Holy Week 2013 : Christ As Our Guiding Light

"The solemn observance of the 'Good Friday' and 'Black Saturday' is a message that Christ has died to save the sins of humanity. This is the centering thought of the Holy Week, and this is a call to follow Christ, lead, and be the guiding light in our lives forever."

The last week of the Lenten season is the highlight of commemorating the passion, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. During the past 40 days, we have observed liturgical events that are significant in understanding the life story of Christ on His suffering, crucifixion, and ascension to heaven. We started Lent on Ash Wednesday with   Embracing Christ in Our Lives. On this day, we begin our journey by following the path of Jesus and emulating the virtues He has taught.

Every year, the observance of Lent gives us a unique perspective on life as we reflect on ourselves. It allows us to acknowledge our misconduct and to have the act of repentance. This leads us to achieve peace of mind and opens our hearts to give more time for self-ministry to fulfill our 'life purpose.' 

Last Sunday, Christians celebrated the Lord's coming by waving palm leaves to welcome the great 'Rabbi.' The event symbolized humility when Christ entered the crowd riding a donkey. This would remind us to practice the virtue of serving everyone selflessly with all our strength. 

On this year's Holy Week, I have been observing it in a non-dominant Christian world. It may be a different experience, yet my devotion and faith are strengthened in a solitary moment of contemplation. This is the right time to know yourself and be in Christ's loving presence. 

My observance of Holy Week 2012 was meaningful and memorable. I saw fellow Christians of different nationalities express their faith in Christ. Though we may have different cultures, we are still united in faith before Christ. It was a great Lenten experience since I visited some of the Churches that are famous among Christian devotees. 

In the Philippines, where Christianity dominates, the faithful would have a special observance of the Holy Week, especially during Good Friday. Some would perform the 'Senakulo' religious tradition, which reenacts Jesus's passion and death. Some men would even allow themselves to be crucified to experience the suffering of Jesus and with the belief that their sins would be forgiven. Other traditions include 'Visita Iglesia' or visiting different churches and pilgrimage sites and offering a prayer. The old way of reciting a prayer with a melody called 'Pasyon' is still practiced by devotees. 

On Good Friday, the 'Seven Last Words' are celebrated in a holy mass. This offers a deeper understanding of Christ's passion and last words before his death on the cross. The solemn observance of 'Good Friday' and 'Black Saturday' is a message that Christ has died to save humanity's sins. This is the centering thought of Holy Week, and this is a call to follow Christ to lead and be the guiding light in our lives forever.

© 2013 Del Cusay

Celebrating Holi Festival 2013

"At the end of the celebration, some faces look funny with all the colors on their skin. Even the colors would take some time to wear off, but the memories would remain forever. After all, the true significance of Holi is not on the outward expression, but it is through unity, freedom, and peace to prevail forever."

It is officially the end of the winter season in India, and today, people celebrate the most colorful festival known mostly among Hindus as the Holi festival. For the second time, I had the exhilarating opportunity to witness and immerse myself in this vibrant festivity. 

A day before the main event, people already celebrate with their families and friends. I have witnessed how they make fun of the colored powder called 'gulaal.' Almost everyone of any age group is having fun while putting these colors on each other's faces, hugging and greeting each other. In the evening, there is the bonfire, a tradition with spiritual significance. The bonfire symbolizes the victory of good over evil, as it is believed to represent the burning of the demoness Holika. According to the Hindus, the Holi festival commemorates this victory of virtue over evil. 

On this day, the main celebration unfolds. People everywhere in India and expatriates abroad come together with a joyful spirit. This is the best time to be boisterous, yet in a respectful manner. All actions are acceptable and leave a lasting impression on others. This is also the time to reconcile with anyone you may have had conflicts with. People set aside their differences, even if temporarily, creating a healing and peaceful atmosphere.

It was a delight to watch kids armed with water guns filled with colors chase each other and spread laughter. Despite the occasional minor mishaps, the atmosphere was filled with joy and enjoyment, devoid of anger or irritability. 

Some ladies and gentlemen dance to a tune of Bollywood music, and they dance gracefully. The music fills the air, and the vibrant colors of their clothes add to the festive atmosphere. I have seen familiar faces from last year's event and have more fun and appreciation this time. Although I have not gotten any colors compared to the previous year, I'm still satisfied with what I have experienced.

Celebrating the Holi Festival last year was as vibrant as the event today. The park was full of people, mostly small children guided by adults. The lawn became muddy because of the heavy water and the children playing in it. However, the entire day was full of joy and positive spirits. 

At the end of the celebration, some faces look funny with all the colors on their skin. Even the colors would take some time to wear off, but the memories would remain forever. After all, the true significance of Holi is not on the outward expression, but it is through unity, freedom, and peace to prevail forever. 

© 2013 Del Cusay

Oprah's Lifeclass: What on Earth Am I here For?

In a discussion with Oprah, one of my favorite Spiritual teachers, Rick Warren, gave an insight into one of the most essential questions of existence: What on earth am I here for? 

As a motivational speaker and writer, Rick Warren has inspired millions through his book The Purpose Driven Life, which is my all-time favorite. 

Yes, we find an answer to this thought-provoking question, what on earth am I here for? Here are my insights on the topic. 

1.  According to Rick Warren, everybody lives at one of the three levels of life; the first level is survival, where people put in their time, wait for the weekend, and just go through the motions. Would you consider yourself at the survival level? If so, why? 

I've been through this level in life. I was not sure about the path I was taking and the future that lay ahead. I missed productive days and was content with what I had. Day after day, I felt incomplete and empty deep inside. This was just a recent past; things have changed, and I have taken the vows of a more productive life and a life of purpose. 

2. What would it take to be more fulfilled in your life?

As I've learned, there's a profound difference between happiness and fulfillment. We often chase happiness, a fleeting emotion that comes and goes. But true fulfillment, that's something deeper. It's a state of being that leaves a lasting imprint on our hearts and minds. 

3. The second level is a success. People at this level live a comfortable life, have a roof over their heads, and most have what they want. Yet, they still feel unsatisfied and need help figuring out why. Are you at the success level? If so, describe your life.

I must say, 'I don't have everything, but I have enough.' I'm living a quiet, comfortable life where I can do things I desire. However, sometimes, I ask for more, but not for material and superficial things. I'm asking for what is truly essential in my life. Something that I could do for others and the commitment to serve.

4. What would it take for you to live with purpose?

To know our purpose, we must assess ourselves based on what we are good at: our excellence. I have discovered my skills and am doing my best to cultivate them and make better use of them to achieve my goals of living a life of purpose. 

5. Question of existence. Why are you alive? 

I am alive because I have something to fulfill in life. I have goals and dreams that are yet to be accomplished. I live to serve, and there are tasks ahead of me for self-ministry. 

6. Question of intention. Is there a purpose for your life? If so, what is it?

For me, the ultimate purpose of life is service. It's about giving back, sharing the blessings I've received, and living a life of meaning. This is where true significance lies, in the impact we make on others and the world around us. 

7. Question of significance. Does your life matter?  

Everyone matters in their own way. I must believe in my issues in life because I have been blessed to serve in my own capacity and ability. I have asked for and received it, so I have something to give. It doesn't matter to be significant, but what matters is meaningful living--living with a purpose. 


© 2013 Del Cusay

Pope Francis: The New World Pontiff

The Pope has a great responsibility towards his followers, and I hope he can finish what he started until the last breath of his reign. We need a leader who will resolve the issues such as [specific issues like clergy abuse, financial transparency, etc.] that created trouble and confusion among his people. May His Holiness remain to be strong at all levels so he will be able to act on duties vested in him.

A few days ago, the conclave started electing a new pontiff to lead the Catholic Church. 115 Cardinals from around the world gathered in the Sistine Chapel to vote for whom they think can guide and lead a billion followers. After several voting attempts, a new Pope was finally declared. 

A humble man from Argentina, Jorge Mario Bergoglio was chosen by his fellow Cardinals to succeed Pope Benedict XVI, who declared his resignation last month. At the age of 76, he will be the guiding light of the faithful, a beacon of hope on their spiritual path. 

His Holiness will be officially addressed as Pope Francis after he chooses the papal name as his title. He was inspired by St. Francis of Assisi and decided to adopt it as his designation. I hope His Holiness will uphold St. Francis's reputation as an icon of humility and peace. 

As a Christian, I adore St. Francis for his life stories and holiness, and I love to sing the prayer made in his name; The Prayer of St. Francis of Assisi. Pope Francis could be like him and radically transform the Catholic church. 

It would take willpower and great love for the Pope to reform the church in the face of unresolved controversies. However, like the late Pope John Paul II, Pope Francis has the charisma and heart for improving Christian values and will be able to influence people regardless of faith and religious beliefs. 

The Pope has a great responsibility towards his followers, and I hope he can finish what he started until the last breath of his reign. We need a leader who will resolve the issues that created trouble and confusion among his people. May His Holiness remain to be strong at all levels so He will be able to act on duties vested in Him. His role is significant, and he needs our unwavering support. 

'The Pope' not only shows greatness as a title but also entails great responsibility and accountability to uphold. I highly admire and respect 'The Pope' as my source of inspiration and religious wisdom and as Someone who believes and teaches people that 'There is A Certain Holiness in You.' 

The world is becoming more materialistic as we reach the modern age, but we must strengthen our spirituality and faith in our Divine as the ultimate source of life. We have a lot to improve, and there are 'Nature and Sources of Power' in the fulfillment of our Divine self-ministry.

I am grateful that we now have a new Pope who will lead us to Christ. He is our spiritual Father living on earth, chosen by his people. He will guide us and needs our support and prayers for spiritual devotion and evangelization.  


© 2013 Del Cusay

Meeting The Dalai Lama in New Delhi

'Meeting The Dalai Lama is a rare opportunity and truly a blessing. His spirituality and compassionate nature give hope and faith to the people to appreciate life and realize that there is a certain holiness in you.  It is for us to discover our 'Dharma' or life purpose, which in Buddhism refers to the natural order of things and our individual duty within that order, and live in the holiness of our being.'


Today was another great opportunity. I have met and attended His Holiness The Dalai Lama's teaching in Buddha Jayanti Park, New Delhi. Just a few days ago, I was blessed to travel -- 'Meeting The Dalai Lama in Dharamsala and attending'Meeting The Dalai Lama in Dharamsala and attending his lecture about 'Jataka Tales' which is about the story of Buddha's birth and rebirth. Today, he addressed thousands of attendees about 'The Three Principal Aspects of The Path,' which is significant to the Tibetans-in-exile and everyone present, regardless of nationality and creed.

Most of the crowd are Tibetans, followed by Indians and some foreigners who are followers of the Dalai Lama. After falling in line towards the venue's entrance, I was glad I found a seat at the back, which was more comfortable than sitting on the ground, as I had in my previous experience in his lecture in Dharamsala. Some people in groups are sitting on the lawn while others are busy roaming around organizing the event.

Image from: Tibet.net

At the entrance, people are welcomed by Tibetan ushers, and when they walk on the path, colorful flowers blossom around. The chirping of birds and the vibrant surroundings relax the senses. Even rabbits and flocks of swans in a pond are visible and have been taken good care of. Walking further are some hilly pathways with petals scattered on the aisles, which are made especially for welcoming His Holiness. The weather is warm but tolerable since it is not the official summer yet. His lecture in Dharamsala was cold, but the weather was good for me in Delhi since I like the tropical season.

As the open ground was about to be filled with attendees, The Dalai Lama and his entourage walked towards his elevated podium while greeting people with his smiles. This time, there were no chanting ceremonies by the Namgyal monks before his lecture, which started at around 2 pm. The good thing about his speech was that an interpreter translated every part of The Dalai Lama's lecture into English for the benefit of the non-Tibetans. This is better since the previous lecture in Dharamsala was delivered in Tibetan, and only those with an FM radio could hear the English translation. 

However, if the same thing happened in the previous experience, I would not worry since seeing the Dalai Lama was enough for me, and I did not mind the language he used in his lecture. Still, since there was an English interpreter, I felt more grateful and happy that I understood his message better. It was also good to hear the Dalai Lama try speaking in English to make his point. He still cracks some jokes accompanied by his world-renowned laugh and smile to uplift people's spirits. 

Being the living Buddha of compassion, the Dalai Lama has made his teachings as meaningful and lively as possible. Even though it was a long time sitting, it was not tiring, and one could feel his loving and compassionate energy toward the people. His teachings include human suffering, happiness, and enlightenment, which is still significant today. 

According to His Holiness, the primary cause of suffering is discontentment. Today's people are becoming more materialistic and want something more despite having enough already. Nevertheless, happiness can be attained by contentment and satisfaction with everything. The feeling of 'having enough' and being spiritual at the same time can be an ultimate source of internal happiness and peace of mind. 

Image from:  tibet.net

Likewise, a person can become happier and experience less suffering if enlightenment is achieved. In Buddhist philosophy, spiritual tools like prayer, 'The Power of Meditation,' and selfless services to people are indispensable in attaining a happy, fulfilled, and enlightened life'The Power of Meditation,,' and selfless services to the people are essential to achieve a happy, fulfilled, and enlightened life. 

Although I am a Christian, this principle is relevant and meaningful. We can learn these things from the Buddhist perspective of living. 

At the end of The Dalai Lama's lecture, he thanked everyone for making the event possible and successful. It was followed by his recessional ceremony, which returned to his destination. Before he finally vanished into sight, I met him up close while he waved his hand to the people who signaled his blessings. 

Meeting the Dalai Lama is a rare opportunity and truly a blessing. His spirituality and compassionate nature give people hope and faith to appreciate life and realize that 'There is Certain Holiness in You.' It is for us to discover our 'Dharma' or life purpose and live in the holiness of our being. 

© 2013 Del Cusay