Desiderata: A Reflection

-- written by Max Ehrmann in the 1920s --

Go placidly amid the noise and the haste,
and remember what peace there may be in silence.

As far as possible, without surrender,
be on good terms with all persons.
Speak your truth quietly and clearly;
and listen to others,
even to the dull and the ignorant;
they too have their story.
Avoid loud and aggressive persons;
they are vexatious to the spirit.

If you compare yourself with others,
you may become vain or bitter,
for always there will be greater and lesser persons than yourself.
Enjoy your achievements as well as your plans.
Keep interested in your own career, however humble;
it is a real possession in the changing fortunes of time.

Exercise caution in your business affairs,
for the world is full of trickery.
But let this not blind you to what virtue there is;
many persons strive for high ideals,
and everywhere life is full of heroism.
Be yourself. Especially do not feign affection.
Neither be cynical about love,
for in the face of all aridity and disenchantment,
it is as perennial as the grass.

Take kindly the counsel of the years,
gracefully surrendering the things of youth.
Nurture strength of spirit to shield you in sudden misfortune.
But do not distress yourself with dark imaginings.
Many fears are born of fatigue and loneliness.

Beyond a wholesome discipline,
be gentle with yourself.
You are a child of the universe
no less than the trees and the stars;
you have a right to be here.
And whether or not it is clear to you,
no doubt the universe is unfolding as it should.

Therefore be at peace with God,
whatever you conceive Him to be.
And whatever your labors and aspirations,
in the noisy confusion of life,
keep peace in your soul.

With all its sham, drudgery, and broken dreams,
it is still a beautiful world.
Be cheerful. Strive to be happy.

A very powerful, enlightening poem. Speaks so much of a lot of values and virtues in life that are really important. If we reflect on this poem, we can discern it's profound meaning and apply it to our way of life. It gives us a refreshing perspective on life.... on the more positive way to look at it. That's why a lot of people really like this poem, myself included, because it reminds us to love ourselves more, to just be ourselves, to be optimistic but not idealistic. It's just the way we look at the world inspite of the harsh realities, the ugly truth in life.... there is still good in life.... in the world.... and that is what we should focus on. What's also striking about the poem is that it ignites hope, faith and a joyful attitude. I think if we just religiously instill the meaning of this poem, the world would be a happier place.

What If I Hit The Lotto Jackpot?

You just turned on the TV, listening to the news and there it is on the headlines.... the lotto jackpot just reached over 100 million pesos! Wow, that's a lot of money! And then there you are glued on the TV just like in a trance, so many things running through your mind thinking of the possibilities.... imagining... dreaming.... what if I win that lotto jackpot?! What would I do with the money? You then start thinking of it as the answer to all your problems.

With that money I can do a lot of things, buy my dream house with a luxurious bath tub and if possibly..... my own infinity pool! Additional capital to expand my business, drive my most coveted car, travel with my family within the Philippines, then Asia...and next the world! I can finally secure my son's future and our retirement as well. Donate to charities, pay all my debts (up to the last centavo!), buy all the things that I want without bothering with the price tags! Shopping galore!

Then oops! Back to reality. It's the evening news again and on the headlines..... somebody won the P100million jackpot!!! Your heart starts to pound, your hands are sweating, your eyes pinned on the TV in anticipation....Just then you remembered you haven't bought the lotto ticket! Better luck next time then....Bye-bye to your dreams....for now....for now....

The Two Men In My Life

I am talking about the two men in my life and probably..... the only men in my life who has made such an impact on me that changed my life forever.... Many people come into our lives. Some of them will just pass by, some will leave a mark and some won't. There are also some we hoped they didn't but these "two men" I'm talking about not only passed by but has taken permanent residence into mine. I'm glad they did.

The first man in my life, his name is Richard , the loving husband who humors me, adores me, laughs with me and loves me to the core. We argue on just about everything especially on who our son takes after and politics...especially on politics. It's a sweet, teasing kind of arguing and he gives in in the end.... eventually. He's not the super romantic knight in shining armor type of guy but he manages to show off his romantic streak in his own unique way every chance he gets. We also have our highs and lows but we go through it together. Of course he's not perfect. He has his own flaws too but I'm not perfect either so we're just perfect for each other.

The second man in my life is my angel... my precious little boy, Fredric Dirk.  The cute, handsome, adorable, smart, mischievous little rascal who is my life, my everything. I just thank God every minute of every day for giving him to us. He is such a blessing to our family because he brings us so much joy. Just a kiss, a smile, a hug from him would take all the weariness and fears away. He makes it all worth it. My heart just swells with pride every time I look at him. Being his mother is the greatest gift in the world. My love for him is transcendent, unconditional and I would lay my life for him without batting an eyelash.

This is our family, me and my two loves... the men in my life, my inspiration, my strength. They just .... complete me.

On Breastfeeding

Hats off! To all breastfeeding mothers out there (myself included). It's one of the most rewarding and wonderful experience a mother can have.

There was never a doubt in my mind that I would breastfeed my baby. As a first time mom, it wasn't that easy for me but thanks to my mother who's always there to guide me. The moment my son was born, we were already encouraged to start breastfeeding. It was a challenge for both me and my baby. I even had blisters and mind you it really is painful every time my baby would suckle  but we did it successfully and with flying colors. Finding the right and most comfortable position for me and my baby during breastfeeding, my commitment, patience too and my love for my little one knowing that I am giving him the best for him are my ingredients for a successful breastfeeding. Breastfeeding has a lot benefits for both the mother and the baby, here are some of them (if not all):

• It creates a very special, intense bond between mother and baby. A special time for both to cuddle, to make your baby feel warm, comforted and loved. Your baby would instantly know it's you and would never confuse you with a sitter or anyone else. It's also the best time to know your child better.
• It's the only food for your baby for the first 6 mos. of his life. Breast milk contains all the complete nutrients your child needs for his growth and development. As your child grows your milk also changes to suit your child's needs. It's just amazing how nature works! No milk formula can duplicate that. They've tried for years but they just can't.
• It's the best way to get back in shape after giving birth faster than any diet programs out there and without diet or exercise at that! Breastfeeding helps shrink the uterus back to it's original size and also increases the mother's metabolism which burns up any excess fat gained during pregnancy.
• Colostrum, which is the first breast milk that your baby receives or suckle, is very rich in nutrients and antibodies that would give your baby the best start in life and strengthens your child's immunity.
• Saves you a lot money because it's naturally available. No need to buy expensive milk formula, feeding bottles, sterilizer and many other things. 
• Protection against allergies, infections and all kinds of illnesses and even obesity, later in your child's life. My baby rarely got sick and was never hospitalized (thank God!). So it also saves you money on hospital expenses and medicines.
• It's a natural contraceptive as it delays fertility for mothers who are exclusively breastfeeding.
• Very convenient...no bottles to wash and sterilize, no milk to prepare, no need test it at the back of your hands if it's the right temperature.
• Convenient during travel. All you need to bring are diapers, clothes and other necessities. No need for bottles, sterilized water and milk formula that takes so much space. Breast milk is readily available, sterile and always at the right temperature so lesser chances of contamination.
• Breast milk is essential for your child's growth and brain development. Breastfed babies are found to have higher IQ and EQ. 
• Reduces the risk of ovarian cancer, breast cancer, type 2 diabetes, cervical cancer and postpartum depression (PPD).
• Breastfed babies are less irritable, smells good too and baby poo are less smelly.
• You can nurse while sleeping so you get more sleep, you won't have to get up in the middle of the night to prepare his milk and you can easily satisfy your baby's hunger without him having to wait.
• Breastfeeding makes you feel good and satisfied. The endorphin effect of the hormones produced during breastfeeding gives you a relaxed feeling.
• Breast milk is easier to digest, reduces risk of chronic constipation, colic and stomach upsets.

The list can go on and on and on.... There's just too many benefits with breastfeeding. Whether you breastfeed or not, it's really your decision. It won't make you less of a woman or a mother for that matter if you don't. Just take this point into consideration, cow's milk are for baby cows and human milk are for human babies. Wouldn't you want to give the best for your baby?

The World Is Mine, No Need To Whine

I've just gotten in touch with my close friends way back in college. We've missed each other so much because it's been awhile since we've last seen each other, so many things to catch up on and so we decided to have our little reunion soon.  It was great to hear from them but also sad because of what some of them are going through right now. And here I am complaining about my own problems. I felt ashamed, somewhat guilty because I just realized how puny my worries are compared to other people. I also remembered one of my favorite poems and wish to share it with you. I had it on the cover of my folder when I was in college and even had a friend of mine draw me some pictures to go with it. It's a simple poem but the meaning is just beautiful so here it goes.....

The World is Mine
By: Dr. Tennyson Guyer 
 
Today upon a bus I saw a girl with golden hair;
She seemed so gay, I envied her, and wished that I were half so fair;
I watched her as she rose to leave, and saw her hobble down the aisle.
She had one leg and wore a crutch, but as she passed--a smile.
Oh, God, forgive me when I whine;
I have two legs--the world is mine.
 
Later on I bought some sweets. The boy who sold them had such charm,
I thought I'd stop and talk awhile. If I were late, t'would do no harm.
And as we talked he said, "thank you, sir, you've really been so kind .
It's nice to talk to folks like you because, you see, I'm blind."
Oh, God , forgive me when I whine;
I have two eyes--the world is mine.
 
Later, walking down the street, I met a boy with eyes so blue.
But he stood and watched the others play, it seemed he knew not what to do.
I paused, and then I said," Why don't you join the others, dear?"
But he looked straight ahead without a word, and then I knew, he couldn't hear.
Oh, God forgive me when I whine;
I have two ears--the world is mine.
 
Two legs to take me where I go,
Two eyes to see the sunset's glow,
Two ears to hear all I should know,
Oh, God, forgive me when I whine;
I'm blest, indeed, the world is mine.

So the next time you complain, just be reminded that the troubles of other people are sometimes greater than our own. Instead of thinking about the things you lack, think of the things you have. In short, count your blessings! You'll be surprised just how fortunate you are.

Newbie

Yes I'm new with blogging but I find it really interesting and challenging. Interesting...... because it creates a venue for me to express my thoughts and explore new things that tickles the imagination. Challenging because it's a new thing for me, still getting the hang of it on the how to's, what is' and etc. etc. etc. I got so frustrated many times on how to go about the "html", editing my lay-out that doesn't work, spent sleepless nights learning the way around and so on and so forth....that I almost gave up! Be done with it!  But here I am writing about it so I guess I'm sticking to it.... then maybe in time I'll get better at doing this and maybe....just maybe...make a career out of it?! Who knows?! Well, good luck to me and just hope for the best!