"In the material world that we live in, where the outer symbol of success fades and eventually will be gone, it would be good to ponder on the realization of our highest service to give to God, ourselves...our family.. our country, and the world at large."
The start of the year has been brimming with optimistic hope, a sense of renewal, and enthusiasm. As I celebrated it with joy and gratitude, I couldn't help but feel inspired by the endless possibilities that the new year holds. This is the best time to set goals and wishes for the year, fueled by the optimism that the future is bright.
As I celebrate the new year, I find myself drawn to introspection. Questions pop into my mind, such as how to keep up with the momentum through the year and make these things possible and achievable. This reflective process is crucial in understanding our desires and charting a path to achieve them.
This time, I have learned the power of clarity in setting goals. Instead of focusing on what I don't like, I've honed in on what I want to acquire, my desires and hopes, what I want to experience and learn, and who I want to become. This clarity has given me a sense of direction and purpose, keeping me determined and focused on my journey.
Some of my goals were not attained because I was not clear about what I wanted. I ended up losing inspiration and hope and having doubts when I saw that they were impossible—then came the list of unaccomplished and unattainable goals.
This day marks the first week of 2012, and it was a good week to start the year. Physical activities like walking, jogging, and some exercises at the park were fun. I enjoy their revitalizing and invigorating effects.
I have done a 20-minute meditation daily for this first week of the year. It was an excellent opportunity to reflect on my wishes and goals for this year and enjoy the place's serenity and peaceful ambiance. It was a perfect place to meditate as I bear the tolerable coldness of the weather.
As I meditated, I closed my eyes and could hear nothing but birds chirping, the cold breeze of the wind, the people passing quietly along with my meditation space, and the shouts of the teens playing cricket at a far distance.
Those external sounds do not bother me anymore. At least they did not make me more spaced out. The internal voice from within dominates the most. This sound is more precious, giving me more time to reflect deeply while whispering sacred chants silently.
MY GOALS AND WISHES FOR THIS YEAR...
TO THE PHILIPPINES...
My beloved country of birth, I pray, will be spared by significant destruction, such as calamities that cause loss of lives and properties, and worst is living a life of post-traumatic depression and loss of self-worth.
Being a "Pacific Islander" would expect to have been visited by typhoons, and a country in a "Pacific Ring of Fire" would have numerous earthquakes. We have our share of devastating calamities that the world experiences. The reality is that we can not escape but can ease these tragedies' effects.
One of the good traits of being a Filipino is the "Bayanihan Spirit," a Filipino term that denotes a helping hand. Hoping that we will continue to be inspired to help people in any way possible.
TO THE PHILIPPINE ECONOMY
Hoping that the country will be able to survive any recession or financial crisis that may hit the region or the world. Although the past administration has done it well, hoping that the present administration will be able to do their part for the betterment of the country and its people.
Hoping that more local and foreign investors will come to establish a business to generate more jobs for Filipinos. Jobs for every Filipino means food to feed their families and to alleviate hunger and poverty.
TO THE WORLD...
Hoping that peace will be attained. No conflicts... no terrorism... no wars. The past year seems full of outrage and a fight against their government that created global concern. It brought massive destruction to innocent civilians and the loss of homes, properties, and lives.
Hoping that this world will be a safer place for people to live in—to be able to walk on the streets safely day and night, to be able to commute on bus and train without the thoughts of the presence of any explosive substances inside; to be able to enjoy shopping at the mall without the idea of the bombing (as the case in the Philippines) and so on...
May poverty alleviation be strengthened by those in political power to end the world of hunger, famine, and suffering?
We live in a chaotic world of uncertainties and suffering, so we need more incarnations of Anna Hazare, Mother Teresa, and Mahatma Gandhi. Their selfless acts for the welfare of humanity will be remembered and remain in our hearts eternally.
ON MYSELF...
My personal goal for this year is not short-term or long-term. What matters is clarity and attainability. I just wish for a balanced and successful life with a focus on my...
Health - to become more balanced in all fitness levels—physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual health.
Family - to become stronger despite the problems, better health, and attain more prosperity.
Career - to continue to be a representation of the "BE Life" slogan - "Live Your Greatest Life" and to be able to touch as many lives as possible along with the foundation's commitment to "Serving Humanity and the World."
Personal relationship - harmonize with my family, colleagues, and friends.
Personal growth - to learn something new and valuable; gain new insights from seminars/workshops, training, and inspiring books.
Making a difference - to continue doing something good and inspiring others to do the same. I will participate actively in various activities that are intended for the benefit of a particular person or group.
STRETCHING BEYOND THE LIMITS
It is nice to achieve something impossible, but things become possible only until it is done. There are things to accomplish for this year if I focus on it and with the support of the people who believe in me.
In the long run, what is essential is not the outcome of fulfilling my goals and dreams but who I become in the process, with the ultimate goal of living a better life.
FOR OTHERS...
My goal for this year may impact other people who share the same desires and idealism. As I write this goal list and commit to a bigger dream, I may develop big ideas to make these happen. I want to attract the right people and opportunities to achieve my goal.
ONE STEP AT A TIME
LIVING WITH A PURPOSE
We must live with a purpose and continue to discover and understand it. You have a sense, and I have mine, too. So, in the material world that we live in, where the outward symbol of success fades and eventually will be gone, it would be good to ponder the realization of our highest service to give to God, ourselves, our family, our country, and the world at large.
A prosperous year ahead!
© 2012 Del Cusay
