Treasures of Bolinao

Now I know why it’s called “Boracay of the North”. With its breathtaking views, serene beach and marvelous cliffs, Bolinao shall truly be a destination forever etched in my memory. We go to Pangasinan almost yearly, but this is the first time I’ve been to Bolinao, and I discovered a paradise.
For those looking for a comfortable stay, I recommend Treasures of Bolinao Hotel.

overlooking Treasures of Bolinao Resort

pool inside the resort

splashy waves in Bolinao (trek on top)

Patar Beach crystal clear waves

Here are recommended various spots:

1. Patar White Beach
2. Various hotels and destinations (Puerto del Sol and Treasures of Bolinao topped the list)
3. Enchanted Cave
4. Cape Bolinao (Major Lighthouse International)
5. “Poseidon” Cliffs
6. Patar Woodland (ideal for lovers of trekking and mountain climbing)

on top of cliff

One thing I learned: The best things in life are FREE! Hahaha :P

sunset at Bolinao

Solitude

Despite all the interactive people I get along with, despite all the laughter reverberating in my ears, despite all the gabfest I have with friends and family, despite all the gatherings and keep-in-touch moments and despite the people-orientedness in me…

I sometimes find myself in solitude.

Secluded from the roaring sound of the noisy world, I find my self alone.

Isolated in a momentary breeze and captured in a private world.


And I love it. :)

In this busy world of mingling with all sorts of people, I love a good time with myself.
Just to share, here are things that make life more fulfilling when you are alone:

· Have a good read – Indulge in a worthy book while having a good cup of frap.
Recommendations: “Keep Yourselves in God’s Love”, Confessions of a Shopaholic, Night Music (promotion..hehe)
· Meditate on blessings received for the past year, see how things have changed, and note the lessons learned. Don’t do this in a public place, otherwise, people will get an “impression” of you.. hehe
· Take time to appreciate the wonderful creation around you. Stroll in the park, smell the fresh air, look at the floras, and watch the sun set. Remarkable time! Added thrill when you bring a camera and capture the colorful things. (Then make an online album of it..:P)
Trivia: Watching the sunset alone tends to make people suicidal. Fallacy! I did it and I’m still alive. Haha I guess this statement is relative.
· Stroll in the mall. You don’t have to buy a thing. Window Shopping comes in the vocabulary when there’s a strict budget. But believe me, shopping releases stress :)
· SPAmper yourself. Occasionally, have a Swedish massage to rest out the tired muscles.
· Learn a new thing – memorize the lyrics of a new song, practice a new software, etc. Have a thirst for knowledge, dear.
· Blog. Don’t let your ideas go to waste. Put them into writing. Who knows, someone might appreciate the insight.


So the next time you find yourself in solitude, enjoy the moment and make the best out of it :)

Strangers on the Train

As kids, we were told not to talk to strangers. To avoid them at all costs if we didn’t want to end up in their rucksacks. But that commandment was likened to change as we grow a bit older and wiser. Suddenly, these strangers have become enigmatic and interesting. We then hop on the train of strangers only to be delighted by their humor, inspired by their talents, and mesmerized by their unique character. They became our acquaintances, colleagues, and friends.

The long, lonely ride inside the train is now bearable and surprisingly fun. Their laughter reverberates throughout the train, the air now thick with endless conversations, friendly advice and surprising dialogues. And like any other journey, there are stopovers. Some choose to wait and stay, while others move on to take the road less traveled, as they leave behind nothing but heartfelt memories and friendship.

And now, as we go along and continue this never ending ride of our lives, we will never forget the special relationships we’ve fostered with each and every one of them. For these individuals are strangers no more.

After almost 3 years of service, I decided to get off the train (my present company) and move on to the road. I am traveling on to a different road, yet the learning and memories remain...

Young People Ask - What Will I Do With My Life

Young People Ask - What Will I Do With My Life

Last Sunday, I was able to watch the video Young People Ask - What Will I Do With My Life with some friends. It is really a must-see video, especially for teenagers who are currently experiencing a crossroad in their lives.

Notable points in the video:
1. All you need is a bowl and spoon to survive. We don’t need to have all the “good things” in life.
2. Unless you serve God zealously, you will feel empty.
3. We can use our lives in vain pursuits, but we will end up striving after wind.
4. “No one can slave for two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will stick to the one and despise the other. YOU cannot slave for God and for Riches.”
5. “On account of him I have taken the loss of all things and I consider them as a lot of refuse…”

Andre (the main character) gave up his opportunity to be the best player in the running team, and thus let go of the opportunity of getting a college scholarship and joining the Olympics. However, he got more than what he sacrificed. He got baptized, served as a full-time minister, and was invited to study in the MTS. The beaming smile on his face as he relays his experience in front of his family in the assembly has surpassed even the largest trophy in the world.

Thanks to this video, I was strengthened that I made the right choice. Serving in as a regular pioneer (full-time minister) has helped me keep things in focus. Even the most expensive car model could not be compared to the joy of sharing the good news to other people and seeing them transform their lives for the better. Even a Doctorate’s diploma would not surpass the inner peace and joy I feel whenever I am with the organization of God-loving people. Yes, I am sure of what I will to do with my life. I am determined to run in the road of life in accordance to God’s will.

Shadow

The shadow behind me is pervasive enough for me to sense that I am being followed.

The angle thru which my eye can see has been limited, but the keen sense of my feelings cannot be deceived.

As I walk cautiously toward my goal, I can't help but look back.

The space behind me is murky, and my trail is nothing but gloomy shadows.

Optimistically, I look at my goal and go on walking.

There are voices inside my head.

Voices that have long been gone, voices that were part of the past.

Doubt. Betrayal. Loss of trust. Fear.

These whimpering voices ratlle in my brain as I walk.

Panic encompasses my being. I feel weak.

My feet get strangled and my body staggers downward.

I cannot get up for my strength has been lost.

The voices still scream in my head. The shadow has won.