In the Game

It is rare that I post a link to a blog.  But this blog by Victory Greenhills member and fellow LSGH alumni (iba talaga mag isip ang La Salista!) is a must read for all Filipinos.

Randell makes the case that each Philippine President, no matter how good or bad, has laid a necessary foundation in the history of our nation.  As we head into this year's Presidential elections, let us elect a leader who can build on the blocks laid by those who went before him.

Click here to read Randell's blog.

Had a week full of equipping and reconnecting as always at APEC this past week in Singapore.  Always look forward to being with our Asian leaders. Pastor Kevin York taught our Asian pastors  on coaching which should give a boost to everyone's ministry skils.

Pastor Sam Webb had a 15 minute session with the men on avoiding burnout.  One of his points was to "stay positive."  And as he expounded on that, he talked about launching a "What's Right With Guam" campaign in his church to counter the negativity in the island. 

Now, I don't know what Guamanians complain about but Filipinos are quite competent professional grumblers as well.  Pastor Sam's campaign inspired me to think positive about the Philippines.  So here is my initial stab at "What's Right With the Philippines":

1. Palawan
2. The longest Chritmas in the world (Sept 1 to 2nd Sunday of January)
3. The current running boom
4. Trelli's sisig
5. Batanes
6. Light hearted and festive culture
7. Bayanihan
8. Lola Idang's kare kare
9. Boracay
10. Manny Pacquiao
11. Agawan base
12. Sagada
13. Banawe
14. Patintero
15. La Salle vs Ateneo basketball rivalry
16. Barangay Ginebra
17. University of the Philippines
18. Chocolate Hills of Bohol
19. People Power 1
20. Mr David - my senior year in high school trigonometry teacher

How about you, what's right with the Philippines?

The devastating impact of the recent "tropical storm" Ondoy is hard to put into words – the devastation (loss of lives, estimated $50 million in damages grows by the day, half a million displaced), the breadth (80% of Manila was flooded, poor and rich were not spared), actual stories from our members (missing family members, everything they own submerged in mud and water). While we will recover and get back up on our feet, it was a serious blow.  The city is on its knees for the moment.  PAGASA (the local weather bureau) now considers this the worst flood in history.

On my way to work this morning, I saw my wife in tears while on the phone.  She was speaking with Joan dela Calzada (Pastor Cleeve’s wife) who recounted her experience.  She was out of the house when the rains poured.  As the waters rose very quickly, she had to walk through the flood for about 5 kilometers to make it to their village gate.  She couldn’t go any further as the water level was too high and the current too strong.  She went inside a store along the street and was able to call Cleeve, at home with the kids, as the waters continued to rise.  The most heartbreaking moment was when Joan decided to say her goodbyes to Cleeve and the children not knowing whether she or Cleeve and the kids would survive.  Then her phone battery died and their communication was cut.  She eventually found her way to the  2nd floor of a nearby building and was safe but had no clue as to how and where Cleeve and the children were.  Cleeve waded through shoulder deep waters with his kids on his shoulders and was rescued by a rubber boat.  They weren’t reunited until 2 days later!  I cannot imagine the torture and trauma of not knowing if your family made it for 2 whole days!  Everything they own is gone.

Over the past few days, we have seen varied reactions – some timely and heroic, some sad and uncalled for:
• the 18 year old hero who saved 30 others by bringing them to safety.  In the end, after saving a 6 month old baby, through sheer exhaustion, he could no longer swim against the current and succumbed to the flood.
• the hundreds of private citizens who responded immediately, in light of the government’s unpreparedness, and took it upon themselves rescue and bring relief to the thousands affected.
• the insensitivity of some politicians and showbiz personalities who are treating this crisis as a photo opportunity.
• the unbelievable callousness of an infamous blogger from Dubai who allegedly spoke judgment and condemnation on those who perished.

I am proud of the quick and rapid response of the Victory pastors and members who immediately made a call for relief goods to be brought to its centers and volunteers mobilized for rescue and relief.  Within hours, most of our centers were transformed into relief centers.  Hundreds of volunteers were mobilized to rescue, distribute relief, counsel, help clean damaged homes, etc.  We are all currently in relief mode.  While the scale of this tragedy was overwhelming, its impact was significantly lessened by the comfort and ministry that was immediately made available.

Our efforts will continue until Manila is back up on its feet.  We will continue to uphold and proclaim God as our only hope:
"He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak.  Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength.  They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint."
Isaiah 40:29-31

I am not one to speculate and presume as to why all this happened.  I am more concerned with how we respond to situations like this.  I am convinced that this is one of those defining moments which presents itself through a crisis.  If we continue to anchor our faith and hope in God and respond heroically, we can come out of this stronger as a city, as a people, and as a nation.

From the UAE, I flew straight to Myanmar to attend and give a message at Mang Guapo’s wedding.  Mang is one of our senior leaders in Myanmar.
 
After years and a worldwide search for the perfect bride (spanning Myanmar, the Philippines, and Singapore), Mang finally found his partner for life – 18 year old Chingpee.

It was a beautiful and traditional Burmese wedding ceremony.  I had the privilege of sharing the Word.  But any event with Mang is not complete without a comedic moment.  In this case, Mang was the victim - due to the nervousness of the local pastor officiating, he totally forgot the part where the husband was to kiss the bride!  After waiting for years and years, the wedding came and went and Mang was unable to kiss his bride!!! 
 
We had dinner together that night.  I initially protested, why did they want to have dinner with me on their honeymoon night?!  But they insisted.  So I reluctantly agreed.  I decided to take the opportunity to give the missed blessing for Mang to kiss his bride.  The honeymoon was back on track.  Mang was finally a happy man.
 
Mang met Chingpee in February this year when she came with a friend to visit Mang’s brother.  It was love at first sight for Mang.  Chingpee was everything he wanted in a bride – “chinky eyed, fair, tall, and chubby”!  There was only one problem – she was too young!  Chingpee was only 17 when Mang met here (he was 33).  But Mang wouldn’t let a small detail like that get in the way.  In keeping with Burmese tradition he asked a mediator to inquire of Chingpee’s background.  In this case, it was Mang’s mom.  Immediately, his mom brought Chingpee out to the corridor and asked her where she was from, who her parents were, her tribe, etc. She found out that Chigpee’s parents are Christian ministers.  Everything sounded good so Mang’s mom asked Chingpee if Mang could date her with a group. 
 
When Mang knew for sure that Chingpee was it, he got on a bus to meet the parents who lived in the Shan state in Myanmar (where a war with rebeles is going on).  It’s literally a 3 day bus ride up the mountains each way!  Twenty-five of Chingpee’s relatives showed up to inspect the prospective groom.  There was some initial hesitancy due to Chingpee’s age, but in the end, they gave their blessings. 
 
I asked Chingpee why she fell in love with Mang.  She said because he is a minister, a believer, from the same tribe, and he loves her dearly.  I asked her when she knew she loved Mang.  She said it was when he fulfilled his promise to come to her province to meet her parents.  According to her, it was a sign he was serious because to get on that 3 day bus ride was to literally risk your life as many of those buses fall over the cliffs.
 
One of Mang’s fears when he got engaged was that the church attendance would drop because the single women would leave.  Well, to his relief (or disappointment), they all stayed and are glad for him. 
 
Mang is finally hitched!  Hip, hip, hurray!!! 

Senator Noynoy Aquino, only son of former senator Ninoy Aquino and former President Cory Aquino, just announced his candidacy for the presidency of the Philippines yesterday.  Already, there is a big shake up among the other aspiring candidates.  My wife forwarded this letter to me this morning.  Just wanted to share with everyone a father's moving letter to his son written 36 years ago when Senator Noynoy was about 14 years old.  From one patriot to another.

LIHAM NI NINOY KAY NOYNOY

August 25, 1973

Fort Bonifacio

11:30pm

Mr. Benigno S. Aquino III

P E R S O N A L

My dearest Son:

One of these days , when you have completed your studies I am sure you will have the opportunity to visit many countries. And in your travels you will witness a bullfight.

In Spanish bullfighting as you know, a man – the matador – is pitted against an angry bull.

The man goads the bull to extreme anger and madness. Then a moment comes when the bull, maddened, bleeding and covered with darts, feeling his last moment has come, stops rushing about and grimly turns his face on the man with the scarlet “muleta” and sword. The Spaniards call this “the moment of truth.” This is the climax of the bullfight.

This afternoon, I have arrived at my own moment of truth. After a lengthy conference with my lawyers, Senators Jovito R. Salonga and Lorenzo M. Tanada I made a very crucial and vital decision that will surely affect all our lives: mommie’s, your sisters’, yours and all our loved ones as well as mine.

I have decided not to participate in the proceedings of the Military Commission assigned to try the charges filed against me by the army prosecution staff. As you know, I’ve been charged with illegal possession of firearms, violation of RA 1700 otherwise known as the “Anti-Subversion Act” and murder.

You are still too young to grasp the full impact of my decision. Briefly: by not participating in the proceedings, I will not be represented by counsel, the prosecution will present its witnesses without any cross examinations, I will not put up any defense, I will remain passive and quiet through the entire trial and I will merely await the verdict. Inasmuch as it will be a completely one-sided affair, I suppose it is reasonable to expect the maximum penalty will be given to me. I expect to be sentenced to imprisonment the rest of my natural life, or possibly be sent to stand before a firing squad. By adopting the course of action I decided upon this afternoon, I have literally decided to walk into the very jaws of death.

You may ask: why did you do it?

Son, my decision is an act of conscience. It is an act of protest against the structures of injustice that have been imposed upon our hapless countrymen. Futile and puny, as it will surely appear to many, it is my last act of defiance against tyranny and dictatorship.

You are my only son. You carry my name and the name of my father. I have no material wealth to leave you. I never had time to make money while I was in the hire of our people.

For this I am very sorry. I had hopes of building a little nest egg for you. I bought a ranch in Masbate in the hope that after ten or fifteen years, the coconut trees I planted there would be yielding enough to assure you a modest but comfortable existence.

Unfortunately, I had to sell all our properties as I fought battle after political battle as a beleaguered member of the opposition. And after the last battle, I had more obligations than assets.

The only valuable asset I can bequeath to you now is the name you carry. I have tried my best during my years of public service to keep that name untarnished and respected, unmarked by sorry compromises for expediency. I now pass it on to you, as good, I pray, as when my father, your grandfather passed it on to me.

I prepared a statement which I intend to read before the military commission on Monday at the opening of my trial. I hope the commission members will be understanding and kind enough to allow me to read my statement into the record. This may well be my first and only participation in the entire proceedings.

In this statement, I said: Some people suggested that I beg for mercy from the present powers that be. Son, this I cannot do in conscience. I would rather die on my feet with honor, than live on bended knees in shame.

Your great grandfather, Gen. Servilliano Aquino was twice condemned to death by both the Spaniards and the American colonizers. Fortunately, he survived both by a twist of fate.

Your grandfather, my father was also imprisoned by the Americans because he loved his people more than the Americans who colonized us. He was finally vindicated. Our ancestors have shared the pains, the sorrows and the anguish of Mother Filipinas when she was in bondage.

It is a rare privilege for me to join the Motherland in the dark dungeon where she was led back by one of her own sons whom she lavished with love and glory.

I ended my statement thus: I have chosen to follow my conscience and accept the tyrant’s revenge.

It takes little effort to stop a tyrant. I have no doubt in the ultimate victory of right over wrong, of evil over good, in the awakening of the Filipino.

Forgive me for passing unto your young shoulders the great responsibility for our family. I trust you will love your mother and your sisters and lavish them with the care and protection I would have given them.

I was barely fifteen years old when my father died. His death was my most traumatic experience. I loved and hero-worshipped him so much, I wanted to join him in his grave when he passed away. But as in all sorrows, eventually they are washed away by the rains of time.

In the coming years, I hope you will study very hard so that you will have a solid foundation on which to build your future. I may no longer be around to give you my fatherly advice. I have asked many of your uncles to help you along should the need arise and I pray you will have the humility to drink from their fountain of experiences.

Look after your two younger sisters with understanding and affection. Viel and Krissy will need your umbrella of protection for a long time. Krissy is still very young and fate has been most unkind to both of us. Our parting came too soon. Please make up for me. Take care of her as I would have taken care of her with patience and warm affection.

Finally, stand by your mother as she stood beside me through the buffeting winds of crisis and uncertainties firm and resolute and uncowed. I pray to God, you inherit her indomitable spirit and her rare brand of silent courage.

I had hopes of introducing you to my friends, showing you the world and guide you through the maze of survival. I am afraid, you will now have to go it alone without your guide.

The only advice I can give you: Live with honor and follow your conscience.

There is no greater nation on earth than our Motherland. No greater people than our own. Serve them with all your heart, with all your might and with all your strength.

Son, the ball is now in your hands.

Lovingly,

Dad

The Elections must really be just around the corner as a new Erap joke just made its way to me (through my daugther Sofia!).  Here it goes:

Three Philippine presidents are held hostage by the Communist guerillas, the New People's Army (NPA).  They are about to be executed by firing squad.  The commander starts the count, "Ready, aim..."

GMA thinks fast, interrupts, and shouts "Earthquake!!!"  The NPA panics and in the confusion, GMA manages to escape.

The commander is upset.  Lines Marcos and Erap side by side.  Reassembles his men.  Starts the count, "Ready, aim..."

Marcos realizes their weakness, interrupts and shouts "Typhoon!"  The NPA panics and in the confusion, Marcos manages to escape.

The commander is furious by now.  At least, Erap is still here.  Reassembles his men.  Starts the count, "Ready, aim..."

Erap by now understands the trick.  He interrupts and shouts, "Fire!"

They shoot him.


Note to foreigners: this is not really a dishonor to our former President as he himself spreads jokes about himself as it helps his ratings.  He even released a book on Erap jokes  (it's a Filipino thing).

Just got back from an extended trip. 

First stop was the United Arab Emirates (UAE) for a series of meetings.  Coming out of the airport, it felt like I walked into the world’s largest oven.  That’s coming from someone who lives in Manila!  It’s as if someone slapped me in the face with a hot towel.  It was almost midnight when it's supposed to be cooler and it was a whopping 38C (100F)!  I had some clothes washed and they were dry literally 30 minutes after taking them out of the washer!

 

Some interesting observations:

GPS (Generic Plain Signs)

I love the street signs in Abu Dhabi.  No flash, no fuss.  Generic and straight to the point!  If in Manila, names of streets change everytime a new mayor is elected, no such problem here.  Residents’ complete addresses probably go something like:  green door, 3rd apartment on the left, 4th floor, 5th building on the right, Street #1, Sector 14, Zone 2, Abu Dhabi, UAE.

 

Fast from Eating or Eating Fast?

 

The month long Ramadan started within a few days of my arrival.  The Ramadan is one of the holiest Muslim tenets where the faithful fast from sun up to sundown.  Interestingly, I read in the papers that food sales during this month account for 20% of restaurants’ annual sales!!!  Go figure. 

The papers featured a baker who is done by 12nn on any typical day.   During Ramadan, he has to work 12 hours daily to meet the demand!  The food they eat when the sun goes down more than makes up for their abstinence during the day.  It was so strange that of all seasons, it was at the start of Ramadan that restaurants launched special promos.  The Ramadan special buffet in the photo is the equivalent of P897 or $19.  KFC even had a “Ramadan Value Meal.” 

I read an article which said that in 1994, KFC opened in Saudi Arabia's holy city, Mecca, and earned $200,000 in a single week during Ramadan.

 

Carwash Paradise

Want to strike it rich?  Here’s a business idea – start a carwash in the UAE. The cream colored Toyota Prado on the left is actually white.  If in Manila mud is the enemy, in the UAE, it’s sand.  Not just sand, but lots and lots of sand. 

Spoke to one of our members who is from the Philippines and does not own a car yet.  To get to the weekend meetings, he literally has to cross the desert on foot (!) for 30 minutes before he reaches the highway.  From there, he hitchhikes.  I told him to get himself a Camelbak.  This guy deserves an award (and a sunblock).

 

The past few days have been very emotional for me – Cory’s death, my visit at the wake, watching the procession from La Salle to Manila Cathedral, the tributes at her necrological service, the final mass, the funeral procession, the people’s response, recollecting EDSA 1986,…

After the homily at the final mass, watching live on tv at home, in tears, I joined the mourners at the Manila Cathedral in giving her one final standing ovation.

While the funeral procession was making its way from the Manila Cathedral to the Manila Memorial Park, I took my family to Cory's house in West Triangle to light candles and leave a home made memorial from our family.

While family and close associates grieve the death of a loved one, no other figure will be able to inspire such a sudden, spontaneous, sincere, and widespread outpouring of love as Cory has.  Even her strongest detractors could not help but honor her – the Marcoses, the leftists, coup plotters, political opponents.  Some now regretting their actions against her.  Truly, she won our hearts as a people.  

While some may find her presidential policies debatable, noone can argue that with each decision, the Filipino people came first. For that, she left the greatest legacy of all.  She was the epitome of a selfless leader.

When as a housewife, armed only with the conviction of being on the side of truth, she took on the two decade long tyrannical rule of Marcos, she left us with an eternal reminder that goodness and nobility of purpose always triumphs over evil.

By virtue of who her husband was, she was catapulted to the presidency.  By the way she led and lived, she proved every bit a national hero in her own right.

May you rest in peace.

For one last time... Cory, Cory!

Though widely expected, it was still with deep grief that I heard the news on Friday morning of President Cory Aquino’s passing away.

I was able to visit the remains and pay my respects to former Philippine President Cory Aquino at her wake in La Salle Greenhills on my second try.  I first went last night, close to midnight, with Pastor Edgar and Jeng Gorre but we turned back due to the size of the crowd and snaking long lines.  I went again this morning straight after dropping my kids off at school and was able to go in without any hassles.  I had decided weeks ago that I would visit the wake when she passes away.

It has been a long while since we have witnessed this much outpouring of grief and sympathy.  It has reawakened the emotions of the 1986 People Power movement especially in those who were there.  I suspect this demonstration of collective gratefulness, love, respect and admiration will never be repeated again for any other Philippine president.  It’s probably just me but on my way to the wake this morning, it felt like the whole nation was in mourning – it seemed like cars were moving slower and people were walking a step slower.  Felt like noone was in a hurry despite the Monday morning rush hour.

The period of 1983 to 1986, from Ninoy Aquino’s assassination to Cory Aquino’s ascendance to the presidency was a defining moment for the Filipino youth at the time who had grown up knowing only Marcos as president.

I was in 3rd year high school when Ninoy was assassinated.  I was a freshman in UP when my friends and I camped out in La Salle Greenhills for 2 weeks as NAMFREL volunteers to safeguard the ballots.  I was out with partying my friends to celebrate my 18th birthday that evening of Feb 22, 1986 when Ramos and Enrile barricaded themselves in Camp Aguinaldo and People Power exploded on the streets.  I was there at EDSA from beginning til the end.  We were right outside Club Filipino when Cory took her oath of office as a revolutionary president.

The death of Ninoy, the will of the Filipino people, destiny - all conspired to thrust Cory Aquino from plain housewife to the position of leading a nation of 55 million.  Sure, it would have helped had Cory had the necessary political experience and knowledge necessary for a president.  But what we needed most at that time, coming out of two decades of darkness under Marcos, was a leader whose character and integrity was unquestionable.  Cory had both in abundance. The weight of her words were not in a politician’s oratory but in its heartfelt sincerity and truth.

Without presidential qualifications, Cory instead led with her integrity, character, and deep faith in God.  The result was a restored democracy, a moral standard by which all future Philippine presidents will be measured, and the deep love and gratitude of an entire nation.

Cory won’t go down in history as the greatest Philippine president.  But she will always be the president we needed the most. No doubt the most loved.  She will never be forgotten by a grateful nation.

Thank you, Cory.

Got this photo and story from Benny Dychangco - awesome photographer and short term missions addict.

According to Benny, this photo was taken by his teacher when Benny was an elementary student at San Beda in Mendiola.  The Jackson 5 was in Manila for a Valentine's concert in 1975 or 76 (back when Michael was black).  The Jackson 5 was on their way to Malacanang to meet the Marcoses, when nature called.  They probably couldn't hold it anymore and had to make an unscheduled toilet stop at Benny's school.

I just hope San Beda's boys bathrooms were a lot more pleasant than the ones in my elementary school!

New info:  just heard on local tv this morning that when Michael Jackson was in Manila for the concert above, the local Motown rep took him around.  When they were in Cubao, Michael Jackson was so fascintated by the rocking horse on the hood of jeepneys that he said "I've got to have that!"  The Motown rep quickly stood in the middle of the road, stopped a jeepney in its tracks and offered the driver P1,000 (over $20) for his horse.  It cost P75 ($1.50) back then.  The driver quickly unscrewed the horse and handed it over.  According to the Motown rep, that horse is proudly displayed to this day at the Neverland Ranch.

Pastor Sam Ng used a song to illustrate his message during last Sunday's Father's Day message.  The song is in Chinese ("Red Day") and is about how God will be with us always.  After church, they all went to a karaoke bar (40% off because of swine flu scare!) and sang the song again.  Click here to see our rockin' Hong Kong pastor.  The other guy is Joseph Lam, one of our leaders in EN HK.

Good thing Sam knows what he is called to do.  Hehe.

Saw this in one of my wife's Facebook contacts' page.  Do you have a strange mind too?


fi yuo cna raed tihs, yuo hvae a sgtrane mnid too.
Cna yuo raed tihs? Olny 55 plepoe can.

 i cdnuolt blveiee taht I cluod aulaclty uesdnatnrd waht I was rdanieg. The phaonmneal pweor of the hmuan mnid, aoccdrnig to a rscheearch at Cmabrigde Uinervtisy, it dseno't mtaetr in waht oerdr the ltteres in a wrod are, the olny iproamtnt tihng is taht the frsit and lsat ltteer be in the rghit pclae. The rset can be a taotl mses and you can sitll raed it whotuit a pboerlm. Tihs is bcuseae the huamn mnid deos not raed ervey lteter by istlef, but the wrod as a wlohe. Azanmig huh? yaeh and I awlyas tghuhot slpeling was ipmorantt! if you can raed tihs forwrad it.

Attending a special course at the Asian Theological Seminary (ATS) on the Filipino Diaspora and Globalization.  Reminded me of a curious realization early this year.  

So far, I’ve been to three “first world” nations/cities this year – Hong Kong, Dubai, and Japan.  What was striking in each of these visits is how the global recession has affected the common people both in real terms and through fear.  In Hong Kong, HSBC employees were rallying due to massive lay-offs.  In Dubai, cars purchased on credit were abandoned in airports as laid off workers fled unable to pay their debts.  In Japan, there is much talk of unemployment and simplifying lifestyles.  Obviously, the US and Western Europe have been hard hit.

However, in the Philippines, the global recession is hardly felt.  You read about it in the papers but very few really talk about it.  Mall businesses are booming.  I commented to the Dubai congregation that the Filipino OFWs fearful of getting laid off  should just come home.  We’ve been in a recession since the 80s so this is nothing new.  Life goes on in Manila.  Just another hump on the road.  No big deal.

If you are affected by all this economic downturn, here are some money quotes I’ve come across in newspapers and at a “third world” airport to encourage you:

“I was born poor but poor was not born in me… It gets dark sometimes, but morning comes always.  Challenges breed character.  Character breeds faith.  In the end, faith will not disappoint.”
Manny V Pangilinan (CEO, Philippine Long Distance Telephone Company; highest paid CEO in the Philippines)

“Money never starts an idea.  It is always the idea that starts the money.”
Owen Laughlin (US Senator)

“There are people who have money and people who are rich.”
Coco Chanel (fashion designer)

“The wealthy man is not the one who has the most money but the one who needs the least.”
Anonymous

Beginning this week until November, a wave of Victory short term Mission Teams are going out to several nations in Asia.  They are going to reach the lost, encourage our missionaries, pray for the land, and help establish the churches.

The teams will come from the following Victory churches: Cabanatuan, Cebu, Galleria, Greenhills, Lipa, Malate, Pioneer, QC, San Pablo, and Ubelt.

Please keep them in your prayers as they help us reach Every Nation In Our Generation.

With all due respect to Ricky “The Hitman” Hatton, the result of the Pacquiao vs Hatton “The Battle of East and West” light-welterweight championship fight was never in doubt.

All you need to do is look back to the original East vs. West when Chuck Norris’ western chest hair tried to mess with Bruce Lee’s oriental sideburns.  The result was pretty much the same.  If you never saw that fight, click here.

It was the first time I got to watch a Pacquiao fight live.  I always had to settle for delayed telecasts after lunch and the replays that evening and the day after because I was always at our morning Victory services.  But this time, Pastor Jonas Bernales, our missionary to Thailand was going to be in town and requested if we could watch it live.  I was only too glad to oblige.

Together with Ptr Erwin Balanay, we trekked with hundreds of other Filipinos to Trinoma.  I can’t recall the last time I screamed and jumped from my seat as much as I did while watching Pacman demolish Hatton.  There was a collective “Uuummpphh!” and “Yeeaaahhh!” everytime Pacquiao connected.  It was absolute pandemonium each of the three times Hatton kissed the canvass.  When that hammer left hook hit Hatton square on the jaw in the 2nd round, Hatton was out cold in midair.  Good night.

Click here for my favorite article on the fight.

It’s happy days again in the Philippines.  Ptr Erwin narrated over lunch that when the Filipino fans were outnumbered and drowned out by the hard partying Brit fans during the weigh in, they turned to classic Pinoy wit.  When it was time to jeer Hatton, a smart aleck Pinoy spontaneously started to sing “Ricky Hatton falling down, falling down, falling down,…” to the tune of London Bridge.  The rest of the Filipinos joined in and scored the first KO of the fight.

Another funny and touching moment was when manager Bob Arum was crediting Pacquiao’s willingness to learn even while already at the top of his game during the post-fight interview and Pacquiao interrupted him to tell Arum not to forget God.  He caught Arum by surprise who stuttered for a moment, did a double take, and muttered “Uuh… yeah.. of course, God.”

Seeing how much Pacquiao has improved, it is amazing to think that when Pacquiao ran through future Hall of Famers Barrera, Morales, and Marquez, he was just getting started.  At the rate Pacquiao is going, the only other living boxer who could conceivably beat him would have to be the Russian 7 foot heavyweight champion  Nikolai Valuev. 


Even then, if that ever happens, I’m putting my money on Manny “Pacman” Ppppppaaaaaaaccccccqqqqquuuuuuiiiiaaaoooooo!!!!!!!!”

There is a common false generalization, by its critics, of Christians as unthinking, simple minded superstitious religious followers.  Because faith lies at the core of our beliefs, they mistakenly equate biblical faith with the phrase “a blind leap of faith.”

But biblical faith is far from blind.  It is a leap, yes, giant oftentimes, but definitely not blind.  It is a leap that followers of Christ make, but with eyes wide open, and the mind fully engaged.  I would like to make the case that Christianity is for the thinking man because biblical faith is rational, intelligent, and sensible.

Abraham is considered a man of faith.  One of the greatest demonstrations of his faith in God was when he showed a willingness to sacrifice his son Isaac in Genesis 22.  But this was no random act on his part.  He was not acting out of a vacuum.  It was an act of great faith based on solid reasoning.  Abraham was not about to simply obey a strange voice he had heard.  This was a voice he knew.  A voice he was familiar with.  This was the voice of a God he knew personally.  A God he knew to be good, faithful and trustworthy.  He couldn’t comprehend at that point why God would ask such a sacrifice of him, but he knew this God.  They had a covenant together.  As he wrestled with the decision, he looked back to his past experiences of God.  Despite the limitations of his understanding, this was a very rational decision.

I find this more rational than a person who goes through life with fingers crossed, hoping he gets lucky that events and circumstances will turn out in his favor.  A person with no framework or system of beliefs to live by except pure chance.  That to me if any is blind faith, blind optimism.

Used to be, these people, coincidentally the loudest critics of Christianity, pinned all of their hopes on the power and “goodness” of man.  Humanistic optimism reached its peak at end of the 19th century.  When the 20th century opened up with the bloody First World War, followed soon by the horrors of the Second World War which showcased the evils of Nazism and Communism, this blind optimism came crashing down to be replaced by despair and cynicism.  

In the classic words of CS Lewis in Mere Christiantiy, “What Satan put in the heads of our remote ancestors was the idea that they could “be like gods” – could set up on their own as if they had created themselves – be their own masters – invent some sort of happiness for themselves outside God, apart from God.  And out of that hopeless attempt has come nearly all that we call human history – money, poverty, ambition, war, prostitution, classes, empires, slavery – the long terrible story of man trying to find something other than God which will make him happy.”

Wow.  Think about that for a minute.  So painfully true.

Christianity is the thinking man’s faith because biblical faith is intelligent and reasonable.  We follow and surrender our lives to a God we know:
1.    By revelation through His written word, the Bible.  The Bible has stood the test of time and has stood up to all the scrutiny and criticism critics have hurled at it.  Its reliability, authenticity, and credibility remain unquestionable.
2.    By experience through a personal relationship.  By our own and others’ testimonies of changed lives.  We know God as a Person, not just some concept or theory.  Our firsthand experience of Him is consistent with His written revelation.

For me, to be rational is to follow a good, trustworthy God who is worthy of my worship and devotion.  To anchor my life on nothing but chance, is what I would consider irrational and the more accurate definition of "a blind leap of faith."

Ryan Hall is the most promising American long distance runner to come along in years.  The running world took first notice when at his first marathon in April 2007 at the Flora London Marathon, Hall ran the fastest marathon ever (2:08:24) by an American born runner.  In the 2008 US Olympic Trials, Hall pulled away from the competition earning a spot on the Olympic Team.

He placed 10th at the '08 Beijing Olympics (only his fourth official marathon), but at age 26, he has a long career ahead of him and a gold medal in future Olympics is within reach.

Most importantly, Hall is vocal about his faith.  He credits a prophecy he received as a student at Stanford during the lowest point of his athletic career as the turning point in his life.  You can view CBN's feature on him by clicking here.  If you want a longer version, you can click here (Part 1) and here (Part 2).  This is what he had to say about his disappointing finish in Beijing, "...I could see myself up on that podium. I know that it is possible with God, but even if it is not God's will for my life I will still praise Him and make the most of the gifts He has given me. What the Olympics has taught me is that I need to live a life surrendered to the will of God. It is my prayer that I will be able to have the same heart as Christ before He was nailed to the cross, "not my will, but Your will be done."

If you are a Christian or a runner, you will love Ryan Hall's testimony. 

I'll end with 2 quotes from the original Runner for Christ, Eric Lidell:

“We are all missionaries. Wherever we go, we either bring people nearer to Christ, or we repel them from Christ.”

"I believe that God made me for a purpose, but He also made me fast. When I run it is in His pleasure."

Tan-tan-tan-tan-tan-tan... (sung to the tune of "Chariots of Fire").

“…and that government of the people, by the people, for the people,…”

In his Gettysburg address, Abraham Lincoln set forth his vision and the foundation upon which the government of the United States was built.  

In much humbler circumstances, Hector Yuzon and childhood friend Neville Manaois set forth their vision and followed their passion in putting up Second Wind as the very first specialty running store in the Philippines.  It is to be a running store for runners, by runners. 

I had the privilege of being asked by Hec last week to dedicate Second Wind.  I first met Hec back when Second Wind was just an empty space with a lot of promise.  Compared with giant retailers staffed by salespeople with little or no product knowledge, the Second Wind guys are the kind of runners whose expert advise and experience in the sport you would want when choosing the right kind of running shoes.  More than any other sport, serious running demands the right kind of shoes.  Other sports shoes are distinguished more by marketing and design.  Running shoes are very feet specific.

A day before the official opening of Second Wind, Hec checked my feet pronation.  It was all I needed to hear to give me an excuse to buy the Asics Gel Kayano 14 (awarded by Runner’s World as the shoe of the year for 2008) at 40% off!  I am proudly the 3rd official shoe buyer at Second Wind.  I am only 3rd instead of 1st as I had no cash that day and had to return that Sunday after church to collect my shoes.  That’s me on the right in my church attire testing the Kayanos on Second Wind’s treadmill.  I am breaking in my Asics this week during a trip to the land of its birth – Japan.  See Discovery's feature on the technology that goes into a pair of Asics running shoes by clicking here.

While at the store, I even met Don, a good friend of theirs who was preparing to run the 102k Bataan ultramarathon.  He was the #2 shoe buyer (also Asics)!  In subsequent visits since, I've met all sorts of runners - UP track team, single professionals, an orthopedic surgeon, a freelance photographer - all brought together by a common passion for running.

Hec and Neville after all are ultra-marathoners, triathletes, and running addicts.  As co-founders of Pinoy Ultra Runners, these guys have run from Manila to Tagaytay and up and down Mt. Pinatubo.  Hec even competed at the White Rock half Ironman with raging kidney stones.  The doctors adviced an operation before the race but Hec could not afford to miss it.  So he sucked up the pain during the half Ironman and had the procedure afterward.  Neville is the technical consultant for the upcoming Botak 100k ultramarathon in June.

Beyond that, they just LOVE shoes!  Hec admits to owning up to 220 pairs of shoes at the same time.  He has since decided to “simplify” and is now down to a mere 60 pairs!  He is admittedly a shoe nerd.  He knows and understands all the technology and material that goes into making running shoes.  He can take it apart and put it back together.  Check out his blog on everything to do with running.

Hec has since become a good friend with our conversations now going beyond running (Hec's photo on right borrowed from Bull Runner's blog).  Whether you are a running newbie or a veteran, you need to drop by Second Wind to check out the shoes (they carry the "big three" of running - New Balance, Asics, and Mizuno), apparel, accessories, gadgets, join a group run, just hang, or talk running.

SECOND WIND RUNNING SPECIALTY STORE
88 Maginhawa st., Teachers Village QC
799-2089
secondwind.proshop@gmail.com
thesecondwind.multiply.com

I was enjoying a generous serving of chicken shawarma in a Dubai mall recently when a light bulb lit up inside my head – I can teach people Arabic in 6 easy steps!  It's real easy.

It is based on the proven method of image association which is the foundation of most memory improvement techniques.  I realized it works for language learning too!  I am patenting this system soon.


Simply translate the arabic words below by discerning the image associated with it.  You should be able to get it all in 10 minutes.  Rate yourself by checking the answers below (no peeking!):

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

ANSWERS:
1. KFC
2. Mc Donald's
3. Burger King
4. Krispy Kreme
5. Dunkin' Donuts
6. Starbucks Coffee

IF YOU SCORED:
0       You are hopeless
1-2    You must be a health nut suffering from lack of greasy cholesterol in your body.
3-4    You are better off learning Chinese.
5       Col Sanders, Ray Kroc, Howard Schultz and co. made their fortune
         out of people like you.
6       Is your middle name Ahmed?   

I was in Dubai for MESS.  Wish I could tell you more, but can't.  God is moving mightily in this region of the world.  Stories and testimonies are unbelievable.

As of today, our leaders in Myanmar still have not been contacted by the government.  But they are certain the meeting will come anytime now as churches across the city are forcibly shut down and pastors are coerced into signing a contract that they will not reopen their churches.

Again the reason for the crackdown is the coming elections in May 2010 plus the fact that the government is alarmed at the growing conversion of Burmese buddhists to Christianity due to the humanitarian efforts and ministry of Christian groups during and after the Nargis cyclone tragedy.

Our leaders at this time are already preparing for this sudden transition.  The best alternative at this point is to meet in homes as small groups which is actually a good thing.  This has fueled the growth of the Church in China.

Normally, this is an easy process. However, something this simple can be a huge challenge in a nation like Myanamar.  Specifically, communication is not easy.  Having a center was ideal as it offered the safest venue for the members and served as the hub of communication and activities.  Going outside may not be that simple because the telecommunications industry is heavily regulated by the government.

Very few Burmese own mobile phones.  The simple reason is that a regular handphone costs $2,500 - 3,000 in this country.  No kidding.  Serious.  A landline is slightly cheaper at $2,500.    Someone should tip the guys at Ripley's Believe it or Not.  So getting the word out and coordinating small groups is no small feat in this nation.

Let us keep praying for our church in Myanmar.  Pray for wisdom and creativity for our leaders.  Intercede that all our members would be plugged into small groups and that they would grow exponentially.  Will keep you posted.