I HAVE MOVED TO A MORE SERIOUS BLOGGING!

I have moved to Wordpress.

I wanted to continue my career on blogging seriously. It seemed like Wordpress has a lot of functions that would suit my needs and reach that goal. The posts I have read on a site and the recommendation of a friend convinced me to move there.

Of course, I would like to express my deepest gratitude to Blogger because this is where I started blogging for more than 2 years now.

Anyway, I would not let my posts on this site be put to waste so I will still link this on my new home.

Though I finally left Blogger, I STILL HAVEN'T LEFT BLOGGING. Besides, it would open new horizons for me.

THE LINK OF MY NEW BLOG IS WRITTEN ON THE RIGHT COLUMN OF THIS PAGE.

Let's prepare ourselves and fly into the twilight!

I will be posting my favorite songs here with their music videos or lyrics. It's nice to share songs to people so that they would know something about your emotions anf interests. I hope a lot of people out there also love the songs that I love.

I will also continue peoting results of online fun quizzes sam as before. I love those stuff.

I will also review creating CSS because it has been a long time since I was actively blogging here. Now that I'm back, I'll try my best to have a very nice blogsite.

However, I won't be always logging in because school work is very heavy and hectic. That's the similarities of all graduating student. But I thank God that I'm graduating. I pray for a very blessed and bountiful future.

God bless us all!

I hate those spam comments I received from my previous posts. I should have enabled signing-in to let people comment. I would clean them if I have time.

3RD COMEBACK of the Prodigal Blogger

I'm back to my Blogger for the 3rd time. I just don't know why. Maybe it's just because I'm not sure that Friendster blogs will always be there all the time if Friendster wasn't originally for blogging. At least, I'm assured that Blogger will be up for a longer time because it has been successful in terms of blogging.

Sigh. Until now, I still can't think of a main purpose I will have for my Blogger. I just don't want it to be a diary of my daily life. It's just quite cheesy and boring. I want it to serve a significant purpose that would lead a positive change to people.

RSS was removed from Friendster so my promotion of this blog will be manual again. Also, I'm still finding time to fix everything here. I would like a nicer theme. I would also like to add more features in this blog but still retain the simplicity. Well, those are for the future.

For now, everything here will just seem as scribbles to others. But who knows? In the near future, this blog would change the way of humankind!

Thanks for everyone who views, viewed, and will be viewing my blog. It would be rally nice to brighten someone's day through what I put here.

God bless and take care!

Happy 2nd Birthday to my Blog!

The Globe UNLI Rebellion

A lot of stupid people complained of
difficulty dealing with the Globe
network. Globe has made a solution,
but it turned out to be the worst in
the history of "unlimited texting"!!!

Globe has a point to prevent network
congestion by increasing the UNLI
rates. But they must bear its
consequences. They will lose a large
number of subscribers especially the
members of the average and poor
masses. It's so frustrating to know
that something so affordable before
has now become only a dream. Who will
avail those new UNLI rates? I never
had and never will.

We can say that the SUN Cellular
network is smaller than the giant
Globe network. But how come
that "small" network can manage the
congestion of unlimited SMS and voice
calls? Why can't Globe do that?

One factor Globe should consider is
the fact that people are very
practical nowadays. That means
thousands of Globe subscribers who
can't afford the amount Globe has laid
will switch to a more practical one --
SUN Cellular to be named as the most.

I liked Globe, especially its wide
range of services. But if they can't
go with today's economic trend, I
better switch my sim card. By the way,
almost all of my close friends who
were Globe users too have switched to
SUN.

Some people might disagree with me.
But people like them just don't
understand how difficult it is today
to find and budget financial
resources. Be practical, because we
live in reality.

The Top 20 Songs of 2006 in the Philippines

THE TOP 20 SONGS OF 2006 IN THE PHILIPPINES
courtesy of: MYX

1) Narda ~ Kamikazee
2) Bitiw ~ Sponge Cola
3) Ulan ~ Cueshe
4) I Still Believe in Loving You ~ Sarah Geronimo
5) If You Walk Away ~ Rachelle Ann Go
6) Sugod ~ Sandwich
7) Do Bi Doo ~ Kamikazee
8) Waltz ~ Hale
9) Stars ~ Callalily
10) Jeepney ~ Kala
11) Beep ~ The Pussycat Dolls
12) Welcome to the Black Parade ~ My Chemical Romance
13) Dahil Ikaw ~ True Faith
14) Invincible ~ Christian Bautista
15) Bakit ~ Rachelle Ann Go
16) Martyr Nyebera ~ Parokya ni Edgar
17) Jeepney ~ Sponge Cola
18) Direction ~ Slapshock
19) 241 (My Favorite Song) ~ Rivermaya
20) Bebot ~ Black Eyed Peas

*** For me, MYX is the most reliable source of what songs made it in a year. Other music charts include the album sales of major record bars. But in reality check, not all people can buy the artists' albums now that most of our poor countrymen are tempted by music piracy and song leakage. Text voting is more accessible to the masses because with just 2 pesos and 50 centavos, you can already contribute to the success of your favorite artist.


==> Just to give you a recap, I will also present the Top 20 songs of 2005 in the Philippines so history may inspire you to continue patronizing our very own talents. Here it is.

THE TOP 20 SONGS OF 2005 IN THE PHILIPPINES
courtesy of: MYX

1) The Day You Said Goodnight ~ Hale
2) Love Moves In Myterious Ways ~ Nina
3) Tell Me Where It Hurts ~ M.Y.M.P.
4) We Belong Together ~ Mariah Carey
5) True ~ Ryan Cabrera
6) Do Somethin' ~ Britney Spears
7) Kahit Pa ~ Hale
8) Stay ~ Cueshe
9) Untitled ~ Simple Plan
10) Incomplete ~ Backstreet Boys
11) Gemini ~ Sponge Cola
12) Beautiful Soul ~ Jesse McCartney
13) Same Ground ~ Kitchie Nadal
14) You'll Be Safe Here ~ Rivermaya
15) I Need You ~ Mark Bautista
16) Bright Lights ~ Billy Crawford
17) Kung Wala Ka ~ Hale
18) Wake Me Up When September Ends ~ Green Day
19) Helena ~ My Chemical Romance
20) Since U Been Gone ~ Kelly Clarkson


I wanted to congratulate all of the Pinoy artists. You all did an excellent good job! Uplift the Pinoy pride! Before I sign off for now, I just wanted to greet you A HAPPY, BOUNTIFUL, AND BLESSED NEW YEAR!!!
:)

Oh no! Malapit na pasukan! Gotta be ready... Hehehe.

It's the day after Christmas. I feel relieved. I was satisfied with our celebration. My mama is great in occasions. She still manages to prepare food and at the same time saves the budget. I was happy to be able to remind everyone of the real meaning of Christmas. Now is the day to be serious on my schoolwork. I believe naman na God will provide me with energy and guide me on my decisions. Thanks Lord. I'm still waiting for the release here of the Brunner & Suddarth's 11th edition. I'll probably wait for New Year. If it's still not in, I'll probably gonna lose my mind. I wanna study that book. On this day ahead and on the days to come before our classes resume on Jan. 4, I will do all homework so I can make bawi of the low scores I got on the previous quizzes. So much for that. Ciao!

Christmas party na namin bukas and the next day bakasyon na! Yehey! Pero promise ko sa sarili ko, super mega ultra aral for the resume of classes, lalo na ngayon na final nang irerelease pati sa Pinas yung Brunner & Suddarth's 11th edition. I kept on asking Lippincott and finally they confirmed. I hope so that I'll find that book in C&E on that day. Well, I'm generally just fine. Meanwhile, ok lang kahit di ko kumpleto simbang gabi because of my duties. God bless to all and a Merry Merry Christmas.

Waaah! Di q nasimulan simbang gabi! Waaah! Sayang!

Here i go again wandering from my seat in front of the computer. It's a cold Sunday morning. I was awaken by a neighbor's dog that's continuously barking at about 2:30 am. I didn't went back to sleep because i believe i dont have much time to do all paperworks and studies for this week. I admit that this week is full of requirements for the prelims. But i still go calm because Christmas vacation is coming. Yehey! Better do everything needed. But i still have a problem. I don't have a medica-surgical nursing book yet. Im still waiting for Lippincott to release the Brunner & Suddarth's 11th Edition this December. Hope it would be available here also this December. That's why i keep on nagging them through email. I dont want to buy any other med-surg book. The 10th edition may be nice but since an 11th edition is coming soon, i better watch out for it. I dont wanna regret in spending my money by buying an old one while a new one is coming real soon at the same price. Anyway, our prof doesnt require us anymore to purchase a med-surg book bec. we already have our Foundations of Nursing by Lois White textbook wherein the medical-surgical nursing is already integrated and summarized. A med-surg book is only good for further reference and consultation. That would be a nice reason, though. But im already starting to get impatient. My conscience urges me to buy rather the 10th edition for me to have my own reference since the library has only one copy and a lot of students borrow it. I borrowed a 10th edition volume from my classmate and I feel that lighter feeling in reading that book compared to others. It may be because i trust Brunner & Suddarth's more. My other choice is the Phipps' Medical-Surgical Nursing, the 2006 release from Mosby which is also the publisher of Potter & Perry. I liked it because it was indicated to give info that's balanced and direct and it was well-respected. Also, the five authors are all with PhD degrees. Unfortunately, IT'S ONLY AVAILABLE IN HARDCOVER EDITION in C&E. Oh, how awful! It's just like the Lewis, which is also good and the one used by our professor. The newer edition will be out on March next year. On the other hand, C&E is the only bookshop i know where nursing books are the main priority and they're almost complete. Also, they give discounts to students. Just present your ID. Recto branch is where i usually buy. Very well, im stuck between choices: to wait in vain for the 11th edition or buy the 10th edition and regretting seeing others in the future with that 11th edition book. I know they carry almost the same info but i think they may have made the 11th edition a more user-friendly one. Also, the infos may be more updated. We know that trends change as time goes by. Anyway, it's up to God's will but I believe He will let me have that Brunner & Suddarth's 11th edition in no time for me to gain knowledge. Here are the four Medical-Surgical Nursing textbooks; which I believe and according to the statements of the authors, critic, reviewers, and customers online; are the BEST ones in this time. I ranked them according to my choice:



1) Brunner & Suddarth's Textbook of Medical Surgical Nursing, 11th Edition. Release date: December 15, 2006. Authors: Smeltzer, Bare, Hinkle, Cheever. Publisher: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.


2) Medical-Surgical Nursing: Assessment and Management of Clinical Problems, 7th Edition. Release date: March 1, 2007 (a little too far from now.) Authors: Lewis, Heitkemper, Dirksen, O'Brien, Bucher. Publisher: Mosby.

3) Phipps' Medical-Surgical Nursing: Health and Illness Perspectives, 8th Edition. Release date: March 16, 2006. Authors: Monahan, Sands, Neighbors, Marek, Green. Publisher: Mosby.


4 ) Medical-Surgical Nursing: Critical Thinking in Client Care, 4th Edition. Release date: February 22, 2007 (still far from now.) Authors: LeMone, Burke. Publisher: Prentice Hall.






You... Have you already made your choice among the four?

But im sure that whichever you choose among them will give you an excellent source of information essential for your nursing career.

God bless y'all and a Merry Merry Christmas!!!

Syempre e2 na nman ako. Anu bang mga significant na pangyayari ngaun? Wla nman. Ok pa rin ako sa pag-aaral ko. Lagi pa rin akong tinuturuan ni Lord ng mga bagay-bagay na dapat kong matutunan.
Pumunta aq sa C&E Recto khapon and finally purchased my Nurse's Pocket Guide 10th edition. I admit that I like it kc mas user-friendly nga xa. May mga nkakatuwa pang icons. Astig! Mejo frustrating nga lng kc hardcover lang ng Phipp's Med-Surg ang available. That wud b my 2nd choice Med-Surg book, next to Brunner's. Wla pa din clang Brunner's 11th edition kc di pa nga released eh. Pero sna ma-release d2 sa Pinas ngaung Dec din. Email ko nga ulet ung Lippincott. Kukulitin ko cla ng kukulitin. Then I have to set aside my money kc sakto nlang ata un pambili ng Med-surg book. Bumili din aq ng cd ng office 03. Ganda. Pero ibabalik q dun sa Recto kc ayaw gumana ng Xp installer. Naku bsta dpat marelease un bka kc bumagsak aq sa NCM102 eh. Hehehe. Pero di na aq ngmamadali mkabili kc di nman lhat samen may Med-surg eh. Optional lng kc nga may Lois white na all topics are there. We are also allowed nman to use all med-surg books. Cge iintayin ko c brunner's 11th. Hirap magsisi eh. Hehe. Pero parating din nman ang Pasko. Sna mag-rain ng napakadaming blessings.
Merry Christmas to everyone!!!

Ngapala reminder lang. Ung time and date sa pagpost ko ng mga entries ko ung actual time d2 sa Pinas. US based kc ung time ne2ng friendster. Kya ineedit ko sa correct time d2. Reminder lang. Ok? Cge.

Ngee! Wla na nman kme pasok ngaun until tom. Anu ba nagyari dun? Minove ung makeup class nmin sa thurs at fri. Bale mas mahabang tym na kumpara sa orig na four hrs. Mas lalo aq knkbhan eh. Kelangan q 2loy mag doble sipag. Wla pa nman din akong MS buk. Ngapla, 2mawag aq sa C&E bookshop knna. Sbi wla pa daw ung brunner 11th ed pero may nurse's pocket guide 10th ed na. Sa wakas. Bibili aq sa thurs or fri. Ngreply ung lippincott sa email q. Sbi daw Dec 15 pa ung publication. Bale pre-publication plng ngaun. Hehe. Ok lng. Tiis tiis pa. May cnabi saken ung nkausap q sa fon na 2006 MS book from Saunders. Tingnan q nga un.
Sayang kc sna na-share q sa inyo ung everything about mr. & ms. lyceum 06 pageant nung March kung saan aq kasali. Pero cge i'll find time for it. Cge...

Hoooh! Grabe. After 5 days ng bakasyon, natapos ko rin ung ginagwa qng revision ng mga guides sa health hx sa adult, pedia, at pregnant client; p.e., ncp, teaching plan, at drug study. Naka-organize na ngaun sa isang clear folder. Just being ready for the challenge of our main rle competency w/c is the nursing process. Binaboy q lng kc last sem ung gnun kya mejo mbaba lng nkuha q overall.
5 days na kmi wlang pasok. Nung thurs eh balita may bagyo daw pero di nman sinipot ni reming itong metro mla. Nung fri daw dpat pero wla din. pero actually, gnawang holiday un ni gloria para 2loy2loy na ung bakasyon. Natakot nga aq bka tambakan kmi ng lecture ni maam kc ala psok. Tapos ngaun, kinansel ung duty nmen sa di ko alam na dahilan. Pero bukas may make-up class kmi. Buti nlang.
Hay. E2 nmang pinka-iintay kong Brunner & Suddarth Textbook of Medical-Surgical Nursing 11th Edition, wla pa rin eh alam q Dec. 1 p released un. Kinukulit ko nga ung website ng lippincott para madaliin ung release d2 sa pinas eh. Hehehe. Nbasa nyo ba review ko. Ayun nireview ko khit d ko pa xa nbabasa. Hehehe recommendation lng. Kc alam q nman na un ang da best choice na med-surg na book. Eh best-selling ba nman ung 10th edition nun sa mga med-surg book sa buong mundo. Pero cge. Intay intay nlang. Tiis nlang aq d2 kay lois white. Mgbabasa n rin lang aq ng buks sa lib nmen. Ayoko kc magsisi. Gus2 q tlga un. Sayang lng pera q kung iba ung buk na bibilhin q eh gus2 q nga un. And im sure it will be a big hit in nursing education.
E2 nmang lyceum eh ayaw i-update ung site nila. Tgal-tgal na eh. Musta nman un? Gus2ng gus2 q na magpost sa lyceum forum. Dead link kc ung sa knila dala ng update na di nman kumpleto at di nman ata tinapos tlga ng husto. Ay naku. Makausap ng ng diretsahan ung m.i.s. dept.
Hay. Grabe ang tgal q na nka-upo d2. Ilang days na rin dahil sa aking desire to excel at mkabawi sa studies. Pero ok lang. Natumbasan nman eh. At alam q na c Lord lage nkbantay saken. Hooh! I like this freedom of posting entries. Parang ngttxt lang. Hehe. Pero may mga times cguro na very formal ang ipopost ko, pag tinotopak. Hehe. Buhay pa nman ung blog ko sa Blogger ung talagang pinaghirapan ko pero inulit ko ung design ulet. Pero diplomatic aq dun pramis. Pero d2 kc mas mapapancn ako. Hehe. Naka-update lagi friendster eh. Oki? Cge. Til next time.
Ay oo nga pla. Let's pray for the victims of typhoon reming in region 5. I join the people there in prayer...

It may seem like this will be my first blog post. But actually, it’s not. I have created two blogs in the past on which I posted sensible entries. The reason why I made a new one is that I have been restricted by the social norms of journalism. I have been very careful of my grammar and have stated my ideas in a diplomatic way. I have also utilized mostly the English language so that every race can easily understand. I have also posted topics and images hoping that people would like my blog so they'll always come back to check them out again.
But it was then that I realized I have not totally paid attention to my self-freedom in creating blog entries. My goal for blogging was to express myself but also put into consideration the perception and interests of other people. I did it so that people would pay attention to my hardwork. But because of that, it took a long time for me to finalize my entries for posting (almost like this one). I don’t want regretting something, you know. But actually, I'm really exhausted with that conformation.
All I wanted to do now is to freely express myself more. Let’s get a little bit more informal now. Of course, I should also show the world that I am proud of my own language. Long live Filipinos!

Breakaway

It has been a long time since I posted on this beloved blog of mine. I'm always busy with studies that I don't have time to organize my thoughts for another post. Now I have even for just a short time. Nursing is really a very difficult course. You are doomed by pressures from side to side. Your responsibilities overtake your choices. Whew! Good thing I'm very good on adjustments. I'm a versatile guy, ya know. Haha. Our Capping Ceremony will be on June 13, 2006. Hooray! I'm moving towards being an RN (registered nurse). It's payback time for the hardships. My only problem now is that I was assigned to manage the choir for the baccalaureatte mass. I know little, but I'm grateful I get a lot of help and cooperation from others. Well, that's all for the updates. I'll find time to post some entries I must have posted long ago. That makes me a little frustrated for those posts may make my blog complete. Ciao!

Celebrating 365 Days of Reverie

A whole year have passed since I created this blog but it still continues on letting me share a part of my life. I pray that the Lord continues to bless me all the time. I praise and glorify You, my Lord! Thanks for making everything possible. Guide me on all the paths I would take so I will continue to rise even more each time I stumble. May God bless us all!

Know Your Birthday Color!

December 23rd - January 1st
Red

January 2nd - January 11th
Orange

January 12th - January 24th
Yellow

January 25th - February 3rd
Pink

February 4th - February 8th
Blue

February 9th - February 18th
Green

February 19th - February 28th
Brown

March1st - Match 10th
Aqua

March 11 - March 20th
Lime

March 21st
Black

March 22nd - March 31st
Purple

April 1st - April 10th
Navy

April 11th - April 20th
Silver

April 21st - April 30th
White

May 2nd - May 14th
Blue

May 15th - May 24th
Gold

May 25th - June 3rd
Cream

June 4th - June13th
Gray

June 14 - June 23rd
Maroon

June 24th
Gray

June 25 - July 4th
Red

July 5th - July 14th
Orange

July 15th - July 25th
Yellow

July 26th - August 4th
Pink

August 5th - August 13th
Blue

August 14th - August 23rd
Green

August 24 - September 2nd
Brown

September 3rd - September 12th Aqua


September 13th - September 22nd
Lime

September 23rd
Olive

September 24th - October 3rd
Purple

October 4th - October 13th
Nave

October 14th - October 23rd
Silver

October 24th - November 11th
White

November 12th - November 21st
Gold

November 22nd - December 1st
Cream

December 2nd - December 11th
Gray

December 12th - December 21st
Maroon

December 22nd
Teal

RED
Cute and lovable type, you are picky but always in love ...and liked to be loved. Fresh and cheerful, but can be "moody" at times. Capable with people, nice, soft, and that can love you for the way you are. Likes people that are easy to talk to, and can make you feel comfortable.

CREAM
Competitive and sportive. Don't like losing and always cheerful! You are trustworthy, and very out- going. You choose love carefully, and don't fall in love easily. But once you find the right one, you don't let go for a long long time.

TEAL
You are mostly interested in your looks. And have high standards in picking love. You think and make a solution precisely, and hardly make stupid mistakes. You like to lead, and is easy for you to make new friends.

GREY
You are attractive, and active. You never hide your feelings, and express everything that's inside. But can be selfish at times. You want to be noticed, and don't like to be treated unequally. You can brighten up people's day. You know what to say at the right time, and you have a good sense of humor.

GREEN
You get along well with new people. You are not really a shy person, but sometimes you can hurt people's feelings by your words... You like to be loved and noticed by your lover, but mostly you are single, waiting for the right person.

GOLD
You know what's right and what's wrong. You are cheerful and out going. It's hard for you to find the one you want, but once you find the right person, you won't be able to fall in love again for a long time.

PINK
You are always trying your best in everything, and like to help and care for other people. But you are not easily satisfied. You have negative thoughts, and you look for romantic love like in a fairytale.

YELLOW
You are sweet and innocent. Trusted by many people, and have a strong leadership towards relationships. You make good decision and make the right choice at the right time. And always dreaming of romantic relationship.

MAROON
You are intelligent, and know what's right. You like to take things go your way, which can sometimes cause trouble or not thinking about other people's feelings. But you are patient when it comes to love... Once you get a hold of the right person, it's hard for you to find a better love.

ORANGE
You are responsible for your own actions, and you know how to treat people. You always have goals to reach, and are competitive. When it comes to friendship, you find it hard to trust someone, but once you find the right friend, you trust them for ever.

PURPLE
You are mysterious, never selfish and get interested in things easily. Your day can be sad or happy depending on your mood. You are popular between friends but you can act stupid at times, and forget things easily. You go for person that's trustworthy.

LIME
You are calm, but easily stressed out. You get jealous easily, and complain over little things. You can’t get stuck into one thing, but you have a
capable personality for everyone to trust you and like you.

SILVER
You are imaginative and shy, but you like trying new things. You like to challenge yourself. You learn things easily, and like "Hard to get". Your
love life is normally hard and confusing.

WHITE
You dream and have goals in your life. You get jealous easily and you don't react to things easily. You are different and sometimes thought
highly by others.

OLIVE
You are warm and light hearted. You seem to flow well with friends and family. You don't like violence and know what's right. You are kind and cheerful, but don't envy other people easily.

BROWN
You are active and sportive. It's hard for other people to become close with you, but you fall in love easily. But once you find out you can't get something, you give up and let go easily as well.

BLUE
You have low self-esteem, and very picky. You are artistic and like to fall in love, but you let your love pass by, by loving with your mind, not your heart.

NAVY
You are attractive, and love your life. You have a strong feeling towards everything. And very easily distracted. Once you get angry at someone, it's hard for you to forgive them.

AQUA
Your feelings change suddenly and easily. You are always lonely, and like traveling. You are truthful, but listen and believe other people too easily. It's hard to find love for you, and you get lost in love easily. Sometimes you get hurt by love.

BLACK
You are challenging, and have the "guts". But you don't like changes in your life. And once you make a decision, you keep it that way for a long time. Your love life is also challenging, and different.

ORANGE
You are responsible for your own actions, and you know how to treat people. You always have goals to reach, and are competitive. When it comes to friendship, you find it hard to trust someone, but once you find the right friend, you trust them forever.

What Animal Am I in a Past Life?

You Were an Eagle

You are able to rise above the details of life and see the big picture. A spiritual being, you tend to go beyond material concerns.

What Animal Were You In a Past Life?

Was I an eagle? It could be. I always daydream like flying, seeing the landscapes below while breathing the cold fresh air above. And I like flying! I also wanted to be successful and flying high in my life and career. I also have a strong inner sense. Maybe some sort of ESP. And am I wise and smart? Hehe. You tell. But why not try to find out yours? It may be unbelievable, but it's fun! The results are random. But I was just lucky to have what I wanted in a second attempt.

What Fruit Am I?

Take the What Fruit Are You? test by Ellen!

Wow! My favorite flavor. That's me? Oh, I didn't knew I, myself, am a strawberry! Hehe. Why not try to find out yours?

Weird 9/11 Facts!

(written by someone a.k.a. "Q33 NY", edited by me)

This is pretty creepy!

1) New York City has 11 letters

2) Afghanistan has 11 letters.

3) Ramsin Yuseb (The terrorist who threatened to destroy the Twin Towers in 1993) has 11 letters.

4) George W Bush has 11 letters.


This could be a mere coincidence, but this gets more interesting:

1) New York is the 11th state.

2) The first plane crashing against the Twin Towers was flight number 11.

3) Flight 11 was carrying 92 passengers. 9 + 2 = 11

4) Flight 77 which also hit Twin Towers, was carrying 65 passengers. 6+5 = 11

5) The tragedy was on September 11, or 9/11 as it is now known. 9 + 1+ 1 = 11

6) The date is equal to the US emergency services telephone number 911. 9 + 1 + 1 = 11.


Sheer coincidence..?! Read on and make up your own mind:

1) The total number of victims inside all the hi-jacked planes was 254. 2 + 5 + 4 = 11.

2) September 11 is day number 254 of the calendar year. Again 2 + 5 + 4 = 11.

3) The Madrid bombing took place on 3/11/2004. 3 + 1 + 1 + 2 + 4 = 11.

4) The tragedy of Madrid happened 911 days after the Twin Towers incident.


Now this is where things get totally eerie:

The most recognised symbol for the US, after the Stars & Stripes, is the Eagle. The following verse is taken from the Quran, the Islamic holy book:

"For it is written that a son of Arabia would awaken a fearsome Eagle. The wrath of the Eagle would be felt throughout the lands of Allah and lo, while some of the people trembled in despair still more rejoiced: for the wrath of the Eagle cleansed the lands of Allah and there was peace."

That verse is number 9.11 of the Quran.


Still uncovinced about all of this..?! Try this and see how you feel afterwards, it made my hair stand on end:

Open Microsoft Word and do the following:

1. Type in capitals Q33 NY. This is the flight number of the first plane to hit one of the Twin Towers.

2. Highlight the Q33 NY.

3. Change the font size to 48.

4. Change the actual font to the WINGDINGS.

This is interesting for me. I got it from a reposted Friendster bulletin. It maybe sheer coincidence, or it can be TRUE! It can be a secret pattern or code deciphered by some psychic, astrologist, or numerologist. But topics like this are not new. Thus, it gives way to open mysteries.

Remember that in times of trouble, our most powerful weapon is Prayer. Believe in God's power to change everything because He's the Most Powerful One. Accept Jesus as your personal Christ and Savior and you will be truly SAVED!!!

Hairstyle Dilemma

Gosh I really wanted a new hairstyle! I'm fed up combing my short un-straight hair forwards and putting gel on it. I don't want to be just cute forever (joke!). I want a hairstyle that gives me attitude and a new look. It means it should be completely different from the hairstyle I'm used to. I want the wispy razored layered hairstyle in the picture. Money will be a problem. But worse than that is that long hair for boys is not allowed in Nursing. So I have no choice but to trim my hair down. But it's okay. The time will come when I will eventually have the chance.

After I joined Mr. Lyceum, I've been experimenting on new hairstyles. I have a self-fixed style everytime I'm not in uniform. I wanted to have a different style everytime so that I will know from people which hairstyle suits me best. I also aim to prove that I'm not the nerdy type of guy. I'm always open to new things and I always like to try them. I realized I became more vain. I even think I should always walk like a model anywhere. After that pageant, to become a model became one of my dreams. Yes, I wanted to! I'll accept any product brand as long as it's fashion. Showbiz? Well, I only wanted to be a band vocalist or a solo performer... and model at the same time!

Oh, by the way. That on the picture is a new young model, Jay Benito.

The Neogenesis of the Twilight

Now on my return, I changed the site layout. Initially, I will use one of the selections. Then, I’ll gradually edit the layout to what suits my taste. You might then long for my previous layout which contained glary effects upon a gloomy background. I blew all of my efforts away in just one click. It’s okay for me for I’m fed up with it. One of my friends told me it can make a visitor feel sad. The texts are also quite unreadable and the messages of the posts are distracted by too much annoying animations. Good thing I backed it up on a word document because I still need my counters and I also need guides on creating some designs for I’ve forgotten much about CSS. I’m not a pro. I’m planning to create a bright nature ambience but still possessing the twilight character so that happiness and enchantment will instill on the mind of anyone who visits my blog. Likewise, I also plan to change the domain name so that anyone can remember and easily type it on their address bars. Of course, it will still retain the fantasy theme. And what’s more, it will describe me. Just give me time to think on that matter. Ciao!

Back to What I Deserve

I finally realized it's good to have a blogger because it doesn't only give you freedom to design and lots of space, it also gives you way to many other possibilities which cannot provided by other blogs. Oh, I missed you my blogger! Thank God! Watch out for more posts and updates. I'll do it as long as the academic burdens are done. See ya!

Footprints... A New Version

Imagine you and the Lord Jesus are walking down the road together. For much of the way, the Lord's footprints go along steadily, consistently, rarely varying the pace. But your footprints are a disorganized stream of zigzags, starts, stops, turnarounds, circles, departures, and returns. For much of the way, it seems to go like this, but gradually your footprints come more in line with the Lord's, soon paralleling His consistently. You and Jesus are walking as true friends! This seems perfect, but then an interesting thing happens: Your footprints that once etched the sand next to Jesus' are now walking precisely in His steps. Inside His larger footprints are your smaller ones, you and Jesus are becoming one. This goes on for many miles, but gradually you notice another change. The footprints inside the large footprints seem to grow larger. Eventually they disappear altogether. There is only one set of footprints they have become one.

This goes on for a long time, but suddenly the second set of footprints is back. This time it seems even worse! Zigzags all over the place. Stops. Starts. Gashes in the sand. A variable mess of prints. You are amazed and shocked. Your dream ends. Now you pray:

"Lord, I understand the first scene, with zigzags and fits. I was a new Christian; I was just learning. But You walked on through the storm and helped me learn to walk with You."

"That is correct."

"And when the smaller footprints were inside of Yours, I was actually learning to walk in Your steps, following You very closely."

"Very good.. You have understood everything so far."

"When the smaller footprints grew and filled in Yours, I suppose that I was becoming like You in every way."

"Precisely."

"So, Lord, was there a regression or something? The footprints separated, and this time it was worse than at first."

There is a pause as the Lord answers, with a smile in His voice. "You didn't know? It was then that we danced!"

When God said "NO"

I asked God to take away my habit.
God said, No.
It is not for me to take away, but for you to give it
up.

I asked God to make my handicapped child whole.
God said, No.
His spirit is whole, his body is only temporary

I asked God to grant me patience.
God said, No.
Patience is a byproduct of tribulations;
it isn't granted, it is learned.

I asked God to give me happiness.
God said, No.
I give you blessings; Happiness is up to you.

I asked God to spare me pain.
God said, No.
Suffering draws you apart from worldly cares
and brings you closer to me.

I asked God to make my spirit grow.
God said, No.
You must grow on your own!
but I will prune you to make you fruitful.

I asked God for all things that I might enjoy life.
God said, No.
I will give you life, so that you may enjoy all things.

I asked God to help me LOVE others, as much as
He loves me.
God said...Ahhhh, finally you have the idea.

The Top 20 Songs of 2005 in the Philippines

from MYX


1) The Day You Said Goodnight ~ Hale

2) Love Moves In Myterious Ways ~ Nina

3) Tell Me Where It Hurts ~ M.Y.M.P.

4) We Belong Together ~ Mariah Carey

5) True ~ Ryan Cabrera

6) Do Somethin' ~ Britney Spears

7) Kahit Pa ~ Hale

8) Stay ~ Cueshe

9) Untitled ~ Simple Plan

10) Incomplete ~ Backstreet Boys

11) Gemini ~ Sponge Cola

12) Beautiful Soul ~ Jesse McCartney

13) Same Ground ~ Kitchie Nadal

14) You'll Be Safe Here ~ Rivermaya

15) I Need You ~ Mark Bautista

16) Bright Lights ~ Billy Crawford

17) Kung Wala Ka ~ Hale

18) Wake Me Up When September Ends ~ Green Day

19) Helena ~ My Chemical Romance

20) Since U Been Gone ~ Kelly Clarkson

A Year of Great Spiritual Awakening

God came closer to me this year!

At last I finally had the chance to post here again in spite of that maternal discipline from my technological addiction. Anyway, it’s one day to go before New Year. Sigh… How could this year pass by that fast? I admit that nothing has changed much except my relationship with God. It’s been almost two semesters since I joined Victory Christian Fellowship. It really improved my relationship with God and my knowledge of Him. I even experienced new challenges that proved how strong I am as a Christian. A lot of things changed within me. I’m now outspoken on my views about God which I seldom do before. I’m now feeling that God is upgrading me as His instrument in sharing His good news. I’m not perfect but still, I’m struggling to drive my evil force away. I really thank God for giving this opportunity to me. Thus, I look forward to make that relationship stronger in spite of many hindrances.

Aside from discovering the true Christian in me, I also started reading the Purpose-Driven Life by Rick Warren. I know that a lot of you out there have already read that wonderful book. I have started reading it last month but I failed to continue after the seventh day due to world pressures. Am I weak? I have to say yes, somehow. Two days after Christmas my senses ignited again so I started reading, giving myself a second chance. I even used a notebook to jot down important notes that I believe can help me while I share with others my view of God. I posed a strict policy to myself that I’ll just read one chapter a day so I can have time to reflect on it. I’ve heard others who finished reading it because they read two or more chapters a day. For me, that wouldn’t be effective. I recall a time when our philosophy teacher challenged us to defend God with him on the “God is not a good God” side. It’s a real shame that none of us managed to defend God and just drowned on the reasoning skills of our professor. I wish I knew God even more on that time. I must have defended him and won. But past is past and we learn from it. I’ll just continue to be a sinner who was chosen to be one of God’s instrument, letting Him mold me into my purpose in life.

Hmm… What very significant change would this upcoming year have in my life? I hope it’s an awesome one… part of the purpose God wanted for me. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to All!!!

The Greatest Values in Life

The greatest handicap – FEAR

The best day – TODAY

Hardest thing to do – TO BEGIN

Easiest thing to do – FINDING FAULTS

Most useless asset – PRIDE

Most useful asset – HUMILITY

The greatest mistake – GIVING UP

The greatest stumbling block – EGOTISM

The greatest comfort – WORK WELL DONE

Most disagreeable person – THE COMPLAINER

Worst bankruptcy – LOSS OF SELF-ESTEEM

Greatest need – COMMON SENSE

Meanest feeling – REGRET AT SOMEONE’S SUCCESS

Best gift – FORGIVENESS

The hardest way and most painful to accept – DEFEAT

The greatest moment – DEATH

The greatest knowledge – GOD

The greatest thing – LOVE

The greatest success in the world – FULFILLMENT AND PEACE OF MIND


I got this bunch of virtues from the 2001 issue of my high-school journal. I don’t know where these were excerpted. It’s just indicated that they’re compiled. However, they’re really worth carried inside everyone’s pocket and be shared with others.

All About Smile

First, A Brief Astrology of Smiles:

Brightest Smile – ARIES, March 21 - April 20

Warmest Smile – TAURUS, April 21 - May 21

Quicksilver Smile – GEMINI, May 22 – June 21

Romantic Smile – CANCER, June 22 – July 23

Biggest Smile – LEO, July 24 – August 23

Gentlest Smile – VIRGO, August 24 – Sept. 23

Most Beautiful Smile – LIBRA, Sept. 24 – Oct. 23

Mysterious Smile – SCORPIO, Oct. 24 – Nov. 22

Heartbreaking Smile – SAGITTARIUS, Nov. 23 – Dec. 21

Undaunted Smile – CAPRICORN, Dec. 22 – Jan. 20

Inspiring Smile – AQUARIUS, Jan. 21 – Feb. 19

Dreamiest Smile - PISCES, Feb. 20 - March 20


Here I am again with my fascination in astrology. But believe me. I don't rely my life on it. I just use it for fun. But you must admit. You also find it thrilling. I can't find a web reference for this list. I jut got this from a greeting booklet entitled Smile (Brownie, © Greetings, Inc., USA). It's good to know that Librans like me have the most beautiful smile. A lot of websites that discuss about Libran character justify it. Well, enough of the bragging. Let's get to the topic.

Always start your day with a smile. It gives physical and psychological benefits. It takes 17 muscles to smile . . . 43 muscles to frown. In short, smiling requires less effort. Smile exercises the corners of the mouth and airs the gums. According writer Mark Twain, "Wrinkles should merely indicate where smiles have been." So this means that the wrinkle pattern of elders indicate how cheerful they were. A smile can say "I love you" without a single word. Smile, and the world smiles with you . . . Cry, and you cry alone. But maybe, you can find a shoulder to cry on. I just remembered an appropriate song for this topic: Just A Smile by Barbie Almalbis.

Remember . . . SMILE! :)

Uninvited Celebrant

As you well know, we are getting closer to my birthday. Every year there is a celebration in my honor and I think that this year the celebration will be repeated. During this time there are many people shopping for gifts, there are many radio announcements, TV commercials, and in very part of the world everyone is talking that my birthday is getting closer and closer.

It is really very nice to know, that at least once a year, some people think of me. As you know, the celebration of my birthday began many years ago. At first people seemed to understand and be thankful of all that I did for them, but in these times, no one seems to know the reason for the celebration. Family and friends get together and have a lot of fun, but they don't know the meaning of the celebration.

I remember that last year there was a great feast in my honor. The dinner table was full of delicious foods, pastries, fruits, assorted nuts and chocolates. The decorations were exquisite and there were many, many beautifully wrapped gifts. But, do you want to know something? I wasn't invited. I was the guest of honor and they didn't remember to send me an invitation.

The party was for me, but when that great day came, I was left outside, they closed the door in my face......... and I wanted to be with them and share their table. In truth, that didn't surprise me because in the last few years they all closed their doors to me.

Since I was not invited, I decided to enter the party without making any noise. I went in and stood in a corner. They were all drinking; there were some who were drunk and telling jokes and laughing at everything. They were having a great time.

To top it all, this big fat man all dressed in red wearing a long white beard entered the room yelling Ho-Ho-Ho! He seemed drunk. He sat on the sofa and all the children ran to him, saying : "Santa Claus, Santa Claus"... as if the party were in his honor!

At 12 midnight all the people began to hug each other ; I extended my arms waiting for someone to hug me and .... do you know .... no one hugged me. Suddenly they all began to share gifts. They opened them one by one with great expectation. When all had been opened, I looked to see if, maybe, there was one for me.

What would you feel if on your birthday everybody shared gifts and you did not get one ? I then understood that I was unwanted at that party and quietly left. Every year it gets worse. People only remember to eat and drink, the gifts, the parties and nobody remembers me.

I would like this Christmas that you allow me to enter into your life. I would like that you recognize the fact that almost two thousand years ago I came to this world to give my life for you, on the cross, to save you. Today, I only want that you believe this with all you heart. I want to share something with you.

As many didn't invite me to their party, I will have my own celebration, a grandiose party that no one has ever imagined, a spectacular party.

I'm still making the final arrangements. Today I am sending out many invitations and there is an invitation for you. I want to know if you wish to attend and I will make a reservation for you and write your name with golden letters in my great guest book. Only those on the guest list will be invited to the party. Those who don't answer the invitation, will be left outside. Do you know how you can answer this invitation?

It is by extending it to others whom you care for...
I'll be waiting for all of you to attend my party this year...

See you soon .... I love you !

-Jesus-

I wonder who wrote this beautiful dialogue. It lets me realize the true meaning of Christmas. Every Christmas, we share the laughter with one another. But we almost forget that this celebration is really made for Jesus. Forgive us, Lord Jesus, that we always fail to show our love for you. May we celebrate this Christmas season with Your spirit and goodwill.

On Versatility: A Scholar Who Dreams to be an Athlete

This post is about talents, skills, and abilities.

I just came from my PE this afternoon which is basketball. I'm not a sports-oriented person and almost died my whole life wanting to excel in it. Even if I'll have the opportunity to learn, my self-confidence draws back. I just don't know why. My conscience forces me to just have one ability that would make people like me and make me transcend from others. Sorry if that sounds selfish. I'm so happy that at last I'm gonna have it on my talents list. I'm not boasting. I just wanted to make the most out of myself. If those people who have very good talents are ordinary humans like me, then why couldn't I have the potential to do what they can do? A question always appears in my mind:

What would you choose between "being a great varsity player whom everyone has a crush on" and "being a very smart student with a lot of achievements"? Do you ever wish you can have both?

I believe that God gave us enough blessings to keep us happy and enough burdens to keep us humble. Nobody's indeed perfect. So not anyone gets all the talents he wants to have to call himself perfect. As I have observed, academically-excellent students have less or no orientation to sports. Likewise, most athletes are weak in academics. I'm not taking this generally. But if anyone excels in both aspects, there can be something lacking in his life. He may not be that good-looking. He may be financially unfortunate. He may have no musical talents. He may have a lot of family problems. He may be suffering a sickness such as cancer. No one knows. At times when we think that someone is almost perfect, think again. This is not a way to degrade someone so lucky, but just a scoop from reality. This should not be a feeling of envy. One person can be versatile, but he doesn't excel in all those things. Ok. One person may see this as discontentment. But one thing is true. You can make the most out of yourself. It's not being the best but doing your best. We just have to be proud of what we have because God made us unique from others that makes us special in our own way.

I can't believe I'm saying this. I admit I don't always do the things I've written in the previous paragraph. But they can be guides for people who feel the same envy or discontentment or curiosity that I feel. I know you may have negative reactions on this. But assessing yourself with the reality is a good thing to do. Once you learned to self-actualize on one aspect of life you have had problems on, you will feel a sense of achievement. Ok folks. That's all for now. See you soon!

It's My Birthday!

Why is it that it has to be my birthday when I post here again?
Well, thanks to God for another year!

2 Days to Go

Well, what’d you expect? Situations are still the same — frustrations, confusion, anxiety, boredom. But I still have to enjoy because this will be my last carefree day.

A Prayer Answered

Today, I’m very thankful to God that He answered my prayers. Our PC was fixed just a while ago. Although I can only execute programs and not surf the net because the modem is yet to be replaced, I’m still very happy. From now on, I can type and print my assignment and projects without having to spend time and money on a computer shop. I’ll just go there to surf the net and save my work on a diskette to be edited when I got home. Isn’t that neat?

We installed the Windows XP Pro Edition operating system so that it will have a new look and feel. The technician will also lend us a CD-writer drive when he comes back so that we can burn our favorite music. What a nice surprise! Now, I just have to obtain copies of songs that I don’t have by borrowing from others, downloading, or buying them. Yes, I’m aware of piracy. That’s why I will only use the songs for my own enjoyment and not make money out of them.

I believe that everything happens in God’s due time. Thank You, Lord, for making it happen. I Love You!

For The Sake of Independence Day

We celebrate Independence Day every 12th of June. But is nationalism still practiced by us, Filipinos, the same way as our heroes and ancestors practiced before? Are we really proud of our country? Are we really proud of being Filipinos? These questions may be answered by the nice article I’ll share with you below. It was written by Dero Pedero on his Living Alive on page G-2 of the Sunday Lifestyle section of The Philippine Star dated June 12, 2005. I just got it this morning after going to church.

* * *

I LOVE/HATE THE PHILIPPINES

The weaker the country, the stronger the smile — Howard Koch, US Screenwriter

Most Filipinos love the Philippines. Why won’t they when it is the land of their birth, and home of their people? I am a Filipino and, yes, I love the Philippines. Yet with almost the same intensity (or maybe a little bit more), I hate it for all the great things it can be, which at present it isn’t.

Confusing? Well, much as I love this country with its sunny skies, fresh winds, blue seas, verdant mountains, shimmering rivers, golden plains, and smiling people, I hate it for what it has become because of what we, Filipinos, have made of it.

SECRET HATRED

Ask any Filipino what he feels about the Philippines. Of course, initially, he will share with you all the glorious reasons why he loves this country (the usual “fun-loving, hospitable people” blah-blah). If you dig deep enough, you will start to unravel a commonplace reality: That deep within every Filipino is a secret hatred for his country. To prove this shocking hypothesis, offer a Filipino a chance to work or live overseas and he’d choose that (I would surmise more than 85 percent would) hands-down over living in these perlas ng silanganan (pearl of the Orient).

Why this common sentiment? Why would the typical Filipino want to leave this sparkling, lush, tropical archipelago if he indeed loves it?

For one, life is getting harder in these supposedly paradise islands — so many people live below the poverty level as revealed in a survey made by the United Nations. The chance of improving your life and fully realizing your fondest dreams is very low, and the health and financial security you want to have during old age can’t be assured. To top it all, there is just too much politics and corruption that you can’t trust anyone anymore and begin to fear for the future of your children.

These are just a few of the reasons why many Filipinos are disenchanted by this nation. Of course, the ones who would choose to stay are the ones milking it of its resources, making a big profit, or stealing from its already distressed people.

The “hatred” that most Filipinos feel stems mainly from the frustration of feeling powerless to change the situation especially with regard to the political status of the country (even with the knowledge they can, at any time, activate people power to oust any undesirable government official). Most Filipinos have given up: “Maski sino and ilagay mo diyan, magnanakaw din (No matter who you put in power, he will also steal)!”

NATIONAL PRIDE

Now, ask any Filipino if he is proud to be a Filipino. Chances are he would not know what to answer. We all have had our little brushes (abroad, especially) with co-Filipinos who find it more convenient and status-uplifting to claim to be of some other nationality except Filipino. I, myself, fear for the direction our youth are taking — they’d rather rap in scarily precise black-speak and wear snow caps (in the tropic heat!), have their pierced navel peeping through their blouse and jeans a la Britney, buy P25,000 tickets to an F4 concert, and swoon over Korean telenovelas.

Deep in our hearts, we Filipinos want to be proud of our country and ourselves. But what is there to be proud of? What are the newspaper headlines and top stories of TV network news that those high-strung newsreaders are barking? Negative, depressing news. Killings, graft, corruption, exposés, gossip, and inanities. Rarely anything that would extol national pride. You can’t have national pride if there is nothing to be proud of.

I LOVE

These I love: Our naturally beautiful islands and beaches (until soda pop bottles, beer cans, and junk-food wrappers ruin the ecology and mar the view). The naturally golden heart of the Filipino. Filipino music. (We all sing and dance so well! But I hate the double entendre and vulgar Spaghetti, Bulaklak, and Basketball variety, if you know what I mean!)

Filipino food, despite its being a culinary expert and dietitian’s nightmare: Oily, salty, fatty, mostly brown in color (think adobo, dinuguan, paksiw na lechon). Mangoes, leche flan, carabao milk ice cream, halo-halo, anything cooked in coconut (yummy!). Christmas in the Philippines (over three glorious months of celebration from November till Valentine’s Day).

I salute Dolphy (for refusing to enter politics), Rosa Rosal (for her commendable charity work), Gloria Romero (so real and unaffected!), and Pilita Corrales ( a wacky and truly wonderful person!). I am glad there is Mayor Lito Atienza and his successful Buhayin ang Maynila campaign, and the silent but amazingly effective MMDA chairman Bayani Fernando. (I was able to make Makati to Cubao in 15 minutes ― a miracle!)

I love it that when you hiss “Pssst!”, Filipinos look back. Abroad, that’s how you can tell Pinoys from the rest of the pack.

I HATE

I hate, I hate, I hate: Reckless drivers (I could have died the other week when a reckless bus driver almost sidewiped my car!). Uneducated cab drivers who can’t tell a red from a green light (colorblind?). Smoke belchers. Money-motivated policemen hiding in dark streets waiting to catch you beat the red light. Old, grouchy immigration and customs personnel at the airport. (In other countries, their front liners are young, beautiful, truly inviting people! Attention: Department of Tourism).

Jumping lines (singitan nang singitan). Power tripping (Hoy! Di mo ba ako kilala?). Palakasan (using influential people). Media sensationalism. Tabloid journalism. Lackluster, gory, repulsive, yucky, nonsensical TV shows. Gaya-gaya (copycat) show formats. Invasion of privacy by TV camera crews (unconstitutional!). Below-the-belt TV stations’ rivalry. I hate it that almost every little Filipina girl’s dream is to be s Sex Bomb dancer or a Japayuki. Yuck.

Too many awards shows that honor mediocre work, films, and personalities. Too many unsolved mysteries: Ninoy Aquino’s assassination, Marcos’s hidden wealth, Nida Blanca’s murder, etc. Too many hearings in the Senate: What happened to the Brunei-yuki, Ador, and jueteng hearings (they start off with a lot of noise, then everybody becomes quiet afterwards; I wonder what silences them.)

The pretentiousness of some Filipinos, and their hollow and superficial values (mga nagmumurang Louis Vuitton). Not enough museums and art and science exhibitions to quench the thirsty soul and tickle the imagination. Slow election returns that allow for cheating. Vote buying, vote selling. Starstruck people voting for showbiz folks who may not even be qualified for government office. Greedy, obnoxious politicians and their power-wielding alalays (sidekicks). And overbearing queridas (mistresses).

I hate that Filipinos never learn. How many Payatas garbage dump landslides, and how many more Quezon Province and Ormoc floods should occur, killing hundreds of people, before Filipinos learn that the ecology and environment are important to life? How many more inter-island vessels should sink or catch fire before the concerned authorities become really strict with safety measures and strengthen disaster control?

I LOVE / I HATE

Ah, but I both love and hate: Filipino time. I hate it when someone is late and I am in a hurry to do many other things; I love it as a backup reason every time I am late. And balikbayan boxes — they are such an eyesome (wa poise) but forgivable if stuffed with wonderful goodies to be shared with relatives and friends!

Pessimism Strikes Back

After moments of optimism, pessimism attack again. Should I say “He, he, he”? My cerebrum again urges me to leave the chorale, even if my hypothalamus doesn’t want me to. The reasons? Well, aside from those I gave from my previous posts, I’ll get very tired if I’ll do that. My new schedule is tiring that I’ll have to wake up at least 4 a.m. just to be early for my 7 a.m. class. Travel is about one and a half hour. Three-fourths of my daily schedule is from 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Wednesdays and Saturdays should be my rest days, but I have to give it for the rehearsals. Also, this school year will have more expenses than before now that I’m already a sophomore.

Pardon me.

Jaded

Today, I’m almost totally impatient of my frustrations. This is accompanied by the weather’s heat. I’m tired of anticipating for the good things to come. Our computer technician was supposed to come last Tuesday. But, his vehicle was broken so he needs to fix it first. I understand because it’s his way to make a living. Thus, I still have to wait for a few more days to see our PC functioning again. I admit also that I’m desperately waiting for my new cellphone. Seven months could be fatal. Hopefully, it’s one with a camera so I could share moments of reverie with others. I’m also anxious of going back to school. I’m still not ready to face peer pressure. In the same manner, I’m still suffering from being stuck in the middle of consequences.

Sigh! Well, I believe that everything happens in God’s due time.

Acute Protrusion of Optimism

My parasympathetic nervous system seems to have dominated over me again. I’m again thinking about the positive sides of being a chorale member and how I can benefit from it disregarding my frustrations.

It’s nice being a chorale member. Not only will you learn to sing in tune, but also will have a group of dependable friends. Never mind the expenses because they pay off with security, laughter, and fame. You’ll also have the assurance to receive partial scholarship provided you attend rehearsals and performances regularly. Also, you’ll be taught by a very kind musical instructor whom cannot be found from other chorale groups. But the best reason for me not to leave the chorale is someone special.

In spite of those compliments, I’m still stuck in between. I hope to find the answers real soon.

Wasted Moments

Right now, I’m at the balcony of our house. It’s late sunset and I’m staring at the scattered purple clouds above the horizon with a bluish twilight on the background. It gives me a lot of meaning. As I turned my head halfway to the left, I can see the orange post street light where moths are happily playing about. This view inspires me to write poems.

Sigh! I wish I had my own camera phone right now so I can quickly get a picture of everything that inspires me. I love to share moments of my reverie in a way others can understand and appreciate. I also need my PC fixed as soon as possible. Hello! It’s already school time. Oh! I also need a USB cable, infrared port, or Bluetooth port for my PC so I can transfer the pictures and files from my would-be cellphone. Do you wonder how I got my previous posts here? I rent at a computer shop or take all down on a notebook and just post them when my PC is fixed.

I’ll just pray that God grants my wishes. It all depends on my mother. Ma, hurry up! I can’t wait anymore!

Stuck in the Middle of Consequences

It’s been a year since I became a member of the Lyceum of the Philippines Chorale. It’s really one of the greatest experiences of my life. I have learned to sing properly, listen to sharps and flats, reach high notes, read notes, and have good voice modulation. I’ve experienced to have one of the best group of friends ever. I can sing in unison with other members on prestigious occasions, contests, and gigs. I also had the chance to go on a trip and have fun with them. I can feel that the chorale is my dwelling place during my stay in Lyceum.

But in life, we have choices. We have to make our decisions when we are to choose between situations. I like being in the chorale, but there’s an urge inside me to leave it. I’ve felt this since before and the former president knew it.

I really have a great passion for music. I’m a music lover since I was a kid. I have dreamed of being a singer someday. I have joined school bands. Now, I’m a member of a chorale. I didn’t like classical music but this event changed it.

However, since I joined the chorale, I encountered a lot of consequences. Our college dean strongly disagrees with our additional commitments because it will interfere with our academic focus. It didn’t bother me a lot not until the second semester. First, I had difficulty managing my time between academics and rehearsals. Sometimes, I have to leave a class on my major subject just to attend a performance in the auditorium. The quiz on the topic became very difficult for me. I also had a hard time studying my notes and the repertoire at the same time. A performance or gig that lasts until the wee hours is so tiring. It’s even more tiring if you have an early class the next day. Also, when some of the members plan to go out, peer pressure attacks me. So, I’m forced to spend my time and money. Although my parents appreciate my singing, we argue about my expenses and waste of time from joining the chorale. I know they’re right. I’m raised to be wise enough on being practical. They wanted me to quit. But one problem depresses me much. It’s my problem on relationship with some members. I think they don’t allow me to make myself ridiculous because they feel inferior of my intellect. But that’s my nature. So, I’m often left lagging behind. If that’s the case, it isn’t fair. I’m only human and I can’t live all by myself.

My apology to my fellow chorale members if you ever read this. I just wanted to cry my heart out. Please always be my friend whatever my decision is. I know some of you may be in worse situations than mine, but you still remain because you really like what you are doing. I like being in the chorale, but my priority is on my studies. I’ll never trade my academics to extracurricular activities. That’s a strong principle that molded in me since I was young. It is the foundation of my future. Besides, it’s what our parents wanted for us. God told us to honor our parents.

I’m stuck in the middles of consequences. May God lead the way.

"Ma, I have earache!"

Last night, both of my ears became very itchy. I think it’s because of the soap and water residue that’s stuck in my ears. The irritation caused them to produce cerumen. I was too lazy to search for cotton buds or a hairpin. There’s nothing else I can do but to use my stupid ingenuity. So, I used the upper tip of this ballpen that I’m using to poke my ears. The outcome—“wet cake”. However, the itch still persisted. So, I kept on poking until there’s no “cake” left to scrape.

The next morning, I woke up with terrible pain on both of my ears. It never ceased the whole day. So, I took a painkiller. When the effect faded, I drank one again. I looked up at the Reader’s Digest Family Medical Adviser book I got from one of my grandmothers. It was very useful. It was said there that ear injury from poking is caused by damaged ear flaps. Tht flaps will heal after some time. Lucky am I to know this!

My advice for parents is to take care of what children may hold. They might poke it into their ears and cause damage and even hearing loss.

Home Again

After two weeks of vacation in Iloilo, my beloved aunt (I call her Mama) and my younger cousin goes back home. I’m frustrated that I can’t have freedom in doing whatever I wanted inside the house anymore. But still, I’m happy that our family’s together again and everything went back to normal. Now that my tita (aunt) is home to do her job, I’m being attacked again by the indolence virus. That’s because my household chores will decrease eventually.

Mama brought home a lot of goodies from Iloilo’s finest delicacies stores, Guimaras, and Bacolod. They were biscocho, piaya, otap, meringue, pinasugbo, egg crackers, ugoy-ugoy, bread sticks, and fruit cake. There were also bananas, mangoes, and chicken adobo. She brings all of these everytime she comes home from our province. I hope I don’t get toothache. I don’t want to see my poor teeth be pulled out anymore.

Still, I thank God that they’re safe. From that short time, I learned again how to be independent.

Valuable Even At Death

I watched the documentary show “Kontrobersyal” on ABS-CBN last night. Two of their topics is about corpses.

The first topic is about burglars. They’re not burglars of houses, but of tombs! They steal body parts from corpses and use them to make a living. That’s pretty blasphemous, but for them it’s okay. They steal teeth, socks, and steel coverings of the coffins. Then, they sell it to students, dentists, merchants, and junk shops. If no one buys, they keep it. Some burglars are so rude. They just leave the corpses somewhere after taking them from the grave and benefiting from their parts. Even at death, our body may still become valuable and useful, but sometimes just for the selfish desires of people.

The second topic is a good one. It’s about how mausoleums are built with elegance. They are filled with amenities for the family. When I saw them, am I surprised! There is a mausoleum in a cemetery in Pampanga that looks like a two-story mansion. It has an entrance hall with pillars and glass windows. It’s complete with living room, dining room, kitchen, comfort rooms, entertainment room, recreation room, and a wide balcony. Even the chandelier in the middle of the ceiling costs almost a hundred thousand. The bedrooms? They are where the departed lie. The tombs are neatly covered by blankets and pillows to make them look like real beds. The other beds are reserved for the other members of the family who are still alive. There are also numerous vaults to accommodate all of their loved ones. Anyone who enters the mausoleum won’t feel any fear, but instead enjoy the coziness of a home. No wonder these structures amount to millions, even more expensive than ordinary houses. Of course, a caretaker and a security guard were hired to prevent the mausoleum from negative physical elements.

Sometimes, I go jogging on the cemetery nearby—the Manila Memorial Park. Memorial parks are perfect places to find fresh air and peaceful environment. When I see grave keepers, I wonder if they get fed up with their jobs or discover something extraordinarily nice about it. As I jog further, I see the elegant mausoleums. I even climb the rooftops of cute ones for a nice viewing of the place. As for the owners, these are priceless. This is a way to show their incomparable love for their family even at death.

Household Mystery

This morning, the boundary from the vehicle and the payment for the LPG disappeared right from the computer table. The loss may amount to a thousand pesos. I just received it from the dispatcher last night and put it there. No one knew who took it. Or, no one just wants to admit anything. No stranger has entered the house. We’re very sure of that. Included in the loss is the money for the load wallet in our store that happened a few days ago. I even joked that it was done by a poltergeist. But it’s impossible. A ghost could’ve stolen objects, but not money. Someone who needs a big amount of money for a special trip might be the suspect. Or maybe, it’s someone who has “great” plans for this coming school year.

Whoever it is, I understand. I even did the same before. But now, I turned my back from it. Anyway, this is just our own family problem.

An Awesome Event

Rachelle Ann Go is awesome. Her first major solo concert, entitled “The Ultimate Champion”, is very impressive. She did excellent renditions of Mariah Carey, pop, RnB, and current OPM hits. I totally enjoyed the part where she sang “Hoe Could You Say You Say You Love Me” with complete mimicry of the Celine Dion-oriented voice of Sarah Geronimo. Her guest singers—Mark Bautista, Christian Bautista, and Ogie Alcasid—did great jobs, too. The show is already showing at this moment on Studio 23.

What? You like to hear a comparison? Ok. Compared to Sarah Geronimo, Rachelle’s voice is more flexible. She can sing on almost all genre. I think she has better voice quality because aside from her matured and balanced voice modulation, her belting-out doesn’t sound irritating. However, Sarah has more charm for her smiling face and “pangmasa (for the masses)” beauty.

The Best Thriller Book Ever

Because of that incident, I planned to read again the Book of Revelation in the Bible. Believe me! This is the best thriller book ever! And it’s not fiction, but a real life story. What’s more, it’s the only non-fiction thriller that didn’t happen in the past but forecasted to happen in the future. Just imagine yourself in the scene of every suspense sci-fi thriller movies. This event of human history is the ultimate destiny of the world, the conclusion of God’s plans.

This is, indeed, but true. Scared? Me, too. I think I’m not yet ready …

Apocalyptic Dream

Before, I always had dreams about the end of the world. They were angels, devils, disasters, heaven, hell, or even God and Jesus Christ Themselves. It disappeared for some time. Now, they’re coming back. It happened after I’ve watched that religious TV program about the last days. It disturbs me somehow.

This afternoon I dreamed that the Philippines was completely submerged in a great flood due to a heavy rain that lasted for forty days. The highlands, like Baguio, are the ones left. Where am I? I’m like flying without wings—a spectator. I also see myself continuously rocketing into space and bouncing back to Earth with a great gravitational acceleration. Whoa! That made me very dizzy when I woke up.

No need to worry about anything. But I expect more dreams like this in the future. I found them quite thrilling. Does God want me to be one of His messengers, although I have lots of trespasses?

Close to Reconciliation

As I have promised, I will write my daily memoir starting June. I planned it for it somehow signifies a new beginning—a new challenge on the new level of college life.

Yesterday, I watched the teachings of the religious TV show and I thought of applying it on my daily life. That topic was about the sins of the people. Well, I think there’s no need to elaborate it anymore.

There is just someone who never talked to me for already about five years. We were very close before. But now, the communication line between us is gone. It started when I got fed up with that person’s mischievousness since we were kids. So, after about ten years of composure, I finally bawled out.

That person can last a decade without talking to someone that person hates. But I can’t! My heart’s not a hard rock that can last for years without weathering. These days, I finally decided to make us reconcile, though I think I haven’t any fault. I did a lot of ways hoping that it will come true.

I know God’s words are powerful. So today, I got my pocket Bible and searched for a topic about forgiveness. I gave that person a verse about the topic.

MARK 11:25-26
²⁵”And whenever you stand praying, if you have anything against anyone, forgive him, that your Father in heaven may also forgive you your trespasses.
²⁶But if you do not forgive, neither will your Father in heaven forgive your trespasses.”

I knew that person read it, but that person gave it to others. Yet, I made a note that it should be first be done before passing it to others. Then, I stapled it on that person’s bed.

Whatever happens, my conscience is clear. Everyone has freewill to decide. At least, I’ve shown my sincerity to do what is right.

Spiritual Confusion

Just about two hours ago, I incidentally tuned in to the TV program of Iglesia ni Cristo. I’m not a member of the religion, but I somehow like watching their discussions on life’s problems. The show is about the achievements of the religion, its expansion throughout the world, and the proof that it’s God’s deliverer in the last days.

But that’s not the one that disturbs me. It’s the fact that the members of the religion are more united and know each other very well, unlike most of us Catholics who just ignore our seatmates and dissipate after the mass without the teachings of God in our hearts. Some are too shy to sing fearing that they may look ridiculous. Some do texting and chitchat while the mass is going on. Some just waste their time sitting and standing without understanding what the priest is talking about. They just do it for the sake of tradition. Even in church, we fear of thieves. It’s just like the churches in Quiapo, Tondo, and Baclaran.

All members of Iglesia ni Cristo wear decent attire, while some of Catholics dig in to hip-hop style. I’ve got just some feedback. Iglesia ni Cristo doesn’t consider Jesus Christ as a God, though it’s through Him that we’ll receive forgiveness from the Father. Also, some of its leaders keep on criticizing Eli Soriano. Do they really have to speak ill of other people? Is it right to make war against other religion? Why can’t they just unite in teaching God’s words?

Oftentimes, I wish that I belong to a religion or sect where people are closely united and do charity work together. I think one of them is being a Born-Again Christian. In that way, I can follow God’s teachings very well and then, proudly say that I love Him.

Look. I’m just referring to some, not all, Catholics who do not appreciate and practice God’s ways very well. They are the ones who are much tempted in playing and malling after going to church. What happens is they think about it the whole hour of staying in church. Thus, the spirit never enters their minds. That carelessness in faith may be the reason why a lot of criminals today are Catholics.

I swear I never meant to put down my own religion. I’ve grown up with it and put it in my heart. I only wanted change in people to make worship as sacred as possible. I also wanted to see them do just whatever they learned in church, not just take them for granted and continue their wrong deeds. Change the mentality of fearing that you’ll look ridiculous. Just praise the Lord with all you heart.

Another Day of Blissful Reverie

This afternoon at two, I sat on the beam of the railing of our balcony to breathe the cool and fresh air that comes on this rainy late summer. I looked at the horizon and saw the range of cumulus clouds brightened by the sun with the blue sky at the background. What a view to reminisce! I went inside and sat on the sofa while staring at the sunlight passing through the leaves of the coconut tree to the door. I never have reminisced like this for a long time because of some work.

The Rains of May

At last! After the extremely dehydrating heat of summer that lasted until the first weeks of May, here comes the cool aftermath. The rains has come to mark the end of the dry season. Never did a day pass without rain, even a light drizzle. Usually, there are downpours with thunderstorms. The plants could probably be happy, so as all the people in town. I'll never have to wear sando, perspire a lot, and maximize the electric fan again. I can now use my blanket and my non-cotton clothes. Outr fridge will cool quickly so there's no way I can't have ice cold water. But our bodies won't be needing that much water at this point.

The dry season will end, so as the summer vacation. Classes will start soon, but I don't know whether I'll feel happy or anxious about it. I like school because of new knowledge, friends, allowance, and freedom. But... I'll miss the vacation, when I had the chance to free myself from the burdens of school work, peer pressure, and high expenses.

Oh, well. That's life indeed! It's God's will, and He knows our capacity to handle things.

See ya!

Going Paradoxical

PARADOXICAL LIFE

If laws are made to be disobeyed...
why promulgate those?
If promises are made to be broken...
why promise?
If money couldn't buy everything...
why crave for it?
If relationships are not made to last...
why be engaged?
If fame has negative aftermaths...
why need it?
If I'm not made to live forever......

I like this short poem because it made my mind turn topsy-turvy. It somehow tricks my common sense by its reasonable ideas. I was even more astonished when I've read the last line. This may come from the curious mind of an innocent child or from the confused mind of a distressed person. No wonder the author of this poem is one-of-a-kind.

Above is a poem from the 8th Volume of Imaginaccion, the literary publication of the Lyceum Independent Sentinel, published in 2005. It was written by Clyde Ericson Nolasco of the College of Computer Studies, who just graduated recently. He was also the managing editor of the Sentinel, the official news organ of the Lyceum of the Philippines. I didn't knew this man, but I can presume his good character through his works. If anyone of the Sentinel reads this post, please allow me to let it remain here. Thank you, God bless, and continue to bring news that matter!

Nighttime Reverie

Sometimes, I sit by the window at night,
Singing songs that soothe and relax mind;
It's raining hard and the moon's out of sight,
I'm seeking for answers that are hard to find.
The empty, quiet streets seem so lonely,
The still, street lights dimly give their beams;
I'm wishing that if it could be only,
That reality comes to all my dreams.
The shivering cold surrounds my body,
Dark shadows lay on every single thing;
If each mortal being fears nobody,
Then we can conquer almost everything.
Now the rain has stopped, the clouds cleared the skies;
The stars twinkle on the tears in my eyes.

This sonnet of mine was featured in the 2002 issue of my high school journal. It was originally named "A Rainy Night" but I wanted to give it a little fancy. It states how a person creates ideas inspired by the pleasant ambience. It shows how imagination can be related into reality.

Hope you'll like it!

The Turquoise Twilight: Unleashed

"Turquoise Twilight" symbolizes dreams, hope, fantasy, imagination, intuition, and hope. It clearly describes my idealistic and poetic side. With that quality, I can't deny my love for music and nature.

What always appears in my imagination is a turquoise twilight. It's where my boundless abstractions turn into vivid perception of goals in life and other different possibilities. I can always see myself flying into that light in the sky.

Turquoise twilight also symbolizes curiosity, optimism, and faith in God.

A turquoise twilight can be seen at late sunset, at night, and at early daybreak. It may not look like blue or green enough sometimes, but it somehow posesses a tint of it.

The Turquoise Twilight...
...the portal to worlds of fantasy.
...the key to doors of mystery.
...the road to spiritual victory.

What's with Twilight?

1 : the light from the sky between full night and sunrise or between sunset and full night produced by diffusion of sunlight through the atmosphere and its dust
2 a : an intermediate state that is not clearly defined b : a period of decline
© Merriam-Webster Online

What comes into your mind when you hear the word "twilight"? Nightfall? Horror? Well, that's real close. The word here really meant fantasy. It's about what fires up the imagination. In fact, fairy tales always feature twilights on the scenery. That gives the whole setting a magical characteristic.

After sunset and before sunrise, there is twilight. The sunrise twilight is accompanied by the cool, refreshing air and the friendly heat of the sun. It's best viewed over the fields or mountains. New hope for everyone is what it symbolizes. As the saying goes, "After the night, the morning will come."

On the other hand, the sunset twilight symbolizes dreams. It comes in various colors ranging from orange and yellow to the afterglow of red and purple. It's best viewed at sea with seagulls flying around. This twilight ignites a poet's imagination. Soon, the moon and stars will come out to lead a dreamer to his peaceful repose. Even at night, a pale twilight can still be seen at the horizon. Imagine yourself on the riverbank playing with the will-o'-the-wisps in the moonlight. Aurorae, caused by interstellar phenomena, can also be twilights at night.

These sublime instances make my soul transcend and wander off into the horizon with the words, "There's more out there!"

What's with Turquoise?

1 : a mineral that is a blue, bluish green, or greenish gray hydrous basic phosphate of copper and aluminum, takes a high polish, and is valued as a gem when skyblue
2 : a light greenish blue
© Merriam-Webster Online

Two of my most favorite colors are blue and green. The other one is purple. I like the cold hue of blue. Everytime I see this color, I feel like diving into the ocean, falling into the sky, standing on the mountaintop, or bathing in the rain. Likewise, I like the naturally harmonious hue of green. Everytime I see this color, I feel like relaxing on a sunny garden or playing in the fields. Having mentioned it, purple reminds me of the sky and the coolness of air at evening and dawn.

Oftentimes, I wonder if I can combine blue and green to cut down my confusion. Fortunately, I liked the tertiary color, green-blue (different from blue-green). But, I like the term to be represented in one word. I've found the right term -- turquoise. Turquoise is a flexible color ranging from pale green to greenish blue.

Hey! I've found out something about the color. This made use "turquoise" for my blog name. One personality test from Tickle entitled "What Color is your Aura?" revealed the meaning of turquoise after I took it.

"We don't need a psychic to tell us that you're giving off a Turquoise vibe. Turquoise types are often intelligent, energetic leaders. Vibrant and dynamic, you take center stage wherever you go; people are naturally drawn in by your charismatic nature. You love to learn, and you excel at remembering facts and figures. More than likely, you're a go-getter with your eyes on the prize. Respect and influence tend to come to you easily, but that doesn't mean you sit around waiting for them. What fun is achieving something if getting there isn't a challenge? Always pushing your limits, you'd be a natural on Survivor — a healthy competitive instinct and a willingness to take risks means you usually reach your goals. You like to look, feel, and act your best; if all those ducks are in a row, nothing's gonna get in your way."

Well, that description fits my character. I consider daydreaming as a relaxing but essential pastime. I allows me to think about good things and the future. Abstract ideas often become splendid ones!

WELCOME!

Hi, guys! Welcome to my blog. My interest in blogging was inspired by a kindergarten classmate and old friend. who also has his Blogger account. I view it often to see its development. I planned one when my current girl classmate showed me her blog which she has just created recently. But that's on another blogging website, one that has more wysiwyg options. I finally started to create a blog in order to enjoy a free web space for my opinions. Unlike before, I got used to posting at forums without gaining recognition for my effortful works. I wanted to share my opinions, experiences, and some facts that I find essential to daily life. I was flattered to know the limits of Blogger. I think that's quite too much for a free web space. And you can also link to a lot more other bloggers.

I think I can't easily post pictures now. My computer is waiting to be fixed. I need to learn more of HTML or CSS (or whatsoever!) in order to design the blog on my own. That will take a long time. What if I haven't had the chance? My course even doesn't focus on the field of computers. But that's okay. If there's a will, there's really a way. Everything is possible as long as you like what you are doing. By now, I already have plans regarding that matter. All have to do is to blog as much as I could

Should I have shortcomings, I beg your pardon. I'm just getting started. Nevertheless, I'm looking forward to this great opportunity. Thanks to God and to all!