

OPEN LETTER CHALLENGE-A letter to the Head of my faith [JESUS CHRIST]

To my forever DAD AND KING,

     The moment I accepted You as my ONE AND ONLY SAVIOR and THE ONE to take and rule over in my life, no problem is unsolvable, no struggle is unsurpassable, no pain  is unbearable, no fear  is  unconquerable, and no dream  is  unreachable. Truly with You, NOTHING IS IMPOSSIBLE!
     Without you, I know life would be unimaginably harsher to me; no genuine happiness, no unconditional love, and of course, there will be no assurance of a wonderful life.
      People may think that I'm not a godly person. But I know for sure, I am making You feel how close I am to You. You're the first One to visit my mind whenever I'm worried, I have a problem, I'm happy and burden-free. I guess no one has the right to question my relationship with You because I know in my heart how deeply I trust and surrender my life to You and how I am touched and moved by Your faithfulness and  warmth.

     I don't know how You manage to listen to billions of people who ask for different things. Perhaps, I will never know how. Thus, thank You for the opportunity to have eternal life and be blessed by You. You never turn your back from me though I have failed you for so many times. You're always willing to grant me your forgiveness even I continue to do the same mistakes. You love me unconditionally though most of the time, I'm not worthy.
     I will forever exclaim that nothing compares to the love You have offered me. I will do my best to be Your submissive servant and living bible.

Your daughter and servant,
Joyce

"What is stopping you is not lack of inspiration, but lack of trust in your abilities."-Mara Wilson

Eye Opener

As I was reading Raymund Narag’s article (http://raymundnarag.wordpress.com/2009/12/11/my-honor/), different thoughts haunt me and questions started to form in my head- What kind of authorities we have for making an innocent man suffer and fracture its reputation by accusing him to the crime that he didn’t do anyway? How come those who were appointed to protect the people suddenly took someone’s good future? I’m not really sure how misleading rule over that particular case and if it’s right to think that authorities practice injustices over justness.  What I have read today is a clear evidence that power separates people from acquiring integrity.  And that this kind of incident tolerates and pushes people to continuously perform crimes since persecution and acquittal are in the hands of the dominant and influential ones. [This is exactly why I’m into equity and despises those who are unfair].

Conversely, I awe Mr. Narag for maintaining his optimistic thoughts and holding into his faith in God.  And for doing what’s right even what he has gone through is a product of wickedness and narcissism , also for keeping his dreams and adding it with a vision to help and give others inspiration.  For letting people see and realize that nothing’s too late if what you only want is for everyone’s wellness.

I pray that this won’t happen again because no one deserves this more than those who are guilty, that authorities won’t commit the same mistake again and provide people just treatment. And lastly, I pray to God that more Raymund Narag would come out for a better human race.