A TALE OF TWO HOSTS: TWIN SERENDIPITIES OF GENEROSITY

 

A few months back…

I looked out the window of the guest room in our Texas home (left photo), the vibrant colors of late fall filling the view. The trees stood cloaked in amber and crimson, their leaves drifting slowly to the ground, one by one. The sky stretched blue and infinite above them, sunlight filtering weakly through the branches, casting long, reaching shadows across the ground.

Our bedroom window view

This morning…

I looked out the same window of the guest room in our Texas home (right photo), and the grayish colors of winter now hung over the view. The trees, once adorned with vibrant foliage, stood bare and skeletal, their limbs stark against the overcast sky, as if mourning the approach of an ending. The ground was a patchwork of withered grass and scattered leaves, remnants of the autumn splendor now faded and seemed to share in our sorrows, as if nature understood the burden of our imminent departure.

The sky, heavy with clouds, stretched like a brooding canvas above, offering no hint of sunlight to pierce through the dispiriting gloom, loomed cold and distant, as if it too felt the ache of goodbye. It was a snowless winter scene, where the chill in the air seemed to hold everything in a quiet, somber embrace, resonated with poignant sadness we’ve carried, echoing our own quiet farewell.

In just a few days…

Our time in Texas would close, and my wife Cher and I would journey back to our homeland, the Philippines, our hearts heavy with mixed emotions.

It was a lethargic afternoon, and to soothe my heavy heart, I opened my laptop. With a few clicks, I navigated to Google Chrome, YouTube, and finally, Love Songs in Piano – Best Melodies of Love. Soft music filled the room, offering a gentle balm to my weary spirit. Seeking further distraction, I opened a new tab to peruse the latest news. To my surprise, the headline that greeted me mirrored my somber mood:

“Olivia Hussey, Star of 1968 Romeo and Juliet, Dies At 73,”

As I absorbed the sad news, to my amazement, the piano serendipitously began playing A Time For Us, the iconic love theme from Franco Zeffirelli’s Romeo and Juliet, arranged by Henry Mancini.

Olivia Hussey and Leonard Whiting in Romeo and Juliet balcony scene

A time for us someday there’ll be

When chains are torn by courage born of a love that’s free…

A time for us, someday there’ll be, a new world

A world of shining hope for you and me.

The melody transported me back to my high school days when the film’s romantic duo, Leonard Whiting and Olivia Hussey, mesmerized us all. Their on-screen chemistry captivated a generation, creating memories that have lingered through the years.

(Strangely enough, have we, as Pinoys, ever pondered how the essence of the song’s lyrics speaks to our deep-seated love for our suffering country?)

This languid afternoon, steeped in serendipity, stirred memories of our five-month journey from Belgium to Texas. It was a divine gift, a twin package of blessings.

In Belgium, Mario and his Merlita (Angga) were our generous hosts, a story I detailed in my ATABAY article Our Belgian Journey: A Story of Friendship & Faith. Mario, a Belgian citizen, invited Cher and me to visit Belgium not as mere tourists, but as cherished guests with visitor visas. The country’s complex bureaucracy is too rigorous, often deterring tourists with its stringent visa application process.

Home of our Belgium hosts, Mario & Angga

Yet Mario went above and beyond to facilitate our visit. He painstakingly arranged a signed invitation letter, detailing our personal relationship, the purpose of our visit, the duration of our 26-day stay, and his address. He provided proof of his legal status, evidence of our accommodation at his residence, and financial support, including his bank pension statements. These government requirements ensured that Cher and I would be properly cared for throughout our stay in his country.

In an eye-popping gesture of generosity, Mario even sent us money for our round-trip tickets. This act of kindness left us stunned, as we, typical retirees, could hardly afford the expensive cost ourselves. Moreover, we couldn’t fathom why we deserved such immense kindness. Mario’s common-law spouse, Merlita, had been our children’s nanny before moving to Belgium, but such a distant past relationship seemed insufficient to warrant such extraordinary generosity.

Belgium journey photos

God works in mysterious ways, using unexpected people like Mario to bless those who love Him. On our subsequent journey to the U.S., Cher and I experienced another delightful touch of divine serendipity.

Drawing from His boundless mystery, we were blessed with, wonder of wonders, a Mario 2.0 in the person of Ed. In my previous ATABAY article, Christmas Morning Reflections: Embracing Faith & Gratitude, I detailed Ed’s similar generosity. Sharing this again feels fitting, given the remarkable kindness he has shown to Cher and me, a kindness that transcends any sense of proportion.

Ed & Ray in front of our host's Texas home

“[M]y wife Cher and I have been living a life of gratitude here in Texas, thanks to the generosity of Ed, my high school classmate I hadn’t seen in over 50 years. He welcomed us with a four-day, all-expenses-paid trip to Branson, Missouri – The Live Music Show Capital of the World – with new friend Edith as our travel guide.

“Ed has accommodated us in a guest bedroom with an adjoining fitness and game room, in his high-end home in a prominent community. He has provided everything: food, winter outfits, toiletries, and personal essentials, like seniors’ supplements and medicines.”

    Texas trip photos

And thus, we arrive at this article's unexpected revelation graciously shared by our generous hosts.

Merlita: "Mario doesn't have religion; but he is a kind person."

Ed: "At the end of each grading period [in high school, interestingly enough, I was the class valedictorian], I would look at the posted exam results for each subject, starting from the bottom of the lists, where I usually found my name. If I just passed, I rejoiced..."

Indeed, God works in mysterious ways, sometimes using unexpected people like Mario and Ed, who selflessly offer their generosity to others.

As this year draws to a close, so too does my series of ATABAY articles I've been putting together here in the U.S. My next piece will be penned in the Philippines. Let me conclude this final article with a poem.

From distant shores of the Philippines, we came,

Drawn by twin kindness, the duo’s bright flame

To Belgium, the Europe’s heart, and Texas’ charm

Mario and Ed, you welcomed us with open arms.

From Avelgem, Mario led us to many spectacles

Through Brussels’ streets and Ghent’s old walls

Into Bruges’ canals and on Frankenberger’s shore

To Lourdes, France, the pilgrims’ site we adore

In Texas, we’ve tasted American life a bit

Going through Walmart, Lowes, Ranch Market

Super Target, Asian Buffet, Allen Premium Outlet

To name a few, Ed likes us to be familiar with

We've stayed in the guest room of his high-end home

Provides our needs from daily bread to mobile phone

We’re driven to wherever we go in his Mercedez Benz

If hard at work, a prepaid Uber ride comes on the scene

In wondrous ways, God’s grace unfolds so grand

Through our hosts Mario and Ed’s generous hands,

Their unexpected kindness, a serendipitous thread

Blesses those who love Him, where His love is spread.

HAPPY NEW YEAR EVERYONE!

Our hosts Mario & Ed

Content & editing put together in collaboration with Microsoft Bing AI-powered Co-pilot

Head collage courtesy of Canva & Adobe Stock

Romeo and Juliet photo courtesy of Shutterstock

CHRISTMAS MORNING REFLECTIONS: EMBRACING FAITH & GRATITUDE

 

Wednesday, December 25

The screen clock glowed softly – 5:04 AM – on this early Christmas morning here in Texas. As I opened my laptop, I found myself drawn to the Catholic Daily Reflections site. I read the scriptural readings for the day and a poignant reflection titled Pondering the Birth of Christ. Here’s an excerpt:

“Mother Mary was the one person who would have understood the mystery of the birth of her son – the Son of God, the Savior of the World – far more than anyone else. It was to her that the Archangel Gabriel appeared, announcing her pregnancy and His birth. It was she who carried her son, the Son of God, in her Immaculate womb for nine months. It was to her that Elizabeth, her cousin, cried out: Most blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb.(Luke 1:42)

Mother Mary & Baby Jesus 

“It was Mary who was the Immaculate Conception, the one who was preserved from all sin throughout her life. And it was her who gave birth to this Child, carried Him in her arms, and nursed Him at her breast. Our Blessed Mother, more than any other, understood the incredible event that has taken place in her life.”

This profound reflection took me back to an unforgettable experience my wife and I had during our visa interview at the U.S. embassy in Manila, a story I previously shared in my ATABAY article, The Interview Question That Almost Denied Our U.S. Visa Applications.

On that day, we anxiously queued and approached the booth of the U.S. Consular Officer (CO). As we listened to the exchanges between the CO and the applicants, we saw many hopefuls leave with grim expressions, having faced rejections. One exchange stood out:

CO: “What will you do in the U.S.?”

Lady Applicant: “I am a Christian missionary.”

CO: “Could you tell me about the ‘Immaculate Conception’?”

A long deafening silence ensued. The CO sudden verdict followed.

CO: “I’m sorry.”

Had the applicant known the details from the Daily Catholic Reflections, she might have passed the interview.

As I continued to reflect on the Scriptures amidst the cold foggy Christmas morning, I stumbled upon passages in Luke’s Nativity story, where an angel of the Lord introduces Jesus to the shepherds on the night of His birth. This scene of introduction reminded me of a personal introduction I recently encountered.

Cher, Ray, & Ruth

During our stay in Texas, I had the rare opportunity to meet Ruth, my high school classmate, whom I hadn’t seen for more than 50 years. Ruth, my partner in high school folk dances like La Jota Moncadeña and La Estudiantina under the tutelage of Mrs. Aquino, treated my wife and me to dinner at an all-you-can-eat Asian Buffet. She introduced me to her husband, Caloy, who said, “Ruth mentioned you were their high school class valedictorian.”

A few days later, Ruth and Caloy invited us to a Christmas candle-lighting worship service at their home. Ruth introduced me to her community as the high school valedictorian.

Attended the Christmas candle-lighting service at Ruth's home

Even in elementary school, being at the top of the class was a distinct honor. Every time I visited my affluent classmates’ homes, I was introduced to their parents as “our first honor,” rather than just “son of so-and-so.”

Later that evening, Ruth’s community pastor, Richard, chatted with me. We exchanged Facebook and website credentials, and I learned he was a Summa Cum Laude for one of his three master’s degrees, plus a doctorate.

I couldn’t help but think: What if I had been introduced as “our high school valedictorian and college summa cum laude”? If only I hadn’t let my college ambitions slip away. Reflecting on my college years, I realized I had abandoned my pursuit of academic excellence when I started dating during my sophomore year, choosing instead to gratify myself with life’s fleeting pleasures.

Speaking of gratification, my wife and I have been living a life of gratitude here in Texas, thanks to the generosity of Ed, another high school classmate I hadn’t seen in over 50 years. He welcomed us with a four-day, all-expenses-paid trip to Branson, Missouri – The Live Music Show Capital of the World -- with new friend Edith as our travel guide.

Branson, Missouri trip

Ed has accommodated us in a guest bedroom with an adjoining fitness and game room, in his high-end home in a prominent community. He has provided us with everything we need, from food, winter outfits, and toiletries to personal essentials like seniors' supplements and medicines.

He drives us in his Mercedez Benz SUV to church on Sundays and to grocery stores or shopping centers when needed. When he’s busy, he arranges prepaid Uber rides for us.

In front of Ed's home                            Inside of Ruth's home

Here's the plot twist in this narrative.

Ed gave a quick peek at his striking academic life in high school conveying a significant undercurrent.

“I went to high school wearing a pair of old shoes with a hole in each sole… “

“At the end of each grading period, I would look at the posted exam results for each subject, starting from the bottom of the lists where I usually found my name. If I just passed, I rejoiced…”

As I reflect on this Christmas season, a fitting closing message emerges. After 50 years, when Ed’s image resurfaced, all of a sudden, in our high school class radar screen, it was perceived as a mystery. What is the key to his success: hard work, challenge, or perseverance?

Rather than dissecting it now, I choose to embrace the essence of the following insight:

Mary kept all these things, reflecting on them in her heart. (Luke 2:19) Even Mary needed time to ponder, reflect, and savor the most holy mystery.

When the heaven-sent time comes, I hope to be the first to uncover the storyline -- to grace the pages of my ATABAY yet to come.

Christmas dinner at Ruth's home

Content & editing put together in collaboration with Microsoft Bing Ai-operated Co-pilot

Head photo courtesy of Png Aura

BRAIN ROT: THE DIGITAL AGE MENTAL CRISIS

 

Lying on her bed, the glow of her smartphone screen illuminated her face in the dimly lit room. Sophia, a typical young netizen, had been scrolling through her social media feeds for hours, lost in an endless stream of low-quality content. Her fingers moved almost reflexively, swiping up, down, and sideways, as her mind absorbed the barrage of information.

First, there was a TikTok video of a cat wearing sunglasses, and dancing to the latest viral song. She chuckled, her brain registering the fleeting amusement before moving on to a series of Instagram posts by influencers flaunting their meticulously curated meals. Sophia felt a pang of envy but quickly dismissed it, her thumb already poised for the next swipe.

A YouTube short caught her attention--a prank video in which someone pretended to spill coffee on unsuspecting strangers. The laughter was contagious, but the humor was shallow, leaving no lasting impression. Then came the X (formerly Twitter) thread, filled with heated arguments and sensational headlines, each tweet more provocative than the last. Sophia’s heart raced as she read through the comments, the adrenaline rush of online drama pulling her deeper into the digital abyss.

Hours passed, and Sophia’s eyes grew heavy, yet she couldn’t tear herself away. The content was addictive, and each piece was designed to capture her attention for a moment longer. She barely noticed the time slipping away, her mind numbed by the constant stimulation.

This is the reality of brain rot, the Oxford University Press 2024 Word of the Year, a term that has gained prominence in our digital age. It reflects a growing concern about the impact of excessive low-quality online content on our mental abilities. But what exactly does brain rot mean, and how does it connect to the mental processes in our brain? Moreover, what are the political implications of this phenomenon in an era with rampant disinformation? Let’s pick apart these questions in depth.

Understanding Brain Rot

Brain rot is a colloquial term that describes a perceived decline in critical thinking and mental sharpness, often attributed to the overconsumption of low-quality online content. This term highlights the concern that our brains are deteriorating due to constant exposure to superficial content, particularly on social media platforms like TikTok.

As Word of the Year, brain rot captures the zeitgeist of our time, where digital media consumption is all over the place and often overwhelming. It reflects a broader societal anxiety about the impact of technology on our mental health.

Mental Framework: Kahneman’s Systems

In my January 7, 2022, ATABAY article, Juan Tamad Within Us May Elect Our Next President, I explored the two systems in our brain described by Nobel Prize laureate Daniel Kahneman in his book Thinking, Fast and Slow. System 1 thinking is fast, automatic, and requires little effort (e.g., 2 + 2 = what?). It’s the system we rely on for quick judgments and intuitive responses. In contrast, System 2 thinking is slow, deliberate, and effortful, used for complex reasoning and problem-solving (e.g., reading an article and weighing its arguments).

The connection between brain rot and these two systems of thinking lies in our increasing reliance on System 1 thinking due to the nature of digital media. Consuming low-quality, fast-paced content often engages System 1 thinking, leading to a decline in the use of System 2 thinking, which can contribute to the phenomenon of brain rot.

The Impact of Digital Media

The overconsumption of low-quality online content aggravates brain rot by catering to our mental laziness. Platforms like TikTok are designed to hold our attention with short, engaging clips that trigger instant emotional responses. This constant stimulation makes it harder for us to engage in activities that require sustained, effortful thinking.

When we frequently indulge in content prioritizing speed and simplicity over depth and complexity, we condition our brains to favor System 1 thinking. This can lead to a diminished capacity for critical thinking and analytical skills -- hallmarks of a System 2 thinker.

Political Implications

In the political context, the implications of brain rot are profound. Kahneman’s insight that repetition makes people more likely to believe falsehoods plays a crucial role here. Authoritarian regimes and political operatives exploit this mental bias to spread disinformation and manipulate public perception.

Examples of Fear-Based Political Repetition Manipulation

Adolf Hitler wielded fear as a tool, at every turn, to unite Germany against Jews, whom he referred to as a dangerous bacillus, and other perceived enemies. This strategy garnered widespread support for his extreme policies.

Rodrigo Duterte and Donald Trump share striking similarities, as evidenced by their interviews with the press.

Maria Ressa once asked Duterte, known as the Trump of Asia:

“Is it important that people be afraid of you?”

His reply?

“Fear…there must be fear.”

Duterte once compared himself to Hitler, using fear to rally the impoverished Filipinos against drug addicts, whom he referred to as zombies. Ironically, Duterte’s former right-hand man labeled him the lord of all drug lords, and a House of Representatives Committee investigation concluded that Duterte was at the center of a criminal syndicate involved in illegal drug trade and other crimes.

In a CNN interview, Bob Woodward reflected on the view of power by Trump, who said:

“Real Power is fear. You have to scare people.”

American journalist and Trump’s longtime pal Geraldo Rivera (who just grabbed headlines predicting Trump to seek a third term) speaks volumes:

“[Trump’s] major strategic decision was to demonize illegal immigrants, which he did with gusto. He made the undocumented synonymous with rapists and murderers. He asserted they were poisoning the blood of the country, vermin, animals, and dog-and-cat eaters from floating islands of garbage. He and his mouthpieces appealed unabashedly to every prejudice and fear of the other. It was wicked effective. He made Americans believe the country we all love was being stolen from under us.”

Reflecting on the profound implications of brain rot and its connection to zeitgeist–the defining spirit of our time--we are left with a striking question: Is it mere coincidence that Oxford University Press Word of the Year is brain rot and Time Magazine Person of the Year is Donald Trump?

As we immerse ourselves in a deluge of low-quality online content, we imperil our mental faculties, fostering a decline in critical thinking and mental sharpness. In reflecting upon this pervasive issue, it is fitting to heed the poignant words of M. Scott Peck, renowned author of The Road Less Traveled:

“One of the major dilemmas we face as individuals and as a society is simplistic thinking – or the failure to think at all. It is not a problem; it is the problem.”

Indeed, as we stand at the crossroads of an era dominated by digital consumption, the burden is upon us to preserve the sanctity of our minds. By consciously engaging with enriching, high-quality content (ATABAY, anyone?) and nurturing our capacity for deep, reflective thought, we can counteract the insidious effects of brain rot and reclaim our intellectual vitality. The path forward demands a commitment to mental integrity and an unwavering resolve to rise above the superficiality that threatens to dull our minds.

Head photo courtesy of Bnews.vu

Still photos courtesy of Adobe Stock, YouTube, Instagram, Getty Images, Quartz, & Depositphotos

FINDING PURPOSE THROUGH PAIN: A PINAY LIFE STORY IN USA

 

As the first rays of the morning sun lit up the gazebo at my host Ed’s home here in Texas, my thoughts wandered back to the Philippines – my home country grappling with challenges that weigh heavily on the hearts of my fellow Pinoys. In that moment of reflection, an idea sparked: what if I could share a story that might bring a glimmer of hope to my kababayans amidst these trying times?

What could be more inspiring than the journey of a Pinay who, despite the odds, found a way to uplift and inspire others? This thought led me to seek out an inspiring life story, one that could serve as a beacon of hope for those enduring the socio-political and economic hardships back home.

I reached out to my friend Edith, a resilient cancer survivor whom I had previously featured in my ATABAY article Branson Unveiled: Live Shows, Lake Views And Life-Changing Stories. Edith didn’t hesitate. She texted:

“Susie is a good story. You should visit the website of Operation Care International (OCI).“

Exploring the website, I discovered Susie’s compelling narrative and the mission of OCI: In obedience to God, Operation Care International facilitates worldwide opportunities for the lost, the least, and the lonely to experience the love of Jesus and the promise of eternal life.

Later, I met Susie in person at Edith’s house blessing, where she shared her extraordinary journey with unwavering passion. Her remarkable narrative, recounted unfailingly to anyone, anytime and anywhere, has graced countless occasions. I knew, it was exactly the kind of inspiration I had been searching for. Sharing her story, Susie recalled:

“I got saved when I was 10 years old in the Philippines. I am one of nine children. I’m number eight and after I got saved, the Lord just touched my heart.”

She was in church, the very church where she was raised, when her godfather, who was also the pastor, made an invitation. Susie went forward and accepted the Lord.

That very day, her oldest brother had a motorcycle accident where his motorcycle went under an 18-wheeler. Susie’s mother rushed to the hospital, and Susie felt tested that day. Sitting on the stairs, she told God:

“I’m going to be a good girl today.”

From that day, Susie felt a profound change within herself, feeling that sin was no longer a part of her. She resolved to no longer steal her mother’s money, which she had done as a little girl. That day marked the beginning of her transformation.

Susie’s work with the poor began in her mother’s kitchen. She recounted:

“When I was a little girl my mother used to feed the homeless in our kitchen. I didn’t like that because they ate my food and occupied my space. I grew up not liking any homeless people.”

She recalled her mother would feed them and give them jobs, like chopping wood, in exchange for money and food. Susie grew up disliking homeless people, especially after one of them slapped her in the marketplace.

Her attitude remained until she moved to the United States. Baylor University Medical Center hired her as a nurse while she was still in the Philippines. Susie came to the U.S. in 1982, joined First Baptist Dallas, and became a member. She met her late husband, David, and they got married. The marriage lasted nine years, during which David was diagnosed with a chemical imbalance called serotonin deficiency, that caused severe depression.

One day, on March 9, 1993, David disappeared from their home. He was missing for 30 days. Susie remembered:

“In those 30 days, I would read Psalms chapter by chapter, and God led me to the verse that said, Weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning, and that was the verse that carried me all over 30 days.”

Susie managed three hospital units at Baylor with no support, and only God knew her husband was missing.

Eventually, they found David’s body. Susie felt as if the whole world had come crushing down. He was dead for 30 days. She recollected:

“When we found him, I remembered turning around, kneeling, and falling on the ground, screaming, ‘Why David? Why?’ I was so mad – mad at David, not mad at God. I questioned him why, because we were supposed to grow old together; but then he left me.”

Susie and her pastor drove home. In the car, she started singing hymns like It Is Well with My Soul, How Great Thou Art, and Great Is Thy Faithfulness. Those were the songs they were singing when Susie and David first met. She reminisced:

“He sat next to me in the first meeting, wondering why I memorized all these hymns. I said, ‘Well, that’s the hymnal we used in the Philippines.’ He wondered where I came from. I said, ‘The Philippines.’”

Three months after David’s death, Susie had a car accident and became disabled. For two months, she could not walk. While baking a cake in her kitchen, her next-door neighbor shot himself, committing suicide just like David. She got angry at God this time and asked:

“God, why? Why did you allow that to happen?”

That night, Susie dreamed she was knocking on her neighbors’ doors, telling them about Jesus. The next day, she woke up and pronounced:

“I’m going to choose joy.”

 She raised her hand and asked:

"Lord, what can I do to serve you?”

Three weeks later, while driving, she heard the voice in her heart: Go under the bridge and help the homeless.

Susie retorted:

“No, not me. They are crazy, lazy, smelly… I don’t like homeless people.”

Then Susie remembered: You asked Me what you can do for Me.

Convicted and repented, Susie said:

“God forgive me. I would go. What could I take to the people?”

 She recalled He said: Blankets.

She asked her colleagues for $5 to buy blankets for the homeless, marking the start of her blanket ministry. Thus, Susie became known as the Blanket Lady in Dallas, as reported by the Dallas Morning News. For eight years, she and her mother bought blankets every Saturday, distributing them to the homeless.

In 2001, Susie felt overwhelmed by the work and considered quitting. In her prayer, she told God:

"I cannot stand this.”

She heard in her heart the Lord spoke: You’re going to become a nonprofit.

Surprised, she asked:

“What?”

Two weeks later, her friend Nate helped set up the nonprofit organization.

And so, the blanket ministry was born, transforming Susie’s life and the lives of countless others. Her journey from a little girl in the Philippines to the Blanket Lady of Dallas is a testament to the power of faith, perseverance, and the desire to serve others. That modest beginning was the OCI’s genesis of which Susie has been its Founder and President.

After having served 334,275 homeless and impoverished, involving 50,436 volunteers, and achieved 49,017 professions of faith and 170,382 foot washings since 2004, on December 21, 2024, OCI will celebrate its 21st Annual Operation Christmas Gift in Kay Hutchinson Convention Center in Dallas, Texas. The event has grown to be the largest birthday party for Jesus, honoring the homeless and impoverished in the world.

In a deeply moving TV interview on YouTube, host Nick Vujicic spoke with Susie about her remarkable journey. Susie reflected:

“God called me to ministry I didn’t want, to people I didn’t even like. And then He changed me… I quit my [six-figure] job… Out of my brokenness, I chose joy and I found my purpose. God has given me a purpose to help the poor and the homeless.”

Nick Vujicic concluded the interview with a poignant prayer – excerpts of which resonated profoundly:

“We thank You, God, that for those of us who do know You, thank You for saving us, thank you for rescuing us, thank You for giving us what we do need. Help us now to be YOUR HANDS AND FEET and to fulfill and give of what You’ve given us…” (underscoring mine)

Nick’s prayer is particularly powerful, considering he is a globally renowned Christian evangelist who lives with tetra-amelia syndrome – born without arms and legs.

This reminds us of the timeless quote:

“I cried because I had no shoes until I met a man who had no feet [and no hands too].”

What a fascinating subject to ponder – and perhaps a story for another day.

Content & editing put together in collaboration with Microsoft Bing AI-powered Co-pilot

Head collage photos courtesy of Flickr, susiejennings.org

Photos courtesy of Operation Care International, YourStory.com, Hungarian Conservative, YouTube

A HEARTWARMING JOURNEY THROUGH THE GREATEST STORY EVER TOLD

 

As the air fills with the scent of pine and the twinkle of lights, Christmas ushers in a season of joy and celebration. Across the land, festive shows and pageants light up the holiday spirit, each one a unique spectacle.

In this article, I decided to take a break from the intense political drama of the Marcos-Duterte rift to immerse myself in the magic of one of the largest Christmas pageants in the United States – the Gift of Christmas (GOC) at the Worship Center of Prestonwood Baptist Church in Plano, Texas. Join me as I share my enchanting experience of this breathtaking event that promises to captivate hearts and spread the true essence of the season.

As I entered the grand Worship Center of Prestonwood Baptist Church in Plano, Texas, my eyes widened with anticipation. My wife and I had the privilege of witnessing one of the most highly acclaimed Christmas spectacles in Texas, thanks to our generous host Ed, one of the Prestonwood ushers, who secured tickets for us. The atmosphere buzzed with excitement as we joined thousands of eager guests filling the 6,000-seat venue. Every seat was taken, underscoring the popularity and magnetic draw of this annual event.

                               Host & Prestonwood usher Ed                              Cher, Ray, & Prestonwood choir member Edith

The moment the lights dimmed and the curtain rose, I was instantly captivated. This two-hour Prestonwood tradition, a highlight of the Christmas season, unfolded before us with a dazzling array of special effects, a nearly 1,000-member cast and choir, a live orchestra, and even flying angels. The visual and auditory grandeur was unlike anything I had ever experienced.

The program, precisely timed to a powerful 100 minutes, held me spellbound from start to finish. It featured all my Christmas favorites, each brought to life with exquisite detail. The Living Nativity -- with its camels and kings, flying angels, and breathtaking virtual scenery -- made the Christian story come alive in a way that was both poignant and awe-inspiring. The bold lighting and scenic design, along with the brilliant musical score crafted exclusively for this event, added depth and emotion to the performance, enhancing the message of The Greatest Story Ever Told.

The production was masterfully divided into three seamless segments. The opening act celebrated the secular joys of Christmas with lively non-religious songs, jubilant dancing, and even Santa Claus himself. Children played prominent roles, and the highlight was Santa’s grand entrance and departure in his sleigh, soaring above the audience and leaving everyone, young and old, in awe.

The second act transitioned into the sacred, showcasing the religious aspects of Christmas with traditional carols and a stunning rendition of The Little Drummer Boy. High above the audience, drummers performed with precision and passion, their beats resonating deeply within the hall and leaving an indelible impression on everyone present.

Finally, the pageant culminated in a breathtaking Live Nativity scene. Accompanied by live animals – including camels, donkeys, sheep, and even zebras – the Wise Men presented their gifts to the Baby Jesus. The cast bowed in reverence before the Christ child, reminding us of the simple yet profound reason for the season. This closing scene was a poignant reminder of the hope and love that Christmas represents.

As the show concluded, my wife and I left the Worship Center with joy and gratitude. The experience had not only entertained us but also deeply moved our spirits, reaffirming the timeless message of hope and love.

Driving home, we admired the twinkling lights and decorations adorning the homes in our neighborhood. Each house told its story of anticipation and celebration, a quieter echo of the grand spectacle we had just witnessed. While the pageant dazzled with its grandeur, the simple charm of a single Christmas tree in a family’s living room carried its beauty. Both, in their unique ways, celebrated the birth of the same Baby Jesus.

Reflecting on the juxtaposition of these two scenes – a spectacular pageant captivating thousands and the intimate, quiet beauty of a decorated home – I was reminded of the simplicity of the first Christmas. Luke 2: 6-7 recounts it best:

[T]he time came for the baby to be born, and [Mary] gave birth to [Jesus], a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger…

The first Christmas wasn’t filled with grandeur but simplicity, humility, and love – a powerful message still relevant today. Yet, as we celebrate this season of joy, we must also acknowledge the fear and uncertainty many face in our modern world. Billy Graham once reflected on the pervasive fear of his time, saying:

“If there’s one word that seems to describe our world and its mood today, it is ‘fear.’ It seems like every day the headlines scream of some new crisis in our world that threatens to plunge us into chaos. Just as real as just as tragic are the personal crises that never make the headlines. The marriage is falling apart. The heartache of a broken relationship. The despair of a lost job. The threat of illness. The slavery of a drug or alcohol problem that seems unbreakable.

“Jesus spoke of a time when men’s hearts would fail them for fear. We seem to be living in just such a time as that today. Silent night, holy night seems like a romantic dream or even a false hope that vanishes in the face of the realities of life.”

These words resonate profoundly, especially in light of headlines about fear and uncertainty gripping many communities, such as the challenges faced by immigrants under the threat of mass deportation as shown by the following headline;

“Fear of mass deportations pose new challenges for educators across the country” (PBS)

If “you constantly threaten people with the possibility of mass deportation, it really inhibits peoples’ ability to function in society and for their kids to get an education,” said Hiroshi Motomura, a professor at UCLA School of Law.

In such a climate of fear and uncertainty, the twin messages of hope and love embodied by the Gift of Christmas are more vital than ever.

As 1 John 4:18 reminds us, Perfect love drives out fear.

May the true essence of the season bring us solace – a love so perfect that it dispels fear and brings lasting peace. This, we call, a perfect Christmas.

Content and editing put together in collaboration with ChatGPT

Preston Gift of Christmas still photos courtesy of Edith McCoy, other photos by pixabay, adobe stock, &  Wholeness/oneness/justice

WHO'S AFRAID OF SARA DUTERTE? THE UNITEAM BREAK-UP POLITICAL DRAMA

 

Martha:"Truth or illusion, George; you don’t know the difference."

George: "No, but we must carry on as though we did."

Martha: "Amen."

These chilling lines from the 1966 play Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf? encapsulate the toxic, entangled relationship of George and Martha – a marriage fraught with deceit, power struggles, and illusions that eventually collapse under the weight of their dysfunction. While the play’s setting might feel distant for today’s audiences, its themes of betrayal and façade-breaking are timeless. As I watch the unraveling of the political "marriage" between President Bongbong Marcos and Vice President Sara Duterte, the parallels to the play’s theme of marital collapse are striking – and deeply unsettling.

The Marcos-Duterte alliance, once presented as a beacon of unity and strength for the Filipino people, has collapsed. The UniTeam’s vision of unity was an illusion – crafted for public consumption but ultimately hollow. What was sold as a partnership of mutual benefit has revealed itself as a battleground of clashing ambitions, personal vendettas, and political maneuvering.

A Hypothetical Conversation: The Cracks Emerge

Imagine a conversation between Bongbong and Sara, their words laced with underlying tensions:

Bongbong (calmly): “We promised them unity, and we delivered victory.”

Sara (frowning): “Victory?  Or just another illusion we built on borrowed time and broken promises?"

This imagined dialogue echoes the real-life tensions between the two, where what once seemed like a harmonious partnership has devolved into a political discord. Their “marriage” of convenience is now unraveling into a bitter and very public break-up – an irreversible “point of no return” for Sara, though perhaps salvageable “never say never” in Bongbong’s more pragmatic view.  What was carefully marketed as a symbol of unity now lays bare the fractures and rivalries that had always simmered beneath the surface of their meticulously constructed political alliance.

The Political Illusion: Unity or Power Play?

At the heart of both the play and the UniTeam’s collapse is the idea of unity built on pretenses. In Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?, George and Martha’s imaginary child symbolizes their fragile hold on reality. Similarly, Marcos and Duterte’s promises (hello P20 per kilo of rice) of unity – a partnership meant to unite political factions and energize the electorate – quickly crumbled as personal ambitions clashed.

Looking back, Marcos and Duterte’s initial alliance, forged in the heart of political necessity, created a façade of mutual support. But beneath the surface, Sara’s growing discontent with her father’s legacy being tied to Marcos and her desire for greater political autonomy began to erode the partnership. Publicly, the two maintained the illusion of unity, but privately, cracks were starting to show.

Key Tensions

Party Withdrawal. Sara’s departure from Lakas-CMD, her father’s political party, was one of the first clear signs that the alliance between her and Marcos was on shaky ground.

Confidential Funds Scandal. The fallout from Sara’s confidential funds being removed and investigated symbolized deeper tensions, as it signaled a direct challenge to her political power.

In many ways, this drama unfolded like a marriage on the brink of divorce – what started as a calculated political partnership gave way to infighting and public betrayal.

The Break-up: Betrayal, Power Plays, and Political Drama

Sara’s feeling of betrayal was palpable as her political capital seemed to be undermined by Marcos’ administration. Despite her pivotal role in securing the presidency for Marcos, she found herself sidelined, as the president sought to consolidate power within his camp. Moreover, Sara’s political relationship with Bongbong seemed strained as their political goals increasingly diverged.

Publicly, Bongbong appeared to downplay any rift, but behind the scenes, he took steps to weaken Sara’s position – attempting to cut ties with her father’s loyalists and attempting to shift power balance in his favor. 

Existential Threats

One of the most chilling moments came when Sara admitted to planning to revenge if killed:

“I have talked to a person and I said, if I get killed, go kill BBM [President Bongbong Marcos], [First Lady] Liza Araneta, and [Speaker] Martin Romualdez. No joke. No joke. I said, do not stop until you kill them, and he said yes,” declared Sara.

“I will fight them,” Bongbong responded.

The power struggle has reached a fever pitch with the filing of an impeachment complaint against Sara. Bongbong has publicly dismissed the idea, labeling it a waste of time that would fail to improve the lives of ordinary Filipinos. But his stance raises questions: is his apparent indifference rooted in concern over how such proceedings might damage his approval ratings? Or is it a calculated maneuver, one that subtly downgrades Sara’s status as a mere “spare tire” within the administration?

The harsh reality is that an impeachment would undoubtedly consolidate Bongbong’s political stronghold while significantly weakening Sara’s power base. However, such a move risks plunging the nation into a political tempest.

Tragically, this escalating feud between the nation’s two most dominant political dynasties threatens to pull the entire country into a maelstrom of instability. While the elites engage in a high-stakes contest for supremacy, the Filipino people remain the unwilling spectators of this unfolding drama. The price of this power play could be a nation distracted from pressing issues – rising poverty, soaring inflation, and an increasingly complex geopolitical landscape – all left on the backburner as government gives way to political brinkmanship.

Who’s Afraid of Political Reality?

The parallels between Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf? and the UniTeam break-up are striking. In both cases, a façade of unity hides deeper fractures, and the painful disintegration of these illusions leaves the protagonists exposed and vulnerable. For Bongbong Marcos and Sara Duterte, the political marriage they forged for mutual gain has now collapsed under the weight of their ambitions and insecurities.

The question arises: as our country watches this political drama, what will be the impact on us Filipinos who depend on stable governance? Will we be forced to endure the fallout of political vendettas, or will we demand a more authentic, accountable form of leadership?

The collapse of UniTeam is a stark reminder that political alliances built on illusions can ultimately do more harm than good – not only to the political leaders involved but to the nation as a whole.

Content & editing put together in collaboration with ChatGPT

Head collage photos courtesy of YouTube & Council on Foreign Relation

Still photos courtesy of JustWatch, Facebook, MOCA, Alamy, American Society of Cinema, AP, Paul De Vota @Pexel