ivy72376

[ivy72376]

ONE STATEMENT: MAY 1-31, 2025

"As we wait for answers to our soul's deepest prayers, may we always remember to remain strong, steadfast, patient and hopeful. For the God we serve and love--though His wisdom and ways be beyond understanding--is also powerful and mighty. And He loves us too much to care for every little thing that we are concerned about."

#HappyMay312025

"Life comes in many flavors. But through it all, we can depend on our Heavenly Father to answer and deliver us when we call."

#HappyMay302025

"Power and authority are meant to be used for good, to help others, not to enrich and entrench ourselves. May we not lose our Lord's command--be willing to give and give way, be humble always, while making sure we do our best, and we give our all in everything we do."

#HappyMay292025

"True gainful living is sharing the truth, the love, and the good that you know to everyone around you consistently; neither bombarding nor pressuring people, nor gaslighting them by twisting the gospel to make them stay in line; not spreading fake news or pseudo-prophecies and conspiracy theories to terrorize people into subscribing to your beliefs and submitting to your opinions and prejudices."

#HappyMay282025

"The stupid and ignorant bring confusion and chaos; the coward and the greedy wage wars. But it is the brave who must fight and win; it is the wise who bring peace and restoration, and make everyone else live therein."

#HappyMay262025

"In a world that increasingly magnifies rudeness and stupidity, while constantly underestimating intelligence and good manners, still choose to be an encouragement, a ray of light, an inspiration, a source of hope."

#HappyMay252025

"Faith is more than wishful thinking, or manifesting on what we want to happen... Because it is rooted on reality and actual events; and on what we should be prioritizing on knowing that each moment has something to teach us, and something we know will eventually come."

#HappyMay242025

"Truth and wisdom are lifetime companions... if you want to grow and mature as a person, you need to uphold truth at all times; you need to use wisdom in every choice and action."

#HappyMay232025

"Not all loves are the same, not all people love the same way... In the same manner, nobody should be coerced or bullied to conform -- for some may love God by saying with all the nicest and most emphatic words, shouting and screaming uplifting songs, spending a huge chunk of time on performance and traditions, but still crave human validation; while some are content to bask in His presence and glory, whispering heartfelt prayers of love, and simply feeling content and whole in their quiet and alone moments with Him."

#HappyMay222025

"Treating people with kindness and respect should be consistent. But when somebody is preoccupied with their own issues and interests, so that one feels invisible and unseen in their presence, it is noble to just not disturb them or their thoughts. For in truth, the world does not revolve around us, nor are other people obligated to validate our existence, much less acknowledge our worth. We are the ones who need to do these to ourselves. And none of us are native to this life, we are all just passing through."

#HappyMay212025

"Life is harsh, especially when we are beset by problems and difficulties, with the weak being abused by the powerful, used as pawns to advance their own selfish agenda. But it all becomes bearable when we remember we have a Heavenly Father who cares; who looks out for our safety, sanity and peace; who assures that someday, things will work out well; even with Him influencing history and world leaders to make it happen."

#HappyMay202025

"True friends are always there, even across time and distance; even when they are physically absent in your difficult moments, even when you try to move away from them or push them out of your life because you don't feel comfortable sharing your inner thoughts and concerns. Because every day, you just never know, your successes and triumphs are not only brought about by your own effort or by the people in your close proximity, but by a distant friend who's constantly praying for you too."

#HappyMay192025

"If we can only keep in mind that we are mere mortals, none invincible, and learn to appreciate all of creation around us, then we might be better able to conduct ourselves accordingly, with respect and consideration, with understanding and grace; neither taking things too personally nor dismissing other people's issues and concerns with apathy."

#HappyMay182025

"Just as there are things better not diluted, appropriated, adapted nor euphemized, or their true message and impact gets lost in translation, so too truth and wisdom need not be rendered in alternative means. For living our days abiding by them is one with our God's ordained plan on nature and life--a life fruitful, meaningful, with substance and full of grace."

#HappyMay172025

"The Son of God was not appointed, nor does He reincarnate in or appoint anyone. Let us beware of the fraudsters who claim to be. For there is only One who saves and is worthy of our praise and adoration--our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, who was, and is, and is to come."

#HappyMay162025

"If you know, you know... No argument, no matter how strong, can open a closed and prejudiced mind... Likewise no influence or challenge, no matter how persuasive or difficult, can move a mind and soul built on wisdom and love."

#HappyMay152025

"One of life's greatest joys is knowing that whatever we are going through--no matter how small--we can safely and confidently bring to our Heavenly Father in prayer; with peace and assurance that He always provides, that He always grants wisdom."

#HappyMay142025

"The laws of God and nature show us that there are periods of rest from extraction and use. For indeed, too much abuse and exploitation could only lead to burnout and frustration, and unending cycles of poverty and corruption. May we have the wisdom and humility to accept these in anything we do--be they personal relationships and careers, or political terms."

#HappyMay132025

"To be grateful and content with what we have, to be thankful and hopeful for what our God will still give in the future, is true treasure-- unburdened, and always more than enough."

#HappyMay122025

"In whatever fashion and however one may come into the role (physical birthing or fostering, by law or secondary, mentoring, nurturing and support), motherhood is the greatest career of all."

#HappyMay112025

"We can feel happy all we want with what we have, but that shouldn't give us reason to be smug about ourselves and what we can do; for always, the job we are tasked to do to promote our Heavenly Father's kingdom has the greater call."

#HappyMay092025

"When one is firmly rooted and grounded in the love of God, there is no place for ignorance, nor regret, nor envy, greed, materialism, insecurity, neither for superiority nor inferiority, for callousness and apathy."

#HappyMay082025

"Kindness and respect always pay; while entitlement and superiority make one act like an idiot, before their hard downfall."

#HappyMay072025

"The rewards of the humble are often not seen, nor broadcasted, but can only be felt. And as one remains truly honest, and diligently patient and persevering, they bear fruit for a lifetime and beyond."

#HappyMay062025

"There's always something greater, from our God of second chances."

#HappyMay052025

"The greatest journey is not around the world, nor to outer space, but inside ourselves...

The greatest happiness and peace is not one made of treaties or truces, nor measured by surveys and indices...

But in knowing and believing that our God and Heavenly Father is always by our side, ready to listen, One too loving and generous to ignore us and our cries, and Who promised to keep us safe and whole."

#HappyMay042025

"There are days when we just get flabbergasted with how some people don't even have the initiative to just scroll or click, or Google the right answers, but demand a response right away, like one is a walking vending machine for all their queries and conveniences... Fortunately, on times like these, when we look up and beyond their level, we realize that it is unbecoming and ignoble to go down to their level of intellect or illiteracy...

We can always be given wisdom and respond accordingly."

#HappyMay022025

"When we are so noisy and busy, our lives and tales full of everything about us and what we believe makes us happy and whole, there will be no room for what truly matters, no attention to the one thing we really need to hear beyond words read and spoken - - our Heavenly Father's love and assurance, His still, calming, unseen yet tangibly felt presence in all that we do, from the littlest task, to the biggest decisions, to the most overwhelming circumstances we find difficult to comprehend"

#HappyMay012025

[ivy72376]

ONE STATEMENT, APRIL 1-30, 2025

"Thankfully, our Heavenly Father is not a fraudster... When we trust in Him, we can witness how He always makes good on His word; we have confidence that He will always deliver"

#HappyApril302025

"Rather than inspire us to culturally appropriate nor to demean others because we feel we too-- by faith and personally-claimed association--are special, Bible stories should instead teach us patience and humility, courage, and hope that even if we don't understand much of life and other people's culture and background, together we can live with respect, peace and harmony, wisdom and love."

#HappyApril292025

"If imitation is the greatest form of flattery, then the best thing we can do for those we look up to is to follow their example and reminders - - from our God and Savior, to the extraordinary and ordinary people we encounter each day."

#HappyApril282025

"God's love and provision are always more than enough...

And sad is the person who needs or craves for more; for they will soon realize that there is no end to the searching, and all that they have established and accumulated will never compare, will never be enough."

#HappyApril272025

"May we not get distracted, but remain focused to our life's true purpose."

#HappyApril262025

"It is not a sin to dream of a better life. However, if we try so hard to climb up higher in the ladder and fast, even at the expense of mocking and stepping upon those who are honestly and diligently earning their keep with very little livable income, and kissing up to those whom we believe are higher and wealthier than us; we will soon realize that in our moment of need, those people we looked up to will not lift a finger to help, and will even ridicule our social-climbing lifestyle. There is always more glory, peace and blessing in humility and living simply, in disavowing materialism, envy, and greed."

#HappyApril252025

"No matter how we try to filter and paint a rosy picture about our lives and relationships, the less-than-glamorous parts always find a way of coming out... And ironically, the harder we try, it becomes more clearer than day that there is something undesirable that we're trying so hard to hide."

#HappyApril242025

"The best way to forgive people who have hurt you is to move on. Because only God knows how the future will turn out, and His blessings are always meaningful if we are unburdened by the regrets of the past."

#HappyApril232025

"Hopefully, not just on holy week but more importantly every day after, we get to live our faith and better convictions."

#HappyApril212025

"In our weakness, in our efforts through our seasonal traditions, and the duality of living it up the rest of the year because we only have this one physical existence, may we never forget that we will never be forgotten by the One who gave us life, and who has made the way for us to live it well, as is His will."

#HappyApril182025

"Not just on these few days, but on everyday too - - may we learn to bury our old selves: our prideful, arrogant, rude, stubborn, disrespectful, incontinent, impatient, condescending, angry, raging and impertinent ways, and learn to respect our God and Savior, and the people around us."

#HappyApril172025

"Again, in an increasingly hotter and more challenging world, one of the greatest things we can protect is that which shows what we are truly made of - - our patience, our temper."

#HappyApril162025

"Our abundance should make us see how we can share with others who have less; Our need should reveal how big and generous our God is, and that He will always provide, and will always send people to help and accompany us along the way."

#HappyApril142025

"All on earth declares the glory of God... May our lives be likewise - - less about what we think is beautiful in and for us, more about how good God is in our daily journey."

#HappyApril132025

"The greatest thing we can do for those who have gone before us is to nurture their legacy, while making sure we leave the world better than when we first came into it."

#HappyApril112025

"Nobody is self-made. A great part of who and what we are now is because of the help and support of the many people God sent our way."

#HappyApril102025

"Because we have been made new, so should we rise above our former base nature, and live more accountably, more responsibly, more tactfully, more introspectively, more empathically."

#HappyApril092025

"In a world that still increasingly grows more toxic and challenging, where people's sense of humanity seems to diminish more and more as we live each day in a continuously warming world--it's all the more reason we need to respect others, keep ourselves safe, honor personal spaces and boundaries, honestly and diligently work to survive and thrive while minding our own business."

#HappyApril082025

"Somebody once said that especially for women, it seems society starts to 'erase' us (invalidates or ignores our person and interests, at least socially, that is) when we reach 50... That's a very sad fate, until we remember that our Heavenly Father will always be there for us, to help, to guide, to give sense and meaning, and to always lead us to our life's purpose."

#HappyApril072025

"It's non-negotiable: we can't call ourselves children of God unless we have inherited His characters of being respectful, understanding, generous, kind, sincere, tactful and humble, true and fair--even when no one is looking, sans the fanfare and the world's recognition and validation."

#HappyApril062025

"Only God, our Heavenly Father, needs to be privy to our thoughts and dreams, our plans and ambitions, deserving of all our worship and adoration--for He is the only one too, from whom we need true validation... The rest of the world needs only our respect and safe distance, understanding and empathy."

#HappyApril052025

"Everyday life teaches us that prayers and principles go beyond us professing what we are and what we are capable of doing. They fulfill their purpose when we live them daily; our worship and love of our Heavenly Father reflected in the humility and respect we afford people, especially those we feel are different, difficult, or don't come up to our ideals, level and standards."

#HappyApril042025

"It takes very little to piss off a discontented person; while the contented ones keep their peace and calm... Because discontentment is ungratefulness, petty yet never having enough; while contentment is thankfulness, running deep, profound, quite and firm, standing through time, enduring through life's various seasons."

#HappyApril032025

"May we not abuse God's forgiveness and kindness, learn our life lessons well, and live humbly and responsibly."

#HappyApril022025

"If you can't be anything else, be nice, be kind... But never be self-righteous about it."

#HappyApril012025

[ivy72376]

ONE STATEMENT, MARCH 1-31, 2025

"We can't convince people to believe in the same way we do; we can only show them that the way we live is humane, and respect their humanity too."

#HappyMarch312025

"Our moments of weakness and pain can be moments of great learning, and can lead to greater breakthroughs."

#HappyMarch302025

"Let your faith and good values always be in your carry-on."

#HappyMarch292025

"Our best-laid plans still could not compare with what our Heavenly Father has in store for those who seek and follow His will."

#HappyMarch282025

"Refusing to accept reality--not acknowledging the call of the times, is rejecting the chance to become better, and dismissing the chance for a life that could become greater."

#HappyMarch272025

"Because one who is so full of themselves, who couldn't accept correction and discipline, who thinks the world revolves around them, and that everyone is obligated to defer to them and always grant their wishes, who could not respect other people's opinions, situations and those with more knowledge and authority, who thinks that they must have more and more each time, and go higher and ever higher in the social and professional ladder, regardless of good morals and decent conduct--will lose out on the wisdom and maturity necessary for a well-rounded life, and will even drive far away and irrevocably, those who would have helped, supported and guided them in their journey."

#HappyMarch262025

"The mind secured, settled, and confident does not dwell on what is base or vulgar."

#HappyMarch252025

"We are given time, talent, and treasure, not to lift ourselves up and hold ourselves higher in regard compared to other people; but to make the Kingdom of God come alive in our lives, and in the lives of everyone else."

#HappyMarch242025

"Words can mean life and death... We must be careful with ours, if we want to live life right."

#HappyMarch222025

"But if we remember that our lives are held in the hands of our God and loving Father, we know that amidst all the stresses and challenges, it will have meaning and impact, everything will make sense and work out well."

#HappyMarch212025

"People with old and outdated beliefs can't accept that some people can be alone without being lonely... But the latter's secret is actually joyfulness--not anchored in the validation of others and significant others, but in the confidence and assurance that with God's mercy and grace, they are already enough, complete, blessed and secured as they are; and that life will just continue on getting better."

#HappyMarch202025

"One of many from the Word's Neuro-Linguistic Programming tools encourages us to look up in hope; and to remember that after all our difficulties and challenges, better and greater days await."

#HappyMarch192025

"We were not all made from the same mold; yet, fulfilling our purpose, with the abilities we were given, is a life that has struck gold."

#HappyMarch182025

"Peace is knowing that even if others don't believe, act, think and live like you do, you have to respect their person and give them time, space and chance... Much like being literate and educated doesn't refer to degrees, licenses, or qualifications; but the ability to listen to every other opinion and story, without losing your mind, character, conviction, and principles."

#HappyMarch172025

"Yes, we only have one physical life, and it is short... But if we want to survive sane and in one piece, we must take breaks as much as we can."

#HappyMarch162025

"Reading (physical books), as Sir Francis Bacon said, makes one's life full and fulfilling... From the greatest book of life, to every other book that teaches us about humanity, and how to be humane."

#HappyMarch152025

"Life on earth is short... But to make it beautiful, always strive to be humble, objective, hopeful and good."

#HappyMarch142025

"Even the most devout can be devoid of humanity... May we always be circumspect and tread carefully."

#HappyMarch132025

"One of the surest proofs of faith, wisdom and maturity is the embrace and nurturing of diversity."

#HappyMarch122025

"Life demands maturity."

#HappyMarch112025

"Just because someone is silent, doesn't mean we know better than them. Oftentimes, the ones who are most vocal and seemingly busy are the most shallow; and the ones who just observe and take things silently and calmly with their eyes and ears, are the ones we most need to give time to listen to."

#HappyMarch102025

"It takes maturity and wisdom not to take offense immediately. For these might be situations beneath your level."

#HappyMarch062025

"Though life is sometimes difficult to understand and deal with, may we always remember that its Giver is also the One who is both the fountain of wisdom and strength."

#HappyMarch052025

"The misunderstood and rejected will always have a comeback."

#HappyMarch042025

"To love is to listen, to be present and to give time."

#HappyMarch032025

"May we learn from our Saviour's humility, and gentleness."

#HappyMarch022025

"Truly, it judges the thoughts and attitudes of our hearts."

#HappyMarch012025

[ivy72376]

ONE STATEMENT, FEBRUARY 1-28, 2025

"PEACE: We can't just say it; because it will show-- in how we treat people, how we view life, and how we respond to life's challenges and triumphs."

#HappyFebruary282025

"Loving the unloved and the prejudiced is one of the purest forms there is."

#HappyFebruary272025

"A true giver is often left with very little to almost nothing for themselves; but soon learn and realize that these are actually more than enough, with plenty more coming."

#HappyFebruary262025

"Truly successful people have mastered the arts of right timing, pacing, and pausing."

#HappyFebruary212025

"In these days when we are being programmed to believe the lies and doubt the truth, the one truth remains: we all need God--His presence and power in our lives--to stay sane, to be humane."

#HappyFebruary202025

"There's no buts and ifs, we either live it or we don't: for our lives to have substance, God's love is all we need."

#HappyFebruary192025

"Truth hurts, but it helps and heals."

#HappyFebruary182025

"Wisdom is known by the words we speak, whether face-to-face, or online."

#HappyFebruary172025

"Sometimes, we are treated less than we deserve. But that is not reason to stop being humane, afford others respect, and a respectful distance."

#HappyFebruary162025

"Whatever and however you believe Him and His work to be, your faith in our Saviour's work is manifested best by empathy."

(That is, don't be a burden, nor a show-off. Be the light that dispels doubts; be the breath of fresh air that banishes worry.)

#HappyFebruary152025

"Love is giving, and giving way; mindful, and minding one's own; and respecting one's self and others in the same degree."

#HappyFebruary142025

"We're not invisible in our Heavenly Father's eyes."

#HappyFebruary132025

"God's ways are higher, always better, never a burden nor a bother."

#HappyFebruary122025

"When fishing for souls, one can't reel people in. We have to cast our bread upon the waters first, before there is a return."

#HappyFebruary112025

"Let us invite and welcome people into our lives as friends and co-travelers in our journey; not as religious, emotional, social, or financial uplinks to whatever pyramidal cause, clique, or congregation we want to be acknowledged for and validated by."

#HappyFebruary102025

"Those who believe only in their own (and their clique's and supporters') right, rightness, and righteousness, are only looking at their own noses... They will soon go 'cross-eyed'".

#HappyFebruary092025

"Love starts with the language of caring."

#HappyFebruary082025

"Thankfully, our Heavenly Father looks at the heart."

#February072025

"When we focus our sights on whom we ultimately are working for, we can't let ourselves be distracted by comparing ourselves with others."

#HappyFebruary052025

"Thankfully, our Heavenly Father's kingdom has room for everyone, and plenty of space for more."

#HappyFebruary042025

"This then, is how we know, if indeed our upbringing and education went well, and our faith proclamations are true: if we can be kind, and respectful (especially of private space and rights) to the stranger, to those who look, think, believe and act differently than we do."

#HappyFebruary032025

"No one who truly believes they are citizens of an eternal, heavenly kingdom, will let themselves be bound or enslaved by selfishness, greed, pride, trends, fashions, habits, attitudes, characters, mindsets, and dependence on the systems and politics of this world."

#HappyFebruary022025

"I hope it's enough to fuel our day;

We need no more than the love of our Heavenly Father to light, inspire, strengthen, and guide us all the way."

#HappyFebruary012025

[ivy72376]

ONE STATEMENT, JANUARY 1-31, 2025

"Sometimes love means letting go and giving way...

Such as when you truly love God and people enough to share the gospel of the kingdom by not intruding into other people's personal spaces; but by generosity and understanding, patience and steadfastness in the truth, and in humility and respect."

#HappyJanuary312025

"You can believe it in faith, or continue with your show:

God is alive, He is not deaf.

You need not shout your supplications and worship of Him, just to get attention and rise above the din of the crowd;

For He is so near--just a talk, a call, even a whisper away."

#HappyJanuary302025

"Even as we try so hard to move away from our past selves;

By diligently practicing our religion, doing philanthropy, tirelessly attending services, ministries and fellowships;

But for the rest of our short lives,

We will still have to live with the consequences of our past and present choices.

That's the essence of humanity:

Making reparations, doing amends, building up again, becoming better--

In humility, tactfulness, respect, courage and wisdom."

#HappyJanuary292025

"Nothing surprises the one who pays attention;

Nothing shakes the one whose guidance is from our Father from above."

#HappyJanuary282025

"We can only use what we have; but we have to use them well."

#HappyJanuary272025

"The only kind of fear that leads to something good is the fear of God."

#HappyJanuary262025

"Life is too short for us to get weighed down by its trivialities; and too important to waste on things that don't add eternal value."

#happyjanuary242025

"It is the best life, that is anchored on the as-yet unseen, eternal promise of our God."

#HappyJanuary232025

"This too, is how we know our faith and worship are true: when we abide by the words of our Savior, when we can empathize with humanity and creation like Him and our Heavenly Father do."

#HappyJanuary222025

"The journey is better than the destination."

#HappyJanuary212025

"Oppression, abuse, discrimination, taking of undue advantage over others, theft, rudeness, dishonesty, envy, insecurity and greed, will always exist as long as humanity's existence. And it is telling of our faith and person if we can rise above them."

#HappyJanuary202025

"At whatever age, in whatever season, for whatever reason: amidst the world's chaos, confusion, delusion and tribulation--be the pocket of hope, wisdom, justice, peace and understanding."

#HappyJanuary192025

"Every day, there will be things that challenge our patience, faith and conviction. But we must not lose our heads; because more than losing temper, and acting unhinged as we rant and rage, we lose our credibility as messengers of our Saviour's cause, His gospel, His love, and His kingdom-call."

#HappyJanuary182025

"We must always move toward noble and worthy life-and-soul, eternal goals--no matter the challenges and changes, for whatever reason, in whatever season."

#HappyJanuary172025

"It's not a full life if it's only fun and games, with everything going our way. For our Father's love and grace to be manifested, we also have to live through challenges and difficulties, poverty and want, darkness and despair, sorrow and pain."

#HappyJanuary162025

"Even if some of us belong to the same religious group, individually, we each have a different idea of who our God is, what and how we want Him to be. May they only lead to love and reverence for Him, and respect and understanding of our fellowman."

#HappyJanuary152025

"How we walk is a reflection of how we think;

And a reflection of what we believe in too."

#HappyJanuary142025

"Our words, in casual, everyday conversations (especially when we think we know better than the other person, or are entitled to the best, the latest, and the most), are the strongest evidence of who we are and what we believe."

#HappyJanuary132025

"Integrity is a work of a lifetime."

#HappyJanuary122025

"We can never go beyond what our God has planned; therefore, we must make sure to partner with Him, seek His will, and do our best while He leads the way."

#HappyJanuary112025

"When somebody tells you that it is enough for you to listen to them, rather than you having to confirm, cross-check, and read or discover for yourself, be very careful, be very careful."

#HappyJanuary102025

"Better than a marriage vow is our God's promise to always be there for us: in sickness and good health, in richness and poverty, all throughout this life and beyond."

#HappyJanuary092025

"One of the surest measures of the faith we profess is empathy, putting ourselves in the other person's place, so that we may know more deeply about their needs and issues, challenges and motivations. Not blindly judging or imposing on what we think is best for them, because frankly, we're not 'them'; and therefore, have no moral ascendancy over their lives."

#HappyJanuary082025

"Only the 'numbest and dumbest' would fail to see our God's love and provision not just in the written and spoken word; but more glaringly, in creation, in every life situation, in every responsibility and chance given our way. Let's give our utmost, do our share diligently, and if need be, go the extra mile."

#HappyJanuary072025

"As this religious day symbolizes, may we continue to have epiphanies of the true nature of people and things; always remembering and learning from the deeper meaning and driving force, the real essence of every word and deed, in every situation."

#HappyJanuary062025

"Because unlike God, we don't know everything; therefore, in these too-often one-shot chances in our journey, we have to be keenly observant, learn from our mistakes and others and never forget and repeat, be extra sensitive to moods and atmospheres and seasons, and be discerning at all times."

#HappyJanuary052025

"No effort done for our God, and for the good of those He blessed to come our way, will ever be wasted."

#HappyJanuary042025

"Positive reinforcement always works better;

and so, may we, like our Savior, learn to speak the right word to the right people.

May we give hope, instead of sowing fear;

may we inspire and encourage, instead of discouraging and unnecessarily offending because we falsely claim to know better."

#HappyJanuary032025

"Doomsday, 'so-called' prophets, and even the color of the year, foretell a somewhat dark and bleak future; but thankfully, we have a Heavenly Father whom we can trust for wisdom, provision, guidance, fortitude and strength."

#HappyJanuary022025

How much better would the new year be, if we can live the 365 days of it sharing the gospel we received on Christmas day, not just passively citing verses, but in every moment, being living manifestations of the word we have received?

#HappyJanuary012025

[ivy72376]

EIGHT WORDS PER LINE, DECEMBER 1-31, 2024

"As we face another new year, we observe

People trying to bring in some cheer and lucky charm,

Believing that health, wealth, happiness is what they deserve,

Freedom from chaos, trouble, strife and all kinds of harm.

But the best way to start any day and year,

Is to be free from debt, envy, jealousy, insecurity;

To live at peace with all, free from fear,

And to trust our loving God with our future and eternity.

May we truly live as His people, doing His will

In our lives, living simply, humbly, without regret.

That even in old age, we enjoy His presence and provisions still,

And of His goodness and love, we'll always be thankful and never forget."

#HappyDecember312024

"It seems there will always be people who are clueless,

Not realizing their bullying and entitlements have hurt and deprived others.

Not learning that people avoid them for their meanness,

Yet expecting to be catered to, to have audience in all moods and weathers.

How much better would life have been if we all lived deliberately,

Respectful, understanding, humble, tactful, minimizing our presence.

Giving others the chance to speak and shine, waiting for our turn patiently,

Earning our keep honestly, treating life and connections with reverence.

May we grow more mature and actualized, in faith and wisdom

Living our days; giving and doing the best we can

To make life better for all; ministers of the Kingdom

Of light and love; our Father's children, a beacon of hope for each and everyone."

#HappyDecember272024

"There are indeed some who believe strongly in themselves,

In their accumulations, capabilities, qualifications, choices, and decisions.

And that's commendable too, but burdensome taking of responsibility by ourselves,

When we know there are things beyond our control, and complicated situations.

It's always better to have faith and trust in the One

Who holds the future in His hands, who gives life.

For through that belief alone, we have won,

Our efforts have meaning, leading to peace and freedom from strife.

May we truly be God's children, circumspect, respectful of life and other people,

Considerate of other's needs, issues, and relations.

Not only when we need their help when we're in trouble,

But even when life is good, and we are in much better positions."

#HappyDecember262024

"It's easy to wish good holiday wishes from the comfort of home and food,

But difficult to appreciate the season when one is sad.

And indeed, far too many get swamped in festivities, feeling good,

Forgetting there are offenses to settle, relations and connections gone bad.

And if we believe Jesus is the reason of the season,

May we also remember He was born poor and humble,

Grew up in industry, simplicity, yet in His short physical existence, fulfilled His mission,

And submitted His body to the punishment of the cross without a grumble.

May we realize that we too are meant to tackle life's challenges,

Doing our best, relying on God's grace alone, not other people's alms.

Because although we can ask for help, but one truth never changes,

Only One is the source of our lives, the One whom we must please until He again physically comes."

#HappyDecember252024

"When someone really important is present, we pay attention,

We consider what they need, even tiptoe around.

How come when we claim to worship, we're the ones screaming for attention?

When we pray, all we do is ask, but not give His presence ground?

Did the glory of His love get lost when we learned we've been saved?

Did His very nature as holy took a backseat to our emotions?

For it seemed we think He hears better from the loudest shouts we gave,

And not from a silent, humble heart, not swayed but steady, content in all situations.

May we remember that the One who we celebrate today is One,

Not commercialized nor emotional, bringer of the ultimate gift--life, abundant and eternal.

And His presence still lives today, in lives lived and done

In His will, seeking only His glory, until our time comes to see Him, and that's final."

#HappyDecember242024

"Faith shouldn't be made into proselytizing clickbait,

For a matter of life and death demands transparency.

And so we live what we speak, we patiently wait,

For chance and people to turn and happen, living in consistency.

And there shouldn't be a contest of the journey,

For each is graced according to our capacity.

Some might start fast but end late ultimately,

Some might start late but endure more strongly.

May we be people instead, who build others up and encourage,

Rather than promote ourselves, nor our own perceived superiority.

Because we are not, except if whatever comes, we remain sane and show good courage,

For that will surely spur us on to eternity."

#HappyDecember232024

"Growing up, I heard some people ridicule wide readers,

Like it's some sort of personality disorder.

But now I realized maybe it's borne out of silent fears,

Because wide readers learn and know much, with horizons wider.

In our spiritual life too, reading and reflecting much is tedious,

But necessary to know, learn, verify and be convinced of truth.

For limiting ourselves to just believe what others say is odious,

And speaks of laziness, irresponsibility, of wisdom and grace not worth.

May we be people ever learning, knowing, understanding,

That our Father's wisdom become part of our character.

For therein lies hope, strength and endurance against challenges; to remain standing,

Against lies and evil; but upholding truth, peace, love, lives made better."

#HappyDecember202024

"If we haven't learned anything else so far,

Then may we remember we have a purpose,

For striving so hard in this journey, that we are

Destined for something good, our lives for greater use.

And we can believe this because we have a God so good,

Who never fails to instill His lessons all around

In creation, from other people, even humanity's great brotherhood;

For us to be heavenly-accountable, with feet on the ground.

May we always abide by His light and way,

Neither swerving to selfish agenda, nor be victimized for validation.

Because only His grace and strength gives worth to our everyday,

Only His love and presence can give light to any dark situation."

#HappyDecember192024

"If groups are only as good as their weakest link,

So individually, we are only as strong as our belief.

For no matter how secured we are, we think,

Our thoughts can either bring us more burden, or relief.

To those who think they must have all,

Will soon find out their strength and talents not enough,

For to win this fight, to endure and stand tall,

We need grace and heavenly guidance from One unfathomably wise, good, yet tough.

May we listen to His voice, mend our selfish ways,

In humility acknowledging nothing we have or own.

But in community with others, bringing peace and light in all our ways,

That our Father's Name, not ours, be lifted up in renown."

#HappyDecember182024

"More than any outside threat or challenge,

We need rescuing and saving from ourselves.

For left unchecked, our thoughts full of envy, greed and revenge,

At every offense, feeling diminished, in chaos and discontent our heart delves.

Thankfully, our Savior showed us true deliverance in humility,

The Great King swaddled with care in a manger,

A place of both rustic comfort, provision, but honesty,

During a time of colonization and great danger.

May we be inspired by the same hope and love in that little family,

To go on in our journey in faith, of His care,

For if we live the love we receive, better than a homily,

Through greater difficulties ahead, our souls will be strengthened to bear."

#HappyDecember172024

"As the old year starts to pass, and a new one to come,

So should we leave old mindsets behind.

Selfishness, envy, greed, pride, insecurity, are not welcome

Traits in a civilized society, nor should they form the mind.

For naysayers and optimists both can agree,

Times are getting more difficult and challenging.

But our response is one they most disagree,

One promoting terror, the other--hope, confidence, encouraging.

May we be people truly brought up in faith,

Not creating imaginary terrors more than the realities we are facing.

That our lives be full of grace and love as we wait,

For our deliverance, inspiring others while we move towards our ultimate becoming."

#HappyDecember162024

"Last week, one experienced a high contrast between two places called, 'Green--',

One, extremely overpriced yet true luxury, the other, an imitation.

Sadly, mirroring life wherever we have been,

When many carry the same faith-name, but inwardly different in situation.

For we might strive to look nice and real,

But life's challenges would show our mettle.

Because conviction goes beyond the moment, what we feel,

To rule the heart in peace, anxieties and insecurities to settle.

May we be people truly saved, preserved, patiently waiting,

Our daily responsibilities to respect and cherish done well,

As we go through our journey with hope, enduring,

That at the end, our true Master will reward, and all the universe to tell."

#HappyDecember132024

"Some of us may think the world revolves around us,

To the point we feel others are obligated to consider our convenience.

But even our Lord is considerate enough to use what someone else has,

And from there achieve great things beyond mere subsistence.

For respecting time and space is respecting people,

Showing maturity, good breeding, worthy character and upbringing.

Not to the extent of self-righteousness as high as a church's steeple,

But really, just basic responsibility, where we consider everyone's state of being.

May we truly be people whom we claim to be:

God's children, spreading His grace in a world of selfishness and greed.

Discerning of our actions, uttering our words responsibly,

Ready to give and give way what's not ours, to those who are in need."

#HappyDecember122024

"Sometimes, prayer can be unselfish, but too often

Personal and only seen from our point of view.

But others may have stronger needs, to which we fail to listen,

Because we believe we ourselves deserve the answers now due.

But maturity demands respect, discernment, understanding and consideration,

For truth may just lie beneath, while falsehood pretends,

And that there is more to each and every situation,

For to go beyond our comforts is what the Father intends.

May we be people discerning, understanding, open to realities,

While we strive to live the good grace we have been given.

Each day exercising our better nature and qualities,

With minds pure, spirits free from self-righteous leaven."

#HappyDecember112024

"Words are always a source of life and death,

They can build up, strengthen, inspire and encourage.

And saying and handling them well is true wealth,

Not worth destroying with tactlessness, rudeness, pride that discourage.

For since time immemorial, words always have the power,

Being graced by the presence of God, fruit of His love.

And everything we say to someone we think higher or lower

Than us, is actually a manifestation of the life we have.

May we be people consistent and constant in deed,

Living lives of meaning and wisdom, truth and grace,

To paths of goodness and peace, may others we lead,

That goodness and peace also dwell with us all our days."

#HappyDecember092024

"The face of God, is the face of our neighbor,

Even if we may not like or accept it.

For loving our fellowman is also labor,

A burden we might do well to carry bit by bit.

For as the story today shows our true color,

When we try to live the faith we profess,

By being respectful and understanding, both worthy endeavor,

More than real emotions and thoughts we try to suppress.

May we be consistent and true, whenever and wherever,

Do our best to bring peace, hope, comfort, enlightenment.

As we manifest what it means to be a Kingdom-believer,

Living our Father's love and grace, moment by moment."

#HappyDecember062024

"As in the parable of the harvest, we look at our Father's will,

Like our story today which reminds us to ask.

For in faith, our worried hearts would be still,

And peace covers us, as we do the task.

Indeed, with all the challenges and burdens we handle,

It is tempting to just zone out and escape.

But we must believe our Father's light can ignite our dying candle,

And that for our fortitude and character, patience and perseverance are tools that shape.

May we always try to seek His will, live His love,

Be respectful and responsible, magnanimous, considerate and gracious.

As we continually seek wisdom, strength and guidance from above,

Becoming worthy stewards of life and lives so precious."

#HappyDecember052024

"It's heartbreaking, but recent news and events painfully show

How life suffers at the selfishness and greed of the few.

Who want to get their way in all things,

Never considering the consequences to their abusive and dark imaginings.

But yet there is hope, as this season being a reminder,

That to life's challenges and difficulties, there is a rejoinder.

It is the life brought by the One True Giver:

Humble yet abundant, difficult yet peaceful, bridging to forever.

May we remain circumspect, respectful, not insisting on our rightness,

But patiently waiting, tactful, enduring, discerning, generous and selfless.

For this life is too short and fleeting to make an offensive show,

But too precious not to promote the kingdom of heaven here below."

#HappyDecember042024

"A pet student prayed a very personal class prayer,

Asking God to prioritize the needs of the most needy.

Cute, except for the fact most would like to hear,

That God prioritizes each one, always on ready:

To give what we need, whether provision or grace,

To enlighten and encourage, strengthen and guide,

At the end, to reward those who endure the race,

To give consolation to the suffering of those who abide.

And we can believe that He hears all our prayer,

For we've seen how good He was in preserving us.

May we too give to Him our utmost love, devotion, anytime, anywhere,

Whom we know we can depend on as the seasons pass."

#HappyDecember032024

"The OGs believed in the 'power of the terror' way,

Terrorizing GenZs into behaving and doing well.

Unfortunately a lifetime and generation of PTSDs clearly say,

Encouragement works better, with more meaningful fruits to tell.

And yes, the post-gospel epistles show us too,

That encouragement is key to growth, persistence, and endurance,

Building a life that's consistent in conviction in everything we do,

Where our Father's light does shine, His truth can only advance.

May we always remember to encourage, support, build up,

Not be a stumbling block or a hindrance to others,

That we may share, fill each other's cup,

And thrive together with our fellows, sisters and brothers."

#HappyDecember022024

"It never fails to prove what is true,

What we say as manifested in what we do.

If faith, by good works done consistently,

If wisdom, by choices and decisions done patiently.

And when we say we're worth the accolade,

We are still to work after, like a debt to be paid.

For a life of doubt, impostor-syndrome is what we get,

When we know we haven't played fair with our bet.

May we be consistent, settled between our word and action,

Always mindful of the weight of our every situation.

That we might someday receive our ultimate reward,

As people molded in character, each a good steward."

#HappyDecember012024

[ivy72376]

EIGHT WORDS PER LINE, NOVEMBER 1-30, 2024

"A recent quote said it is not happy people who are thankful,

But thankful people are the ones who are happy.

True, for one need not be always deliriously joyful,

But gratitude sets us up for eternity.

And through our story we learn it's because of One,

Who holds our lives and affairs in His hand,

So that we may dream, scheme, and plan,

But we are limited, not being able to see beyond.

And so may we not fear what lies ahead,

Nor if somebody is there with us as we go in our journey,

If by our Father's mercy we allow ourselves to be led,

Then through the challenges, our souls will still enjoy peace and harmony."

#HappyNovember302024

"To one insecure, no amount of wealth can suffice,

Nor cover up perceived inadequacy,

But even pure intentions must they negatively surmise,

And nitpicked for every little inconsistency.

Fortunately we have a Heavenly Father who knows our need

For validation and attention, for assurance and hope.

And so with His wisdom, His presence our lead,

And His love and grace, our faith's matched envelope.

May we learn to trust and be confident,

On Him Who began the good work in our lives,

Remembering His mercies as our answered-prayer precedent,

That He will complete it until our blessed day arrives."

#HappyNovember292024

"We lose credibility when we create an imaginary enemy,

But build it when we live with transparency.

For we may sometimes forget we too are weak,

Even if with all knowledge we profess and speak.

How much more proclaiming self-righteousness without moral ascendancy,

When we ourselves give in to believing in our supremacy,

Even without knowing a lot, believing only we are right,

When we are just as hopeless as everyone else in the right fight.

May we always be humble, circumspect, tactful, grateful

Of the chance to be alive and to live to the full

A good kind of life, free from malice and ill intent,

Believing that someday, eternal victory awaits the patiently persistent."

#HappyNovember282024

"A heart full of light is content on its own,

Humble in learning from life and other people,

Recognizing that substance comes from character that's grown,

Built up in faith and hope, living free and simple.

But a heart of darkness knows no bounds to envy

Nor to pride, always seeking other's validation,

With materialism a curse, imposing a burden so heavy,

Always prioritizing self in any situation.

May we be people of substance, with no malice

Nor impure intent, but upholding what's pure and right,

Promoting wisdom, kindness, understanding, discernment and peace,

True vessels through which our Heavenly Father shines His light."

#HappyNovember272024

"'Not to respond when asked a question is rude,

Not to speak when needed by the situation is lazy,

Not to speak out when justice and right calls is cruel',

Are hard lessons we must learn throughout our journey.

And it is telling when we look around,

Especially when speaking with wisdom and grace is a beacon

In this dark world, where sincerity and truth are seldom found,

And life's challenges prove more difficult with each season.

But to remember that life is a partnership

Between us and our Creator, is cause for hope and celebration.

And may we strive daily with His love in every relationship,

His grace and presence abounding in our every situation."

#HappyNovember262024

"We don't always know what other people go through,

The least we could do is keep our distance,

And pray silently, neither proselytizing nor condemning even if we're inclined to,

But to give others room to breathe, a chance.

Because like in the story, each person has to fight

Their own battles, without being taken advantaged.

Their weaknesses not used nor their secrets brought to light,

Nor to shame, coerce, induce, just for us to feel good and privileged.

May we be people circumspect, carefully planning our every act,

Tactful with our words, with sincerity and wisdom in all we do.

That we might keep our souls and sanities intact,

Bring peace and light, truth upheld, not for us to undo."

#HappyNovember252024

"Whatever we choose to be, we're set for life,

Whether to a way of living that blesses others, or brings strife.

It's not a matter of qualification as much as quality,

A life lived not for self-promotion but humility.

For none of us is so perfect as to not need God,

Nor so talented not to appreciate every gift we ever had.

So that we realize each moment is a privilege,

A chance to prove wisdom and grace more than knowledge.

May we always remember we were never self-made,

And beyond school, we still each receive a grade,

Of being good stewards of life, relationships, creation,

One worthy of our Father's Name, His holy and redeemed, spiritual nation."

#HappyNovember242024

"Because the world is contentious enough as it is,

It's not unique to sow confusion, otherness, hate.

For it's human default to lift self above, prioritize our piece,

Deluding oneself to believe one knows better, is good and great.

That's why it's all the more telling of our character,

To bring peace, light, sow wisdom and understanding,

To discern, be tactful, circumspect in any matter,

That our Saviour's sacrifice be not brought to nothing.

May we prove ourselves worthy as stewards of life and creation,

With nothing to be ashamed of, living consistently, faithfully, honestly,

Conscientious, diligent, hopeful and persevering in any situation,

Always mindful to live each day responsibly and accountably."

#HappyNovember232024

"We don't always know how it goes,

But we get saved a lot by judgment calls,

Even when life's uncertainties keeps us on our toes,

Prudence, patience, save us from bad and deadly falls.

And ultimately, it helps us save our lives and souls,

From calamity and destruction, from a point of no return,

Giving us chances to mend a life full of holes,

And from our mistakes and misses to learn.

May we always be open to discernment and insight,

Welcoming of opportunity, greater changes leading to better possibilities,

With our path illuminated by our Father's heavenly light,

As we fulfill our purpose and perform our daily duties."

#HappyNovember222024

"Cheating death, denying old age and its pains

Doesn't pay, for they surely come for all.

And all we have gathered in wealth and gains,

Will not preserve us when it's time for our call.

But discerning and accepting our mortality makes us introspect,

To live deliberately, in humility, live each day with thankfulness,

Afford to everyone understanding, empathy, magnanimity and respect,

And in spite of challenges, persevere in hope and cheerfulness.

May we be people truly grounded in our Creator's wisdom,

In all our actions and decisions, accountable, transparent,

For soon our appointed day will surely come,

And the fruits of our lips and deeds soon will become apparent."

#HappyNovember212024

"If all we seek is other people's acknowledgement and validation,

We will never level up nor make it.

For people will always differ in response to any situation,

And may treat us according to how they see fit.

Yet the Word says we have a higher order,

One which calls us to live and share our Father's glory,

Where our actions match the words we render,

Where faith overcomes fear, trust winning over worry.

May we always remember our spiritual anchor and tether,

How it always calls us back to our Saviour's gospel,

Through a life thriving in whatever season and weather,

One through which our Father's light, darkness to dispel."

#HappyNovember202024

"Much has been said about the importance of companion,

But let's not over-interpret that to require having an intimate "Other",

For the Word talks about having understanding and communion

Through life's ups and downs, with one who's always there.

And these could be those with whom we identify similar interests,

Like-minded, who share our values and priorities,

So that it is an affront to humanity as one stubbornly insists,

To be tied to one who does not recognize one's worth and capabilities.

May we learn to discern the people whom our God has sent our way,

Acknowledge their presence in our lives, be mindful

How great is the privilege of having one who gives us time in their day,

Who inspire and encourage, never failing to remind us to be hopeful and faithful."

#HappyNovember192024

"One truly educated will manifest itself in lawful obedience,

Not out of fear but in respectful consideration.

And one truly loving and loved develops resilience,

Faith in the face of doubt, courage without condition.

Because believing in the One who delivers and comforts,

Is a crucible of what we believe in.

For there lies peace beyond the image one purports,

And confidence beyond the material is the reward therein.

May we be people of substance, loving, considerate,

Obedient to our Saviour's instructions to discern and understand.

That the future that lies for us be nothing less than great,

And that our souls be not lost from His mighty hand."

#HappyNovember182024

"Persistence and humility are underrated requirements for success,

In whatever endeavor, for whatever end and cause.

Just holding out, amidst all challenges to peace and happiness,

Being there, on standby for what may come, just because.

And these are what our Heavenly Father asks for,

From His children, to have faith and to endure.

Though difficult, exhausting, but to still walk a mile more,

While keeping our minds free of malice, our hearts pure.

May we be people delivered from the slavery of hopelessness,

And always remember that truth and justice will have their day,

As we strive with diligence, honestly conducting our business,

Always finding the good in whatever situation, in any way."

#HappyNovember142024

"A documentary stated an obvious but uncomfortable fact,

As the world heats up, kindness goes down.

It seems with global warming, people lose their tact,

When life's challenges grows, selfishness and rudeness abound.

But in order to physically survive, one must acclimatize,

Adjust, stay hydrated and cool so as not to lose the mind.

For the more we get offended and in turn aggrandize,

So will joy and peace run away and leave us behind.

May global warming develop in us fortitude and resilience,

Though it may exhaust and weaken, but not destroy our conviction,

To be gracious and generous, discerning, understanding, with patience,

Help us endure until the day our efforts come into fruition."

#HappyNovember132024

"It's unfortunate, but in our status-driven world today,

It's easy to hate on those who have more;

While bemoaning the fact of their inadequacy in some way,

Some strive to bring down what they think lies before.

But such is not the path of wisdom and peace,

For there we are called to bless, to share,

Not caring whether recognized or rewarded for our piece

In trying to make other's lives better, just and fair.

May we be people willing to give what we can and have,

To make every day, every place, every way,

A slice of our Father's kingdom, a spot of heaven and love,

Where His mercy shines, His grace shining on our path each day."

#HappyNovember122024

"A famous writer said that if you want to enslave a people,

Create an imaginary enemy, preach it incessantly, and promote yourself as savior.

Such an abusive situation, but unfortunately, many have been so gullible,

And sold themselves out to those who are after their purse and favor.

But our Savior showed us the better way,

Winning over evil with good, fear and cowardice with faith and courage.

With wisdom and discernment, understanding for our everyday,

Knowing that for every situation, our Heavenly Father lights our passage.

May we be people able to discern between our true enemy and true friend,

Rightfully assessing the doctrines and values we have been built on.

That for all our efforts, our journey might result to a rightful and worthy end,

Our Father's love and mercy, the anchor our soul can ground upon."

#HappyNovember112024

"It's part of being an ambivert, being comfortable in whatever,

That one understands both the need to talk and keep silent.

But it's difficult to accept why anyone can monologue to others in an endless chatter,

Nor scream and shriek, calling it singing, until voices are hoarse and spent.

Thankfully we believe in a God who's not deaf, no matter

How we feel frustrated or unheard, seemingly neglected, disrespected

By life and people, even being dumped on with mental and emotional clutter,

For we know our effort and patience will receive from His grace, the result we expected.

May we learn to rein in our tongue, be circumspect,

For life is too short for regrets, and saying sorry afterward is meaningless.

When we have intruded into people's space and time without respect.

May we then each spend our days in ways loving, generous, selfless."

#HappyNovember102024

"The bag shove is telling, as regular commuters say,

Keeping our luggages in front, rather than back or side,

So as not to bump or hit others as we make way,

Manifesting good breeding, education, respect, and many other good virtues aside.

So is helping, understanding, discerning other people's needs and concerns,

Rather than always our own, or what makes us feel good.

For true success and wealth is where a peaceful and insightful heart governs,

Not one out to promote self, or to flaunt around the neighborhood.

May we be sensitive to how we live,

How we speak, how we act, that others may see,

We have been brought up well, as we generously give,

Of our time, our skill, our talents and energy."

#HappyNovember092024

"One reason I'm not what people said I should be,

Is that I prayed to be kept safe from harm, and thankfully,

Our faithful Father has granted it magnanimously, securely,

Providing for other things more meaningful, fulfilling, worthy for me.

Like our story and countless personal histories through the ages,

Our God designed life for good for those who love Him,

Who pray for their choices, not decide on a whim,

But heed correction, listen to the wisdom of the sages.

May we learn to respect each of our life paths and choices,

Not impose what we think is good for them too.

For what we want may not be best nor rightly due,

As each of us are blessed to walk through life according to our own paces."

#HappyNovember082024

"It's the kind of mental and moral disconnect social media has exacerbated,

People sharing so much of their lives online,

Even personal, emotional, but when asked or confronted,

Get offended and say, to each other's business should people only mind.

But the digital world has no such thing as privacy,

Much like in the real world, in our physical relations.

We may think we respect some, but actually offend many,

With our tactless words, seemingly pure yet actually selfish intentions.

May we grow mature, every day deepening our discernment,

Sensitive to what keeps the peace, what preserves and promote grace,

Because just as there is no taking back words carelessly spoken in a moment,

So even with an apology, there really is no real recompense for our rude and offensive ways."

#HappyNovember072024

"Can't say more than enough, but always, lying is evil,

Penetrating the deep recesses of the soul, destroying it.

Although it seems between lies and truth some are comfortable to swivel,

But undeniably, that's dangerous, more constraining than a horse's bit.

For we know and experience it to be true,

That in truth, there is real freedom and deliverance,

And fighting to uphold it is a responsibility for me and you,

If we want our community to prosper, society to advance.

May we people of truth, people in whom there's no malice and guile,

Transparent and discerning, understanding, humble yet courageous,

Making each moment count, every second worth the while,

Living with faith and hope, conviction and noble purpose."

#HappyNovember062024

EMPATHY...

something most of us lack...

Thinking beyond our interests to how our words and actions affect others...

Putting ourselves in other people's places, rather than the convenience of judging or criticizing those that we barely know about or understand...

Wearing someone else's skin and walking around in them...

Remembering that Finance and Economics taught us that life is a pie...

And that the more we amass for ourselves, the more we deprive others of what they should have...

And being aware that such thinking is not Marxism or Socialism but the very ideals founded when the earliest generations among us decided to settle from our hunter-gatherer, predator-prey, warrior-land-grabber period of humanity...

Because sharing and giving way are not weakness, but the hallmarks of an enlightened and actualized human person ...

#SomethingToThinkAbout

"To what extent is envy, I often wonder,

Is it wishing other people have less than what they possess,

Is it wishing that we have more of what we can gather,

Or of being the most, having the best and latest, always on top are all we obsess.

Such is the sad reality of a hungry and lonely soul,

Even in wealth, status, company, intimate or large, yet still not content.

Unlike one on whom discernment and truth has made whole,

Gratefulness, meaning, purpose and will have rendered in the heart pure intent.

May we be people who are at peace with who we are,

That even though life repeatedly shakes, batters, or burdens,

We can still go the distance no matter how far,

Upon whom wisdom and horizon, our Heavenly Father only deepens and widens."

#HappyNovember052024

"At stake in one country's major election today

Is immigration and respect for the rights of women;

Something radical, though swept under the day-to-day

Humdrum of living, but undeniably real, and for democracy, a given.

And consequently, a crucible of the world's faith and ways;

Not just in terms of race, but of gender and personality.

For truly we live out our Creator's love and grace,

If we can respect people's mutiplicity, and our own basic duality.

May our actions and thoughts be consistent with what we proclaim,

People who need not present only our best foot forward.

Both feet being grounded, real, honest, humble, walking towards our worthiest aim;

No excess baggage of prejudice, but in community with all--progressing heavenward."

#HappyNovember042024

"Trust is a currency, so hard to keep,

But so is skill, and wisdom so deep.

Just as one indiscretion destroys trust and faith,

So one seemingly educated tripped by a careless word said.

Yet we have a Heavenly Father who invites our trust,

And for our sanity and soul's safety, believe in Him we must.

Otherwise the alternative is one of darkness and despair,

No hope of justice and recompense from a life so unfair.

May we trust our God, in everything give thanks and pray,

As we deal with discernment to all we meet each day.

Always opening our minds to possibilities both good and not so,

With freedom to choose what's good, in everything we put effort into."

#HappyNovember032024

"A regular theme in crime dramas we love watching,

Is on the problem of cults and their evil effects.

How these men and women could sway the vulnerable is alarming,

Considering the resulting severe trauma and toll on mental health it affects.

We learned too that these prey on one's weaknesses,

The desire to get rich or get healed quickly,

To be validated, to belong; blinding one to another person's abuses,

All because one gets taken by fake and dubious promises uttered sweetly.

But then we realize these leaders are subject to the same eternal metric like us,

And may we see that we are also subject to the same struggles and norms.

May we learn to give, be wise, in humility working with the gifts each one of us has,

While not patronizing frauds, scams, or abuses in all its forms."

#HappyNovember022024

"There's no shortage of leadership experts who advocate time management,

And rightly so, for once gone, it doesn't come back.

We might see one or few opportunities return in another moment,

But if it's a battle, we might not be ready for its attack.

And so it would be best that we follow some wise words,

Redeeming the time, living deliberately, purposefully, meaningfully,

In making the most of each chance, consistently sharpening our swords,

Holding on in faith and hope, patiently, diligently.

May we be masters of each of our time,

Good stewards of life, accountable for every chance and opportunity given.

Making impact that lasts longer than the sounds of a wind-chime,

Even beyond our earthly existence, leaving an eternal legacy even."

#HappyNovember012024

[ivy72376]

EIGHT WORDS PER LINE, OCTOBER 1-31, 2024

"It seems that everyday these days is a trying time,

Of patience and faith, principles, convictions, character,

A clash of cultures, values as cheap as dime,

A cloudening of truth, smokescreen on the important matter.

Thankfully our Saviour shows us a way,

Amidst the chaos, and the attack on truth and love,

To put our priorities in order, in spite of what others say,

To be grounded in our affairs, with wisdom from above.

May we always uphold what's true and good,

Be responsible for ourselves, always do what's just and right.

Recognize that on this earth we belong to a great brethrenhood,

Different may be in the manner, but united for our soul's eternal fight."

#HappyOctober312024

"The Pearl, the first novella I read as a kid, was tragic,

In keeping something so precious, the protagonist lost the life of a loved one,

It took away his family's peace and a good future, as if the downside of magic,

Because of the greed and oppression of one powerful man.

Thankfully there is one pearl we are taught about that's true and eternal,

One giving hope and joy that cannot be stolen,

A future that, with patience and perseverance, will be resolute and final,

If we live lives in humility, grace, with hearts and minds without leaven.

May we always hold on to the great pearl our Savior promised--His kingdom.

Giving up on pride and selfishness, always considering the good in every situation,

Our lives open books, vessels of grace where all kinds of people willing to share are welcome,

That the good seed our Savior has planted will grow, an abundant life brought to fruition."

#HappyOctober302024

"It cannot be said enough, prayer is power,

Especially done for unselfish, ungreedy, non-judgmental ends.

And we see its fruits in one's character,

When pride, prejudice, ignorance and fear it breaks or bends.

And prayer is its own reward too,

Giving peace to the prayerful, consolation for pain,

That even still must be suffered by me and you,

But not deprived of hope and eternal gain.

May we pray boldly, yet humbly, patiently, silently,

Knowing in faith, we have what we ask for.

If we ask for the good of all, work diligently,

Believing what's coming is greater than what has been before."

#HappyOctober292024

"The wise person carries no baggage, is good emotionally,

But hard to do literally, especially in calamities.

For in the former, it is freeing, peace-inducing eventually,

But the latter speaks readiness, a matter of survival in difficulties.

Yet mental baggage is no easy thing to carry,

And so we'd be wise to rid ourselves of its spiritual embrace.

For beyond the physical, holding on to toxic emotions makes our souls weary,

Depriving us of joy and contentment, from appreciating our daily grace.

May we be people truly set free and delivered,

From a life of prejudice and hate, self-righteousness and pride.

That our path to our Father's kingdom be not hindered,

And through life's challenges and seasons, with Him we will always abide."

#HappyOctober282024

"It's not the movement, nor the group or congregation,

But being reborn means a change of character,

From one that blindly follows groupthink without question,

To one that upholds truth and justice, and values that matter.

As the wind, unpredictable in direction but real,

So is life truly blessed, graced, renewed, reformed.

Where the Father's love and power indwells deeper than what we feel,

To penetrate selfishness and greed, ignorance and pride are struck down, transformed.

May we be people truly changed by our Saviour's words and sacrifice,

Living daily the gospel and the love He had given.

For no amount of words, proclamations, traditions and pretend actions would suffice,

When faced with the metrics and scales, the Judgment of heaven."

#HappyOctober272024

"One high school literature assignment was titled, 'This too shall pass',

An apt lesson on the impermanence of both happiness and suffering.

A sobering reminder too that no glory nor pain will last,

A challenge to live in the moment, embrace fully our being.

It speaks to us too, who are prone to settle,

Not to be complacent but each day to earn our keep.

For life demands in all situations for us to show our mettle,

And to always learn fortitude, develop patience and discernment so deep.

May we persevere in whatever situation and season,

Giving our best, doing all the good we can.

That we may prove worthy servants, who learn our life lesson,

Doing a good turn in every way, to anyone."

#HappyOctober262024

"It's foolhardy to counterflow in heavy traffic,

More daring if done in our spiritual and social life.

But life demands that our efforts be made specific,

When we preach peace, instead of judgment and strife.

Yes, there will be consequences to our every word and action,

And we cannot run away from the call to be accountable.

But truth and wisdom must be upheld in any situation,

Generosity and patience, empathy and magnanimity as far as we are able.

May we be responsible, facing life's challenges with courage,

As we seek our Heavenly Father's guidance and grace.

Help others see the good news of His kingdom with humility and knowledge,

Remembering we are all together in this eternal race."

#HappyOctober252024

"An ancient sage said that it's a shame to be rich

In a country that's poorly governed,

While it's shameful to be poor, in that place which

Every bread is honestly, diligently earned.

Yet, because of evil and greed, poverty is always everywhere,

So that it is a moral obligation to help as we can,

Giving to and supporting those around us, being there

To enlighten and guide, making life better for everyone.

May we pay forward the grace we have been given,

Making sure to right wrongs, defend the oppressed,

Uphold truth and love, give ourselves to wisdom, our characters proven,

Sharing, giving, blessing, as we are also magnanimously blessed."

#HappyOctober242024

"How dangerous and scary a world it must be,

If each of all our prayers are granted without effort,

For then we wouldn't have a Father who loves you and me,

But a spoiler who dismisses us with favor, but not support.

And yet, we must still believe in His unconditional grace,

To make it through each day with hope and love,

For truly, this world's drudgery and terror needs courage to face,

A Comforter to guide and strengthen, a gift from above.

May we not abuse such privilege and earn our keep,

In generosity and understanding, responsibility and accountability.

Each moment a chance to tap into wisdom so deep,

Each situation a lesson in honesty, patience, perseverance, integrity."

#HappyOctober232024

"It's difficult to be consistent in this day and age,

Unless one leans towards being 'autistically' - inclined.

That's not an insult, but admiration towards one like a sage,

Who does things repeatedly, untiringly, exhaustingly, of one mind.

So it seems with character, virtue, faith and love,

If the inside doesn't match the outside, something will always break.

And maybe, we can show that we give all that we have,

But we will always be proven by what we say and make.

May we be consistent people, focused on where we are headed,

Yet never losing sight of our humanity and reason.

Our Father's love and character, in our hearts imbedded,

Faithful and hopeful, patient, persevering through every season."

#HappyOctober222024

"If we do not know what we are looking for,

We will never know if we have found it.

If we do not understand what we're staring at, therefore

We wouldn't be able to grow our minds one bit.

If we are only after one particular type of thing,

We wouldn't discern truth just a hair-breath beyond our reach.

Much like how we fail to see that in faith and living,

Our Creator has given us His Word and admonition beyond each Sunday's preach.

May we open our eyes, broaden our mind and heart,

Welcoming the manifold ways life reveals what's greater.

For then from our Saviour's will we wouldn't depart,

Nor run away from His leading, which is infinitely better."

#HappyOctober212024

"The truest wealth indeed is contentment, from honest labor,

Knowing that regardless of the situation, we are amply provided for.

And that people may steal from our hard-earned gain,

But diligence will always bear fruit without eternal pain.

And we can always have peace, sleeping fitfully,

For we know even if our days are numbered, there's One who faithfully

Keeps watch, guides, provides, leads in the right direction,

Ready with respite, answers to our every question.

May we spend our days always seeing what's truly valuable,

Trusting in faith in our God who is always able.

Children of hope and light amidst a corrupt and chaotic generation,

Vessels of wisdom, integrity and honor, His holy nation."

#HappyOctober202024

"If only our reason to live is to be like the rest,

Without ever carving our own path, nor trying out something radical,

Then it's useless to try to give our very best,

For then we would only be consumed by what's tangible and physical.

But if we must give meaning to our everyday,

We would do well to strive not only for ourselves,

For being a light and inspiration is what truly make our day,

As we bring peace and hope, we encourage others to better themselves.

May we always remember we are mere stewards of life and creation,

Here on earth not just to survive, but to thrive and replenish.

At every turn discerning, extracting and sharing wisdom from each situation,

Living deliberately, mindfully, enduring patiently until our life's grand finish."

#HappyOctober192024

"Modern life indeed has been getting more stressful,

It seems to be a never-ending race,

So much so that in the humdrum, we become forgetful,

That a better life is one with a slower, more mindful pace.

Thankfully, the Word reminds us what to do, where to go,

For our Saviour's invitation never becomes stale.

Entrusting our cares to His caring hands just so,

And believing His promise of guidance, provision and abundance to never fail.

May we infuse mindfulness, patience and discernment to our everyday,

At each turn, be a vessel of peace, hope, and joy,

With our Father's love lighting our every way,

His joy our strength, His boundless wisdom free for us to employ."

#HappyOctober182024

"It's always good to remember, something that has gotten clichéd,

When everybody says that after our difficulties and triumphs, 'it will be all God',

Yet, when we broadcast our process, our 'My Day' as we sashayed,

There is no spot for Him, as in, 'God's Day', and it seems kinda sad.

Maybe instead we should declare without hesitation,

That everyday is the day that the Lord has made,

He who guides, sustains, provides in every situation,

On whom our cares are taken, our soul's debts are paid.

Yes, even though people fail us, deprive, neglect, or demean our person,

We have a Heavenly Father who loves, who shows mercy and grace.

May we always be thankful, humble, tactful in any situation,

And recognize His leading through all the challenges we face."

#HappyOctober172024

"One really has to go skin-deep to feel the worth

Of anything worth doing, since time proves character.

True joy manifesting in challenging times, bringing forth

Fortitude, resilience, mental toughness, clarity, conviction, all that would really matter.

Because the world doesn't revolve around us, nor can we

Demand respect and recognition, but to just work diligently.

For at the proper time, what we are inside will prove to be

The key to a greater future, humility paying off if we strive patiently.

May we remain steadfast, humble, prudent, noble, consistent and true,

Giving our all in every situation, to making life better

For us and others, enduring while we wait our due,

And surely, joy and peace will follow after."

#HappyOctober162024

"Don't commit into something if you haven't outgrown yourself,

For you may be found wanting, deeds scattered, undisciplined.

Correction from others you may find not a help,

Insisting on your rightness, righteousness, even with convictions untrained.

It is better to go through life circumspect, deliberate,

Not inviting scorn, but mindful and tactful.

For even as nature balances small and great,

So our daily challenges and triumphs rewards the soul that's respectful.

May our days be filled with wisdom, always measured,

In humility, fulfilling our purpose and calling.

Our moments, their lessons and realizations always treasured,

Our eternal destiny despite our current realities always worth embracing."

#HappyOctober152024

"It doesn't take talent to be kind,

Just a simple expectation to be treated the same,

Nor does it take much effort to mind

Others, just basic respect, a habit that's never lame.

And so it's hard to grasp greed, selfishness, rudeness,

For they go against the grain of being humane.

Whatever one believes, whoever one worships, life gets better with gentleness,

And living is bearable when we are more willing to give than to gain.

May we always be mindful, for it doesn't go out of fashion.

Tactful and respectful, recognizing each other's right to live with dignity.

Be circumspect and discerning in every situation,

At each chance, dispensing peace, wisdom, reconciliation instead of enmity."

#HappyOctober142024

"A sad news was aired somewhere in the first world,

Of a navy seal who jumped to save a mate who fell overboard

During a hurricane, but both perishing in the end,

Due to their worn heavy gear, unfortunate for both savior, mate and friend.

Not to such extent may be what we face daily,

But still some situations call for heroism actually.

Especially when a brother, sister, friend or mate is in a dire situation,

That one needs to extend at least an encouragement, a word of hope, even caution.

May we be that person that only gives out peace and love,

Much as how we have been given mercy and grace from above.

A friend, a mentor, a sister or brother, a guide,

Never losing steam in faith and the journey, always ready to listen and abide."

#HappyOctober132024

"While no one can claim moral ascendancy over another,

There are still some people that needs to be reminded

Of what truly counts, the important matter,

Or their hold on life and sanity would have ended.

And those of us who are also undergoing the same challenge,

Need to look out for one another.

For none of us is so perfect, none immune to change,

All alike in burden, in responses and reactions with our human sister and brother.

May we always be there to encourage, to build up, to inspire,

In selflessness, may we make our lives meaningful,

That we may work our way out together especially in situations that are dire,

And in love and peace, be patient, persevering, faithful and hopeful."

#HappyOctober122024

"It's one of the most telling traits,

Yet far often overlooked in the race for clout:

The prayerful person is at peace, patiently waits,

Not shouting out their greatness, nor running their mouths about.

And prayer is its own reward too,

Something too few realize until much later.

It in itself a manifestation of confidence in what's due,

Trust that whatever the situation, something awaits that's greater.

May we never cease praying, whenever we can,

Holding on in hope and faith, trusting in our Father's love.

Daily living His will, being responsible, respectful to everyone,

Fueled by unlimited mercy and grace from above."

#HappyOctober112024

"Abuse is a sensitive topic, yet one must be aware,

It is never normal to elevate a life more than another.

It is indeed a virtue to forgive, a strong dare,

Yet not to forget that consequences must be borne together.

As it is with our basic human right to survive,

So is it with the need to be respected and treated humanely.

Nobody has supremacy over another in wealth or status, but to thrive

Is every person's natural path, no matter how things progress insanely.

May we recognize how small and immaterial we are,

Against the grander infrastructure of the universe,

Be humble, respectful, courteous, go the extra mile as far

As needed, love and peace motivating our actions, our thoughts, and every time we converse."

#HappyOctober102024

"There's a certain kind of rage that brews,

As life gets more difficult, more raw and existential.

The fearful becoming ruder, with not a few loose screws,

Life's trivialities nitpicked, no passing moment proving inconsequential.

But patience is a virtue that is its own reward,

For the moment when you are most pressed is when you most need it,

When life's challenges seem all the more insurmountable, surviving is hard,

That's when you need to extend more grace, holding on more than a bit.

May we learn to take in each moment and appreciate

The life and breath we're given, be mindful

Of everything, see their worth, the value of the small against the great,

And to our God and good convictions, be steadfast and faithful."

#HappyOctober092024

"To a generation that desperately seeks validation,

It seems only positive remarks are welcome,

Less so with discipline, constructive critique, warnings, admonition

Even if they give caution from evil days to come.

Undeniably though, the aged has seen it all,

And would want to guide in the path that's true,

However disregarded, unseen, unrecognized, a life of integrity still stands tall,

A life making and correcting mistakes, and living to tell remains due.

May we learn from the wisdom of those who have been before,

Knowing that with humanity, there is nothing that's new,

As we live, we realize, as we advance, we learn more,

Hopefully not making the same mistakes, but breakthroughs not unlike a few."

#HappyOctober082024

"All of us are driven by something unseen,

Yet real, manifesting in our everyday talk and action.

It gives weight to all the things and places we've been,

It brings substance and meaning to our every situation.

Whether that unseen force be the light of wisdom and love,

Or the darkness of selfishness and greed is up to us.

But the better person gives generously of what they have,

Even when unrecognized, unacknowledged, deprived of the little one has.

May we choose to be led by the good spirit of our Heavenly Father,

Who nurtures and provides, gives hope and strength,

That we may learn to be independent yet still have the grace to help another,

Remaining steadfast and faithful, as we go through life's full length."

#HappyOctober072024

"Amidst the world's hustle and bustle, race and humdrum,

When almost everyone strives for attention and validation,

One may feel left out, unheard, unseen, unwelcome,

Where one may even question long-held priorities and conviction.

Thankfully the Word reminds us that acknowledgement comes from our Creator,

Translating into internal motivation as we follow what's right,

In humility, we seek not another person's favor,

But the heavenly grace, our Father's mercy, love, and light.

Yes, the world disappoints, life harrases and challenges,

But He who indwells in us is greater.

May we remain steadfast as the season changes,

Find our inspiration in the Life-giver, that's infinitely better."

#HappyOctober062024

"A quote said that teaching is the ultimate act of optimism.

Indeed, to believe that in each student lies a gem,

Waiting to be uncovered, polished, perfected, until they glisten,

Is hard, but everyday rewarding, for you and for them.

So is it with life, so full of difficulties, deprivations, challenges,

But underneath are priceless treasures of life lessons.

One's convictions always under attack as the world's values changes,

But peace comes to those who remain steadfast through the seasons.

May we always remain hopeful, faithful, patient and persevering,

Doing our best daily, even lengthening our working hour,

With our Heavenly Father's goodness and grace indwelling,

All our thoughts, words and tasks driven by His love and power."

#HappyOctober052024

It's now International Teacher's Day...

Some friends may ask, "Why did I turn/go back to teaching--full time now, at this age, considering the tremendous work and effort, the long hours, the tons of papers to check and grade, lessons and exams to prepare, the breathlessness of keeping up with the profession's standards and updates, the small pay and dearth of recognition, the challenges in handling and managing Gen Z, and in a few years' time, Alpha?"

Simple lang:

"We only have one short physical life, at the end of which, when asked at the Judgment Seat what did I do with it...

(I did not bear physical offspring of my own and make them grow,

Nor did I build kingdoms, heaped on accolades and recognition, nor amassed wealth...)

I PASSED ON WHAT I LEARNED, I PAID FORWARD."

#IAmMerelyPassingOnWhatIKnow

#HappyInternationalTeachersDay

"While the smarts and greats have their field day,

Genius and wise stand safely and quietly aside.

For it is natural for the learned and the status'ed to always have a say,

While nobility demands that one put down one's pride.

And so is it with temper, a very short fuse,

Among those threatened of their position, status, impression.

While the humble knows difficulty and stress are not an excuse

To be rude, for one must be sane in any situation.

May we learn the way of love and peace,

Always mindful, hopeful, faithful, diligent, enduring and persevering

Against all odds, keeping our minds and souls in one piece,

While we strive for a better legacy that's everlasting."

#HappyOctober042024

"Often, we're put in situations that overwhelm us,

Where we feel swamped, inadequate, not ready, unqualified for;

Made worse when the challenge is yet to pass,

And we don't know what lies beyond the door.

But in such times, faith gives us courage,

That all we've undergone may find its meaning

Brought to clarity, inspired by wisdom's timeless adage,

Not to fear, for with our Heavenly Father, impossible is nothing.

May we hold on in hope that someday we'll be well-compensated,

For our seemingly unsung, unselfish, unrecognized efforts now.

At a better someday when our sufferings will be vindicated,

And all things work for good for us somehow."

#HappyOctober032024

"Admittedly it's hard to be patient these days,

When surrounded by people out only to get what they want,

Regardless of others, selfishly imposing their greedy ways,

Having only their say, as insensitive as a dead plant.

Thankfully, the Word gives us the proper perspective,

That such an uncaring, unmindful attitude doesn't pay,

Taking undue advantage, abusing, oppressing, depriving others is not the way to live,

Nor can they help us stand strong in the Great Day.

And so may we learn respect, tact, sensitivity, consideration,

Empathy, seeing life and situations from different points of view,

That we waste not our privilege as a child of God, His holy nation,

Bringing glory to His Name, substance to the gospel He's gifted to me and you."

#HappyOctober022024

"Many times, we become victims of the lazy, greedy, selfish, irresponsible,

What is rightfully due us become hostage through flimsy excuses,

We still come up short no matter how much we are able,

And couldn't grasp the extent of insensitivity however one muses.

But thankfully, in faith we can keep our hope and sanity,

Putting things in their proper frame and right mindset.

That our struggles need not be borne alone, but in community,

Recognizing a higher family that loves us, meaningful friendships with people we've met.

May we always hold on in hope for a better day,

Where the oppressors and abusers would meet their due.

Where we are shown and led through the right way,

Where there is respite and redemption for me and you."

#HappyOctober012024

[ivy72376]

EIGHT WORDS PER LINE, SEPTEMBER 1-30, 2024

"To the ungrateful, none less than the best would suffice,

Everything must be great, excellent, for them always perfect.

But to the discerning, life's ups and downs are spice,

To the ultimate eventful, meaningful life that we expect.

To the short-sighted, only the big ones matter,

For they think everything they do must make a splash.

But the humble and wise gathers and not scatter,

For every little thing is a blessing, in grace and goodness awash.

May we learn meekness, thankfulness, faith and fortitude.

Always thanking God for every chance to bear in patience.

Cleanse our minds of envy, align our attitude,

To that which is good and right, just and with sense."

#HappySeptember302024

"We only have one physical life, that's why

People do all they can to enjoy to the fullest,

But our kind of enjoyment should also try

To make this life better not just for us but also for the rest.

So is it with the heart--one pump bringing life,

Then, signalling the end of all things we care about.

So that it's useless to spend our days in pride and strife,

Instead, confidence in our God's goodness rather than doubt.

May we take care of our hearts well,

Eating and taking in healthy, flushing out toxins but not through the mouth,

Adapting what's good, just and right, in peace dwell,

Being tactful, respectful, a mature child of God, neither rude nor uncouth."

#HappySeptember292024

"To the envious heart, other people's posts are bragging,

Flaunting wealth, luxury, experiences, taunting those who don't have such.

But to one who realizes that everyone is just busy with living,

One can understand that respite from struggles refreshes the spirit much.

If we believe our souls have been saved for eternity,

How can we not understand our Saviour's intent to give us the good life?

A life that bears promises of peace and serenity,

Even though filled now with challenges, difficulty and strife.

May we put our faith into real action,

And not be limited by what we're told to do.

For a bigger world awaits our influence and inspiration,

Paying forward the grace we've been given, as is due."

#HappySeptember282024

"To live deliberately is the key to deep peace,

Not hurrying to get what we want but to wait

For the right time and age, no personal deadline to appease,

Nor other people to please, but patiently hoping in faith.

And this serves wide and abundant wisdom too,

Making us understand and get to know people better.

Helping us grow mature and improve in what we do,

Giving us discernment, fortitude, empathy in whatever matter.

May we be circumspect in our words and actions,

Though we may have very strong ideas about life and other people.

Speak tactfully, treat others with respect in all situations,

Do our best to influence for good as much as we are able."

#HappySeptember272024

"Friendships and being friendly are certainly big factors,

On how our days turn out to be.

To the person we become, they are supporting actors,

And helpful guides, always there to understand and see.

One can have too many, and be famous,

One can have few, but with deep connections.

But the best ones develop us to be respectful and courteous

Of boundaries, sensitive to others' needs, the mood in every situation.

May we always prove ourselves to be good friends,

People who are there for each other, for each other's backs.

That even though this short, challenging life ends,

We grow stronger, remain hopeful and faithful through its attacks."

#HappySeptember262024

"In these times where content is king, substance is less,

Where quantity is lording it over quality, for attention,

Wisdom is a challenge, a tall order to be selfless;

Patience, understanding, maturity, responsibility, honesty, calling in any situation.

So is the wisdom of the years, and good manners,

Respect and courtesy, threatening to die out due to prideful ignorance.

But for those who claim to be His people, who raise banners

In His Name, these shouldn't be, but hopeful endurance.

May we show our maturity in His Word and practice,

Match our deeds with pure and godly motivation.

That through our days, we live in love, light and peace,

In every way, a testament of His grace, a holy nation."

#HappySeptember252024

"To engage others without imposing on their space,

To express care and concern while respecting boundaries,

Takes a whole measure, a heaping of grace,

A challenge not to condescend but preserve peace.

Because all of us must live in harmony with one another,

Each of us having gifts and personalities to contribute

To the common good, to the next generation a mentor, a mother,

As our Creator's light and love we must promote.

May we prove responsible in our stewardship of life and creation,

Always in humility, treating others and ourselves with respect,

Drawing out the good in every situation,

While our eternal reward we patiently wait for and expect."

#HappySeptember242024

"When we cease from being, we start dying,

Not just physically but spiritually too.

Organizations learn that when their purpose they start forgetting,

Soon follow low profits, less productivity, a bleak tomorrow is due.

And we're not immune, bi-pedalled creatures that we are,

Not wanting to walk or hike for convenience or privilege,

Soon brings diseases, aches, inability to breathe deep and far,

Because laziness kills, but healing comes from humility and right knowledge.

May we not forget our purpose, our reason for being,

That we're here to bring hope and life, replenish and restore,

Not inconvenience nor vandalize, not pedestalled nor treated like a king,

But bringing goodness and light, strength and inspiration for a better future."

#HappySeptember232024

"All knowledge should lead to more understanding,

Is a good ideal, a humbling, yet worthy cause.

But sadly, when prejudice is the foundation, chaos is king,

And intentions cease being good, greed fueling all purpose.

Thankfully, we can look forward to a greater day,

When there will no longer be hearts with dark imaginings,

Where ignorance is enlightened, tears and fears driven away,

Where every day is a hopeful chance of new beginnings.

As we go through all of life's challenging seasons,

Let it not blind us to our awesome eternal future,

Where rewards await our struggles for all the right reasons,

Where peace and plenty would dwell on those who endure."

#HappySeptember222024

"One of life's greatest challenges is being consistent,

Especially when pressures, stresses, harassments and bullyings attack.

For one might be geniuses in career and talent,

But would succumb when corruption becomes a fact.

And so we realize we must be anchored

To godly values, wisdom, truth, justice and right.

To keep our sanity when heavily pressured,

And have courage to say no, stand up and fight.

May we learn fortitude, humility, perseverance, and resilience,

Properly recognizing our worth and our purpose.

For our ultimate reward comes only from patience,

Which faith, hope and love can only produce."

#HappySeptember212024

"It's easy to condemn evil--the corrupt, abusive, oppressing party,

Because pointing fingers is easier than upholding truth.

We forget that evil prospers from apathy,

From people saving just themselves, hypocrisy hiding true worth.

But we realize that good news must come to all,

Peace must reign, with our Creator's love and light.

And so we must strive to help each other not fall,

Even in our struggles, for goodness only wins as we fight.

May we fulfill our reason for being,

Striving daily to bring good news of peace.

Inclusive, because wisdom and truth only prosper with their sharing,

While we patiently await our eternal reward for all of these."

#HappySeptember202024

"One of life's rarest gifts is most desirable,

To find joy and good in every situation,

No matter how burdensome, confusing, even terrible;

Bringing clarity and wisdom amidst confusion.

No wonder psychologists say humor shows intellect,

For it takes introspection and discernment to speak with wit;

To take life's attacks lightly, not many would expect,

But this truly makes resilient the one who's hit.

May we appreciate life and all our Creator has given,

Remembering always our purpose, realizing we control nothing.

But in confidence and faith, awaiting our reward from heaven,

Our days anchored above, each moment making impact that's everlasting."

#HappySeptember192024

"We're undoubtedly nearing the end times of old ways,

Where we see former delusions come to light,

False prophets exposed of their falsehoods, numbering their remaining abusive days,

Liars and frauds disdained in favor of justice and right.

Maybe the time is finally starting to come,

To truly live out our Saviour's ways and word,

Not to be exclusive, special, privileged, but bidding all a welcome,

Not a mindless slavery to ideals we can never afford.

May we truly live out the rest of our days with wisdom.

With humility, dignity, honor, patience and perseverance.

Knowing our Savior and King will restore all, as we await Him to come,

And truly make our struggles worthwhile, bringing end to pain, reward to endurance."

#HappySeptember182024

"We're supposed to be more knowledgeable and enlightened now,

But sadly, many are still biased and prejudiced.

Believing themselves to be better than the rest somehow,

Unaccepting of otherness, different views, by unknowns not pleased.

But like to a spiritual family, so is our place on earth

Quite unexpected; our exploitation of creation unnecessary and useless.

Except that we believe the Word, through faith has given us worth,

To be good stewards, replenishing and healing generously, being selfless.

May we fulfill our mandate by knowing our place,

Not raising ourselves up on pedestals of pride and false honor.

But in honest service, our lives bearing forth goodness and praise,

That our Creator's glory may be proclaimed, as by His presence we abide forevermore."

#HappySeptember172024

"A life well-lived is a far better declaration

Than wealth and status, degrees and proclamation.

For there we see one doing their best,

Respecting, understanding, being humble, with wisdom, considering the rest.

And daily practice is a much better preaching

Of beliefs and philosophies, habits, thoughts and feeling.

Especially in peace, upholding truth and right,

Making sure godly courage powers our eternal fight.

May we always have discernment, fortitude, hope and faith in the journey,

Properly apportioning and sharing the grace we receive daily.

That we may not fear what lies ahead,

Knowing a much greater reward awaits us instead.

#HappySeptember162024

"We sometimes miss our dear departed loved ones,

And wonder how long until it's our time to go

Join their ranks, by going through the passage once,

Leave this physical life, for an infinite tomorrow.

That's why it's sad for one to believe there's nothing at the other side;

Because then our struggles now would seem senseless.

For it's our nature and purpose that by our Heavenly Father of Light we abide,

Believing our efforts to live and share His love not fruitless.

May we continue on in hope and faith,

And daily remember His mercy and goodness.

Our grand, eternal and universal reunion we eagerly await,

Where sorrow will be gone, and in its place, everlasting happiness."

#HappySeptember152024

"Remembering fully, practicing consistently inside and out,

Regardless of the person, place, time and circumstance,

Is what our God and Savior would have wanted to come about,

As we live His Name, not for mere show or performance.

Like a famous chocolate brand whose history of slavery

Was transferred from their immediate production to the earliest source

Of their supply chain, to a people living below poverty;

We come to realize greed and whitewashing's great, malignant force.

May we strive to live fully, our Saviour's Word,

To match our claims of identity in His Name.

For maligning His gospel through hypocrisy is a sin we cannot afford,

That we might keep our souls, until the day our eternal rewards we can claim."

#HappySeptember132024

"Let our Sabbaths be days of real rest,

For the mind, the body, and the soul,

Let it not just be a holier-than-thou contest,

But a time to restore and make our spirits whole.

For the true essence of the day goes deep down

To our innermost beings, where our humanity meets the divine,

Waiting not for this earth's recognition, but for our ultimate heavenly crown,

As we strive each day to let our Father's light shine.

May we truly be refreshed each time, each moment

We commune with and worship our God and Creator,

Not through our agenda but His, a wholesome predicament,

Not overwhelmed by the present, but hopeful for the future."

#HappySeptember122024

"An inclusive God is difficult for some people to consider,

Because our nature wants us to belong and be treated special.

But looking at creation we begin to ponder,

Nature has quirks, a great variety, a space for all.

And so is it with hope symbolized, the rainbow,

Without invoking the cultural appropriation of the choices in gender.

For like the sun and rain, everyone sees and experiences them so,

People rude and nice, greedy and generous, uncouth and tender.

May we likewise realize that as long as the earth endures, hope is alive,

Available for all who choose to believe.

Our Heavenly Father's favor a source of strength and peace to those who strive,

His grace and mercy abundant, if we open our hearts and minds to receive."

#HappySeptember112024

"In a country plagued by nepotism such as ours,

Being somebody's kid anywhere is always seen as privilege.

Those who get the best without putting in the hours,

Often get ahead, recognized, because of their lineage.

Thankfully, though itself dichotomous, our God is fairer,

Where He gives chances to all, familiar and obscure.

A choice to be called His child or friend, no matter

Who they may be, His promises are always sure.

May we find our identity in our Heavenly Father's loving embrace,

Living up to His Name in our daily living.

Gaining strength and wisdom from His mercy and grace,

Hope for tomorrow, joy and peace that's everlasting."

#HappySeptember102024

"Out of sight, out of mind, seems to be the default

Treatment of those who have gone out of our circle.

It might be by choice, or through no one's fault,

That life happens, moves forward for all people.

But the greatest thing is faith that binds

Us to the Giver of life, the Source of our hope;

That never fails to encourage and daily reminds,

As we wake, we breathe, we work, we can cope.

Regardless of the circumstance, may we continue

In our journey to being His salt and light.

In a drab and dreary world, we each need me and you,

To build each other up, set all things to right."

#HappySeptember092024

"It's challenging to shares one's faith these days,

When people have become disillusioned by those who say they believe.

For words and actions sadly don't match in many ways,

And the gospel is used by the unscrupulous, favors and wealth to receive.

But faith is all the more powerful,

When we understand life is more than the material.

Because its true power lies in becoming, bearing fruit, being mindful

Rising higher above desires, urges, emotions that are natural.

May we step out in faith each day,

The Word as our guide, not an honor-badge;

A source of hope, confidence, peace and joy as we pray,

Lighting the way, spreading our Father's love as we advance."

#HappySeptember072024

"A lying tongue is just no fair deal,

Only bringing hurt and pain, despite the intent,

It might buy but couldn't fill a meal,

It might beautify but can't substantiate the content.

Nothing beats honesty and transparency as fruits of peace,

For they might be miniscule but sufficient enough

In bringing clarity, brokenness restored in one piece,

Hope, trust and joy even when times are rough.

May we hold on strongly to truth everyday,

Our decisions and actions with honest and pure motive.

For that is our lifeline to a better day,

With our Heavenly Father's light guiding how we live."

#HappySeptember062024

"When we feel superior, it's easy to rant and rage,

But humility is virtue, more difficult to pursue.

For with impatience, we show we haven't earned our age,

While waiting gives us the best that's our due.

And so we ponder and should ignore micro aggressions,

For that only leads to unnecessary hurt and stress,

While choosing the wisdom way in all our situations,

Bring overall freedom from resentment, trauma and distress.

No matter how difficult, may we prove ourselves the better person,

And move on from toxicity, its influence and hold,

That we may fulfill our noble purpose, our ultimate reason

Of being; that our Father's love through us, others might behold."

#HappySeptember052024

"We learn from the youth, as my nieces showed me,

How fast they can move on in thought upon stepping out from a door.

Forgetting immediate past hurts, however difficult it may be,

Ready for what lies ahead, beyond, and before.

And so it is with our life's journey,

Everyday brings manifold challenges, simple, severe, sometimes profound.

But patience is a worthy virtue, persistence is the key

To a life that's meaningful and dynamic, where love and peace abound.

May we hold on to hope and faith every time

We're buffeted and burdened, tested and tried.

For holding to the past is not worth a dime,

But heartily welcoming constant change infinitely better than the cut-and-dried."

#HappySeptember042024

"Because we know our God is good, we can trust,

That He answers when we call, grants what we ask,

Seeing He has done so magnanimously in the past,

Believing His provision today is up to the task.

And so we gain confidence to call forth in prayer,

On times when we worry, are anxious or in fear,

Holding on to the hope that He is always there,

To give wisdom, peace, turning to joy our tear.

With this faith, may we always find strength for everyday,

In our journey so fleeting across time's greater expanse.

For we may soon be gone, all our efforts called for a day,

But the source of our hope lasts, a non-negotiable, once-in-a-lifetime chance."

#HappySeptember032024

"Mendicancy is an ancient issue, and one glaring in our cities,

Be they real or run by the unscrupulous,

For there will always be people who prefer to beg than work what's due,

While others sorely need the help that others produce.

It's wisdom's work, and one needing discretion,

To help the truly needy while not encouraging dependence,

For each of us must earn our keep in any situation,

With humility to ask for help, magnanimous without insistence.

May we learn to be generous as our Heavenly Father,

Without expecting favors nor patronage in return.

For that is the true essence of His kingdom, the one we're after,

A reward and everlasting legacy for each good turn."

#HappySeptember022024

"Tension is a taut string, ready to break,

One that makes us stand on our toes and shake.

It's no respecter of persons, high and mighty,

Bringing out our mettle, to run for cover, or fight rightly.

But it also makes us remember that life is never monotonous,

That not everyday are our struggles burdensome and rigorous.

For there are days when we get a respite,

To pause, get away shortly, or rest and recuperate on site.

And that's what gives beauty to our days,

To know that suffering and toil will not be for always.

Because our faithful God promised us what's sure and true,

If we persevere, everlasting joy and peace await me and you."

#HappySeptember012024

[ivy72376]

EIGHT WORDS PER LINE, AUGUST 1-31, 2024

"Tox and detox seem to be our everyday real matters;

For life is consistent, exposing us to burdensome people and situations,

While providing respite with good friends and fun encounters,

To measure our resolve, our faith and convictions.

In one, we learn how to help the world heal and be better,

In the other, we learn that we are loved and appreciated.

And so we gain strength, to grow, to enlighten another,

While we gain confidence and contentment, that we are always amply provided.

May we learn wisdom, to care and help, but not burn out,

Because we need all the strength and life we can for the journey.

And so, we must always move forward with purpose, not running back or roundabout,

For our ultimate rewards await, ready to be enjoyed for eternity."

#HappyAugust312024

"We do what we can with what we have,

And it may not be much, but always sufficient enough.

What beautiful words to hear for those who need grace from above,

Constantly being buffeted by life, regularly having it tough.

Because yes, sometimes we fail to see what we're given,

When we look and compare ourselves with others,

But may we remember each of us is unique, with gifts freely given,

And what's important is not how much a person has accumulated, but that he gathers.

May we always be working toward promoting truth, justice, what's good and right,

How we can make lives better for others too.

Because stewardship is our ultimate purpose, not fame, earthly recognition and might,

But an eternal system of reward and reckoning awaits for me and you."

#HappyAugust302024

"Consistency marks the person who truly believe

In what's good, true, just, honorable and right,

Better than any professions of faith, or certificates that give

Degrees, recognition, accolade, tokens of outstanding performance and might.

For out of the heart the mouth speaks,

Out of the mind, the hands do the deed,

Even coated with sweet words, selfishness and greed come out in leaks,

And evil motivations, if unchecked, will strive to take the lead.

May we be people one with our words and actions, reflecting our Father's love,

Living examples of how to live as His kingdom's citizens,

Confident of His mercy and grace, bottomless peace from above,

Salt and light, to this world's confused denizens."

#HappyAugust292024

"Go-getters can't wait, but that's stressful,

While slowpokes may seem un-driven, but actually content.

And we see this most in waiting, a task un-beautiful,

But for many, great rewards await, with honest intent.

Yes, it doesn't pay to always be on call, on-the-go,

That's just pretending to be busy, without real, lasting results,

While a life waited on God's timing is better for me and you,

Where there is eternal, deep peace, despite derision and insults.

May we learn to knock off from the world beyond our paid, clocked hours,

Be content, wait on His proper and good timing.

That there may be hope for this life and soul of ours,

A reward for good, honest, efficient, diligent servants a-coming."

#HappyAugust282024

"It's unfortunate that many of us are so gullible,

As to be fiercely loyal to wolves in sheep's clothing,

So passionate in defending old biases and prejudices, unable

To accept those who critique or question our unenlightened thinking.

But the Word says we have been prayed for,

Loved much, cared, preserved and provided for life,

We mustn't let ourselves be swayed therefore,

By those who are only after our purse, free labor, peaceful life.

May we open our eyes to wisdom and light,

Allowing the presence of our Heavenly Father to fill us in heart and mind,

Not let the evil one trample on what's just, good and right,

But to leave the clutches of our base and selfish nature behind."

#HappyAugust272024

"There's this kid in the neighborhood who seems to never half enough

Attention, loudly syllabizing, screaming, even simple conversations until late evening.

Exasperating, yes, especially on days that are tough,

But sobering too, a reflection of where the world is heading.

If we can deaden our kids to respecting community and boundaries,

How can we teach them respect for self and proper esteem?

Our Word says we each are given chances, to improve our life's stories,

But to do so at peace with all around, journeying through life like a team.

May we raise children with much love, attention and support,

That they feel confident and at peace with our presence,

For then, our every struggle won't be wasted effort,

When they pay forward, live lives accountably, responsibly hence."

#HappyAugust242024

"A student essentially wondered allowed why,

If some of our ideal business practices have been there a while,

Yet actually still not observed and followed by

Many industries, leading to the same problems, old leadership style.

It makes us think that indeed, it's normal human behavior,

To espouse and preach what's good and better,

But fail to follow through, losing the fervour,

Failing to see that incremental changes need to be a consistent matter.

May we ponder and heed on today's Word and our current predicament,

As we go through life's journey, alone and in community.

Whereever we go, in each precious irreplaceable moment,

How our actions and words affect others and determine our destiny."

#HappyAugust232024

"In class we talked about the nepo babies,

Abounding in service, in commerce, and everywhere.

It's nice to have the career path paved well for little lords and ladies,

Though counter-culture to diversity, talent, merit, skills that matter.

But in our life's journey, we too can have the privilege

Of having our concerns sorted out, as we strive

To do our best, understand, seek wisdom and godly knowledge,

Believing our God whom, with His sure promises, also can keep our hopes alive.

May we always find strength, wisdom, hope, joy and love,

Always ready to uphold what's true, just and fair,

Becoming good stewards of life and creation, as mandated from above,

Knowing our Heavenly Father knows, listens, and is always there."

#HappyAugust222024

"It's amazing how a martyr's death forty-three years ago,

Could still hold power over the fight for freedom and democracy today,

That it was moved from its actual anniversary, probably to

Diminish the potency of its symbol in some way.

Indeed, like the Word and story for the day,

A life lived for others can bring an eternal legacy,

Of love and light, desire for peace and justice to stay,

And sacrifice if need be, to stop oppression, tyranny and unlawful supremacy.

May we learn from the life of our modern hero and remember

To stop living only for ourselves, our recognition and affirmation.

But at each moment, our Saviour's Words we always remember,

To show our love for Him by giving ourselves, promoting truth, justice and right in any situation."

#HappyAugust212024

"The words of a late teacher are timeless,

That literacy is not knowing all the answers,

But knowing where to look, how to address

Issues and concerns; this knowledge one generously shares and transfers.

In the same manner maturity and wisdom are manifested in humility,

Knowing we don't have monopoly of talent, skill and effort,

Because everything is always the result of an act of community,

And each one a significant contributor, with appropriate support.

May we respect each other's convictions, freedoms and individuality,

As we live the heavenly love and light we have been given.

That our lives bear fruit, deeper than attention-grabbing superficiality,

More substantial, slices of the Bread of Life without leaven."

#HappyAugust202024

"The tale of King Saul's relentless pursuit of David's life

Is immortalized in the Word, in history and literature, read far and wide.

It speaks of the darkness of one's soul being the source of strife,

Of evil influences and imaginings giving life to the demons of envy and pride.

But it also shows that light wins at the end and saves the day,

Where someone with the light of God's love is preserved,

Living to rule and reign victorious on the proper day,

Earning recognition and a good legacy, that's well-deserved.

May we strive to fight the darkness that daily threatens our peace,

And find hope and strength in our Father's love.

Believing and trusting His promise to restore what's broken into one whole piece,

And living each day with mercy and grace from above."

#HappyAugust192024

"A sobering meme that's meant to be funny goes around,

That the right way to ask for money is not to beg nor ask,

But to start your pitch with a Hallelujah to those on the ground,

Preaching, proselytizing passionately first, until soliciting funds in the name of offerings become the main task.

Yes, the horse or cattle that threads the corn must not be muzzled,

For everyone must strive to live and eat the fruit of their labor.

But fattening up the line without caring about the donor's welfare always have me puzzled,

Especially when such giving diminishes the cheerfulness, becoming a burdensome obligation, not favor.

Thankfully we can look forward to a promised better day,

When those who worship and lead in humility, truth and faithfulness are rewarded.

May we always be true, accountable, promote peace and goodness in every way,

Our responsibilities to our God, His creation, our fellowmen always accounted for and minded."

#HappyAugust182024

"If only the world has less selfish and greedy people,

Who only look out for what they can take.

There'd be less strife, more progress, less trouble,

When each do their best in whatever their hands can make.

And so we are reminded by the Word to help and understand,

Work hard and diligently to earn our keep,

Deal with others in love and an honest hand,

Celebrate with those full of joy, mourn with those who weep.

May we truly be people worthy of our stewardship

Of life and creation, of our relations and abilities.

That we might persevere and grow stronger amidst all kinds of hardship,

While keeping our faith strong, sane and healthy in all our faculties."

#HappyAugust172024

"A classmate once recited during Family Living class,

That there's no privacy inside the family.

Sad but true, for sharing space may give us a good pass,

While sometimes leading to lack of boundaries and toxicity.

And unfortunately this is magnified these days in social media,

Where some people try to put down other's achievements and good deed,

As nothing more than bragging, clout-chasing idea,

Even if these were posted for memories, yet trolls and haters abound indeed.

May we learn from our Saviour's experience,

Never to stop preaching truth and doing our best, upholding what's true and good.

For that is our key to a better future, giving wisdom and good sense,

Whether appreciated inside or outside our community and neighborhood."

#HappyAugust162024

"Authenticity always pays, that's what we learn,

Being honest, faithful, transparent, its own reward.

For there is peace in honest labor, a good turn

Comes to those who are genuine, sans recognition nor award.

And the Word says because there's reconciliation with our Father,

When from our mistakes and shortcomings

We are humble, we acknowledge when we falter,

And correct or give retribution, without much ulterior imaginings.

May we always be authentic, honest, transparent and true,

Our deeds consistent with our words, our motives pure,

That there may be peace and love, each receiving what's due,

And even through life's uncertainties, our eternal future made sure."

#HappyAugust152024

"We know it's wrong to wish ill of callous people,

But we can't help but feel offended when short-changed.

Unfortunately though, life actually chastises the uncaring, no matter how subtle,

And at some point we realize, something in them unravels, goes unhinged.

And so, much as the world demands forgiveness, no matter how undeserved,

And some of those who've been offended, truly hesitant in giving,

We realize that passing up on resentment when offended,

Shows the better person, leads to more joyful living.

May we then strive to live each moment in justice and right,

Knowing we've done our best, given our all, no task uncompleted,

With clear conscience, sleeping peacefully at night,

Having offended nor deprived no one, our responsibilities all accounted."

#HappyAugust142024

"Sometimes life gets sticky, this world gets slippery,

So that we realize old habits and thoughts become useless.

Thankfully, we have a Heavenly Father who's there, ready

To provide and guide, and give us chances.

We may be racked by doubt and fear,

Anxiety may hound our deepest needs and grandest plans,

But we learned and experienced about a love so near,

In spite of uncertainties, giving us courage to advance.

May we always hold on to this hope in faith,

Never forgetting that He who designed, also sustained and gave wisdom.

That all our days be filled with joy, encouragement, patience as we wait,

Full of mercy and good fruit, until we reach our heavenly welcome."

#HappyAugust132024

"If there's one thing to learn as we grow old,

It's that we should have matured more towards an open mind;

To face life with faith and courage, be bold

To be the change, to be respectful and kind.

It is a testament too, to the life changing power of our Father's love,

If we can seek to understand more, rather than judge;

If we can open our hearts to the fact that each of us is uniquely gifted from above,

And that from our biases and prejudices we must definitely budge.

Then, we would have fulfilled our being salt and light,

For we can make life better for others, be that spark

That leads the way in being fair, honest, doing good and right,

Bringing others to wisdom and reason, from a life that's dreary and dark."

#HappyAugust122024

"There are many ways of looking at things,

Just as there are many ways of interpreting the Word.

But we can't put our biases and imaginings

Ahead of what it says, for it cuts like a sword.

And a sword it is; but like what an anime says,

A sword is either meant to kill, or to protect.

Therefore, the Word to darkness and ignorance, it slays,

But to humility and wisdom, only life and grace we can expect.

May we give time to read and listen to the Word regularly,

That it may give us discernment, understanding, knowledge.

But not forget to study it against background sources, with history and living daily,

That we might feel its power; and for the journey--gain hope and courage."

#HappyAugust112024

"Blessed are those who consider themselves fulfilled and strong,

As they may not need much help from outside,

But more blessed are those who reach out as they go along

Life's journey, for they may not lack for those who stand beside.

And it's not always a significant other, but maybe physically unrelated,

Whom God will send to help, encourage and strengthen.

For with prayers and faith, we find our supplications granted,

Our needs met, doubts eased, questions answered, burdens lighten.

May we never fail to pray and seek for our Father's mercy everyday,

For His promise to sustain and never abandon is true.

As we acknowledge His goodness and grace every step of the way,

He will always be there for me and you."

#HappyAugust102024

"In a status-obsessed world, it's sad to know,

That many people always act with ulterior motive--

Impure, serving only their interests, vanity, ego,

Dishing out flattery, compliments, without love to give.

But such should not be for the believer,

Who is fully aware of the daily grace given.

For our words and actions should be honest, wherever,

Respectful, mindful, ever aware we are accountable to heaven.

May we speak no careless word, do no thoughtless act,

May our motives be only for peace and good.

May we uphold truth, promote justice, decide and choose on fact,

Grateful to be blessed, every blessing counted and understood."

#HappyAugust092024

"At the end of the day, people just want peace.

To know that the day has been worth it;

Confident that they've done their best, survived in one piece;

Believing that everything will work out well, to the last bit.

And for this end, nothing beats honesty;

Being fair and just, leaving no regrets behind.

For we know we've done our best, fulfilled our duty

To God, people, country and life, with all our heart and mind.

May we therefore spend our days mindful and circumspect

Of our responsibilities; handle everything with wisdom and maturity.

For only then can we reach the end we expect,

Leaving this life with a good legacy, with love and integrity."

#HappyAugust082024

"Some voices are better silenced, they speak nonsense,

But then, they invoke the freedom to express;

While some need to be heard, their convictions intense,

But because of ignorance, we disregard them nevertheless.

Because wisdom shouts clearly in the soul's quiet,

Imploring all to slow down, stop and hear.

It needs good and clean motives as diet;

A pure heart, no malice, greed nor fear.

May we truly be people of wisdom;

Showing true progress and maturity as a people.

Heed the call of reason that bids all to come.

For from its Source, our Heavenly Father, its supply is abundant and ample."

#HappyAugust072024

"We have been indoctrinated on the self-made man,

And true, if we strive, we eventually prosper,

But life is so much more than doing what we can,

Because some things are beyond our control, even the ever-after.

On such times, we look up to Someone infinitely higher,

Who knows the past and the future, while holding the present,

Who exists from of old, in whose hands is forever,

Who knows our coming and going, ascent and descent.

Like Job, may we have both the faith and integrity,

To believe and worship the One who wills us to be,

Knowing our purpose is to proclaim His kingdom, live lives of substance and quality,

Making peace, doing good, leaving a good legacy."

#HappyAugust062024

"It doesn't stop at the reprimand, but beyond

That are stronger and clearer reminders to live

The faith we profess, through peace, an honest hand,

In humility, not self-righteousness, but love to give.

'No condemnation' is two-pronged, not just for the believer,

But FROM the believer, in seeing and treating others.

For now we know our God can save whomever,

The last can be first, the first to be circumspect in all matters.

May we live in peace, bring hope and light,

Not sow misunderstanding, fear, threats, hatred,

Not insist that we know better, are always right,

But to be mindful, awake, fruitful by more than a hundred."

#HappyAugust052024

"Some bit of sadness is suddenly known,

About a beloved champion estranged from family,

Because of the latter's money mismanagement issues, shades thrown,

When all should have joined and celebrated in unity.

Reminds us that in this life and the next,

We are all just stewards, not material profiteers,

But to always be honest, faithful in context,

Transparent, accountable, to what's true and just always steers.

May we prove to be faithful in the little and the lot,

May we be kind, respectful, understanding, discerning, giving,

Honest and true, promoting what's good, ourselves not,

That there'll always be a chance to be forgiven and forgiving."

#HappyAugust042024

"The current Olympics had a unique way of passing the torch,

Going over roads, rooftops, rivers, tunnels, bridges, arches,

Honoring history and tradition, calling forth unity through sports,

And calling attention to diversity and solidarity as every athlete marches.

But there will always be unfairness and unequal play,

As surely as there be good winners and sore losers.

These are games after all, but for which the athletes dedicate during training, their every day,

While being a venue to politicize, with real issues and imposters.

But in the real and eternal arena of life we learn,

That torches, tasks, responsibilities, issues are no laughing matter.

We need to be serious, responsible, take them with much care and concern,

For they will all determine our destiny in the ever after."

#HappyAugust032024

"It's timeless and never fails to show,

How we raise and make our children grow.

Those treated with love and respect,

Grow up kind and good, as what we expect.

Those raised under the impression of wealth and privilege,

Often can't do away with entitlement, even with little knowledge.

Those trained and disciplined in a craft or sport,

Often become more skilled, achieving greatness with proper support.

May we as a community, raise kids in goodness and godliness,

That they become people full of generosity and kindness.

May we teach them to be broad-, open-minded, and understanding,

That wherever they go, wisdom, love and peace they bring."

#HappyAugust022024

"We get them every election time, that indelible ink,

But thankfully, it lasts only a few days.

What doesn't get erased was the votes we hope and think

Would have made our country better in many ways.

Similarly, the choices we make as we go along

Life's journey leaves a mark of who we are

And whom we serve, the God whom we praise and belong

Who goes with us no matter how far.

May His presence in our lives leave a good trace,

Showing we have done His will, spreading His gospel,

That people be blessed, not harmed nor hurt, given space

To grow and learn, embrace and enjoy the light and life He brings so well."

#HappyAugust012024

[ivy72376]

EIGHT WORDS PER LINE, JULY 1-31, 2024

"Aesthetics matter, next to how the inner person does,

And so we appreciate kindness together with a pleasant disposition.

But face and body only reveal what one inside has,

And beauty is relative, depending on how we respond to any situation.

Thankfully, our Savior is our ultimate example of true beauty--

That it is a life lived for others, in kindness and respect,

Looking ordinary and commonplace, yet full of substance, quality, humanity,

Doing and giving beyond what we normally expect.

It only bears repeating then, to follow in His path,

To a life truly beautiful, blessed, meaningful and at peace.

Understand and know more, be patient, avoid wrath,

Looking at life in the bigger picture, not griping or complaining at each unsatisfactory piece."

#HappyJuly313024

"One of life's most profound truths is realizing

That life has meaning, and we're not meant for nothing.

That there is inside each of us a gift,

And we have a divine purpose, not live adrift.

And so with such grace, it's our task

To pay forward, confident of answers when we ask

For wisdom, strength, healing, provision, safety and guidance,

As through life's various challenges we advance.

May we not waste such blessing and walk the way

That is right and true, patient and stay

In the path of humility and service, holding on

In hope, with our Father's light and love carrying on."

#HappyJuly302024

"What motivates us is seen in our actions,

What rules our minds manifests in our speech.

Such is the way of life, in all situations,

However much we try to hide, we teach.

Because walking, a locomotor skill, is a symptom of brain development--

In babies, and determines greatly their ability to speak.

Likewise, what we do and say are a testament,

Of minds strengthened in the faith, or are actually immature and weak.

May we strive to walk the narrow and straight

Path--to wisdom, enlightenment, understanding, holy reverence with respect.

That our faith and reason bear fruit, have weight,

And produce for us the eternal rewards we expect."

#HappyJuly292024

"Scientists have learned that music heals the body,

In helping it relax, improve metabolism and functioning.

The Word narrates its power to heal malady,

Like the then-shepherd David's, to a troubled king.

So too, the power of music can't be denied,

In alleviating the weary soul, the tired mind.

That we might listen to what's good, tested and tried,

And let go of anxieties, leaving our fears behind.

May we atune each moment to a good song,

To what's wholesome, praiseworthy of our Creator and King.

Because from Him, love pours out on all who come along,

An invitation open and free, to abundance and healthy living."

#HappyJuly282024

"The disciple whom Jesus loves said it best,

Everything is all about love, living its power.

Whatever we do, improving ourselves, respecting the rest,

It is love that leaves a legacy lasting forever.

And through all our difficulties and doubts, love

It is that gives light, drives our fears.

We need not be anxious, there's grace from above,

Joy awaits, confidence and hope amidst our tears.

May we learn to love--our God, and others as ourselves,

May we learn to live the love we have been given.

For no matter how small, in whatever our interest delves,

It will be love that awaits us in the end."

#HappyJuly272024

"In our hyper-connected world, it's been graver,

One fault is magnified, undoing a lifetime of good,

An indiscretion, error, misjudgement, destroying reputations forever,

Fame and status not lasting as it should.

But thankfully we are given a wisdom-source,

That doesn't run out, constantly reminding us daily,

To be mindful, prayerful, respectful, part of the good force,

That brings hope and light, while striving to live faithfully.

May we always be sensitive to all that's happening,

Unleash our introversion skills in deliberate living and mindfulness,

That together we bring more inspiration and meaning,

For all, be instruments of love, peace, joy and happiness."

#HappyJuly262024

"With people, trust is always an issue,

Because we often only promote what's good for us,

Regardless of what's better for me and you,

What's true, noble, kind, what truly came to pass.

Thankfully not with our Heavenly Father,

Who promised never to forsake, forget nor abandon.

So that we only need to be better,

Respectful of life and people, decently living, not wanton.

May we never give up on faith and hope

In His never-ending mercy and grace.

That through difficulty, confusion, delay or silence, we still cope,

We gain confidence and peace all our days."

#HappyJuly252024

"One notable word we learned before is comeuppance,

Seeing the bullies of our youth have their day of reckoning.

But we all experience this as our days advance,

After living the life, we are actually left with nothing.

No companion, no title, wealth, status or name,

Save the character we have built, preceding and following

Our every action, exposing whatever is our claim to fame,

And making us realize we are a mere mortal being.

May we build everyday, a close relationship with our Creator and Father,

From whom life came, to whom our spirits will return.

Remembering we can bring nothing in the ultimate ever after,

Living each day always striving to just make peace and a good turn."

#HappyJuly242024

"Some like to celebrate so much, they stay

For the after-party, after the main event.

In life too, though achievements are highlighted by many,

It's what comes after that creates a mark or dent.

For we might glorify wealth, status, energy, youth and fame,

But the true cause for celebration is the effect

We have on people's lives, how we live up to the Name

Who called us His people, whose favor we daily expect.

May we always live in reverence, respect and holy fear,

Do our best to meet evil and disrespect with good.

Speak honestly and well, that people may hear

The love of our father, His gospel lived in us as it should."

#HappyJuly232024

"They're called busybodies, we say nobody likes them,

But they are us often, in many ways than one.

It's just that not showing our care is our anthem,

Not wanting to burden ourselves with problems more than anyone.

But many lives have been saved by concerned citizens,

Many a day made better by those with enough care,

Sanity, peace, truth and right upheld by brave denizens,

And the kingdom's gospel forwarded by those who dare.

May we live the words of our Lord and Savior,

And be everyday doing what He would do in any situation.

Feeling, empathizing, understanding, filling our world with His flavor,

Our thoughts and motives honed and aligned, for godly action."

#HappyJuly222024

"In a recently concluded sports meet hosted by the city,

It's exciting to update especially the medal tally.

Some early favorites may not get the ultimate victory,

Because the final victor is one who did consistently.

On a larger and more eternal stage, we remember

The Words of our Savior calling out,

That some who came first may eventually come last, they falter,

While those who came last may come first, from holding out.

And so we realize aside from substance and consistency,

It's our daily motivation, words, actions that are key,

To spreading the gospel, living the kingdom in our current physical city,

That will ultimately determine where we spend our eternity."

#HappyJuly212024

"Against the backdrop of integrity, which is today's webinar theme,

We learn to look at the Word's bigger picture,

For what happens in the heart, translates into the academe,

Where students' words and actions are results of nature and nurture.

And indeed, in real life, this happens everyday too,

A person bred in dishonesty grows up taking shortcuts,

Lying, taking advantage, usurping, greed and pride trumping over virtue,

Justifying primogeniture, legitimacy, race, color or connection, taking the shots.

May we truly be humane, not just human,

And live honest lives, working diligently by the sweat of our brow.

Not dependent on others, but whom others can depend upon,

Not wasting each moment, honest, living in integrity here and now."

#HappyJuly202024

"It's easy to condemn what we don't understand,

Easy to ridicule those who do things differently,

Harder to see the damage done by our hand,

The pain and suffering our tongues have uttered abundantly.

But herein is the real test of what we believe,

If we can follow the way of our Savior,

To call out truth, condemn hypocrisy, yet unselfishly give

Love, discipline, reminder, reprimand, passion and grace with equal fervor.

May we be part of His rivers of living water,

And everyday live the peace, wisdom and joy He has given.

That we might discern the truth in any matter,

And on earth, share in His work, making it a slice of heaven."

#HappyJuly192024

"In a misogynistic and less informed society,

Being alone and independent is often vilified.

But if we are to dig deeper into our humanity,

We realize striving through life solo should be glorified.

Looking into our great Saviour's example, we indeed see,

He was alone at death's and resurrection's door, absent human companions,

That we might realize being alone is being open to be

Blessed more, recipients of heavenly grace in all situations.

May we learn to be content, find strength in the journey,

Confident that whatever lies ahead, we are secured.

In our Heavenly Father's care, not wanting for any,

All our needs provided, the answers to our prayers ensured."

#HappyJuly182024

"I've known of not less than one,

Who is afraid of growing old alone.

Who makes sure their days are always done

With people around, always present a significant companion.

But isn't life reckoned individually, our actions counted,

Motivations, desires, thoughts and struggles, our sole responsibility,

So that the sooner we bloom independently where planted,

Life becomes better for us, with abundance, in quality.

May we learn to trust until old age,

In a God who says He will not forsake,

Nor abandon, but always go through the passage

Of time with us, our souls His alone to take."

#HappyJuly172024

"There was a time before social media won,

When final achievements were celebrated rather than efforts,

Where the result of honest, godly process is pondered upon,

More than each little task, the behind-the-scene supports.

It's good to acknowledge hard work and hurdles,

But it's more encouraging to highlight the ultimate end.

For we all, without exception, must work through our troubles,

Yet, life rewards only those who persevere without breaking, even if they bend.

May we learn to always hold on in hope, persist, stand

Our ground, be strong and of good courage.

Have faith, be honest and fair, working diligently by hand,

That we may live each day with love, wisdom and good knowledge."

#HappyJuly162024

"We've been told a prayerful person is powerful,

Unfortunately, far too many have abused that power too.

Going back to the Epistles, for clarity, we're thankful,

Reading that it should breed attitude that's true.

For indeed, prayer is only effective with pure motives,

Unselfish, not vain, not greedy, envious nor insecure,

But humble, understanding, patient, with grace that peace and love gives,

One that's not exclusive but sees and manages the bigger picture.

May we always pray, be thankful, be kind,

Respectful of all, mindful, considerate, patient and persevering.

Our Saviour's words we always keep in mind,

That we might be ready, unashamed at His future appearing."

#HappyJuly152024

"One trait I observe virtually unique in our people,

Is to smile when we see whatever camera,

Pointed on us or not, doesn't matter, we're still able,

To brighten our day and others, in whatever area.

A Smile indeed, is an ultimate peace gesture,

Telling others we recognize them, respect their humanity,

Knowing we each have our needs of whatever nature,

Yet, we afford time to recognize universal solidarity.

May our lives be defined not by confusion, chaos, terror, prejudice,

But by the peace, enlightenment, and hope we bring.

For then our characters would be built in bravery, not cowardice,

Our Heavenly Father's love penetrating the very core of our being."

#HappyJuly142024

"Business school has taught us to manage well--

People, resources, tasks and processes, risk, time and opportunities.

And we learn managing people is first, not show nor tell

About profits nor size, unless we're able to harness their best abilities.

In life, we learn, it's not our agenda that should rule,

But fulfilling our heavenly mission to be responsible stewards

Of life and creation; be aware not be a fool,

Work diligently, sans recognition, human validation, praises and awards.

For soon a day will come for our reckoning,

Not primarily a condemnation of our enemies and our life's outsiders,

But all our actions and motivations get their "weighing-in",

Our lives balanced, each moment the Great Judge considers."

#HappyJuly132024

"It's easy these days to find fault in others,

Easier than finding fault in our own,

Where people think they are such experts in many matters,

That they are little gods and goddessses, each pedestalled in their little throne.

But such is not the way of peace and the kingdom,

For we must need to deny ourselves, serve in humility,

While alive, and until the great day of reckoning come,

Each day to give the best of our ability.

May we prove ourselves good stewards of life and creation,

Be responsible, accountable of our own affairs and needs.

That we might contribute fruitfully in any situation,

In wisdom guided by our Father's love and mercy, wherever He leads. "

#HappyJuly122024

"If we could only look back to where we've been,

We would feel more grateful where we are now.

If we only realize how great the grace we've been given,

Our attitudes would have been more humble somehow.

For no one who's truly aware of one's blessings,

Could afford to act entitled, privileged, superior and rude.

Knowing well that each of us have our issues and happenings,

That respect is key, giving space, understanding as we are understood.

May we learn to respect other people's beliefs, opinions, preferences,

Not force them to subscribe or be subservient to our own.

For we must be God's people, promoting peace in all circumstances,

Always reconciled with Him, as for our shortcomings, pride and ignorance we atone."

#HappyJuly112024

"In a world that prizes aesthetics and quick fixes,

Where visuals are respected more than real substance,

We realize that humility and truth are not valued mixes,

But instead of good, evil and greed advance.

Such is unhealthy though, unworthy, unsustainable, ways unbecoming,

For people who dream and aim to get better.

For the outside must match what's inside, consistent in everything,

Truth, love, wisdom and peace ruling in whatever matter.

May we be people with substance, values and ways aligned

With our Creator' will, in us and all creation,

That His Name and Spirit breathed on us be not maligned,

That we may truly live as His children and holy nation."

#HappyJuly102024

"There's nothing quite as frustrating as clickbait,

Enticing one to follow, read, yet only for clout,

For there's no real substance, sometimes feeding only hate,

Casting prejudice and fear, falsity and doubt.

Unfortunately, sometimes, some people are like that too,

Promising acceptance, togetherness and group identity and belonging.

But are only after one's purse, free service and favors, who

When questions, curiosities, Accounting come, leave one hanging.

May we not be people who leave others in the dust,

And be sincere, truthful, humble, real, transparent even.

Live free from envy, greed, vanity as we must,

That we might be life's salt and light, not pompous leaven."

#HappyJuly092024

"When we truly have it inside of us,

We have to show and share it with the world.

God's love, mercy, grace, peace, hope that lasts,

Confidence, generosity and abundance bringing forth fruit a hundred fold.

For a life full of love can never be constrained,

Nor limited only to nuclear ties, nor to selves focused first.

It will always share, giving much always maintained,

Bringing fullness to hunger, satisfaction to spiritual thirst.

May we be streams that flow with our God's living water,

Always ready to pray, love, and understand.

Not quick to judge, but wise to discern any matter,

And always ready to serve and share with an open hand."

#HappyJuly082024

"We never know what truly hurts us,

Until we're neck deep, struggling to get out.

Just like trusting what's wrong in the past,

We never learn sometimes until we're knocked down and out.

Thankfully, we are given the chance everyday,

To wake up, make it, persevere, move on.

Our experiences becoming all good learning anyway,

A stepping stone to greatness we must tread upon.

May we not give up hope, open to learning,

That through exhaustion and disillusionment, we still make it,

Believing and hoping there's a value to everything,

Until the reward our Master someday gives as He deems fit."

#HappyJuly072024

"Godliness, like cleanliness, is indeed a daily struggle,

Sometimes far above our normal human capacity.

So that sometimes we can't keep out of trouble,

Offending, coming up short with our limited ability.

But thankfully we have a Heavenly Father who understands,

Whom some Jewish scholars say also learn from our pains,

Who secures us in His mighty, righteous hands,

Whose mercy everyday, strengthens and sustains.

May we continue to hold on in faith and hope,

Not give up even if the way is difficult and long.

For our reward surely awaits at the last and highest slope,

And soon, our tears and cries turn to joy and happy song."

#HappyJuly062024

"It takes faith, but indeed so uplifting,

To believe that in our ups and downs,

Our God is there, guiding, providing, disciplining, inspiring,

Giving joy, that we can smile amidst our frowns.

For a life when we can feel accompanied,

Supported, having Someone behind and beside as we strive,

Is never lonely, giving us the confidence we need,

Motivating us everyday, making us feel alive.

May we make our lives bear fruit in goodness,

As we humble ourselves before our Creator and true King.

Believing that peace is the key to happiness,

Generosity and graciousness turning our every struggle into a blessing."

#HappyJuly052024

"We can only go as far as we can,

With the will and support of those who love us.

For what good is it to do all by hand,

With nobody to whom we attribute the efforts when we pass.

Yet, thankfully, we have a Creator and Father in one,

Who planned that life should always get better.

Who encourages us to persevere and stand,

To see through difficulties of whatever matter.

May we always be inspired to rise above,

Though attacked, abused, maligned, as our accuser persists,

Knowing nothing is greater than our Heavenly Father's love,

That holds us up, as long as life exists."

#HappyJuly042024

"People rightly argue it's not the degree or license,

But what you do that makes and marks you.

Indeed, it's not what you profess but the essence

Of your person are what others see and hear from you.

Because the Word, like creation, teaches us a wise and loving Father,

Who provides and guides, disciplines and sets in order,

Who we can call upon in any situation,

And who delivers us when life's difficulties throw us under.

May we make His Word truly come alive,

In our every thought and motivation, word, and action.

That His goodness and glory be seen as we struggle and strive,

As we live each day, His people of peace, a holy nation."

#HappyJuly032024

"Life is but a journey, so soon ended,

As we came, so we depart, bringing nothing.

So that living well means staying grounded,

True to better ideals, not attached to anything.

And everyday we are reminded of the impermanence

Of ties, statuses, health, emotions, wealth and fame,

That we may remember to give respect and reverence,

To God and each other, becoming worthy of calling His Name.

May we always remember that time is short, our chances limited,

Not to waste any moment to envy, greed, resentment and regret.

Because from our Heavenly Father, grace and mercy to us are always granted,

And of His love and favor, may we never forget."

#HappyJuly022024

"Slavery was wrong and bad in the ancient times,

Because they take away the dignity of a human being.

Modern slavery is worse and deplorable, in our times,

When for wealth and status, we forego the freedom of peaceful living.

And so we must make use of the gifts bestowed

Upon us, to understand, give, give way, bring peace.

That we might share the same love we have been showed,

By our Savior and Lord, the Prince of Peace.

May we make each day a day of freedom for the soul,

Bring hope and life to people all around.

That our growth and maturity as God's people become whole,

Hearts humbled, attuned heaven-ward, feet firmly on the ground."

#HappyJuly012024

[ivy72376]

EIGHT WORDS PER LINE, JUNE 1-30, 2024

"Comparisons are good when we want to improve,

As we try our best to do better.

But it's poison to have ourselves personally prove,

Especially our worth against others, whatever the matter.

For each of us have our path to follow,

Where we have been called, enabled, gifted.

No less nor better than the next fellow,

Nevertheless, caring, understanding, respect, still shouldn't be discounted.

May we keep busy with our lot that's given

From the time we said yes to a higher, eternal call.

Live each day a steward of earth, ambassador of heaven,

Making sure we and others stay on course, not fall."

#HappyJune302024

"Truly, from those who have been given much,

In work and relations, much is indeed demanded.

For we will never be out of touch,

With life and learning, situations planned or unintended.

And that is the purpose why we live,

As we breathe, think, act, feel, sow and gather.

Out of what we have, to selflessly give,

Because life is better when we all face it together.

May we learn to listen, respect, keep our pace,

And with every intention, to ponder and consider,

How we may share our God's mercy and grace,

How we may encourage others not to surrender."

#HappyJune292024

"Because time is gold, people prize punctuality,

But often forget mere presence is blessing enough.

And because life is often harsh in reality,

Silver linings become the crown of life's hardest stuff.

Yes, it's always good to hope, even against all odds,

For that brings sanity, peace and contentment too.

Though we need to acknowledge the good with the bad,

But we need to realize life always turns for me and you.

So let's not give up on faith, hope, love,

Even if misused, abused, disadvantaged and gaslighted by some.

For these convictions we own, gifts from above,

By our Father who calls all to heed His call and come."

#HappyJune282024

"Faith is becoming, as it really should be,

Doing the right deed, faithfully walking the talk,

Not only in times when others can see,

But especially in what inspires and motivates our walk.

And because our faith is to One far above,

So also must we strive to be better.

Daily striving to overcome the ignorance of the past,

Everyday moving forward in wisdom, peace, grace and love.

May we live daily in faith that's fruitful,

That we find purpose in what we do.

For then truly, our existence gets meaningful,

Our short journey becoming worthwhile for me and you."

#HappyJune272024

"'Life is a never-ending process of learning',

My lifetime motto, a word to the wise.

It should both motivate and drive everything

That we do, experience, encounter, see and surmise.

For even at the point of death, we learn,

From other people, from nature, from life itself.

And every day deserves a good measure in turn,

When it teaches us how to tame and improve the self.

May we never forget life's lessons and go through

The process of being built up, understanding deeper, knowing more.

That our days not just be meaningless going to and fro

But fruitful, abundant, everyday we become better than before."

#HappyJune262024

"It's getting rare to see selfless people these days.

Maybe due to life's worsening difficulties and challenges,

Where many are only after what they can take always,

Not caring if they have brought harsh, unwelcome changes.

But the better life needs people who better understand.

Mature, respectful, humble, generous and giving.

For it is not the mighty, but the persevering will stand,

Who bears all in patience, knowing the joy of simple living.

May we be people, graceful and easy to get along,

Willing to be corrected, to give chance to others.

For it's not down here but to a higher calling we must belong,

Believing in faith, that peace, hope and love are what truly matters."

#HappyJune252024

"If we have the kind of fear necessary,

Then life wouldn't be so confusing and scary.

For we wouldn't persist in our entitlement and ignorance,

And instead, love and understand, peace we advance.

For anxiety may hound our every waking hour,

But we have a God who has the greatest power.

And we can believe that for every difficulty and challenge,

With every oppression, He will deliver and avenge.

May we therefore not lose hope and trust,

Pray and carry on, and persevere as we must.

Because then we will receive our ultimate reward,

Our faithfulness recognized, as we follow Him forward."

#HappyJune242024

"In 'true parable of the talents' sense,

We learn what to do with what we've been given.

If wealth, then to give, without making offense,

If skill, then to teach, to mentor and guide even.

And we learn that is where happiness lies,

Contentment and peace, on giving up envy and greed.

Stressed-free, not running the race for the skies,

A generation of responsible, respectful people we help breed.

May we truly make use of our talents and treasure,

To build others up, in a way building our characters too.

That we may deal with life and people in proper measure,

Bring life, hope and peace for me and you."

#HappyJune232024

"Though each of us is unique, and uniquely gifted,

Doesn't mean others can't do what we're doing,

Nor can we not perform where others were trained;

With scientists calling that the plasticity of the brain and learning.

That's why humility and obedience is key to success,

In life, work, relationships, we need to prioritize.

Embrace what's good and right, relieve grievance with redress;

Bring peace, hope and joy, not abuse and victimize.

May we truly be people built up and accomplished in faith,

Our every word and deed without malice, but with mercy and grace,

Motivated not by pride and greed, but selflessness and good faith,

That godly confidence and true contentment rule the rest of our days."

#HappyJune212024

"The contented kind are those who see the good in bad,

Who can find peace amidst the chaos, stillness even in pain,

Who can rest easy only after giving the best they had,

Whom life's hard-won lessons are golden treasures to gain.

Because it is a sad life to constantly be comparing

Ourselves with others, knowing each of us have our own issues,

None more valid than others, but each worth respecting,

Deserving of understanding, as we put ourselves in each other's shoes.

May we therefore discern that for those who have the faith,

Everything works out for good, if we allow such mercy and grace

To fill our days, as we patiently wait,

For our ultimate deliverance, the reward at the end of our days."

#HappyJune202024

"The cost of freedom is obedience to a higher call,

Stepping out of our comfort zone, to unfamiliar, often disadvantaged territory,

To one where dreams may fade, statuses may fall,

Where patience and persistence pays, not getting our way in a hurry.

But this hard-won freedom actually is its own reward,

Knowing that we have done our best, given what we have.

Making sure no one is left out, trodden, abused, everyone moving forward,

Proclaiming and living daily, our Saviour's hope and love.

May we indeed be people of freedom in all situations,

Exercising the freedom to think, believe, and do what's good and right.

Not in bondage to biased, narrowed thinking, and toxic relations,

But everyday, as His children, bringing peace, hope and light."

#HappyJune192024

"In our social media - obsessed world, it's strange

That those who often use it were described as loneliest.

It might be because of the fake nature of online friends,

Because nothing can replace real physical bonds and connections.

Thankfully, there still exist real friendships across the miles,

Crossing time, even without constant chats,

But built up maybe from past meetings,

Yet forged in spirit and common good interest for our entire lives.

Such too is our relationship with the divine.

May we tap into such valuable bonds for our daily motivation.

Always remembering the people who value us, and we treasure so.

Be grateful, bless their existence, be blessed by their distant presence too."

#HappyJune182024

"Generosity manifests itself in many ways,

Not just giving directly, but giving chances too.

Like one beloved actor who bided his time in the sideways,

Waiting for his chance, letting those in a hurry to take first lead.

For we have seen there will always be gaps, attrition and burnouts.

That there will be people who can't wait to shine,

Despite the overwhelming burden, just grab whatever is in sight,

Even if still unripe, grabbing opportunities meant for others too.

But our God did not deliver us for that way of life.

Not to take all for ourselves, leaving some for those who can't go fast.

That our lives may be full of peace, free from strife.

Where everyone gets their fill, since His bounty will forever last."

#HappyJune172024

"What I observed differently in Quiapo's Friday devotee day,

Is what finally made me understand their Nazareno fervour.

It is that even along very busy Quezon Boulevard,

People may come from the fish market, commuting, ferrying people on public transport, work, or from wherever,

And still stop for a moment to hear Mass and probably pray,

Not even inside the comforts of the church building,

Doing all the standing, sitting, kneeling, yet, still devoting.

Protestants may call it idolatry, and they have freedom to believe so.

But isn't it also idolatry to attend church services,

All decked out in our Sunday best clothes and manners,

Yet inside is full of greed, envy, self-righteousness and entitlement?

If all we ever care about is how people see us,

Aren't we bowing and worshipping before the idol of self-image?

Our Savior has said true worshippers worship in Spirit and Truth.

And by the Spirit, we mean the intent, as in, the intent of the law.

And in Business we understand Truth to mean Honesty, Transparency and Integrity.

May we then truly worship in Spirit and Truth,

In Love, Understanding, Patience, Humility, Selflessness and Generosity.

Then, truly, however we may manifest our devotion,

We can have peace and confidence that our prayers have risen,

Accepted and counted as fragrant incense before our God."

#HappyJune162024

"In a world awash with grief, anxiety and doubt,

Where people everywhere, everyday, live with the fear of missing out,

Thankfully, our Savior reminds us whom to trust,

To turn to everytime, not only if we must.

He said then, He is still saying now,

If we believe, if we have faith, He'll show us how,

To not worry, to not be anxious about what we don't know,

About our needs, our future, our health issues so.

May we always remember His words, for they're never a burden,

Nor are we to impressive manners, favors and flattery beholden.

But only to live a life spreading His kingdom of love, grace and cheer,

And let Him be the One who will, our lives steer."

#HappyJune142024

"The beauty of knowing, is in overcoming fear

Of the unknown, mysterious, maligned, prejudged and misunderstood.

One discerns people's issues, their motives and ideas we hear,

And learn that we are all members of a great brethren-hood.

And when one understands creation, how its duality

Should render us in awe at its complex workings,

While making sure to be good stewards of its fragility,

We realize the truth behind fake news and dark imaginings.

May we truly be children of our God,

Peace- and life-bringing, ever seeking for what's true.

Giving our best with what we have and had,

Making sure each day always gets better for me and you."

#HappyJune122024

"Death indeed is a great leveller, not burials,

All soon forgotten, most of our legacies gone,

And we bring nothing, not even bare victuals,

Our memories remaining only to our loved ones.

But we need not fear what happens after,

If we know and did all the best

We could, in all situations, in whatever matter,

Believing in faith our God will supply the rest.

May we not fear death, rather protect and promote life.

For indeed one must be a friend, the other a gift.

Both natural, should then be wrought in peace not strife,

That our souls be anchored in love, not in doubt adrift."

#HappyJune112024

"Time runs so fast, we all can agree,

But especially for those whose hands are full.

So much so we lose track to some degree,

Of its sense, forgetting to appreciate what's beautiful.

But we are all given the same number of hours,

And we are all given the same chances.

To do good, bringing peace and understanding a God-given duty of hours,

To bring hope and life in whatever circumstances.

May we be faithful of time, even if sometimes we run late,

That no moment be wasted on promoting vanity, pride and greed.

For our lives too soon will pass, it is useless to wallow in hate,

But to live each day with grace and mercy, is a blessing indeed."

#HappyJune102024

"Everyday we see huge gaps of people's need,

Alongside little though inadequate, yet well-meaning pockets of grace.

And we believe that is where ministry should lead,

One where help is received, even for those souls too exhausted to return praise.

Because if we must live out the faith we profess,

We walk the talk, not brag and boast.

We give more and beyond, rather than confess,

We run the race, not just take shots and post.

May we truly be people of our God,

A holy nation, a royal priesthood declaring His glory,

Sons and daughters bringing peace, washed clean by His blood,

Preaching His kingdom, a tie that binds through eternity."

#HappyJune092024

"A topic I mentioned once in finance class is duality,

How some of our business friends work hard,

Yet put figurines, trinkets, to attract more wealth and money,

Faith and superstition alongside marketing and work standard.

The Word calls this idolatry, or worshipping strange gods,

Frowned upon or taboo, yet a daily reality too.

Because though God's people work at home or in foreign lands,

They still hold on to traditions, customs and rituals so.

Isn't it better though, to be free and unburdened,

Trusting our unknown future to an unseen God we believe to be all-knowing.

May we listen to His intent, our hearts unhardened,

Love, work, believe, and obey His will with all our being."

#HappyJune082024

"Giving in all forms define the faith we proclaim.

For not only are we encouraged to share financially,

But even our time and talent, energy, cooperating for one aim;

As we make sure each one stay healthy, physically and mentally.

And giving is the ultimate expression of the love we received;

The true gospel of the kingdom we are encouraged to preach.

For more than our words, our actions are better believed,

When we extend peace to all, even beyond our comfort zone's reach.

May we always be generous, giving, selfless and true;

Understanding, respectful of each person's rights and issues.

Ever discerning what is needed, what is the will of our Father too,

As we deal with people in wisdom, by putting ourselves in their shoes."

#HappyJune072024

"It's the start of the summer term, of setting expectations,

And some students expected one to have both passion and patience.

It makes us think about how to respond to certain situations,

Our priorities, how we view ourselves and make sense.

It makes us reflect too, that the profession itself is one great blessing,

Motivated beyond the money, but the willingness to share.

So that every stressful and work-laden day deserves thanksgiving,

Believing that wisdom and knowledge will always have plenty to spare.

May we make each moment count, each day worth its 24-hour,

Even if there's no recognition, no pedestalled commendation.

For we believe giving our best is the only one that lies within our power,

While we await our ultimate reward, as faithful servants whom our Great Judge shall call to attention."

#HappyJune062024

"Peer pressure is a lifetime burden for us all,

But not always does it only lead to bad,

For beyond feeding envy and insecurity, leading to downfall,

It can show us our uniqueness, appreciate what we have.

While it also fuels our hunger to be appreciated,

We can realize that we need not be liked to feel content,

For we only need to do our best to be satisfied,

Be honest, faithful, just and true, sincere with our intent.

May we not forget too that regardless of how life turns,

We have a God and Savior who cares for us,

Who, in spite of our shortcomings, lifts us up in our downturns,

Gives us wisdom and strength, guides us as long as our lives shall last."

#HappyJune052024

"If only life were easy, handed on a silver platter,

But such is not so, and we're often offended.

What we may consider serious, others see a trivial matter,

But there is always another chance for dreams we think have ended.

For successes teach us to celebrate results more than effort,

While disappointments and rejections strengthen our resolve and grit.

So that we learn to acknowledge all those who give us support,

While we discern the many other ways our talents and skills could fit.

May we not give up, not get disheartened,

When people and panels think of us as less than

Their expectations and standards; but always remember,

We have a God who has more than enough for everyone,

Who abundantly provides grace, wisdom, love both strong and tender."

#HappyJune042024

"Casting the stone of condemnation is easy for some,

Especially to those who think they're immune to life's downturns.

But when one learns that good and bad both come

To any person, one should keep silent in turn.

For even when one believes themselves saved,

The chances of offending, erring, falling short still occur.

Therefore, self-righteousness has no place, since our Savior gave

Us all a chance to change, to grow, with His will to concur.

May we always remember each of us a work in progress,

And respect, give chance, understand, know our boundaries.

For the gospel that we preach must be undiluted with selfishness,

Free from greed, pride, done in humility, and honest, faithful service."

#HappyJune032024

"Wealth is not measured by what we have,

But by what and how much we have given.

Just as our worth lies not in the things we love,

But in generosity and grace, by which darkness is beaten.

People may forget our names, not care about our issues,

Still, we continue to afford respect and understanding.

For it is not our personality that remains and shows,

But by how we have made lives better, wisdom and good sense dispensing.

May we spend our days in peace, giving

Each person a voice, a chance, a way,

Not diminishing each other's light, nor forgetting

We were saved to share God's love and kingdom in any way."

#HappyJune022024

"One wonders why truth, good and right are dissed,

Why reason, logic, wisdom, and godliness are disrespected.

Then one encounters self-righteousness, and understands why people are pissed,

That's why the message of the gospel gets convoluted.

And such occurs every day, sadly done by people we know,

How, feeling confident in themselves, seems to have lost the faith.

Thinking that because they perform certain traditions religiously so,

They're better than the rest, singing praises, heaping disdain with one breath.

But the Word says we need to look ar our self-worth,

How, in the sight of God, we're all work in progress.

And instead of hate, judgment, let love bring forth

His mercy and grace, His generosity and goodness."

#HappyJune012024

[ivy72376]

EIGHT WORDS (THOUGHTS) PER LINE, MAY 1-31, 2024

"Don't race half-empty, people will always say,

For you might run out of fuel and energy.

The same can be said about learning in some way,

Like love, relation, passion, knowledge, connection, authority.

Knowing less indeed, is the bane of pride,

Unashamedly putting us where we are ill-equipped.

Puffing ourselves up, without much substance inside,

Unbecoming of a child of God, our tongues not even well-kept.

In dealing with people, may we always be humble,

Recognizing each one of our potential, capacity, limitation.

May we maintain good manners, courtesy, be respectful,

A generation worthy to be called His holy nation."

#HappyMay312024

"A neighbor said that a social media ranter

Also has many enemies in real life.

Which goes to show the same real and digital matter

Are being lived by people, whether peace or strife.

This is sad, considering we take technology as progress,

But instead unmasks deep-seated prejudice and ignorance.

When we thought we're tech-savvy, but our values digress,

When there is lack of knowledge and discernment, instead of advance.

May we be humble enough to accept our faults, be true,

Consistent in what we say and do.

Practice respect, take our turns well, follow the queue,

Stop being entitled, nor masking our insecurity with insults and bashing too."

#HappyMay302024

"Some of us are so quick to judge others,

Forgetting that we are more at fault,

Neglecting to see what in life truly matters,

Preoccupied with living dreams others set by default.

But if we can just remember more than words,

Our lives bear true witness to His grace,

And instead sow love and reconciliation, not sharpened swords,

Instead of condemnation, our Saviour's love in place.

Then, we might truly earn the name of being His people,

His nation and children, called out from a world of wickedness,

Into a life where His power and wisdom enable,

On a road to eternity with His peace and goodness."

#HappyMay252024

"Nobody's a done deal, each one a work in progress,

Everyday learning, making mistakes, falling and rising again.

Even being treated unjust and unfairly, there's still a redress,

For ultimately, the good triumphs, victory always waiting to happen.

And through it all, we are disciplined and molded,

To become people worth emulating, a shining light

For all to see, to help them be guided,

Towards what's true, what's better and good, what's right.

May we not waste our everyday with pride and envy,

For physical life is short, our names soon forgotten.

But the way we treat others, with respect and love, will always be

A precedent, an example, our keys to heaven."

#HappyMay242024

"It's difficult to look up to something,

When we think we are higher and better than others.

How much more, learn about life, work, virtually anything,

When we believe we already know all that matters.

That's why it takes true humility to look up

To people who have experienced and learned more.

Even looking beyond them to the heavens atop

Of the world we believe we control, for what's in store.

Fortunately, that's how our burdens are lightened and lifted,

Acknowledging that our talents, skills, time and energy are finite.

Grateful instead, of a God who designed, who gives wisdom and guided,

Our future secured in His hands, unseen yet definite."

#HappyMay232024

"A lesson one learns as one ages

Is to never stop trusting our heavenly Father.

When we turn and write on new life pages,

He's always there, guiding, leading, our Great Provider.

It's just difficult for some when we think what's in store,

That in exchange, we need to be accountable.

For like human fathers, we need to do more

Than bring His Name, but live it as much as we're able.

May we therefore strive to give and do our best,

Be just, honest, faithful, continue to hope and trust,

Believing that with Him all our cares are laid to rest,

Our burdens be exchanged with His perfect peace, if we must."

#HappyMay222024

"A famous person once said he likes Christ, not Christians,

A sobering indictment of our fall from grace,

When feelings of spiritual superiority become our comeuppance,

When maybe instead of following Christ, we mis- and self-interpret our own ways.

Yet, our faith has shaped history in many ways than one,

Not all destructive of ancient cultures, but bringing life.

Hope, in the midst of darkness, in a life longer than this one,

When we bring healing and restoration instead of strife.

May we learn the lesson of the Sword of the Spirit ,

Where one side wounds and ends life, the other defends.

That instead of promoting our prideful and selfish agenda, we are led by the Comforting Spirit

Of our God and Savior, even after our physical life ends."

#HappyMay212024

"Let's not twist or wring the hand of God,

As we pray earnestly for what we want,

Even if it runs counter to His timing, the plans He had,

And fuels our doubts that He can't.

For our God is not an ATM nor a Genie,

And we can only follow His will and plan.

And that by doing what's right and just for you and me,

As we give our best with all that we can.

May we endeavor everyday to keep faith,

Holding on to His promises, His word in our heart.

For our greatest life adventures happen while we wait,

Believing that for something great, He has set us apart."

#HappyMay202024

"It's Sunday, the seventh day of our modern week,

A time most of us spend in worship and fellowship,

With others of similar beliefs, people both strong and weak,

With those we share time and companionship.

It is a time to listen to and ponder on His Word,

From which we gain wisdom, strength and discernment,

Especially when we remember brethren around the world,

Sharing similar hopes and dreams, faith enduring beyond the moment.

It is a time to ponder on creation too,

Which helps us breathe, moves us each day.

May we make time today for what truly matters so,

As we anticipate our great reunion with brethren in the Great Day."

#HappyMay192024

"A student surveyed why teachers quit their jobs,

I replied, because of low pay and less recognition.

It's sad to note that talent is up for grabs,

But to those who mold minds, there's less attention.

Such profession is not work though, but a calling,

Where the motivation is not the small pay.

But it is both knowledge-loving and sharing;

Knowing that the war on ignorance goes on everyday.

Thankfully we have a God who calls and enables.

And just as He reminded the apostle Peter to feed His sheep,

So teachers must teach, build up, discipline, encourage, as far as they're able,

That students may learn skills, knowledge, wisdom, values and character to keep."

#HappyMay182024

"Wherever we are, we must give it our all,

In order to live fully and understand,

What life has to stay, how to stand tall,

Amidst its challenges, how to deal with the given hand.

We must be present too, yet aware and grounded,

Neither taking everything at face value, nor doubting people's intentions.

For to a higher call, we must be tethered,

Without removing ourselves far from this world's issues and necessary actions.

May we spend each day walking the talk,

Consistently honest, meaning no harm, keeping the peace,

May integrity and humility be our identity, living as a simple folk,

That we might stay sane, our soul in one piece."

#HappyMay172024

"Oftentimes, in our struggle to be relevant, we forget

That we can't control, nor can know everything.

We strive so hard, take all we can get,

Not realizing that true happiness is in wanting nothing.

For if we see the creation around us, we realize

That we are situated in the most perfect place in the universe.

But because of greed we fail to analyze

That every entitled thought and deed works in adverse.

May we learn to appreciate what we are, all we have,

Humbly do our business, persistent in crisis and challenges.

For no good deed lasts unless done in love,

And no progress comes, unless all of us changes."

#HappyMay162024

"One of the enemy's greatest lies we're told,

Is that we're never enough, can't do life alone.

But we realize alone doesn't mean lonely growing old,

It just means with solitude, is our comfort zone.

For solitary doesn't mean sad, knowing God is there,

It just means we are more open to possibilities

Of knowing more, discovering, exploring, being more aware,

With heightened alertness, sensitive in all our faculties.

But with daily discouragements and put-downs, may we strive on,

Believing in faith in our Lord's promises not to abandon.

For He it is who made us and brought us here,

And He will be our destination, forever, somewhere."

#HappyMay152024

"Living simply, is key to happiness and contentment,

Knowing we cannot bring anything when we expire.

It is feeling secure and confident in our element,

Believing with God's grace, we can get our soul's desire.

Yes, we need to build our person here,

We try our best to put aside for our next generation,

But we need not be greedy with what we hold dear,

And must learn to temper our faith with reason.

May we strive each day to live well, be good and kind,

Neither naive, prideful, ignorant, nor delusional with who we are.

For no matter how good we think we may be, will not come to mind;

But rather our character endures, staying with us no matter how far."

#HappyMay142024

"The lone voice of reason, is sad these days,

For it runs counter to this generation's virtue that's FOMO.

Just to be acknowledged, validated in many ways,

One follows whatever trend, even lacking in sense and logic too.

And the same goes for sentiments and ideals,

When people subscribe to laziness, ignorance, bias, prejudice.

Where there is no more boundary in morals,

Even the religious and spiritual, with the hedonist, all in one piece.

May we therefore still strive to be wise and ethical,

Never compromise the gospel we have been given.

Not be consumed in the pursuit of crowd-fame and funding, the material,

But be discerning, scale down, free from the leaven."

#HappyMay132024

"They say this day has been much commercialized;

Heavy with greetings, but ads to spend and buy too.

Still, one can't discount a mother's role, neither generalized,

Nor too focused, for she can love and give so.

Yet, there are those who don't have their flesh-and-blood,

But bear kids from the heart, there are greater callings

Awaiting, with them giving time, talent, energy, resources, all that they had

To raise other people's kids into fine human beings.

We salute you all, commend you to the Heavenly Father,

Who guides and gives strength, wisdom, discernment, and fortitude too.

May He bless all your efforts, dreams as mentor and mother;

As you embrace the call to love and teach, His glory shining in all you do."

#HappyMay122024

"The hardest people to convince about what's true,

Are those who believe they know more than they do.

The most difficult ones to influence toward what's right,

Are those who, when their ideas are challenged, put up a fight.

But thankfully, our Savior has shown the better way,

That of being honest and humble in what we do and say.

Those who talk a lot may seem to know more,

But really, may actually hide ignorance, guilt, shame at their core.

May we be people of wisdom, in our deeds, thoughts and words,

Recognizing that our tongues are sharper than swords;

Weapons to use only to bring hope and save lives,

Against life's challenges, sharpening our humor and wit like knives."

#HappyMay112024

"In school was where I first encountered favoritism,

Especially when some of us are clueless, thinking all is fair,

Not knowing the value of flattery, kissing up, nepotism,

And assuming that honesty and doing good takes us anywhere.

But sadly, undeniably, there are those who give favors

Only to those whom they like, patronage too,

Selectively giving good marks to flatterers, even if their labors

Still leave something to be desired, 'the who's who'.

And in the real world, such unfairness is rampant,

Which has sadly been a major factor of corruption, dissatisfaction.

But later on, one questions if the favored are truly relevant,

As one discovers the emptiness of their substance, their lesser qualification.

Thankfully, in the gradesheets of our God, all is just,

No favors, everyone equally worthy and capable;

Everyone's future a product of faith and learning from the past,

Everyone given time and chance, giving our best, as much as we're able."

#HappyMay102024

"In a world overrun with greed, we find hunger,

Poverty, want, misery, sickness, rage, hopelessness and despair.

Yet, we sometimes see pockets of hope and love,

People giving their time and energy, sharing goodness from above.

And maybe this is our humanity's calling and essence,

To be light and salt, give consolation to suffering and miserable existence;

As we live out our faith, humble in our ways,

Proclaiming the kingdom's good news all our days.

May we prove worthy of such mandate, be faithful

In giving substance to our person, ever thankful

Of the mercy and grace received each day,

Paying forward; His wisdom, truth and light guiding our way."

#HappyMay092024

"We're often poor judges of human character,

For we easily believe sweet-talkers, charlatans, swindlers

Who flatter us, making us feel like we belong,

But are only after our hard-earned resources and free efforts all along.

We do it to those who promise to lead us too,

For the better, for success, but don't actually do so,

For they only line their pockets and abuse power,

Never caring that the masses who believed have become poorer.

Discernment indeed, is one of the greatest heavenly gifts,

Enabling us to read between the lines, see what truly uplifts.

It gives us a chance to listen and understand what's not being said,

That we may be watchful, wise and mindful instead.

May we always pray for discernment in everything we do,

That we may make choices and judgments good for me and you.

In that way, we keep our souls, our lives, our sanity,

Enabling us to be self-sufficient and content, alone or in community."

#HappyMay082024

"It's a sad fact when we encounter prejudice,

Flying against all we've learned about the love of God,

When even some of our esteemed social groups and churches

Fail to recognize the diversity of gifts each of us have.

But a true body of Christ is not boxed, but varied,

Therefore there's no need to fight for nor hog the Spotlight.

The differences in our capacities shouldn't make us envious nor worried,

For we are all gifted with our Father's Heavenly light.

May we use each and all our talents and capacities,

To share that light to all, bring hope and peace.

That our God may be glorified, His love greatly overcoming

Our doubts and difficulties, His wisdom ruling over everything."

#HappyMay072024

"Whom we love is shown in who we follow,

Not in words, in empty declarations, in pretense,

But through the influence it brings, that bears remembering too,

For love needs no flattery, makes no offense.

If we love, we let go, give space,

We don't push or impose ourselves on others.

But we accept ourselves, and understand with grace,

That every person needs time, growth in all matters.

And just as we are loved but not suffused,

May we too, love and let others take their rest.

For Heavenly love gives freedom, not making us suffocated,

Enabling us, at the right moments, to bring out our best."

#HappyMay062024

"Some thinkers say, we now come to civilization's crucible,

A great time of reckoning and rethinking;

Where almost every person is only out for themselves, only able

To decorate themselves well, but are greedily fighting;

For a job, a windfall, a status, a favor,

At all costs, at the expense of others'

Rights, their well-being sacrificed furthermore,

Greedy for gain and fame, but refusing accountability in what really matters.

But we weren't blessed for and in that way

For as God's people, we are called to bring peace,

Restoration, healing, truth, justice, fairness, life and hope, our debts to pay.

And may we prove worthy, living for His glory, not as we please."

#HappyMay052024

"I haven't been a very brave person,

Neither do I think I'll be in the future.

And so I've experienced keeping silent with my reason,

Even passed over, neglected, insulted and still endure.

I realize that we need not all be go-getters to prove

To all that we are good, qualified, worthy of respect.

For there'll always be people greedy, selfishly move

To get what they want, regardless, and privileges they expect.

But those who can work with dignity, in community,

Being transparent, honest, sincere, diligent, just and fair,

Will soon have their reward of peace, more worthy

Than accolades without substance, faith and service without air."

#HappyMay042024

"More than changing things, prayer changes us,

And hopefully, for the better, not the worse.

For there be some who, rather than thankfulness and remorse,

Treat their prayer life like trophy, feeling whitewashed.

For prayer is regularly checking up and checking in,

With our Creator, who gave us life and hope,

It is not something to brag and boast,

But rather an act of love, unselfish, grounding.

May we pray in every occasion, every day,

For what we need to thank, in ourselves and others,

For wisdom, guidance, mercy and renewal, in all matters,

That we might have strength and inspiration along our way."

#HappyMay032024

"What we believe defines us, shapes our future.

If we believe we evolved from a lesser order,

We evade the responsibility, acting out our base nature,

Having no hope beyond our body's physical matter.

But if we believe we came to be

Because of divine design, we live in humility,

Acknowledging both the wisdom behind, all glory be;

And the greatest love that sets us free.

May we live each day in faith and peace,

Joy that we are so loved, provided for,

Thankful and grounded that such mercy and grace fill our days,

Our existence not in vain, but a part of life's glorious forevermore."

#HappyMay022024

"As one ages, one feels weaker, often sicker,

More forgetful, less inclined to hear and see clearly.

Yet the onslaught of the years shows the important matter,

That life is precious, and it can only be lived beautifully;

When we trust and believe in our God so powerful,

So loving, true, caring, providing, giving us strength.

As we pass that on, humble and prayerful,

We find people who go with us through whatever length.

May we appreciate each day given, in whatever situation.

Learn from nature, keep our pace, mindful of our ways.

Ever thankful for whatever comes, living with subdued passion,

Never forgetting past lessons, but both eyes on the future always. "

#HappyMay012024

[ivy72376]

EIGHT WORDS PER LINE, APRIL 1-30, 2024

"We often hear that one can give without loving,

But one can't love without giving, people say.

We go on to say one can live without loving

Themselves or others--but then life is meaningless that way.

For to truly love is to be fearless,

To go beyond, above, and through the extra mile,

Embracing life as it comes, alone, in company, regardless,

Facing life's challenges with faith and a smile.

It is being humbled at the daily mercy we are given,

Confident in the heavenly strength and wisdom we receive.

May we truly attune ourselves to the mandate of heaven,

And live out our God's love, in His good promises, trust and believe."

#HappyApril302024

"Praying with eyes open, growing up is taboo;

For they say it's easy to get distracted.

But we learn it's not totally bad too,

For we are also easily warned and alerted.

Yes, our Savior reminded us to watch and pray,

Implying that we should also always be aware.

That we need to see the truth every day,

To understand and know, to give and share.

May we not abuse other's generosity and care;

Be responsible for our lives, accountable, patient, humble,

May we always be discerning; our lives bare

From vanity, His grace and strength making us able."

#HappyApril292024

"Yes, angels are real, I've experienced it too.

Even just yesterday, before the car we're riding,

Was a mere few feet from colliding into,

A 10-wheeler container truck, but braked, screeching.

It seems it wasn't yet our time, thankfully,

And we have our God's ministering angels, protecting.

We are grateful that He sees to us, faithfully,

Giving wisdom, good health, strength, always leading and guiding.

May we always pray, be humble and kind.

Even though not sweetly nice, nor condescendingly saccharine,

Leaving our doubts, insecurities, biases, prejudices, worries behind;

With His grace, our every day to begin."

#HappyApril282024

"Worry and anxiety makes us human, it's true,

Having people we care about, dreams and responsibilities;

While not knowing the future, what to do,

Or control it, given our current limited capacities.

But worrying should wake us up to the truth,

That we are limited, therefore not to boast;

Because we have a God in the present and future both,

One who can help when life is challenged most.

May we then always humble ourselves before Him,

Pray and trust, as we do our best.

For His promises are sure, not a whim,

We can be sure He takes care of all the rest."

#HappyApril272024

"We're always better and stronger together, it's proven,

And that's a great relief, a source of strength.

For unity brings success, peace, joy, all given,

When in community, we go through whatever length.

But to reap togetherness' rewards, we need to remember,

To be mindful, respectful, generous, patient and humble.

For life can only move forward and prosper,

If we are also responsible, mature and accountable.

May we grow in knowledge, understanding, effort and love,

Learn to let go of our bias and prejudice.

That there be good fruit in what we have

Sown; better rewards for our life's honest service."

#HappyApril262024

"Age is just a number they say,

And it is true to some, fortunately.

But it means more aches, pains, to many,

More frustrations, as we have diminished capability.

But there seems to be a way around,

Getting the best of life, even through its advance.

And that is to stay more "on the ground",

In humility, living deliberately, confidence; taking our chance.

For our time is getting shorter and shorter,

While there is more to do to pay forward.

And we must use every moment to get better,

Keeping our hope and faith aligned heaven-ward."

#HappyApril252024

"Unity in diversity is a powerful, praiseworthy situation,

For God's people of every tongue and nation.

Yet sadly, many of us are too insecure,

Proud and ignorant, our understanding lacking and unsure.

Yet, we cannot ignore nor dismiss other's right

To serve, show their gifts, shine their light.

Life is uncertain, vulnerable, beyond our control,

All we can do is keep our soul.

May we find true security in our Father,

Understand, respect boundaries, give way to each other.

That life on earth may be more meaningful,

And our journey to eternity made more beautiful."

#HappyApril242024

"In a world of chaos, uncertainty and fear,

We still hope in a God who's near.

We still believe in our Saviour's eternal promises,

That He can restore our life's broken pieces.

So as His people, may we always endeavor,

To live His peace, wisdom, grace and favor;

Neither contributing to the enemy's lies and terror,

Nor spreading disinformation, condemnation, prejudice, biases with fervor.

But striving each day to be mature, accountable,

Working out our salvation, and being more responsible.

As we learn to share the love He's given,

While we eagerly await our eternal places in heaven."

#HappyApril232024

"Family is more than blood, more than proximity,

But with those with whom we feel commonality.

Because as God's children, we're called to be

Like Him, who feels beyond what we see.

And so in life, as we go through,

We need to accept, understand me and you;

Be ready to share, be willing to love,

Acoording to the grace we receive from above."

#HappyApril222024

"'The end does not justify the means',

Wise words we often hear and they're true.

For things gotten and achieved by hands unclean,

Won't satisfy, nor bring contentment and peace too.

We may have shown a nice, amazing aesthetic

To the world, and gotten it to acknowledge;

But fakes soon receive their justice, so poetic,

And the falsity becomes a lifetime heavy baggage.

May we therefore endeavour to be honest and sincere

In all our dealings, even when no one sees.

For our God surely knows, He meets us here,

And showers upon us His grace and peace."

#HappyApril212024

"'Blessed are the peacemakers', our Savior said,

'for they shall be called children of God'.

Makes us realize the obligation that must be paid,

For this call is for all, with all we have.

Because in God's family, there is no room for prejudice,

Nor condemnation; for He alone has the right,

The magnanimity to reward as He pleases,

And the perfect discipline given with love and light.

With the little time we have in this physical life,

May we endeavor to keep peace, courtesy, fairness,

Wisdom, responsibility, accountability, settle all debts and strife,

That we may always experience God's mercy and goodness."

#HappyApril202024

"It's sobering to note that people are the same,

Some you trust, but they disappoint in a breath,

Some condescend, but treat you like an ATM,

And some manifest their selfishness and greed with stealth.

There are also those we look up to

But prove fallible and more wicked than most,

For they profess wisdom and faith so,

You're surprised, they're judgmental, unwelcoming, living a great boast.

Good thing though, we have a book and a life to learn,

That we soon see things in their proper perspective.

May we always remember that what we sow, we earn,

As we strive each day to make life better to live."

#HappyApril192024

"If only all our actions are so motivated

By love, that we abandon hate and selfishness.

If only we stop being greedy, inward-oriented,

But put ourselves in other's shoes, never tactless.

Then we would understand our Father's unconditional love,

Accept, absorb, manifest it wherever we go;

Always mindful of the unmerited grace from above,

And the need to impart them on others too.

Then, life would be a blessing, not a burden,

Our responsibilities become motivators to work humbly, diligently.

May we always remember it's a mandate given,

Love, humility and honest labor, the keys to eternity."

#HappyApril182024

"As we go about life, pondering, making choices,

We often come to choose between pride and wisdom.

Either we believe we're in the right places

To judge others, or to manifest God's kingdom.

Either we insist that we are the best,

That we're entitled to time, attention, privileges;

Or we feel equal with all the rest,

Needing guidance, sustenance, strength, correction, deliverance and forgiveness.

Always, the five finger test holds true:

When pointing one finger at others, the other four

Are pointed at us, who are without clue,

That first we must change, for maturity to occur.

May we always be enlightened to properly mind

The business of understanding, tolerance, responsibility and accountability;

That in our journey, nothing gets left behind,

Because our goal is not now, but eternity."

#HappyApril172024

"To each one is a different grace given,

Unique talents, gifts, abilities, different perspectives and thinking.

So that we might bring a piece of heaven

To whatever we do, say, whether working or playing.

Let's not forget to ascribe glory to the One who made

Us and all creation, as we deal with life's challenges.

For if we remember, our debts to life's circle was paid

By Him, who loves, forgives, provides, never changes.

And as we go about our everyday realities,

We are called to pay forward and give back.

With all we can do, with the best of our faculties,

Because we know and believe, He provides whatever we lack."

#HappyApril162024

"Home is where the heart is, it's true,

And home is not necessarily a physical place.

For home must be in our hearts too,

One that we carry through all our days.

And with whatever connection, wherever and whenever be,

We're at home if we feel we belong,

More than a matter of what we receive and see.

But one where right is upheld over what's wrong.

Where there is respect and love, understanding, peace,

Where there is growth, wisdom, honesty and accountability,

Where we are given freedom, are at ease,

Speaking our mind, supported as we fulfill our responsibility.

May we learn to make each space on earth,

A home for God's people, and all creation,

That we care and recognize each other's worth,

As we live daily being His holy nation."

#HappyApril152024

"Some choose these passages to encourage weekly church attendance,

Failing to look at their true meaning and relevance.

Our Savior preached and established a kingdom lasting forever,

So now, His kingdom is with us wherever.

When we eat or sleep, at home, in community,

We manifest His glory, giving our best ability.

And every chance we get to hope and encourage,

To bring peace and light, never just empty adage

Are points for soul-winning, victory over darkness,

Deliverance for those trapped in an elusive pursuit of happiness.

May we learn to ease the burden of others,

By teaching them a better life, what really matters,

That they may appreciate how good is our God of love,

How beautiful, meaningful, purposeful He has made the lives we have."

#HappyApril142024

"Some people question the existence of God,

As they face life's darkness, chaos and suffering,

Though some would like to vilify them as mad,

Still we can't discount how bad some things are going.

But in the midst of it all, we realize,

That our ability to think and make sense,

Shows a higher intelligence--to understand and apprise

Life's challenges, the universe's complexity--has precedence.

And so in faith, we learn to ascribe

The beauty of everything we see, the purpose

Of what we can't control, to One everlasting, alive,

Always at work, giving us freedom to choose.

And in humility we recognize and praise

Our God who sets all things in order;

That even though difficulties hound our days,

He always guides, enlightens, supports, strengthens us forever."

#HappyApril132024

"From high school up to now we are reminded,

Of our Saviour's everlasting words through the apostle Luke (12:48),

'From those who are given much, much is demanded,'

A tall order, as people of the book.

But we learn that's what makes life meaningful,

To heed and pay forward, to share, to give.

Because our existence came with gifts: souls beautiful,

Ready and built up, our Maker's will to achieve.

To make life better for others, bring peace,

Hope, love and light, that they may see,

Our God's love and care; that hopelessness may cease,

And His justice and joy may reign for you and me."

#HappyApril122024

"It's foolishness to believe, that only us matter

To God, for He cares for all Creation too.

Likewise vain to imagine, that we're always better

Because in our eyes we believe to be so.

For nature shows a massive diversity, of type,

Kind, abilities, forms, expression, and means of communication;

And it is wisdom not to believe in the hype,

Of our superiority, uniqueness, high calling or station.

For each of us is accountable for our action,

Thoughts, words, our daily living, sustenance and motivation.

And it speaks of principle, character and integrity,

To respect and value others, striving in humility."

#HappyApril112024

"We know that physical blindness is a disability.

Yet for some, it leads to a different ability.

For they say, all other senses get enhanced,

And hearing, smelling, touch, get refined and advanced.

And there are many cures to physical blindness,

Which we can avail of through science and kindness.

But spiritual, emotional blindness is difficult to cure,

In people whose ignorance, biases and prejudices are sure.

May we strive to keep our sights clear,

Banish doubts, insecurities, ignorance, superiority, pride and fear.

For we have a God who heals even today,

Enabling us to see His goodness and love every way."

#HappyApril102024

"Changing us for the better should be our aim,

Whatever we believe in, think, do and pursue.

For nature shows nothing ever stays the same,

How much more for both me and you?

Our parents and elders can only do so much,

Putting us through school, making us learn.

But with adulting, life becomes our watch,

And for us to strive to know and discern.

Likewise, in faith we believe in levelling up,

From only receiving the Word preached, cut and dried,

To exploring more, corroborating, researching, filling our cup,

With wisdom, our lamps we brighten, not hide.

May we ever grow to be more like Him,

Who Designed, Created, Saved and Provided for us,

That His Holy Spirit in us not go dim,

But shine brighter as the days pass."

#HappyApril092024

"Joy is difficult to find, fake and keep,

Even as we live and flaunt our lives online.

But it is a natural emotion running deep

In the heart of one content, with peace divine.

It's also a natural reaction to goodness,

When justice prevails, truth and right are celebrated.

Where people uphold humility, trust, integrity and fairness,

And where respect, good manners are always granted.

May we therefore endeavor to abound in joy,

In every situation, for each and every person.

As we spend our days to simply enjoy

The triumph of good, the victory of reason."

#HappyApril082024

On Long Weekends:

This realization came with age, and will not be appreciated by most...

Whenever long weekends are coming, travel and tour businesses, malls and amusement parks make us feel guilty of FOMO and entice us to go on trips, vacations, sprees kay long weekend lagi...

But what is the purpose of weekends?

Biblically and historically, it is to rest, a Sabbath and connection time with our Maker, in rest, meditation and holy, solemn worship...

And strangely, our souls really feel refreshed when we do that; rather than kill the time traveling somewhere far, hopping from place to place para daghan ta ug pictures from many different views and places, experiencing adrenaline rushes with noisy queues and crowds, but failing to savor our connection with God and nature in each nook and cranny of this green earth...

Mao diay no, the best weekend, is a weekend of rest, dili mulaag and mopahulay lang sa balay, freeing ourselves once a week from commercialism, the bondage of spending-toiling and earning-spending again, the burden of going far and traveling hard and long, just to "relax" somewhere, then repeating the whole tiresome journey on our way back home...

Indeed we really feel and receive the benefits of a long weekend when like our Creator did, we rest from all labors (even the labor of seeing other people and keeping up with their lives), and just being, zoning out, logging off, detoxifying our lives from toxic connections and stressful endeavors that take their toll on our time, finances, physical and mental well-being...

#LongAndRestfulWeekends

"It's a daily habit, yet marking our faith,

Showing up in our behavior, part of one's character,

To be thankful, content, despite having little wealth

To be mindful of our Heavenly Father's care.

And naturally, it bears fruit in wisdom too,

Understanding that we have no control over everything

But our thoughts, behaviors, words, actions and motivations,

Humility and patience, the virtues that come from knowing.

May we always be thankful each moment, everyday

That in life we gain the proper perspective,

Remembering that we are supported all the way

By our God from whose bounty we receive."

#HappyApril072024

"Maybe we should stop cherry-picking and learn more

Than what was lectured, preached, and proselytised,

Open our Bibles always first to the gospels,

To the actual teachings of our Savior, true guide.

For His words are priceless, timeless beyond comparison,

Teaching us good manners, respect, understanding and peace,

Empathy to others, doing our best on our own;

Being content, not seeking people to flatter or please.

Not always demanding help but be the one,

Helping ourselves that we might help others,

And opening our lives to different connections,

Knowing that paying forward is what matters.

May we be responsible and accountable for ourselves,

Being honest, truthful, patient, just, fair and wise;

Teaching others independence, maturity to fend for themselves,

And learn to face whatever challenges may arise."

#HappyApril062024

"A time for God, is what we need,

For a world awash in fear and hatred.

Recognizing that we are all jointly accountable,

Realizing that each of us must be responsible.

Yes, life's daily challenges may overwhelm or weaken

Our resolve, our conviction, so that we impose

Ourselves on others, but that shouldn't be,

For each one of us have struggles too.

May we therefore remember that nobody is obligated

To make life easy for us, but us alone

Who must bear the consequences of our decisions,

And receive due reward for our actions.

But not to fear, fret, be anxious or worry,

For He never leaves anyone helpless.

And that in all of our concerns and issues,

He's always there, His love and care priceless."

#HappyApril052024

"Boris Pasternak's Doctor Zhivago has this Psalm

As backdrop to its chapter on 'Forest Brotherhood

To show the commonality of faith in man

And the same hope of deliverance and good.

We realize that whoever and wherever we are,

No matter our age, gender, nationality and belief,

We need a Savior, a Father not far

But near to call, in joy and grief.

Like our human interactions, may we always nurture

That bond, special, eternal relationship, holy and divine.

As we fulfill our stewardship of life and nature,

Living His will, in body, soul and mind."

#HappyApril042024

"Beyond the Word and other people, but creation

Itself speaks to us about our God's wisdom,

Love, care, guidance, bounty, design, plan and provision,

Inclusive of everyone, bidding them to come.

Therefore we must be mindful what we hear,

And not falsely believe and follow the crowd,

For His will brings forth humility, holy fear,

Contentment and peace, direct opposite of the proud.

And it is to our salvation and security

If we meditate and be mindful as always.

For not just our earthly concern but eternity,

Is at stake, when we choose our ways."

#HappyApril032024

"First and last is leadership, what determines success,

For ourselves, others, with groups and communities.

And the spirit thereof is stewardship no less,

Knowing that we are simply entrusted with responsibilities.

And when we realize that we have a Great King,

Who is our ultimate Leader and Guide too,

Then with humility and accountability, we can manage everything,

Through whatever challenges, we're confident we can do.

So may we always remember our calling and role,

To guide, inspire, motivate, bring hope for the soul,

That in all ways our Creator might be glorified,

And that forever with Him we will abide."

#HappyApril022024

"It's time we understand the epistle for what it says,

And turn this passage around to remove our prejudices.

For in our time today that's globalized and online,

We know assembly means a bigger crowd beyond our families.

And this is not condemnation of one who doesn't have a clique,

Nor derision of those who fail to belong.

For it is encouragement to also encourage one another,

And motivation of our brethren as we journey along.

It also opens us up to be more understanding,

Tolerant of diversity, gifts, freeing us from envy,

And making us aware that we're all people in the making,

That if we love others, we also must let them be.

For each of us are given grace and strength,

But that we must support and care for one another,

Not give up on giving up to whatever length,

But also letting each other grow, as we journey towards forever."

#HappyApril012024

[ivy72376]

EIGHT WORDS PER LINE, MARCH 1-31, 2024

"History and archaeology is rife with ancient tales,

Of deities dying and resurrecting, cementing their glory.

But one that has proven most influential since,

Is our beloved Savior, Jesus Christ's resurrection story.

And it's not just a tale for the gullible,

For many of us who believe still feel

That even through dark times we are able

To have hope, His promises becoming more real.

And we believe that is the true message

Of His sacrifice and resurrection two millennia ago,

To a faith dispersed, transformed, some scriptures twisted,

Misinterpreted, misused, even abused and maligned so,

A remnant and a greater audience remains,

Believing and upholding truth, justice, peace and right.

That through worldly changes of powerful reigns,

Holding on to His kingdom, is still the worthiest fight."

#HappyMarch312024

"In life, we often find not what we want,

But what reality and daily living would bring.

Just like faith, in which not our agenda,

But what is needed to promote the realm of our King.

And just as our Saviour said to remember Him

Through His shared supper of bread and wine,

We remember His sacrifice, for our lives so dim,

We remember His death and resurrection, love so divine.

And we keep still, we commune in our hearts,

We ascribe glory, proclaim praise and declare honour,

To Him worthy of all, from all parts

Of the world, to the heavens our worship soars.

Yes, for a secular world this season is vacation,

But beyond our friends and family may we remember,

That we are meant for a more glorious kingdom and nation,

Where He promised us our space, love and life forever."

#HappyMarch302024

"We live in such contradictory times,

When simplicity and humility are guilt-tripped,

And pride, disrespect, rudeness are rather elevated,

Probably resulting to a civilization lost in moral bearings.

Even in how we observe these holy days,

When much of the greatest religions espouse and preach

Days of deliverance and sacrifice, prayer and fasting,

Far too many focus on celebrating without appreciating,

That the glory of resurrection is celebrated solemnly,

That once shrouded in a coverup, must be subdued

And observed with reverence, rest, days of meditation,

a Sabbath season for the body and mind.

It is Paschal, not Christmas, but Passover,

In recognition that the Ultimate Human Sacrifice,

Was given up for us, and whose blood

Ensured for us an infinitely more glorious eternity.

May we afford the proper respect to our Saviour's deed,

Even after a couple of thousand years,

Not to repeat the same cause of His death,

Not to repeat the same trend of Noah's neighbors.

For if we must be healed as a nation,

A civilization, a world full of people hurting and pretending,

We need to abide in humility with our Healer,

Proper reverence, respect and awe rendered to our eternal King."

#HappyMarch292024

Always, travel with a soul.

Memorize every eskinita and building facade by heart,

More than photos, collect maps, brochures, catalogues, receipts, train tickets, knick-knacks.

Don't just be a photographer locomoting for your photo album.

Smile and even make small talks with random people,

Be changed, be more understanding, wiser and deeper.

Be like a travel Voldemort--always leave a horcrux behind.

"We reap what we sow, is a real adage,

In the literal, spiritual, relational sense too.

Being dependent and thinking we're always entitled,

We'll soon see how people will treat us poorly so.

Maybe we should learn from our Saviour's example,

Of a life given for all but most fruitfully

On those who heed His call to pay forward,

To help others, those within our closest kin especially.

For servant-leadership, His will upon our lives,

Starts within ourselves, our family, our brethren.

And we can only be as good as what we present ourselves

To the world, if we live as His children.

Bringing harmony, peace and prosperity within our household;

Upholding truth, justice, good order, wisdom and discipline;

Against life's challenges, ever persevering, brave and bold;

All our actions manifesting on earth, life in heaven."

#HappyMarch282024

When we bask ourselves in the love of God, we do not need to get validated by the things of the world...

Love of God is not compulsory but unconditional, sacrificial, life-giving, enduring, persevering, it never fails...

It is not based on what we can get, but on what He gives--not sacrificial but beneficial...

Worldly love takes a lot of work, resources and finances, energy and time, our emotions and attention and sanity, but still incomplete...

#LentenReflection2024

"Never low-hanging fruits, are love, joy and peace;

Easy to say and flaunt, difficult to manifest,

For someone so full of themselves, they forget

That these are the products of God's words.

But for those humble enough, grateful and wise,

We know that it is not the abundant life

But the character of the person declaring themselves

Believers, children of God, good citizens, kingdom-heirs

That is the ultimate test, measure and reward.

And so may we endeavor to become those

People of character our parents, our community, our God

Would be proud of, worthy servants, faithful stewards

Of His creation, of His people's legacy.

Naive no more, independent from the world's influence,

But dependent on His provision, guidance and mercy.

#HappyMarch272024

"I'm not sure when it started, but sad

To note that a season of remembering

Our Saviour's Passover has been turned commercial,

Instead of prayerful, meaningful, meditational, holy and Spiritual.

Maybe we are dwelling too much in resurrection's afterglow,

That we forgot He said to remember His sacrifice;

That though His resurrection wiped out all sorrow,

But pondering on His death makes us wise.

May we always be circumspect and stay humble,

Ever mindful of our actions, inactions, and decisions,

Be remorseful, keep our loved ones from trouble,

Always ponder on eternity's key, our Saviour's passions."

#HappyMarch262024

"Even in helping others, we can't be everything,

Some will misunderstand our intentions and thoughts.

For these are the days when people only look out for themselves,

Offending and disregarding others, and failing to comprehend.

That each action has a reaction, as well

As each omission, disregard, insensitivity, pride and flaunting.

For of our ultimate comeuppance only time can tell,

And so we must be mindful of everything.

When we expect help, we must be helpful,

When we expect good, we must be good,

When we expect support, we must be supportive,

When we expect learning, we must likewise invest.

Yes, life may be harsh, but it is not

An excuse to ignore and be inhospitable.

For the good and bad, the ignorance and humility,

Will always come around, whether or not we are able."

#HappyMarch252024

"When salvation comes, we believe in life change,

But sadly it doesn't seem to happen that way,

For there be some who still refuse to grow,

And remain babes in faith all the way.

Even a lifetime of sermons can't open a closed mind,

A sheltered existence, unaccepting of reality and truth,

Have only brought disillusionment, misunderstanding, entitlement and chaos,

A life not bearing the Holy Spirit's fruit.

But it doesn't have to be that way at all,

For we can always read and learn the Word,

Nature, life, challenges, good words, relationships with people,

Our classroom all of life and the world.

May we truly live the essence of when He came,

And live substantially, meaningfully, even devoid of fame.

May He who entered the city gates on a donkey,

Be our King, to eternity our soul's key."

#HappyMarch242024

"Kindness without condescension, is what marks our faith;

To respect others, no matter what they believe.

To recognize that we all have flaws and strengths,

To know that each of us have our own issues,

And that there is no place for imposing ourselves,

Because respecting boundaries is expressing love and care.

That we have indeed reached up to that boundary,

For one so burdened, to know that we care.

May we truly be our Creator's salt and light for all,

That we might help save those who are lost,

Give them hope, joy, comfort, inspiration and peace,

In this life and beyond, ready to heed our Saviour's call."

#HappyMarch232024

"Love is action, not an arm or eye candy;

Neither is it what we aim for, but what we work with.

For it is vain to flaunt what we love,

As if it gives us validation and support.

But always, in whatever we do and say,

Whether sweet and motivating, harsh but honest and kind,

We must only uphold truth, justice, humility, life lessons;

Making love a responsibility, an accountability,

Not a reward, but an instrument of stewardship, justice and right."

#HappyMarch222024

On believing in our exclusivity and smartness...

I had a friend who graduated high school class valedictorian from a small and secular private school.

But when she went to college in another private but considerably bigger university, she did not qualify for the first semester academic scholarship, because according to the school admission policy, she graduated high school from a population of less than 120.

It made me think, "hala no? Ug bright ka, bright ka sa kadaghanan, dili sa gamay ra."

(“alas! if you’re really smart, you’re smart among many, not a few.”)

Maybe we should recalibrate how we reward and recognize our kids:

We encourage, coach and motivate them to succeed, and learn respect and discipline in the process.

But we must be realistic, not lead them on and astray, by only recognizing their achievement after they have competed with many and came out with flying colors and well-deserved excellent marks.

#SomethingToThinkAbout

"Some people ask for help but in truth,

They don't need it; they only want validation,

Attention, a confirmation, one-upping some, getting even

And making sure they stay in life's race,

By pulling others down, or towards their level.

In fact many people who truly need help

Don't say so but quietly work their way.

It is wisdom to discern, and true love

To help those who are truly in need.

Because extending help to those who are able

But refuse to do the extra work necessary

Is spoiling, not helping, pushing then towards entitlement.

While offering and giving a hand to one

Who truly deserves, but humble enough to say

Is giving them a push to a better life.

May we have wisdom and always be aware,

Help and give to those truly deserving of care."

#HappyMarch212024

"Whatever state you're in, people just assume things

About you, even not knowing the whole truth.

When you look happy, they think you're partnered;

When you look grumpy, they think you're heartbroken.

But few would care to know the reason,

Why you feel content nor exasperated; full of themselves,

Aside from the condescending greetings and cursory query,

They really don't listen to what you say.

Because it is indeed difficult to accept,

That some people have found contentment in living

Simply, fully, contentedly in our God's loving care,

And that some are complete, being alone.

Yet, it is to our soul's gain if we live

Our Saviour's words to trust Him unconditionally;

Living independently of other's support and attention,

Yet fully immersed in His presence, love and affection.

May we truly spend the rest of our days,

Secured in His protection, wisdom, bliss and grace."

#HappyMarch202024

"It's a sad reality in the corporate world,

That even when you're paid a measly wage,

You are expected to give your heart and soul,

Be loyal, on time, on twenty-four seven call.

And all while deluding yourself of the dream,

The prestige of illusion and career fame,

Yet not even making a mark in the lives of others,

Being dispensable, not an ounce of legacy to your name.

But thankfully our God is not like so,

For He recognizes every little effort and service,

Done to better the lives of others,

And to share wisdom and hope, love and grace.

Yes, the world and work may squeeze us dry

Of inspiration, esteem, dignity, rest and sanity,

But let it not blind us to what is:

That we have a God who cares for our eternity;

Who makes us feel empowered, grants us strength,

Our needs provided, secured up to whatever length."

#HappyMarch192024

"It's unfortunate, but some still refuse to grow,

Starting with an easy life, thinking that's all

There is, getting their way, what they want,

Not striving for more, preparing for the future,

Behaving entitled, only caring about what they feel.

And when calamity strikes, spread out their hands

And beg, get angry if not given some.

But if we believe in a God who was,

Who is, and is to come, we know

That everyday, He's alive, He works, He manifests,

But He also needs us to work and account;

Not depending on other's favors but His grace

Poured out on our honest and faithful work.

Because He is faithful, so must we be;

Because He never tires, we invoke His strength,

Because He is wisdom, we ask for some,

Because He is love, we too must have,

Not from other's labor, pity nor condescension,

But from the honest sweat of our brow,

In recognition of our Heavenly stewardship mandate,

In honor of Him who created us and creates still.

May we start our work week and everyday,

With His guidance and provision all the way."

#HappyMarch182024

"At a time when leadership is in question,

With some purporting to promote the good life,

Some saying they bring salvation to the soul,

Yet most fail; what's more, manifesting grave evil;

It's best to look at our Saviour's example,

And remember that leadership is actually an outlier,

A product of humility, wisdom, love and grace,

In a world full of pride, entitlement, lacking peace.

But leadership is the best of all ways,

To eternal glory, to be proven responsible stewards.

But we must first outgrow our own selves,

And stop thinking people and the world owes us.

For each of us must be responsible and accountable,

For our lives, for our souls, for the kingdom.

May we learn not to flaunt what we have today,

Especially not call attention to our hopes of tomorrow.

For tomorrow may not come, but memories linger,

And we might be mocked, when dreams go asunder.

It is enough to invite people to peek into our lives,

But not air out the dirty linen nor expose the vaults.

For our mission is to share God's kingdom,

And not our own ignorance, biases, prejudices and faults."

#HappyMarch172024

"It's difficult to live substantially, bogged down deep

By materialism, superficials, trivialism, what feeds the ego.

For one cannot err, their soul to keep,

Be humane, while holding fast to wordliness too.

And what is wordliness: prioritizing only our need,

Thinking how short is life not to enjoy,

Believing we must be first, we must lead,

Buying happiness, even without substance and true joy.

But the truth always stares in the face,

Bringing forth wisdom, love, godly living also diverse,

Not couched in conformity but understanding, Heavenly grace,

Neither condescending nor flattery, but truth in verse."

#HappyMarch162024

"Because charity can neither be forced nor faked,

So may we not expect people we believe

To have much in life, will really take

The call to be unselfish and willingly give.

Just as salvation is a gift, from love,

Which our Heavenly Father has blessed on us;

So the joy to part with what we have,

Is also Spirit-fruit, a lifetime it lasts.

And though life dictates we be self-sustained indeed,

But the one who has been truly freed

From the curse of materialism will be blessed,

To know that in giving we receive more.

In truth, generosity as a reward is best,

Worthier than all the world's gold in store."

#HappyMarch152024

"The way to the heart, is through the stomach,

Not just for men, but for everyone too.

For science says we are driven by the gut,

And our lifelong microbiome residing there happily so.

So it seems with our deeper lives, though subliminal,

We decide and act based on what we feel;

Often not thinking if our basis is bias or factual;

Believing only we are right, that everything is a good deal.

But may we realize that we're meant for something higher,

Our legacy not in the material but in substance,

And goodness and kindness, generosity and humility are what matter,

Love, faith and hope; for and from our God of abundance."

#HappyMarch142024

"It's reality, life turns and goes its way,

With some situations of which we can't understand.

Yet, we're never alone nor left to stray

From our loving God's care, provision and mighty hand.

And so may we always keep in mind,

To call, to always seek His help and pray,

For He never leaves whom He loves behind;

As His promise, He'll always make a way."

#HappyMarch132024

"Two things we all have: resources and capabilities,

Determine how far we can go in life.

For each of us have different, unique abilities,

Enabling us to survive this world of strife.

And when our God said to trust Him,

It's a better choice to take His offer,

And indeed hope, believe, find peace in Him

Who can make all things well and better.

That is faith, a manifestation of true love,

Believing He completes us; even alone, never abandoned,

But provided well, with everything we already have,

Our needs met, our inadequacies forgiven and condoned."

#HappyMarch122024

"No time should be wasted, not doing good,

For our time on earth easily runs out.

Yes, we can achieve things as we should,

But always there'll be a reckoning, no doubt.

And it is painful at the end to note,

That we have only done as others did,

Not according to our unique heavenly-appointed route,

Not a deviation from the crowd and trend.

May we be given wisdom to know more,

What we need to achieve, in greatness, accomplish;

And chart new trails others haven't been before,

To make happen what cowards can only wish."

#HappyMarch112024

A lot may be offended by this, but...

Kani lang jud no, in sharing our faith as Christians,

Let's quote and share the words of JESUS CHRIST more than that of the epistles of the Apostle Paul, which many of us often cut short, misquote, or misappropriate in inappropriate situations...

Unless we want to be called Paulinians...

But even the Paulinian communities share the gospel more...

Because the words of Paul in the epistles are his interpretations of life, the gospel, and his responses to the challenges of the church during his time, many of which may be one-sided, judgmental, and inappropriate to these times in our history,

While the words of our Savior were The Good News; they may be harsh, but eternal and unchanging, The Word of Life...

#HappyRefreshingSunday

"As a Christian, we always try to fix other people... Wow! Shall we wait for that [to come true] for a while, or... Do we call ourselves saints now?... We don't have to be like other people (or for them to be like us) to reach them [and share our faith], we only have to like them... Don't curse the darkness, turn on the [your] light... Bad times (sorry) are such good times to share our faith..."

(because we need to share the peace, strength and hope that we have, not to condemn others nor threaten them with eternal damnation, nor feed the world with terror and fear so they will subscribe to the same prejudices as us)

"Great Christian music (in church service) should be lived at home"

"Connect with people, do not correct them... So that you may be pleasing to the people whom you believe are lost." - John Maxwell

#HappySunday

"It's humbling to know we can't control all,

We have dreams, efforts, strife, struggles and fears,

Things holding us up, some making us fall,

Those that give joy, some giving us tears.

None of these are greater than our Father,

Who created all things, and who gives breath.

So that we can only be thankful rather

Than flaunt and boast, having no real wealth.

May we always properly place and behave ourselves,

Before Him, in gracious humility, above all else."

#HappyMarch102024

"One can't really fake faith, it always shows,

For there will always be points of reckoning;

Where with true love and patience one knows,

That there is a chance to prove everything.

Just as time is the tester of passion,

How strong it is, how faithful the keeping,

Of promises, of care, support, time and affection,

So is it with faith that's alive and moving.

May ours stand the test of a lifetime,

That at the end, our reward be divine. "

#HappyMarch092024

"We may not have power, clout nor connection,

Life may not have given us much resource,

But by our Saviour's grace, we're give passion

To serve, support, teach, love in full force.

For we must show His mercy to all,

While making sure we teach people " to fish",

That at life's end we remain standing tall,

Good stewardship done, accounting life with honest service.

May we not be remiss in our effort,

Striving on our own, or with others' support."

#HappyMarch082024

"When we feel down, anxious, besieged and out,

It's good to remember we have high ground,

To run to, seek guidance, protection round about,

With mercy and grace, wisdom, love all around.

It's always worth remembering our Father in these

Challenging, trying, difficult, exhausting, confusing, and burdensome times;

For He never runs out of bounty and peace,

Which we receive as we pray all times.

May we not lose that bond and keep

On believing, praying, trusting, with faith so deep."

#HappyMarch072024

"Living simply, our Saviour's words we truly affirm:

That if we save our souls we lose it,

But if we give it up, we gain,

An adage that is always a good fit.

For if we only think of our salvation,

Worry only for our own safety and need,

We fail to manifest His love in action,

Be our brethren's keeper, we fail to heed.

And so we might give, sacrifice, and lose,

We might think our efforts even be wasted;

But supporting others always have good, everlasting use,

For seeds of His love we have planted."

#HappyMarch062024

"Sufferings are difficult to understand, heavy to bear,

They're actually an unwelcome part of daily living.

But if their regularity brings wear and tear,

Our endurance and patience is key to everything.

For with them we feel human and vulnerable,

Masochistic yes, but we perceive our God's strength.

And with our daily prayers, we're made able,

To still give praise, our faith added length.

So may we always hope, believe and pray,

That His grace will still save the day."

#HappyMarch052024

"The soul that's content is full of confidence,

That no matter how life turns, everything's good.

It's courageous beyond understanding, peaceful unmarred by pretense,

Love and wisdom, it's daily sustenance and food.

Because if we accept His sacrfice that saves,

The deliverance we remember this time every year,

We know our God still works and lives,

Even giving us hope, wiping away our tears.

And so with faith we face our future,

Manifesting His image daily, being our true nature."

#HappyMarch042024

"It's an ironically sad part of adulting sometimes,

To pretend that things are better, good and fine,

When in reality we struggle to make ends meet,

When we strive not to boil over and remain kind.

But nothing quite reminds and grounds our person,

Than meeting childhood mates and friends for whatever reason.

We reminisce, feel happy about times gone by,

When lives were simpler, carefree, full of fun.

Not difficult no matter how hard we try,

When responsibilities are full in our hands.

So it seems when we go back home

With our God and others in purer connections,

Confident enough to be honest, transparent and open,

Humble and wise enough to admit our imperfections.

May we always season our life's everyday motivation,

With love, grace, truth and right an everyday passion."

#HappyMarch032024

"Anti-corruption initiatives are brave, good and praiseworthy,

As well as speaking out against tyranny and greed.

But often it is the heart we fail to see,

That wants more, regardless of other people's need.

For sadly, corruption has been ingrained in culture,

Deceit and fraud bigger pulls than love and generosity.

So that speaking truth is attacking the structure,

That breeds poverty, chaos, social decay and anarchy.

Yet God's people are mandated to be different,

To speak Truth, to act with wisdom, fairness,

Humility, generosity, peace, patience always exercising good judgment,

With courage, stepping up yet still with kindness.

May we fulfill this mandate all our days,

And be content and blessed by His grace."

#HappyMarch022024

"Good governance requires that we always remember,

That we are mere stewards, owners of nothing,

Even our lives, our resources, our environment,

Save the proper response of joy and Thanksgiving.

Indeed, on earth we see nothing lasts forever,

There is a time and a season for everything,

A time for sorrow, joy, introspection and merriment,

Yet, beyond the grave we can bring nothing.

And so all we have left is the humane act,

Of being the image of our good Father,

In generosity and love, in making positive impact,

Bringing peace, healing, hope, faith in His kingdom forever."

#HappyMarch012024

[ivy72376]

EIGHT WORDS PER LINE, February 1-29, 2024

"Some people dismiss parts of the Bible as myth,

And for that, refuse to believe most everything else.

Some choose to read the watered-down versions,

Feeling daunted by the difficult English.

Still some think that not everything is applicable,

And read and share only the same worn-out verses.

Yet they forget, the Bible is a library, a school even, of different thoughts and philosophies.

There's history, science, medicine, nutrition, philosophy, ethics, fantasy,

There are personal anecdotes and lessons on family.

There are archaeological details, and moral lessons,

There are political learnings, and lessons on humility.

Truly, every word is inspired, and useful for learning,

And each passage worth examining and evaluating.

Even the uncomfortable and difficult ones teach us patience,

The challenging ones also teach wisdom and virtue.

So may we treat the Word indeed as library,

Where along with trusted reference materials, we see

What golden nuggets each of its manifold verses

Show us, and equip us to live abundantly."

#HappyFebruary292024

"Beyond the proclamations, we don't really know,

What goes on inside a person's heart and mind.

They could be the kindest, gentlest, most generous fellow,

But deep down could be someone discontented and unkind.

They could be so alive, in ministry so active,

They could be so outspoken of their belief,

But when called to service, they've got nothing to give,

Except condescension, posturing, moments for photos so brief.

May we each examine our thoughts and every motive,

To ensure they bring hope, and encourage others to live."

#HappyFebruary282024

"More than us not giving up on faith and prayer,

Is not drowning out the voices of the weaker,

For we have a God who is not deaf,

Who also created us with capacity to care.

And though He says that to Him we must always call,

He also reminds us in His word to listen,

To heed the need, concern and issues of others,

To offer up a word in their behalf,

To extend support, care, a helping hand.

In this world and time which demand more,

May it not be attention and validation that we clamor.

For we already have those from our Creator and Savior,

And maturity demands that these we give to others

less privileged, less informed, the destitute and more."

#HappyFebruary272024

"Living just and fair is difficult, always challenging,

Especially when the next generation is looking up.

We are expected to be consistent and true,

But often we stumble and miss the mark.

Yet, hope isn't lost with humility and faith,

For we can always try to do our best,

And admit our shortcomings, acknowledging our limits,

While making sure to treat each person with respect.

For the mind doomed to destruction is closed,

But the gracious heart is open to change."

#HappyFebruary262024

"It wasn't luck 38 years ago, that made

Our people rise up and dethroned a dictator,

But a passion for freedom, justice and right.

And it wasn't luck that we were called

To a life by our God and Savior,

But a passion for souls, peace, eternal life.

And so we must live daily in wisdom,

Humility, understanding, generosity, kindness, respect, goodness and grace,

And manifest His image in all our ways."

#HappyFebruary252024

"As we go through life, we open up,

From focusing on our nuclear ties, to one

That welcomes and keeps good friends through the years,

And nurtures all relationships, no good deed undone.

For life is ocean-wide, possibilities are sky-high,

And we never know when we might need

A friend to help, a company to keep,

That being a true one is blessing indeed.

So may we nurture friends, colleagues, and acquaintances,

And remain humble and generous in all circumstances."

#HappyFebruary242024

Just thought of this:

"Nothing beyond what's necessary, is one helpful adage;

Because what's truly important is plain and simple:

Be sincere, honest, kind, generous, humble and fair;

Acquire and dispense wisdom graciously to all people."

#HappyFriday

"One of the marks of an educated person,

Is to be able to listen to anything,

Without losing one's good principle, character or conviction,'

Is what someone famous somewhere, sometime has said.

It seems to agree with what we read,

That a person of faith is like situated,

One on whom our God's goodness is manifested,

Where His love is made true, eternal and undated.

These are those with hearts and minds open,

To welcome the stranger, fearlessly embracing the unknown,

Confident in life, with heaping grace from heaven,

Respecting each person, obscure or with renown.

Because an open mind is where truth bears fruit,

Where wisdom and love bring greatest transformative work."

#HappyFebruary232024

"You know you are in the right path,

Your convictions true, your choices and decisions worthwhile,

When you have peace and contentment, acceptance, joy that

Is immeasurable, security and confidence, humility a lifestyle.

And these come from having the mind and heart

Of our Savior who loves all, and wants

All to come, in His family be part,

Be unburdened from life's vanity, desires and wants.

May we take on His challenge and be

His salt and light for all to see."

#HappyFebruary222024

"It's often difficult to see beyond our own construct,

Beyond our own prejudice, ignorance, apathy and fear.

But that is where true love is found,

Where there is understanding, wisdom and peace.

If we can just open our minds to see,

Not to take everything said as gospel truth,

Save the gospel, but whatever expositions they be,

They should not be relied on without fruit.

Then we would see how beautiful life is,

That even if the world is hostile, unwelcome,

There's hope and joy in our Saviour's grace,

Whose arms are open, bidding all to come."

#HappyFebruary212024

Ahem... Actually, we don't need to be validated or completed by anyone... Our good God has already done that for each of us... And if we want to live a legacy, we don't need to only do that to our own offspring... Far too many people have left worthier legacies with strangers, and those whose lives they have touched, however briefly...

"It's easy to feel down, lonely and sad,

When people ignore you, not giving enough attention,

Nor respect your person, privacy, ideas and right,

Especially ignoring the good that you have done.

And there are times we do it too,

When we think the world revolves around us.

But there's one who doesn't, who always judges fair--

Our God, who is always there, ready to listen,

To our thoughts, our dreams, even our fears.

May we not ruin this beautiful, heavenly connection,

With pride, smugness, ignorance, intolerance, hatred and condescension,

And live in humility, service, faith and grace."

#HappyFebruary202024

"Prayer leads to good works, harmony and peace,

Not only within ourselves but with others too.

An act that should be silent and obscure,

But whose true power lies in lives reformed,

Words spoken with wisdom, generosity, kindness and grace.

It is not selfishly asking that God give us more,

But in faith, imploring for guidance and strength,

As we navigate life's highway, being His salt,

Light, hope, and example for all to see."

#HappyFebruary192024

"The future is scary, because we don't know what's there;

Especially when we want to believe that things will always be.

But when we realize that life goes on as it should, no matter,

Then there can be hope and peace for you and me.

Knowing it's futile to be anxious and fear,

Learning that the past has been and the future not in our hands;

Confident that we have a God who provides in every matter,

And that blessed is the one who endures life's trials, at the end of it all still stands."

#HappyFebruary182024

JUST TO CLARIFY:

The Holy Bible does not say, "Everything happens for a reason."...

This is a stretched and twisted misinterpretation of Romans 8:28, which does not demand passive acceptance of life's challenges and downturns, as they are more often beyond comprehension; but instead calls for an active response with love, in still fulfilling His will and purpose in spite of everything...

What's truly written though is that everyone and everything is given "time and chance", "seasons" even, to act upon what they believe in, what they were made for, and respond well to every situation... (Ecclesiastes 3:1, 9:11)

Because our God, the prime Designer and Creator of life, if we still haven't learned from nature, allowed us to ask "why" only when seeing the physical and tangible, an area we much relegate to science; but when analyzing how life turns, instead compels us to respond, "what for?", followed by "yes, I will"...

We have no right to ask the Potter why He made things out to be, (Isaiah 45:9...), but to say, "here I am, send me" (Isaiah 6:8).

#KanangKlaroLangAngPagsabot

"Growing up, growing old, should be growing better,

Not full of regrets, nor of missed lessons.

For learnings and realization often come much later,

When life teaches wisdom, in overcoming youthful passions.

And that goes for life's ups and downs,

When we're given time to race and rest,

Until we receive either condemnation or worthy crowns,

After we have proved and given our best.

So may we strengthen ourselves for the journey,

And patiently persevere, growing in love and humility."

#HappyFebruary172024

"Love is eternal, transcending even body and soul,

More than hearts, flowers, chocolates, endearments and sentiment.

It is giving beyond what we are able,

Loving many more than who's in the moment.

For indeed, romantic love blinds, closes the hand,

While agape opens to give more that'll last.

And seeing the latter is our Saviour's brand,

Timelessness far better than emotions that don't last.

So enjoy every moment now, with the one,

Because sharing love with many is life well done."

#HappyFebruary162024

"Can't say enough, all life calls for humility,

Not for the 'gram, not for the like.

For soon, humiliation, despair and destruction follows insincerity,

The sincere one, even mocked, gets the prize.

Not of earthly riches, adoration, glory and honor,

But of peace, prudence, a life of substance.

And that is more desirable, rather than power,

Where the heavenly kingdom gets promoted and advanced.

May we all be sincere, good and kind,

Be the light and hope that others mind."

#HappyFebruary152024

"In truth, the greatest love in the universe,

Was done on the cross two thousand years ago.

And before we can manifest it to others,

We need to start with ourselves too."

#HappyFebruary142024

"All shades of red, is what we are,

Along in each our life's journey thus far,

Nobody better, nobody more complete, perfect or whole,

For we each have battles big and small.

But through it all we believe as written,

That our Savior already has won and done,

With eternal victory, through His kingdom of heaven,

That in His hands, we are now one.

May this give us strength, hope and peace,

As we daily manifest His love, forgiveness and grace."

#HappyFebruary132024

"Nothing quite speaks hatred than condemning others before

Even knowing who they are and what they are like;

And assuming that because you don't see them in your little circle,

Or heard about them in your limited bubble,

Then you must be better than them,

Know more, are more righteous and true.

And nothing expresses more love than being open,

Understanding, kind, generous, and hoping that instead of

people making you comfortable or giving you what you want,

Even the validation and affirmation you need about your beliefs;

That you look out what's in their best interest,

What makes them comfortable and open up to you.

Just like our Savior, sharing a powerful kingdom message,

Unobtrusively, quietly, firmly but true;

Instead of condemnation, in the place of pride, ignorant prejudice,

There be love, peace, good order, joy and hope."

#HappyFebruary122024

"If only we stop thinking too highly of ourselves,

And realize that we don't hold monopoly of truth,

Or righteousness, goodness, kindness, talents, skills and abilities;

That we are not entitled to speak of what little we know,

Nor are people obligated to enlightened us with truth,

That we would not subscribe to anyway,

Since we have filled our cups with pride and prejudice,

And the mistaken illusion that people must give us their time and space,

But that we are all mandated to respect one another.

Then we would have truly seen how good our God is,

How faithful, generous, caring, protecting and loving.

We would also realize there's nothing to feel resentful or insecure about,

For nothing can be taken from us that is truly ours;

And that what we have is not ours but an undeserved favor,

Which we should not hoard or gloat over but share.

And not to feel resentful that others don't give us what we want,

Simply because what they have may have been meant for others more needful too.

Then, just like the queen we would learn,

That all we'd be left should be thankfulness and praise,

A life of service, unselfishness, understanding, magnanimity,

Working and striving joyfully with our God, never abandoned though

Alone, until we receive our ultimate reward and grace."

#HappyFebruary112024

"Wherever God calls us, is where we rise

Up to the challenge, with faith and confidence.

Because disillusionments and frustrations always hound the wise,

Who discern the fake, what causes the offense.

And through such journey predictable yet always surprising,

When life's pleasures are intermissioned by doubt, fear;

It's faith, obedience, endurance, courage, hope and healing,

That makes all our burdens easy to bear.

May we continue the good fight and race,

And abide steadfast till the end of days."

#HappyFebruary102024

"Growing up in debt is not easy, I agree,

Studying college, I benefited from that burden too.

Poor parents lovingly and unselfishly contracting loans everywhere,

Just to make beloved children's dreams come true.

And no amount of payment is ever enough,

For that sacrifice was wrought in true love.

That all we can ever do is be good,

Take care of our elders, and pay forward.

May we not let the debt of love and sacrifice,

Go unpaid, unsettled, with selfish, riotous living.

But continue the journey, fight the good fight,

Of faith, service, wisdom, patience and peace.

And love each day until our end of days."

#HappyFebruary092024

"In our fast-paced, attention-crazy modern world,

Pride itself becomes its own condemnation and destruction.

For how can one think to better society,

If all they do is talk, no action?

And with every effort at kindness and peace,

One realizes that humility gives everything due substance.

May we work diligently in fairness and justice,

That wisdom may reign, and life may advance."

#HappyFebruary082024

"Watching and praying, walking in faith and confidence,

Is what God's people did from of old.

It's the same principle we must follow today,

As we face challenges, difficulties, discouragements and offense.

For none of us is too great alone,

None too strong, too smart, or too crafty.

Always we need guidance and wisdom from above,

When life hangs heavy and its burdens hefty.

May we tap into our Creator's eternal power,

And be overcome by peace that lasts forever."

#HappyFebruary072024

"All of us go through THE life change,

When we must choose where life goes next.

For most, the choice is always heart-wrenching,

Having to give up what we value most.

But like Abraham we soon realize and see,

That it takes faith to take the leap,

Hope to believe that everything will go well,

Courage, in the face of doubt and fear.

For soon we experience true wisdom and provision,

The grace to face life's unknowns head-on,

The fulfillment and love borne out of obedience,

To a higher calling, to an unselfish service.

May we realize that we really own nothing,

And what we have must be generously given;

That through us others may see God's goodness,

By our service, they experience a slice of heaven."

#HappyFebruary062024

"We can only invite people to experience God,

It is Him who really brings them close.

All we are tasked is manifest His gospel,

While He calls those whom we believe are lost.

For we cannot judge people as they are,

Not knowing the race they've run so far.

All we're made for was be His light,

Vessels of love, wisdom, bounty, good and right.

May we endeavor that in us He's seen,

As we accomplish the kingdom mandate that's given."

#HappyFebruary052024

Not everything written about dragons are true... Just like not everything you see and hear are all there is... Always look behind the surface, between the lines, and listen to how things are said rather than what is spoken... For true godly wisdom and heavenly grace is discerning, understanding, full of mercy and good fruit...

#HappySunday

"It's true, we can't fight disease or dying,

Nor can we delay aging or physical breakdown.

Science sadly has not won its ageless battle,

Yet we're still here, doing the needed protocols.

But in this temporal life, one truth stands,

There's much to learn and be thankful for,

When we accept that everything happens with purpose.

It's when we realize that what medicine, hygiene,

Exercise, diet, insurances don't want to mention verbally:

Being grateful and content is all that's needed,

For a life to be of quality, regardless,

Of pain, sickness, disease, suffering, deprivation or poverty.

I don't know how to swim, but they say,

When you stop struggling, you float and learn.

So when we stop struggling against life's advance,

We can be at peace, secured, and confident.

That through all seasons, our Creator is there,

Guiding and strengthening, giving wisdom, care, and provision.

And above our aches our pains, we learn,

That the best insurance is faith and relationship with Him.

May we float with the flow of life,

And swim with His will in the tide."

#HappyFebruary042024

"Not under duress, the right kind of giving,

Out of love, without ill motive or extensive plan,

Is that which was shown by our King,

Our God of Three Persons worshipped as one.

We can be many things to many persons,

But let us be consistent through the seasons.

And so whatever it is that we do,

We can know and believe it is true,

If we likewise manifest the same genuine selflessness,

Without coercion, flattery, fanfare, empty applause and praise."

#HappyFebruary032024

"Some uncomfortable truths challenge conservative beliefs and persuasion,

Like deep friendships that stand across time and distance,

Ones that extend beyond normal, basic human attraction,

Or clearly, transcends beyond our efforts at relevance.

For soul mates do exist, with no ill intention,

People who sincerely love their friends without malice.

And it's this kind, often absent strong passion,

That manifests our God's legacy of peace.

For if we can give without expecting validation,

Then we've secured in heaven our forever portion."

#HappyFebruary022024

"The One whom we worship was The Greatest,

Yet, He humbled Himself to keep our souls,

Therefore He only deserves all of our best,

While here on earth we fulfill our roles.

A kingdom message of love, righteousness and peace,

Was what was given for us to share,

Undiluted, unadulterated, not for gain that is selfish,

That all may experience meaningful lives beyond compare.

May we be His servants faithful and true,

Believing someday, He will reward me and you."

#HappyFebruary012024

[ivy72376]

EIGHT WORDS PER LINE, January 1-31, 2024

"While we don't throw awards to the bin,

It is still helpful to remember their worth.

For what's really valuable is worth repeating again,

What gives meaning to our life on earth.

It is not human respect, attention or recognition,

But responding to our Saviour's call for action.

To spread the good news of His kingdom,

To live each day the values of heaven.

Which bid all, regardless, to enter and come,

To be His image, with sufficient grace given."

#HappyJanuary312024

"We knew we've seen the real deal leader,

When to the Captain of our souls we surrendered.

Because we believe He is faithful until forever,

And righteousness He'll bring as He has rendered.

And He's the model of all who lead,

In goodness, faith, justice, generosity, example of service.

Even slight exaggerations from His Word we read,

Is pride, evil, an affront to His peace.

May we all therefore follow His good example,

For our lives to have meaning, however simple;

And be refreshed, be comforted, be encouraged everyday,

By our good Shepherd who leads the way."

#HappyJanuary302024

"Against popular socmed trends, sufferings are not achievements;

They are means to strengthen our spirits' resolve.

Because to a life graced by godly moments,

They are eternal investments, not sweets that dissolve.

Sometimes, compared to others, ours may seem lesser;

Or at times heavier, more difficult, or graver;

But none equal, exact copies or really equitable.

So we must endure as we are able.

For God gives us joy, hope and peace,

And strength until the end of our days."

#HappyJanuary292024

"Every day we're given more than enough grace,

That doesn't discriminate age, gender, personality or race.

It's something undeserved, though necessary for meaningful living,

Gifted by our Heavenly Father, Savior and King.

Let's not parade it with pride or complacency,

But to share with love, patience and courtesy."

#HappyJanuary282024

"No conversation is easy, each word cuts deep;

Whether said in jest or with honest motive.

Therefore must we be circumspect and think twice;

Speaking what expresses the wisdom we can give."

#HappyJanuary272024

"Thankfully, though God is Judge, He's not judgmental;

He looks inside and sees our true potential.

So let's not fear our trials and challenges,

For He who provides and guides, never changes."

#HappyJanuary262024

"Every moment, good or bad, challenging or easy,

Is defining, life-changing, worth our best effort.

May we not waste them with uninformed choices,

Pride, prejudice, bias, doubt, impatience, insecurity or fear.

But instead fill each with wisdom and love."

#HappyJanuary252024

"A quick word on words: they cut deep,

No sooner uttered, than felt sorry and regretted.

So if we our soul and sanity keep,

Must be mindful of our every word said."

#HappyJanuary242024

"The future is now, and not sometime hence;

We start doing today, what things must be.

And for what's broken and damaged at present,

As His image, we start restoring and repairing,

Be they things, relationships, lives, hopes and dreams.

That when that time comes, we are ready,

Proven, tested, faithful servants worthy of our due."

#HappyJanuary232024

"When we were called, we're named to bless;

And that everyday, is what we will do.

We need to state our truth clearly, honestly,

Without bias, prejudice, fear, nor coercion or threat.

For our Savior commands us to lovingly, wisely,

Spread His kingdom message and live it too.

And when others are not convinced by that,

We shake the dust, and peacefully move on.

For it is Him alone who has power,

To judge, to curse, to decide, to avenge.

Yet, all are given the chance to heed.

Our duty is to show only what's better,

Between a life of darkness, and of light.

And despite all challenges, disinformation, oppression and abuses,

May we remain faithful on that task forever."

#HappyJanuary222024

"It's fun watching the woman voice behind GPS,

It teaches us that humans still rule technology.

Makes us realize there's more than what is,

There's truth behind what we hear and see.

And so is it with faith and life,

They are rooted in things eternal and wonderful.

That it's useless to doubt and be fearful,

Nor fill our days with struggle and strife.

For we can be confident that God provides,

He sees, He knows, He understands, He abides.

And though we perish with our last breath,

But hope in His faithfulness is true wealth."

#HappyJanuary212024

"We're God's children, but now let's be mature.

We need to stop screaming for His attention.

For our God knows what we need before

We utter a word or appeal with passion.

We need only talk to Him as Father,

And regularly check in, whenever, for any matter.

We can sing or dance for Him as well,

But not to belt out, shriek, or squeal,

Nor convulse, get paroxysms, or wildly, uncontrollably flail.

For He is not deaf, but all-hearing,

He is not blind, but ever all-seeing,

And He's a God of order and peace.

No matter our situation, we believe He cares,

So we can respectfully offer up our prayers.

And as He is ever faithful and true,

We are confident He always pays attention too."

#HappyJanuary202024

"Some will get offended, this I'm afraid so;

For I believe the same God we worship,

Is able and places us right here, now,

In whatever situation, in whatever season and place,

Appropriately perfect, for what we need and more.

And so we need not fear nor worry,

What happens when our earthly time is up.

For He will put us somewhere we belong,

In realms and states we're meant to dwell.

And whenever, whatever, wherever that place may be,

We'll gratefully receive what we deserve for eternity."

#HappyFridayEvening

"Beware of trusting what you believe is right,

And always examine whom you heard it from.

For our Savior said many are false teachers,

And prophets that sell your soul for money.

Whoever has words but no deeds is fake,

Same as one noisy but with no impact.

That you might keep your sanity and soul,

Always pray for discernment, patience and wisdom too."

#HappyJanuary192024

"Make no mistake, humility and generosity go together.

These are keys to happiness now and forever.

And though modern life's hardships tempt us otherwise;

These truly keep our souls, making us wise."

#HappyJanuary182024

"The God we follow manifests in our deeds;

And His will becomes our daily motivations too.

May we adopt His goodness, generosity, and love;

That everywhere, every time, we bring life and peace."

#HappyJanuary172024

"Life is too short to live with regrets;

We must always be wise, understanding, and circumspect.

And though everyday we might commit an error;

Still we strive to be better than before."

#HappyJanuary162024

"Thankfully, God is fair; He is not corrupt.

You don't need machinations to make it up.

You don't need flattery, bribe, nor oratory too.

For the heart is what He looks into.

And a heart of service, beyond our feelings;

Beyond our preferences, ideas, biases, prejudices and imaginings.

May we remain, humble, steadfast, patient and true;

Everyday living our faith, and giving what's due."

#HappyJanuary152024

"Some people talk much, without revealing their minds.

Some smile and demure, while holding a dagger.

But always be humble, fair, generous and sincere;

While being discerning, alert, careful, keen and wiser."

#LifeIsTooBeautifulToGetScammed

"It's fun and sobering, reading other people's faces.

You know what they're like, what they're thinking.

If only we do that when we vote.

Then we would have less thieves in office."

#MienShiangIsKey

"They say busy hands make for busy minds.

So, do busy mouths mean emptier minds then?"

#ClassicIntovert

#HappyDrizzlingDay

"Not all people will be pleased with you;

And that's totally okay, that's their right too.

But always abide by the truth you've learned;

That will set you up for all time."

- Standard Nonconformist

#HappySunday

"Life is too short to waste being scammed,

Therefore we must learn all that we can.

When we're tempted by a certain someone's tenet,

Let's stop, think, measure against our Saviour's intent.

That we don't specialize, confuse, condemn nor divide,

But understand, empathize, draw nearer to His side."

#HappyJanuary142024

"It took me a lifetime to learn this;

Thankfully, I now know who's sincere, who's insecure:

When we condemn others, we're looking at mirrors;

The ones we hate are us in secret."

#HappySaturdayEvening

"Not all of life's battles must be fought;

In some we persevere, in some we surrender.

But what we must not give up on,

Is to hold on in faith and prayer."

#HappyJanuary132024

"You can't convince people to believe like you,

If you don't manifest a more credible alternative.

You cannot build a lasting and worthy legacy,

when you stop at you, sans the community."

#ChangingOthersPeoplesMindsIsChangingYourselfFirst

This may offend some, but according to mudra:

the key to having a child who loves to read books and have a high degree of reading comprehension in whatever material is a parent who actually reads books too, and who fills the house with books that are good reads...

In other words, literacy is less the job of the teacher at school (mostly overworked and underpaid), but an inherited habit and lifestyle, almost a genetic trait, in the home...

#BuildYourLibrariesAndReadThem

"There's no labor where God is not present;

So we must give our best, selflessly, faithfully."

#HappyJanuary122024

"You should never malign truth or lived history,

Just for money, fame, like, or political mileage."

#TruthIsTruthRegardlessOfDisinformationOrLies

"To each of us is given good measure,

For which we must be accountable and responsible;

And when we think of the eternal reward,

There's no reason for insecurity, envy, nor pride."

#HappyJanuary112024

"If you're proud of something, just be quiet;

Don't put others down because you feel superior.

For just as no good deed remains unrewarded,

So will karma strike where it hurts most."

#BeHumbleSubtleInoffensiveUnabusiveUplifting

"We hope and wish while there's still time,

For things in life to turn out well;

But control and certainty are beyond our hands,

So the best we can do is pray."

#HappyJanuary102024

"True love is not all passion and sacrifice;

But creativity, joy, generosity, and lifetime dedication too."

#HappyJanuary092024

"Tragedy and deprivation may bring out our worst;

But never to exploit people's generosity and time."

#APerfectDayToBeKindAndFair

"His sacrifice was perfect, unequalled, cannot be replicated;

All we must do is live for Him."

#HappyJanuary082024

"We're often shameless while running out of time;

But favors are earned over a lifetime too."

#HappySunday

"There will always come a time for restoration;

But we need to upgrade our mindsets too."

#HappyJanuary072024

"Everyone deserves privacy; Be friendly, but not personal." #LoveAtArmsLength

"Let us avoid comparing ourselves with other people;

We don't know their experiences behind closed doors."

#BeingContentAndSecure

"His life, death and resurrection brought us salvation;

May we likewise give our best for Him."

#HappyJanuary062024

"Life is short;

Always choose truth and good."

#HappyJanuary052024

"Loud attention-seekers may make all the noise,

But quiet, faithful ones always save the day."

#HappyJanuary042024

"Caring for nature is an act of worship."

#HappyJanuary032024

A life lived only for today is meaningless;

But a life lived for eternity is worthy...

#HappyJanuary022023

Same person, but with

New Year, New Mindset...

#InEightWordsExactly

#HappyJanuary012024