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Saturday, August 8, 2009

Ironic Life

I’ve realised how life can really play games on you
If today, you are feeling total bliss, you will never know
What tomorrow will bring
If right now, you are singing this tune:

“I'm gonna be the love that's gonna last
And be the one that got your back
Ain't nothing ever that bad that we won't be together
And though we both made our mistakes
And some we never wish we made
But we'll be okay if we just stay together”

Without any clue that the next day will bring you:

“I need to know girl where do we go from here
Now that it's all up in the atmosphere
I found out that you cheated on me
Like I cheated on you with her
Now we're even what happens from here

Girl I'll break my pride and say this
I know that we both crossed forbidden ranges
Let's take our time
Don't cross the river
Back to the place we begun”

So, we just have to be content on what’s at hand
And what’s handed down to us this very minute,
Whether to bask in happiness, or struggle with pain
Holding on is really life's profound meaning.

Sunday, June 21, 2009

Sunscreen

Ladies and gentlemen of the class of ‘97
“WEAR SUNSCREEN!”

If I could offer you only one tip for the future, “sunscreen” would be it.
The long-term benefits of sunscreen have been proved by scientists,
whereas the rest of my advice has no basis more reliable than my own meandering experience.
I will dispense this advice NOW!
Enjoy the power and beauty of your youth.



Oh, never mind.
You will not understand the power and beauty of your youth until they’ve faded.
But trust me, in 20 years, you’ll look back at photos of yourself and recall in a way you can’t grasp now how much possibility lay before you and how fabulous you really looked.
You are not as fat as you imagine.
Don’t worry about the future.
Or worry, but know that worrying is as effective as trying to solve an algebra equation by chewing bubble gum.
The real troubles in your life are apt to be things that never crossed your worried mind,
The kind that blindside you at 4 pm on some idle Tuesday.
Do one thing every day that scares you.
Sing

Don’t be reckless with other people’s hearts.
Don’t put up with people who are reckless with yours.
Floss

Don’t waste your time on jealousy.
Sometimes you’re ahead, sometimes you’re behind.
The race is long and, in the end, it’s only with yourself.
Remember compliments you receive.
Forget the insults.
If you succeed in doing this, tell me how.
Keep your old love letters.
Throw away your old bank statements.

Stretch

Don’t feel guilty if you don’t know what you want to do with your life.
The most interesting people I know didn’t know at 22 what they wanted to do with their lives.
Some of the most interesting 40-year-olds I know still don’t.
Get plenty of calcium.
Be kind to your knees.
You’ll miss them when they’re gone.
Maybe you’ll marry, maybe you won’t.
Maybe you’ll have children, maybe you won’t.
Maybe you’ll divorce at 40.
Maybe you’ll dance the funky chicken on your 75th wedding anniversary.
Whatever you do, don’t congratulate yourself too much,
or berate yourself either.

Your choices are half chance.
So are everybody else’s.
Enjoy your body.
Use it every way you can.
Don’t be afraid of it or of what other people think of it.
It’s the greatest instrument you’ll ever own.
Dance
Even if you have nowhere to do it but your living room.
Read the directions, even if you don’t follow them.




Do not read beauty magazines.
They will only make you feel ugly.
“Brother and sister together we’ll make it through,
Someday a spirit will take you and guide you there
I know that you’re hurting but I’ve been waiting there for you
and I’ll be there just helping you out
whenever I can…”

Get to know your parents.
You never know when they’ll be gone for good.
Be nice to your siblings.
They’re your best link to your past and the people most likely to stick with you in the future.
Understand that friends come and go,
but with a precious few you should hold on.
Work hard to bridge the gaps in geography and lifestyle, because the older you get,
the more you need the people who knew you when you were young.
Live in “New York City” once, but leave before it makes you hard.
Live in “Northern California” once, but leave before it makes you soft.
Travel

Accept certain inalienable truths:
Prices will rise.
Politicians will philander.
You, too, will get old.
And when you do, you’ll fantasize that when you were young,
prices were reasonable, politicians were noble, and children respected their elders.
Respect your elders.

Don’t expect anyone else to support you.
Maybe you have a trust fund.
Maybe you’ll have a wealthy spouse.
But you never know when either one might run out.
Don’t mess too much with your hair or by the time you’re 40 it will look 85.

Be careful whose advice you buy,
but be patient with those who supply it.

Advice is a form of nostalgia.
Dispensing it is a way of fishing the past from the disposal,
wiping it off, painting over the ugly parts and recycling it for more than it’s worth.
But trust me on the sunscreen.
“Brother and sister together we’ll make it through,
Someday a spirit will take you and guide you there
I know that you’re hurting but I’ve been waiting there for you
and I’ll be there just helping you out
whenever I can…”
Everybody’s Free, Everybody’s Free
To Feel Good!

Tuesday, May 12, 2009

All About Eve

Perhaps I woke up on the wrong side of the bed because I can't quite get rid of the blues that's creeping me today. Or it might be that I'm going to lose IT. With the way I gather the latest developments (or is it improvement?) on your life last night, I'm halfway scared of what might happen when you finally decide. You see, I've come to value your presence whenever I need you. Your being there always when even it is not that important. The way you come to my aid when I get overwhelmed with even the most mundane things. These and more of the being YOU is what keeps me into rushing through life with confidence. The knowledge that you are there no matter what, and the assurance that you will always be with me when important highlights in my life happen, are enough to keep me strong and positive every time I wake up in the day. You see, I've gotten very used to your unconditional support, understanding and love.



Now, the implication would be that I will lose all of these because you have to move on. Yes, I totally agree that you should experience another LOVE again. Knowing what you have been through- you of all people deserve only the best and the most genuine of happiness that a unique individual like you should have. I know I have to support you all the way too. I know I must be the shoulder to lean and cry on whenever another set of heartaches comes your way. I should reciprocate the countless times you have brightened my day by being happy with the exciting path you are about to take. But why do I feel threatened instead? Why do I have this unexplainable fear that is gripping my gut even though I convince myself that everything will be alright? Oh, I hate this feeling- once again, I have to go through this. But away you should go and away you must. If you get back before you return, and if I ain't around waiting, then I must be somewhere looking for you...

Sunday, March 15, 2009

Isn't It Ironic?


As I read along the new posts of my co-bloggers in this blogging world, I realize that a lot of changes can take place while one is immersed with his/her own changes in life too.
You see, I myself have been in the process of effecting changes in my own life. Lesser drinks, totally no smoking and be more responsible in all aspects of being me are just some of what I am aiming at. So while I was suffering from my own woes (me being alone), others are feeling much, much worse far than I thought I am going through. Should I consider myself lucky then? Should I feel thankful that my burdens are somewhat lighter than theirs? Well, not really. Even though we are each to his own, it is still a breath of fresh air if I hear that a colleague, acquaintance or friend have good news to tell. Or if something wonderful have gone on with their lives. So allow me to break the news here that I haven't smoke for two months straight now! If you are a smoker, you'll understand why this is an accomplishment for me.
Regarding drinks, it is still a refreshment but drinking sessions with the RH are more enjoyable if you do it only twice a month. Especially if you have the D-sessions during paydays because that way, you will be able to budget your unbudgetable salary realistically. So for all of us, Cheers and Good Luck!

Sunday, March 8, 2009

Garrido-Zerna Nuptials Feb. 14, 2009



There is always something glorious about a wedding. And the wedding that day on February 14, 2009 was no exception. The bride walked down the aisle, her eyes glinting with happiness and excitement, with her father on her side while the groom waited patiently in the altar. Finally, after years of waiting, he will become one with his Lady Love this very day of St. Valentine.

Although the weather that day is slightly unfriendly (a storm was raging somewhere in Western Visayas), it did not dampen a bit the festive mood within that small chapel of Archbishop Palace. The motif was colourful enough and made more so by the ones wearing it. I can tell that yellow and green is favoured by the bride and true enough, it speaks of her fun-loving, open personality. This fantastic personality can be seen in the celebration, and I can feel the giddiness reaching into the family, guests and friends of the couple, too.

Having known the couple back when they were still starting to date, I can understand how excited they both are during this very special day. Of course, the decision didn't come out of the blue. Being two mature individuals, much have been prepared: their psychological, mental, spiritual and of course financial capabilities have been weighed back and forth, back and forth, before finally coming to the decision of tying the knot today. Indeed, starting a family especially in these times, requires courage and determination. So now they are both prepared to face their Creator and solidify love and commitment with the Lord's blessing and guidance.

As they face the altar saying their vows, one can tell they have come ready. They have waited six years in true, honest Christian living and they are now both ready to fare the hardships of life-- TWOgether. There will be friction. But, what's getting married for without the occasional spices? …

The garden reception at the Fort San Pedro grounds is not just superb, it is perfect for these two beautiful souls. It was attended by family and close friends- the celebration was wonderfully intimate.

While looking at the newlyweds, their faces glowing of gladness and wedded bliss, I know that Khouca and Jan-jan will live happily throughout their years. And as I exited the party while both the couple are dancing happily, I honestly prayed for them both. That the Lord may shower all His blessings to them and that they will have the glory of wonderful children that will come out from their union. For both of you, CHEERS!

Wednesday, February 18, 2009

Help... Writers- Missing you all!


This is definitely one of my dragging days. I feel that my lower back aches, reaching to the tippest of my toes. Who would be comfortable writing when feeling like this? Add to it the pressure of having to produce 3,500-word articles in a day. I'd say, whew! Honestly, the writing pressure is eating me. I feel the mind stagnate itself. What should I do? Should I quit now, or wait for a miracle? Or should I invoke Jonas' “writer's block?” Uh-huh Heeeelllppp writers!

Friday, January 23, 2009

After Sinulog '09



The celebration of the Sinulog Festival was finally over. I know that participants and organizers have spent tiresome days for the preparation of the said festival. So most probably, it comes as a breather for them to rest from their hectic practice schedules.

I'm also happy to observe that our Churches are still full of young people during Sundays. Proof that our deep religious beliefs is still deeply rooted especially when it comes to our dear patron Sto. Nino de Cebu. Throngs of church goers can be seen flocking to the Basilica del Sto. Nino with families and friends joining in the festive mood every Sunday or any other important feast in the Catholic Church. Every year, it is expected to increase whenever the Sinulog Festival is fast approaching. In fact when every novena starts, throngs of students, professionals and every faithful can be seen flocking to the Basilica to take part in the mass.

On another note, I also get to watch the Cebu skies light up brilliantly with wonderful fireworks at SM City the night before the fall of Sinulog Feast. Truly, fireworks are one of man's most captivating inventions. You can't simply help giving WOWS and AHHSS every time you watch its magic up in the sky. As a souvenir for this year, I got a new Sinulog shirt courtesy of my printing buddies at Ramos. Patricia and Anjolita, hope I'll get another one next year!

Wednesday, January 21, 2009

Harry Potter Prequel


Every Harry Potter fan surely anticipated the release of a prequel. In fact, I can't really get enough of the HP series. It's one of those stories that you just want to keep coming back for more. Just like chocolate and beer, there will never be enough Harry Potter for a certified avid HP enthusiast like me. Thanks to Khrizz of multiply and my new account, I was given the chance to come across the prequel again. Although the 800-word story is indeed very short but it's certainly worth my while.
The Story:
The speeding motorcycle took the sharp corner so fast in the darkness that both policemen in the pursuing car shouted,"Whoa!" Sergeant Fisher slammed his large foot on the brake, thinking that the boy who was riding pillion was sure to be flung under his wheels; however, the motorbike made the turn without unseating either of its riders, and with a wink of its red tail lights, vanished up the narrow side street.
"We've got 'em now!" cried PC Anderson excitedly. "That's a dead end!"

Leaning hard on the steering wheel and crashing his gears, Fisher scraped half the paint off the flank of the car as he forced it up the alleyway in pursuit.

There in the headlights sat their quarry, stationary at last after a quarter of an hour's chase. The two riders were trapped between a towering brickwall and the police car, which was now crawling towards them like some growling luminous-eyes predator.
There was so little space between the car doors and the walls of the alley that Fisher and Anderson had difficulty extricating themselves from the vehicle. It injured their dignity to have to inch, crab-like, towards the miscreants. Fisher dragged his generous belly along the wall, tearing buttons off his shirt as he went, and finally snapping off the wing mirror with his backside.

"Get off the bike!" he bellowed at the smirking youths, who sat basking in the flashing blue light as though enjoying it.

They did as they were told, finally pulling free from the broken wing mirror, Fisher glared at them. They seemed to be in their late teens. The one who had been driving had long black hair, his insolent good looks reminded Fisher unpleasantly of his daughter's guitar-playing, layabout boyfriend. The second boy also had black hair, though his was short and stuck up in all directions; he wore glasses and a broad grin. Both were dressed in t-shirts emblazoned with a large golden bird; the emblem, no doubt, of some deafening, timeless rock band.

"No helmet!" Fisher yelled, pointing from one uncovered head to the other. "Exceeding the speed limit by-by a considerable amount!" (In fact, the speed registered had been greater than Fisher was prepared to accept that any motorcycle could travel.) "Failure to stop for the police!"
"We'd have loved to stop for a chat," said the boy in glasses,"only we were trying--"
"Don't get smart-you two are in a heap of trouble!" snarled Anderson. "Names!"
"Names?" repeated the long-haired driver."Er-Well, let's see. There's Wilberforce...Bathsheba...Elvendork..."

"And what's nice about that one is, you can use it for a boy OR a girl," said the boy in glasses.
"Oh, our names, did you mean?" asked the first, as Anderson spluttered with rage."You should've said! This here is James Potter, and I'm Sirius Black!"

"Things'll be seriously black for you in a minute, you cheeky little-"

But neither James nor Sirius was paying attention. They were suddenly as alert as gundogs, staring past Fisher and Anderson, over the roof of the police car, at the dark mouth of the alley. Then, with identical, fluid movements, they reached into their back pockets.
For the space of a heartbeat both policemen imagined guns gleaming at them, but a second later they saw that the motorcyclists had drawn nothing more than-
"Drumsticks?" jeered Anderson . "Right pair of jokers, aren't you? Right, we're arresting you on a charge of--"
But Anderson never got to name the charge. James and Sirius had shouted something incomprehensible, and the beams from the headlights had moved.

The policemen wheeled around, then staggered backwards. Three men were flying-actually flying- up the alley on broomsticks-and at the same moment, the police car was rearing up on its back wheels.
Fisher's knee bucked; as he sat down hard; Anderson tripped over Fisher's legs and fell on top of him, as flump-bang-crunch- they heard the mean on brooms slam into the suspended car and fall, apparently insensible, to the ground, while broken bits of broomstick clattered down around them.

The motorbike had roared into life again. His mouth hanging open, Fisher mustered the strength to look back at the two teenagers.
"Thanks very much!" called Sirius over the throb of the engine."We owe you one!"
"Yeah, nice meeting you!" said James. "And don't forget: Elvendork! It's unisex!"

There was an earth-shaking crash, and Fisher and Anderson threw their arms around each other in fright; their car had just fallen back to the ground. Now it was the motorcycle's turn to rear. Before the policemen's disbelieving eyes, it took off into thin air: James and Sirius zoomed away into the night sky, their tail light twinkling behind them like a vanishing ruby.

Friday, January 16, 2009

Ben-Hur


My last days of December 2008 was spent here at Cebu City with my youngest brother. He was given cash as Christmas gift by my mother to buy new shirts and a pair of jeans. So off we went visiting malls and searching for the best “fits” for him. After the hassle and bustle (roaming malls is not really my thing), we hurried to go rest in my room.

We had dinner at a nearby barbecue stall and went to my Ramos barkadas for some drinks of beer. Although my brother is still in high school, I allow him to accompany me with these gatherings because I believe that exposing him to “realities” of life will be better rather than restricting him to have drinks with other people. I think that the more we restrict youngsters with their “new-found vices”, the more it will drive them to be rebellious. I want my brother to discover new things with me and thus be guided on what's really right and wrong. Actually, I am also learning from the process of teaching him the more important aspects of life.

Although I haven't been to Church for a while, I made it a point that we attend the mass that day so that I can impart to my brother that going to church should be part of his Sunday (if not everyday) routine. So off we went to Sto. Rosario Church which I have grown to love back from my College days at USC. The reading that Sunday was about the Holy Family. And the officiating priest during his Homily simply called families who have eleven children with them at the mass. He called it sort of a "Bring Me" game and promised to give a price of P500 from his pocket. Since no one approached him with eleven children, he proceeded on to call: "families with 10 children- nobody came up the pulpit; families with 9 children- still nobody came up; 8 kids- nobody stirred; 7 kids- nobody came yet; 6 kids- still none; at the count of: “5 kids! Bring me five kids, with father and mother...” At last, a throng of kids moved in front of the altar with the youngest carried by the mother. The people clapped their hands and the family received the P500 gift which the priest doubled to P1,000 so that the whole family can go to Jollibee after the mass, as he said. He then continued on to preach that the purpose of his “bring-me game” is to encourage people to hear mass as a family.

“How many of you comes to mass with the whole family?” This question still rang in my ears as the priest gave us his last blessings when the mass ended. What with everyone's busy schedules, it is in fact very rare that my own family goes to Church together. I myself find some excuse every time my Mother asks us to accompany her to Church. I made a resolve then to make it often to mass. And thankfully enough, I haven't skipped Church for three consecutive Sundays now. Not yet, anyway. So the mass we attended that day was really enlightening not only for my brother but for me, as well.

Friday, January 9, 2009

Pollyanna Book Review: Right On!

A good cousin asked me to write a review from any book for her English class. Because she's a good girl- a trait she obviously inherited from me, I gladly agreed despite my busy writing career. Aheem.


Pollyanna Book Review:

It may seem unsuitable to be reviewing a book with children as the main audience in a College Sophomore class. However, upon reading Pollyanna by Elizabeth H. Porter, I decided to feature it because of the universal theme it brings. People from all walks of life can readily relate to the simple game of life called, “The Glad Game” which Pollyanna has managed to infect to the inhabitants of Beldingsville, Vermont- the story's setting and where everything unfolded for the innocent life of our dear heroine, Pollyanna. Thus, this all-time favourite from Elizabeth H. Porter is able to appeal to all audiences, young and old alike. It encompasses a message which is relevant for every one's life all around the world.

With so many challenges these days, one can easily succumb to temptation and choose the easy way out. In fact, based on what I've observed most Filipinos specifically Cebuanos, are becoming shallower by the minute, choosing easy money rather than work hard for it. Young people for one, seems to be caught in the web of happy-go-lucky existence. Late night clubbing, drinking sessions, hanging out in malls and making aimless chatter with Barkadas are becoming a trend. One way or another, this has to stop. And I know each of us can contribute even with just small steps, in imparting values once again to the youth.

Moreover, the onset of the Internet greatly influence the way Filipinos think, act and shop, as well. It seems everybody is in a frenzy to buy the newest model of cellphones, clothing style and the latest accessories available. What every Filipino seems to be forgetting is how to be thankful for what they are given with. Being part of the youth, I know we can make a difference by deviating our interests to other money saving pursuits instead of getting "in" with the trend. Yes, we have our own struggles, what with the recent accumulation of economic crisis, but if we compare our present situation with that of other warring countries, the Philippines is definitely a safer place to live in. As long as we get to exercise our freedom of speech and of choice, indeed we are still lucky citizens. Therefore, the story of Polyanna is just right on time with our present Filipino lifestyle today.

Summary of chapters in order:
The plot mainly opens when Pollyanna arrived to her Aunt Polly's big house on the top of a hill. Nancy, the housekeeper feels guilty that the little girl's assigned room is no more than the attic of the house, as instructed by her mistress. No sooner than the new gal was bouncing with happiness despite the inconvenience of her situation. It is later found out that her life centers around the belief that there is always something to be glad about however hard and futile a situation is. This “Glad Game” was taught by her father when she wished to have dolls but got crutches instead through the missionary barrel. It encourages the players of the game to look for the advantages of a situation, rather than focusing on the negative side. The glad game is all about being contented with what you are given and just be happy with it.

Eventually, Polyanna transforms people around her and the way they see things. Much of it was due to “The Glad Game” which she effortlessly managed to introduce to the uneventful little New England neighbourhood. Although Aunt Polly was the most unyielding one to the Glad Game, she eventually softened up especially when she married her former lover, Dr. Chilton.

Pollyanna's never ending jovial mood was put to the test when she encountered an accident which left her legs paralysed. For days, she felt so down and cannot bring herself to think of things to be glad about. Fortunately, the neighbours she had helped before came steadily, visiting her in Aunt Polly's house. They keep encouraging Pollyanna not to lose hope because she had made a difference in their lives through her relentless optimism. Soon, she found strength to play the Glad Game again by thinking that at least, she used to have legs. ***

This is a story about the advantages of having a positive outlook of life. To always find ways to be glad despite difficult circumstances. Thus, this book should be read to kids the soonest they can understand it and to make young Cebuanos and Filipinos be aware of Polyanna. The lessons, kindness and respect as embodied by the good natured Polyanna should be instilled in children and everybody for that matter. It is just right to say that this book spans the test of time, age, religion and race. So, the next time an accident or drawback happens in your life, think again. Think of Pollyanna and her Glad Game. You might actually become good at playing it.

Tuesday, January 6, 2009

Later is never late... :=)

The popular past time of everybody when New Year comes is to make resolutions. Since most of my resolutions in the past just bubbled out of thin air, I'm making it short this year. And that is, to write as many entries as I can here in this blog of mine. After all, being an avid thinker ought to have a lot to say about stuff, right? So, please bear with my late “entries" from last year. Here goes:

Moalboal Chrismas Party Outing:
(December 13, 2008)



Although still sleepy, I forced my body out of the bed to make a quick bath. My wristwatch read 7:15am. Assembly time is supposedly from 7:00-7:30am but I know I can still manage it. After all, we are still Filipinos, eh?
However, due to this manana habit, my Christmas party outing started out bad because when I reached the hired bus, all seats were already occupied and left me no choice but to sit near the bus' windshield which is beside the driver. Good for me, huh!
After two hours of a seemingly very long journey (the air conditioned bus was really slow), we finally arrive at HK Beach Resort, which our company rented for the duration of the overnight Christmas party. After settling ourselves at different assigned rooms, we had a sumptuous lunch of hot, crispy lechon which every body really savored especially since we are all hungry by that time. A short program followed with our in-house band and with some FP employees participating in the singing.
Nothing much happened except that I got a bad case of hangover even though I didn't drink beer with my normal dosage. So when night came for the Christmas party, I was just pretty crumpled in the writer's room suffering from headache and other hangover aches. Whew! What a way to celebrate a company Christmas outing. As they say, “Usab pa ka Briyce?” -- “Di na jd. Ka usa na lang!”

Blue Reef Outing:
(Some date on September)

Well, I can roughly summarize this outing into a few lines:

a) This is the day that the Katols manifested themselves into drunks, jealous guys, heart breakers as well as heart broken species in FP.
b) Talented employees really made their presence known during this company get together, too.
c) When this company outing finally ended and the time to go home came, one of my most memorable nights happened. You see, uhmmm... well... I'm running out of words here...
d) So, see you on the next post for our next company outing, a'right?-- *Winks!*