Wednesday, 19 September 2007

Shape Your Outer World Before It Shapes You


How To Say NO Toxic People In Your Life.


(Note: This is Part 4 of the 8-Part Series, How To Get Rid Of Bad Habits Now!)


As a teen, I was part of a tiny Catholic youth group.


In that group, I was called “St. Francis” because I loved Lady Poverty, wore the crummiest shirts, the most horrid brown sandals, and prayed in the chapel the whole day. (Actually, I slept most of the time, but that’s just a secret between you and me.)


One of my friends was called “Brother Leo” because he imitated me, the way the real Brother Leo imitated his master, St. Francis.


If I prayed in a particular way—with my eyes closed, my hands clasped, my head bent down and tilted to the left—he’d pray in the same way.


If I wore an ugly shirt because of my love for poverty, he’d wear the same thing.


Because I was good-looking, he’d try to be good-looking. (Haha.)


One day, his family left for the US for good, and we lost touch...


Six years later, he returned for a visit. The old youth group was excited to have a little reunion. So we met up with “Brother Leo” again.


When I saw him at the reunion, I couldn’t believe my eyes. Nor could anyone in the room. Brother Leo was wearing a loud purple shirt with a gold band around his neck. And in thick slang, he greeted us, “Hey Dude!”


That wasn’t so bad.


While all of us were picking up our jaws from the floor, he said, “Let’s go out and look for a real parteeeh. Let’s look for some chicks! Man, I love girls!”


The transformation was unbelievable.


Where was the prayerful, quiet, humble, pure guy that we knew?


Here’s what I learned from life: We need to deliberately shape our outer world before it shapes us.


What Are The Two Most Powerful Forces


That Shape Your Life?


It was Charlie “Tremendous” Jones who said that You will be in five years the sum total of the books you read and the people you are around.


I believe the two most powerful forces that shape our life are our relationships and our media. I repeat: If you know that your outer world shapes you, make a decision now to shape your outer world. Because you can!


Here’s a story of someone who didn’t use this power...


The Story Of A Wise King


That Wasn’t So Wise After All


The Guinness Book of World Records says that no one beats King Solomon when it comes to wives. The guy had 700 wives with 300 concubines.


Believe me, I wouldn’t want to be in his shoes on Valentines Day. The chaos! While walking around his palace, he’d say to one, “I love you Leah,”; And to another, “I love you Rachael,”; And to another still, “I love you… uh, Melissa or Melanie?”


Here’s what the Bible says: King Solomon loved many foreign women… They were from nations about which the Lord had told the Israelites, "You must not intermarry with them, because they will surely turn your hearts after their gods." Nevertheless, Solomon held fast to them in love. (How many of you know that just because you’re romantically in love with someone DOESN’T mean that you’re supposed to be with that person?) As Solomon grew old, his wives turned his heart after other gods, and his heart was not fully devoted to the Lord his God…[1]


The wisest man on Earth didn’t choose his relationships well.


If you don’t want to commit his mistake, let me share with you 3 powerful steps to create your outer world.


The 3 Powerful Steps To Re-Create


Your Outer World


I guarantee you. If you do these 3 steps, you’ll not only be free from enslaving habits, you’ll actually grow yourself and fulfil your greatest dreams.


Step #1: Say No to Toxic People


Step #2: Say Yes to Terrific People


Step #3: Control Your Media


Let me explain these steps one by one…








To All Those Who Want To Experience God’s Power In Their Lives…


“You Have The Power!”


Bo Sanchez’ Kerygma Conference 2007


November 23, 24, and 25, 2007


ULTRA, Pasig City


3 Days of God’s Power! Yes, Youwill be revived, refreshed, and restored like never before. You’ll have Bo Sanchez and the most powerful lay preachers in the country speak God’s Word and nourish your soul. Plus, a Healing Mass by Fr. Jerry Orbos and Fr. Joey Faller to pray for your healing. That’s three fantastic days of abundant, rich, and immeasurable blessing for your life. For more information, click here. Standard tickets for this mega-event cost P1,200.00 per person but if you meet certain conditions, you can get it at P500 only for the entire 3-Day Power event. To know if you qualify for this special price, call Tel. (632) 7259999 now. Don’t delay!




Step #1:


Say No to Toxic People



There are many types of Toxic Persons, but let me focus on 6 types that you should avoid:


Toxic Person #1: Those who encourage your addiction


Toxic Person #2: Those who constantly hurt you


Toxic Person #3: Those who control you through force


Toxic Person #4: Those who control you through manipulation


Toxic Person #5: Those who pass their responsibilities to you


Toxic Person #6: Those who whine about life and invalidate you



Do you have Toxic People in your life? God says, Blessed is the man that walks not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of the scornful.[2]


Let’s heed those wise words!


Let’s find out if you have Toxic People in your life…


 


Toxic Person #1:


Those Who Encourage Your Addiction


You know this story very well because it happens too often.


My friend “Jim” was a drug addict. He entered a rehab for a year. In that entire year, Jim didn’t touch the drug. He went back home a new man.


Not a few days after, an old friend who used to take drugs with Jim visited him at home and offered him shabu. Jim said no, “I don’t take that anymore.” But as the days progressed, he kept on meeting his old friends. After only three months, Jim snorted shabu again—and his addiction was more severe than before.


Question: What caused his downfall?


Answer: He shaped his inner world, but he didn’t shape his outer world.


He needed a new set of friends. He needed a new itinerary. He also needed new hobbies, new music, new activities…


It’s pretty obvious. If you’re an alcoholic, stop hanging out with friends who drink. Hang out with new friends who don’t. If you’re a gambler, cut friendships with other gamblers. Hang out with people who don’t gamble. And so on.


Many people don’t use their power to choose their friends. They just accept the people who call up, visit, and appear on their doorstep.


Big mistake. Don’t do that. Jesus says If your right eye causes you to sin, gouge it out and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to be thrown into hell.[3]


Go out and choose the kind of people you like to become. (More on this later.)


Toxic Person #2:


Those Who Constantly Hurt You


Do you avoid danger?


If you see a rabid Doberman, foaming in the mouth, sharp fangs exposed, racing towards you at top speed, would you run away as fast as Flash? Or would you stand there with a smile, stretch out your hand and say, “Here kitty, kitty…”


I bet you’d run faster than you ever did in your entire life.


Unless you have a death wish.


The Wise Book says a prudent man sees danger and takes refuge, but the simple (foolish) keep going and suffer for it.[4]


Here’s a sad fact. After my years of counselling hordes of people, I’ve realized many have a death wish when it comes to choosing their boyfriends, girlfriends, husbands, wives, business partners, spiritual leaders, organizations, and friends.


Because they choose abusers.


They get physically abused. Verbally abused. Emotionally abused. Spiritually abused.


And after an abusive relationship breaks up, they jump into another abusive relationship. Insane, I tell you. But after 27 years in ministry, it’s more common than you think.


I have only one explanation for this crazy phenomenon: Victims like being victims. Why? Perhaps because they want to pay for their sins. Or perhaps they feel they deserve the punishment. Or perhaps they feel superior to the abuser. Or perhaps that’s how they get the empathy from other people.


But this is sick.


Let me shout this to the rooftops: Get rid of all abusers in you life!


Don’t Just Stand There—Do Something!


If your spouse is an abuser, get away as far as possible from him or her. I’m not saying get a divorce right away. But don’t live in the same house with an abuser until the person gets help and gets healed.


If your boyfriend or girlfriend is an abuser, what are you doing still sticking with that person? You should have left the first time abuse took place.


If your organization, fraternity, club, prayer group, or church demeans you, manipulates you, drains you, abuses you—why are you still there? Look for a group that blesses you and nourishes you.


If your business partner steals from you, cheats on you, or disrespects you—get out, sell out, and find another business partner.


Remember: When you’re with an abuser, you create more inner pain, and inner pain can produce more hidden addictions.


Jesus says, Do not give dogs what is sacred; do not throw your pearls to pigs. If you do, they may trample them under their feet, and then turn and tear you to pieces.[5] You are sacred. You are the pearls. So don’t throw yourself to dogs and pigs.

Some people however may not be obviously abusers, but they abuse you in a less obvious way…




Note: If you missed the BOTOKS concert last year, here’s your chance to catch it again


Bo Sanchez’ BOTOKS Inspirational Concert


September 29, 2007, 8pm


Shrine of the Mary Help of Christians, Better Living ParaĊˆaque


Join an Inspirational Comedy Concert with Bo Sanchez himself, plus power performances by the Kerygma Preachers: Arun Gogna, Alvin Barcelona, Obet Cabrillas, Jon Escoto, Adrian Panganiban, and Rissa Singson Kawpeng. Tickets sold at P1,000; P700; and P300; For reservations please call Noel Gayas at (632) 8239546 or 09282109765 / 09154493600. Note: We don’t know if we’ll stage this concert again. Better watch it now before it’s too late.




Toxic Person #3:


Those Who Control You Through Force


There are people who control you through subtle aggression. They intimidate you. They’re bigger. They’re louder. They’re scary. They’re bullies in nice clothes.


The Controller could be your husband. Or your grandmother. Or your friend. Or your boss.


Let me tell you a story I read recently…


One day, a young guy was walking on a dark street. Suddenly, out of an Acacia tree, an old man wrapped in a black robe appeared. His eyes were fierce, his face pale, his beard unkempt. He pushed a black book towards the young man and ordered, “You need to read this book! Buy it for P700.”


The young man was shocked and mumbled, “I don’t have P700…”


But the elderly man spoke with a louder voice, “You need to read this book! Give me P700.” So with shaking hands, the lad fumbled with his wallet and handed P700 to him. The mysterious man placed the black book in the chap’s hand and said, “Whatever you do, never look at the last page. Or you will regret it.” He then walked towards the field behind them and suddenly disappeared!


The young man went home, shaken to the core. In the evening, he started reading the book. It was all about ghosts and werewolves and vampires! After awhile, he grew tired, closed the book and went to bed.


But he couldn’t sleep. Tossing and turning, the young man could only think of one thing: What was on the last page of the book? What will I regret seeing there?


Finally, he couldn’t take the suspense any longer. With every ounce of courage he could muster, he grabbed the black book. With trembling fingers, he opened it to the last page…


And when he saw it, at once, waves of regret filled him!


The last page was empty.


Except for a small note that said, “P49.50, National Bookstore.”


Friend, never get intimidated to do what you don’t want to do.


Because often, you’ll get robbed.


Toxic Person #4:


Those Who Control You Through Manipulation


There is another kind of Controller that doesn’t do it through aggression but through manipulation. In an even more subtle way, they will control you.


My example is Delilah, the girlfriend of Samson.


The Bible says Samson loved Delilah. But it doesn’t say that Delilah loved Samson. Instead, Delilah used Samson. Delilah needed Samson. (When will we realize that need is different from love?) As you read the story, you realize that Delilah never loved Samson at all.


Remember, “Controllers” are “Users”, and Delilah was a Controller. (Do you know of any “Users” in your life?)


One day, Delilah was approached by her Philistine leaders. They wanted to capture Samson but couldn’t because of his magical strength. So they offered her 1,100 Shekels from each of them if she could discover the secret of his supernatural strength.


So she went to Samson and asked, “How can anyone capture you?”


First, he lied. Samson said, “If you tie me with brand new ropes, I’ll be as weak as any man.” And while he slept, Delilah tied him up with brand new ropes and called the soldiers of the Philistine leaders to capture him. But like snapping thread, Samson broke free from the ropes and chased after the men.


Wasn’t that enough proof for Delilah’s deception?


If I were Samson, I would simply have said to her, “Delilah, you’re a snake. You don’t love me. This relationship is over. Get out of my life!”


But Samson didn’t do it. He tolerated her. And so Delilah sat on the lap of Samson and with a pout and a hurt look, she said, “You don’t love me, Samson…” (Her finger probably toying with his hair.)


“But I do!” Samson said defensively.


“No, you don’t,” she purred, “You lied to me. You haven’t told me the secret of your strength.” (Controllers like turning the table and pointing your mistakes, while hiding their glaring mistakes.)


Finally, out of exasperation, Samson says, “Okay, okay! Cut my hair and I’ll be as weak as any man.”[6] And while he slept, Delilah cut his hair. We know the end of the story. Samson was captured, his eyes gouged out, and he was imprisoned until he died while pushing two pillars.

Because Samson loved Delilah, he was desperate to believe in the lie that she also loved him. But she didn’t.


Who are the Delilahs in your life?


Here’s the truth: Samson may have been romantically attracted to Delilah, but he really didn’t love her. If he really loved her, he would have told her off and shooed her away. That was the kind of love she needed.


Toxic Person #5:


Those Who Pass Their Responsibilities To You


One day, a woman was chatting with her neighbor.


"I feel really good today. I started out this morning with an act of unselfish generosity. I gave a five hundred Peso bill to a bum."


"Wow, you gave a bum five hundred Pesos?” her neighbor asked, “My gosh, that's a lot of money. What did your husband say about it?"


"Oh, he thought it was the proper thing to do,” she said, “my husband said, 'Thanks.'"


Many people are just like that woman. They have bums in their lives, and these bums are friends and family.


In other words, they are hosts to parasites.


Remember: In biology, parasites can’t exist without a host. So the reason there are parasites is because there are people who like to play the role of host.


Are you a host to a human parasite? Someone who depends on you for money? Or for housing? Or for your service?


The human parasite isn’t a quadriplegic lying down in bed with a feeding tube stuck to his throat. The parasite is an otherwise healthy human being that simply wants you to be responsible for his life, period. He doesn’t want to take responsibility for his own life. He looks to you for his sole salvation. If you don’t help him, he’ll die.


Deep inside, you feel used. You really want to say “No more!” but you can’t because you feel guilty. In the process, you have lost your boundaries. When you do, there is so much inner pain within, and you escape through your hidden addictions.


Bad news: You think you’re doing good, but you really aren’t.


There’s A Difference Between


Feeling Good And Doing Good


 


Giving to a parasite makes you feel good.


But that doesn’t make it good. (Yep, there’s a difference.)


It assuages your guilt. But in fact, you’re causing more harm than good. You’re really a thief. You’re stealing their self-worth. More than that, when you take away the bad consequences of their irresponsibility through your constant rescuing, you take away the fuel that would have forced them to change.


Some justify helping a parasite by quoting Galatians 6:2 when St. Paul says, “Carry each other burdens…” But 3 verses later, St. Paul also says, “Each one should carry his own load.” That means if a parasite asks for your help, the best way to help him is to say ‘No’.


I give a lot. Dole outs are fine when there’s a real emergency. But I stop giving when his daily life becomes an emergency. Because most of my giving is focused on teaching people how to fish, not just giving fish. I give when I know the person will learn how to stand on his own two feet one day.


Finally, there’s a last type of Toxic Person you need to avoid…


Toxic Person #6:


Those Who Whine About Life and Invalidate You


There are people who are constantly negative—and they suck your energy dry. Believe me, after talking with them, you feel as though the sky is darker, the world is uglier, and life is more miserable than ever.


Whiners complain about everything. The heat. The cold. The boss. The money. The government. On and on and on. It never stops.


Whiners are bad, but invalidators are worse. Invalidators are whiners too, but instead of just criticizing the world, they specialize in criticizing you. When you mention a plan, a dream, or an original idea, you’ll hear an invalidator say, “You? Do that?” He’ll roll up his eyes, shake his head, and smirk. These pompous know-it-alls believe they know you and your future more than God. Before an invalidator, you’ll always remain small. Size up the invalidator’s “friends”, and you’ll discover other “small” people who bow down to his majesty.


Whiners will steal away your joy. Invalidators will steal away your dreams. If you don’t watch out, they’ll infect you with their virus and you’ll become a professional cynic like them.


Whiners and invalidators are losers. If your friends are losers, get a new set of friends. I’m not saying that you dump them. God wants you to love them. But you don’t have to hangout with them. Instead, hangout with people who respect you. And people who inspire you. And people who put their energies to build up rather than destroy. And people of life and beauty and love.


By The Way, Are You The Toxic Person?


Avoiding toxic people is difficult.


Avoiding being the toxic person is even more difficult.


What if you’re the abuser, or controller, or manipulator, or parasite, or whiner, or invalidator?


Ask people close by for their honest feedback.


If they say, “Yes,” own up to your behavior, quick. And get to work!


(What you’ll do is beyond the scope of this article, but I hope to discuss that another time.)


Step #2:


Say Yes to Terrific People


What is shaping you now?


The Good Book says, Iron sharpens iron; so a man sharpens the countenance of his friend.[7] If you’re with terrific people, then these terrific people are sharpening you….


Terrific Person #1: Those Who Nourish You Emotionally


Terrific Person #2: Those Who Nourish You Spiritually


Terrific Person #3: Those Who Nourish You Intellectually


Terrific Person #4: Spend Time With God, Who Else?




How To Be Truly Rich Seminar by Bo Sanchez




Bo is giving the mind-blowing, income-expanding How To Be Truly Rich Seminar on November 3, 2007, in Quezon City. For more information, click here. You may also call Beckie at Tel. (02) 7229562. It’s not too late to get out of debt, start investing, and gain financial freedom for your life. Call now Beckie at Tel. (02) 7229562.





Terrific Person #1:


Those Who Nourish You Emotionally


There are really only two types of great people in this world.


The first type of great person: After talking to him, you walk out impressed at how great that person is. You are dwarfed by his greatness.


Here’s the second type of great person: After talking to him, you walk out impressed at how great you are. You walk out a giant yourself—as big or even bigger than that great person.


Hang out with the second type of great person.


Hang out with people who make you feel important, respected, and worthy.


One of my mentors has a powerful way of making me feel important.


He’s a true blue, genuine Billionaire. But he treats me like I was more important than he is. It’s the small things that he does that make me leave his presence believing I’m special. The way he listens to me. The way he respects my opinion. The way he doesn’t laugh at my silly questions. Even common sense courtesy and respect. For example, after our meeting in his office, he’ll walk with me to my car. He won’t leave me until he knows I’m in my car and ready to go. Small things that tell me I’m a great man.


Look for people like that.


Terrific Person #2:


Those Who Nourish You Spiritually



You’re a soul with a temporary earthly existence.


Thus, your most important need is to be spiritually nourished.


That’s why I preach at the FEAST every Sunday. (Join us at Ballroom at Valle Verde Country Club, beside ULTRA, every 7:30am or 10:00am, whichever you prefer.) I believe that many people are spiritually malnourished and they need God’s Word in their lives.


But more than knowledge, a spiritual leader should feed you with God’s love.


How? By his own love for you.


He doesn’t teach you because of pride. He teaches you because of love.


That’s where I want to grow—and boy do I have a long way to go.


When a spiritual leader believes he’s better, holier, and more righteous than anyone else in church, be wary. A good spiritual leader knows his faults and acknowledges them before everyone.


Look for your source of regularly spiritual nourishment.


Terrific Person #3:


Those Who Nourish You Intellectually


Do you have dreams?


Who are the people in the world that have already fulfilled your dream?


Hang out with them—and pick their brains.


Listen to their talks. Read their books. Attend their seminars.


There are two kinds of teachers. The first kind of teacher has a lot of book knowledge and nothing else. The second type of teacher has experiential knowledge, with mud on her shoes, blisters on her hands, and scars in her heart. She’s someone who teaches from her battlefield experience. Look for the second type of teacher.


For example, if I want to grow my organization, Light of Jesus, to the next level, I had to search for the second type of teacher: Those who actually built huge organizations.


So one day, I visited Bro. Mike Velarde of El Shaddai to learn from him. Bro. Mike and I may have different styles and beliefs (and different fashion tastes too), but as an organizer, no one can match his ability to gather one million people in Luneta. Bro. Mike has been so kind and gracious to me, sharing his vast experience. You may not like his red barong, but if you can build an organization as big as El Shaddai (probably 8 million members),I guess you can wear any kind of barong you want.


And would you believe? I’m also learning church-building strategies from Pastor Apollo Quiboloy, now heading 3-million members in only 22 short years. I don’t agree with his theology. When we’re together, my Bishop friends and I debate with him about his doctrines. (We regularly meet because we’re all members of the Presidential Council for Values Formation under Malacanang, working for the country.) But that doesn’t stop me from admiring Pastor Apollo’s excellent leadership skills. So when we meet, aside from theological debate, I sit down with him and learn his church-building strategies. Pastor Apollo has been very gracious to me too, and I’ve learned a lot in the area of church growth.


I also have financial mentors who are millionaires and billionaires.


I have family mentors who have great marriages and are fantastic parents.


I have spiritual mentors who live with profound love and holiness and inspire me to do the same.


Go and get terrific people in your life.


Don’t Get Derailed When Your


Old Friends Become Jealous


I’ve expanded my inner circle of friends.


Sometimes, my old inner circle becomes jealous. They say in Taglish, “Bo, others ka na.” They say that I have replaced them.


No, I have not. I’ve not replaced my inner circle, I’ve just expanded it.


My inner circle now includes leaders, preachers, businessmen, real estate investors, bishops, computer gurus, marketing experts, educators, authors, etc.


In fact, if you want to keep on growing, you’ve got to keep growing your inner circle of friends. There’s no other way.


One last thing: Check the net-worth of the people you hangout with. Most likely, you’ll mirror each other’s average income. If you want an increase in your income, hangout with people who earn, save, invest, and give more than you do. Learn from them! (Let me pitch my seminar this November 3, 2007, How to Be Truly Rich Seminar. For more details, call Beckie at Tel. (632) 7229562. Learn how to be financially free! I urge you call now before you run out of seats—because we always have to reject applicants for lack of space.)


Terrific Person #4:


Spend Time With God, Who Else?


Need I say more?


Jesus was committed to daily prayer: And in the morning, rising up a great while before day, he (Jesus) went out, and departed into a solitary place, and there prayed.[8]


But here’s the problem: Many people don’t worship God, but a caricature of God.


If you really examine their God, He’s cruel, legalistic, insecure, and tyrannical.


We need to change our image of God, because we become exactly like the God we worship. In the end, we too will become cruel, legalistic, insecure, and tyrannical. (Have you ever wondered why many religious people are poor reflections of the love of God? This is the reason.)


We’ll discuss more of this in another article very soon.


Step #3:


Control Your Media


Remember the two powerful forces that shape your life.


First are relationships.


Second is media.


Like relationships, say “No” to toxic media and say “Yes” to terrific media.


When it comes to media, remember one very important thing: You have very limited time. Bill Gates, the richest man in the world, has exactly the same amount of hours a beggar has. When it comes to time, we’re all equal.


So if you watch dumb, useless, mindless, inane TV shows like those broadcasted today, you’re throwing away precious time—and money. Time that you should have used for more inspiring media.


People wonder why there’s no growth in their life.


One probable answer: Because they waste so much time in front of the TV set. Noonday shows. Showbiz gossip. Telenovelas.


I urge you to read inspiring books instead. Or watch great movies. Or listen to terrific talks. If you want to grow, control your media.


Conclusion:


Are You The Good Samaritan?


I know.


The most controversial part in this article is saying “No” to Toxic People.


But let me insist that one of the reasons why we have hidden addictions is because we’re escaping from the inner pain of having no personal boundaries. We keep on saying yes to toxic people, we’re actually losing control of our lives. This lost of control is maddening and subconsciously drives us to where we seemingly feel have control—our hidden addiction. When we drink, or smoke, or lust, or shop constantly, or eat compulsively, or become religiously addicted, we feel some semblance of control. (Obviously, it’s fake. We really have no control over this area as well.)


Friend, you need to set boundaries. Or the world will conquer you.


If you grew up listening to sermons about the Good Samaritan[9] in Church , you were trained to help people and feel guilty when you don’t.


Remember the story? A guy was robbed and left dying on the road. A Priest and a Teacher of the Law passed by and didn’t bother to stop. The Samaritan however stopped, bandaged his wounds, took him in an inn, and paid for all his expenses.


Wow, what a loving man.


But we usually take for granted a very important part of that story: After helping the wounded man, the Good Samaritan actually left him with the inn keeper because he had to take care of his own business! He didn’t forget his own life! How could he keep on helping if he doesn’t keep earning from his business?


Here’s another lesson: The Good Samaritan also asked help from others--the innkeeper. Because you don’t help alone. You’re not superman.


Friend, be the Good Samaritan.


Because the Good Samaritan didn’t love others only.


He also loved himself.


My friend, if you want to create a new inner world, you need to create a new outer world. Jesus said, And no one puts new wine into old wineskins; if he does, the wine will burst the skins, and the wine is lost, and so are the skins; but new wine is for fresh skins.



God is giving you new wine for your life.


Make new wineskins!


I remain your friend,


Bo Sanchez


PS. Did you miss my Botoks Concert last year? If you did, you can still catch it on September 29, 2007, 8pm, at the Mary Help of Christians Shrine, Better Living, Paranaque. For details, call Noel Gayas at (632) 8239546 or 09282109765 / 09154493600.


PS2. I’m giving the mind-blowing, income-expanding How To Be Truly Rich Seminar on November 3, 2007, in Quezon City. For more information, click here. It’s not too late to get out of debt, start investing, and gain financial freedom for your life. Call Beckie now at Tel. (632) 7229562 Tuesdays to Fridays 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.


PS3. I’m so excited! Because the biggest mega-event of the year, the Kerygma Conference 2007: You Have The Power! is coming very, very soon! That’s November 23, 24, and 25 at the ULTRA. Thousands of people from the provinces are coming here to receive the overflowing blessings that will pour out on those three great, spiritually-charged days. Click here for more information. For tickets, call up Tel. (632) 7259999. Don’t delay. Get your tickets now and reserve your place in this mega-event that will bless your life.







[1] 1 Kings 11:1-6


[2] Psalms 1:1


[3] Matthew 5:29


[4] Proverbs 22:3


[5] Matthew 7:6


[6] Judges 16:15


[7] Proverbs 27:17


[8] Mark 1:35


[9] Mark 2:20

105 comments:

  1. this is very apt. i needed this NOW, right at this moment. thanks bro bo!!

    ReplyDelete
  2. very inspiring and enlightening. really shows how we can change our lives. thanks.

    ReplyDelete
  3. Great stuff - lots to learn.
    God Bless you Bo!

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  4. I am truly blessed having received this kind of inspirations from Kerygma. Almost daily I nourished myself with your email brother bo and I am so grateful God send you to us. My family and the rest of my generation will forever be grateful to you. May you have many more years to live for your ministry. May you be able to build a church in Davao City, God willing, in one of these days. God bless bro. bo & family. thank you.

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  5. i thank God that you have been His instrument in enlightening, inspiring and encouraging people. I need a daily doze of these to keep me from my daily struggles in God's way. Thank you and God bless us all!

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  6. Thanks a lot for a very inspiring article. It really helps me a lot this time. "Be the Good Samaritan.
    Because the Good Samaritan didn’t love others only.
    He also loved himself." Haayyy! Thats what I've learned from my past and it was confirmed (through this article) that I made a right decision. Its so great to read an article like this that comes from a very inspiring person. I am being so blessed through reading your books and articles. You are one of the best. Keep it up. Be an inspiration to other people. GODBLESS!!!

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  7. very inspiring ang enlightening..thank God He gave us such man of wisdom. GOD bless you more!

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  8. Pls try to put a printer friendly version bro. TIA

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  9. Thanks Bo!

    Without guilt I can now stand on my decision not to be hurt anymore by the toxic person in my life!

    Honestly, by reading your daily messages and articles you've been sending me....I found answers to a lot of questions.

    Thanks and More Blessings for your MInistry!

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  10. Hi Bro. Bo,

    Amen, I say it's really works for me...it's been almost two decades now since I keep an arm length with my so called friends...guessed money can't buy friends...however I met a lot of good people that become my friends that I can keep...they're not only our kababayans, especially OFW's like myself but as well as other nationals that you can learn lot of things & ideas and also faith....well, I believe God always sending angels through people and you're ONE of them...thanks Bro. Bo...God Bless

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  11. Dear Bo,

    I love my mother. She is 55 yrs old. Strong and beautiful. She didn't graduate college. She started working when she was on her 2nd yr in college as a cashier at a hotel where he met my Dad. My Dad spoiled her. She stopped working since they got married. After my graduation and my brother's, she obliged us in a "Delilah and the old man with the black hood" kind of way to provide a monthly allowance for her. This allowance is for the house bills, the maids, credit card bills and her other monthly expenditures-personal and other shared/house bills. My Dad is quite old and though he still gives money to my mother, my mother always tell us the same line I have heard from her when I was in elementary; it is not enough.

    I just got married. My husband and I are both working in the corporate world. I am the keeper and treasurer of our finances. We started to get retirement plans and other investment plans for our future. We are living in an apartment while we are having our house built at the same time. In short, we have a lot of financial responsibilities to attend to monthly.

    I feel the need to tell you this so you can hopefully understand my problem. I never had a good relationship with my mother. I am closer to my Dad. Although I love her, I see her as a nag who loves to control people's lives. She still insists on her monthly allowance and I still do provide for her out of my own salary and not my husband's. But, due to our own financial responsibilities I couldn't give her as much as I usually do. I give her P10,000/month. My older brother gives her a little less than that. My Dad gives her P4,000 per week.

    I feel angry towards my mom, when I gave her P8,000 this month she made me feel guilty. She never thanked me or praised me for helping out with the household bills. It's as if it's my responsibility and it is expected of me. I hear her praising my brother for helping out but I never hear her praise me. I guess, I also wanted to receive acknowledgement from her. I feel really bad and guilty for realizing that I am mad at her and at the same time for knowing that my husband and I could be living more comfortably maybe buying new things for our new home if not for my mother's monthly allowance. How do I resolve this? I don't want to feel this way. I want to come to a peace within myself and accept our circumstances whole-heartedly but I can't help but feel angry about the situation. Please help me clear my mind and help me understand this better.

    Thank you very much.

    Jane

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  12. HI having read your article left an impression in my heart.. I went off to a quiet mode and took a look inside. . . Thank you for the inspirations and liberating truth. . I now feel more at peace and affirmed .but more challenge to take that bold step to tolal freedom of making decisions for my self and community. . thank you and More Power. . .God bless you!

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  13. Thanks Bo for generously sharing your eternal wealth.

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  14. Sirius Black's girl20 September 2007 at 21:15

    This is a really really helpful article.

    Of all the kinds of toxic people mentioned, I have to say that those who invalidates you and your dreams are the most annoying.

    Some people I have encountered who aren't my friends have told me "You'll never get married" and "you're not going to the U.S., don't get your hopes up." I have to say that I'm glad that God gave me a REALLY STRONG belief, something inside me that makes me believe even MORE that my dreams will come true whenever somebody discourages me. I have to thank God for that. These people who invalidates me thinks they succeed in getting my hopes down but what they didn't know is that the exact opposite happens whenever they do that.

    Thanks Bo.

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  15. This is WOW! You always have your own way of making complicated ideas simple and a lot more interesting...and funny! That's why I can't help but quote your thoughts on my lectures and counselling too. Particularly, your insight on the Good Samaritan story is really WOW, I never saw it from that perspective!

    This is really a must read for everyone. So psychological yet so spiritually uplifting. So ideal yet so real.

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  16. I was so enlightened. I have realized that i have toxic people in my life and i am also a toxic to the people i love..knowing this,i will definitely make a change.Thanks Bro.Bro!

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  17. Thanks a lot for this tremendous piece, Bo! You help me stay grounded and spirituality focused! God bless!

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  18. Thank you for the article that is very reflecting especially now a days. I hope that this would read by many.

    God bless.

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  19. Wow, Kuya Bo, this truly is a lengthy and meaty article once again. Why not make it a book? (I'd be one of the first to buy I assure you. :) )

    Thanks once again for the inspiration. More power and God bless. ^_^

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  20. i never know that i am also a toxic one... though a lesser evil but still i let parasites be like Franz Kafka's vermin in his "Metamorphosis." I'll try to change and eventually teach others to grow as an individual, responsible for his/her life...

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  21. Thank you so much for always providing us helpful articles for us to reflect. I love reading all of them and i never get tired. Thank you for being an instrument of God's love and wisdom. He's is truly working in you.
    Thank you for being a blessing to us.

    More power po.. GOd bless your work for Him and for His people.

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  22. Dear Bro. Bo,
    Thanks for this very enlightening course as I may say because it really taught me how to become sensitive and conscious of other people's motives for me. I realized that it's not really good to have people (especially my relatives) to depend on me so much that they became "paralized". This means that they are not being responsible for their own lives. Whenever they have a problem, they'll ask for my help but when I give them suggestions to avoid the aforeseen problem, they reject my idea. Therefore, the problem keeps on happening. I'm like a hamster running inside a wheel that I can't move on with my life. Right now, I already learned and still healing myself of many pains I encountered in the past. Instead of loving others first, I'm now loving myself first so that I can be a better person forgiven and loved by God = )

    Many thanks and God bless!
    You're truly God's wise man = )

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  23. Dear Bro. Bo,

    Thank you very much for providing me always such inspiring articles. I am enlightened now and that I need to avoid or somehow say NO to Toxic People which all along I am thinking that I might be a great help to them (Toxic Person 6) for their change. Personally, I am an optimistic person and I am encouraging people (especially the one who is very depressed or down) to live and enjoy life (even though the road of life is sometimes very rough), make all the best in every thing that you do & lift it up to Him and most of all believe in Him.

    By the way, I have bought and read majority of your books (including the Eight Secrets of the Truly Rich) when I am still in the Philippines. If you will be having a new book for release, then just hoping that it will also be available here in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.

    Looking forward for your another inspiring articles.

    'till then and God bless us! :)

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  24. That's a very interesting article. It really gave me wonderful insights, more especially in my situation that I migrated here in Canada 6 months ago. I realized who my toxic friends are and being away from the phils makes it a good riddance to some of them. I also reflected that sometimes I can be an invalidator myself but I prayed to God for strength to become more optimistic and cautious not to be affected by the toxic people here. Your books keep me inspired here and I look forward to more interesting articles. :) God Bless us!

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  25. Dear Bo,

    I wanted you to know everytime I am in trouble or confused on what's going on my life or I need enlightenment, your words find its way to me. I call this miracle. four years ago, I had so many questions that was bothering me that time. But after reading one of your books, I calmed down and I was able to see the light. Right now, I am bothered on what's going on in me, I mean the situation I am experiencing . But after reading this article, I felt so relieved and enlightened again. Thank you very much. You are truly God's sent to me.

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  26. Hi Bro. Bo,

    Thank you for always nourishing my soul and giving me all the emotional, spiritual and intellectual learning that I need to shape my outer world. You're always helping me to find the terrific person within me. You really inspired me alot.

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  27. It's amazing the way you do what you do.It's terrible I can't do what I could do...I'm still working on growing more.It's just that I've trouble with making decisions..Thanks for your inspiring, strengthening ideas..I promise I won't be a total loser..

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  28. This is a terrific topic! It hits me many times in every corner of my life.... More blessings to you Bo!

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  29. I really love the article..its so enlightening...I was really inspired...Thank you so much and GOD BLESS U ALWAYS.

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  30. Wow....that's really great....i was inspired by the article.........thank you very much Bro. Bo......

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  31. Yes, printer friendly version please!!! :)

    These articles are too great to keep to ourselves, we want to share it to other people who do not have access to a pc or who arent subscribed to your SOULFOOD newsletter

    THanks so much and GOD BLESS US ALL

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  32. so inspiring...timely, i need such article to really direct me on what to do with toxic people...thanks for sharing your thoughts to us..its indeed a food for our soul...thanks and God bless you always as you continue sharing the word of God... :)

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  33. That's really an advice! Thank you. I am so sad to what happened to your friend. Sana hindi ako maging ganoon.

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  34. This is a very nice article. Something you know but you continue to ignore.

    I was once had worked for 1 year and half with toxic person 2,3, & 4 . He is a foreign national country manager who verbally abused and harassed me. Almost everyday in the office he threw demeaning words, riducule and humiliate me in front of others with little or no reason at all. For a while I try to ignore what he is trying to do with me because I needed a job and hoping things will change. But one reason or another (I dont know if it is part of God's plan for me, maybe), I just decided to quit and leave my job with nothing on hand, no job to go to. These acts are not only done on me but to all employees of the company, he is such a character, who really abuse his authority. Most painful is he tramples the rights of citizens of his host country. One day I just woke up and decided to fight for my rights by filing criminal charge on this person for slander and verbal abuses and civil charges for the moral damages he had inflicted on me. At least I got rid of toxic 2,3 ,4 person in my life and eventually in the lives of all filipino employees in our company.

    Right now I still have a toxic person #5 in my life for 21 years now, my partner. Even though I know the solution I continue to ignore, I want to go a less complicated route i.e Ignore, tolerate, live with it.....

    I hope people in this site will pray for me

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  35. thanks for the inspiring mail.
    i will be looking forward to your future articles.

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  36. Masyado po akong nakarelate sa article na gawa po ninyo, minsan ko rin po narananasan, ngayon po alam ko na maraming salamat po.. Youth Leader po ako ng Parokya ni San Juan Bautista dito sa taytay..God Bless po sa inyo lahat and more peolple to evangelized....


    aldwin of taytay

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  37. Thank you for the inspirational article. I will share this with the teachers in the school where I teach. May you continue to inspire people to be better Christians. God bless.

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  38. I again felt God's love for me. He took away a toxic person in my life- my spouse. He's still alive alright, but he's living with his paramour. When he admitted he has another woman, I immediately asked him to leave our home. It's a painful process of course but spending time alone me realize how stupid I was to allow him to abuse me. I gave up so many things-carrer, time, effort and money, even my family so he wouldn't feel insecure and what do I get in return?Women really have high tolerance of pain. The pain that I have mistaken as a sacrifice as a sign of love. I failed to see it as an abuse.I also had the chance to read Bo's book, How to Find Your One True Love and found out my mistakes in choosing a life partner. But I guess God wanted more of me to be shared with others rather getting stuck with a selfish man. God has also been sending wonderful people my way to help me cope with my present ordeal. And you're one of them Bo! Thanks!

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  39. If there is one thing that excites me as i open my mail every so often, it would be your articles, Bo! Thank you. You have never failed to nourish and satisfy the deepest needs of my soul. As a college student, you and all your books remain an inspiration to me.

    Your talks and books give meaning to my life.
    Many many thanks!

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  40. I'm so blessed reading the article, I will definitely share this with others. Thank you Bro.Bo for the wonderful inspiration. May God continue to use you more.

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  41. Arlene Dayao Boustani (From Finland)22 September 2007 at 10:55

    Hi bro. Bo,
    This article is really enlightening. It validated the things that I learned in the past. My struggles and in my marriage in the past. I was in avery violent situation with my spouse for 25 years but I never stopped praying. my body and was so down not only fro mental but Physical abuse but I stuck to it until my children were old enough to take me out from that marriage. I brought them up in our Catholic faith and I am so proud to see them walk in the path of the Lord even they had that bad environment. Prayers protected them from being like their father and now that I am divorced and lives contently and happy worshipping and thanking God for all his blessings I want to thank you too for continuing to inspire me spiritually.

    God bless,
    Arlene

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  42. i know that you probably heard this a zillion times in your life... but i want to tell this to you anyway... "thank you so much for your inspiring words of wisdom bro. bo, you truly are an extraordinary person!" you enlighten millions of people in ways i can't explain.. thank you so much and Godbless your ministry! i hope to meet you someday and thank you personally for you really are an inspiration!

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  43. very timely for me, .thanks for all the enlightening words. time to get to work . ... a big job to do.!!!
    getting rid of toxic people in my life.
    prayer for courage will be much appreciated.
    thanks Bro. Bo and may God continue to empower you to help others through your preaching.
    God bless .

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  44. i love u bo for publsihing this article. =) i super need this. toxic is a term we use in med school all the time. i have toxic "friends". i realized by spending time with them, the less i feel God's love for me is. super tnx! i needed this just in time. God bless. =)

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  45. Hi BigBo!
    This is one great article to read over and over coz it gives enlightment and seek more of your teachings just like JESUS. Thanks to my cousin Margie for sharing this with me.
    More GOD's power for you...
    sweetsoul...
    thanks a hundredfold! Please include us in your prayers.

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  46. thanks Bro. BO! funny thing is, i never knew that accidentally checking my email today would nurture my spiritual needs!i also enjoyed the stories you captured in the bible in this article! im looking forward to see you personally on sept. 29 on your BOTOKs concert!more power! God Bless! Let us keep the fire of God's love burning!

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  47. Hello Bro. Bo!

    What a nice and wonderful article again which inspires me...Thank you so much for being an instrument from HIM that always enlighten and uplift my mind and soul... God bless and more power....

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  48. Great article Bo.

    I think I am in one of those abusive relationship - living with a toxic person. I don't actually know how to kick him out of our house. Nevertheless, thanks for sharing this to us. At least we can decide and think of our own inner nourishment.

    BTW, I regularly read your Kerygma. I regularly supply many of my officemates now since they know that I buy each month.

    God bless you. God bless your family. God bless your community. God bless your magazine.

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  49. thanks BRO.BO i learn a lot about toxic people....
    gudluck and more power 2 u....

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  50. i was really inspired for all the article i received from you..It helps me to wide my knowledge..

    Thank you to Mam Maryjean she intoduced your book to me.. & then i found you!

    Thank you..

    Goodluck & Godbless..

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  51. i really appreciate in this article...
    i love your story Bro. Bo or little Bo before...thanks alot i'm very inspired....
    God bless and more power....

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  52. Dear Bro. Bo,
    This article about toxic people is really good, and all your other topics as well. Its just like reading a very good book written by famous writers which will make you feel good when you're done with the book. The issues you raised are mind opening and mind blowing but putting them into practice is another thing. Yes, you said it and now we know it. But in the end and putting them to work is God's grace. Individually ,we should really dig deeper into our hearts through meditation, prayer and going to mass for the grace to come into us. Praise the Lord!!

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  53. your articles are full of wisdom. this particlar article validates what i felt and did about my situation. im glad i said no to my toxic husband...i do hope he gets to read this and realizes what an abusive person he really is. and i'm thankful to terrific people such as my family and close friends who support me spiritually, emotionally and intellectually. i know now that God must truly love me!

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  54. Hi, very apt to my current situation. I really look forward to each of your soulfood articles. A million thanks!

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  55. Ms. Melissa Asaytono24 September 2007 at 01:17

    hi bo,

    im a avid fan reader of kergyma when im in college .
    so i just want to try to log in your website coz i just want to open up my relationship sitution for this time, i have a boyfriend now, we already 1 in half year., but for that time we were together, i can't meet her parents in batangas so i have worry for that matter, he told me that after her training, we been there and to meet her parents.pls gave some advice if he serious for our relationship?thanks and godblesss




    always,
    mel

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  56. Thank you bro. bo for this wonderful article that you shared with us... It really inspire me and it reminds me to be a good samaritan of God. Thank you for sharing it with us, you just dont know how much i appreciate it. It helps a lot espcially with my relationship with the people i love... God Bless and more power.

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  57. Dear Bo,

    I did'nt know how were you able to get my e-mail add. But anyway, that's not really important. What is more important is that i am receiving words from you which really makes me set into a deep thought. Thanks.
    Your articles are really worth reading. I love it. I am sharing it with my husband and with my kids.
    More power!

    lea brandes

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  58. You are really Gods instrument of HIs Great Love. It has made me journey into my own self and also how much toxic am I I giving to other people especially my children.

    Thank you so much for these. I love you Bo. Thank you Lord and thank you Mama Mary.

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  59. Very inspiring post. Thank you Bo!

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  60. tnx...i learned a lot...tnk u :)

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  61. I'm quick to label other people as "unworthy" or "toxic" and when I do, I end up avoiding and then feel alienated myself. I know there's something wrong. After reading this article, I realized that after getting rid of the toxic people, I need to surround myself with positive and inspiring ones.

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  62. we have dis professional reading sharing at ung mga sinisend nyong msg ang binibigay ko n dey wer so amazed!!!!!!!! Galing nyo!!!

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  63. brother bo,

    a great guide in my walk in life. will try hardest to apply it everyday. thanks for this beautiful article. God bless you and your family a hundredfold.

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  64. very enlightening!!! an eye-opener...learned so many things out of this beautiful article. it made me think what i really wanted to happen in my life and that i DO have a choice. God bless you!

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  65. Dear Bo,
    Ciao! thanks so much...you're helping me in my spiritual growth.
    hope to see you personally.
    God bless you & staff.

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  66. Bo, my bestfriend doesn't talk to me anymore. this has been a sad fact for me because out of concern for her, i saw to it that she received Gospel readings everyday, i always advised her even if she isn't asking for it, and mildly rebuked her for the things i think she's been doing wrong. i did all these because i love her dearly and want to keep her from making grave mistakes; little did i realize that i had been choking her freedom. my being legalistic blocked out the compassionate love that God have for us no matter what we do. i have become a toxic person in her life, no wonder she's avoiding any type of communication with me now. thanks to your article, i want to change; to be someone that inspires and heals. i do hope my best friend still forgives me. =) God bless you Bo! thank you for this lesson. =)

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  67. hi, kuya bo,

    Salamat po sa article..i was going through hard times right now.. i was confused..this morning when i pray i tell GOD to help me get through and ask for his guidance, and trust everything to him.. And now i 've got a chane to read my mails and while reading this article it enlightened me.. now i find the courage to move on... to forgive my self.. not to stay victims forever..and stay away from the toxics ones. and focus on shaping and creating my outer world.. so i could become the kind of person Jesus wants me to be... thank Kuya Bo... it really inspires me... ;)

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  68. Kuya Bo,

    thank you very much it really inspired me a lot!

    In the past i allowed people to manipulate me or abused me emotionally but now I know i can be a better or strong person that I wanted to be and not to be manipulated anymore.

    Also thanks for letting me realize the importance of control because i'll be a honest i'm a shop addict...from now I'll try best to control it and pray for God's guidance for it.
    More power and God bless us all.

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  69. haha!!! i love THE GOOD SAMARITAN part. it had been around 4 years since i have been searching for a good explanation for his act. our philosophy classes in college used to tell us that the priest and the scribe NEEDED to attend to more important things... thanks brother! now there's the part i missed!!! galeng!

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  70. haha!!! i love THE GOOD SAMARITAN part. it had been around 4 years since i have been searching for a good explanation for his act. our philosophy classes in college used to tell us that the priest and the scribe NEEDED to attend to more important things... thanks brother! now there's the part i missed!!! he attended to his concernes din pala. hindi sya nagpaka-superhero. kaya kaya din pala ng tao. hehe. galeng!

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  71. great! very timely! God knows time, really! thanks bo, for writing great wisdom from Him. thanks. God bless...

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  72. Hi! Bro. Bo,

    You're really an angel. This is enlightening and timely. I have to deal with toxic persons 2, 3, and 4 in my workplace. But I cannot leave the job for it is my only source of income. And with this setting I realize, upon reading your article, that I become a toxic person too by whining sometimes. Please enlighten me more on this or if you can spare some time replying to my e-mail Thanks and GOD BLESS.

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  73. Hi Bo,

    Thanks for sharing another enlightening article.
    I have started to recognize the difference between the toxic and terrific person.

    I'll surely share again this one with my friends so that I could not be a toxic one..=) GOD BLESS!!! tnx a lot!

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  74. Hi Bo,
    True, there are so many 'toxic people' around us and worst, is that we allow ourselves to be influenced by them. Maybe this is due to our Filipino way of "pakikisama" to everyone. For some time in the past I have allowed myself to be ruled by such people but I reached the point where I stopped listening to them. (Especially those members of my family who got used to asking financial help from me and my husband, so often that they did not made any effort looking for a job anymore. They have become so dependent on us that they made us feel as if we have the obligation to provide for all their needs).
    Now, we still help them but not as often as before. We have learned to "teach them how to fish and not to always give them the fish". Thanks to you coz you have assured us we did the right thing. God bless.

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  75. Thank you very much Bro. Bo...you're really an angel.You keep on touching people's lives & i'm one of them.Reading Kerygma serves as vitamins not only for my soul but it makes me happy.May our loving God & Mama Mary continue to bless you & your family & your expanded family,give you good health always.More power & congratulations!

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  76. Dear Bro. Bo,

    You really never fail to inspire me. Your articles just always come at the most exact time that I need them. My outer world has started controlling me nowadays but when I opened my inbox and saw your article. Whoa! This is the one that I need most at this time. I was teary-eyed while I was reading your article. It hit me most where I hurt and need healing. Thanks Bro. Bo. Keep inspiring people and God bless you always.

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  77. I can relate with your article about toxic people. Before, during my HS and early college years, I used to whine a lot and made those could have helped me feel miserable all the time. Once, I also catered to the invalidators and parasites in my life. It is only now that I have read your articles and that of NV Peale that I began to change from that pattern for good.

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  78. Now, even though there are still problems in my life, I have learned that living here on earth seems easier if you seek out really terrific people and try to be a terrific (and not a toxic) person yourself.

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  79. great..!very inspiring!
    i read about "how to say NO to toxic people" and i realized i'm a toxic to others too.
    i really appreciate it!

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  80. wonderful! splendid! I have a lot of toxic people around me... maraming salamat po. After reading this, I'm sure my human relations philosophy would grow, really grow. And laki po nang naitulong nyo. I'm having a sense of enlightenment and direction.

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  81. I really find your articles really interesting and enlightening. I had a handful of toxic people surrounding me. Most of them are officemates. They are the toxic people #6 and believe me, they really drain out the energy and absorbs all the negative vibes that makes going to work really a hard thing to do. good thing, they finally left the company and all that is left are the terrific people.=) now, we work well in a not so toxic environment. =)

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  82. [...] support of the thought in my previous post, here’s some extracts from Bo Sanchez’s blog on how to Shape our Outer [...]

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  83. honestly bro bo, i love reading and i loved the topic but at the middle of this blog, i got bored in reading it...ill probably just watch it...pray for me bro bo that i may, one day, read everything that you have written...i know very well that this is for the betterment of myself...thanks bro bo...and GOD bless you alwayz

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  84. A very enlightening topic, i learned a lot from it. He uses you to teach and inspire us children of God! Keep on and be blessed!

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  85. Thank you Bro Bo!

    I am currently going thru a tough phase and this is the type of awakening I need to end my inner struggles. No need to be ashamed of myself and face my insecurities and it my time to heal and be happy

    God bless you

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  86. Thanks brother Bo for inspiring me. Ang dami ko pong natutunan sa mga sinabi niyo.Everytime malungkot ako paulit ulit kong binabasa yung book niyo. Miracle po talaga ang nangyari dahil everytime may tanong ako pag nabasa ko articles niyo nandon mga sagot. Sana po one day ma meet ko kayo. Sana din po makapunta kayo dito sa UAE para mag conduct ng seminar. thank you po.

    God bless

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  87. very inspirational indeed. Reading these articles recharges me to face the challenges ahead. Very simple yet so straight forward advice...hope everyone reads your articles...the country and the world would be a much better place.

    thanks Bo. keep those articles coming.

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  88. You are truly heaven sent! Thank you for being a blessing to millions of people and for providing 'FOOD FOR THE SOUL".
    May God continue to shower you with his abundant blessings and graces. "A MAN IS PAID IN DIRECT PROPORTION TO THE SERVICE HE RENDERS TO MANKIND."

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  89. Hi Bro. Bo,
    This article reminds me of what Jesus said, " I have not come to call the righteous, but for sinners to repentance. " This is one of my father's ( may he rest in peace ) favorite passages in the New Testament. In my own opinion, i think there are 3 degrees of these people ( me included! ) ha ha , the mildly " toxic", the moderately " toxic" and the severely " toxic". i would choose to befriend the mild ones, with the intention of converting them ( naks! ), with God as my Armor, but not the REAL severely " toxic " ones! cause baka ako pa ang ma convert! nila! ha ha. Hindi ko kaya. i would leave them to the Religious who are more spiritually adept to deal with these people Whom Jesus dearly loves, and all of us whom He loves, " No greater love is there, than for one to lay down his life for a friend." What a friend we have in Jesus!
    Thanks so much for this interesting article.
    May God inspire you more.
    May He grant His blessings on you and your family.
    strel

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  90. hi to all just add me in my friendster...irda_cute@yahoo.com and irda_wasalak_kids@wasalak.com

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  91. great meat!
    time to be on the offensive and start doing something not just being "done at" by others

    God bless bro. bo! mwah! =)

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  92. cathie bahaynon4 July 2008 at 03:43

    Hi Brother Bo,

    Let me first tell you that you rock!

    Second, allow me to say thank you.

    Thank you for sharing yourself, your knowledge to others. To those who are thirsty and hungry for God. To those who are lost.

    Personally, you inspired me. you helped me find God. You walked me find my way home.

    Ive been reading your articles since high school. I am your number one fan eversince I laid my eyes on your article.

    I always, always try to catch up on whats happening on you.

    Because youve been my mentor. You didnt even know but you have always been. I get your advise from your books.

    Now, I am trying to embark on a new journey. I want to try what you've been trying to show us. Being financially independent.

    I want to try real estate.

    But I still have so many questions. How. Where to go to. What should I know first.

    Thanks and I also remain a friend,

    Cathie

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  93. this is so great bro. bo. now i know what to do for me to achieve my dreams and desire in life. thanks bro. bo. GOD Bless us all!

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  94. this is very inspiring for people like me who wants to start amending themselves. you're my idol bro. bo. you will always be the source of inspiration.

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  95. goodandbeautiful20 August 2008 at 02:06

    thank your for this article. i must say that i really like and i really benefit from your articles especially the one about addiction because with God's grace, i was able to overcome mine. but i have one question that needs answer, what if the abuser/s is/are your parent/s/brother? what would i do? how do i deal with it? how can i get out with no close relatives but a friend who also knows what's going on but can't probably relate that much maybe. where can i go? i really would want to get out and finally have a safe and better place where i can breathe, be myself, and serve the Lord my God more. thank you in advance and please pray for me.

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  96. goodandbeautiful26 August 2008 at 00:32

    hi,
    i just want to say that i am actually finding a way to escape from my unhappy own that's why i'm spending some time and energy in asking for some help. this is not to escape from my problems but to run away to the people and to things that make my life an unhappy one. thank you. i am hoping that i can start enjoying life and serve God more because God is the giver of this life.

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  97. goodandbeautiful26 August 2008 at 01:15

    hi again, i hope there would be a reply.

    I hope that you'll not reject me because I read that Jesus is not angry when we ask. In fact, jesus encourages us. I hope I could find people to help me. I am praying for courage. I hope someone helps me. It's been really hard handling school stuffs and relationships. But I am grateful that there are people like you who stands for truth and who validates my/our feelings. Godbless you and thank you in advance!
    "Ask and you will receive, seek and you shall find, knock on the door and it will be opened to you." This is my motivation. Godbless you again.

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  98. To ivy salazar,
    are you the same ivy salazar who just lost something here in Loakan, Baguio City? please e-mail me at edouardcayetano@yahoo.com or contact me thru 0921-3077-270....

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  99. Bo,

    Hi there!!!...your preachings and writings inspires me a lot. Whenever i feel down, all I would do is read on your books and magazines and it totally melts my pain. I do agree with you that everyday, one should thank God for all the blessings that they receive. Life is a matter of perceptions and your perceptions define who you are. I wish I could see you soon in person as much as I would love to talk to you. Even when I was in highscool and now Im already in the corporate world, it is always in my mind to be dealing a life with your colleagues. I would really love to do Gawad Kalinga stuff...I think that is fun. Dual purpose coz its a way of helping others and satisfying one's self as well..I do hope i could receive a response from you...Thanks for inspiring people everyday and making their lives more clearer....you are such an inspiration not only to the young at hearts but to the young people as well...Please do continue praying for us......I am seeking for your prayers for me and my family as well......thank u again for such an inspiration to me.......Godbless you and your family....:)

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  100. this is so nice... :) am gonna make a blog post about this... :)

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  101. hi Bro. Bo.

    This article is so nice, and so true...
    I need to get rid of toxic people in my life... There's particularly one friend of mine who I believe is becoming toxic to me. She complains everyday.

    Everything related to schoolwork. The assignment was so hard. The duty was so tiring. The thesis was so long. The project was so compliceted, etc. etc.

    After talking to her, everything feels so bad for me too. I end up doing projects badly and getting low grades because of her energy-draining speeches day in and day out. Sometimes I want to tell her "______, shut up! It's irritating already!!!" But I can't coz she's my friend.

    Another session of complaiints to drain me and make my day bad and I'm really gonna tell her off...

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  102. bro. Bo, I was so inspired by ur articles,.. thanks for sharing your talents..8 )

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  103. bro bo,

    thanks for feeding my soul. I need to feed my soul and

    my heart. to prepare my self for the lenten season.

    thank you very much! You inspire me. I love what you do.

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  104. I recommended this article to one of my really depressed..uhm... friend.

    This helped him a lot just like it helped me. Thanks Bro. Bo!

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  105. Thanks Bro. Bo.


    I was soo depressed and this article really helped me a lot. Thanks for always inspiring me and the rest of the readers...


    God Bless!

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