Cutty

Answered prayers are unexpected blessings.  This Sunday was just about that.   ---------- Recent realizations about family have been a cause of worry for me these past few days.  I've lost some sleep over it.  I've prayed hard about it.  But, Sunday lunch was a testament of God's answer to my prayers.  It is far from resolved.  But, we will get there eventually.  A lot of good came from patience, understanding, compassion and humility. ------------ A visit to my in-laws also proved to be a blessing, too.  I've been meaning to purchase a new phone, to replace my 3 year-old one.  But, we've been gifted with a very good unit.   I believe my savings will remain just as it is.   I wasn't expecting this and it feels great to be on the receiving end once in a while.  

We finally got back from our last family trip this summer.  We don't usually take summer trips.  Our summers are usually spent shuttling between home and summer classes.  We find it cheaper to just stay in the city.  We usually take trips during off-peak season. This time it's quite different.  It has been a whirlwind experience since mid-May.  There was a trip to the province for a family reunion.  A weekend visit to Taipei for Vic and me and some in-laws.  You know, the vacation after the vacation.  It was then followed by my father's retirement party, which I semi-organized. Finally, a trip to Baguio before the kids go back to school. All these trips are partially subsidized.  I don't know how we were able to wing it, but we just did. No, this is not a humble brag post.  I just realized that we had help. ============ Last February, I lost one of my sisters-in-law due to uncontrolled diabetes and its complications. ...

"What goes around, comes around."  That is the simplest explanation I can think of. But, growing up, I used to think that Karma is only associated to bad things or negative forces.  Apparently, it is a Buddhist concept that refers to one's fate after re-birth.  If you did good things, good Karma and happiness will come to you.  Otherwise, expect bad Karma and suffering. I know, as a Catholic, I shouldn't believe in these things.  However, there are just circumstances that dictate that these are not mere coincidences. ============ Last Sunday, I had the opportunity to help out in a fund-raising activity for a Cancer patient .  It wasn't originally in my calendar.  But, because they needed more people to sing, I said yes.  I was too lazy to go.  It was such a bother to make changes on my busiest day of the week.  I had to cancel lunch with my parents.  We had to take separate cars.  When I first got there, I cou...