Completing 'Simbang Gabi'

It's been six days that we have been attending the dawn mass or 'simbang gabi'. It was my ambition to complete the nine mornings but I already miss one mass when we had our Christmas Party last Thursday. We went home late at around 2 a.m. I did not make it at 4:30 a.m. schedule. Nevertheless, I have to continue the remaining days because I believe that it will help me grow in spirit. Three more days to go and it will be Christmas. We happily anticipate the celebration of birth of our Lord Jesus Christ. I made a joke to Jing2x and Wing2x that though I miss 1 mass, I did not miss the coffee served after the mass.

U-turns

Jam-packed. That's how it was this morning when I attended the first day of misa de gallo in our local parish.

Last night my sister told me that they will be attending the mass. I told her that it would be very crowded. I suggested that she should just stay home because she is pregnant. But her insisting made me think a little farther. I don't like being in the crowd because of a bad experience. I had been in a stampede. It was frightening and traumatic. I don't want my sister to experience that kind of situation.

This morning, I was awakened by the early Christmas greetings of our City Mayor, Fernando Q. Miguel. There was a roving truck playing a Christmas jingle with his message. I rushed to the church to catch the mass. The churchgoers encompass beyond the walls up to the side gates. But the calm atmosphere made me pass through the crowd easily during Holy Communion.

After the mass, I met my sister with Wing-wing near the church bell. There City government and SOCOTECO-I sponsored the coffee and chocolate drinks. We partake of the drinks while we chatted about the experience of being in the first day of 'simbang gabi'.

Often, I get caught of refusing to do something good. I'm only thankful that God allows U-turns. He calls us but we negate His will only to find that it is the best thing to do. Our faith can move mountains. Nothing is impossible. When we persist in doing good and for the right motives, we can't go wrong.

This Christmas, it is my prayer that peace and love will reign in our hearts. May justice prevails to those victims of Maguindanao massacre. Let's welcome this Christmas season with hope. Nothing escapes from the hand of God. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Destination: Bohol

Our travel is one of a kind. Having my mom with me is a great adventure. It is my mom's wish that she could see beautiful places and travel great distance. So, when the opportunity came to visit the chocolate hills in Bohol, I did not hesitate to inform my mother. She asked me if she could join the group that was organized by my officemates. I was told that there was an open slot so I gave my mom the surprise she ever wanted-a trip to Bohol.
From Gen. Santos City to Cebu, we flew via Cebu Pacific then, Cebu to Tagbilaran, Bohol via Ocean jet. Getting there in Cebu took us more than an hour. We were lucky because we were the first group to arrive in Cebu. Some of my officemates made re-booking of flight because the planned date was canceled. The holiday set by the President was recalled. We got enough time to roam in Cebu City thus we were able to watch 4D movie in Crown Regency Hotel and bought some goods from SM Mall and Ayala Center. We stayed in Sugbutel for a night before we crossed Cebu to Tagbilaran on the following day.
We visited Lapu-lapu Shrine in Mactan and Sto. Nino Chruch where Magellan's cross is found. These places played a great part of Philippine history. Lapu-lapu, a brave hero defended the place from European invaders headed by Ferdinand Magellan.
The second batch of our group arrived on the following day. We just met in the pier for our voyage from Cebu to Bohol. Amidst the crowd, we settled and soon arrived in the port of Tagbilaran safely. Before twilight, we were able to visit Hinagdanan Cave and Dimaluan Beach Resort in Panglao. We bought plenty of things, some for pasalubong and for personal souvenir. We slept in Kimling's Pension house.
On the next day, we visited another site, The Sanduguan. We moved to Dauis Church and Baclayon Church. At noontime we were at Loboc Riverside side waiting for the boat to cruise for us while we were taking a sumptuous lunch. We were entertained by some singers and dancers that made the atmosphere so jubilant. Afterwards we went to see the Tarsier and the hanging bridge. Then came the most awaited trip towards the Chocolate Hills. Before we could reach he place, we traversed a man made forest that was so airy. We climb the stairs to the highest spot where you could see the great scenery around. We were so amazed by the cool sight of the surrounding hills and its greenery. The hills looked like no other. contours of the hills were pretty enthralling in numbers. We didn't notice the passing of time in enjoyment. Before we knew, it was time to go and catch for a cruise back to Cebu. Though hurriedly, time had given us the a great moment of nature-pleasure. How we wish to stay in that beautiful place we can call a haven of natural beauty-BOHOL, only in the Philippines.

Samu't saring karanasan

Iba talaga ang aking pakiramdam sa tuwing ako’y bumabalik sa aking mahal na bayan. May galak sa aking puso at tuwa sa aking isipan kahit na paulit-ulit bawat linggo ang aking paroo’t parito. Isang linggong hamon ng pakikibaka. Lahat ng lungkot at agam-agam ay napapawi. Napapalitan ng panibagong lakas at pag-asa ang napapagal kong katawan kapag ako’y nakabalik na.

Ang aking tinutuluyan sa ibang lugar kapag ako’y na de-destino ay paiba-iba. Minsan ako’y tumutuloy sa hotel o di kaya’y lodging house. Maganda pag ako’y nakahanap ng boarding house. Katulad nitong ako’y nasa Kabacan. Nakakuha ako ng isang boarding house sa tulong ng aking ka-opisina. Di naman masyadong maganda ang silid subalit tama na sa akin ang ganoong kwarto. May isang kamang gawa sa kahoy at mga built-in cabinet na mapaglagyan ng mga kagamitan. Dalawa lang ang aking bag na dala-dala kapag ako’y naglalakbay. Walang masyadong mabigat na pasanin. Halos mga kakailanganin lang ang aking bitbit: mga damit, sapatos, panloob na kasuotan, sipilyo, iba’t ibang klase ng gamot, kwarderno, pluma at iba pa. Syempre di ko makalimutang dalhin ang aking Bibliyang bigay pa sa akin ng aking kaklase noong high school. Ito ang palaging nagbibigay sa akin ng inspirasyon sa anumang sitwasyon ng aking paglalakbay. May dala din akong pocketbook na mapaglibangan ko kapag ako’y walang ginagawa lalo na sa himpilan ng bus. Nakakabagot maghintay subalit kapag may dala akong libro, ilang pahina lang ng masayang pagbabasa ay nandyan na ang paparating na bus.

Masaya tumuloy sa boarding house. Marami kang makikilalang bagong kaibigan. Sa aking bagong tinutuluyan, maraming mga estudyante. Masarap makipagkwentuhan sa kanila. Huwaran ang kanilang pananaw. Sila’y puno ng sigla’t kagalakan. Parang naalala ko rin ang aking mga karansan bilang estudyante noon sa MSU. Kayraming aralin at mga asignaturang gagawin, mga gawaing sosyal at sibiko ang aking inatupag noon. Nakakapagod man ay sulit din ang tagumpay na aking nakamtan. Isang prestihiyosong titulo ang iginawad sa aking masusi at matiyagang pagsusunog ng kilay.

Sa aking kasalukuyang estado, lubos ang aking kagalakan sa mga panibagong hamon. Bilang isang binata, walang masyadong problemang kinkaharap. Madestino man ako sa malayong lugar, wala akong pangamba. Solong katawan ko lang ang aking intindihin, walang alinlagan. Di naman ako sobrang materyoso kaya wala akong problema sa mga bagay bagay. Ang mahalaga’y makakain lamang sa tamang oras at makapagpahinga kapag sumapit ang dilim. Di ko inaalala ang anupamang bagay sapagkat alam ko na ang lahat ng aking kakailangannin ay tutugunan ng Poong Maykapal.

Minsan kapag ako’y nasa aking higaan at nakikita ko ang aking paligid, naiisip kong napakasimple ng buhay. Sa dala dala kong dalawang bag, hawak ko ang mundo. Dalawang bag lang ang buhay ko. Pakiramdam ko, ako’y tunay na mayaman dahil wala akong ibang mabigat na pasanin.

Hindi naman lahat masarap o di kaya madali ang buhay manlalakbay. Sa totoo, napakaraming suliranin ang aking kinakaharap. Ako’y pihikan din subalit sa mga panahong kinakailangang magtiis, nakakayanan ko ring magtiis. Sa panahong ako’y maysakit, mahirap din. Nandiyan ang masamang pakiramdam. Kailangan magpahinga subalit kailangan magtrabaho. Pinipili kong kayanan ang aking karamdaman sapagkat alam kong mas mahalaga ang aking pagpasok sa trabaho. Gumagaan naman ang aking pakiramdam sa mabuting pakikitungo ng aking mga kasama sa trabaho. Masaya sa piling nila.

Dahil dito, napagtanto ko na walang imposible sa buhay. Lahat kakayanin pag nasa positibong pananaw. Kung nakikita ang kapangitan sa anumang bagay, lahat ng negatibo ay matatanaw subalit pag kagandahan naman ang nakikita sa anumang bagay, nandoon din ang lahat ng kabutihan.

Back Again

It’s great to be back again in my hometown. It’s been five days that I’ve stayed in Kabacan. I rented there a room in a boarding house along Abellera Street near Wesleyan Bible School, recommended by my officemate Bing. I got it for a very minimal amount, called student’s price. I feel like a student once again, travelling and coming home every weekend. I have boardmates who are students in University of Southern Mindanao. I’m glad to be acquainted with them.
It’s good to see my family doing well. The new venture of my younger sister called ATM, stands for Automatic Tubig Machine is on its way. When I got home the structure was already constructed. It’s going to be operational soon. It’s a good investment that I supported which will later produce additional income. Maybe next week when I come home, the system will be successfully installed. I was able to meet my friend Jun Fresco, the owner of this business yesterday when he dropped to inspect the structure.
Later in the evening, Kuya Dodong and I went to inspect if the harvest of rice in my area was finished. Indeed, it was done and ready for processing. Soon it will be sacked and sold in the market. I treated Kuya Dodong and Ongkid with some drinks from our store.
This morning, I attended the third mass. I wasn’t able to attend the second mass. Last night,Jing Jing, Roger and I agreed to attend the earlier mass but I did not make it because I had a transaction with Ate Tess this morning. I washed my clothes and had lunch in my auntie Ebing’s house. The boxing fight of Marquez and Mayweather was on the 8th round when I arrived. Mayweather won the game.
I went to Fit Mart Mall and paid my electric bill. I met Agnes Paglinawan, my former co-member in our High School choir. I told her that this morning, I watched the world tour concert of Mariah Carey and I recalled her because of the song “Hero”. She used o sing this song when we were in High School. She answered me that maybe it was a sign of our meeting.
I missed the High School Choir group. I still remember some of our songs, Panis Angelicus, The Lord’s Prayer, Buhay ay Yaman, Masdan mo ang Kapaligiran, Tuldok, Masdan mo ang Mga Bata, May Isang Bayan, Gonna Build a Mountain, Himig ng Pag-ibig, Magsimula Ka, etc. These songs have special place in my heart because it reminds me of my happy days in High School together with other choir members. I recalled how we practiced and prepared during rehearsals for our various competitions and performances. It was very tedious and hectic. Our choir conductor that time was Mr. Jurilla. He was very particular of the mastery of the song and the choreography. We frequently stayed late at night for the practice. But our victories and experiences were worth remembering. The experience taught me patience and hard work. In order to succeed, one must persist and prepare. Practice makes perfect.
Things happen unexpectedly. It may occur unnoticeably, plainly or vividly. These moments become precious for it helps you recall people, things, places and events. It will help you connect to the past and make you aware who you are and what you’ve been through. We cannot turn back time but deep within our rich memory we can go visit the past and cherish the beautiful memories we have created at various points in our life.

Helping Hand

Woah! I’m excited! I woke up today refreshed and kicking. After three days of giving benefits to indigent people of Sen. Ninoy Aquino in Isulan, it feels good. I’ve been tasked to pay-out sums of money to beneficiaries determined by DSWD in connection with the government’s program called 4Ps (Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program). It’s really overwhelming to hear people say, “Thank you!” for the blessings they have received from the government. I have seen indigenous poor Filipino people deserving of governments assistance. Some of them dressed in their cultural attire, barefooted. Other said that they only took “nganga” to lessen the hunger they felt just to be there. The amount they have received can be used to buy food and clothing. I’m just sad about the obnoxious “honorable” politicians hovering to be seen by people and be recognized. Instead of helping the poor, they have caused inconvenience so the releasing was stopped. Oh filthy politicians insatiable for attention! Can you just work silently helping people? Why should you make known your good deeds? For personal gain and recognition and in the advancement of your “honorable post”? It can’t be denied that politicians need to be seen to be heard and recognized but it should be done in a manner that advances the common good of all and not for personal interest.
Today, it is the commemoration of the 26th death anniversary of Sen. Ninoy Aquino who sacrificed his life to stand for good governance, fighting a dictator. Let this day be a reminder that we have to live their ideals. Everybody should take part the benefits and burdens of our nation.

Bruised

It was a one fine day. I never expected that an accident would happen. It was our LBP 46th anniversary. We had wellness activities held in South Cotabato Gymnasium. I actively participated in “Karakasa” which is a kind of exercise similar to “Taebo”. I was happy seeing my colleagues from different branches. Some of whom I befriended when I was assigned in their branches. It was a lot of fun and energy that my T-shirt was soaked with sweat. After watching the volleyball game I decided to go home to change my shirt. When I reached home I felt a different kind of heat on my face. I drank water to be relieved but the sensation never faded. I washed my face. I felt a little comfort. I drove towards the gym but upon reaching the overpass downtown, there was a Nissan Patrol car in the fast lane signaling to turn right. I was on the slow lane but I was moving fast. I saw the signal quite late that applying break would cause my motorcycle to be skid or tumble. I moved fast not to hit the car but I hit the shoulder of the road. There and then, my motorcycle fell. I hit my eyebrow somewhere. It was lacerated irregularly. My three front teeth were broken. One was severely fractured. A tricycle driver brought me to the nearest hospital. From the mirror of the tricycle, I saw my terrible face, my damaged teeth and blood in my mouth and face flowing.
I should have taken heed of some the signs I have encountered. The different heat I felt when I arrived home should have given a sense to sit or relax for a short while and never be too in a hurry. If not for hurrying, I could have avoided the accident. The helmet that I usually wear should have made me think twice of not going to drive.
In the hospital, I was grateful that I was given immediate attention. My lacerated skin in my eyebrow was stitched. My other bruises were cleansed and treated. A little later, my father and Ate Elsa arrived to attend to my situation. I am grateful to them. Some of my officemates visited to see my condition. I was happy to see them.
I am glad that during those times, I was comforted by the people who knew me. I felt love and the situation became easy to bear. I applied for a 5-day sick leave. I am happy that today I’m on the 6th day of my recovery. I give thanks to God for sparing my life and giving me another chance to continue living. The situation I’ve been through made my faith stronger than before. I know how painful it was for Jesus to die on the cross for my sins. His sacred heart has saved me not only in my accident but my sinful spirit too. I was reminded that life is short indeed. It should be lived well for others. I cannot be proud of anything – good looks can vanish in a split of a second. Health and wealth can be taken by God anytime. It was a humbling experience. My injuries were nothing compared to what Jesus suffered. God was bruised more than I bruised, all to offer His life for us.

My Favorite President

Corazon 'Cory' Aquino is my favorite president because she is a leader by example. She upheld great values and never compromised the welfare of the Filipino people. She is simple but just like little David who defeated Goliath, she toppled a dictator.

One thing I liked about her was her faith in God. She was very prayerful and she set an example that there is no big problem in prayer.

She was an ordinary person with extraordinary belief.

Now that our beloved President is gone, all I can say is a message of thanks for her contribution in the lives of many Filipino. Her love for our country will always be an inspiration and her unwavering faith will radiate in the hearts of the Filipino people who loves her very much. I love you President Cory Aquino!

AN ACTION-PACKED ADVENTURE

My cousin Omar and I had a great adventure in heading to new places that awaited us with exuberant thrilling experience. We didn’t know what’s going to happen along the way and the feeling gave us intense excitement even for long hours of wait and travel.

It was already noontime of May 26, 2009 when we reached Camp Sabros in Kapatagan, Digos City for the first time where the longest zipline course in Asia is installed. The view was exhilarating and the cool breeze gave us comforting atmosphere. The place was undeniably fascinating and there were plenty of tourists around. We were happy to find new friends who were visiting from Cagayan de Oro and just like us, were strangers to the wonders of our native land. Thanks to them, they took some of our pictures together.

After lunch, we immediately engaged in the zipline that was set very high. We could barely see inches of trees from above. The first pass is a tandem so my fear was lessened because Omar and I will be going together. My heart beat faster than ever as we rushed along the zipline cable; more so when we had to sit on the steel case in the second pass of the course. All we could see is an awesome miniature view of the plains and mountains where myriad of plants and trees flourish. When we started moving along the cable, all our fears vanished that we could not help but shout “Yahooooo!!!” at the top of our lungs like Tarzan shouts “Aooooooooh!!!” We were like Supermen for some minutes of experience that seemed like flying over the grandiose creatures of the land.

On the following day, we traveled towards Cagayan de Oro City from Davao City for another adventure – whitewater rafting along Cagayan River. It was a long 7-hour bus ride passing different cities and municipalities, plains, valleys and mountains. It was also a travel passing through different bridges and seeing liver-stretching cliffs and ravines. Thrilled by just seeing these wonderful sights, all the pains and exhaustion were meaningless.

Cagayan de Oro is also known as the “Golden City of Friendship”. The city is developed in its commerce, rich in history and blessed with various natural resources and wonders. There are many tourist destinations in Cagayan de Oro. One of which is the Cagayan River where you can get a whole lot of fun and excitement from whitewater rafting.

I haven’t known of this until I saw one of my friends’ pictures. My friend Pong was one good reason too of visiting the place. I haven’t seen him for more than four years. He is one good friend I could count on. He is a kidney transplant survivor and seeing him alive and kicking is truly amazing. We were buddies then in Gen. Santos City way back 1998 during a Banker’s December Presentation. Busy as he is with his work, He gave us some information and that led us to another unforgettable experience.

We got to Cagayan past 3 o’clock P.M. on May 27, 2009. We checked-in to a chic hotel then trying to contact somebody who could guide us along the river on the following day. We were informed that a minimum of 6 participants is needed to go for the activity. It felt sorry until we got a message later that a booking was made by some group who could accommodate us. We gained life after that information. Pong accompanied us in the evening during dinner and acquainted us with some of CDO’s night life and places. We went to a bar where we enjoyed drinks and music played by a local band. He introduced us to some of his friends and the chat went lively.
After the night was over, Omar and I got back with our pleasure hunt. Whitewater rafting was new to us. We never knew what to expect. Come what may, we just prepared ourselves for the escapade.

Before the 12:30 P.M. pickup time, we visited the Museum de Cagayan in Xavier University (Ateneo de Cagayan). We got to know the history of the place, its people and beliefs and how our great national hero had influenced the lives of its populace during the heyday of his writing revolution. “La Solidaridad”, a famous newspaper he created together with great heroes Marcelo H. Del Pilar and Graciano Lopez Jaena circulated in the area. We seemed to get back to the past. It felt great that after the war was over and the place had propelled to where it stands now, we were there to appreciate the bounty of the place.

Time to meet our guides and raftmates, a jeepney picked us up. We were then headed off to the rafting site, the Cagayan River. This body of water separates Bukidnon to one side and Cagayan de Oro on the other side. Before the engagement, we were briefed with some important information about rafting safety and preparedness. One good point is to always follow what the guide will instruct. Do not throw garbage in the river. Instruction was given on how the rescue operation would progress at times when the raft would capsize.

Due to the rainy season, the waters were quite silted unlike during summers when the waters are clear; beautiful, whitish splashes are created. Nevertheless, it did not affect the action we derived from the rapids that gave us a splendid adrenalin rush. We followed what the guide would instruct us and we played so much with the current that goes along with the water. Rowing was difficult at first but as we went along the long kilometer stretch of the river, rowing just came easy. We passed by some still waters but during we approached the rapids, we do keep watch of the instruction of our guide. These were situations that we got a lot of water pressure at the same time managing to stabilize our raft. The toss and turn of the waters never fail us to give a great “Whoa!” from our lips. We also came to know rowing the forward stroke and back stroke, some terms like rapids, “kiss the wall”, whirlwind rapids, surprise rapids and some rapids named after certain events that occurred in the past like the “Kris drop rapids” where a participant named Kris was dropped when passing particular rapids. Along the river path we experienced swimming in still waters. Our guide may allow us to get off the raft and feel the waters with just a life jacket and a helmet on.

On some occasions we would do the high five by raising and bringing our paddles together when we felt great or when we overcame aggressive rapids. When still waters are lengthy our guides would create shower using the paddle. The situation would cause us to giggle.

The river was deep. At times along the way, we tried to submerge our paddle and it would measure more that its length. Swimming in the river was dangerous but it never felt that exciting until we go deep down or away the raft.

It is so amazing how danger and excitement go together in activities like this. Such may cause one’s life. But even in still waters when you least expect and think that you feel safe the most, certain unwanted situations just occur, even when you feel there’s no danger at all, some things might happen.

Life is unfathomable, miraculous, precious, dangerous… It is lived by some in fear… while others in excitement… You choose… For us, we’re already done with the zipline… done through water rafting and… Life is a blessing!

Rapids of Our Lives

Looking back at the rafting experience we have had, it was filled with so much fun and adventure. The rapids were important factor for that feeling of excitement. Without the rapids, the voyage would turn out to be plain paddling. At first, whenever we got to approach the rapids, I was so afraid. I felt I might fall out of the raft. As we went along, I got adjusted and used to the shake. Without the rapids, the experience would not be thrilling.

The rapids are noisy, energetic and rowdy. They are shallow compared to still waters. They are created by the boulders and the volume of water that flows through it. Rapids are the difficult situations along the river. It may cause you to spill out of the raft or worse it might capsize the vessel. But rapids aren’t something to be dealt with fear rather it should be welcomed with fun and delight.

A whirlwind kind of rapids will cause the vessel to turn around. It may get you dizzy. Some rapids will give you surprise. They say passing through what they call “surprise” rapids get some vessels tossed and turned up side down spilling out those on board. It’s scary. Our experience was different. We got tossed several times and I felt there’s no end to it. My gosh! It’s really frightening. When we were tossed upward I seemed to get off balanced. But we were reminded to get our feet tucked at the beam of the raft. Fortunately, we never got overturned.

The river is a very good illustration of our lives. We move along the river path, whether we like it or not. The current will bring us somewhere. There will be moments in still waters; there will be rapids. Life isn’t always journeying in still waters. Sometimes, we pass by the rapids. Life is not always easy. At times, it may be difficult. Sometimes we feel bored along the still waters but sometimes the rapids will give way for excitement. Along the river, we seem to have no choice. But we do have choice. We can set the sail of our raft. We can paddle forward or backward. We can go along with the tide so that we can rest paddling for a while. When the rapids seem to be turbulent, hold your head up high. Never be afraid. Get excited! It may give us some setbacks but if we never stop, we will overcome the difficult situations and we will emerge stronger than before.

Let’s welcome the rapids of our lives!

Philippine National Election in 2010

May 11, 2010 is Philippines' next National Election. That's only less than 365 days off. A lot of people, most especially the younger generations are interested to join various campaign for a clean and honest election because of the past experiences that elections were stained with different forms of cheats: vote buying, flying voters, "dagdag-bawas" (subtract-add) and dead people voting, etc. Various complaints had been raised regarding these schemes and the voting population now-a-days are aware that these things are happening during election.

I am happy that many young voters are active in really watching their votes for this coming election. They have been aware too of their right of suffrage. Such right could mean another six years of agony if the wrong officials will be elected.

I love my country and I'm proud to say that I'm Filipino. I do hope that all corruption and red tape will be curbed. This could only happen if everybody will do his share; to be vigilant and vote with conscience. Philippines is a great country, I can boldly say. Let it not be ruined by people who are evil in their ways especially during election.

Experience of a stranger turned friend

I was new to Kidapawan when I came there because of my work. As a tourist-at-work, the mirth that I felt was invigorated more by knowing somebody who at first was a complete stranger. From our conversation, I have discovered that she is a believer of Christ. I felt at home talking to her. She is a widow and the feeling of being helpless was the topic of her stories. She told me of her past and of how God played a very important part in her life. God provided everything for her family, who lost the "post" of their home. She shared to me how the verses she had kept in her heart and mind made her day to day life enduring. She mused that having no husband is a difficult situation and looking for somebody to love is so crucial. I asked her why and she responded that her children would not approve of that idea. Doing so would mean losing the respect of her children. It is in Filipino culture that getting married after losing a partner is not so acceptable. What struck me much is the belief she held in her heart, that is believing in Christ, that Christ will be there in all life's adversities. This has increased my faith and I felt the lightness in my heart. I am hoping that I too could copy her strong belief and let God lead my way with complete trust. From her, I learned the 3 verses from the bible, those are Jeremiah 33:3, John 14:1 and Psalms 46:1. I will surely keep and remember these verses dearly in my life.

Idea that crossed my mind: On blaming

"Blame others and you'll get resentment. Blame yourself and you'll get realization."

-Henry C.

Travel Bugs

Travel is exciting. You get to see a lot of places, know a lot of people and hear a lot of stories. It is full of adventure but hey! There are also problems you may encounter. They also think that travel is expensive but if you use your brain and prepare for it, you can afford a memorable and worthy travel. Here are some useful tips for all travel enthusiasts out there.

1. Know your purpose. By clearly establishing your purpose, you can set your priorities. If possible be specific with your purpose so that you can prepare a checklist of things to bring. A checklist is important to avoid missing the things that you'll need when you reach your destination. For many times, I missed some important documents and stuff by not making a checklist. I depended on my memory so much that I end up buying those things that I missed. This can ruin your budget so you get to compromise your objective. It is useful if you write this in a small notebook you can call as your travel notebook.
   
2. Don't forget to bring a jacket. A jacket is very useful when you travel because you'll have something to warm you when it gets cold in the bus or in the night. You can wrap you jacket into your waist if it's warm and can't get to open your travelling bag.
   
3. Bring some useful light tools. As for me, I find it useful to bring a switch (Swiss) knife. It has scissors, knife, bottle opener, etc. But don't hand carry this because it will be confiscated when discovered by the security if you travel by plane. A nail-cutter is useful too.
   
4. Travel light. This has been an advice of many travelers and it will give you so much comfort. But don't travel that you forget the necessary things because you want to travel light. You might end up in trouble if you do this.
   
5. Bring a small book. You can read while you wait for the bus or for the plane to go. It is wise to read than to murmur and complain while waiting.
   
6. Make the most of what you have. This is something that gives me ease because I always focus on what I have and not on what I have. I discovered that my cell phone can play a video. What I did was I loaded it with an exercise video so I don't need to carry a player and a disc. There are a lot of things that we have that we take for granted. We don't maximize its potential because we focus on what we don't have rather than on what we have. Another instance happened to me. When I was travelling, I sat at the right side of the bus where the sun was shining. It was warm and it made me very uncomfortable. That time, I don't have a cap to protect me from the blinding light. I realized that I was wearing long-sleeve polo over a white T-shirt. I took it off and covered it on my head. It lessened the heat that I felt and the glaring light. I realized that if I focused on the cap that I missed to bring, I might end up blaming myself and complaining the heat and the light that was very uncomfortable.
   
7. Travel can be exhausting. But if you have a bottle of water, a drink can save. So don't forget to bring a bottle of water because it can give you a mile of comfort.
   
8. Decide early on what 'pasalubong' to bring home. We Filipinos can't make our travel complete without bringing 'pasalubong' for our loved one's. It's a good way to share the joy of travel when we give something for others. You can ask them what they want so that you can prepare for it. In the end it's the thought that counts.
   
9. Bring a camera but don't forget to check the battery. Taking pictures is the best way to preserve every travel in our memory. When we get back at home it's really nice to tell stories with pictures. I have experienced bringing along my camera only to find out that the battery was empty. I wasn't able to take pictures and it was a lesson that I want to share with all the travelers. It's good that you have an extra battery or a charger with you. I bought a fast charger for the battery of my cell phone and camera at the same time. It is more convenient than having separate chargers for your gadgets.
   
10. Seize the moment. Have fun and enjoy the moments of your travel. Thank and feel every opportunity you encounter because when you travel, it is a chance to widen your horizon, a time to unwind and a time to get away from the heavy pressures of our daily activities.
    

To all of you guys who will be travelling, Mabuhay! Have a safe and happy trip! Where's you destination? Bon voyage!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Without meaning

Life is without meaning. Yes, that's true. It is in the book of Ecclesiastes in the Holy Bible. We are born. We grow. We learn. We work. We spend. We work again so that we can earn again. There are series of activities we do in a lifetime, a time for everything. Some have achieved lots of accomplishments while others die young. Life is full of uncertainties. In the end, we die. All will be worthless. So, what's the use of all of this? It's meaningless.

Isn't that funny? We work for nothing in the end. It's also very sad. It's crazy. This is the same feeling I felt when I watched the Korean film "The Classic". The story of their love was not given the chance to happen. They did not end up being together. It's painful. But given the chance that they end up being together, it will still be useless because in the end, the man died of sickness. What's the use if in the end you're going to die?

You'll not even be able to bring all your riches when you die. In the end, when we become equal in death. Death is terrible but meaningful because it will be the end of everything. So, life is meaningless and death is meaningful. I can't believe it! What an irony! So, it is useless to live and useful to die. I better die. But I don't want to die because no one wants to die.

The point is everything is useless. Even what I'm writing is meaningless. But the moment you read it, it will be meaningful. That's the use why I write because somebody will have to read it. So what is meaningless can be meaningful. Kinda hard? No it's easy.

It's just like this. We live for others, not for ourselves. When die for ourselves, it becomes meaningful. Just like Jesus, He died for us, for our sins. It gave a great meaning. It will be meaningless if you can't avail it.

 

 

 

 

I miss Sylvia

You might wonder who Sylvia is. Sylvia was with me since December 2003. We had been together for almost 5 years. We had a very good relationship until I finally decided to let her go. I have no other complaints other than the minor defects. Many don't know that I was with her but she was with me most of the time not only in good times but even in my lonesome time. She was there when my heart was broken. She heard many conversations but she was very silent. She might manifest what had happened but I believe she kept it only to herself. She accompanied me in most of my activities and I was thankful that she became a part of my life. I have learned a lot of things with her and through her. She's not pretty. But I saw her beauty beyond my eyes. In my mind she is.

But time tells me to say goodbye. I know she was hurt because she did not allow to be photographed when I last saw her. For whatever reasons, my camera didn't work when I wanted to had a picture with her before I let her go.

As I reminisce, all I could say is that she is important to me. Yeah, it is true that you will only know the value of a thing when it's gone. Sylvia was my silver car. Goodbye Sylvia! Make good to your new master.

This one is for Jean

Jean, this one is for you because you have been asking me about my previous blog. Thanks for your concern. I told you that I was already okay. Thank you for training me well and for the tips (in tellering). I was able to apply it in my work now that I'm assigned in branches. I was very confident in handling miscellaneous transactions but I was very cautious with the 'reversal' 'coz I might bring that very unwanted thing. Today, I did 180 plus BIR's and got only 2 reversal. I targeted a 100% error free transaction but my eyes and fingers were so tired already when I was in the 120's. Anyway, you said that it was normal so I took you word.

I am happy to recall when we had our break in 'Hapit Anay' last time. It was full of revelations. But I want to learn from all those bad things.

I'm here in Taps & mix right now, just taking time to relax. Just please keep in touch. I sent you a text message last time. I wondered if you received it 'coz I didn't get your reply. Well, see you when I see you...

God Sees Me

Problems in the family, demands of work, failure of plans, broken relationships, etc. make me feel down. Sometimes, I want to give up, quit and escape. But I think that no matter what I do and wherever I may go, it won't solve all the problems in life. I'm sure there will always be a problem. This has made me feel empty and leave all my accomplishments meaningless.

But I am happy of the thought that God still sees me and loves me through the people who touched my life.

God only YOU can fill the emptiness in my life. Today, I recommit myself to You. Be my master. Please direct me.

The journey continues...

Before...
I was surprised when the information came that I will be assigned in Alabel, Sarangani Province. A lot of hesitations held me back in my mind. I was so perplexed. How would I react? Will I be sad? happy? excited? puzzled? All those emotions lived in me nights, days, hours, minutes, seconds, milliseconds...

Time passed, I made the choice to take the responsibilities given to me. I traveled the way and back. I prepared myself for the challenge I saw.

Now...

It's another day. I'm in the regional office, sitting, thinking, recollecting. I surpassed the challenge for two months and here I am, hoping to beat another challenge that will be given. It may be difficult but that makes the challenge more challenging.

A lot of things will come through I know. Not only in my career but in all aspects of my life. I want to see it coming one by one and I am ready.

Will Manny ‘Pacman’ Pacquiao be a good leader?

That is a tough question and it plays in my mind as many Filipinos wait and see what will be the next for the Filipino's boxing hero. It has been a rumor that Manny will run in a congressional position in Sarangani Province in the next coming election. We know in the prior election that he lost the congressional race in the first district of South Cotabato against Representative Darlene Antonino –Custodio. We also have heard that accompanied with that fiasco was a big loss of money for Manny.

"He should focus his attention to boxing," commented by many of his fans. "Boxing is his forte and politics is different ring. Let it be for political experts. If Manny really wants to help his countrymen, he can do so by initiating social projects," they added.

Contrary to those ideas, many insist, "Manny can be a good public servant. He can set a good example and his track record in boxing will show that many of his qualities are the basic elements in good governance. "

Both parties have a point. Who can be convinced that Manny, with humble beginnings can really lead? But who can underestimate the speedy-puncher 'Pacman'? Many times in his fight Manny got 'dehado', underestimated and belittled by spectators that he would lose the fight. What happened? Many times they were proven wrong by the not only surprising but overwhelming results. Will it be the same if he enters the public service?

We can hear, "Filipinos have gone through a lot of experiences but never learned." But in those circumstances, you see… where are the Filipinos? Still surviving, we may not be learning but we are still living, hoping and winning. Others have learned but they "died".

In my own opinion, we don't have the exact formula for good governance. I believe that a good leader is not born but made, made by tough situations and decisions. It starts with the mind, the perception that nothing is impossible under the sun. No matter how hard the circumstances, a good leader can come through. But it must end with the heart because the motive maybe different. What do we need to elect a leader? Somebody qualified under the Philippine constitution. If Manny is qualified, let him run and let the people decide. If he wins, let's give him all due respect, cooperation and the chance to lead. If he fails then he should concede as a gentleman, like a sportsman in boxing. So that everybody will know the he gave his all while he played the game and winning is just the fruit of all the toils.

 

I'm in LOVE

Huh! I'm back. At least I made it this time to make an update after quite a month of being unheard. And guess what? Something has inspired me. Really! This lady is Irina. I haven't met her but we had done 13 exchanges of emails. It's quite unusual but it's real. They say, you don't need to know the language to know if you're in love. Yes, I felt it. I'm in love and I know this is for real.

It started when I posted my profile in a site. Then, I received a letter from her, yes from Irina. We had a good conversation though I sometimes find it difficult to understand her. She doesn't speak English fluently because she is a Russian but I have read her messages between the lines.

She is beautiful in her pictures but one thing that I admire her is her perception towards life. She looks at life simply yet I felt that she cares a lot. She looks at life the same way I look at it. She is my dream girl in the sense that she possesses the values that I look for a lady. She is attractive to me but her attitudes struck me so much. Though somebody commented that I'm in love with the picture which maybe stupid but it's more than that. In our communication, I felt I belong to her and she said that she love me so much, maybe instinct. I don't exactly know. But yes I'm in love with her. I'm just hoping that things will go smoothly for us. I hope one day, we will see each other and determine how will it be. We'll just like the line of 'Believe it or not... unbelievable? Believe it!