unpopular

The Supreme Court made unpopular decisions as the days of 2010 dwindles. This unfortunate questions the impartiality and credibility of the judges who are the last resort to resolve important issues. They are the last guardians of the justice in the country, but it is as if justice had been blind for the wrong reasons.

Just recently, the Supreme Court decided that it is unconstitutional to create a Truth Commission that will investigate the corruption charges against the former president and now congresswoman, Gloria Macapagal Arroyo. It can be remembered that she appointed several members of the Supreme Court when she was still in power. People can’t help but wonder if politics had tainted the controversial decision.

And last week, the long-awaited Supreme court ruling about the Vizconde massacre ended with the despair howling and apparent breakdown of Mr. Lauro Vizconde. The prosecution failed to prove that the accused, Hubert Webb, et al, are NOT guilty beyond reasonable doubt. Public uproar followed, as people are blood thirsty that ‘someone’ should be punished to the brutal murder of the family. Making the perpetrators coming from influential and rich families will be for the best to give hope the majority poor Filipinos that justice is not just for the upper crust of the society.

If it is not Hubert Webb and his friends, then who are the murderers of the Vizconde? My heart goes with Mr. Lauro Vizconde. It is easy to say that there is justice beyond this life to appease him. But that is not a consolation, even the partial justice that some are saying that Hubert and his pals spent 15 years of their lives behind bars. It would be difficult to clear the dark clouds of doubt and suspicion to the justice system in the country. Justice was denied to the family of the victims, it happened to Mr. Vizconde, it can happen to anyone who is not rich in the Philippines. That is the sad, and somewhat scary truth.

"All For One, One For All"

Alexandre Dumas’ The Three Musketeers is one of my favorite classic novel. It is so well-written, the words reflected the romantic and timeless era of 18th century France. The main characters, d’Artagnan, Athos, Porthos and Aramis, are so lovable with their conflicting values and characters but shared one of the greatest friendship and adventures in literature. And I like the fact that the main antagonist of the story was a headstrong woman, Milady. Her tragic love story with Athos was just brilliant. Cardinal Richelieu as the master of intrigue was an engaging antagonist, masterminding the fiasco of the diamond tags of Anne of Austria that the four musketeers set to retrieve in England.

It was only fitting for such wonderful masterpiece to be shown on the silver screen. It was the next chapter of the musketeers’ life that was shown in the movie ‘The Man in the Iron Mask’. It was not the exact story in the book but that was really necessary. The man in the iron mask was just an incidental character in the book while it is an important part in the movie. And definitely, d’Artagnan was not the father of the King in the original story unlike in the movie. I think the revisions were just fine as it added the drama in the motion picture.



It was only fitting for such wonderful masterpiece to be shown on the silver screen. It was the next chapter of the musketeers’ life that was shown in the movie ‘The Man in the Iron Mask’. It was not the exact story in the book but that was really necessary. The man in the iron mask was just an incidental character in the book while it is an important part in the movie. And definitely, d’Artagnan was not the father of the King in the original story unlike in the movie. I think the revisions were just fine as it added the drama in the motion picture.

Leonardo Di Caprio as the king and his unfortunate jailed brother was simply awesome. At one time he was the cruel and heartless Louis XIV, the proud King of France. Then he suddenly becomes the innocent and meek concealed twin brother, stripped from all the privileges of claiming his equal right as a monarchy. The depth of his acting was just perfection. One can see him as the threatened king and as the same time, the righteous replacement that can lead his kingdom better.

Be Prepared. Everyday.

It is once again the holiday season. It is time to find the best gift for our 'inaanaks' with the limited budget that we have. People who already received their 13th month pay or Christmas bonus are very lucky because they already have the means to go shopping. To those hardworking employees like me who are yet to get their extra compensation just console ourselves that atleast we will still have extra bucks while almost everyone already used theirs.

I refuse to be suck in all this Christmas madness. There is a more important preparation that we should do more than the consumer side of the occasion. We have to remember that the celebration is all about the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ. We have to be spiritually prepared in His coming. I think it is easier to do than hunting for great deals in the mall. Attending the mass is one of the good ways to be ready for His birthday.

We often fall in the wrong notion that we have all the time in the world. Try to be good tomorrow instead of today. Miss the mass because we can just attend it next Sunday. Procrastinate in our studies because there is always the next semester. Mess up with our job for the evaluation is still at the end of the month. But the truth is, we would not know if there is really a next time to do it. He will come, just as sure as His first coming. So we have to be prepared, everyday.

HP7

Harry is almost half-through with his quest to triumph over the evil that is Lord Voldemort and his Death Eaters. Just like in the final installment of JK Rowling's masterpiece, the second to the grand finale of the magical adventure is very heart pounding and satisfying.

Finding and destroying the Hercluxes which are the vessels of the ripped souls of the Dark Lord posed the extreme danger to Harry and his best friends, Hermione and Ron. It is a perilous undertaking because the henchmen of Voldemort is always on their track. The first sequence wherein the members Order of the Phoenix will take Harry to a safe house is very exciting. I liked the thrill of the chase just like in the book. It's just that, the crazy but lovable Mad-Eye Moody died in this ambush.

I also adore their secret mission in the Ministry of Magic. They dared to get the locket which is also a Herclux. It was really fun, the actors who they transformed themselves were superbly great. It was one of the funniest part of the movie.

The animated narration of the Tale of the Three Brothers was not just informative but also entertaining. It creatively and clearly told the story behind the Deathly Hollows. I was able to understand it more when it 'jumped out' from the pages of the book.

There are only things that I would like the movie to be even better. First was the important scene when Dobby the Elf was killed by the devil incarnate Bellatrix. I remember myself beaming with pride for Dobby when he claimed with conviction that he 'is a free elf.', then being crushed upon learning that the knife thrown at him will claim his life. In the movie, which was suppose to be one of the highlights, turned out to be bland, because one can see that Dobby is nothing but a CGd elf,there was no depth at all.

It was supposed to be heart wrenching when Harry was digging the earth for Dobby's burial. Harry was in anguish, enraged and vengeful. He was finally resolute that he will once and for all defeat Lord Voldemort. But in the movie,the three friends seemed to just buried a rag doll covered in white cloth void with any intensity.

But the movie did not fail to rouse genuine emotions from it's loyal followers. Just thinking that next will be the finale of the Harry Potter movies make me sad. But then I am already thankful to JK Rowling that she created a magnificent and remarkable literature. I enjoyed her series that inspired the eight movies spanning way back when I was in college. It is just timely to take her well-deserved final bow next year, with flourish.

Engaged

William pledged as a member of the Order of Garter

I was in high school when the tragic demise of Princess Diana of Britain dominated the media. That was when I first had a glimpse of her young sons, William and Harry. I thought how brave these boys are. They are in anguish but royal protocols prevent them from showing it to the public. I admired how they tried to get through that traumatic phase in their lives, the high-profile death of their mother in their early years just when they really need her love and guidance.



With Beckham, not Harry I just like this picture: British and Football royalty, laughing together, priceless

More than their undeniable good looks, William and Harry endeared the public on how they picked up their lives without their mum. They continued to live as ordinary as their stature being the second and third in line in the British throne will allow them. Their pictures and whereabouts littered the Internet and tabloids. I think that their privacy had still been respected. William had been not a target of the media when he was in college in St. Andrew’s as negotiated by his PR. But sometimes the paparazzi are still intruding, especially with their pictures out with friends clubbing and the expose on Harry’s deployment in Afghanistan.

A wide percentage of the female population was sad and heart broken, when it was announced that William and his long-time girlfriend, Kate Middleton was finally engaged. It was a selfish impulse to feel that way, since he really deserve to also be happy with the girl that he loves. It was also crazy to feel like crying, because you only see him on TV and magazines, he even haven’t been in my tropical country. But I will indulge in being melodramatic and sentimental since William is like the ultimate crush of my late 20’s generation. I really hope that he can still be unmarried until his forties just like the Prince of Monaco, but he was already set to tie the knot next year, 2011.



All together now: with British accent "Hahahahaha"

When I told this to my dad and demanded to kidnap Kate for me, he said “Buti nga ‘yon magpakasal na siya kasi nakakalbo na siya.” And when my mom saw my depression she remarked: “Naku paano kapag talagang boyfriend mo na ang magpapakasal sa iba, baka magpakamatay ka na…” And my sister was like, “Naku para kang si $@* kapag nagka-crush.” My family was really so funny, I laughed, they really know how to cheer me up.

The saga of the sons of Princess Diana, continues. Now that I, together with the other ladies who stalked, er, cared for William, are now recovering from the initial shock from this breaking news. I also want to see William waiting for his bride in the Cathedral, beaming as a proud father holding his child(ren) and being coroneted as the new King of the British Monarchy.

Now, Prince Harry, you are not to be engaged until ten years from now ;)

Who's Next?

Grateful

I have never been seriously ill my whole life, until recently. For three years, I know that I have a health condition that I have to address. It sent me to the hospital for a consultation with doctors, some examinations and medicines to take when pain becomes unbearable. But in the last quarter of this year, I realized that I could not ignore it anymore for there is blood involved on it now. Only a surgery can get rid of it entirely and prevent it from getting worse.

So in the middle of September, I decided to consult a surgeon in The Medical City. I undergone a diagnostic procedure and I submitted the result to my office as a basis of my month-long sick leave. Of course it was granted and the admin also helped me complete my PhilHealth requirements. It was sad to say goodbye to my work even though it is only temporarily because I will miss my colleagues and students. But I have to take a break from my routine to pay attention to my fragile health; I will be back on December anyway.

My surgery was supposed to be on the last week of October. But it has to be postponed because I caught bad colds and I got my period earlier than expected. After the holiday, I visited my surgeon to finally schedule it. I was advised to be admitted in the hospital that same night, November 2 and have my operation tomorrow at 12 noon. I felt relieved to finally have that dreaded surgery; there is no turning back now.

My close friends and colleagues asked me what was wrong with me. They were curious about it and concerned about me. Though I did not directly tell them what it is. I just told them that there is something that should be removed in my ‘digestive area’. But I assured them that it is nothing serious and it will just be a minor surgery.

The funny thing was that the admitting clerk in The Medical City was someone that I know. So much for being secretive about my condition. Though I am not a bit worried about it because for sure she has a strong work ethic and there is a protocol of being tactful about their patients. Anyway, it was a Sienan who welcomed me in the hospital, that was why she looked really familiar. She was still very pretty; she was our muse in our first year in high school. She was so formal in our transaction and I can’t get myself to acknowledge her. But she was indeed excellent in her job and seeing her there is like a good sign that everything will be all right.

I was satisfied with my appointed room. It was very spacious, with a fridge, cable TV and nice view of Ortigas Center. My mom was pretty impressed with the washroom, particularly with the toilet bowl with a built-in washer. My sister commented that it was like a hotel room. I agree that it is, but I don’t want to stay there for a long time and I made a commitment to myself that I will be out of there on Friday.

The first reign of terror in the hospital was putting the IV on me. The staff nurse tried to put it but my vein was suppose to be thin and therefore difficult to put the dreaded needle on it. She called the 27 year old doctor, who by the way was beautiful, to successfully install the IV on my right hand. It was a torture; I thought getting a blood sample would be the worst. But I really like this lady resident doctor because she was calm and collected also when she explained to me the risks of sticking a local, regional anesthesia on my spine which will temporarily paralyze the lower part of my anatomy. Another resident male doctor with dashing eyelashes discussed the risks of my procedure but I was only half listening as I was deciding how unfair it is that he has mile long eyelashes and he is also a doctor to boot. They made me sign a consent paper and I can’t help but remember medical malpractices reported on the news but it was easy to bring myself to trust them completely.

I only had a nap before it dawned. I had the same feeling when I took the LET years ago. I was eager to get it done. When two nurses with a strolling bed announced that it was time to go to the OR, I would happily hoped on the bed if there is no IV to constrict me. But as the door of the Operating Room enclosed me without my parents whose last words were “Magdasal ka.”, I realized those scenes in my favorite medical drama, House M.D. is not that fun and entertaining in real life. I was put in the Prep room with other patients whose sound of their monitored heartbeats started to get into my nerves, I felt lonely and desolate. The nurse gave me half a tablet to help me relax and together with the chilly aircon, made my stomach rumble. Good thing it was effective, I was like half drunk when I was finally in the Operating Room. I can hear what was going on, but I did not have the energy to care to understand it. I was praying because I know that everything is out of my hands, I can only pray that I can get through this safely.

“Tapos na,” the nurse whispered to me. I was numb when I was put in the Recovery room. I was so sleepy but I told the nurse to tell my parents that I am out from the OR and she nodded. I can’t feel my legs, but I was not worried because I know that the anesthesia will soon wear off. I think I had a nap and soon enough I was able to move my legs. So the doctor decided that I can go back to my room again.

My family was there waiting for me, I smiled weakly, I was happy to see them again. I had a terrible headache and stomachache, I felt like I was drowning lying flat on my bed and I was shivering like crazy that night. I just slept through it, hoping that I will be so much better tomorrow.

I know that the worst was over that Thursday. My vital signs were normal and I get to finally eat home cooked meals by my dad. I was also delighted that Ninang Mely, Tita Olga and cousins Joan and Hiro visited me. To my relief the dressing on my wound and the IV on my hand were removed. I felt stronger and confident that I can really be discharged from the hospital right on schedule. I even watched my favorite TV shows, Gossip Girls and America’s Next Top Model that midnight. It was difficult to sleep because that was the time the weight of the past days hit me. I realized how blessed I am.

I was also thankful that my HMO, Medocare and PhilHealth paid my hospital bills.
I just shuddered at the fact that my four-day stay in The Medical City could wipe out my hard earned savings in the bank. So on November 5, Friday, my family and I had the clearance from the doctors and the hospital to finally go home. The nurse told us about the superstition not to look back at the room so that we won’t need to be back in the hospital again. Not wanting to take any chances, I just focused on my way out to the elevator, with only one goal in mind: to have a speedy and full recovery at the comfort of my home.

JL's First

So Proud

With Sofia in their book signing in SM Manila

Years ago in the humble College of Mass Communication building in PUP, there are two bright lass who are dreaming to write romance novels. They shared their fair share of rejections and catty comments, but that only further encourage them to pursue their calling. Their loyal group of friends reassured them that they got the talent to make it big and make a mark as novelists.

Fast forward to 2010, Jernalie Dumapay is now known as Sofia and Cherie Rosales is Sonia Francesca. Saying that they have hordes of fans is an understatement. They have a cult following and they are the deities. Their publisher hold a mall tour for their readers and there is a lone queue of adoring fans eager to get a glimpse of them, ask their autographs and take pictures of them.

My friends are like celebrities, and I am so proud of them, because I know that they worked hard to attain the stardom they are enjoying now. I am also one of their most loyal fans. I love how witty and fun their stories are. I can always relate to the love story that they write. As I finish their stories, I was always reminded how wonderful it is to fall in love and that there is someone special out there for everyone.

B-Movie Book

Hey, Heartbreaker

In popular romance literature, there is a tried and tested formula for Love stories. The heroine was supposed to fall in love first with the perfect guy who is handsome and rich but snobbish and out of her league. She will be at the mercy of the man who will later decide if he will return her feelings or hurt her terribly.

That was why the independent movie 500 Days Summer was ‘not a love story, it is a story about love.’ It successfully showed how love makes the couple see the world through a rose-colored glass that slowly fades as time goes by. There is no sugar-coating in this movie but rather it offered a realistic take on what love can truly be: painful and depressing. It is like a warning on what you might get through with if you will dare to let yourself fall for someone.

In this movie, the guy had no doubt that he is inlove with the girl. The guy was already giving her the world, but she is ‘still not sure’ about him. One can say that she is heartless or she just plays with the feelings of the guy for her. It was obvious that at the start she was really enjoying his company, but that was it, until time passed got bored with him and sees everything as bleak. That was pretty unnatural for girls perceived in movies whose ultimate goal is to find someone who will love and take care of her. And now that she found him, she was supposed to be swept away and reciprocate her feelings.

But this witty and funny movie was the opposite of that. She broke the heart of the guy who loves her and looked for someone that she can be ‘sure’ of. She left him broken, hurt and sad. The guy cursed everything from the girl to love itself. He thought he was ready to give up on love, until she met Autumn, and hence the ___ Days of Autumn commence…

RH

The State and the Church. The two institutions, which were supposed to be united to serve the people, are now being divided because of the issue of the Reproductive Health Bill.

The media and some individuals had added in the frenzy. The church threatened President Aquino to be excommunicated because of his liberal policy about this issue. Church representatives later denied this accusation. Popular Manila tourist guide, Carlo Celdran, protested in an on-going mass with “DAMASO” written on his placard complete with his Rizal outfit, was arrested by the police.

But we should just face the facts. Our country has a big already too populated that can’t be sustain by its' available resources. Should we not take action about this problem, our country will have an even harder time to progress. The proposed solution is the comprehensive Reproductive Health Bill.

Family planning will be lectured to the couples. Students will learn about sex education. Contraceptives are will readily be available to those who need it. Natural methods of family planning will also be discussed and can be an option.

I think it can help improve control the growing population of our country. It can promote responsible parenthood and avoid early pregnancy and proliferation of STD. The long- term benefit of the proper implementation of the RH Bill will help lift the quality of life for every Filipino family.

The Church should listen to the modern call of time. They should help the government take concrete actions to resolve our population problems. A person’s faith and belief in God should not just be measured on what birth control couple’s choose. People should have the sufficient information to make the best decision on how many children do they want.

Take my parents as an example. They chose to only have two children because they are well aware that raising kids will really be difficult and expensive. My mom took pills for four years after she gave birth to me before she decided to have her second child. Then she undergone legation and did not conceive any more children. I think having only two kids is one of the factors why my parents are presently having a more comfortable life. I can’t imagine having to share our limited finances back then with more siblings. But I am really thankful that they made a wise choice of bearing children according to their means. They are indeed responsible parents, and with the RH Bill, there will be more who can help in nation building.

Until Next Time

I am P3,400 poorer. It was not really a sorry lost. I gambled, and it did not pay off. I was disappointed but what else can I do but to accept it. I will not rant on how unfair it is. I just have to accept it as it is. I really do love my nationality with all my heart, but in times like this, how I wish I have a different passport, so that it will be easier for me. Because I just have all the intention to appreciate the beauty of their country, to submerge myself in their culture and to help boost their tourism industry. But that doesn't count at all.

I think I just have to go to other countries first which doesn't require visa and I have to save more money to have more impressive bank account. For all its' worth, It was an exhilarating experience, completing all the requirements, inquiring others how to do it, dreaming of being on top of 63 Building and the waiting game if it will be granted or not.

Now that I finally know the unfavorable result, I will just have to focus on other things that I have to do. Korea has to wait until I am interested to try again.

Owl Fight

For Real

It was depressing to read the finale of the Hunger Games trilogy, Mockingjay. Darkness, death and destruction had been the constant mood of the book from the beginning to end. The first two books were the same, but it was full of satisfying comic relief, captivating romance and advancement to gain freedom from the capitol. These are the key elements that the third book seemed to miss.

All Out War
Mockingjay is a war novel. The author masterfully wove power players, propaganda, hidden motives and military operations. The ‘propos’ had been a tremendous success that inspired the rebels to revolt against Panem even though odds are not in their favor. I think Katniss had been effective to lead them to victory by being the face of the rebellion. The rebels rallied with her to capture each district and finally take over the Capitol.
But she fell too short in the other factors that resulted to unnecessary setbacks in her twisted mind and the efforts of the rebellion. She was not able to deal with the power players of the war, reducing her to a pawn instead of being more significant. President Coin, Plutarch and Snow are always steps ahead of her. She did not exploit her charm to be the one who will have the reign to control, to decide or to influence on how the war should be executed. She was not able to guess correctly what are their motives, what made them tick. That is why she can’t properly protect her love ones who continuously drops dead like flies.
The decisive moments of the book echoed that she is a hunter and a victor, but never a military tactician. She led her team in a death trap of pods without any strategy on how to survive and prevent losing her comrades. It is as if she is blindfolded and just hoped against hope that they will all make it through until they reach the mansion in the Capitol, which of course did not happen. I have to admit that is my frustration in his book, the fact that Katniss failed in her personal vendetta to assassinate President Snow which she promised since she was still in the arena of the Hunger games and was made as her resolved in the earlier pages of the Mockingjay.

Not Too Literal
I believe in the talent of Suzanne Collins. That is why I think that one should read between the lines to understand the unpleasant and surprising turn of events in her finale book.
I was taken aback when Prim ‘turned into a human torch’. The author did not directly answer who is mastermind of this autocracy. But I believe that President Snow was telling the truth about this. President Coin, became impatient and wants to end the war once and for all, delivered the parachute to the wall of children with double detonated bombs. Prim being there as a medic in the still on-going war puzzled me. Though I am also sure that the bomb that killed Prim was the brainchild of Gale, the reason why they can never be together.
It was also so fast that I almost missed that it was President Coin who was assassinated by Katniss with her deadly bow and arrow. I think that is how she paid all her war crimes. Abandoning the other Districts in the first war against the Capitol when victory was out of hand that led them to the Dark Age. Then striking a deal to be left alone while the other Districts suffered under the vengeful iron fist of the Capitol. She has a lot to pay for, and Katniss made sure she paid it fully with her life. Real changes, healing and progress of Panem will not be achieved under Coin, but rather with Paylor who was the ground battle commander of the rebels to take over the Capitol.
Katniss and Haymitch, agreeing that there should be another Hunger Games after the war with Capitol’s children as tributes is only a fluke and should not be a reason to question their morals. They really do not intend to have another bloodbath, it was just their diversion to President Coin since it was her idea. They decided that was not the moment to openly defy the person who now seats in power.

The Triangle
The third book did not dwell too much about the love triangle that captivated the heart of its’ fans. I personally wished that there were more interaction between the two men and Katniss. But the author decided to make Peeta ‘hijacked’ almost through out the book. Katniss was not as concerned as I want her to be to help him gain his sanity back.
Though it is really hard to expect that much from her since she is also hunted with her own horrors and pain.
What I was satisfied about was Gale. He remained loyal to Katniss, he helped in the war efforts in the rebellion and his ideologies maybe brutal, but it is honest. I don’t buy it that he is already enjoying his ‘fancy job’ in District 2. I think that Gale, whatever position was given to him, he earned it and he will be very good at it. He will be instrumental in the recovery of the war torn Panem and he will be able to help the citizens to forgive and unite to build their lives again. He was broken hearted losing Katniss, but he knows that she will never fully forget about Prim and he has no choice but to let her go to be with Peeta.

Like It Or Not
Over all, I like the book. It gave an unpredictable and realistic conclusion to the Hunger games trilogy. It exceeded my expectations in a way that I should understand the context of the story, the dynamics of war, the vulnerability of humanity, the frailty of life and the gray area of morality before I can fully appreciate the Mockingjay.
I believe that the three books combined was really an achievement to the author. The trilogy is truly special and one of a kind.

Para Sa'yo, Badeth

Badeth, alam ko naaalala mo pa 'nung mga bata pa tayo na masaya ang naging samahan nating magpipinsan. Tuwing hapon lumalabas tayo sa bahay natin sa Marikina at naglalaro sa kalye. Patintero, shato, tumbang preso, magaling ka sa halos lahat ng 'yon kasi malakas ka at mabilis. Hinamon mo pa nga ako 'nun ng takbuhan, pero syempre talo ako. Wala naman talagang makakatapat sa bilis mo.

Dahil sa mga bata tayo, sobrang kakulitan natin 'non. Pero ewan ko ba, ikaw yata ang pinakamakulit. Nariyang naumpog ka sa kanto ng binata, nabagsakan ng cabinet. Sabagay lahat naman tayo ay mga kalampahan sa buhay. Lalo na ko na sumemplang sa bike at ilang araw na hindi maibuka ang bibig. Hindi ka naman naging maramot sa mga pagkain mo at laruan, namimigay ka naman at nagpapahiram. Iyun nga lang, minsan 'di naibabalik sa 'yo. Pasensya ka na ha, kung minsan napapaiyak ka namin nung mga bata pa tayo. Pero sana alam mo na naging masaya ako na naging kalaro kita at kasamang lumaki. Naging kumpleto ang pagiging bata ko dahil sa iyo at sa mga pinsan natin. Sana ikaw rin naging masaya sa piling namin 'non.

Alam ko hindi naging madali sa iyo ang buhay. Andaming nangyari na nakapagpalungkot at nakasakit sa iyo. Alam mo naman ang pamilya natin, hindi rin perpekto. Naging maswerte ka pa rin sa nanay mo na kahit may dinaramdam din, ang pusong ina ay hindi tumigil na mahalin ka. Kami rin, minahal ka namin, wala kaming ginusto kundi mapabuti ang lagay mo, na maging mas maging maganda ang buhay mo.

Siguro hanggang sa dumaan ang panahon, hindi pa rin ako makakapaniwala na nawala ka na sa amin. Ang bilis, nakakalito, nakakalungkot. Nung tumawag sila sa kalagayan mo, nag-alala ako pero hindi naman gaano. Kasi sa pamilya natin marami na rin ang nagkasakit, naospital, pero lahat naman ay nakalagpas. Kaya tiwala ako na malalampasan mo 'yan. Kaya ganun na lang ang gulat ko na ti-next sa 'kin na wala ka na. Paano ka mawawala sa amin? Ang bata mo pa, may dalawa ka pang anak, ang lakas mo at napakamasayahin. Pero ganun na nga ang nangyari, nauna ka na sa amin.

Lagi kong maaalala ang inosente mong ngiti. Ang boses mo, ang kabuuan mo. Mananatili ka sa puso ko, ang mga alaala mo, lagi kong iinagatan. Mahal ka naming lahat, lagi ka naming ipagdarasal. Hindi na kami magiging kasing saya ng tulad ng dati kasi wala ka na, hindi na kami magiging kumpleto pa kahit kelan. Kasama ng paglisan mo ang isang bahagi ng puso namin.

Sana ay nasa mas masaya at mapaya ka ng lugar ngayon, kasama si lolo at si Ate Leonora, at iba pa. Hanggang sa muli nating pagkikita, mahal kong pinsan.

Despise Me Not

The Shift

(Mary and I hosting the 'Back-to-School' PM shift activity)

When I was still a newbie in my job, Mary Hazel had been one of my mentors. I remember buddying up with her, listening and observing how she conducts her class. I was really impressed on how she speak and how she conducts her class.
She made on-line teaching seem very easy because of her patience to her student and mastery of teaching on-line.



(Rhon, Mary and I bullying the other kids)


As time passed by, I became closer to her. Most of the time I visit her cubicle to talk with her during our break. I also became close to her best friend, Rhon. We used to eat together in the restaurants around our former office building or maybe in the pantry for dinner time. I think that the three of us click, along with our other colleagues because we talk about fun things, may it be about our officemates or the latest craze in the Internet. We always have good talk over dinner.



(Shot by Rhon; me, Josie and Hazel, posing in Max's for my birthday celebration)

I think that we became even closer, with Josie, when we were appointed as Team Leaders. We can share our problems and concerns with each other. And through the support of each other, it seemed that those are just trivial things, because at the end, we know that we have each other backs.



(Three is a crowd doesn't apply to us. Eating 'girly' ice cream with other office friends at Iceberg's in Metrowalk.)


My fondest time with Mary Hazel was when I shared about the tragic end of my crush. She was just there, listening, sympathizing, and consoling me. I felt stronger when I finally told her about my feelings to him and that he was already unavailable. After that talk over Mc Float and fries, I felt that I had enough being sad and hurt. Looking back I think I recovered fast and easy because she was there with me during those times.

Now, Mary Hazel made a big switch. She wants to spend more time in her church to grow in her faith. So she decided to work in the AM shift, and finally, the management allowed her in an earlier time. We may not work or go home together anymore but I it is okay, because as a friend I will support her all the way, just like how she is to me.

tolerance ≠ acceptance

photo:www.time.com

It had been nine years since the infamous bombing of the Twin Towers in New York. War on Terror had been launched. Invasion in Iraq to disarm their supposed weapons of mass destructions and in Afghanistan to capture the alleged mastermind Osama Bin Laden. But it was revealed that the nation of Sadam Hussein doesn’t possess such artilleries. And until now, Osama had evaded being captured by the joint forces against terror.

The Britain and US led coalition had been withdrawing its’ troops empty handed. The wound that it caused had been deeply rotting. To the family of the 9/11 victim for the perpetrators are yet to face justice. To the Afghans and Iraqis whose countries had been further ravaged by the military operations. And to the Muslims who had been generally wrongly perceived as all extremist.

The outrage about the plan of building a mosque or a Muslim center two blocks away from ground zero had been controversial. It is hard to blame the New Yorkers with their paranoia after the tragic September 11 attack. But in the other hand, this is also a form of suppression of the freedom of religion and discrimination of Muslims.

In my opinion, building a Muslim center is not a yet another stab, but a bandage that would reinforce healing of wounded hearts, betrayed trust and broken spirits. And one is not to be awarded just because he tolerates someone; it is innate to him as a civilized human being. Tolerance is still not as good as acceptance that flows freely from the dam of prejudice to make the world peaceful.

Enlightened

It is easy to imagine how it is to live it up. In the dawn of the Internet, where everyone has a fair share of cyberspace, one can just flaunt his awesome life style as someone who is rich and famous. One can indiscreetly and self-effacingly project the image that we want and share our fab lives to anyone who is willing to waste their time on such frivolities.

In Miguel Syjuco’s Illustrado, he exposed the life style and psyche of the high society in the Philippines. On how they are oddly detached from their motherland but be able to influence or control a number its’ facets. It was difficult for me to sympathize with the hero in the novel, Miguel. It is because I think he is someone who is impossible for me to friends with. He is the typical Illustrado, he is from a rich, influential, political family. He is an heir who jet set all over the world and to study abroad. He is someone who had it easy due to lack of financial constraints. He has unlimited resources and the world, it seems, is like his playground.

But I can relate with him as well. He is someone who doesn’t lose hope for his country. Despite the insurmountable challenges, he is still optimistic that a brighter future will smile upon his countrymen. The only problem is that he doesn’t have a clear idea how he can help to make a change. His body is willing but his will is weak. And I think that is what the author was trying to show us. We can’t just expose the decay that is consuming us, we also have to take action and face it head on. We can’t just criticize our weaknesses, but we really have to improve the core or our morality.

My all time favorite Illustrado of all time is Dr. Jose Rizal. I think he is lucky to have the kind of family that he had. I think that Miguel failed to be the consummate ‘Enlightened One’ because unlike Rizal, his family doesn’t have a strong bond and a clear vision that should have supported him in his quest. The family of Rizal helped him realize and accomplish his mission in life, although it constantly put them in grave danger and gave them sufferings and heartaches.

I know that anyone will pale in comparison to the heroism and bravery of Jose Rizal. He is still the best Illustrado there is. A nation, and its’ people had never been that same after his death. The book of Miguel Syjuco, reminds us that if we are not willing to make real sacrifices, we might die the way Miguel did, who is full of hope, unfulfilled promises and good intentions but fell in the abyss of obscurity and darkness.

FLASHBACK 2/3: Filipino Pride

Appalled and Applaud

Work of Art

Michael Cinco's creation in the Philippine Fashion Week Holiday 2010.





A hidden slit in the middle of the seemingly weightless skirt allowed Ria Bolivar to lift it up and turn it over her head to reveal a square-paneled suit-front that mimics the toughness of ancient Oriental armory, with the cascade of light pink tulle and rose side hems adding volume, drama, and contrasting texture to the ingenious ensemble.

http://www.stylebible.ph

Inglourious Basterds

photo: www.time.com

63

The 63 City Building had an integral part in my all time favorite Korean Drama, My Girl.

Yu-Rin used to live in a tent near that building and she dreamed of visiting it in their school field trip one day. So she saved money for the entrance fee. But when her father decided to run away again, he took her money with him. Yu-rin was not able to save up for her dream again.

When she worked for Gong-chan and had a free day, she decided to finally visit the sky deck of the 63 City. Yu-rin was even more excited when he said that he is going to accompany her. After buying tickets for herself and her boss, Gong-chan received a call that his ex-girlfriend needs his help. He told Yu-rin that he needs to go but he will come back again. Yu-rin waited for him, but he did not return for he stayed at the side of his heart-sick and drunk ex-girlfriend.

Gong-chan was already having trouble dealing with his blossoming feelings for Yu-rin and the complications it created when they lied to his family that she is his missing cousin. While driving, he remembered Yu-rin telling him that if he has a problem, 'he doesn't have to go far, he just have to go way up.' So he took a sudden U-turn and visited the observatory of the 63 building to look down at the splendid view of the city.

Yu-rin was crushed with her growing feelings for Gong-chan and the impossibility of it because he has a perfect girlfriend and she being known as his cousin. She went to the sky deck of the 63 City and decided to call Gong-chan, who at that time was on the elevator of the same building. Yu-rin said that she can see him on his own office from the 63 tower and asked him to raise his arms to wave at her which he smiling and playfully oblige. She was already crying while talking with him on the phone and when she finally ended the call, that was the only time that she uttered the words that she was really meaning to tell him: 'Saranghae'. After the crying jag, she decided to leave the observatory, and in the elevator, she just missed Gon-chan who just alighted when she entered the one beside it. He was excited that Yu-rin was also in the same place. But he also did not notice her in the elevator, she already left as he arrived. Frustrated he asked himself: 'Is that one of your lies again, Yu-rin?'

Sniff. Sniff. Heart burn.

This coming October 27-31, 2010, I am betting P3,400 that I will visit the 63 Korean Life Insurance Building in Seoul, South Korea.

Beauty and Madness

I seriously considered not going to work last Thursday. There was an emergency. My Revlon Sand Beige Foundation run dry and there is nothing to cover my bare face. It was during the time that I had serious breakouts on my chin! One can say that my dilemma is nonsense. But everyday when I report to work, I have a complete coverage of my trusted foundation. It is a part of me trying to look put together and professional.

This is not vanity,it is a must. I am not gifted with pore less and flawless skin. I have to invest in good make-up to have a blemish free face. I can work even better and deal with people more if I know that I am at least presentable or pleasing to look at.

Since I was not blessed with the ‘standard’ beauty that proliferate the media. I have to invest not only with skin products but also with skin care. I have my trusted dermatology clinic to take care of my zits, breakouts and black heads. Thank goodness for Ms. Estella who patiently prick and scrub my face free of these impurities. So after almost an hour of torture, err, cleaning, just give it two days and I will finally have a clear face.

Dealing with the girls in my office reminds me of an important lesson about beauty. That is comes with variety of all shapes and sizes but all has its’ own unique and personal kind. One can say that the prettiest girl is M, who has the slender body, height of a model and face of a muse. But what makes her even more interesting was she is the silent and mysterious type. Then there is also M2 who has the voluptuous full figure and her friendliness and honesty endear her more to everyone. And there is C who is petite but her sassy outfits and sky-high stilettos make her stand out. Finally there is R who may be skinny but her incredible talent makes one think that there is more to her fragile look.

Unlike Charice Pempengco, I don’t feel any pressure to be perfect. But damn those people who criticized her of altering her full cheeks. She can do anything that would make her look and feel better because that is part of her job being an entertainer. And for us mortals, if we have the means, we have to take care of ourselves. This is not being superficial. Our looks can say many things about us without even uttering a word, that we are in good health, happy in life and ready to conquer the world.

Poor Paul ^^

www.time.com

At Last!

I am so excited about this. I can't wait to read it. It will be out this coming August 24 =)

Layers of Dreams

I dare say that Inception is one of the best movie ever made. I expect that it set a standard in smart film making the same way UP influence animation films and Avatar set the standard in special effects.
The movie reviews claim that the movie was really complicated that they compared it to a quiz and a puzzle. So I decided not to dwell with the complexity of the rules of Inception. I just took it as it is, they enter the dream of a person to plant, alter or get a memory. I just let myself be dazzled with the artificial beauty of the dream. I just accepted that their high tech equipment can just be put in a silver case and a drop of liquid can change the appearance of a man in the dream. The premise of the movie was outrageous, and that was the part of its' success, because moviegoers still believe.
Leonardo DiCaprio should have his first Oscar Best Actor award. He was already nominated but never won yet. Critics should realize soon how deep an actor he is, with a string of notable movies and brilliant acting. He once again shined in tackling the emotional mess that he is as Dom Cobb. He was the guilty husband, the longing father but he was also the headstrong leader of his group and a selfish brat. He is a complicated persona who I was mesmerized and sympathetic with.
Another actor that really impressed me was Joseph Gordon-Levitt. I discovered him in Inception the way I did with Johnny Depp in Pirates of the Carribean. I heard a great deal about him, particularly on his movie 500 Days of Summer. But I have to watch this movie for me to take notice. To say that he was awesome throughout the movie was an understatement. With Hans Zimmer's musical score, his scenes in the elevator was one of the coolest ever. I just fell in love with him as he battle it up against the projections, defied gravity, prepared the kick and rope his colleagues together. I think this role was a defining moment of his career and he should have more mainstream movies really soon.
The simultaneous events in the real world and in the layers of dreams was also exceptional. The slow motioned drop of the van, with the detailed shots of the team while being chased by the projection with their guns blazing while they are also endangered in dream land. It was amazing that they have to go all through that just to alter a memory. And the clever last shot of the movie was really controversial. Movie buffs can have debate or even write a thesis about it but it can never be resolved.
The action, drama, revelations and twist in the movie were all embedded to make it a benchmark, something that movie producers, writers and actors should aspire: excellence and nothing less.

Poxy Bride

The newly formed PM6 just had our first ever party together. We threw a bachelorette's bash for our dear colleague, Poxy. We congratulated her because she will get married to the love of her life. But the sad part is she is also going to resign from work. You see, her lucky guy, Rodrigo, is a Puerto Rican US soldier. So they are set to go to the States to settle down and start their family.
We decided to have a fun send-off party for her. We had some exciting games such as cucumber relay and 'eat the banana'. It was really fun because everyone was so into it and we had a good laugh. I was really pleased about it because we made Poxy happy and everyone was really cooperative (except for some girls from our group who just disappeared in the party). And Kevin made a caricature for Poxy which captured her sexy and sultry vibe.
I hope that this will only be the beginning of the fun times my team will have. And of course, we wish Poxy and Rodrigo a happy, exciting and God-centered marital life.

Orly Got Married

Don't Stop Believin'

Whew! I finally finished the drafts of the first and second chapters of my project study. I am really happy that I proved to myself that I could actually do it. I was starting to doubt myself if I can even survive with the two chapters. But apparently, I can!
I don’t want to fool myself, though. I have a long way to go. The good thing is my professor gave me valuable comments to further improve my work. There had been major changes about the statement of the problem and research paradigm even with the title of my study. In our consultation, she gave me good advice on how to do it better. So I am not lost in the dark, I am now more confident that I can really do this.
I know that my work is far from perfect, but I am challenging myself to step it up to present her my chapter three and the revised first two next week.
A lot of drama had been involved in my quest to finish my project study. It was really fun to write and then to read and reflect on it. But I have to focus on what I have to accomplish. An output, a hardcopy will all that matter.
I have to continue researching for theories and literature, and then make an outline for clarity. I have to rewrite my draft, check the grammar and make corrections. I have to discuss with my bosses my methodologies on how to evaluate the speaking skills of my students. Then if I can have the go signal from them, I can start conducting the test to my respondents.
Oh, my to-do-list is crazy. But who says that producing a project study while you are also working is easy? I just have to keep in mind that I should not stop believing that I can finish this before the last week of October. I’ll just take it one chapter at a time. Then hopefully I will just surprise myself that I am finally done.

ECLIPSEd

photo: www.e!.com

In the photo, Edward and Bella are reacting to an angry mob taunting them how their third movie sucks.(Kidding!)

I had been brutally honest when I reviewed the book version of New Moon. In a nutshell, I expressed my disappointment with the 'unsatisfying' battle of the Cullens and the werewolves against the new borns. I also thought that the pages of the book had been unnecessarily thick. And the back story about Jacob's tribe had been well detailed worth skipping.

I dare say that I liked the third movie way better than the book. The book had been too long to finish while the movie will end for two hours. The point, heart and essence of the pages had been more satisfactory compelled in the shorter version of the movie. Critics mercilessly panned New Moon. But I think it was as not as bad as they say it is.

It was made for the gazillion fans of the Twilight Saga. It is really not for everyone. One should care about Bella, Edward and Jacob to appreciate it. The first movie is still the superior among the three books and movies and it is unlikely that the two-part Breaking Dawn can surpass it. But will that stop me from watching it? Definitely not.

New Moon has a deeper emotional conflict as the triangle of a human, vampire and werewolf was presented. I still like everything about Edward. I adore the body physique of Jacob. And Bella is still okay. I like how they interacted with each other, the love, confusion, jealousy, betrayal and devotion. I am a fan of their love triangle which solicits chuckles, kilig, smile but sometimes eye-roll and pursed lips, for Bella, from me.

The best thing about this movie is that it also tackled showed the past lives the lovable members of the Cullen clan. I love Jasper and Alice and I was happy that they have more airtime as a couple this time around. Rose is also a compelling character and showing her tragic past explains a lot about her.

I always thought that the Cullens are like a superhero family. And in this movie, they were shown to be brave and strong, ripping the new borns into shreds. Aside from their strength, I also admire their ideologies about second chances and leading the hard but right path of life. And of course there is Dakota Fanning as Jane and the rest of the Volturi, menacing and threatening, casting dark clouds to the future of the Cullens; specifically Bella and Edward.

I will still hope that the last two movies will not be released only to rake millions of money. It is not for fan service, but also to give the high-quality of the movie that the fans deserve. The trio of Bella, Edward and Jacob should still continue to work on their acting chops and Summit media should invest more to the special effects. They still have two movies to finally get it right.

Red Reigned

Flashback 1/3: ALOHA!

The daily grind had been peaceful for half a year after the company's Christmas party. So to shake things up, the previous PM6 team led by TL Josie spearheaded an exciting office event, Mr. and Ms. Xepesys Earth 2010.



The good thing about having this party is that my former team, PM1 had a good bonding time for preparing for this. We showed team effort to make our head dresses and leis for the team. It was really good because our team spirit was really high. Everyone had a good, roaring fun.



I am just so proud with this sassy girl, Jena. She is our candidate for the pageant. I convinced her to represent our group and she accepted graciously. She represented our team glamourously with her poise, charm and wit.The crowd went wild in the presentation of the candidates. Everyone was floored with her sexy dance number.She was a leathal combination of beauty and talent that she won tha Ms. Close Up Smile award and earned a spot in the final round. And she epitomized grace under pressure as she impressed the panel of judges in the question and answer portion.



A number of candidates proved they have the guts, beauty and smarts. A lot of them had been a revelation. They captivated the audience with their beauty queen alter egos, making their respective teams cheering with pride. They flaunted their Hawaiin party-ready bodies, wowed everyone wih their talents and proved that they can handle any mind-boggling final question.



Congratulations to our representatives, Jena, for winning the well-deserved second runner-up and Ms. Close-up Smile; and Michael, with his funny, boy-next-door appeal landed him to first runner-up and Darling of the Crowd award. I will never forget how gamely you two did your best to represent our team; and for making that evening a truly special and unforgettable one.

Library Hopping

Time management had always been my problem, even in my project. I promised myself to wake up early but I was too exhausted from work. I took a mental note that I will work on it during my break time at work but I have to start conducting QA to my team, so it never happens.

The only free time that I have is every Saturday. And in the past two Saturdays, I have been successful in making progress on my chapter one. Last July 3, I discovered that I should also worry about my understanding of directions. I’ve mentioned that my class is going to have a field trip at the UP Diliman library. So I was there before 9:00 am, lo and behold, non-UP students are not permitted to even step foot on the library every weekend. Fuming will do me no good, so instead I just ate egg sandwich and drink C2 while enjoying the fun activities in the Sunken garden and jogging area. I decided to just go back to the UE Graduate school library that also boosts of good books about my topic, Distance Education. I took a jeepney with an MRT sign, which was a mistake because MRT is different from LRT, haha.

I ended up in GMA-Kamuning train station. I dare asked the security guard what station should I alight to go to Recto, he said that it will be on the second station. Seeing a CEU student in the carriage was a relief, I can just follow her! So that is what I did, I strutted my way around Araneta and Gateway mall, but I think she felt that someone was on her trail, she suddenly stopped dead and not wanting to be busted, I just continued prancing, following the flow of people who are obviously on their way to the train station.

On my way to the train, I realized that people don’t line up in the first carriage because it was for ‘special’ people. Believing the I was also one of them, someone who lost her way and needs to rest, I made my way into it, only to be warned by a security guard who was about to blow his whistle. I immediately shifted back, but giving the guy a ‘sweet and innocent’ sarcastic smile for doing his job well. =)

I was already comfortable in my place when I realized that I should have alighted from the station before Recto. So I need to go back! I cursed everyone on my way, but because I am no witch, there was no effect at all. I am already on a jeepney going back to UE when my classmate sent me a text message. And guess where they are…

They are in the National Library. I was like, ‘That is in Kalaw, I don’t know how to get there!’. After receiving a feeble answer from the guards, I made my way back to Recto, and then when I was too tired to continue my hike and still no jeeney going to Kalaw, I asked a barker. He told me a direction, I asked “Pwede bang lakarin?’, I think he said ‘yes’. And that was a fatal mistake.

It was so far! I even have to go to the underpass to cross to Isetan. When I saw the underpass, I muttered, “There is no way in hell I will go in that underpass.” But I did it anyway, almost running for my life. After that, the gods had their good laugh, they let me see a jeepney going to Kalaw. At last, I am on my way to my destination.

But there was no warning at all what my destination awaits me. It was hot as being inside an oven in that library. And I am not being a diva, it was really hot, how can people study well in that kind of temperature still baffles me. Instead of starting to look for my related literature, I sat down in the bench, stretched my poor legs and enjoyed the still humid air from an electric fan. I almost jumped for joy when I finally saw my dear professor and classmates. I hold my tongue before I can say “Can we go now?”, I think they also suffered enough and rewarded themselves to just go back to the comfortable, air-conditioned library of UE.

Our meeting yesterday was the opposite of my disastrous misadventures last week. My professor and classmates were nowhere to be seen. I learned from one of my classmate that we were supposed to be in the Ateneo library this time. But I have no intention to drag myself to Quezon City when I was in a roll in my chapter one in the comforts of UE library. Even though I am not with the Jesuits, I think I am in good hand because I am with the Red Warriors, where I think I belong, err, aside from the Marooners of course.

Paul the Psychic Octopus was Right?!

Head Games
Spain's Carles Puyol, right, heads the ball to score against the German side. They would win 1-0, sending the Spaniards to their nation's first ever World Cup finals appearance.

www.time.com

Personalized Heaven

My thoughtful friend, May, gave me an amazing book for my birthday. It’s Mitch Albom’s The Five People You Meet in Heaven. The book made me realize several things about life, death and beyond.

Eddie Maintenance is the hero in the book. He learned life’s lessons in his after life. He died in an accident in Ruby Pier where he works. But before he can have his own piece of heaven, he must first meet the five people whose lives intertwined with his.

First he met the Blue Man who told him “there are no random acts, that we are all connected. That you can no more separate one life from another than you can separate a breeze from the wind.” This is why you should be aware on how you treat others. What I do or say will affect others even if I am aware of it or not. I actually have a mantra about it, that everyday is an opportunity to be a blessing to someone.

Then his captain had been also waiting for him. What he shared with Eddie is that “sacrifice is a part of life. It’s supposed to be. It’s not something to regret. It is something to aspire.” I think it was my parents who sacrificed a lot for our family. My mom and dad worked really hard to support my sister and me. I got everything I need and want because they had been selfless. I had not made a major sacrifice in my life, but through Eddie’s captain and my parents, I learned its’ true meaning.

The third was Ruby, who explained to him why his father died and demanded from him that he must finally forgive his father. I am not a person who easily forgives and forgets. How can I forgive someone who hurt me and made me miserable? And then I remember that I also sinned against others. I also inflicted misery and pain to others. No one is perfect, so I need to give that person another chance, I need to forgive him and forget about it to have a clean slate.

Then he met the love of his life, his wife Marguerite. She reminded him that “Life has to end, love doesn’t.” Nothing is permanent in this world, not even the people who are important to us. They will leave us one day, or we might go on first. But that is not the end of it. They will be with us physically, but their love and memories will be seared in our hearts.

And the last door led her to a girl named Tala. Finally she revealed to him what was his life was all about. It was keeping the children safe in Ruby Pier by being the maintenance.

After reading the book, I reflected that life is a journey that we should enjoy. Everyday is a gift that we should be thankful of and make the most of it.

more than just a TOY STORY

Toy Story had become one of the best franchises of Disney. Woody, Buzz and the rest of the gang remained to be so lovable and surprisingly, relatable.

Andy is all grown-up and on his way to college. He decided to put all his toys in the attic while he will take Woody with him. But with some twist of fate, they ended in the seemingly perfect Sunnydale daycare. But soon they discovered that it was unjustly run by a cuddly but cunning pink Teddy Bear. It turned out that the paradise façade of their new ‘home’ is a prison, torture cell and labor camp rolled into one.

I especially like the humor of Toy Story 3. But I also appreciate its’ strong stance about social equality. We were once again reminded that dictatorship would only result to injustice and fear. The abusive leader will fall as his victims will unite and stand against him. When their fallen leader met his inevitable demise, there was a reform in the daycare. Every toy will have their time to be ‘played’ by the youngsters while those who worked will have a free time out and well-deserved massage. It seemed that the toys are now happier with the democratic reign of Ken and Barbie. If the toys can do it, I think we, in a human society can also follow suit.

The third movie also revealed why the toys, especially, Woody is crazy about Andy. He made a cool introduction for each toys. I felt that he really loves and cares for his toys even though he is now an adult as proven when he initially hesitated to give away Woody to the little girl. It is really hard to let go of something important to us, but sometimes life forces us do it. With a heavy heart, we must accept that it is for our own good and those who matters to us.

out-scored.out-played.out-classed.

Beaten
Germany's Miroslav Klose scores a goal past Argentina goalkeeper Sergio Romero. Germany won the match 4-0.

www.time.com

It's the Moment of Truth

...and they delivered, big time!

And So It Begins

I spent a decent amount of time yesterday in the UE library. It was my first meeting with my professor for my Project Study. I arrived at 2:00 pm and I don’t think she was pleased about that since my other classmates were there since morning. I hope she will let it slide since I charmed her in our short chat. Okay, that was just my wishful thinking. From my experience first impression really don’t last when it comes to school. It is a gradual process of presenting yourself as a serious and hardworking graduate school student.

So I diligently stayed in the library with my nose on the books. Taking down notes, reading books and most of the time scratching my head. Hey, I need time to let things sink in my skull. As I review the syllabus of the course, I already have an idea on what our professor expects from us. Aside from making us go loco, she wants us to do two things in the same time. She requires us to start researching for our academic paper while we will also have lessons on how to make an appropriate one in terms of language forms, rhetorical styles and red flags against plagiarism.

I think that the syllabus that she prepared will forcefully drive me out of my undergrad stupor. She has a lot of requirements that include group/pair works, reflection papers and quizzes. And if that is not enough, we will have a mid-term exam and oral presentation about the research that we hopefully had been still alive to work on. When we completed those feats, that’s the only time that we will focus on our research paper, which is to be completed from week ten to fifteen.

It is indeed a momentous task and I can’t be overwhelmed by it. If I will plan it properly, improve with my time management and deal with my ‘commitment’ issues, it will still be feasible. To cheer myself up, next Saturday, we are going to UP Diliman Library to do our initial research. Honestly, I was really not looking forward for the books stocked there. I was thinking that the UP campus would be a welcome change of scenery. Nothing will make it even more obvious that I have a goal and ‘now’ is the time to finally achieve it.