After Saint Lorenzo Ruiz, Calungsod is the second Filipino to be declared a saint. He’s also known as Peter Calungsod and Pedro Calonsor. Was a Visyan migrant, sacristan and missionary catechist who, along with the Spanish Jesuit missionary Diego Luis de San Vitores, suffered religious persecution in Guam for their missionary work in 1672 (Wikipedia).
Feast day: April 2
Canonized: October 21, 2012
❤
Sharing my notes, hoping to spread valuable information using simple terms and practical examples.
Disclaimer: The information on this post is not intended to diagnose, treat or evaluate a condition. It is for informative purpose only, for individuals seeking general information.
Everyone feels down or euphoric from time to time, but this is different from having a mood disorder such as major depressive disorder or bipolar disorder.
Mood disorders are extended periods of depressed, euphoric, or irritable moods that in combination with other symptoms cause the person significant distress and interfere with his or her daily life, often resulting in social and work issues.
A major depressive episode (MDE) refers to symptoms that co-occur for at least two weeks and cause significant distress or impairment in functioning, such as interfering with work, school, or relationships.
Core symptoms include feeling down or depressed or experiencing anhedonia—loss of interest or pleasure in things that one typically enjoys. According to the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM-5; APA, 2013), the criteria for an MDE require five or more of the following nine symptoms, including one or both of the first two symptoms, for most of the day, nearly every day:
These symptoms cannot be caused by physiological effects of a substance or a general medical condition (e.g., hypothyroidism).
One of the main differences from Bipolar Disorder is that in depression there is no manic or “up” episodes.
Types of Depression are major depressive disorder (MDD) and persistent depressive disorder (PDD; dysthymia). Criteria for PDD are feeling depressed most of the day for more days than not, for at least two years.
At least two of the following symptoms are also required to meet criteria for PDD:
There are two episodes in Bipolar Disorder – hence the term bipolar.
The criteria for manic episode is a distinct period of abnormally and persistently euphoric, expansive, or irritable mood and persistently increased goal-directed activity or energy.
Symptoms of mania include;
Three major types of BDs are described by the DSM-5 (APA, 2013). Bipolar I Disorder (BD I), which was previously known as manic-depression, is characterized by a single (or recurrent) manic episode. A depressive episode is not necessary but commonly present for the diagnosis of BD I. Bipolar II Disorder is characterized by single (or recurrent) hypomanic episodes and depressive episodes. Another type of BD is cyclothymic disorder, characterized by numerous and alternating periods of hypomania and depression, lasting at least two years. To qualify for cyclothymic disorder, the periods of depression cannot meet full diagnostic criteria for an MDE; the person must experience symptoms at least half the time with no more than two consecutive symptom-free months; and the symptoms must cause significant distress or impairment.
In simple terms – Bipolar is characterized by mood swings that fluctuate between depressing lows and manic highs.
It is important to note that the DSM-5 was was published in 2013, and findings based on the updated manual will be forthcoming. Consequently, the research presented below was largely based on a similar, but not identical, conceptualization of mood disorders drawn from the DSM-IV (APA, 2000).
The Simala Shrine is a Catholic pilgrimage site in Cebu. In my opinion, it is the Cebuano version of Lourdes Grotto in France. We have been in Lourdes and Fatima, Portugal a couple of times pre-pandemic and this local site has the same level of holy experience and devotion.
This sacred place hosts the Our Lady of Lindogon, the local title of the Virgin Mary in Sibonga, Cebu. It was built in 1998 by the Marian Monks of Eucharistic Adoration (MMEA) from Pampanga.
Simala Shrine is believed to be miraculous by devotees of Mama Mary after it is attributed to the healing of those who were afflicted with dengue in 1998. The image reportedly shed tears first in 1998 and the latest on September 8, 2016. It is quite unique amongst the images of Our Lady, this one wearing pink instead of blue.
It is also famous for its castle-like design, huge infrastructure atop the mountains of Sibonga. The shrine is associated with numerous miracles, with many answered petitions showcased in their musem.
The church dedicated an area (& museum) to store items like crutches and wheelchairs used by devotees who were healed after praying at the Simala Shrine. They also have letters, stories, and photos thanking Mama Mary for her intervention.
There are 4 ways to pray ask for your petitions here in Simala;
2. Pray in the adoration chapel – there’s the beautiful chapel where you can opt to sit or kneel.
3. Pray under her mantle (holy image) – you need to line up again for this one, it’s a symbolic representation of Our Lady being Our Mother and ready to intercede for us.
4. Light a candle – light a candle in the open area outside the chapel for your prayers. You can use color-coded candles based on your intentions.
Here is the list of colors and their specific prayer requests:
O Mary conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to Thee.
♥️
Coming across vlogs “showing off” their lifestyle rendered some deep thoughts and reflections. There’s a Filipino term called – “malasakit“. Uniquely Filipino because there’s no exact English translation. It is a Filipino value of caring and acting on the needs of others.
Being considerate is synonymous to kindness. It can come in different forms and sizes. When you think of others before yourself, considering their feelings, concerns or priorities before your own. Begins with sympathy and thoughful rumination.
Being nice is a broader term – like civility. Being considerate entails a real and active interest on other people. There’s more effort than just being nice or civil.
Empathy is described as sensing what people are feeling
– Goldman Madel
It is different from sympathy, as empathy involves shared perspective or emotion. Considerate people not only feel for (with) others but actively see the world beyond themselves. Treating people with respect and compassion.
There’s a saying that kindness begins with a smile. Smiling evokes a positive emotion and reaction. In Positive Psychology, people are encouraged to smile more. You feel good and affect others, too.
From my Emotional Social Intelligence (ESI) class, there’s Cognitive Empathy. It is the ability to understand what another person might be thinking or feeling. When you walk in another person’s shoes and make them feel they are valued – that’s consideration.
Being polite doesn’t begin and end with saying please and thank you. It is way more than that. The golden rule – treat others the way you want to be treated.
Emotional and Social Intelligence – is the ability to be aware of your own emotions and those of others in the moment, and use that information to manage yourself and your relationships (ESI UC Davis).
ESI is not a soft skill and is now in the Top 10 most important workplace skill needed for success (World Eco Forum 2020). It is twice as important as technical and cognitive skills combined.
Patience is difficult to have these days especially when attention span is shortened to a few seconds. Being patient comes with kindness, as you “consider” other person’s situation or reason.
One of the traits of a toxic individual is – non admission to mistakes. Apologizing when you’ve made a mistake instead of passing the blame is crucial when being considerate.
❤
Finishing my drama list, I came across this highest rated series in 2019 according to Nielsen Korea. Starring Kim Nam-gil, Kim Sung-kyun, Lee Hanee, Go Jun, and Keum Sae-rok, this drama is a combination of crime and comedy. You will laugh non-stop.
Plot is simple, an ex-agent Kim Hae Il turned priest attempts to investigate the murder of Mosignor Lee Young-joon. A hilarious journey of taking down the culprits and corrupt officials is what follows. The anger issues of priest Kim Hae Il makes the series much funnier, every action scene turned into comedy plus the perfect mixing of crime and humor.
I have watched countless dramas and this is surely one of the best comedy and action series. Amazing and really satisfying to watch, no boring episodes.
❤
O Lord my God, When I in awesome wonder,
Consider all the worlds Thy Hands have made;
I see the stars, I hear the rolling thunder,
Thy power throughout the universe displayed.
Then sings my soul, My Saviour God, to Thee,
How great Thou art, How great Thou art.
Then sings my soul, My Saviour God, to Thee,
How great Thou art, How great Thou art!
And when I think, that God, His Son not sparing;
Sent Him to die, I scarce can take it in;
That on a Cross, my burdens gladly bearing,
He bled and died to take away my sin.
Then sings my soul, My Saviour God, to Thee,
How great Thou art, How great Thou art.
Then sings my soul, My Saviour God, to Thee,
How great Thou art, How great Thou art!
When Christ shall come, with shout of acclamation,
And take me home, what joy shall fill my heart.
Then I shall bow, in humble adoration,
And then proclaim: “My God, how great Thou art!”
Then sings my soul, My Saviour God, to Thee,
How great Thou art, How great Thou art.
Then sings my soul, My Saviour God, to Thee,
How great Thou art, How great Thou art!
🙌🙌🙌
Adapted from the webtoon “I Don’t Feel Like Doing Anything” (아무것도 하고 싶지 않아) by Joo Young Hyun (주영현). This new TV series is a melodrama set in a quaint seaside village of Angok.
Starring Kim Seol-hyun and Im Si-wan, this series gives a different vibe more like self-discovery, seeking peace of mind and one’s purpose.
Reading some comments over social media, one saying – “contrary to what I’ve heard about this drama being slow paced I found it to be perfect.”
With this K-drama expect less lovey-dovey between two main characters, touching more on healing from grief and trauma. Breaking away from the toxicity and stressful life in the city.
Watching this made me reflect even more and see myself with the main actor’s actions, decisions and passivity (politeness). A drama that shows real life, challenges, struggles and all…
Sharing this ending quote by Lee Yeo Reum – “I thought about what happiness is. I looked it up in the dictionary. Happiness is a state of bring pleased, fulfilled, and content in life. I found that definition to be too long, so I decided to make it shorter. Happiness. The state of being sufficient.”
❤
Long before posting drama reviews, my hubby and I finished this drama in Viu. It was released in 2020 and now available in more platforms like Netflix.
And no, this review doesn’t contain spoilers 🙂
This comedy series is one of my favorites, totally hilarious! My chuckles could be heard by my neighbors and you’ll surely laugh in every episode. My husband (aka my Kdrama buddy) love this series, too!
Mr. Queen contains 20 episodes with genre ranging from romantic comedy (rom-com), historical and fantasy. Story begins with a prestigious chef having an accident and his soul entering a 19th century queen’s body.
This is pure comedy and best to watch it with a partner so you’ll not laugh alone. You may find the plot simple but there’s exciting twist in each episode. You’ll also cry and feel sad for the charming characters of this drama.
You’ll love the characters here, mine ofcourse is the king and queen. Their acting is superb! Kim Jung Hyun (King) and Shin Hye Sun (Queen) have great chemistry. Their bond in the story is heartwarming and passionate.
And so I’ll leave the experience to my readers… Mr Queen is in my favorite list, you can tell how much I recommend you to watch it 😉
You may consider her an expert living a decade with endometriosis. Bereft of many oppportunities unlike most healthy “young” and active women. Confined to restrictions, living in a seemingly endless pandemic. Taking pleasures from the simplest sips of coffee to a pain-free day.
Disclaimer: The information on this post is not intended to diagnose, treat or evaluate a condition. It is for informative purpose only, for individuals seeking general information.
Estrogen plays a huge role in endometriosis. If you have endometriosis, high levels of this hormone may promote and increase inflammation, trigger pain and stomach issues.
Endometriosis is one of the few estrogen-dominant conditions that affects 1 out of 10 women worldwide. Others include;
Sadly, there’s no cure to endometriosis and there’s limited treatment available. Usually in the extremes such as operation or removal of ovaries or uterus. On the onset of corona virus pandemic, I was introduced to gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH) agonist treatment. This is to induce temporary menopause and targets the decrease in the size of implants or adhesions.
It was quite effective, ovarian cysts became smaller and both ovaries now visible in the recent ultrasound with the loosening of adhesions. A bittersweet management for endo as one of the major side effects of GnRH treatment is an increase in anxiety and depression. This may be due to the dramatic drop in estrogen levels caused by these meds or from the imbalance itself.
And so this is expected, we can turn out to be a beautiful mess of writhing emotions – quoting the book I’m currently reading. Dealing with physical, mental and emotional, as if everything now is a struggle…
To all endowarriors dealing with depression, i feel you…
Prayer For Protection Against Evil
Heavenly Father, You have promised that when we dwell in the secret place of the most High and shelter under the shadow of Your wings you will guard and guide us, protect us and keep us – for You are our refuge and our fortress and You alone are the one in Whom we place our trust.
Thank You Lord that no matter where I go Your hand leads me, and Your right arm upholds me.. for You are before me and behind me, You are above me and below me You are at my right hand and also at my left. And You are within me.. indwelling in my heart by the power of Your Holy Spirit, Who is my ever present Help in time of trouble.
Father, I pray that You would protect me and my family from all the evils that are lurking nearby and from those that would seek to harm us. Uphold us and keep us safe from all the evils that encircle our lives. Put Your hedge of protection and safety around us we pray, and place a guard at our doors and protects us from all that pass by our gate. And Father, keep our hearts from fear but rather fill us to overflowing with Your perfect peace that passes all understanding. Thank You that You are indeed our refuge and strength. You are that ever present Help in time of trouble – therefore in Your strength we will not fear, though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the middle of the sea. – for You are with us wherever we go. Thank You in Jesus name, Amen.
mypanoplies 