RUNNING FOR GRACE FILM REVIEW

 

Heartwarming and Heartbreaking 

RUNNING FOR GRACE FILM REVIEW

on: March 15, 2021

by Meanne M. Mijares

I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.

(2 Timothy 4:7 NIV)

And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.

(1 Corinthians 13:13 NIV)

CAST

Ryan Potter as Jo

Matt Dillon as “Doc”

Jim Caviezel as Doctor Reyes

Olivia Ritchie as Grace Danielson

Nick Boraine as Mr. Danielson

Rumi Oyama as Miss Hanabusa (film’s narrator)

Juliet Mills as Grace’s Grandmother

Stelio Savante as The Mayor

Cole Takiue as Young Jo

Directed by      David L. Cunningham

Written by       David L. Cunningham and Christian Parkes

Cinematography           Akis Konstantakopoulos

Production company   Kona Snow Pictures

Distributed by Blue Fox Entertainment

Genre: Drama and Romance

THE STORY

Set in 1920s Hawaii, the film tells the story of Jo (Ryan Potter), an orphaned biracial boy who’s despised by the people in the village where he lives. But his fortunes shift when he’s adopted by a kindhearted and generous village doctor (Matt Dillon) who puts Jo to work as a medicine runner all over the mountains and plantation fields where his patients live and work. When a series of events brings Jo together with Grace (Olivia Ritchie), the daughter of a rich plantation owner, an illicit attraction grows. Unfortunately, Grace’s father is intent on marrying her off to Dr. Reyes (Jim Caviezel), all the better to fill cash into his troubling financial resources. Or so he thinks.

POSITIVE MESSAGE

Love knows no limits. Kindness and care augment the giver as much as the receiver. Storylines about racial discrimination clearly show how damaging it can be, are concerned to its victims. I like how the themes centering on courage and perseverance are presented.

ROLE MODELS

Jo is oppressed and mistreated because of his mixed-race heritage. Dr. Lawrence is a kindly man who loves and accepts Jo just as he is; Jo is a valiant character who behaves nobly. There are other characters portraying monotonous villains, and Grace doesn’t have much to do in her portrayal.

VIOLENCE

Mr. Danielson and Doc die in non- gruesome but sometimes violent ways; their dead bodies can be seen (they look mostly uninjured). Koji, Mr. Danielson’s accountant takes poison after he’s financially in dire straits and begs to be allowed to die but he doesn’t; another character calls his actions a hara-kiri, an “honorable suicide.” I am wondering what does that mean in the context of suicide in Japan? Should it be seen as honorable? A vendor slaps little Jo who steals a dumpling; another Japanese man knocked out by Doc so he can treat his sick wife suffering from Spanish flu. A young Jo loses his mother, is seen mourning beside her body.

LANGUAGE

Swearing is rare and included the words “hell,” “damn,” and “bastard.” Many language usages regarding race and class: “half-breed,” “haole,” “Orientals,” “Jap,” “country doctor,” “backwoods country hick,” “Nip-lovers.”

DRINKING, DRUGS AND SMOKING ISSUES

Doc puffs out cigarettes habitually. Dr. Reyes smokes cigars and drives a car filled with liquor bottles, most probably drinking while he drives; out of the car, he slips drinks from a flask.  Grace’s grandmother is referred to as “guzzling gin”; she also drinks from a flask. Jo is given alcohol by Dr. Reyes and then disputes his authority figure.

SEX

Sexual content in the film is limited to significant looks and a single kiss.

CONCLUSION

Slow-paced and stereotypical, this story of forbidden but true love in plantation-era Hawaii isn’t without its appealing qualities — mainly, a stellar cast and positively stunning shots and imagery of the island setting. The key problem here is the limitation of the love story keeping Running for Grace together. Yes, Grace and Jo are both young and eye-catching. It’s clearly obvious to see why they’re attracted to each other. But although they swap heaps of glances, they’ve barely spoken barely a dozen of words to each other by the time they hug for the clichéd happy-ending kiss that’s apparently so poignant that the entire cast gushes into tears. This love story is one of my favorites because it is done with good taste and no need for nudity to express their love for one another. The movie presents powerful messages about the evils of racism, as well as the unmatched power of love and underscores the value of courage, perseverance, kindness, and care.

The rest of the plot is no less delicate: Every plot development and character bare is wired ages in advance. It’s clear from our first sight of Dr. Reyes that he’s a con artist who’s up to no good; he might as well be fidgeting his mustache when he casts his eye on Grace. It’s hard not to applaud a story about a loathed outsider who succeeds against all odds through heroic deeds, and this movie does have its heart in the proper place.

Overall, I give the film a rating of 4 out of 5 stars.

http://www.filcatholic.org/heartwarming-and-heart-breaking-running-for-grace-film-review/

Launching of Video Series HEARTBREAKTHROUGH HUGOT TALKS Special Valentine Presentation Q & A with Meanne

Claretian Publications recently launched Heartbreakthrough Hugot Talks featuring the book Heartbreakthrough 8 Steps To rising Above Heartbreak-The Lord's Way on February 14, 2021, on its official YouTube Channel. 

Meanne answers your questions about heartbreak, love, life, and relationships. 

The book is available at the Claretian Flagship Bookstore, Lazada, and Shoppee. Prices vary. 

 

Claretian Publications' Between The Pages feat. Heartbreakthrough is on YouTube!

 Ms. Meanne Mabesa Mijares's Heartbreakthrough book is among the featured books for Claretian Publications' online book promotion project titled, "Between The Pages" video book trailers. It covers the following questions: "What question is the book trying to answer?" and "How did the author come up with this question?"

Here are some behind-the-scene photos that were taken by Pam Mijares, the sister of the author at the Claretian Studios.  

Shooting in progress! Good take! Thank You, Lord Jesus! 

Meanne with the Claretian  Ads and Promo team headed by Ms. Geraldine Vireynato with Jason and Roy of the IT Department 

Meanne getting ready 

Here is the official video book trailer which can be seen on Claretian Publications' YouTube Channel which was launched last November 16, 2020. for Claretian and Lazada's Marvelous Mondays promo. 

Here is also the official trailer with Meanne's fellow Claretian authors Bro. Duane Cartujano and the late Msgr. Fernando M. Gutierrez. 

An in-depth look at the author and story behind the "Heartbreakthrough"

Author: Ms. Meanne Mabesa Mijares

Published by: Claretian Publications

An in-depth look at the author and story behind the "Heartbreakthrough"

WEBSITE:

http://www.claretianpublications.com/

FACEBOOK:

https://www.facebook.com/claretianpub...

https://www.facebook.com/ccfi.claretian

LAZADA:

https://www.lazada.com.ph/catalog/?sp...

SHOPEE:

https://shopee.ph/claretianpublications

http://claretianpublicationsbookstore.com/books/pastoral/heartbreakthrough

5 Powerful Bible Verses To Overcome Fear of COVID-19

 

LOCKED DOWN BUT NOT OUT! Five Bible Verses to Get You Through COVID-19

on: September 15, 2020

By Meanne M. Mijares

Since the COVID-19 pandemic started last March 2020, we were all deeply trembled to the core with worry, fear, panic, and yes, even depression. Most of us tend to plunge into despair, that is, Satan’s deadly weapon he can use against us, as economic and financial uncertainties and stories about doom and gloom get the better of us. In these trying times, we ought to remind ourselves of the providence, love, and power of God. The more we should place our confidence and trust in Him whatever crisis we may face in our lives. Today, there are lockdowns, social and physical distancing, supply shortages, uncertainties that make up the “new normal”, making us feeling paralyzed, stressed, anxious, or overwhelmed with the complexity this pandemic brings us, but what does the Word of God (The Bible) tell us today?

“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore, we will not fear.” – Psalm 46:1-2

Fear is one of the intense feelings most of us Catholics and Christians feel right now. We ask ourselves, “Why is this happening? Where is the hand of God in all of this? Why did He let this get really bad? Right now, we don’t have the answers because can hardly think straight due to anxiety and confusion. This verse though, reminds us that God is with us. We can always seek solace in His arms and He will give us the strength to keep moving forward. We need not fear what would happen to our world because He is on our side. He’s got us!

“For we walk by faith, and not by sight.” – 2 Corinthians 5

The coronavirus is unseen but deadly. Yet, we fear its intense power and ability to wreak havoc in our lives. Our Lord Jesus Christ, though, is also invisible to us. As Christians, we know that Our Lord Jesus lives in us. If so, then why are we treating this invisible enemy as if it is bigger and mightier than God?! Fear seems to be the guilty party. We begin to cast our doubts on the power of God to help us survive this pandemic, and we believe what we see and hear on the news instead most especially the health bulletins reporting the new confirmed cases, news about the testing of possible vaccines, and fretting about the “flattening of the curve”. We think this has no end already. This passage tells us to keep our faith stronger during this period. Rest assured that Our Lord Jesus Christ is working quietly to help us overcome this pandemic, and He will never leave us.

“The Lord will give strength to His people, the Lord will bless His people with peace.” – Psalm 29:11

We may be implementing social distancing as we interact with one another today but we should get closer to God. Most of us miss going to mass, visit the Adoration Chapel, and attend church activities and services. It is so hard to stay faithful when you feel isolated from our Christian and Catholic brethren. God certainly knows this which is why He is giving us the strength and confidence we need. He rewards us with His peace. You are certainly not alone in this struggle. I believe it is still best to reach out to your family and friends, have an online watch party, a live stream of a homily on the Internet, or do your own Bible devotional (Claretian’s Bible Diary is the best companion!). This will truly help you feel connected to others and to God and He will give you strength.   

“Do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.” – Matthew 6:34

When stuck in quarantine, many of us are worried about what the future will hold for us. You wonder as to when will the children be back to regular school or when the country’s industry sectors will reopen. This is a normal fretfulness to have because it is such an extraordinary time although God tests us to stay present at the moment when we can, for as long as we can. While you are anxious about the future, your child may be grappling with school work that needs your immediate attention. This passage tells us not to get too wrapped up in what may possibly happen that you forget to be aware of what is currently going on. Remember, tomorrow’s trouble cannot be fixed today as in right now, so let us humbly ask God for His guidance in living each day as it comes.

“Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God.” – Romans 13:1

Many people, Catholics or not, are appraising how the world’s governing bodies are taking action on the COVID-19 crisis. They screech and bare themselves on social media saying that the government is doing a lot or too little to help work this problem out. In spite of this, God wants us to yield and listen to our government officials. There are guidelines our leaders have put out that are helping to save the lives of our brothers and sisters throughout the world. Yes, they seem inconvenient and uncomfortable but we have to protect those who are the most vulnerable or susceptible to this disease. Let us be good examples to those who are around us. This is our way of showing respect for the Lord’s authority.

The COVID-19 predicament has completely paralyzed our world into something we hardly recognize. It is a very crucial and terrifying time to live in but rest assured that God will never leave nor forsake us. He is still filling each one of us with His generosity, love, grace, mercy, strength, and guidance during this very difficult time. Let us trust Him and His plans for our world, for all of us, and take things one day at a time. By reflecting on these Bible verses, dear readers, you will surely find more inner peace.

http://www.filcatholic.org/locked-down-but-not-out-five-bible-verses-to-get-you-through-covid-19/

FULFILLED AT 50: Reflections of a Golden Girl

on: September 03, 2019

Meanne M. Mijares

“Fire is the test of gold; adversity, of strong men.”

― Seneca

September 1^st was the day I turned fifty. That’s right. 5-0. It was indeed, a joyous celebration, I must say. When I woke up on that Sunday morning, I smiled and thanked God for the 50 years of my life He had blessed me with. I pray that He sees me through the next 50 years! I always love counting my blessings. It’s a full-time job, I tell you. But I’m so glad to do it because I already have struck gold!

To celebrate and honor the 50 years of my life, these 50 Day Challenges have inspired me to write down 50 things I am thankful for.

My hope is to challenge you, dear FilCatholic readers, to look for the blessings in your very own life.

I know life can be really hard: there are so many challenges we face in this broken world. But, I would challenge you, even among the financial woes, the illness, the loss, the pain, and the struggles of life, to see the blessings that have been given upon us by God.

Counting our blessings changes our stance on life!

I challenge you to write a list of your own 50 blessings. In the meantime, here are mine:

1. Life – the very fact that I woke up today and to celebrate my birthday is a blessing.

2. Faith – I tremble to think of where and who I would be without my faith in Jesus Christ.

3. Family – My eyes fill with tears when I think of the family God has blessed me with. They support us wherever we need to go in life.

4. My Church Community – there is something deep and beautiful about worshipping, serving, and praying with fellow believers.

5. Friends – My friends are some of the most kind, loving, generous, and faithful people I know. You know who you are guys! Friends encouraged us and kept us grounded.

6. Food – While attempting to keep us full of good food has its challenges, we are abundantly blessed to not know hunger. It makes me really happy especially when we find a great new food spot. My family loves eating out and it adds to more good times and happy memories.

7. Water – clean, abundant, hot, cold water

8. Forgiveness – Oh, how great is the forgiveness of our heavenly Father! And of others.

9. Grace, Not Perfection – It is all about grace. We do not really deserve it most of the time, though but it always abounds. 

10. Hope – Christ in me, “the hope of glory” ~Colossians 1:27 Remember there is always hope even in the darkest and critical times.

11. My Home – Home is where I spend my days with my family and dogs, where I learn what it is to care for my family, and where I feel at peace.

12. God’s Gifts – God has gifted each of us with talents so that we may minister to others for our growth, their benefit, and His glory.

13. Love – “And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love” ~1 Corinthians 13:13 (NJKV) Love of God and neighbor should always be in our hearts, at the very core of our existence.  

14. Trials – This is probably something not often found on a gratitude list, but I believe that God uses trials to grow us, and for that I am thankful. (James 1:2-3) Heartbreak, bullying and depression made me stronger and tough but I know how to empathize with others as I lend an ear to them and a shoulder to cry on.

15. Prayer – That the God of the universe only desires continual communion with us amazes me.

16. God’s Word – Much like my faith, I would be lost without the word of God. It truly is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.

17. Laughter – I love hearing people laugh, especially my family and my friends. It truly lifts up my mood. Except when they mock other people, of course.

18. Joy – Not just happiness as a result of circumstances, but experiencing the true joy of the Lord.

19. Freedom – to worship, to serve through my writing, events planning and motivational speaking and most importantly, freedom in Christ

20. Pets – Like furry family members, our beloved dogs often bring us great companionship. Their cuddles and licks are so priceless!

21. The Beauty of Creation: fresh air, fall leaves, starry skies, ocean waves. God’s creation is as endless as it is majestic and beautiful.

22. Knowledge & Wisdom– I am so thankful for the things I have learned in this life.

23. Electricity & Internet – both only need to be out for a few hours to realize how much we rely on them

24. Modern Conveniences and Technology – As much as I love the simple life, I am thankful for the appliances and gadgets that make my life easier.

25. Giving & Receiving– both are blessings in immeasurable ways

26. Health & Modern Medicine – I know there is much to be desired in this area, but I am thankful nonetheless.

27. Wild Flowers – they are simply beautiful, especially when carried into the house by a loved one or friend

28. Our garden-I feel so refreshed and relaxed as I go to our garden to unwind and smell the fresh air. I also love looking at our greens and colorful flowers most especially our gumamela and birds of paradise.

29. My Local Library – movies, books, music, magazines to learn and to escape. Netflix and KBO too!!!!  

30. Dirty Dishes – though I tire of washing them, they are a reminder that I am blessed to have them, a kitchen, hot water, food, and a family to dirty them, hahaha!

31. Walks with Nature-I can’t help but marvel at God’s beautiful creations and it enables me to reflect, pray and helps me reach out to people at the same time. It is so humbling. 

32. A good night’s sleep-Don’t we all need this after a long busy day?! It’s a great way to recharge.

33. E-books-most especially the novels by Chinese American author Lisa See, Nicholas Sparks, Malaysian novelist Tan Twan Eng, and Kevin Kwan I can read without carrying loads of them when I travel.

34. My Mentors. Whether it’s about events planning or writing or more so learning to live a more Christ- centered and purpose-driven life, I’ve always had various people who were pouring into my life, and I’m grateful to God for them.

35. Flexible Schedule-I can work double or triple in a week then take the next week off.

36. Notebooks and pads-when my laptop and smart phone isn’t turned on yet, I would love scribbling down my thoughts and feelings down. When I read the papers, I make sure I have them with me. And when I have thought of a great idea, I make sure I write it down immediately so it would be more convenient to get back to it once I make use of it already. 

37. A long, warm bath-It takes out all the stress from work and other outside sources. Feeling refreshed after is precious!

38. Warm milk-It helps me sleep peacefully and feeling nourished the next day.

39. Beauty stuff- My facial scrub and lotions that exfoliates, cleanses and detoxifies. But the best beauty secret for me is a good heart and helpful hands.

40. Flip flops (and other comfortable shoes) where my feet feel so light and free!

41. My perfumes and colognes-They give me that extra lift to feel good and confident. But the best perfume for me is a warm and happy smile that uplifts people who may be going through tough times.

42. Random Acts of Kindness-Practicing it every day can really go a long, long, long way.

43. Change. We can always grow and change. We don’t have to stay where we’re at.

44. Savings. It allows us to follow our dreams and take many more risks

45. Being debt-free. It allows us to live more freely and give generously.

46. Manicures and Pedicures. It is so relaxing and a good way to squeeze in girl time.

47. Honest conversations. How truly refreshing it is to just let your guard down and talk.

48. Local Adventures (out of town trips). Learning that there is always something to discover no matter where you are. They say, “It’s more fun in the Philippines!”

49. Lists. Making them and checking things off lists are my favorite.

50. You. Thank you, FilCatholic readers for taking the time to read the words that God has placed upon my heart.

It is very easy to take many wonderful things in our lives for granted. If we can only learn to look at life a little differently,  I believe it is possible to find an abundance of things to be thankful for.

I will give thanks to the Lord with my whole heart;

I will recount all of Your wonderful deeds.

I will be glad and exult in You;

I will sing praise to Your name, O Most High ~Psalm 9:1-2 (ESV)

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for blessing us abundantly above and beyond all that we can imagine. Please help us to change our eyes that we might see the many gifts that surround us. In Your precious name, we pray. Amen.

http://www.filcatholic.org/fulfilled-at-50-reflections-of-a-golden-girl/

Romantic, Humurous, and Cinematic All At Once: Hello, Love, Goodbye

Romantic, Humorous, and Cinematic All At Once A FILM REVIEW ON ‘’HELLO, LOVE, GOODBYE’

on: August 27, 2019

(courtesy of Star Cinema)

Meanne M. Mijares

“Love between man and woman cannot be built without sacrifices and self-denial.”

– Pope John Paul II, Love and Responsibility

Cast

Kathryn Bernardo as Joy

Alden Richards as Ethan

Jameson Blake as Edward

Maymay Entrata as Mary Dale

Kakai Bautista as Sally

Joross Gamboa as Jhim

Lovely Abella as Gina

Jeffrey Tam as Carlo

Maxine Medina as Tanya

Jerome Ponce as JM

Maricel Laxa-Pangilinan as Lita

William Lorenzo as Celso

Lito Pimentel as Mario

Director Cathy Garcia-Molina

Screenplay Carmi S. Raymundo and Cathy Garcia-Molina

Distributed by Star Cinema

Rating PG

STORY

I describe it as a heartwarming story that pays tribute to our Overseas Filipino Workers’ (OFW) kababayans and the featured characters here are millennial.

Diligent and selfless Joy works as a Hong Kong domestic helper (DH). To add up to her earnings, she also actively involved in her buy-and-sell business every Sunday at the Central, and even takes on a second job at night as a waitress. She hustles day in and out just to provide for her family back in the Philippines.

She needs funds not only to send back home, but also to finance her dream of flying off to Canada to practice nursing, her original course.

When she met and fell in love with free-spirited Ethan, an enigmatic bartender, she was faced with a dilemma whether to stay for love, or leave to follow her dreams of a much better life and future for her family. As a bartender, Ethan prepares drinks and juggles women with hardly any regard for making deeper connections.

Because of her intense dedication to her family, she becomes a miserable person solely focused on fulfilling her dreams of putting her family back together again. Even if she was in the company of her eccentric fellow DH friends, Joy barely smiled as a no-nonsense workaholic where she valued every second of the day was spent in the quest of earning her keep.

Alden as Ethan was actually deglamorized in such a way he did not exactly look like the Alden of Aldub fame. Even then, though, the camera adores his face to the point that there was hardly any angle to him no matter how simple his clothes look or how desolate his hair is. Though unexpected, the team-up delivered with a rom-com that has just the right slice of life on top. Kathryn’s serious side is just the right foil to Alden’s cheeky behavior, and this push and pull makes for great banter and participating discourse.

Because Kathryn was always in serious heavy drama mode practically all throughout the film, it was up to Alden to stir up the romance part of the reckoning. This movie was actually more of a vehicle for Alden to showcase his flexibility in acting to a new set of Kapamilya supporters who were not quite too familiar with him and his body of work before. He was really the one who lightened up the mood of the heavy scenes with his comic jaunts. On the other end, he was also very in force in those touching heavy dramatic scenes with his family, as well as those scenes where Ethan was trying to convince Joy to stay with him in Hong Kong.

This movie has a beautiful cinematography, indeed! As with other Filipino rom-coms, the romantic musical soundtrack also set the proper mood of their scenes. Director Cathy Garcia-Molina is really a certified expert on how to produce romantic quivers and trembles between her actors. No matter how tawdry the lines may seem on paper, when you hear them spoken in the actual scene, they work so marvelously!

The title of the film itself already pretty much gave us an essence of the story, but we keep on to enjoy the chemistry of Kathryn and Alden as a new love team,  as well as to find out what Joy’s final decision was going to be concerning her dilemma.

The story also brought to life the various real problems that our OFWs experience in Hong Kong, especially with regards to sacrificing family unity and jeopardizing illegal activities for their dreams of acquiring material wealth. This is a movie that tells us that there are tough choices we need to make, and these choices need to be respected in the name of love.

Hello, Love, Goodbye didn’t have any scene that was unnecessary or unwarranted. As I write this review, I see myself remembering the standout scenes and how each one made me feel. It’s truly a blessing when a film has that effect on its viewers, I must say.

This film made me feel a gamut of emotions that after watching it, I find it quite hard to process my own feelings. In fact, I tried to recall my favorite scenes—and there are too many to count!

It reminds me of another great film about OFWs that came out two decades ago—Anak, which starred Vilma Santos, Carlo Aquino and Claudine Barretto. Like Anak, Hello, Love, Goodbye depicts the plight of our Filipino migrant workers—the troubles they encounter, the sadness of being away from family, the sacrifices they have to make to be able to give their families back home a better life, and the anxiety it puts on their families. This film is lighter focusing more on the love blossoming between Joy and Ethan.

Also, the story was brilliant. There are so many quotable quotes from this movie! Here are some that I would like to share:

“And for a while, time just stops.”

“Hindi kita gusto, eh. I love you.”

“Pero gusto kita, eh. So sorry, I don’t love you.”

“Hindi pwede magkaroon ng ‘us’. May hinahabol pa akong future para sa pamilya ko.”

“Kung mahal mo ako, bakit hindi ako yung piliin mo, Joy?”

“Kung mahal mo ako, bakit pinapapili mo ako?”

To be honest, I was pleasantly surprised at the unique chemistry between Kathryn and Alden. I already saw it in the film’s trailer, but seeing the entire film made me conclude that they are indeed proof that two people don’t actually have to be in a relationship to create that special kind of magic onscreen!  Unexpectedly, the team-up delivered with a rom-com that has just the right slice of life on top. Kathryn’s serious side is just the right foil to Alden’s cheeky demeanor, and this push and pull makes for great banter and engaging dialogue.

This film makes viewers see Kathryn in a new light. She proves yet again that she is a credible and competent actress. Kathryn can truly shine on her own. She was believable and real as Joy. She didn’t just portray Joy. She WAS Joy. She will always be remembered as Joy.

Alden is a good actor who takes his work very seriously. He proves that yet again in this movie. I love how he can so gracefully switch between comedy and drama. Like Kathryn, he completely personified his role as Ethan. His acting was subtle. I could feel his every emotion just by watching him—his playful interactions with Joy, how his love for Joy grew, his gnawing frustration at the things he could do nothing about, his patience every time things didn’t go his way. The two actors are known for their lighthearted romances, but they handled this one with such a degree of maturity and dedication, and it matches them very well.

CONCLUSION

The film Hello Love Goodbye examines the trials and sacrifices of Overseas Filipino Workers in foreign lands. It shows how responsibilities and commitments can bring two people together, but it can also drive them apart. What I love in this movie is that no one overacted here. It made it so easy for the viewers to just follow the story without disruptions. It is also very touching and inspiring as well.

The film also casts light on many things you might not expect to learn from a rom-com. Here are life lessons that are worth sharing:

There’s something more about Hong Kong

In between the shiny glass and steel beams and fascinating skyscrapers, is a Hong Kong scene that’s very much alive, filled with pockets of people hard at work carrying the city’s burden on their shoulders. It’s not as classy or as lustrous, but this humane side of Hong Kong shows the city from a whole new standpoint.

The saying When in Rome, do as the Romans do apply here.

In the film, we see Filipinos adjusting to a way of life that’s very different from what they’re used to back home. For most Filipino staff and domestic helpers, it means learning a new language just to communicate and getting breaks only on Sundays. They also have to learn the names of new streets and plot a course of the landscape of an unknown city. It also adds a certain degree of maturity in their character development.

The OFWs struggles are real!

There are no words to properly capture how difficult it really is to be an OFW, and a domestic helper in this film to be clear. Joy, along with her fellow Filipino workers, often gets into fights with her foreign employers and is only permitted breaks on Sundays. She’s not allowed to do freelancing work outside of being a domestic helper and she has been separated from her family for years, without any tinge of appreciation and understanding given in exchange for all the sacrifices she has made just to provide for them.

There are some people worth the risk.

You meet someone in your life and you’ve given it all only to get your heart broken and battered. It only makes sense for you to be fearful of giving love another shot, going as far as to say you’ll never fall in love again, but then all of a sudden you meet someone totally fascinating and captivating and for a moment, you consider giving them a chance. Hurt and clutter from past relationships can weigh anyone down, but closing doors on possibilities is even woeful and might cause regret later on.

It’s never too late to turn things around.

Ethan and Joy were baffled for a point in time until they finally decided to do what they have always wanted to do. Changing habits is a difficult path to plod, but both of them do realize that if they really want to get somewhere, they have to change their mindsets and get to the bottom of things.

Career over Love

I am not saying choosing one over the other is always right, but as Kathryn asked in the film, “Kung mahal mo ko, bakit pinapapili mo ‘ko?” There are points in your life you might not be able to get everything you want, but it’s all a matter of carefully evaluating your options and going for whichever your heart desires.

Clarity and communication is important in relationships

Every relationship needs an adjustment, especially when it comes to communicating. Otherwise, there would be a meltdown! And no matter how clear you think you are, there are times when you might need to be even more up-front —as our protagonists Ethan and Joy learn the hard way.

Choosing yourself is not always selfish.

Times can get tough and for some, they hold it out for their loved ones or other important people to them. In the case of Joy, there was hardly a day in her life when she thought of herself. There’s this investment in being selfless to a fault but it prompts the question, “When do you choose yourself?” It can be easy to get used to give precedence to other people, but it’s not bad at all to, for once, think about what you want, what you truly deserve and what you see for yourself.

Overall, I give the film a perfect score of 5 stars!

http://www.filcatholic.org/romantic-humorous-and-cinematic-all-at-once-a-film-review-on-hello-love-goodbye/

Surrendering to God through Decluttering

DECLUTTERING YOUR HOMES-IGNACIO’S WAY De-cluttering means surrendering, reducing our possessions, and simplifying our lives.

on: August 02, 2019

St. Ignatius of Loyola

Meanne M. Mijares

Jesus said to him, “If you would be perfect, go, sell what you possess and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow me.” When the young man heard this he went away sorrowful; for he had great possessions. And Jesus said to his disciples, “Truly, I say to you, it will be hard for a rich man to enter the kingdom of heaven. Again I tell you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God.” (Mathew 19:21-24)

A few days ago, we celebrated the feast of St. Ignatius de Loyola, the founder of the Society of Jesus. It was only now that I have found out that he was the de-cluttering expert long before Mari Kondo stepped into the spotlight of fame with a best-selling book and a Netflix show tucked under her belt. 

According to his article in Alteia,org, Philip Koloski, in St. Ignatius’ Spiritual Exercises, “Man is created to praise, reverence, and serve God our Lord, and by this means to save his soul. And the other things on the face of the earth are created for man and that they may help him in the end for which he is created.”

He instructs modern-day Catholics and Christians alike “From this it follows that man is to use [material things] as much as they help him on to his end, and ought to rid one’s self of them so far as they hinder him as to it.”

From this point of view, St. Ignatius would encourage us to tidy up our homes by examining each piece and asking whether or not it helps them come closer to God. Honestly, this is always hard to distinguish or understand, on the other hand, the opposite is much easier to ascertain. When thinking about a certain thing, there are particular belongings that can easily be categorized as an obstacle to our salvation, or prevent us from developing a very close personal relationship with our Lord Jesus.

Well, for some of us, this may mean surrendering many things, while for others, it may not be that much or hard. There are no cookie cutter answers available for all of us, and it takes cautious sensitivity to work out at a suitable choice.

According to the article, “The key for St. Ignatius is a particular “indifference” to created things. It requires a detachment from the things of this world, realizing that eternal life is much more important.

Many people throughout history have also heeded the words of our Lord Jesus to heart, giving away many of their surpluses to the poor and needy, only keeping for themselves what they absolutely need. And I believe is one of the best ways for atonement. And if I may add one more tip, that after the de-cluttering pray and go to confession then resolve to live a good life in step with God.

So yes, tidying up spiritually and physically is a good thing every now and then, I must say, a very important action we Christians have affirmed with immense enthusiasm for many generations and times to come.

http://www.filcatholic.org/decluttering-your-homes-ignacios-way-de-cluttering-means-surrendering-reducing-our-possessions-and-simplifying-our-lives/

MAKE HER KNOWN CELEBRATING THE FEAST OF OUR MOTHER OF PERPETUAL HELP

MAKE HER KNOWN CELEBRATING THE FEAST OF OUR MOTHER OF PERPETUAL HELP ICON OF LOVE

on: June 26, 2019

By Meanne M. Mijares

Our Lady of Perpetual Help

Baclaran houses the famous and biggest shrine of Our Mother of Perpetual Help in the world and its revered icon. It is one of the most popular and phenomenal Catholic devotions in the country, next to Jesus, the Black Nazarene in Quiapo, Manila and aside from the Holy Rosary. The church is filled to the brim with so many people hearing mass at every hour, attending the weekly Wednesday novena, lighting assorted candles at the candle chapel, praying in quiet corners holding their rosaries, novenas and stampitas, crying while others are walking towards the main altar using their knees withstanding the pain through it all not to mention touching the tabernacle. I have seen devotees, rich and poor, famous celebrities and ordinary folk, board exam takers, writing their petitions and dropping them off in a big box while some are putting letters of thanksgiving in another box as well. This scene would always come to mind as I recall visiting the shrine with my family in 2002.

It is the only shrine in Metro Manila that is open 24/7/365 or 366 to its fervent devotees, including its Adoration Chapel. In most Catholic churches and homes, there is an image of the Mother of Perpetual Help and copies of novenas which are being held every Wednesday.

The faith of the devotees is amazingly strong indeed. People within or outside Metro Manila come in droves for their panata or vow to visit the shrine every Wednesday or any other day to express their thanksgiving for the answered prayers they have received while others are confident that their requests (spiritual and temporal) will be granted by Our Lord through His Mother’s intercession. The Shine receives 1,432 petition letters and 232 thanksgiving letters on a monthly basis. The number of devotees visiting the shine kept on increasing by the day, even reaching up to 500,000!

I remember my late grandmother taught me to pray this novena and practice this devotion while growing up, which I still do even to this day. What piqued my curiosity is the icon. I was strongly drawn to it. The story behind the miraculous image is very fascinating. I kept on bugging my Lola Meding (Remedios) about it. But she kept on telling me to have recourse to our Lady in all our needs. Before she passed away in June 23, 1988, she gave me a copy of the novena which I will always cherish though I have purchased a new copy. Our Lady was kind enough to help me find out to know the back story and the description of the icon which I now share it with you.

A merchant from the island of Crete got the picture of the Blessed Mother from one of the churches there and hid it among his personal belongings and embarked on a sailing vessel. During the voyage, a terrible storm arose and raged so fiercely that the ship was in danger. The sailors, unaware that the miraculous picture was on board, prayed to God and the Blessed Mother to save them. Their prayers were answered and the boat safely reached the port.

Devotees of Our Lady of Perpetual Help in Baclaran Church, Paranaque City

A year later, the merchant went to Rome with the picture. He suddenly became very ill and asked his Roman friend who hosted him for a final request. He told him about the picture that he had taken from a certain church. The merchant explained where he had hidden the picture and instructed the Roman host to place it in a church so it could be venerated. After the merchant’s death, the Roman got the picture and took it home. His wife saw the painting and told him not to part with it. He placed it in their bedroom where it remained for almost a year. The Blessed Virgin appeared to him twice and asked him to bring the image to a more honorable place but failed to address Her request. For the third time, She appeared to the Roman and asked him the same thing and warned him that if he did not take heed to Her request, he will die. The man got frightened. He told his wife about the vision and begged her to take the picture to a church. But his wife refused and allowed his wife to have her way. For the fourth time, Our Lady appeared to the Roman and told him that since he has preferred to obey his wife instead of Her, he shall die, that She may find a more honorable place. With this warning, the Roman suddenly fell very ill and died after a short while. The Blessed Virgin then appeared to the six-year old daughter of the couple and told her, “Go to your mother and grandmother and say to them, the Holy Mary of Perpetual Help bids you to take Her from your home, otherwise you will both die suddenly.” The child’s mother got frightened when she heard this message and since she had a similar vision, she realized that she had been the cause of her husband’s death. A neighbor, who saw her weeping because of her disobedience to the Holy Mother of God told her that it was foolish to believe in such things and advised her to burn the picture. That same evening, the neighbor upon returning home was suddenly attacked by a strange malady but because he repented, she was cured immediately.

For the second time, the Blessed Virgin appeared to the little girl and told her to tell her mother to put the picture to St. Mary Major and St. John Lateran in the one dedicated to St. Matthew the Apostle. Now finally convinced, the widow saw the miracles she had seen brought the picture to the said church and was taken care of by the Augustinian friars.

The day happen to fall on a Holy Wednesday-a day which special indulgence could be gained by visiting the church, so many people were present to see the holy image brought to the shrine chosen by the Blessed Virgin Herself. On that very same day, a man whose right arm was paralyzed touched this same day, was instantly cured. With this miracle, confidence in the Mother of Perpetual Help was immediately inspired.

Since then, on a daily basis, large crowds flock to the Church on the Esquiline Hill and there a tablet beside the miraculous picture they read how the Blessed Virgin Mary Herself had chosen the sanctuary of Her shrine and gave Herself the title of Holy Mary of Perpetual Help. Nobody knows what the title of Miraculous Picture of the Mother of Perpetual Help.

The name of the image has spread throughout the entire Christian world. Practically unknown in the 1800’s today it is seen and loved and venerated everywhere and in our days have been granted by Our Lady when invoked under this title.

When the Redemptorist Fathers came to the Philippines in 1906, they put up Her shrine in Baclaran, Manila. Here, they have an authentic copy of the miraculous picture in Rome.

The Baclaran Church which houses the shrine of Our Lady of Perpetual Help in Paranaque City

DESCRIPTION OF THE ICON

The original picture of Our Mother of Perpetual Help is painted on a gold background. It is very impressive and must have been the work of a devout and skillful artist. The style, which is Grecian or Byzantine proves that it must have come from the East. Experts agree that it must have been painted in the 13^th or 14^th century. The painting shows our Blessed Mother in a half figure holding Her Divine Son with Her left arm and drawing Him closer to Her to assure Him of Her protection. Our Lord Jesus, in full figure, is afraid and tightly holds her right hand with His two little hands. Our Blessed Mother’s eyes are gazing upon the devotees with a loving but earnest expression and seems to express her soul’s anguish at the suffering of Her Son, Jesus. Inscriptions are written on either side of her head. There are four Greek letters which are the first and last letters of the Greek words, Mother of God. Our Lord Jesus as an Infant has one of His sandals on while the other hangs loose. Over His left shoulders are seen the letters ICXC the first and last letters for two Greek words means Jesus Christ. Two angels bearing the instruments has the initial letters in Greek which means Michael the Archangel, presents the lance, reed and sponge to the Holy Child which signals His future passion and death on the Cross, while the one on the left holds up before His gaze, four nails and a Cross, with two beams as well as the tablet of the inscription; above him are the initials in Greek which stands for Gabriel the Archangel.    

Loving Mother, help us and pray for us!

References:

To know more about the history of the miraculous icon, you may check out this link:

http://www.baclaranchurch.org/story.html

Here are lists of to-do’s for the devotees while they are visiting the shrine:

http://www.baclaranchurch.org/tips.html

Here is some trivia to add a little flavorful spice to the Baclaran phenomenon:

http://www.baclaranchurch.org/trivia.html

Here are some of the testimonials gathered from the devotees that are truly worth sharing:

http://www.baclaranchurch.org/testimonials.html

http://www.filcatholic.org/make-her-known-celebrating-the-feast-of-our-mother-of-perpetual-help-icon-of-love/

5 WAYS TO CELEBRATE THE SACRED HEART OF JESUS IN THE MONTH OF JUNE

on: June 07, 2019

SACRED HEART OF JESUS

Meanne M. Mijares

Did you know that the month of June is the traditional month of the Sacred Heart of Jesus? While it’s easier to remember a month like May—the month of the Blessed Virgin Mary and Mother’s Day—sometimes we have a tendency to forget about the other months of the year. Now let me share with you a few meaningful ways and ideas we celebrate the Solemnity of the Sacred Heart of Jesus in June.

With the Solemnity of the Sacred Heart of Jesus settling on June 28th this year, you can start doing small but special things running up to its feast day. Are you ready? Here are five ways to get you into the spirit of the day/month.

1. Make an enthronement of the Sacred Heart of Jesus

Do you have an image of the Sacred Heart in your home? Is it blessed? If not, you may consider doing an Enthronement. It is one of the easiest and best ways to show your devotion to the Sacred Heart. After all, Jesus told St. Margaret Mary, “I will bless every dwelling where an image of My Heart is both exposed and honored.”

To do it is quite simple. You should go to Mass and receive the Eucharist the day of the enthronement, get an image of the Sacred Heart that is clean and blessed if the priest won’t be there at the ceremony, have the enthronement ceremony with your family present, and then you see and experience the graces flow into your home. It’s best still to have a priest do the ceremony but the head of the household can also do it if you’re unable to get a priest to do it.

2. Start a First Friday Devotion

If you already haven’t tried it, begin the Nine First Friday Devotion to the Heart of Jesus. What exactly does this involve? You will need to receive Holy Communion and recite the Act of Reparation to the Sacred Heart of Jesus on each First Friday for nine consecutive Fridays. What will you receive in return? To quote Our Lord (to St. Margaret Mary),

“I promise you, in the excessive mercy of my Heart that my all-powerful love will grant to all those who receive Holy Communion on the first Friday for nine consecutive months, the grace of final repentance; they shall not die in my disgrace nor without receiving the sacraments; my divine Heart shall be their safe refuge in that last moment.”

3. Make an Act of Reparation to the Sacred Heart of Jesus

Find yourself feeling overwhelmed with the possibility of being busy this month? Consider doing the Act of Reparation on the solemnity. Yes, there are indulgences attached to it. For a single recitation, there is an indulgence of 300 days. A plenary indulgence is given once per month if done as part of the first Friday devotion.

Act of Reparation to the Sacred Heart of Jesus (official text)

Most sweet Jesus, You have bestowed on men the benefits of Your charity, but their ingratitude only responds with forgetfulness, negligence and spite. Thus here we prostrate ourselves before Your altar, inspired by the desire to make reparation through a special homage for their culpable indifference and the outrages which, in all ways, they oppress Your most loving Heart.

Nevertheless, we remember that we ourselves have been guilty of unworthy conduct in the past, and filled with profound sorrow, we implore Your mercy for us first of all. By voluntary expiation, we are ready to atone for the faults we have committed, ready also to expiate for those who, led astray from the way of salvation and remaining obstinate in their infidelity, refuse to follow You, their Shepherd and chief, thus throwing off the yoke of Your law and trampling the promises of their Baptism.

We would like to expiate for too many lamentable faults, making reparation for each of the following: our disorderly conduct, indecent fashions, scandalous corruption of innocent souls, profanation of Sundays and feasts, detestable blasphemies against You and against Your Saints, insults to your Vicar and to Your priests, reckless violations and odious sacrileges to the divine Sacrament of Your love, and finally the public sins of nations who revolt against the rights and authority of Your Church.

If only we could erase so many offenses with our own blood! At the least we wish to make reparation to Your outraged honor. We present to You even the satisfaction that You have offered to Your Father on the Cross, and the offering You have renewed each day on the altar. We present that sacrifice to You, accompanied with all the acts of atonement made by the Most Holy Virgin Your Mother, the Saints, and by faithful Christians. We promise You with all of our hearts, with the help of Your grace, to use all our means to do penance for our past faults and those of our neighbor. By the fervor of our faith, the purity of our life, and by perfect docility to the precepts of the Gospel, we desire to atone for the indifference toward such a great love, to which belongs all charity. We also promise You to make every effort to spare You new offenses and to lead the most souls possible to follow You.

Agreed, we offer You in this matter, O most good Jesus, by the intercession of the gracious Virgin Mary, Reparatrix, this spontaneous homage of expiation. Guard us until death, keeping us unshakably faithful to our duty and to Your service. Accord to us this precious gift of perseverance, which leads us finally to our native land where, with the Father and the Holy Spirit, You reign, God, forever and ever. Amen.

Indulgence of 300 days. Plenary indulgence one time per month for the customary recitation (with confession, communion and visit to a church). For public recitation on the Feast of the Sacred Heart. Indulgence of seven years and 280 days, and a plenary indulgence for those who confess and receive communion.

(Source: https://www.ewtn.com/series/pilgrims/ep9_act.htm)

4. Make a 9-day Novena to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and visit our Eucharistic Lord in the Blessed Sacrament.

You can make the novena on your own or attend a novena in your parish or any Catholic church. On those days, make a good confession, do works of charity and visit our Lord in the Adoration Chapel. Attend the Fiesta Mass (it is considered a High Mass) and receive Holy Communion. After receiving  Holy Communion. you pray,” Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, may the whole world burn with love for You!”

5. Distribute novenas and leaflets to spread devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus.

You may purchase copies of the novena and stampitas in Catholic bookstores and give it to your friends and loved ones or even strangers. This will encourage them to pray and have a fervent devotion as well to our Lord and His Most Sacred Heart.

However you may choose to celebrate the June month (or just the solemnity itself), may the Sacred Heart of Jesus stir up our hearts with love for Him.

Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, have mercy on us!

Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, I place all my trust in You!

Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, may Your Kingdom come!

http://www.filcatholic.org/5-ways-to-celebrate-the-sacred-heart-of-jesus-in-the-month-of-june/