The Gift of a Mother's Love: A Birthday Tribute

The weight of unspoken words hangs heavy in my heart. I, a man of few words, struggle to express the depth of my love for my mother. Though a simple phone call lies within easy reach, connecting us across the miles that separate Barcelona from my own life, I often find myself hesitant. Is it a fear of uttering empty pleasantries? Am I simply too engaged in the whirlwind of my own existence? Perhaps.

My childhood was a tapestry woven with threads of longing. At the tender age of ten or eleven, I witnessed my mother depart for Spain, leaving a gaping hole in my young heart. The absence of her maternal embrace cast a long shadow over my formative years. I grappled with a sense of detachment, adrift in a sea of unfamiliar emotions. There were periods, I confess, when the very memory of her faded, as if I were a solitary island, forced to weather life's storms alone. My father, God rest his soul, provided an inconstant presence, but it was a different kind of love, a unique story to tell someday if God's willing.

My mother, with a firm determination, toiled tirelessly to pave the way for our education back in the Philippines. Her sacrifices fuelled my academic pursuits, culminating in my college degree – a testament to her tireless hard work. In 2000, she guided my footsteps to Barcelona, a city that would become the backdrop for my own journey of self-discovery, the foundation upon which I built my family and forged a future.

Looking back, I may harbour a few "what ifs," a yearning to alter certain choices along the winding path of my life. Yet, I embrace the totality of my experiences, the triumphs and the missteps alike. This life, with all its imperfections, is the one I chose, the one I was destined to live. And for that, I am eternally grateful to my mother. Without her love and support, my life would be an entirely different, and undoubtedly, a far less fulfilling story.

My mother is not without her flaws. Her spirit, at times, can be a formidable force, challenging to navigate, my siblings can attest to that. But these imperfections are merely facets of her complex and vibrant personality. She sacrificed countless dreams for the sake of her children, her steadfast love extending to my own children and my wife.

Today, on her 71st birthday, I wish to honour the extraordinary woman who shaped my destiny. Words, however fluent, seem inadequate to express the profound gratitude I feel. I simply want her to know that the man I am today is a direct reflection of her enduring love and unwavering support.

Happy Birthday, Mom. May the Lord bless you with an abundance of joy, peace, and good health. May His face shine upon you and grant you His amazing grace. Amen.

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A Day of Health and Hope

Last Monday, I decided to take a much-needed break. A looming GP appointment, scheduled for the afternoon, prompted me to clear my entire day. While the morning might have seemed dull, it was surprisingly productive. I managed to coordinate with the gas engineer for my annual inspection, ensuring a smooth and efficient process.

However, beneath the surface of a seemingly ordinary day, a wave of anxiety was brewing. My primary concern was the rapid spread of eczema on my left ankle. This, coupled with recent episodes of nighttime breathing difficulties, had me worried. Given my history of high blood pressure, I knew that these new symptoms could potentially complicate my health. The added inconvenience of frequent nighttime trips to the bathroom, a possible sign of an enlarged prostate, further intensified my worries. As I prepared for my appointment, I couldn't shake off a sense of unease. But I chose to trust God for divine intervention, hoping for the best.

The appointment itself was brief but comprehensive. I underwent an ECG and provided blood and urine samples for testing. The doctor prescribed medication for my eczema and emphasized the importance of regular exercise and weight loss.

Two days later, I received the results: all clear! A wave of relief washed over me. I was grateful that the tests had revealed no serious underlying conditions. It was a clear reminder that our health is our greatest asset, and we must prioritize it.

I encourage all of you to make regular check-ups a part of your routine. Early detection and timely intervention are crucial in maintaining good health. Let's cherish the gift of life and strive for a healthier, happier future.

God bless!

By the way, I chose this image of Cywen, my sleepy companion, for this blog. She basically turned me into a human cat bed that day after my GP appointment.

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Eleven Years Later... A Resurgence

It feels like a lifetime ago. Eleven long years. A decade and a year of silence. A digital void. Yet, here I am, dusting off the cobwebs of this forgotten corner of the internet. A stroke of luck, perhaps, that this little space I once called my own still exists, untouched by the relentless march of time.

A surge of nostalgia washes over me as I sit down to craft these words. The familiar hum of the keyboard, the blank page beckoning me to fill it with thoughts and dreams. It's as if an old friend has returned, inviting me to rekindle a passion long thought vanished.

The satisfaction of creating something from nothing is a feeling I had almost forgotten. To weave together fragments of my thoughts, experiences, and emotions into a coherent narrative is a relieving experience. Each keystroke is a brushstroke, painting a picture of my soul onto the canvas of the digital world.

A part of me hopes that these words will linger long after I'm gone, a testament to my existence, a piece of my spirit captured in time. Perhaps, a future reader will stumble upon these pages, finding comfort, inspiration, or simply a moment of connection.

To those of you who have chosen to accompany me on this journey, I am eternally grateful. Your presence, your silent understanding, and your occasional feedback have been a source of immense encouragement. By sharing a piece of yourself with me, you've become a part of my story.

May these words inspire you to live life to the fullest, to chase your dreams, and to embrace every moment, no matter how swift. Let's journey together, hand in hand, through the labyrinth of life, leaving a positive impact on the world around us.

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A Leap of Faith

Daily Gospel: Matthew 9:27-31

As Jesus passed by, two blind men followed him, crying out, “Son of David, have pity on us!” When he entered the house, the blind men approached him and Jesus said to them, “Do you believe that I can do this?” “Yes, Lord,” they said to him. Then he touched their eyes and said, “Let it be done for you according to your faith.” And their eyes were opened. Jesus warned them sternly, “See that no one knows about this.” But they went out and spread word of him through all that land.

Reflection: A Leap of Faith

Today's gospel reading, from Matthew 9:27-31, recounts the story of two blind men who cry out to Jesus for healing. It's truly inspiring their unwavering faith, despite their disability. They believed in Jesus' power to heal them, and their belief was rewarded.

On a personal level, I can relate to this story. There have been many times in my life when I've felt lost and unable to see clearly, much like the blind men in the gospel. During these difficult moments, I've turned my eyes to Jesus, looking for guidance and strength.

It reminds me of the profound importance of faith. A faith so deep that it abides in the trust of Jesus' power to heal. This kind of faith that is essential to guide us through the stormy seas and to anchor us to the ground amidst many challenges and trials in our life.

I'm also grateful for the gift of sight, both physical and spiritual. May we all strive to have the faith of the two blind men, and to trust in God's love and divine intervention.

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A Silent Prayer and a Childlike Faith

Daily Gospel: Luke 10:21-24

Jesus rejoiced in the Holy Spirit and said, "I give you praise, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, for although you have hidden these things from the wise and the learned you have revealed them to the childlike. Yes, Father, such has been your gracious will. All things have been handed over to me by my Father. No one knows who the Son is except the Father, and who the Father is except the Son and anyone to whom the Son wishes to reveal him."

Turning to the disciples in private he said, "Blessed are the eyes that see what you see. For I say to you, many prophets and kings desired to see what you see, but did not see it, and to hear what you hear, but did not hear it."

Reflection: A Silent Prayer and a Childlike Faith

Earlier today, a touching scene unfolded before my eyes. An elderly woman, tears streaming down her face, sat a few rows behind me on the bus. She tapped her bus pass, her fingers trembling slightly. I hesitated, unsure if I should offer comfort or if it would be an intrusion. In the end, I chose silence.

Instead, I offered a silent prayer, asking God to ease her pain and provide the solace she needed. This brief encounter, though silent, resonated deeply with the Gospel reading for the day.

Jesus' words in Luke 10:21-24 struck within my soul. He praises His Father for revealing divine truths to the "little ones," those who are humble and open to God's grace. It’s a powerful reminder that true wisdom doesn’t stem from intellectual pursuits or worldly achievements. It comes from a humble heart, open to God's grace and mercy.

I often find myself caught in the trap of seeking answers and knowledge, relying on my own understanding to navigate life's challenges. However, in doing so, I neglect the most important thing: listening to God's voice and trusting in His divine plan.

Jesus encourages us to embrace a childlike faith, a faith that is pure, innocent, and totally reliant on God. It's a faith that doesn't question, but simply trusts. A faith that doesn't seek to understand, but accepts God's will without reservation.

As I reflect on this experience, I am reminded of the power of prayer and the importance of a childlike faith. The elderly woman on the bus, and countless others like her, are seeking God's love and guidance. Let us pray for them, and for ourselves, that we may always turn to God in times of trouble and trust in His loving care.

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