PERKS OF BEING OVER 50

By Francis Kong
Posted: 27 Feb 2011 05:52 AM PST

One evening a husband and wife were engaged in a conversation.

Husband says: “Dear, do you remember Antonio Gomez? He was the student body president at our high school. He was also the captain ball of our basketball team.

I saw him today.”

Wife says: “That was 35 years ago. He was prince charming to a lot of girls I know. So many girls had a crush on him.”

Husband replied: “I know. In fact, after all these years, he has gotten so bald and so fat he didn't even recognize me.”

That’s perspective isn’t it?

Life is not what happens but how you take it.

Some people look at life and they hate it, I look at life and I enjoy it.

We only have one crack at life and we better know how to make the most of it.

Perspective is so important.

Some people go crazy as they hit their mid-life. Some people blossom as they hit their mid-life.

Somebody says, when a man is rising up the corporate ladder and he begins to attain a moderate of success, he drives a BMW. The official signature that signifies success for the YUPPIE. When the same man marries, he switches to a Volvo. He wants safety for him and the family. And when he separates from his wife, he drives a Ferrari.

Now this is an unfair categorization of people by their cars.

My brother-in-law Felix who is nearing his 50’s and who now lives in Mountain View California drives a Honda Roadster and when his church mates accused him of going through his mid-life crisis, he gave a wide grin on his face and said, “No, I am not entering my mid-life crisis, this car is simply a statement that says, “I have ARRIVED!!!”

Growing old is not a negative thing.

You need to have the right perspective to aging. Do you know that there are perks of being over 50? (Somebody who thought of this list must be a genius…never got the name though…)

Let me give you a list of them:

1. Kidnappers are not very interested in you.

2. In a hostage situation you are likely to be released first.

3. No one expects you to run--anywhere.

4. People call at 9 PM and ask, Did I wake you????

5. People no longer view you as a hypochondriac.

6. There is nothing left to learn the hard way.

7. Things you buy now won't wear out.

8. You can eat supper at 4 PM.

9. You can live without sex but not your glasses.

10. You get into heated arguments about pension plans.

11. You no longer think of speed limits as a challenge.

12. You quit trying to hold your stomach in no matter who walks into the room.

13. You sing along with elevator music.

14. Your eyes won't get much worse.

15. Your investment in health insurance is finally beginning to pay off.

16. Your joints are more accurate meteorologists than the national weather service.

17. Your secrets are safe with your friends because they can't remember them either.

18. Your supply of brain cells is finally down to manageable size. And the most telling sign that you have grown old is this:

19. You can't even remember what I said earlier.

To all you moving into the Big 50 Range, allow me to give you an assurance.

Today’s 40’s is the new 30’s. Today’s 50’s is the new 40’s. Today’s 60’s is the new 50’s.

With exercise, proper nutrition, vitamins and all that even today’s 70’s is the new 60’s. And today’s 80’s…well…maybe they are still the same 80’s.

Grow old gracefully.

The secret of life is not to do what you like, but to like what you do.

Robert Frost says: “In three words I can sum up everything I've learned about life. It goes on.”

A wise guy says: “People are living longer now; they have to--who can afford to die?”

But enjoy life as you get connected intimately with the Author of Life. Then you find purpose and meaning.

So the next time somebody tells you “You are growing old,” chin up, look back at the person and with full confidence say, “I am not growing old, I am turning into a classic!”

Source:http://franciskong.com/

Diet and Nutrition - Fabulous Foods for Fat Loss

Fabulous Foods for Fat Loss Already in Your Kitchen


By Erica Thinesen

Losing weight can be a battle if you don't take the time to learn about diet and nutrition. Make simple changes to your diet by increasing foods that promote healthy fat loss already found in your kitchen.

Take a moment to look around your kitchen. Chances are you have a mix of healthy and not-so-healthy foods. Healthy fat loss starts with education. Learn the basics now so your next trip to the grocery is a healthier one.

Protein

Your body needs to work hard to break down protein. Protein helps build and maintain muscle. Adding more protein to your diet helps burn calories faster. Foods high in protein include eggs, leafy greens such as spinach, beans, broccoli, potatoes, yogurt, oats, onions and watermelon. These high-protein foods may be served at any meal and make a great afternoon or evening snack. Here are some tips for adding protein to your diet:

* High in protein and fiber, lentil beans promote abdominal fat loss. Add lentils and other types of beans to salads, soups, brown rice or serve as a side dish with sautéed onions and garlic
* Use dry beans or canned (rinse canned beans in cool water to reduce sodium intake)
* Purchase whole grain cereals or eat a bowl of oatmeal for breakfast
* Greek yogurt contains 2x the amount of protein as other types of yogurt

Calcium

Calcium helps build and maintain bone strength, helps to maintain energy throughout the day, lowers blood pressure and helps your body digest vitamins such as Vitamin D. Calcium also helps your body burn calories. Foods for fat loss that are rich in calcium include milk, cheese, yogurt, spinach, broccoli, beans, nuts and fish. Try to eat 3-4 servings of calcium-rich food each day. Here are some tips for adding calcium to your diet:

* Serve salad with lunch and dinner each day
* Drink an 8 ounce glass of orange juice that contains calcium with breakfast
* Drink at least one 8 ounce glass of milk each day
* Add fresh fruits and leafy green vegetables to meals and snacks
* Take a calcium supplement

Vitamin C

Vitamin C helps the body break down fat and flush it from your body. Since your body does not product or store Vitamin C, it is essential to get this vitamin from the foods you eat. According to the FDA, you should consume 60 mg of Vitamin C every day. Oranges, limes, lemons, grapefruit and tomatoes are loaded with Vitamin C. Some tips for adding Vitamin C to your diet include:

* Drinking 100% fruit or vegetable juice (8 ounce glass) each day
* Serve fresh fruit as a side dish, dessert or snack
* Take a Vitamin C supplement

Erica Thinesen is a freelance writer specializing in health and fitness topics. Her goal is to provide a "common sense" approach to diet and exercise. Visit http://www.thedietnow.info for information about creating a meal plan that's right for your lifestyle and weight loss goals.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Erica_Thinesen

Health News - America’s Health Shows Continuing Trend of Increased Life Expectancy

Report on America’s Health Shows Continuing Trend of Increased Life Expectancy

By Drucilla Dyess
Published: Thursday, 17 February 2011

Americans are living longer lives according to the newly released “Health, United States, 2010” report from the National Center for Health Statistics, a division of the Centers For Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This is the 34th annual report of data compiled from state and federal health agencies regarding the health of Americans.

The report points out that by measuring the nation’s life expectancy, a clear picture of the overall health of its population can be obtained. Because life expectancy represents the average number of years of life expected given current death rates, changes in the measure can are often used to depict trends in mortality. The measure of life expectancy at birth is heavily affected by infant and child mortality.

During the period from 1980 through 2007, the U.S. life expectancy at birth rose from 70 years to 75 years for males, and from 77 years to 80 years for females. Since the beginning of the twentieth century, females have had a longer life expectancy at birth, with the longest duration of life being among white females. Although racial disparities in life expectancy at birth have remained, they have been steadily decreasing since 1990, and have now declined from 8 years to 6 years, with the variance between white females and black females dropping from 6 years to 4 years.

Obesity has emerged as a major health risk factor among America’s young people. An increase in obesity from 7 percent to 10 percent was noted among pre-school age children from 2 to 5 years, while for school-age children 6 to 11, the rates have almost doubled from 11 percent to 20 percent. For adolescents ages 12 to 19, rates have jumped from 11 percent to 18 percent, and the percentage of obese adults 20 years of age and over rose from 22 percent to 34 percent.

As for being more health conscious, the number people working toward getting fit by participating in aerobic activity and muscle strengthening exercise increased for most age groups. However, in 2009, only 19 percent of adults 18 years of age and over met the guidelines.

With today’s technological advances in healthcare and knowledge gained through scientific studies, many Americans are presented with the opportunity to live long and well. However, the rise in obesity and lack of fitness may well lead to many Americans becoming their own worst enemy in the struggle to survive. Make the smart choice to get on the path to a healthy lifestyle, and work toward getting fit for your best chance at living a long and healthy life.

Source:http://www.healthnews.com/

Healthy Foods - The 29 Healthiest Foods on the Planet

Fruits

01. Apricots
The Power: Beta-carotene, which helps prevent free-radical damage and protect the eyes. The body also turns beta-carotene into vitamin A, which may help ward off some cancers, especially of the skin. One apricot has 17 calories, 0 fat, 1 gram of fiber. Snacks on them dried, or if you prefer fresh, buy when still firm; once they soften, they lose nutrients.

02. Avocados
The Power: Oleic acid, an unsaturated fat that helps lower overall cholesterol and raise levels of HDL, plus a good dose of fiber. One slice has 81 calories, 8 grams of fat and 3 grams of fiber. Try a few slices instead of mayonnaise to dress up your next burger.

Proactol Fat Binder

03. Raspberries
The Power: Ellagic acid, which helps stall cancer-cell growth. These berries are also packed with vitamin C and are high in fiber, which helps prevent high cholesterol and heart disease. A cup has only 60 calories, 1 gram of fat and 8 grams of fiber. Top plain low-fat yogurt or oatmeal (another high fiber food) with fresh berries.

05. Cantaloupe
The Power: Vitamin C (117mg in half a melon, almost twice the recommended daily dose) and beta-carotene - both powerful antioxidants that help protect cells from free-radical damage. Plus, half a melon has 853mg of potassium - almost twice as much as a banana, which helps lower blood pressure. Half a melon has 97 calories, 1 gram of fat and 2 grams of fiber. Cut into cubes and freeze, then blend into an icy smoothie.

06. Cranberry Juice
The Power: Helps fight bladder infections by preventing harmful bacteria from growing. A cup has 144 calories, 0 grams of fat and 0 fiber. Buy 100 percent juice concentrate and use it to spice up your daily H20 without adding sugar.

07. Tomato
The Power: Lycopene, one of the strongest carotenoids, acts as an antioxidant. Research shows that tomatoes may cut the risk of bladder, stomach and colon cancers in half if eaten daily. A tomato has 26 calories, 0 fat and 1 gram of fiber. Drizzle fresh slices with olive oil, because lycopene is best absorbed when eaten with a little fat.

08. Raisins
The Power: These little gems are a great source of iron, which helps the blood transport oxygen and which many women are short on. A half-cup has 218 calories, 0 fat and 3 grams of fiber. Sprinkle raisins on your morning oatmeal or bran cereal - women, consider this especially during your period.

09. Figs
The Power: A good source of potassium and fiber, figs also contain vitamin B6, which is responsible for producing mood-boosting serotonin, lowering cholesterol and preventing water retention. The Pill depletes B6, so if you use this method of birth control, make sure to get extra B6 in your diet. One fig has 37 to 48 calories, 0 fat and 2 grams of fiber. (Cookie lovers - fig bars have around 56 calories, 1 gram of fat and 1 gram of fiber per cookie). Fresh figs are delicious simmered alongside a pork tenderloin and the dried variety make a great portable gym snack.

10. Lemons and Limes
The Power: Limonene, furocoumarins and vitamin C, all of which help prevent cancer. A wedge has 2 calories, 0 fat and 0 fiber. Buy a few of each and squeeze over salads, fish, beans and vegetables for fat free flavor. See also: Beneficial Bytes: Lemons and Limes.

Vegetables

11. Onions
The Power: Quercetin is one of the most powerful flavonoids (natural plant antioxidants). Studies show it helps protect against cancer. A cup (chopped) has 61 calories, 0 fat and 3 grams of fiber. Chop onions for the maximum phytonutrient boost, or if you hate to cry, roast them with a little olive oil and serve with rice or other vegetables.

12. Artichokes
The Power: These odd-looking vegetables contain silymarin, an antioxidant that helps prevent skin cancer, plus fiber to help control cholesterol. One medium artichoke has 60 calories, 0 fat and 7 grams of fiber. Steam over boiling water for 30 to 40 minutes. Squeeze lemon juice on top, then pluck the leaves off with your fingers and use your teeth to scrape off the rich-tasting skin. When you get to the heart, you have found the best part!

13. Ginger
The Power: Gingerols may help reduce queasiness; other compounds may help ward off migraines and arthritis pain by blocking inflammation-causing prostaglandins. A teaspoon of fresh gingerroot has only 1 calorie, 0 fat and 0 fiber. Peel the tough brown skin and slice or grate into a stir-fry.

14. Broccoli
The Power: Indole-3-carbinol and sulforaphane, which help protect against breast cancer. Broccoli also has lots of vitamin C and beta-carotene. One cup (chopped) has 25 calories, 0 fat and 3 grams of fiber. Don't overcook broccoli - instead, microwave or steam lightly to preserve phytonutrients. Squeeze fresh lemon on top for a zesty and taste, added nutrients and some vitamin C.

15. Spinach
The Power: Lutein and zeaxanthin, carotenoids that help fend off macular degeneration, a major cause of blindness in older people. Plus, studies show this green fountain of youth may help reverse some signs of aging. One cup has 7 calories, 0 fat and 1 gram of fiber. Add raw leaves to a salad or saute with a little olive oil and garlic.

16. Bok Choy (Chinese cabbage)
The Power: Brassinin, which some research suggests may help prevent breast tumors, plus indoles and isothiocyanates, which lower levels of estrogen, make this vegetable a double-barreled weapon against breast cancer. A cup will also give you 158mg of calcium (16 percent of your daily recommended requirement) to help beat osteoporosis. A cup (cooked) has 20 calories, 0 fat and 3 grams of fiber. Find it in your grocer's produce section or an Asian market. Slice the greens and juicy white stalks, then saute like spinach or toss into a stir-fry just before serving.

17. Squash (Butternut, Pumpkin, Acorn)
The Power: Winter squash has huge amounts of vitamin C and beta-carotene, which may help protect against endometrial cancer. One cup (cooked) has 80 calories, 1 gram of fat and 6 grams of fiber. Cut on in half, scoop out the seeds and bake or microwave until soft, then dust with cinnamon.

18. Watercress and Arugula
The Power: Phenethyl isothiocyanate, which, along with beta-carotene and vitamins C and E, may help keep cancer cells at bay. One cup has around 4 calories, 0 fat and 1 gram of fiber. Do not cook these leafy greens; instead, use them to garnish a sandwich or add a pungent, peppery taste to salad.

19. Garlic
The Power: The sulfur compounds that give garlic its pungent flavor can also lower LDL ("bad") cholesterol, lower blood pressure and even reduce your risk of stomach and colon cancer. A clove has 4 calories, 0 fat and 0 fiber. Bake a whole head for 15 to 20 minutes, until soft and sweet and spread on bread instead of butter.
Grains, Beans, Dairy and Nuts

20. Quinoa
The Power: A half cup of cooked quinoa has 5 grams of protein, more than any other grain, plus iron, riboflavin and magnesium. A half-cup has 318 calories, 5 grams of fat and 5 grams of fiber. Add to soup for a protein boost. Rinse first, or it will taste bitter.

21. Wheat Germ
The Power: A tablespoon gives you about 7 percent of your daily magnesium, which helps prevent muscle cramps; it is also a good source of vitamin E. One tablespoon has 27 calories, 1 gram of fat and 1 gram of fiber. Sprinkle some over yogurt, fruit or cereal.

22. Lentils
The Power: Isoflavones, which may inhibit estrogen-promoted breast cancers, plus fiber for heart health and an impressive 9 grams of protein per half cup. A half-cup (cooked) has 115 calories, 0 fat and 8 grams of fiber. Isoflavones hold up through processing, so buy lentils canned, dried or already in soup. Take them to work, and you will have a protein packed lunch.

23. Peanuts
The Power: Studies show that peanuts or other nuts (which contain mostly unsaturated "good" fat) can lower your heart-disease risk by over 20 percent. One ounce has 166 calories, 14 grams of fat and 2 grams of fiber. Keep a packet in your briefcase, gym bag or purse for a protein-packed post-workout nosh or an afternoon pick me up that will satisfy you until supper, or chop a few into a stir-fry for a Thai accent. See also: The Nut Case

24. Pinto Beans
The Power: A half cup has more than 25 percent of your daily requirement of folate, which helps protect against heart disease and reduces the risk of birth defects. A half-cup (canned) has 103 calories, 1 gram of fat and 6 grams of fiber. Drain a can, rinse and toss into a pot of vegetarian chili.

25. Yogurt
The Power: Bacteria in active-culture yogurt helps prevent yeast infections; calcium strengthens bones. A cup has 155 calories, 4 grams of fat, 0 grams of fiber. Get the plain kind and mix in your own fruit to keep calories and sugar down. If you are lactose intolerant, never fear -- yogurt should not bother your tummy.

26. Skim Milk
The Power: Riboflavin (a.k.a. vitamin B2) is important for good vision and along with vitamin A might help improve eczema and allergies. Plus, you get calcium and vitamin D, too. One cup has 86 calories, 0 fat and 0 fiber. If you are used to high fat milk, don't go cold turkey; instead, mix the two together at first. Trust this fact: In a week or two you won't miss it!
Seafood

27. Shellfish (Clams, Mussels)
The Power: Vitamin B12 to support nerve and brain function, plus iron and hard-to-get minerals like magnesium and potassium. Three ounces has 126 to 146 calories, 2 to 4 grams of fat and 0 fiber. Try a bowl of tomato-based (and low fat) Manhattan clam chowder.

28. Salmon
The Power: Cold-water fish like salmon, mackerel and tuna are the best sources of omega-3 fatty acids, which help reduce the risk of cardiac disease. A 3-ounce portion (cooked) has 127 calories, 4 grams of fat, 0 fiber. Brush fillets with ginger-soy marinade and grill or broil until fish flakes easily with a fork.

29. Crab
The Power: A great source of vitamin B12 and immunity-boosting zinc. A 3-ounce portion has 84 calories, 1 gram of fat, 0 fiber. The "crab" in sushi is usually made from fish; buy it canned instead and make your own crab cakes.

Source: http://www.bellybytes.com/

Health Tips - How to stay healthy in 2011

1.) Brush twice a day!

2.) Dress right for the weather.

3.) Visit the dentist regularly.

4.) Get plenty of rest.

5.) Make sure your hair is dry before going outside..

6.) Eat right.

7.) Get outside in the sun every once in a while.

8.) Always wear a seatbelt.

9.) Control your drinking of alcoholic beverages.

10) Smile! It will make you feel better.

11.) Don't overindulge yourself

12.) Bathe regularly.

13.) Read to exercise the brain.

14.) Surround yourself with friends.

15.) Stay away from too much caffeine.

16.) Use the bathroom regularly.

17.) Get plenty of exercise.

18.) Have your eyes checked regularly.

19) Eat plenty of vegetables.

20.) Believe that people will like you for who you are.

21.) Forgive and forget.

22.) Take plenty of vacations.

23.) Celebrate all special occasions.

24.) Pick up a hobby.

24.) Love your neighbour as yourself.

25.) Send this to your
computer buds to give them a warm fuzzy feeling!


________________________________________

Health News - Breast Cancer

Blocking Enzyme Could Halt Breast Cancer Spread
Written by: Catharine Paddock, PhD

Interesting News to read...

Developing a new drug that blocks a key enzyme could stop breast cancer spreading to other parts of the body, according to a new UK study.

Dr Janine Erler at the Institute of Cancer Research (ICR) in London, and colleagues, used lab models to show that blocking the enzyme lysyl oxidase-like 2 (LOXL2) reduced the spread of the cancer from the breast to the lungs, liver and bone.

You can read about their findings in the journal Cancer Research, where an early edition of their paper first appeared online on 13 January.

Metastasis, is where cancer spreads from the primary tumor to other parts of the body. In breast cancer this process is complex and involves several stages.

Once metastases, or tumors in other parts of the body that came from the primary breast cancer tumor, are detected, the median survival is less than two years, which is why it is so important to develop effective new treatments for patients with aggressive breast cancer.

Analysis of data already available shows that LOXL2 expression is linked with spread and decreased survival in patients with aggressive breast cancer, wrote Erler and colleagues in their background information.

LOXL2 has also been linked to the spread of other cancers including colon, esophageal and squamous cell cancers, so any findings from this study have knock on effects in these other cancer types too.

For this pre-clinical study, Erler and colleagues looked at how LOXL2 behaves in breast cancer spread, in both patient samples and models based on lab animals.

They found that in breast cancer occurring both normally and genetically induced in lab animals with both compromised and competent immune systems, it was possible to inhibit LOXL2 genetically, chemically and using antibodies and demonstrated that this led to reduced metastasis.

When they investigated the underlying mechanism, they found LOXL2 helped cancer cells invade surrounding tissue by regulating the expression and activity of two proteins that operate from cell to cell: TIMP1 and MMP9. Other studies have suggested these two proteins play important roles in allowing cancer to spread.

The researchers concluded that their findings highlight the important role that LOXL2 plays in the progression of breast cancer, and suggest drugs that block its action could be used to treat women with advanced breast cancer.

Source: http://www.medicalnewstoday.com

Who is the Satan In My Life ?

SATAN

Peter meant Jesus no harm. The truth was, all he wanted was for Jesus to be secured from any harm.
One moment Jesus was praising Peter for recognizing who He really was — the Messiah. The next moment, hardly a breath taken, Jesus was scolding him for failing to recognize what His mission really was — to redeem the world by His passion, death and resurrection.
The issue on Peter was that he was too focused on the dying of Jesus without giving an equal attention to His rising. Did he not hear Jesus say that He would rise again after three days? Is your focus the same as Peter’s?
The issue on Peter was that he was too excited to recognize Jesus as the Messiah but not Jesus as the Suffering Servant. Did he forget Isaiah’s prophecy about the Messiah as the Suffering Servant of God?
The issue on Peter was that he was thinking not as God does but as humans do. Was he still too young to understand that God’s ways were not man’s ways? Do you think as Peter thought?
“Satan” is not a proper name, as your name or mine. “Satan” means “the adversary,” “the enemy.” Thus, anything or anyone that hinders us from fulfilling the will of God in our life is a Satan. It can be the religious devotion we adhere to just as it can be the sin that we are guilty of. It can be the person we love most just as it can be the one we are indifferent to. It can be someone we have the highest respect for just as it can be someone we abhor. Satan can be anything and anyone that stands between God and us. As in the case of Peter, it can be our focus in life, our emotional fixation or our way of thinking. It can be ourselves. Jesus meant Peter no harm. The truth was, He wanted Peter to be secured from any unnecessary hurt. Yet, Jesus reprimanded Peter because Peter would not allow Him to suffer and die. So Jesus called him “Satan.”Fr. Bobby Titco

Reflection Question:
Who is the Satan in my life? What is the Satan in my life? Am I a Satan, too?

Deliver me, Jesus, from any Satan in my life. Deliver from me those I am a Satan to. Let nothing and no one hinder me from following the Father’s will. You are my inspiration and strength to do so. Amen.

St. Habet Deus, pray for us.

Wheatgrass Nourishes!

When the body is clean and with ideal pH, it can efficiently absorb and utilize the nutrients being taken in.

Orally, wheatgrass is primarily used as a concentrated source of nutrients. Wheatgrass, as Super Food, nourishes the blood and the whole body. It delivers the right kind of nutrients in the right combination and proportion to deliver powerful synergistic action. It provides carbohydrates, proteins, fatty acids, 17 amino acids, 13 vitamins, 10 minerals, various trace minerals, more than 100 types of enzymes, fiber, chlorophyll and different phytochemicals.

Health Tip: Take Control of Your Diabetes

Suggestions for how to begin

(HealthDay News) -- Keeping your blood glucose levels as close to normal as possible can help prevent complications of diabetes.

But how do you get started?

The American Diabetes Association offers these suggestions:

* Make changes gradually, rather than trying to do everything at once. Start with a single change, such as checking your blood sugar more often.
* Take an honest look at how you're coping with being diabetic, and deal with any issues such as anger or depression.
* Be realistic about what you can accomplish, and understand that you can't always have perfect blood sugar. With practice, you can learn to administer the right insulin dose for different situations.
* If the demands of the disease get overwhelming, allow yourself a small break from the new routine, then start again as quickly as possible.

-- Diana Kohnle

HARDENED HEART

The Kerygma Family

A hardened face looks ugly, frightening, intimidating. A hardened muscle feels painful. But how does a hardened heart look? How does it feel?
I searched and searched to find a hardened heart. I found the object of my curiosity — inside a freezer! I saw a chicken’s heart inside a freezer, and boy, it was really very hard!
How does a hardened heart look? It looks like a stone. You can hardly recognize it as a heart. Throw it on a glass shield, and it breaks. Hit someone’s head with it, and the head gets bruised. Bite it and you certainly will lose a tooth. A hardened heart hurts and destroys. I do not like a hardened heart. Do you? How does a hardened heart feel? It feels so cold, terribly cold. It feels like solid ice, not snow. Squeeze it and its coldness bites you. Hold it and no sooner you will drop it. Place it near an open tooth and the ache will be unbearably painful. A hardened heart bites and inflicts pain. I do not want a hardened heart, do you?
But does a heart harden?
A heart hardens by not becoming what it should be. It hardens when it is isolated from the rest of the living body and kept inside a freezer. It hardens because it dies. It becomes hardened because it has turned exclusively unto itself. A heart hardens even more when it refuses to melt. It hardens when it has become stubborn. I do not like a hardened heart. Do you?
Jesus reprimands His disciples in the Gospel today for the hardness of their hearts. They are witnesses to His miracles. They heard His words. Yet their hearts seem to be impenetrable. Why? Fr. Bobby Titco

Reflection Question:
Do I have a hardened heart?

Lord, change our stony hearts into hearts of flesh. Touch our hearts always to keep them warm. Grace our hearts so that they may always be what they are supposed to be. Make us love You more and more each day. Help us love one another as You love us. And keep our hearts loving and true. Amen.

St. Georgia, pray for us.

Wheatgrass Alkalizes!

After Cleansing, the next step to healing and rejuvenation is keeping an ideal body pH.

Most parts of the body, except the stomach, maintain a slightly alkaline pH at 7.4. Change in this acid-alkaline balance (or pH) can result to different diseases. According to Dr. Linus Pauling, virtually all degenerative diseases, including cancer, heart disease, osteoporosis, arthritis, and kidney disease are associated with EXCESS ACIDITY in the body. If there is too much acid present, the body will use up its nutrient reserves to neutralize the acids and maintain the ideal pH. For instance, your body will leach calcium from both your bones and teeth in an attempt to neutralize acids and this can lead to osteoporosis and fractures. The body can also utilize iron in your blood and this can lead to anemia. It also makes use of the oxygen supply in the body, decreasing supply of this vital element to the cells, which can lead to cancer. Similarly, all forms of arthritis may be associated with acidity.

Acid-forming Food

Stress, negative emotions and acid-forming food, which are part of our daily living results to accumulation of acids in the body. Acidity can be neutralized by bicarbonates, chlorophyll and alkaline minerals which are mostly found in fruits and vegetables. Experts encourage us to have a diet composed of 80% fruits and vegetables and only 20% of the acid-forming meat. However for many of us, this is hard to do and so acidity is a major unnoticed root cause of diseases today.

Wheatgrass, hailed as ”King of Alkaline Foods“, is an easy way to neutralize acidity on a daily basis. It is the most alkaline among veggies and grasses since it is rich in bicarbonates, alkaline minerals, like calcium, magnesium, manganese, potassium and iron.

Chlorophyll plays an important role in de-acidifying the body by oxygenating the tissues, enabling the tissues to oxidize many more weak and volatile acids than normal and eliminate them via respiration. Chlorophyll also has the property of breaking down carbon dioxide (which is acidic) and dissolving the deposits of strong acids, such as kidney stones. Furthermore, chlorophyll has diuretic and purifying properties that facilitate the elimination of acids.

Daily Bible Reflections

February 16, 2011

A SECOND TIME, A SECOND TOUCH

As if the first was not enough, Jesus touched the blind man’s eyes a second time. The first time He touched the man’s eyes with His spittle, the man saw people looking like trees. The blind could already see but not clearly. Was there an energy shortage in Jesus’ reservoir of power?
No, there was no shortage in Jesus’ power to perform miracles. He is God; therefore, He was, is and will always be omnipotent. Were not the eyes of the blind man opened? They were. His sight was restored, but, at first, what poor sight he had! Was that really the quality of sight the blind man should have, considering his age? Possibly, but we can only guess. Or was he not yet ready to receive his full sight? Maybe, but we can only speculate. Or did the blind man, now with sight, doubt the power of Jesus’ healing hands the first time He touched him? Perhaps, but again, we can only guess.
Did Jesus really need to touch the blind man’s eyes a second time? What if Jesus did not touch him again? Would the blind man nonetheless regain his sight fully like a newborn? Was it necessary for Jesus to touch the blind man again or was it, like the first, a gratuitous act of grace for Jesus to touch him twice?
Whatever the answers to these questions, one thing is certain: Jesus moves freely. Jesus not only heals for free; He freely heals, too. Jesus achieves His purpose in the way He wants. He can never be coerced.
When we ask Jesus to grant us our prayers, we should be ready to accept the manner by which He grants them, at the time and place He chooses. We do not demand from Him; we pray to Him. Lest we forget, He is the Lord and we are His servants.
If you were the blind man and Jesus did not touch you a second time, what would you do, say and feel? If you were Mark the evangelist, how would you write this episode? Would you write about it at all? Would it still be Good News to you?
Why? Why not?Fr. Bobby Titco

Reflection Question:
How does Jesus touch my life?

Touch me, O Jesus, as many times as I breathe each day. For without Your touch, nothing will have meaning in my life and I will die. Touched by You, transform me to be Your loving touch on others. Amen.

St. Jeremy, pray for us.

WHEATGRASS CLEANSES!

Easy Pha-max wheatgrass's several benefits are summed up into these three abbreviations: C - Cleanses, A - Alkalizes, N - Nourishes. Cleansing is essential and Wheatgrass is among the best in addressing this concern which our body, the digestive system in particular, continually needs.

Wheatgrass also helps in healing and rejuvenation of the ideal body pH which you will find out more in Wheatgrass Alkalizes!

The high level of nutrients found in our wheatgrass paves the way towards a healthier living through providing the best nutrition to deal with numerous health problems. Indeed, Wheatgrass Nourishes!

Is It Really Love?

By Francis Kong

Posted: 14 Feb 2011 06:19 AM PST

Prices for roses (and other kinds of flowers) will rise. Chocolates, cakes and pastries would probably run out of stocks tomorrow. Concerts in hotel ballrooms while fine dining restaurants reservations are full; it’s big business every Valentine’s Day especially in this love-craze country of ours.

But do we really know what love is?

What does Love Mean?

A group of professionals posed the question "What does love mean?" To a group of 4 - 8 year-olds and the answers they got were broader and deeper than anyone could have imagined. Think about their remarks:

1. "When my grandmother got arthritis, she couldn't bend over and paint her toenails anymore. So my grandfather does it for her all the time, even when his hands got arthritis too. That's love.”

2. "Love is when someone hurts you and you get so mad but you don't yell at them because you know it would hurt their feelings."

3. "Love is what makes you smile when you're tired." (I actually like this one.)

4. "Love is when you kiss all the time. Then when you get tired of kissing, you still want to be together and you talk more. My Mommy and daddy are like that. They look gross when they kiss."

5. "When you tell someone something bad about yourself and you're scared they won't love you anymore. But then you get surprised because not only do they still love you, they love you even more."

6. "Love is when you tell a guy you like his shirt, then he wears it everyday."

7. "My Mommy loves me more than anybody. You don't see anyone else kissing me to sleep at night."

8. "Love is when Mommy gives daddy the best piece of chicken."

9. "Love is when your puppy licks your face even after you left him alone all day."

10. "I know my older sister loves me because she gives me all her old clothes and has to go out and buy new ones."

11. "I let my big sister pick on me because my Mom says she only picks on me because she loves me. So I pick on my baby sister because I love her."

12. "Love cards like Valentine's cards say stuff on them that we'd like to say ourselves, but we wouldn't be caught dead saying."

13. "You really shouldn't say 'I love you' unless you mean it. But if you mean it, you should say it a lot. People forget.

What then is love?

Love is when you wish the best, do the best and offer to serve your best for the object of your love.

But the word love is greatly misunderstood.

You don’t use the word “love” if your sole intention is to consume.

You cannot actually say, “I love my chocolate cake” because you do not desire the best for your cake, you actually want to eat it. And so love here is your desire to consume for your own pleasure and delight.

But when an overseas Filipino worker says, “I love my children” and are willing to face the pain of hard work in a foreign country in order to earn a few dollars to feed them; you know that the love here is the desire to provide the best, do the best and offer themselves to serve the children the best and that’s true love.

“In our company we work as a family because we love our people...” Great line designed for employee or talent retention. But do you see the leaders in the organization wishing, doing and serving the object of their love?

True love on this “Love Day Celebration” should always serve as a reminder for the model of love when the Father sent the Son to die so you and I in Him may have life. Now that is wishing, doing and serving the best for the object of the Father’s love.

Happy True Love Day to all of you!

Great Health Benefits of Wheatgrass

Wheatgrass has powerful anti-oxidants, phytochemicals and a complete range of nutrients that will not only detoxify your body, but will also improve the overall quality of your blood-nourishing the body to help it heal itself. Wheatgrass Cleanses, Alkalizes and Nourishes your body with every sachet.

Chlorophyll in wheatgrass has a similar molecular structure as the blood and has been found to be easily converted by the body into new fresh blood. Chlorophyll is also a powerful anti-oxidant in itself, neutralizing free radicals and detoxifying the blood.

The enzymes P4D1 and Abscissic Acid (ABA), both found in Easy Pha-max wheatgrass, strips Cancer cells protective covering so that our body’s immune system can attack and easily destroy them. According to some studies, abscissic acid is a formidable anti-cancer agent that is proven to be deadly against any form of cancer even in small amounts. Numerous health problems were proven to be alleviated by simply consuming wheatgrass. Other enzymes and amino acids also found in wheatgrass help with digestion, lowers blood pressure, breaks down cancer cells, aids the liver and improves the immune system.

So Easy Life Camp

A day to CLEANSE, PREVENT COLON CANCER, LOSE WEIGHT, and LEARN.
1. Cleansing
2. Find out how you can prevent cancer
3. Weight loss tips and management talk
4. Learn to develop your self discipline and personality
5. Free wellness check

Click here to know more about the camp.
4 So Easy ways to have a Restored Health and a Transformed Life on February 19, 2011 at St. Giles Hotel.
Call our So Easy hotline 890-EASY(3279) or Click here to download the So Easy Life Camp registration form.

God's Little Devotional Book for the Workplace

1.GOD'S LITTLE DEVOTIONAL BOOK
FOR THE WORKPLACE # 130

One who stops getting better stops being good.

The ABCs of Building a Better Workplace

• Accept co-workers for who and what they are.
• Be kind and considerate.
• Create a positive, can-do atmosphere.
• Don’t insult or demean.
• Encourage excellence.
• Forget about past wrongs done to you.
• Grow smarter and wiser.
• Hang around with positive people.
• Insist on smiling at everyone.
• Join clubs or programs at your job.
• Know that work is only part of your life, not life itself.
• Laugh as often as possible.
• Move around daily. Don’t become a cubicle potato.
• Nip jealousy in the bud.
• Open your mind to new ideas, new friendships.
• Pick up the tab next time you and a co-worker have lunch.
• Quit insisting on being right all the time.
• Reach out to an associate who is struggling.
• Stretch your abilities.
• Talk about your goals to those who can help you achieve them.
• Uncomplicate your life.
• Vindicate yourself by your upright conduct, not excuses.
• Wait to talk. Don’t wait to listen.
• Xerox (or photocopy on the machine of your choice) a humorous quote, and share it with someone.
• Yank hurtful, hateful words from your speech.
• Zero in on what you need most to accomplish, and do it!

Be careful, then how you live – not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity. – Ephesians 5:15-16

Regular Health Mistakes

All of us make little health mistakes that cause damage to our bodies in the long run - simply because we are unaware we are doing something wrong.
Here are some of the most common mistakes made by many of us.

Crossing our legs
Do you cross your legs at your knees when sitting? Although we may believe that this is the lady-like elegant way to sit, sitting this way cuts down circulation to your legs. If you don"t want varicose veins to mar the beauty of your legs and compromise your health, uncross your legs every time you realize you have one knee on top of the other. The best way to sit is to simply place both legs together on the floor, balancing your weight equally. If you feel like changing position, instead of crossing your legs, simply move both legs together to one side. As an alternative, you could also consider crossing your legs loosely at the ankles. This is a classically elegant way to sit, and is far better for your legs and your health than sitting with your legs crossed at your knees.

Not changing our toothbrush
How often do you change your toothbrush? Most of us wait until most of the bristles have either fallen off, or are in such bad shape that we"d be embarrassed to pull out our brush in public. However, since not many of us need to pull out our brush in public, we carry on with our frayed one until we lose it. Replace your toothbrush often. Damaged bristles can harm the enamel, and don"t massage your gums well. If you find brushing your teeth a pain like I do, but know you must do it, you might as well be doing it right. Imagine going through the annoyance of brushing your teeth twice a day only to find out that you"re damaging your enamel every time you clean your teeth. Also, use a brush with soft bristles unless your dentist has advised otherwise.

Eating out often
There are oils that are high in cholesterol, and oils that cause little harm and are better for your heart.. However, no matter how light the oil is, it is never a good idea to eat too much of it. Avoid fried foods. Remember that in all probability your favorite Indian food restaurant throws a huge, HUGE chunk of butter in a tiny bowl of dal. Rita, who worked in the kitchen of a 5 star hotel, was shocked when she saw the cook chop a 500gm butter slab in half, and throw half into a Paneer Makhani dish. No wonder the customers left licking their fingers. And no wonder they felt so stuffed and heavy afterwards. Limit outdoor eating unless you know that you"re getting served light and healthy food..

Skipping breakfast
Never, ever skip breakfast. Remember, when you wake up in the morning it"s been around 10-12 hours since your last meal. Your body needs food now, more than at any other time. Eat a heavy breakfast. You will then be busy through the day, and the calories will get expended quickly. If you are trying to diet, eat a light dinner. Here are some more common health mistakes we make. Being informed and making a few changes can help make us feel a whole lot better.

High heels
High heels sure look great, but they're murder for your back. This however doesn't mean you should steer clear of stilettos. Wear them, but not when you know you will be walking around a lot. Wear them when going out for lunch or dinner - when the only walking you will be doing is to your car, to the table, and back. Avoid high heels when you are going somewhere on foot. If you are constantly tempted to wear your heels, take a good look at your flats. Is there something about them you dislike? Invest in a new pair of beautiful flats or shoes with a low heel. Buy something you love, that you will enjoy wearing. If possible, get a matching bag. You will then enjoy your flats as much as you do your heels.

Sleeping on a soft bed
You don't have to sleep on the floor be kind to your back, but do make sure you have a firm mattress. Although a mattress on springs is soft and lovely to sink into, it's bad for your back. If you already have an old bed with springs, you don't need to invest in a new one - simply get a thick wooden plank put over the springs, and place the mattress on the plank. Similarly, if your mattress is old and lumpy, throw it out and get a new one. Your neck and your back will thank you. The same rule applies to sofas. If you will be spending hours on a sofa, get a firm yet comfortable one. Sofas you completely sink into are not the best idea.

Pillows
No matter how comfortable sleeping with ten cushions is, have pity on your neck and resist. Sleep with one pillow, and make sure it is not too thick.
If your pillow gets lumpy, discard it and go for a new one. Get a thin pillow if you sleep on your stomach, and something a little thicker if you sleep on your back, to give your neck adequate support.

Not exercising
So all of us know we should exercise more, but many of us don't. This is a health mistake we consciously make! And why is that? Simply because we refuse to admit the damage we are causing to our bodies by not working out.
A number of people only start working out once they've experienced a warning signal. Don't wait for a heart attack to strike before you decide to opt for a lifestyle change. Make the change now. You don't need to train for the marathon to be in top shape. Half an hour of brisk walking three to four times a week will make a world of difference to your health. You could then increase this to forty minutes, four times a week - and you're all set. If you haven't exercised for a week, you're making a mistake.


Today's Message of the Day is:
Life is short. Break the rules. Forgive quickly. Kiss slowly. Love truly.
Laugh uncontrollably, and never regret anything that made you smile.