| There have been several moments in my life when depression ruled me completely: broken relationships; death of loved ones; unjust treatment by the powerful and/or peers of color; feeling alone amid difficulties; lukewarm support for this magazine from many mainstream advertisers and targeted audience; and inability to help needy folks back home who depended on me for support. When I am depressed, I retreat to my room, I want to be alone, and I just cry my heart out. Don't get deceived by my smiling face. I have lots of hurts inside. My life, since childhood, hasn't been easy. It has been a struggle, although there have been victories and happy moments, too. When I'm alone, I try to get my inspiration back by conversing with my soul to assess why life is important, not for myself, but for others. When I start praying to my God, I get my inspiration back so fast. Flashbacks of wonderful memories in the Philippines create vivid scenes before my eyes like a documentary film, such as when I won an all-paid 4-year college scholarship at the time I thought I won't be able to go to college. I see my children screaming happily on carnival rides at the time we were living in the squatters' area in Bagong Barrio, Caloocan. I see my mom after 19 years, when I represented the Philippines in Washington, D.C. as a U.S. congressional fellow. How her face glows with pride! I see my grandchildren excitingly running to me with open arms. I see pages of Asian Wisconzine with beautiful photos of Asians doing well in America. I get inspired by these memories and the encouragement of my true and tested friends that I am doing something good in the service of others. I get inspired by my faith that constantly gives me hope. I get inspired by people whose barriers are heavier than mine, yet they have accomplished great things that help others. I get inspired by your feedback that tells me that I have inspired you. On May 19, I received an important recognition from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) in a ceremony at Marriott West in Waukesha, Wis.: 2006 Journalist of the Year for the State of Wisconsin. I was recognized, together with a few chosen entrepreneurs, in front of hundreds of successful business people. I felt humbled, and told myself, "I must be doing something good." A real inspiration! When you feel depressed, it's OK to retreat, be alone in your room, and cry your heart out. But do something else. I don't advise taking drugs to cure depression. Converse with your soul, talk to your spiritual guide, recall the victorious, happy moments of your life, remember the people who have made your life colorful. There's no such thing as a negative experience. As a survivor, I have realized that all experiences are learning experiences to make us better persons. If you choose to despair, you lose the chance to challenge yourself. If you choose to inspire others, you gain a lot of respect, from yourself, most especially. I have decided to choose the latter. |
| Editorial Corner Over a cup of tea |
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| Depression and inspiration |