Show All » 2012/04 » Practice and Execute
Monday, May 07, 2012Practice and Execute
I just learned an important life lesson first-hand! Although I knew how important it is but today, with much conviction, I realize that - "Practice is everything."
A few weeks ago we went to Hawaii for a short vacation. During our stay, my cousin took us for a boat ride to go diving and fishing. It was awesome!
When we arrived at our diving spot, the water was so clear we can see the corals and white sand beneath us. I plunged into the water twice. The first time is to simply enjoy the warm waters of the sea. The second time I went was to watch my cousins retrieve an octopus they caught.
I got scared on my second dive because I found myself catching my breath. The feeling was unusual because I was only in the water for about two minutes. It was alarming because we were almost a kilometer away from the shores of Waikiki beach in 18 feet deep water. To avoid further problems, I went back to the boat.
No one probably noticed what I was going through because they did not see me panic and everyone knows I'm a good swimmer. In fact, during my younger years, I am able to snorkel in 12 to 15 feet deep and stay in underwater for more than a minute without any problems.
So what happened?
Is it all about my age?
I have seen people twice my age (okay not literally twice my age) that can go hiking for several kilometers without any problems. So, what went wrong?
There is one thing I know for sure why this happened - I have no practice.
I went swimming the day before we went diving. I prepared but I did not practice. I was near the shore at five feet of water when there is a wave. Without the wave, it's only three feet deep. It was far from what we were going to do.
Planning and preparation are essentials but without practice, it can be difficult. Preparation is getting ready while practice is doing it repeatedly to polish a skill. Practice is between preparation and execution. It is the final step before the actual performance.
You probably heard this a million times, "Practice makes perfect."
Everyone knows no one can be perfect. You may not be perfect but when you keep on practicing, you will be the best you can be.
It does not matter if it's in sports, playing an instrument, acting, writing, cooking or singing. The more you do it, the more your confidence builds up overtime and the better you will be.
Constant practice helps you to develop yourself. Practice teaches you not to give up. When you fail, that's okay; after all, it's just a practice. When you fall, stand up again and continue trying your best until you master it.
When you practice, you have to take into account that sometimes there are some costs involved but you also have to consider that if you do not know what you are doing, it is more costly in the long run. Just do it!
Do you know why the best are "the best?" It's all because of practice.
Just picture David in the Old Testament.
In the story David and Goliath, have you ever wondered how David accurately killed Goliath using a single stone? I believed he practiced well by killing lions and bears.
"David said to King Saul in the scriptures, 'Your servant has killed both the lion and the bear; and this uncircumcised Philistine will be like one of them, since he has taunted the armies of the living God.'" (1 Samuel 17:36)
The lion and the bear prepared David for his greatest moment of triumph. No lion or bear to practice on, no victory over Goliath.
Let's fast forward today.
Manny Pacquiao is the best pound for pound boxing athlete in the world today.
Do you know how he became the best? He started as an amateur boxer. Pacquiao reportedly had an amateur record of 64 fights. Without these fights, we don't have the Manny Pacquiao that we know today.
Steven Spielberg, one of the best directors of our time started by making amateur 8 mm "adventure" films with his friends. He charged admission (25 cents) to his home films while his sister sold popcorn. Today, he is considered as one of the most popular and influential filmmakers in the history of cinema.
Their secret - keep doing what you are doing - keep practicing.
Rabindranath Tagore once said, "You can't cross the sea merely by standing and staring at the water."
What separates the talented and the successful one is a lot of hard work. Most talented people fail because they don't practice. Practice is hard work but this is the only way to be the best.
"God helps those who help themselves," right? (I think I have heard this over a hundred when I was a cute young boy. Okay, I'm no longer a young boy but my mom said I'm still cute - I don't think you can argue with that.)
A preacher once told me that I should never quote these words especially when I'm talking about my faith. His reason, this quote is never found in the bible. This is human teaching and it teaches you to be materialistic and proud. You should have faith in God and in God alone!
It's true that the bible does not say anything about this saying but it does not mean that if it's not from the bible, there is no truth into it.
I believe that our God is with us in whatever we do. In my heart I know that He is with us every time we try to help ourselves, to make ourselves better, to better our lives.
Our God gave us talent, wisdom and knowledge. In my opinion, it is part of our purpose that we should help ourselves by using our talent, wisdom and knowledge and this is done through constant practice.
It is also my belief that God does not only help those who help themselves but He also help those who does not help themselves. Our God does not show partiality.
Before I thought it is enough to do God's purpose in your life. Just follow what fate throws at you and you will no longer need to do anything. Just surrender everything. After all, God called you to be there, right?
But then I realized, it does not mean that when our God calls you to do something, it does not mean that you will be walking in a bed of roses - there will be challenges and trials along the way. Your faith is tested when you least expected it so you always have to be ready.
Let's reflect on one incident from the Gospel of Mark.
On that day, when evening came, He (Jesus) said to them, "Let us go over to the other side." Leaving the crowd, they took Him along with them in the boat, just as He was; and other boats were with Him. And there arose a fierce gale of wind, and the waves were breaking over the boat so much that the boat was already filling up. Jesus Himself was in the stern, asleep on the cushion; and they woke Him and said to Him, "Teacher, do You not care that we are perishing?" And He got up and rebuked the wind and said to the sea, "Hush, be still." And the wind died down and it became perfectly calm. And He said to them, "Why are you afraid? Do you still have no faith?" (Mark 4:35-40)
I have always been curious to ask these questions from this scripture.
Question 1: Who invited the disciples to go in the boat?
Question 2: Did Jesus know what will happen to them in the middle of the sea?
Question 3: How did Jesus manage to sleep in a violent storm?
Jesus called them to go to the boat to cross the sea in the night even though He knew there will be a violent storm while they are in the middle of the sea and yet He slept right in the midst of all the chaos - it does not sound right, right?
When Jesus called them to go in the boat to cross the sea at night, all of them were probably at ease. They may have calm waters that night and some of the apostles are seasoned fisherman who knows the sea more than anybody, what can go wrong?
But when the violent storm came and the water was filling the boat, what was their first reaction? They blame Jesus - "Teacher, do You not care that we are perishing?"
If they have practiced a little bit of their faith, the story could be different.
When God calls you for a purpose, it will not be a walk in the park. In your journey, your duty is to trust Him and have faith in Him. This is how you will help yourself. This is what you need to practice.
God's blessings pour on both the good and the bad. But of course, the one who practice their God given gifts, talents, wisdom and knowledge (those who help themselves) are better off in the end.
Keep on practicing.
Even in the financials. When investing, it does not hurt if you practice. You can do this by testing the waters first, by starting small.
If you don't know what to do, practice with the people who have done it or who are doing it! It's free to ask. If you want to take your practice to the next level, be trained by the best and get mentors. Invest in your practice.
Finally, after all the practice - fire!
The key to success is execution.
Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed with the things you did not do than the things you did do.
Don't wait for signs. Don't wait for the thunder or lightning to pass by before you act. There are times when we think we still need to practice when it's clear that God is telling you to execute!
In life, you will make mistakes. Don't be afraid to make mistakes. Keep on doing what you are doing and if something goes wrong practice and adjust and execute and practice and adjust and execute until you arrive at your dream!
Ecclesiastes 9:10 - "Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might; for there is no activity or planning or knowledge or wisdom in Sheol where you are going." Note: Sheol in this passage means "grave" or "pit")
The greatest plan and preparation is useless when you are already in your grave. So don't waste your chance. Practice and execute!
God is the greatest!
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Show All » 2012/04 » Plan and Prepare
Monday, April 16, 2012Plan and Prepare
I love family outings! As I write this blog, here I am with my wife and two sons waiting to board the plane to have a short vacation. Our hotel is booked, our itinerary is set, my cousin will be waiting at the airport to pick us up and we are all set to go!
But how did we get here in the first place?
When we go on vacation, whether it is a short trip or an extended vacation, we always have a plan. The plan helps us determine what we will do and how much are we going to spend. (By the way, you can go on a vacation unplanned and unprepared but most of the time, you will end up doing what you don't want to do and spending more than you have to.)
Because there's a plan, we are all relaxed (in my case writing a blog) at the airport knowing that everything will be in order simply because my super wife did all the preparation for us based on the plan! Without her preparation, everything will be chaos. (Okay boys, three cheers for mommy!)
When do you plan?
Before any planning, first of all, you have to have an idea on what you want to do so you can have a clear picture on what you will plan for.
Where do you get your ideas?
It has been said that we can create anything we can imagine. From your imagination, ideas are brought out. Napoleon Hill wrote, "The imagination is literally the workshop wherein are fashioned all plans created by people. The impulse, the desire, is given shape, form and action through the aid of the imaginative faculty of the mind."
Most of the time, ideas come on the spur of the moment. Ideas can be good or bad. You will never know if you have a good idea until you implement it.
One way to discern whether your idea is good or bad is when your idea supports your purpose. When I wrote my blog entitled "What is your purpose in Life," I persuaded everyone to strive to know God's purpose for you. By knowing His purpose for your life, you can discern an idea if it is God given or not. If the idea will help you accomplish your purpose in life, you are in the right path - and it is always good!
"'For I know the plans that I have for you,' declares the LORD, 'plans for welfare and not for calamity to give you a future and a hope.'" (Jeremiah 29:11)
Our Father knows what is best for us. Proverbs 3:5-6 says, "Trust in the LORD with all your heart; and lean not upon your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct your path."
An idea becomes very meaningful when they are brought forth by God's purpose in your life.
Let me give you an example. If your purpose in life is to build an institution to strengthen family ties but your idea to finance your purpose will come from illegal gambling and selling illegal drugs, guess what, you will fail. You cannot talk about family values if you are a gambling lord and a drug lord simply because you are in a business that destroys families. Your idea and your purpose should work together.
Once you have the right idea, the next step is to create your plan.
Planning is an integral part of your idea because it helps you to look ahead. A plan can play a vital role in helping you to avoid mistakes or recognize hidden opportunities. This is the part where you can set objectives to prepare yourself better. Planning helps you look at the big picture. It bridges between where you are and where you want to go. Your plan is your blue print.
"For which one of you, when he wants to build a tower, does not first sit down and calculate the cost to see if he has enough to complete it?" (Luke 14:28)
How to Plan?
There are no specific rules on how to create a plan because it all depends on what you want to do.
In this blog, I will present two approaches in making a plan - planning forward and planning backward.
Planning forward is usually the more common approach. A person who uses this approach makes a to-do list of actions they need to take to reach their goals. This approach seldom allows you to have a structured route which makes it hard to get things done in the right order at the right time. It always focuses on actions. There is always a possibility that changes will happen along the way because of the results produced by your actions.
Planning backwards, on the other hand, provides the structure you need to help you get things done in the right order and the right time, as it focuses on results. Contingency plans are organized better using this approach.
In a book by Stephen R. Covey, he talked about "Begin with the End in Mind." This is what planning backwards allows you to do.
For example, let's say you've got a specific goal to hit a sales target within one month.
Instead of looking forward at what you need to accomplish this week, the week after and so on, start with the target in mind and work backwards, dividing it into smaller goals.
Michael Jordan, one of the greatest basketball players of our time played an average 32 points per game. This is probably his target. He maintained this average whether he had injuries, who his coach was, whom his teammates were or who he was playing against. When he was asked how he maintained his consistency in achieving what is almost impossible and unrealistic for most of us, he revealed the powerful secret of champions. Jordan said, "32 points per game is really just 8 points per quarter. I figure I can get that in some kind of way during the course of a game."
Some people don't believe in planning. To them, planning is an extra step and it's a waste of time.
There was a time I heard these words from a friend, "I don't plan; I just trust God. Everything that comes to me is by the will of God."
When I heard this the first time, I got confused because my faith tells me he is right - total surrender to God. However, it was a bit ironic for me because at that time, I create and design for computer systems which involve lots of planning. My profession tells me that it is important to plan every move you make but my faith tells me that I don't need to, just trust in God.
I am not pointing out what is right or what is wrong. I believe that all of us should have total reliance on God, but I also believe that God had given us great minds and knowledge to plan.
Proper planning prevents pitfalls.
In your plans, be diligent and work hard to come up with a good plan so you can bless others.
"Will they not go astray who devise evil? But kindness and truth will be to those who devise good." (Proverbs 14:22)
"The plans of the diligent lead surely to advantage, but everyone who is hasty comes surely to poverty." (Proverbs 21:5)
Remember, failures do not plan to fail, they just fail to plan.
Now that you have a plan, the next step is to prepare.
In my last blog, I wrote the steps on how you need to prepare if you want to be an astronaut. But you don't have to be a rocket scientist to understand the importance of preparation.
In sports, it is not always the best athlete that wins; it is the one who is best prepared.
Preparation in itself has many obstacles. The most common obstacle during preparation is fear. Fear during preparation is normal. Fear is a feeling that warns you that you are in danger. This is the very reason why you need to prepare, to be confident in what you will do. Preparation helps you to overcome fear.
When you are preparing for something, avoid the thought that you will fail. This is why you are preparing. If you do not believe in what you are doing, do something else because you will only be wasting your time.
Fear is only one of the many distractions during preparation. In spite of the distractions, stay focused and be at your best as if you are already doing it.
When you get distracted, go back and ask yourself, why am I doing this? Revisiting your dreams and ideas will keep you back on track to your original purpose.
If you want success, you have to prepare to win. Success is not an accident, it is made.
Do you know how successful people prepare? They prepare for long term.
People sometimes become impatient on long term preparations that they choose to take the short cut. Unfortunately, sometimes short cuts will take you to circles.
Preparing for retirement is a good example that requires long term preparation. It's easy to say "Que zera zera," whatever will be, will be while you are young until it's too late.
Preparation expands your dream and imagination.
One more note, whenever you prepare, stay optimistic and always hope for the best. Don't say "I'm preparing myself to go to Hawaii but I think it's going to rain when I get there. If it's too sunny, I will get sun burn. If I swim in the beach there may be sharks or there may be a tidal wave and I will drown!!! If this is your thinking, just buy an inflatable swimming pool and put it in your backyard. Just be careful because a plane may crash in your backyard!
Finally, avoid over preparation. Don't end up preparing and preparing and preparing. The best plan and preparation in the world means nothing if you don't pull the trigger and fire!
God created us for a purpose so we can imagine and create ideas so we can plan and prepare and fire - for His glory!
God is the greatest!
Posted By: Allen Espejo @ 1:24:01 AM
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Show All » 2012/03 » Making Mistakes
Friday, April 06, 2012Making Mistakes
Was there a time in your life where after you get out of bed, you looked in the mirror and smiled and you say to yourself, "Today I will make lots and lots of mistakes!"
Or, did you ever plan for yourself to make this very big mistake that you made sure nobody will be able to correct it, even yourself?
In my whole life, I never met a person who is excited to make mistakes.
A mistake is a result of one's action and they are never planned, they just happen. The dictionary describes it as an error or fault resulting from defective judgment, deficient knowledge, or carelessness.
Even the best planned project with the most qualified person doing that project is not exempted to make mistakes. We can only do our best to prevent it from happening.
This is what I did last week. I attended an intensive five days training to be the best in what I do. Being in a controlled environment, mistakes were tolerated but I think I have abused it too much. I have made mistake after mistake after mistake. My mistakes have taught me to be better in what I do.
In a controlled environment, this is acceptable but is it the same in real life?
Is it okay to make mistakes after mistakes after mistakes and say simply say "Opps, my bad!"
For some people, making mistakes is not an option. Everything should be perfect. It is okay to be a perfectionist but perfection does not happen overnight. Mistakes will happen along the way before something becomes perfect.
Try asking a successful person if they never made any mistake on their way to becoming successful. I bet all of them had their share if mistakes.
I feel bad for people who punish themselves for the reason that they made several mistakes in their lives. Some people even think that their mistake is fatal, meaning the mistake is so huge and it can never be fixed and the only way out is to end their lives! (Actually I saw this incident in one of the telenovelas.)
But kidding aside, always keep in mind that everybody makes mistakes! After all, we are only human. Just like a Billy Joel song goes, "Your only human you're supposed to make mistakes."
Your mistake may lead you to failure but on the contrary your failure leads to learning and learning leads to success.
Failure is a turning point that provides perspective, which is the ability to view major changes within the larger picture. There is always pain in failure but that's okay. Value the lessons you have learned in your failure and let time heal your wounds.
Most people try to beat their mistakes or deny them altogether. Learn to face your mistake so you can correct them. Acknowledging your mistakes will help you build your character. In the end, whatever life throws at you, you will be better dealing with your mistakes because you already have gone through it.
How can you avoid mistakes?
There are many ways to avoid mistakes but I'm going to give you the basics - prepare and practice.
You must always prepare yourself before you start doing anything.
"For which one of you, when he wants to build a tower, does not first sit down and calculate the cost to see if he has enough to complete it? Otherwise, when he has laid a foundation and is not able to finish, all who observe it begin to ridicule him, saying, ‘This man began to build and was not able to finish.'" (Luke 14:28-30)
Do you know the preparation you need to go through before you can apply at NASA to be an astronaut?
For those of you who want to become an astronaut, you will find this very encouraging!
First, you must have at least a Bachelor's degree in a relevant science. It could be biology, mathematics, engineering or some other physical science. An advanced degree, such as a Master's or Doctorate is preferred. In order to become a pilot with NASA you have to have amassed at least 1,000 hours of pilot in command time. You must be able to pass a rigorous physical test, have correctable 20/20 vision, and pass a blood pressure text. If you have all these credentials but your height is not between 64 and 76 inches tall, you are disqualified.
If you are 70 inches tall, before consideration proceeds, you are now qualified to go through an initial screening process. The process includes personal interviews, medical testing and an orientation to the NASA selection process. Once selected, you must go through two years of extensive training. During this period you will attend scientific seminars or classes and participate in practical training, including the use of a space suit and how to fly a space shuttle.
After all this, preparation, take note that the first suitable opportunity may take years to arrive. The position of astronaut requires one who doesn't lack patience.
Now that you are prepared to be an astronaut, the second part is to practice. This is where mistakes can happen.
In practice, more training awaits - a minimum of at least six more months. You will go through all sorts of tests requiring physical and mental endurance. The training includes your ability to handle any sort of emergency during a mission. If you are able to make it through this strenuous process from beginning to end and NASA is satisfied with your level of performance, you will be selected to become a permanent astronaut.
After all these preparation and practice, do you know how many space flights have failed due to a fatal mistake? There have been four fatal in-flight accidents on missions which were considered spaceflights under the internationally accepted definition of the term, plus one on the ground during rehearsal of a planned flight.
As you can see, even the most prepared person in the world needs to go through practice because no one knows what happens next. It is better prepared than sorry.
By the way, have you ever wondered if our mistakes are really just a mistake or are they meant to happen?
In my opinion, mistakes are meant to happen for a purpose, just like the passion and death of our Lord. The crucifixion of Jesus Christ on the cross was probably the biggest mistake the people have seen during their time.
Let's reflect on what happened based on the events that we celebrate during the Holy week.
During Palm Sunday, Jesus entered the city of Jerusalem and the people were shouting, "Blessed is king who comes in the name of the Lord!"
After a few days, on Good Friday, people shouted at him saying "Crucify him" and they nailed him to the cross.
If you were there during Good Friday shouting with the crowd to crucify Jesus, would you say that his glorious entry in Jerusalem during Palm Sunday was a mistake?
I have no doubt that even the disciples probably thought that the crucifixion of their master was a mistake. This is probably why "all left him and fled." (Mark 14:50)
Imagine, they have put their hopes on Him, they trusted Him, they left their families for Him, and they left their livelihoods for Him and then the crucifixion. All their hopes and dreams nailed in the cross! In their minds they probably thought, "This is a mistake, a very big mistake!!!"
Did Jesus make the mistake by welcoming Judas to be his disciple even though he knew Judas will betray Him? Or maybe it was the mistake of Peter who struck the ear of the temple guard while arresting Jesus? Was it Pilate who made the mistake? He could easily ignore the request of the people to crucify Jesus. Did the Jews made the mistake by shouting to release Barabbas instead of Jesus? Was it the Sanhedrin's mistake by not acknowledging Jesus as the son of God? Are these events really a mistake?
In this case, with all my heart, I believe that the death of our Lord Jesus Christ is never a mistake. It was all meant to happen. Jesus allowed everything to happen for the glory of our God the Father.
I believe nothing in this world is a mistake. A philandering husband who is bound to lose his family, an unfaithful wife leaving his children behind, a son becoming a drug addict, gas prices increasing, a plane crashing, a car accident - it is my belief that everything is meant to happen for a reason.
Mistake is simply a word. What matters is the meaning you attach to the word. A mistake will have its meaning when you realize the lessons attached to it. It can be painful and sometimes too painful but in the end it is all about what you gained from experiencing it - did you care or did you curse? Did you show compassion or coldness? Did you love or hate?
Finally, I am not encouraging anybody to keep making mistakes. What I do encourage is to always be your best simply because that's what our God wants us to be.
Every time you make a mistake, don't worry, our God knows our weaknesses and He already forgave us and in the midst of our pains, He will never forsake us or abandon us. I believe that we have a God who does not count our mistakes. That's how God loves us.
Jesus died for all of us even while we are unworthy.
Happy Easter to all!
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Show All » 2012/03 » An Emergency Fund
Monday, March 26, 2012An Emergency Fund
Last year, when my wife and I were on vacation walking around the beautiful town of Florence in Italy, right in the middle of our picture taking, I felt this sudden rush that I need to go to the "toilette". It happened so fast that it was a total emergency. It was chaos because there were not a lot of public toilets and when I found one, I was shocked to find out that I have to pay an entrance fee. I'm so glad I have enough change in my pocket or else, that emergency would be a disaster! Whew!
I know my story is a bit silly. I could come up with a better example of an emergency story but I want to drive a point.
Emergencies come in many shapes and sizes. It can be as simple as going to the toilet or it can be a matter of life and death, critical health situations, loss of property or natural calamities.
The big question is - when it happens, are we financially ready?
What is an emergency fund?
It's easily accessible money to be used in case of emergency.
In each case, people with an emergency fund are going to be in better shape than those without one. It may feel like you can't afford to have one, but the truth is, it is more costly if you do not have one.
How do you build an emergency fund?
General wisdom says that everyone should keep the equivalent of three month's salary in reserve to cover unexpected expenses.
In Canada, only one person in 10 says that they have enough money put aside to cover an unexpected expense of just $500. In fact, even drawing on lines of credit and credit cards, 75% of Canadians would not be able to come up with $5000 if they suddenly need it. This is revealed in a study made public recently by the Certified General Accountants Association of Canada.
The study also shows that, despite the economic crisis, many people are not planning to change their savings habits in order to build the famous "emergency fund" that everyone is supposed to have.
These figures are very surprising: they mean that when the need arises, people expect to use credit rather than their own savings. This attitude is quite likely due to the fact that "emergency" seems to be unreal.
The more real things for most are a home appliance that gives up, a car that breaks down, or a dental crown than needs to be replaced.
Sometimes, people neglect the more serious emergencies such as an unexpected unemployment, a major medical expenses or even a sudden death in the family. These emergencies could send anybody into a financial tailspin that could lead to years of debt.
This is why it is recommended that we should set aside an equivalent of three month's salary to cover such calamities.
But, is three month's salary enough?
The exact amount to have on hand for emergencies varies from person to person.
For emergency funds, I personally recommend that you save an amount that works for you. Examine your situation - your income and your needs - then decide how much you should save.
Keep your emergency money in some place you rarely access, like opening a new account just for this purpose - money you cannot see is money you cannot spend.
To build an emergency fund, financial services professionals generally recommend using a combination of high-interest saving account and a line of credit.
Just a caution when using your line of credit, today most people think that a line of credit is real money, it is not. It is borrowed money and it should not be treated like a savings account.
Lines of credit only serve as a cushion from financial hardship. It should never be the main source of your emergency fund.
Some people rely on their retirement savings for emergency. It can be a possible source but note that some retirement savings like a Registered Retirement Savings Plan in Canada would subject to income tax.
With credit cards, at a minimum of 19% interest, certainly it's not suited for an emergency fund. Otherwise, the emergency might turn into a chronic condition.
If you want to transfer your risk from the expenses of emergencies, get insurance. Whether there's a sudden loss in the family, a critical illness, a loss of property, a disability that prevents you to work or a serious accident, your insurance claim is your emergency fund.
I remember a new immigrant in Canada who never had the chance to build his emergency fund but he was wise to get a critical illness insurance coverage to protect himself. Three months after receiving his policy, he suffered from a heart attack and he was confined in the hospital for more than a month. Thirty days after, his insurance agent visited him to deliver his critical insurance claim check for $50,000. Upon receiving the cheque, the man smiled and said - I hit the jackpot!
We all know that the $50,000 is not enough to bring back his old normal and healthy condition but having that money was a lot to him. One thing is sure, he was relieved from financial stress and I believe that money will help him recover faster like finding another doctor for second opinion without worrying financially. If I were him, a good two months' vacation to the sandy beaches of Boracay would be a treat while recovering!
(By the way, critical illness insurance is not available in many countries around the world. If you live in Canada, I highly recommend that you get one.)
When we were new in Canada, I never thought of getting life insurance. For me, I thought getting insurance was not trusting God. Being very active in a catholic community back in the Philippines, I always say to my wife, "God will protect us and he will never abandon us. No harm will come to us. We are young and healthy and we will be healthy until we get old." Insurance is an extra expense.
I'm so grateful to God that nothing happened to us. I'm double blessed in doing what I do right now because I have this sense of urgency and the capability to provide a solution for most people at the time when they need it most.
Remember, our immediate future might not always be apparent - and it includes danger. If you are reading this blog, treat it as a friendly reminder from a concerned friend. To act on it, it is all up to you.
Let's look at some of the characters from the scriptures that were told to prepare for an emergency and acted on it.
Noah built an ark on top of the mountain. People during his time called him crazy but - "By faith Noah, being warned by God about things not yet seen, in reverence prepared an ark for the salvation of his household, by which he condemned the world, and became an heir of the righteousness which is according to faith." (Hebrews 11:7)
Joseph the Patriarch told Pharaoh to save for the rainy days while they were enjoying abundance - "Let Pharaoh take action to appoint overseers in charge of the land, and let him exact a fifth of the produce of the land of Egypt in the seven years of abundance. Then let them gather all the food of these good years that are coming, and store up the grain for food in the cities under Pharaoh's authority, and let them guard it. Let the food become as a reserve for the land for the seven years of famine which will occur in the land of Egypt, so that the land will not perish during the famine." (Genesis 41:32-36)
In the story of Joseph, we learn one of the best techniques for building an emergency fund - "exact a fifth of the produce." This simply means that if you are on salary, set aside five percent from your income. If you are on commission, set aside the five percent every time you get your commission.
Asking financial help from another person during an emergency should be your last option. There may be instances where you have no other choice but to approach a friend but if you can avoid it, avoid it. There is a saying that it is hard to turn down a friend but it is harder if you will be turned down by a friend.
If you are on the other side of the fence and a friend asks you for help especially in an emergency, just give what you can and expect nothing in return. That's what friends are for. Because it is very possible that your friend may not be able to repay you on time or worse they will not be able to repay you at all which in some cases could ruin a good relationship and I have seen it happen.
Paul the apostle knew that it is hard to be a burden to somebody. "And when I was present with you and was in need, I was not a burden to anyone; for when the brethren came from Macedonia they fully supplied my need, and in everything I kept myself from being a burden to you, and will continue to do so." (2 Corinthians 11:9)
Again, if you can avoid asking for financial help from a friend, avoid it.
To summarize the possible sources for your emergency fund, let's itemize them one by one.
1. Save 10% from your salary. The scripture says 5%. Whether you follow the five percent or ten percent, it does not matter. What is important is you do it. If saving becomes a burden, once you reach your goal of saving for three months' salary, you can stop once you achieve your goal. If you have become comfortable in setting aside an amount for your emergency fund, continue doing it and build another savings account but this time call it the "fun" account. You can spend that money for "fun" without the guilt.
2. If you do not have a salary or not in commission, have a side income to create that fund. We are all blessed and gifted to do something to better our life unless you are bedridden or paralysed or in the hospital or in jail, you should be able to find ways to do it, if you are willing to do it.
3. Hedge your family by getting insurance. Remember, insurance is never an expense. I never heard anybody complaining what they are paying to their insurance when they are claiming for it.
To end, I have one last question for you; do you think emergency preparation only for yourself?
We prepare not only for our own sake, but also to help others in need during an emergency.
The scripture says, "If a brother or sister is without clothing and in need of daily food, and one of you says to them, 'Go in peace, be warmed and be filled,' and yet you do not give them what is necessary for their body, what use is that?" (James 2:15-16).
Somehow we are all responsible to help our fellow brother or sister in need. We are called to love one another.
"This is My commandment, that you love one another, just as I have loved you." (John 15:12)
God is the greatest!
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Show All » 2012/02 » Happiness Is A Descision
Monday, March 05, 2012Happiness is a Decision
Have you seen the gas prices recently?
In the news, everyone is talking about the inevitable - gas prices are going up. People being interviewed to express their opinions about the subject are stressed about it.
History tells us that many attempts have been made to prevent this from happening. People go on strike or rally in the streets to protest, there are groups who would agree not to fill their gas tanks on a given day and so on. It's sad but to date, nothing significant has happened. Gas prices continue to go up.
I personally encourage freedom of speech but in this case, in my opinion, I think it is best that we leave this to the "experts." What we can do is doing the things that we can control like how we consume gas. For example, did you know that driving like a race car driver doubles your gas consumption? You can also save gas by avoiding unnecessary trips. When going to work, car pool with an officemate or walk with a friend and so on.
I know you are eager to ask, "What is the relationship of gas prices and your happiness?"
Several factors around you can affect your moods which can lead you to be happy or not. Your feelings can simply be influenced by the price of gas or watching a sad "telenovela" (soap opera).
Although you cannot control the price of gas, or the endings of a "telenovela," you can control your response to your condition - to be happy or not.
It is my belief that all of us were born with everything we would need to live a happy life. One of the secrets is to believe and understand that our happiness is based on our decisions.
You have the decision whether you want to be happy or not. You can do a lot of things to enforce that decision and I have outlined some that you can follow.
Do Genuine Service
Some people have been too concerned in pleasing others. They please people to win friendship and the feeling of belongingness. People pleasers are anxious on what they have and what they don't have, what they do and what they don't do.
Pleasing others is different than serving others. People pleasers serve to impress and gain something but genuine service is to give, period. Real happiness is found when you give expecting nothing in return.
When you are trying to please others, most of the time, you are expecting something in return. That's the very reason why you are trying to please them. It may not be monetary but you expect them to love you and praise you or to be impressed for your service to fit in the group.
Genuine service is giving and expecting nothing back. You continue to serve even when nobody recognizes you.
If you choose to give genuine service, you don't have to look for love and praises from other people because in my experience, one way or another, they will see the light that is radiating within you.
Do Something Different Within
Albert Einstein have said, "The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting a different result."
I once thought that happiness is a result of having something different. It can be buying a new car, new haircut, new girlfriend (or boyfriend), a vacation, watch a movie or reading an inspiring book. These are short lived happiness.
To experience long lasting happiness, do something different within.
It is not easy to be happy especially when you are facing tough challenges. Some people can fake it but they can never hide it. Your decision to be happy has to come from within. Your light will shine from the inside out.
I can never forget a very close friend of ours who called us one night and she started crying on the phone telling me and my wife about the sudden death of her son. We could not do anything but listen. During our conversation we can sense the peace in her voice and we were so amazed by their resilience as a couple in spite of what happened. She talked about forgiving the people responsible for the death of her son and praying for them. At the end of our conversation, she told us how grateful they are to God for giving them friends to comfort them in times of trials. Their faith and trust to God was extraordinary!
After the call, I knew her situation did not change but I'm sure our friend was at peace because she did something different within - unconditional forgiveness.
Doing something different within goes deep because it changes our inner self and we have the capability to choose this kind of attitude regardless of our condition. This can all be done within us, if we choose to.
Be Grateful
The scripture says, "In everything give thanks..." (1 Thessalonians 5:18)
We should always be happy in both good times and bad times.
How can you be happy in bad times?
How can you smile in spite of the challenges, trials and tribulations? My answer, how can you not? Life in itself is already challenging; feeling depressed will only turn things from bad to worst.
Being grateful is much easier than being hateful.
A common Filipino saying goes, "Mahirap na nga buhay, nakasimangot ka pa..." (Life is already tough, why frown more)
Remember the stock market crash in 2008? That was a bad time for most investors. For seasoned investors who know the heart and soul of investments, they were thankful. When most people were panicking, seasoned investors were relaxed and happily investing in the market. They knew that there was light at the end of the tunnel. Being grateful allowed them to see the opportunities they have.
Another example was a story from one of my old blogs where me and my "barkadas" (pals) would go out to help people who gets stranded in the flood? There's disaster everywhere. At the end of the day, all of us are thankful not because of the flood but we were thankful that we are able to help a lot of people and we enjoyed it! We never asked anybody to give us money but some of them would insist to reward us. It was all genuine service and the result - good times in the midst of bad times!
Being ungrateful can lead you to a very stressful life. All you do is complain, complain and complain as if complaining can help you in your situation. Being thankful does the opposite. It leads you to contentment. A content life is a happy life.
If you are always grateful, I guarantee that you will always be happy no matter what situation you are in.
Great Friends
A mentor once told me, show me your friends and I will determine the life you will be living in the next five years. When you think of it, most of the time that saying is almost true. Thank God that we can choose our friends.
The only friends that you cannot choose are your parents, siblings and relatives. For others, unfortunately, this is a challenge. You can either love them or hate them but the association by blood remains. You can make your life miserable by hating them or you can live a happy life by loving them, it's your choice?
One of the real sources of our happiness is having great friends. Great friends are friends who will be there until the end no matter what.
Unfortunately, there is no crystal ball to predict that a particular friend will turn out to be reliable with a positive impact in your life or, by contrast, a negative person that will give you emotional distress, or worse. These negative associations are toxic.
Toxic friends are friends that constantly disappoint you or break promises. They will put you in a microscope and they will find every mistake that you make. Nothing you do, say, or wear is good enough for a toxic friend. They will encourage you to hate others and join them in their crusade; misery loves company. It is best that you end your relationship with these people because they can drag you down. Forgive them and pray for them but do not associate with them because they can rub you of your happiness.
Do not waste your time and energy by having the passion to hate. Put all your energy to love and helping people which in turn will double your happiness!
Set Happy Goals
Your goal is a great source of your happiness. Your happy goals should be specific, measurable, accurate, realistic, time bound and it has to be aligned to the purpose that our God has given us.
A friend once told me a story when his eight year old daughter joined a swimming contest. There were 26 competitors and his daughter finished 20th. When he saw his daughter running to him, in his mind, he was preparing a speech on how to encourage her daughter and tell her that it's okay and she will be better next time and so on. To his surprise, she heard her daughter screaming, "Daddy, daddy I made it!" His dad confused and asked her, "You made what?" His daughter shouted back, "I made it in the top 20!" What a remarkable kid!
Remember, life is full of challenges. In your journey towards your goal, there will be challenges that will bring you down but that's okay. You can be happy no matter what because your happiness is your decision. This is your goal.
There are many other ways to carry out your decision to be happy.
Just remember to always keep your hopes high. When you hope, you know that there is something better out there. Whatever challenges you are facing right now, these are temporary.
Happy people see treasure and find joy in the midst of trial. This attitude builds character. Happiness brings peace in our hearts.
Problems will always be there. You can never remove the problem but you can change your response to be happy regardless of your problem. Plus, we have our God who is bigger than our problems so why worry?
Change your perspective and start today by deciding to live happy.
A glass of water half full can be seen as halfway full or halfway empty, how do you prefer to see it?
Goodness from the outside is oftentimes a result from our actions within, from our decisions. Quantum physics says that you can attract happiness. Let us always be happy so we can attract happiness in our life. Do good to others so others will do good to you. "Treat others the same way you want them to treat you." (Luke 6:31)
The wisest are not the ones with the most years in their life, but the most life and happiness in their years!
There are so much wonders in our life! We have to pursue it. Don't waste your time listening to the whines of those who have settled to be sad for the rest of their lives. Live your life to the fullest.
There will be times when people will judge your happiness as superficial. In Tagalog they call this "mababaw" or "plastic." Remember what I said about toxic friends, ignore them. These people will pull you down just to make your life miserable. They will rob your happiness out of envy, out of jealousy, out of anger and the worst, out of no reason. They have no reason to judge your feelings. The best thing you can do is to pray for them and bless them and hope that God will grant them the peace that you are enjoying.
Finally, I personally believe that true happiness will never be found without God in the picture. He is the God who genuinely served us through His Son Jesus Christ, He is the one who helps us to change within, He is the one who teaches us to always be grateful, He is our true friend, and He gives us purpose so we can set our happy goals in life. Our Lord God gives us the decision if we will do it or not.
You can heal or hurt, make or break, love or hate, happy or sad and it's all up to you.
God is the greatest!
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Show All » 2012/02 » A Worthy Servant
Friday, February 24, 2012A Worthy Servant
Back in the Philippines when I was still single, I was on my way to church when I met a friend who asked me this question - is it okay if I go to church with you even if I'm drunk?
I did not answer him right away but here is what came into my mind; when I say yes, we may create some chaos inside the church. For one, he may start cursing while the ceremony is going on and I have seen that happen before. Also, there is a possibility that he will get drowsy, fall down from his chair and roll over the floor or he would fall asleep and start snoring while the priest is giving his "sermon" (homily). The worst thing that can happen is the possibility that the people who knows me will talk about this incident forever - that I went to church drunk! I cannot blame them since who in the right mind would bring a drunk to the church except another drunk. I know my thoughts were very negative but its better safe than sorry, right?
I guess I'm better off to say no and leave my friend alone. One thing is for sure, I will avoid all the chaos and not to mention the humiliation.
After reflecting on the pros and cons of bringing my friend to church, I placed my hands around his shoulder and said, "tol" (my brother), let's go to church.
I'm not encouraging anybody to go to church drunk or I'm not saying what I did was not right. In this case, I did not know what he was going through and I could not judge him based on his condition. My reason is simple - no one brings a friend to the doctor if they are healthy. You bring a friend to a doctor if they are sick.
We are all called to bring people closer to God. Both the good and the bad are not exempted from this divine appointment. God is not interested on our condition, our abilities and capabilities. However, he is interested in our availability. If you think you are unworthy to serve Him because you are a sinner, guess what, who does not sin?
In the story of the Adulterous Woman (the full version is found in John 8:1-10), when the Pharisees was testing Jesus about the case of the woman who was caught in adultery in the very act, based on the law of Moses, she has to be stoned to death. Jesus asked them this question, "He who is without sin among you, let him be the first to throw a stone at her." (John 8:6)
No one dared to cast a stone because they all knew they were sinners.
Even though everyone sins, our sins should not be the reason why we should feel unworthy to serve God. Never allow your sins to prevent you in doing good things.
Let me give you an example on some of the heroes from the bible that regardless of their sinful condition, they were called to do something for the people of God.
Rahab was an adulteress during the time of the invasion of Jericho. She was instrumental in hiding the spies of Joshua which in return spared his family from being massacred by the Israelites. From this brave act, Rahab became a part of the genealogy of Jesus. Amazing! (Read her story at the book of Joshua)
Zacchaeus the tax collector (read Luke 19:1-10) was a corrupt official during his time. Jesus asked him if he could dine at his house at the most awkward moment - while he was up on a sycamore tree. If that happened today, I could imagine Jesus saying - "Hey Zachy, come down from that tree because tonight, I'm going to eat at your place. I am also going to party with you, is that okay?"
Did you know the reaction of the people when they heard Jesus? Let me rephrase what they said - "What! Are you crazy Jesus! You dare to go to the house of that filthy sinner! OMG! Yuck!"
I can only imagine how unworthy Zachy felt when he heard these people. I am guessing that he was tempted to say these words to avoid further humiliation - "They are right Jesus and its fine if you don't go. Actually, I invite a lot of prostitutes in my house whenever I have parties. You'll probably be offended anyway. Plus I have brothers and friends who go wild when they get drunk. I think it's better if you just ask my neighbor Codie. He is a good guy and he is very religious not like me."
But Zaccheaus did not feel unworthy. He opened his heart to the invitation of Jesus and did what he was asked to do. The result - salvation has come to his house!
"...the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost." (Luke 19:10)
I have known people who want to be perfect before serving the Lord. I'm sorry but this is not going to happen. Serve first and God will change you in the process.
Let me give you my example.
When I started to write my blog, I have no idea where to start or what topic I will talk about. In my heart I was inspired to do it but at the same time I was afraid to do it. I get scared every time I post a blog because I know I may encounter some criticisms and some challenges. I know my weakness and imperfections. Regardless, I still do it. I was inspired to write blogs so I could give. Not focusing on giving what I do not have but to give all that I have.
A friend once told me "ang walis, kahit madumi, nakakawalis" (a broom, even when it's dirty, it can still sweep) and I believe that.
I cannot stop writing because I could not impress some people. I just can't.
In fairness to my critics, one way or another they are also a blessing to me. They inspire me to discover what am I doing wrong and it helps me do better in what I do not to impress them but to make me better.
My blogs come from inspired thoughts based on what I see and encounter every day. When I get inspired to write about it, I write about it. Sometimes, the message is not for my audience but for me, for my own purification.
This is the beauty of having the heart to serve even if you feel unworthy to do it. St. Paul had his own struggles when he was writing about his thorns of the flesh -
"Because of the surpassing greatness of the revelations, for this reason, to keep me from exalting myself, there was given me a thorn in the flesh, a messenger of Satan to torment me - to keep me from exalting myself! Concerning this I implored the Lord three times that it might leave me. And He has said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness.' Most gladly, therefore, I will rather boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may dwell in me. Therefore I am well content with weaknesses, with insults, with distresses, with persecutions, with difficulties, for Christ's sake; for when I am weak, then I am strong." (2 Corinthians 12:7-10)
It was never mentioned in the scriptures what his thorn was but one thing is sure, Paul was really concerned about it.
These thorns can be our reason to make us feel unworthy. It can distract us and it can give us a lot of stress. Paul prayed twice that his thorns may depart from him. It was never mentioned whether God gave Paul what he asked for, but one thing is certain, God gave him much more than he asked for. "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness."
God's grace is enough for all of us. God's strength is enough for any weaknesses that we may have.
It is not by our strength, or might, but by His strength.
God's grace is what makes us worthy to be servants.
We accomplish things not because of our position, our status in life, our looks, our influence or our own strength - we accomplish our purpose because of His Strength.
The power of Jesus Christ by the grace of God is given to us to overcome not only our weaknesses but all things.
We need to change our perspective about these weaknesses; our failures, our anxieties, our worries, our sorrows, our fears our suffering, our ugliness, our pride and all our sins - not to be discouraged or disheartened by it or live in constant fear or distress.
Whatever makes you to feel unworthy; you can overcome it through the grace of God.
I had my own battles with these "thorn in the flesh." It was not easy. Although I know I had many victories in the past but there are still some thorns that I struggle until today.
The thorns that make one unworthy can be your sickness, pride, insecurities, addiction, hurt, suffering, anger or sin. You may have prayed to God over hundreds of times, but still struggling with it. Even though you still struggle, never allow these thorns to stop you from devoting yourself to God. Remember, God's grace is sufficient.
To end, whenever you feel unworthy to serve God, just read the story of the prodigal son. (Luke 15:11-32)
When he started his journey to go back to his father after squandering all the inheritance he received, he was probably rehearsing his explanation about what happened and fearing what his father will do to him. He felt so unworthy that he was willing to work for his father as a slave.
Most of us know what happened in that story - at a long distance when the father saw his son coming home, his heart was filled with compassion and he ran towards is son!
In this story, the father was waiting and wondering when his son will return.
I believe this is how God loves us. He is waiting and wondering when we will return to his loving arms. We are all worthy sons and daughters, we are all worthy servants.
Don't be too hard on yourself because our God is not.
This Lenten season, let us free ourselves from feeling unworthy and let us all serve God with gladness in our hearts!
I believe this is what Lenten season is all about. It is not solely about fasting and abstinence but its remembering how much God loves us.
He made us all worthy by the death of our Lord Jesus Christ.
God is the greatest!
Posted By: Allen Espejo @ 3:38:42 AM
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Show All » 2012/01 » Debt Trap
Wednesday, February 01, 2012Debt Trap
I already forgot last time I told a story in my blogs and I guess it's overdue so here's one...
A businessman walked into a New York City bank and asked for the loan officer. He said he was going to Europe on business for two weeks and needed to borrow $5,000. The loan officer said the bank would need some security for such a loan.
The business man then handed over the keys to a Rolls Royce that was parked on the street in front of the bank. Everything checked out and the loan officer accepted the car as collateral for the loan. An employee then drove the Rolls into the bank's underground garage and parked it there.
Two weeks later the businessman returned, repaid the $5,000 and the interest which came to $15.41.
The loan officer said, "We do appreciate your business and this transaction has worked out very nicely, but we are a bit puzzled. While you were away we checked and found that you are a multimillionaire. What puzzles us is why you would bother to borrow $5,000?"
The business man replied: "Where else in New York City can I park my car for two weeks for fifteen bucks?"
It's funny when we imagine how some multimillionaires would go in order to save money. I sometimes ask why they do it; after all they are already multimillionaires. My short story may be a joke but you may be surprised when you find out that some of them are actually doing it.
In the first chapter of the book entitled "The Millionaire Next Door", authors Dr. Thomas Stanley and Dr. William Danko wrote - "These people cannot be millionaires! They don't like millionaires, they don't dress like millionaires, they don't eat like millionaires, they don't act like millionaires - they don't even have millionaire names. Where are the millionaires who look like millionaires?"
I know a person who doesn't have a house and who takes the bus (in Canada at least) but owns a multimillion dollar company in the Philippines. Looks can be really deceiving.
Anyways, last Christmas I wrote a topic about conquering debts - "Till debt do you part." I wrote how people recklessly dig themselves into debt and the most common reason why this happens - they want to look like millionaires.
To prevent the debt trap, I wrote some tips on what can be done to rise up from the common excuses people have. The following is the summary of what I wrote in that blog.
1) If you are in deep debt, avoid further debt - Pay off all your credit card charges every month. Use only cash for one week. Most people have no idea how much they're really spending until they see the actual cash leaving their hands at a store. Have a budget once a week.
2) Make some effort to be financially literate.
Becoming financially literate takes discipline. You may not like it, but it's a necessary skill if you don't want to be living paycheck to paycheck. Devote some time each day to reading about money. If you think that its time consuming, don't just get help. Get professional help.
3) Do not listen to other people's opinion especially when it comes to money.
Learn not to be persuaded or dissuaded by the opinions of other people. Get guidance and gather information but the final decision is still up to you. Do some due diligence and never let others decide for you. This is one of the many reasons why many people are in debt.
4) Buy your needs at bargain or discounted price.
Why pay for retail when you can get something at a discounted price.
Last week when I was travelling with one of my mentors, he told me a secret given to him by one of his multimillionaire client. The secret, every time he buys something, the first question he asks is "Will I get a courtesy discount?"
Whether they give this type of discount or not, it won't hurt if you ask. Who knows?
When you buy bargain sale items and start using your coupons, ask yourself first, do you really need it or you just want it because it is on sale?
Not knowing the difference between wanting and needing can cost you a lot. Impulse buy is the worst kind of buy. Pay attention to your spending habits.
5) Plan for your retirement
This is one of the most overlooked areas in a person's life. Unfortunately for most, planning is done too late or they thought they have it all worked out.
People at different stages in their life should plan and save differently.
You set goals for many other things in life, and your money should be no different. You need to know where you're going and have a plan to get there.
The individual responsibility has to be there.
Generally, most of us would like to have more of what we have, or at least be able to buy the things we want. In reality, this becomes impossible because our spending habits are restrained by the amount of income we earn. The most common solution used to satisfy our consumer way of living, we go into debt.
This is the debt trap.
How do we avoid it?
First, we have to ask our self, why do we always seem to want to accumulate more?
Is it really about keeping up with the Jones?
Is having more money the answer to avoid this trap?
In the book of Ecclesiastes under the sub-heading "A little foolishness", this is one part that caught my attention - "Men prepare a meal for enjoyment, and wine makes life merry, and money is the answer to everything." (Ecclesiastes 10:19)
People today are accustomed in accumulating money because we trust money to bring us happiness. But the bigger question is how you measure your happiness. We have seen several times in the news where people live in million dollar mansions and yet they steal money to gain more because their money is never enough for them. The more money they earn, the more they consume. When this happens, most of the time these people would not notice that they are consuming more than what they earn.
Scripture says, "Why do you spend money for what is not bread, and your wages for what does not satisfy?" (Isaiah 55:2a)
This is why many people ask - Why don't I ever seem to have enough? Simply because people foolishly spend money on what does not satisfy the soul.
Therefore, money is not really the answer to avoid this trap.
In my opinion, we are trapped because we don't manage our money according to God's priorities. We manage our money according to our ways.
"Now therefore, thus says the LORD of hosts, 'Consider your ways! You have sown much, but harvest little; you eat, but there is not enough to be satisfied; you drink, but there is not enough to become drunk; you put on clothing, but no one is warm enough; and he who earns, earns wages to put into a purse with holes.'" (Haggai 1:5-6)
If we depend on ourselves to bring security, there will never be enough.
What I'm telling you here is nothing new. It has been taught to us 2000 years ago by Jesus when he said, "Beware, and be on your guard against every form of greed; for not even when one has an abundance does his life consist of his possessions." And He told them a parable, saying, "The land of a rich man was very productive. And he began reasoning to himself, saying, ‘'What shall I do, since I have no place to store my crops?' Then he said, 'This is what I will do: I will tear down my barns and build larger ones, and there I will store all my grain and my goods. And I will say to my soul, "Soul, you have many goods laid up for many years to come; take your ease, eat, drink and be merry."' But God said to him, 'You fool! This very night your soul is required of you; and now who will own what you have prepared?' So is the man who stores up treasure for himself, and is not rich toward God." (Luke 12:15-21)
Being in debt is not a sin. In the teaching on forgiveness (Matthew 18:21-34), Jesus uses this parable that seems to assume the lending or borrowing of money is not itself sinful, especially when you repaid everything.
Although borrowing money is not, in itself, sinful, we are to be careful and wise in our borrowing so we don't become slaves to debt.
Proverbs 22:7 says, "Just as the rich rule the poor, so the borrower is servant to the lender."
Debt is not a sin, but it is a dangerous thing if not managed properly. We are to avoid it whenever possible.
Although incurring debt may not be sinful, the failure to repay a debt is.
As Paul wrote to the Romans - "Owe nothing to anyone except to love one another; for he who loves his neighbor has fulfilled the law."
Let us live debt free. If you are in debt, it is my wish that you will be free from it.
To end, here is a promise from our Lord Jesus Christ, "Do not worry then, saying, 'What will we eat?' or 'What will we drink?' or 'What will we wear for clothing?' For the Gentiles eagerly seek all these things; for your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. But seek first is kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you." (Matthew 6:31-33)
God is the greatest!
Posted By: Allen Espejo @ 1:43:15 AM
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Show All » 2012/01 » Are you Blessed or Lucky
Sunday, January 22, 2012Are you Blessed or Lucky?
We Filipinos have an old tradition of wearing polka dots while having lots of round fruits displayed on the dining table or hanging by the main doors of the house during New Year's Eve. The round objects symbolize prosperity and money. It is also our custom to light several firecrackers to drive away the evil spirits and bring good luck.
I could never forget the time when one of my godfathers gifted me a custom-made firecracker. It was so powerful and dangerous that he gave me specific instructions how to use and where to ignite the firecracker. I loved it because the louder the boom, the more spirits you drive out, I thought.
I remember hanging that firecracker beside a blossoming flower tree of my mom (I hope my mom won't get mad at me as she reads this part because I'm not sure if I confessed this before). The big bang caused the leaves and flowers of her wonderful tree to be obliterated, literally. Sorry mom, I guess it was the tree's fault because it did not move when I ran away... (Okay, the running tree was a joke but the sorry part is real, I love you mom!)
Looking back, whenever I think about these old traditions, like for example the polka dots and the round fruits, I ask myself, what does it really do? If the round objects represent money, are they referring to a coin? Does this mean that if I wear polka dots, I will have coins for the rest of the year? If that is the case, I have to start wearing clothes with green stripes which would symbolize American dollar (bling-bling).
I am not in any way making fun of any customs, beliefs or traditions. What I wrote here is my personal opinion base on my personal experiences. I have no intention of changing someone's beliefs on these traditions and I respect whatever you believe in. We Filipinos grew up with many customs and traditions passed on to us by our ancestors and this is what makes us unique and I'm proud of it.
By the way, I would like to greet all my Chinese-Filipino friends all over the world a Happy Chinese New Year - "Gung Hay Fat Choy!"
Have you heard someone tell you that if you want to be lucky, just follow a tradition and you will be lucky for the rest of your life? I did wear polka dots several times during New Year's Eve hoping that I will be lucky for the rest of the year. Guess what, I never had a full year of being lucky. Personally, I do not believe in luck. Being lucky is caused by one action; betting on it. Being lucky is all about chance. It is almost futile to put your hopes on luck. Hoping for luck is simply gambling.
There is a way to be more than lucky and you do not have to bet on it in order to happen. All you have to do is ask. They call it God's grace.
This is one sure thing that you can place your hopes on. This is what triggers God's favors to happen in your life - hope on it.
Isn't it great! Whenever you hope for God's grace, you do not need to do extraordinary deeds to receive it. In fact, you don't even have to earn it. You can ask for it even if you are most undeserving!
This year, when I wrote my New Year's resolution, I placed my hopes that God will grant me his favors that I will be able to accomplish them all. The results may not come right away but my goal is to see a significant development on my resolutions by the middle of the year.
I know people have achieved their resolutions through discipline and hard work. I believe everybody can do it too but for me, it is more meaningful when I have God guiding me by my side. I personally have a lot of weaknesses and I do not want to compromise anything by removing divine assistance in the picture. I have learned (the hard way) that I can never be able to do things perfectly by myself. When I do things by myself, I am biased and it's easy to cheat.
By the way, since I am talking about resolutions, have you started working on your New Year's resolutions already?
My New Year's resolution for 2012 is to eat healthy and stay fit.
I started to do my resolutions on day one. On new year's day, I ate the low fat "Chicken Joy" at Jollibee (this is the Mc Donalds of Filipinos) and the ever famous zero fat "chicharon" (deep fried pig skin), yummy! Although I skipped eating ice cream for dessert, the chocolates was an awesome second choice.
Okay, I know what you are going to say but what can I do? It was New Year's Day! I did not want the spoil the party. (You see what I mean when I wrote that you can easily cheat yourself by having tons of excuse).
Kidding aside, if I discipline myself, I'm sure I will be healthier next year than where I am today. This is not luck, it is a decision. I will be healthier next year because of my discipline, hard work and of course God's mercy that I will never got sick. This is my secret formula and it's not a secret anymore.
Talking about a secret formula, when I was watching a Filipino talk show, I found out that based on the Chinese calendar, I was born in the year of the sheep. I heard them say that I must wear an amulet or a lucky charm related to the sheep so I can have good health for the whole year. They added that I still have to do some exercise to maintain my body fitness but isn't it that that's all we need to stay fit - exercise?
I have followed some traditions and I did many things to be lucky in the past but they are not reliable.
Today, I only rely on one thing and one thing alone - it is God's love to us.
God's love reveals his plans for us.
Jeremiah 29:11 says "For I know the plans that I have for you, declares the LORD, plans for welfare and not for calamity to give you a future and a hope."
God's plan for us is always perfect. There are many times where we find it hard to see his plans simply because we rely on many other things like our own strength, our own money, our own capabilities and sometimes our own lucky charms.
God knows our capabilities, our strengths, our weaknesses, our needs to accomplish his work, and our abilities.
If our limitation prevents us from accomplishing God's work, He will send people to help us. Sometimes we misjudge a person by thinking that may not be the perfect person to help us but God's ways are not our ways. Sometimes we even think that these people are the cause of our downfall but that's okay. Believe and take courage. It's all part of God's great plan for us. I have been in this situation a million times and I can tell you this from my heart. All we need to have is the courage to stand firm and believe that God looks for our welfare and not for calamity to give us a future and a hope.
I have learned throughout the course of my life that all people you meet are not consequential. They were meant to be there at the right place at the right moment. This is God's blessing!
We need to start putting our trust in God more than ever. Trusting God gives us courage to commit to our goals even though in the face of fear.
I remember my nephew when we were at the parking lot at the Golden Gate Bridge. He fearlessly jumped to one of the stairs because he probably knew that I was holding him and I'm not going to let go of him (if I did, I would not be here today because my sister will torture me and not to mention that I will never forgive myself - I love you sis).
This is how we should act whenever we face challenges in our lives.
When we know that God is holding our hands, like my nephew, we should never fear of any challenges. God is holding us and He will never let go. We fear because we let go but still, God is there to catch us if we fall. This is how I understand God's love.
The scripture says, "For God so love the world that he gave his only son..." (John 3:16) If you know that God loves you so much, trust in his words and stop worrying. "And who of you by being worried can add a single hour to his life?" (Matthew 6:27)
It's not all about what we do or what we have done to win God's favor; it is all about his great love for us.
The greatest part about Gods love for us is that even if you have done wrong all throughout your life, you will still receive God's blessings. "...He causes His sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous." (Matthew 5:45)
Although you do not have to return the favor to God; after all, He has everything, it is just proper to respond to His great love for being victorious with your ordeals. One way of being thankful is to pass on that blessing to others because you will never know when you will be asked this question in the future - "Were not all ten cleansed? Where are the other nine? Has no one returned to give praise to God except this foreigner?" (Luke 17:17-18)
Always be thankful to God's favors. His loving grace should reflect on your actions to others. People should see God's image in you. After all, we are created in His image and likeness. These actions will be the key factors that will draw blessings and abundance in our lives.
Some of you may be surprised when I say that not all blessings that we receive require God's help. Wait, I though you wrote that all blessings come from God. Some of our blessings happen in our lives through our actions.
Let me give you an example. You are walking down the street and you smiled at another person. I can guarantee you that almost 99.9 percent, that person will smile back at you. For me, that is a blessing. That blessing is caused by your action of smiling at the person. You made his or her day by smiling and in return his or her response to smile back at you will also make your day. You were blessed in that situation and you didn't need divine intervention for that to happen. A blessing was given to you on your decision to act. Just be careful though when you smile specially to a beautiful lady with her jealous husband, in that case 99.9 percent you will get a black eye.
You will probably hear and read a lot of ways on how to bring abundance to your life and have a lucky New Year.
Horoscope will tell you that you should follow the stars to bring you good luck.
A fortune teller may advise you to use lucky charms.
"Nardong Putik" will tell you to use an amulet.
When you ask me, there is only one thing and one source and that is our Heavenly Father.
Let me share one more note before I end. I have a friend who told me his story about his luck when he invested on the stock market. He quadrupled his investment in one day. I told him that it was not luck that made him money; it was timing, a perfect timing.
Also, if he did not take any action, if he did not have the courage to invest then nothing would have happened.
How will you know when is the perfect time?
"Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you." (Matthew 7:7)
Luck is a chance and it happens to people who are deserving or undeserving. Unfortunately, I do not know how it works and I cannot say anything more to it. Blessings are gifts given by God to both deserving and undeserving through His grace. It's not hard to understand how God's blessings would flow in your life, all you have to do is believe in His words.
As I write this part, we were supposed to board the plane but our flight is delayed for another 45 minutes. This extra minutes was totally a blessing because here I am finishing my blog for you. Would you call that lucky? I like to call it God's grace.
As we are about to embark on the plane, I thank God for giving us a wonderful Christmas vacation. Spending time with my parents and relatives is priceless. I thank God for all of them!
Finally, there must a reason why God preserves us to live another year. One thing is for sure, that is a blessing!
I pray that you will be blessed this whole year!
Be truly blessed!
God is the greatest!
Posted By: Allen Espejo @ 3:28:05 PM
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Show All » 2011/12 » A Wonderful Life
Saturday, December 31, 2011A Wonderful Life
Another year is about to end and I'm sure many of us are optimistic this coming New Year.
It’s the time where a lot of people vision big dreams, create plans, set goals, draft a long list of new years resolution and many other things. A lot of us including myself have high hopes this New Year. I guess this is the beauty of celebrating the new year. It brings us new hope and new beginnings.
But what about the people whose dreams were crushed this 2011? How about the people who failed miserably? Those who almost lost everything? Those whose lives were devastated this year? Would they have the same optimism?
There was once a New Year in my life when I felt I have no place to go but down. I felt the world has turned their back on me. In the midst of these bad moments, all it took was another bad incident to turn a bad year into one of the best New Years in my life.
How did this happen? How can a bad incident trigger one of the best things that can happen to a persons life?
I can never forget that New Year moment because that was the first and only time my dad and I had an argument. After that incident, for the first time in my life, it made me realize how ungrateful I was to my parents. I was self-centered and had no direction. All I was thinking was for myself and myself alone. It was weird but that was also same time I realized how special I was to them.
When I reached that turning point in my life, things around me started to change drastically for the better.
Regardless of the outpouring grace, my ways did not change in an instant. I still have to struggle through a lot of old habits but it was a start of a journey towards a wonderful life.
There were times when I would still lose hope along the way. There are times when I think it would be better if I was never been born. I thought that the good things happening in my life would not make any difference anymore.
Have you ever felt this way?
With all the trials and challenges we face, was there a time when you wish you were not born?
Have you ever imagined what would be the world like without you?
One thing is for sure, the world will never be the same without you.
I believe that everyone was born for the purpose of making our world a better place. Its sad that some people were not able to find their purpose through the course of their lives.
This is probably one of the reasons why a persons life goes wrong. If a person is not doing his or her purpose in life, they end up doing what they think what is best for them. Unfortunately, without a purpose, you will never be the best you can be.
But don't worry if you could not find your purpose, its not the end of the world. That in itself has a purpose. I may sound confusing but let me give you my example.
When I was younger, I only did the things that I want to do to make me rich. I find nothing wrong on what I was doing because I thought my purpose is to make myself rich and the fruits of my labor was for myself and myself alone. During the early stage of my life, I did not understand why I did these oblivious and selfish acts but today as I grow in my spiritual life, by the grace of God, I found out that these weaknesses and failures has become my tools to give strength and hope to others.
It is now clear to me that all the weaknesses and failures happened not only to help others but ultimately to equip myself to be stronger and more resilient whenever I face obstacles in life.
We all know that God does not create junk and I'm sure that He has a very good reason why he placed you where you are right now.
If you think you are stuck in a place where you think there no way out, never lose hope. As long as you live, you will always have the chance to make this world a better place. The question is, are you willing to take the challenge? Are you willing to change for the better?
A good example would be Paul the Apostle. Paul was one of the greatest enemy of the early Christians. Paul confesses that he persecuted the church of God beyond measure. He was consenting to the killing of Stephen (one of the early Christians). God's ways are really not our ways. Just think about it, why would you get a Christian killer to be a Christian evangelizer. But that Gods purpose for Paul.
When Paul found his real purpose, his life was never the same again. He was considered as one of the worst persecutor but he became one of the best apostles. He never discovered how beautiful his life was until he found out what is Gods purpose for his life. Paul could have said no but he choose to say yes!
Finding the beauty and wonders in our life depends on the choices we make. It all depends on our choice. This is one of the best gifts our God gave to us - free will. This is a privilege to all of us living in this world.
So, be thankful that you are given this gift of life. Never say that you wish you were never born because life if a gift and it's wonderful!
I will be forever grateful to Our Creator that I am given the chance to live in this wonderful world of ours.
I feel I need to share this feeling of gratefulness to everyone. I don’t have to but I choose to.
Just like today, while I’m writing this blog. I am staying at my sisters place in California to stay with my parents and to see my relatives. It is fair to say that I’m here for a vacation and I should be doing what a vacationer should be doing, relaxing. But here I am, writing my blog for you but do I really have to? Should I take away my quality time with parents rather than writing a blog for you? After all, I can do this after my vacation...
Again, this is my choice. My mom and my wife are watching "telenovela" while my dad is watching my sisters son, his "apo" (grandson), sleeping and I’m here in the same room writing. What more can I ask for? Life is simply wonderful!
I think this is what we need to do to have a wonderful life. We have to give ourselves to others. Giving is not expensive. Time and talent can be given for free. It's all about giving. For me, having a great life is not about how much you earn, its how much you can share.
To end, let me share you something I saw the other day.
While we were walking around Union Square in San Francisco, we saw a beggar holding a sign that says "Im too ugly to be a stripper too stupid to steel" (I think he meant steal). I didn't want to offend him but I could not help but laugh at his brutally honest sign. Around the corner was another beggar holding another sign that says "Why lie, its for beer!"
I know they are just keeping it honest but seriously, begging for beer? I believe if they use their talents to be greeting card makers for Hallmark, they can go far with their talents! Just like how they made me laugh, I know they can make a lot of people laugh if they use their talents in the proper way.
In life, there are many things you cannot control like natural disasters, accidents, your kids growing faster than you and the endings of a “telenovela” but there are things that you can control like your decision not to beg (for beer) and live a better life, your decision to care, your decision to forgive, your decision to share and your decision to love.
Living a wonderful life depends on your decision.
As another year begins, lets start it right by being nice to each other and stop asking the "what ifs" rather lets wonder on "what would be" for a change.
Think about the good things. If you will be doing something this New Year and you know, in your heart, that you will be successful when you do it, don’t wait... do it!
Believe that we are all gifted to have a beautiful life. When you believe this, whatever the outcome of what we do, we will always find the reason why success or failure happened to us and always remember that it is always for our own good.
I wish everyone a fantastic New Year and may our Lord bless you abundantly with joy, prosperity, love, peace and harmony.
HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL!
God is the greatest!
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Show All » 2011/12 » Till Debt Do You Part
Friday, December 23, 2011Till Debt Do You Part
Ho Ho Ho! By now, I'm sure everybody is all set for Christmas!
Back in the Philippines, I remember starting the day by attending "Simbang gabi" (this is a holy mass celebrated at 4am for 9 days before Christmas eve) and eating the all-time Christmas favorite "puto bumbong and bibinka" (sweet sticky rice and rice cake).
In this season of giving, a lot of folks delight in the hustle and bustle of Christmas shopping. With all these hype, Christmas has become too commercialized that we have forgotten the true meaning of Christmas - LOVE.
I heard on the radio that December is the most stressful month of the year. Just thinking about the traffic and the crowded malls, whew! The irony is people still go to malls to shop for the reason that it relieves their stress.
I have read an article once saying that shopping is therapeutic so treat yourself whenever you get the chance. The things you shop can be a source of self-definition. Nothing feels better than coming home with something new at the end of a hard day. If you can't find a use for what you've bought, you can always add it to your gift closet, right?
I don't know if the author was trying to be sarcastic but really?
I have nothing against people who like shopping and most especially giving. What I'm against is the excessive us of credit when shopping.
People fall into debt for a variety of reasons - buying items for others out guilt, buying out of envy, buying to maintain an appearance, buying because others have it; the list goes on and on.
People define their financial status on how much stuff they have, rather than how much money they actually have. Since this is the basis, people clutter their house with stuff they don't need. Thanks to commercialism and their tactics to make you buy more, people go for it.
Just to give you an example. Did you know that our society today have been brainwashed into actually evaluating a purchase based on how much the payment is, rather than how much the product really is. I don't know if you noticed this but when is the last time you heard a car commercial or a poster add that told you how much the car was? They often say something like this, "You can own this car for $0 down and $199 a month!"
When you get lured by these traps, financial freedom is nearly impossible. In reality, the process in achieving financial freedom is easy. The basic rule is if you don't actually have the money, don't spend it.
But do you have the discipline to do a wise decision?
Having debt is not bad. It only becomes a bad when you indulge yourself and burying yourself into it. You have to manage your debt wisely. If not, you will end up being the slave of your debt. Scripture says, "The borrower becomes the lenders slave." (Proverbs 33:7b)
Do you want to be the "Lenders slave"? If you want to be in debt forever, just follow these super fun steps below. If you are doing these things, stop it because if you don't do something drastically about it, you are on your way to your financial doom.
1) Finance everything
Buying furniture? Finance it! Buying a phone? Finance it! Buying a computer? Finance it! Accumulate as many payments as you can, because the more payments you have, the less disposable income you'll have to use for investing. Live for the now. If you can get a loan or buy something on credit, do it.
When your credit card statement arrives by mail, pay only the minimum payment required. That should do it. Now go have fun!
2) Stop educating yourself about money
Don't waste your time and money talking to financial gurus. Financial advisors tend to recommend that you "save up" for things you want. That's impractical if you want things right now.
Forget about handling your finances with a faith perspective because it takes a lot of effort, time and discipline to do it. As a matter of fact, stop reading this blog and don't forward it to anybody.
Don't spend time reading books about finances.
Financial literacy is for advisors only. Don't waste your brain cells in digesting all these non-sense. You are better off having party with friends.
3) Be obsessed with what people will tell you
People love to look good. Who doesn't want to drive a new car all the time? Car models don't change much year to year, but you can't put a price on that new car smell. Ideally, you should be sporting a new ride every two or three years and financing it (of course!) for the longest term possible. If you do this for long enough, you may end up owing more than your car is even worth. That's okay - you'll look great doing it!
Think about this, why have smaller houses, when you can afford the 40-year mortgage payments on a bigger one? If you're lucky, the market will rise, giving you some extra equity to spend!
Also, always wear expensive and branded clothing, have the latest gadgets, and get the smartest cellphone. These are the key to make an impression.
Always think of what others will say. After all, first impression lasts. To keep yourself in debt, continue to care about how other people think about you.
4) Pay Retail for Everything
Don't negotiate price, because that's embarrassing. Rather than worrying about saving a dollar here and there, just do what is most convenient. Coupons, shopping around, researching that internet and waiting for things to go on sale are such a pain - and why bother for only a few dollars? After all, time is money!
When shopping, you must have a certain name brand. Never buy used, and never shop anywhere but high end malls and boutiques. If you want outdated styles, go shopping in outlets but I'm sure you don't want that, do you?
Don't be cheap. If you don't have money to pay for the good stuff, borrow money for it.
5) Don't think about retirement
We are all too young to think about retirement, right? Enjoy life today! What if you die tomorrow, then you'll never have the chance to enjoy what you have. Forget about having an emergency fund. Insurance, you've got better things to do with your money than buy life insurance. Don't worry because God will take care of you! God will provide!
Instead of saving up for retirement, pull out your credit card and go somewhere nice. There's nothing better than getting away from it all, and you totally deserve it! After all, you want to be able to brag about this for years to come.
Life is too short, enjoy! Think about yourself and yourself alone. When you die, people will be impressed how you live your life to the fullest. The only problem would be, especially if you do not have life insurance, will they have the money to bury you properly?
The basic rule - borrow money as much as you can and spend it! Have fun!
How I wish I could end my blog this way but I can't...
First of all, I'm not saying don't buy a new car, or don't take a vacation, stop having fun or don't shop. You can do these things and yet live a simple life. This is the key to avoid being in debt – live simple.
Just to warn you, never measure the simplicity of a person based on what he has. For example, you can never accuse a man for not being simple because he drives a Volvo. The man behind the wheel maybe as rich as Bill Gates that he can drive a 24k gold Ferrari but he prefers to drive a Volvo.
Get the point? I do apologize for the sarcastic tone of this post, but the point should be clear.
Does any of this strike a chord with you? If it does, believe me, I am not spared. I am simply trying to help everyone see what kind of path we are leading if we don't re-evaluate our financial situation.
You can have a million excuses for why you are broke, but everyone has excuses. Rise above those excuses and take hold of your finances.
How do we rise up to these excuses?
1) Avoid Debt
Pay off all your credit card charges every month to avoid paying high-interest fees. Use only cash for one week. I know this is not a good idea especially if you are earning points with your credit card, but if you are buried in debt, forget about the points. Most people have no idea how much they're really spending until they see the actual cash leaving their hands at a store. Have a budget once a week. For example, your spending money is $300 per week and once that money is gone, stop spending.
2) Be Financially Literate
"Go to the ant, O sluggard, observe her ways and be wise..." (Proverbs 6:6)
Do you know why people choose to be financially illiterate? The first being that they don't have time to learn about money, and the second being a plain disinterest in money matters. Like all new things, becoming financially literate takes discipline. You may not like it, but it's a necessary skill if you don't want to be living paycheck to paycheck.
Devote some time each day to reading about money. If you think that its time consuming, get help from a licensed advisor. In my case, as a licensed advisor myself, I give these free services to my clients or friends.
Don't be scared to attend financial investment seminars. There are a lot of seminars designed for beginners so you won't feel overwhelmed by the information presented.
Try to limit yourself from listening to friends who think they know what to do. Get professional help. Think about this, if you want to know something about cooking, would you listen to the advice of a mechanic?
Some people think they have it all planned. Here's example. I have known people who prefer putting their money on paying off their houses but they're not saving, and so they have this feeling that they're quite wealthy when they have a fully paid house. In reality, unless they're willing to monetize the equity in the house by selling it and moving down dramatically they're not going to be able to take that money out and do anything with it. Considering that fact that real estate investments are still volatile, you may even lose more money in the end. Getting a professional to help you will give you a more balanced approach.
3) Do not listen to other people's opinion
I find it sad for people who conform to the opinion of others. They are not in control of their future. What is important for them is how they will please others.
Learn not to be persuaded or dissuaded by the opinions of other people.
Get guidance from parents, teachers, leaders, mentors but the decision is still up to you. Never let others decide for you. This is one of the many reasons why many people are in debt.
4) Bargain, Coupons and Sale
Why pay for retail when you can get something at a discounted price.
But before going crazy on these bargain sale items, do you really need them or you just want them because it is on sale?
Not knowing the difference can cost you a lot. This is fairly self-explanatory, and differs for each person.
The impulse buy is the worst kind of buy. Pay attention to your spending habits.
5) Plan for your retirement
You set goals for many other things in life, and your money should be no different. You need to know where you're going and have a plan to get there.
It can be as simple as this scripture verse, "On the first day of every week each one of you is to put aside and save, as he may prosper, so that no collections be made when I come." (1 Corinthians 16:2)
It's interesting to watch people, even people with high incomes, and how much they're struggling to set aside money for the future. It's almost crazy!
The individual responsibility still has to be there.
People have asked me, how do I save? People at different stages in their life should save differently. People save differently from another. My style of saving may not apply to you. In my case, I do my savings using several investment tools and at the same time protecting myself just in case something happens to me.
Depending on your time line and your goals and what you have and what you are entitled to, the approach varies. For example, Canada offers a very good medical plan for seniors. They also provide good pension plans compared to other countries. Some people here ignore their retirement planning because these benefits. They say, "I'm going to retire in the Philippines anyway, my pension should be enough and when I get sick, I'll just go back to Canada for my medical." This is just an example and like I said, everybody have different plans.
I may be able to show you the four areas of retirement planning in the future but not on this blog.
Anyway, I have to stop right here. By far, this is the longest blog I ever wrote. I intentionally wrote this long because this is my Christmas gift for you.
You see, it's not all about the expensive gifts. It's the time and effort that you put in order to bless other people. To make others laugh, to give hope to others, to share your love and blessings for me that is more meaningful than any other material things.
I wish you all a debt free life and have a very blessed Christmas!
God is the greatest!
I encourage everyone to help in one way or another, the victims of the recent typhoon in the Philippines. They need our help.
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