I prepared taxes for free with two institutions here in Honolulu for almost a decade.

I also volunteered as a paralegal for the Hawaii State Bar Association, the Legal Aid Society of Hawaii, and the Volunteer Legal Services of Hawaii.

And there are two to three more associations, institutions where I have given my time either as a tax preparer or a paralegal.

Currently, I am a sustaining member of another institution. I am a monthly giver. With a little amount from my paycheck, I am a part of something bigger than myself—-for that I am thankful.

Here, on WordPress, I have my humble ways of giving back to our community; but for modesty reasons, I rather keep it to myself.

Why Am I Giving Back?

I don’t expect reciprocity nor accolades. It’s just that I realized the need to do so. Most importantly, it gives me a purpose and my life a meaning. Rather than wallowing to my difficulties and challenges, I get involved in worthwhile causes.

In the end, I found my passion and pursued higher education, thinking I wanted to give more. I am grateful for the privilege; because not everyone can give.

To God be the glory!

Although, I did not take culinary arts, I have a culinary skills which I learned from my parents.

There’s a growing population of homeless people here in Hawaii, if I have the money, I want to serve them a decent meal with soda and/or coffee and dessert too.

I would rent table and chairs, so they can eat properly.

It’s vanity to have one;

And I do not condone it.

For necessities,

I always opt for the basic and generic—

And I am thankful to afford such.

Simplicity is not just a thing of beauty;

But it is also a thing of wise.

And you’re maybe one of them—

Who knows?

Listing them, I might forget one or two—

Which is not fair—

So, I rather not.

As for advice,

I’ve been keeping track of my former professors’ words of wisdom;

Likewise, I treasure the words of my parents and elders.

But when it comes to decision making,

I am a grown woman who makes the call,

By choosing the most sensible option for the situation.

I am open to constructive criticism

And respect the views and insights of others.

Through my humble pursuits in life,

I get a clear sense of direction.

“Focus,” my subconscious said

Whenever there’s a tendency

To go awry; I hear that all the time.

It also inspires me

To do better than good.

It’s like I’m a “bride,”

And my aspirations is my “groom.“

I’m excited.

I’m hopeful.

I’m eager to work hard

To be deserving

of a brighter future.

Otherwise,

You’re not better than a monkey,

Who makes a fool of himself.

We, all have a lot to thank God for and be grateful.

One, check your pulse.

You’re alive, right?

Two, you’re born to love and be loved.

You are surrounded by family, friends, and love ones.

Three, you’re eating or nourishing your bodies.

And the list is long—I’m sure.

As for me, I have been to hell and high waters.

I have been to situations, which are matter of life and death—

But God’s love is unrelenting.

So, here I am, alive, safe, working, blogging—

And with my degrees, I can say, I am not a nobody.

And for all of these, I love Thanksgiving Day!

Although I am thankful everyday.