Posted in Kdrama

Doctor Cha Drama

Coming from a medical background, this on-going Korean Drama is relatable in all levels. Now on Netflix, this new series is full of comedy & drama, depicts the sacrifices of a mother to her family. Starring Uhm Jung-hwa in the titular role, along with Kim Byung-chulMyung Se-bin, and Min Woo-hyuk.

It has been dominating the TV rankings since its released. According to Soompi, “Doctor Cha” took No. 1 on Good Data Corporation’s weekly list of the dramas that generated the most buzz.

The acting of Uhm Jung-hwa is notable and very good indeed, her character was a full-time housewife who after 20 years decided to go back to her medical practice. A kind of drama that keeps you sane in this crazy modern world. ❤

Posted in life, women’s health

Endo journey – crossroads

Many things are weighing me down lately. I used to imagine myself in the shoes of this lucky woman who got healed after 12 years of hemorrhage just by touching the robe of Jesus. Longing for the same miracle that I, too, can be healed…

In my 12th year, a journey that has been long and painful. God has tested me so much, sometimes i just feel that He has forgotten about me. This post may not be relatable to most people, and you may meet endowarriors who seem fine on the outside but hurting inside. This chronic illness is Endometriosis and coined as – ‘invisible illness.’

Easy to brush off small discomforts and go on with our daily lives, pretending you are healthy. Much easier than a lengthy explanation about your disease that no one wants to listen.



Perhaps, this is the end of the road for my uterus and all the organs stucked together as complications of endometriosis. That glimmer of hope starts to faint and flicker. I’m still waiting for a sign, in denial of the inevitable decision that soon they have to be discarded.

Ending this post with a bible verse;

Do not be afraid, just stand firm and watch the Lord rescue you today. The Lord will fight for you, you need only to be still…

– Exodus 14:13-14

Posted in prayer, prayers

Signs God is Testing You

Are you encountering problems and in a really difficult situation right now?

You are not alone.

Like many Christians, we are being tested as we grow closer to Jesus.

I’m sharing something personal and quite embarrassing. Before, I was afraid of studying the bible, this negative notion – “if I grow spiritually I may not be able to pass the testing of God, I might face difficult challenges and fail Him without end.”

I realized that it’s my ego that has been creating excuses; because I’m already a good person, I’ve read the bible before in school and there’s no need to do more, too busy, etc.

Until ordeals came…


When harships occur in our life, it is called a test.

These tests are not the same as tempation. The bible says that God will not tempt us to sin. God is faithful and will not let you be tempted beyond your capabilities.

When tempted, no one can say, “God is tempting me.” for God cannot be tempted by evil nor does He tempt anyone.

– James 1:13

God may test us in many ways. Part of our spiritual journey is testing, as gold is refined through fire, in the same manner, God will use trials to refine our faith.


Without trials our faith will be superficial and there’s no chance for faith to become stronger and deeper. Many people tend to forget God when everything is convenient and they have everything they need.

For those undergoing huge challenges – hope this post lifts you up a little and help you not be discouraged… These are the signs God may be testing your faith.

Signs that God is testing you

  1. Delayed answers to prayers
  2. Family problem
  3. Hopelessness
  4. Failure to achieve goals
  5. Financial issues
  6. Heartbreak
  7. Illness

The last one I can relate the most, dealing with chronic illness for a looong time. I waited, even up to this day… I even imagined myself as the woman who was miraculously healed after touching Jesus’ robe (Luke 8:44).

With similar issue – hemorrhage (bleeding) for 12 years, maybe I could be like her,

I will be healed…

Pinterest

Let this be a reminder for us all, if we choose to trust Jesus and allow His peace to overwhelm us, He will bring us through the storm.

Posted in faith, prayer, prayers

Pride according to the Bible

God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.

1 Peter 5:5

The biblical definition of pride is “an inordinate love of one’s own excellence.” In fact, pride was Satan’s downfall. He chose his pride and placed himself of equal with God the Father. Satan was destroyed because of pride and so he wants us to suffer the same demise.

Pride goes down to the very core of worry and anxiety, revealing a lack of trust in God. It has been called the cancer of the soul, the “beginning of all sin.”

When does pride becomes a sin?

Pride becomes sinful when it’s excessively self-focused. Sin of pride refers to a high or exalted attitude – the opposite virtue of humility. In the bible, synonyms are insolence, presumptuousness, arrogance, conceit, high-mindedness, egotism.

It becomes a sin when we are too proud and self-elevating. When we are proud it’s like we are saying that we know better than God and that we don’t need Him anymore. It’s a form of rebellion, putting our own desires and plans ahead of what God designed for us.

More Bible Verses about Pride

  • Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall. Proverbs 16:18
  • To fear the LORD is to hate evil; I hate pride and arrogance, even behavior and perverse speech. Proverbs 8:13
  • Do not keep talking so proudly or let your mouth speak such arrogance, for the LORD is a God who knows, and by him deeds are weighed. 1 Samuel 2:3
  • Pride only breeds quarrels, but wisdom is found in those who take advice. Proverbs 13:10
  • Will punish the world for its evil, the wicked for their sins. I will put an end to the arrogance of the haughty and will humble the pride of the ruthless. Isaiah 13:11
  • You have been deceived by your own pride. Obadiah 3
  • Pride leads to disgarce but wuth humility comes wisdom. Proverbs 11:2

There are six things that the Lord hates, guess what Pride is included in the list…

Proverbs 6:16-19

16  There are six things the Lord hates,
     seven that are detestable to him:
17         haughty eyes,
        a lying tongue,
        hands that shed innocent blood,
18         a heart that devises wicked schemes,
        feet that are quick to rush into evil,
19         a false witness who pours out lies
        and a person who stirs up conflict in the community.

A simpler version from CEV (Contemporary English Version) –

There are 6 or 7 kinds of people that the Lord doesn’t like; those who are too proud or tell lies or murder, those who make evil plans or quick to do wrong, those who tell lies or stir up conflct in a family or community.

Posted in Catholic faith, prayer, prayers

Prayer to St. Pedro Calungsod

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


Posted in life, psychology

What it means to be considerate?

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.

Be Considerate

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.


There are 7 habits of Considerate People.

1. They practice empathy

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.


2. They smile often

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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.


3. They are intuitive of other people’s needs

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.

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4. They mind their manners

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.


5. Be emotionally intelligent

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.


6. They are patient

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.

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7. They apologize (when needed)

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.

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Posted in Uncategorized

Summer Strike K-Drama

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.” 


Posted in prayer, prayers

Prayer of Protection Against Evil

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.

Posted in life, psychology

What are the benefits of having Good friends

Do you know that there are benefits of having good friends?

Having supportive people around you, includes family, partners, colleagues. These good friends can have a major impact in your life, health and overall well-being according to Mayo clinic.

Benefits of Friendship

  • Increase your sense of belonging and purpose
  • Boost your happiness and reduce your stress
  • Improve your self confidence and self worth
  • Help you cope traumas such as divorce, serious illness, job loss or death of a loved one
  • Encourage you to have healthy lifestyle or habit
  • Promote personal development

Good friends are good for your health. Friends can help you celebrate good times and provide support during bad times. Friends prevent isolation and loneliness and give you a chance to offer needed companionship, too.

Mayo clinic

People with strong social connections have reduced risk of many health problems. Studies found that older adults who have good friends and social support are likely to live longer.

Among all the benefits of having meaningful relationships, Emotional support is significant. They listen to your problems, can validate your feelings, and can help distract you when you’re sad or upset.

In one of the lessons I had, Professor Jonah Berger of Wharton University said, ” people are 36% more likely to quit smoking if a friend quits.”

Your friends can support your choices and even promote the right ones. They can cheer you on, motivate you like gym buddies or yoga partners.


Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs

Sense of belongingness comes in third on Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs. Caring about others makes life more meaningful. Your self worth increases, knowing you have a support system can help you feel more secure in your own life.

On the other hand, unhealthy or toxic friendships can cause stress and bring you down. Choose your companions and avoid toxic people; gossiper, unkind or rude, manipulative, selfish, etc.

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Bottom line, good friends are important in your life. Strong friendships will continue to strengthen you, make you healthier and help you have a brighter outlook.

Posted in life

Small Businesses Vs. Corporations

It’s not easy running a small business, I know this from experience. A Small Business owner myself, this post aims to motivate and inspire dreamers. Standing proud for thriving through the hurdles of Covid-19 pandemic and super typhoon Odette.

There are numerous challenges to overcome even before you can open the store. Application of permits, approval and paperworks that felt like forever.


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Yes, it is almost impossible to compete against massive corporations. With current economic situations and opening of tourism slightly favoring big companies. They have the resources, manpower, budget, warehouse, etc.



Though it seems like we don’t stand a chance, there are also advantages of small businesses according to Forbes.com

  • Custom Approach

Small businesses can offer a more personalized and customized service. That something large companies cannot do. It would be a waste of time (for them) to cater to individuals instead of dealing with consumers as a whole.

Being one of the pioneers in cake customization business, I remember famous bakeshops used to offer basic birthday cakes, clients are asked to choose from cake designs that are – basic and generic.

  • Flexibility and Less Bureaucracy

Big companies have complex internal structures, they follow a heirarchy. Approval and response processes can take a lot of time in a large organization. While small businesses can be flexible in dealing with customers. Adding a personal touch to everything, treating each other as family.

  • Creativity

Just like with flexibility, they have an edge in creativity. Having decision-making in their hands, creativity can flourish. There’s more ‘relaxed’ room to design, create and improve. No added pressure from meeting monthly quotas, etc.

  • Level of Care

Small businesses provide an individual level of care and involvement. For them service is on a personal level. Not from a corporate standpoint. Everyone is treated like a family. They have the ability to provide a one-on-one, personalized experience that clients value the most.




  • Adaptability

Business is all about people and small businesses have the advantage of knowing each and every client really well. The ability to be flexible and adapt to day-to-day needs of customers, invention of new products and services, and so on.

  • Passion with Purpose

Small businesses are well appreciated in social media like Instagram. They are trailblazers, supporting and igniting people using their passion with a purpose. There’s no shortage of passion as they continue to stay motivated by fueling their shops with personal connections to customers.

  • Speed and Agility

Aprroval and decision-making processes are faster in a small business. When a client needs help right a way, they can respond in small but special ways when big corporations are too busy.

  • One-on-One Magic

That advantage to connect one-on-one with customers is what small businesses have. I ventured into franchising from a famous convenience store chain and noticed the complex nature of their structure. An ordeal when trying to sort out things with them, I didn’t feel we were connected and that our intentions are for the business alone.

Learning from experience and seeing through it all, small businesses can maximize these advantages competing against astronomical companies. Having the right and loyal people communicating to clients gives your store a personal touch.