Reliving the Memories on The Road to Bato Arobo

It's been more than a decade since I reached the mountaintop of Bato Arobo, a place that brings pleasant memories of my childhood days. Back then, we used to hike for more than an hour just to reach it if we were coming from Sitio Lomboy in Linambasan, province of Capiz. The landmark is the present-day Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish. 

Visiting Mount Bato Arobo with my family is a journey filled with nostalgia. After the midterm election on May 13, 2019, we embarked on an adventure to witness the ongoing road construction from the Parish to the road to Bato Arobo. The sight of the mountain ranges from afar, the fresher air, and the memories of the old days all came rushing back, making it a genuinely sentimental experience

The road to Bato Arobo is like a roller coaster ride: There are ups and downs and fantastic scenery ahead, with tall Coconut palms and greenery. The less than 2-hour hike can now be reached by a vehicle in less than 15 minutes.

Two months later, on July 24, a day before my grandfather's 89th birthday, we decided to bring him to revisit the Road to Bato Arobo when the roadside development was nearing its completion. Due to the hilly slope on both sides of the road, a concrete hillside cover is needed to protect from untoward soil erosion, the same thing we can see on the hilly streets of Baguio City.

Along the Road to Bato Arobo are farmlands planted with rice and coconuts, which make the surroundings calm and pleasant. There are few houses on the way, and they are even a distance apart on the foothills of the mountain. In a few years, perhaps over the next decade, more houses will be built, considering the accessibility of the road to the town center.

The natural landscape of the mountains is a sight to behold, with occasional fog adding a touch of mystery when it rains and the cool, windy climate, making it perfect for unwinding over coffee and tea or a bowl of hot noodles or batchoy. Bato Arobo's beauty is truly awe-inspiring.

                       The video above; click the arrow to view

Nature has a healing wonder for our souls, and the Bato Arobo mountain view dramatically appeals to the senses. This is similar to soul-searching in the Highlands of Tagaytay and Baguio. Though the place is on its way to development, it is still pristine and naturally beautiful.

Bato Arobo holds a special place in my heart, a place I conquered when it was just a trail. Now, as we witness its development, I feel a deep sense of connection and belonging. The barriers to reaching the mountaintop are disappearing, and we can all relive its scenic mountain view. Bato Arobo is a natural wonder of all time and also a natural heritage in our time. We preserve, protect, and recollect memories that will last a lifetime. 

© 2019 Del Cusay

Happiness in Our Hearts

What could be more important in life?
Biggest dream, achieved goals, a success...
A dream job, a dream house, a fancy car
A dream destination in the farthest nation

When success means a million-dollar
Yes! I have a lot, but not feeling enough
Giving it all but no contentment at all
No happiness, no pure joy. No bliss

Success is the presence of happiness...
When I get successful, I'll be happy... Nah!
When I am so glad, I feel successful... Yeah!
Happiness is positive psychology... Aha!

Happiness comes from a natural thing.
Not so expensive and not an elusive thing
A glimpse of dawn, a beautiful twilight...
A magnificent sunrise, a morning exercise

What else could make us truly happy?
A morning cup of milk, coffee, or tea
A chirping sparrow... A Nightingale's song
A mist in the garden, a drizzle... A blessing!

Happiness is within us... Within our reach
The morning ritual of gratitude makes us rich!
A good morning greeting... A morning hymn
Thank God for the happiness... I am lovin'

© 2019 Del Cusay

Highlands' Sunrise: A Heaven's Call

There's a certain tranquility that sunrise brings. In the moments just before it emerges, waking up to the serenity of a peaceful morning, with the natural sounds of chirping songbirds and a fresh morning mist, is a truly calming experience.

To rise as early as 4:30 and be up by 5 A. M. is to feel the pure anticipation of a new day. It's the excitement of a fresh start, a brand new day that brings new hope and the promise of incredible adventures and opportunities.

Each morning in my beloved highland town, I would awaken to a scene of breathtaking beauty. Watching the sky transform with vibrant hues from the terrace was like witnessing a live painting. This natural masterpiece slowly turned into a bright light and ultraviolet rays, inspiring me and brightening my mood for the entire day.

The video above; click the arrow to view

What makes me fully alive is the healing energy of the sunrise. It nourishes the physical body with the required Vitamin D for the absorption of calcium, providing more muscular and healthier bones and energetic vibes for productivity.

The sunrise is not just a physical event, it's an emotional experience. It fills us with a sense of joy and happiness, warding off any negativity that might try to spoil our day. It's a reminder of life's beauty and the wonders of our planet.

A deep breathing exercise absorbs prana or chi, a life force for healing and longevity. Simple yoga-like and internal stamina exercises loosen up a stiff body and shake the soul.

A cup of coffee, especially a strong black one, compliments the sunrise and completely awakens the senses for daytime alertness.

The sunrise is more than just a daily occurrence, it's a gift from the divine. It's a reminder to start each day with gratitude and energy. It's a call from heaven, a promise of a better day and a brighter tomorrow.

© 2019 Del Cusay