Sunday Poem and Photograph: Where Have All The Scarecrows Gone

I've traveled some hundred miles tagged along with friendship bond,

from congested city roads to haven of green lands.

I passed through mountain ranges, hills and streams,

and stretch of wild forests envisioned in greenery dreams.

I let my sight bathe in nature's breathtaking beauty, 

while searching for one familiar figure in a "hoodie". 

Through hectares and acres of green lands and rice fields, 

I'm searching for that figure that my kid's mind dreaded then later giggled.

My eyes searched and searched but failed to find one,

where have all the SCARECROWS gone?

©2012 By: Balut Manila

photo taken from a speeding SUV along Maharlika Highway in Nueva Vizcaya on a back-to-the-city road trip from Isabela

Sunday Poem and Photograph: Hello July

Hello July!

You surprised me with your coming.

Did June say goodbye?

I didn't even notice it left.

Please tell August to knock before entering

So I can welcome it with a smile. 

By: Balut Manila on waking up on a cold July morning in 2012

Sunday Story and Photograph: I Held You Till Your Last Breath

Her only wish is to see her youngest daughter march to the high school graduation stage.

The youngest one whom she's not able to fully take care of  because she's been sick since she was seven years old.

Often times in her sick bed she would talk to her daughter and always reminds her that even without her, 

she needs to be okay for the rest of her growing years and for the rest of her life.
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The graduation wish did not happen,

One cold December night, some few days before Christmas, an angel came to take her

Before she took her last breath she looked her youngest in the eyes and asked for assurance that she will be strong and will be okay

In the midst of fear and pain while holding her mother in her fourteen year old arm, the daughter promised.

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I’m not only strong “Nay” but I’ve been TOUGH. 

I’m not only okay but I believe I’ve managed to be my BEST.

I love you ‘Nay… 
I HELD you till your last breath, 
I will LOVE you till my last…

HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY

The ordinary roses and home plants remind the young daughter of her mother who loves to grow them around the house in pots or just any space with soil.  The daughter is now a mother and shares the story to her children and to other kids so they will be reminded of the importance of a MOTHER.

When you lose a mother the mourning never stops. 

You just learn to live with it.

Sunday Inspiration and Photograph: Isaiah 40 v 31

“Those who trust in the LORD
will find new strength”

Isaiah 40 v 31 is the verse printed in the souvenir posters of the vessel "Logos Hope" famously known as the floating book fair, while the photograph was taken inside the vessel, in a corner they called “Life X-perience”.  It is a long board posted with hundreds of “sticky notes” (post-it) with messages mostly words of encouragements from the visitors, participants,  and from those who shared their experiences and perspective from this interactive program.

Logos Hope slogan is

 “ Bringing knowledge, help and hope to the people of the world”

I would like to share their “Vision and Purpose”:

Bringing Knowledge
Over 40 million people in 160 different countries have walked up one of our ship's gangway to visit one of our floating book fairs. For many, it is their first ever opportunity to purchase good quality literature at a fraction of it's retail value. Many people without the means to study have learnt vital skills and been able to enhance their lives through a purchase from over 5,000 available titles, including books for studies, professional and career interests, individual development and personal growth. Cultural variety abounds with over 45 nations represented on board. For visitors, opportunities to meet crew provide insights into the wider world, while interactive programs offer fresh perspectives.

Bringing Help
Sailing from port to port, the crew experience the needs of the world first-hand. Being in a position to help whether by donating supplies, building a house, or offering a listening ear is both a privilege and a responsibility. The ships seek to bring aid and relief in situations of particular need as a practical demonstration of God's love for mankind. Coupled with their promotion of education, this approach aims not only to alleviate immediate needs, but also to bring long-term change in each community.

Bringing Hope
Every person has a inbuilt need for hope and purpose in life. Our volunteer crew seeks to bring new hope by their service on board as a community focused on the needs of others. They offer hope through their actions and their interaction with others. Every crew member has a story to tell of a transformation in their personal life that has given them hope and purpose.

A Blessed and Hopeful Sunday everyone!