TO be truly Christian, we should really have the very heart of Christ. We should have his attitude toward all possible conditions our life can find itself in, irrespective of whether these conditions are favorable to us or not.

This can mean that in spite of doing a lot of good, we can still be misunderstood, unappreciated, contradicted and rejected. And yet we should never succumb to hatred and condemning people. Like Christ we should be willing to offer our life even to those who do us evil, even offering forgiveness to them. We have to go that extent.

Like Christ, we should have the desire to save rather than to condemn those who are wrong morally and spiritually. Obviously, we can only have this kind of attitude when we truly identify ourselves with Christ. Absent this and relying solely on our human powers, we can only go so far.

In the readings of the Mass of the Fourth Sunday of Easter, Year B (cfr. Acts 4,8-12; 1 Jn 3,1-2; Jn 10,11-18) we are told about our tendency to rely only on our own powers, on our estimation of what is good, true and just. We forget what is said in the Responsorial Psalm of the Mass: “The stone rejected by the builders has become the cornerstone.” (Ps 118,22)
We need to see to it that our primordial duty as a person and as a child of God is to identify ourselves with Christ, who is the pattern of our humanity, the savior of our damaged humanity, the very “way, truth and life” that is proper to us. We need to carry out this duty in everything that we do and that can happen to us.

That is why it indispensable that we really know Christ. Not only that. We have to love him, following his teachings and example. Let’s keep in mind these words of Christ: “Whoever is not with me is against me. Whoever does not gather with me scatters.” (Lk 11,23) With these words of Christ, it’s very clear that we are supposed to be so united with Christ, so identified with him, that he and us can be considered simply as one.

We need to process this truth of our faith about ourselves very slowly, because it will obviously astound us to think that we are supposed to be one with Christ. Who, me, one with Christ? We most likely would be tempted to say, tell it to the Marines!

But that’s just the naked truth about us, whether we like it or not. We cannot be any other if we just bother also to know why it is so. An expression that is relevant to this matter is ‘alter Christus,’ another Christ. And it’s worthwhile to know what it is all about.

We are supposed to be ‘alter Christus,’ the goal and ideal that is meant for us, though we need also to do our part, free beings as we are, to achieve that status. God, our Creator and Father, wants us to be that way, though he does not impose it on us without our consent that should also be shown with deeds and not just with intentions or words.

We are supposed to be ‘alter Christus’ simply because, if we have been created in the image and likeness of God, and Christ is the Son of God who is the perfect image and likeness that God has of himself, then we can only conclude that we have to be like Christ who is the very essence of love that is meant for us.

Armed with water cannons and high-powered firearms, the Chinese naval forces had been pushing their illegal claim on the West Philippine Sea (WPS). They keep on asserting on their own nine dash line demarcation which encroaches on our country’s territory. Such claim had already been found without basis in an arbitral award issued by the United Nations Arbitral Tribunal. Yet, the Chinese authorities had the temerity to deny the ruling, arguing that they do not recognize the authority of the arbitral tribunal. They continue asserting their claim despite adverse international opinion as they arrogantly insist by the force of their might.

Our fisherfolks had been deprived of their livelihood as they are being harassed and drove away from the fishing ground that is historically and legally ours. The Chinese military had reportedly occupied our territorial waters and built artificial islands where they establish their military forces. In many instances, the Chinese had used arms and their military vessels patrolling the area to drive away our fisherfolks by force. Their vessels had rammed a fishing boat and its Filipino crew members were reportedly injured as their fishing boat capsized due to the damage on its hull.

The harassment continues and had even reportedly increased by the day. Even our coast guard had not been exempted from the attacks. Protests raised by the military officials in the area had been passed to our foreign affairs department but nothing had resulted to better our position. The recent incident where our military was blocked by the Chinese forces from delivering food and ration to the warm bodies manning the country’s territory had caused alarm to our government. In a statement issued by the magical president, he asserted as always that the Filipino will not give in.

Ironically, nothing concrete had been done aside from oral pronouncements that the government is taking steps to see to fruition the victory in the arbitration case that rejected the fallacious claim of China. Good to know that our country’s neighbors are giving full support to our claim. Also, the United States had issued declaration that their forces are ready to defend the arbitral award and our claim over our territory. The joint military exercises conducted by the Americans with our own armed forces had sent serious notice to China to halt its aggressive attacks on our Philippine territory.

Recent developments had China turning the tables as they assert that there was a previous agreement with then president Rodrigo Duterte regarding the supply of food rations to the crew manning our territorial waters. The oral agreement is being used by China as the basis for their actions, placing the Philippines as the violator instead of them. Many legal experts had posited their opinion on the matter, all against China’s position. Unfortunately, all our magical president could do is plea with the Chinese government despite the pronouncements that our country will not give in. And so we keep our fingers crossed as we send our pleas, repetitive pleas, unending pleas, pleas, pleas, pleas.
comments to alellema@yahoo.com

In the realm of business, there exists a unique breed of individuals; visionaries who dare to step out of the confines of conventional employment to embark on an exciting journey of entrepreneurial ventures. These aspiring entrepreneurs are the lifeblood of economic development, contributing to job creation, innovation, and societal growth. This article aims to provide motivation and guidance to these daring individuals who are about to embark on their entrepreneurship journey.

The path of entrepreneurship is by no means easy. It requires a deep-seated passion, unwavering dedication, and an insatiable hunger for success. It is a journey that tests one’s mettle, resilience, and adaptability. However, the rewards of entrepreneurship are unparalleled, offering the freedom to innovate, create, and shape the world according to one’s vision.

The first source of motivation for aspiring entrepreneurs is the prospect of turning a passion into a profitable enterprise. Entrepreneurs have the opportunity to transform their innovative ideas and passion into a tangible reality, creating a venture that not only satisfies their personal aspirations but also contributes positively to society. The fulfillment derived from seeing one’s dream materialize into a flourishing enterprise is indeed a profound motivation.

One’s fulfillment can greatly impact their outlook on life. When a person feels fulfilled, they tend to have a more positive and optimistic perspective. Fulfillment often comes from achieving personal goals, pursuing passions, and finding a sense of purpose. It gives a sense of satisfaction, contentment, and a belief that life is meaningful. This positive outlook can lead to increased motivation, happiness, and overall well-being. On the other hand, if someone feels unfulfilled or lacks a sense of purpose, it can lead to a more negative outlook, feelings of emptiness, and a sense of dissatisfaction. It’s important for individuals to explore and pursue activities that bring them fulfillment to enhance their overall outlook on life.

Secondly, entrepreneurship offers the exhilarating freedom of being one’s own boss. As an entrepreneur, you have the autonomy to make decisions and direct the course of your business. This autonomy can be a powerful motivator, fueling your drive to push through challenges and strive for success.

Thirdly, the ability to create employment and contribute to societal growth is a significant motivator. By establishing a successful business, you not only create a source of income for yourself but also generate employment for others. This ability to contribute to the well-being of others and make a positive impact on society can be a potent source of motivation.

Despite these motivating factors, it is crucial for aspiring entrepreneurs to understand that the entrepreneurial journey is fraught with challenges and uncertainties. Citing one of the famous quotes by Felix Hernandez, “The road to success is often paved with failures, setbacks, and disappointments.” However, it is through navigating these challenges that one grows and evolves as an entrepreneur. Remember, each failure is not a sign of defeat, but a stepping stone towards success.

It is also essential to maintain a learner’s mindset. The world of business is dynamic and ever-evolving. Embrace the opportunity to learn, adapt, and innovate continually. Stay open to new ideas, be willing to take calculated risks, and never shy away from new challenges.

To conclude, the journey of entrepreneurship, while challenging, is immensely rewarding. It is a path that allows you to transform your passion into a profitable enterprise, exercise autonomy, and contribute to societal growth. As an aspiring entrepreneur, let these motivating factors fuel your drive to succeed. Embrace the challenges, maintain a learner’s mindset, and keep your eyes on your goals. The world of entrepreneurship awaits you, ready to be shaped by your innovative ideas and indomitable spirit.
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If you have any questions or would like to share your thoughts on the column, feel free to send an email to jca.bblueprint@gmail.com. Looking forward to connecting with you!

While challenges persist, local community and city colleges continue to shape the educational landscape, providing opportunities for students and contributing to national development. Across the United States there are 1,462 community colleges. Of these, 1,047 are public institutions and 415 private. In the Philippines , to date, according to Dr. Rene Colocar, former President of the Association of Local Colleges and Universities (ALCU), there are 123 local colleges and universities on record. With 81 provinces, 146 cities and 1,488 municipalities in the Philippines.

Becoming part of the National Board of the 123 LUC President by virtue of the National Elections , this writer was ushered in to the realities pressing the Local Community Colleges. As its Regional Director , I am constantly exposed to the realities , problems and opportunities of the LUCs. In the Eastern Visayas Region , Abuyog Community College , Burauen , Community College , Collegio de Las Navas boost of long years of experience in the tertiary education stage . With Ormoc City College and Catbalogan City Community Colleges as newbie in the field.

Some local colleges face significant challenges. These may include limited resources, outdated facilities, and difficulties in attracting quality faculty. Struggling colleges often grapple with low enrollment, which affects their financial stability. Many local colleges persist despite challenges.

They adapt to changing educational landscapes and continue serving their communities. These colleges focus on improving student outcomes, enhancing curriculum, and building strong ties with local employers.

Persistence requires resilience, flexibility, and a commitment to student success. These are the very reality of Abuyog Community College , we persists because we need to , we knew that people will be affected cruelly and yet surely due to the fact that thousands depend on us as Administrators and Leaders.

We have to call everyone (organic Employee and contingent or Job Order employees. In the end, we thrive because we are pushed and buoyed beyond the sights of scarcity and problems, we are seeing smiles, we are feeling hope in our students and their families. We are giving subtly perhaps but surely, we do give hope . We want to give our people a fighting chance in this cruel world,