Never give up

For all the Mothers, We are grateful to have you

Your Mother carried you inside of her womb for nine whole months, she felt sick for months with nausea, then she watched her feet swell and her skin stretch and tear. She struggled to climb stairs, she got breathless quickly and even a simple task like putting her shoes on was a huge struggle for her. She suffered many sleepless nights while you kicked and squirmed inside of her and while you demanded that she scoffed junk at 3am, she then went through EXCRUCIATING PAIN to bring you into this world.

She became your nurse, your chef, your maid, your chauffeur, your biggest fan, your teacher, your agony aunt and your best friend. She's struggled for you, cried over you, fought for you, put herself second for you, hoped the best for you and has driven herself insane with worry for you but never has she asked for anything in return because she loves you and did it all on love alone! Most of us take our Mums for granted but there are people who have lost or have never even seen theirs. If you have a loving Mother who did all of this for you, you are very lucky, never devalue her worth because one day, you'll wish you hadn't!

We love you Daddy

SON: "Daddy, may I ask you a question?"
DAD: "Yeah sure, what is it?"
SON: "Daddy, how much do you make an hour?"
DAD: "That's none of your business. Why do you ask such a thing?"
SON: "I just want to know. Please tell me, how much do you make an hour?"
DAD: "If you must know, I make $100 an hour."
SON: "Oh! (With his head down).
SON: "Daddy, may I please borrow $50?"
The father was furious.
DAD: "If the only reason you asked that is so you can borrow some money to buy a silly toy or some other nonsense, then you march yourself straight to your room and go to bed. Think about why you are being so selfish. I work hard everyday for such this childish behavior."

The little boy quietly went to his room and shut the door.
The man sat down and started to get even angrier about the little boy's questions. How dare he ask such questions only to get some money?
After about an hour or so, the man had calmed down, and started to think:
Maybe there was something he really needed to buy with that $ 50 and he really didn't ask for money very often. The man went to the door of the little boy's room and opened the door.

DAD: "Are you asleep, son?"

SON: "No daddy, I'm awake".
DAD: "I've been thinking, maybe I was too hard on you earlier. It's been a long day and I took out my aggravation on you. Here's the $50 you asked for."

The little boy sat straight up, smiling.
SON: "Oh, thank you daddy!"
Then, reaching under his pillow he pulled out some crumpled up bills. The man saw that the boy already had money, started to get angry again. The little boy slowly counted out his money, and then looked up at his father.

DAD: "Why do you want more money if you already have some?"

SON: "Because I didn't have enough, but now I do.

"Daddy, I have $100 now. Can I buy an hour of your time? Please come home early tomorrow. I would like to have dinner with you."
The father was crushed. He put his arms around his little son, and he begged for his forgiveness. It's just a short reminder to all of you working so hard in life. We should not let time slip through our fingers without having spent some time with those who really matter to us, those close to our hearts. Do remember to share that $100 worth of your time with someone you love? If we die tomorrow, the company that we are working for could easily replace us in a matter of days. But the family and friends we leave behind will feel the loss for the rest of their lives. And come to think of it, we pour ourselves more into work than to our family.

Some things are more important.

Jack the Giant slayer

Ang sinaunang digmaan sa pagitan ng mga tao at ng lahi ng mga higante, isang batang mandirigma, na naging katiwala para sa isang kaharian at ang pag-ibig nya sa isang prinsesa, ay nagbukas ng isang pintuan sa pagitan ng dalawang mundo. Isa pang engkanto kuwento proyekto-basi sa isang libro na ipapalabas 2013. Ang pinakabagong at hindi kapani-paniwalang pakikipagsapalaran-nakadirekta Jack ang Giant killer, na ngayon ay inilabas sa tagsibol ng 2013, sa halip na Summer 2012.

Isa pang pagkakataon-pagpapatawad

Kabanata VII

         

Nawalan ako ng malay habang nakasakay sa karusa, nagising na lamang ako na nakahiga na at nasa isang silid sa kubo, nakita ni Tandang Helaman na hindi maganda ang kalagayan ko kaya hinubad nya ang aking pantaas na damit at nang hinipo nya ang aking dibdib at tigiliran na pag-alaman nya na maraming buto ang nabali sa dibdib at aking tagiliran.  Sabi nya na mapalad ako dahil buhay pa ako, kumuha sya ng piraso ng damit at inirulyo- nilagay sa aking bibig at sinabihan akung kagatin. Ipinatong ni tandang helaman ang kanyang mga kamay sa aking  dibdib at nakita ko na may liwanag na lumalabas sa kanyang mga kamay naramdaman ko na nag-init ang aking katawan at biglang gumalaw ang mga buto ko na nabali at parang humahanay ito sa kanyang posisyon pero di ko mapigilan na sumigaw dahil sa sakit. Nawalan ako ng malay ng gabing ginagamot ako ni Tandang Helaman.  Kinaumagahan, sa pagmulat ng aking mga mata ay nakita ko ang limang kabataang lalake na kasing edad ko lamang na nakatayo sa aking harapan, sabi ng ama ni moroni kung sila ang aking nakita dahil pag sinabi kung sila ay papatungan sila ng hatol ng kamatayan at bibitayin sa harap ng mamamayan ng Agosh.

Nakita ko na ang iba sa kanila ay umiiyak sa takot, sinabihan ko ang ama ni Moroni na hindi ko kilala ang mga taong iyan dahil sa gabi at di ko maaninag ang kanilang mga mukha, dugtong ko pa na hindi sila ang mga taong gumulpi sa akin ng gabing yun.  Habang nagsasalita ako ay nakita kung tumutingin sila sa akin na nagulat dahil inakala nila dahil sa ginawa nila sa akin ay sasabihin ko sa ama ni Moroni na sila ung mga taong gumulpi sa akin ng gabing yun, at malalagay sila sa hatol ng kamatayan ng Isla nila.  Sinabihan ako ng ama ni moroni kung sigurado ako sa aking sinasabi at sinabi kung sapat na ang sinabi ko at kailangan ko nang magpahinga.  Sabi sakin ng ama ni Moroni na kanyang niririspito ang aking sinabi at aalis na sila, sabi ng lima kung pwede daw nila akung makausap at hiningi ang permiso ko. Sumangayun ako at nanatili sila sa loob ng silid. Lumuhod sila sa akin at nagpasalamat, humingi ng patawad.  Nakita ko ang kanilang pagsisisi at sinabihan silang sa susunod wag nilang daanin sa biru-an ang lahat ng bagay.  Sabi nila na balang araw ay papalitan nila ang kabutihang ginawa ko sa kanila na utang nila ang buhay nila sa akin.  Nag-usap kami sa silid at nagkwentuhan.

Kinagabihan ay kinamusta ako ni Moroni, tinanong ko sya tungkol sa kanyang kapangyarihan at ang sabi nya sa akin na nang bata pa sya ay napag-alaman nya na may roon syang ganong kapangyarihan ng pinagalitan sya ng kanyang ama, nagalit sya at pumunta sa tabing ilog, kumuha ng bato at itinapon sa ilog at sumabog ito.sabi pa nya na hindi nya kayang kuntrolin ang elemento ng hangin ngunit lahat ng mahahawakan nya ay pwedi nyang gawing pasabok pag itoy kanyang binitawan. Mabilis ang aking pag galling, isa- dalawang araw lang ay humilom at bumalik na sa kundisyon ang aking katawan, sa buong buhay ko ang alam ko lang na hindi ako nagkakasakit . nagtataka ako bakit naghilum at gumaling ako ng dalawang araw, napag-alaman ko na mayroon akung kakayahan na hilumin ang aking mga sugat kaya pala hindi ako namatay ng gabing ginulpi ako sabi ni tandang helaman sakin.

Pinakilala ako ni Moroni sa kanyang pamilya, at nag-alok na doon kami manatili hanggang matapos ang paligsahan, pumayag naman si Tandang Helaman.

Dumating ang paligsahan at ang daming tao ang dumalo, pinakilala ako ni tandang helaman sa lahat na ako ang unang estudyante nya na nanggaling sa Isla ng Zarahemla, Isla ng pag-asa. Namangha ang lahat dahil akala nila na kathang-isip lang ang islang yun.  Nakita korin ang kadalagahan sa lugar nila na tinitingnan ako na ngumingiti, nang itaas ko ang aking kamay para kumaway ay binatukan ako ni tandang helaman at nagsabing alam nya ang aking iniisip, napahiya tuloy ako sa aking sarili.

Calorie Cutting Food Swaps

If you’re looking to succeed on your weight loss diet plan, it’s vital that you take a look at some of the simple ways that you can go about reducing your calorie intake so that you can make fast progress without feeling like you’re on a very strict diet.

If the truth is told, for many people there are some very small adjustments they could make to their normal diet intake that would have a huge impact on the fat loss results that they see.

By taking the time to learn what these adjustments are and then getting them in place, you can see for yourself just how powerful they can be.

Let’s give you a few quick calorie cutting food swaps to think about.

Swap: Granola For Oatmeal

The first great swap to make is to exchange out your usual bowl of granola in the morning for some oatmeal instead.  Oatmeal is very high in fiber and completely sugar free, which cannot be said for most granola cereals.

By choosing oatmeal instead, you can easily save yourself 200-300 calories in the process.

Swap: Beef For Fish

The next quick swap that you may want to consider is exchanging fish for beef. While beef definitely is a good protein source in your diet, fish would be a superior option.

Fish is lower in calories and completely fat free, so when you’re really trying to get the weight off quickly, it’ll help you get there faster.

Allow beef once per week to help keep your iron intake up, but then have fish or chicken the remaining nights instead.

Swap: Juice For Real Fruit

Another smart swap for faster weight loss is to exchange juice for real fruit.  Juice is very high in calories and will produce a rather rapid spike in blood glucose levels due to the lack of fiber it contains, while real fruit is the opposite.

Real fruit is going to be high in fiber and nutrients and will fill you up much more quickly and help to keep you satisfied.  Many people make the mistake of thinking that juice is a very healthy selection, but that’s not the case.

Swap: Pasta For Spaghetti Squash

Finally, the last swap that you should consider adding into your diet plan is spaghetti squash for pasta.  Pasta is another very high calorie food is and is very easy to overeat on.  If you want to maintain that reduced calorie intake for faster weight loss, then squash is the superior choice.

This vegetable can be eaten in much the same way as normal pasta would be, but will help shave off 200 calories or more from that meal.

So there you have just a few of the quick and easy swaps that you can start making today.  They won’t really change the overall meal that you’re having, just change the total calorie content and help you move closer to your end goal. Sometimes it’s the smallest changes that can make the biggest difference so always look for these first in your diet plan before making larger-scale changes.

Camping: Eat Right When In the Wilderness

If you’re a big fan of camping and plan to head out quite frequently over the coming summer months, one thing that you need to be giving some consideration to is the foods that you’ll be taking in while out in the wild.

Many people who go camping use it as an excuse to cheat on their diet plan and end up indulging in foods that they definitely should not be consuming.

But, if you plan to bring your own food and make sure that you select some wise choices, you will have more energy for all the camping activities that you want to do and will also not have to worry about falling off your diet plan entirely.

Let’s have a quick look at some of the best foods to bring with you as you go camping.

Canned Beans

First up on our list of great foods for camping is canned beans. Beans are loaded with fiber, complex carbohydrates, along with protein, so will provide your body with many nutrients that it needs. Plus, all you have to do is open the can, put into a pot, and heat over the fire. It doesn’t get much easier than that.

Just be sure to choose canned beans that don’t have a high amount of added sugars or you will run into problems in terms of calorie control.

Raw Oatmeal

Second on the list is raw oatmeal. Raw oatmeal can either be consumed on its own if you need to take something with you on the go (consider mixing it together with some dried fruit and nuts for a trail mix type of snack), or you can simply boil some water over the campfire and then poor it into your oats to cook them.

Either way, it’s a great way to get your day started off right and provide you with a high quality source of complex carbohydrates.

Canned Tuna

Canned tuna is next on the list of perfect camping foods. Since canned tuna essentially requires no prep work other than grabbing a can opener, you definitely can’t go wrong with this one.

Mix your canned tuna with a little lemon juice and fresh dill for a calorie free way to add more flavor.

Natural Nut Butter

Natural nut butter is a good solution for your healthy fat choices. If you are going to be doing quite a bit of hiking or other fitness related activities while you camp, you’re going to need to keep your energy levels up. Healthy fats are a great way to do this.

Natural nut butter can either be consumed on its own or smeared over some Ezekiel bread, which is a great choice to bring along as well.

Fresh Fruit

Finally, you can’t go wrong with fresh fruit. Fresh fruit will add some fiber to your day, pack in more nutrients, and help to satisfy your sweet tooth so you aren’t indulging in candy, chocolate bars, or whatever other junk foods others may have brought with them.

Don’t let your diet fall off track just because you’re camping. Choose your foods wisely and you’ll feel far better because of it. 

How to calculate your own BMI

Your at-home step-by-step guide

There are many ways to determine if you’re at a healthy weight and BMI (Body Mass Index) calculation is one of the easiest, simplest and most frequently used methods for the same. Determining your BMI is not difficult at all and you can do it easily even within the comfort of your home. In its simplest meanings, BMI compares a person’s weight to their height.

BMI formula

BMI uses a mathematical formula based on a person’s height and weight. BMI equals weight in kilograms divided by height in meters squared (BMI = kg/m2). When using pounds and inches, the formula needs to be altered slightly. Multiply your weight in pounds by 703. You can also calculate your own BMI accordingly. .

For example, if you weigh 120 pounds and are 5 ft. 3 in. (63 in.) tall:

BMI = 120 x 703 = 84,360 = 21.3 

63 x 63 = 3,969

This is well within the healthy weight range.

Step by step guide to calculate your BMI

Things you need:

To calculate your own BMI while sitting within the comfort of your home, all you need is:

A simple calculator

Your already known readings for your own “height” and “weight”.

If you have these things ready then:

1-Enter your body weight in Kilograms

2- Press the ÷ symbol

3-Enter your body height in meters

4-Again press the ÷ symbol

5- Again enter your body height in meters

6- Press the “=” symbol

What does BMI tell you?

A BMI of 25 to 29.9 indicates a person is overweight.

A person with a BMI of 30 or higher is considered obese.

In short, for most adults, the BMI is a good way to get an idea of healthy weight ranges. But it is not always the final word in deciding if a person is overweight or obese. There are other things to think about when judging how much someone should weigh. A person with a high BMI should be evaluated by a health care provider, who might use other factors such as skin fold thickness (a measure of body fat), waist size, evaluations of diet and family health problems, and other tests to find out if a person's weight might pose a health risk. For example, you are at a higher risk if you carry most of your weight around the abdomen. If you are overweight, losing 5 to 10 per cent of your current body weight at a rate of 2 to 4 lbs (1 to 2 kg) per month is a healthy goal.

For someone who weighs 200 lbs (90 kg), 5 to 10 per cent is 10 to 20 lbs (4.5 to 9 kg).

It is important to remember that while BMI does not show the difference between excess fat and muscle, it is closely associated with measures of body fat. It also predicts the development of health problems related to excess weight. For these reasons, BMI is widely used by health care providers.

Cactus Extract

Cactus Extract

Cactus Extract is a 100% natural ingredient made from dehydrated cactus leaves. Beyond its lipophilic properties (ability to interact with fats), Cactus Extract also showed a positive effect on blood lipid parameters and Syndrome X diagnosis.

Applications
Fibers with lipophilic properties / weight management support

Positive action on blood lipid parameters
Link with cardiovascukar risks and Metabolic Syndrome (Syndrome X) diagnosis

Nature
Patented powder of Opuntia ficus indica cactus leaves

Active content
Cactus Extract
Cactus Extract is a 100% natural ingredient made from dehydrated cactus leaves. Beyond its lipophilic properties (ability to interact with fats), Cactus Extract also showed a positive effect on blood lipid parameters and Syndrome X diagnosis.
Applications Fibers with lipophilic properties / weight management support
Positive action on blood lipid parameters
Link with cardiovascukar risks and Metabolic Syndrome (Syndrome X) diagnosis
Nature Patented powder of Opuntia ficus indica cactus leaves
Active content Soluble and insoluble fiber of Opuntia ficus-indica cactus
Scientific Background In vitro study: gastrointestinal model
2001 : 2g of Cactus Extract, associated to a test meal absorbs part of total fatty acids during the 4-hours in vitro test.
2004 : Comparison between NeOpuntia® and a branded chitosan : Cactus Extract decreases fatty acids bio-availability, whereas chitosan shows no effect.
2005 : Cactus Extract's lipophilc properties are confirmed when associated with a traditional American breakfast.
Pilot clinical study
2003 : the double blind, placebo-controlled study suggests that Cactus Extract could increase fat excretion by 27%.
Clinical Study (PUBLISHED) :

E. Linares. The effect of Cactus Extract on blood Lipid parameters - risk factors for the Metabolic Syndrome (Syndrome X). Advances in Therapy®, vol. 24 N°5 ; september-october 2007. Study conducted on 68 females divided into 2 groups (Cactus Extract and Placebo), during 42 days :

On the total population, Cactus Extract increases HDL cholesterol level, with a significant trend (+0.0217 g/l)

In women 45 years or older, Cactus Extract significantly increases HDL cholesterol level (p=0,029)

Almost 40% of women in the Cactus Extract group are no longer diagnosed with Metabolic Syndrome, against only 8% for the Placebo group.

Soluble and insoluble fiber of Opuntia ficus-indica cactus

Scientific Background

In vitro study: gastrointestinal model

2001 : 2g of Cactus Extract, associated to a test meal absorbs part of total fatty acids during the 4-hours in vitro test.

2004 : Comparison between NeOpuntia® and a branded chitosan : Cactus Extract decreases fatty acids bio-availability, whereas chitosan shows no effect.

2005 : Cactus Extract's lipophilc properties are confirmed when associated with a traditional American breakfast.

Pilot clinical study

2003 : the double blind, placebo-controlled study suggests that Cactus Extract could increase fat excretion by 27%.

Clinical Study (PUBLISHED) :

E. Linares. The effect of Cactus Extract on blood Lipid parameters - risk factors for the Metabolic Syndrome (Syndrome X). Advances in Therapy®, vol. 24 N°5 ; september-october 2007. Study conducted on 68 females divided into 2 groups (Cactus Extract and Placebo), during 42 days :

On the total population, Cactus Extract increases HDL cholesterol level, with a significant trend (+0.0217 g/l)

In women 45 years or older, Cactus Extract significantly increases HDL cholesterol level (p=0,029)

Almost 40% of women in the Cactus Extract group are no longer diagnosed with Metabolic Syndrome, against only 8% for the Placebo group.

Meratol is backed up by Clinical Studies

Brown Seaweed Extract

Brown seaweed extract which can offer a full spectrum weight management support. It has a high  content of original marine polyphenols, minerals and trace elements.

Applications

• Full spectrum weight management support
• Caloric intake reduction (inhibition of digestive enzymes)
• Energy expenditure increase, linked to thermogenesis
• Rich in antioxidant and minerals

Nature

• Brown seaweed extract

Active content

• Phlorotanins

Scientific
Background

• Clinical study on overweight woman during 2 months: 
• Almost 3 kg weight loss
• 100% weight loss = fat loss
• Shapped buttocks and thighs
• 76% of consumers convinced by ID-alG™
• No side effects
• In vivo study on rats:
• Weight control in the case of hypercaloric diet
• Body fat mass control
• In vitro studies (inhibition of digestive enzymes):

Daily Messages

"Act in accordance with your true beliefs by spending your time on those things that will build and develop your character and help you become more Christlike. I hope none of you see life as primarily fun and games but rather as a time 'to prepare to meet God.'"

"Israel, Israel, God is calling--calling us to live the gospel of Jesus Christ personally in small ways as well as large, and then to reach out to those who may not look or dress or behave quite like we do, and then (where you can) go beyond that to serve in the widest community you can address."

"Because He came to earth, we have a perfect example to follow. As we strive to become more like Him, we will have joy and happiness in our lives and peace each day of the year. It is His example which, if followed, stirs within us more kindness and love, more respect and concern for others."

"It is our sacred joy and privilege to serve the Lord and our fellowmen, to commit the best that is within us to the noble cause of lifting others and building the kingdom of God."

"To Christians who have returned to their old, less faithful ways, consider the faithful example of Peter. Do not delay. Come hear and recognize the Master’s voice calling. Then straightway return to Him and receive His abundant blessings once again."

"The Lord is in all of our lives. He loves us. He wants to bless us. He wants us to seek His help. As He guides us and directs us and as He hears and answers our prayers, we will find the happiness here and now that He desires for us."

"The Lord is in all of our lives. He loves us. He wants to bless us. He wants us to seek His help. As He guides us and directs us and as He hears and answers our prayers, we will find the happiness here and now that He desires for us."

"Conversion is an enlarging, a deepening, and a broadening of the undergirding base of testimony. It is the result of revelation from God, accompanied by individual repentance, obedience, and diligence. Any honest seeker of truth can become converted by experiencing the mighty change of heart and being spiritually born of God."

"Discipleship is the pursuit of holiness and happiness. It is the path to our best and happiest self."

"The call is to come back, to stay true, to love God, and to lend a hand."

"We want to see Jesus Christ now, but our certain reunion with Him at the judgment bar will be more pleasing if we first do the things that make Him as familiar to us as we are to Him. As we serve Him, we become like Him, and we feel closer to Him as we approach that day when nothing will hide our view."

"A testimony is spiritual knowledge of truth obtained by the power of the Holy Ghost. Continuing conversion is constant devotion to the revealed truth we have received—with a heart that is willing and for righteous reasons."

"As Christians today, we have the opportunity to act straightway, immediately, and decisively, just as Peter and Andrew did: 'they forsook their nets, and followed him.'"

"We can’t direct the wind, but we can adjust the sails. For maximum happiness, peace, and contentment, may we choose a positive attitude."

"Angels rejoice as priesthood leaders across the world build Zion in their wards, stakes, and missions. And they will rejoice over the young men and women you help to build Zion wherever they are and in whatever circumstances they may be. Zion is the result of people bound by covenant and love."

"Like the intense fire that transforms iron into steel, as we remain faithful during the fiery trial of our faith, we are spiritually refined and strengthened."

"Parents must have the courage to say no, defend truth, and bear powerful testimony. Your children need to know that you have faith in the Savior, love your Heavenly Father, and sustain the leaders of the Church. Spiritual maturity must flourish in our homes."

"Declaring our testimony of the gospel is good, but being a living example of the restored gospel is better. Wishing to be more faithful to our covenants is good; actually being faithful to sacred covenants—including living a virtuous life, paying our tithes and offerings, keeping the Word of Wisdom, and serving those in need—is much better. Announcing that we will dedicate more time for family prayer, scripture study, and wholesome family activities is good; but actually doing all these things steadily will bring heavenly blessings to our lives."

"There is power in our love for God and for His children, and when that love is tangibly manifest in millions of acts of Christian kindness, it will sweeten and nourish the world with the life-sustaining nectar of faith, hope, and charity."

"We are commanded 'to give thanks in all things.' So isn’t it better to see with our eyes and hearts even the small things we can be thankful for, rather than magnifying the negative in our current condition?"

"Courage is required to make an initial thrust toward one’s coveted goal, but even greater courage is called for when one stumbles and must make a second effort to achieve."

"No matter our circumstances, no matter our challenges or trials, there is something in each day to embrace and cherish. There is something in each day that can bring gratitude and joy if only we will see and appreciate it."

"Don’t limit yourself and don’t let others convince you that you are limited in what you can do. Believe in yourself and then live so as to reach your possibilities."

"If we do not have a deep foundation of faith and a solid testimony of truth, we may have difficulty withstanding the harsh storms and icy winds of adversity which inevitably come to each of us."

"The person who is working on his or her family history fits the description of one who is fulfilling his or her duty. I know the effort, I know the expense. I know the difficulties through which one may go to uncover one name. I know our Heavenly Father is aware of these efforts. And those for whom we perform sacred ordinances are aware of our efforts. Oftentimes, in a miraculous way, there shall appear before us a clear pathway through a field of turbulence."

"The onslaught of wickedness against our children is more subtle and brazen than it has ever been. Building a strong family culture adds another layer of protection for our children, insulating them from worldly influences."

"So much in life depends on our attitude. The way we choose to see things and respond to others makes all the difference. To do the best we can and then to choose to be happy about our circumstances, whatever they may be, can bring peace and contentment."

"As we follow [the Savior], He blesses us with gifts, talents, and the strength to do His will, allowing us to go beyond our comfort zones and do things we’ve never before thought possible."

"In your morning prayer each new day, ask Heavenly Father to guide you to recognize an opportunity to serve one of His precious children. Then go throughout the day with your heart full of faith and love, looking for someone to help."

"The more we devote ourselves to the pursuit of holiness and happiness, the less likely we will be on a path to regrets. The more we rely on the Savior’s grace, the more we will feel that we are on the track our Father in Heaven has intended for us."

"Often when we pray for help with a significant matter, Heavenly Father will give us gentle promptings that require us to think, exercise faith, work, at times struggle, then act. It is a step-by-step process that enables us to discern inspired answers."

"God knows our gifts. My challenge to you and to me is to pray to know the gifts we have been given, to know how to develop them, and to recognize the opportunities to serve others that God provides us. But most of all, I pray that you will be inspired to help others discover their special gifts from God to serve."

"Christ is the source of all true priesthood authority and power on earth. It is His work, in which we are privileged to assist."

"The purpose of mortality is to learn and to grow to be more like our Father, and it is often during the difficult times that we learn the most, as painful as the lessons may be."

"The keys Elijah restored to Joseph Smith permit our hearts to be bound and each of us linked to those of our ancestors who are waiting for our help. Through our efforts in holy temples here on earth using the authority delegated by the Savior, our progenitors receive the saving ordinances that allow them to enjoy eternal happiness."

"God will put prepared people in the way of His prepared servants who want to share the gospel. You have had that happen in your own life. How often it happens depends on the preparation of your mind and your heart."

"Yes, this life is passing swiftly; our days seem to fade quickly; and death appears frightening at times. Nevertheless, our spirit will continue to live and will one day be united with our resurrected body to receive immortal glory. I bear solemn witness that because of the merciful Christ, we will all live again and forever."

"Line upon line and precept upon precept, gradually and almost imperceptibly, our motives, our thoughts, our words, and our deeds become aligned with the will of God. Conversion unto the Lord requires both persistence and patience."

"There is no fog so dense, no night so dark, no gale so strong, no mariner so lost but what the lighthouse of the Lord can rescue. It beckons through the storms of life. It calls, 'This way to safety. This way to home.' It sends forth signals of light easily seen and never failing. If followed, those signals will guide you back to your heavenly home."

"The Lord loves us and is mindful of us. He is always on our side as we do what is right. He will help us in time of need."

"Courage is the word we need to hear and hold near our hearts—courage to turn our backs on temptation, courage to lift up our voices in testimony to all whom we meet, remembering that everyone must have an opportunity to hear the message."

"I wish also to commend you, my brothers and sisters, wherever you are throughout the world, for all that you do in your wards and branches, your stakes and districts. As you willingly fulfill callings when you are asked, you are helping to build the kingdom of God on earth."

"Our Heavenly Father is aware of our needs and will help us as we call upon Him for assistance. I believe that no concern of ours is too small or insignificant. The Lord is in the details of our lives."

"Christmas is what we make of it. Despite all the distractions, we can see to it that Christ is at the center of our celebration. If we have not already done so, we can establish Christmas traditions for ourselves and for our families which will help us capture and keep the spirit of Christmas."

"This joyful season brings to all of us a measure of happiness that corresponds to the degree to which we have turned our minds, feelings, and actions to the Savior, whose birth we celebrate."

"Christmas is the spirit of giving without a thought of getting. It is happiness because we see joy in people. It is forgetting self and finding time for others. It is discarding the meaningless and stressing the true values. It is peace because we have found peace in the Savior’s teachings. It is the time we realize most deeply that the more love is expended, the more there is of it for others."

"Do you young people want a sure way to eliminate the influence of the adversary in your life? Immerse yourself in searching for your ancestors, prepare their names for the sacred vicarious ordinances available in the temple, and then go to the temple to stand as proxy for them to receive the ordinances of baptism and the gift of the Holy Ghost."

"For many, the call to be a Christian can seem demanding, even overwhelming. But we need not be afraid or feel inadequate. The Savior has promised that He will make us equal to His work."

"Let us resolve to follow the Savior and work with diligence to become the person we were designed to become. Let us listen to and obey the promptings of the Holy Spirit. As we do so, Heavenly Father will reveal to us things we never knew about ourselves. He will illuminate the path ahead and open our eyes to see our unknown and perhaps unimagined talents."

"Anywhere you are in the world, with prayer, faith, determination, diligence, and some sacrifice, you can make a powerful contribution. Begin now. I promise you that the Lord will help you find a way. And it will make you feel wonderful."

"It is through our Savior’s sacrifice that we can gain exaltation and eternal life. As we accept His ways and overcome our pride by softening our hearts, we can bring reconciliation and forgiveness into our families and our personal lives. God will help us to be more forgiving, to be more willing to walk the second mile, to be first to apologize even if something wasn’t our fault, to lay aside old grudges and nurture them no more."

"At this joyous season, may personal discords be forgotten and animosities healed. May enjoyment of the season include remembrance of the needy and afflicted. May our forgiveness reach out to those who have wronged us, even as we hope to be forgiven. May goodness abound in our hearts and love prevail in our homes."

"Any work you do in the temple is time well spent, but receiving ordinances vicariously for one of your own ancestors will make the time in the temple more sacred, and even greater blessings will be received."

"Line upon line and precept upon precept, gradually and almost imperceptibly, our motives, our thoughts, our words, and our deeds become aligned with the will of God. Conversion unto the Lord requires both persistence and patience."

"Your habits of family prayer and scripture reading will create more lasting memories and greater changes of heart than you may realize now. Even apparently temporal activities, such as attending an athletic event or watching a movie, can shape a child’s heart. What matters is not the activity but the feelings that come as you do it."

"When you are faced with a test of faith, stay within the safety and security of the household of God. There is always a place for you here. No trial is so large we can’t overcome it together."

"For any whose lives are not in order, remember, it is never too late to make the Savior’s Atonement the foundation of our faith and lives."

"Parents must resolve that teaching in the home is a most sacred and important responsibility."

"Knowing that the gospel is true is the essence of a testimony. Consistently being true to the gospel is the essence of conversion. We should know the gospel is true and be true to the gospel."

"Christmas and some of the cherished traditions of the season remind us that we, like the Wise Men of old, should seek the Christ and lay before Him the most precious of gifts: a broken heart and a contrite spirit."

"What all of us long for in our hearts, at Christmastime and always, is to feel bound together in love with the sweet assurance that it can last forever. This is the promise of eternal life, which God has called His greatest gift to His children (see D&C 14:7)."

"Like the shepherds of old, we need to say in our hearts, 'Let us see this thing which is come to pass.' We need to desire it in our hearts. Let us see the Holy One of Israel in the manger, in the temple, on the mount, and on the cross. Like the shepherds, let us glorify and praise God for these tidings of great joy!"

"There was a song in a film years ago with the line 'Have yourself a merry little Christmas.' Well, you can give a great and wonderful Christmas if you remember the gifts God has given you and, as best you can, offer them to others as He would. That is the spirit of Christmas and of true happiness every day."

"The more commercialized and busy the Christmas season becomes, the easier it is for the sublime message of the Savior’s life to get lost along the way. If we notice that planning for parties and scrambling for presents begin to detract from the peaceable message of Jesus Christ and distance us from the gospel He preached, let us take a step back, slow down a little, and reconsider what matters most."

"While it’s true that we can find materialism and anxiety in Christmas, it is also true that if we have eyes to see, we can experience the powerful message of the birth of the Son of God and feel the hope and peace He brings to the world."

"The celebration of Christmas helps us keep our promise to always remember Him and His gifts to us. And that remembrance creates a desire in us to give gifts to Him. He has told us what we could give Him to bring Him joy. First, we can, out of faith in Him, give a broken heart and a contrite spirit. We can repent and make sacred covenants with Him. . . . Second, you can give Him the gift of doing for others what He would do for them."

"Christmas is a time for remembering the Son of God and renewing our determination to take upon us His name. It is a time to reassess our lives and examine our thoughts, feelings, and actions. Let this be a time of remembrance, of gratitude, and a time of forgiveness. Let it be a time to ponder the Atonement of Jesus Christ and its meaning for each of us personally. Let it especially be a time of renewal and recommitment to live by the word of God and to obey His commandments. By doing this, we honor Him far more than we ever could with lights, gifts, or parties."

"Some of you may be shy by nature or consider yourselves inadequate to respond affirmatively to the call to serve. Remember that this is the Lord’s work, and when we are on the Lord’s errand, we are entitled to the Lord’s help. The Lord will shape the back to bear the burden placed upon it."

"Many of you will in the Christmas season find ways to give food to people who are hungry. As you do, you bring joy to the Lord. Yet He taught us that there is a way to give an even more priceless and lasting gift. He said, 'I am the bread of life: he that cometh to me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on me shall never thirst' (John 6:35). With all the kindnesses we give for Him, the greatest we can offer is to point those we love and serve toward Him, the only source of eternal life."

"The Christmases I remember best, the Christmases which touched my heart the most, are Christmases filled with love and giving and the Spirit of the Savior. . . . Bringing the Christmas spirit into our hearts and homes takes conscious effort and planning but can surely be accomplished."

Source: lds.org
This site is highly recommended 

Inspirational Message

"Miracles are everywhere to be found when priesthood callings are magnified. When faith replaces doubt, when selfless service eliminates selfish striving, the power of God brings to pass His purposes. Whom God calls, God qualifies."

—Thomas S. Monson, "Our Sacred Priesthood Trust", Liahona and Ensign, May 2006
Topics: Priesthood, Miracles, Callings

"What we can do to help--teaching, and doing it with the spirit of righteousness, with love, with tenderness, with example--centers on the Savior and his atonement. That is what we would teach. The Atonement working in our lives will produce in us the love and tenderness we need. And by remembering Him and His gift, which we promise to do as we take the sacrament each week, we can put a light of hope in our faces which those we love need so much to see."

—Henry B. Eyring, "The Spark of Faith", Liahona and Ensign, November 1986
Topics: Atonement, Service, Love, Compassion, Covenants

"Love can overpower the undermining effect of selfishness. Love engenders faith in Christ's plan of happiness, provides courage to begin the process of repentance, strengthens the resolve to be obedient to His teachings, and opens the door of service, welcoming in the feelings of self-worth and of being loved and needed."

—Richard G. Scott, "We Love You--Please Come Back", Liahona and Ensign, May 1986
Topics: Love, Repentance

"In words of one syllable, we need to turn to God. We need to reaffirm our faith, and we need to reassert our hope. Where necessary we need to repent, and certainly we need to pray. It is the absence of spiritual fidelity that has led us to moral disarray in the twilight of the twentieth century."

—Jeffrey R. Holland, "Look to God and Live"
Topics: Faith, Hope, Repentance, Prayer

"Yes, life is precious! No one can cuddle a cherished newborn baby, look into those beautiful eyes, feel the little fingers, and caress that miraculous creation without deepening reverence for life and for our Creator. Life comes from life. It is a gift from our Heavenly Father. It is eternal, as he is eternal."

—Russell M. Nelson, "Reverence for Life", Liahona and Ensign, May 1985
Topics: Children, Family, Parenting, Abortion, Sanctity of Life

"Continue building lasting, loving relationships for all family members. Listen to one another, be unified, work together, play together, study together. Live celestial principles together, serve the Lord together. Find those precious teaching moments with one another. Don't let them slip through your fingers, but feed and nurture these special occasions. Never let golden opportunities go by in your relationships with your family members that will help build eternal principles."

—L. Tom Perry, "Born of Goodly Parents"
Topics: Family, Parenting

"When you take the path that climbs, that harder path of the Savior, there are rewards along the way. When you do something right, when you resist temptation, when you meet a goal, you will feel very good about it. It is a very different kind of feeling than you have when you violate commandments--an altogether different feeling. It brings a measure of peace and comfort and provides encouragement to press on."

—Richard G. Scott, "Finding the Way Back", Liahona and Ensign, May 1990
Topics: Adversity, Temptation, Jesus Christ, Obedience

"[Jesus Christ] made salvation available to every repentant soul. His Atonement conquered death, and He permits the worthy deceased to receive all ordinances of salvation vicariously."

—Richard G. Scott, "The Joy of Redeeming the Dead", Liahona and Ensign, November 2012
Topics: Redemption, Atonement

"Life by the yard is hard; by the inch it's a cinch. Each of us can be true for just one day--and then one more and then one more after that--until we've lived a lifetime guided by the Spirit, a lifetime close to the Lord, a lifetime of good deeds and righteousness."

—Thomas S. Monson, "Believe, Obey, and Endure", Liahona and Ensign, May 2012
Topics: Endurance, Faith, Patience, Prophetic Messages

"To not take counsel from our fears means that faith in the Lord Jesus Christ overrules our fears and that we can press forward with a steadfastness in Him. To not take counsel from our fears means that we trust in God's guidance, assurance, and timing in our lives."

—David A. Bednar, "Christ Overrules Our Fears"
Topics: Fear, Faith

Source: www.lds.org

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The Book of Mormon

THE
BOOK OF MORMON

AN ACCOUNT WRITTEN BY
THE HAND OF MORMON
UPON PLATES
TAKEN FROM THE PLATES OF NEPHI

1 Wherefore, it is an abridgment of the record of the people of Nephi, and also of the Lamanites—Written to the Lamanites, who are a remnant of the house of Israel; and also to Jew and Gentile—Written by way of commandment, and also by the spirit of prophecy and of revelation—Written and sealed up, and hid up unto the Lord, that they might not be destroyed—To come forth by the gift and power of God unto the interpretation thereof—Sealed by the hand of Moroni, and hid up unto the Lord, to come forth in due time by way of the Gentile—The interpretation thereof by the gift of God.
2 An abridgment taken from the Book of Ether also, which is a record of the people of Jared, who were scattered at the time the Lord confounded the language of the people, when they were building a tower to get to heaven—Which is to show unto the remnant of the House of Israel what great things the Lord hath done for their fathers; and that they may know the covenants of the Lord, that they are not cast off forever—And also to the convincing of the Jew and Gentile that JESUS is the CHRIST, the ETERNAL GOD, manifesting himself unto all nations—And now, if there are faults they are the mistakes of men; wherefore, condemn not the things of God, that ye may be found spotless at the judgment-seat of Christ.


TRANSLATED BY JOSEPH SMITH, JUN.

 Published by
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
1988

First English edition published in 1830

Paghahanap sa unang itinakda

Kabanata VI

             

Pinagtataka ko ng dumating kami sa Isla at mag tatakip silim na, at nang makalabas kami sa kuwiba magbubukang liwayway pa lamang-Pyesta din sa islang ito at ito rin ang araw na kanilang pinagdidiriwang ang isang milinyung dumating ang kanilang mga ninunu sa isla nila, napatunayan ko sa sarili ko na tama ang sabi ni itay tungkol sa mga ninunu naming.

Dahil maraming handaan ay kumain ako ng maraming pagkain, at napag-alaman korin na kakaiba ang kanilang pagkain. Hindi sila kumakain ng karne, puro gulay, prutas, tinapay, at iba pa maliban sa karne.  Dumating na ang oras na mag bibigay na naman si tandang helaman ng kanyang talumpati, hulaan kung ano ang kanyang sasabihin kung ano ang gagawin nya kinabukasan? Tama, palutangin ang bato sa eri. Habang kumakain ay nilapitan ako ng limang binatang lalaki na sa subrang bilis nila ay hindi ko namalayan na nasa tabi kona sila.

Tinanong nila ako kung ako ang estudyante ni tandang helaman at sinabi ko sa kanila na ako. Dahil napagalaman nila na ako ang unang ginawa ni tandang helaman na estudyante ay inakala nila na isa akung malakas na nilalang na may kakaibang katangi-an at kapangyarihan. Gusto nilang subukan ang aking kakayahan kaya ang ginawa nila ay sinabihan nila akung labanan sila, ngunit tumanggi ako dahil alam kung wala akung laban sa kanila.  Kaya nilang kuntrolin ang Elmento ng hangin, dahil sa ilang ulit akung nagsabi sa kanila na hindi ako sumasang-ayun sa kanilang hamon at nakatahimik nalamang habang kinukutya nila.

 Nagsimula akung tumayo at umalis sa kanila para makaiwas sa gulo, ngunit nang nakita nila ang kwentas na nakasabit sa aking liig. Tinanong nila ako kung sa akin ang kwentas na hinawakan ng kanilang kaibigan, nagtaka ako kung pano napunta sa kanila ang kwentas sa subrang bilis ay hindi ko nakita. Tumakbo sila papalayo at kinantyawan akung habulin sila,  nagsabi sila sa akin na kung ako ang unang itinakda ay patunayan ko sa kanila at magpakitang gilas. 

Hinabol ko sila para kunin ang kwentas, ng makarating ako sa isang bakanting espasyo ay pinalibutan at pinagbabatok nila ang aking ulo, pinagpasa-pasahan din nila ang kwentas. Hanggang napagod ako sa pagahahabol.  Sabi nila na nagbibiro daw ako bakit hindi ko pa pinapakita ang aking lakas.Nagsimula ang isa na suntukin ako sa mukha pero nagtaka sya na hindi ako lumalaban o umiwas, kaya inakala nilang nagbibir lamang ako sa aking ginagawa, isa isa silang lumapit at pinagsusuntok at tinatadyakan ang aking katawan habang pinagtatawanan. Humihingi ako sa kanila ng awa-at hindi ko sila makita dahil sa subrang bilis nila ang tanging naramdaman ko ay ang sakit ng bawat tama ng kanilang kamao at sipa.

Nagsasalita ang isa sa kanila na tama na ang aking pagbibiro at seriousohin ko na ang laban, kung ako daw ang pinili.  Sabi ko naman sa kanila na wala akung kakayahan nakiusap ng awa na ibigay nila ang kwentas sa akin habang nakahandusay sa lupa at duguan. Dumidilim na ang aking mga paningin na parang napag-isip ko na baka katapusan kona, ngunit sa kanila ay isang biro at pagpapanggap lang ang aking ginagawa.  Sa kawalan ng pag-asa ay dumating ang isang ka edad ko na ka isla nila at nagsabing tumigil na sila. Sabi ng lima na wag daw syang makialam sa kaguluhan. Kumuha sya ng kapirasong papel sa kanyang bulsa at nakita ko habang hinahawakan nya ang papel ay nagliyab ito pero hindi nasusunog ang papel.

Biglang dumating si tandang helaman at inawat ang kaguluhan, itinapon nila ng palihim sa tabi ang kwentas na bigay sa akin ni Sarah at hinawakan ko ito at inilagay sa aking bulsa.

Doon ko nakilala si Moroni, ang nagligtas sa akin sa gabing yun kakaiba ang kapangyarihan ni Moroni. Tinulungan ako ni Moroni na tumayo at inaaalayan na isakay sa karusa na may kalabaw at dadalhin sa kanilang bahay para gamutin. 

ANG PAGHAHANAP SA APAT NA MANDIRIGMA

Kabanata V

Isla ng agosh (isla ng hangin)

Ilang araw na kaming naglalakbay, at halos maubos na ang pabaong tinapay at tubig sa akin ni ina.  Napagod narin ako sa kasasagwan at hindi ko alam ang aming patutunguhan dahil sa hamog ng karagatan na halos wala akung makita.  Napuna ko ky tandang helaman na halos hindi sya umiinum at kumakain masyado, sa bagay ako parati ang pinagsasagwan nya ng bangka. sa uhaw at gutom ay nakatulog ako. Naramdaman ko habang natutulog-tumigil yung bangka na aming sinasakyan, nang idilat ko ang aking mga mata ay nakarating na kami sa Isla. Namangha ako dahil akala ko na wala nang ibang isla kundi ang isla namin, sa nakita kung lugar parang walang taong nakatira at magubat ang Isla. Tinanong ko si Tandang Helaman kung ano ang tawag sa Isla. Ang tawag daw ay Isla ng Agosh o Isla ng hangin.

Naglakad kami ni tandang helaman paakyat sa gubat, nagpahinga at nanguha ng mga prutas. Ibang klase talaga si tandang helaman, napipitas nya ang mga prutas na hindi ginagamit ang kamay nya, gamit lang ung pagiisip nya. Nagtanong ako sa kanya kung kagagawan nya ang paglutang ng bato at hindi ako. Sinabi nya sa akin na kahit malaman ko man o hindi wala na akong magagawa dahil ako ang itinakda. Tinanong ko sya uli kung bakit nga ako pinili na maging estudyante nya at hindi yung mga malalakas sa aming Isla. Ang sabi nya ang marka sa aking braso ang simbulo na ako ang unang itinakda. Tinanong ko sya kung ano ang ibig sabihin ng lunar sa aking braso, sabi naman ni tandang helaman nayan ang simbulo ng pag-asa.

 Pagkatapos kumain at magpahinga nagsabi syang pumasok na, at ang nakita ko lang na papasukan ay ang kweba sa harap namin. Bumulung-bulong ako sa aking sarili kung nababaliw na ba ang matandang ito, at biglang binatukan nya ako ng kanyang sungkod at sinabi “ito ang unang leksyon na kailangan mung matutunan, kailangan kang magkaroon ng Pananampalataya”.  Bulong ko sa aking sarili kung anong ibig sabihin nang pananampalataya.  Sabi ni tandang helaman, na ang pananampalataya ay paniniwala sa isang bagay na hindi mo nakikita ngunit totoo. Tulad daw ng isang hangin na hindi nakikita ngunit nararamdaman natin. Pagkatapos ipaliwanag ni tandang helaman sa akin ang tungkol sa pananampalataya, napag-alaman ko na hindi ako nagsasalita sa bibig kundi sa isip. Tumingin ako sa kanya at nagtanong kung paano nya nababasa ang isip ko at makipag kumunikasyon gamit ang isip. “Yun ang ituturo ko sayo” sabi ni tandang helaman.  Sabi pa nya sa akin na ang sinasabi ko lang ang nababasa nya hindi ang mga litrato na iniisip ko sa utak, ibang klase talaga sya.  

Pumasok na kami sa madilim na kuweba, habang naglalakad nakita ko na ang dulo ng kanyang sungkod ay umilaw para makita namin ang aming dinadaanan.  Habang naglalakad ay nagtanong ako sa kanya kung tama yung narinig ko sa aming Isla na subrang tanda nya na, kasi kung titingnan ko si Tandang Helaman ay mga nasa apatnapo na ang kanyang edad.  Sabi nya kasama sya ng mga tinatawag naming mga NINUNU-Ang unang mandirigmang dumating sa Isla naming at sa ibang Isla, at napag-isip ko na mga mahigit isang melinyo na o isang libong taon na ang kanyang edad.

  Nang makalabas kami ay di ko namalayan na hanganan na pala yun ng lupa at nahulog na ako, mabuti nalang nahawakan ni Tandang Helaman ang kunop na nakasabit sa aking liig, at hinila ako paakyat. Mabilis ang pintig ng aking puso na inakala kung katapusan ko na sa mga oras na iyon, nakatungtung kami sa lumulutang na bundok. Sinabihan ako ni tandang helaman na kailangan din na tingnan ko ang aking dinadaanan at hindi padalos-dalos sa mga disisyon na aking gagawin para hindi mapahamak tulad nang nangyari sa akin. Nagpasalamat ako sa kanya sa pagkakaligtas sa aking buhay.

Habang minamasdan ko ang lugar na ito ako’y namangha nang lubusan, parang sa kwento ni Itay na avatar. Nahulog ako dahil lumulutang lang ang mga bundok sa himpapawid.  Ang daan ay sa gilid at hindi tuwid. Sinabihan ako ni tandang helaman na maglakad na nakatagilid, ang aking katawan ay isandal ko sa bundok, at wag akung titingin sa baba, para makasigurado ay hinahawakan nya ang aking kunop sa liig.  Naghahalong kaba, at parang hindi na ako makahinga sa takot nabaka mahuhulog, nahirapan akung maglakad dahil sa panginginig ng aking buong katawan lalo na ang aking mga binti. Nang makarating kami sa taas ay hinimatay ako sa takot. Ilang mga oras pa nang nakagising ako at  nakita ko ang maraming tao na naghihintay kay tandang helaman ito na ang Isla ng agosh (isla ng hangin).

Ang Paglisan

                                                              Kabanata IV

          Bago sumikat ang araw ay ginising na ako ni Ina dahil hinihintay na ako ni Tandang helaman sa tabing dagat para sa aming paglalakbay. Sa panahong yun ay pinipilit nalang ako ni Ina na ayusin ang aking sarili dahil sa katunayan ayo kung lisanin ang aming Isla, ang mapayapang pamumuhay na mayroon ako at mahal na pamilya. Kaya si Ina nalang ang nagligpit ng aking dadalhin: dalawang magkakasamang damit, isang kutson, at isang damit pangginaw.  Habang nagliligpit ay sya namang pangaral ni Ina sa akin kung anong dapat kung gawin. Sinabi ko kay ina na wag nalang kaya ako tumuloy dahil walang katulong si itay sa bukid at marami pang gawain sa bahay, sabi naman nya na huwag nalng daw ako magalala sa kanila . Sa bagay na nalulungkot sila pero masaya, sa kabilang banda na sa lahi daw namin sisibol  ang itinakda na maging isang mandirigma, kaya dinadaan nya nalang sa pangangaral para itago ang kanyang  kalungkotan, kahit na umiiyak na ito-ang mga ina talaga.

          Sa tabing dagat ay nag-uusap sila tandang helaman at ni Itay.  Nag almusal muna ako at nagpaalam sa aking ina at mga kapatid at lumabas sa bahay na bitbit ang gamit panglakbay.  Nakita ko na halos lahat ng kababaryo ko ay nag-aabang sa akin. Sabi ni itay na magingat daw ako, mahal nya ako sila ni inay at gampanan ko ang malaki kung responsibidad. Hindi ko maintindihan ang ibig sabihin ni itay, sa isip ko ano namang kalukuhan ang ginawa ni tandang helaman.

          Hinagkan ko sila itay at inay at aking mga kapatid, kumaway din ako ng pamamaalam sa aking ka Isla. Habang papalayu at pa sakay na sana ng bangka ay may narinig akung sumisigaw ng pangalan ko, ng tumingin ako sa likuran nakita kung tumatakbu si Sarah kababata ko, ngumiti ako sa kanya, ngunit habang tumatakbong papunta sa akin ay natisod ito at nadapa sa buhangin. Tumakbo ako papunta sa kanya para tingnan kung ayus lng sya at tinulungan sa pagtayu. Sabi ko “kaw talaga, tingnan mo sarili mo, bak’t ba? Ano ba ang kailangan mo?” pagalit na sabi ko.  “wala lang gusto ko lang ibigay sayo tung baon mo” paiyak na sabi ni Sarah habang binibigay ang nakabalot sa panyo na pabaon. Pinagalitan ko sya at tinatanong kung bakit umiiyak sya alam kung iniiyakan nya ako dahil alam naming baka hindi na kami magkikita. Para maibsan ang kalungkutang nadarama nya ay sinabihan ko syang masaya akong aalis dahil hindi ko na makikita ang kanyang pagmumukha at hindi narin ako maghihirap sa mga kapalpakan nyang ginagawa araw-araw. Pero hindi parin nya pinigilan ang pag iyak. Tinatawag na ako ni Tandang Helaman kaya, nagpaalam na ako at niyakap ko sya, sinabihan ko syang parating mag-ingat at parating samahan si ina sa kanyang kalungkutan sa pagalis ko. 

Tumakbo ako pabalik sa bangka na hindi limilingon. Hindi ako lumingon at pinipigilan ang iyak na sa aking puso, sinisisi ko si tandang helaman sa mga nangyari. Habang papalayo na kami sa Isla ay pumasok na kami sa hamog na pumabalibot sa isla. Tinitingnan ko ang binigay saking baon ni sarah, ng  binuksan ko ang balot, namangha ako dahil ang kwentas na yon ang palawit ay isang Cristal na kinuha pa nya sa taas ng bundok ng Can laon, namangha ako dahil dilikado ang lugar nayon kahit ako hindi pa nakakapunta doon. Sa mga taong magkasama kami ni Sarah ay puro mali nalang ang nakita ko sa kanya, pero ang katutuhanan ay sya ang nagbibigay lakas sa araw-araw na buhay ko, sa tuwing mahina ako, sa tuwing may sakit ako parati syang andyan mas binibigyan pa nya ng pagkakataon na matulungan ang iba kay sa sarili nya. Mas iniintindi nya ang kalagayan ko kaysa sarili nya. Kaya tanong ko sa aking sarili ako ba yung babae? Sabi ni tandang helaman may pagkakataon pa akung sabihin sa kanila habang hindi pa kami nakakalayo.  

Tumalikod ako sa kanila ngunit hindi kona maaninag masyado ang kanilang mga mukha dahil sa hamog na pumapalibot sa Karagatan sumigaw akung “mahal ko kayung lahat Ama, ina, mga kapatid, Sarah, at mga ka Isla. Ipagdasal nyo ako. Hinihintay ko na magsalita sila ngunit wala, ilang mga sandali pa ay may narinig akung salita PAG-ASA  SA  ISLA  NG  ZARAHEMLA, pa ulit-ulit na sinasabi nila. Sumigaw ako ulit na salamat ng ilang mga besis hanggang lumayu na kami at hindi ko na marinig ang kanilang boses. Ngumingiti akung papalayo habang umiiyak labing walong gulang ako ng mawalay sa aking pamilya. Hindi ako nagsasalita ng ilang mga oras dahil sa hindi parin ako makapaniwala na iniwan ko ang aking buhay sa Isla.  Nagtanong sa akin si tandang helaman kung alam ko ang ibig sabihin ng balat ko sa braso, sinabi nya nayan ang simbulo nang pag-asa. Nang nagtanong ako kung anong ibig sabihin nya nang pag-asa ay sinagot nya ako na malalaman ko rin sa takdang panahon.