Fire and Hammer

           I miss how I used to start my day with a few verses from the Bible. I’ve been busy with school lately and I only get to open the Book every once in a while. Forgive me Lord.:| Now I feel the cravings more intense than when I crave for a slice of Aristocrat’s super chocolate cake.

            I just listened to the podcast of last Sunday’s message in Victory Pioneer and it’s about being changed by God’s word. I realized how I’ve been wanting to change some attitudes that I know displease God. I’ve been praying and sometimes feeling hopeless when I tend to hurt God with my imperfections. What I’ve been failing to do is spend more time on His Word and allow It to do the work, of course with willingness and effort on my part.

            Is not my word like fire? declares the Lord, and like a hammer which shatters a rock? (Jeremiah 23:29) How moving that is! But what does that mean?

Like Fire

            Fire gives light, may destroy and at the same time create. Just as the Word of God. It give us direction and helps us see in darkness. I remember how I would read the Bible when the world is just so confusing and seemed to be racking my mind. I would find truth in that old Book my Aunt gave for my 10^th birthday and listen to it, shooing away the blurry thoughts I’d been having.

            I miss those years when I was too innocent and still unable to be swayed by the world. Now I am asking God for forgiveness because there are times that I listen to others’ words first before seeking His. Especially when His’ seem to hurt and others’ seem to provide comfort. Many of us experience that and we would feel convicted after reading the Bible because it just hits us like a sharp razor.

            But fire is indeed a purifying agent. When we heat meat while cooking, there’s a reduction of microbial content. It has to be heated so as to halt the presence of unwanted chemicals that could harm our health. What’s good about it is that we could actually create something satisfying and delicious after the hours of exposure to fire’s excruciating heat.

            Just as when God is purifying us in order to complete His work on us. He is removing those things that should be burned and those that hinder us from fulfilling His great plans in our lives. We have to undergo life’s trials, sufferings, feel the agonizing pain brought by fire’s heat. When it’s over, only what should be left in us is left. We have to trust and believe that our God is the God who creates something new and better when He destroys something old and displeasing.

            Fire can pierce through the hardest hearts. God has to soften our hearts that already turned into stone. The pride, selfishness and all those sins that keep us away from His great plans must be burned into ashes. We have to fully trust on Him and hold on to His truths.  “These have come so that your faith—of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may be proved genuine and may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed.” 1 Peter 1:7

Like Hammer

            There are times when we almost believe we are about to break, feeling all so weak from the insides to the outsides of our body. There is a hammer smacking us, causing inexplicable pain. God sometimes has to break some chains and bondages in our lives so as we find freedom. Yes it hurts. We don’t understand why we have to suffer at times. But God has to break us in order for Him to create what He intended us to be. And we’ll be fulfilled, now being able to do what God is telling us to do.

            We say to God, “I’m already happy being here, this is what I want” but He says, “No son, that’s not my plan for you. My plan is bigger and I don’t want you to just settle there.” But we are too stubborn and we don’t listen. We have to surrender and lay it all down to Him: the jobs that we lost, the opportunities that we failed to get, all those stuff that we don't understand why they had to happen. We have to realize that we are fashioned for God and He is indeed in control of our lives.

Let Him break us. Find delight that He's molding us. Do not ask. Obey. Trust. Find joy.

       “ The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit;

a broken and contrite heart,

O God, you will not despise.” Psalm 51:17

            Thank you Lord for Your Word. Let it be a fire and burn everything that does not come from you. Let it be  a hammer and break the things that should be broken. It may hurt but it’s worth it in the end.

♥, C

Do It All For Him

            Last night, I was doing my report for a major class when text messages bombarded me about storm Juaning and how possible it would be for classes to be suspended today. I waited…and waited for updates online. Before I knew it, I had already wasted 2 hours checking out tweets and news--hoping to hear the words, “No classes on all levels tomorrow”.

            I ended up with an unfinished report, feeling all relaxed even more when the official announcement came out and my wish was granted. I read students’ tweets on Twitter saying that they could have just rested instead of spending all their free time reviewing for a supposed exam today had they known there would be no classes. I myself complained how I crammed just to finish my report and review all day.

            Before I drifted off to sleep last night and ended the day, thoughts were bothering my mind: “What if I acted as if nothing happens and tomorrow is just an ordinary day? Perhaps this day had been more productive.” It is undeniable how we thought we’re fooled at due to the late notice from authorities, but won’t the benefit still be ours whether the classes were cancelled or not? I mean, we will still be using whatever we have reviewed or prepared for class. There’s just kind of adjustment in time, obviously a temporary delay. We even blamed CHED for their lack of willingness to decide and for their passing the authority on universities and colleges. We pointed our fingers at people who scattered lies that there already was an official statement when in fact there was none. 

            I was reminded that God gave us freewill to decide--one of the many reasons we’re higher than animals and other creatures. We possess the ability to respond on certain environmental conditions and take the appropriate act. Had there been sudden change of air and classes were resumed today, I might have already flunked my Speech111 exam and crammed some more on my report (for I spent the whole night watching my favorite series instead). I thought how important it is to always be ready; avoiding our own fall into the trap where being unprepared could lead us. Regrets indeed always come at the end.

            I want to change that attitude of automatic alteration of response when situations like this one occur. I want to live each day offering my very best not to myself but to my Father up there. As my life verse says, “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters” –Colossians 3:23. I want to pour out my heart on everything I do, not because of the rewards I may gain or the benefits it would bestow me but because in my everyday life, I don’t want to waste an hour and not bring honor to God.

            That’s want I have been observing in today’s world. Our performances depend on the flow of situation at hand. But wouldn’t it be better if our attitude will remain constant and not be swayed by life’s circumstances? We wait for a storm that would save us a long day work and we would feel so lucky when our wish is granted. We wait for the decision of authorities and align our sense of productiveness on whatever they say. Our actions often, if not always, depend on whether there are eyes set on us. We sometimes forget that there are a pair of lovely eyes up there who can always ( and I really mean at all places at all times) see through us. Someone who deserves our very best, not just a portion of ourselves but our totality. I am challenging you all and even myself to always keep in mind and heart that we have very important Audience whose sight never leave our direction. And I'm sure He'll find it sweet if we do all things for Him. 

♥, C

Make-ups to Shop for!

     Right after my class yesterday, I went straight to the mall and hit the make-up section. I wanted to test products and find the right ones for me. I visited each make-up stall no wonder I actually spent almost 3 hours! I did enjoy the different looks that the make-ups created on my face. Here's my list of "best" make-ups to shop for:

1. Revlon Photoready Foundation  P950
     
      I loved how this blended on my skin after my first application. It's just perfect for someone like me who often, if not always, smiles in front of a camera. It has a brilliant coverage and gives your skin a healthy glow because of the shimmery effect. It's best when used with fingertips; it spreads on smoothly. Plus, it's much cheaper than other branded liquid foundations I've been wanting to have. There's not much difference after all.

Bye bye blemishes!

2. Revlon Photoready Powder P900+ (I forgot the exact price:p)

     This is best applied after the foundation. It gives a smooth, airbrushed skin look. And it's still good if used alone when you're in a hurry and doesn't have the time to cover up with a foundation. It's amazing how it eliminates shine and evens skin tone!

compact is always the on-the-go must-have!

3.  Etude House Color my Brows P328

     I've always loved a mascara-like make-up for the eyebrows because of the unwanted fact that my brows are always cluttered and just opposite to Hermione's seemingly tattoed ones. The darker shade looks better on my brows than the lighter that's blonde in color since my hair is dark brown. I love how my eyebrows suddenly became obedient in just a gentle application of this product. It's half the price compared to the Brow Fantasy of Revlon that I have also been using.

brush the brows!

4. Maybelline Line Express Eyeliner P359

     I'm currently using a black eyeliner from PAC (Professional Artist Cosmetics) and I have never been satisfied because of its rough feel on the skin and it later on smudges. This black liner from Maybelline is easy to blend and one great thing I like about it is that it's safe for those who use contact lenses (like me). It also has a smudger that glides on smoothly, perfect in achieving a smoky look. 

draw a perfect line!

5. Maybelline Colossal Volume Express Mascara P399

    I've always been a fan of Maybelline products because of two reasons: It's way cheaper and its quality is tested. This mascara creates an instant 7x volume and I proved that myself when I applied just one coat on my lashes without even using an eyelash-curler. It's available in water-proof and washable formula. Perhaps I'll purchase the water-proof one just in case I'll have a commercial that has scenes in the pool.lol.

treat for the lashes

6. Etude House  Attraction Peach Lipstick

     I wasn't looking for a new lipstick since I already got plenty but when I passed by the stall of Etude House, a number of girls were trying this out and I heard the saleslady said it's their bestseller. I then used the tester and I'm amazed at how it did an overall look effect! It's like it was the only puzzle piece missing on my face. It's a bit orange-y and it seems to have some kind of magic for it gives your face a different look that's more gorgeous than when it's not worn. I so love it!

peach to seize

Oh I want to add one more make-up in my list even though it's not part of the ones I found in the dept. store. This 78 color eyeshadow & brush palette is ordered online and it has been on my list for months now! It's only P750 and the 72 different colors of eyeshadow comes with 6 shades of blush. I have friends using this and it's just so awesome, not to mention veeeeerrryyy cheap! 

Colors, Colors!

 That's it for my make-up wishlist. For now I have to keep praying for these and save money! I may purchase just one at a time so as to control my impulsive side..:D

♥, C

Mobile Internet Life by Smart Buddy

Hey guys! I wanna share with you my Smart Ad that I have been waiting for for months now.haha Thanks to a friend who told me that it was out! Here are the outputs:

Hm let's see who's guilty of these addictions! :D

It would have been appropriate if I got the WORKAHOLIC but I don't mind to be accused of being a YM addict..lol

Enjoy mobile internet packages offered by Smart! Click here for more details!

♥, C

Why Can't We?

            After listening to a very inspiring message about what love is and isn’t in today’s service, I couldn’t help but think of my Father who has shown the one perfect and unconditional love there is: “Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends. -John 15:13”. It’s just so amazing that someone perfect and holy would shed blood for you and me who don’t at the slightest deserve such grace. But by His stripes, we are healed. And it’s all because of love.

            What struck me most to write my thoughts here is the realization upon looking back at the life of Jesus here on earth. What a perfect epitome of selfless love that if we would just be considerate of others and not think of ourselves first, the world would be a much better place with less conflicts and chaos.

            If only we would just think of how a jeepney driver has to work just so he could provide 3 meals a day for his family, then perhaps we would refrain from growing impatient as he steps on the jeepney’s break every so often and waits for passengers to fill in. If only we would think of the situation of an old woman who has become weak of aging as we struggle to go ahead of her in the elevator, then perhaps we would slow our pace and let her get in first. If only we would think of the feelings of those we’ve hurt and the harm that we have brought to them, then perhaps we would be more forgiving when someone else has done us wrong. If only we would not be so selfish that we are too occupied thinking of our own comfort and favor, then perhaps we would have healthier relationships with other people since it is most likely that we would care for them enough to always check on their emotions and not ours.

            Jesus was patient with the people’s imperfection, loved them selflessly and did not keep records of wrongs, as what the Bible says about Love in 1 Corinthians 13:4. If Jesus could forgive without looking back at a person’s fault, then why can’t we? Would we want Him use on us the standards we use on other people? I myself have difficulties in just forgetting the negative things that someone has done to me but I always remind myself that I have been hurting my Father in so many ways all the days of my life and yet I have been repeatedly forgiven and loved the same. He is my God and I should live that attitude that He has. In that way, people will see who He is through me and I can let Him use me in extending His kingdom.

            I know it will be difficult for us to live and act as Christ did but I challenge you all (even myself) that we can. Not by ourselves but by the grace of God. We are weak but He is strong. We are imperfect but He is perfect. Let’s have that partnership with God and work together. After all, if Jesus our Savior could do all this by trusting and holding on to His Father while He was here on earth, then why can’t we? We are God’s children after all.

Spotted: A 75-peso Nicholas Sparks’ Book

            I was randomly checking out books and magazines when I spotted 3 of Nicholas Sparks’ novels. What caught my attention was The Wedding which has been on my list for a long time now but since I decided to control my impulsiveness a few months ago, I have been delaying the purchase of the book.

            Whenever I would pass by any bookstore, I would automatically look for this and check the price-somehow wishing for a discount. But so far the price tag has been consistent: P325.

            After my costume fitting for a new commercial (watch out for updates here in my blog!), I was wandering down the mall when my eyes caught the chamber of books that seemed to be inviting me at Booksale. And as soon as I saw the familiar blue cover of The Wedding, my heart started beating faster than usual as though I have just encountered a puppy love. And I actually believe it was love at first sight when I saw the price at the back seemingly shouting at me: 75php!!! Haha. I thought to myself, “There’s indeed a reward for those who wait.”

            I can’t wait to flip the pages and be lost into the world of another novel of one of my favorite authors: Nicholas Sparks. I remember the first time I literally cried after reading the last page of The Choice, also written by him. I deeply recommend his books for those readers who become emotionally involved in romantic stories and who easily giggle like me at just a sweet captivating line!

            I may share with you my experience with this book and perhaps I’ll make a book review. Let me know your thoughts if you already have read this or if you’re planning to read soon.♡

My Newest Hang-out Place

                

        I found myself going to the library twice today and I noticed that feeling of desire automatically creeping in every time I would be given time to spare. Two of my professors didn’t come on class and so my mind didn’t think twice in grabbing the opportunity to rejuvenate myself in the four walls of highly air-conditioned huge vault of books of my dearest College of Arts and Letters.
        I have been researching for my reports in major classes due next week and somehow I am at the least satisfied with what I have browsed through the internet over the week. I was almost shocked of how much information I could summon in just one reference book I pulled out of the shelves that I almost decided to have the whole book photocopied if only I had enough money! Plus, I undeniably enjoyed searching for the titles and authors of the books recommended by my professors and I am deeply pleased with the result. I sure missed the antiquated way of finding books at the library!

       I can say that I have been too dependent on the internet when it comes to school matters and I learned just today that the library, no matter how old-fashioned one may view it and how cliché I may sound, is just a perfect place to learn and feed one’s mind. I was thinking that if books have feelings, I am sure they would feel hurt for ignoring them while we spend the hours in front of our computer every day. Just yesterday, I couldn’t believe how much time I wasted for opening too many tabs on the web browser: my Facebook and Twitter accounts were in a juxtapose position with the reference sites I opened and I couldn’t help but be distracted and have that feeling of need to change tabs every so often. And that definitely lessened my time to focus on the task at hand.

       I calculated the time I usually use at the computer and compared that to my 2-hour stay at the library today, there’s no doubt that there’s a huge difference of how much knowledge I could get. The books that I found delight with are The Theatre by Oscar G. Brockett and Communication Mosaics by Julia T. Wood. Much to my surprise, the information that I need is perfectly compiled there! I ran through a few pages and it was really much better than the ones I have read at the internet sites.

       I sure am gonna find myself strolling down the aisles of bookshelves during my free time instead of wasting the hours doing some unnecessary and unproductive things. I actually have a usual table now and I won’t be surprised if one day my name would be labeled at the back chair. Haha I just hope the library staff won’t be fed up in seeing this familiar face- Oh I don’t think so since they always greet me with those sincerest smiles of theirs. Now I welcome myself to my newest hang-out place! J

               

               

               

               

               

                

Fresh Beginnings

                How can I start explaining that this blog was created as a result of my impulsive-self attack? Perhaps I need not be rational and go into details. I love to write and I think that’s enough. Is it not reasonable for me to put aside the tons of school works piled up on my study table in the middle of the night and spend the hours choosing font styles, text sizes and struggling to decide among a number of options what to name my blog?

                I guess I am too emotional now that I cannot resist satisfying myself with a fresh blog. I have been praying for new opportunities, new commercial projects and new self-revelations (which for me consist of discovering the presently-hidden potentials that I believe God has given me). So I guess this is not a bad start, huh? And I also realized that my 1^st blog is too limited since I have only been posting poems there.

                Now I imagine posting different genres here. May it be about fashion, books, spiritual talks and just anything that I believe could serve as a food for anyone's minds and souls who would be learning something from reading my posts. Like a dessert that indulges and at the same time teaches that if consumed without limitations, one suffers the consequences of taking “too much”.

                Perhaps that is why I named my blog ChocoChanel. Of course except that Chanel is the name given to me by my mother for she was once an avid fan of Coco Chanel No. 5’s scent and chocolates are my favorite desserts but of which many times I become fed up from devouring too many. That is also why I did not choose ChocolateChanel. It needs to somehow be incomplete so that a part is reserved to avoid tediousness and maintain the excitement.

                So I think that's all for now. I am excited for my next posts! I actually have ideas racking my brain as of the moment. I hope I can inspire you readers and share with you the beauty of life created by a Great, Wondrous God.

Love, Chanel