tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-59327524690145768942024-02-06T20:04:35.170-08:00PerspectiveSee things from a different angle and discover something precious and liberating.Marlene Legaspi-Munarhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16844221226331644178noreply@blogger.comBlogger113125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5932752469014576894.post-86056146807472095822017-12-14T00:06:00.000-08:002017-12-14T00:06:14.405-08:00Lonely This Christmas?Christmas season is a happy occasion for many. The reasons are obvious and all around us: glittering decors, yuletide songs, year-end bonus, parties left and right, gifts galore, family vacation. But these same reasons that could make one person happy could be the opposite reasons that could make another lonely.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo from Shutterstock</td></tr>
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Because for someone whose property has been foreclosed, he will have no house to decorate. The part-timer, freelancer, and unemployed will not be qualified for the 13th month pay. Someone will not be part of the party tonight because his name was excluded in the guest list. A guy will be disappointed for not receiving the gift he expected. And at least one family will be incomplete because a member is away or has departed permanently.<br />
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Some of us might think we have been forgotten, deserted, neglected, or excluded. But the circumstances of the birth of Jesus reminds us that Jesus Christ came for all, He embraced all. How significant that it was to the shepherds that the angels proclaimed the birth of the Savior. Shepherds on those days were perceived by many as having low or little value. Most of the time they are away from the city and thus, from the people because they are on the field tending sheep. The birth of the Messiah is reason for great joy to the shepherds and to the rest of us. Jesus came for the outcasts, unwanted, separated, neglected, and excluded. He came to bring them all to God the Father to be part of His family. Being part of God's family means you are loved and cherished, provided and protected, thought of and remembered. This truth gives us reason to rejoice and celebrate Christmas.<br />
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<i>"And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord"</i> (Luke 2:8-11).Marlene Legaspi-Munarhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16844221226331644178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5932752469014576894.post-69948764914740516192017-12-11T06:06:00.000-08:002017-12-12T02:00:01.525-08:00Books, a Toy, and a Savior<div class="MsoNormal">
I watched as the customer assistant folded the flaps of the
carton box and sealed the edges with a tape. Then she wrapped the package in
plastic and inserted on a side pocket the waybill identifying the consignee and
destination of the goods. My books were on their way to a remote elementary school
up north. <o:p></o:p></div>
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I had
mixed feelings when I realized that I was parting with my books. It gave me
satisfaction that I was able to share my books to school children and teachers
who are very much in need of materials for their library, yet the separation
anxiety was real. These books have been with me for years and have helped me in many ways—grammar books, a book
of fables and parables, juvenile novels, a well-read Bible, and reference
books.<o:p></o:p></div>
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As my
palm patted the surface of the box, a scene came to my mind. I remembered the
college-bound Andy in the movie Toy Story 3 when he hesitated to give away his
all-time favorite toy Woody the Cowboy to a little girl. He spent many happy
days playing with Woody that’s why parting with the miniature wooden cowboy was
difficult. But in the end, Andy yielded and handed his old beloved toy to its new eager
owner. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image of Woody from www.clipartpanda.com</td></tr>
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There
is Someone who gave away something far more valuable than books or toys. God
the Father gave His only beloved Son, Jesus, so all of us may not perish but live.
This is the essence of Christmas. “For God so loved the world that He gave His
only Son. Whoever puts his trust in God’s Son will not be lost but will have
life that lasts forever” (John 3:16). God did not hesitate to send His only beloved
Son to this troubled world to rescue us. He who has been with Him from eternity
reigning in glory, was born like one of us in humble circumstances to redeem
us. <o:p></o:p></div>
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The angels told the shepherds the
night baby Jesus was born, “Do not be afraid. I am bringing you good news that
will be a great joy to all the people. Today your Savior was born in the town
of David. He is Christ, the Lord” (Luke 2:10-11). How did Jesus become our Savior? The baby Jesus would later grow up and
by the age of 33, die on the cross to pay for our sins and set us free from its
power.<o:p></o:p><br />
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This Christmas season, I hope you receive the
greatest gift one can ever have, far greater than books or toys. He is Jesus
Christ, the Lord, our Savior!<o:p></o:p></div>
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Marlene Legaspi-Munarhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16844221226331644178noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5932752469014576894.post-39545863518796527412017-01-23T06:48:00.002-08:002017-01-25T02:04:55.325-08:00Heart Test <div class="MsoNormal">
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">I accompanied my father to the
examination room for his 2D echo test three days ago. It was my first time to
see a sonogram of the heart. I could hardly remember all the parts of our
central organ, but as I saw the images of my father’s heart and heard its beat as
it pumps rhythmically, I was struck with awe. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">A provoking line from Francis Chan’s
book <i>Crazy Love </i>came to my mind. <i>The majority of us take for granted our
kidneys, liver, lungs, and other internal organs that we’re dependent upon to
continue living. </i>We know our kidneys are inside our bodies, our heart is in
our chest. But it’s not until we experience a sharp pain in the back or difficulty
in breathing that we become concerned. Chan was right. On the average day, we
forget that our life is truly a vapor. We could die any moment. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">In the same vein, we don’t consider God
very much most of the time. We’re either struggling to survive, or just the
opposite, succeeding steadily that we leave God in the sidelines. Some might
object. <i>I pray to Him first thing in the
morning. I attend church on Sundays. When I have time, I volunteer. I give a
portion of my income to support the work of the church. </i>But is that enough?
Or should we rather ask: Is that the
only way we are to view our devotion to God?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Jesus commanded His followers, “Love the
Lord your God with <i>all your heart</i> and
with <i>all your soul</i> and with <i>all your mind</i> and with <i>all your strength</i>” (Mark 12:30). The other
day, I stumbled upon an article by Jason DeRouchie titled <a href="http://www.desiringgod.org/articles/love-god-with-your-everything" target="_blank">"Love God with Your Everything"</a> where he expounded on the said verse. I think he captured what it
means to love God with all our hearts and soul when he said, “We are to love
God with our passions, hungers, perceptions, and thoughts. But we are also to
love him with how we talk, and what we do with our hands, and how we utilize
our talents, and how we react to challenges — our entire being is to display
that we love God.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">From time to time it’s good to submit
our hearts for a spiritual test. Let’s allow God to search our hearts and show
us what really makes our hearts beat, what makes them sick, why they wander far
from Him. Let us allow God, the One who
made our hearts and keeps them beating, to impress upon us what pleases Him. From
time to time, let’s check if our hearts are still in sync with Him. </span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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Marlene Legaspi-Munarhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16844221226331644178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5932752469014576894.post-39262694310473691872016-07-12T09:58:00.000-07:002016-07-12T21:12:14.095-07:00Sweet Love Lunch for that day was the usual steamed rice, fried milkfish, and a vegetable mix of squash, stringbeans, <i>malunggay </i>(moringa) leaves boiled in water with chopped onion, tomato and flavored with fish sauce. It was a satisfying meal that made my tummy happy. But just when I finished my meal, I felt a craving for some sweets. Without hesitation, I expressed my desire aloud, "LORD, I want a dessert." No, it was not a demand, but a request made known in a way a little child would confidently ask something from her father or mother.<br />
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Probably no more than five minutes had passed when a couple knocked on our door. My husband and I were expecting them to visit that day to deliver their wedding invitation, but it never crossed our minds that they would bring something else--a box tied with green ribbon. And inside the box was, well, a round mango cheesecake!<br />
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I was tickled pink not only with how quickly God answered my request for dessert, but with how this incident is also an answer to another prayer that morning. You see, I was reading a verse that goes like this: "There is no fear in love [dread does not exist]. But perfect (complete, full-grown) love drives out fear, because fear involves [the expectation of divine punishment so the one who is afraid [of God's judgment] is not perfected in love [has not grown into a sufficient understanding of God's love]."*<br />
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The verse is talking about the love of God and how God's love for us removes all our fears. Though I have moments of victory over negative thoughts, I admit sometimes I still feel afraid and I'm distracted by thoughts about the past and future. How can this perfect love of God drive out all my fears? I was drawn to the last few words of the verse: <i>The one who is afraid has not yet grown into a sufficient understanding of God's love.</i><br />
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I realized I may never fully grasp the dimension of God's love for me, and for that matter, for any man. But as God enables, I can at least gain a <i>sufficient </i>understanding of His love, enough to cause a positive change in me. Knowing God is a lifelong process, and everyday is an opportunity to know Him and experience His love. So I began that day with a prayer. "LORD, please open my eyes and let me see how you love me."<br />
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When the dessert arrived swiftly than I expected, I thought that God was showing me that He is aware not only of my needs, but even of my wants, and that He is willing to provide for them. On the other hand, I accept that He also demonstrates His love when he withholds a request that will not be good for me. But this time, this precious time, I'm free to savor this demonstration of the sweet love of God my Father in heaven.<br />
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<i>“You parents—if your children ask for a loaf of bread, do you give them a stone instead? Or if they ask for a fish, do you give them a snake? Of course not! So if you sinful people know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give good gifts to those who ask him."</i> Matthew 7:9-11<br />
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*1 John 4:18, Amplified Bible<br />
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You can have a relationship with God today. Read this <a href="http://odb.org/personal-relationship-with-god/" target="_blank">article</a> to find out how.<br />
Did you know that God has adopted us as His own children? If you have some minutes, learn more about it from this <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n-oJB8g8qC8" target="_blank">video message</a>.<br />
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<br />Marlene Legaspi-Munarhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16844221226331644178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5932752469014576894.post-37950357284262698372016-07-01T18:52:00.002-07:002016-07-01T18:52:56.744-07:00Hungry Like Kopiko and Copycat<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw5pxU69ey1HMOVKQxkZTGLPyqXKJESgbEEovKDHZhyphenhyphenKN7C2PDTfR5e0cLoO07_Hej8S-ruatkozzUYzYRk_DGvQYJwX5nLvvJHRYMD-A1y9KLjNTAy6LYj9eblUhLjCzB9FYYt-37miU/s1600/13442664_1050597328322123_4681664457682807383_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw5pxU69ey1HMOVKQxkZTGLPyqXKJESgbEEovKDHZhyphenhyphenKN7C2PDTfR5e0cLoO07_Hej8S-ruatkozzUYzYRk_DGvQYJwX5nLvvJHRYMD-A1y9KLjNTAy6LYj9eblUhLjCzB9FYYt-37miU/s320/13442664_1050597328322123_4681664457682807383_o.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our cats Kopiko and Copycat</td></tr>
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Our cats, Kopiko and Copycat, are always waiting outside our kitchen door for my husband to feed them. In the morning, once we open the door, they scramble and meow, expressing their need for food. And as my husband prepares their daily fare of sardines, they run quickly and cry even louder. They're hungry and they're excited to be fed.<br />
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Psalm 130:5 says, "I wait for the Lord, my soul waits, and with hope I wait for his word". The psalmist is also hungry for food for his soul and he knows what can satisfy him and how he could get it. He knows that only God can feed his soul with His satisfying words. And so he waits on God till He receives a message of hope.<br />
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Jesus said that we are to live not on bread alone, but on every word that comes out of the mouth of God (Matthew 4:4). Fortunately for us today, God's word has been neatly put together in a book form--the Bible. From Genesis to Revelation, the importance of hearing, or in our case, reading the Word of God is always emphasized. The Bible is not just a guide for life, but it is food for our soul. As a human father nourishes his children with food that will make them healthy and strong, our Heavenly Father also offers us spiritual feast for our growth and contentment. His Word encourages, enlightens, invigorates, infuses us with hope, calms our fears, and fills our heart with peace. But like our cats, we are to come regularly, humbly, and with expectation to our Father's table so He can feed us with fresh manna from heaven.<br />
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<i>If you would like to start each day with a reading of a Bible verse, visit <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/" target="_blank">BibleGateway</a>. This site also offers various devotionals, Bible study guides, and various translations of the Bible. </i><br />
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<i><a href="https://www.facebook.com/omfliterature/" target="_blank">OMF Literature</a> also has a physical and online bookstore where you can purchase Bibles that will suit your need. </i><br />
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<i>The <a href="https://www.facebook.com/PHBibleSociety/" target="_blank">Philippine Bible Society</a> also publishes and distributes Bibles in different dialects spoken in the country. </i><br />
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<br />Marlene Legaspi-Munarhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16844221226331644178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5932752469014576894.post-5584072159270592662016-05-19T18:10:00.000-07:002016-05-19T18:10:40.620-07:00Rediscovering the Wonder of a Children's Storybook<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">I was overseas last week to conduct a training for those
aspiring to write for children and young people. My co-trainer <a href="https://mummumstheword.wordpress.com/about-emily-lim/" target="_blank">Emily Lim</a> from
Singapore is an award-winning children’s book author whose works have been translated
into different languages. Naturally, she was tasked to share about writing
children’s storybooks. My assignment was to teach the participants how to write
devotional and personal experience articles. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> Although
I came to the writers’ workshop as a trainer, I was expecting to learn more about
writing children’s story from Emily. Many years ago, my first attempts in writing
were stories for children. I attended workshops for writing for children and wrote
stories soon after. Eagerly, I submitted them to a publisher but not one of the
stories was turned into a book. I picked up the pieces of my broken ego, and mustered
strength to write again for children. Satisfied by the fruit of my labor, I
took another bold step: I entered a national contest. Sadly, the story didn’t
impress the judges. I was so discouraged I stopped writing stories for
children. Instead, I turned to writing magazine articles, curriculum, and radio
scripts for children. Occasionally, I would write short stories for students as
part of my textbooks, but I have given up hope of writing a storybook for
younger kids. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> So
at the workshop, I took notes of what my co-trainer shared about writing storybooks
for children—the parameters of writing for different age groups, the classic
story structure, “sins” to avoid in writing for children. There were also many
books displayed at the training, and so I had the chance to feel once again the
hard covers of a children’s book, feast on the splash of colors on its pages, and
hear the rhythm of the words that were meticulously put together by the author.
Each participant also shared the summary of the book they’ve read, and then...one
by one they came. The sense of wonder came. Pleasure made sure his presence was
felt. That “aha!” moment finally arrived. The joy of reading and hearing a retelling
of a children’s story was coming back to me. There I was, an adult
rediscovering the wonder of a children’s storybook. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> There
were times I choked when I heard about how a poor teddy bear longed to be
loved, or how a rocking horse, when given a chance to be real, chose to remain
a toy for a disabled friend. I surely identified with the fearful little seed and
the worrisome fox who both had to go through unfamiliar situations. How can
that story of trusting God through fear and change told in a child’s language also
speak to an adult like me? That’s the power of a children’s story.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> I
didn’t come out of the training with the resolve to pick up the pen, so to
speak, and begin writing stories for children again. No, I came back with a
renewed appreciation for children’s storybook writers like Emily and the others
I know from the Philippines. I will, most probably, open another children’s
storybook the next time I visit a bookstore, or maybe download an e-book. And
then, as I read again, I hope the wonder returns. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><i>If you wish to read children's books published in the Philippines, I recommend books published by the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/HiyasBooks/?fref=ts" target="_blank">Hiyas</a> imprint of <a href="http://omflit.com/" target="_blank">Omf Literature</a>. </i></span></div>
Marlene Legaspi-Munarhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16844221226331644178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5932752469014576894.post-32615855425557504502016-03-27T18:52:00.000-07:002016-04-07T04:34:00.241-07:00Your Purpose for This Generation A friend passed away in her hospital bed last week. She was only 45. Too young to die in midlife, I lamented. She left three children who are all still going to school. She has dreams for her family and for herself, but now she wouldn't be able to fulfill them in this temporal setting. We who love her are somehow comforted when we try to see things through teary eyes of faith, believing in the wisdom of God's sovereign purpose.<br />
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Then I remembered a shepherd boy-turned-king named David who lived a full life: <i>"For David, after he had served the purpose of God in his own generation, fell asleep, and was laid among his fathers and underwent decay" </i>(Acts 13:36). King David conquered the city of Jerusalem and made it a flourishing capital; united the north and south kingdom into one Israel; drove away their many enemies; and paved the way for a succession of leadership over Israel and the building of the grand temple by his son Solomon. Most of us would be timid to compare our resume with the beloved king's curriculum vitae. I wouldn't; there's no comparison at all.<br />
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Yet reading a line from Samuel Bakutana's devotional article from <i>Light for the Writer's Soul* </i>sparked hope in me today. "<b>Every Christian writer is a gift to his or her generation</b>." Furthermore, he said, "We often underrate the greatness of God's writing gift in us...we often utilize that gift with slow speed, little passion and almost no urgency."<br />
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Though I have dedicated God's writing gift to me for His use, I feel guilty at times of not making the most of every opportunity to write more books, help an author reach more readers by translating his material, or work with a writer in polishing his or her manuscript. I allow myself to be distracted by scrolling down further and clicking more links on my Facebook. Or I take a break from the computer screen to focus on the TV screen and linger much longer. I blame lethargy for postponing a translation project that's long overdue. And I admit, sometimes multi-tasking didn't help accomplish more what I thought I could.<br />
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If I want to fufill my God-given purpose for this generation, I must use through God's grace what was entrusted to me--time, talent, treasure, things--while I'm still here on earth. In the end, we don't compare our accomplishments against our siblings or colleagues. We will be judged according to how faithful we have been in using our gifts to fulfill our purpose for this generation.<br />
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*<i>Light for the Writer's Soul: 100 Devotions by Global Christian Writers </i>is jointly published by <a href="https://www.littworld.org/page.asp?p=16&i=16" target="_blank">Media Associates International</a> and <a href="http://www.armourpublishing.com/product/light-for-the-writers-soul/" target="_blank">Armour Publishing</a>. To order, please click on the links.<br />
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How will you serve God and this generation effectively in today's turbulent times? <a href="http://www.gmi.org/products/books/gmibooks/7stats/" target="_blank">Our Anchor in a World Adrift</a> by Jon Hirst and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AuthorMarleneLegaspiMunar/?fref=ts" target="_blank">Marlene Legaspi-Munar</a> tackles seven things that are changing our world (refugee crisis, economic instability, disconnection in a digital world, shifting sexual morality, secularism, suicide, and the quest for spiritual home) and how you can make a difference. To order, click <a href="http://www.gmi.org/products/books/gmibooks/7stats/" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
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<br />Marlene Legaspi-Munarhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16844221226331644178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5932752469014576894.post-24025673651579330462015-08-04T01:32:00.002-07:002015-08-04T01:33:49.253-07:00Slow DownAs cars and jeeps honk and snake their way to downtown, I silently sent a request. "Lord, please make this a quick trip." I recalled my itinerary for the day--pay bills, make deposits, buy groceries. I wanted to finish everything quickly so I can get back home and continue writing. But when I reached downtown, instead of going to the bank, I followed the alley leading to a cafe. I haven't had a full breakfast and my tummy wants to be filled.<br />
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I scanned the menu and ordered a sausage penne and lemon cucumber shake. I was hoping I could finish the brunch in a few minutes so I could then go to the bank, but I saw a reminder in front of the cash register: <i>We slow-cook your meal so please bear with us. </i>Oh, maybe that's one reason why the small restaurant has a shelf of books. So while waiting for my meal, I randomly picked one. The title is <i>The Good and Beautiful God: Falling in Love with The God Jesus Knows. </i>I began to browse.<br />
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I surveyed the table of contents and saw that the last chapter has the most interesting title: <i>How to Make a Pickle. </i>It's subtitle gives a hint on what the chapter is about: <i>Soul Training: Slowing Down. </i>The author, James Bryan Smith, reminds us readers to slow down so we can get a clear perspective of things and hear from God. Actually, I've been planning to go on a personal retreat the next day. I've just been dispatched.<br />
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So I'm slowing down for a day or two. And yes, I'm enjoying the view.<br />
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<br />Marlene Legaspi-Munarhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16844221226331644178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5932752469014576894.post-55729101907440682872015-03-18T19:25:00.000-07:002015-03-18T19:25:59.746-07:00Morning Blessing<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I stepped out of the house for my early morning walk and talk with God. The air is chilly and fresh. No bustling sound coming from the main road a few meters away from our place. No belting from videoke enthusiasts in the neighborhood. It's too early for that. Even the birds are still asleep. I couldn't hear even a faint delightful chirping. Perfect moment.<br />
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I uttered a prayer. <i>Bless me, O Lord with the joy of Your presence. Increase my rejoicing with Your wonderful promises. Make me happy with answers to my prayers. </i><br />
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I needed God's comforting presence. The past days have given me enough reasons to weep, worry and be worn. Two friends lost their fathers. A contagious virus struck my son at a time when he needed to complete requirements for graduation. For months now, I've been looking and hoping to find a lost item. And we've been praying for an important application to be finally approved. I desperately needed God's presence and promise. And so I prayed.<br />
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In my past conversations with God, He would speak as I open the Scriptures. Sometimes the verse is the exact answer to my question. But at times, I would read a passage that has nothing to do with the thought that's troubling me. Then I would just trust that God heard me anyway. I may not get my answer now, maybe it will come later, or not at all. God's silence doesn't mean His absence.<br />
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But this morning, God answered my prayer with a promise as I turned to a Bible reading guide and discovered the verse for the day. It's Romans 15:13. <i>May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.</i><br />
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Joy and peace come from trust in God, but such trust is finally the gift of God, for believers abound in hope only by his grace (ESV Study Bible). Thank You, LORD for enabling me to trust You, and as I trust You, You fill my heart with gladness. What a blessing for this lovely morning.<br />
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<br />Marlene Legaspi-Munarhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16844221226331644178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5932752469014576894.post-35768895298165601982015-03-08T08:20:00.001-07:002015-03-08T16:01:33.951-07:00The Worth of a Book<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I won! Or at least that's how I felt when I received this email from a reader who came across my latest book, <a href="http://omflit.com/how-to-keep-your-hubby-happy-at-iba-pang-tips-para-kay-misis-kindle-edition:" target="_blank">How to Keep Your Hubby Happy at Iba pang Tips para kay Misis</a>. On the last page of that book is a list of my website and <a href="http://travels-of-yah.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">blogs. </a>My <a href="http://marlenemunar.webs.com/" target="_blank">website</a> has a contact page and it was through that site where she sent me this feedback.</div>
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<i> Good day! I was walking in National Bookstore earlier, when I caught sight</i></div>
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<i> of this book--How to Keep Your Hubby Happy. When I opened it, it directed</i></div>
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<i> me to the page about Leave and Cleave which I believe is an answer to my </i></div>
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<i> confused mind. I immediately bought it hoping I would be enlightened about</i></div>
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<i> my marriage and my relationship with the Lord. I honestly need help but with</i></div>
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<i> God's grace I know help will come to me soon. I believe God sent me the</i></div>
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<i> answer to my my prayers through this book. Thank you for writing this book</i></div>
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<i> and I hope a lot of women out there could read this. </i></div>
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I was touched and teary-eyed because a reader went out of her way to let me know how the book has affected her. To create a manuscript, writers often work in seclusion. We're wordsmiths who carefully select words to craft them into a message that will inform, instruct, and inspire. So when our readers interact with us, especially with a positive feedback, we have reason to rejoice. This particular comment was also an affirmation of a calling to write. God enabled me to write and used what has been written to impress a message of hope at a time when it was needed the most. Mission accomplished. I give back all glory to God. </div>
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But I was not the only one who accomplished the mission. My publisher, <a href="http://omflit.com/our-heritage/" target="_blank">OMF Literature</a>, is committed to offer books of inspiration, instruction, and insight to make a difference in people's lives. Each department works hard to ensure that each book, including How to Keep Your Hubby Happy, is prepared, printed, and promoted so it could reach its audience and touch lives. I'm thankful to OMF Literature for the opportunity to be part of a big team who loves books and produces books that make a difference. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZp06MJbZBG8zr1iyMzeVqDWgi2JhBLgRfNZFAQlK4nyPHvXtFXnEbdorEArMb87PKSzkOfVs0QSB8Kwhc2_I21l4Oc1SDhGPews02Br6V7XMbpl4az_cu6kP5HRksrKMmxW0fD1qxwVY/s1600/IMGP2066.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br /></a><i>The worth of a book is to be measured by what you can carry away from it. </i><br />
<i>--James Bryce</i></div>
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How to Keep Your Hubby Happy at Iba pang Tips para kay Misis is available at OMF Literature Bookshops, Passages, National Book Stores, PCBS and other book stores. </div>
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You can also purchase and download the e-book version from <a href="http://www.amazon.com/How-Keep-Your-Hubby-Happy-ebook/dp/B00NK6I4E0/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1425824455&sr=8-1&keywords=how+to+keep+your+hubby+happy+marlene+legaspi-munar" target="_blank">Amazon</a>, <a href="http://flipreads.com/how-to-keep-hubby-happy" target="_blank">Flipreads</a>, <a href="http://www.buqo.ph/Shop/Book/911a6988-133e-4828-a4cb-2e441f5d2f63/how-to-keep-your-hubby-happy" target="_blank">Buqo</a>, and <a href="http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/how-to-keep-your-hubby-happy-marlene-legaspi-munar/1121208637?ean=9789710092956" target="_blank">Barnes & Noble</a>. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9qu6SoUAY0KvQBxlz2J_u8eNJQgHUfY4cbOS14fBnszvYuUiJVK5bzS8lsMXrguh6xCpzn57R2w1lnxVaAn0aJQvA-1IcpxLWI05959j6rZTZ1j-ndzXDmqK0nEXe2w2Cf8qlJsUut1A/s1600/10712813_10152368993081592_7126779587407759981_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9qu6SoUAY0KvQBxlz2J_u8eNJQgHUfY4cbOS14fBnszvYuUiJVK5bzS8lsMXrguh6xCpzn57R2w1lnxVaAn0aJQvA-1IcpxLWI05959j6rZTZ1j-ndzXDmqK0nEXe2w2Cf8qlJsUut1A/s1600/10712813_10152368993081592_7126779587407759981_n.jpg" height="243" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">with OMF Lit CEO Aleks Tan and wife Daphne<br />
Photo courtesy of Aleks Tan</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizV4DLAuyOUm7Oz_9IluLzPIAe97A0Myk-cFWXTvyTO7UEA3WBeOCtAPBnn1rMREw25HYslqdwUKvPWh668JlhcrWOWFqZWU9kXh4r9eONOOx5zMz3SJnn_PI9eCpxZoy8bDuXKTsnRG8/s1600/10689930_838740449481444_7351534130571538786_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizV4DLAuyOUm7Oz_9IluLzPIAe97A0Myk-cFWXTvyTO7UEA3WBeOCtAPBnn1rMREw25HYslqdwUKvPWh668JlhcrWOWFqZWU9kXh4r9eONOOx5zMz3SJnn_PI9eCpxZoy8bDuXKTsnRG8/s1600/10689930_838740449481444_7351534130571538786_n.jpg" height="241" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">with OMF Lit Publishing Director Yna Reyes<br />
Photo courtesy of OMF Lit<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhonhPfy9jr1K-RLUzCoVI-SPC4BGPo7BOeGB5iVAL9XdYQz3MvMINmcg5nTF0bfLckky7zRMBliIHvabdzMxBDj41iB18zv8VHyQI1JLvYdEgh9daci7VjGHJSgQYDJf3BqKBsuBKCGbw/s1600/IMGP2066.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhonhPfy9jr1K-RLUzCoVI-SPC4BGPo7BOeGB5iVAL9XdYQz3MvMINmcg5nTF0bfLckky7zRMBliIHvabdzMxBDj41iB18zv8VHyQI1JLvYdEgh9daci7VjGHJSgQYDJf3BqKBsuBKCGbw/s1600/IMGP2066.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: 12.8000001907349px;">with Senior Editor Ian Magallona</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiacMochVpH7gWFHmx4QUpZC6AvAXoM5Rs2GUUwIyPVOpCrbpiqVj9TpQpT-X2egyuSWw00pU2xcrcQhWFo9pW4gPBQhlLi00wTTEmYpOKcwL_yMQaZhPzOFGVEopy5meIBZ1Kn20Oivg8/s1600/IMGP2097.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiacMochVpH7gWFHmx4QUpZC6AvAXoM5Rs2GUUwIyPVOpCrbpiqVj9TpQpT-X2egyuSWw00pU2xcrcQhWFo9pW4gPBQhlLi00wTTEmYpOKcwL_yMQaZhPzOFGVEopy5meIBZ1Kn20Oivg8/s1600/IMGP2097.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
with Beng Alba Jones, editor of How to Keep Your Hubby Happy<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWgF5LNpdNX6rZI8aFsabvxPKL76DVS_s2jj6_Zl9-IA5gktWqzqiARvtPvO_PeeT8F1OJ2ap0izespNIxSDY3W8kUz2QBUXsqzVyU-4A89kZXLG6D0T22FgWNaqFGtwyxCeS2y2LKytg/s1600/10865984_882151191807036_7092096051257512245_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWgF5LNpdNX6rZI8aFsabvxPKL76DVS_s2jj6_Zl9-IA5gktWqzqiARvtPvO_PeeT8F1OJ2ap0izespNIxSDY3W8kUz2QBUXsqzVyU-4A89kZXLG6D0T22FgWNaqFGtwyxCeS2y2LKytg/s1600/10865984_882151191807036_7092096051257512245_o.jpg" height="208" width="320" /></a></div>
OMF Lit Family<br />
Photo grabbed from OMF Lit Facebook page</td></tr>
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Marlene Legaspi-Munarhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16844221226331644178noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5932752469014576894.post-34450593973916799542015-02-14T03:44:00.000-08:002015-02-14T03:44:04.975-08:00Unfading, Steadfast LoveI did something different that day. Instead of settling myself on a couch in our kitchen corner to do my Scripture reading, I stepped out of the house and wore an earphone. I listened to an audio recording of <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm+104&version=ESV" target="_blank">Psalm 104</a> as I scanned the blue sky with white clouds of various shapes drifting by. Our neighbor's coconut trees tower above the other trees and added to the delightful view. The cool morning breeze was refreshing and so are the words I was hearing.<br />
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<i>Bless the Lord, O my soul!</i></div>
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<i> O Lord my God, you are very great!</i></div>
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<i>You are clothed with splendor and majesty,</i></div>
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<i> covering yourself with light as with a garment,</i></div>
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<i> stretching out the heavens like a tent. </i>(verse 1 and 2)</div>
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I was busy the past days with writing assignments and other errands. Because of this, instead of meditating I hastily finished my daily Bible reading and just quickly uttered prayer requests to help me make it through the day. It was like saying "Hi!" and then "Good-bye" right away to an important person who longs to spend time with you.<br />
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I needed the quiet time to calm me, but more than that I needed to just be in the presence of my loving God. Hearing an audio recording of the Bible, I was reminded of God's beauty in creation, how He caused each flower and tree to grow, how He formed each mountain, how He caused plants to grow to serve as food for me. God even marked the day with sun and moon to let me know when to work and when to rest.<br />
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<i>O Lord, how manifold are your works!</i></div>
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<i> In wisdom have you made them all;</i></div>
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<i> the earth is full of your creatures. </i>(verse 24)</div>
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God made many wonderful things and often I overlook them. I fail to see how God surrounds me with love. When I take time to read His Word, or in this case, hear His Word, and look around, I realize how much He loves me and how much He desires to spend time with me. </div>
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After standing for some minutes listening to the audio Bible and looking up, I sat down on the porch and fixed my gaze on the ground. A small, faint red spot caught my attention. I looked closely and realized it's not just a spot, but a familiar shape--it's a little heart. I scratched the surface to see if it is paper or other lightweight material, but no, it wasn't. Could it be a drip from a paint? We didn't paint anything red or pink these past weeks. What could it be? I didn't bother to find an explanation anymore on how that little heart got into the ground. I took it as a reminder from the God who created the sparkling stars and fluffy clouds to remind me that He loves me very much with an unfading, steadfast love. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgteRwtuSdD5Nbd9Puv31c0tuCJTJsZNVOJNwO5RqFcJQbYUodcTTcoo9niyy4dPVHWgdG5X7QRremKSMIxr4if3Qu4NEen-OW2gQJL8fM03LtLoVAFMWrbmYDN1rBOfjowcNDaHklzfe4/s1600/heart.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgteRwtuSdD5Nbd9Puv31c0tuCJTJsZNVOJNwO5RqFcJQbYUodcTTcoo9niyy4dPVHWgdG5X7QRremKSMIxr4if3Qu4NEen-OW2gQJL8fM03LtLoVAFMWrbmYDN1rBOfjowcNDaHklzfe4/s1600/heart.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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<i>Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good,</i></div>
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<i> for his steadfast love endures forever</i>. <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=ps+136&version=ESV" target="_blank">Psalm 136:1</a></div>
Marlene Legaspi-Munarhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16844221226331644178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5932752469014576894.post-61919539340540837072015-02-11T11:40:00.000-08:002015-02-10T19:46:30.208-08:00A Heart and a Jar Filled with GratitudeOn the first day of this year, a friend on Facebook invited us to keep a Gratitude Jar for the rest of the year. The idea is to think daily about one thing you're grateful for, write it on a piece of paper, and toss it in a jar of your choice which will be aptly named as, yes, "Gratitude Jar".<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My Gratitude Jar</td></tr>
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I took on the challenge and found right away an empty, transparent, green bottle with a long neck. Perfect. I jotted down each day on a small strip of pink paper one thing that's worth thanking God for. For the past month, my heart has been spilling with gratitude for many things. Each day, I find reason, actually more than one reason, to be happy and thankful. </div>
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My pen scribbled with joy when within the same month, I signed two contracts for a project. Remembering the law of sowing and reaping, I was thrilled when an opportunity was presented to me to donate to a worthy cause. It was just a few hundred pesos which I've been saving for a personal need, but the joy I received in return was priceless. That incident was recorded and kept in the jar. </div>
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But there were also things that I wish didn't happen, still I found reason to be grateful. My son was hospitalized, but we were relieved that he recovered quickly. I had a flu soon after, but I was in bed for just a day. A software I was using was corrupted, but I didn't get cranky this time and stayed calm while downloading a replacement. Cool! </div>
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Because God is in control and He is a reliable help in time of need, I can be thankful in any situation--good or bad, happy or sad. I may be bubbling over with excitement one day, or feeling blah the next time. Yet, when I remember that God loves me dearly and He has a purpose for everything, I train myself to pause, take up the pen, express my thanks, and toss it in my Gratitude Jar. </div>
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At the end of the year, I will unroll each pieces of paper and read them one by one. I will relive God's goodness, thank Him once again, and praise Him for all that He has done. </div>
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"Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus." </div>
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1 Thessalonians 5:18</div>
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Here's another <a href="http://www.guideposts.org/inspiration/inspirational-stories/the-smile-jar?page=0%2C0&utm_source=Your-Weekly-Inspiration&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=2015-2-9_nl_the-smile-jar" target="_blank">story</a> about a Gratitude Jar. </div>
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If you're inspired to make your own Gratitude Jar, share it with us. Let your heart and jar be filled with gratitude to God!</div>
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Marlene Legaspi-Munarhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16844221226331644178noreply@blogger.com0Philippines12.879721 121.77401699999996-2.8284714999999991 101.11971999999996 28.5879135 142.42831399999994tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5932752469014576894.post-84659177350451236682014-12-16T23:34:00.000-08:002014-12-16T23:34:59.097-08:00Wishing for a Golden Wedding Anniversary?<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
In the beginning of this year, in
January, my husband officiated a ceremony for the renewal of vows of a couple celebrating their golden wedding anniversary. After the couple renewed
their wedding vows, they danced cheek-to-cheek to the tune of their favorite
song “God Knows How Much I Love You” by the Righteous Brothers.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Last June, my parents-in-law
celebrated their golden wedding anniversary too. Both of them are already in
their 70's and have not been separated from each other. So we celebrated their
50 years of togetherness with a simple lunch with close relatives and friends. We
were reminded that married life is not all bliss. It has blisters too, but with
Christ in the center of the relationship married couples can stick together and be happy.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Two weeks ago, in this last month
of the year, a popular month for weddings, we were invited to another golden
anniversary. Teary-eyed the couple renewed their covenant of love to each other. And yes, the elderly husband planted a kiss on the lips of his gray-haired but still
beautiful wife. It was a sweet, tender moment and we the audience responded with
cheers. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid_kUl6VVAhKF6JHSJYPJS_7kkMpvMx15LNkYDYArh69yUzg86D7Q2BG7F_m7GHADOjc_XpAbAHt43kFpGmpJhJfFn7UZ9-M54pbW_de7pfkC9kSIAmTmFQequjdfwpfHOZW1P5NyKoGM/s1600/IMG_20141205_110820.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid_kUl6VVAhKF6JHSJYPJS_7kkMpvMx15LNkYDYArh69yUzg86D7Q2BG7F_m7GHADOjc_XpAbAHt43kFpGmpJhJfFn7UZ9-M54pbW_de7pfkC9kSIAmTmFQequjdfwpfHOZW1P5NyKoGM/s1600/IMG_20141205_110820.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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Don’t you wish for a golden
wedding anniversary too? I do. In my book<i>
How to Keep Your Hubby Happy at Iba Pang Tips para kay Misis</i> I revealed some
of the secrets to a long and happy marriage shared by real-life couples who
have decided to stay together through thick and thin. Get the scoop from the
book available at Omf Literature Book Shops, National Book Store, PCBS, and
other book stores. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Marlene Legaspi-Munarhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16844221226331644178noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5932752469014576894.post-25976708969788486382014-12-03T13:30:00.000-08:002014-12-02T21:30:32.989-08:00Mamay and NanayMamay* tends a convenience store on the street where we live. I would sometimes go to his store to buy an item which I forgot to pick up from the supermarket, or to quickly replenish my diminishing condiment supply. At 86, Mamay moves slowly now but he could still count and give the correct change. At times when I would pass by, I would see him watching TV placed in one corner of his store. This morning, I saw him repacking brown sugar in small plastic packets.<br />
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I see him in contrast with my aunt whom we call Nanay**. Nanay remains unmarried and now lives with a relative. She's about the same age as my neighbor Mamay. But unlike my enterprising neighbor, I heard Nanay spends more time watching TV alone. In her earlier days, she went out with friends but soon lost touch with them. It's sad that she has become more forgetful lately, not recalling the names of nieces and nephews, not remembering where she placed a personal belonging, or if she has already cashed her retirement check. I plan to visit her again soon. I hope she still recalls my name and that we could laugh together as we remember whatever happy memories we still share.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRoPW_BmNGxJd4jy5RbBeZLIFhQFqJlnojXqyeBvc8kqfrLBSFH8KaJGCeCJ-PR2n5JckO9vZ6_VvKHVLtJwzoOoC1K1y6iVHezzsvRmNdT36ntX-jhPaGDFQSQh3xCVQNBYje53VJB9Q/s1600/IMG_20141203_130830.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRoPW_BmNGxJd4jy5RbBeZLIFhQFqJlnojXqyeBvc8kqfrLBSFH8KaJGCeCJ-PR2n5JckO9vZ6_VvKHVLtJwzoOoC1K1y6iVHezzsvRmNdT36ntX-jhPaGDFQSQh3xCVQNBYje53VJB9Q/s1600/IMG_20141203_130830.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nanay (right in printed dress) holding me</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Read about enhancing your relationship with your elderly relatives and creating pleasant memories from my book <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Life-in-the-Middle/227656100723562?fref=ts" target="_blank">Life in the Middle</a>. Available at PCBS, CSM Book Corner, and some branches of National Book Store. If you want the e-book version, you may get it from <a href="http://www.buqo.ph/Shop/Book/7013cdb9-01d4-4e98-b330-187e7000461a/life-in-the-middle-the-search-for-satisfying-and-significant-midlife" target="_blank">Buqo</a>. Want a signed copy delivered at your doorstep? Please email yahmunar@gmail.com for orders.<br />
<br />
*Mamay is a Tagalog term used in Batangas for grandfather.<br />
**Nanay is a Tagalog term for mother. Also used to refer to a grandmother.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEionZzp4jrKXilf-FvBV7gw_kSEQm5cPL846LkpqdEV9Cxf47rR-bXC-oNkSZknMPfeQ-HSrEc-sfl1SHzhgtmGelPJ0LCk8CVo3c1douV1qHh8aGHdoXrwPMhb_tgAaeynRmL8w9Ye2So/s1600/LIM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEionZzp4jrKXilf-FvBV7gw_kSEQm5cPL846LkpqdEV9Cxf47rR-bXC-oNkSZknMPfeQ-HSrEc-sfl1SHzhgtmGelPJ0LCk8CVo3c1douV1qHh8aGHdoXrwPMhb_tgAaeynRmL8w9Ye2So/s1600/LIM.jpg" height="320" width="182" /></a></div>
<br />Marlene Legaspi-Munarhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16844221226331644178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5932752469014576894.post-52238635950696651222014-11-27T09:06:00.000-08:002014-11-26T22:37:50.936-08:00Living Significantly<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Before each year ends, I return
to an annual habit. I look back to the previous months and recall the year’s
events and milestones. This year, we grieved as many people close to us passed
away. But this year, we also celebrated
the gift of life as babies were born to our family and friends reached their 50<sup>th</sup>
birthday. What an undeniable reminder that life on earth has a beginning, a
middle, and an end.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
In one of the psalms, David
affirmed that God created him and planned the number of days he would live on
earth. If the number of our days on earth is limited, how then should we
conduct ourselves so as to live significantly?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOIvky_QMA3oJBhx_YKdHf4MTbwb-MXu6QJI73ZDbQj_yEE9LsHKEGOuHklxtCtLw3MULgVQ-qi_wdKcd5-vrh4jW68_EaiLEX4SeeMgsQWtIX7P0_GJD4XrqjSje03gN_V7Ztt2cCyQs/s1600/More+to+this+Life-001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOIvky_QMA3oJBhx_YKdHf4MTbwb-MXu6QJI73ZDbQj_yEE9LsHKEGOuHklxtCtLw3MULgVQ-qi_wdKcd5-vrh4jW68_EaiLEX4SeeMgsQWtIX7P0_GJD4XrqjSje03gN_V7Ztt2cCyQs/s1600/More+to+this+Life-001.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><i>Live loving.<o:p></o:p></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Jesus Christ summed up the <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=mat+22%3A37-39&version=NIV" target="_blank">commands</a> of God this way: love God and love others as you love yourself. Is
there a conflict here? None, if you keep it that way. Because when you love God
first, He will enable you to love others and yourself. But when you love
yourself most, you will have a hard time loving God and others.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><i>Live serving. <o:p></o:p></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Rick Warren said, “There are
three things you can do with your life: You can waste it, you can spend it, or
you can invest it. The best use of your life is to invest your life in
something that will outlast it. The worst thing you can do is to live simply
for today and to live for yourself.” God did not put you on earth to live for
yourself. Look for an opportunity to serve. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><i>Live laughing.<o:p></o:p></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
We take medicine to reduce pain
and to prolong life. There’s a <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=prov+17%3A22&version=NIV" target="_blank">saying</a>, laughter is the best medicine. So if you
want to live longer, healthier, laugh more often. Laughing boosts immunity and
lowers stress hormones. It adds zest to life and improves relationships. And
people tend to be more attracted to cheerful individuals. You’d want that,
right?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><i>Live wondering. <o:p></o:p></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
As we grow older, we lose our
sense of wonder. We get busy and give up smelling the flowers. We face troubles
and get tired easily. When dreams become unreachable and we fail to reach our goals, we
lose our hope. When these happen, it’s time to pause and recharge. Enjoy God’s
creation. Discover ways of doing things differently. Do something new. Recover
your sense of wonder; God is a wonderful God and He is doing wonderful things
in our lives.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Whatever stage of life you are in now, live loving, serving,
laughing, and wondering. <o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
Learn more tips on how to live significantly from my book <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Life-in-the-Middle/227656100723562?fref=ts" target="_blank">Life in the Middle</a>. Available at PCBS, CSM Book Corner and other book stores. Or if you want the e-book version, get it from <a href="http://www.buqo.ph/Shop/Book/7013cdb9-01d4-4e98-b330-187e7000461a/life-in-the-middle-the-search-for-satisfying-and-significant-midlife" target="_blank">Buqo</a>. If you want a signed copy delivered at your doorstep, please email me at yahmunar@gmail.com.<br />
<br /></div>
Marlene Legaspi-Munarhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16844221226331644178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5932752469014576894.post-35197752755239352272014-03-10T01:33:00.000-07:002014-03-10T01:59:03.237-07:00Our One Week of Manna<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
It was one of those days when I
found myself wishing again for something more. I wanted something more and yes,
it was something material. I imagined what I could do if only I have more of
what I already have. By coincidence, I heard a preacher on radio say something
that snapped me back to my senses. “Don’t take for granted what you have. Don’t
get tired of your manna.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
In biblical history, manna is food
miraculously supplied to the Israelites in the wilderness for forty years. They
were thin flakes that appeared on the desert floor every morning. According to
the Exodus account, it was white and tasted like wafers with honey (Exodus
16:31). That’s why it was aptly described as bread from heaven. In spite of the
seemingly sweet taste of this miraculous provision, the Israelites lost appetite
for it and craved for meat. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
The
radio broadcast was a heaven-sent message for me. I was reminded to be thankful
for the things I already have, no matter how little or few they may be. Six
days later, my family and I would experience what I would consider as almost miraculous--we
would receive manna for the next six days. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
On Friday, my friend texted me to
ask if I was home. Less than an hour later, she was knocking on our door and
handing to us a bag full of goods from the wet market: eight fillets of blue
marlin, the half of a big squash, about a kilo of ripe mangoes, also a kilo of
red tomatoes, three salted eggs, and two pieces of eggplants. We were surprised
at the bounty she brought to us. The following day, Saturday, a couple who came
from Tagaytay brought us a <i>pasalubong </i>of
one big watermelon and two small pineapples. We were so thankful because we
love fruits.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwl_8y7ykETnH7Zf0f_tMUnkm2AL4KIs8IV5XLTofGb2hicVkYmn06Jhvj_SxTdKmgOqv20mJgkVnmJr_nH_DlzqyEQ0I-YrrEOl5u018vaT-lAjZKbS1r_pj1whWf1KeD53kJmkCjHvM/s1600/pineapple.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwl_8y7ykETnH7Zf0f_tMUnkm2AL4KIs8IV5XLTofGb2hicVkYmn06Jhvj_SxTdKmgOqv20mJgkVnmJr_nH_DlzqyEQ0I-YrrEOl5u018vaT-lAjZKbS1r_pj1whWf1KeD53kJmkCjHvM/s1600/pineapple.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="text-indent: 0.5in;">We were already pleased
and satisfied with our surprise supply of fish, fruits, and vegetables for the
past two days, but another feast was yet to come. On Sunday, a couple we know
celebrated their wedding anniversary. We didn’t go to their celebration but
they sent us a sample of the delicious dishes they served--</span><i style="text-indent: 0.5in;">lumpiang shanghai, pork caldereta, </i><span style="text-indent: 0.5in;">and </span><i style="text-indent: 0.5in;">pansit bihon. </i><span style="text-indent: 0.5in;">I didn’t have to cook lunch and dinner for our family
that day!</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="text-indent: 0.5in;">Monday came, and
a colleague came too. She dropped by the house just to sign some papers but she
didn’t forget to bring four oranges, one for each of the members of our small
family. That’s four days in a row of blessings coming to our abode. Our
next-door neighbor felt prompted to share his blessings too for on Tuesday, he
gave us five pieces of heart-shaped green Indian mangoes, freshly plucked
and coated with shiny resin. No one came on Wednesday and Thursday with a bag of
grocery, but on Friday night, my daughter arrived from a cell group meeting
with two big maya-maya (red snapper). The mother of one of her cell members
gave the fish to our family as a present. Of course, I turned them into our
favorite sour stew.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbbqt6WGmdYbjSQzSunp-W9VxL3YqcjxF-LdwmP02ePT_tbsgnCHX0MIpnjaRprUNTayb8Du6cUDdDb3bsVE00fLppoLLq5HCkzHuMwmkNYLRJlwcIjf5VM9RQNFR1BmMHKMHOu8NocOw/s1600/maya-maya.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbbqt6WGmdYbjSQzSunp-W9VxL3YqcjxF-LdwmP02ePT_tbsgnCHX0MIpnjaRprUNTayb8Du6cUDdDb3bsVE00fLppoLLq5HCkzHuMwmkNYLRJlwcIjf5VM9RQNFR1BmMHKMHOu8NocOw/s1600/maya-maya.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="text-indent: 0.5in;">Getting all
these free food felt like receiving manna. I said in the beginning that I was
wishing for something more, but actually it wasn’t food, it’s something else.
But the same principles stood out from our one week of manna experience. First,
God knows our needs and even wants, and He can amply supply. But more than
satisfying our stomach, God is concerned that our hearts are right. God wants
us to have a thankful spirit. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
I also learned not to take for
granted what I have. Let’s not forget that aside from material wealth, our
family and friends are one of our treasures. They can be used by God as
channels of blessings. In return, we can also share with others whatever we
have. Don’t underestimate whatever “little” you think you may have. Until you
give it away, you’ll never experience the joy of realizing that it’s the
miraculous provision someone is waiting for. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: .5in;">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: .5in;">
<o:p></o:p></div>
Marlene Legaspi-Munarhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16844221226331644178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5932752469014576894.post-10697795189025196282013-12-27T01:35:00.000-08:002013-12-27T01:35:26.843-08:00Before the Year is Over (and the New Year Begins)<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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Five days before the end of 2013,
I opened my diary and turned each leaf, scanning the monthly planner for significant
events. I was grateful and glad as I noted accomplishments, opportunities and
milestones not only for me but also for my family. Two books were published
this year. A major translation project was started during the second half of
the year.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There were learning
opportunities right in the comfort of my home through online courses, as well
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Then there’s the usual routine
done on specific days or weeks of the month—paying bills, filing reports,
making deposits. Even those were noted on my planner. There were also plans and
projects that didn’t materialize. Maybe they were not meant to be or maybe they
will be fulfilled this coming new year. I’m thankful for whatever good thing
God has allowed to happen and for whatever worthy work He has enabled me to do.
Though this year brought fears and doubts, lonely moments and discouragements
too, God’s grace comforted me. I couldn’t imagine living the 365 days of 2013
without Him.</div>
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I already bought a planner for
2014. How about you? Before the new year arrives, you might want to recall also
and thank God for the blessings, opportunities, milestones, as well as the
lessons learned in 2013. Hopefully, it will give you courage and confidence to
face 2014. </div>
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<i>"For I know the plans I
have for you," says the LORD. "They are plans for good and not for
disaster, to give you a future and a hope.” </i><span style="mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">Jeremiah 29:11</span></div>
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Marlene Legaspi-Munarhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16844221226331644178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5932752469014576894.post-26190929963560015872013-11-11T00:06:00.000-08:002013-11-11T00:06:46.379-08:00Remembering Tacloban <div style="text-align: justify;">
I cried this morning as I saw on television images of the ravaged city of Tacloban. It was no longer the same city we went to first on November 4 and then on November 6 when we returned from Biliran Island for a family vacation. On November 4, from Manila, we flew and landed at the Daniel Z. Romualdez Airport in Tacloban, Leyte and then traveled by land for more than two hours to get to the island of Biliran. Because of the coming typhoon Yolanda (international name: Haiyan), we decided to return to Tacloban City a day earlier. It was almost evening when we returned to Tacloban City but after finding an accommodation, we had time for dinner and coffee at downtown and a walk to the pier near the public market to have a taste of their barbecue. The following day, November 7, it was already raining so we decided to buy umbrellas and some <i>pasalubong</i> (local delicacies and souvenirs) for family and friends. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitpb7iEKxGIPs56OGM_CEG3hunjUI8Ablo8jNfqK4TIGgENmcEX-zZK_MAkhjUeuo5_K2jbf0dWsJ9rE54teGX7JwJJFqIT_oE-YrW1bhpPpwwzgSFSKGXAcGdgFLVPsKmKH0JfJwzk5E/s1600/IMGP1070.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitpb7iEKxGIPs56OGM_CEG3hunjUI8Ablo8jNfqK4TIGgENmcEX-zZK_MAkhjUeuo5_K2jbf0dWsJ9rE54teGX7JwJJFqIT_oE-YrW1bhpPpwwzgSFSKGXAcGdgFLVPsKmKH0JfJwzk5E/s320/IMGP1070.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Now as I hear news of death and saw collapsed buildings and survivors lining up for relief goods, I remember the locals I met in Tacloban. The tricycle and jeepney drivers who brought us to our destination within the city. The crew of Kitchenitos who served our dinner. The people at Jose Karlo's who prepared our delicious, hot coffee. The street vendor of sweet <i>binagol</i> and<i> moron. </i> The hawker who sold us three umbrellas. The woman fanning the flames on her barbecue stand. The hotel staff. The sales clerk at the souvenir shop in the airport, and the many other nameless people we met on the streets. How I pray that they too, have survived the destruction of super typhoon Yolanda.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqx0dy44ypFykIkT_eHHAkWHmFpPfjwFFoH0nrTBJwnC2yszaqCoivbhrrxxMxKh0KCy4kavkAGUvg8A4jL2qbiCVY0V5mduoifnHgAWRbpWw3omIIv9LWnbLLPKuoindl5HDgfz5ML7k/s1600/IMGP1000.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqx0dy44ypFykIkT_eHHAkWHmFpPfjwFFoH0nrTBJwnC2yszaqCoivbhrrxxMxKh0KCy4kavkAGUvg8A4jL2qbiCVY0V5mduoifnHgAWRbpWw3omIIv9LWnbLLPKuoindl5HDgfz5ML7k/s320/IMGP1000.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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The thought of losing loved ones in a disaster like this is heartbreaking. But slowly, I hear reports of friends who have finally received text messages from their relatives in Tacloban that they are safe, though without water and food supplies. This brings much relief to our hearts and I pray that many more have survived. A lot more needs to be done to help these people who are in distress. This is also a reminder for us to turn to the Lord who alone can really save us from all forms of destruction. Let us surrender our lives to Him before it's too late. </div>
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<i>Turn to the Lord and pray to Him,</i></div>
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<i> now that He is near.</i></div>
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<i> Let the wicked leave their way of life</i></div>
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<i> and change their way of thinking.</i></div>
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<i>Let them turn to the Lord, our God;</i></div>
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<i> He is merciful and quick to forgive.</i></div>
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Isaiah 55:6-7</div>
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Marlene Legaspi-Munarhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16844221226331644178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5932752469014576894.post-26605396905207927502013-11-08T18:57:00.000-08:002013-11-08T18:57:14.235-08:00An Opportune Time to Trust God<div style="text-align: justify;">
Our family trip to Biliran Island, which is across the province of Leyte in Eastern Visayas, was planned seven months ago after seeing a travel show featuring Biliran. The island province was described as an unspoiled paradise with waterfalls, white sand beaches, hot springs, and mountains. Coincidentally, there was a Cebu Pacific promo fare at that time so we booked a flight in November. </div>
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But our excitement over our vacation was challenged by a series of unexpected events. A day before the trip, my husband had a slight fever. But after praying for healing and taking medicines, he was up and about. My daughter had motion sickness on the plane and had to endure another two-hour dizzying ride aboard a van to get to Naval, Biliran. But our biggest challenge came in the form of a super typhoon that was approaching the Philippines, and reported to be going towards the direction of the Visayas region, right where we were. This would have dampened our spirits had we not heard the message of 2 Thessalonians 3:3 last Sunday in church. Our pastor preached on 2 Thessalonians 3:3 which reminds us, "But the Lord is faithful, and He will strengthen you and protect you from the evil one."</div>
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It was an opportune time for us to trust God's faithfulness to provide, strengthen, and protect us in our situation and truly, we saw His favor. My husband and daughter regained their strength enough to climb mountains and frolic in the waters. Although our schedule for chasing waterfalls and island hopping had to be adjusted because of the weather, we were happy that the sun shone. It enabled us to make the short boat trip to a small, beautiful island in the province. Moreover, God prompted us to leave Biliran a day earlier so as not to be caught by storm Yolanda (international name Haiyan). And even when all the rooms in the hotels, pension inns, and lodges in Tacloban (the capital of Leyte) were full the day we arrived there (a group with many delegates was meeting in the city), a kind lodge staff called a tricycle for us and instructed the driver to bring us to a nearby hotel where we were accommodated. At the airport, we, the passengers en route to Manila sighed in relief and a few clapped their hands when our plane finally arrived. </div>
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As I write this, we are now home, safe and thankful for God's protection. But we pray earnestly for those who were terribly hit by the storm and wish that the government's target of zero casualty is reached. We entreat God to help the victims to recover. God is merciful to all who call upon Him. </div>
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<i>"He made the storm still, and the waves of the sea were hushed. Then they were glad that the waters were quiet, and He brought them to their desired haven. Let them thank the Lord for His steadfast love..</i>." Psalm 107:29-30</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1o-XDfmDWR2Z0rB6g0lEIOYenz2IHVAqLsk3Py4ujJAQx9A6aXBaIb-HjQmD1dfODuCFzU1lvr1E7UeM3uR7c8ZSVQRS-Y6MNUPhMZW__Nj4axCblucYiGMtvMQpvtUd1pXKEpefHsos/s1600/IMGP0991.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1o-XDfmDWR2Z0rB6g0lEIOYenz2IHVAqLsk3Py4ujJAQx9A6aXBaIb-HjQmD1dfODuCFzU1lvr1E7UeM3uR7c8ZSVQRS-Y6MNUPhMZW__Nj4axCblucYiGMtvMQpvtUd1pXKEpefHsos/s320/IMGP0991.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Downtown Tacloban on November 6, two days before typhoon Yolanda hit the city</td></tr>
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Marlene Legaspi-Munarhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16844221226331644178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5932752469014576894.post-30634138796440963872013-10-15T18:16:00.000-07:002013-10-15T18:16:07.503-07:00Preparing for That Day<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYOhA0T8OzlodJoeNt55WCIrNS5BOpGtsx9xviOXMu303SQbNYHYl2lPBmxWNREsqDWhAkEP9F-zFMVAfdsEJFxm67W4YTLJztYc21mdcN5ejXQnI6SCLyzXyo5ZQs872CMMCHoE8wRUg/s1600/IMGP7276.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYOhA0T8OzlodJoeNt55WCIrNS5BOpGtsx9xviOXMu303SQbNYHYl2lPBmxWNREsqDWhAkEP9F-zFMVAfdsEJFxm67W4YTLJztYc21mdcN5ejXQnI6SCLyzXyo5ZQs872CMMCHoE8wRUg/s320/IMGP7276.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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I went to the wake of an aunt yesterday. Her daughter narrated how unprepared she was for her death although she was well aware of the life-threatening sickness of her mother. Choosing the appropriate burial clothes for her became a confusing task. She also had to frantically search for her mom's memorial plan because they never discussed where the document is kept. It's a common scenario as many of us find it difficult to prepare for the eventual death of a loved one. </div>
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The thought of losing someone we love brings pain and fear that's why we brush it aside. Aware of this, the Lord Jesus Christ tried to comfort the grieving sisters Mary and Martha at the death of their brother Lazarus with these words: "I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies; and whoever lives and believes in me will never die. Do you believe this?"*</div>
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Jesus died on the cross to pay for the penalty of our sins but He rose from the dead and is now alive forevermore. Any person who believes in Him will eventually die, but will be given a new life together with Him where He is. In Christ, we have hope of being reunited with our dear departed who also trusted in Him. As we gain more confidence in this promise of the Lord Jesus Christ, our pain fades away and we gain courage to face the issue of death. Death then loses its sting. </div>
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<i>The book <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Life-in-the-Middle/227656100723562" target="_blank">Life in the Middle</a> shares practical tips on preparing for that eventual day. The chapter "Better Ready than Never" discusses things like filing important documents, creating pleasant memories for your loved ones, leaving a legacy and many others. <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Life-in-the-Middle/227656100723562" target="_blank">Life in the Middle</a> is available at CSM Book Store, National Book Store and other book shops. For overseas orders, you may email direct@csm-publishing.com. </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsUOm94Gh4h_DnsImR644ZDlNaGZ5q49wFDqrZyb4GHn_XFOTm6k4AIwPXGC0ZTyP_BTKfheGbhbVDXOfGYBMRH9MLG54SGu7YDsgpQ8UHBFYzaox9YRWjwzzNc9ndgGIw8Jhupel5Y2I/s1600/Life+in+the+Middle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsUOm94Gh4h_DnsImR644ZDlNaGZ5q49wFDqrZyb4GHn_XFOTm6k4AIwPXGC0ZTyP_BTKfheGbhbVDXOfGYBMRH9MLG54SGu7YDsgpQ8UHBFYzaox9YRWjwzzNc9ndgGIw8Jhupel5Y2I/s320/Life+in+the+Middle.jpg" width="182" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">*John 11:25-26</span></div>
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Marlene Legaspi-Munarhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16844221226331644178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5932752469014576894.post-83050214214062375432013-10-09T23:31:00.001-07:002013-10-09T23:47:38.623-07:00How to Feel Happier and Younger<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6IfDxBJsaF_oLBA_lepOrBmzSgeOvxCPBLEX39W4qqON8KlPuOKUgw0CniBcy6yZEsX_J-w5I4c2WDd0_fJwuTD0GiAfhLzJ3HYIROSBcMrW0aqEfdSD5UVbE_AwWzpi2kwxr__tNMh8/s1600/IMGP0330.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6IfDxBJsaF_oLBA_lepOrBmzSgeOvxCPBLEX39W4qqON8KlPuOKUgw0CniBcy6yZEsX_J-w5I4c2WDd0_fJwuTD0GiAfhLzJ3HYIROSBcMrW0aqEfdSD5UVbE_AwWzpi2kwxr__tNMh8/s1600/IMGP0330.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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For the second time, I had my body scanned to determine my body fat and body age. My first scan a few months ago indicated that I have the body of a forty-six year old, almost two years younger than my chronological age. This time around, I was pleasantly surprised when the scan calculated my body age to be forty-three years! I am not 100% sure about the accuracy of this body scan but a verse I read this morning gave me a spiritual perspective. Psalm 103:1-5 says:</div>
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<i>Praise the Lord my soul!</i></div>
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<i>All my being, praise His holy name!</i></div>
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<i>Praise the Lord, my soul,</i></div>
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<i>and do not forget how kind He is. </i></div>
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<i>He forgives all my sins</i></div>
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<i>and heals all my diseases.</i></div>
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<i>He keeps me from the grave</i></div>
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<i>and blesses me with love and mercy. </i></div>
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<i>He fills my life with good things,</i></div>
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<i>so that I stay young and strong like an eagle.*</i></div>
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I feel younger because many good things have happened to me recently. Four weeks earlier, my newest book, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Life-in-the-Middle/227656100723562" target="_blank">Life in the Middle</a>, was launched at the Manila International Book Fair. Two weeks ago, I visited Singapore for the first time mainly to attend a training seminar. I met my Asian colleagues and gained insights about my learning style and how I can improve and utilize it to mentor others. While I was away from home, I also received the wonderful news that my daughter was accepted to her first job and that my son's musical band won in a contest. And this week, I acquired my first smartphone. </div>
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I thank God for these "good things" and many more. More than a good experience and a good material blessing, these things are a testimony of God's gracious and powerful work in my life, answers to prayers, and opportunities to be in awe as I discover new things. It's not just the achievements and material blessings themselves that make a person feel happier and younger but it's the joyful, grateful recognition that all these good things come from God. Do you want to feel happier and younger? Begin now to count your blessings and feel happier and younger. </div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">*Good News Translation</span></div>
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Marlene Legaspi-Munarhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16844221226331644178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5932752469014576894.post-63869619808130870202013-09-06T17:40:00.000-07:002013-09-06T17:41:23.632-07:00Is Your Life on Hold?<div style="text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDwwJ7_Lnvvdi2c_6ii6aKG0kK-QnqfulU3MkJxjb872-4yQQA0wRdrWk7xY1FU0DT1_XDDn1HGCzRICkklxwVYIO-AVmu2iiMBwiuY-f1gFi9_rVOXlZtqXZVbmfl-sOBjzkUaTyi4Hs/s1600/life+on+hold.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDwwJ7_Lnvvdi2c_6ii6aKG0kK-QnqfulU3MkJxjb872-4yQQA0wRdrWk7xY1FU0DT1_XDDn1HGCzRICkklxwVYIO-AVmu2iiMBwiuY-f1gFi9_rVOXlZtqXZVbmfl-sOBjzkUaTyi4Hs/s320/life+on+hold.jpg" width="274" /></a></div>
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Do you think you're missing something?</div>
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Do you feel like your life has been put on hold?</div>
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Do you desperately want to make things happen but things are not progressing?</div>
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At some point in our lives, we ask these questions, whether you are a new graduate seeking a first job, a mother who gave up a thriving career to be a full-time homemaker, a midlifer or a senior citizen wondering and worrying about the direction of your life. Some may even be tempted to ask: <i>Has God forgotten me?</i></div>
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I'll let Psalm 138:8 answer that last question. The verse, written by King David many years ago says, "The Lord will perfect that which concerns me..." God is concerned about our welfare so He has good plans for us. And because He is wise and unlimited in power, He is able to carry out those good plans for us as we submit<i> </i>and work together with Him. When we seek God's good plans for us and work towards that, we will have a satisfying and significant life. </div>
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Waiting and working are necessary. Do all what you know you can and stop doing what you should not be doing. Be productive while you're waiting but pause also to savor the moment. Trust God. Your next big thing could be just around the corner. </div>
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<i>Are you in midlife? You can have a satisfying and significant midlife. This is the message of my upcoming book Life in the Middle published by Church Strengthening Ministry (CSM). Like the Facebook page of <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Life-in-the-Middle/227656100723562" target="_blank">Life in the Middle </a>to know more about the book. </i></div>
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Marlene Legaspi-Munarhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16844221226331644178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5932752469014576894.post-63636288583188597002013-08-27T20:28:00.000-07:002013-08-27T20:28:55.959-07:00Term of Endearment<div style="text-align: justify;">
My sister has three daughters whose ages are two years apart from each other. When they were younger, my sister was fond of calling each one of her girls as "<i>anak</i>". "<i>Anak</i>" is a Filipino term of endearment that means "child". Any Filipino mother naturally calls her child with that term of endearment. One of my sister's daughters noticed her habit and was quite confused. So one day she asked, "Mama, why do you keep on calling us "<i>anak" </i>when we have our own names?"<br />
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At that time, my niece could still not understand the connotation of the term "<i>anak</i>". The term suggests affection and intimacy, a close relationship enjoyed with no other. As a mother myself, I understand why my sister called her daughters "<i>anak</i>". But I also understand my niece's juvenile point of view. She knows that she is called by her name in the same way her sisters also have their own names.<br />
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God calls "child" anyone who accepts His Son Jesus Christ as his Savior and Lord. John 1:12 says, "Yet to all who received Him, to those who believed in His name, He gave the right to become children of God." And even if there are billions of people in the world, God knows the name of each one of us. What a blessing to realize that God calls me dearly as His child and will never forget my name or yours.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBFy9CtZyPuMDqK0Ou55m5iYemsjTz64v8ZzpYbBw1tM6Beuwl1VUw3ltXuU9srJ0TqyG7wKIMsaIIF1DZfi0HkWjKruDpqpO_rS28_PDujK6fTtNAc_VrrDk27Npc2ul-tcq-xD__MT0/s1600/474036_398972666846951_937041677_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBFy9CtZyPuMDqK0Ou55m5iYemsjTz64v8ZzpYbBw1tM6Beuwl1VUw3ltXuU9srJ0TqyG7wKIMsaIIF1DZfi0HkWjKruDpqpO_rS28_PDujK6fTtNAc_VrrDk27Npc2ul-tcq-xD__MT0/s320/474036_398972666846951_937041677_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo courtesy of Jesus Our Abundant Life Church</td></tr>
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Marlene Legaspi-Munarhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16844221226331644178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5932752469014576894.post-71003281775232355082013-08-04T04:34:00.000-07:002013-08-04T04:34:56.430-07:00A Better Recognition <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_mrHyizZDNQdZTc0gzKM3i0EJTcs1BAxsSbR5Dyo3diF94Zna6F9UBV687R9EZgfMbtLHd4zVi_Iz6qrIt25sy9EeUsIi12QtWSzrspr01uDBHs1H39psp4BYnZRLYnWwsYe_BceJLEg/s1600/magazine.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="234" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_mrHyizZDNQdZTc0gzKM3i0EJTcs1BAxsSbR5Dyo3diF94Zna6F9UBV687R9EZgfMbtLHd4zVi_Iz6qrIt25sy9EeUsIi12QtWSzrspr01uDBHs1H39psp4BYnZRLYnWwsYe_BceJLEg/s320/magazine.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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The following incident happened when I was new with freelance writing. I remember excitedly browsing through the new magazine of which I was a regular contributor. I was writing a variety column and science feature articles so I was puzzled when I didn't see my name in the editorial box of that magazine's particular issue. But I noticed the name of a new writer listed along with the other contributors. How could they forget my name? I was hurt, disappointed, and angry.</div>
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It took a while for my anger to simmer down later that day. Something I read calmed me down. "Do not think of yourself more highly than you should. Instead, be modest in your thinking, and judge yourself according to the amount of faith that God has given you" (Romans 12:3). </div>
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I wanted my name to appear in the list of contributors because I wanted recognition for what I had written. It was right for me to expect it since I was part of the writer's pool. But I was taught through this incident to give more attention on improving my writing. So I took the challenge and worked hard on improving my writing craft. Later on, the editor of the same magazine told me that an article I wrote helped her gain perspective on how to cope with a crisis in the office. I felt it was a recognition better than seeing my name on print and I experienced a greater pleasure knowing how a piece I wrote helped someone. </div>
Marlene Legaspi-Munarhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16844221226331644178noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5932752469014576894.post-83925813296833942992013-07-26T11:48:00.000-07:002013-07-26T17:43:36.834-07:00You Have a Loving Dad<div style="text-align: justify;">
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<span style="text-align: justify;">This week, the world anticipated with excitement the birth of the royal baby, the child of Prince William and his wife Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge. People from around the world waited from the time the Duchess was admitted to St. Mary’s Hospital to the time she emerged from it with the Prince beside her and their royal baby cradled in her arms. Well-wishers rejoiced at the sight of the little baby, the third in line to the British throne. </span></div>
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<span style="text-align: justify;">A month ago, another baby was born, though not from a royal line, but her birth was a cause for much celebration for the baby's parents, especially her dad who is my friend. Even before his little baby was born, my friend has already internalized his new role as a father. While their baby was still in his wife’s womb, he was already talking to their baby and making plans for the baby. When his baby was finally born, he posted the pictures of the baby on Facebook for all to see. Obviously, he’s one excited, loving dad.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5Yw4r9G_mZK4yY7FC-4sjKtxN7Rxp3MHj51D1mW1KjPMJ8Vtm3oCse1Qbm7UH-iGPYwq2TFhKT1tHATfNzIQwed-YgeJ8rtasaSSsUoEiDWMJnX_v4_6pfJn8mnIzfyghaiudKFpY5v4/s1600/dreamstimefree_217743.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5Yw4r9G_mZK4yY7FC-4sjKtxN7Rxp3MHj51D1mW1KjPMJ8Vtm3oCse1Qbm7UH-iGPYwq2TFhKT1tHATfNzIQwed-YgeJ8rtasaSSsUoEiDWMJnX_v4_6pfJn8mnIzfyghaiudKFpY5v4/s320/dreamstimefree_217743.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Photo credit </span><span style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">©</span></span><span style="font-size: x-small;">Micha Fleuren/Dreamstime Stock Photos</span></div>
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We have a Dad, a Heavenly Father, the King of kings who loves us so much and who is so excited about us. 1 John 3:1 reveals, “See how much the Father has loved us! His love is so great that we are called God's children—and so, in fact, we are. This is why the world does not know us: it has not known God.” </div>
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God created us so He is the Father of all creation. But we may not fully experience an intimate relationship with God as our Father if we do not acknowledge and submit to Him. God made it possible for us to be called and accepted as His children by coming to Him through His Son Jesus Christ. Come to your Heavenly Dad and experience His rich love. </div>
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Marlene Legaspi-Munarhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16844221226331644178noreply@blogger.com1