The Journey Continues: From Lambda to Omicron

Just before the world celebrates Christmas on December 25, we are again threatened with the new Covid-19 variant, Omicron.

Our suffering is unending with every new variant discovered, and we're about to cover all the Greek alphabets already, from Alpha to Omega. 

The Delta variant was seen as the most contagious and deadliest. However, this newly named, Omicron variant is said to be highly transmissible, with several countries in Africa now affected.

We've learned our lesson with the Delta variant. Several hospitals run out of beds due to overwhelming cases and admissions. And this scenario is bound to happen again if the government keeps borders from countries where the Omicron variant originated.

The Philippines recorded 26,000+ all-time high Covid-19 cases when the Delta variant peaked. We couldn't afford to match or even reach another all-time high number of cases once the Omicron variant is detected in the country.

It's about preparedness and alertness. Several countries have already closed their borders from African countries affected by Omicron, and the Philippines has followed suit. That sense of urgency in the decision-making of our government is commendable. 

We must be better at this time. We've learned our lesson about the importance of securing our border to prevent the transmission of any new Covid variants. However, just like the prediction of health experts, it's a matter of time before the new Omicron variant is discovered in every country.

What we've learned from Alpha to Delta variants still applies to other variants, including Omicron. Basic health protocol must still be observed, and having been fully vaccinated gives a more substantial layer of protection and immunity.

No matter what happens, life goes on. We must learn to adapt to this pandemic, and it starts with an acceptance that it will now become part of our daily lives. We've learned to identify what's essential vs. non-essential. We've learned to prioritize people, events, and things that truly matter. And above all, we've learned to survive.

When this pandemic ends, we're all survivors. We can survive all other challenges and threats that may come our way. This must be part of the Divine Plan for humanity, and those who won't make it just fail to learn about the essence of survival instincts and skills, just like in any disaster.

It's still possible to better protect ourselves from the pandemic. We must always plan ahead and not become victims of this global health threat. Let's do our best to avoid becoming included in the tally of cases by being inoculated with the Covid vaccine. That's the best thing we could offer to save the world and end our suffering.

As we welcome the New Year 2022, we're learning to live in a different world. A world that is harsh and full of suffering. And so, we better prepare ourselves for a more unforeseeable crisis. Always think, plan, and always dare to survive and thrive.

©️ 2021 Del Cusay

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👉 Journey from Alpha to Lambda

Remembering the Stars of the Galaxy

I've never imagined working in a BPO as a trainer. But in August 2015, I had the opportunity to discover the booming industry in the Philippines.

When asked how I would want to give a name to my group, I had to think well of the best description that reflects my personality. Something that I couldn't forget and would remain memorable and significant even in the years to come.

And so, I came up with "Stars of the Galaxy," with the Stars as the group and the Galaxy as its territory. That was my best name since I wanted my group to shine like a star, unleash their brilliance, and sparkle in the dark.

I could train more than 20 groups with 25-35 trainees per group per week. That was fun and exciting, as each week is something new. Each group showed their talents and creativity in every activity. They did their best, and they succeeded in every task.

There were moments of laughter and some moments of tears. A fast and unexpected turn of events made each day a thrill. And the exhilarating moment created a rollercoaster of emotions. Some were able to make it, while others didn't make it.

Working in a BPO is challenging. It's always tricky, and you have to be at a fast pace. Everything moves fast. You need to think and make decisions quickly. 

Aside from giving some inspiration and motivation to my group, I've also challenged them to reach for their dreams and aspirations. Like stars, they have to shine wherever they are and even in the darkest moments of their lives. They must always believe that nobody can dim the lights that shine from within.

It was also a beautiful experience working with my co-trainers and supervisor. We had an incredible bond as a team of trainers, and we felt appreciated and remembered on our special day until our final moment to exit.

I'm glad to have impacted my group, even in a little way. For a weekday we spent together per group, we learned many things beyond PowerPoint. When six years had passed, some of them worked in the same company as customer service/technical support representatives, and some were promoted to team leader and other higher positions.

Together with my co-trainers during the Year-end Party in 2015

The pandemic has not stopped the BPO industry. They saved our economy when most industries were at a loss. They are the gainers and have proven resilient when other businesses have suffered tremendously.

I highly revere people working in the BPO since they sacrifice for personal gain and our economy. BPO is the topmost industry in the Philippines and will continue to prosper.

I am forever grateful to have met wonderful people in the BPO. The experience and memories will always be cherished in my heart.

©️ 2021 Del Cusay

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👉 Stars of the Galaxy: Reliving the Magical Moments

A Momentary Sad Life

We know the feeling of being sad. It destroys our peace of mind, and we feel bad about ourselves or any circumstances that trigger it.

There are moments when we no longer feel good about the things or activities we used to do. Our energies are drained, and we lack the inspiration and motivation to achieve something worthwhile.

What makes us feel sad? How do we get over it? Life can be a roller coaster of emotions, and we experience all of it, from happiness to sadness.

Feeling sad is just momentary, and the emotion just fades away. We're not supposed to experience it for a long time since that will lead to a more severe consequence which is depression.

We sometimes feel sad when we feel rejected, disappointed, or don't get what we want. And when people are there to recognize that emotion, we feel comforted and valued. Only when our feelings are not recognized do we feel sadder than sad and fight for it to get noticed.

To get over a sad life is to be stronger from the inside. Our inner powers can unleash the giant within us. Yes, people who matter may have a significant impact on our lives. But ultimately, we choose to uplift ourselves even when nobody is there to listen. 

A moment of sadness makes our life meaningful when the time comes we're back to our best selves. Because nobody wouldn't want to be sad. We want to be happy and feel good about our highest self and just be glad.

©️ 2021 Del Cusay

Coffee in the Sky Garden

What's that one thing you've given up on this year? It may be permanent or temporary, but that decision may impact your life.

A vice, a bad habit, or a faulty diet; are the things we hope to change. And when we start to embrace a new life without much attachment to things we used to do, we're setting ourselves up for freedom.

Setting a resolution usually starts at the beginning of the year. But what happens when suddenly we decide in the middle of the year? 

In May of this year, I decided to stop drinking coffee. This is for health reasons, to limit sugar consumption. Our blood sugar levels may increase as we age due to dietary choices and other factors. Thus, we suffer in the long run.

For five months, I limit my sugar intake. I didn't drink coffee and soft drinks, which I used to consume for several years. And this dietary lifestyle change is a commitment to a healthier body.

After five months, I started to drink coffee and soda again, but I didn't crave a more significant amount. I still have to limit my sugar consumption to maintain an ideal blood sugar level. 

Before, I couldn't function physically and mentally well without a cup of coffee. It helps me stay awake and more energetic. But there's a downside to everything too much. And so, I have to cut it before its irreversible effect happens.

Forming a habit couldn't be easier without the will and knowing its purpose. For me, I had to sacrifice my craving for health. Lifestyle diseases like diabetes can ruin our life and better functioning, so there's a limit to everything. 

When we have a healthy physical body, we can also have a healthy mind. We can achieve freedom from diseases and illnesses brought about by our bad habits and choices. Yes, we only live once. And so, we also take the chance to live it well and to be well. 

©️ 2021 Del Cusay