Are You The Happiest Pinoy?

“Happiness is a decision that you and I made everyday. When life gets down, hope that it will be better tomorrow.”

                                           – Winston Maxino

I was fortunate to be invited for the Happiness Boot Camp courtesy of Cebuana Lhuillier Insurance Solutions, Inc.. I believe I’m a jolly person and learned to appreciate even simple things in life.

At an early age I learned to be independent. I was 13 years old when my parents decided to separate. I have siblings aged 12 and 7 then.  It was never easy. I told myself that the sufferings are temporary, my life will change and it will be better. The struggles I turned into inspiration, the pains and support of people who care became my foundation. 

When I got my first salary I bought material things that will make me comfortable. But did I found happiness?  “No!” because there are holes in my heart and soul. When I started living alone, I learned to truly appreciate life. Someone once told me “Give your best and impress them" I replied “I will give my best because that’s the only way I will enjoy!”   

The Happiness Pinoy Boot Camp

Cebuana Lhuillier Insurance Solutions, Inc. (CLIS) just begun the nationwide search for the Happiest Pinoy 2012. The search seeks and recognizes the country’s most optimistic and passionate Filipinos who overcame difficulties and exhibited resilience amid life’s challenges while keeping a smile.

After few hours we finally arrived at Nurture Spa, Tagaytay City the venue for the 2012 Happiness Boot Camp in Manila.

A warm welcome and a glass of hot tea awaits us at the entrance of Nurture Spa.

I shared a room with a fellow blogger Ruth, whom I know for quite sometime now. She’s a friend! I had a great time with her during the overnight stay.

The afternoon was spent in wellness. We had a relaxing whole body massage done in our room. I can’t forget the ginger tea after the massage, soothing to the throat.  Just before dinner, we had what they called “Digital Meridian System” that checks our general body function. I’m glad all my internal organs are “good” except in the index that says my energy is low.

In the evening we met the Happiest Pinoy 2010 winner Winston Maxino. He won for being an optimistic despite being diagnosed with Ankylosing Spondylitis, Osteoporosis, asthma and uveitis.

Winston was chosen from 218 nominees, six finalists including an amputee and a wheel-chair bound individual. He grew up sickly and asthmatic yet his positive outlook in life never limit him do what he wants. Moreover, his faith in God became stronger when he was given a child with Down-Syndrome. He eventually became the President of the Down Syndrome Association of the Philippines. And just when he thought the worst was over, he was diagnosed with osteoporosis, uveitis and Ankylosing Spondylitis.

It was an honor to be seated in front of him and listen to his speech. He has a good sense of humor too! Would you believe that he’s suffering in severe pain as he spoke to us? But never did we notice any difficulties in his smiling face. Truly, he’s a very strong, committed family man, deserving to be called The Happiest Pinoy.

At the end of his speech, I thank him for the wisdom he shared and wished him good health.

The Happiest Pinoy 2012 Criteria for Judging:

1. A constantly cheerful face and optimistic outlook.
2. Proven ability to rise above life’s challenges
3. Positive impact on the lives of others.

When good things came your way appreciate them and give thanks!

“Happiness is a decision that you and I made everyday. When life gets down, hope that it will be better tomorrow.”

                                                                       – Winston Maxino

2010 Happiest Pinoy winner Winston Maxino with Runner Up Nona Andaya-Castillo

Happiness Pinoy Campers Alwin, Kristelle and Rey (Right to Left)

Cebuana Lhuillier Happiness Boot Camp Team

Cebuana Lhuillier General Manager, Mr. Jonathan Batangan

LivingMarjorney & BloggerManila attending the Happiness Pinoy Boot Camp

Recently, a friend asked me “Are you happy?”  All of us are in search for the true meaning of happiness. Money cannot buy happiness and resilience. Winston is right when he said, “We already have everything we need to be happy.” Sir Winston, you are contagious and I wished to be infected!

Photo courtesy of Happiest Pinoy Facebook Page. That’s me, holding the Happiness Index Meter. (The best score is 0/zero).

The boot camp has helped me understand many things in life. We need others to share our happiness. We cannot give something we do not have, I want to hold the happiness and pass it on, most especially to my family and future children.  

Sharing what I learned in the Boot Camp:

1. The present moment is a gift.
2. Happiness is a mindset
3. Happiness is not the addition of possession but the subtraction of desires.
4. Choose only positive thoughts
5. Know the benefits of Silence

If you know someone who deserve to be called the Happiest Pinoy, send your entries to the next Happiest Pinoy. Check out their website http://www.happiest-pinoy.com/ for the mechanics and more details on the Happiest Pinoy 2012. Deadline for entries is on July 31, 2012.