My World of Blogging

          Blogging started on the early 90's and since then, it has grown into a very popular activity for anyone. Much have been said about this writing on the net and elsewhere, it continues to evolve into a powerful platform for people to communicate online their thoughts on many matters. 

          If we look at it, we could say that blogging really is not that old in existence yet it has become so popular that even the powerful worlds of advertisements and consumerism are tremendously affected by it.  The rise in popularity started in 1999 especially with the arrival of self hosted blog tools. 

• "Bruce Ableson launched Open Diary in October 1998, which soon grew to thousands of online diaries. Open Diary innovated the reader comment, becoming the first blog community where readers could add comments to other writers' blog entries.
• Brad Fitzpatrick started LiveJournal in March 1999.
• Andrew Smales created Pitas.com in July 1999 as an easier alternative to maintaining a "news page" on a Web site, followed by Diaryland in September 1999, focusing more on a personal diary community.^[22]
• Evan Williams and Meg Hourihan (Pyra Labs) launched Blogger.com in August 1999 (purchased by Google in February 2003)"- Source: Wikipedia- the free encyclopaedia

          As such, many users of the online world soon become members of the so-called blogosphere - the world of bloggers. Indeed, it is on this online world wherein bloggers come and share the joy and success of blogging. On the other hand, they tend to give and get support from one another. This kind of world that is devoid of any discrimination, boundaries, exclusivity and the like. And count me in as one of those people who make use of various platforms to express my thoughts. 

imagecredit: http://www.gratisography.com/pictures/86H.jpg

            Presently, I maintain a couple of blogs to express my thoughts and inspirations on certain topics and sharings. Enumerated below are examples of them- my sources of communicating my thoughts with you all. 

1. Every Day is a Gift- my blog which focuses on daily inspirations and human interests. On this blog, I share with the readers my thoughts on subjects that touch our daily lives and correspondingly affect our day to day journey;

2. Promoting Strong Future International- my online marketing business. Here, Strong Future International (SFI), being my first and foremost online marketing business since I have other sources as well, is constantly promoted and shared. Methods and updates on this company are displayed and extended to others most notably to those who would also be interested in putting up their own online marketing business;

3. My Life Journey- a blog on my life journey and on other people's lives inspiration. Beforehand, I am aware how my life is interwoven with other people's lives especially to the significant people in my life- my wife and my kiddo, Kurt Kristoff.  Conscious of the influence given by these special people as well as that coming from all others whom I encounter every now and then, I share my thoughts from those bonding moments with them through this blog;

4. Sports Diary- being a highly sports minded person,  I came up with this blog sharing with the readers news and updates on the sporing world. Sports plays a significant impact on people's lives since this field involves lots of facets such as discipline, consistency, moderation etc. to excel in such a way that I am also inspired by all those examples set by these sport characters.

5. Come and Share Our Fun (Jugan Clan)- a blogger who belongs to a big clan originally coming from Cebu Province, it is on this blog that I shared the history, developments, events, accomplishments and others as experienced by the members of our family. It is the intention of the writer to share our family members'  inspirations and hard work not only within the family yet to other readers also.

          Thus, with all those blogs and a couple of which I would still continue to develop, it is with joy and pleasure that I extend my thoughts and aspirations with all those who have encountered and who will be reading them.  A heartfelt gratitude for all my readers and a warm welcome for those who will one day encounter any of my blogs.

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Goal in Working: Is It Earning or Satisfaction?

          People go to work not only because they want to earn income but somehow, they also seek  job satisfaction. Working the whole day is such a boring thing yet it could be the contrary when somebody treats the workplace as a second home. Henceforth, certain factors must be considered in order to stay long and sustain any whole day at work. A couple of these are the harmonious relationship between workers and employers as well as sufficient salary depending on one's contributions.

        Relationship is a fundamental factor that a workplace must have. Otherwise regardless of how high a salary can an employee is receiving but without the understanding and cooperation of everything, the job then is unfulfilling. There's no one who can be successful on his/her job without the cooperation of everybody. 

imagecredit: Jozh Tuballa

          Being an essential contributor in a company, an employee is entitled to receive enough salary. It is one thing that motivates him/her to work harder and to look forward from the company. In effect, everyone is happy and satisfied since he/she can provide for his/her needs.

co-writer: Myra Jugan



                                                  

What is your Perception of the World?

 In life so frequently it is our own perspective that causes us pain or pleasure. As we go through life “feeling” the world with our fingers, if our finger is broken, naturally we will experience pain everywhere.

We make the mistake of blaming the external world for our ailments: “My job is over-taxing, my husband is too demanding, my wife nags, my children are disobedient, my in-laws don’t understand me, and so on.” Fr. Bel R. San Luis, SVD

          As I read this article by Fr. San Luis, I tried to recall back those times wherein I became like that of what he mentioned in his example. There were exactly times wherein I unceasingly complained about what was happening around me that I was blinded to see my own contributions to what has happened. Consequently, I joined others who have failed to remedy the situation. Think of the times that you focus your ire, dissatisfaction and upset  on outside factors except yourself.

imagecredit: Alex Vidal

          What is invited from me and you is a so-called paradigm shift- a change and a turn around from the way we perceive both things and  ourselves. That instead of complaining much on external forces and factors, we better check initially within us if what are those things that need to be changed for the better. Shifting gears especially an internal one entails a long process and it requires consistency as well as discipline so as to fully reap positive fruits. 

          One common denominator among us is our perception of the world being a complicated one yet at the end of the day, if we ever change this perspective then most probably, when we wake up the next day, we feel better and further dignified to get ready and to continue one's life journey. 

          Thus, let us allow ourselves to undergo self-transformation for the betterment of our future and for us to have a solid grasp yet joyful relationship with everything around us. Peace within will also eventually lead us into a tranquil world so worthy to live in.

                                              

Are You Ready for This New Month?

          June 2014- welcome to this new month and the last month for the first half of the year. Have you realised how quick those first five months go? What were the memorable events that have come into your life since we started this year? Have you done one extra ordinary thing to a neighbour or a friend or maybe even to a stranger? Or have you made one person's life miserable for those past months? 

imagecredit:hyena reality, published on 11 February 2014
Stock Image - image ID: 100235636

          Looking back and trying to re- assess our past activities is somehow one positive thing to practice since it gives us a right perspective on what particular way we should be trekking in life. At times, due to our hectic schedules, we tend to neglect in minding our daily actions and even our dealings with our loved ones. Quality time is one of those things which is very instrumental in promoting our relationship with them and with others. 

          Thus, as we begin this new month, can we ask ourselves, "Are we ready to engage in activities that are worth remembering and life promoting?" As often as we are, we consistently make priorities everyday. Aside from these priorities, we also constantly involve ourselves in a decision making activity. With all of these matters being noticed, we can expect a more favourable interactions with other people, both known and unknown to us. Apart from that, it is also wonderful if we learn to express gratefulness for each day's blessings.  

                                              

Dreams are Sources of Strength and Motivation

“The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.” –Eleanor Roosevelt

           So powerful....moving......challenging....these are but some of the words that came out of my mind when I read this quotation by Eleanor Roosevelt. In this world, what holds us firmly is unending search for the future. The future that would lead us into a more meaningful state of living...a future that will bring us and all our loved ones in a state of closeness, bonding, happiness, strength, satisfaction and peace.

imagecredit:http://www.freemediagoo.com/free-media/beach/o_dscn1050-high.jpg

          Yet we also need to believe that reaching this future is something that we can do and accomplish. Day by day, we experience no two exactly similar things. All of these experiences, big and small, will enable us to gradually mould our dreams---- those dreams that will give us strength to wake up each day and face life squarely. These dreams may vary from me and you yet they all have one thing in common----these dreams will lead us into self fulfilment.

          Happy are we who have embraced our dreams and live them day by day since they will guide us into becoming self directed individuals. Accept wisely those times of falling and learn from them yet never do them twice or thrice since that will result to one's stupidity. As each day comes to its end, let us all be grateful for all the realisations and the opportunities that will move us closer to our dreams. 

                                       

How To Free Oneself from Insecurities

“Insecurities have the ability to shape and mold our minds to live with everything that’s bad; like crying on the inside, while smiling on the outside…thus creating pain…but, alas, I have the answer; forget about what you thought and enjoy (embrace) what you feel” 
― Jeremy Aldana

          One of the famous quotes that I greatly like since it hits me at times in the inside.  What then is insecurity? Others would put it as if it is an evil that continues to hound us wherever we go. There are moments in our life that we feel helpless against it. Some manifestations of our insecurity come into this way. Have you noticed that at times, we feel envious to other people's skills, talents, gifts etc disregarding in the process to appreciate our own giftedness. 

imagecredit:

Country Path

ID: 246410© Dainis Derics | Dreamstime Stock Photos 

         And it doesn't end there. Somehow, knowingly or unknowingly, our basic relationships are at times affected. Our dealings with people begins to be tainted with black colours with such flavours that left us hanging in the air. The more insecure we tend to become, the more distractions that come into our life. Consequently, we become suspicious of people and we feel ill at ease when mates group together then chat among themselves. It is as if we become the subject of their conversation. That's how insecure we seem to become.

          Our minds become so restless that we easily get agitated and irritated by our peers' limitations. There could have been times wherein we feel so bad at the end of the day and it seems that we have wasted one whole day. 

          How then could we resolve this stumbling block to growth called insecurity? The process would always be lifetime yet we could always start from the very deep within us. Allow every moment to be a time of grace rather than just limiting our focus on what is not perfect. Furthermore, let us learn to appreciate our own uniqueness and be humble enough to acknowledge other people's positive qualities. In my previous post before, I mentioned it there that one of the reasons why we then are created unique from each other is for us to learn to value the presence of others. 

Thus, to grow in a positive way is to allow ourselves be freed from all our insecurities. Continue to have that good vibes with people and with things around us. After all, life is a constant journey and in spite of our having various directions in this journey, the end is the same for us all---that is to be happy and contented in this life. 

                                           

Popular Attractions On Kho Phangan

Koh Phangan, also known as Koh Pha Ngan, is an island located in the Gulf of Thailand and is a part of the Chumphon Archipelago. The island is in the Southeastern part of Thailand, in the Surat Thani Province. A popular tourist attraction, the island is conveniently located halfway between the islands of Koh Samui and Koh Tao, and is popular for the full moon party at Haad Rin Beach. The island is known as the location for the 1996 famous novel "The Beach" by Alex Garland, which was later, adapted into a film, with Leonardo Di Caprio cast in the leading role.

Koh Phangan has an estimated perimeter of approximately 40 km, which takes about 10 hours of walking time to cover and the distance to Koh Samui is about 15 km, whereas to Koh Tao is about 35 km. The main town and the administrative center of the island is Thong Sala, which also acts as the islands main ferry port.

Here is a list of popular attractions on Koh Phangan:

Ao Nai Wok
This small bay, also known as Baan Manali Beach, is a popular tourist beach, featuring a pristine white strip of sand. The location is particularly attractive for windsurfing, kayaking and sailing, as well as snorkeling or other extreme sports. Tourists can go on kayaking trips all the way to the wild islands of Ko Tae Nok and Ko Tae Nai, located within a 10 minute paddling distance.

Haad Chao Phao
This small, quiet beach is located on the western shore of the Koh Phangan island and is very sought after by tourists who want a secluded, relaxing spot to unwind. There are bungalows that are available as housing accommodations, offering budget rooms with complete facilities. Several small restaurants and bars offer drinks and meals even during the night. A famous location is the Pirate Bar, that regularly hosts the Moon Set Party, just a few days before the Full Moon Party.

Haad Yao
Located just within a stone's throw from Haad Chao Phao, Haad Yao is a slightly more developed beach area. It has numerous bars, restaurants, 7-11 stores, ATMs and a handful of resorts. The beach is sandy and the water is sparkling clean, offering plenty of snorkeling spots where the bottom becomes rocky (there are also a lot of sea urchins and caverns). Accommodation in Haad Yao starts from 150 to 200 baht.

Haad Salad
This idyllic cove is littered with high-end resorts for tourists arriving with their families. The beach features white sand and the water crystal clear. Also, the beach has plenty of shadowy areas, where children can play safely, protected from the hot, tropical sunlight.

Haad Mae Haad
This white sandy beach is joined to Ko Maa, a national marine park and features some of the best snorkeling and diving spots on the island. As an accommodation, tourists can check in to the numerous resorts and bungalows. There is also a small village which has a variety of restaurants, bars and souvenir shops. The beach is surrounded by a dead reef, offering spectacular coral growth.

Haad Khuat
Haad Khuat, also known as Bottle Beach, is one of the most secluded beaches on the island and is only accessible by longtail boat. Tourists can also reach the island after a 2 to 3 hours long hike from Haad Khom beach. The beach has little accommodation options, but the prices are very affordable, ranging from 200 to 300 baht for a bungalow. The water is very clear and is good for swimming even during the dry season. Unfortunately, due to its isolation, the beach doesn't have ATMs, restaurants or convenience stores.

Thong Nai Pan
This scenic area includes the beach resorts of Ao Thong Nai Pan Yai and Ao Thong Nai Pan Noi, which are two small bays featuring mind blowing beaches. The area is very sought after by couples or families with children. The beach has a range of local Thai restaurants, to international 4 star cuisine restaurants.

How to Get There
The easiest and cheapest way to travel to Koh Phangan is by a ferry from Koh Samui. You can check the schedule and buy tickets online at www.ferrysamui.com.



Guest writer: John Chen is a travel writer currently located in Bangkok, Thailand. He likes writing about Thailand and he writes not only about traveling in Thailand, but also about business, culture, education economy and food.






                                                       

Have You Been Deceived in Your Whole Life?

          One time, while I was reading the newspaper, I got a chance to scan about a story of a woman who pretended to be a disable person for such a long period of time so as to receive assistance from the government. As I discovered more details about her story, I later found out that she was so used to such situation that she survived years being in her modus. 

          Until one time that she came into a personal altercation with her neighbor. Consequently, this neighbor was so furious with her that she started to make a discreet spying on her everyday activities till she found out about her activity- that she received allowance for being a disable person when in fact, in reality she is very much fit and is able to apply for any job. 

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          Driven by her desire to get even with her neighbor, she recorded some of her activities and then the truth came out. In life, there comes a point wherein one makes a white lie so as to preserve a situation. However, making false accusations and claims to gain something in return is an irresponsible act and it denies the development of a true relationship with another person.

          For sure, one's inner person includes a sense of compassion and it only takes one's humility to realize that he/she needs another person to help him/her in that lonely or discouraging situation. Remember then why we are created unique from one another? One of those reasons is for us to realize that we need each other and that we don't need to deceive and exploit the other. The challenge therefore for you and me is how to be a positive contributor to the growth of the other person. Hence, we need to promote more compassion rather than exploitation.  

                                          

Down But Not Out

         In life, many events either make or break us. And I heard and listened to so many stories of friends, relatives and more about their struggles, trials, crosses, difficulties whatever you may term them. However, what is so enlightening among these experiences is the seemingly positive spirit that many of them were showing in the midst of those encounters.

          A friend of mine shared with me that he felt terribly wrong and lost in life....felt so betrayed and despised. Losing his partner whom he has loved and given all was for him the most painful experience he ever had. All his savings were gone....his everything even his meaning of life. What was most painful ..an excruciating one...was the realization that the trust that he invested for those years was not returned back.

imagecredit:
http://www.freeimageslive.com/galleries/nature/views/pics/rainbow.jpg

          Then he told me that he now finds it difficult to trust anymore any girl. What was done to him made him a bitter person. All throughout those years, I have known this friend and I have emphatized with him during that challenging time of his life. All I said to him was "learn to forgive the person and forget the past".....however knowingly, I know that if I am on his shoes, doing that is not an easy thing to fulfill. Since as we wake up everyday, there would always be times, situations, persons and others that will remind us of the pain.

          Hearing and recalling back this story, you can pick up various areas for growth like not giving up, learning to forgive and forget, moving on and many more. However, allow me to just focus on this element of acknowledging first the pain within us so that we will be able to move on from a painful experience.

          That's exactly the words that I shared with my friend. I told him learn to own your pain and don't ever put then bury it on the deepest part of your self since in so doing, it will stay there for a while maybe for months and years however, somehow a time will come that it will re- occur in a form of a negative behavior like you being terribly irritable or impatient with others and with oneself. Thus it is as if you unconsciously building a volcano inside of you then without your knowledge again, allowing it to erupt causing much havoc to others and to yourself. 

          Hence, first stage of self- healing will be the owning of the experience and of the pain. Allowing yourself to own that this experience has become a part of you furthermore realizing that this is not yet the end of everything for you. Moreover, what you all need is to hang on to life and move on. 

          P.S. Lately, I heard again from that friend and he expressed his gratitude to me for all those positive words I shared with him. At the moment, he is now happy moving on with his life with another girl. Congrats bro.....keep up the spirit...

                              

Cherishing Wonderful Memories

       Memories allow us to re- live and look back all those past events in our life. Some tend just to occupy a skin- deep level of our consciousness that we easily forget and leave them behind. While others seem to linger the more in our minds and allow us to positively harbor every minute of the experience. 

          Every moment then becomes an important  chapter in our individual book of life. As I rekindle each chance of communicating with our little boy miles away from us, I can't help myself but recall to mind as well my childhood memories. Though I could hardly remember some events that I had exactly when I was in my boy's present stage, however, the feeling of being loved and given importance by my own parents continued to stay in my awakened state.

imagecredit: http://www.freeimages.co.uk/galleries/nature/underwater/slides/mushroom_corals_2684.htm

          On the other hand, when we transfered to another house recently, it allowed me to temporarily end that particular chapter of my book of life in that previous place then commence a new and fresh chapter in this new neighborhood. I say temporarily end since I know that on any event, I just can proceed that recently concluded chapter of my journey. Thus I am grateful to all those people who have accompanied me, my wife Yanyan and our most treasured gift, Kurt Kristoff, in that place. To name names, thanks a lot Charlie, Linda, Titing, Pepay, Dundee, Michelle, Jojo, their two lovely daughters, Dina, John, Gabriel, Santos and some other unmentioned names yet they similarly are merited with the same gratefulness.

          This book of life called life journey is such a wonderful one and it is made to evolve into a more meaningful event when we meet and cross paths with remarkable people as mentioned beforehand. Thank you guys and see you one of these days.

 



                
               
                                          

Be Free! Be Firm!

          In life, there are different situations that would allow any person to interact with. There are circumstances that will make or unmake you to be the person that you want to be. Yet one of the most essential elements of you being human is that you are free. However this freedom does not allow you to do whatever you want to do- it has its own restrictions.

          If you would like to organize your life, initially be sure to discover what are your priorities in and out of the day. Then learn as well to put things first and be firm in whatever decision you take each day. As much as you like to, be aware of your addictions or bad habits. 

imagecredit:
 http://www.freeimageslive.com/galleries/nature/water/pics/nature00083g.jpg

           Some of them could be your addiction to coffee, social networking, any other onlne activities, racing, cards, drinking, drugs, or any other exercise which can hinder you to  perform significant activities such as being together with your loved ones or being with yourself. You need to know what are those addictions and after recognition, your next step is to own them. Owning them means that you acknowledge that you have been committing them in the past and consequently, manage to look for actions to correct them. 

          Knowing that any of these addictions might have been in your system for a long time, the road then to self-transformation would not be easy. It solicits conviction and firmness in your behalf. To decide for whatever change needs consistency and you have to convince yourself that doing so is for your own betterment. 

         Others can journey with you on this affair yet every success relies on how much you invest to change for the better. Act urgently so that you can also savour its positive results sooner than expected.

                                

How Much Time......

         As you welcome another month, you will surely be thinking now on your coming activities such as bonding with your loved ones, going out with friends, fulfilling commitments at work and many more. 

          As such, in spite of this frenzied life, let this be a part of your daily activity to reflect on these matters:

1. How much time do you spend with your loved ones?  

          You know well that the significant people who surround you every moment are the same people that give you strength to move on and hang on to life in spite of all trials and baggages along the way. However past experiences will tell you that for many occasions in your life, you might have sacrificed being with them for some other reasons. 

              Have you asked yourself this question, " Am I physically and emotionally present to my family?", " Am I filled with excitement and joy everytime I join my family on everyday activities?  As you proceed with your journey in life, you need to be true to yourself. Consequently make yourself available in all times to your loved ones and as outcome, you will receive from them their true love and affection;

2. How much time do you spend for yourself?

          Much have been said about you giving out to others, now let yourself be reminded that not at all in life is permanent. In fact, most of the things in life is mere temporary. They all come and go thus it is also crucial for you to spend time for yourself. Making it a habit to retreat once in a while so that you can have a private space to assess what is going on in your life. Amidst the noise of this life- its seemingly complicated facets- there lies that reality that you have to learn to comprehend your own "inner noise". 

imagecredit: http://www.shutterstock.com/pic.mhtml?id=90681421

           Many of us like to have so much fun, to be in a noisy crowd, to settle in a group with much food and drinks, and many more. But when you go back to your own self, you feel a certain uneasiness and discomfort since it is on this moment that you will be able to see this inner noise within you. However, when you go down in yourself and embrace your own noisiness, it is then that you allow yourself to truly own everything of you- in and out. You should learn to own everything of yourself. Do not celebrate life just because of your goodness but accept everything even your woundedness. 

3. How much time do you spend for your neighbors?

           Neighbors refer to people you come and interact with everyday. They include those persons whom you interact with in your workplace, in school, on any crowd and whatsoever. No matter how relative this reality could be yet what is important is that you learn how to treasure every moment that you spend with others. All your experiences with others enable you to be molded and to become the person that you are now. Relationship with others impact your life in varying degrees thus it is also fitting to express your gratefulness for those journeys you made with others.

           Hence, with these three essential components (loved ones, self and neighbours) of your life, much will be expected from you. Maintaining a harmonious as well as smooth relationship among them presents a great challenge nevertheless with dedication and determination, success will positively be at your door.

                                          

What The World Needs....

          Thinking on the condition of our world today, I can't help myself but be reflective on what's going on around me. Apparently, there is so much need for mankind to stop for a while from his/her busy life and seriously think about the state of our world. From one to the next then to the rest of the corners of the world, great plea for assistance is urgently heard. Natural and man made calamities (war, famine, hunger, inequality, environmental deterioration etc) abound and on its midst, I came up with this shortlist of things that might make a difference to this greatly treasured world.

- paradigm shift- we need to retreat once in a while so as to have a wider picture to what's going on in our life and the world. Consequently, we will discover things that are productive for us and on the other hand, we might discover things such as values, lifestyle, traits that could have been unhelpful thus it needs us to make a radical shift in our life. We need to change for the better; 

imagecredit:http://www.freeimageslive.com/galleries/nature/coastline/pics/harbour.jpg

- consistency- in relation to making this paradigm shift, we also need to practice consistency in our life. We can't change for a while and back to our negative thing the next day since that would never produce us long term positive results. Whatever change we adopt in ourselves, we shall practice and live it every single day;

 -determination- such a life journey would never be easy for us. Along the way, trials and challenges in varying degrees will come and go. When they impact our lives, let us all be determined to hurdle them. Yes, it is true that others will journey with us however, we take note as well that others will also have their own crosses to carry. Self- determination therefore will be our most efficient tool in facing squarely these barriers in life;

-genuine love- with this, other positive traits such as honesty, trust etc will come. With true love, we will live each day with joy and contentment. When we endow real love to others, first and foremost with our family, what we will constantly consider is our loved ones' welfare. Such a true statement since when we truly love, we can't afford to hurt our loved ones for in doing so, it's similar to hurting our very own selves. Thus, let us all learn how to love without expecting something in return- without any condition at all.

          Henceforth, these are but a few of what I believe the world needs so as to heal many of its wounds. And I know that you also have your own set of ways to help the world restore its old peace and harmony. Let us all share them for both us and the world's greater glory.

                                      

Dreams Big

          The ongoing XXII Winter Olympics showcased to the whole world how heroes are made. Staging various events fo such a world caliber standards is such an amazing feat and for all those who have successfully topped their events, the glory are cherished not just by them but by their wellwishers as well.

          We all know how demanding the training of these athletes of such quality. Being away from their respective homes and families, the sacrifice they offer are so great that just by being able to represent their countries in the prestigious event is so overwhelming.

imagecredit:http://www.freeimageslive.com/galleries/sports/sportsgames/pics/kitesuring.jpg

          As the events continue to unfold day by day, the glory of all those who triumphed in their events were so infectious and great. On the other hand, the agony of defeat was also felt by those who failed to land a decent performance. However in the eyes of everyone, being able to compete and emerge as a real sport in its truest sense is all that matters now. 

          A true champion signifies not just the weight and color of each medal receive but by the virtue also of his/her performance. At the end of the day, a winner will always be a winner yet a loser will still emerge as a winner in the hearts and eyes of  others consequently upon displaying a positive attitude in performance and the right approach to acceptance in defeat.

                                 

What A Wonderful Blogging Year!

           By February 9 of this year, I will recall the first entry that I had on this blog. After such initial entry, I came up with several posts on various human interests topics. As the days and months passed by, I didn't notice that I will soon, in fact, two days from now, be celebrating one year of blogging.

          As this meaningful event for me arrives, I will express my extreme joy and sincere gratefulness to the following:

- to you readers, for sharing your time in reading my posts. It is my pleasure to impart with you my posts enabling me to share with you my thoughts, inspirations, journey, fears, aspirations, learnings as I continue with my treasured life;

- to my family, my wife Yanyan and my son Kurt Kristoff, for they are the very source of my strength and patience to come up with all those posts and for my coming ones;

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http://www.freeimageslive.com/galleries/nature/views/pics/nature00025p.jpg

-to my fellow bloggers who have helped me in my endeavor as a blogger, for sharing me insights and innovations so as to be more effective in relaying those stories in this blog;

- and finally, to God for enlightening my mind and heart to come up with my posts. Recognizing you, my ever dearest friend, as the sole source of this borrowed life, I returned back to you all this goodness by means of all my posts here. Through them, I believe that I am able to share with others this gift of life that You have entrusted to me.

                                      

How Much Time Do You Spend on the Internet?

          With the growing popularity of the online world nowadays, it then becomes a reality that many people are exposing themselves to the lure of the internet to the extent that they sacrifice their personal affairs for online activities. Moreover, occasions spent on the internet could result either positively or negatively depending on their intensity.

           On the other hand, constantly consider that you certainly own various pertinent relationships and as such, you also owe the responsibility to nurture each one of  them. And by nurturing them, you allow each person involved in the relationship to grow in a positive manner. 

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            Yet in the midst of all these net developments that  you treasure nowadays, are you aware then of their brought risks to your life? It is said that 

"LIKE' FACEBOOK TOO MUCH?

The average user spends 75 minutes per day on Facebook

The average user logs on to Facebook 6.1 times per day

70% log in every time they start their computer or web reader

26% feel ill at ease if they do not get to log in regularly

Women spend on average 81 minutes per day on Facebook

Men spend on average 64 minutes per day on Facebook

Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencetech/article-2175230/Too-time-online-lead-stress-sleeping-disorders-depression.html#ixzz2qgVZCTra Follow us: @MailOnline on Twitter | Daiu consider lyMail on Facebook "

            With all these facts, do you consider yourself one of those who have more time to spend on the internet rather than socializing and connecting with their loved ones? The sense of belongingness is very crucial in their stages of growth advancement. You need to spend more conventional time with them rather than just allowing yourself to stay and be a slave of the web. 

          Thus, it is you, yourself, who initially knows if your time spent on the net is still a positive one so much so that it allows you to grow as a person either as a husband/wife, or as a father/mother, or as a friend  and be a positive influence for others. Or are you the the type of person who excessively spend your time on the the web therefore losing precious and quality moments with your loved ones.

                                          

If You'll Not Do It, It Seems Nobody Else Will...

          As you make an entrance into another chapter of your life through the commencement of this new year, what comes out also are your prepared New Year's resolutions- list of things that you want to achieve in your life. This has been the practice of so many people since a long time ago dated back during the period of the Babylonians until the era of the knights on the Medieval times.

          You may have personally set up your own goals this year. May it be for a change in your lifestyle like limiting your time in front of the television set or in front of your laptop. Others will aim for a more moderation in terms of certain rituals such as smoking, drinking and going out late at nights with friends.

imagecredit:http://www.freeimageslive.com/galleries/nature/views/pics/naturevistahill1345.jpg

           On the other hand, there are those who aim for self improvement such as positive mental disposition, getting rid of old practices, and being better in personal life management.

          However, all these new year's plans will go to nil when you will never act out on them. As they will say, if you will not implement these plans in yourself, nobody else will ever undertake that for you. Hence, so as to be more constructive in your life, be consistent in doing your plans. Your firmness, openness supplemented by determination will aid you in realizing these dreams, goals, and resolutions.

                                               

How Do You Treasure Loved Ones In Your Life?

          Life is at times full of elations and sometimes that of misery. Each one has dreams that wanted to be realized. And in your everyday journey, it is also coupled with bountiful trials and crosses. Challenges which you might think that they have no end anymore. With this reality, you then realize that life is  not at all happiness. 

          At times, you tend to fall down but then when those moments come, you need to get up and continue the journey. Life's tests are accorded to you yet they are not given for you to lose hope. Moreover they are not showered in your life to destroy your dreams however they are present to enable you to become stronger and learn how to face life squarely.

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          As you go on with your journey, your main inspiration is your family. When your loved ones are happy and contented in life, you also become enthusiastic. It is very inspiring for you to realize that your family is always with you in this journey. 

          Furthermore, your life is also colored positively by all friends who have been so thoughtful to you. Friends whom you can be so free to share everything of yourself in and out. People whom you can share life with not just during times of laughter but even during rough moments.

          After some storms and barriers in your life, your real friends will be the ones  to lift you up and give you fresh air to breath.  Your wounds then will heal and trials will end. Just like when those storms fade, you can watch a rainbow of hope- a spark of new light.

Guest writer: Emily C. Devilbiss

                      USA

                                            

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Life as a Gift

Think about it....2013 is over now. And as you welcome the new year, think about how you lived in the past. Think if you still has a purpose in life. Try to think how many eyes have tears because of you? How many hearts were broken because of you? Learn to say sorry if you made mistakes. Don't live a life that is full of hatred.

Learn to love and accept failures because no one in this world is perfect. Learn to forgive and forget as the Heavenly Father forgives us sinners. Don't be arrogant. Be thankful of what you have. All you have is a blessing. You may be lucky today but perhaps not tomorrow so learn to value what you have.

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Be kind to people because you also need their kindness sometimes. Always remember that you are like anybody else who commit mistakes and fail. Learn to accept your weaknesses. For what you will grow and will learn by your mistakes. Don't compare yourself with others because no one is exactly alike with others. Each one is a unique individual. 

Each one on this world has his own battle so don't judge others unless you live the same life as he has. You probably could read his actions but never his inner thoughts and feelings. Life is too short in this world. Be good and learn to think of others. Don't focus too much on yourself and just on your own good. Learn to share with others and touch other people's lives.

Moreover think that your beauty and nice skin will fade soon or later especially when you grow old but the good things that you do for others will never fade. Be kind, helpful, thoughtful and learn to love genuinely for others. Learn to appreciate the little things in this world and learn to love GOD and live your life in His grace.

Guest writer: Emily C. Devilbiss

                      USA

A Three-Legged Stool and Life: A Comparison

           While nearing the completion of this year, I reflected on what has happened on my life during its course. I was amazed on how blessed I am as I recalled back the events of this year. How precious the life is- that is one of the focuses of my reflections this year. Life just come and go so we must need to embrace every moment that comes each day.

Consequently, some of those reflections which I would like to share with you are the following:

A three-legged stool:
- each leg relies on each other for strength;
- on top of the stool is a space for a comfortable sitting;
- equal footing for each leg to stand in balance and in harmony;
- each leg's brace provides support and strength as the three of them       intertwined with each other

imagecredit:
 http://www.freeimageslive.com/galleries/nature/trees/pics/trees01830.jpg 

Relating it to life:
- we need support system such as each other, family, friends, relatives, community etc. Alongside with this, there is a responsibility to nurture and constantly check the stability of each one;
- we can't stand being on our own. We need others to journey with us especially in the fulfillment of our dreams and aspirations. We need each other for life's check and balance;
- we provide space for others so as to feel comfortable with us;
- we need to mutually show equal footing. As such, we are invited to render due respect to others notwithstanding any differences in terms of race, status, gender, age, and any other differences.



                                            

The meaning of Christmas

          How do you define the meaning of Christmas? What is the importance of this season in your life and that of your family? Who do you spend your time with on Christmas time? At times, when you are obssessed with new things such as clothes and gadgets, what you look forward as a younger boy or girl at this season is the luxurious gift that you will receive from others.

          These are but just some of the questions that come to your mind when you think about Christmas. You may think perhaps of the times when you were still young and the idea then of Christmas was mainly focused on the following:

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a. receiving gifts and giveaways from loved ones especially from parents;

b. playing time with friends 

c. opportunity to go around and mill with friends to make carolling to various houses and even to strangers thus allowing the spirit of Christmas to be shared with everyone

          On the other hand, when you grow up and become more exposed to the world, your understanding and perception of what Christmas is changed as well. Driven by your interactions with others, you begin to learn Christmas on a much deeper level. Nowadays, as this world is challenged by both natural and man made calamities, as your day to day living is colored by both of your positive and negative experiences, you then realize that Christmas is sweeter and more meaningful when it is shared with others most notably with your loved ones  and with those people who are deprived of the resources to enjoy the season.

          In your life, you have so much to share and be grateful for everything that you have cherished for this year. Yes it is true that there is joy brought along by those big and small gifts that you give and receive during this season however, the most significant among these expressions is the sharing of genuine love for everyone. Learn to love and be loved genuinely.

                                           
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