Mamba Out

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Happy Monday!
Ok, not particulary a happy one for sports fans, I admit.
I had a conversation with a friend last night about how the malls and streets were not as crowded yesterday. I said it must have been because people were afraid of getting infected by the virus we are all fearing would come to our shores. Consequently , it could also be because people are still out there organizing outreach programs for Taal evacuees.
Today Kobe Bryant, a legend in his own right - also a recent visitor of the Philippines inspiring many, perished in a helicopter mishap.
It is honestly unsettling to know that on all occassions above, no amount of preparation can make us more or less able to cope. Natural calamities, fatal illness, death - can take us by surprise.
Nonetheless, these circumstances also urge us to take a closer look at the perspectives we apply in life.
1. Control - hah! What a joke. We prepare. We do not control.
2. Accumulation - we work to create, to be useful, to bring value. We earn in return.
3. Ownership - we are stewards, not owners. I can feel this with the richest people I know. They don't feel they own their riches. They feel responsible for them. Same goes for relationships. The healthiest relationships I see are not possessive but rather nurturing and always mutually taking care of others.
4. Independence - despite our need to employ all our faculties to be able to stand on our own, it is not withstanding the fact we need others, we need God. When we need, we lower ourselves to accept. Let that sink in a bit.
5. Joyful acceptance - in the end, life will happen with all its twist and turns. Its up to you to make it a joyful ride with others.
Going back to Kobe, he'd be happy if you do your best this week. Cheers!

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