self-portrait

Love is Like a Puzzle

2011-08-02T08:15:00.002-06:00

2 years and almost 8 months is still short. Love can go on longer, perhaps forever? That is what I wanted from the start, when I asked, "Are we?", then you said, "We are."

Months later, I had to leave with my family to Canada. I have promised to come back for you, and you waited patiently for me. I came to visit you twice already in two years. The price was dear, but I am willing to pay it just to be with you for a while, just to see you smile.

On our second anniversary, you had this puzzle made as a gift, and a reminder to me about our love. You say a missing piece will make the puzzle set incomplete. Likewise, if one of us goes missing, our lives will not be complete. This is my entry to “Love as I see it". A project of www.islandrose.net flowers Philippines.

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2010-08-07T20:25:00.001-06:00

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"Patawad..."

2010-02-03T11:04:00.000-07:00

"Patawad..."

by phoisohnlily_028

Patawad sa pagiging manhid
Puso ko'y may salang bahid
Kung tayo ma'y makakawalay
Sa'yo pa rin puso ko na'y 'di hihiwalay

Patawad aking hirang
Hindi ko sinsadyang mag darang
Mahal kita ngayon, bukas, kailanman
Mamahalin kita magpakailanman

Basang-basa na ang aking unan
Hindi kita makakalimutan
Bigla-bigla kang pumapasok sa'king isipan
Hindi ko pa rin mawaring ako'y iyong nilisan

Maga na ang aking mga mata
Gusto na kitng makita at maksama
Mayakap saking bisig
Marinig muli ang iyong tinig

Biglang bumabalik masasayang pinagsamahang nagdan
Ngayong ako'y nasasabik pa'no na 'ko sa kasalukuyan

Sa Piling Mo

2010-01-29T09:52:00.000-07:00

Sa Piling Mo
ni phoisohnlily_028

Anino mo’y narito
sa loob ng puso ko.
Ang lahat ng sakin ay say,
isama mo na rin pati ang buhay ko.

Pahimlayin mo ako sa yong kandungan.
Hinding-hindi ako mag aalinlangan,
hindi ako mag ngingitngit,
hindi rin tatablan ng anumang galit.

Walang halong pangangatal,
alam kong tayo’y magtatagal,
sa piling mo’y walang takot.
Magtanong man sila isa lng ang sagot,
“Mahal na mahal kita.”

We Are...

2009-12-12T23:03:00.003-07:00

"We are two souls promised to share each other's heart until death."
-traveler

"Tayo ay ang dalawang pusong ligaw na tinadhana upang magsumpaang magamamahalan hanggang wakas."
- phoisohnlily

We are... ONE YEAR.

Apart-ness

2009-11-18T17:17:00.005-07:00

Apart-ness
by traveler

As miles of endless ocean
between both of us exist
All of the time I missed
diminished, migrating away
Became all a sad emotion
Ever since that ill-fated day.

Poverty sets us apart
we are stranded, cast-away,
through all year delayed.
How long would it take?
It fractures my fragile heart,
this much longer, can love even wait?

What help can Home do?
NO, It doesn't help, it seems
It is striving for Its dreams
family, house and happiness
a house for me, not for you.
Our guaranteed loneliness.

Malungkot Na Tugtog

2009-11-14T01:35:00.000-07:00

Malungkot Na Tugtog
ni traveler

Biyolin ko'y umiiyak,
pati rin ang aking puso,
kanta nito'y malungkot
dahil ikaw ay nasaktan ko.

Ako'y puyatan bawat gabi
dahil ikaw ang naaalala.
Ngunit ito ang natutugtog,
ang biyolin na naluluha.

Patawad ang pagsamo ko,
marinig sana muli ang kanta mo
At ako'y masayang tutugtog
dahil ikaw lang ang mahal ko.

Hiling - Silent Sanctuary

2009-11-13T01:01:00.003-07:00

A song for the broken heart...

Hiling
by Silent Sanctuary

Minsan di ko maiwasang isipan ka
Lalo na sa t'wing nag iisa
Ano na kaya balita sayo
Naiisip mo rin kaya ako

Simula nang ikaw ay mawala
Wala nang dahilan para lumuha
Damdamin pilit ko nang tinatago
Hinahanap ka parin ng aking puso
Parang kulang nga kapag ika'y wala

(Chorus)
At hihiling sa mga bituin
Na minsan pa sana ako'y iyong mahalin
Hihiling kahit dumilim
Ang aking daan na tatahakin
Patungo...

Ala-ala mong tinangay na ng hangin
Sa langit ko na lamang ba yayakapin
Nasan kana kaya, aasa ba sa wala

(Chorus)
At hihiling sa mga bituin
Na minsan pa sana ako'y iyong mahalin
Hihiling kahit dumilim
Ang aking daan na tatahakin
Patungo sa iyo, patungo sa iyo

Bridge:
Ipipikit ko ang aking mata dahil
Nais ka lamang mahagkan
Nais ko lamang masilalayan
Kahit alam kong tapos na
Kahit alam kong wala ka na...

(Chorus)
At hihiling sa mga bituin
Na minsan pa sana ako'y iyong mahalin
Hihiling kahit dumilim
Ang aking daan na tatahakin
Patungo sa iyo, patungo sa iyo

The Gulag

2009-11-13T00:50:00.002-07:00

"The Gulag"
by traveler

If this was the last poem
written by me for you
it would pain me more
if that was proven true
Because I trampled upon
your tenderly garden
and have brought about
unwanted detraction.
Cloudy days and cold
raining upon my head
of guilt and shame
my apologies I said.
When water is not enough
to quench your raging fire
what can mend your heart
In this moment dire?
Where are we? I ask
Is it this slight
enough for that
to set our love aside?
I am clothed with ice
and frost breaks me up
slowly paralyzing
and taking my life astop.
I am waiting for the words
and warmth that you once had
I wait in my frozen prison
I love you, it is that!
Lest you forget me
and turn your heart away,
My dear, I love you so
until my dying day.

Filipino Expat Chronicles - Halloween at Work

2009-11-06T11:47:00.003-07:00

Belated Jolly Halloween from Calgary! After *much* pondering and careful analysis of the events, I had decided to spend my Halloween in a fun place called work. It has been a looong time since I dressed up on a halloween... perhaps I grew up too fast, or just because it wasn't a culture in the Philippines. But in Western places like Canada, Halloween is celebrated in a secular and fun way. I guess this could let kids know more of Wicca, or just dress up for the fun of it. I decided to become like a child once more. Here are some pics...

Here's me as a Hunter, a L4D playable zombie character

My manager, dressed up as a surgeon zombie!
He's got yellow contacts, fake blood, latex bite marks effects and brush effects.

Heads up! Mutilated heads hanging above.

Novelty pumpkins, turned into cute 2-eyed spiders..

Patunayan - Silent Sanctuary

2009-11-05T09:33:00.002-07:00

Speechless. Let this song be my song for you.

Anghel Ng Buhay Ko

2009-10-19T23:08:00.004-06:00

Anghel Ng Buhay Ko
ni phoisohnlily_028

Ikaw ang nagsisilbing ilaw,
ang gabay na aking natatanaw.
Ikaw ang anghel ng buhay ko,
nagbibigay kasiyahan sa aking mundo.

Nakasama kita sa bawat oras,
handnag sumama lumipad kahit hanggang bukas.
Karamay tuwing nag-iisa,
kasama saan man magpunta.

Anghel ng buhay ko,
manatili ka lang s piling ko.
Ayokong ako'y iwan mo,
magbabago ang mundong ginagalawan ko.

Nasanay akong lagi kang nariyan,
Tanging anghel na nagbibigay kasiyahan.
Sana'y habang buhay kitang kasama,
para habang buhay maging maligaya.

In The Long Winter Night

2009-10-17T11:22:00.006-06:00

In The Long Winter Night
by traveller
for phoisohnlily_028

A blanket of darkness with me when I sleep
On a mat that has often seen me weep
while from my eyes, rivers of tears flow.
And my heart beating weakly in sorrow

What's to come? The brightest star
We both wish upon there afar
Light years away, how long does it take
a distance, the travel a wish to make?

Tomorrow never comes, like an eternal night
the winter coldness creeps in like frostbite.
I want to be with you and with you to stay
my light, my warmth, my love, my day.

Wala Na

2009-10-15T23:04:00.004-06:00

Wala Na
likha ni traveler

Wala! wala! Wala na!
Ang kabuhayan ko pa ang kinuha!
Walang magawa, hindi nag-uusap,
Nakatunganga sa mga ulap.

Bakit nga ba, O Diyos ko?
hindi Mo ba ito gusto?
Matagal na ako naghihintay,
lanta na ang buhay na 'Yong bigay.

Sa una, tao's ay sumasayaw,
masaya ang kanyang bawat galaw.
Ngunit, dahil sa sobrang kabaitan,
pinautang na loob, hindi binayaran.

Kaya sige lang, hipan lang ng hipan,
sa lobo ng kanyang kalooban.
Isang araw, na hindi na niya kaya
at sumabog na lang ang galit niya.

Ang malas pa, sumabay pa ang panahon!
Umaasa sa wala, ngunit hindi makaahon
sa dagat ng buhay, ay kahirapan!
Tangay ng alon, walang pupuntahan.

Saan na ang kinabukasan,
tahimik na nabubulok sa isipan,
walang imik, walang kibo,
tumigas na ang aking puso.

Hindi natutupad ang mga gusto ko
sapagkat iba ang gusto ng ibang tao
Tinadhana ako upang magdusa
Wala. wala. wala na.

I Will Be Here - Piano Cover

2009-10-12T22:27:00.002-06:00

I dedicate this song to my love, with whom I would like to share my life with. Happy monthsary, and may there be countless more.

And as the seasons are made for change and our lifetimes are made for years, I will be here. We'll be together forever.

Kismet - Silent Sanctuary

2009-10-08T09:39:00.005-06:00

A song dedicated to my special one I love. Long distance relationship IS hard. The distance should be overcome, but why is it that my heart aches? All my life, I have not been given a chance to express myself, and why even now, when it was given, we have to be separated? I guess life is totally unfair.

video courtesy of YouTube:

Kismet
by Silent Sanctuary

Didn’t mean to take you for granted
Didn’t mean to show i don’t care
Didn’t mean to throw away this once in a lifetime of chance
Being with you

And I’ll drive for 2 hours
To bring butterfingers
I don’t mind the distance
This kismet’s a dance

This time i surrender
My everything forever
Life doesn’t matter
Just our souls together

Pride no longer has room in me
On bended knees in public i cry
Your name for everyone to know that i love you, i love you
Please hear me now

And I’ll drive for 2 hours
To bring butterfingers
I don’t mind the distance
This kismet’s a dance

This time i surrender
My everything forever
Life doesn’t matter
Just our souls together

Verse of Longing

2009-10-03T01:18:00.004-06:00

As it is here, I do not find
a single poem to hear
and what I seek, the warmest words
of my beloved dear

Please Help

2009-09-30T07:27:00.015-06:00

Typhoon 'Ondoy' has long passed by the Philippines, yet its trail of destruction it has took around 240 lives, and has displaced hundreds of thousands. Metro Manila is in a state of calamity, where in hard-hit areas, entire houses were swallowed by the flood, and survivors have lost their all their possessions.

For some reason, I wasn't able to see the occurrences first-hand, by the fact that we have migrated to Canada 5 months ago. Is it fate that saved our family from the wrath of Ondoy? Even if I was away, I desired to risk my life to save those in distress when I saw this on the news. But lo, even if I was there, I would chicken out at the last minute. But I had to help, as a Filipino, and as a Christian. God inspired me to help the relief efforts with some of my savings.

I plead for whoever reads this blog to help our country from the turmoil. Pray for our country, the Philippines, and/or send aid through the Philippine National Red Cross at http://www.redcross.org.ph/.

We appreciate any efforts you can give, and thank you.

Unethical Commenting - YouTube Style

2009-09-26T10:18:00.003-06:00

As a music fan, I appreciate fellow musicians' efforts to express their talents. However, I am upset in how other "musicians" react to how cover musicians perform. Here is the video (courtesy of YouTube and amacatan), which shows a band performing These Days by Bamboo:

These are the comments for the video:

lawrenzit:
kapag bamboo ang inyong tutugtugin~~~~!!~!!!! plss.....vocalist lalo!! galaw galaw..ampota...parang bakla!! ndi ka nagaya ke bamboo./...hyper!! at nga pala..act like professional para ndi obvious~~ shit..

sxenn11029:
galing niyo mgkalat exept un basista...
hahaha...
halatadong pakute lng
vocalist niyo...
kng dito s baguio kau 2mg2g
cgrdong bbtuhin
kau ng mga manunuod...
tsk tsk...
kya mgimprove nlng kau...

vahnasuelo
gling ng lead nyo ahh.. Galing MAGKALAT.... Anyways, ung bahista lang ang kuhang kuha ung tunog.. you should polish your talent dude... sa lead guitar nyo... palitan n yan... hindi ung instrument.. ung musician itself.. XD

rightz06:
parang and daming hater d2 sa youtube.
buti nga ng post eh,,

In the world now *governed* by freedom of speech, one is likely to condemn another as an inferior being. But when posting comment, please, be ethical!

On Diploma-Mills

2009-09-24T23:04:00.002-06:00

In the September 25 Editorial of Philippine Star, it decries the lack of quality of some Filipino higher educational institutions (HEI's), in particular, law schools. However, this is not the only field where HEI's graduates don't even make the mark. I am pretty sure that there are these "diploma mills" in nursing, education, HRM, IT, and so on and so forth. While in culture, Filipinos believe that education is the solution to poverty, these "diploma mills" charge these poor families a fortune.

THE EFFECT IS CLEAR: Our education is branded "THIRD-WORLD" because of the conceived "diploma-mill effect" of the Philippines. Yes, college grads here do not get the same treatment as college grads back at home. :(

Filipino Expat Chronicles - Random Photos of Calgary

2009-09-21T20:45:00.003-06:00

"Ground Zero"
(July 20, 2009)

Cycle path
(September 7, 2009)

I thought Klamath was a place only in Fallout 2...
(September 7, 2009)

"Ayis"
(September 8, 2009)

A Cute Ladybug

(September 3, 2009)

Filipino Expat Chronicles - Glenmore Resovoir

2009-09-14T08:54:00.003-06:00

Me and a couple of my Filipino co-workers went on a short biking trip after work. It was almost evening, so we wanted to catch the sunset on the lakeside. Back and forth, it was approximately 12 kilometers, but we spent most of the time shutterbugging. Good times!

Ruth, Oliver, and I

The beautiful sunset

Tranquil waters

"Noruko" and I at the yacht dock

Geese happily swimming

It is a lot of fun to socialize with friends... something that I haven't thought I could do here. It just shows that I am slowly growing into the niche. Just have to enjoy everyday here!

Does God Exist? - a TV Ad

2009-09-09T08:14:00.002-06:00

One of my fears of the looming education-religion crisis is the removal of free practice of religion. Classrooms would become centers of atheism, and if the government would continue this, whole countries would become atheists. Scientists and professiors, or at least some of them, detest the existence of God. but here's a video that would change your mind.

The Kegon Dream

2009-09-05T20:51:00.004-06:00

The Kegon Dream
by the traveler

And so it seems distant
Too impossible it may seem
A vision in the cosmos
In the lofts, the fragile dream.

The stars, they fall into place
However shattered and broken
Pick them up, too painful to hold
Frustration is just as sudden.

Retreating inward, never to speak
Sullen solitude in the forest
A student's poem on a tree
Ever-reaching for the best

The inert suppression.
The joyous prevarication.

Reminds Me...

2009-08-28T11:09:00.003-06:00

"Pumapatak Nanaman Ang Ulan", UP Concert Choir, August 2006. Milton Keynes England.

No I wasn't there, but I dreamed that I could organize something like this.
This reminds me that I am a frustrated musician. LOL

Is It My Stupor

2009-08-27T20:51:00.004-06:00

After four months here, nothing much has been changing. I have seen sources that younger people are ahead of me, either with better jobs or are studying higher college and would graduate soon, thus having a secure future. I DON'T KNOW. I JUST DON'T KNOW WHERE I AM HEADED. It just frustrates me. Sure, people can say that God has a plan, but like a candle, my patience is being consumed drop by drop.

But considering that Christ wants from us a relationship, not a religion. Like a brother, I should trust Him that everything will be OK. But as long as I die in grace, I will be good.

I'm not stupid. I'm just misguided, inexperienced, and wrong-timed.

I've got to rest now because I have a splitting headache. #: /

Forevermore - Side A

2009-08-25T08:45:00.003-06:00

Long distance relationships are one of the greatest trials a couple has to face. This is the type of situation where one party has to go to a far place, leaving the other party behind for a valid and important reason. They opt to maintain their relationship by TRUSTING in each other and in HOPING to be together soon.

This song is dedicated to my dear Cris:

Forevermore
by Side A
www.lyrics007.com/Side%20A%20Lyrics/Forevermore%20Lyrics.html -

There are times
When I just want to look at your face
With the stars in the night
There are times
When i just want to feel your embrace
On a cold night

Refrain
I just can't believe
that you are mine now

Chorus
You were just a dream that i once knew
I never thought i would be right for you
I just can't compare you with anything in this world
You're all i need to be forevermore
All those years
I long to hold you in my arms
I've been dreaming of you every night
I've been watching all the stars that fall down
Wishing you will be mine

(repeat refrain & chorus)

Bridge
Time & again
There are these changes that we cannot end
As sure as time keeps goin on & on
My love for you will be forevermore

(refrain & chorus except last line)

As endless as forever
Our love will stay together
You are all i need to be with forevermore
(as endless as forever)
(our love will stay together)
You are all i need to be with forevermore.

Candlestick, My Dear Candlestick

2009-08-24T10:03:00.004-06:00

Candlestick, My Dear Candlestick
by the traveler

Candlestick, my dear Candlestick,
keep the cold darkness far from me
stay right here, closer, by my side
light from you flicker tenderly

Passing the days become so weak
Giving yourself consumes your life
Hang on there, my dear Candlestick
Dripping away to give us light.

Candlestick, breathing, struggles on
keeping the perfect glow, your burn
You have become too short to be.
Goes to the point of no return

Candlestick? Why, dear Candlestick?
Why did you leave us without you?
Sorry that we depend too much.
Gone now, if only we had knew.

Nature's Wrath at Sea

2009-08-23T22:12:00.003-06:00

Nature's Wrath at Sea
by the traveler

With a speck of light in the horizon,
a flash of light and thunderclap rips the clouds
a foghorn echoing through the frigid air
where it dares to steal the warmth within
and replace it with an jagged edge of ice.

Fighting the powers of nature is futile
The madness of the storm raises the water
like fire ants creeping up the cliff,
the waves meet
crest and trough
pounding and pounding
pulverized sediments break off
with the ocean drawing closer
and closer it comes.
The vain attempt to stop nature.

The tumultuous tides rushing in
swallowing the stony shore, incomprehensible
but what is reality, they are lies.
Just dark. All cold.

Filipino Expat Chronicles - The Uphill Struggle

2009-08-22T01:17:00.005-06:00

It has been a month since I embarked on a leisure biking trip. This one is special, because I had my brother come along.

We took the Fish Creek route to Sikome Lake - took us like an 45 minutes from entry to destination.

A person hauling a croc?! Inflatable, that is. LOL

Me and my brother. We went north following the Bow River's west bank...

... and then south following its east bank. One of the hardest part we encountered is the steep uphill sections on the southbound Bow River Path. We had to stop at the crest of the uphill to rest for a while. But lo, what a wonderful view it was!

Just like in life, we all have our obstacles. We would feel like "burnt-out" and would like to quit. Well, it is normal to feel tired after exerting effort to your endeavors, but don't quit. Just look at yourself, and lo, what an accomplishment! You have gone a long way battling the difficulties - that is what makes you glorious.

Tragedy of a Mother

2009-08-14T23:13:00.007-06:00

Tragedy of a Mother

A Tribute to Mary, Mater Dolorosa
who patiently bore the sufferings
of her son and of her sacrifices
until her Assumption.

One Friday morn, she wakes in dread
a nightmare shook her rest in bed
T'was just a dream, she hoped and sighed
It's not like that my son will die.

Her phone then rings - it's the police,
You have to come here quickly, please
We need you here. And that is when
The eyes of fear then welled again

She dashed outside to catch a ride
The chill, it bit her through inside.
It's strange, it seems, that place is filled
with people, gathered, grave and stilled.

To watch the scene, her heart, it aches
yet softly, shattered will it breaks
Amidst the furious crowd she cries,
when lo, her child, her precious, dies.

The weight and pain of what she bore,
She had for long, but is no more.
But then... Oh dear, it's all a dream.
She loves her son... from her heart's stream.

Kahit Kailan - Southborder

2009-08-12T23:23:00.004-06:00

One of my favorite songs - dedicated to my beloved one. "Kahit Kailan" connotes as "Forever" - and the lyrics say, I will never leave you.

Kahit Kailan
by Southborder

Nagtatanong ang isip
Di raw maintindihan
Kung anong nararamdaman
Dapat mong malaman
Sa puso ko'y ikaw lamang
Ang nag iisa...

Pangangamba
Dapat bang isipin
Walang hanggan
Asahan mo na...

Kahit kailan
Di kita iiwan
Kahit kailan
Di kita pababayaan
Kahit kailan
Kahit kailan...

Bulong ng yung damdamin
Pagibig na walang hanggan
Ang siyang nais kong makamtan
Ngayon ay narito ako
Handang umibig sa iyo
Na walang katapusan...

Pangangamba
Dapat bang isipin?
Walang hanggan
Asahan mo na...

Kahit kailan
Di kita iiwan
Di kita pababayaan
Kahit kailan
Kahit kailan...

Kung ikaw ay mawala sa piling ko
Di na alam kung kakayanin pa kayang
Umibig bang muli
Kahit na ano pang mangyayari
Di maaring ipag-balik
Sasamahan pa kita
Hanggang sa huli.......

Kahit kailan
Di kita iiwan
Kahit kailan
Di kita pababayaan
Kahit kailan
Di magbabago
Kahit kailan
Kahit kailan

Haircut Day!

2009-08-09T21:29:00.001-06:00

Before haircut

After haircut

Hungry for An Answer

2009-08-09T09:27:00.006-06:00

Do you feel disappointed and useless? discouraged or emotional? Read the story...

Disappointment and uselessness. Pain and despair. Elijah looks over the wilderness and sits under a furze bush, swallowing his dry saliva. Hungry. Thirsty. But above that, he feels the burden of his memories of his past - and reflecting on himself, he is a weakling, a loser, a nobody. He thinks that his parents, if they was still alive, would disown him because since he had never done anything right, it is shameful for them to say, "Oh, this is my son". Elijah wants no more of this, so he said, "Lord, I don't want to live any longer! Just take my life! I want to die!". He wanted to cry, but his body is too dehydrated to spare even some tears. Then in his hunger, he falls asleep, hoping that he will die there.

"Get up," someone says to Elijah, touching his shoulder. "Get up and eat."

Elijah jolts up in surprise, but nobody is there. Just as he is about to wipe cold sweat from his forehead, he sees some bread on a stone and and a jar of water beside him. He is puzzled, yet hungry, so he takes some of his bread, and eats them, and finishes them all. After drinking the refreshing water, he falls asleep again.

"Get up," the same voice calls to him, and touches his shoulder. "Get up and eat, or else the journey will be too long."

Elijah wakes up again, and again, finds nobody, except some more of that bread. The jar is filled up again, too. So he eats, wondering what this encounter might mean, until the bread is all finished, and drank all the water. He is filled with energy, and gets up to continue his walk to the place called Horeb, where he will meet God.

Do you notice how tired and hungry you can get when you get mad or disappointed? Like what happened to Elijah. He wanted to die because he was disappointed and discouraged. Why? Because it was like his life was going nowhere. He wanted an answer.

God did soon reveal that answer. But say if he died right at that moment, would he have received that purpose?

So to all my readers, have courage! Don't be hasty. Continue to ask God for answers - and listen well to them, because might never notice them. And for those who are losing hope, God is always with you, and don't let Him down! There will be the right time.

God Bless.

Why Work?

2009-08-03T22:06:00.002-06:00

For three months now, I have been employed, and this is a humbling experience not to achieve my goals and expectations in my work: simply because I feel that I should deserve better. With all the beefing up I did to attain a college degree, isn't it time for me to reap what I have sown? Then why am I still "tilling the soil" and living on a marginal wage?

These questions bother me. But I admit, I am still fathoms away from the "educational standard" of Canada. I am not smart at all, am I am an inexperienced whelp struggling to flap its wings but unable to fly. In the meanwhile, I bunked in the hole where I labor for hours and days. Oh how I wish I could have a better job, but still, I am not good enough.

My pride gets over me because of the nature of job. I work... but for what? Hearing last Sunday's gospel, a passage helped me think over the questions in my mind.

Jesus said:

"Do not work for food that cannot last,

but work for food that endures to eternal life,

the kind of food the Son of Man is offering you,

for on him the Father, God himself, has set his seal."
John 6:27

It is because of lust of money that drives people crazy over work. People like to earn more for equal or less work. but as Catholics, we should actually work not for the sake of gathering money or fame, but for personal sanctification and ultimately, the salvation of souls. Considering my work is trivial compared to those in the offices, I still find it humbling and trying me in a crucible, removing all bad intentions, so that my work will not be for the love of money, but for the love of God.

We should all seek God, especially at work, where the world is built upon. let us sanctify the world, and work for the bread of everlasting life.

‘I am the bread of life.

He who comes to me will never be hungry;

he who believes in me will never thirst.’
John 6:35b

Bleak Thanksgiving

2009-07-31T23:21:00.005-06:00

Bleak Thanksgiving
by the Traveler

Though sweat and blood have been paid
remuneration
reward
compensation
T'is a better lot over the worse
idle
asleep
dormant
So having gratitude to sheer luck
from the gray mist
from uncertainty
from despair
and surviving the onslaught
not so
not yet
the end.

Panalangin - Moonstar88

2009-07-22T01:04:00.003-06:00

for phoisohnlily...

Love entails sacrifice... True love waits, and I am preparing for what we would live through together. So this is for you...

Panalangin
by Moonstar88
original song by APO Hiking Society

Panalangin ko sa habang buhay
Makapiling ka, makasama ka
Yan ang panalangin ko-oh
At hindi papayag, ang pusong ito
Mawala ka, sa ‘king piling
Mahal ko iyong dinggin

At wala ng iba pang mas mahalaga
Sa tamis na dulot ng pag-ibig
Nating dal’wa…
Sana naman makikinig ka
Kapag aking sasabihin
Minamahal kita

Panalangin..

Panalangin ko sa habang buhay
Makapiling ka, makasama ka
Yan ang panalangin ko
At hindi papayag, ang pusong ito
Mawala ka, sa ‘king piling
Mahal ko iyong dinggin

At wala ng iba pang mas mahalaga
Sa tamis na dulot ng pag-ibig
Nating dal’wa
Sana naman makikinig ka
Kapag aking sasabihin
Minamahal kita

Panalangin ko sa habang buhay
Makapiling ka, makasama ka
Yan ang panalangin ko-oh
At hindi papayag, ang pusong ito
Mawala ka, sa ‘king piling
Mahal ko, iyong dinggin

Panalangin ko sa habang buhay
Makapiling ka, makasama ka
Yan ang panalangin ko-oh
At hindi papayag, ang pusong ito
Mawala ka, sa ‘king piling
Mahal ko iyong dinggin

Panalangin, panalangin...

Next Time

2009-07-20T00:58:00.002-06:00

Next Time - Haiku
by Traveler

Leaves fall from branches,
Compelled to find their meaning
Yet to no success.

I have not much met
with you, Love, too busy at work
Thus is my regret.

My apologies
and so i will make it up
like blossoming trees.

Crazy A Capella

2009-07-19T00:08:00.002-06:00

Reminds me of the old days of the college choir. LOL

2 HOLD UR HAND 1S MOR

2009-07-13T00:00:00.001-06:00

2 HOLD UR HAND 1S MOR
by Traveler
for phoisohnlily_028

Hello again, my dearly beloved one.
How are you today? Are you OK?
Doing fine? Hope you are well,
Because I think about you everyday.

From the other end of the world
I see you through glassy eyes
Then black and white comes alive
Through a virtual paradise

Promises, poetry, and love songs
Words of love, letter by letter.
But to hold your hand once more,
Nothing could be much sweeter.

I could stay up all night long
To talk and share what's in my heart
Just to spend my time with you
Even if we're a thousand miles apart

It is morning already, i should sleep,
Goodbye, take care, send my regards, too.
Yes, one more thing you should know
I love you, i love you, i love you.

My Comment to Atheists (Part 2)

2009-07-10T22:26:00.008-06:00

What Comes After Death?

Atheists are very intelligent. So intelligent perhaps, that I would be silenced after a short debate about the existence of God (but I would keep my God, thank Him I am divinely stubborn as a weed). I don't want to be blind that Catholics (and Christians) believe mysteries that cannot be answered by logic, and is unrealistic, and may not exist. It is a losing battle for me, but maybe we can skip the topic of argument for a while and talk about what people hate talking about: DEATH.

For everybody, DEATH is inevitable, and is the end of a person's life. Even if you escape from death many times, there will come a point when your body will cease to function by itself (unless you are an atomic robot).

For those who believe in God, DEATH is NOT PASSING AWAY. It is PASSING OVER. No matter how different religions see death as, there is what we call, life after death. Whether it is the Christian's Heaven, Purgatory and Hell, or the Buddhist's Nirvana, we rely on the principle of the reward of those who renounce evil. It is simple - if you want to die well and have a good ending, do good to others in your life. If not, it is the Highway for you.

Morrie Schwartz said this in Mitch Albom's book, Tuesdays with Morrie:

“Learn how to live, and you'll know how to die; learn how to die, and you'll learn how to live.”

This is true, in the fact that you will appreciate life more if you see where you want to be when you die.

What does this have to do with God? Well, probably, God governs death. Probably, maybe not. EVEN MORE PROBABLY, Heaven and Hell does not exist, and so God does not, too. PROBABLY ALSO, you may be right, and I am wrong about God, and you can enjoy your life as bad as you want to be. But let's put it in this illustration:

God, according to John, exists, and does good.
God, however according to Riley, does not exist, and wastes his life in vice.
Both die sooner or later.
If God does not exist, then both John and Riley get the same lot.
But if God exists, then John is saved. Riley, well, he was given the chance, but he did not take it.

Who do you think has more chances of a better lot?

This is not to scare you. I am not coercing anybody to become Christians. It is still your choice, and you have the chance.

end of part 2.

coming for part 3 - Who is the Church if There is No Salvation Outside It?

To The Princess of Blue

2009-07-08T19:40:00.009-06:00

from wikimedia commons

To The Princess of Blue
By Traveler for phoisohnlily_28

How long will this torment last?
Only a while, I suppose, but beg you
wait some more, be patient, my dear
time holds me bound, suffering too.
I sought for you, and learned so
That even blue roses have thorns
And to pick one for you, one day soon
even if I would suffer more.

Impossibility it might seem, but not,
don't give up, don't let go
don't lose hope. Being alone
will be my greatest woe.
No matter how far it may seem
our reunion is very certain
though time and distance wears your patience
my love for you in me is written.

My dream, to share my tomorrow
with you, dear, and never part
to be yours and to hold my hands
Is my prayer deep in my heart.
Such in time, should you consider me worthy
of being your chivalrous prince
I shall rejoice and hope you will too,
For my heart was true ever since.

My Comment to Atheists (Part 1)

2009-07-06T09:56:00.007-06:00

Atheism
and The "Schizophrenic" Christian
FEEL FREE TO COMMENT ON THIS POST. PLEASE REACT.

Yes, I have realized that in this world. there are many people who have fallen out of faith, or at least born and raised without faith. I have been reading an ex-Christian's blog post (ragingrev.com), and in that post, though the thought is logical, I am disgusted about his final point on saying theists (Christians, Muslims, Hindus, Jews, etc.) are mentally handicapped people.

"Like me, those seeking a relationship with God are simply fooling themselves and doing so with good intentions. The fact that one can make his god real and experience him like one experiences the aspects of reality makes that man-made god (all gods are man made) an image of its creator and therefore susceptible to his volition. A seeker in any faith will create a personal God and eventually that God will either justify every whim of that individual or lead him to insanity in trying to please it. This is called schizophrenia."

WHAT?!? First of all (on the "justify every whim" statement) I don't know about other religions, but we Christians have rules that are within good conduct and ethical practices.
Second, you just said in that post that true Christianity is a relationship, not a religion. You are implying that Christianity is all religion.
Are we retards by believing in God? Just because you don't believe in God anymore does not give you the right to label us schizophrenics!
To conclude, here is a story depicting why atheists do not believe.

An atheist and a Christian was arguing on the existence of God. After some time, the atheist said, "I'm going home. I don't see God, you must be delusional, I am not believing."
The Christian, noticing the wind, asked him, "Do you see the wind?"
"No," replied the atheist.
"But do you know that there is wind?" he asked him again.
"Of course," the atheist said in a sarcastic tone, "there is because I can feel it."
"Then you are fooling yourself," the Christian replied, "God is like the wind. We don't see Him, but we can feel Him, but you are so closed to what is not visible."

end of part 1.

coming for part 2 - What comes after death?

Phoenix of the Ego

2009-07-06T00:13:00.003-06:00

Phoenix of the Ego
by the Traveler

What is in this world that burns in hatred of me?
like a witch at the stake at the bloodthirsty fanatics
flames licking the accused one's feet - till consumed.
It is the darkness looming over the horizon
clouds gather, severe weather, even grayer
than before, so to put out the blaze
in the haze of red, let it rain to soften my heart
and let me rise from the soaked ashes.

###

Does anybody care?
...
Only me and my God.

Golden Vow

2009-07-03T00:52:00.002-06:00

Golden Vow
For Iya and Lolo
By Aries Arevalo

Going steady
getting ready
the love, somehow
bound by vow.

Not caressing
but was struggling
ten years, sweat from brow
the faithful vow.

Oh yes, convinced
twenty years since
of gifts God endow
With the vow.

Thirty thereafter
never to falter
a family like a bough
secured by vow.

Forty years more
not like before
God had to allow
a stronger vow.

Together for fifty
realized plenty
a stronger love now
The golden vow.

The Tin Roof of Humanity

2009-07-02T03:06:00.002-06:00

The Tin Roof of Humanity
by Aries Arevalo

Like rocks were raining on July
the darkest clouds were in the sky
The air so cold, phenomenon
A storm unnatural was drawn

The tin roof finds no peace at all
From all the icy shower fall
The stormy front, it strikes and hails
reminds me of the cries and wails

The storm I hear, I am appalled
For I, a veteran, recalled
The hailstones pound like flak and guns
just like those days, those bombing runs.

I lived through nineteen forty five
within a shelter to survive
It was those days, when red and white
has damped the sun and stars with blight.

Then when the sun had fallen down
So too the empire lost its crown
But victor blue found colder beds
when it had fought against the reds

The battles that were fought this war
in jungles, highlands, waters are
But greater fear is to be seen
when nuclear almost took the scene.

I always felt the world would cease,
and people screamed for love and peace
But seems the reds have took its toll
And down it goes, just like the wall.

For gold and oil, then blue-coats vied
and people of crescent cried,
"We arm ourselves, we fight to death"
In Allah's name we give our breath."

And up to now, I hear the pleas
of many thousand refugees
across the world, like rain and hail
the countless people tell their tale.

I've lived to hear of many wars
for resource, land, for minds and pow'rs.
But even though it's noble aim,
A war's a war, they're all the same.

The sky above is never clear
of clouds and rain and hail severe
and on the roof of tin the sound
"Forgotten peace is to be found."

Filipino Expat Chronicles - Lake Sikome

2009-06-29T10:10:00.002-06:00

Howdy folks! Yesterday, we decided to make the day special by going to the beach, Lake Sikome. Wait, a beach by the lake? Yup, that's right. It's an artificial beach by an man-made lake.

This is brother standing under the shade.
The sun was high, but the water was cold.

You can see that the grass is unusually close to the waterline.

In this beach, you can swim, play in the sand making sandcastles...

... or picnic on the grass under the shade.

Suddenness of Death

2009-06-28T08:23:00.003-06:00

image from http://www.topnews.in/light/people/michael-jackson

Michael Jackson, the King of Pop, has just recently died, and created such a commotion in the entertainment world. Calgary Sun's headlines flashed the question, "WHY?" with the picture with Michael and some candles in memory of him. I haven't read the article, but I figure that people are saddened by his passing away. Many people tell me that, too, but I cannot answer if I am sad, too because I am not.

A year ago, grandpa died, and uncle died. In their wakes and funerals, even if I tried, I could never cry, because of my idea of death - the Christian view. In the Apostle's Creed which is the summary of our faith, it contains, "I believe in the resurrection of the body and everlasting life."

This Sunday's gospel is about Jesus raising up Jairus' daughter. “Why this commotion and weeping? The child is not dead but asleep," Jesus said, yet people made fun of him because they did not believe. But Jesus gave her life.

If someone dies a natural death, it must be that person's time to go. I wouldn't be sad about that. But a question remains: what if her or his life was taken away by someone else while it was not his/her time? Then that is the time I would be sad, angry, and grieving. But I still have faith because God is merciful and is powerful to cleanse the souls of those who died, so that they may enjoy the rest of heaven.

So I say, have faith in God. May God give him eternal peace.

Panaginip? Katotohanan?

2009-06-23T07:58:00.003-06:00

"Panaginip? Katotohanan?"
by Phoisohnlily_28

Isang magandang kaharian,
Mga rosas na nagagandahan.
Bigla mo 'kong hinalikan,
Alam kong ako'y iyong babalikan.

Unti-unti kang naglalaho
Para akong nanlumo.
Nawala bigla ang nakita kong kagandahan
Nabalot bigla ng kadiliman ang kaharian.

Nas'an ka na aking hirang,
Isa ba itong pamamaalam?
Hihintayin kita, aking hirang,
Pabaon ko sayo'y wagas na pagmamahal.

Bumukas ang kalangitan,
Bumuhos ang malakas na ulan,
Pangalan mo'y pinagsigawan,
Rinig ng buong kaharian.

Sabi mo'y 'di ako iiwan,
Pangako mo'y magpakailanman.
Gisingin mo na ako, sinta,
Gusto na kitang makita.

Makasama habang-buhay,
Sa pilng mo'y mahihimlay.
Kahit gaano pa katagal,
Harangan man ng batalyong sagabal.

Maghihintay at mangangako,
Magtitiwala at magmamahal,
Ikaw aking kabalyerong hari,
Puso ko sayo'y may luwalhati.

Iaalay buong buhay sa paghihintay,
Sa kaharian kahit mamatay.
Mga pangako nati'y patotohanan,
Mapapatuyan ito sa buong kaharian.

Invitation, R.S.V.P.

2009-06-20T07:59:00.006-06:00

image courtesy of http://www.conwasa.demon.co.uk/miabfb.htm

Invitation, R.S.V.P.
by the Traveller

I'm just one none would care about,
just like a ghost of some lost name
but am still wishing for tonight
sit with me by the candle flame.

'spite the pangs of desperation,
and tomorrow's sky is vague,
all I ask don't lose hope in us
lest we've both the amnesia plague.

Until the oceans all dry up,
until the earth stops spinning,
I will wait for your reply
to become my never-ending.

While pleading on my wounded knees,
and stretching out my trebling hands
an invitation to my heart
and to come to this lifelong dance.

Aking Liyag

2009-06-15T10:17:00.002-06:00

"Aking Liyag"
by Phoisohnlily_28

Asul na paruparong lumilipad
Kung saan-saan napapadpad
Kaya niya kayang lumipad
Patungo sa'yo aking liyag.

Hawakan mong mabuti ang aking kamay
Sabay tayong mahihimlay
Sa bahagharing makulay
Hanggang abutin ng bukang-liwayway.

Sa buong sangkatauhan
Gusto kong ipagsigawan
Ipahayag ang tunay na nararamdman

Na kailan may 'di kita iiwan.

Faith in Darkness

2009-06-14T21:57:00.006-06:00

I had a dream last night, which was like I doubted my faith. It seems like my patience wears thin on Where is God? Where is He in this darkness?

I do not understand the cause of my sufferings and separation, my pains and problems, my woundedness and weaknesses. It all remains a mystery. But in the song, "God of Silence" by Manoling Francisco, SJ, God speaks in the song:

"Be still the torment of the night
Will not encumber you, if you believe
My child this darkness isn’t emptiness
For here I mold your heart
Unto My image painfully you long to see

The self you yearn to be, but fear to know
The world from which you flee in Me find home
All these I give you, if you remain in Me"

And thus the "night" in me should not be emptiness... Even in the darkness, God is there, making us stronger - ONLY IF WE BELIEVE.

Today is The Feast of Corpus Christi. Jesus is the Bread of Life, and every time we receive Him, we are healed. But here's the catch: the Eucharist is a sacrament that works ONLY WHEN WE BELIEVE IN ITS POWER TO HEAL.

I still believe that You CAN change this darkness into light, Lord. As You have said, I pray, "Take this cup away from me, but if it is Your will, let it be done."

Kundiman - Silent Sanctuary

2009-06-13T00:00:00.000-06:00

I just miss my love... Anyway this post is dedicated to her. Happy monthsary!

(note: Kundiman (originally spelled Cundiman) is a genre of traditional Filipino love songs. The lyrics of the Kundiman are written in Tagalog. The melody is characterized by a smooth, flowing and gentle rhythm with dramatic intervals. Kundiman was the traditional means of serenade in the Philippines. - wikipedia)

Kundiman
by Silent Sanctuary

Para kang asukal
Sintamis mong magmahal
Para kang pintura
Buhay ko ikaw ang nagpinta
Para kang unan
Pinapainit mo ang aking tiyan
Para kang kumot na yumayakap
Sa tuwing ako'y nalulungkot

(refrain)
Kaya't wag magtataka
Kung bakit ayaw kitang mawala

(chorus)
Kung hindi man tayo hanggang dulo
Wag mong kalimutan
Nandito lang ako
Laging umaalalay
Di ako lalayo
Dahil ang tanging panalangin ko ay ikaw

Di baleng maghapon umulan
Basta't ikaw ang sasandalan
Liwanag ng lumulubog na araw
Kay sarap pagmasdan
Lalo na pag nasisinagan ang iyong mukha
Hinding-hindi magsasawa
Ayoko ng magsawa

(repeat refrain & chorus)

(bridge)
Bahala na, ayoko muna magsalita
Hayaan na muna natin ang hatol ng tadhana

Fighting for Freedom, Fighting for What?

2009-06-12T10:10:00.003-06:00

Last May 2, 2009 has been once again, a fresh victory for Manny Pacquiao when he viciously knocked down the English contender, Ricky Hatton. Also, it has been another fresh victory for the Filipinos around the world. News of the stunning Filipino win rippled over the internet, giving pride to the Filipino people. True, Manny Pacquiao’s entourage bore the Philippine flag and filled the arena with the Filipino fervour. The rock-hard courage and bamboo-like strength is radiated through Manny’s work that even some non-Filipinos hailed Pacquiao’s win as “incredible”. Manny not just fought for himself – he fought for the Filipinos.

Manny fights in behalf of the Filipino people, but he is not alone in the fight. Though he is the one standing out of the crowd, he is just one of the many Filipinos around the world radiating the Filipino Spirit to all the nations. They are carriers of the country’s courage and brilliance, and are thus the modern-day fighters of freedom.

This June 12 of the year 2009 marks the Philippines’ 111th year of declaring independence, when, for the first time, the Philippine flag was waved in Kawit, Cavite. While the Lupang Hinirang is played, the crowd cheered for the end of the Spanish oppressive rule. Our forefathers loved freedom and wanted to give the Filipinos what is good for them, and they never gave up on that love. That love was passed down from generation to generation, from Emilio Aguinaldo’s fight against the occupying Spaniards up to Ninoy Aquino’s struggle against the ruthless Marcos regime. Our heroes loved being Filipinos, and they wanted the Filipinos to stand up for themselves.

To love is to fight for someone, or something. Each one of us has to be able to love. It is not easy to fight for a noble cause because what we lay down on the line is not just our minds, but our whole being. Perhaps for Overseas Filipino Workers in Europe, America, the Middle East, they fight for their family’s survival. Maybe for the youth, they fight for education, so that they would be equipped to fight for the nation’s future.

But in reality, where has the effort of our heroes’ love for our country led to? Where is liberty if the Filipinos are guided, or rather, misguided by falsehood and anomalies in the administration? Where is freedom if voices are silenced by the extra-judicial killings? Where is independence if we are under the constant economic and internal political pressures, and the country distrusts its leaders?

The Philippines is drowned by the ocean of corruption and discord. But despite this, our status as “independent” is a reminder that we must be more responsible with the freedom that our heroes fought for. It should be like a simple sign of maturity, and not large billboard flaring but has nothing to show. This big word would have no meaning if we were to abuse that for glamour and glory. To be independent should mean to love, or rather, to fight for the common good of the Filipino people.

What is independence, then? Independence and freedom is what our fathers fought for. But the independence is not a name for the Filipinos to brag about, nor just a badge of courage for show. It is a sign of responsibility to love and to fight for the good of neighbour. Filipinos are for Filipinos, freedom fighters, fighters for each other.

Filipino Expat Chronicles - Lost. No, Just Exploring.

2009-06-10T23:10:00.005-06:00

As much as biking is one of my hobbies, I am fond of getting lost. No. Just exploring. Here are some pics of my lone adventure in Fish Creek Provincial Park.

Aries with "Noruko"

Nothing but blue, green and gray with yellow line.

D'oh! A deer!

The extent of my adventure

On the way back, the bridge crossing the Bow River.

Nothing beats solitude and fresh air of nature, and communing with the creation of God. But a note to travelers, know where you are going, and consult a map!

Like life, without a guide, we would be lost. That is why there is God to help us through thick and thin. If you feel lost, just pray - and He'll show you the way!

Filipino Expat Chronicles - Snow in Summer

2009-06-05T23:12:00.004-06:00

Calgary is a cold place. Yes, it snows in summer - but maybe once a summer.

It disappoints me. I planned to go biking tomorrow. But snow suddenly set in - and will come tomorrow.

Plans. They are just plans. But God, like the snow, unexpectedly comes in, and changes what you would do for the day. Or on large scale, your entire life.

Filipino Expat Chronicles - Work Shots

2009-06-01T22:45:00.004-06:00

Balloon Penguin. Our manager "Steph" has a knack in twisting balloons into different artwork, and he is also nifty with magic tricks that he shows us occasionally.

Maki Sushi Oishi from Sushi-Q. Delicious and filling, these seafood rolled with seaweed and rice are compact with impact - especially with wasabi paste.

Breaktime! Strawberry Cheesecake Blizzard, so sweet, so cold, and so DQ.

Charismatic Christianity and The Church - Where Is The Holy Spirit?

2009-05-31T22:08:00.000-06:00

And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in different tongues, as the Spirit enabled them to proclaim. (Acts 2:4)

This Sunday is Pentecost Sunday, the birthday of the Church, or rather more importantly, the celebration of the empowerment of the Church to proclaim.

Fr. Andrew Maruszczak in his homily (May 31, 2009) compared the Holy Spirit as a hand that makes a glove move, and a guide who does not only explain the way to go, but also accompanies you to that place. The Holy Spirit is popularly called the Advocate because it made the people speak about Jesus Christ. This is proclaiming by words. But a problem now in the Church is the drain of enthusiasm of the Sacraments. Instead, they go to charismatic Christian churches. Why don't they attend the Holy Mass anymore?

I know several people here who attend the Jesus Is Lord Church. One even invited me to join. I said to myself, "I have nothing against non-Catholics, but I am happy being a Catholic." But I wonder more, "Why are charismatic Christian sects attractive that it turns sedate Catholics to attend these worships more than the Holy Mass?". I theorize (with people agreeing to it) that these sects make use of songs and dance and clapping. One even says that she prays better that way, unlike the formula prayers which are read out or memorized.

But here is St. James' popular response - "As the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without deeds is dead" (James 2:26). Faith without doing good is bogus. A person who faithfully attends worship or goes to Mass, but still chooses to get hooked on vices, are in a slimy situation. So whether Christian or Catholic, if one lives by worship alone, it is pointless.

So this settles the quarrel. I don't feel that JIL is right for me. And I cannot even join a parish ministry because of work schedules. But if you remember in my previous Sunday reflection, I wrote about proclaiming by doing. I guess that is my way of proclaiming - not by zeal of worship, but by practical goodness and doing ordinary things in an extraordinary way.

Let the Holy Spirit renew me, and be the hands in my gloves to do God's will. God bless us all.

Filipino Expat Chronicles - Trash-Talkers

2009-05-29T20:50:00.014-06:00

I was biking up a hill along James Mckevitt Road a while ago, when something annoying happened.

A white teenager girl in a car (probably in a joyride with her friends) that passed me up the slope shouted out the window, "You'll never get up this hill!"

Let's see about that.

Fifteen minutes later near Evergreen along Fishcreek Drive, I met them again. Boy, how I surprised her! She shouted again, but what the heck. I don't care what she said.

I guess some people of Calgary underestimate the Filipino people. We stand on equal footing as you guys, since Whites, Africans, Malays, Latinos, and Orients are all immigrants here.

If they would still put us down, go ahead, we would be humbled being who we are, Filipino, and for many, Christians. And we would suffer quietly as we do our work while the oppressors waste their effort trash-talking.

I pray for those youth that they would see God face to face. (-_-)

Filipino Expat Chronicles - Chinatown, Eau Claire Market

2009-05-27T00:03:00.003-06:00

Today, I decided to go out to have some fresh, Calgarian air. Since I was looking for bicycles, I was told by my brother to look in Eau Claire Market, where Good Life Bicycles sell for less. I decided that was my destination.

Eau Claire Market - there's free wi-fi there, so next time, I should bring my computer, too! Yup, Unfortunately, I would have to wait for my next paycheck to buy a bike. In Good Life Bikes, they are selling second-hand bikes for less than $200 - refurbished and all. They sell all sorts of bicycles - road bikes, mountain bikes, comfort bikes, tandem bikes - you name it.

Chinese Cultural Centre - Reminds me of Hong Kong.

Chinese Cultural Centre - Looks so Taoist.

Waterfront Ave. SW. - Chinatown, the calligraphy is Chinese.

May Is For Our Mother

2009-05-24T23:27:00.000-06:00

All around, I notice flowers growing on front lawns and stray dandelion flowers, and May is known for blossoming flowers. This is the gift of Spring, the new life after the cold, and dead-gloomy winter. When May is around, everybody is alive.

I guess I can connect this to the reason why May is for mothers. Yes, as May brings new life, it was through our mothers where we came to life. We were born through them, and we are alive because of the loving care of mothers. We are brought out from the womb to the world, just as the first bulbs burst forth.

Today is the feast day of Mary, the Help of Christians. I have been raised in a Salesian setting since high school, and we were taught that every child who comes to a Don Bosco school is personally brought by Mother Mary. Since then, I believed that I have a purpose why I was inculcated with Filipino Salesian values, especially with the faith in Our Loving Mother, who helps those in dilemma.

The Month of May is specially marked for mothers, especially the Most Blessed Mother of all. Let us say, Happy Mother's Day, Mama Mary!

Mary, Help of Christians, pray for us.

To Be Jesus

2009-05-24T19:55:00.006-06:00

Summary from the homily of Fr. Nelson Antao.
Feast of The Ascension of Our Lord
St. Patrick's Parish, Calgary
May 24, 2009

Two brothers were waiting for breakfast at the dining table. Mother was cooking pancakes, but the boys were hungry.
"I will have the first pancake," said the older brother.
"No, I'll have the first pancake!" insisted the younger one.
The mother, knowing that the two would start shouting soon, asked both of them, "Let me ask you boys something. What would Jesus do if He was in your place?"
The two boys fell silent. The mother, with a tender but firm tone to drive a point, continued, "He would say, 'Let my brother have the first pancake.'"
"If that's the case," the older brother said to his younger brother, "you will be Jesus."

To be Jesus... When Jesus left, he instructed the apostles to be His witnesses. And it is passed down to us. By being Jesus Christ to the world, we make known His name to the world.

But here's a funny thought. In spreading the name of Jesus, do we tell our colleagues, "Come here and let me tell you the Good News."? Nowadays, we couldn't tell others to believe this, believe that, do this, do that, and so on... Yes, we are called to be witnesses to Jesus, but we are also called to be do things by examples. If people see the goodness in how we work, they would wonder, "How does he/she being a Christian make him/her a better and happier worker?" Then they would search up in the internet and learn about who Jesus Christ is.

It is ordinary to be selfish.
It is ordinary to sneak away for extended working breaks.
It is ordinary to have the first seat in the bus.
It is ordinary to have all these pleasures.
But it is extraordinary to give to others.
It is extraordinary to be the last.
It is extraordinary to be Jesus.

Conflict of Permanence and Transience in Work

2009-05-22T11:32:00.008-06:00

I have noticed that these past days are getting repetitive and routine. I wake up, eat, go to work, come back home, eat, go online, then sleep. Then the same thing happens the next day. I wake up, eat, go to work, come back home, eat, go online, then sleep. It is so routine, that I want to get a vacation, which is rather unacceptable because I have started working for just 3 weeks, not even a month!

I looked up to the senior staff who are working more hours, and I wanted to work more. However, thinking that my present job is a temporary job while waiting for my papers to be finished in the Philippines, I should not, at any rate, make myself permanent in my present work. But the catch is, I should keep myself busy and help with the household expenses by working.

Don Bosco said, "An idle mind is the workshop of the devil." That is why I want to make myself busy before I hopefully begin re-studying. I'll keep working, but there will be one time that I would have to stop.

Some Original Thoughts of Aries

2009-05-19T23:05:00.005-06:00

"Life is like food. You'll never appreciate its essence until you taste it, and eat it."

"Life is like a song - so full of meaning, only if you stop and listen well to it."

"I find it easier to trust my close friends than the most secured banks."

"Money is not the root of all evil, it is selfishness."

"If people call you a loser, just remember that you can be a winner in someone else's eyes."

Filipino Expat Chronicles - Edmonton Visit

2009-05-18T00:06:00.005-06:00

Ahh... a walk down memory lane, in Edmonton, where we stayed at in our first time in Canada. But noticeably, there are new buildings along this road which I have not seen - and new furniture in my aunts house (check it out, it is Guitar Hero!). Canada is developing even through the economic recession.

Oh look, a Ford GT40! It's like Gran Turismo came alive! LOL

Got to sleep now.. Got a shift on Monday, Victoria Day... Godbless!

Adaptability

2009-05-14T01:11:00.006-06:00

photo by Tom Harpel @ wikimedia commons

"Be like water making its way through cracks. Do not be assertive, but adjust to the object, and you shall find a way round or through it. If nothing within you stays rigid, outward things will disclose themselves."
- Bruce Lee, martial artist

I believe being flexible is the best virtue one should possess. In every plan, there would be factors that cannot be negotiated with. Adapting with the situation is needed. If you can't go through an obstacle, go around it. Being flexible would save time and effort, and maybe is the difference between life and death.

What Are The Toxic People?

2009-05-13T10:47:00.006-06:00

Toxic people - they are dangerous people in the workplace and in relationships. They drain the morale of the people surrounding him, and release negative energy in turn. I myself am aware that I am also one of these toxic people. If you know somebody who might be toxic, or if you think you are toxic, click on this link:

http://valleyofthesubconscious.blogspot.com/2008/11/dont-let-toxic-people-thrive-on-you.html

I'm Lucky To Have A Job

2009-05-12T10:13:00.005-06:00

“Those who do not work should not eat.” (2 Thessalonians 3:10)

Obviously, because if you don't work, you'll not earn money - and you cannot buy food. Hehe... I'm lucky I have work. I should not complain about it, because I know people who are in a more difficult situation than I am. Let us pray for the unemployed, that they may find blessings of livelihood

Poem for All Mothers

2009-05-09T23:39:00.004-06:00

"Mother and Child" by Oniasco
Oil and Canvas

Yakap
Para sa lahat ng mga ina
akda ni troubadour

May mga taon na lumipas
na hindi namin malilimutan
ang mga ala-ala na di kumukupas
hindi tatalikuran kailanman

Kahit magkawalay ang mga ulap
Maski kung magkalayo ang mundo
Ang mga puso niyong niyakap
Ay nagpapasalamat sa inyo

What the...??

2009-05-07T14:27:00.005-06:00

I just wonder what that hand in glove figure means.

poster from Prostaid Calgary

Filipino Expat Chronicles - First Day of Work

2009-05-05T20:38:00.006-06:00

Yup. First day of work. My training day. And tons of lessons. Dealing with people, money, and ice cream. Teamwork. My boss's motto: "I Don't Play Fair. I Play Smart."

Before I started working, I prayed to my Lord to guide my actions for the glory of God. This is for sure.

Ora Est Labora : Work Is Prayer.

Today, I have learned so much.

Everyday is a new learning experience.

Tomorrow is another lesson, even for the most experienced worker.

Welcome to the world of professionalism.

God bless!

The Good Shepherd

2009-05-04T01:39:00.003-06:00

Retold from the homily of Fr. Andrew Maruszczak, SDS, May 3, 2009:

Once, there was a man who was passing by a field with sheep grazing on it. The shepherd was standing nearby, watching over the sheep, when the man approached him.

"I'll bet $100 or one of your sheep if I could guess how many sheep you have," said the man to the shepherd.

The shepherd, thinking that he is the only person who knows the exact number of his sheep, said, "Sure."

The man looked about the field where sheep are, and after a minute, he said, "I guess that you have 279 sheep."

The shepherd almost stumbled at this, as he was caught aghast. "You are absolutely correct!" he said. So the sly man picked one of creatures up and placed in upon his shoulders.

"How can that person actually guess how many sheep I have?", he asked. The man said, "I just know," as he turned and started to walk away.

But the shepherd thought of an idea and stopped him, "Wait! I'll make a bet for my sheep if I could guess what your work is."

"Fine."

The shepherd looked him in the eye, and after a careful examination, he said, "You are a tax analyst."

The man almost stumbled at this, and asked, "You are right! How did you know that?"

The shepherd said, "I'll tell you if you would only put down my dog from your shoulders."

This is just a short post... Yeah. That guy was just owned on the spot. The shepherd knows his sheep. Hahaha... Joking aside, this Sunday was Good Shepherd Sunday. Part of the intentions read in the mass was for more religious and missionary vocations. I suddenly remembered my seminary days... :'(

Nevertheless, I also remembered one reflection I had when I was in the seminary. Being a Shepherd is being a Servant-Leader. Ir requires that you would be selfless - that you should be ready to face the challenges, and that all your decisions would be for the people, and not for yourself.

Sadly, in our country, the Philippines, there are leaders who are corrupt and selfish. There are politicians having many assets and money - from laundering, commission, kickbacks, etc...

A hero - the good shepherd - is yet to rise to rout the sickness of the nation which is strangling itself to death.

John 10:14-15
I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me - just as the Father knows me and I know the Father — and I lay down my life for the sheep.

Oh, just noticed a while ago... Before the final blessing, Fr. Andrew said, "The Mass is never ending, it is continuing everytime."

God Bless.

Filipino Expat Chronicles - Good News, But Still Searching

2009-05-02T22:43:00.009-06:00

One week has almost past since we came here. Last Friday, I went to downtown Calgary to apply for employment agencies. It was my first time to venture the city center alone. After some asking around and getting confused with the road system, I managed to find my way to my destinations and back. But the sad thing is, as explained by the receptionist in one of the firms I applied for, there are so many people who have already passed their resume's, and those people are more experienced workers who are looking for jobs in the midst of the recession.

I contemplated the misfortune I am in. Though I am not alone, I want to be independent, and I want to show that I don't have to depend on my family to reach my goals. I am already 20, and I don't want to be burdens to my family. I believed that Canada is a good place to live in. But with the course of this week, my expectations are being proved untrue.

But one phone call gave me a spark of hope. It was from a friend of kuya. He told me that my application for work has been approved, though only part time. I was so elated, that I even forgot to ask how much would they give me!

I now have a part-time job, for a change, and for a start. Tito says that it is good enough start for a new immigrant, and people say that when things get better when the recession eases over, the jobs would come rolling in.

But with my family, the plot just gets thicker. My dad told me a while ago, employers want people with skills. However, my brother has a different view, that employers want people with experience. I was caught in the middle of a discussion of opinions, between my dad who has been managing an engineering branch outside Canada, and my brother who started out small and is now quickly climbing the ranks of a banking company for the past year. Both sides are credible, but since they are my family, I am pressured to follow. That made me want crap up myself, because in the first place,

EMPLOYMENT HERE IS REALLY SLOW,

and

I HAVE ALMOST ZERO WORKING EXPERIENCE.

I don't want to be a bummer, nor be a total leech to my family. I have to work, but I have to have the credentials (screw the snail-paced Philippine processing of papers). But at the end I am still holding on to my faith in God that He would lead me to His will.If He does not allow me to be a teacher, fine. But the question is, where is He taking me? I do not know, and I will only know if I die happily. God Bless

Filipino Expat Chronicles - Reality Bites

2009-04-30T23:59:00.000-06:00

Today, I went job hunting again.

And again, no luck for me.

by K.boroshko

It seems that reality bites, really hard, actually. The global economic recession hit Canada so hard that some companies went bankrupt, and lots of people got laid off. At calgary.kijiji.com, the "jobs" section is filled with posts of people looking for jobs, hoping that someone would pick them. A while ago, my brother and I went to the mall looking for "Now Hiring" or "Help Wanted" signs. I passed application forms and resumés to the different shops. A friend of kuya, who is a manager of a food stall in that mall, could have taken me in, but the place is full, and several also have given their resumes. The competition is tough, and if I am faint-hearted, surely I would NEVER get a job.

Tomorrow, I would be doing the same thing. I'll be going downtown to the employment agency, just with the hope that there would be something in store for me.

My reflection today is the same as yesterday. Never give up. Patience. But I believe that someday, just someday, help would come from above. If this is God's test, then I should not give up. I still have dreams of the future, and that keeps me going. Help us, O Lord. God bless.

Filipino Expat Chronicles: Job Hunting

2009-04-29T22:52:00.002-06:00

One of the first things that an immigrant here in Canada should do is to get a Social Insurance Number or an SIN. In the Philippines, it is the equivalent to the Taxpayers Identification Number (I think it should not be called Taxpayers, but Victims of Corruption).

Next on my list is to look for a job.

But it seems that today, I'm not so lucky.

This proves the saying true, that "Patience is a virtue"

and

"Do Your Best, and God Will Do The Rest."

I believe that God is good, that He never lets us down in distressing times. Even if I am still a fresh grad looking for a job but having no luck in finding one, tomorrow is another story, and God is really cooking up something.

But if in some case we screw up somewhere along the road, we should not be discouraged. God wants us to be happy. We can be happy if we love and trust God, putting things in their proper perspective, looking not as mas sees it, but as God sees it. And as far as I know, even if we are screwing up most of the time, we are God's cute little children trying to wrestle with the challenges. We would not know what He's up to, so just have faith in the Father... Do not fret. God bless!

Filipino Expat Chronicles - On Climate, Resumes and Dishwashers

2009-04-28T10:44:00.003-06:00

It is our third day here in Calgary, and we are still getting used to the new lifestyle and climate. Yesterday, I went out to explore the commercial centers around our neighborhood. I felt the one-digit temperature here biting through my coat and clothes! It was so cold that I couldn't even talk straight because my lips were numb, too!

Last night, I was told by my brother to try finding a job. He narrated his experience as a new immigrant here, how he had to take jobs at McDonald's and Wal-Mart, and finally landing in a position in a bank. I'm still finding courage to step out the door and ask the shops if they have openings. Hopefully, I could find one.

And right now, we are fascinated by a new contraption in our household: the dishwasher. Dishwashers have not been in our vocabulary, since such things are non-existent in the Philippines. We had to do the dishes manually, even if it took half an hour to take off the grease from plastic bowls. Because we are used to hand-washing, we don't know how to operate the dishwasher. We are still experimenting and exploring the controls of that machine. LOL

A final thought: I miss the Philippines, but I'm not crying. :)

The Filipino Diaspora: My Short and Humble Insight.

2009-04-27T10:48:00.006-06:00

Some ages ago, there was a bunch of people who moved in a place somewhere in the Middle East. Actually, they did not move in, but they argued with the residents there, claiming that the place belonged to them given by their father to them. When the residents refused to move out, these people broke in and forced the residents out. Afterward, people grew jealous of them, and forced them out, too.

This is the story of the Jewish people, when they were forced out of their place and had nowhere to go except away. This is the diaspora - the scattering of the people.

The Philippine diaspora is similar to the Jewish one, except that the thing that forced the Filipinos away is a dream. This dream is to have a better life, which they say cannot be earned in their own country, so they go to greener pastures. People consider themselves lucky if they are able to settle in the first-world countries. However, some people call it selfishness, others call it cowardice. As for me, I call my mission here a noble one because I am away from my friends, who are a part of my heart. Yes, I would meet new friends, but those left behind have a special seat in me. But I have a promise to return to them and help my country. That is what makes it noble.

Just yesterday, our family had arrived in Calgary, and is now settling down in the apartment of my brother. We were greeted by my dad's cousin who lives nearby, as well as by some late afternoon snow. Right now it is still snowing. Calgary is cold. Brrrr!

Anyway, I just pray that everything will be alright for us here. God bless us all!

dNeero - Boyle-n' Over!

2009-04-21T17:53:00.001-06:00

Journal Sketches (10)

2009-04-14T19:29:00.002-06:00

The Rose for Love.

Parting Time.

Easter Reflection: Jesus is Alive, and So Are We!

2009-04-12T03:15:00.003-06:00

Col 3:1-4

Brothers and sisters:
If you were raised with Christ, seek what is above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. Think of what is above, not of what is on earth.
For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. When Christ, your life, appears, then you, too, will appear with him in glory.

Today is the day the Lord has made, so let us rejoice, for the Lord is alive! Some days ago, he showed his love for us by laying down his life to erase our mistakes and wrongs. God died for us. After when we think that it is over, there came a shock! God became alive again! He showed us that He has dominion over death.

Jesus tells us, "I love you this much," by dying. And by rising, he tells us, "I love you this much, that I can't help but to be with you." Jesus fulfilled God's plan of saving us by His resurrection. But it is not yet done: we are yet to experience the resurrection after we die, or when Christ comes again. When that time comes, God gives us a glorified life - heaven. And this is made possible by the Supreme Sacrifice, and His Glorious Resurrection.

Here's an e-mail I've got from my cousin...

There once was a man named George Thomas, pastor in a small New Englandtown. One Easter Sunday morning he came to the Church carrying a rusty, bent, old bird cage, and set it by the pulpit. Eyebrows were raised and, as if in response, Pastor Thomas began to speak..."I was walking through town yesterday when I saw a young boy coming toward me swinging this bird cage. On the bottom of the cage were three little wild birds, shivering with cold and fright. I stopped the lad and asked, "What you got there, son?" "Just some old birds," came the reply.

"What are you gonna do with them?" I asked.

"Take 'em home and have fun with 'em," he answered. "I'm gonna tease 'em and pull out their feathers to make 'em fight. I'm gonna have a real good time" "But you'll get tired of those birds sooner or later. What will you do?"

"Oh, I got some cats," said the little boy. "They like birds. I'll take 'em to them."

The pastor was silent for a moment. "How much do you want for those birds, son?"

"Huh?? !!! Why, you don't want them birds, mister. They're just plain old field birds. They don't sing. They ain't even pretty!"

"How much?" the pastor asked again.

The boy sized up the pastor as if he were crazy and said, "$10?"

The pastor reached in his pocket and took out a ten dollar bill. He placed it in the boy's hand. In a flash, the boy was gone.

The pastor picked up the cage and gently carried it to the end of the alley where there was a tree and a grassy spot Setting the cage down, he opened the door, and by softly tapping the bars persuaded the birds out, setting them free.

Well, that explained the empty bird cage on the pulpit, and then the pastor began to tell this story.

One day Satan and Jesus were having a conversation. Satan had just come from the Garden of Eden, and he was gloating and boasting. "Yes, sir, I just caught the world full of people down there. Set me a trap, used bait I knew they couldn't resist. Got 'em all!"

"What are you going to do with them?" Jesus asked.

Satan replied, "Oh, I'm gonna have fun! I'm gonna teach them how to marry and divorce each other, how to hate and abuse each other, how to drink and smoke and curse. I'm gonna teach them how to invent guns and bombs and kill each other. I'm really gonna have fun!"

"And what will you do when you get done with them?" Jesus asked. "Oh, I'll kill 'em," Satan glared proudly.

"How much do you want for them?" Jesus asked

"Oh, you don't want those people. They ain't no good. Why, you'll take them and they'll just hate you. They'll spit on you, curse you and kill you. You don't want those people!!"

"How much?" He asked again.

Satan looked at Jesus and sneered, "All your blood, tears and your life."

Jesus said, "DONE!"

Then He paid the price.

HAPPY EASTER TO ALL!

Journal Sketches (9)

2009-04-07T19:26:00.001-06:00

The Finish Line.

Let Jesus Be Your Best Friend

2009-04-05T02:27:00.004-06:00

I was in the seminary one day, and I saw Renen, one of the TVET students, painting the Risen Christ. He was asked to paint the picture to be used in the Holy Week services in our school. Well, that prompted me to ask myself, "How am I going with Jesus?".

Perhaps these past days, I've been hung up with many ordeals, while counting the days of being with my friends, who I would be leaving behind. I admit, I've been too busy with them. Saying farewell, giving remembrances, hugs, throwing parties, but neglecting the one who loved me even before I was born - God. Perhaps because He never leaves me behind, but I think He feels bad because I forget to greet Him every morning when I wake up and instead text my girlfriend.

Today is Passion Sunday - the start of the holiest week in the Catholic year. This Friday, we would be celebrating the greatest love of all, which is to give up your life for your friends. Here's a thought for this Holy Week:

He was treated like a king when He entered Jerusalem. But things turned ugly. Because of our sins, we turned this:

to this:

and this:

He died for us.

Do you feel how much He loves you?

Pacific Advance (ad2)

2009-04-02T19:19:00.002-06:00

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Fast Cash Online (ad 2)

2009-04-02T19:06:00.003-06:00

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Uber Amazing Blog Award

2009-04-02T01:52:00.003-06:00

Wew! A blogger friend by the name of Pinkoy gave me a UBER AMAZING BLOG award just some hours ago... it was unexpected, since I was seriously doing some paperworks. Maybe it's God's way of saying "Relax"! LOL Thank you Pinkoy!

Uber (synonym for Super) Amazing Blog Award is a blog award given to sites that:
a) Inspire you
b) Make you smile and laugh
c) Or maybe give amazing information
d) A great read
e) Have amazing designs
f) And any other reasons you can think of that make them uber amazing.

I'm passing this award to brother DONNIE!

Journal Sketches (8)

2009-03-30T18:46:00.002-06:00

Paalam na. This is the title page of the new volume. The man is cautiously walking on the beach to his bangka in the cover of the night, so that nobody would see him leave. Soon, I would leave and live as an expat...

Lamp on the sill.

Graduation Day

2009-03-30T04:45:00.006-06:00

Last Saturday, 26th of March, 2009, was a milestone - GRADUATION DAY {see news here}. After four years of painstaking study, I finally completed the course. Now it is time for the real world.

The theme of our graduation is "Believe in Greater Things". That means a lot, but the bottom line is that only ourselves can find out what those Greater Things are. God? Money? Family? It basically starts from the self. If we believe in ourselves, then we can step up to the challenge.

Some days before the day, I asked my friend Jerome about some inspiring thoughts. He gave some: "Never grow tired of dreaming. Cherish your relationships. Value your friendships." If you stop dreaming, you stop believing, then you lose hope. Don't stop believing in yourself.

I'll be gone for Canada soon. I would bring along my diploma and medal, but whether I like it or not, I would also bring along my permanent identification as a BOSCONIAN. Bosconians are called to be major protagonists of change in society, to be good and honest citizens, to be cheerful youth for youth. Most of all, Bosconians don't lose hope. They are born for greater things. We are born for greater things. Once a Bosconian, always a Bosconian.

Virus Attack in my USB - and tips on how to avoid it from happening again!

2009-03-23T21:13:00.004-06:00

WTF?? Virus ate up my word files in my USB! Screw the computer rentals... It's good that almost everything has been backed up. Except for a name database which is needed soon... How would I retrieve them? Demmit!... Sorry, Jerome. The profiles of our batchmates are gone, too.

Fate? or Just stupidity? I never saw it coming, thus I cannot blame anyone - unless someone planted the virus intentionally... *SIGH*

There are lessons to be learned, and prevention is better than cure. For those renting computers, I advise the following:

Back-up your files on a clean computer. In case of attack, and your USB is doggone dead and needs re-formatting, you still have your previous files alive, and you can continue working.
If you can't have a back-up disk, have an online drive. Save your important documents in your e-mail as drafts.
Prefer Deep Freeze computers. They are generally virus-free because system changes are locked in those computers.
Scan, scan, scan! Scan your drive before every use, and periodically with a strong antivirus like Zone Alarm, Avast, and McAfee and Autorun-Killers.
If your drive has a read-only switch, use it often to block virus attacks on your USB.
Remember infected computers. If, after you use a computer, you see a trojan script in your drive, ask the owner to scan the computer for viruses. Then try to avoid using that computer for a month or so. If a trojan still appears from using that computer, don't go to that computer rental shop ever again.
Try to download a stand-alone USB Disinfector tool. I have one, and it saved my ass many times already. This last time, it was too late.
Don't leave your USB with people you don't trust. For one reason, they might plant a virus like weed among wheat, or just simply run away with it.

I hope these tips would help the USB-dependent people from falling into dangerous situations.

The Reckoning

2009-03-19T20:54:00.003-06:00

This Monday is the day of reckoning. The re-defense of our thesis would spell out the fate of the graduation. Personally, I feel scared about the talks going on among the defense panel that might invalidate our thesis. I hope we could pull this through... Lord help us in this time of tribulation.

Suppression

2009-03-15T11:00:00.000-06:00

Suppression
by troubadour

{bound}
What is life-
if I am not free?
if iron chains drag you down
and with fetters I am bound
with walls all around
What is love-
if I am not free?
{bound}

Ranting with a Soul

2009-03-14T10:23:00.003-06:00

I remember a month ago, there was this media literacy seminar I attended. He is a professor and a writer, and a casual blogger. I asked him at the open forum, "Is this a personal blog?". But he answered no, because he does not do rants.

What comes to my mind about ranting is shout-outs, thinking out loud, and mind-farts. Freedom of expression, they say. Many people rant through blogs, and I am one of them.

Talking about blogs, I'm just curious how much money people make from blogging. And how much time they spend on front of the computer doing their blogs.

First, this blog is not primarily a money blog. I do not have the luxury of time to update my blog every now and then, and direct traffic to this site. But I do want money, but I just have to realize sooner or later that I am not going to make money online quick from this blog, compared to the other money-generating blogs. I blog because I want to share my thoughts, and my faith. I could rant. And I could do literature. But without much money.

Secondly, I rant with a soul, meaning, I share my feelings, my thoughts, but not without my realizations and reflections. Ika nga, "An unexamined life is not worth living," Socrates said.

A final note, you may comment on my posts. Share your ideas. They are accepted, too. Don't worry, I will not have you killed by my international network of hitmen. Just kidding. LOL

Quote of today:

"You are one in a hundrillion."
- Fr. Vester, talking about the uniqueness of a person.

God is F4

2009-03-12T18:10:00.001-06:00

This Lenten season, I invite you guys to know:

God is F4.

Hey, I'm no fan of F4, but the words just got in me.

GOD IS:

Forgiving Father
and Friend Forevermore.

Have you got the F4 experience?

Hopefully this Lenten season and the upcoming Holy Week, you would experience the Father's embrace and a Friend's love - which is shown in His sacrificing of Himself.

picture credits:
http://www.biblepicturegallery.com/
http://www.file-archive.info/

Validation: A Short Film

2009-03-11T19:33:00.000-06:00

I was bloghopping some days ago, and I stumbled upon the site Truth and Beauty featuring a short film entitled "Validation", starring TJ Thyne & Vicki Davis and written, directed and composed by Kurt Kuenne. It is a story of a car park attendant whose optimism helped other people smile - but things turn out differently with the pain of rejected love.

"Someday, people are going to see who you really are... You are great."

Don't let this opportunity pass without watching this video. Smile, 'cause you are great! (",)

Now Playing: Silent Sanctuary

2009-03-10T23:38:00.002-06:00

To listen, click the IMEEM play on the sidebar>>>

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Personally, I love this OPM band. It's like a hybrid band of Rivermaya, Sugarfree, and Eraserheads, who are all in my favorites list. Plus I like their instrumentation - with solo violin and/or cello. Too bad they are not as popular as Parokya ni Edgar... Maybe soon!! LOL

Rock on! Keep on playing!

Journal Sketches (7)

2009-03-10T21:59:00.000-06:00

When I was in the seminary, I was especially fascinated by the palm trees that lined the rotunda of our school. They symbolized strength, sturdiness, protection, and grandeur, as they are tall and are strong enough to break the typhoon winds slamming the buildings.

Rotunda palm trees

Rural palm tree

Little Sacrifices

2009-03-09T22:49:00.000-06:00

Setting: After relaxing in the High School Faculty room.

Aries: Ooh, that's enough. I have to get back to work. Maybe till next time. That'll be my penance.
Del: Hehe... Just like what Fr. Noel said. It goes something like this: If you renounce your pleasures little by little, you are conditioning yourself for bigger sacrifices.
Aries: Hmm... Yep.
Del: It's called delayed gratification.
Aries: Those are my little sacrifices. Though I don't feel like doing big penances, those are enough. But this thesis is my cross.

I realized that nothing comes easy in this world. Ad astra per aspera = To the stars through difficulty.

Is Life Like a Game?

2009-03-09T03:20:00.005-06:00

Scene: Aries and Cris are sitting together after the soccer game. Aries is disappointed, feeling sorry that he made many blunders in the games.

A: (grave) I have learned many things today.
C: (playing Snake on cellphone) Quiet, I'm concentrating.
A: First, today will be the last day I will play football.
C: (still concentrated)...
A: Life is like a game. We win, and we lose...
C: (shouts suddenly) AAH! Kasiii naman! Game over tuloy!
A: ... like I was saying. Come on, try again.
C: Ayoko na... discouraged na ako. (I don't want to... I'm discouraged already.)
A: Hm. Life is like a game...
C: Can you be my game?

(silence)

A: Yeah right, but what I mean, in life, could we quit if we are discouraged?
C: Hai naku, no. If we lose in a game, the game ends. But life doesn't. It is still there.

Well, sometimes, I really feel disappointed about things I did or didn't do which hurt people. Those are the times I feel like a loser. I still think that life is a game, that we don't always win. But yeah, life is not like a game when we are tired of it and we can quit. If we lose in one battle, it does not mean game over. It should never be a game over.

God always shows ways and opportunities for us to have a happy life. Though there are sometimes blunders, they are lessons to be learned instead...

Journal Sketches (6)

2009-03-04T20:47:00.000-07:00

There were times before when felt cold and frigid in my heart. Those were the time when I did not care a bit about the world. So I drew a person in an ice cube. That was literally cold.

Iced

Iced again!

Call Me Aries

2009-02-27T07:30:00.004-07:00

Waaahh... Thesis defense has been postponed till Monday! Hopefully, we could pull it through... That is what kept me busy in a while, aside from soccer training for DBAA one day league on March 8. My apologies for my late posting of this tag by pinkoy <http://pin-k-oy.blogspot.com/>. But nevertheless, here it goes

This tag's called "What's in a name", and here are the guidelines:

A.) List the names that you are called by and name the people who call you by these names.
B) Tag ten others to do the same thing, paste the link of your entry on their guestbooks.

Aries- my regular name used by acquaintances who are friends.
Kuya - my brother and cousins younger than me use the usual Filipino term for "older brother"
Ris - by my older brother, Enzo, Del, Chino, and some close friends.
Owie - by my parents when I was a baby. Cute, no? LOL
Arrancar Sexta - by Kris. It came from a Bleach character. Why? Beats me, perhaps my body is as sexy as him. LOL
Dy - by my girlfiend. This is the short for Daddy.

I am tagging:
bless
abunchofdreams
posh totty
filipino in canada
br.donnie
vialentino
jojo
wendy
louraine
lutchi

- One

2009-02-26T21:16:00.000-07:00

- One
by troubadour
for phoisohnlily_28

Am I the only -
or just another - ?
a passing feeling
for some-
that any-
could have
like I'm no- ?

If I go, some-
would try to take you
away from me
But don't let any-
take my -
and only love.
YOU
are my -.

Because - day
I promise to my only -
love, that my -
heart is reserved for you,
my love, my -.
And I will return
to get my love, my -.