Famous People who Stutter Video on You Tube

During the 2015 ISAD Conference I was blessed to share a video on famous people who stutter that I made and it received positive feedback. 

You may click on the link to watch it here:

Or click the ISAD Link: 

http://isad.isastutter.org/isad-2015/papers-presented-by-2015/creative-expression/famous-people-who-stutter/

Paper on International Stuttering Awareness Day 2015-Spread the Word

I was happy and blessed to be the first Filipino to have a paper on the ISAD 2015 Online Conference and was well-received by many people. Thank You, Lord! 

ISAD 2015 – Spread the Word

About the author:  Meanne Mijares is a professional wedding and events planner, founder and president of the Philippine National Stuttering Society (PNSS) and children’s book author, Emma Kali-kaliwete! Emma U-utal-utal! (Left Hander Emma! Stutterer Emma!) which was published in 2014 by ST PAULS Philippines. The book has been shortlisted as a Finalist and was recently awarded a certificate of recognition by the 2015 Cardinal Sin Catholic Book Awards in the Youth and Children category.

October 22 is International Stuttering Awareness Day – You may have probably seen ‘The King’s Speech’ – Colin Firth’s role as King George VI became a worldwide hit and drew a prodigious amount of attention towards stuttering and the painful social stigma that often surrounds the disorder.

International Stuttering Awareness Day began in 1998 as an alliance between speech-language professionals and consumers. It is designed to highlight the impact that stuttering has on the lives of many people around the world.

In an article published in the UK magazine Community Care to mark International Stuttering Awareness Day, Irina Papencheva from the Bulgarian Stuttering Association and Phil Madden from the European Association of Service Providers for Persons with Disabilities demanded a fresh start in attitudes towards stammering, saying that “everyone has the responsibility to be aware, to be sensitive in our conversations and meetings” and to remember that stuttering is “not funny”. (With material from Wikipedia)

International Stuttering Awareness Day also aims to eradicate stammering stereotypes and wrong impressions of so-called ‘cures’ for this speech impediment.   There is no miracle cure for it but abundant information is available and perhaps PWS can learn to thrive even while stuttering.

“Spread the Word – Education, Cooperation, Communication” is this year’s ISAD theme.

“Stuttering” is defined as a speech disorder in which the flow of speech is disrupted by involuntary repetitions and prolongations of sounds, syllables, words or phrases as well as involuntary silent pauses or blocks in which the person who stutters is unable to produce sounds. The term “stuttering” is most commonly associated with involuntary sound repetition, but it also encompasses the abnormal hesitation or pausing before speech, referred to by people who stutter as blocks, and the prolongation of certain sounds, usually vowels and semi-vowels.

According to the Mayo Clinic, researchers are still studying the underlying causes of persistent stuttering. Possible causes of persistent stuttering include:

• Abnormalities in speech motor control.Some evidence indicates timing, sensory and motor coordination, are implicated.
• Stuttering tends to run in families. It appears that stuttering can result from inherited (genetic) abnormalities in the language centers of the brain.
• Medical conditions.Stuttering can sometimes result from a stroke, trauma or other brain injury.
• Mental health problems.In rare, isolated cases, emotional trauma can lead to stuttering.

For many people like us who stutter, repetition is a primary problem. The impact of stuttering on a person’s functioning and emotional state can be severe. This may include fears of having to enunciate specific vowels or consonants, fears of being caught stuttering in social situations, self-imposed isolation, anxiety, stress, shame, being a possible target of bullying, having to use word substitution and rearrange words in a sentence to hide stuttering, or a feeling of “loss of control” during speech. (With material from Wikipedia).

In 2000, the International Stuttering Association implemented the Bill of Rights and Responsibilities for persons who stutter. This provides a framework for establishing a more humane, just and compassionate world for them because in our society, speech is considered one of the most important means of interpersonal communication. This Bill is written to foster attitudes and actions whereby people who stutter are provided the opportunity to realize their potentials and lead successful and productive lives. It recognizes the dual responsibility of listeners and speakers society to create a milieu in which people who stutter can develop their aspirations and talents and to advocate better understanding and to become active partners in their own future.

The Bill of Rights and Responsibilities for Persons who Stutter are as listed as follows:

A person who stutters has the right to:

1. Stutter or to be fluent to the extent he or she is able or choose to be
2. Communicate regardless of his or her degree of stuttering
3. Be treated with dignity and respect by individuals, schools, communities, groups, companies, government agencies, organizations, arts and media
4. Publicly available and accurate information about stuttering
5. Equal protection under the law regardless of his or her degree of stuttering
6. Be informed well about therapy, programs including likelihood of success, failure or relapse
7. Receive therapy appropriate for his or her unique needs, concerns and characteristics from professionals trained to treat stuttering and its related problems
8. Choose and participate in therapy, to choose or not to do so or to change therapy or clinicians without prejudice or penalty

A stutterer has the responsibility to:

1. Understand the listeners or conversation patterns may be uninformed about stuttering and its ramifications or that they may hold different views of stuttering
2. Advise listeners or conversation partners if one needs additional time to communicate
3. Participate in therapy of his or her own choice and to do so in an open, active and cooperative manner
4. Overcome life challenges because of it
5. Regard and treat other people who have problems, disabilities with fairness under the law with dignity and respect regardless of the nature of their conditions.
6. Be conscious that he or she has the power to promote awareness about stuttering and its ramifications.

The event’s official color is sea green.  People who stutter are encouraged to adorn themselves with the color sea green to integrate the traditional ‘peace’ of the colour blue and ‘liberation’ of the color green.

ISAD Founder Michael Sugarman writes: “The color ‘blue’ has traditionally been associated with calm while ‘green’ represents liberty, freedom and justice. The combination of these colors (sea green) for People who Stutter shows the bond between ‘peace’ and ‘liberation’ when finding support and community with other people who understand and share their experiences.

Honestly, I would struggle to cope with stuttering at times so I admire and respect people who stutter and those who help and support fellow stutterers.

Did you know that British Prime Minister Winston Churchill had problems with stuttering?   It’s quite unbelievable because s he was known for giving many inspirational speeches during his time in power. Celebrities like Hugh Grant, Tiger Woods, Bruce Willis, Carly Simon, Lady Gaga, Buffy the Vampire Slayer’s Nicholas Brendon, Rowan Atkinson a.k.a. Mr. Bean, Julia Roberts, Emily Blunt, Nicole Kidman, Jane Seymour, Marilyn Monroe, Elvis Presley, Paul Young, Kylie Minogue, Ed Sheeran, Through the Looking Glass book author Lewis Caroll and noted biblical characters Moses and Jeremiah and many more famous people like them are all wonderful examples of the fact that a stuttering problem does not have to be a hindrance to success. A speech impediment may inhibit your ability to get a sentence out but it is no life sentence.

To all those who stutter and stammer in the Philippines and throughout the world, let us get ready to ‘Spread the Word  through Education, Cooperation, Communication’. Be inspired! Be informed and be involved! Mabuhay!

References

 www.isastutter.org International Stuttering Association.

http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/stuttering/basics/symptoms/con-20032854

http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/stuttering/basics/definition/con-20032854

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stuttering

Click on the link here: 

http://isad.isastutter.org/isad-2015/papers-presented-by-2015/stories-and-experiences-with-stuttering-by-pws/isad-2015-spread-the-word/

Children's Books

Emma Kali-kaliwete! Emma U-utal-utal!
Kwento ni Meanne Mabesa Mijares
Guhit ni Jean Carla Molina
Publisher ST PAULS Philippines
Released: September 2014
Best Book in Youth & Children Nominee/Finalist
9th Cardinal Sin Catholic Book Awards 2015
Available at all ST PAULS branches nationwide
Click here to get your copy! 
https://www.stpauls.ph/products/books/emma-kali-kaliwete-emma-u-utal-utal/

Here is also the book review on Emma Kali-kaliwete! Emma U-utal-utal! by Ms. Sharon Joyce Valdez of All Around Pinay Mama 

http://www.allaroundpinaymama.com/2016/12/emma-kalikaliwete-emma-uutalutal-by-meanne-mabesa-mijares.html

The Precious Pearl Boxes of Blessings
A Christmas Story From Heaven Above
Story by Meanne Mabesa Mijares
Illustrated by Susan Vasquez
Publisher ST PAULS Philippines
Year released December 2016
Available at all ST PAULS branches nationwide

Click here to get your copy!
https://www.stpauls.ph/products/books/the-precious-pearl-boxes-of-blessings/

Si Dina Daldal at Si Mikmik Tahimik
Kwento ni Meanne Mabesa Mijares
Guhit ni Oliver Vergel Par, SSP
Publisher ST PAULS Philippines
Year released May 2017
Available at ST PAULS branches nationwide
Click here to get your copy!
https://www.stpauls.ph/products/books/literature-for-children/si-dina-daldal-at-si-mikmik-tahimik/

Diego Meets the Pope
Story by Meanne Mabesa Mijares
Illustrations by Randy Valiente
Publisher VIBAL GROUP/CHIKITING BOOKS
Year Launched September 2017 
Released  October 2017
Best Children's Short Story Nominee
40th Catholic Mass Media Awards 2018
Email sales@vibalgroup.com for your orders!
Available at all National Book Store Branches Nationwide for only Php 75.00! 

Lala and the Enchanted Cloak
Story by Meanne Mabesa Mijares
Illustrated by Jeca Martinez
Publisher VIBAL GROUP/CHIKITING BOOKS
Year Launched September 2018
Released October 2018
Email sales@vibalgroup.com for your orders!
Available at all National Book Store Branches Nationwide for only Php 100.00! 

Here is also a book review by Ms. Sharon Joyce Valdez of All Around Pinay Mama blog on all the 

children's books written by Ms. Meanne Mabesa Mijares 

Click the link here to view: 

http://www.allaroundpinaymama.com/2018/04/aklat-pambata-meanne-mabesa-mijares.html

WE ARE ALL GOD’S CHILDREN

WE ARE ALL GOD’S CHILDREN: A Song with a Gentle yet Powerful Message

on: May 25, 2017

By Meanne M. Mijares

“In these days, throughout my visit, I have listened to you sing the song ‘We are all God’s children”

These were the words said by His Holiness Pope Francis about the song We Are All God’s Children, popularized by inspirational diva Jamie Rivera, who wrote the lyrics. Noel Espenida created the melody.

The official theme song of the Pope’s recent apostolic visit to our country two years ago made waves and earned many raves. We have been hearing the song a few months before Pope Francis set his foot in our land.

We heard it again during the meeting of families at the Mall of Asia Arena, the youth encounter at the University of Santo Tomas Football Stadium and the final mass at the Quirino Grandstand with more than 6 million people in attendance.

I like this song best because it embodies the main theme of the papal visit: mercy and compassion. Musically, the arrangement and lyrics are simple and easy to memorize not to mention the melody is hummable, if there is such a word. I was impressed with the birit- free sentiments or images that goes with over-all impact of the entire song. It sounded even more heavenly with the voices of the Hail Mary the Queen Children’s Choir.

It assures listeners of the calmness, truthfulness and security of being God’s children and share or channel the good vibes with others. It is a song that will inspire us to be more merciful and compassionate to other people that we encounter in our lifetime. It also reminds us who we truly are in God’s eyes and what we stand for. We should not measure our worth and dignity in material things, in people we deal with, in monetary terms and the like. It is a song with a gentle but powerful message that will inspire us to take up and reclaim our identity and identify, and connect with others.

Apart from that, the Pope’s message included one he has talked about many times: empathy.

He is encouraging us that being God’s children and members of His family, we should treat one another like brothers and sisters most especially by being compassionate and merciful to the least of His brethren. All of us are truly God’s children and there is no exception. Let us always remember that.

“We are all God’s children
We are all the same
He is calling us by name
To help the poor and lame
And learn what life is really for,
It’s to know and love and serve the Lord.”
–Jamie Rivera, We Are All God’s Children

Young people, he said, especially need extra care. “Jesus himself needed to be protected,” he said.

Our Lord Jesus Christ came to us as a child with a complete family with God the Father, His Mother the Blessed Virgin Mary, His foster father Saint Joseph and God the Holy Spirit. His life was always in danger making the Blessed Mother and Saint Joseph very much worried about His welfare.

If our Lord Himself needed to be protected, so is our youth. They should be protected by providing them sound advice, good, quality education and proper guidance so that they will not go astray in their journey to God’s heart.

“We too need to protect, guide and encourage our young people, helping them to build a society worthy of their great spiritual and cultural heritage,” he said.

The papal visit song “We Are All God’s Children” and the messages of Pope Francis delivered in his encounter with the youth in University of Santo Tomas (UST) last January 18 were not written, sung and said for naught. It has somehow stirred many of us to make a difference in the lives of children most especially those who are living in the streets. By being God’s children, we help street kids reach their full potentials. It may probably (through synchronicity) have a hand in guiding our solons to create a bill so timely and relevant. I laud the move made by lawmaker siblings Rep. Rufus Rodriguez (2nd district, Cagayan de Oro) and his brother Abante Mindanao party list Rep. Maximo Rodriguez, Jr., for coming up with House Bill 1440 that provides the establishment of crisis centers for street children in all cities and municipalities in Metro Manila and in every highly urbanized city nationwide where the proposed crisis centers shall have a comprehensive program for homeless children that will provide assistance such as temporary shelter, medical, emergency and feeding programs and basic education. This bill truly deserves our full support for its legitimization and an immediate push in the House of Representatives because it will help provide street children the means to elevate their plight and equip them with livelihood and technical skills and empower them with social skills, according to the bill’s creators. I believe that through the creation of these crisis centers, they will be at par with and will no longer be lagged behind by other children (“Crisis centers for street kids pushed,” Philippine Daily Inquirer Metro 5/21/15)

Our youth and children are the future of our nation so we should help them reach their potential by using their gifts and talents for the greater glory of God.

A society worthy of their great spiritual and cultural heritage will be in order should we warn them of the perils or threats that could endanger them like drugs, alcohol and the like, its cause and effect that it will have on them if they are not cautious enough.

By having a society with a great spiritual and cultural heritage we glorify God who always brings out the best in each of us, simply because we are all His children and He unconditionally loves us and cares for us!

http://www.filcatholic.org/we-are-all-gods-children-a-song-with-a-gentle-yet-powerful-message/

This is the song's official music video brought to you by Star Music 

This is the song's official action music video

PRECIOUS, POWERFUL AND REMARKABLE WORDS OF POPE FRANCIS

on: April 10, 2017

Pope Francis, wearing a yellow raincoat, waves to pilgrims after holding a mass at Tacloban’s airport January 17, 2015. An emotional Francis, wearing a plastic poncho over his vestments to protect him from the wind and rain on Saturday, comforted survivors of Typhoon Haiyan, the Philippines’ worst natural disaster that killed about 6,300 people 14 months ago. REUTERS/Damir Sagolj (PHILIPPINES – Tags: RELIGION ENVIRONMENT)

By Meanne M. Mijares

Two years ago, the apostolic visit of His Holiness Pope Francis was a resounding success. But what it made it more of a success was the words of wisdom that he imparted to us Filipinos-Catholic or not. I believe they will truly leave an indelible mark in our hearts as we do our best to put it into daily practice throughout our lives. My family only watched him on television but the impact of his presence and messages really blessed and inspired us as well.

I have compiled memorable and precious words of Pope Francis that connected well with me which am sure also to others as well. I consider it precious because they are simple but full of kindness and humility which brings power and inspires us to be better Catholics and transformed Christians. His mere presence had more meaning when he spoke these words. It would be wonderful if his words will inspire us to be an empowered people and a progressive nation firmly rooted with his teachings. These are words that does not come from him but from the One who sent him, his Vicar on earth, our Lord Jesus Christ Himself.

Here is a favourite part of his speech he made before Malacanang top officials.

“Reforming the social structures which perpetuate poverty and the exclusion of the poor first requires a conversion of mind and heart… I hope that this prophetic summons will challenge everyone, at all levels of society, to reject every form of corruption which diverts resources from the poor, and to make concerted efforts to ensure the inclusion of every man and woman and child in the life of the community.”

If only our government leaders will heed this call from the Pope, progress and reform will not be far behind.

When he had an encounter with families at the Mall of Asia Arena, I was amazed to see the Pope’s romantic side. Being a true blue Latino, he is no different from us Filipinos because we are also a romantic people.

“How many solutions are found to family problems if we take the time to reflect, if we think of a husband or wife and dream about the good qualities that they have? Don’t ever lose the illusion of when you were boyfriend and girlfriend!”

As a woman, I was very pleased to hear this from our Pope himself. He is aware that women have rights and voices to be heard.

“Women have much to tell us. Women are capable of seeing things from a different angle with a different eye. Women are able to pose questions that men are unable to understand.”

He also has a big heart for the children and the youth and the tears they shed because of the problems and the trials of life.

“When we pose this question to us—why children suffer, why this or that tragedy occurs in life—our response must either be silence or a word that is born of our tears. Be courageous, don’t be afraid to cry.”

“Dear young boys and girls, today’s world doesn’t know how to cry.”

“There are certain realities we only see through eyes that are cleansed through tears.”

This one he really said it best.

“I want to encourage you to offer yourselves passionately to the great work of helping build a better world.”

He never underestimated the power of communication and information. He challenges us to use it wisely and inspires us to use it to become holy.

“Today, with so many means of communication we are overloaded with information. Is that bad? No. It is good and can help. But there is a real danger of living in a way that we accumulate information. We have so much information but maybe we don’t know what to do with that information. So we run the risk of becoming museums of young people who have everything but not knowing what to do with it. We don’t need young museums but we do need holy young people.

This one really got me and will surely heed to it wholeheartedly. What a powerful formula to make a difference! It’s about time that we should use our thoughts to unravel our potentials, to what we can contribute, use our hearts to do our mission and fulfil our purpose with passion and love, and to use our hands with fervor and perseverance so we can accomplish the goals that we set our minds and hearts into.

“Use the language of the mind, the heart and your hands. You must think, feel and do harmoniously.”

He also spoke about the true meaning of love.

“What is the most important subject you have to learn at university? What is the most important subject you have to learn in life? To learn how to love.”

“Real love is about loving and letting yourself be loved. It’s harder to let yourself be loved than to love. Real love is being open to the love that comes to you.”

“It is so difficult to come to the perfect love of God. It is important to let yourselves be loved by him.”

He also challenged us about surprises. Now I understand why he is called a Pope of Surprises.

“Allow yourselves to be surprised by God. Don’t be afraid of surprises. They shake the ground beneath our feet and make us insecure, but they move us forward in the right direction.”

He inspires us to practice the virtue of humility for us to show mercy and compassion to others.

“Let us not think that we know it all.”

I look forward that the words that he imparted to us will spark or ignite change that will reform and transform us not only to be better Filipino Catholics and citizens but also a country focused on God. I am hopeful that this will stir us as a people to this direction.

And finally, here is one more….

“I pray for you always. I pray for the family. I pray that the Lord may continue to deepen your love for the Lord and that His love will manifest itself in your love for one another and the Church… Pray for me. I badly need your prayers. I will depend on them always.”

We were blessed by God’s presence through Pope Francis. May we in return pray for him so that he will always be an effective instrument of God’s love, mercy and compassion.

CHEERS TO OUR TEACHERS!

on: October 05, 2017

by Meanne M. Mijares

On October 5, we celebrate World Teacher’s Day.

Mustafa Kemal Ataturk once said: “A good teacher is like a candle. It consumes itself to light the way for others.” The good teacher knows how to ignite the spark that kindles the love of learning by enriching our lives and future by sharing good quality time with us through their knowledge, wisdom and expertise not only in the subject that they teach but in the words and deeds they say and do and by the values they impart to us.

Next to our parents, we should also honor, respect and love our teachers. For in one way or another, they were part of our lives, touched our hearts. We all have our favorite teachers. Some of them have different characters, personalities and quirks. I have many teachers who influenced me and empowered me to be the best that I can be.

There is one that stood out from the rest. She is Mrs. Conchita Hafong, my elementary Christian Life teacher. She was the one who taught me to never lose grace and faith in the challenges and struggles of life. That statement made a huge impact on me long time ago and that I still follow her advice to this day and in the future. It helped made me let go of the little, petty things in order to focus on the true essentials of life.

I would like to join the many other students thanking their teachers by spending their time planning, guidance and support they gave freely, for making us realize that we have value and significance and capable of making a difference like them in one way or another. That it need not be grand or spectacular but coming from the heart.

If I may add, teachers are also like wine. As they age with time, the wisdom and lessons they have shared with us taste even better, shines and sparkles even much brighter. Our success is theirs too.

We say cheers to them for all the hours they have spent and the attention they gave, the risks and chances they took to help us be the best we can be!

We are grateful to our Lord Jesus Christ for our teachers for they are His instruments and blessings  to inspire shape, break and mold us.

God bless you, our dear teachers!

http://www.filcatholic.org/cheers-to-our-teachers/

MISSING DADDY

CELEBRATING FATHER’S DAY WITHOUT MY DADDY

http://www.filcatholic.org/celebrating-fathers-day-without-my-daddy/

on: June 15, 2017

by Meanne M. Mijares

It will soon be Father’s Day, come June 18 and it has been eight years since my father passed away last June 13, 2009 on the Feast Day of Saint Anthony de Padua. I have been seeing a lot of marketing campaigns about Father’s Day as of late more so when it is fast approaching. There are greeting cards, gift catalogues like the perfect fountain pen, necktie, men’s shirts, fragrances (oh he loves those), dinner plans spread all over traditional media and of course the internet. I used to get excited about it together with my mom and sister as we plan special surprises for Daddy to make him happy and laugh but now it is difficult and challenging as those perpetual marketing campaigns are like little knives and daggers stabbing us front and back because of the fact that he is no longer with us. Honestly, they magnify his absence leading to grief that is just as fresh as if he only passed away yesterday. It’s like an emotional roller coaster ride.

During the month of June, there was a point I began to gnarl at those retail shops and hotels and then ask them if they have the perfect gift for a deceased father? Let me ask you, what greeting card or gift did you last give him? Was it funny, serious, or too mushy? Did he keep it? Did you tell him how much you love and appreciate him? Did you do enough? For us he kept all our gifts, letters and greeting cards and cherished them. He never fails to show his appreciation because he knew we did the best we could.

Losing my father was a shattering life changing experience because my sister and I were close to him. My mother was so heartbroken. During the early years without him we feel the loss was so huge most especially when it is Father’s Day or his birthday, even Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s, or Valentine’s Day or even our own birthday celebrations and parties when he used to be very hands on in planning to make us happy and how it makes him really smile to see us delight after every surprise. But we didn’t cease to celebrate Father’s Day just because he is no longer with us.

The planner in me is ignited with a few simple ideas to share with you to help those who are fatherless make Father’s Day a memorable one still:

Keep his legacy alive.

I have brides and grooms who have lost their fathers even before they could tie the knot. I always encourage them to honor their fathers’ memory by lighting a memorial candle by setting aside a small part of the reception program before they started on the cake cutting and wine toasting ceremonies after they had made their grand entrance as newlyweds. It never fails to move the hearts of their families and friends without shedding tears (only a little) then the joyous celebration of their new life together commences. But there are clients who opted not to and of course, it is understandable.

On Father’s Day, write a post on social media or invite your father’s friends to a get-together (whether formal or casual have it-your way). Have all of his favorite food and music to enjoy throughout the day. You may wish to request them to come with a memorabilia of your father or a story on how he has touched their lives and his loving gestures and affectionate ways or funny anecdotes or expressions. Then after the get together is over, compile them into a memory book or album or a slide show audio visual presentation (movie maker style) tag your invited guests so they can see it and be amazed. A balloon release ritual can be done by using his favorite color and tying pieces of paper containing the event highlights so your father can read it in heaven once it reaches him. Like say, “Your cousin Auntie Jing laughed at the joke you told her when you were in college. It still left her in stitches!” By sharing these heartwarming memories your family, guests and you yourself will realize that you are not the only one who misses him. One of the best ways to healing is by remembering and reminiscing about the good happy times. Remember your father; remember the sorrow, the love, and the lessons only he was able to teach you. Cherish the time you were able to have with him and heal with the memories.

Write him a letter. Or make a Daddy Diary Series.

If you love writing as I do, this is one of the best ways to express your love and feelings to your father long after he is gone. Why not tell him about what has been happening in your life. Share important family news and photos. Give Dad an update on Manny Pacquiao’s fights. Did he enjoy politics? Then discuss what’s going on in Marawi or Resorts World Manila. What was your dad’s favorite teleserye or CNN program? Give him an update. Write about your feelings. Let him know how you are handling your grief and how family and friends are treating you during this sorrowful journey. Was your father ill before he passed? Ask him for a sign that he’s whole in heaven. If you have a favorite photo of him keep it nearby as you are composing your letter. Talk to him, tell him how much you miss him and how you wish he could be a part of all the wonderful things in your life. Believe me, he’s always listening. Writing can be a therapeutic exercise for the grieving. As you are writing, pray and ask God for comfort and healing. Always ask for the Lord’s comfort. He can bring you a sense of peace that no one else can. Father’s Day only happens once a year, but God is with you every day-always!

Thank your mother.

Exodus 20:12 says: Honor thy mother and father. And Ephesians 6:1–2, ESV. (See also Colossians 3:20) — Ephesians 6:1–2 (ESV) says, “Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. ” Honour your father and mother” (this is the first commandment with a promise), “that it may go well with you and that you may live long in the land.”

We honor the memory of our deceased parents by respecting them even in death, giving them the assurance that we will not forsake the surviving parent. Just as they cared for us, we will likewise care for them. Perhaps one of the best ways to celebrate Father’s Day when your father is no longer around is to celebrate and honor your mother. Your mother is doing her best to perform dual roles, she deserves to be recognized. My sister and I may have lost our father, but our mother lost her most beloved and cherished husband, the man who played an important role in raising us well and helping her out. Take into full consideration that your very own mother is probably feeling your father’s absence on this day as well. She is now handling everything alone without any gaps or glitches, continuing to love you unconditionally and offer you praise and appreciation. There are never enough opportunities in life to celebrate your mother for all her sacrifices. This is the best time to shower your mother with some extra love, care and respect that she truly deserves on Father’s Day might have a tremendous impact on her. It will surely make your father in heaven happy as well by taking care of the woman he has only loved to nurture and cherish you as she doubles her efforts to look after you with him no longer around.

Show care and concern for the environment. Plant a tree in your father’s honor.

If your mother is still alive, and she has room in her backyard consider planting the tree there. If you have space in your yard, you can also plant the tree there. When my father was still alive, he bought a small coconut tree from Manila Seedling Bank in Quezon Avenue. But we had to cut it down 6 years after he died because there was a strong typhoon. My mother was afraid that it might fall under our roof and cause damage to our house. Try selecting a tree that fits your father’s personality. My father loves the coconut tree because it is the tree of life. He grew up in Masbate seeing many of it for his family owns a coconut farm. In the future my mom, my sister and I plan to buy a dwarf coconut tree that keeps on bearing fruit since we love fresh white buko meat and water just like Daddy. If you are not exactly a fan of coconut trees and looking for any beautiful tree that grows quickly and provides shade. You may wish to have a tree planting ceremony in your home. Invite family and friends over to gather and recite a few words as they share their favorite memories of your father. After placing the tree in the ground, ask each guest to toss a handful of dirt into the ground and quietly say a prayer before you finish planting the tree. You could also keep a few chairs and a table by the tree and spend time talking to your dad and praying to and for him each day. If you do not have the space to plant a tree in your own backyard, find a local nonprofit, hospice, or church and donate a tree. This is an excellent way to spruce up your community in upholding your father’s memory.

Volunteer on Father’s Day.

My father passed away due to cardiogenic shock and diabetes complications. If your father died after a lingering illness, take time to volunteer at a local hospital, nursing home or church. Your actions big or small will have made a difference in someone’s life. By spending time with someone in a nursing home you are showing them that they are not alone. A quick game of checkers or scrabble or cards with an elderly patient will give them a radiant smile that will last all day. Was there a doctor or nurse who took excellent care of your father? Perhaps you want to visit their office to thank them and bring them you father’s favorite dessert. If you traditionally took your dad out for a meal on Father’s Day, gave him a gift or just spent the afternoon with him watching sports, consider brightening the day for another father by doing the same for him. Make a donation in his name to a nonprofit organization dedicated to your dad’s particular illness. If there is a forum on diabetes in any local hospital organized by support groups, I would gladly give a talk on how our family coped with it and reach out to diabetic patient and their families as well. While your father is definitely irreplaceable, your actions are a gesture of love and kindness in his memory that will make him smile from heaven and be proud of the son or daughter he raised up in the love and fear of God.

My only hope is that may you put these simple celebrations to practice and make it a part of your family traditions.

This Father’s Day your old man may no longer be able to open up a card or a gift from you, but it is important to recognize that you are not celebrating Father’s Day without a father because he is always in your heart-alive. He is with you in the twinkle in your eyes and the comfort of your hugs. When you feel the warmth of the sun on your skin, know it is your father’s smile as he watches you from heaven. He is with you when you reach out to help others and give sound advice. A father’s unconditional love, kindness and wisdom are things that can never be taken away long after he is gone. Our fathers never really leave us. We are a special part of them, and they are forever part of us. The love you have for your father doesn’t fade after he passes.

Remember, the word “father” is characterized and recognized with love, care, guidance and support. That kind of love does not fade after our fathers pass on…because the truth is, our affection blossoms as we mature, evolve and transform. And so our love for them. We have loved them in this life, but more so now they are in the eternal after life.http://www.filcatholic.org/celebrating-fathers-day-without-my-daddy/

A Perfectly Imperfect Family: Film Review on Seven Sundays

on: November 22, 2017

A PERFECTLY IMPERFECT FAMILY
FILM REVIEW ON SEVEN SUNDAYS

By Meanne M. Mijares

SEVEN SUNDAYS

Starring Ronaldo Valdez (Manuel Bonifacio), Enrique Gil (Dex), Cristine Reyes (Cha), Dingdong Dantes (Bryan) and Aga Muhlach (Allan)

Directed by Cathy Garcia-Molina

Produced by Star Cinema

I am fond of good and heartwarming stories about family-whether in book form, theatrical adaptations, musicals and films. One of my favorite past times is watching quality films and Seven Sundays is certainly one of them for it delves deeper connections that are opulently gratifying and fulfilling. I was excited because the movie trailer immediately got my attention with the all-star grouping of actors with fine histrionic chops that were gathered for this film project. No actor upstages his fellow actors in here, they had their own defining and shining moments in the film. Now that I have already seen the movie, I am giving full positive credit to the director and scriptwriter for this exceptional, intensely motivated masterpiece forming results that really made this film even more unique than it already was on a fat gray matter.

Since we Filipinos are family oriented, the story tugs right at the heart strings because it is about love in the family. It is about Manuel, a father who is dying of lung cancer and asks his four children to spend seven Sundays with him before passing on. The four Bonifacio siblings Allan, Bryan, Cha and Dex with families of their own and leading and living their own lives, come together to spend seven Sundays with their beloved patriarch and tried their best to set aside their issues and differences with each other.

But as the story went along, they were able to patch things up for real as they help support one another’s problems most especially when the father bridges the gap between Allan and Bryan to save the family store from financial breakdown and restore to the grandeur that it was to keep the legacy alive and relevant to the times. What the head of family said struck me: “Gusto kong nagtutulungan kayong magkakapatid.”

The exchange of dialogue in every scene was filled with true to life emotionally charged statements and sentiments interwoven through the various stories (or subplots) of the film’s lead protagonists.

This one said by Allan in one scene with his eldest son, Marc is my favorite:

Allan: “Kung naging mabuting kuya ako sa mga kapatid ko, hindi sana ito nangyayari.”

Marc: “Pero Dad, hindi pa naman huli para makabawi kayo sa kanila, diba?”

Allan: “Oo naman.”

We all have families, which is why the story connects and resonates very well with the movie goers. It is rich in experiences that the major characters went through and able to resolve them that somewhat inspires people that no one is alone or left behind because they have a family to back them up. In a world that is complex and broken, you have no one but God through your family. That is why God created families. He is a part of a Family, the Holy Trinity the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit and the Blessed Virgin Mary with her spouse Saint Joseph.

The family has such power because it is bonded by love, and this is why the family accepts and forgives many times and stands through the test of time. It just came to me that maybe the film’s title is Seven Sundays, reminds me of the Lord’s answer to Saint Peter’s question on how to forgive, which is, seventy times seven times. Without it, there would be no healing. The family may be tried and tested in rough and turbulent waters but will remain strong and united as they face it together head on, game on.

Since members of the family have different quirks and personalities, it still manages to reach out to one another to co-exist peacefully and harmoniously despite being imperfect but that is what makes families special because those imperfections and frivolities are the ones that endear themselves to one another, to help, empower, respect and support each other. Sometimes we need to disconnect in order to reconnect and rebuild family ties and come out stronger because of it. The film proves this saying: Ang magkapatid, magaway at magkagalit man magkakabati at magkakampi pa rin sa bandang huli. No one can ever take that away!

The films aptly states that love is spelled as T-I-M-E. Quality time well spent with one another! One of the scenes I find very touching is that when they all headed to the beach and read letters addressed to the patriarch, those that he had not read because he was away from them at the time all tucked inside a large biscuit tin can. I like this scene a lot because it is a bonding activity that is worth doing to forge stronger family ties and connections that are gratifying. I like the balance of the use of social media here as well. Not all too far or too near.

We need not wait for a tragedy or death to happen to be united through force or love or get our act together. The best time is always N-O-W! This film will make you go hug and kiss your loved ones and say I love you to them in our own special way, every day.

What I like about this film is the “bali” to it. Typical of a Filipino film, I suppose. It shows that we are a happy and resilient people. Its final scene at the ABCD’s Family Store, sees a complete chunky unwieldy dance showdown between the Bonifacio family and Mr. Kim with his cohorts, made me felt uneasy and uncomfortable given the intensity of drama prior to it but I presume it is there to end the story on a positive note.

Quoting the patriarch in the film, I rate it as ALL GOOD!

http://www.filcatholic.org/11231-2/

Here is the film's official trailer

SIMPLE YET PROFOUND AND MOVING FILM REVIEW: A DOG’S PURPOSE

FILM REVIEW: A DOG’S PURPOSE

on: December 11, 2017

SIMPLE YET PROFOUND AND MOVING
FILM REVIEW: A DOG’S PURPOSE
By Meanne M. Mijares

Genre:                    Comedy-Drama

Directed by:        Lasse Hallström

Produced by:      Gavin Polone

Screenplay by:   W. Bruce Cameron, Cathryn Michon, Audrey Wells,

Maya Forbes and Wally Wolodarsky

Based on:              A Dog’s Purpose by W. Bruce Cameron (Novel)

Starring:               Dennis Quaid (adult Ethan Montgomery), Britt Robertson (young Hannah), Josh Gad (voice of Toby, Bailey, Ellie, Tino, Waffles and Buddy.), KJ Apa (young Ethan), Juliet Rylance, (Elizabeth Montgomery, Ethan’s mother) John Ortiz (Carlos Ruiz), Kirby Howell-Baptiste (Maya), Peggy Lipton (adult Hannah), Bryce Gheisar (8 year old Ethan)

Narrated by:      Josh Gad

Production Company: Amblin Entertainment, Reliance Entertainment,

Walden Media and Pariah Entertainment

Distributed by:  Universal Pictures

This film is a great treat to all dog lovers out there, no doubt. This is the only film about dogs and their humans I’ve watched that really made me shed lots of tears after Babe, The Gallant Pig, Bwakaw and Hachiko. In fact, I have almost consumed two rolls of tissue then drank 2 glasses of water afterwards! It’s true, absolutely no exaggerations, here! So many happy and bittersweet memories of my beloved pet Cookie (crossbreed of Japanese Spitz and Aspin), her daughter Chloe, her grandchildren Hugo and Heidi and her sister Miranda came back. They all have crossed the Rainbow Bridge and surely enjoying Heaven to the hilt. How I miss them so- most especially my Cookie. I had her for 10 years until she passed on due to old age. I could go on and on saying how much they are loving and adorable.

The film depicts the unbreakable bond between a devoted dog and his beloved master and is indeed an affirmation that brings a smile of appreciation, a seed of inspiration and a rejuvenated wonder of the inscrutable wisdom of Our Lord has the moment He created them. All these are gentle and heartwarming reminders how blessed and fortunate we are to have them in our midst!

Having a dog is truly a blessing and helps one become a better person. They enrich our lives in so many ways. In case you may not know, they imbue holiness and instill good values into our lives. They teach and inspire us to be loveable by loving us unconditionally. There is also a saying that I hold dear in my heart: “Heaven is a place where all the dogs you have ever loved run to greet you.” It keeps me going and inspires me to do better each day.

Deep down inside their quirky characteristics, personalities and crazy antics, they are God’s creation and thus, they have value and worth. They walk with us and become part of our life journey, share our experience through trustworthy and faithful companionship, strong protection and reliable concern.

Dogs can intuit medical problems and conditions which state of the art machines cannot. They expose criminal activities, provide rescue, therapeutic and rehabilitation services. Dogs perform acts of bravery which we humans cannot and how they do it without hesitation for their owners and strangers. The film showed how Bailey, a Retriever dog, rescued Ethan’s family from a house fire caused by a spiteful classmate as he throws a lit firecracker as a prank then Bailey attacks Todd, who is apprehended by the police; then as Ellie, a German Shepherd police dog, by saving the life of a kidnapped girl from drowning as she jumps into a scuttling river and saves a kidnapped girl from drowning, and is then critically shot to death during a melee with the armed kidnapper who was just a moment away from killing an unwary Carlos, a decorated cop, her master.

Now as a Pembroke Welsh Corgi, he forms a bond with college student Maya who names him Tino. She is a lonely gal, which Tino, having bonded closely with her, realizes, and makes his purpose to find her some happiness until she ends up marrying Al and have 3 children who all love and adore him. As he lies dying of old age, Tino thanks Maya for giving him one of his best lives.

As Waffles, a St. Bernard-Australian Shepherd mix, he was taken in by a rude and negligent urban couple. Waffles is being left in the cold with hardly any food and water until he was eventually dumped in an abandoned lot to fend for himself and reluctantly sets off in search of a new life. This part really made me mad because it reminds me of the terrible cruelty stray dogs suffer from the hands of heartless people. I am grateful that there is an Animal Welfare Act in the country so those who threaten the lives of poor innocent dogs or any creature will be put behind bars.

As Buddy, eventually he joyfully reunites with his old master Ethan, who is now in his 50s, living a solitary life and seemingly broken in spirit at his grandparents’ old farm, which he now owns and runs. This part of the film reminds me that one day we will be reunited with our Creator who made us fearfully and wonderfully in His image and may we be in the state of grace when that happens. It reminds me too of what Our Lord said: “I know My sheep and they know Me” when I watched the scene with his beloved childhood pet Bailey performing a few tricks and responding to main phrases that were known only to the two of them decades ago.

Now I know why dogs are called as such because when we invert the word it is spelled as GOD. They are angels in disguise and yes, in fur. They are heavenly envoys showing us a glimpse of Our Lord’s unwavering, benevolent and triumphant love and the purpose of life according to the film, is about having fun; saving others; not getting caught in the past or regrets; finding someone to be with; living for today and be here now. And if I may add: living life to the full.

Dogs remind us to be true to ourselves and the greatest gift they can ever give us is that we are dearly loved-forevermore. That is something we should truly and always cherish. Be sure to have a box of Kleenex tissues and glasses of water when you get to watch this film.

I rate this film a perfect score of high five paws! And I am sure my beloved pets Cookie, Chloe, Hugo, Heidi and Miranda would agree as they wag their tails and jump the highest they ever could.

http://www.filcatholic.org/film-review-a-dogs-purpose/

Here is the film's official trailer in HD

TAKE UP YOUR CROSS

on: April 06, 2017

by Meanne M. Mijares

And he said to all, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me.”
Luke 9:23 English Standard Version (ESV)

The Cross of our Lord Jesus Christ stands for our faith in Him and His mystical body, the Church. He carried the cross to redeem and save us from sin and moral decay. This coming Holy Week, let us take the road where the Lord walked all the way up to Calvary.

Crosses, big or small, come in so many forms. It could be a sickness, family problem or crisis, bullying in school or workplace, a failed marriage, divorce, annulment, broken family, the pain of heartbreak and coping with lost opportunities, loved ones. The list goes on.

Our Lord Jesus carried the cross not only to save us from eternal punishment because of our sins but He also expressed His oneness with us in times of our suffering (emotionally, physically, financially and even spiritually). He sees and knows the pain we feel. He fell thrice on the way to Calvary. Our crosses take a heavy toll on us. We get stressed out and drained, even reaching the point of giving up and losing hope then almost breaking down into depression.

Had the Lord given up when He could easily do right there and then, we are all doomed to die and receive the terrible punishment that we so deserve because of our sins. But He still thought of us that is why He did not give up on us. And for that He conquered death because He was focused and determined to attain salvation for us! He gloriously rose from the dead!

We are Christians, followers of Jesus Christ. He carried the Cross. And so should we. By carrying our daily crosses, we take part in His glory, we partake of eternal life.

Jesus is with you as you take up and carry your cross. He will give you the strength and endurance that you need through and through.

Never be ashamed of the Cross. Embrace the Cross. Carry the Cross. Because our Savior is in the Cross! He died on the Cross! Remember how much He suffered for the love of you and me.

Remember, In hoc signo vinces “In this sign you will conquer”

When you follow Jesus, you will conquer and overcome all your crosses in life!

Now, as you take up your cross, keep your head up and look to Christ Jesus!

Let the Lord Take Control!

on: April 05, 2017

by Meanne M. Mijares

The Gospel according to John (11:1-17) last Sunday was about our Lord Jesus raising Lazarus from the dead. For me, the turning point of the story was when the people were holding their breath when the Lord Jesus called out, “Lazarus, come forth!” This I believe that our Lord is in full control of our lives and in everything.

He is always there for us ready to comfort and guide us through it all. All we have to do is to simply believe in Him and He will do the impossible for us. He sees and knows everything more than we do. Because if we see and know everything, I am afraid that we are not capable of feeling and handling them altogether! That would be overwhelming and make us stressed out that we already forgot to live as we go through life! But only the Lord can. So it is better to leave it all up to Him.

There are things in life that are beyond our control-crimes, sickness, accidents, terrorism, death and even heartbreak. These situations can bring either the best or the worst in us. They can either cripple or paralyze us or may ennoble us to rise above trials of this sort.

If we wallow in too much self-pity, then we are not only building walls to isolate ourselves from the world, people most especially those who are dear to us but also burying ourselves in tombs of grief, pain, anger, fear and all sorts of negative emotions. It ain’t worth it! The Lord did not create us to be that way. He has something better in store! He wants us to evolve and be fruitful not to stagnate or deteriorate. Do not be an obstacle to the blessings that He has for each of us.

Today the Lord is calling us to come out of our tombs and walls that we have built and buried ourselves into for the longest time. He is calling us to leave these walls and tombs behind in order to move forward and live life with Him the excellent way He intended for us.

The Lord is calling you to rise from your fears, sorrows and pain. He will help you live a life with His guidance and direction.

Make a resolve from then on to LET THE LORD TAKE CONTROL! LET HIM MAKE ALL THINGS NEW FOR YOU-new blessings, direction, potentials, talents you never thought you had! Then sit back and bask in all the blessings that He is going to pour upon you!

And you will never be the same again!

Now, are you ready to come out of your tomb and break free from your walls and let Him take control?

http://www.filcatholic.org/let-the-lord-take-control/