UNITING IN HONOR AND GRATITUDE: Bahay Pag-Asa Marks 13 Years of Transforming Young Lives

In a celebration filled with warmth, gratitude and sense of purpose, the Provincial Government of Davao de Oro led by Governor Dorothy P. Montejo-Gonzaga, through the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office celebrates the 13th Annual Thanksgiving and Stakeholders Recognition of Bahay Pag-Asa on April 18, 2024 at Purok 5, Sta. Maria, Nabunturan, Davao de Oro with the theme “Panagtapok, Pasidungog ug Pagpasalamat”.

 

For over a decade, Bahay Pag-asa, a transition and rehabilitation home for Children in Conflict with the Law (CILC) or Children at Risk (CAR), was able to develop and implement social protection services and initiatives to transform these children into psychosocially functioning individuals with changed perspectives in life. From providing a temporary shelter to empowering them through education and skills development which made significant strides in nurturing HOPE and RESILIENCE among its residents.

Governor Gonzaga, represented by Provincial Administrator Lewis Jake G. Caiman expressed his heartfelt appreciation to those who have made a valuable contribution to what Bahay Pag-Asa is today. "Even though ako ang muhatag ug inspirational message, ako ang na-inspire seeing na nindot ug impact not only to the residents but also to those who are helping them... you can see na naay impact atong ginatabang sa ilaha". He concluded his message by emphasizing the need to continue what has been initiated for the benefit of all involved individuals

As part of the momentous celebration, the highlight of the activity lies in the recognition of the partner stakeholders and co-implementers whose unwavering support has been instrumental to the continuous improvement and success of the center.

Among the attendees were Board Member Vivencia L. Secuya, TESDA PD Abegail B. Eupeña, DICT Engr. Ronilo M. Santa Cruz, Hon. Linalou Veloso of Prosecutors Office, Atty. Joynalyn Agno of RTC56, Prov'l Advisory Council Chair Hon. Mila Celarina Sotto, PG-Department Heads of the province, MSWD Officers, representatives and others. Throughout the event, some of these notable attendees even shared their heartening message.

The later part of the activity also featured inspiring testimonies from two of the previous residents, one who is now part of the Philippine Army and the other as a successful businessman. They willingly shared their experiences and imparted the lessons they learned to the children hoping that someday they would also become successful in life.

As the activity drew to a close, PG-Department Head of PSWDO Josephine M. Frasco conveyed the achievement of the Bahay Pag-Asa over the years. In her statement, “My heart is full because I’ve seen the transformation not just of the children here in Bahay Pag-asa but also its physical aspect”. She also shared how thankful she was to all the supporters who were part of it and looking forward for further improvement of the center.

As the government and its partners continuously provide full support and dedication, Bahay Pag-Asa also continues its journey of transformation to become someone's HOME away from home. (Photos by A. Dayao)

Provincial Administrator’s Office – Information and Public Relations Division

4th Floor, Executive Building, Provincial Capitol Complex, Cabidianan, Nabunturan, Davao de Oro

Click here to go to our website!

NGCP, ECCP sign deal to advance renewable energy development

 

National Grid Corp. of the Philippines president and CEO Anthony Almeda (4th from left) and European Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines president Paulo Duarte shake hands after signing an agreement to formalize their commitment to mutually advocate the utilization of renewable energy resources in the Philippines. Joining them are (from left) ECCP committee co-chair for renewable energy Ruth Yu-Owen, NGCP AVP and head of public relations Cynthia Alabanza, ECCP executive director Florian Gottein, Pampanga Rep. Anna York-Bondoc and ECCP committee co-chair for renewable energy Jay Layug.

The Philippine Star 

April 19, 2024 | 12:00am

MANILA, Philippines —  In a landmark move toward fostering innovation and sustainability in the energy landscape of the country, the National Grid Corp. of the Philippines (NGCP) and the European Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines (ECCP) have inked an agreement to formalize their commitment to mutually advocate the utilization of renewable energy resources in the Philippines to increase the country’s power supply and energy generation.

The signing ceremony, held at the NGCP’s office in San Juan, was attended by NGCP president and CEO Anthony Almeda. ECCP was represented by its president Paulo Duarte, executive director Florian Gottein, committee co-chairpersons for renewable energy and energy efficiency Jay Layug and Ruth Yu-Owen, manager for industry and government affairs Katt Baligod and advocacy officer Chin.

Layug, a former energy undersecretary, is a known advocate of renewable energy as he currently serves as president of the Developers of Renewable Energy for AdvanceMent Inc. and director of the Philippine Energy Research and Policy Institute.

The collaboration is expected to help advance the development of renewable energy in the country with NGCP pledging to offer expertise, guidance, and support to facilitate the successful implementation of renewable energy projects. By harnessing the strengths of both organizations, NGCP and ECCP aim to build a more sustainable and resilient future for the Philippines.

“We are honored to partner with the European Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines in advancing the development of renewable energy in our country. This is a testament of our shared commitment to fostering innovation and sustainability in the energy landscape,” Almeda said.

In another forum, Duarte said the removal of the foreign ownership limits on renewable energy projects has drawn more interest from European investors in the country’s energy sector and has attracted foreign investors to capitalize on solar, wind and hydro systems in the country, foreseeing substantial contributions to the renewable energy sector.

“ECCP has been in the country for 46 years and the oldest European chamber outside Europe. This partnership will help the Philippines and NGCP visibility to our members for good reasons. We are very happy for this opportunity,” Duarte said.

Aborlan, Palawan may feel 45°C heat index on April 18

BY LIZST TORRES ABELLO

Apr 18, 2024 09:06 AM 

The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said a heat index of 45°C may be felt in Aborlan, Palawan on Thursday, April 18. 

(Photo from Unsplash) 

PAGASA also said a heat index of 44°C may be experienced in Dagupan City, Pangasinan; Puerto Princesa City, Palawan; and Catarman, Northern Samar. 

A heat index of 43°C may also be recorded in Tuguegarao City, Cagayan; Isabela State University (ISU) station in Ichague, Isabela; Ambulong, Tanauan, Batangas; San Jose, Occidental Mindoro; Iloilo City, Iloilo; Dumangas, Iloilo; and Guiuan, Eastern Samar. 

Meanwhile, Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU) station in Batac, Ilocos Norte; Bacnotan, La Union; Aparri, Cagayan; Sangley Point, Cavite; Coron, Palawan; Virac, Catanduanes; and Roxas City, Capiz may have “dangerous” heat index of 42°C. 

With prolonged exposure to heat indices ranging from 42-51°C, PAGASA said heat stroke is probable. 

Drinking plenty of water and limiting time spent outdoors, particularly from 12 noon to 4 p.m. can help the public to avoid the adverse effects of extreme heat. 

Fil-Am Nicole Scherzinger wins Best Actress at Olivier Awards 2024

By: Jessica Ann Evangelista

INQUIRER.net / 07:59 PM April 16, 2024

Filipino-American Nicole Scherzinger took home the Best Actress award as her West-End musical revival “Sunset Boulevard” won big at the 2024 Laurence Olivier Awards. 

On her Instagram account, the former Pussycat Dolls member expressed joy to having captured the Best Actress in a Musical trophy as Norma Desmond.

“It is an honor, joy and privilege to be recognized for your work. I am so very proud to say I am now an Olivier Award Winner. ‘I’m back where I was born to be,’” she wrote in her caption.

Theater legend Lea Salonga took to the comment of Scherzinger’s post to extend her congratulations to the actress-singer.

In a separate post, the Filipino descent star shared a video of her speech as she went emotional accepting her first Olivier Award.

“As a little girl from Hawaii and growing up in Kentucky, coming from really humble beginnings, I always wanted to be a singer and do musicals. And I dreamed of so many roles that I wanted to do, and honestly this role, Norma Desmond, was not one of those roles,” she said, drawing laughter from the audience.

“But God works in mysterious ways because it’s honestly one of the ballsiest and bravest things I have ever done.” added the singer-actress.

Scherzinger won “Dancing with the Stars” in 2010. She also served as a judge on several other television talent shows, including “The Sing-Off” (2009–2010), “The X Factor” US (2011), “The X Factor” UK (2012–2013, 2016–2017, 2019), “Australia’s Got Talent” (2019), and “The Masked Singer” (2019).

She has also appeared in the 2014 musical “Cats” and in the Disney animated film “Moana” (2016). Her television credits include “Dirty Dancing” (2017) and the television special “Annie Live!” (2021).

“Sunset Boulevard” emerged as the top winner, bagging seven awards out of 11 nominations from the prestigious awarding body. 

Aside from Scherzinger, former “Succession” star Sarah Snook took home the main Best Actress of the night for her performance in “The Picture of Dorian Gray.”

Crossovers sweep High Speed Hitters, firm up semis bid

BY KRISTEL SATUMBAGA-VILLAR

Apr 16, 2024 08:36 PM

  

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AT A GLANCE

• Chery Tiggo outplayed an erratic PLDT side with a 25-22, 25-16, 25-20 victory on Tuesday night, April 16, to firm up its semifinal bid in the Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference at the Philsports Arena in Pasig City. 

Chery Tiggo outplayed an erratic PLDT side with a 25-22, 25-16, 25-20 victory on Tuesday night, April 16, to firm up its semifinal bid in the Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference at the Philsports Arena in Pasig City.

Chery Tiggo extends its winning run to five games. (PVL Images)

Sisters Eya and EJ Laure combined for 17 kills to finish with 12 and 10 points, respectively, in pacing the Crossovers, who stretched their winning run to five games to improve to a 7-2 win-loss record.

The victory not only halted PLDT’s five-game winning streak but created a four-way logjam at second place with the High Speed Hitters, the Creamline Cool Smashers and the Petro Gazz Angels.

They trail solo leader Choco Mucho, which totes an 8-1 mark.

The Crossovers needed one hour and 32 minutes in dispatching the High Speed Hitters, who fell into a maze of errors and gave up 27 points in the process.

Eya Laure also joined forces with Ara Galang in providing Chery Tiggo’s rock-solid net defense, conspiring for five of the team’s eight blocks.

The Crossovers’ win overshadowed the efforts of Savi Davison, who tried to lift PLDT to victory by pouncing on 22 points that went futile.

'Wave Crest' by Lara Latosa represents deep connection with the ocean

'Wave Crest' represents the artist's deep connection with the ocean and its powerful waves created by the dynamic energy passing through the water

BY MB LIFESTYLE

Apr 16, 2024 05:33 PM

  

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Lara Latosa

Lara Latosa's 'Wave Crest' exhibition captures her profound bond with oceanic energy, presenting her signature figurative abstractions in a dynamic display poised to make waves in the art world.

As an abstractionist, Lara Latosa skillfully captures the interplay of form, color, movement, and personality of waves in her works. In contrast, each painting in this exhibition freezes the dynamic energy of a wave about to break as we witness a moment of anticipation and beauty, crystallizing memories.

For Lara, each wave holds significant meanings beyond their physical appearance. They represent her passion for water activities, her struggles with mental wellness reflected in the highs and lows of a wave, and her philosophical view of life as ephemeral, mirrored in the coming and going of waves.

"Wave Crest" is a harmonious dance of fluidity and imagination, promising an extraordinary experience as we explore the crest of Lara Latosa's artistic exploration. This exhibition will be on view at Galerie Francesca’s new space in SM Megamal, Art Walk 4th Building A from April 6 to April 19, 2024.

For more information visit the Galerie Francesca website www.galeriefrancesca.com. 

What are some deep truth you must learn now or never?

 

What are some deep truth you must learn now or never?

1. One day you will die and the rest of the world will move on without you.
2. It's not your job to fix insecure people. It's your job to fix the part of you that resonated with your insecurities. Nobody is coming to save you, so start putting in the work.
3. Talk doesn't cook rice, so overthinking wouldn't miraculously create you any magic.
4. You won't be young forever, break bones when you still have teeth.
5. Stop expecting honesty from people who lie to themselves. It's a really expensive gift, cheap people can't afford it.
6. Sometimes your old life has to fall apart before your new life can fall together. So, don't hesitate to leave the past in the past.
7. The job, the party, the relationship knowing when to leave is so important. Don't stick with the toxic environment.
8. Fitting in will make you miserable. Be your own uncool, weird-ass self and whoever still wants to hang around with you then, keep them close and be weird together.
9. At any minute, there is someone who can come along and change your life. That person is you.
10. Life is not a fairy tale. That’s why it’s always exciting and you’ll never be bored.

PAGASA: 24 areas may experience ‘dangerous’ heat index on April 16

BY ELLALYN DE VERA-RUIZ

Apr 16, 2024 07:35 AM

  

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Families beat the heat at a public beach in Noveleta, Cavite on Black Saturday, March 30, 2024 (Arnold Quizol/Manila Bulletin)

The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said 24 locations may record heat index values in the “danger” category on Tuesday, April 16.

PAGASA said Dagupan City, Pangasinan may experience a heat index of 46℃, while Aparri, Cagayan; Aborlan, Palawan; Central Bicol State University of Agriculture (CBSUA) station Pili, Camarines Sur; Iloilo City, Iloilo; and Zamboanga City, Zamboanga may register a heat index of 43℃.

Meanwhile, a heat index of 42℃ may be recorded in the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) station in Pasay City; Laoag City, Ilocos Norte; Tuguegarao City, Cagayan; Isabela State University (ISU) station in Echague, Isabela; Clark Airport station in Pampanga; Central Luzon State University (CLSU) station in Muñoz, Nueva Ecija; Baler radar in Aurora; Casiguran, Aurora; Sangley Point, Cavite; Ambulong, Tanauan, Batangas; Coron, Palawan; San Jose, Occidental Mindoro; Puerto Princesa City, Palawan; Virac synop station in Cataduanes; Masbate City, Masbate; Roxas City, Capiz; Dumangas, Iloilo; and Catarman, Northern Samar.

PAGASA defines the heat index as the measurement of how hot it feels when relative humidity is combined with the actual air temperature.

It said a heat index ranging from 42°C to 51°C indicates imminent "danger," as "heat cramps and heat exhaustion are likely," and "heat stroke is probable with continued activity."

PAGASA recorded the country’s highest heat index so far this year on March 27 in Roxas City, Capiz at 48°C.

Ina Raymundo's secret to gorgeous body

BY GISELLE SANCHEZ

Apr 16, 2024 07:40 AM

  

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AT A GLANCE

• At 48 years old, the actress’ body sizzled and caught the envious eyes of millennials, who said they looked older than the Gen X mom of five. 

Ina Raymundo

Ina Raymundo is on a roll! Our Sabado Nights Girl was trending for weeks when she stole the Bench Swimsuit Fashion Show 2024 runway. At 48 years old, the actress’ body sizzled and caught the envious eyes of millennials, who said they looked older than the Gen X mom of five.

Gossip Girl? So, what is the secret to having that gorgeous body every Gen Z, Millennial, and Gen X wants to covet?

Ina: Eat six small meals a day. Work out five times a week. Do pilates—I do mine through an app. Find time to do cardio. Eat healthy with cheat days. Eat less chips—too much salt is bad for us.

Ina with screen son Donnie Pangilinan

GG: Congratulations on the successful premiere night of X&Y. Today is the opening day of your film. Tell us about the movie and the favorite people you have worked with in this movie.

Ina: It’s a road movie about unexpected love and connection. One woman was inspired to follow an unpublished work of her gay best friend’s ex about living life to the fullest. My favorite people in the movie? Of course, it’s Will Ashley, my screen partner. Do you know that he is only 21 years old? My daughter is 22 years old. But to tell you the truth,  I cannot think of any Sparkle talent that can do the role better than him. He is perfect for the role because he easily portrays the role of a kind and mature person despite his age. My other favorite person in the movie is my director, Adolf Alix. He is always a pleasure to work with. He is so calm and so organized. So easy to talk to. And he is a Christian, too, like me.

GG: I hear you are very maternal to everyone on the set of your movies X & Y, including your partner in the film, Sparkle artist Will Ashley. Is that true?

Ina: I am maternal to everyone, so my name is Ina. Ina means mother in Filipino. I love taking care of people. Given a chance, I would want to have ten kids instead of five—seriously. Aren’t we just opposites, Giselle? Seriously, I was born to be a mother! Ina ako!  Bata palang ako ,  hilig ko na mag baby-sit.  I love babies—touching them, hugging them, nurturing them. I think I will be a good caregiver. 

From left: Brian Poturnak, Michaela, Jacob, Ina, Annika, Erika and Minka

GG: So if you weren’t an actress, would you want to be a caregiver?

Ina: Why not? But I would also want to be a realtor if I were outside of show business. Whenever I see the TV show “Selling Sunset,” it makes me want to sell houses. I love looking at beautiful homes, and I would love to sell them.

GG: Going back to being maternal, what is your parenting style for your five kids? Do you believe in spanking as a form of discipline?

Ina: To be honest, with my eldest Erika and Jacob (when they were kids many, many years ago),  I used a spanking stick. I used to believe in the saying-- Spare the rod and spoil the child, so yes, napalo ko sila. – But with Michaela,  Anika and Minka , nagbago ang parenting style namin ni Brian. Mas relaxed. Hindi na kailangan sumigaw, magalit, mamalo. I stopped believing in spanking. Do you know that spanking is illegal in other countries? We started talking to them, and we became better parents. So now you can say that Brian and I are cool parents. Cool but assertive as well. Parenting also involves a lot of prayers to nurture five different kinds of personalities. Kailangan mo talaga ng grace ni God. You need to pray for wisdom to know if your child is going through something, kung may pinagdadaanan sila.  You need to be connected to all five of them to feel something is wrong immediately. I am thankful to God because I am so connected with my kids that I know when something is not correct, when one is about to get sick or having trouble with school work or with friends… naagapan ko agad kung may issues.

GG: Well, speaking of issues, could you finally answer the biggest issue everyone is talking about? Who killed Divine Almazan in your TV series Can't Buy Me Love? Is it you?

Ina: Kalma Giselle Kalma. You are just like everyone else who cannot wait. The finale is just a hop, a skip, and a jump away. So many things will be revealed…. But even if you kill me for ending best friend Giselle, I cannot tell you. The finale episode will be on May 10, 2024. Just keep watching Can’t Buy Me Love, and again, please support my movie X & Y, which is showing in all theaters starting today.

Aicelle Santos recalls moving ‘Miss Saigon’ composer to tears during audition

Carlo Orosa - The Philippine Star 

April 15, 2024 | 12:00am

MANILA, Philippines — Aicelle Santos revealed a touching moment she shared with “Miss Saigon” composer Claude-Michel Schönberg.

“It was supposed to be a secret,” Aicelle began in a recent video posted by GMG Productions. “My first audition for ‘Miss Saigon’ was in 2016. I had no theater background. In 2018, my manager asked me to audition for Gigi. Despite my reservations, I decided to give it a try.”

Aicelle wasn’t initially hopeful, remembering her unsuccessful first audition.

“When I auditioned, there was this white guy in front of me. I sang, but he said, ‘You’re too nice. Do you know Gigi’s background?’ I realized I didn’t know much about ‘Miss Saigon,’ but he shared the full narrative and asked me to sing again.”

The author with Aicelle and assistant choreographer Arnold Trinidad months after the news Aicelle got accepted in ‘Miss Saigon’ UK tour.

“As I sang again, a tear fell from my eye. He said, ‘Okay, we’ll just call you.’”

Aicelle with Isay Alvarez-Seña, the original Gigi Van Tranh, and Kiara Dario, who is playing Gigi in the ongoing international tour of the musical.

Weeks later, Aicelle received the news that she had landed the role of Gigi Van Tranh to tour the UK with “Miss Saigon,” performing in Southampton, Manchester, Hippodrome, Plymouth, Norwich, Alhambra, Sunderland, and Zurich.

During one of the shows, Gerald Santos, another Filipino cast member playing Thuy, asked her, “Who auditioned you?”

“Basta may puting mama,” Aicelle replied. “Hindi ako sure eh kung sino?”

Gerald gave her some names to jog her memory and showed her a “Miss Saigon” program. Aicelle pointed out the photo of the man who had auditioned her, only to discover it was Claude-Michel Schönberg.

“Embarrassed,” Aicelle exclaimed, “Oh my God... Was that him? I was so glad I didn’t know. If I did, I would’ve been a nervous wreck and probably wouldn’t have done well in my auditions!”

Brace for warmer days ahead — PAGASA

BY LIZST TORRES ABELLO

Apr 15, 2024 09:05 AM

  

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The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) on Monday, April 15 said “warmer” days may be expected in the coming days. 

(Photo credit to MB Visual Content Group) 

In PAGASA’s Monday morning public forecast, weather specialist Obet Badrina said the easterlies, or the warm winds from the Pacific Ocean, continue to be the dominant weather system in the country. 

“Asahan pa rin natin iyong patuloy na pagtaas ng temperaturang mararanasan for this week habang may tyansa pa rin ng mga isolated rain showers and thunderstorms (Expect the continuous increase in the temperature that may be experienced for this week, with chances of isolated rain showers and thunderstorms),” Badrina said. 

Based on the PAGASA’s extended weather outlook from April 16 to 18, the actual air temperatures in some key areas are 24–36°C in Metro Manila, 24-38°C in Tuguegarao City, 25-32C° in Legazpi City, 17–27°C in Baguio City, 26–32°C in Metro Cebu, 27–34°C in Iloilo City, 25–32°C in Tacloban City, 24–34°C in Metro Davao, 25–35°C in Zamboanga City, and 24–32°C in Cagayan de Oro City. 

PAGASA said the entire archipelago may experience partly cloudy to cloudy weather with isolated rain showers or thunderstorms.

Keeping our focus on God always strong

By Fr. Roy Cimagala

Chaplain

Center for Industrial Technology and Enterprise (CITE)

Talamban, Cebu City

Email: roycimagala@gmail.com

IN the gospel of the Mass on Monday of the Third Week of Easter (cfr. Jn 6, 22-29), we are told about how more and more people, after learning about how Christ managed to feed 5 thousand people with a few loaves of bread, came looking for Christ. They were even willing to cross the water in boats just to find him.

This reaction of the people should also be our reaction to Christ. We should try our best to develop and keep our attraction to Christ as strong and abiding as possible. We have to convince ourselves that this is the ideal condition for us to be in, and thus, we have to be wary of the constant danger of being drawn and trapped in our earthly affairs only, with Christ regarded only peripherally, if at all.

For this, we first of all should ask for God’s grace which is actually given to us in abundance. And from there, let’s go through some systematic plan of life that will nourish and strengthen our constant and intimate relationship with God, a relationship that should involve our entire self—body and soul, feelings, emotions and passions down to our very instincts, as well as our mind and heart.

It should be a plan that should obviously include prayer in all its forms—vocal, liturgical, ejaculatory, mental, contemplative, etc. Our life of prayer should be such that even when we are immersed in the things of the world due to our work and our temporal duties, we would still be aware of God’s presence, and it is doing God’s will that should always motivate us. Our faith tells us that God is everywhere. It should not be hard to find him.

The plan definitely should include practices that will foster our spirit of sacrifice, penance and purification, given the obvious fact that no matter how much we try to be good, we would always be hounded by our weaknesses and the temptations around, and the possibility of falling into sin is high. This spirit of sacrifice would help us discipline ourselves in order to rally all our faculties for the service of God and of everybody else.

The plan should include a daily effort of ascetical struggle where, aside from fighting evil, we should aim at growing in our love for God and others, by developing the virtues as well as always strengthening them. It should help us to develop a growing concern for others, doing personal apostolates wherever we are and whatever the occasion and circumstance may be.

It should include the frequent recourse to the sacraments, especially the Holy Eucharist and confession. These spiritual and supernatural means are always effective, enabling us to be with Christ even if we do not feel his presence nor his interventions in our life. And it should also include some program of ongoing formation, knowing that our spiritual life would always need that.

It’s important to realize that the net effect of all these should be a strong and abiding feeling of intimacy with God, a strong attraction to him. We should not allow our attractions to stop at the level of some earthly and temporal goods only.  It should be God and his will and ways that should attract us most.

We should also be wary of the constant danger of getting distracted. We have to identify the usual sources of our distractions and plan an appropriate strategy to deal with them properly.