2020 Year in Review: Overcoming Great Odds

What a challenging year it has been! It was full of surprises, chaos, and unmet expectations. It was a year of lost hopes and breaking barriers. That's how I sum up 2020. 

No matter how good the year 2020 has started, there are always obstacles. That's an uncertain moment of what the future holds. 

How the year started

Celebrating the New Year 2020 with my family was one of the best moments of my life. Being with my loved ones brought happiness and a joyful spirit.

We've shared many meaningful conversations, short travels, and family gatherings that have strongly bonded us. We don't get a chance to celebrate together as one big family yearly, but whenever we do, we make it very memorable.

Meaningful moments have been celebrated with a dear person in my life. I had a great time and sweet memories that I always reminisce about.

The Great Challenge

The end of the first quarter of 2020 brought misery to our lives. The pandemic caused by Covid-19 knocked us down. It made us paralyzed for a moment. It made us worry, fear, and angry over the unknown enemy. The sudden shift to remote work, the fear of contracting the virus, and the isolation from loved ones were some of our challenges.

COVID-19 caused a global freeze. There were no local and international flights, some travel restrictions, closed businesses, and bankrupt companies. 

It separated countries by closing the borders, made us feel disconnected through physical distancing, and taught us to set boundaries for our protection and our loved ones.

Before the lockdown in March this year, I shared a meaningful journey with special people. We never thought the worst was yet to come, but we celebrated the triumph with courage, faith, and love.

Despite the unexpected challenges of this century, we've not just survived; we've thrived. No matter how daunting the situations, we've persevered, determined to carve out a good life in this new normal. Our resilience is a testament to the human spirit, inspiring hope for the future.

Lessons from the Pandemic

This pandemic has been a profound teacher, offering us a glimpse of the potential disasters that humanity may face. It's a wake-up call to be better prepared and more courageous in adversity. Our lessons are invaluable, prompting us to reflect on our actions and be better prepared for the future.

That's a great lesson for humanity, but the pandemic made us realize that we're all globally connected and can feel people's suffering wherever they are.

However, it's not the end of the world. We had to do something. We don't have to feel miserable, lonely, or depressed. Instead, we have made things possible.

Food is essential for survival in times of pandemic. When people in the cities struggle with food supplies, people in the countryside or rural areas have a reason to be more grateful.

Integrated farming lifestyle

My parents decided to use their time while on lockdown. So, they started developing our farmland as our new lifestyle. This involved a shift towards self-sustainability, focusing on growing our food and living in harmony with nature.

Integrated farming has converted our farm into a mini forest with different kinds of trees. This place is where I bathe in the forest every time we visit the farm. Its healing effect is Wonderful as it helps to be more grounded. To be connected to the natural source.

We've also started to plant vegetables and fruits and have made farm-fresh harvests for our food. This time, health must be an utmost priority. We have to strengthen our immunity against diseases, so it's good to eat organic fruits and veggies that are more healthy and keep us strong and have more energy.

Overcoming challenges

We've had enough of COVID-19 and are helping to defeat it. If we keep the faith, it can never break us or kill us.

When we can travel again without restrictions and quarantine status is at the lowest level, we rejoice that finally, we are back to normal, although some health protocols are still in place.

We've had simple family gatherings to celebrate precious moments and religious devotions. This time, there were no kisses and hugs but a little distance to ensure safety. We gathered around a table, maintained a safe distance, and shared our thoughts and feelings, albeit with a sense of caution and a robotic feeling, but we must get used to it.

Christmas in our hearts

Our world brightened up when the 'Ber' month started. We're in a festive mood and celebrating Christmas early on.

From September to December, we anticipate a very long Christmas season unique among Filipinos. It brings hope that we can always be cheerful and win any battle of life's ups and downs.

And so, we celebrate Christmas. It may not be the most festive celebration this year, but we refuse to let go of the light of hope and our lofty aspirations. Our joy in celebrating Christmas, even amid a pandemic, is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and a beacon of hope for the future. 

This Christmas, during the pandemic, is a reminder to be with the people who truly matter and celebrate with simplicity and the highest gratitude. It's a time for introspection about our purpose and continued life journey. To give hope and bear the light.

Christmas is the most anticipated moment, so we make peace with ourselves over wrongful actions. This holiday is the time for a soulful evaluation of the previous year and the best time to plan for the following year.

So many turns of events. Some unexpected moments. Some unimaginable happenings. 2020 may be the beginning of a new earthly change, but it's also the beginning of a New personality and more refined energy.

©️ 2020 Del Cusay

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👉 Year in Review 2019: The Greatest Love

Stairway to the Ruins in Macau

The former British colony Hong Kong was a wonderful surprise for my parents as we explored the vibrant cosmopolitan East. At the end of the four-day trip, we had one last stop: a day visit and tour in a neighboring Special administrative region, Macau.

It was just an hour and a half ferry ride from Hong Kong, and there was a welcoming message: Bienvenido or welcome in Portuguese. Macau is a former Portuguese colony, and its preserved buildings and other structures are reminiscent of European heritage.

I always love cultural and heritage preservation, and Macau is home to a famous World Heritage site, the Ruins of St. Paul.

In the early morning, before heading to the airport for our flight back to the Philippines, we had a walking tour from our hotel to the Ruins. It was the proximity of about 15 15-minute walk until we reached Senado Square. Just a few steps away from the Ruins.

That was in September 2016. It was a surprise made possible to celebrate my mother's 64th birthday. That was our first family travel abroad, so it was truly memorable.

They built the St. Paul Cathedral in the 17th century. In the 19th century, it was destroyed by fire, leaving the façade as Ruins.

But even in its ruins, it's still beautiful and a work of art, just like the great churches of European craftsmanship. People of different creeds come to visit, and it attracts both local and international tourists eager to see and learn the history behind the ruins.

The Ruins of St. Paul in Macau had just preserved a piece of the structure. With the heritage preservation effort, they decided not to demolish it for the world to see. And to appreciate the once-largest Cathedral in Asia.

Macau may have been transforming into a bustling metropolitan, with beautiful lights from its mega and ultra-modern structures, but it remembered its history and culture.

Macau felt like a cultural city where its people lived simply amidst modernity. It may transform into a much more progressive metropolis in the future, but it will have a unique identity blending East and West cultural influences.

We may have yet to explore much about other tourist sites in Macau, but we've seen one of the image structures of our faith. 

The stairway to the Ruins of St. Paul will always be a memorable travel experience. It leaves an imprint in our hearts, making the whole experience worth remembering.

©️ 2020 Del Cusay

Kathmandu Valley and the lost Kingdom

My arrival at the Indira Gandhi International Airport was a thrilling race against time, reminiscent of The Amazing Race. Despite the rush, I managed to check in and board the plane, bound for the ancient Kingdom of Nepal. 

After six months in India, the prospect of exploring its northern neighbor, Nepal, filled me with anticipation. I could already picture myself in the Kathmandu Valley, surrounded by the majestic Himalayas. The view from the plane as we descended only heightened my excitement. 

As I rode a cab from the airport to downtown Kathmandu, I was immediately struck by its unique charm, despite the dry and dusty streets. I was eager to embark on a walking tour to immerse myself in the daily life of the Nepalese people. 

Since I stayed in the city center, places of interest were almost within walking distance. The mall, park, pond, temples, street bazaar, and Durbar Square were nearby, and I started my journey on my first day.

My impression of Kathmandu is that it is a city of friendly and kind people. I remember the warm smiles of the hotel staff, the lively banter with the street bazaar salespeople, and the playful interactions with the kids in Durbar squares. Even the security personnel at tourist sites, the cab drivers, and the random people I've met were all friendly and conversant, making my stay in Kathmandu truly memorable.

Since they rely heavily on tourism, they must be congenial and give a great impression to every tourist they meet. 

Other cities, like Lalitpur and Bhaktapur, comprise the Kathmandu valley and overlook the heritage site on top of a hill. Swayambhunath offers a breathtaking view of the Kathmandu Valley on a bright sunny day with clear blue skies.

Swayambhunath, my first stop among the World Heritage sites recommended by my tour guide, was a sight to behold. The ancient structures, some dating back to the 5th century, were a testament to the rich history of Nepal. The presence of monkeys everywhere added a unique charm to the place, earning it the nickname 'Monkey Temple '.

I was happy to have visited one of the oldest heritage sites built in the 5th century, long before the birth of Buddhism in Nepal. But then, I knew that Nepal was an old country, just like India, so they had these heritage structures back in the early days of civilization.

Nepal is a great nation that was once ruled by a King when it was an absolute monarchy. However, in 2008, a constituent assembly created a federal democratic republic.

During my stay, I immersed myself in the rich culture and traditions of the Nepalese people. I learned about their unique festivals, such as Dashain and Tihar, and their reverence for the Himalayas. While Kathmandu may not be as extravagant or developed as other world cities, its natural charm and the warm hospitality of its people make it a must-visit for any tourist.

As much as I wanted to discover more about Nepal, my almost week-long vacation ended, and it was time for my re-entry to India.

On a short visit, I created meaningful memories that have left a lasting impression on my heart. Nepal is Amazing, and its charm is everlasting.

©️ 2020 Del Cusay

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Wellness in the Green Village

 

If there's one profound lesson the pandemic has taught us, it's the necessity to shift to a futuristic mindset. This experience has prompted us to reflect on our lives, choices, and impact on the world, leading us to embrace a more sustainable and mindful way of living. 

I want to create the next big thing, a sustainable farm village, out of a soulful desire to live a better and more comfortable life in a peaceful and green rural setting.

I call it the next big thing since sustainable farming is one thing that would thrive in the next pandemic or any future financial and health crisis.

During this pandemic, we've awakened the power of our intuition and creativity. We're making use of our productive time while in quarantine. It may not be easy; it requires passion, endurance, and perseverance to accomplish the plan and make things possible, even when times get rough.

After eight months of quarantine, we've achieved a significant milestone—the creation of a green village that will be our additional source of sustainable farm living. This accomplishment fills us with pride and inspiration, as we know we can overcome challenges and bring our dreams to life.

We've built two traditional Filipino farmhouses that serve as a rest house whenever we visit and do some farming activities. We plan to establish farm infrastructures such as concrete roads, multi-purpose halls, villas, ornamental gardens, and a tree park.

My parents dream of having a place where they can live a simple, serene, and meaningful life, and they're making it possible with their strength, willpower, and Divine guidance.

When living in Manila, I always considered returning to our hometown and presenting my parents with some dream farm ideas. Fortunately, they've accomplished some of them. Even if there's more to develop, I'm happy with what they've started.

We're looking forward to seeing a growing family within the decade and hope that the green village will bring us closer. We express a deep love of nature and a deeper connection to the Divine and its creation.

While I may be living away from home and unable to witness the physical development in the years to come, I'm filled with hope and optimism for the future of our green village. I'm grateful to have seen its humble beginnings and look forward to the futuristic glimpse of what it will become.

This pandemic might be a blessing in disguise because we have learned to keep going and believe there is always a great opportunity in adversity.

The making of a green village is not just about health and wellness. It's also about building a lasting legacy with our environmental responsibility and contribution. We protect the Greenville country farm with the love of nature. And a conscious connection with the Divine love to nurture.

©️ 2020 Del Cusay

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Walking Tour in Mumbai

I had a terrible experience in Mumbai, but it was unforgettable. Mumbai is India's financial and cultural capital and one of its finest and wealthiest cities.

But with its glamour comes the downside of bustling city life for the Mumbaikars. It's the chaos of daily living like other major world megacities. And with a month-long stay in Mumbai, I couldn't help but stay much longer. I had had enough of the good times and the bad times.

The district of Bandra, where I resided, was a vibrant hub of street commerce, offering a unique shopping experience. The streets were lined with a variety of businesses, primarily showcasing ready-to-wear, colorful garments, and other personal products. My limited wardrobe from New Delhi prompted me to indulge in some local shopping, and I ended up with a few shirts and a new pair of shoes from a Nike outlet store in Bandra. These were all I needed for my explorations of Mumbai's streets and downtown areas.

In Bandra, I would take a daily walk along the bandstand and pass by the mansion of Shah Rukh Khan, one of the famous Bollywood actors. The Bollywood "Walk of Stars" was newly installed then. The names of stars like Kareena Kapoor, whom I've known from the movie "3 Idiots" and other celebrities whose expressions and body marks are inscribed and molded-- their version of the Hollywood "Walk of Fame."

On certain days, I would take a cab from Bandra and traverse the awe-inspiring Bandra-Worli Sea Link. This majestic bridge, a symbol of modern engineering, connects Mumbai's two most essential districts and serves as the gateway to the downtown area, where the world heritage sites are located.

During my explorations, I often found myself passing by the tower mansion of the Ambanis, India's richest family and business tycoon. The sheer opulence of this million-dollar house, located in Mumbai's most expensive real estate location, never failed to intrigue me.

As I reached the old downtown area, my walking tour started with appreciating the old European structures like the Gateway of India and the magnificent Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, which was rich in colonial history and built during the British Raj.

I enjoyed the gallery viewing inside the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel. From its construction, the Royal visits, and the terrorist attack, I learned a piece of its glory and gruesome history.

One day, I decided to experience Mumbai's local train system. I traveled from Bandra to Christchurch station, but I had a horrible experience with the ticketing system. Due to a misunderstanding, I was fined for not having the correct ticket. This incident taught me the importance of understanding the local transportation rules. Despite this setback, I continued exploring the cricket field around the University of Mumbai and the nearby areas. I enjoyed watching students play cricket, a popular Indian sport similar to baseball.

I spent more days in Bandra, and so I explored the streets. Some days, I enjoyed a cup of cappuccino in a café, and some days, I visited the nearby churches to pray. I went to a church on a hilltop, a short car ride via Hill Road.

Before I left Mumbai, I had yet to find Bollywood. It's not a place, but it's a film center. I understand they're the largest producer of films in the world. I've watched some of Shah Rukh Khan and Amir Khan's films not in Mumbai but in Delhi cinema. There's more to Bollywood in Mumbai, but I needed more.

That was a month-long stay, during which I learned about the place and its people, culture, food, music, and lifestyle.

Mumbai has a colorful heritage and history; whenever I have a chance to return in the future, it will be much more wonderful and truly memorable.

©️ 2020 Del Cusay

His Eminence the 9th Filipino Cardinal

Many were surprised when Pope Francis announced that the Archbishop of Capiz, Most Reverend Jose Advincula, would be one of the new 13 Cardinals of the Catholic Church.

It's a tradition that the Vatican appoints an Archbishop to elevate to the title of Cardinal from the Archdiocese of Manila and Cebu. But this time, our very own Capiz Archbishop Advincula was chosen by the Pope to join the College of Cardinals. It's the second highest position in the Catholic Church, next to the Pope, and also an elector to the conclave of the next Pope.

On November 28, 2020, the Pope confirmed the appointment of the new 13 Cardinals, including His Eminence Most Rev. Jose Cardinal Advincula.

Cardinal Advincula's new role holds immense significance for the Catholic faithful of Capiz. The Holy See's recognition of our growing faith and devotion to the church is a source of great pride and honor for us.

Pope Francis's message was powerful and meaningful in that he went beyond the peripheries, choosing neglected areas away from the traditional centers of power.

It's a blessing and a heartwarming experience for Cardinal Advincula as an Archbishop. He was the principal celebrant on the Feast of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish on June 27, 2019, in our hometown in Jamindan, Capiz.

Cardinal Advincula of the Archdiocese of Capiz started several Catholic Mission Stations and Mission schools in Capiz. 

In 2012, the Archbishop of Capiz planned to establish a Mission Station on the Hill Road of Linambasan, Jamindan. On January 13, 2018, it was elevated into a Parish. From a Mission Station, it's now called the Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish in honor of the blessed Mary, the Mother of Christ.

Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish will continue to grow in faith, love, and service today and in future generations.

The church becomes better for spirituality and religious service to the faithful.

We continue to grow in faith in Christ Jesus and in the blessed Mary to become the children of God and Mary.

As a community, we offer our prayers to Cardinal Advincula, hoping he'll continue to be a beacon of hope and faith to those who need Divine love and light.

©️ 2020 Del Cusay 

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The Captivating Mantalinga Island

What captivates the soul more than a small island on the coast of Roxas City, Capiz, known as Mantalinga Island.

It's a tiny island just a kilometer from Baybay Beach's shore. It's famous for its long stretch of beachfront restaurants.

The place is popular in the Western Visayas as the best food trip destination. It has gained national recognition as one of the best sources and suppliers of seafood in the top restaurants in the Philippines, particularly in Metro Manila.

Roxas City, known as the Seafood Capital of the Philippines, offers abundant marine products like fish, shellfish, and oysters. The best part? You can enjoy these fresh seafood dishes at an affordable price, a fraction of what you'd pay in high-end restaurants in Metro Manila. At Baybay Beach, you can indulge in unlimited fresh seafood, day and night, without breaking the bank, ensuring a satisfying and budget-friendly culinary experience.

Imagine the sea's soothing waves and the cool breeze on your skin. Now, add to that the breathtaking sight of Mantalinga Island, a natural wonder that serves as the most famous background and landmark in Roxas City.

Thanks to its proximity to Roxas City's mainland, getting to Mantalinga Island is a breeze. You can easily hire a pump boat service or a kayak to get a closer look at this captivating island, making your trip convenient and hassle-free.

Local fishermen have a unique belief about Mantalinga Island. They call it 'Good Luck Island' because they believe that inscribing their name on the rock before fishing or on their boat before its main voyage brings them good luck. This local tradition, steeped in cultural significance, adds an intriguing and enriching layer to your visit, sparking your curiosity and appreciation for local customs. 

We all want good luck. We want a good journey in life. And when you visit this laid-back city in Western Visayas, see Baybay Beach and experience the enigmatic charm of Mantalinga Island. You'll come for sure, and you'll ask for more.

©️ 2020 Del Cusay 

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Bollywood and Mehandi Night in New Delhi

An Indian wedding would last three days. That's a very long celebration, and yes, it could also be expensive if it is too grandiose.

In New Delhi, I was invited to attend the Mehandi night, a pre-wedding celebration held a day before the main wedding ceremony.

The Mehandi night, a significant part of the three-day Indian wedding celebration, is a fun and colorful event that symbolizes the love between the couple and their families, relatives, and friends. 

In Hindu culture, the bride applies a red-orange Mehandi or a henna tattoo on the back of her hands, palms, and feet. I had the privilege of witnessing this intricate process, which is not just a tradition but an art form for the bride. The detailed patterns and designs are not only attractive to the groom's eyes but also a symbol of the couple's love.

The Mehandi night was a joyous moment for everyone present at the event. There was dance and Bollywood music all night long, with the couple being the center of attention as they made a Couple dance surrounded by family and friends.

The Bollywood music was a highlight of the evening. Its upbeat rhythm and lively tunes kept everyone entertained. The live performances from invited Bollywood artists were fantastic, and I had a great time. It was an enjoyable and unique wedding experience to remember.

Of course, an Indian wedding is also about food and delicacy, with the finest cuisine from all over India. The buffet meal, featuring a variety of traditional Indian dishes, was a delightful accompaniment to the soulful Bollywood music and entertainment.

Mehandi Night has a casual lounge feel with colorful pillows and clothes everywhere. I had a wonderful conversation with other guests and learned more about their Indian wedding culture.

The Mehandi night is a celebration of vibrant colors, from the traditional Indian clothes to the lively decorations. It's an extravagant but meaningful moment filled with energy and excitement.

The wedding venue was full of decorations, with fresh flowers everywhere. It was like a night of fantasy—a fairytale.

That was a fantastic and magical night. It was a pure and magical delight.

©️ 2020 Del Cusay