The journey that seems unending.. but there is an ending, but this is not.
It has been a long time since I have written for a blog or anything. Just want to share one of the longest days I have had today and yesterday! Yes, it is 1:21AM now, and I have been almost awake for most of the 24 hours plus. Assessing the best approach to one problem-my PhD!
Yes, it is not just any problem that could be solved overnight, but would need an entire overhaul of the mind, body, and spirit! Spirit with a capital S! We (speaking on behalf of the PhDs) need all the help we can, but above all, the nuisance of life within and in-between PhD experiments, writing, and all-nighters, we need the ultimate guidance from above-God Almighty! He stands firm in His promise to answer when we ask, open the door when we knock, and give us the degree in His time!
Only time is the necessity that no one can pay for and cannot be replaced, replenished or even kept. We must be wise not just in our efficient time-management for balancing writing and data gathering, but most of all, life in all its essence.
What got into me in writing this entry for this almost-spring time here down under? Not much but just gratitude overflowing! Not just for some good progress on some major milestones, but also being in that moment where one can sense the basics. Not the complicated, complex web of technicalities, strategies, and even making excuses either to procrastinate or create some bricks and walls just to avoid facing the problem head-on!
I realised in just a few cups of coffee that I really never reflect on what the meaning of life is for me right now. I am not sure where this entry is going, but I am glad that I have this moment alone, by myself, not lonely but surrounded by the love, peace, and faith from my Dad, Friend, and Counselor, who is always giving unlimited chances to get back on my feet and finish the race. Among His many blessings that are too numerous to count, he has a loving, understanding, and very supportive wife-Joanne and wonderful kids, Edra and Aury.
I know I have some friends whom I missed and would share a bottle of beer where I could just talk about anything and anywhere, though we never really have time. They are there, and there will be more in the future. I know I used to deny that side of me-being too friendly and easy-going, and fun to be with! I know I'll light some of the parties and would love to connect with people, or even connect other people as a mediator or sometimes as a referee.
I also believe I am an all-rounder. Jack of all trades, expert in some! Leadership, management, and of course, a follower of rules (though I can see the loopholes). I remember a story when I went all ballistic in answering back to a rude trainer on one of the trainers for a brand merchandiser/promotor/surveyor when she tried to question in a manner of undermining people whom she thought she was better as a person and everyone was below her. Though thinking about it, I was rude as well in fighting back, not just barraging with statements, but attacking the personality. She calmed down, and I apologized at the end. The results of the training? I did not get the job!
Silver linings are everywhere! Seems one could either get gold or get some of the silver linings! This blog entry does not seem to go anywhere. My point, going back to that missed job? I did learned that most of the co-applicants were assigned to critical areas in the area where insurgents and local terrorists were staying. One of the vans from the group was bombed, but God still had plans for them; no one was hurt. Another major silver lining that turned to gold was when I needed to move to another group. New project, new supervisor, and start anew. One could just, as cliché as it sounds, there is a lot of goodness in the world, from people to more people! I did end up with my dream supervisor, not out of whim, but I can say, Divine intervention! I really appreciate how some total strangers would be willing to give you a shot-take it with open arms!
No, I am not graduating yet. Still a lot of sleepless nights and challenging moments. I am just starting the fun journey wherein this is the stage of reckoning and final dash to the Phinish line! No more time to spare (technically at overtime now!). I will try to be a better me, beyond the degree, but on being selfless, serving others, and a better person as a husband, father, and as a compassionate human being who wants to change the world with kindness and God's abundance of blessings!
God bless you for reading this blog. Time for a quick nap before going to some data! See you in the next one! Three take away message. Learn to STOP, LOOK, and LISTEN.
Stop doing all things that take you away from your true self (not running from responsibilities) that would be counterproductive to your mission which you were created. One will not use a backhoe to make sand castles! Look for the signs from within and in Him, where you were born to glorify. Look for chances and moments to discover where you should be and what you are passionate about and look for ways to become compassionate to others! Lastly, listen to His voice that you may find peace in mind, body, and spirit. We bring defective items back to the store, not just a 60-day warranty but a lifetime! Not going back now, but in His time! We all desire to have that end eventually. but not the start. Biengwapo 2:07AM 06/08/25
