Happy Relationships Throw More Parties
Guy 1: Cecilia is so beautiful.
Guy 2: Oh yes. She looks like Demi Moore in Ghost. (Note: This conversation happened centuries ago.)
Guy 1: If given a chance, would you want to marry her?
Guy 2: Uh….no, not really.
Guy 1: Why not?
Guy 2: How should I put it? Cecilia’s uh…not a happy person.
Guy 1: You noticed that too?
Guy 2: She’s gloomy. She’s a negative person. She may be beautiful, but I don’t want to live with a negative person for the rest of my life.
Guy 1: So unlike Stella.
Guy 2: Now there’s a cheerful girl. I really like her. So kind. So friendly. Always has a lovely smile.
Guy 1: She’s not as beautiful as Demi Moore.
Guy 2: But she’s the kind of woman I’ll marry.
Guy 1: What? You have a crush on her too?
Guy 2: Hey, fall in line bro.
This conversation actually happened some twenty years ago between two of my single friends. In fact, we were all single. And believe me, Stella was like a guy magnet. Five of my friends had a crush on her.
Except for me, of course. I was immune to crushes. Because I looked at all females the way I looked at common furniture. Because my heart was focused on God alone. (And my nose is getting longer right this minute…)
Here’s a lesson for single people: I’ve learned that guys may lust after physical beauty, but when it comes to marriage, they’ll look deeper. One of the most important things they’ll look for is a happy woman.
Why? Because a guy knows that one of his roles is to make his wife happy. If he marries a happy woman, his job will be so much easier.
Because at the end of the day, we all want happiness.
Are Your Homes Happy?
After one of my talks, a very anxious mother approached me and asked, “Bo, can you help me? I have a problem with my 18-year old daughter. She’s like a bed spacer in our house. She goes home only to sleep. She’s always with her friends…”
I had very little time to talk to her, so I took my best shot. I asked her, “Is there happiness at home?”
Here’s my belief. I believe kids will love to go home if there’s love in the home.
Have you heard that great old song from 1964? (For your information, I didn’t hear the original version. I heard this song in a revival in American Idol.)
A chair is still a chair even when there’s no one sitting there. But a chair is not a house, and a house is not a home, when there’s no one there, to hold you tight, and no one there, that you can kiss good night…
Friend, is there happiness in your home?
I’ve noticed that the happiest relationships have a rhythm of celebration. In other words, they throw parties.
I don’t mean a party with balloons and clowns (though that’ll be great too), but putting a “party spirit” in your relationship.
I’ve got four fantastic suggestions.
1. Make The Family Meal A Party
I know of a man who has 11 children.
When he goes home from work, he does a very important ritual before entering his front door. He mentally unloads all his problems at the front porch. Because his kids need a happy Dad.
When he enters the door, he shouts, “Hi kids!” And 11 kids rush to him to give him a hug. He then wrestles them on the floor and they play together.
And when mealtime comes, he makes everyone laugh. He inspires everyone with his stories.
Alas, the typical family meal isn’t like this.
Jack And Jill Went Up The Hill
The typical family meal is where parents hold court and pass judgments and vent anger
Let me give you an example.
The father turns to his eldest son, Jack, and asks, “Pass the rice. By the way, how was your exam this morning?” He doesn’t allow him to answer. He answers for him, “I won’t be surprised if you got a zero. Because I don’t see you studying. The good news is that we can save money because we can sell your schoolbooks next year as brand new!”
He then turns to his daughter, Jill, (You know, Jack and Jill…) “Pass the gravy. By the way, where were you last night? With your ugly boyfriend again? Can you tell me what planet he comes from? I can accept earrings in the ear. But why does he have earrings on his nose? Is he a cow?”
He then turns to his youngest daughter, Hill. (You know, Jack and Jill went up the hill…) “Pass the salt. And you, were you born with a telephone in your hand? You already were with your obnoxious friends in school, why do you have to spend three more hours talking with them on the phone?”
And finally, it’s the youngest son’s turn, Pail. (Okay, they really like this Nursery Rhyme.) “Pass the cake. And you, what did you do today aside from wasting your time playing those crappy video games! And are you deaf? Your music is either very loud or extremely loud. Go to the doctor and have your ears checked!”
No wonder the family meal is an endangered species.
Parents, please. Make your meals happy!
Here’s a rule you should write on stone: Ban all sermons when you’re around the table. Instead, feed your children with dishes of laughter, platefuls of inspiration, and trays of encouragement. Make every family meal a joyful occasion.
2. Hold A Family Night Each Week
My kids love Family nights.
If they had it their way, it’ll be done every night.
Sometimes, we watch a movie at home, with a barrel of popcorn. (According to my son Benedict, a movie without popcorn is a horrific crime.)
Sometimes, we play games together. Monopoly, Charades, Pictionary, and Trivia.
Sometimes, we all play video games together. Obviously, the kids always win and the parents lose. But that’s okay. Instead of banning video games from our kids, we enter into their digital worlds. Doing so makes us able to guide them against violent games.
Sometimes, we go to a bookstore and eat ice cream.
I believe the weekly Family Night is a mini-party that you should never miss. Believe me, when you’re old and grey (or old and bald), you’ll look back at these times and thank God you had them!
3. Weekly Dates With Each Family Member
I date my wife each week.
I consider that a mini-party too.
Years ago, we had very little money.
So we had dates in our garage.
Sometimes, we took a quiet walk in our neighborhood.
One day, I thought of something crazy. We ate at home, dressed up really well, and went to a 5-Star hotel. We entered the hotel like we were millionaires. No one knew we had very little money in our pockets. And confidently, I ordered a glass of Coke. And for 2 solid hours, we enjoyed the violin music and beautiful ambiance—all the while sipping our Coke very slowly.
I date my kids each week, too. Those are mini-parties. Sometimes, it’s just donuts. Other times, we walk around a mall. Other times, we play a game together. The key is to make it fun.
I also date my mother every other week. This is such a simple thing, but it means the world to her.
I have regular dates with my friends, too. Our spiritual community, Light of Jesus, is organized around small groups called Caring Groups that meet weekly. Amazingly, I have four Caring Groups, so my weeks are pretty busy having fun times with my many friends.
One last suggestion…
4. Annual Family Celebrations
Create your own Family’s “Liturgical Calendar”.
Sit down and block off the most important dates of the year.
For example, plan everyone’s birthdays.
Many times, it’s very spontaneous. “Oh, it’s your birthday today? Let’s have dinner…” So why not plan a bit more? Go camping in the backyard, or visit an orphanage, or invite your child’s friends for a sleepover, or go out and have a mini-vacation together.
Mark off also your wedding anniversary, Valentines, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, and Grandparents’ Day.
One Valentine’s Day, I did something I cherish to this day. I set up two chairs and a little wooden table in our backyard. I scattered candles all over the grass, dressed in a coat and tie, and brought out my CD player to play Kenny G romantic music. I then ordered pizza. Finally, I got my guitar and sang an original song I wrote for her that day…
Ikaw ang awit ng buhay, Ang tinig ng langit
Ikaw ang himig at kulay, Ng pusong nagmamahal sa iyo
Refrain:
Biyayang galing sa taas, Anghel sa lupa’y naglalakad
Ikaw ang awit ng puso ko…
That happened a long time ago, but I still remember my wife’s tears that special night.
— 0 —
Look at the big Feasts of your faith—Christmas, Easter, Pentecost, etc. Example: During the entire Advent season, we light the Advent wreath as a family for 4 weeks straight before Christmas.
Other important days: First day in school. Last day in school. Graduation. First Job of the new Graduate. It could be Jimbo, the pet dog, giving birth to four puppies.
Hey, if there’s a reason to celebrate, throw a party!
3 Ingredients For Throwing Parties
Let me share three things to make these parties work.
Ingredient #1:
Gratitude
Someone might say, “But Bo, I’m a melancholic person. I’m not like you. I’m the loner and shy type. I really don’t like these party-spirit thing.”
Excuse me, but I’m melancholic too.
Every psychological test I’ve taken confirms without a shadow of a doubt that I’m melancholic. Remember that there are 4 personality types: Melancholic (that’s me), Sanguine (Bubbly, cheerful types), Choleric (Those with cholera), and Phlegmatic (Those with lots of phlegm).
I love being alone. I’d rather be quiet than talk. (Honest!) But I had to adjust. I had to do things that weren’t natural to my personality.
Here’s the truth: Celebrating your relationships doesn’t depend on having a bubbly or cheerful personality. It depends on your depth of gratitude.
You throw a party because you’re grateful to the person for being there in your life.
If you believe that the people in your life are your greatest gifts from God, then you throw parties often to thank them.
Even if we know it’s a lot of hard work.
Ingredient #2:
Hard Work
Have you ever prepared for a birthday party before?
It’s always hard work.
But who said love isn’t hard work? As I said before, love is about dirty hands, not just beating hearts.
Finally, the third ingredient is very important too.
Ingredient #3:
Creativity
Throwing parties requires some creativity.
Do you want to be more creative?
Copy. Get inspiration from others. It’s the secret of the greatest artists in the world: Leonardo de Vinci, Michelangelo, Picasso, Rembrandt, Bo Sanchez, etc…
You don’t know how to express your love in a playful way?
Ask others what they do. Do some research.
Through the years, I’ve given many cards to my wife. Let me share with you two of them today. You’ll notice that I’m not very original. I stole all these from various sources…
Card #1
I framed this card. I basically got the text from an email I received. Probably Spam. Not much originality. But she loved it so much, it’s still on her bedside table after all these years.
My Dearest Valentine,
You are the… apple of my eye, mango of my pie, palaman of my tinapay, keso of my monay, teeth of my suklay, fingers on my kamay, blood in my atay, sala of my bahay, foundation of my tulay, seeds of my palay, best clothes in my ukay-ukay, calcium in my kalansay, calamansi on my siomai, knot on my tie, toyo on my kuchay, vitamins in my gulay, stars of my sky, sand of my Boracay, beauty of my Brunei, highlands of my Tagaytay, mole on my Ate Guy, baba of my Ai-Ai, spinach of my Popeye, sizzle when I fry, wind when I paypay, tungkod when I’m pilay, feeling when I’m high, shoulder when I cry, wings when I fly, prize when I vie, cure to my “ARAY!”, my honey even after I die…
From your one and only,
HAPPY VALENTAY!
Card #2
Here’s my final example.
Again, I stole the photos from the internet too, but I edited the text to fit my purpose.
A PSYCHOLOGY TEST TO MEASURE LOVE
It has already been proven that someone in love has a keener sense of observation. His mind is more alert, his perception more accurate. Doctors suggest that this is so because heightened emotions of love cause blood circulation to flow more freely in the right hemisphere of the brain. Today, you will be shown a photo of two almost identical dolphins. Here’s the test: You can now measure whether a person is in love by the number of slight differences he sees between the two dolphins. The more differences you see, the more in love you are. Turn this paper now and count the many differences you can see between the two dolphins—and find out how in love you really are…
(By the way, I took the test and realized how insanely I’m in love with you. Love, your husband.)
Let me end with the story of prodigal son.
When the “bad” son came home, his father threw a party. The son wanted to beg for forgiveness, but the father wasn’t even listening. Instead, he said, ‘Hurry! Bring the best robe and put it on him. Put a ring on his finger and shoes on his feet. Then go and get the prize calf and kill it, and let us celebrate with a feast!
God loves parties.
And God loves to throw a party to people who don’t deserve a party. If you’re reading this, thinking of your sins, wondering if God still loves you, let tell you: God is throwing a party of love for you right now. He loves you more than you can imagine.
Receive His love today.
And learn to throw more parties in your life.
Your relationships need them badly.
May your dreams come true,
Bo Sanchez
PS. I’m launching my newest book, How To Conquer Your Goliath, at the Kerygma Conference 2009 on November 28 and 29, at the Araneta Coliseum and at the Cebu International Conference Center (Yes, it’ll be simulcast. Thanks to technology!) The book will teach you how to win every battle you’re facing now. The book will be available in major bookstores around the country by December. It will also be available in all our Feasts. I’m giving my TrulyRichClub members a free Ebook version very soon.
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Yeepee!
Again , I’m the first to read your blog and the first to write a comment…
LOVE IT…
TO GOD BE THE GLORY!!!
Very nice article. I would love to try some of your suggestions to add more happiness in our home!
Thanks Bro. Bo! ^_^
If there’s one thing i have come to developed through these years… it is to be grateful in all circumstances, especially, to the people around me, my family & friends…. i already have one ingredient for throwing parties. I still need to develop the two..
Praise be to God!
it’s so true, about children not wanting to spend time at home, when home itself is not their source of comfort and happiness. great suggestions on parties. i am melancholic myself (i think) and would rather spend time alone, but you proved a point. we need to adjust to people we love, and besides, happy people can’t help talking about people and things closest to their hearts!
great, great, great! thanks bo!
Hi!
Masaya ako yesterday ung pinasulat kami sa papel ng worth to do and doing, ung eroplano natanggap ko I believe it was Gods Message for me at that time.
Thank you very much worthwhile experienced, so happy and feel blessed everyday.
looking forward this coming saturday for the Big Feast!
You always inspire me of your stories Bo.
I am recently down because of this one man. But today, you enlightened me so much.
More power and God bless you always.
Thank you!
i’m a choleric person and i love things to be perfect and in order… the reason sometimes i dont like to throw parties… but this blog it made me realize that it does not have to be perfect it has to be fun… and i agree bro. bo, God loves us so much… we dont deserve to be love but He choose to love… the thought of it alone deserves a very nice celebration!! hmmm… thank you for sharing
I laughed, I cried. Talaga, Bo. You are amazing!
Very nice article! Thank you bo =)
I was getting depressed again…I felt so alone, no friends, no companion…I have to exert so much of an effort to open and reach out…i wanted to give up…then once more, God spoke through your words, Bro Bo..Thank you. Yes, I have to adjust, make an effort and I need to dirty my hands if I want a healthy relationship….
Wow !…. you just give me an idea.
thanks bro. Bo… really inspiring !
Godbless †
cheers,
Wonderful advice. Bo! Especially the one about how meals should be celebrated. We always make sure we eat together and pray together.
I love it too.
Very Inspiring ♥♥♥
Hi Bro Bo,
I would like to thank you for the many inspiring stories and advices each week. I am keenly following your series because I have a relationship I pray that would last eternally… but here is my dilemma:
When we first met, he introduced himself to be a Christian. Christian as I am, I felt so blessed by God meeting a man of my dreams who is a bible-believer as I am.
But as time passed by, I would found out some big shocks of my life. He doesn’t eat pork… he said its health reason. Until I insisted and I made him confess. He isn’t a Christian. He’s a Muslim–Islam is his religion… He said he introduced himself as Christian to me because he knows I won’t give a damn to him when I found out of his religion. My world fell the day he told me that…Although he said he has not been observing those rituals and traditions since he moved here in Luzon…but still he isn’t a bible-believer….
What shall I do? He said he is willing to marry a Christian–but I am not willing to marry an Islam man.. Shall I let it go? He is so ideal for me long before I discovered it. He is kind, gentleman and we encourage each other to be better servants of the land…but religion matters right?
Shall I convince him to believe that Christ is our Saviour? Shall I inculcate in his mind that there is no other way to the Father but through Christ? What if he would believe otherwise? Shall I just let our good relationship be swept away because of religious differences?
I know I should not be unequally yoke with a non-believer…but still we can win soul for the glory of God…in Jesus’ name…
Please pray for me and pray with me that God would win my bf’s soul back to him…I love being a Christian…i love being redeemed by Jesus’ blood… there is no way I will leave my Christianity…so I am praying day and night that Jesus would intercede in our relationship and introduce his almighty power to my bf… please pray for us Bro. Bo… thank you…to God be the glory…
I almost cry for overwhelming emotions. I felt really sorry for not being able to attend the Feast yesterday. The things you said are so true. I have always wanted to make our home a little more “homely”, for I grew up in a family of almost cold people. I think Bro. Bo, it is easier to make a lovely home when you’re just starting your own family, rather than when you try to overhaul what has been existing for years. I mean it is easier for a parent to fill the home with happiness than for a daughter or a sibling to try to change her family. Yet, it is still worth trying.
Thank you for the inspiration. I am also a writer, and yes, you are one of my inspirations. Keep up the good work Bro Bo. May God bless us all.
Anne
Hi bRo. Bo,
nakakatuwa ang post na eto…tawa talaga ako ng tawa. anyway, this is very inspiring and full of wisdom.
tell marowe that the 2 dolphins look very identical to me haha…corny.
sabi koh what happen to the cow?
hhhmmmm…corny nga
tahnks,thanks
sa susunod elepante naman
for a change hehe.
Thanks Bro. bo.
God bless
Gud Day,Bro.Bo
Have a Blessed Day! Thanks for your inspiring messages…its an eye opener to me…
Thanks
Angie
Im in the middle of an ultra stressful day when I finally saw this email. All I can say is thank you Bro. Bo. Thank you. While I was reading this, it felt like I was in my sanctuary, a quiet and peaceful place not minding the noise around me in the office. Thank you Bro. Bo for giving me 10 peaceful minutes in the middle of a stressful day. God bless.
Wow ang galing . . . My wife and I will travel tomorrow for the BIG event that we are waiting for.
Hoping that we will be a better person to serve others
you always made my day…thank you..
I love it surely Ishould pattern it like this. Throwing a party everyday to receive Gods gifts everyday as well!
Your articles really inspires me…Thank you for sharing your inspiring thoughts =)
so timely… now that i recently went through family issues. thanks, bro. bo!
[…] an interesting post I read, written by Bo Sanchez that I’d like to share…. Happy Relationships Throw More […]
continue to be God’s messenger!
to God be the glory! =)
Wonderful message. I also made sure that we have family nights every week… movie night, game in the park night, burger night, pizza night. etc. and our son just love them.
Kailangan ko lang alisin ang sermon during meals which I sometimes do.. and also more of dating my wife. wala kasing mapagiwanan sa anak namin dito sa dubai unlike dyan sa pilipinas.. maybe when we get to go home for good na.
God bless you always. Thanks very much Bro.Bo.
kakabless naman talaga,
Wow… Truly inspiring… Keep it up… May God bless you
Hi Kuya Bo, this is my first time mag leave ng comment..:D masyadong addictive na ako dito sa article nyo…minsan nga di ko natatapos work ko sa office coz i cant help but to read your articles every now and then….:D Godbless us all…thanks po!
Hi Bo,
hope you’re reading all our comments (hehehe)
I really look forward to your stories and God Whispers…. it gives me hope in the middle of doubt… it gives me courage and strength in times of uncertainty….
thanks for being an instrument of God to give us hope.
so funny, so fruitful, and so inspiring….
thanks Bo for giving inspiration for so many people…..
I love this! I still have a happy smile on my face as I type this. I honestly look forward to doing these in the future when i have my own family.
Thanks Bo! ;o)
Nice story.. very inspiring.. but i got a little confuse about the two dolphins… i guess i’m not that in love for all i see are two cows
hi bro. bo. thank u for the wonderful message. i will surely do ur suggestions to have a happy relationship within our family. thank u also for giving inspiration 2 all of us. God bless us always.
Thanks bro for all the inspirations you are sending me each week. Though my 5 children do not live with us with my husband anymore, I still try my best to be the best parent that I could be to them each time we get together. I”m going to share all these to them, so that, in turn, will give them the same inspiration to be the best parents to their future children. God bless to you and your family!
my sister will go home 2mrw to attend the kerygma conference. i really really want to attend the conference pero sayang, i can’t fly back 2 manila bcoz of work. hopefully next year mkaatend n kmi ng asawa q. i know the message will be passed 2 me thru my sister.
very wonderful..thanks brother bo…
Hi Bo,
An inspiring article again..thank you very much..keep on keeping on..God bless!
I’m melancholic, a reticent loner, a hopeless romantic.. But I was “forced” to reach out, to get out of myself to serve others. The Lord revealed to me that I have the gift of gab and the capacity to love the least of my brethren in ways I could not imagine. My wife reminds me to celebrate what’s good and what’s right with the world. Praise God for everything.. because everything is good.
Hi Bo,
Very inspiring, me and my family (my husband and son) are here in Dubai, mabilis ang oras dito kapos na kapos to spend more time with the family. Minsan tuloy nakakaguilty that we can only give little time to my child. But , after reading your blog, I realized that there are so many ways to still make my family happy even with a little time. Thank you and more power! God Bless you.!
Hello Bro Bo,
It’s very inspiring. I want to try it in our home someday coz am away from our home until the next two years…I want to share something to you that makes me realized something..
My niece just celebrated her 7th birthday last november 17. Though my brother and sister in law is not really earning that “big”, I appreciate my sister inlaw for throwing a party for my niece.. I came to realized that money is just a money it will come and go and can be replenished. But the HAPPINESS they brought to my niece will remain to her consciousness and will forever be cherish by her. A great realization happened in me :->.
You’re really, really wonderful and amazing Bro. Bo…i cried and laugh at the same time. Thank you very much for inspiring me. God bless.
I fully agree with you. I like holding parties for our birthdays, anniversaries, Christmas, etc. that I have sort of mastered the art of doing it inexpensively. I really think that it is a way of expressing thanksgiving for all our blessings.
Parties also help me mark our milestones in life. And do you know that it is important to mark our milestones? Studies show that the lack of marking one’s important events sometimes leads to unfavorable behavior.
Ex. A middle aged man who was not able to mark and honor his new phase in life might end up womanizing or doing dangerous stuff.
wow…what a wonderful idea…I enjoy reading your article…I did laughing reading card #1 its so cute…i will do that to my family doing things & throwing party in a simple way…thank you Bo by giving us the idea for happiness…God Bless You & More to your mission.
GOD BLESS YOU & MORE POWER TO YOUR MISSION…
I super love this part: “And God loves to throw a party to people who don’t deserve a party. If you’re reading this, thinking of your sins, wondering if God still loves you, let me tell you: God is throwing a party of love for you right now. He loves you more than you can imagine”.
Thanks Bro Bo.. I needed that!
Bo,
Reading your inspiring stories really make my day! Allow me to express appreciation on your works, writings and speeches.
Yes party doesn’t mean always expensive, what is important is we try to enjoy everything or what we have right now. And truly it will unknowingly throw away all the stress. At the same time it will have more bonding effects to your loved ones.
Thanks again Bo, I will go walking with my growing kids and will share taho afterwards.
Thanks for helping us always! my relationship with my kids should be my focus now.. and of course God being in the center of us all. let’s party!!
Hi! Bro Bo,
Everyday I’ am checking my mail and when I saw your Gods Whispers and Soulfood stories I am really inspired and happy especially when I am feeling down.
It’s truly a very wonderful article. Thank you for sharing it to us.
God bless always
Hi kuya Bo,
Yipppee..let’s keep on celebrating life.
Thank you for a wonderful reminder! The Kergyma Conference is almost here…everyone, join the KCON in Cebu or Manila. Take care you guys…
Love and blessings..
Dear Bo,
I agree with you 100%. Children will love to stay home if they are comfortable, happy, not stressed from
parents nagging, reprimanding especially from the mother and respected. Parents should try to study
the character and personality of each child, set rules
but discussed and agreed upon by all the members
of the family. I have two sons, 29 and 30 years old and
still single. I am not saying I have a perfect family but
I can say my sons (i am a widow now) are happy and don’t want to rush into marriage.
Congratulations Bo! I am sure your new b ook will again be a best seller like your other books. You always keep things simple which I think is the secret of your success. Thank you for your beautiful insights.
God bless always!
Hi there Bo! Una sa lahat, I just wanna say “GoodLuck” sa upcoming simultaneous Kerygma Conference.
It will be my birthday on the 25th and still up to now (make that a few minutes ago), I haven’t decided if I’m throwing a bday party or not. Well my reasons were that…. its hardwork having a party, my funds are kinda limited this year and my tastebuds are out-of-whack coz I’m still recovering from a viral infection (Flu). So how can I cook kung di ko malasahan niluluto ko.
Plus I always have a party every year since birth! Since 1971!!! Siguro naman pwede excuse muna this year di ba?… yan mga reasons ko PERO nung nabasa ko itong blog mo ngayon….my decision is final, yehey…. magpapa-party na ako!!!!
Wanna join the party Bo?
Bro. Bo,
Thank you so much for this talk! I love it knowing I am not that loving and sweet as yours but you help me grow my relationship to my family and to the One i love.
I love much the GOD\’S WHISPER… wow so amazing imagine God whispering me and all is right timing HE whispered me the words i wanted to hear.
God bless us all always.
Hello! Bro Bo,
Thank you po Bro Bo! reading this Article of yours is indeed an honor! for it made me realized how valuable I am to my Family especially to my Mom and to God.
Thank you!… for now I have Millions of reason to say Thank you to my family especially to my Mom, and More importantly to God! %)
God Bless to all! %)
hi Brother Bo! talagang tugma at “pasok sa banga” ang article na ito with my current situation. I’m a call center agent, and as everyone knows fully well , we are the frontliners of our customers’ frustration kaya di maiwasan na yung mga “excess baggage” namin eh naiuuwi sa bahay.
Sobrang affected family ko whenever may problema sa office kasi sila napagbubuntunan ko ng init ng ulo , no wonder halos di na nila ko kausapin . it’s really true that for a person to gain love , one must work hard for it.
thanks for always inspiring us Brother Bo!
i love this BO, especially your cards. And I agree if there is love in the home, children will want to stay home as much as possible. Peace! =)
Hi Bo,
This article is very timely for me. I’m a working girl now and boards at makati and visits home (bulacan) on weekends. Sometimes I would trade that weekend for some getaway with my friends. I find it hard to go home because of the “unhappy” atmosphere. My mom would usually throw an arguement once in a while. While my dad understanding as he can be, tries to even things out by consoling my mom. My sister and I grew far from the hearts of our parents. Will definitely take note of your advices. Hope I can initiate the happiness in our home. May God bless you always!
hi Bro. Bo,
very inspiring message and i love it especially your card#1, i just laugh and smile about these words… may God bless you..
hi kuya bo,
nakakatuwa at nakakagalak basahin ang iyong mga sulat.
maraming salamat sa pamamahagi neto.!
mabuhay ka, bro!.
hi Bro. Bo!
Nakakaaliw basahin at nakakapangiti…thanks for another inspiring article from u…I loved it!
God Bless!
thanks for sharing this article, it’s a barrel of laugh and a treasure chest of wisdom!
I’ve always admired how you’re able to make psychology a complement to achieving spirituality
May God bless you as you continue to inspire hearts and minds towards the path to goodness and happiness!
Hi Bro. Bo, thanks for the inspiring message. This is indeed a reminder to me/us that our home should be made happy after an 8 hour work (or more) and for the children after their school. Take care always and don’t be tired of writing inspiring messages for us. God Bless You.
I love this blog, very positive… I really do love throwing thanksgiving parties, be it simple or grand… Bro Bo, ang tindi pala ng romantic bones mo.. hehe.
beautiful!!!!
hi bro BO,
Muchas gracias por tu palabras de inspiracion, very much happy to read this article coz this is what i’m trying to do with my family….kahit mahirap coz they are some differences.. but im trying very hard….many many thanks!!!!!! GOD Bless!!!!
Dear Bro. Bo,
Your latest article is great. Just to add a little bit to it - for contemplatives, the party is on the INSIDE
as well as the OUTSIDE 
Rachelle
hi bo,
i am so happy to say that my family loves throwing parties. we always look for something to celebrate, like we celebrate when we first light up our christmas tree or when i get a 90 in an exam. we party every sunday, that’s why my brother always says, “ang sarap ng weekend.” i am just so glad i have a happy family. Thank you Lord.
your words are very inspiring…truly, it’s food for everyone’s soul.. you’ve given me the nicest idea on how to keep the love between me and my husband… thanks bro.bo!!!
keep it up and more power!!!
Bro. Bo, thank you so much for making my day so happy. Because I really laughed out loud when I read the card #1 you gave to your wife. I think i might copy it too and give it to my man of my life. God bless you always! ( :
thank you for this article. I learned a lot and I will make an effort to follow them. continue inspiring . . . God bless
thanks for sharing. i’ll take note of that!!! i’m going to have my own family soon!!!
continue inspiring… God bless!
Hi Sir Bo
Thanks for the inspiration. I’m always moved by your articles.. Anyway, just a suggestion. I would love it if you’d place a share link at the end of each article so we can share it on social networking sites like Facebook or Twitter so that your message (or God’s message) will reach out to many others.. 
Thanks and God bless.
Dear Bo,
Maligayang2 ako after reading ur article.Thank u very much sa happiness na naibigay mo sa akin , gift ka talaga ni God sa akin.Na inspired ako at gagawin ko mga suggestions mo.
Thank u, thank u , thank u!
More power… God bless
Wooosshhh…… learned a lot on every article I read about Brother bo….God bless
I really love this blog Brother Bo. I so admire your touch in writing. I keep chuckling till the end. They are so true and really if we follow them our family life will be harmonious and peaceful. I salute you !!!!
Awww…straight to the heart nman! First part is more of a confirmation for me….This is it na talaga!
And yes, I’ll be throwing some parties on my vacation for my happy relationships!
You got me again, as always, Brother Bo! Thanks and God Bless. =)
agree ako dito Bro Bo, kasi ginagawa namin ang mga ito ng family ko. lalo kaming nagiging close sa isa’ t isa at lalong napapamahal kami sa isa’t isa. sana lahat ng mga family ay gawin din ito para ang lahat ay masaya at maligtas sa masama ang bawat isa lalo na ang mga anak. thanks for sharing this article to every one. more power & God bless…
Thanks Bro. Bo. I am always inspired by your article that I always want to apply it in my life. God bless!
It’s worth throwing a party in the family… Nothing beats a happiness that originates from the family…
It’s worth investing on it… Money is not the issue.. is not about your are melancholic type or the likes… Happiness is about you wanting it and doing something about it… You can have happiness it does not cause a lot.. God bless…
thanks,bro bo!!malungkot aq ngaun dhil sa problema sa work,,still life will go on.ndi titigil ang mundo dhil lng sa problema ko..i should be thankful na me trabaho akong pinproblema kesa wala,,haha..
true, ” throwing parties ” is another way of saying, spending quality time with our loved ones . in this other part of the world, where time is so elusive, one has to really set priorities — God, family, others, responsibilities. yet, it seems that the last one takes more of our time . it takes a lot of determination to really value what is lasting, that which is intangible , love of God and family, neighbor. true, one can ” throw parties ” at every moment , in all places, even at work, one can always radiate the Light of Jesus . one writer has this to say, ” don’t be so wrapped up with the world , for in so doing, you might missed the coming of Jesus. ” not only quality time but also increasing the quantity of time spent in loving God, family and others inspite of the demands of time and responsibilities would bring lasting happiness, peace and contentment ; always ready for the coming of Jesus, even to the end of time.
Be happy all !
Thanks Bro. Bo.
God bless you and your family .
love it. im married already and very happy with my married life. thanks bo for teaching us a lot of stuff.
wow!!! i can’t count how many laughs and smirks I had upon reading this blog…i love it! makes me ponder more on those times when i whine so much during meal time..thanks bo! you’re a lifesaver!
Hi Bro Bo,
Do u know that I am addicted to u..I LOVE U Bo with God’s love. I took a lot of ur wisdoms,learned a lot from u though I am here in Ireland, my day is incomplete when I don’t hear you in PIBJ. Can’t u do it everyday? Though I still watch from the previous dates. You’re fantabulous bro bo. I also pray for you that u might not be tired of serving GOD and wont fall into everyday temptations though I know u are vigilant.
GOD BLESS Bo.
hello tito Bo,
your sense of humor never fades tito..i’m laughing as always, but learning a lot of lessons too.. I’ll keep on throwing parties for my relationships.
hi bro!
im more than blessed this year. thanks a lot. u inspire me to do things i didnt do b4.
thanks for GodWhisphers and ur inspiring stories.
Sobrang totoo ang article na ito !!! I’m glad that our family can relate to your story. We only have to put some changes to the wrong ways and absorbed and continue practicing those that are right.
Bo, you really are a good writer, every article is fun to read complete with info’s and humor.
Hope to hear and read more from you
wow! ang ganda naman! i’m being challenged to love more again! wow! and i am loving it!
hello Bo,
thank you so much for your articles. You makes me love God more. You inspire me to love my life and to be happy everyday. I have changed my attitude to all my relationship.
besides, i have improve my English also because i’m Vietnamese. (one of my friends give me your address.)
Hope to read more from you. God bless you
Yehey! thanks for the inspiring article Cutie BO. I’m dirtying my hands. God bless you always and your family.
Thank you very much. This is great. God bless.
It’s very inspiring kaya lang frusrating too kasi I have no chance to do it often, as an OFW I have to sacrifice greatly.
hapdi sa lalamunan
nangingilid ang luha sa magkabilang mata
isa kasi ako sa mga hindi karapat-dapat bigyan ng party ng Diyos
SWELDO ko ngaun, kaya kakain kmi sa labas, parang mini-party… LABAS NG BAHAY… SA GILID NG SUBDIVISION, mura na, “al fresco” pa
Brother Bo, maraming salamat sa pag-share mo nitong kwento mo
May you and your family receive more blessings
I really love this. Thank you for writing this kuya Bo. God bless you and your family!
Very cute, funny and deep!
brother Bo,thank you for writing this.this will us a lot to have a happy home.
Thank you for a very uplifting article.
I grew up in a family where we feared our mother. All three of us now have our own family. I have always told my siblings that when I have children I will never be like my mother - cold-hearted and criticising all the time. Our self-confidence didn’t get crushed because of our father, auntie and grandmother.
I now have my own children. They love to come home from school everyday knowing that I am at home. It is a ritual for us to sit down and talk about their day while eating their meryenda. If one had a bad day the others will understand and eat quietly while I talk with the one who had a bad day. We also love having dinner together - with the TV and radio off. Even if we only have baked beans and egg with rice, the house is always filled with laughter and loud, exciting stories. I missed them when I went overseas on a business trip. But my husband continued the ritual every night.
I sat down with my daughter (15) once and told her about how I grew up and my relationship with my mother. I have always feared that I will grow old like her. My daughter said that all she never felt fear but only LOVE from me. She said that she can tell me everything and I’m always there to listen (turning off the TV just to focus on her), not judging her but giving her options to think about. She also said that we (my husband and I) are always open to negotiations - if she wants something she has to work very hard to convince us to get her way. Most of the time she is successful but when she’s not she sulks for a while and then comes out of her room feeling ok.
I am, in a way, glad that I did not turn out to be like my mother. However, my life experience has taught me a vital lesson in raising my own children. My siblings are also doing the same way with their children. We have great stories to tell everytime we get together.
My mother has now mellowed a lot. One day I asked her why she was like that when we were growing up. She never answered and just looked at me blankly. I will never know the reason and the scar will stay in there forever.
I really love your teachings,this one is really inspirational and trigger us to be more loving!
Everyday i felt very blessed because of your emails. And i shared it with my friends.
I am looking forward to attend one of the feast,after our service to our community i really find time to attend.
Thank you very much and God bless you.
hi,bro. ., am so blessed that i have you as a friend , with your words that reminds me of GODS existence my life is full meaning…. esp. for family, friends, and relastives who need always a spiritual guidance. am always inspired with your words. i feel that GODis talking to me tru you. thaks n GOD BLESS YOU ALWAYS>>>
Sir Bo,
Nice article i will follow your tips for a change.Honestly, i don’t like parties held
at home because there’s a lot of things to do and preparations aside from the
mess after.
Thanks and God bless you more!
I always read your blog since my girlfriend introduce me to your blog that was only last year. I just noticed that every time she browsed the internet she always look at her e-mail and read about what words of wisdom you are going to write every week. Then it came into her mind to let me sign up my e-mail so that I can read your blog too. At first I was not really interested because I am a born again christian in sect but when I read more about you and your blog I did not think of the differences of what am I and who you are I just smiled and said this is what I want to read. And every now and then I always browse your blog and very exited to read, it makes me laugh and turns my mindset happy. I thank my GF for letting me know about your blog and I have a friend in mine in florida I always forwarded your message and told him to sign up for your blog, I know you said that I should not forward your messages but to keep me in touch with him I do it.
well its also because I did not ask him if he really signed up for your blog. Well anyway so much for my long story thank you and my God bless you and your family more!
G R E A T !!!
HAPPY THANKSGIVING DAY TO ALL !!!
hi bro bo!
really like this article. thanks for the suggestions. really love parties, love to prepare birthday parties for my kids before now that they’re teens already still love to prepare but for the family nalang. love to take my kids to the mall but not so often kasi medyo tight ang budget hehe. anyway, thanks again for sending me this nice & inspiring article. by the way i copied your valentine card, i like it so much. this is gonna be my valentine card next year.
God bless
minnie
…for once i had to stopped and wiped my tears..this is so timely..i just had an argument with my husband.. He will be having a great time again with his friends this weekend instead of spending his rest days with us (his familly). Considering we have less time together due to our work scheds (im working in AM and he’s working at night). I thought he would consider more on us. Maybe i should never expect again. I should think more positive and ask for Lord’s guidance co’z im having a real breakdown right now. I need to clear my mind and think more.. I should just consider the fact that if he’s happy without me, i should be happy with that to..Changes really hard to accept sometimes,but i know God has a good plans for us.
Thanks for the inspiring words. I just clicked ur name without thinking anything, then leave ur site with so much inspirations and positive outlook.
Thanks again. Hope this will not be the first and last time im going to read an article from you.
God bless you and more power to you.
Maricris
Yeah, I agree with you Bro. Bo….thank you for the reminders of happy and good family living.
God bless you!
thanks bo! this reminded me to show love more! Godbless!
how is it that you can write so well!
I love your articles and the God in you!
haha! super nice po ng article nyo ngaun. salamat salamat! God bless!
Thank you for always inspiring us with your articles.
Here’s my write-up about the Keryga Conference, you can also view the pictures from last year’s conference
Dream Big, Win Big!
i love this article…hahaha anyways, i always love your article…
thank you for always inspiring me and all of your readers…may GOD continue to bless you with wisdom and humor… 
GOD bless po
ha..ha..ha…funny tlaga Bro.Bo but worth learning for a good and quality life….more blessings for you from above brother Bo for continuously inspiring the couples of our time….it’s alleluia always praise the Lord!!!!!!!!!!
Great!!! Very inspiring indeed! All your articles are, anyway. You never stop inspiring people. Thank you for making people see God’s abundant love. Carry on Bro. Bo.
I was inspired again Sir Bo. I really need it at this time. We can’t attend any bible studies here in our place but this one was very inspiring and very helpful too!
Thank you!
=)
THANKS! i love it
[…] was reading Bo Sanchez’s entry about how happy relationships throw more parties. I agree that more people would actually enjoy going home if it didn’t mean having to endure […]
Praise God!
You have been an inspiration to us & your wisdom is so amazing. Surely, God is smiling because you are doing a great job … for His glory! Indeed, you are a blessing.
I thank God for you, Bro. Bo. And I thank you for this very inspiring article. God bless you & your family.
Very timely message bro. Bo.
Just yesterday in church somebody whom we regularly see during mass and hardly know commented that we as a family looked very happy! This took me by surprise! I didn’t realize that the happiness within the family would reflect on the outside. I think it’s because God is with us. I guess it’s also because my husband has been spiritually guided by God.
Just wanted to share experience ! God Bless!
il copy the valentay quote brother bo hahaha. its fun! thanks for sharing this article. im blessed, as always.
hi bo!
Good day.., I really enjoy reading your soulfood! It somehow refreshes my mind.many thanks to u and may u continue to be a blessing to everyone..,God bless
hi everyone!, im so inspired about bo’s mini parties so right away i throw one in our family and it will be our family traditon forever.. we celebrate 1st advent of the week pls visit my blog (http://www.probinsyanaphilippines/blogspot.com )so you will have idea how we celebrate our mini parties. thanks for your inspiring letter!
God Bless Bo
The home is the best place to party. Thanks for the words of wisdom Bro Bo.. I will do my best to make every family meal a joyous occasion even if my husband is out of the country.. Its really hard but im trying..