Seafood Celebration in Steveston

It's getting warmer in Canada in the second half of the Spring season, and this is an ideal time to get out and enjoy the sunshine on the waterfront and patio.

Many people visit and have fun outdoors in the Steveston, British Columbia, fisherman's wharf. The fishing village is alive again after two years since the pandemic, and they are excited about the much-awaited Spot prawn and seafood celebration from May 6 to June 5. 

For seafood lovers, this is a chance to see and buy fresh catch spot prawns and other seafood sold directly from the fishing vessel in a floating seafood market.

For seafood lovers, this is a chance to see and buy fresh catch spot prawns and other seafood sold directly from the fishing vessel in a floating seafood market.

The fisherman's wharf is just a few meters from Garry point park, and people enjoy strolling at the promenade up to the restaurant patio. That's an excellent way to unwind and feel the healing benefits of a sea breeze. 

A take-home fresh spot prawn is the highlight since it's one of the best varieties. It's crisper, firmer, and tastes better. It's the most in-demand as people line up to buy a pound or more.

The good thing about the fishing industry in Canada is that the Government actively regulates product quality, public health, and safety. The fishermen can only sell a specific variety of seafood they're licensed to harvest. They need to hold and display a license on their stall and display a whiteboard that lists the species they're selling, the area of harvest, and the name of the vessel used for harvesting. That information safeguards the public that they only sell the highest quality products at the fish sales float.

A visit to Steveston Harbour celebrates reviving the fishing industry and supporting local fishermen in British Columbia. This place has plenty of marine life and vendors selling the highest quality products and abides by the fishing industry's laws and regulations. 

©️ 2022 Del Cusay

The Birchwood Dairy Farm in Abbotsford

The weekend has never been this fun in a valley and a farm. That's how we spend time unwinding in the beautiful and relaxing ambiance of the Birchwood Dairy Farm. 

 

In Abbotsford, British Columbia, there are many farm destinations to choose from since its location is on the fertile land of the Fraser Valley and where Agri-tourism is promoted and becoming a lifestyle.

The Krahn family owns the farm, who's been in the dairy farm business for several decades in the Fraser Valley and managing the 22 acres of the farm, taking care of hundreds of cows and producing dairy milk and other dairy products.

What makes this dairy farm a favorite destination is its gourmet ice cream that's rich and creamy from the fresh milk produced by their happy and healthy cows. There are about 50 flavors to choose from, including maple walnut, raspberry, blueberry, strawberry, and cookies and cream, which we've bought in a cone and taken home in a liter bucket. That's a relief during sunny and warmer days just before the summer begins.

The dairy farm is also a favorite stop among partners and families who want to explore more and learn about how dairy milk and products and produced on the farm. It's also a popular stop among cyclists, motorcyclists, and students on an educational tours. This dairy farm is family-friendly and just for anyone who's into 

uncrowded, fresh air, and a great view of a natural environment.

I've learned that Canadian livestock is free from growth hormones, and antibiotics and other medications are strictly regulated. At Birchwood dairy farm, they take good care of their cows, are always healthy, and produce the tastiest and creamiest milk. That makes their gourmet ice cream one of the best premium-quality I've ever tasted.

For a brief period, exposure to the dairy farm gives a perspective on how they ethically raise the cows, how they produce dairy products and how it's being sold and patronized by people who know the real taste of a quality dairy product. 

At Birchwood dairy farm, we see happy families, playful young kids, and everyone who radiates the calm and positive energy the dairy farm brings. It's on my farm destination lists, and I'll always be happy to return and create beautiful memories to cherish and reminisce.

©️ 2022 Del Cusay

The Cherry Blossoms at David Lam Park

The spring has sprung. It's this time of the year when we experience a renewed season filled with joy as we see flowers blossoming.

Springtime reminds me of rebirth and reinvigoration. We become alive as days become more temperate and people enjoy the outdoors. 

This beautiful season is only complete with witnessing the cherry blossoms festival in Vancouver. And so we visit the charming district of Yaletown to celebrate the "Big Picnic" event. It's the best time to see the flower in full bloom and when many people gather as friends under the cherry trees. There are no strangers, but just friends and lovers.

The Big Picnic and the Cherry Blossoms Festival aim to bring people together from Metro Vancouver to experience a day of fun and excitement. There are programs, art exhibits, and workshops for everyone to participate in, learn and enjoy.

This year's event may have been more significant as people move freely without restrictions. The Mask mandate is no longer mandatory, and people see each others' faces. But beyond looks are beautiful smiles, laughter, and joy that brighten the day and lift the mood. 

David Lam Park is a magical experience when people enjoy the hundreds of Akebono cherry trees donated by the 25th Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia, Dr. David Lam, named in his honor.

There are physical fitness activities like yoga. It's a great way of becoming one with nature while relaxing the body and clearing the mind. There:s also winning haiku and haiku installations where they connect poems to the cherry trees.  

Seeing families and children enjoy various programs and activities is a good feeling. It's good to see more people outdoors and appreciate the wonderful nature in the city's heart.

As the clock springs forward, we show the world how we're progressing despite the situation, making joyful cherry blossom experiences and incredible memories. The Big Picnic is a unique event that brings people from different places in British Columbia to see the magical cherry blossoms and to experience "why there are no strangers under the cherry tree." We're all united; we believe we can be.

©️ 2022 Del Cusay

A day trip in White Rock: City by the Sea

What makes British Columbia beautiful is its stunning views of landscapes and seascapes. In Metro Vancouver, there's a place to see the natural grandeur of a city by the sea.

It's the City of White Rock -- about 45 km. South of downtown Vancouver, and just 10 mins. Drive from the Peace Arch, where the US-Canada border is located.

What's significant about this place is its rich history as a fishing village and where it got its name. It's a literal white rock! A huge rock was carried away by glaciers to the South of the metro during the last glacial age period. It's also where Canada's longest pier is located, so people get to walk on a long and unique wooden structure originally built in 1914.

Walking down the steep hill heading to the main street is a magnificent view of Semiahmoo bay. There you can see beautiful houses on a hill overlooking the sea. Such a scenic view of the horizon on a sunny weekend. 

Approaching the main street is an ideal promenade place for fitness and sightseeing. We see people walk, jog, dine at a table, sit on benches, and simply take a deep breath to rejuvenate the body, mind, and soul. 

Just a few meters walk, and you'll be welcomed to enter the elevated wooden structure of the pier, a fantastic landmark about 470 meters long. It's where individuals, couples, and families stroll and enjoy the natural scenery. The majestic mountains, the flying seagulls, and the long stretch of beaches make it a relaxing place to unwind.

The pier bridge underwent restoration in 1977 and was rebuilt and re-opened in 2019 after a wind storm hit the place at the year-end of 2018. They restored the pier to weather the storm and withstand natural calamities this time.

Visitors must get down the wooden lane structure to be on the shore at its low tide, walking towards the 'white rock' visible even far away. It's vast and a significant landmark worth seeing. 

On the main strip of the town center is where you can see a long stretch of restaurants offering al fresco dining while enjoying the sunshine, the blue waters, and the cool sea breeze. Sunlight is fantastic as it gives a good vibe and a pleasant experience.

And whenever the sun shines so brightly, we shouldn't miss the outdoors and have some fun. That's what the city of White Rock has to offer -- simply the sunniest place in the metro.

A trip to the White Rock pier and promenade is a great way to experience living in a city by the sea, even for a day. They have preserved history and culture where peace and serenity are enjoyed by many. 

White Rock is undoubtedly a wonderful place to visit and live in. A vivid memory worth reminiscing, a fantastic destination worth revisiting. 

©️ 2022 Del Cusay

The Labyrinth in Fleetwood Gardens

The winter season has finally ended in Canada. Gone are the snows, frosts, and unbearable coldness for a newcomer like me. 

Finally, here comes the much-awaited season of all; spring. The blossoming of flowers and tree leaves are just everywhere. I can't wait to see the cherry blossoms in different places on the metro as it gives a naturally stunning view of a picture-perfect scene. 

As we welcome spring, it's the best time to visit a nearby park on a lovely sunny day. Enjoy the fun moment and relax, strolling and seeing people around. 

Fleetwood gardens are the best place to be due to its proximity to our home. It's in a vast park where cherry blossoms are waiting to bloom. The pergola gives a feel of a romantic walk for a couple, and the benches sit for soulful conversations.

The most impressive feature is the presence of a labyrinth. It's an ancient pattern found in many places and cultures worldwide. A maze has only a single path and no dead ends. As we walk inside, it winds throughout and mirrors our current state in life. We walk in peace with an open heart and a clear mind. 

The labyrinth in Fleetwood gardens is a classical 7- circuit or path. It's now installed in many places like wellness centers, churches, and community parks as an alternative for healing the body, mind, and soul. 

As we walk the path, we become more mindful of the sensation of walking. And as we go along, we develop a strong sense of concentration and awareness needed to gain insights. 

A labyrinth walk has 3 stages, and it gives beautiful healing benefits. The first stage is releasing or purgation. This is the time when we remove all unwanted thoughts and mental distractions. This is also the time to quiet the mind and open our hearts. 

The second stage is receiving or illumination. As we reach the center, we stay for a moment to sit and stand as we meditate, offer prayer, and allow ourselves to receive guidance from a higher power source. 

The final stage is returning or union. As we're about to exit, we follow the same path back out. We then experience a stronger sense of well-being and clarity of mind. We feel more empowered to pursue our life purpose and heart's desire. 

It feels good to welcome spring with an open heart and a clear mind. Like the spring season, we're about to bloom like colorful, fragrant flowers. A wonderful being with a beautiful soul, living daily to find meaning and purpose. We live our best life, give back and be generous. 

©️ 2022 Del Cusay

Fitness Goals in Fleetwood

Fitness continues from Manila to Surrey, British Columbia. Back home in the Philippines, I used to do a lot of fitness exercises on the streets of BGC on a cool morning and even on warm summer days.

How could I step out for an outdoor walk on a rainy week here in British Columbia? Yes, it rains a lot in BC, but the weather seems favorable as I expect a sunny day perfect for an afternoon stroll in the neighborhood.

Fitness goals could be challenging when stuck at home on gloomy and rainy winter days, but whenever I woke up with the rays of sunlight, I must enjoy the outdoors. 

It's cold outside even when it's sunny, with a daytime high of 10 degrees. However, the winter season is about to end, and the best of spring is coming on the 20th of March.

Walking on the residential streets of Fleetwood on a cold afternoon is an excellent activity as I aim to become more physically fit. No sweat, but it makes me feel warm in less than an hour. That's already about half of my 6000 daily steps target. It feels good to get moving and see the beautiful neighborhood around.

We travel to places occasionally, and we try different global cuisine that suits the palate. Metro Vancouver has diverse food choices, and we couldn't resist the best Asian cuisine. However, this could be a challenge to my fitness goals as I increase caloric intake resulting in weight gain.

That's the reason why I need to burn calories and unwanted fats. I need to walk. I need to run. I need to climb. And I need to jump up high. I'm glad to start my fitness journey here in Fleetwood by simply taking a stroll. Having a long walk in a day makes me feel energized and revitalized.

In the coming days and weeks, I'll be able to discover more places in Fleetwood where I can fully achieve my fitness goals. The quietness of the site and the simplicity of living is ideal for a healthy mind and body. This is where I have always wanted to be. And here I am, about to live my most extraordinary life.

©️ 2022 Del Cusay

Promenade Walk at Garry Point Park

Vancouver, Canada, is on the top list of the world's most livable cities. It's surrounded by scenic mountain ranges and bodies of water that are naturally wonderful. 

When I arrived in Vancouver at the end of February, I finally landed in beautiful British Columbia. I was greeted with cold and gloomy weather for several days. From then on, I'm still waiting to see sunny weather ideal for sightseeing and walking in the neighborhood.

A few days after I arrived, I was glad to see the blue skies as we visited a dear friend in Richmond.

That was a lovely sunny day in Steveston. A village in the Southwest of Richmond, British Columbia. The sea, the sand, the sun, and the cool winter air match the scenic view of the surrounding sandy trail for a romantic stroll.

Looking at the horizon along the seaside is a spectacular view of Vancouver Island, Victoria's capital city. That's a beautiful island to visit and explore, but I must enjoy the moment at Garry Point Park this time. The ambiance and serenity are genuinely captivating and soothing, perfect for a promenade walk to remember.

Metro Vancouver has a lot of parks, and I am grateful to have seen one of the many beautiful parks in the metro. It feels good to live in a city that is blessed with natural scenery that heals the body and the soul. And whenever I need to unwind and rejuvenate, I'm glad there's always a place I can go to.

Garry Point Park is a place for recreation. It has an open-air green space and trails for strolling and fitness activities. Young and old people would walk along the promenade with their partners and loved ones. Others would love to take their dogs while enjoying the cool sea breeze on a sunny day.

The coastline was once a fishing village and a site for canneries and boatbuilding warehouses. One of the prominent structures in the Park is the Steveston Memorial Needle which is a marker for all those who were injured or died in the fishing industry in this place. 

Sitting on the big rock while watching the sailboats and commercial boats pass by is a beautiful scene. It reminds people about its historical past as a thriving fishing village. 

The winter season in Canada is about to end, but the warm welcome feels like home. That's one thing I need; to get warmth. Living in a tropical country for so long makes a slight adjustment to the cold weather in Canada. However, I must remember that the season changes and only stays for a while. Soon the winter is over, and the spring season awaits.

Like the hundreds of cherry blossom trees in Garry Point Park, it's beginning to blossom once again. When the spring season begins, I'll witness the blooming of the Sakura trees and the cherry blossoms. And it blooms in many parks in the metro. It just blooms when it is ready. It blooms at the right season. And it blooms at the right time.

©️ 2022 Del Cusay

The Joy of Gardening

The weekend is an excellent time to spend outdoors in the garden. We get energy from the fresh air and a little sunlight, just enough to get revitalized.

Outdoor gardening is fun for the family as it creates a bond. We enjoy our conversations and put smiles on our faces whenever we finish our activity. It brings serenity and joy to our hearts as soon as we see how refined and beautiful it is. 

Gardening is a therapeutic activity that is good for our physical and mental wellness. We don't fear getting dirty hands because of the many healing benefits they bring to our well-being.  

During this pandemic, many people realized how gardening brought joy to their lives. It has changed their perspective on the essence of having a piece of nature while working from home. 

My parents had influenced us to enjoy gardening even before the pandemic. Since then, we have appreciated ornamental plants for indoor display as they purify the air and give us fresh and revitalized energy that genuinely makes us joyful.

Even a few small pieces of potted plants indoors can uplift our mood. So, there's no excuse to feel down and uninspired when we can create a little sanctuary at home. 

Sometimes, we get more inspired and creative when surrounded by natural elements like plants and flowers. It heals us naturally and restores our well-being after stress and burnout from work. 

Life is always good. There may be a lot of chaos outside our homes and in this world, but we can always find time to have solemnity and joy as we learn to create and live it. 

We create our simple pleasures, soulful desires, and greater joys. We make our natural healing, and we help create a better world.

© 2022 Del Cusay

Wellness at Home

We can never feel good about the world around us if our mind is stuck with the effects of the pandemic. We've suffered a lot already, bringing stress to our lives from our everyday living and even the new normal.

We've been stuck at home at some point, affecting our coping mechanisms and ability to manage stress. Given some restrictions, life is hard outside the house, but we've also proven that life could be more stressful when on home quarantine.  

Not everyone may like to stay at home for an extended period, or the work-from-home setup may not work for them. However, we can always find solutions to make our lives more comfortable and less stressful when there's no boundary between work-life balance. 

During this pandemic, our home has become a sanctuary for wellness. We can make it more livable and create a wellness hub for the entire family that aids in healing and restoring health and vitality.

Home gardening is a fun and healthy activity that beautifies our home environment. It purifies the air at home and gives off oxygen needed for a more muscular respiratory function. 

We can grow good ornamental plants at home that filter air impurities. This makes our little sanctuary more breathable and less toxic than our actual workplace outside the home. 

Flowering plants also makes us feel good. It gives us happiness which is vital for our mental health. Being happy is a positive state of mind. We can't feel sad when we're stuck at home. We can shift our mindset to be on the positive side. A simple, fresh flower on a center table can elevate our mood, giving a pleasant emotion and a clear mind. 

We can also transform a specific place at home where we can spend some time relaxing and rejuvenating. Our balconies and roof deck are examples of where we can convert to a bit of nature at home. It feels great to have a conversation while having a cup of coffee as we are surrounded by flowers and plants in our little sanctuary. 

Life has to move on despite the pandemic. We may be spending more time at home, but we can choose to live a quality life. Wellness at home is a lifestyle we can adopt toward our goal of a healthy body and a happy life. 

This year, 2022, is about our commitment to a healthier body and mind to achieve the success and fulfillment we deserve.

©️ 2022 Del Cusay

Sunday's Best at the Farm

How do you live your best life? Life coaches commonly ask this question to assess our present and future life.

To live our best life is about enriching our lives with pleasant and beautiful memories. As we journey in life, we're bound to experience ups and downs, but what matters is how we live with a more positive energy despite the odds.

Sunday is always the most peaceful time to experience being alive. This is the moment of healing and rejuvenation as we take a break. And this is made possible as we live in a natural environment ideal for the body, mind, and soul.

Visiting the farm on the weekend is pure joy. We feel more relaxed and grounded. This is where we can meditate or have some pure thinking time. This is the place where ideas and plans happen. 

We live in a world where noise and chaos would deplete our energy. However, we can always find a place to unwind and get energized fast. We need to regain our vitality and live healthy life.

Since we're in the 3rd year of the pandemic, it's great to be closer to nature. Farm visits and gardening are healthy physical activities that make one happy. And that's the essence of living. We want to be happy and to radiate happiness to others.

Yes, life is so short in this uncertain time. So, we live each day with a positive spirit to achieve our highest hopes and dreams. With determination and Divine blessing and guidance, nothing is impossible. We can always make things happen in His time.

©️ 2022 Del Cusay

My Sister's Sky Garden

It feels good when we have a piece of nature at home. It gives us serenity and peace of mind when we need a break or relaxation.

With the hustle and bustle of city life, we often feel depleted of energy due to chaos and pollution. Having a home garden gives off incredible and healing power to live our most remarkable life.

I love how my sister made her dream sky garden come true. She made their roof deck great for family gatherings, weekend fun, and relaxation. 

The sky gardens' al fresco vibe is what we like most. It's an excellent place to unwind and celebrate special days and other occasions. It's cool and windy on some days, especially during Christmas. 

Green space at home is what we need to be connected to nature even when living in City. Coming from a province where wildlife is abundant, I often miss being in a more natural environment. To be surrounded by more trees and flowering plants make me happy. However, in the City, we can feel attached to nature simply by creating our little oasis.

During this pandemic, everyone realized the importance of having a clean and green environment. More individuals and families are interested in plants and gardening. And they brought nature home, making them feel happier than before.

My parent's love of nature influenced my sister's interest in plants and flowers. They love to develop a natural place for a happy and healthy family. My Mother also loves indoor plants and flowers, so she would feel satisfied even when not on the farm.

My Sister's Sky Garden is an excellent place to celebrate Christmas with the family. The bonding and happy moments always create beautiful memories worth remembering. A joyous season worth reminiscing about.

©️ 2021 Del Cusay

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👉 Sunday's Best at Lilia's Sky Garden

👉 Coffee in the Sky Garden

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

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

The Silent Heroes of the Pandemic

Do you believe in Superman? Does he exist? Does he have supernatural power? Today's Superman is the one who doesn't wear a cape. They don't fight a big enemy. And they don't possess physical and mental strength at all times.

Today's Superman can be defeated by an invisible enemy. They could suffer from low stamina and endurance. They could not quickly heal themselves. And worst is, they could die.

When I worked at The Medical City Iloilo, I saw the different faces of Superman. The health care workers whose mission is to save lives. Nurses, Doctors, and other healthcare personnel have shown dedication to serving those who need healing, survival, and recovery.

Today's pandemic has revealed our healthcare workers' real value and worth. They are the silent Heroes who have saved thousands and even millions of lives from Covid-19. They have made a big sacrifice to extend the lives of the sick and the dying. 

But the stories we watch and hear about our silent Heroes may not be good. In some countries, we see them almost giving up, not because they are overfatigued or suffering from burnout and depression, but due to lack of support from the Government.

In the Philippines, we see the effect of the Government's negligence regarding our healthcare workers' welfare, especially the nurses who are already losing hope and morale. They are the modern-day Superman, yet they cannot even protect themselves the way they protect and care for their patients. They extend people's lives, yet they die inside from frustrations and disappointments. They are Superman, yet sometimes they couldn't rise up but fall.

I'm a nurse and will always support the call for the proper treatment and support for my fellow nurses and others in the healthcare profession. We don't need recognition, but all we need from the Government is to be just and uplift the welfare to stand still and better fight these challenging times of health crisis.

We are Superman, but we are also human. We get tired and burnout. We can be hopeless and depressed. And we are not limitless, but we can also suffer from powerlessness. 

When this pandemic ends, our best salute goes to the silent Heroes who continue to serve the health and well-being of the people. Give your best gratitude and appreciation to them. That's the greatest gift that can open their hearts. Because it's when we have an open and big heart that we give and love more.

©️ 2021 Del Cusay