What makes the Philippines different from the rest of Asia? For one, our favorite sport is basketball and the rest of Asia loves football. When it comes to basketball, we know that height is might. However, if there is one thing that the Filipino fans appreciate when it comes to our players is that what we lack in height, we make up with heart. That is why the battle cry is “puso.”

Indeed, it is different when one puts heart in the things he or she does. This, in fact, is true even in our spiritual life. Jesus got mad at the Pharisees because they were hypocrites. Hypocrite means “playing the part.” In other words, it did not come from the heart.

In one of the many readings we hear of the words, “Create in me a clean heart.”

1. What Drives You? In other words, what is the most important thing in life for you? Naturally, our decisions and actions will depend on what is most important. If one says God is most important in life, then actions speaks louder than words. Yes, people know when it is genuine.
   
2. Where Did I go Wrong? None of us live perfect lives; we commit sin and mistakes every now and then. Thus, it is best to look at the situation and learn from it. 
   
3. Negative Emotions? Keep an eye on the hurt of negative emotions. How can one love when the heart is full of anger, envy, resentment, hatred and a lack of forgiveness? Once the mouth opens with such emotions, it will all be negativity. 

“The heart sees what is essential in life” is the a very popular saying from the book The Little Prince. However, this will become a reality only if it is clean. Hence, check our hearts every now and then.