Happy New Year!

My "Thank You" Cookies

I was scanning through my camera this morning, looking at the tons of pictures that I have yet to upload to my FB account. A few people have been asking me why I haven't uploaded our pictures of this party, that event, this reunion, etc. And I keep on telling the same reason: I just hadn't found the time (this is after I say "sorry naman" gazillion times hehe). Yeah, it's weird. I've got 24 hours in a day, but it seems that it's just not enough.

Anyway, going back, I was rummaging through the pics and found these:

I worked on about 54 (I think!) of these: choco-chip cookies inside transparent containers adorned with red satin ribbon and gold ornament. Okay, I did not bake them (there goes the applause haha). I bought them from a cookies supplier I know and just worked on packaging them nicely.

Of the 54, 35 pieces were my dad's and uncle's giveaways in their offices. The remaining ones, I gave to some friends and to the guards in the office (there's 17 of them). The guards in the office have been nice to me the past year (and extra nice come December haha). They've been greeting me and saying hi, giving me easy-to-get-into parking spaces, and helping me when I have car trouble. The cookies were just a token of appreciation. They're not much, but I know they were well accepted. Evidence is the guards' still being extra nice to me even after I gave them the cookies hehe.

We seldom remember the small kindness done to us. We are only reminded of the great big favors given to us. As the year ends, let us not forget to thank everyone who had been a help to us, whether in big or small ways. We do not have to give them something to repay them. A simple thank you will do. Before 2009 bids goodbye, say thank you to the people who have been nice to you. They will surely appreciate the gesture.

Of Generosity

A few days ago, as my friends and I are traversing Airport Road, on the way to Bluewave, a differently-abled man knocked on my side windows, asking for alms. I say differently-abled, because I can't think of how to describe him. He has this unique incapacity, wherein his arms are dislocated, his left shoulder was lower that the other, and his body was extremely thin. All of these are evident, as he walked the streets with no shirt on. Must be so commuters will see his condition right off and have mercy.

Now, that wasn't the first time that I saw him. I had seen him a few weeks before. I was in the same road, en route to MOA, alone inside the car. He did the same thing: knocked on my side window and begged. When I saw him, I immediately felt fear. I was afraid that, if I lowered my window, in the the intention of giving him alms, he might hurt me. This paranoia came from stories of officemates and friends who had experienced such incidents in their desire to help. The fact that I was alone in the car didn't help either. And so, I shrugged him off, and he left quickly, approaching the car right behind me.

As I looked at him by my side mirror, I then realized how selfish I had become. How can I become so cold-hearted to a man who can barely lift his arms? How can I let myself give in to fear and ignore the chance to be generous? I then remembered a prayer from Didache:

"Thank You, Father, for the chance to share in Your joy of generous giving. Make my heart like Yours."

and a verse from Corinthians:

"He will always make you rich enough to be generous at all times, so that many will thank God for your gifts."

After that incident, I was greatly troubled. I felt that I owed that man help and prayed that I be given a chance to make it up to him. And when my second chance came, I took it without hesitation. I gave him not a huge amount, but I think he may find that it was a welcome addition to what he gets everyday.

I think this year's teaching for me is generosity. I have been constantly troubled with the term and its conditions. I have been confused with what is called generous and what is called stupid. I have often been at the middle of choosing between giving beyond fear and giving in to fear. I can never promise that I won't be afraid again, but I know now that there can be ways to be generous. What you give doesn't have to be big. It can be a few coins or a little food. It can even be something intangible like a smile, more patience, or time.

Moreso, generosity is not only given to beggars; it is shown to all who are in need. A friend may be in need of support; be generous with your encouragement and help. A family member may be in need of time; be geneous with your time. A parent of old age may be in need of understanding; be generous with your patience. Generosity has no price; it has no required amount.

Little Wonders

I was extremely late for work today. Got up at 10am, left home at 1130am, and arrived at 215pm. I got to leave the house much later because I spent the morning just chatting with mom. She was asking how last night's party went, what gifts I got, among other things (she was already opening my gifts at this time! haha). We shared a light morning snack: Royce chocolates. We both gushed at the melt-in-your-mouth feeling brought by the nama chocolate and tried to stop ourselves from finishing the whole box in one sitting. I would remind her of her high blood sugar. Tsk tsk. She would remind me that I was late for work. Trying to get the whole box to herself huh? No way!haha But despite the "fight" over that tremendous box of pure bliss and despite my being extremely late, I had fun, and I think mom did too. I'd like to think that mom enjoys having little chats with me in the mornings before I go to work. We seldom do that since, everyday, when I hitch a ride in dad's car, I'd always be in a hurry. Today, I didn't hitch, so I had time on my hands, time that was well spent.

When you don't have time, make time. Take those pockets of time, those little moments, those few minutes,and make them mini bonding sessions. They don't have to be expensive, they just have to be exciting; They don't have to be extravagant; they just have to be extra-fun. Make time.

Rob Thomas puts it perfectly:

Our lives are made

In these small hours

These little wonders

These twists & turns of fate

Time falls away

But these small hours

These small hours still remain

(from Little Wonders)

Got Heart?

(Photo source: verabear.net)

Sometimes I wish I had all the money in the world so I could buy the best gifts for family and friends.

A friend in the office wants to learn violin, but she still doesn't have the money to spend. I was at the mall the other day when I saw a brandnew violin on display at Yamaha worth a little less than 5000php. If only I had the money, I'd probably buy that for her.

My mom wants this certain kind of bag that she in Robinson's Department Store, but it is really expensive. If I had the money, I'd probably buy that for her.

One of my college friends totally loves organizers. Ever since college, she would not miss buying herself a new one for the new year. I'd like to buy her that Belle de Jour organizer with all the coupons and cute stuff, or that Starbucks organizer everybody (well almost!) is just mad about. But organizers are not that cheap huh? Glad verabear informed me of her contest. Hop over there and find out how you'll get a chance to win a Got Heart 2010 Planner. Hmm... I just wish I'd win so I can give it as a gift. =)

Them Child Assassins

(Photo courtesy of current.com)

Over lunch yesterday, my officemates and I got into the topic of children in Maguindanao being trained to kill at a very young age. It was told that, at age 12, kids are taught to have no mercy and to kill without remorse. And if they suddenly grew a conscience and refuse to kill those they were tasked to exterminate, the kids have to exchange their conscience for their life. So, everything comes to just one choice: they kill or they will be killed. Not a good set of options right?

The talk about these kids being trained to kill people led me into thinking that what a blessing it is that I was born into a life, an environment, and a family in which I did not have that kind of dilemma, the dilemma of having to choose between my life or another's. I am blessed to be born into a life that opens different opportunities for me to excel, to dream, and to be happy. I am blessed to be born into a relatively safer place with no ongoing war, no soldiers constantly on the move, no fear of continuous gunshots and grenade bombings. I am blessed to be born into a family who gave me a baby doll for a toy and not a baby armalite, who let me run with my playmates and not run after men to kill, who taught me my ABCs and not how to dislodge a grenade. I am indeed blessed. How then can I be not thankful for the life given to me?

The Parol and The Prize

(Photo courtesy of http://school.discoveryeducation.com)

We did not win. Our parol (Christmas lantern) was bested by a parol made of mussel shells, which was on third place; a parol made of banana blossom, which went second; and a parol made of rice and hay, which bagged first prize. I must admit; those parols were beautifully made. And I must also admit; I was sad that we lost.

Not being too competitive or anything but I guess that's what it feels when you've given something your all, your best effort, your 100%, and you don't get recognition for it. I've joined contests before and have been completely ok with losing, but I think that was because, during those times, I never really exerted that much effort, so it was ok to lose.

Now, my partner R and I spent three nights laboring on our parol. We were confident at one point that we had a fighting chance, but after seeing the competition, we saw that chance slim down to near zero. Still, we did not completely lose hope. And though we did not win, and I am sad about it, I am still thankful. I was thinking that may be God's prize for me was the times spent with R talking about practically anything as we mercifully labored on our parol during the wee hours of the morning. Maybe the prize was the excitement that built up on not only me and R but also my parents (who saw us work) as we see the parol taking form. Maybe the prize was the bonding moment that is called parol-making.

Afterall, the definition of PRIZE in the dictionary is not only award; it also means something valuable. Thank you God for letting me win.

Judgement Day

At 5pm, we will be judged. Ok, not us. But our parol will be. Later this afternoon, the winners of the parol-making contest held here in the office will be announced. nyeee... crossing my fingers (and toes! haha) that we'd win!

Friends and the Holidays

(Photo source: http://blogs.voices.com/)

The holiday rush has caught up with me. I am still not done with shopping for gifts. I realized that I had forgotten about certain people. Argh. Me and my ever deteriorating memory. Everyday for the past few days, I have been just going to work, and then either running errands or meeting old friends. It's tiring, but at the end of the day, I am just thankful. God continues to remind me that I have friends. Though I don't see them often, I can still get in touch with them once in a while, and it's always like we had just seen each other the day before. Thank you God for friends!

Fund-raising campaign

Posting this from an email from my friend Em:

Hi, sisters and brothers in Christ and friends. I’m selling some of my most-loved collection to help my friend (Ate Macoy) who has stage 2 breast cancer (invasive ductal carcinoma). She really needs financial assistance for her radiation and chemotherapy which will probably cost her an arm and a leg. I am appealing to each and every one of you to help me raise at least P10K this month (don't know how I can possibly do that, but with God's grace I will) so that I can give it to her right away. She'll be here in Manila until the 15th of Jan. She badly needs the money since her relatives are in Bicol, and they didn’t come from a well-off family. She had been my teacher aide while I was still teaching in a preschool (S.Y. 2006-2007). I want to repay her kindness by helping her in her ordeal. I had a vision that she’s not doing well when I first heard the news from my former colleague (and I really trust my intuition, esp. after Ondoy). I will give her whatever amount I collected from this fund-raising campaign. Prayers are greatly appreciated, but she needs the money to pay for her hospital bills in Chinese General Hospital. May God touch your kind hearts and generous souls. Thank you in advanced. I’ll be forever indebted to all of you. Merry Christmas to all!

*Buyer must be willing to meet in SM West / North EDSA, The Block, Trinoma, SM Manila, SM Megamall, Shangri-la or The Feast in VVCC Pasig.
*Kindly forward to interested parties. Thanks, thanks! God bless you a hundredfold.

List of 2nd Hand Books for Sale: 0917-9789478

*A Book of Hugs (Relatively New) Scholastic Publisher P120
*A Book of Kisses (Relatively New) Scholastic Publisher P120
Atlas Shrugged Ayn Rand P300
Boy Meets Girl Joshua Harris P150
Brida Paulo Coelho P240
Catch Me a Firefly Freda Jayme P200
Chronicles of a Death Foretold Gabriel Garcia Marquez P75
Dracula (Relatively New) Bram Stoker P50
Filipino Bilang Tanging Gamit sa Pagtuturo (New) P110
*Joyfully Single in a Couple’s World (Relatively New) Harold Sala P150
Language of the Hand Cheiro P100
My Brother, My Executioner F. Sionil Jose P90
*New Moon (New) Stephenie Meyer P320
*Not Even a Hint (Hardbound) Joshua Harris P300
*Saving My First Kiss (Relatively New) Lisa Velthouse P150
*Silent Night Scholastic Publisher P100
*Stop Dating Your Church (Hardbound, not available in most bookstores if I’m not mistaken, bought it for almost P800 some years ago) Joshua Harris P600
Soul Mates Jaime Licauco P100
The Devil and Miss Prym Paulo Coelho P240
*The Disciplined Mind (New) Howard Gardner P500
*The Fifth Mountain (big) Paulo Coelho P300
*The Heavenly Man Bro. Yun P175
*This Is My Story P90
Unveiling Teaching Expertise Flordeliza Clemente-Reyes P120
*You Can Heal Your Life (Relatively New) Louise L. Hay P125

*Recommended books

Em with Ate Macoy

Shh...

It has been awfully quiet here huh? That's because the past days had been hectic. My whole December is practically packed! Tons of errands to run, friends to meet up with, among other things. Whew! I'm already excited for the coming Xmas vacation. I want to sleep!! Nice way to spend the few days off right? =)

The Godparent Me

(Photo courtesy of Irishblessings)

Today is Xmas shopping day! Mom and I will be shopping now for gifts to family, friends, and godchildren.

I have five official inaanaks, but I only know three of them. The first two godchildren I had were much like just shoved onto me. Haha. I was like 16 then when their parents got me as godparent for their kids. I was even so hesitant that time; I thought I was extremely young to be called ninang! Haha. Then, when marrying age crept up with me and my high school and college batchmates, I became ninang to three more kids. This time, there wasn't any hesitation or denial, only unspoken panic! I was thinking, "Oh no, everybody's getting married and having their own kids, and I'm still single!" Yeah, I know. There is just no pleasing me. Haha. Anyway, that woe-is-me-for-I-am-still-single thing calls for a different entry. There will be many times to write about that. For now, I will just go and enjoy the day finding the best (that I can afford) gifts I can find.

SOLV at 25

Mazel and I will be going to the 25th anniversary of Servants of the Lord's Vineyard (SOLV). We were Christian Life Series (CLS) Batch '99 from the SOLV La Salle Sector. After we graduated, Mazel went on to commit herself to the SOLV Makati Sector, whereas I chose not to, but I have remained in contact with some of the sisters there.

Later, SOLV will celebrate its 25th anniversary at UCPB Building along Makati Ave., with a mass at 4pm and a celebration at 7pm. Former and current members, even non-members, are invited to attend. Tickets are priced at 350php.

Remembering and Forgetting

(Photo courtesy of sodahead.com)

Yesterday was the second death anniversary of my aunt. Time really flies fast. Has it really been two years?

Right after she died and even a year after, I was extremely depressed. Yes, I would go out with friends. I would laugh, crack jokes, go to the mall, and do all the usual things. But when alone, I was in deep sorrow. I didn't know how to pick myself up. I was just lost. Before she died, I had spent 13 years sharing a room with her, going window-shopping with her, watching movies with her, and doing many other things. She was the sibling I never had. We even had a sorta vow that, if ever I don't get married, we'd be together as we age (she never married). So, her death really was a hard blow on me. I wasn't used to her absence.

Fast forward to now, I am better than when I was in depression mode. I have began widening my network of friends and meeting new people. When she died, I prayed that God would give me new friends that will take her place. God did give me some. Also, I prayed that I may not forget her. I was afraid that, when I turn 30 or 40 or 50, I will forget that I had a Tita once whom I loved dearly. I'm scared that there will come a time when I'd forget the details of my life with her, of our moments together, and of the time that she was a huge part of my life.

Sometimes, I feel guilty when I don't remember her: When she died, all I thought of was her. Now, swamped with work and other activities, I sometimes "forget" her. And then I feel guilty. Though this happens once in a while, I know that she will forever be the closest Tita to me. It's just unfortunate my future kids won't get to know her in person.. =(

Jollibee MaAga ang Pasko

(Photo courtesy of mushings)

Yey! Jollibee Foundation finally replied to the e-mail I sent them last week. I inquired if they were still accepting volunteers for the Jollibee MaAga ang Pasko Clean-up Activity.

Actually, I wasn't aware that there was such activity. I was scanning through the website of Hands on Manila (HOM; of which I am a registered volunteer), looking for updates. There I saw that HOM is a partner of Jollibee Foundation on this endevour. The Cleanup Activity is meant for the cleaning and sorting of all the donated secondhand toys and books received by the different Jollibee branches nationwide. The said event is ongoing until end of December at the Jollibee warehouse at Rockefeller St. in Makati.

Anyway, Miki of Jollibee Foundation, in her email response, referred me to another colleague, who, she said, would contact me regarding my inquiry. So, no finalities yet. It might have been too late for me to ask them, or there may no longer be any slots for new volunteers. In any case, I just hope they contact me real soon, so I could squeeze it in my packed December schedule. If my schedule doesn't permit, then I just have to forego it and maybe be real early next year in emailing them. =)

If anyone is interested in joining me on this, just comment. Thanks!

Walls of Hope

I am so excited! On the 19th, my friend Mazel and I will be volunteering for Walls of Hope to help them paint the entire first floor of the Phillipine Children's Medical Center. The murals really need repainting. As the ad said, artists and nonartists will be painting side by side to refurbish the walls of the hospital and bring joy to the kids afflicted with sickness currently confined there.

Wanna come?

Be Not Afraid

(Photo courtesy of Lib-art)

Today is a Holy Day of Obligation, as we celebrate the Immaculate Conception of Mary. We are encouraged to hear Mass and pay homage to the Immaculate.

The Gospel today speaks of the announcement made to Mary by angel Gabriel that she would conceive a child whom she would later name Jesus. Mary was engaged with Joseph then, and I would imagine that the news of this unexpected event created much confusion and trouble in Mary's mind. I mean, it isn't often that an angel of the Lord would come and visit you, right? =) And it was just impossible, or so she thought. But when the angel told her that nothing is impossible with God, I bet the next emotion Mary felt was utter fear. The thought of bearing a child unwed was simply not acceptable in the society. She would probably be treated a prostitute and be stoned to death by the people. But the angel Gabriel reminded her that the Lord is with her. She took comfort in this and must have realized that, though this was a big role being given to her, it was more of a priviledge. Mary then surrendered her life to being the mother of Jesus and our mother.

I believe that Mary was just like the rest of us. She was living a simple and quiet life when she was suddenly tasked with a huge responsibility. We are also huge roles to play in life: it may be an unexpected promotion, a huge project, or becoming a parent. At first, we may feel that we are undeserving or that we are incompetent. We may think that the task is impossible to finish and the goal is impossible to reach. We may want be afraid and unsure if can do it.

But Mary is setting an example for us. Though she was afraid and the not sure of what her future would be after bearing Jesus, she took the situation as a blessing and just gave God the driving wheel of her life. We are encouraged to be the same. We may not initially understand certain things that happen to us. We may be afraid of what the future holds. We may feel that we just cannot do what needs to be done. But let us follow Mary's example. Let us take each situation, whether good or bad, and each responsibility, whether huge or small, as a blessing and a priviledge to be of service to God. Let us surrender whatever fears and insecurities we have to God.

I would like to think that, when angel Gabriel said, "For nothing is impossible with God," not only was he pertaining to the Immaculate Conception, he was also saying that there is nothing God cannot do if we only ask Him.

Not paid. Yet.

My Microworkers payment hasn't been forwarded to my Paypal account still. This is not good. Though it's just a measly amount, I still would want to be paid for the work I had done. Guess I just have to wait. If nothing comes up this week, I might need to contact the Microworkers admin if there's just a glitch or something.

Xmas shopping

(Photo courtesy of christmasgeek)

It's the weekend but still have a ton of things to do. After the South Feast, I might start doing a little Xmas shopping with mom. She has been bugging me for the past few days, asking when we're going to buy gifts. I have long believed that the most exciting part of Xmas for her is the shopping and the gift wrapping! =) Ok. GTG. The mall's opening in a few minutes. Atat? hehe

Tara na!

Cebupac's on sale!!

From now until tomorrow, all domestic destinations and flights from Manila to Taipei and Kota Kinabalu, and from Clark to Hong Kong, Macau, Singapore and Bangkok can be had at a ‘Go Lite’ seat sale fare of P999.

Flights from Manila to Bangkok, Ho Chi Minh, Macau and Guangzhou, and flights to Hong Kong and Singapore from Manila and Cebu are at a seat sale price of P1,499.

Flights from Manila to Shanghai, Kuala Lumpur or Jakarta, and flights to Incheon from Manila or Cebu, and to Busan from Cebu are for only P1,999.

Going to Japan? Manila-Osaka flights are available at the ‘Go' fare of P1,999.

Travel period is from January 1 to March 31, 2010.

Yey! Hoping I could book a MLA-SG-MLA or MLA-HK-MLA for March!

Never again.

This year's entries to the Native Parol-making contest in the office.

I never want to see another parol again.

Slept for only an hour (slept?? it's more like a long nap! haha) after cramming up to finish our entry for the native parol contest being held now in the office. Ours is that one on the topmost row. Btw, sorry for the blurry image. My camphone isn't 5MP!=(

The rule was simple. Submit a 24- to 36-in-diameter Christmas lantern made of indigenous materials. It can be of any design, but the materials must be native. My officemate R, being the competitive type, wanted to join and tagged me along (which I began seriously regretting after the fifth time I got burned by that hot glue gun!). At 3a.m. this morning, I was telling her, while I was carefully attaching our makeshift tassel, made of coconut shell and walis tambo, using the last remaining ounces of my strength (OK, that seems a little too much, but I was dead tired you know!), that, next year, I won't let her drag me into this mess (which I call native parol making) again! The mere thoughts of spending three whole nights working on a parol once again will just kill me. I could care less with the 3.5K php prize. (What? It's gonna be 5K php next year? OK, where do I sign up?)

Well, just ranting. I am tired. Extremely. But it's okay. On our way to the office this morning, R and I were amazed that we were able to stand working on the parol for 8 straight hours. We hardly rested, just glimpsing on the what's on the tube every once in a while. Then, I told her that the drive of seeing the parol as it takes form was enough to keep me awake. As I mercifully attached each sheet of copra, I was actually excited for the finished product. Yes, I was tired. And yes, I already wanted to sleep, but I guess, when one is focused on the goal, one cannot just stand resting. One just works and works and works. OK, now that's deep. haha But it is true, right?

Anyway, win or lose, I am happy we got to finish our lantern. But I haven't changed my mind: I never want to see another parol again. hahahaha

Claudine and Change

Caught this in the news yesterday. After being with ABS-CBN 2 for the longest time (I wouldn't know how many years exactly; i'm not a fan.), Claudine finally hopped fences and joined rival network GMA7. At first, I found it weird. She is the face of Star Magic, one of the most prized possesions of ABS-CBN. Seeing her make that huge move makes one think what could have happened. Anyway, that is none of my business. What just stuck me was the realization that change really in inevitable. Your friends now may no longer be your friends tomorrow. Your enemies now may become your BFFs tomorrow. Your life now may not be the same in the future. There is always change. And that statement is never easy to accept to most, especially to some who dread change (like me!).

They say change is always good. I say, yeah, it may be, but with it comes the risk, and that is what I am not always accustomed to. I was never a risk-taker. I always want to be sure. I am at peace with security. I always ask for a guarantee. Yeah, I know. That will not always be case. For certain things happen beyond my control. But I'm slowly trying to learn. I am beginning to learn to be open to change. I just hope the day will come when I can fully embrace it.

Busy Bee

(Photo courtesy of interhomeopathy.org)

Waah.... I'm swamped! Swamped with work that is. I haven't logged on to my Facebook account for two weeks, haven't gotten myself to read the ton of books gathering dust on my bedside table, haven't had a rest day for the past week, haven't had time to catch a flick or even go malling! Argh. Got a ton of things to do and organize. But despite this, I am thankful that God is still being patient with me through my being busy and my procastination (yes, ironic huh?). Thank God for the strength of mind and body that He continues to provide me. Ok, back to work. AJA!

This is it

This is it!! I'm so excited! I've got a ton of things to do, I just hope God gives me enough time and resources to do them.

I want it pink!

(Photo source unknown)

I want a new Bible, and I want a pink one. I was scanning through the shelves of National bookstore a few days ago, looking for a pink TEV/GNB Bible to replace my old 10-yr-old pink NIV Bible. My specifics are-well-specific! hehe I want it pink. I want it leather-covered. I want it to have tabs to make it easy for me to locate the books. I want it to have two ribbon bookmarks. I want it TEV or GNB. Until now, I haven't found any that fits the description perfectly. But I'm not giving up; soon, something will come up.

KCon 2009

( Photo courtesy of Kcon)

It was my first time to attend the Kerygma Conference last Saturday and yesterday. It was a fantastic weekend. Sure, I was drained with the whole-day event, but I needed to be there. I needed to hear that God wanted me to have dreams. I have a few now, and I am excited with working on them with God. This is it! More info on the event here.

Irresponsible. Argh.

(Photo courtesy of medic999)

Why are some people so irresponsible? They always ask you for help but they never first help themselves. They slack off, not exerting any effort in resolving their concerns, and then when they're already drowning in a bad situation, they suddenly appear before you and ask you to save them. You'd wonder why they even let themselves be in that situation in the first place. You'd think they should have thought of the consequences of their slacking off and prevent any more damage from happening. But heck no! They choose to just lead a very easy life, just relying on everyone else to provide for them and help them every single time they need it. Would you be happy helping someone who doesn't even try to lift a finger? Frustrating.

Maguindanao massacre

It is amazing how little power can do so much to corrupt people.

(Photo courtesy of crienglish.com)

As of last night, it has gone up to 57, i.e., the number of recovered bodies of victims of the recent gruesome murder in Maguindanao. The well-planned mass killing that happened last Monday has been all over the news. And why not? Women, lawyers, media men-all innocent civilians-have been abducted by some 100 armed men, killed in various horrific ways that no one can possibly imagine, and buried in a massive grave. As if initial reports of the victims only going to file COCs in the local comelec being abducted and killed were not horrendous enough, the latest news about the terrible incident of the women being raped first before being killed, of some being shot not only in the head but in their private parts, of the slain being buried alive inside their vehicles in a massive grave, and of some body parts found that had been teared up with chainsaws makes one think, "Is this for real?" Is is really possible for people to do this kind of atrocity toward others? How can the perpetrators stand doing this? Don't they have hearts? Don't they believe in a God that sees all things and all their doings? How can they sleep at night, knowing that they killed 57 people, ended 57 dreams, and destroyed 57 futures?

The answers to such questions will not be known as long as the people behind this act of cruelty are freely roaming around, attending to their day-to-day activities like nothing ever happened and unmindful of the extensive call for justice from different sectors of the society.

And while investigations are still currently underway and as the authorities are "trying their best" to go after the perpetrators, for people like us who cannot march the streets and cry for justice, who cannot go to Maguindanao to directly voice out how unhuman this murder is, and who cannot contribute much in the ongoing investigations, the only thing that we can do to help is to offer a prayer. Let us pray:

- for the repose of the souls of those brutally murdered
- for comfort for their families and loved ones during this time of mourning
- for justice for the lives lost in a trivial quest for power
- for strength of character for people in the government for them to do what needs to be done despite affiliations and debts
- for safety for the people who are currently in Maguindanao helping in finding justice for those slained (the media men who are covering the news, the people from Commission on Human Rights, etc.)
- for peace in Maguindanao and in areas that have a similar situation with regard to political clans and violence
- for change in the hearts of not only those behind this massacre but also-and more importantly-people who have been too enamored by power and have been corrupted by it.

His calling was to educate

At 16, he knew what he wanted to do. He wanted to help street children and provide them with basic education with whatever means he had. He is Efren Penaflorida.

(Photo courtesy of CNN)

Efren is the talk of the town as he was recently recognized as CNN Hero of the Year for 2009. And this is no mistake. Kuya F!, as he is fondly called by his volunteers and the children he helps, is the founder of Dynamic Teen Company, a group of teens who pushed makeshift carts of books and blackboards along the streets of Bacoor, Cavite, under the blistering heat of the sun, just to reach out to and gather kids and to teach them how to read and write. He organized the group at a time when he himself was struggling to make ends meet and to provide for his own education. Let it be known that Kuya F! was not as priviledged as other founders of foundations and socio-civic groups with money and resources to spare. He was from a poor family, living near a garbage dumpster, and was only able to finish his education because of the generous support that World Vision Phils. and Club 8586, Inc., gave him. He was not as popular back then as certain politicians or celebrities who have their own foundations; he was, in fact, bullied and often assaulted by his peers. All he had was a vision of a better youth: educated and with moral principles and values.

That vision, fueled with support, was the driving force of the hero known today that is Efren. And with that vision is encouragement; he encourages everyone to look into themselves and let their heroism unleash. More so, he affirmed that his work is the calling that God has given him and that he is only responding to that calling.

That led me to thinking. What is my calling?

Chiz: I'm not running

(Photo courtesy of ChizEscudero.com)

It is final. Chiz Escudero is not running for the presidency in 2010.

In a press conference early morning today, Chiz finally revealed his decision regarding his presidential bid come May of next year. For the past few weeks, he has been delaying his announcement of his plans as he "needed time to weigh his options."

It can be remembered that he was initially with NPC and was the other half of the Chiz-Loren tandem. He then decided to leave the party and run for president as an independent candidate. But, with this decision, many feared that, although he is qualified to run, he may not have a fighting chance, because-let's face it-money is a big factor in Philippine politics. Without a party to support his bid, rally up sponsors and supporters, and gather funds for his campaign, he will surely be left in the dust by his opponents.

That reality must have settled in as he announced this morning that he will not run for any position at all. He further said that he has yet to decide whom to support. Asked if his decision was affected by Sen. Noynoy's decision to run for the same position, he noted that it was a factor, among everything else, as the latter is a dear friend. Chiz said that, in a time that seems to be intended for Sen. Noynoy, he would not want to stand in the way of his friend. However, he reiterated that he has not chosen a presidential candidate to support and instead encouraged everyone to be aggressive in making this coming elections clean and peaceful and in making the right choices.

Wizards of Waverly Place: The Movie

(Photo courtesy of TVbythenumbers)

One of my favorite Disney Channel series has finally got its own movie. Yesterday was the premiere of Wizards of Waverly Place: The Movie on Disney Channel. The story revolved around the adventures of the Russo family during one of their family vacations. The adventure began with the mishap of Alex (who else!) as she practiced forbidden spells without the knowledge of her parents. Not enjoying the vacation at all, Alex was very upset and was having an argument with her mother, when she accidentally uttered a spell wishing for her parents never to have met. This then led to the danger of their family not getting together and of losing her and her brothers' very existence. Anyway, just catch the movie to know whether or not there is still a Russo family. =)

New Moon

Might see New Moon this weekend.. But will I really want to watch it with a thousand other people in a cramped moviehouse? Hmm... Nah. Might let a week pass, when the hype has died down a little bit, until I catch it.

Thursday Reflection

(Photo courtesy of Clay Jar People)

A woman's heart should be so hidden in God
that a man has to seek Him just to find her.

-Max Lucado

on silent mode

(Photo courtesy of http://www.itechsecurityltd.co.uk)

I am on silent mode. Had a realization a few days ago that got me into thinking why the heck I' m always talking. hehe

Glee

(Photo courtesy of Acapellanews)

My friend Je lent me a download of eight (i think) episodes of Glee. I have actually been hearing about this series from some people in Facebook but haven't really gotten myself to check it out. Je just told me that each episode is like a musical. Interesting. Hope I could watch the .avi files she lent me later.

tired of Facebook

Haven't logged in to my Facebook account in a while. I don't know, but it's like I've grown tired of it. Before, I can stay up the whole night just Facebook-ing. I'd play Farmville, Yoville, Buddypoke, and Restaurant City. I'd check out vids and links posted, and repost some that I find interesting in my profile. I'd comment on status updates and photos, and Like eveything, well, I like. But now, I can go on for a week without checking who added me as their friend, who replied to a thread, or who bought me in Friends for Sale. Ok. I'm officially weird.

2012

Watched 2012 last night with friends from church. The movie was action-packed, with Jackson Curtis (played by John Cusack) constantly on the run to save his and his family's life, which actually came to a point when one would not even believe he can be that lucky missing all the falling debris, the terrible lava, and all. One would even begin to ask can an ordinary book writer really have that kind of super strength and agility to run that fast, drive that fast, and move that fast? Well, wouldn't it be just sad if the main character died?

(Photo courtesy of photogallery.filmofilia.com)

Anyway, the movie, for me, is actually a wake-up call, that our life here on Earth is truly temporary. Whether that catastrophe is to happen or not, we should recognize who or what really matters to us and make time for what is important.

Friday the 13th

(Photo courtesy of Brittanica)

An SMS exchange with a friend from a church group I belong to:

J: Take extra care today because it's Friday the 13th.

Me: We should not believe that. God is more powerful than any superstition.

J: Haven't I told you that I almost drowned and was hit by a car before? Both happened on Friday the 13th.

Me: No you haven't. I think that's just coincidence. I don't think God would create an unlucky day.


How can we call ourselves Christians if we believe such superstitions? Don't we trust that God will protect us and won't allow us to be harmed and pained beyond recovery? When we believe in superstitions, we somehow acknowledge that there is something more powerful than God that He cannot control. It is only God that we should trust, whatever calendar day it is.

Which one?

(Photos courtesy of Amazon, lalaboo61278 and swiflet)

Yesterday, I was rummaging through my bookshelf to look for my next read. Some of my books have already accummulated dust with pages that have already turned a pale shade of yellow, because they've been there for ages. I have come upon these three books and have yet to decide which one to read next. I remember starting reading The Rule of Four years back, but I somehow got bored (or was it because of the small print? hehe) I ended up not even making it halfway through the book. Memoirs is actually my mom's, but she lent to me after she had read it. Still haven't gotten myself to even scan the book. Macarthur is from my favorite Pinoy author Bob Ong. I had just finished Kapitan Sino and thought I might want to start rereading Macarthur. Now.. which one should I read first?

What's Next?

(Photo courtesy of www.landmarkaudio.com)

Just finished reading For One More Day by Mitch Albom the other day. I had long postponed reading it, because I was just bored with the first few pages. I'm glad I continued reading the book, for, true to the Albom tradition, the story is heartwarming and thought provoking. It gives one a new take on his relationship with his family. Truly a very good read.

But now, I want another book to read. Those I have at home are some other books by Bob Ong, Memoirs of a Geisha, and some self-help books. I want to read Have a Little Faith, but a paperback version is not yet released. Hope it hits the stores real soon.

Haven't Met You Yet

Currently loving this song from Michael Buble..

Haven't Met You Yet

I'm Not Surprised
Not Everything Lasts
I've Broken My Heart So Many Times,
I Stop Keeping Track.
Talk Myself In
I Talk Myself Out
I Get All Worked Up
And Then I Let Myself Down.

I Tried So Very Hard Not To Lose It
I Came Up With A Million Excuses
I Thought I Thought Of Every Possibility

And I Know Someday That It'll All Turn Out
You'll Make Me Work So We Can Work To Work It Out
And I Promise You Kid That I'll Give So Much More Than I Get
I Just Haven't Met You Yet

Mmmmm ....

I Might Have To Wait
I'll Never Give Up
I Guess It's Half Timing
And The Other Half's Luck
Wherever You Are
Whenever It's Right
You Come Out Of Nowhere And Into My Life

And I Know That We Can Be So Amazing
And Baby Your Love Is Gonna Change Me
And Now I Can See Every Possibility

Mmmmm ......

And Somehow I Know That It Will All Turn Out
And You'll Make Me Work So We Can Work To Work It Out
And I Promise You Kid I'll Give So Much More Than I Get
I Just Haven't Met You Yet

They Say All's Fair
And In Love And War
But I Won't Need To Fight It
We'll Get It Right
And We'll Be United

And I Know That We Can Be So Amazing
And Being In Your Life Is Gonna Change Me
And Now I Can See Every Single Possibility

Mmmm .....

And Someday I Know It'll All Turn Out
And I'll Work To Work It Out
Promise You Kid I'll Give More Than I Get
Than I Get Than I Get Than I Get

Oh You Know It'll All Turn Out
And You'll Make Me Work So We Can Work To Work It Out
And I Promise You Kid To Give So Much More Than I Get
Yeah I Just Haven't Met You Yet

I Just Haven't Met You Yet
Oh Promise You Kid
To Give So Much More Than I Get

I Said Love Love Love Love Love Love Love .....
I Just Haven't Met You Yet
Love Love Love .....
I Just Haven't Met You Yet

Watch the music video here.

2012

Hoping to watch this movie this Friday.. 

Colds

(Photo courtesy of hubpages.com)

Currently suffering from colds and cough. Argh. Never liked it when I do. Will buy me some Ascof later. Still have a ton of things to do during the weekend.

ABS-CBN Christmas 2009 Station ID

I think this year's station ID is the best so far, mainly because it hit the best reason for Christmas: Jesus. In the past years, we have seen station IDs that depict family, friends, gifts, Christmas trees, and whatnots, but none, as I remember, has truly dwelt on the very reason we have Christmas. Jesus is, and should always be, the one we celebrate this season.

"Bro, Ikaw ang Star ng Pasko" Lyrics

"Star ng Pasko"
Lyrics by: Robert Labayen
Music by: Marcus and Amber Davis
Performed by: ABS-CBN Kapamilya Artists

Kung kailan pinakamadilim
mga tala ay mas nagniningning
Gaano man kakapal ang ulap
sa likod nito ay may liwanag.

Refrain:

Ang liwanag na ito'y nasa 'ting lahat
May sinag ang mga pusong bukas
Sa init ng mga yakap
Maghihilom ang lahat ng sugat.

Chorus:

Ang nagsindi nitong ilaw
Walang iba kung 'di Ikaw
Salamat sa liwanag Mo
Muling magkakakulay ang Pasko
Salamat sa liwanag Mo
Muling magkakakulay ang Pasko.

Tayo ang ilaw sa madilim na daan
Pagkakapit-bisig lalong higpitan
Dumaan man sa malakas na alon
Lahat tayo'y makakaahon.

Repeat Refrain and Chorus 1x each

Kikislap ang pag-asa kahit kanino man
Dahil ikaw Bro (repeat 3x)
Ang Star ng Pasko.

Bridge:

Salamat sa liwanag Mo
Muling magkakakulay ang Pasko
Salamat sa liwanag Mo
Muling magkakakulay ang Pasko

Repeat Chorus 3x

Dahil ikaw Bro (repeat 3x)
Ang Star ng Pasko

Mirinae

(Photo courtesy of the Japan Meteorological Agency)

Tropical Storm Mirinae is bound to hit Northern and Central Luzon. Another typhoon.. I just hope it changes course. Many of us haven't recovered yet from the two previous typhoons that hit us..

Bridgit Mendler

A new talent joins the constellation of stars of Disney, following the steps of Vanessa Anne Hudgens, Miley Cyrus, Demi Lovato, and Selena Gomez. Her name: Bridgit Mendler.

(Photo courtesy of http://www.bridgitmendlerfans.com/)

Brigdit plays Penny in Disney Channel's JONAS, and Juliet Van Heusen on Wizards of Waverly Place. She will soon have her own show called Good Luck Charlie, which is targeted to be shown in April of next year.

She is also included in the cast of Alvin and The Chipmunks: The Squeakquel, which is set to be released in December and also stars our very own Charice Pempengco as herself.

Vista OS

I'm thinking of getting myself a Vista Home Basic OS for my laptop. The Vista Starter OS that came with it seems to simply not be sufficient for all the things that I do. The Stater pack only allows three programs to be run simultaneously. It's quite irritating trying to open an application, only to find on the screen a pop-up message saying that I cannot do so unless I close any one of those currently running. haayy... I just hope I have enough money to buy me a licensed Home edition..

Aftermath

Good thing the weather is better now. We do not need any more rains. There are areas in Manila and in the northern part of Luzon that are still submerged in water because of the two terrible typhoons that had come. To most of us who are ok, there are still people to be helped, houses to be rebuilt, and lives to be restored. Let us do our share in this task.

(Photo from the PAG-ASA website)

Typhoon Ondoy Relief

A repost from Chichacorn Chronicles:

The Philippine National Red Cross needs donations for the evacuation centers, big cars to transfer the donations, and volunteers for sorting and repackaging. Relief goods like lugaw or champorado, canned goods, rice, noodles, bottled water, medicine, vitamins, diapers, blankets, mats, decent clothes, toiletries, cooking burners, pots, and utensils are needed for the evacuation centers. Pls call the following:

Pasay Chapter 8542748/4343751
Las Pinas Chapter 8734873/4689688
Pasig Chapter 6350922
Alabang Chapter 8097131/8506813
Bulacan 0446625388
Cavite 0464310562
NHQ Manila 5245787/5270864
Caritas Manila 5639298
DSWD 9318101

Alabang Red Cross drop-off sites are at National Bookstore ATC and St. James Parish.

More ways to help at http://www.redcross.org.ph/Site/PNRC/wtd.aspx.