Tag Archives: selflove

Blog #4

Sandigan is a Tagalog word which refers to someone/something that you can lean on or depend to.

BLOG #4

SANDIGAN

Even the strong ones get tired and grow weak. But finding and falling on your safe ground will show you that even in your weak points, someone is there to be your strength; to be your fighter.

How are you? How was life?

They say that life has its ups and downs. Indeed, it is true. To be able to know that you are living, you must know how to fall and what does it feels like to grow because of pain. Encountering problems is inevitable. Sometimes it might be unexpected. And that is why everytime I felt like I’m lost, I am reminded of something. During our 2nd semester, one of our projects is to create a list of ‘ethics’ or ‘guidelines’ that keeps me guided in life. Among these, I would share to you the 5 principles that I follow. These principles also serve as the foundation of myself in everyday living.

It is my core. It is my faith that keeps me going.

LOST.

Our life is like an adventure and on our paths, we may get lost as we are consumed with darkness. That is why my first life principle is upholding my faith. My faith in God keeps me guided; it helps me to find hope.

That is why if we make our faith our compass and our light, we will never be lost in our way. This will keep us to walk the path that God directed for us because our faith in Him will help us on our way. It will lead us towards the greater good and towards the plan God prepared for us.

EMPTY.

For me, God is Love. We may have a variety interpretation of what love is but if we keep Him the center of our hearts and the inspiration of our feelings, then our love will last. Like for example is in our partners. Looking at the successful and strong relationships like my parents’ marriage helped me realized that with God as the center of their love, everything is possible. It is His love that makes us capable of loving and nurturing it for we loved others because God has loved us first. His sacrifice reflected His love for humanity which makes us what we are today. With that, one of my life value which is love will be reflected in Him. I can be able to help my neighbor, sacrifice for my loved ones, and lastly, love itself because He taught me what love is and I will show that love He has for me to others too.

God will fill up the empty heart with His love. Our wounds will be mended by Him. Only when we learn how to open up to God will we experience grow and become whole again.

DOUBT.

As we all knew, everything begin within ourselves that is why if you love yourself, the rest will follow. When I first read this quotation, it made me realized how essential self-love is because for me, loving ourselves is like opening multiple doors towards new possibilities. When you love yourself, you can be able to experience self-growth. When you love yourself, you can fulfill the things you want to do. When you love yourself, you can be love others too.  That is why love starts by opening your own door first then to others. This will help us to nurture ourselves so that we can be able to love others best as we became someone better for we have that thing called self-love.

Self-love will begin the moment you trust yourself without doubt on what you can do.

TIRED.

You’re not alone. You have God with you. This is a reminder for me, or for each of us, whenever we experience difficulties in life that someone is there for us in our battles and that is God. I remember writing on my blog a similar topic about this. I recall saying that life can be like the weather, it changes from sunny, rain, storms, etc. But through it all, one thing was always there- it was the clouds; the skies. The skies were there all along for us through our sunny and rainy days yet we failed to notice and that sky is God. God is our sky that will never left us whatever we experience in life even if it is in our storms.

That is why as we struggle, there will come a time where we will get tired of fighting. But then we must remember that when we surrender, we surrender to God because He will guide us and fight along with us in our battles. Sometimes, it isn’t bad to surrender. Take it easy. It’s normal to get tired and stop. You don’t need to continue pushing yourself when you know you can’t do it anymore.

Take a moment to PAUSE.

REST.

Sometimes, a little rest will help you to recharge so that next time, you can start again. But this time, you’re whole.

As a Christian, I learned that the struggle we have in life is given to us by God for us to grow as a person. For in every single thing that we experience, we will learn. So be reminded that everything happens for a reason. And don’t forget that someone is there for you watching you in the skies. He is that someone where we can always go back to. Someone we can surrender to.

UNCERTAIN.

When you feel uncertain, remember that in life, we experience surprises even struggles before we achieve our end goal. But then as it is said, “Patience is a virtue.” I believed that everything we experience in life is planned by God. He already laid out a best future for each of us that is why we need to put our trust in Him. He’s just preparing us for it because everything has its own perfect timing. We just needed patience for life isn’t a race towards our goals. It is a masterpiece prepared by Him.

For one to be able to live a good life, it must begin with God then ourselves until we can be able to do the same thing we treat ourselves to others. That is why these 5 beliefs of mine serve as the pillar of my life principles. It has been my foundation to be able to have the strength and courage to continue. God is not only my skies. He is also my fighter. He taught me not only courage but also love. I believe that a heart that can love is a heart that truly lives. For it is through love where we can be able to learn what we can do, what we are capable of, and what we can give for love.

Endlessly,

Believe💖✨

“He will always be our constant.”

Whatever happens in life, know that God is the author of our stories. He will be there writing our humble beginnings, chapters, and even endings.

HOW WAS MY WORK SO FAR?

I’m finally back to blogging! Sorry for being inactive for months. It just gets a little busy with school since I’m graduating. But don’t worry! Although I don’t have a specific schedule for my posting, I will try to always update my blogs (I’ll try my best).

Tune in on my social media accounts for more updates! See you on my next post!

©Thalena 2020

Blog #3

Tingala is a Tagalog word which means to face in an upward position or to look up in English.

BLOG #3

TINGALA

They say that the moon knows all of our secrets. It knows our stories, our pains, our tears, and even our silent battles. And each of us have our own story to tell to the moon. A story that reflects our life in its every phase and ourselves in our every pieces.

Time. Time changes just like the weather. Not everyday the sun will shine in the clouds. Sometimes the skies will turn grey because the clouds couldn’t bear the weight of all the burden it has, hidden within itself. And soon, it’ll be consumed by this darkness. The same goes with us.

There will be a phase in our lives where we’ll be in our nightfall. A time where we will have our inner struggles. It’ll be dark and empty. We’ll be lost. We’ll be alone and maybe along the path we’ll be broken. And then, there will come a time where we needed to stop and surrender for a moment because we’ll be tired of fighting with all of our battles in life. That is why when life turns dark, we often turn ourselves to fear. Fear of being alone. Fear of facing the uncertainties that awaits us. But have you seen the beauty in the darkness? I did. Every night the moon did. It showed me that you can still shine even if it’s dark and even if you’re not whole. That is why on your struggles, I hope you’ll know that the moon will be a reminder that there will come a time where you’ll fall. But also, there will be a time where you’ll rise and became whole.

Just like how the year 2020 came. As that year starts, we were hoping for the supposed ‘new start’ or ‘new year’ for us. But little did we know, it was a year of challenges. With the pandemic we faced, our online classes, social issues, and even with our own personal problems, it was indeed a year of a long fight for each of us. All of a sudden, it became a nightfall for us. That is why on this new year, I am hoping that you’ll heal and be like the moon. I am wishing for a new start for you and I am hoping that it will be a new phase for you not only for new year, but after every struggle you’ve been through.

THE MOON IN OUR EVERY PHASE

NEW MOON. New self, new start.

Just like this first phase of the moon, we will be having our new phase in life. This will be a time of change and a time of healing for us. As Martin (2017) said, “The new moon is not only your fresh start, but your time of retreat — a time when you can regain your strength to begin again. The new moon mark new beginnings, fresh starts, and clean slates.” In this phase, one must have courage to start anew. Despite of the challenges you’ve faced, here you are making a beginning again. It is never too late to try again and rebuild yourself. During this time, try making your own first step. A step towards change, a step towards growth. As 2021 starts, I am hoping that you aspire to make a fresh start in you. Make a progress in some aspect of your life. Just have courage to try.

CRESCENT. The next phase in the first quarter of the moon. The symbol of the ever changing, yet recurring cycle of life.

As you begin a fresh start, you must begin by having an intention to change. Create a goal within yourself. May it be in your character, in your passion, and more. But other than that, what you need is determination to achieve it too. Just like what Binibining Mia stated in her book Salamisim, the crescent moon symbolizes a person yearning to achieve his dreams in life. (“Sumisimbolo ang crescent moon sa mithiin ng isang tao na masakatuparan at maging makatotohanan ang kaniyang mga pangarap sa buhay.”) As you set a goal, yearn to obtained what you longed for.

QUARTER. The half phase, the mid point.

As you aspire to achieve your goal, there would be obstacles along your way. These challenges will slow you down but it’s okay. No road was made for a smooth ride. Along the process there will be pit stops. Some were made for you to learn. Some where there to keep you strong. And sometimes, some pit stops were there for you to rest. So hang in there. You’re half way there. You’ll soon reach your final destination.

GIBBOUS. A time of preparation.

This is the phase where you’re one step away from your goal. After you’ve passed all the obstacles you’ve faced, you’re almost at your destination. Pain, suffering, and sacrifices were made. Your path wasn’t easy but did you know? A warrior needed to experience pain so that they’ll continue fighting. Their scar is a reminder that they have fought well. Their scars made them beautiful even in pieces. Just like what Martin (2017) said, “If you want to reap the benefits of the full moon, maybe you need to make some sacrifices. Maybe you need to change course. Don’t resist the feeling of change during this moon.”

FULL MOON. The time has come.

I always love watching the moon in its whole shape. You know why? Because in the night sky, it shines brightly as if it is never on its broken phase before. And just like the full moon, you’ve tried to rise a thousand times but now you’re finally whole. You’ve finally yearned the desire of your heart. On your final phase, I hope that you became someone you aspire to be. Your life journey may not be easy but it will be worth it. At the end of your path, you will find the best future that awaits you. So keep on shining. Sometimes, the darkness isn’t bad after all.

That is why for me, I can say that life is like the moon. There may come a time in our life where we will face the darkness. Those were the times where we struggle, lose hope, yet continue fighting. But despite of the night of struggles, we will learn for the moon will help us heal. It will help us find peace. In times where you are at your lowest point in life, try to look for the beauty found within the dark. The beauty you’ll find will give you peace within your battles. And the peace that you’ll found in the deafening silence of darkness will help you to listen.

In times where life gives you darkness, may you envelop it not with fear but with silence. In silence, you’ll find answers and soon it will help you find the peace you are longing for.

The nightfall that you face will soon come to an end and we will heal like the moon. And may you also know that after the night, the sun will shine again in a new horizon. You might be in nightfall, but it will soon end too. It’s alright to feel afraid. It’s alright to feel like your on your own. But love, I hope you won’t forget that there’s someone there for you. You’re not alone. You have God in your dark skies. He’ll be there guiding you from your darkness times until you’ve reached a new horizon. I know that the challenges along our way was given to us by Him to prepared us, make us learn, and make us stronger to face a brighter future. So just hold on and believe in yourself; hold on and believe in Him. You been through a lot but hang in there. I know things weren’t easy for you so be proud of how far you’ve come. Things will be better in time. Just trust the process. God is just preparing you for the best of you.

So, keep on fighting. The pain you experienced will become a scar that will be a reminder that you are healing, you are growing, and you are fighting. To those who are silently battling their struggles: 2020 maybe a year of challenges and pain for you. But I’m wishing that may 2021 be your year of growth; a year of your happiness.

Indeed, each of us have our own silent battles. That is why to you who is reading this. I’m proud of you for fighting ’till today.

Embrace a new horizon and soar high at your skies. I’ll be here watching you for how far you’ve come and how far you will go. 🙂

Endlessly,

Conquer💖✨

“After every nightfall comes a new horizon.”

In times where we’ll be consumed with darkness, just embrace the silence for soon, the moon will light your way and the sun will shine once again.

HOW WAS MY WORK SO FAR?

FOLLOW MY FRIENDS

Check out my friend, Trina Sambas’ business smorescravings_lc.

Also, subscribe to her YouTube channel at Trina Sambas.

Next post: 21 Prose & Poems for Year 2021. (A collection of my unpublished works) But note that this is still tentative. I’m still deciding whether to post my poems or Blog #4 next. Anyways, tune in on my social media accounts for more updates! See you on my next post!

©Thalena 2020

Pagyakap sa Takipsilim

Poem #2

Pagyakap sa Takipsilim

Tula ni Thalena

Sa pagsapit ng takipsilim,
Mga salitang bumubulong
Sa isip’y gumugulo
Nakakapagod, nakakalungkot.

Wala nang salitang namumutawi
Sa aking mga labi
Walang ibang naririnig kung hindi,
Mga katagang, “Kaya ko pa.”

Pilit na sinasabi sa sarili
“Kaya ko pa,” kahit hindi
“Kaya ko pa,” kahit lumuluha,
Ang mga matang walang pag-asa

Ngunit ang aking isipan,
Wala ngang bibig para umimik;
Wala ngang tenga para marinig
Pero sumisigaw ng “Tama na.”

Nakakapagod na.

Sa pagsapit ng bukang-liwayway
Nais ko’y bagong pag-asa
Ngunit bakit biglang nagbago
At sumapit ang gabi nang kadiliman.

Sa dilim nang nangyayari sa paligid
Wala akong makita,
Wala akong marinig,
Wala akong makapitan.

Tanging ako na lamang
Ang yayakap sa aking sarili;
Sa aking sarili na pagod na
Sa paglaban sa mundong mag-isa

Nakakapagod na,
Ang mga nangyayari sa paligid.
Gawa dito, gawa doon
Problema dito, problema doon..

Isa-isa lang.
Hinay-hinay lang.
Kahit ang malakas
Ay napapagod din naman

Ngunit mahal, nais kong sabihin sayo
Na sa gitna nang iyong problema
At sa pagitan ng iyong kadiliman,
Iyong matatagpuan ang mga sagot at pag-asa.

Subukan mong imulat ang iyong mga mata.
Tumingala sa buwan at mga tala.
Damhin ang hangin na yumayakap
Sa gabi nang iyong pagdudusa.

Nakikita mo ba ang ganda
Na bumabalot sa iyong kadiliman?
Naririnig mo ba,
Ang sagot sa gitna nang katahimikan?

Ayos lang iyan, mahal.
Ayos lang ang tumigil,
Ayos lang ang mapagod,
Ayos lang ang magpahinga.

Hindi sa lahat ng pagkakataon,
Kailangan mo palaging lumaban
Minsan, kailangan mo munang sumuko
Sumuko, sa sarili mong pagod na.

Sana iyong malaman,
Na ang takipsilim ay oras nang
kapahingahan.
Kaya sana sa iyong takipsilim,
Muli kang maghilom.

‘Pagkat mahal, hindi ka nag-iisa.
Sa iyong kalangitan matatagpuan,
Ang Maykapal na hindi ka iiwan,
Sa iyong mga laban

Nightfall is a time for resting. When time comes and you felt tired, rest. Being brave is not defined as a person who never cease fighting. But bravery comes to those who continue standing, even after falling.

Kaya mahal, yakapin mo ang iyong sarili sa iyong gabi ng pagdurusa- ang takipsilim, ang oras nang iyong paghilom.

(NOTE: This poem is part of our virtual exhibit yesterday.)

Endlessly,

HOW WAS MY WORK SO FAR?

©Thalena 2020

Blog Series: Tune of Life #1

OPM Songs: Tune of Life

Di Ka Sayang

by Ben and Ben

Note: I’ve been a fan of Ben & Ben since the first time I listened to their song “Kathang-isip.” With that, I became mesmerized and begun searching about their other songs. They became my favorite since then because of the underlying messages in their lyrics. In this blog, I’ll be featuring one of my favorite songs “Di Ka Sayang” by Ben & Ben. (You can listen to the music above. I also put the lyrics below for you to enjoy. 😉 )

Di Ka Sayang
By Ben&Ben

Kahit 'di mo sinasabi
Ramdam ko ang pagkukunwari
Akala'y masaya, ba't parang may lungkot sa tawa?

Bigat ng mga katanungang
Dumadagan sa 'yong isipan
'Di kailangan na buhating mag-isa

'Di ka sayang, 'di kailangang manghinayang
'Di ka sayang, 'di kailangang patunayan
Sarili ay mahalaga kahit pa ano'ng tingin nila
Tanggap kita

Itapon na sa kalawakan
Sanlibong bakit na 'di matuldukan
'Di kailangan na buhating mag-isa

'Di ka sayang, 'di kailangang manghinayang
'Di ka sayang, 'di kailangang patunayan, woah-oh-oh-oh
Sarili ay mahalaga kahit pa ano'ng tingin nila
Tanggap kita

Kahit talikuran ka nila, tanggap kita
Bitawan na ang 'yong pangangamba
'Di pa huli para humilom
Ang mga sugat ng iyongnakaraan
'Di kita iiwan

'Di ka sayang, 'di kailangang manghinayang
'Di ka kulang, 'di kailangang patunayan, woah-oh-oh-oh
Sarili ay mahalaga kahit pa ano'ng tingin nila
Tanggap kita

Tanggap kita
Woah-oh-oh-oh, sarili ay mahalaga
Kahit pa ano'ng tingin nila, tanggap kita

Tanggap kita, tanggap kita
Tanggap kita

Source: Musixmatch

“Sarili’y mahalaga,” ito ang mga salitang tumatak sa aking isipan habang pinapakinggan ko ang kantang ito. Iba’t ibang tao, iba’t ibang istorya ngunit lahat tayo ay pare-pareho; pare-parehong may halaga sa mundong ito. Mula sa aking mga social media accounts hanggang sa mga comments, madami akong nabasang kuwento nang mga karanansan ng ibang tao sa kanilang sarili. May ilan na may pagkukulang sa sarili at may ilan namang naranasan ang paghuhusga sa kanilang pagkatao. Ngunit gaya nga nang sabi sa kanta, hindi tayo sayang, hindi tayo kulang.

Walang taong perpekto ika nga. Lahat tayo ay may kanya-kanyang pagkakamali at pagkukulang pero hindi ito dahilan para hindi tayo maging sapat. Maaring minsan nagkakamali tayo sa ating mga desisyon sa buhay. O kaya naman kadalasan, may mga bagay tayong hindi kayang gawin. Ngunit bakit minsan, sa halip na tingnan ang mga kaya nating gawin mas binibigyang pansin pa natin ang mga bagay na wala tayo?

Naalala ko tuloy noon ang sinabi sa amin ng guro ko tungkol sa “multiple intelligence.” Sabi niya, ang bawat estudyante ay may sari-sariling kakayanan at kalakasan at hindi sa lahat ng pagkakataon sila ay pare-pareho. Ganun din sa bawat isa sa atin. Maaring ikaw ay may talento sa pagguhit, siya naman ay sa pagsayaw, o pag-awit, at iba pang larangan. Mayroon tayong sarili nating talento at mayroon din naman tayong hangganan. Ngunit kalimitan, ito’y hindi natin pinapahalagahan. Dahil minsan, masyado nating tinitingan ang mga bagay na hindi natin kayang gawin kaya hindi natin makita ang importansya natin. Ngunit sa panahon na iyong natanggap ang iyong kakulangan at kahinaan, matatagpuan mo rin ang iyong kalakasan. Ikaw ay mayroong sariling kalakasan kaya hindi ka sayang at hindi mo kailangang patunayan ang iyong sarili sa iba.

Maari mang mapanghusga ang lipunan. Madami silang ‘expectations,’ ‘judgements’ at ‘nasasabi’ sa atin. Kaya naman minsan kahit anong sabihin natin na kahit anong sabihin nila wala tayong pakealam, wala tayong magawa tayong magawa kung hindi maapektuhan sa kung anong tingin ng iba sa atin. Ngunit sa nagdaang taon, sa paglago nang aking sarili, isa sa mga natutunan ko sa aking karanasan ay ang pagtanggap sa katotohanan na hindi lahat ng tao ay tatanggap sayo. May ilan lamang ang makakakita sa halaga mo kaya naman sila ang dapat pahalagahan mo. Hindi mo kailangan patunayan at ipakita sa iba kung ano ka at kung ano ang anong mayroon ka. Minsan, masyado nating pinoproblema kung ano ang sasabihin ng ibang tao kaysa sa ikasasaya natin. Ngunit, hindi.

Ika nga ni Patricia Lasaten, “the world is too big for me to live according to people’s expectations, so why should you?”

Hindi sa lahat ng pagkakataon tanggap ka ng iba. Kahit anong gawin mo, mayroon pa rin silang masasabi sayo. Hindi ka perpekto pero mahalaga ka. May halaga ka sa mundong ito. May mga taong tatanggap sayo at sana’y matagpuan mo ang mga tamang taong ito sa buhay mo. Kung kaya ka nilang tanggapin, sana gawin mo rin ito sa iyong sarili. Huwag mong hanapin ang halaga mo sa iba. Hindi sa kanila masusukat kung ano ka. Dahil kahit anong mangyari, importante ka. Gaya nga nang sabi nang kanta, “tanggap kita.”

Tanggap kita ano man ang kasarian mo.
Tanggap kita ano man ang pinagmulan mo.
Tanggap kita ano man ang naranasan mo.
Tanggap kita ano man ang nais mo.
Tanggap kita at hindi mo na kailangang patunayan ang sarili mo.
Tanggap kita at ang iyong buong pagkatao.
Tanggap kita.

Sa iyong pagtanggap sa iba at sa iyong sarili, makikita mo ang pagmamahal na iyong hinahangad.

MAHAL. PAG-IBIG. Kadalasan, tinatanong natin kung ano nga ba talaga ang tunay nitong kahulugan. Ngunit para sa akin, masasabi ko na ang bawat isa sa atin ay ang sumasalamin sa mga salitang PAGMAMAHAL AT PAG-IBIG. Dahil lahat tayo ay katanggap-tanggap; lahat tayo ay kamahal-mahal. Kaya naman kung nais mong maranasan na mahalin, simulan mo ito sa sarili mo. Sapagkat hindi sa lahat ng pagkakataon mahahanap natin ang pagmamahal sa iba, dahil kadalasan, sa sarili natin ito matatagpuan.

Sa mga oras na nararamdaman mo na ika’y nag-iisa, huwag mo sanang kalimutan na nandiyan ang Diyos para sayo. Bukod sa iyong sarili, sa Kanya mo matatagpuan ang tunay na pag-ibig. Nilikha ka niya dahil mayroon kang gampanin sa mundong ito. Ang buhay na mayroon tayo ay isang importanteng regalo sa atin ng Maykapal kaya sana pahalagahan mo ang iyong sarili kagaya ng buhay na ipinagkaloob sayo. At sa mga oras din na palagay mo’y walang tatanggap sayo, tumingala ka lang sa Kanya dahil sa Kanya, walang maiiwan; walang nag-iisa. Kumapit ka lang sa Panginoon dahil sa kanya’y hindi ka mawawala. Hindi ka niya susukuan at mamahalin ka niya nang higit pa.

Kaya mahal, nandito lang ako at nais kong sabihin sayo ngayon na kung ano man ang iyong nararanasan, sana malaman mo na mayroon pa ring nandyan para sayo. Sana’y hangarin mo namang mahalin ang sarili mo. Tanggap kita sa kung ano ka at mamahalin kita, palagi. Sana ikaw din sa iyong sarili.💖

Kung kaya mong sabihin ang mga katagang “Mahal kita” sa iba, sana matutunan mo rin itong sabihin sa sarili mo.

Hanggang sa muli,

HOW WAS MY WORK SO FAR?

©Thalena 2020

Blog #2

Paglaban is a Tagalog word which means to fight, conquer, or overcome something, in English.

BLOG #2

PAGLABAN

Growing up, we always encounter the question, “What is your ambition? What do you want to be when you grow up?”

The enthusiastic child that we were would always answer with the profession that we wanted to be in the future. But really, what is your dream?

Dreams.

There are two reasons why I dream: to forget and to remember.

First is to forget. Every waking moment became a reason to forget.

As we sleep, we are free to venture and create things the way we wanted it to be. May it be fictional or realistic. For a moment, we became the writer of our own story. Being asleep is a chance for us to dream the impossible.

But those things burst like a bubble as soon as we wake up. The dreams we have disappeared and there are even times that we’ll forget about it. We forget that we were once happy. It was only there temporarily. We were too caught up with dreams and fantasies that we forgot reality.

And with that, dreams made me remember. The moment we wake up is the moment we see reality.

Looking back, I always dreamed to be a teacher. But as I grow old, that dream of mine faded, and now, I’m at this point in my life where I have to decide about my future. I have to decide for myself. Entering college means entering a new chapter of my life. In this stage, I encounter the reality for teenagers like me, or even my friends, who are struggling to decide for the career they wanted to take. It isn’t easy. Every moment I was asked about my ambition, I got scared. That is because I thought about my future. I have no plans nor directions on where should I continue walking.

But then one day, I discover a new passion. That day, I get to know about myself and that day was the rejuvenation of the dream whom I thought has died long ago.

I realized that all this time, I’ve been sleeping on myself; I’ve been sleeping on my potentials. And all this time maybe you have been sleeping on yourself too. Now, it’s time to wake up and look at the mirror; look and ask yourself. What is it that wanted to be? What does your heart desire today?

Some may say they wanted to be a flight attendant.

To be a teacher.

To be a nurse.

To be a news reporter.

To be an artist.

To be an accountant.

To be a lawyer.

To be an actor or actress.

And so on.

But let me ask you again, what is your dream? What is the thing that could make you happy?

For me, finding your dream is like finding yourself. You find the place that will make you happy. You look for something that you like to spend the rest of your life with.

I remember what my teacher once told us during the Teacher’s Day Celebration. When we asked him why he chose to become a teacher, he said the word “passion.” The passion that fueled the ambition. He said that he felt happy every time he’s teaching because he loves what he is doing. My teacher told us that in choosing a career, we should always prioritize ourselves first above other things. We should choose the profession that will make us happy.

And it is true because dreaming is a battle and you are the warrior of your own dreams. But the fight towards the end isn’t easy.

During the war, you’ll fight. You will encounter many obstacles and hurdles and there may come a time where you’ll get hurt to the point where you’re tired. But if you are a warrior, remember that God is your captain. He is the captain who plans our battles. He is the captain who plans our victories. The path towards our future might be hard but the destination we’ll reach is worth the struggle; worth the pain. That is because the destination you’ll have is the destination God has destined for you.

For now, your dreams might be uncertain. But don’t worry because your future won’t be. Just believe in yourself and in Him. A brighter future awaits you. God is just preparing you for the right time.

The battle for our dreams is a fight that will makes us a warrior. We might get hurt, bruised, or scared. But those are the reminders of our hardship because soon, we’ll be able to overcome it all for our ambition.

I know that whatever you’ve wanted will come true as long as it’s meant for you. But if it isn’t, remember what our Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray said, “To everyone with a dream, know that your dreams are valid. And on your path, you are never denied and only redirected.”

There may be times of failures and disappointments but these are the times where we’ll realize that it is not meant for us. It doesn’t mean that if you didn’t achieve your dreams means that you didn’t do well enough. No, you did. But God has better plans for you.

Even if life remains uncertain, remember that one thing is constant. It was time. Time flows differently in each of us.

For now, you might be uncertain with what you’ve wanted but when you keep your heart burning with your patience, soon you’ll learn to listen to what it desires.

So, don’t be afraid of being left behind. Don’t always try to walk the same pace as others. Don’t try to make yourself continue running when you know you’re already tired. Life isn’t a marathon to begin with.

Relax. Take your time and learn to go with the flow of your own time. Continue trying and dreaming because it has no limits. It is free to dream and it never too late to try.

Puhon, a Bisaya word which means “In God’s time.” A word which tells us to be positive for our future. A word which tells you to put your trust in Him because He knows the best for you.

So to you, puhon. You are a great fighter and in God’s time, you’ll win in your battles with your dreams as your scar; with your dreams as your medal.

May your success comes with your happiness. Good luck to you, my fighter. In God’s plan, you’ll succeed.

Endlessly,

Dream

Puhon💖✨

“You are the warrior of your own dreams.”

Patuloy na lumaban para sa mga pangarap.

Isang malaking yakap para sa lahat ng nangangarap. Tiwala lang. Laban lang. ✊🌻

(A big hug to all those people who dream. Trust the process. Continue fighting.)

Continue dreaming, I’m rooting for you. Believe and make it happen. Good luck, my love!

HOW WAS MY WORK SO FAR?

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

A call for help

Last week, Typhoon Ulysses has hit the Philippines causing damages to the community, destroying homes, and some are even stuck in their houses because of flood. This happened only after a week of Super Typhon Rolly’s landfall, another devastating typhoon that affected the country. That is why we are knocking at your hearts and seek help for the victims of the Typhoon.

I’ve searched for organizations where you can extend your help for the victims of Typhoon Ulysses. To anyone whose willing to help, here are some organizations where you can send your donations:

https://twitter.com/wilbertcardano/status/1327613652350894080

No help is too small. Thank you and stay safe everyone!

A message from Thalena

Thank you to those who will help and donate for the victims of Typhoon Ulysses. And for the Philippines, we’ve experienced many things this 2020 yet here we are still fighting. I am praying for us to overcome it all and for a year of healing for us this 2021. Life may be tiring but that won’t stop us to continue fighting. May we open our eyes to see and our ears to listen to the voices around us. Let us continue using our voices and platforms to make a change and create an impact.

God bless everyone and stay safe.

Thank you, my love

Aside from that, I also want to express my gratitude to my friends who are constantly supporting me on this journey.

I know that I am still new to blogging and I’m still learning. But even from the start, you were there. You encouraged me and made me overwhelmed with all of your messages and support. So, thank you. Thank you for believing in me. Thank you for being there.

I’m wishing all the best for all of you and may all of your aspirations and dreams do come true. I love you all.💖

And please do check out their quotestagram for more amazing quotes, poems, and blogs! Visit their IG accounts!


@akingdasin What keeps you grounded?

@tacenda_unsaid_feelings Let’s unfold our unsaid feelings.
@epistles_of_dea A room for inner healing

@thepursuitsofhiraya What’s your biggest ‘sana’?

@peyadoesart @peyajournals Follow me to my adventures

@sincerely.loraine lagi-lagi magpakailanman, para sa pagsulat

@its_alwrite We just try to give a form to our feelings

@zoejena_ Here to share positivity and smiles

MY IG: @endlessly.you Never falter. I am your sky.

Finally it’s here!

One of the features I’ll be doing for my website is my first-ever-blog series! On my next post, I’ll be uploading the first blog for my series.

My theme will be O_ _ S_ _ _ _.

Any guesses on what it is?

If you’re interested to know what it is all about, then tune in on my social media accounts for more information. 😉

©Thalena 2020

Blog #1


Natatangi is a Filipino word that means someone or something is unique, special, or distinct among others.

BLOG #1

NATATANGI

Life is an art. We are a masterpiece.

Before an art reached its final form, it has its own beginning. Every artwork began with a single step; a small step but with bigger possibilities.

But then, how can one become a masterpiece? Well, allow me to tell you these four steps.

FIRST: Beginning.

Every art began with an idea. We think of what we’ll do, the concept, its appearance, and other details that would make our artwork whole. We may start from a single scratch until we can have a detailed plan. Though, it isn’t easy to plan because the start was always the core foundation of the success of something. And life goes the same way as art.

As we try to become the better version of ourselves, we would find it difficult to change something that we are used to. Starts weren’t always easy. Well, in fact, the start is the hardest part because it will begin within ourselves.

In every beginning we might feel pressured, we might feel nervous, we might feel scared, or we can be hesitant because it was in every start where we will be able to determine our future. It is at every start where it will all began.

But for one to become a masterpiece, it takes courage to overcome it all. It is the bravery to face the unknown possibilities that will help you to become your own person. You needed to grow and become a warrior of your own self, not in a way that you wouldn’t give up. But in a way where you’ll continue in your battles even after your defeat and that will be your sweetest victory.

Do not wave your flag to surrender, wave it on your victory.

Soon, you’ll be able to overcome this part and learn how to go along the way; along the process.

SECOND: Process.

After we take the start, we’re welcomed with the process; the process which takes courage and time.

Time. Just like how we are all distinct from each other, we also have our own flow of time. Everything or everyone has their own perfect timing.

For instance, look at the paintings. Some artists can finish their work in an hour, others in 2 or 3 hours, some in days, months, or it may even take years to finish. Paintings that may take years to finish could result to a detailed and well-designed artwork. But paintings made for hours can be beautiful too.

That is why during the process, all you need is patience. Do not feel jealous if the people around you are already successful while you are not. God has set our own time; our own perfect moment. They might be already on their destinations but for you… you will be too. You’re just in the process of going there.

It doesn’t matter how fast or slow your process will be. What matters most is that you’ll reach your destinations. We will reach our destinations.

Know that every artwork takes time of patience, practice, and hard work. One cannot be a great artist without learning and one cannot be called an artwork without process. The same goes for you.

THIRD: Learn.

Although in the process, things might not go the same way as we expected it to be because our paths weren’t made easily. It was made with pit stops and destinations. Along the way, challenges may come and mistakes might happen. During these times we tend to let our fears welcomed those uncertainties.

But don’t worry. Those challenges were only a pit stop but not a destination. And on your path, you will encounter two pit stops.

First is the area for learning.

As you tried to become your own masterpiece, many things can change you. These changes will help you grow as a person with experience and lessons. One day, life may surprise you and give you challenges that might affect you. But challenges were present to make you the best version of yourself. We are not perfect. We commit mistakes but our flaws do not make us less worthy. A few mistakes do not make an artwork unworthy, rather it makes it more special, and so are you.

Mistakes are made for us to learn. It was there to help us grow. We commit mistakes not because we are a failure but because it is meant to be. It is part of the process. In the end, it was our mistake that will help us to be distinct among others because no one can experience the same thing nor feeling alone.

Second, to rest.

Pit stops were there for you to replenish yourself again. If you’re tired, don’t forget to rest. Resting does not mean giving up. It means that you are fighting. Remember that every art has its own worth. Even after all the years it was created and even after all the things it have been through, it is still worth it.

No art is insignificant. No art is not distinct.

FOURTH: Masterpiece.

Natatangi, indeed. This beautiful Filipino word means unique when translated in English. It is a beautiful word that reflects you. Yes, you.

You are unique. Ikaw ay natatangi.

Look at the paintings. Look around the different artworks you have. Look at everything around you. Were they similar? Do they have the same figure as them? The answer is no.

Nothing in this world is the same as another and no one is the same person as you. That is why we are our own person and we should be proud of it. The experiences we’ve been through, the sacrifices we’ve made, pains, mistakes, process, and lessons- it will all be worth it. Because sooner or later, I know… I know that you will reach the final step; the final masterpiece.

Just like my blog’s tagline, I do believe that we are all our own kind of masterpiece and I aspire you to become one. We are all created by the Almighty God. He is our Creator and we are His masterpiece. So if there are times where you doubt yourself, it’s alright. We are not perfect. We have our own flaws. But never forget your worth; never forget you are uniquely special. Artworks weren’t made to be beautiful. It is made to create an impact.

Remember this, love. You are an art. You are a masterpiece, only in progress but still magnificent. Things take time, so wait for yours and bloom in time.💖

I love you, my love. ‘Till next time.

Endlessly,

Becoming A Masterpiece🌠

“Ikaw ay iyong sariling obra, natatangi mula simula hanggang sa huli.”

“You’re your own kind of masterpiece, only in progress but still magnificent.”
Things take time so wait for yours. Soon you’ll see how much you’ve grown beautifully and become your own kind of masterpiece.

HOW WAS MY WORK SO FAR?

VISIT MY FRIEND’S YOUTUBE CHANNEL: Patrick De La Cruz
FOR MORE SONGS AND COVERS!

Good luck on your dreams, Pat! Wishing for the best.✊

And speaking of dreams, my next blog will be about your aspirations!

So, message me on my social media accounts or e-mail me your story and ambitions at thalena.tate@gmail.com to get a chance to be featured.

©Thalena 2020