My Metaphysical Trapeze

QOTD

2010-11-27T18:50:00.000+08:00

Control yourself, let others do what they will.
This does not mean you are weak.
Control your heart, obey the principles of life.
This does not mean others are stronger.

~Southern Dragon Style Motto

QOTD

2010-11-14T17:53:00.002+08:00

"I told the referee, 'Look at his eyes, look at his cuts'. I did not want to damage him permanently. That's not what boxing is about." ~ Manny Pacquiao

The Girl Who Can't Be Found

2010-11-14T15:19:00.011+08:00

I was supposed to meet my Tita (mom's 2nd cousin) for coffee yesterday afternoon. But when I sent her an SMS message to confirm, she told me that she'll get back to me after she finds her missing daughter.

The words "missing" and "can't be traced" ricocheted in my head.

My Tita told me me that her 11-year old daughter was supposed to arrive at 8:30 in the morning. The girl boarded the bus from their town at 7:00 a.m. to spend the weekend with her in the city. She's been doing it for some time now and has never been late for more than 30 minutes of her ETA.

As the hours passed, my Tita began to get more worried. She decided to go to the terminal to check if her daughter was there. But the girl wasn't there so she decided to proceed to the police station to report her missing.

I went with my Tita at the police station then at the bus stop where the girl was supposed to get off. We asked the vendors selling foods and beverages nearby if they saw the girl but all of them said no. We then proceeded to check one of the other few places her daughter knows about in the city but she wasn't there as well.

With the help of other relatives, we somehow managed to get hold of the bus number so we decided to go to the terminal to interview the driver. Someone informed us, after we've been waiting for over 30 minutes, that we should probably wait outside since the bus might not check in at the terminal anymore. True enough, we saw the bus on the side street about to turn a corner going away from the terminal. My Tita and I ran as fast we could and jumped on the bus as it was moving away.

It was already getting dark by then and we were pinning our hopes on the driver and conductor. We were both hoping they'd remember where my cousin got off. Unfortunately, both of them couldn't seem to recall much about her so the conversation was another dead-end.

By the time we finished talking with the bus driver and conductor, we were already running out of ideas as to what to do next. All the hours spent looking for her didn't bring us any clue that might give us a hint as to where my cousin went. Even the other relatives who went searching for her couldn't trace her whereabouts.

An hour later, however, I got an SMS message from my Tita's sister informing us that my 11-year old cousin's already home. Apparently, the girl got off the nearest town then boarded another bus going back near where she came from. She then spent the entire day playing games in an Internet cafe all the while oblivious to the escalating worries of her mom and other relatives who went looking for her.

After the initial flood of relief, I couldn't help but think that 1) there's nothing more difficult than finding someone who doesn't intend to be found and that 2) parenting could be, without a doubt, an exercise in patience.

The Symmetry of Words

2010-11-07T18:32:00.004+08:00

"...every city has a single word that defines it, that identifies most people who live there. If you could read people's thoughts as they were passing you on the streets of any given place, you would discover that most of them are thinking the same thought. Whatever that majority thought might be - that is the word of the city. And if your personal word does not match the word of the city, then you don't really belong there." ~ Eat, Pray, Love (p. 137)

When I think about the place I love so much, I think about how my word fits its word seamlessly. It's like that very first time I stepped foot in that place and how it changed me. My friend Anna Liese and I were so moved by that visit that we vowed to go back.

A few years passed and I have not put much thought about that promise I made to myself. But we did go back. Anna Liese in 2006 for a one-year scholarship while I went back a year after her for what turned out to be a most unforgettable experience that further cemented my love for that place.

In my heart, I truly believe that whatever my word and that place's word may be, they somehow merge in amazing harmony thus creating the music that is the beating of my heart.

Quest Physics

2010-10-23T22:28:00.004+08:00

“I’ve come to believe that there exists in the universe something I call ‘The Physics of The Quest’ – a force of nature governed by laws as real as the laws gravity or momentum. And the rule of Quest Physics maybe goes like this: If you are brave enough to leave behind everything familiar and comforting (which can be anything from your house to your bitter old resentments) and set out on a truth-seeking journey (either externally or internally), and if you are truly willing to regard everything that happens to you on that journey as a clue, and if you accept everyone you meet along the way as a teacher, and if you are prepared – most of all – to face (and forgive) some very difficult realities about yourself….then truth will not be withheld from you. Or so I’ve come to believe.” ~ Eat, Pray, Love

(photo from somewhere on the Internet)

Rowing in The Social Network

2010-10-23T22:15:00.002+08:00

rowing scene in the movie The Social Network. looks a lot less intense than a real race but not bad at all. good reviews + this scene = must see.

QOTD

2010-10-22T21:41:00.000+08:00

“In the early months of training you’re thinking ‘What the hell is all this for?’ Because the race is so far off. There’s so much tedium and discipline and brutal effort to hammer through. You have to resist the subconscious desire to put an end to all this self-inflicted hardship. But as the days pass and you feel yourself getting stronger, you begin to live for the next day. You punish yourself if with a will in training, because you know you’re facing a race that will suspend your life. Somewhere in the race, you will find out what it is you’ve been working for. And your asking big questions of your body, and when the right answers are coming back, it’s a feeling you know you will never forget.” ~ Dan Topolski, Adapted from TRUE BLUE, The Oxford Boat Race Mutiny

A Lesson in Hope

2010-10-22T10:38:00.003+08:00

"Sam: It's all wrong. By right, we shouldn't even be here. But we are. It's like in the great stories, Mr. Frodo. The ones that really mattered. Full of darkness and danger they were. And sometimes you didn't want to know the end, because how could the end be happy? How could the world go back to the way it was when so much bad had happened. But in the end, it's only a passing thing, this shadow. Even darkness must pass. A new day will come. And when the sun shines, it will shine out the clearer. Those were the stories that stayed with you, that meant something. Even if you were too small to understand why. But I think, Mr. Frodo, I do understand. I know now. Folks in those stories had lots of chances of turning back, only they didn't. They kept going because they were holding on to something.

Frodo: What are we holding on to, Sam?

Sam: That there's some good in this world, Mr. Frodo. And it's worth fighting for."

The Two Towers, The Lord of the Rings Motion Picture Trilogy

----

Saw this on a friend's FB note only a few days after I rereading the trilogy. One of the most memorable conversations in the books. J.R.R. Tolkien's a genius.

QOTD

2010-10-09T21:45:00.001+08:00

Ask yourself: 'Can I give more?'. The answer is usually: 'Yes'. ~ Paul Tergat

About Time

2010-10-09T19:40:00.010+08:00

In Philippine sports, one learns to be grateful for every piece of good news - no matter how small or late in the game it comes. Over the years, nothing much has changed since I last trained and competed for flag and country. But despite the issues, the lack of support, or the politics that continue to hound Philippine sports; to be part of it remains a commitment that athletes embrace.

Less than five weeks to go before the Guangzhou Asian Games and yet many athletes still have not had the opportunity to train or compete abroad. National Sports Associations (NSA) that have the means to send their athletes and coaches abroad for training fare much better than those that depend largely on the support of the Philippine government through its various agencies.

The much coveted international training and exposures are still among those at the top of every athlete's wish list. Still, one of the many things I learned in all those years as an athlete, it was that at the heart of it all was the love for the sport.

As another major event approaches, I wish all athletes especially those in the sports I am and have been part of, the best of luck.

Philippine Rowing Association
The athletes who are competing at this year's Asian Games continue their training at the La Mesa Dam. Their competitors like the Iraqi rowers are training with the U.S. Team while others have been training in Europe for months now. Despite whatever disadvantages that present, the rowers are doing their best (like always) to prepare for the tough races that loom ahead.

Philippine Dragon Boat Federation
At one point the dragon boat team mulled pull-out from the RP Asiad delegation. I had an opportunity to talk with Mr. Ilagan about it and he told me they will not do it if they can help it. They have long waited for the approval of their request to train in LMD. The water there is much similar to the waters of the race course at the Guangdong International Rowing Centre, which I had the chance to see at the Asian Junior Rowing Championships last July.

Their request was recently approved. And they were given ten days to train at LMD before the "qualifying" time trials. That time trial was supposed to happen earlier today. I really hope that both men and women's teams successfully equalled or surpassed whatever time they were supposed to beat. If they did, they would be able to continue their training at LMD until before the Asian Games.

Wushu Federation of the Philippines
At last, the national wushu-sanshou athletes are finally leaving for their training at Shanxi province in China. They were supposed to have a 45-day training there but delays in their departure left with much less than that. It would not have mattered much if their Chinese coach was still around to train them. But he left months ago, leaving an Asiad bound team training on their own. As seasoned athletes, they did what they had to do to prepare. I sure hope, and I'm sure they do too, that all those training will be enough to win the much coveted Gold.

At the end of the day, all athletes who compete for flag and country are heroes. It does not matter if they win or lose the gold, silver, or bronze. Those who know what they experience and do for the love of sport would always think of them as winners.

Mabuhay ang atletang Pilipino!

Honor and Excellence

2010-10-08T08:02:00.003+08:00

Inspiring. Even if I haven't been lucky enough to have her as my professor in college, I feel like she threw that threat to me as well. She reminds me so much of the many other UPD professors who taught me more than just lessons from textbooks.

Education beyond the four walls of the classroom. That's always been the UPD way.

A Yen For Travel

2010-10-07T19:04:00.010+08:00

Wandering re-establishes the original harmony which once existed between man and the universe. ~Anatole France

To travel is to nurture the soul. There is a deeper level of awareness involved that makes every experience unique and unforgettable. Every trip is a journey not just to places but to the depths of the soul.

Yesterday, my yearning to travel again resurfaced in full force. There are still many places to see before I die. And though I may not live long enough to visit all of them, I would die much happier if I have traveled to some of these places I have long dreamed of seeing:

My life according to Tears For Fears

2010-10-06T07:56:00.001+08:00

[tagged by Majella] Using only song names from ONE ARTIST, answer these questions. You can't use the band I used. Try not to repeat a song title. It's a lot harder than you think! Repost as 'My life according to (band name).' Tag your music loving friends!

Are you a male or female: Woman in Chains

Describe yourself: I Believe

How do you feel: Fish out of Water

Describe where you currently live: Mad World

If you could go anywhere, where would you go: Empire Building

Your favorite form of transportation: The Big Chair

Your best friend is (are): Sowing the Seeds of Love

Your fear: Swords and Knives

What is the best advice you have to give: Advice for the Young at Heart

Thought for the Day: Everybody Wants to Rule the World

How I would like to die: Watch Me Bleed

My soul's present condition: Elemental

My motto: Ideas as Opiates

Change

2010-08-28T19:44:00.007+08:00

I have grown so attached to my blog's design that I never imagined the day would come I would be forced to change it. It has only been less than a month since my last visit here. Less.than.a.month.

Sadly for me, it seems there have been changes that somehow wiped out the template created for me by a friend. My deepest wish right now is that the codes are not totally gone. I fervently hope that I could still retrieve them somehow.

As I was choosing a new design I could not help but think that getting attached really sucks. It takes a while for me to let go, which is why I hate losing something. Still, I think that this change came at the most opportune time.

I may feel sad for seeing my blog without its customized design but I believe that it truly is time for some changes. This blog is just the first to be crossed off a list that I did not know I have.

I love change.

R.I.P., Uncle Benny

2010-08-02T18:26:00.001+08:00

Msgr. Gabino Lerin Y Macapala (1946-2010)
by Msgr. Boy Nunag

Six decades and four years ago, on February 19, 1946 was born to Teodoro and Jesusa Macapala of Mocpoc Sur, Sandingan Island, Loon, Bohol, a child, Gabino, fondly called Benny, fifth of eight siblings, with Paterno, Demetrio, Donato and Mariano his elder brothers, Then Tito, Gloria, and Lourdes, his younger brother and sisters.

Benny, graduating as valedictorian from Mocpoc Elementary School, proceeded for secondary studies at the Sacred Heart Academy, Loon, Bohol. Then pursuing a dream nurtured by a traditionally religious home and community he enrolled at the Immaculate Heart of Mary Seminary for Philosophy, graduating on April 8, 1971, after which he was promoted for Theology to the Seminario Maior de San Carlos, Cebu City, where he graduated in 1975, the year he was ordained priest by Bishop Manuel Mascariñas on March 15, at the Cathedral of St. Joseph, Tagbilaran City.

In succession he was assigned parochial vicar at the St. Vincent Ferrer Parish, Calape, then at the St. Joseph Cathedral, Tagbilaran City. As parish priest he served the Sto. Niño Parish, Bienunido; Immaculate Conception Parish, Baclayon; Holy Cross Parish, Tubigon; Our Lady of Light Parish, Loon; Our Lady of the Village Parish, and Sta. Cruz Parish, Dao, Tagbilaran City.

Bearing a patented uncomplaining heart, the vow of obedience was a simple matter-of-fact for the low key, non-threatening shepherd, quick to understand and ready to broker peace. An undefatigable parish priest, he took upon himself, aside from the regular routine, the task of blessing all houses in all his parishes, thereby meeting all households in his jurisdiction while affording himself first-hand experience of their actual material and spiritual situation.

Recognizing his pastoral achievements in the vineyard of the Lord, he was among those conferred by Pope John Paul II the title, Honorary Prelate, in the year 2000.

Typically uncomplaining, he, with a hoarse voice, celebrated his last Mass on July 11, 2010 in Dao Church. Admitted at Chong Hua Hospital, he finally a succumed to lung cancer at 5:00 A.M. on July 21, 2010.

After wakes at the Lerin ancestral house in Mocpoc, then Dao Parish and the Bishop's chapel, Msgr. Benny was honored with a special requiem Mass for a priest presided by Bishop Leonardo Medroso with the Paring Bol-anon in concelebration at the Cathedral of St. Joseph on July 29, 2010. His mortal remains now rests at the Necropolis, IHM Seminary compound, Taloto, Tagbilaran City.

Malipayong pagsaka sa Himaya, Msgr. Benny!

Inward Bound

2010-08-01T23:36:00.001+08:00

I travel not just to explore the unfamiliar. I travel to rediscover or dig deeper into myself. Not that I'm a seasoned traveler. I rarely go on trips now. But each time I do, I come back where I started from a changed person.

Over the years, and a few trips after, I realized that there's no better way to test one's mettle than to travel alone. And by alone I mean single-handedly managing arrangements and troubleshooting glitches that happen long before I stepped out of the house with my luggage.

My recent trip to the Asian Junior Rowing Championships venue taught me more invaluable lessons when it comes to traveling. I rediscovered so much and learned more about myself. What I gained from the entire experience more than compensated for the unforgettable challenges that I've had while preparing for and even during the trip. And below are just some of those:

1. Getting the assignment - I signed up for the Asian Games jury duties in November. I chose that schedule because it was the only time I'm confident that I'd be available to take a leave from work. So it came as a huge surprise when I received the notification for 2010 Asian Rowing Federation event assignments and see my name listed for the Asian Junior Rowing Championships in July.

2. Making the commitment - Since I didn't get the November assignment, I decided to go to the 2010 AJRC just so I could keep my license current. My last international umpiring stint was in 2008 at the Asian Olympic Qualifying in Shanghai. I felt that it's about time I end the two-year hiatus. It's time I do what I do while gaining fascinating experiences in the process.

3. Experiencing rebooking woes - I immediately booked a direct flight to G leaving on July 19th and returning on July 26th. I emailed the schedule to the contact person from the organizing committee only to receive a reply that all international technical officials (ITOs) are expected on the 18th. I was beginning to feel disappointed at this time but managed to block the thought. I thought that surely I'd be able to find my way through haze that the lack of clear instructions created. Little did I know that I'd be rebooking once more less than three days before I leave.

4.Failing to expect the unexpected - If there's one key lesson I learned from this trip it was to never, ever, assume. I was too confident that I'd have no problems getting the visa since I've been to that country more than a few times already. In all my previous trips there, I never once had any visa-related problems. Clearly, I was in the wrong to assume. Two weeks before the trip, I sent my visa application forms to my aunt in Manila asking her to please find someone to process it for me. She did find a messenger that can submit the form for me and I thought that I'd get my visa after four days. But therein lurked the perils of making assumptions. And thus began the stressful days of worrying over my visa.

5. Pouring is an understatement - It's true that when it rains it pours, both literally and figuratively. After the messenger's repeated attempts to submit my visa application proved futile, I finally decided to leave for Manila earlier than scheduled. I had to so I can personally process my visa. It was also only around this time that I received the official invitation (aka visa notification form) from the organizers. I asked permission from my boss to leave earlier than scheduled, rebooked my Manila-bound flight, and got ready to leave. I was at the airport 5:00am of July 14 to catch the first flight to Manila. The plan was to head straight to the consular office to process my visa application. With two days rush service, I was sure I'd get my visa by Friday. But the weather had other plans for me. My flight was cancelled due to Typhoon Basyang that battered Manila. I scrambled to get a seat to the next possible flight, which was at 2:05pm. I waited. And waited some more after more delays and finally got to leave Davao at past 6:00pm. One day less to rush my visa application.

6. Walking on sunshine - Though the sun has long set, I felt like I was walking on sunshine the minute I deplaned. Maybe it's because I felt relieved I'm on solid ground once more after a rough flight or that I have three treasured friends at the airport waiting for me. My sis Daisy's flight from Cebu arrived a few minutes after mine, my friend Chalyn is already waiting for me at the arrival's area, and my brod Richard is on his way to pick me up. I couldn't think of a better way to start my Manila sojourn except to see the faces of closest friends I truly miss. The fact that most of Metro Manila was still in system-wide blackout then didn't diminish my happiness. I was also eagerly looking forward to my scheduled meet-ups with dearest friends Anna Liese and Mark E.

7. Clearing through one hurdle - I was supposed to leave on July 18 but it was already July 15 and I still don't have a visa. My friend Chalyn was kind enough to go with me to the Consular Office to provide moral support while I submit my visa application. I didn't know what to expect but I certainly felt relieved when they accepted my application form without the fuss that the messenger had to deal with. Still, I was a day too late. They can't release the visa until July 19 (Monday), which meant I had to rebook again.

8. Walking around with luggage in tow - Monday came and I was off to Makati early. I had my luggage with me when I claimed my visa and when I processed my tax exemption at the Department of Tourism. It was the first time that I was off to a trip with a super tight schedule stressing me out. Although at that time, stress was a word I wouldn't even dare entertain. I needed all my wits and energy with me as I set off for my trip.

9. Finding what I needed within - The trip to HK went smoothly. But I couldn't say the same for the following stage of my journey. I originally planned to take the train to G. But I found out after I rebooked that my new flight schedule doesn't give me enough time to catch the last trip. So I emailed the organizers that I'd be going by bus. I managed to find book a ticket on the bus scheduled to leave at the time I specified to the organizers. The bus trip turned out to be quite an experience. Border controls, changing of buses, etc. stretched the three-hour trip to four. I arrived in G past midnight only to realize that there's no bus station to speak of. The bus just goes around a certain route until everyone gets off. And since I'm the last and I couldn't even begin to make myself understood by the driver, I was dropped off at a well-lit place with lots of taxis around. I was finally in G but with no idea how to get to the hotel since I only have the address of the venue. My phone battery died on me, I had no phone card, no sign of the liaison officer who should be picking me up, and no hotel address to give to the taxi drivers who can't understand a word I'm saying. A lady taxi driver finally took pity on me and after a few sign language we agreed that she should take me to the airport. I just thought that it was the safest place for me to go since I can't seem to find anyone who can understand or speak English. And so I spent the few remaining hours left before sunrise at the airport lounge.

10. Hitting the ground running - As soon as the shops opened at the airport, I went straight to foreign exchange booth to have my money changed then bought a phone card. I called the organizers, who thankfully answered the phone this time. I was too drained to feel anything other than relief to realize that I'd soon be where I'm supposed to be. Being lost in an unfamiliar place and not being able to communicate with anyone was a novel experience. One that kept me on my toes and my senses on full alert. But there was no relief for the weary. Since the event officially started that morning, I had to go straight to the venue, change to my uniform, and start with jury duties. I was so grateful that I wasn't assigned on the umpire boat for I feared I'd fall off since I felt dizzy for lack of sleep. I don't know how I managed it but I did survive the first day of races running on near empty. Fortunately the first day of competition finished early so I had the whole afternoon to catch some much needed sleep.

Things finally settled down when I was finally with the other jury members/umpires. After all the excitement of the previous days, I felt that things were falling into place. And I'm happy to say that indeed, despite the upheavals this trip caused me, I was exactly where I had to be.

I rediscovered the strength and will that reaffirmed my belief in myself. I also discovered that I have it in me to sift through the tumult swirling around me and to let the bad things slide. And I realized once more that some things are really worth all the pain.

I had the most fun assignments in this umpiring stint. Control commission during the first day of event, umpire boat 1 on day 2, and starter during the two days of final races. Embracing the challenge of it all was truly enriching.

QOTD

2010-07-07T21:39:00.001+08:00

Anyhow I’m fine. I mean, not that I’m over it, but little by little it’s getting easier to pretend it’s easier, which means easier might be right around the corner. ~ Gilmore Girls

SOTD: Sam Isaac - Bears

2010-07-07T21:15:00.005+08:00

There's something about this song that gets to me. Maybe it's that feeling that something clicks but I can't even begin to explain why. I do tend to gravitate towards those kinds of things. And frankly, a lot of times, it is much easier to stop decoding and just let things be.

(heard in Chuck, 3.04)

Prayer is a Time to Reconnect

2010-07-04T21:43:00.000+08:00

I love reading the "Lighthouse of Prayer Reflection" leaflets that are left for churchgoers to get alongside the Sunday service programs. Today though, I find the message particularly meaningful especially since this week has become a time of reconnecting with a lot of important people and things.

So here's me thanking God and the universe for making it possible for me to reconnect with:

-dear friends who I haven't seen for a while
-the church community after a few Sundays of missing services
-and more importantly, of reconnecting with relatives who I haven't seen for some time now.

Here's to more days of reconnecting in faith, prayer, and love.

-------------
lifted from the Lighthouse of Prayer Reflection, UCCP (July 4-10, 2010)

This is what we usually do: "When we isolate, everything becomes magnified. Minor setbacks become major catastrophes. We may even think that people who don't go out of their way to become our friends are actually plotting against us. What's the answer? Connecting! By connecting, we are able to see that our monsters are only knee-high, and most of our fears are just product of our imagination." No wonder God said, "It is not good for...man to be alone" (Genesis 2:18 NIV). Every human needs to reconnect to his/her Creator and to fellow being.

If you suffer from an overdose of self-sufficiency, consider this thought-provoking poem by Charles H. Towne. "Around the corner I have a friend, in this great city that had no end. Yet days go by and weeks rush on, and before I know it, a year is gone. And I never see my old friend's face, for life is a swift and terrible race. He knows I like him just as well, as in the days when I rang his bell. And he rang mine - we were younger then; but now we are tired, busy men. Tired of playing a foolish game, tired of trying to make a name. 'Tomorrow', I say, 'I'll call on Jim, and let him know that I'm thinking of him.' But tomorrow comes and tomorrow goes, and the distance between us grows and grows. Around the corner, yet miles away, then comes the news... Jim died today! And that's what we get, and deserve in the end, around the corner - a vanished friend!"

It's time to reconnect with people in your life who really matter! It's time to reconnect to God in prayer!

Ultimate Dreams

2010-06-15T08:22:00.004+08:00

I rarely dream in my sleep, which is probably why I find it unsettling to have recurring ones. When something plays in my head it's hard not to deconstruct. But the thing is, some things are beyond deconstructing. I'm thinking maybe sometimes, there are things that I'm not meant to understand.

I used to wonder about chasing pavements. Now, a part of me seems to be chasing dreams that I dare not overanalyze. As my brod said, no use thinking about what's not there especially if it's something that would just make me long for what I couldn't have.

I Could Do With A Little Insensitivity

2010-06-15T08:04:00.004+08:00

I could do with a little insensitivity. It's not just because I'm a sensitive person by nature but rather, I do get tired of taking bullets for caring too much. I remember my last one-on-one with a boss who I greatly admire. I think it was a testament to her people skills that she got me sticking around far longer than I intended to. She told me that I always, always, take the bullet for others. And then she asked if I ever did think about if the same people would do the same for me. She said something that really stuck in my mind. She told me that perhaps it is time I should think about myself.

It's been a year and I'm still mulling about what she said. I think that the moment she uttered those words to me something shifted. I don't know if it led me to an epiphany or if it made an impact enough to change me. All I know is, the message stuck in my head and resurfaces from time to time. And it makes me think that maybe, just maybe, it's some sort of a catalyst that's changing me right at this very moment.

I'm not sure about many things in this life. And that's probably the reason why I love living it. The uncertainty is like a big adventure that brings me both the good and the bad that never fail to stretch me. If there's something I can be proud of is that I get by whatever life throws at me. I accept things as they are because my faith sustains me.

I have faith. I have passion. I believe. The three things I live by never failed to cushion every fall and strengthened me to get back up every single time. But I think what makes me overcome life's curveballs is the conviction that I'm sincere in whatever I choose to do. And I don't believe in putting others down just to get ahead.

I never did please many people because it's not just the way I'm wired. I've never been good in sugarcoating truths and insults. I'm brutally honest and I can be very straightforward with the truth. To the uninformed and the misinformed, I can be all the things the people who hate me say about me. And I'd be dishonest to say that I don't care because I do.

I do care about what people say about me especially if they're those I care about in my own quiet way. Looking back, the people who hurt me most were the same ones I've quietly moved my own little mountains for. Maybe that's why sensitivity rears its ugly head. I'm only human to feel that I deserve better.

Lately, I'm thinking how the past year showed me who my real friends are. And the experience further made me realize that judging people by their personality does not make one a better person. It's how one discovers the character that hides behind diverse trappings that defines the kind of person he or she is.

I could do with a little, no... more I think, insensitivity. Insensitivity to care less and to refrain from throwing myself out to a hail of bullets for those who least deserve it.

(photo from somewhere on the Internet)

Ang munti ko ring pangarap

2010-06-12T08:21:00.000+08:00

"Minsan (o sige na nga, madalas), ang naiisip ko lang: Kahit anong klase ng buhay ang meron at magkakaroon ako, isa lang naman talaga ang gusto kong constant: ang magbasa ng magagandang libro/magazines at the end of each day. Masaya na ako dun, pramis. Kung ‘di pa ‘yan ang tinatawag na payak na pangarap, ewan ko na lang." ~ Mayee Corpin

The Invitation by Oriah Mountain Dreamer

2010-06-09T21:19:00.000+08:00

It doesn't interest me what you do for a living. I want to know what you ache for and if you dare to dream of meeting your heart's longing.

It doesn't interest me how old you are. I want to know if you will risk looking like a fool for love, for your dream, for the adventure of being alive.

It doesn't interest me what planets are squaring your moon. I want to know if you have touched the centre of your own sorrow, if you have been opened by life's betrayals or have become shrivelled and closed from fear of further pain.

I want to know if you can sit with pain, mine or your own, without moving to hide it, or fade it, or fix it.

I want to know if you can be with joy, mine or your own; if you can dance with wildness and let the ecstasy fill you to the tips of your fingers and toes without cautioning us to be careful, be realistic, remember the limitations of being human.

It doesn't interest me if the story you are telling me is true. I want to know if you can disappoint another to be true to yourself. If you can bear the accusation of betrayal and not betray your own soul. If you can be faithless and therefore trustworthy.

I want to know if you can see Beauty even when it is not pretty every day. And if you can source your own life from its presence.

I want to know if you can live with failure, yours and mine, and still stand at the edge of the lake and shout to the silver of the full moon, 'Yes.'

It doesn't interest me to know where you live or how much money you have. I want to know if you can get up after the night of grief and despair, weary and bruised to the bone and do what needs to be done to feed the children.

It doesn't interest me who you know or how you came to be here. I want to know if you will stand in the centre of the fire with me and not shrink back.

It doesn't interest me where or what or with whom you have studied. I want to know what sustains you from the inside when all else falls away.

I want to know if you can be alone with yourself and if you truly like the company you keep in the empty moments.

A glimpse beyond the big B’s of Philippine sports

2010-05-26T07:15:00.001+08:00

It is ironic that many athletes still manage to shine even when a more unified and well-supported sports for all program remains to be a dream. Amateur and professional sports produced the likes of Paeng Nepomuceno, Efren “Bata” Reyes, and Manny Pacquiao to name a few. However, away from the spotlight of more popular sports there are individuals and groups that breathe life to a severely malnourished sports framework.

Sports in the Filipino mindset are usually focused on the Big B’s such as basketball, billiards, boxing, and badminton. The popularity gained by these sports give them the distinct advantage in generating more resources for promotion and development. Consequently, the continuous increase in support opens doors to an extensive list of expertise like coaching, technical training, and sports medicine. It is not surprising then that these are the sports that either put the country into the global sports map or attract more members at the grassroots level.

There are, however, other sports that increasingly appeal to people from all walks of life. Running keeps on gaining more prominence. Runners and running clubs are growing in numbers. In fact, it is hard to miss individuals and groups out for their daily morning or evening runs.

The continuous growth of running for fitness or competition is a positive turn in promoting sports for all in the country. The fact that thousands of people pursue it for leisure or competition signifies that Filipinos are eager to embrace sports to achieve a healthier lifestyle. And if the weekly fun runs, road races, and marathons are to be used as gauge then running is undoubtedly successful in reaching out to people from diverse backgrounds and age groups.

Another sport with a thriving community of active members is dragon boat. Since the sport was introduced in Manila during the late 1980’s its membership increased exponentially. It also managed to make its mark in the global dragon boat scene by producing world champions courtesy of its national athletes.

Like running, the grassroots activities of dragon boat are self-sustained. Imagine then what a solid and financially-backed grassroots program can accomplish if a meager government budget allocation produce champions locally and internationally. Having a wide base of potential recruits can make talent identification for the national pool of athletes easier.

The other side of Philippine sports relies not only on financial support but also in the environment. Sport and the environment is a program that needs to be promoted. Promoting the sport of rowing in its base is a case in point. Over the years, the Pasig River is home to various rowing club teams. But the dismal state of the river is not exactly the most ideal venue for training. However, student and corporate athletes commit to training regularly because of their passion for the sport. The sport even managed to qualify two of its national athletes in the Olympics.

Running, dragon boat, and rowing are just some of the many sports being promoted in the country. Perhaps it is an under-appreciated fact that each national sports association work towards elevating the status of their respective sports both in the elite and grassroots level.

A lot of things are said to point out the many shortcomings of sports leaders and institutions tasked to advocate, develop, and promote sports in the country. Over the years, sports development in its entirety can be described as inadequate or sluggish at best. Maybe it is because it just did not enjoy the kind of unified support from different sectors.

To compare overall performance with powerhouse countries in the region is highly unfair for those who are passionate and committed to working for the betterment of Philippine sports. There is only so much that a meager budget can do to sustain an ailing sports framework.

The best contribution Filipinos can make to support the country’s sports program is to find opportunities to participate or encourage others to do so. There are more to Philippine sports than what we frequently read or hear about and watch on television. Beyond the fame and popularity of certain sports there are different disciplines that aim to bring more pride to our country.

Making my vote count

2010-05-10T17:06:00.010+08:00

Today is election day and it took me seven hours to cast my vote. In a sense the long wait wasn't really that bad. The weather cooperated. It was drizzling since morning so the cool breeze was a welcome relief from the El Niño heat. The voting process was a challenge but just the same, people opted to stay no matter how long the wait.

In retrospect, here are some of the random thoughts and observations I had while waiting for all of seven hours:

"Disorganized" happens
It's the first time that the country's using an automated voting system so certain problems are to be expected. But there are processes outside of the automation that could benefit from even a small semblance of order.

I was at the precinct around 7:30am. I was expecting a line but I was surprised by how disorganized the system was in the school where I voted. It was difficult to find the tables per cluster that serve designated precincts. The signs were posted in front of the tables, which were not visible especially with the crowd gathered around them. Simply making the signs visible would have made a difference.

Additionally, I had the misfortune of queuing at what seemed to be the most disorderly line. The volunteer in charge of the table was overwhelmed by the sheer number and demands of the people. I couldn't blame him though especially when he got all the blame even for some things beyond his control.

Accept the unexpected
The queue disappeared by 8:00am and it was practically free for all from then on. Everyone wanted to be first. I was supposed to be among those who lined up early for the priority number. I clearly saw when a volunteer wrote my name on a brown sheet of paper, which was purportedly "the list".

Two hours after, my name was still not called. After asking the volunteer, I learned that the list was missing and they couldn't do anything to produce it. So after two hours of waiting for nothing, I had to crawl through the mass of people who were not budging away from the table to have my name listed again. By this time I was feeling particularly frustrated and helpless.

From then on, it was mostly a matter of waiting. I spent the hours watching people and listening to their stories. I figured I can't complain especially after seeing the old and infirmed going through the same ordeal. It was actually one of my frustrations early on, how there seemed to be no system to assist them. It was good to see later on that they're prioritizing senior citizens and those with disabilities at the actual voting precincts. I only wish they did it earlier. Thank God the weather was fine otherwise it would really be harder for them.

Leave no trash behind
I think as mature voting adults everyone should be responsible enough not to leave trash behind. It's kind of sad to see so many garbage left for others to clean up. I just hope that cleaning those mess doesn't take up even a portion of students' class hours.

I'm curious as to who are the candidates who'll make an effort to help with clean-up even long after the spotlight dimmed. The amount of garbage that accumulated since campaign started is unbelievable. And the few hours of voting today produced a mountain of trash that nobody seemed to be making an effort to manage.

Today, many people exercised their right to vote regardless of the circumstances. There were moments earlier when a part of me just wanted to go home and be done with it. But I stayed. Like the many others I saw in that school. And I think I had it easy. Teachers and volunteers endured more than I did in that seven hours I waited.

Random Musings of a Rowing Umpire

2010-05-01T22:19:00.002+08:00

I think the value of something is often measured by stories it weaves in our lives. It is about life-changing moments that come not with fanfare but quietly in infinite seconds that touch and never let go. That is how it all started for me, my umpiring life.

I'm still not sure if it's a good thing or not that I didn't plan to be an umpire. It's just one of those sheer luck that happened when I grabbed the chance to attend a seminar in preparation for a Southeast Asian Games (SEAG). I did not do well in the national umpiring practical exam because I ended up on probationary status. But it turned out to be a blessing in disguise. See, I initially didn't put much thought about the whole thing until the result jolted me into realizing that I wanted to do better.

My first umpiring stint was as a national umpire for the Manila SEA Games. I almost passed up that chance to perform jury duties because I was swamped with my commitments with the Philippine SEAG's organizing committee's Accreditation and Wushu Federation Philippines' organizing group. Then I remembered I wanted to do better. The only way I can do that was if I gain real experience outside of the simulated race we all took during the practical exam.

So there I was going through my own version of hell week in December 2005. For days I shuttled from Manila to La Mesa Dam in Quezon City then back to Manila again to attend to my seemingly endless responsibilities. There was no time to think about the soundness of spreading myself thin like that, there was only the focus and commitment I gave that somehow got me through, albeit more tired but definitely happy.

I learned a lot in those few days I was out in the water doing jury duties. National umpires, especially newbies, like me were given lighter responsibilities than the FISA umpires who served as technical officials. I spent most of my time in my own little island at the 1000m mark recording the time of rowers as they pass by. My closest neighbors were on pontoons 500m up to my left and down to my right. Standing or sitting for hours on end on that pontoon made me appreciate a lot of things, including the value of being still and the inexplicable joy of drawing nature's energy if I took the time to feel it.

Two months after the SEAG, I took the FISA licensure exam. I've heard stories that FISA exams are tough and the passing rates are frequently low. And judging from my last performance in the national umpiring exams, I was not very confident about my chances. Despite my misgivings, I took a chance. I guess it was the masochist in me that still pushed me to go ahead and give it a shot.

The series of exams were tough for me. I'm usually good at exams excepting those involving Math, Chemistry, and Physics. The rest, I can breeze or squeeze through either with ample preparation or sheer luck. But at that time, I couldn't even hazard an optimistic guess if I'd pass

I remember that time while we were waiting for the results of both the written and practical exams. A co-national umpire suddenly blurted out that he swears he's not taking the exam again for a while if he failed. It was surprising and funny when he said it. He always had been the one everyone thought to have the greatest chance of passing the exam. Hearing him say what he said made me breathe a sigh of relief.

I think it was then that I began to accept the possibility that I might fail. I was not being a pessimist about the whole thing. It was just that, everyone who takes the FISA umpiring exam only gets two chances. Failing both times means being banned from taking the test again, ever. Somehow, it was an experience I was not eager to repeat anytime soon.

The wait for the final results was filled with both relief and trepidation. Relief that it was all finally over and trepidation that we didn't make it.

I was the third to the last called for the meeting/interview with the two FISA umpires who conducted the exam. Everyone before me came back with the news that they did not make the cut. As each one came back, my confidence further took a plunge.

When it was my turn to go to the room I was more or less prepared to hear the worst. And I think that was the reason why I felt like I was in a haze when the interview began that I didn't immediately grasp when they told me I passed. It was when they handed me the badge that I began to fully understand what it meant.

It turned out that the three of us left for the interview somehow made it through those series of tests. One of whom was the one who made the comment about not taking the test again if he fails. Thinking about our journey and what we went through made me realize the value of what I just got.

Four years after I got my license and badge, I still feel as passionate about this whole thing. We do long hours, spend money for airfares and other expenses, and go through both the good and bad experiences that come with being an umpire. Still, I love what we do and what we aspire to achieve with what we do.

Being a jury/umpire makes me think of these things:

1. The Roles We Play. - Each one of us has an important role to play in whatever it is that we do. Some excel in playing, some do their magic in organizing, some provide whatever help they can by volunteering, some provide the funds to make things happen, some like the spectators motivate everyone, and the list goes on. Bottom line, whatever our roles in life matter in the bigger scheme of things.

2. Passion. Believe. Faith. - Three words that I live by. The passion to pursue what the heart desires regardless of how inane or grand it may seem. The belief in the inherent goodness of things and in infinite possibilities. And the faith that all things that happen somehow fit flawlessly into the tapestry of life I'm meant to live.

3. Safety and Fair Play. - Every rowing umpire's mantra revolves around those two goals. We take our role seriously in ensuring the safety of every competitor and giving everyone a sporting chance by promoting fair play. I think these two principles apply everyday regardless of what we do. Thinking of our personal safety and those of others as well as treating people fairly are simple but meaningful aspirations in life.

4. I just love them FISA umpires. - Even until now it never ceases to amaze me how dedicated and professional my colleagues are. Umpiring is more often than not a thankless job. And yet, to see such passion and commitment from people I meet in my umpiring stints inspire me to always do and give my best.

Why You Have To Do What You Have To Do

2010-04-26T22:27:00.000+08:00

Being stuck in a rut is probably one of the most disrupting moments in life. It is a time steeped with uncertainties that create different reactions from people. Very few people feel comfortable to wake up one day standing on not so solid ground. Control freak or not, people prefer some things to work out as planned.

However, it is often during moments of being stuck that the resolve to break free from the crippling feeling emerges. It is a time when a window of opportunity appears and challenges you to do what you have to do to unstuck yourself.

In everything, you do what you have to do. Actions create results that directly or indirectly shape your life. But most of what is done in life is fairly intuitive. Sometimes you do not give much thought to doing them. What usually happens is that you start out learning things then later move on towards mastering them.

The problem with mastery is that it leads to a kind of familiarity that undermines your ability to see certain things in different perspectives. Things like routines thrive on familiarity. What is passionately started sometimes turn into a mind-numbing pursuit. It is not surprising that there are many things you can do in autopilot.

You are lucky if you are among those who do not experience how it is to feel stuck. But if you find yourself sensing that you are headed into the same predicament it helps to see it from a different vantage point. Maybe a rut is just meant to shake you from a stupor induced by automacity.

Conscious effort to pay attention to the minute changes in the way you do things helps you catch telltale signs of veering towards “being stuck”. Self-awareness prepares you to react quickly to subtle signs of shifts in your perspectives and ways of doing things.

It is when you feel like you are not moving towards the direction of your dreams that a part of you begins to yearn for more. You are meant to do what your heart desires. Even if your desire is to achieve machine-like perfection, you need to at least enjoy pursuing that goal. You are not meant to block the things that make you feel most alive.

Everyone is meant to live, not merely throb and thrive like a machine. You may be ultra capable at what you do but if you are not careful you might start acting like an efficient contraption. Imagine being excellent at churning out impressive outputs but sadly devoid of feelings that make you feel alive.

The people who seem most adept with steering away from falling into deep holes are those who are passionate about what they do. The excitement and inspiration continue to manifest even amidst difficult times. There is a sense of awareness and connection that prevents automaticity from completely taking over. Perhaps the best thing to do when you feel stuck is to remember the things that give you most reasons to be happy.

You have to do what you have to do. Whether it is writing, singing, acting, dancing, playing sports, etc., do it. Then give it all you got. Be aware of every minute and feel every emotion when you are doing the things you love to do.

You owe yourself a life. Do not let the demands and responsibilities of "living" stand in the way of your ability to create something that is meant to be seen or felt in this world.

Reconnecting with nature through sports

2010-03-30T08:20:00.003+08:00

Sports that require a significant amount of time outdoors is a good platform for environmental education. The setting can be a park playground, a clearing, a running trail with lots of trees around and a lake or reservoir. Spending time outside to play brings with it plenty of opportunities to see the beauty of nature that no lessons inside the four corners of a classroom can teach.

As technology made it easier and preferable for people to stay indoors, more problems attributed to nature deficit disorder emerged. Staying indoors to play became a safer alternative in urban communities where there are no access to parks and sports clubs. Technological advancements made it possible for a wide array of interesting activities to occupy people’s time. Even the social aspect of play was addressed by online games that enable interactions with other virtual players. But one aspect that the best of technology cannot simulate is the experience of being close to nature and the attendant lessons it brings.

I used to be ambivalent about the environment issues. However, years of training as a dragon boat athlete and my current role as a rowing umpire gave me a treasure trove of memories that include beautiful sunrises, clear skies and lush trees. I have paddled in different bodies of water, each one unique and nestled in breathtaking landscapes. I have umpired in places that made me yearn to see more of the amazing sights I am sure the world has to offer.

It is hard not to feel blessed when I am outdoors. Nature often shares its energy to me, giving me the much-needed strength to perform. I think this is a feeling shared by those who engage in sports whether for fitness or competition. More than the endorphins, more than the camaraderie and friendships, more than the satisfaction of going beyond limits - sports offers a lot of opportunities to commune with nature.

It more than makes sense, therefore, why the International Olympic Committee has included sport and the environment as one of the pillars of the Olympic Movement. It even revised its mission and role to include the following:

“to encourage and support responsible concern for environmental issues, to promote sustainable development in sport and to require that the Olympic Games are held accordingly…”

Sporting activities rely heavily on the environment. Namibian sprinter Frankie Fredericks simplified the connection when he said, “I breathe at least twice as deeply when I’m running. Air pollution is a threat to my health and my physical performance” (UNEP 2005).

In the Philippines alone, the rowing team feels the weight of the sorry state of Pasig River. Around the world, athletes are feeling the effects of climate change, which is perhaps one of the reasons why sports luminaries and organizations are actively campaigning to help raise awareness on environmental issues and promote sustainable development.

Apart from the efforts of these sports personalities, there is also an increasing involvement from the grassroots level. The grassroots is an untapped goldmine that can really help turn the tide against pressing problems such as climate change. It is at this level that children at play can learn the important relationship of sports and the environment. It is where clubs can be a rich resource of volunteers for various environment-related projects and initiatives.

The environmental issues are big and complicated that sometimes it is natural to feel helpless just thinking if there is something that one individual can do to effect change. Fortunately, I have my sport that reminds me how beautiful and precious the environment is. It inspires me to contribute in small ways and make lifestyle changes that are in sync with my beliefs. It also makes me appreciate the efforts of individuals and groups to campaign for a sustainable environment.

The world is a big and beautiful playground. I think appreciating it begins with really seeing and experiencing its beauty. Play time is nature time. Now, more than ever, is a good time to stand up, go out, and play.

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Blog originally posted here.

(Photo by Chalyn Bueta)

Tales of passion by Isabel Allende

2010-03-24T20:26:00.003+08:00

Amazing speech by an amazing woman. I'm a fan and The House of the Spirits is a personal favorite. There are several scenes in that book I love. Listening to this speech makes me feel that I now understand where she's coming from.

Thank you so much. It's really scary to be here among the smartest of the smart. I'm here to tell you a few tales of passion. There's a Jewish saying that I love, "What is Truer than Truth? Answer: The Story."

I'm a story teller. I want to convey something that is truer than truth about our common humanity. All stories interest me and some haunt me until i end up writing them. Certain themes keep coming up, justice, loyalty, violence, death, political and social issues...freedom.

I'm aware of the mystery around us so I write about coincidences, premonitions, emotions, dreams, the power of nature, magic. In the last 20 years, I have published a few books but I have lived in anonymity until February of 2006 when I carried the Olympic Flag in the Winter Olympics in Italy. That made me a celebrity. Now people recognize me in Macy's and my grandchildren think that I'm cool.

Allow me to tell you about my four minutes of fame. One of the organizers of their Olympics Ceremony, of the Opening Ceremony, call me and said that I had been selected to be one of the flag bearers. I replied that surely this was a case of mistaken identity because I'm as far as you can get from being an athlete. Actually I wasn't even sure that I can go around the stadium without a walker.

I was told that this was no laughing matter. This would be the first time that only women would carry the Olympic Flag. Five women representing five continents and three Olympic Gold medal winners.

My first question was naturally, "What was I going to wear?". "A uniform," she said and asked for my measurements. My measurements. I had a vision of myself in a fluffy Anorak looking like the Michelin man.

By the middle of February, I found myself in Turin where enthusiastic crowds cheered when any of the 80 Olympic teams was in the street. Those athletes had sacrificed everything to compete in the Games. They all deserved to win. But there's the element of luck. A speck of snow, an inch of ice, the force of the wind, can determine the results of a race or a game. However, what matters most; more than training or luck is the heart. Only a fearless and determined heart will get the Gold medal.

It is all about passion. The streets of Turin were covered with red posters announcing the slogan of the Olympics. Passion lives here.

Isn't it always true? Heart is what drives us and determines our fate. That is what I need for my characters in my books. A passionate heart. I need mavericks, dissidents, adventurers, outsiders and rebels who ask questions, bend the rules and take risks. People like all of you in this room. Nice people with common sense do not make interesting characters. They only make good former spouses.

In the green room of the stadium, I met the other flag bearers. Three athletes and the actresses Susan Sarandon and Sophia Loren. Also two women with passionate hearts.

Wangari Maathai, the Nobel Prize winner from Kenya who has planted 30 million trees and by doing so she has changed the soil, the weather in some places in Africa and of course the economic conditions in many villages.

And Somaly Mam, a Cambodian activist who fights passionately against child prostitution. When she was fourteen years old her grandfather sold her to a brothel. She told us of little girls raped by men who believe that having sex with a very young virgin will cure them from AIDS. And of brothels where children were forced to receive fifteen clients per day and if they rebel they are tortured with electricity.

In the green room I received my uniform. It was not the kind of outfit that I normally wear but it was far from the Michelin man suit that I had anticipated. Not bad, really. I looked like a refrigerator. But so did most of the flag bearers except Sophia Loren, the universal symbol of beauty and passion.

Sophia is over seventy. She looks great. She's sexy, slim and tall, with a deep tan. Now how can you have a deep tan and have no wrinkles? I don't know. When asked in a TV interview how could she look so good. She replied, "Posture". My back is always straight and I don't make old people's noises.

So there you have, some free advice from one of the most beautiful women on earth. No grunting, no coughing, no wheezing, no talking to yourselves, no farting. But, she didn't say that exactly.

At some point around midnight we were summoned to the wings of the stadium and the loud speakers announced the Olympic Flag and the music started. By the way, the same music that starts here - the Aida march.

Sophia Loren was right in front of me. She's a foot taller than I am, not counting the poufy hair. She walked elegantly, like a giraffe on the African Savana, holding the flag on her shoulder. I jogged behind. On my tiptoes. Holding the flag on my extended arm. So that my head was actually under the damned flag.

All the cameras were of course on Sophia. That was fortunate for me because in most press photos I appear too, although often between Sophia's legs. A place where most men would love to be.

The best four minutes of my entire life were those in the Olympic stadium. My husband is offended when I say this, although I have explained to him that what we do in private usually takes less than four minutes. So he shouldn't take it personally.

I have all the press clippings of those four magnificent minutes because I don't want to forget them when old age destroys my brain cells. I want to carry it in my heart forever. The keyword of the Olympics. Passion.

So here's a tale of passion. The year's 1998. The place is a prison camp for Tutsi refugees in Congo. By the way, 80% of all refugees and displaced people in the world are women and girls. We can call displaced in Congo a death camp because those who are not killed will die of disease or starvation.

The protagonists of this story are a young woman, Rose Mapendo, and her children. She's pregnant and a widow. Soldiers have forced her to watch as her husband was tortured and killed. Somehow, she manages to keep her seven children alive and a few months later, she gives birth to premature twins - two tiny, little boys. She cuts their umbilical cords with a stick and ties it with her own hair. She names the twins after the camp's commanders to gain their favor and feeds them with black tea because her milk cannot sustain them.

When the soldiers burst in her cell to rape her oldest daughter, she grabs hold of her and refuses to let go even when they hold a gun to her head. Somehow, the family survives for sixteen months. And then, by extraordinary luck and the passionate heart of a young American man, Sasha Chanoff, who manages to put her in a US rescue plane, Rose Mapendo and her nine children end up in Phoenix, Arizona where they are now living and thriving. Mapendo in Swahili means "great love".

The protagonists of my books are strong and passionate women like Rose Mapendo. I don't make them up. There's no need for that. I look around and I see them everywhere.

I had word with women and for women all my life. I know them well. I was born in ancient times, at the end of the world in a patriarchal, Catholic and conservative family. No wonder that by age five, I was a raging feminist. Although the term had not reached Chile yet so nobody knew what the heck was wrong with me.

I would soon find out that there was a high price to pay for my freedom and for questioning the patriarchy. But I was happy to pay it because for every blow that I received, I was able to deliver two.

Once, when my daughter Paula was in her twenties, she said to me that feminism was dated - that I should move on. We had a memorable fight. Feminism is dated? Yes, for the privileged like my daughter and all of us here today but not for most of our sisters in the rest of the world who are still forced into premature marriage, prostitution, forced labor. They don't have children that they don't want or they cannot feed. They have no control over their bodies or their lives. They have no education and no freedom. They are raped, beaten up and sometimes killed with impunity.

For most western young women of today, being called a feminist is an insult. Feminism has never been sexy but let me assure you that it never stopped me from flirting. And I have seldom suffered from lack of men.

Feminism is not dead by no means. It has evolved. If you don't like the term, change it for God's sake! Call it Aphrodite or Venus or Bimbo or whatever you want. The name doesn't matter as long as we understand what it is about and we support it.

So here's another tale of passion and this is a sad one. The place is a small, women's clinic in a village in
Bangladesh. The year's 2005. Jenny is a young American dental hygienist who has gone to the clinic as a volunteer during her three-week vacation. She's prepared to clean teeth. But when she gets there, she finds out that there are no doctors, no dentists, and the clinic is just a hut full of flies. Outside there's a line of women who have waited several hours to be treated.

The first patient is in excruciating pain because she has several rotten molars. Jenny realizes that the only solution is to pull out the bad teeth. She's not licensed for that. She's never done it. She risks a lot and she's terrified. She doesn't even have the proper instruments. But fortunately, she has brought some Novocaine.

Jenny has a brave and passionate heart. She murmurs and prayer and she goes ahead with the operation. At the end, the relieved patient kisses her hands. That day, the hygienist pulls out many more teeth.

The next morning, when she comes again to the so-called clinic, her first patient is waiting for her with her husband. The woman's face looks like a watermelon. It is so swollen that you can't even see the eyes. The husband, furious, threatens to kill the American. Jenny is horrified at what she has done. But then, the translator explains that the patient's condition has nothing to do with the operation. The day before, her husband beat her up because she was not home in time to prepare dinner for him.

Millions of women live like this today. They are the poorest of the poor. Although women do 2/3 of the world's labor, they own less than 1% of the world's assets. They are paid less than men for the same work, IF they're paid at all. And they remain vulnerable because they have no economic independence and they are constantly threaten by exploitation, violence and abuse.

It is a fact that giving women education, work, the ability to control their own income, inherit and own property benefits the society. If a woman is empowered her children and her family will be better off. If families prosper, the village prospers and eventually so does the whole country.

Wangari Mathaai goes to a village in Kenya. She talks to the women and explains that the land is barren because they have cut and sold the trees. She gets the women to plant new trees and water them, drop by drop. In a matter of five or six years, they have a forest. The soil is enriched and the village is saved.

The poorest and most backward societies are always those that put women down. Yet, this obvious truth is ignored by governments and also by philantrophy. For every dollar given to a woman's program, 20 dollars are given to men's programs.

Women are 51% of humankind. Empowering them will change everything, more than technology and design and entertainment. I can promise you that women working together; linked, informed and educated - can bring peace and prosperity to this forsaken planet.

In any war today, most of the casualties are civilians. Mainly, women and children. They are collateral damage. Men run the world and look at the mess we have. What kind of world do we want? This is a fundamental question that most of us are asking. Does it make sense to participate in the existing world order? We want a world where life is preserved and the quality of life is enriched for everybody. Not only for the privileged.

In January, I saw an exhibit of Fernando Botero's paintings at the UC Berkeley library. No museum or gallery in the United States, except for the New York gallery that carries Botero's work, has dared to show the paintings because the theme is the Abu Ghraib prison. There are huge paintings of torture and abuse of power in the voluminous Botero style. I have not been able to get those images out of my mind or my heart.

What I fear most is power with impunity. I fear abuse of power and the power to abuse. In our specie, the alpha males define reality and force the rest of the pack to accept that reality and follow the rules. The rules change, all the time. But they always benefit them. And in this case, the trickle down effect, which does not work in economics, works perfectly. Abuse trickles down from the top of the ladder to the bottom. Women and children, especially the poor, are at the bottom. Even the most destitute of men have someone they can abuse, a woman or a child.

I'm fed up with the power that a few exert over the many through gender, income, race and class. I think that the time is ripe to make fundamental changes in our civilization. But for real change, we need feminine energy in the management of the world. We need a critical number of women in positions of power and we need to nurture the feminine energy in men. I'm talking about men with young minds of course. Old guys are hopeless, we have to wait for them to die off.

Yes, I would love to have Sophia Loren's long lengs and legendary breasts. But given a choice, I would rather have the warrior hearts of Wangari Mathaai, Somaly Mam, Jenny, and Rose Mapendo. I want to make this world good.Not better, but to make it good. Why not? It is possible. Look around in this room, all this knowledge, energy, talent and technology. Let's get off our fannies, roll up our sleeves and get to work, PASSIONATELY, in creating an almost perfect world.

Thank you.

Hot

2010-03-09T18:39:00.001+08:00

A few days back, I wrote about the unscheduled 30-minute daily power interruptions that stretched to one hour after two weeks. Now, we’re on to two hours of outages everyday. That’s something not to be happy about but I think it’s human nature to adapt quickly than the mind can argue. Maybe it’s a matter of survival. After all, in the bigger scheme of things, stressing over brownouts is not worth the years off what’s already a diminishing lifetime.

On the upside, the rotating brownouts are now scheduled. Our part of the town experience it between 1pm to 3pm. It’s the time of the day when having no power seems to magnify the fierce heat of the sun. Still, the schedule helps. It removes the daily concern that it might happen when I’m on the middle of working on something on the computer that I wouldn’t be able to save.

It’s also gratifying to see people do their best to endure and cope. In a span of one month, all of these don’t feel as bad as they initially were. My theory is, it’s natural resilience kicking in. And when it does, the human mind begins to open up and find something funny from even the most difficult situations.

This is why what I overheard earlier made me laugh. In the middle of another outage and sweltering heat, I heard three boys hawking homemade bread. Like good little salespeople they sold their goods with much gusto. Not even the crazy heat made them less enthusiastic in selling their bread.

Boy 1: Putok, init pa! (Putok, still hot!)

Boy 2: Putok, putok! Init pa! Init pa sa adlaw!!! (Putok, putok! Hot! Hotter than the sun!!!)

Boy 3: (echoing Boy #2) Init pa sa adlaw!!! (Hotter than the sun!!!)

Power interrupted

2010-02-28T10:57:00.008+08:00

The 30-minute brownouts everyday did not last long. Instead, they stretched to an hour that didn't have a definite schedule. Brownouts are never fun, especially when they happen right when I'm in the middle of working on something on the computer and realized I wasn't able to save everything.

I decided to think of the outage as a daily version of Earth Hour to make the experience more meaningful and less cumbersome. It would help though if these rotating brownouts have definite schedules so we can be prepared and turn off the appliances before the outage strikes. Maybe that part of me that wishes strongly is heavily influenced by my grandmother who told us that sudden power interruptions is bad for some appliances. But regardless if my grandmother's assumptions are true or not, I still think that it would be a whole lot better if we know when to expect these daily power interruptions.

A friend said that the cynical part of herself thinks that the daily outage is social conditioning, that brownouts will occur during the elections. It's not a stretch why some people think that because the timing is really suspect and the conditions are such that never before that a national election depend more on electricity than it does now. The automation has seen to that. This would be one of those scenarios that would be better proven wrong.

On another note, the moon was so beautiful the other day. I was able to appreciate it during another brownout-induced darkness. Sometimes we do need the darkness to appreciate the faintest light.

(Photo from here)

Whatever that was

2010-02-24T19:39:00.000+08:00

“There was a time when I thought you were the love of my life. Things change.” ~ from Grey’s Anatomy

My version of that would be - “There was a time when there was something that slipped through my layers of self-preservation. By the time I wanted to know whatever that was, it was gone. Things change. But I still wonder.”

Today is one of those days that I’m backreading that story in my head. Maybe someday it will all make sense to me.

Funny how something that didn’t play out, played well while it lasted.

A dog's tale

2010-02-09T18:04:00.001+08:00

I watched the remake of Hachiko's story and I can't remember the last time I cried that much for what seems like more than half of the movie. And I wasn't even prepared for it, no boxes of tissues to wipe the tears that took me a while to notice. There's just no going around the heartwarming yet heartbreaking tale of a very loyal dog and a doting master.

I think it's quite fitting to watch this during a love month. Perhaps true love waits and lingers even as a form of ending has come and gone. And a beautiful love between two people can touch lives regardless of how silent and simple it appears to be.

Defying gravity

2010-02-09T12:15:00.000+08:00

Giant

2010-02-09T12:10:00.000+08:00

The Celebrate Humanity campaign is still my most favorite series of Olympic ads ever. I'm looking forward to following whatever news I can of the upcoming Winter Games.

Celebrate Humanity - Giant (Winter)

To be a giant.
This has forever been our passion, this desire to be a giant
Not to stand on one’s shoulders or to have one for a friend.
For these may be fortunate things.
But to be one.
Giants step over barriers that seem never ending.
They conquer mountains that appear insurmountable.
Giants rise above fear.
Triumph over pain.
Push themselves and inspire others.
To be a Giant.
To do Giant things.
To take Giant steps.
To move the world forward.

Cool runnings

2010-02-09T11:05:00.000+08:00

"They came out of nowhere. They were the underdogs. No one thought they could win. And…they didn’t. But the world sure loved them for trying. Here’s to the Jamaican Bobsled Team."

I believe, I can

2010-02-07T21:16:00.002+08:00

Your Best Trait is Confidence

You are the type of person who just goes for it. Whether you win or lose, you're always happiest when you at least tried.

You are fearless when it comes to failure. You have learned that the key to life is just showing up, so you're always there bright and early.

While you are always doing your best, you have had to let go of what others think of you. You define your own success.

You may disappoint yourself or look stupid sometimes, but you always hold your head high. You know that tomorrow will give you another opportunity to try again.

What's Your Best Trait?

Blogthings: 100's of Fun, Free Quizzes and 3 Stupid Ones

Thinking out loud

2010-02-07T15:34:00.001+08:00

Things I didn't know before today: 1) platelet concentrates are not so easy to come by, depending on which part of the country you’re looking, 2) they can be bought from Phil. Red Cross but there has to be a replacement donor

Things I DO know: 1) I like talking to competent and nice people on the phone, which PRC has &, 2) Dengue really sucks.

I hope my cousin’s bf gets well soon.

I hear you

2010-02-06T10:11:00.000+08:00

There’s something to be said about a man who goes straight to the point to try and get what he wants. I think guilelessness is not only refreshing but speaks of respect to another person’s intellect and capacity to see through lies.

To hear for the first time from someone I’ve known for a long time now, and one who rarely resorts to flattery to get what he wants, that he noticed a certain hint of bravery and fearlessness in me really made my day. I’m a woman after all. Flattery, in whatever form sometimes does its work.

The emotional piece of me

2010-02-04T21:39:00.001+08:00

I’m a walking emotional piece. If you’re like me and you’ve been repeatedly told that you’re too emotional, chances are you’d begin to hate either the word or yourself for being one.

I cry too much for my own good. My tears well up and flow like rampaging rivers the moment my heart is touched by nature, inspiring acts of selflessness, insightful conversations, meaningful songs, beautiful lines delivered by wise men in movies and books, and so much more. I just feel too much that I sometimes find myself wishing I don’t.

Who wants to be labeled as emotional in situations when you want to be perceived as capable? My experiences taught me being emotional is almost always never a good thing. I also believe it mostly had something to do with how I manage my emotions.

Being emotional for me is like a gunpowder keg I carry around on my backpack that leaves me vulnerable. It’s like walking around with something that with one wrong move would blow me up to pieces.

If there’s something I find ironic with this character imprint it’s the stony way I handle the worst crises. I’ve been through the most difficult situations imaginable without shedding a single tear. I can suffer physical blows from martial arts training, row even with my hands and fingers chafed with blisters, finish long distance runs even if my knees and feet are screaming with pain, running on empty to finish something just because quitting is not an option, and more unbelievably harsh conditions I can remember.

I cry for what’s often perceived to be the most mundane reasons. I feel too much for people who don’t even know I do. Maybe I care too much for my own good. Or maybe, being emotional is my salvation. It’s a constant reminder that there are things I care about for me to feel something. I sometimes think that my strength to unflinchingly endure the worst needs the emotional part of me to better understand the things I otherwise wouldn’t grasp.

Vanilla twilight in the waking hours of dawn

2010-02-02T21:32:00.001+08:00

Drenched in vanilla twilight in the waking hours of dawn…somewhat appropriate for a vivid dream that convinced me there is no such thing as fading away. There’s only that constant swinging between the shadows and silence of the heart and the spotlight of the mind.

Failure and Imagination

2010-02-02T16:33:00.007+08:00

J.K. Rowling Speaks at Harvard Commencement from Harvard Magazine on Vimeo.

"Imagination is not only the uniquely human capacity to envision that which is not, and therefore the fount of all invention and innovation. In its arguably most transformative and revelatory capacity, it is the power that enables us to empathise with humans whose experiences we have never shared."(Read full text of speech here)

>> I love her way of weaving the light & heavy into one (or more) sticky message(s).

2010-01-30T08:55:00.002+08:00

"To love. To be loved. To never forget your own insignificance. To never get used to the unspeakable violence and the vulgar disparity of life around you. To seek joy in the saddest places. To pursue beauty to its lair. To never simplify what is complicated or complicate what is simple. To respect strength, never power. Above... all, to watch. To try and understand. To never look away. And never, never, to forget. ~ Arundhati Roy

World Health Day 2010 - Promotional video

2010-01-29T11:46:00.001+08:00

This reminds me of the UP carless academic oval Sundays, although this campaign aims for a much bigger scale. Here's me hoping for something like those "carless acad. oval days" that I miss.

Handbook 2010

2010-01-28T11:29:00.001+08:00

(via Karen Tanchanco-Caballero)

HEALTH:
1. Drink plenty of water.
2. Eat breakfast like a king, lunch like a prince and dinner like a beggar.
3. Eat more food grown on trees and plants; eat less food manufactured IN plants.
4. Live with the 3 E's -- Energy, Enthusiasm and Empathy
5. Make time to pray.
6. Play more games
7. Read more books than you did in 2009 .
8. Sit in silence for at least 10 minutes each day
9. Sleep for 7 hours.
10. Take a 10-30 minutes walk daily. And while you walk, smile.

PERSONALITY:
11. Don't compare your life to others. You have no idea what their journey is all about.
12. Don't have negative thoughts or things you cannot control. Instead invest your energy in the positive present moment.
13. Don't over do. Keep your limits.
14. Don't take yourself so seriously. No one else does.
15. Don't waste your precious energy on gossip.
16. Dream more while you are awake
17. Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need..
18. Forget issues of the past. Don't remind your partner with His/her mistakes of the past. That will ruin your present happiness.
19. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone. Don't hate others.
20. Make peace with your past so it won't spoil the present.
21. No one is in charge of your happiness except you.
22. Realize that life is a school and you are here to learn. Problems are simply part of the curriculum that appear and fade away like algebra class but the lessons you learn will last a lifetime.
23. Smile and laugh more.
24. You don't have to win every argument. Agree to disagree...

SOCIETY:
25. Call your family often.
26. Each day give something good to others.
27. Forgive everyone for everything.
28. Spend time w/ people over the age of 70 & under the age of 6.
29. Try to make at least three people smile each day.
30. What other people think of you is none of your business.
31. Your job won't take care of you when you are sick. Your friends will. Stay in touch.

LIFE:
32. Do the right thing!
33. Get rid of anything that isn't useful, beautiful or joyful.
34. GOD heals everything.
35. However good or bad a situation is, it will change..
36. No matter how you feel, get up, dress up and show up.
37. The best is yet to come..
38. When you awake alive in the morning, thank GOD for it.
39. Your Inner most is always happy. So, be happy.

2010-01-27T08:26:00.001+08:00

"Please don't be cynical. I hate cynicism - it's my least favorite quality and it doesn't lead anywhere. Nobody in life gets exactly what they thought they were going to get. But if you work really hard and you're kind, amazing things will happen. As proof, let's make an amazing thing happen right now." - Conan O'Brien

How cool is that?

2010-01-26T10:59:00.003+08:00

Michael Jackson’s Thriller Inmates, The Sequel: This Is It [VIDEO]

Life is too short, so...No

2010-01-22T20:30:00.003+08:00

"I’m sorry if it came out that way but I was never particularly fond of you. So your imagining that I will exert effort to accomodate or help you is rather off the mark. I don’t like you, I never did. I’m sorry, please understand. You’re nice but you’re just not my type of person. I’m old and don’t need too much. You -are a bit too much for my travels. Your nervous, frivolous, vain, self-conscious energry does not fit in the trunk space of my car, sorry. Thank you though.

-I imagined having this conversation so many times since I was a kid. There was this bully I went to school with. As most schoolyard bullies go, she didn’t grow up to be too interesting. (Brat) Now she wants to be my friend (“as adults” she says) and since I am now one (an adult, that is) I said no, she didn’t particularly interest me. I wish all of you the courage to say no when you mean no. Life is too short to have shit people near you." - found on Tumblr

Today I REALLY want to tell “you” what's written above. The only reason I won’t be telling this in your face is because it’ll be utterly pointless. I seriously doubt you could hear, much less listen, to anything outside that thick shroud of creepiness that envelopes you.

I guess my key takeaway in the short time I knew you was that I was able to hone my diplomatic skills. It’s a testament to my devotion to my closest girl friends that I kept my misgivings to myself and tried very, very hard to be polite to you even if gut feel told me otherwise.

No, there is nothing manly about you who speaks ill of your ex(es) and does it like a broken record. The way you ranted on with that appeal to pity look didn’t fool me. I’ve never really figured out how my two friends fell for someone who had no scruples and proceeded to test years of friendship.

Unfortunately for you, they are not as shallow as you might think. I thought the lowest you can stoop to was to make them fall for you and make the other betray a friend. I hated you before I even knew of what you did. Now, I can only hope you disappear from my sphere of consciousness.

I heard and read all the nasty things you said to bash one of them. I saw how you manipulated each one to make them believe you were the victim. You’re such a sorry excuse for a human being.

The only reason I didn’t jump into that mud ring you’re playing at is because it’s not my battle to fight. But it’s extremely irritating to watch you bash women and go on as if you’re the one who’s been played.

But your craziness is amazingly beyond anything I’ve recently encountered. I’m feeling more and more like a bystander caught in your road rage. Thankfully, I’m cushioned by my instincts. I’ve never agreed to your repeated invitations to go out even without my other friends, I refused every offer to drive me home when you and my friend insisted I meet with you, and I resisted every effort to be drawn into your orbit. Things are unraveling now and you’re craziness stands out.

I warn you not to cross the line. I’m almost sure you were the one who sent those text messages at the wee hours of the morning. I’m not as stupid as you think women are. That’s you’re main weakness, you think women to be insipid creatures who’re just experimenting on you. I hate to be the one to teach you a lesson. So be warned, don’t tempt me into jumping in that ring and beating the hell out of you. Jerk!

Happy New Year!!!

2009-12-31T12:17:00.003+08:00

Enthusiasm is the force that leads us to the final victory. ~ Paulo Coelho

♫I'm alive, alert, awake...enthusiastic!♫

Later, even if I'm in the part of the world that won't see the full force of a rare blue moon that would usher in the New Year, knowing that it's there somewhere further gives a reason to be enthusiastic about everything. By God's grace, I gotta feeling that 2010 is gonna be an awesome year! w00t!

"All You Need Is Love" by 156 Countries

2009-12-31T11:57:00.002+08:00

There's nothing you can do that can't be done. Nothing you can sing that can't be sung. Nothing you can say but you can learn how to play the game. It's easy. There's nothing you can make that can't be made. No one you can save that can't be saved. Nothing you can do but you can learn how to be you in time - It's easy.... All you need is love, all you need is love...

So long, 2009!

2009-12-31T00:53:00.003+08:00

It’s the last day of the year that hated me the most. I am happy to see it go. - Gang Badoy/ 31 Dec 2009. (Source)

>>I just had to repost this because it sums up EXACTLY how I feel.

Something Wonderful Is Coming in 2010

2009-12-28T18:50:00.003+08:00

This New Years Eve Brings the Rarest Blue Moon of All

I gotta feeling...

Where 24/7 videoke sessions would be fine

2009-12-25T23:07:00.007+08:00

At last, my aunt’s family has a neighbor. Almost two years after moving into their place and the village has maintained its quiet, in the middle-of-nowhere feel that I love. Fresh air, cool breeze, a very nice view of Mt. Apo, several species of birds flying around or resting on their fence and/on quiet empty streets, and so many ordinary things that never fail to give simple joys and pleasures.

This year’s Christmas family get together was as fun as ever. We used to celebrate family Christmas gatherings at home. But this year, we gathered at what I secretly think of as the “retreat house”. Staying there always makes me feel like I’m in a retreat place minus the rules. Videoke all night and in full volume is twice more fun when there’s no need to worry about disturbing the neighbors.

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-25T23:04:00.003+08:00

Looking at this Japanese Christmas Cake makes me feel the spirit even more.

More please!

2009-12-22T11:59:00.002+08:00

Elevating the decadent cake experience to new heights. The New Red Ribbon Chocolate Walnut Fudge Cake is one of the best RR cakes I’ve tasted so far.

PH Regular Holidays & Special (Non-working) Days for CY 2010

2009-12-21T11:44:00.002+08:00

Pursuant to Malacañang Proclamation No. 1841 dated 21 July 2009.

January 1 (Friday) - New Year’s Day
April 1 (Thursday) - Maundy Thursday
April 2 (Friday) - Good Friday
April 9 (Friday) - Araw ng Kagitingan
May 1 (Saturday) - Labor Day
June 14 (Monday nearest June 12) - Independence Day
August 23 (Monday nearest August 21) - Ninoy Aquino Day
August 30 (Last Monday of August) - National Heroes Day
November 1 (Monday) - All Saints Day
November 29 (Monday nearest November 30) - Bonifacio Day
December 24 (Friday) - Additional Special (Non-working)
December 25 (Saturday) - Christmas Day
December 27 (Monday nearest December 30) - Rizal Day
December 31 (Friday) - Last Day of the Year

a mental note

2009-12-20T17:27:00.005+08:00

"Just Do It. Who the hell do you think you are? Are you an athlete? Because if you are, then you know what it means to want to be better, to want to be the best. And if you are, then you understand it’s not enough to want to be the best. You can’t just sit around all day and BS about how much you want it. Show me how much you want it. Stop just “thinking about it” and “wondering about it” and “hoping for it” and actually go out there and get it. Dare to do what it takes to be the best. And then, whether you win, lose, or collapse on the finish line, at least you’ll know exactly who you are." - Nike

And I wonder...

2009-12-20T12:47:00.000+08:00

what will my Dad say if he finds out that I don't watch boxing, I actually do it.

Sundays are my Dad's "lose-the-remote-I'm-watching-nothing-but-boxing-on-TV" day. I wonder when he started to become such a big fan. Maybe the Pacman's successes on the ring contributed to his devotion to the sport.

Sometimes I'm tempted to tell him I'm good at it and it's just one of the disciplines incorporated in the martial arts I practice. But then again, I don't like to disabuse him of the notion that I'm still a "girl". If there's one thing I'm pretty sure about my dad, he tends to see things in his own shades of black and white.

I think there's just some things better left unsaid. I get enough labels as it is.

Congratulations Team Philippines!!!

2009-12-17T18:33:00.003+08:00

I'll never get tired of saying this, I'm so proud of our athletes! There were not that many live coverage or regular updates in the local news about the 25th SEA Games in Laos but I could almost imagine the best efforts and sheer willpower of our athletes to win in their respective events.

If there's one thing I miss most in being an athlete it is that moment when months or years of training come down to that few minutes of a race or competition. Apart from that, I also miss the opportunities to cheer for other teams as soon as our team's done competing. Sports always have a way of uniting people. I marvel at the irony that sports is highly competitive and yet it usually fosters camaraderie and goodwill.

This SEA Games, our athletes have once again made Filipinos proud! And I wish to congratulate everyone most especially the following:

Wushu Team
Sanshou:
Mark Eddiva - 65Kg Men (GOLD)
Mariane Mariano - 60Kg Women (GOLD)
Benjie Rivera - 56Kg Men (SILVER)
Mary Jane Estimar - 52Kg Women (SILVER)
Rhea Mae Rifani - 48Kg Women (BRONZE)
Jessie Aligaga - 48Kg Men (BRONZE)
Denver Labador - 60Kg Men (BRONZE)

Taolu:
Daniel Parantac - Taijijian - Men (Bronze)

Athletics
Marestella Torres - Long Jump (GOLD)
Rosie Villarito - Javelin Throw(GOLD)

Over the years, I've seen these athletes train and excel in their respective sports. I can't think of a more deserving group of people than these guys. Go Team Philippines!!!

Can't wait

2009-12-17T18:31:00.001+08:00

Believe that

2009-12-10T18:25:00.001+08:00

(via Pomegranacat)

It's getting personal

2009-12-10T18:16:00.000+08:00

(via United Nations Foundation)

Chasing rainbows

2009-12-10T12:47:00.001+08:00

	Israel Kamakawiwo'ole - Somewhere Over the Rainbow .mp3

	Found at bee mp3 search engine

Choosing A Dreamless State

2009-12-10T12:35:00.001+08:00

Last night, I woke up when I felt your hand held mine. I was stunned to see you beside me because you already built a vast wall that I could not breach. It really has been too long, long enough for me to try ask you all the questions I meant to ask.

How have you been? Why did you suddenly ignore me completely after that level of friendship we have struck? What did I do to lose a friend I hoped to keep? What was I to you? Questions, I have so many of them because you left me with nothing but questions when you changed so suddenly.

But seeing you again was like finding a blank notebook where I can write stories again. It was like being handed out the chance to start a new chapter that may turn out differently from the last.

Your presence made me feel a deep sense of peace. It was like everything was right with the world again. It felt like I literally pieced myself to that puzzle that made me understand what complete means.

You see, it was real for me. Everything I felt for you was as real as I never imagined it to be. And I guess that was why I chose to love you deep in my heart and let you go. For you chose not to see me that way.

It was a love that was all about choices. Burying that love was the kindest thing I could do for myself. But it did not mean I loved you less.

I felt at peace with the world again when I opened my eyes and saw you holding my hand like that last night. I had you for what seemed like hours and we were happy.

But then, at some point, I slowly realized I woke up in a dream. And that was when I chose to wake up from something that made me want to live within a dream again.

Because we can

2009-12-07T21:11:00.001+08:00

Sweet dreams are made of these

2009-12-04T16:51:00.021+08:00

I'm taking a leaf off a friend's book who recently came up with his Christmas wish list. I can't remember the last time I made one. One thing I can say about the whole exercise, it makes me feel like a child again.

1. World Peace

'nuff said.

2. Earth Day Every Day

3. A healthier lifestyle for me and my family

4. A Nike Sport Band

4. A Purple iPod Nano

5. A pink Adidas Supernova

6. A box of dark chocolates

7. Complete series of The Southern Vampire Mysteries

8. A purple Sony Cyber-shot

9. Airplane ticket[s]

10. A navy blue FISA polo shirt

I'm SO looking forward to Christmas and 2010 now. Gambatte kudasai!

(All images are from the Internet.)

One day...

2009-12-03T14:13:00.001+08:00

"sometimes in my tears I drown
but I never let it get me down"

Nothing but the truth

2009-11-30T13:06:00.002+08:00

Image from mental_floss

Hindi ako nagtataka

2009-11-28T20:33:00.012+08:00

Mag-aapat na taon na nga pala akong single. May halong "oo nga" moment yung pagkakasabi ko kasi madalas di ko naiisip yung tunay na kahulugan nun. Now that I think about it, siguro kaya di ko napansin yung mga oras ng pagiging single ko eh dahil sa dami ng ginawa ko.

Ako kasi yata yung isa sa mga taong madalas naka-*on hold* ang buhay pag nasa relasyon. Hindi naman dahil hindi pwedeng magpakabibo or magmaganda. Kahit may freedom to do what I want, mas madalas kuntento na maging "wind beneath his wings" ang drama. Sabi nga, supportive lola.

Ilang linggo na lang at apat na taon na akong walang boyfriend. Come to think of it, ito na yung pinakamahabang panahon ko in-between relationships. Naisip ko tuloy kung dapat na ba akong kabahan. Yun kasing ilan sa pamilya ko at mga kaibigan ko na dati naman eh walang pakialam kung single ako eh nagsisimula nang nag-iisip kung kanino ako irireto just to get me off the shelf.

And talking about shelf, naalala ko tuloy yung tanong ni Kristine Hermosa sa teleserye nila ni Jericho Rosales. Sabi nya, "May shelf life ba ang pag-ibig?" Pati tuloy ako napaisip.

Kanina nabasa ko yung NAGTATAKA KA BA KUNG BAKIT SINGLE KA PA?? sa Facebook. Natawa ako ng sobra at for once, after what felt like a long time, I paused long enough para pag-isipan kung bakit single pa ako hanggang ngayon. Hindi ako nagtataka kasi sa listahang ginawa nung sumulat nung nakakatuwang post eh naka-relate ako sa mga ito:

1) MASYADONG INDEPENDENT - baka naman masyado mo napoproject na kaya mongmabuhay ng wala silang lahat, ayan tuloy parang hindi nila maramdaman na kailangan mo rin sila kaya dun na lang sila sa taong tingin nila ay magkakaron sila ng silbi.

>>To paraphrase yung tatlong super close "warrior" male friends ko (who told me almost exactly the same words): "Lagi mo kasing pinapakita na kayang-kaya mo mag-isa"

Ako (thought balloon): Huh? Paanong pinapakita? Kung ano man yun, hindi ko sinasadya...promise.

2) MATAAS ANG STANDARDS- siguro hindi na natanggal sa isip mo ung pangarap mo nung bata ka pa. aba, kelangan mo na gumising sa katotohanan na walang ideal guy. ok cge, kung makita mo nga ung hinahanap mo na gwapong matalino na mayaman na mabait pero nung nakasama mo naman eh nakita mo hindi pala siya madalas maligo, mahiyain mag-toothbrushkaya naman sobrang bad breath niya sa umaga, puro barya ang mga hita at binti o kaya naman daig pa ang tambucho sa lakas manigarilyo, may nakausli na “pang labing-isang” daliri sa kamay at NAKAPANGINGILABOT NA BALAT dahil madami siyang AN-AN SA kanyang LIKOD NA PARA BANG MAPA NG CEBU… oh eh di turn-off ka na? kung lahat ng tao ay katulad mo na mataas ang standards, malamang wala ng magboboyfriend at maggirlfriend ngaun puro friends na lang.

>>Hindi ako sure kung pasok sa kategoryang ito yung paghahanap nung trait na "ok kausap". Disclaimer lang, hindi ibig sabihin kailangan matalino o presidente ng debate club. Gusto ko lang eh yung pag na-stuck kami sa traffic eh may mapapag-usapan naman kami. Yung tipong pag kasama ko siya di ko mararamdaman yung paglipas ng bawat minuto dahil busy kami sa sarili naming mundo.

3) UBOD KA NG KASUNGITAN - maski naman kahit sino hindi masarap lapitan at kausapin ang taong mukhang nangangain ng tao tapos liligawan pa? dapat kc kahit konti maging approachable ka naman para kahit na hindi ka kagandahan, madidiskubre niya na masarap ka palang kausap at masaya kang kasama. (^^,)

>>Ito yung medyo tricky. Serious daw kasi ako. Isa sa mga manifestations ata ng pagiging uber introvert ko. Mataray daw ako. Madalas kasi tahimik lang ako at diretso kung magsalita. Kaya siguro hindi na katakataka na minsan, the first impression lasts.

8) SOBRANG BUSY - alam mo ba ung kantang ‘Narda’? ganyan ang mangyayari sa iyo, hanggang kanta na lang ang aabutin ng nagkakagusto sayo dahil maski pagpa-pluck ng kilay mo wala kang time.

>>Ito ako noon. At magiging ganito ulit soon.

5) NAGKUKULONG SA BAHAY - walang makaka-appreciate sa panloob o panlabas na beauty mo kung nagkukulong ka lang sa bahay DAIG MO PA ANG MGA PRESO sa BILIBID na NAKA-BARTOLINA. okay, nanjan nga ang nanay mo para sabihin na maganda ka pero im sure umay na umay na rin yan sa pagmumukha mo kaya mas maigi kung lumabas ka.. pagkagaling sa office, pwede ka magmall o kya gumimik kasama mga officemates mo, o kaya naman sumali sa mga organization sa simbahan or sa neighborhood.

>>At ganito naman ako ngayon. Ito yung tinatawag kong "in a force field" moments ko. Kumbaga kung si Batman may batcave, ako may to-the-batcave itches din. Ang sarap lang kasing tumigil pansamanta sa gitna ng nakakahilong ikot ng mundo. Yung maramdamang I'm standing still in the midst of all the noises and frenetic pace sa paligid ko.

13) ONE OF THE BOYS: Ayan, isa pang problema ng mga gurls... kadalasan, dahil sa sobra namang close sa mga boys, nagmumukha na silang one of the boys, na kung saan sayo shi-ni-share ng mga boys ang kilig at iyak moments nila with other gurls. Ouch! Masakit yun, lalo na pag type mo yung friend mo na guy. Ingat-ingat mahirap kasi pag masyado kang close sa mga boys kasi dumadating ang point na ang tingin nila sayo… MAS MASARAP KANG KAIBIGAN… aray!!! isa pa, parang lalaki na din ang tingin nila sayo… mapapansin mo yan, kapag nag-skirt or nag-spaghetti strap ka, tapos inaasar ka na ng mga friend mo na boys for being “gurl na gurl”. kasi ang boys, pag nakakita ng gurl in a sexy dress (tumatahimik yan, at may parang kumukulo sa loob nila)… so pag tinawanan ka, naku, sign na un…

>>Ayan, ayan namaaaaaan. Ipinanganak ata talaga akong "one of the boys". Bata pa man hindi ko na nakahiligan ang maglaro ng perceived "for girls" only pursuits gaya ng manika o bahay-bahayan. Libro o stick pang syatong lang ang kinalakhan ko. Mahilig din ako sa martial arts at mga larong nagkakaroon ng balyahan. Madalas tuloy mas marami akong nagiging kaibigang lalaki na ang tingin sa akin eh lalaki rin.

At last but not the least:

[Wrong Time]
‘Eto naman ‘yung mga laging idinadahilan na masyado pa silang bata o kaya
masyado na silang matanda. May mga tao raw na ganyan, ‘yung pakiramdam
nila laging may tamang panahon para sa pag-ibig. Pero ang labo lang
kasi tuwing may pagkakataon naman, lagi nilang naiisip na maling
panahon pa iyon. Oo, wrong timing lagi ang pag-ibig para sa kanila kasi
madalas sumasakto kung kelan meron silang board exams, problema sa
pamilya, o long test kinabukasan. :)

>>May built-in magnet ata ako sa wrong time.

Masaya ba ako na single ako? Oo. Pero hindi ibig sabihin nun gusto ko nang maging single forever. Siguro hindi ko lang iniisip masyado kaya di ko napapansin na I'm leaning dangerously towards being the "one" (a.k.a. alone - single forever). Basta sigurado ako, I believe in that kind of love. Whatever will be, will be.

pa-repost

2009-11-28T20:15:00.004+08:00

'Di ko alam ano pinagkaka-busyhan ko kuno nung panahong umikot na at maraming napatawa ang post na 'to. Naisip ko tuloy minsan baka kung ano ang panis sa iba, posibleng pwede pa sa panlasa ng iba.

Ang sarap talagang tumawa.

NAGTATAKA KA BA KUNG BAKIT SINGLE KA PA??

* SINGLE: Minsan ayos lang maging SINGLE kase free na free ka gawin kung ano ang gusto mo o kaya makakapunta ka kung saan mo gusto pumunta pero kung minsan,. lalo na’t malamig ang hangin o kaya maganda ung view, magwiwish ka na sana may yumayakap sa’yo, hahalikan ka sa noo at titignan ka na parang ikaw na yata ang pinakamagandang babae sa buong mundo!! At pinaka-pogi naman kung lalake ka... pwede rin 2 sa mga bakla at tomboy basta SINGLE...

*kaya heto, susubukan ko bilangin ang mga dahilan kung bakit single pa tayo. Gaano katagal na ba kayo walang nagiging boyfriend/girlfriend? tingnan natin..

1) MASYADONG INDEPENDENT - baka naman masyado mo napoproject na kaya mongmabuhay ng wala silang lahat, ayan tuloy parang hindi nila maramdaman na kailangan mo rin sila kaya dun na lang sila sa taong tingin nila ay magkakaron sila ng silbi.

2) MATAAS ANG STANDARDS- siguro hindi na natanggal sa isip mo ung pangarap mo nung bata ka pa. aba, kelangan mo na gumising sa katotohanan na walang ideal guy. ok cge, kung makita mo nga ung hinahanap mo na gwapong matalino na mayaman na mabait pero nung nakasama mo naman eh nakita mo hindi pala siya madalas maligo, mahiyain mag-toothbrushkaya naman sobrang bad breath niya sa umaga, puro barya ang mga hita at binti o kaya naman daig pa ang tambucho sa lakas manigarilyo, may nakausli na “pang labing-isang” daliri sa kamay at NAKAPANGINGILABOT NA BALAT dahil madami siyang AN-AN SA kanyang LIKOD NA PARA BANG MAPA NG CEBU… oh eh di turn-off ka na? kung lahat ng tao ay katulad mo na mataas ang standards, malamang wala ng magboboyfriend at maggirlfriend ngaun puro friends na lang.

3) UBOD KA NG KASUNGITAN - maski naman kahit sino hindi masarap lapitan at kausapin ang taong mukhang nangangain ng tao tapos liligawan pa? dapat kc kahit konti maging approachable ka naman para kahit na hindi ka kagandahan, madidiskubre niya na masarap ka palang kausap at masaya kang kasama. (^^,)

4) MASAMA ANG UGALI - kung papipiliin ako kung sa masungit o sa masama ang ugali… dun na ko sa masungit! ang masungit kc, hindi likas na itim ang budhi nyan, may taglay na istorya sa likod ng simangot niya. sabihan mo lang yan ng ‘peek-a-boo’BAKA ngitian ka na. ibang istorya na kase ang masama ang ugali dahil mula pa yang ugali na yan sa kaibuturan ng kanyang mga balunbalunan. sa una mabait, pero madidiskubre mo na parang trapo ang tao kung tratuhin nito. tsk tsk tsk. pero hindi pa naman huli ang lahat kung kaya mo pa magbago, bigyan mo ng pagkakataon ang sarili mo magbago. magdasal ka kay lord ng mataimtim huh?? *hahahaha*

5) NAGKUKULONG SA BAHAY - walang makaka-appreciate sa panloob o panlabas na beauty mo kung nagkukulong ka lang sa bahay DAIG MO PA ANG MGA PRESO sa BILIBID na NAKA-BARTOLINA. okay, nanjan nga ang nanay mo para sabihin na maganda ka pero im sure umay na umay na rin yan sa pagmumukha mo kaya mas maigi kung lumabas ka.. pagkagaling sa office, pwede ka magmall o kya gumimik kasama mga officemates mo, o kaya naman sumali sa mga organization sa simbahan or sa neighborhood.

6) MUKHA KANG LOSYANG - ito ang kadalasang krimen ng mga single. Hindi ka nagbibigay ng panahon para ayusin ang sarili physically. at bakit pa nga ba e wala ka naman dahilan para mag-ayos, diba? MALI !!! Dapat nga lalo ka mag-ayos para makita ang marketability mo. hindi krimen ang maging vain kahit konti. did u know na ang ratio ng lalaki sa babae ay 4:1? kaya lola, magsimula ka na mag-ayos at baka yung crush mo ay maagaw pa ng mga intrimitida sa paligid mo.

7) MASYADONG MAGALING - medyo sensitive itong topic na ito dahil nasasagasaan na ang male ego dito eh. oo, may ibang lalake na nabuburaot dahil mas magaling at mas marunong ang babae sa kanila. hindi na natin ito problema dahil malamang insecurity nila ang bumubulong sa kanila pero minsan kase hindi na makatarungan na laging nai-inferior ang lalake. kailangan maramdaman din nila sa iyo na hindi mo sila ia-under the saya if maging girlfriend ka nila. hindi ko rin sinasabi na i-compromise mo ang talents mo, ano bang magagawa ko kung likas na talentadong bata ka pero ang tamang gawin ay wag naman ipagdukdukan na sobrang galing mong tao. wag na wag mong kalimutan na may 2 klaseng yabang dito sa mundo. wag kang mang-intimidate kung ayaw mong ma-intimidate.

8) SOBRANG BUSY - alam mo ba ung kantang ‘Narda’? ganyan ang mangyayari sa iyo, hanggang kanta na lang ang aabutin ng nagkakagusto sayo dahil maski pagpa-pluck ng kilay mo wala kang time.

9) DALA ANG BIGAT NG KAHAPON - may kasabihan nga, “how can u look forward when u keep looking back?”walang mangyayari sa love life mo kung dala mo pa ang kabiguan na dinulot ng nakaraan mo. walang sense ang magpakabitter dahil in the end, lalo ka lang papanget. panget na nga, bitter pa! tsaka wag kang matakot masaktan kung gusto mo magmahal muli. laging kaakibat ng love ang pain dahil hindi ka masasaktan kung hindi ka nagmahal. at isa pa, wag ka ring matakot na kunin ang pagkakataon kung nandiyan na sa harap mo. pano mo malalaman na masarap ang chocolate kung hindi mo titikman? (^^,)

10) MASYADONG-MASYADO!! - masyadong maganda, masyadong matalino, masyadong talented at masyadong mayaman. minsan ito ang mga nagiging factor kung bakit walang gustong manligaw sayo. pero hindi mo naman ito kasalanan diba? katulad din ito ng scenario sa #7. siguro mas maigi kung HUMBLE KA LANG wag mayabang, at imbis na maging hambog, share na lang the blessing. hindi ka lang maganda / matalino / talented / mayaman / mabait pa!! im sure lahat mahuhumaling sayo.

11) IMBORNAL ANG BUNGANGA MO: naku kalimitang problema ito ng mga TAKLESANG TAO at ng mga masyado nang confident sa sarili nila. Maganda ka nga, mayaman, mabait naman, sweet naman, maganda naman pumorma, Pero pag nagsalita daig pa ung barker ng mga pedicab sa CUBAO eh! Ang lakas mong magmura!! Pinaglihi ka ba sa Nagmumurang Kamatis? Mga words mo pa ang lulupit e… memorize mo na lahat ng mga bastos na salitang Pilipino at mga murang pinoy. Shempre palengkera dating mo nyan dba? Naku lalo pa kung mapanira ka, lalong wag! Matatakot lahat makipag-friends sayo, kahit babae!! Hahaha! Bawas mura kapatid! Instead of saying: Bwaka ng Ina, P*tang ina, P*king Ina!! Say: flowers, candies, rainbows, sheeps, clouds, butterflies and PUT A LITTLE MORE!! Or. . .

TANG INUMIN MO WAG MILO!!! O dba? bumabango na “bibig” nya, yeah! di na “bunganga”.

MINSAN NAMAN SA MGA BABAE:

12) TOO MANY BOYS: Minsan nai-intimidate din ang mga guys pag masyado maraming boys ang nakabakod sa girl. Wala ka ngang boyfriend, pero lagi mo naman prino-project na ang daming lumalandi sayo (na pawang mga superficial lang naman at mukhang walang potential na magbigay ng TRUE LOVE sayo). Pag ganyan palagi ang aura at drama mo, most likely, uurong yung mga boys na may HONEST INTENTIONS sayo at kaya kang mahalin ng todo, kasi natatakot sila na baka ikaw ang di kayang magmahal ng totoo. Alam kasi ng mga boys yan… na kahit kayo na (nakapili ka na ng BF mo), di pa din mawawala ang mga “boys” na nakapaligid sayo…

13) ONE OF THE BOYS: Ayan, isa pang problema ng mga gurls... kadalasan, dahil sa sobra namang close sa mga boys, nagmumukha na silang one of the boys, na kung saan sayo shi-ni-share ng mga boys ang kilig at iyak moments nila with other gurls. Ouch! Masakit yun, lalo na pag type mo yung friend mo na guy. Ingat-ingat mahirap kasi pag masyado kang close sa mga boys kasi dumadating ang point na ang tingin nila sayo… MAS MASARAP KANG KAIBIGAN… aray!!! isa pa, parang lalaki na din ang tingin nila sayo… mapapansin mo yan, kapag nag-skirt or nag-spaghetti strap ka, tapos inaasar ka na ng mga friend mo na boys for being “gurl na gurl”. kasi ang boys, pag nakakita ng gurl in a sexy dress (tumatahimik yan, at may parang kumukulo sa loob nila)… so pag tinawanan ka, naku, sign na un…

14) STRICT ANG PARENTS: uhmmm… may two words kami dyan: GOOD LUCK!

at eto ang pinakamatindi sa lahat:

15) WALA SA GUHIT NG PALAD MO ANG MAGKA-BOYFRIEND OR GIRLFRIEND!! - shiyet ang saklap naman nito kung ganun nga!! hindi porke hindi ka na magkakaroon ng kasintahan ay loser ka na. malamang may nakalaan na plano sayo si GOD kaya gusto niya na wala kang BOYFRIEND OR GIRLFRIEND siguro kaya wala kang kasintahan dahil kailangan ang full attention mo sa pagtulong sa pagtaguyod ng pamilya mo, baka yayaman ka at magiging tagapagmana mo mga pamangkin mo, (EH BAKIT PAMANGKIN PA???! HAHAHA!!) baka kailangan ang full time and support mo sa organization mo..maraming dahilan eh pero nakakasiguro naman ako na walang bagay na nangyayari sayo na hindi kagustuhan ng nasa itaas. laging may greater purpose kung bakit nangyayari ang nangyayari. kaya kung halimbawang may darating, wag na pakyeme. kung hindi mo type ang lalapit sayo, let it go gracefully dahil mahirap na at baka balikan ka ng karma. kung nandyan na, gawin na lang ang best para mag-stay siya sa buhay mo at nang hindi ka na nagtataka pa kung bakit SINGLE ka. see what i’m sayin??

hmmmmm…. mukhang BITIN ka pa eh!! DAGDAGAN NATIN?? (^^,) hehe cge…

(P.S.) = “PAHABOL-SULAT”

O ETO PA…

[Destiny Addict]
Ito yung mga taong hinihintay na gumawa ang tadhana ng paraan para pagtagpuin sila ng kanilang mga “soulmates” or whatever. Ayaw kumilos o kung ano pa dahil naniniwala siya na kung sino man ‘yung talagang para sa kanya ay darating na lang bigla sa paraang maaaring hindi niya inaasahan– wow!! parang Serendipity.

Laging maririnig na nagsasabing: “Darating din yan. ‘Wag kasing hanapin.“

[Perfectionist]
Simula nung magkamalay ang taong ito, nakalista na ang mga bagay na gusto niya
sa kanyang magiging boypren/girlpren. Kapag may nakilala siya at
nakitang madumi ang kuko, magkadikit ang kilay, may butas sa ngipin, o
parang penguin maglakad, wala na. Turn off na ‘yun para sa kanya.

Laging maririnig na nagsasabing:
“Ok na siya e. Kaya lang gusto ko ‘yung ganito…”

[Busy Bee]
Pasensya na sila pero masyado kang maraming inaasikaso tulad ng libro, bolpen,
papel at calculator. Umaalis ka ng 6 am sa bahay at umuuwi ng 7 ng gabi
‘pag weekdays. Pagdating mo sa bahay, gagawa lang ng homework at
matutulog na. Masaya ka nang makanood ng TV ‘pag Sabado (at gumawa ulit
ng homework). Sapat na sa’yo ang kumain sa labas kasama ang pamilya
‘pag Linggo (at gumawa pa rin ng homework).

Laging maririnig na nagsasabing: “Sorry, wala akong time sa ganyan e,”

[Friend Forever Version 1]
Kunwari ka pa dyan. Alam mo namang gusto mo talaga ‘yang best friend o special
friend mo pero hindi mo lang sinasabi at pinapadama dahil ayaw mong
masira ang pagkakaibigan niyong dalawa. ‘Yung tipong ‘pag may kasamang
iba ‘yung gusto mo, kunwari ka pang masaya ka para sa kanya pero sa
totoo lang, gusto mo na malusaw na parang ice caps dahil sa Global Warming.

Laging maririnig na nagsasabing: “I’m so happy for you” o “Sayang naman ‘yung pinagsamahan namin e.”

[Friend Forever Version 2]
Wala tayong magagawa pero talagang malapit ka lang sa kabilang
kasarian–pero bilang kaibigan lang. One-of-the-boys or ladies’ man.
Hindi ka naman homo o bi pero sadyang kaibigan lang ang tingin mo sa
mga taong hindi mo kapareho ng chromosomes. Masaya ka nang
nakaka-hang-out lang sila, nakakakwentuhan, niyayakap nang walang
halong malisya.

Laging maririnig na nagsasabing: “May inuman ba mamaya?” kung babae o “Hatid ko ba kayo mamaya?” kung lalaki

[Born to be... "One"]
Single-blessed ka at wala ka nang magagawa kung ganun. Nilikha ka siguro para maging mag-isa (pero syempre may pamilya at kaibigan ka naman, duh!) hanggang tumanda ka na at ipadala sa Home for the Aged. Marami akong kakilalang mukhang ganito ang patutunguhan at hindi naman sila mga pangit o abnoy talaga. Minsan lang, masyado silang masungit.

Laging maririnig na nagsasabing: “Mag-isa ako.”

[Happy-go-lucky]
‘Eto yung taong masaya na sa trip-trip lang at kung anu-anong mga
happenings. Kahit sino na lang basta no strings attached. For fun lang
at walang seryosohan please. Personally, ayoko nung mga ganito. Umaapaw
lang siguro ‘yung mga taong ganito sa “L.” Magbuhos ka nalang ng malamig
na tubig sa iyong buong katawan at solb na ‘yan.

Laging maririnig na nagsasabing: “I’m not ready to commit e, but I really like you.”

[Wrong Time]
‘Eto naman ‘yung mga laging idinadahilan na masyado pa silang bata o kaya
masyado na silang matanda. May mga tao raw na ganyan, ‘yung pakiramdam
nila laging may tamang panahon para sa pag-ibig. Pero ang labo lang
kasi tuwing may pagkakataon naman, lagi nilang naiisip na maling
panahon pa iyon. Oo, wrong timing lagi ang pag-ibig para sa kanila kasi
madalas sumasakto kung kelan meron silang board exams, problema sa
pamilya, o long test kinabukasan. :)

Laging maririnig na nagsasabing: “We had the right love at the wrong time…”

[Parent Trap]
Ayaw ni mama o ni papa na magkaboypren/girlpren ang kanilang unica hija/unico hijo kahit na 22 years old na ito at kumikita na ng sarili niyang pera. Kailangan daw magkaron ka muna ng isang strand ng puting buhok bago may makadalaw sa’yo sa bahay. O kaya, baka ikaw ‘yung may problema dahil natatakot ka sa iisipin ng mga magulang mo tungkol sa taong iyong gusto. Baka kasi sabihin nila na masyado siyang bansot/matangkad/baboy/pay

atot para sa’yo.

Laging maririnig na nagsasabing: “Baka magalit si Papa”

[Trauma]
Dahil sa dami ng mga heartbreak na iyong nadama at emo songs na napakinggan mo na noon, sinumpa mo nang hindi ka magmamahal. Ayaw mo na. Sawa ka na sa paglalaslas ng pulso, este, sa paglalagay ng mga madramang stat message sa YM at pag-iyak ng balde-baldeng luha. Awwwww… pwede rin namang masyado kang insecure sa sarili mo kaya hindi ka makapagmatapang na magventure into some love quest.

Laging maririnig na nagsasabing: “Pagod na pagod na akong masaktan!” *hikbi*

[Your Ex-Lover is (NOT) Dead]
Yikes!! Mahal pa rin niya ang kanyang EX at hindi siya maka-get-over sa person. wtf??! Pilit pa rin inaalala ang mga tawanan, iyakan, at PDA moments nilang dalawa kahit ‘yung EX niya ay nakikipag-mabutihan na sa ibang babae/lalaki. Sasabihin mong nakapag-move on ka na pero pag nagkwentuhan tungkol sa pag-ibig, tandadadaaaaan! Siya na naman naiisip mo.

Laging maririnig na nagsasabing: “I’m over him/her…” “tapos iiyak bigla Haha! Baliw!”

[Ayaw]
Dalawa na namang kaso ito. Una, ayaw mo lang talaga magka-”someone”. Hindi ko na pipilitin ungkatin ‘yung dahilan pero may mga pagkakataon lang talaga na ayaw mo. Ikalawa naman, baka…ayaw kasi sa’yo nung gusto mo N’ that’s the shittiest thing ever! Pwedeng ayaw niya sa’yo dahil may girlpren/boypren siya, busy siya or whatever, o kaya ayaw ka lang niya talaga at wala ka nang magagawa kung ganun. =(

Laging maririnig na nagsasabing: “Ayoko pa magkaboypren/girlpren e.” o “Hindi naman niya ko gusto.“

WAZZ GOOD?? MY NAME IS M.C. DUANE…

AT WALA NA NAMAN AKONG MAGAWA!!!

HAHAHA!!! I’M JUST KILLIN’ TIME PEEPS…

ENIWEIZ, DI’BA MAY KASABIHAN NGA NA:

“NASA DIYOS ANG AWA, NASA TAO ANG GAWA”

WALANG MANGYAYARI SA’YO KUNG MAGMUMUKMOK KA NA LANG DIYAN!!!!!!!
KAYA KUNG AKO SA’YO HABANG MAY PANAHON KA PA WAG MO NANG SAYANGIN.

AT TINITIYAK KO SA’YO NA GAGANDA ANG TAKBO NG MUNDO MO.

LUBOS NA GUMAGALANG,
ATE CHARO.

Categories: SAPUL KA BA?? TAGOS NOH?? =p

Warm again

2009-11-23T16:16:00.004+08:00

Yesterday I asked myself if I will ever be warm again. I began to feel cold as soon as I got our relative's call telling me that our mother was in the ICU and was in critical condition. The cold settled in and never left until a while ago. The hardest thing for us to deal with was the feeling of helplessness because of the distance.

It was the most somber birthday for my youngest sister. She is the closest to our mom so I could just imagine all the mixed emotions she had. I could not even begin to tell them everything I was told. I could not even process them. It was much easier for me to omit some of the details. I somehow doubt I would be able to convey everything I heard when my mind could not even accept what I heard.

Prayers helped us got by. The support and prayers of friends added to the conviction that all will be well.

Earlier I got word from my mom that her respirator and other life support gadgets have been removed. She will be transferred from the ICU and will stay in the hospital until she recovers. Only after I heard that news that I began to feel warm again.

Lovely

2009-11-20T21:57:00.002+08:00

Two guys, a piano and a cello make beautiful music together. Now I suddenly want to learn how to play the cello.

Happy 20th CRC!!!

2009-11-19T16:10:00.004+08:00

In 1989, the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) became the first legally binding international convention to affirm human rights for all children. As a binding treaty of international law, it codifies principles that Member States of the United Nations agreed to be universal – for all children, in all countries and cultures, at all times and without exception, simply through the fact of their being born into the human family.

(Text and image from here.)

My one vote

2009-11-17T13:35:00.010+08:00

I intend to make full use of my one vote. I did not vote in the past two elections. It was only recently that I rediscovered the motivation to exercise that right. I even braved the serpentine lines and tiresome wait at a Comelec satellite office just so I can register again.

As the election fever begins to rage, I am beginning to see more of the usual campaigns. Some ring of empty promises that seem to get hollower as years go by. There are always familiar faces, tired lines, and scarce concrete action to match grand promises made. A part of me doubts that politics and governance will change after new and re-elected leaders take the helm in the contested positions. But, despite my misgivings, I still intend to put much thought and effort to that one vote I have.

If I were to shortlist candidates to give my vote to, I will go for those who exude integrity and have firm stance on the following:

1. Education ~ ensuring that more children get access to free education; that more children will have the opportunity to study beyond elementary school; that literacy rate in the Philippines improve especially in the poorest towns and municipalities.

2. Environment ~ because regardless of which side we stand on the climate change debate, I believe that everyone deserves a future where there is environment sustainability. In the interconnectedness of things, ignoring the potential impacts of neglect is a risk that we cannot afford to make.

3. Sports ~ because apart from promoting a healthy lifestyle, it teaches ideals and values that strengthen character and integrity. The current state of sports in the country desperately needs to be addressed.

Like most of what ails the nation, money (misuse, corruption, etc.) is not the only issue that needs to be addressed. Prudent use of funds, a clear vision, and the courage to catalyze changes define great leaders.

I do not think much will change after the 2010 elections. But even so, I believe that there will be a few who will create small ripples of change that will resonate in the coming years. That thought alone is enough to make me anticipate in casting my one vote. One vote that I will use wisely.

Pinay long jumper wins gold

2009-11-14T17:41:00.003+08:00

A former roommate in the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex South Tower wins the Gold in long jump in the Asian Track and Field Championships held at the Guangdong Olympic Center in Guangzhou, China. Maris' commitment to training paid off.

It is such a source of pride and inspiration to see athletes struggle and emerge victorious through talent, hard work and dedication. Go Pinoy athletes!

Full story:
Torres ends Asian Track & Field Gold drought
From Good News Pilipinas

Natural state of things

2009-11-14T13:29:00.002+08:00

Two things came to mind when I read about the rot-proof apple that stays fresh for 4 months:

The apple tree mentioned in James Rollins' book The Doomsday Key
My aunt's tale about a new variant of rice that her friends are recommending to her. The said rice purportedly doesn't spoil for four days when cooked

Although I admire the complexity and genius in developing such produce, I still prefer the natural state of things. Let food rot in their own good time.

go the distance

2009-11-14T13:22:00.001+08:00

"People think I'm disciplined. It is not discipline. It is devotion. There is a great difference." ~ Luciano Pavarotti

Image from things we forget

Philippine Rowing Team quad in Asian Champs Finals A

2009-11-11T20:05:00.000+08:00

The Philippine Rowing Team's quad reached Finals A finished 6th in the 13th Asian Rowing Championships held in Yilan, Chinese Taipei. Congratulations and kudos for your best effort and for giving your all in the intense races with Asian powerhouse teams!

I want to be six again

2009-11-11T12:56:00.001+08:00

I saw this on Facebook. It was posted by Paolo Jamoralin then shared by my friend Majella Jamoralin.

---

I want to be six again

I want to go to McDonald's and think
it's the best place in the world to eat.
I want to sail sticks across a fresh mud puddle
and make waves with rocks.
I want to think M&Ms are better than money
because you can eat them.
I want to play kickball during recess
and stay up on Christmas Eve
waiting to hear Santa and Rudolph on the roof.
I long for the days when life was simple.
When all you knew were your colors,
the addition tables, and simple nursery rhymes,
but it didn't bother you because
you didn't know what you didn't know,
and you didn't care.
I want to go to school and have snack time,
recess, gym, and field trips.
I want to be happy
because I don't know what should make me upset.
I want to think the world is fair,
and everyone in it is honest and good.
I want to believe that anything is possible.
Sometime, while I was maturing,
I learned too much.
I learned of nuclear weapons,
starving and abused kids, and unhappy marriages.

I want to be six again.

I want to think that everyone, including myself,
will live forever because
I don't know the concept of death.
I want to be oblivious to the complexity of life,
and be overly excited by the little things again.
I want television to be something I watch for fun,
not something I use for escape from the things I should be doing.
I want to live knowing
the little things I find exciting,
will always make me as happy as when I first learned them.

I want to be six again.

I remember not seeing the world as a whole,
but rather being aware of only
the things that directly concerned me.
I want to be naive enough to think that if
I'm happy, so is everyone else.
I want to walk down the beach and think
only of the sand beneath my feet,
and the possibility of finding
that blue piece of sea glass I'm looking for.
I want to spend my afternoons
climbing trees and riding my bike,
letting the grownups worry about time,
the dentist, and how to find the money to fix the car.
I want to wonder what I'll do when I grow up,
not worry what I'll do if this doesn't work out.
I want that time back.
I want to use it now as an escape,
so that when my computer crashes,
or I have a mountain of paperwork,
or two depressed friends,
or second thoughts about so many things,
I can travel back and build snowmen
without thinking about anything
except whether the snow sticks together
and what I can possibly use for the snowman's mouth.

I want to be six again.

-anonymous-

45 days to go... :)

2009-11-10T16:08:00.000+08:00

Send your own ElfYourself eCards

How to get an NBI clearance (for the nth time)

2009-11-10T12:44:00.014+08:00

This morning I got my NBI clearance in 1 hour and 40 minutes. Not bad, especially with the crowd I saw when I arrived. Lesson learned: Do not leave old NBI clearance behind with other stuff for storage. Renewal takes less time.

I decided to post a few tips below hoping that first time NBI clearance applicants stumble upon it. Some of it might actually be helpful:
~ NBI satellite office located in front of Victoria Mall, Bajada, Davao City allots a certain number of forms for both AM and PM transactions

~ If you wish to finish before lunch time, be at the NBI office on or before 9:00am. I got there at 9:20am and a few minutes after, they announced that they ran out of forms already. Those who were not able to get forms were advised to come back at 1:00pm.

~ Listen carefully to instructions and hone your observation skills. One thing I distinctly noted earlier was the NBI staff I saw were all in plain clothes. Maybe it was laundry day or maybe it was just standard operating procedure for them not to be in uniform but that certainly made it harder to pinpoint people I can approach to ask questions.

Good thing there were volunteers/OJTs (I assumed) who look like students of a law enforcement or maritime school. They at least were easily identifiable in their respective stations. Other than these volunteers/OJTs (again, I'm just assuming), finding someone to provide information was a bit of a pain. It did not help that the tarpaulin listing the steps was posted within what served as waiting area for those whose numbers were already called.

Advice to NBI office mentioned: please put the information near the gate where everyone can easily see it.

I also took some notes from the info tarpaulin detailing the 8 steps in getting an NBI clearance (for first time applicants):
Step 1. Verification of true identification of applicant (required: valid ID with picture or Community Tax Certificate)
Step 2. Filling up in bold letters and checking of NBI clearance card details
Step 3. Fingerprinting by the fingerprint personnel
Step 4. Paying of correct fees at the cashier's office

Local Employment - Php115.00
Travel Abroad - Php115.00
Licenses - Php165.00
Business - Php165.00
BI Requirements - Php415.00

Step 5. Image Capture Processing
Step 6. Data Encoding (to verify whether applicant has no records in file or has no namesake)
Step 7. Releasing in same day for "No" records/"No Hit Applicants"
Step 8. For "Hit applicants" - advice to return in ten (10) working days period

And as end note, keep your NBI clearance where you can easily access or find it come renewal time. Believe me, renewal is much much easier. I should know, I have done it back when I had the foresight to keep my old clearance.

If - read by Roger Federer & Rafael Nadal

2009-11-10T07:01:00.000+08:00

This started my day right.

Sport for All

2009-11-09T19:26:00.005+08:00

Sport: a human right for all individuals

Sport for All is a movement promoting the Olympic ideal that sport is a human right for all individuals regardless of race, social class and sex. The movement encourages sports activities that can be exercised by people of all ages, both sexes and different social and economic conditions.

Just recently, I mentioned Olympism in an email thread with dragon boat friends. The thread was about some umpiring, rowing and dragon boat updates. I said that whatever our role requires us to do in our respective sports we should not forget to promote the spirit of Olympism, always.

Modern Olympism, as defined here, celebrates the ideals which remain at the heart of Olympism. By blending sport with culture and education, Olympism promotes a way of life based on:

* The balanced development of the body, will and mind
* The joy found in effort
* The educational value of being a good role model
* Respect for universal ethics including tolerance, generosity, unity, friendship, non-discrimination and respect for others.

I thought about all of these immediately after I heard about an unfortunate issue involving my dragon boat club team. Quite frankly, the story is not new to me. I heard variations of it already even before, seemingly harmless remarks from competitors. Those kinds of things happen a lot in sports. No big deal.

This latest incident happened during the November 8th race at Manila Bay. A teammate told me that a paddler from another team called one of the Manila Dragon women's team members "gurang" (oldie) inside a CR. My friend told me that another teammate took exception and respectfully called the lady paddler on it. The said teammate explained quiety that most of the women that she was disrespecting were breast cancer survivors. The girl who made the comment apologized. However, as soon as the teammate who called her on it left, the girl shouted "Wala akong pakialam!" (I don't care!). Unfortunately, my friend said another teammate was still in one of the bathroom stalls and heard her - and triggered another exchange.

In another incident, a different team's member commented "Ay matrona!" while Manila Dragons were unloading.

A few thoughts came to mind after I heard the story:
1. Everyone is entitled to her/his own opinion. Ang pikon talo.
2. Sporting events are often rife with intrigues. Competitiveness and team pride knows no bounds.
3. There is always an opportunity to understand the ideals of sports better. Learning and understanding is a start.

To the Manila Dragons breast cancer survivors, nasty and petty comments thrown at you will not diminish the strength of your spirits.

As for the labels, I personally wish to defy those labels as I intend to play until my old age. Sports for All means sports is for all. No one has the right to discourage healthy individuals from embracing a sporting life.

A series of unfortunate events

2009-11-09T17:42:00.009+08:00

I first heard of the story from my tita who is staying over after a hospital procedure. She said the road accident happened sometime last week. A bus headed to Tibal-og, Davao del Norte was following a tractor with a cargo of water. It then tried to overtake the tractor and almost collided head-on with an oncoming truck. The bus tried to avoid the truck and swerved to its right. Unfortunately, it hit the tractor and killed its driver. A bus passenger also died and the conductor lost a leg.

A while ago, my uncle arrived and said another tragedy struck the tractor driver's family. The funeral car carrying the remains was hit by a truck near the scene of the first accident. Perhaps what's most tragic about this was the car's driver, the dead man's mother and a child relative died. The dead man's body was not spared as the coffin flew off the car because of the impact.

The bus driver had the presence of mind to flee the scene. If he did not, there was a chance his life will not be spared by the wrath of grieving relatives and friends who were following the funeral car to bury their dead.

It is hard to feel sorry for a man who, by accident, killed people. Especially when he is found to be carrying shabu in his wallet.

Lucky

2009-11-08T11:34:00.005+08:00

~ A fall to remember
~ Memories of The Hague
~ Maybe because it's November

LSS: Lucky to have been where I have been, lucky to be coming home again

How Much Water is in Your Latte?

2009-11-07T13:42:00.000+08:00

For coffee lovers like me out there, don't worry. This video says it's not about taking away our morning java fix :) | from: The Top 9 Green Viral Videos (via TreeHugger)

It is personal

2009-11-01T21:05:00.023+08:00

"Individually, we are one drop. Together, we are an ocean." ~ Ryunosuke Satoro

Last Wednesday, the news about the dead "butanding" (whale shark) that turned up dead on Manila Bay got my attention. Never in my years of training on the waters of Manila Bay have I seen whales, dead or alive, anywhere near our boats. However, I did witness several instances of dead fishes floating, human wastes of the most unsavory kind, a sea of water lilies, and tons of garbage that made training even more difficult than they usually were. What we did was just to row anyway and try not to think about the sorry state of the bay.

The dead "butanding" made me curious about our new breed of rowers. What is it that they see now when they are out there training? Do they see less of the problems we saw before or is it worse now?

I keep thinking that regardless of where we choose to stand in the issue of climate change, we have to admit that something is terribly wrong if sea creatures keep turning up dead on our shores. Garbage do not belong in what should be pristine waters. They should not endanger the survival of creatures that cannot even speak to beg for our help.

Looking at the big picture can sometimes be daunting, especially if we do not fully understand the root and extent of the problems. But perhaps taking that small step individually is a beginning of the big solution we hope to see. And maybe, if we follow others' lead and personalize the problem we can find the inspiration to make the change we feel are necessary.

Sports is where I found that inspiration. I spent hours every day for years rowing in places where training and competition brought me. I ran in city and country roads where I felt like I was drawing energy from around me. It was only after constantly seeing the beauty that I learned to notice small things that I would have otherwise missed.

Whatever form the problems choose to manifest, they will not go away by themselves. Perhaps what is more important is how we choose to take the next steps to mitigate them. The possibilities are endless and the following are just a few of the many things we can individually and collectively do:

1. Develop the habit of bringing reusable bags when shopping. This helps minimize the use of plastic bags. Just imagine how much we can contribute in minimizing the garbage we have. In those times my paddle caught plastic bags there were moments I wondered if some of them were mine.

Note: 450 Estimated time, in years, for a plastic bottle to degrade completely in a marine environment. (Read more)

2. Use events as an opportunity to set an example. Sporting events often generate a lot of trash. I remember several instances when we organized competitions and had to spend hours cleaning after all sorts of trash left by participants and spectators. It would help if event organizers begin to integrate the values of sport and the environment in each activity. Athletes can be the champions by setting an example. Volunteers can help with encouraging participants and spectators in segregating trash.

3. Instill the values of sport and environment to athletes, coaches, officials, and support staff. Encourage them to share how important is a sustainable environment to the future of their respective sports. They can put a face to another facet of a campaign that ultimately makes winners in all of us.

Over the years, I have seen how the above examples worked. I met people who showed me that all these are possible. This is why I believe it is not too late to "give this planet a sporting chance".

-------
Resources:
Numbers: Plastics, From Manufacturing to Recycling to Long Death in a Landfill
United Nations Environment Programme
The International Olympic Committee Sport and Environment Commission
Japan Olympic Committee Sport and Environment Commission

Giving public service a good name

2009-10-27T22:52:00.004+08:00

Securing purok, barangay, and police clearances earlier today was a pleasant surprise. I started out all psyched up for long lines and longer waits that I even brought a book just to be ready. I blocked the entire day to finish these errands and braced myself for the worst. Instead, I was happily proven wrong in my assumptions. Even better, I got reminded that there are still a lot of government employees who give justice to their roles as public servants.

My first stop for the day was in our purok leader's home to get a purok clearance. The leader was nice and very thorough that the entire transaction took less than ten minutes.

Next I went to the barangay hall, which looked well-maintained, and met employees who gave the impression that they were happy to serve. I got my community tax certificate (CTC) in less than five minutes then proceeded to the cubicle exclusively for barangay clearance requests. Again, I did not have to wait long for the clearance but what surprised me more was the lack of fees. With the exception of the money I spent for the CTC, I did not pay any single fee for both the purok and barangay clearances.

I then proceeded to the police barracks (as they call it) to get a police clearance. I had to backtrack though since I did not know beforehand that I had to pay Php25.00 first at the Sanggunian building, which is a block away from the barracks.

The Sanggunian building was crowded but the number system and the efficiency of the staff behind the windows relieved the tedium of waiting. All in all the time I spent there was not that bad. I then went back to the barracks with the required official receipt in hand. Getting the police clearance was as easy as the previous transactions despite the number of people present.

Call me jaded but I had several experiences over these years that made me wary, sometimes resigned, and often frustrated with how public servants deal with public like me. But today's experiences reminded me that there are still people out there who give public service a good name. I do not know their names but I salute them. Thank you for making me believe in public servants again.

Two Things

2009-10-21T11:20:00.008+08:00

Web surfing today reminded me of two things:

1. Invoking "creative sabbatical" becomes less scary when viewed from a different perspective.

There have been times in the past that I chose to step back and do nothing. What I choose to be right now is not exactly new. But sometimes I do tend to doubt the soundness of what I am [not] doing. This happens when I start thinking how this "idleness" is tantamount to wasting away. Pressures from expectations and well-meaning intentions are like fertilizers to slow-growing plants. They bring focus to things that I otherwise ignore.

Today is a good day to remind myself that other people's expectations and wishes are their own. My business is to milk this time of solitude and mindless pursuits for all its worth. The past taught me that it is not always going to be like this. I am not wired for slumberous existence no matter how I may sometimes wish it to be so. It is just that there are moments when my soul craves the solitude and clarity that "retreat and recharge" gives me. Thankfully that is what my batcave is for.

2. It is good to remember things we forget.

This is true especially since I seem to be forgetting a lot lately, like #1 and more of the simple things that always used to make me happy.

(Photo from things we forget)

12th Southeast Asian Rowing Championships & Indoor Rowing Championships 2009

2009-10-20T10:21:00.002+08:00

The Philippine Rowing Team bags a total of 3 silvers and 2 bronzes in the 12th SEARF Rowing Championships and 3 golds, 3 silvers, & 2 bronzes in the Indoor Rowing Championships.

RACE RESULTS:
14 - 18 October 2009 at the Mabprachan Reservoir, Pattaya, Chonburi Province, Thailand
12th SEARF Rowing Championships
Silver - 3
Bronze - 2

Indoor Rowing SEARF 2009
* Open Men Single 500 m.
Ponnel singgit PHI 1:31.3 (4th place)

* Open WOMEN Single 500 m.
JOHNALYN PEDRITA PHI 1:45.8 (BRONZE)

Junior Men Single 1000m
Roque Abala Jr. PHI 3:14.9 (GOLD)

* Junior WOMEN Single 1000 m.
EDA JECSXIE MAERINS PHI 3:47.3 (SILVER)

* Lightweight MEN Single 2000 m.
ALVIN AMPOSTA PHI 6:51.7 (GOLD)

* Lightweight WOMEN Single 2000 m.
HIDA CORDOXS PHI 7:44.1 (GOLD)

* Open MEN Relay 4x500 m.
PHI 6:15.1 (BRONZE)
ROVEL SINGGIT
JARWIN ALICUM
ROQUE ABALS
EDGAR ILAS

* Open WOMEN Relay 4x500 m
PHI 7:11.1 (SILVER)
Clotheled nillas
Eda Jecsxie Maerins
Johnalyn Pedrits
Nida Cordovs

* Mixed Open Relay 4 x 500 m (2 MEN + 2 WOMEN)
PHI 6.37.8 (SILVER)
Johnalyn Pedrita
Clothelde Nillas
Edgar Ilas
Ronel Singgit

(Photo by Chalyn Bueta)

Blog Action Day 2009: Climate Change | Giving the Planet A Sporting Chance

2009-10-15T11:43:00.015+08:00

“Give the Planet a Sporting Chance” is a call to action campaign of the Japanese Olympic Committee Sport and Environment Commission. I am borrowing it today as I write something in support of this year's Blog Action Day.

I make it personal when I try to make sense of what climate change is. I find connections in dissecting the big things into parts where I understand and feel the potential impacts to me and my environment. This makes it easier for me to reconnect when I begin to drift away from the magnitude of the problem. I do this because it is easy to sink into that hole of helplessness and settle into apathy when I begin to consider that there might be nothing I can do to solve this problem.

The years I dedicated to dragon boat racing and rowing brought me closer to nature. My experiences and the sights I saw are probably the biggest reasons why I continue to strongly advocate campaigns to protect our environment. These sports I love are also threatened by the effects of climate change. Lakes and rivers are in danger of disappearing. I cannot imagine a world where there is nothing to do but stay indoors because there is nothing more safe to do outside.

@ Pasig River (Photo by John Candido)

Out in the water I become one of those many others who appreciate just how precious our environment is. I see pristine waters and my heart sings with joy. I feel the clean breeze caress my body and my spirit soars. It is when I am out in a boat that I understand more how inaction and apathy could make me lose something that is priceless and irreplaceable.

@ La Mesa Dam (Photo by Chalyn Bueta)

So what can I do?

I choose to give the planet a sporting chance. I consciously make an effort to lessen my carbon footprint. It is not easy and I am not even halfway to being successful as I aimed to be but I believe I am on the right track. I have learned the habit of using less plastic especially when I am out shopping. I unplug appliances that I do not use. I try to use less electricity. Everyday I try to do more. I read materials that could help me reduce my carbon impact.

I am only one but I am one with the billions of people who are doing what they can to mitigate the risks of climate change. With that in mind, I am filled with hope. I could still imagine a world where people have the chance of playing my favorite sports.

Queen Rania's speech at Yale University

2009-10-15T10:27:00.004+08:00

I was deeply moved by the video of Queen Rania's speech at Yale University that I wanted to post the full speech here.

I think the ability to care is what defines humanity. What she said made me think about how I sometimes shy away from sharing what I feel and think about things - big things, things that do not [directly] concern me. I may think that I am helpless, insignificant even, in what is happening around me. There is just too much suffering that we people bring to this world.

I am stumped by the degree of helplessness that I feel, of the separateness I experience. But even thinking about that does not stop me from caring. I care because I believe that somehow, in some ways, we are all connected. I feel that for as long as our humanity is preserved a hope for peace remains alive.

"True peace depends on reconnecting the bonds of our common humanity." ~ Queen Rania

Tuesday, September 22, 2009
"Queen Rania's speech at Yale University "
- New York, United States

President Levin, Dean Lorimer, faculty, students… thank you so much for making me feel so welcome here at Yale. I’ve wanted to come here for many years, and am so grateful to everyone for the hospitality and kindness you’ve shown to me and my staff.

I’ve really been looking forward to seeing the Yale landmarks that I’ve been hearing about for so long – the Beinecke Library… Harkness Tower… Old Campus… Peter Salovey’s moustache.

Oh, I’m sorry I didn’t make it quite in time for that last one! But everything else is even more impressive than I had imagined. This is a spectacular place.

Indeed, I have to admit, as I was preparing for this visit, I wondered what on earth I could tell you that you don’t already know. Yalies have won 17 Nobel prizes, 6 presidential elections, and even 2 Heisman trophies. You can choose from more than 2,000 courses… browse more than 12 million books in the libraries… make friends from more than 110 countries… and, as far as I can tell from the posters on campus, try out for 3,000 a capella singing groups!

So, rather than try to compete with all that, I thought I’d speak from my own experience.

I thought I’d offer an Arab perspective on my part of the world, and our hopes for peace and progress – especially with regard to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

And I’m guessing, since you made the time to be here today, when you could have been doing something really important – like researching a paper, or visiting a professor, or calling your Mom to tell her how much you love her -- that this is an audience that already cares about international relations.

But I realize that foreign policy isn’t typically a top concern for the American public – and especially not in a time of economic hardship at home. A poll earlier this year found that 75 percent of Americans agreed “terrorism” should be one of President Obama’s top priorities… but almost no other foreign policy issues made it to the top 20 list.

So I don’t expect that the Arab-Israeli conflict is foremost on most people’s minds.

Yet, in many ways, that conflict is at the core of U.S.-Arab relations – or, at least, at the core of Arab public opinion of America. When Arabs were asked, in a poll this spring, what two steps by the United States would improve their views of the United States the most, more than 40 percent said a peace agreement between Israel and Palestine. The same poll found that 99 percent of people put the conflict in their top 5 priorities… and one in three say the Palestinian issue is their number one concern.

That’s because for us, the occupation is a hurt we feel each day. In Jordan, nearly a third of our population are Palestinian refugees. Look at the people sitting on either side of you. Imagine one was a refugee – forced to seek haven in your country because her family had been driven from their own. In Jordan we have to be concerned with the conflict because we’re living with its consequences. We don’t have the luxury of shifting our focus away.

We know as well that the crisis in Palestine does not exist in a vacuum. What happens in Palestine is related to what happens in Iraq, in Lebanon, in Syria. The longer the conflict in Palestine persists, the weaker the moderate majority becomes… the more extremists gain leverage they can exploit… and the greater the risk of instability throughout our region.

So we appreciated President Obama’s outreach in his Cairo speech. We appreciated his acknowledgement that the conflict remains a major source of tension between us… and his pledge to pursue a two-state solution with patience and dedication.

We appreciated the appointment of Senator George Mitchell as special envoy.

But we are impatient. When it comes to Palestine, time has not been a friend. To the contrary, sometimes Palestine seems like the land that time forgot.

You know, when I started college, back in 1988, Europe was divided. The United States had an existential foe called the USSR. Much of Latin America was ruled by juntas; South Africa by apartheid. Civil conflicts had been raging for decades from Guatemala to Northern Ireland. Nelson Mandela lived in a cell. And Palestine was under occupation.

These were the problems we used to describe as intractable, even insoluble. Yet hatreds have given way to handshakes. Prisoners have become presidents.

But not in Palestine. In Palestine, walls are going up, not coming down…four hundred kilometers to be precise. The decades have brought what feels like an endless parade of starts and stalemates … missed opportunities… shattered hopes… and diminishing returns.

And I’m not here to talk about blame. That doesn’t get us anywhere. It’s like tracing your finger on a Mobius Strip, going round in an infinite loop.

But coming from Jordan, I feel I must speak for those voices that Americans rarely hear… to describe the sense of “identity theft” that Palestinians have endured for over 60 years.

Because their pain is about more than the loss of their land… their olive trees… their livelihoods. Their grief is about more than being kicked out of the homes in which their families have lived for generations. As one scholar put it, land is the “geography of the Palestinian soul.” Their very understanding of who they are is deeply rooted in the context of their environment. So each new claim on their ever-shrinking space feels like a blow to their very existence. Having no place to call their own is like having no identity at all.

Think about it: When you enroll here at Yale, one of the first things you receive is your ID. It allows you access – to residential colleges… dining halls… the library stacks. It opens doors. It gets you in. It shows that you belong. And when you leave Yale, you get a piece of paper to carry with you: a diploma that gives you status before you ever have to say a word.

In the West Bank and Gaza, young people like you are given an ID as well. But this ID is not about access. It is only about limitation. It limits the boundaries of where they can go, what they can do, who they can be. It’s a constant reminder that in others’ eyes, they are less valuable… less important… simply less.

UN sources report that almost 40 percent of the West Bank is now covered by settlement-related Israeli infrastructure – barriers… buffer zones… military bases… barbed wire and barricades.

Parents can’t get to work. Students can’t get to class. Sick people can’t get to hospitals. All traffic is stopped, from people on foot to cars and trucks to ambulances. The wait can be hours, often only to find that passage is refused – relatives detained on their way to a family wedding… schoolchildren searched, their notes ripped from their schoolbooks… grandparents, forced to stand for hours holding packages and heavy bags.

The unpredictability, anxiety, and humiliation are as wearing as the delay.

And so much more than freedom of movement is lost when each day is defined by these checkpoints… with armed soldiers demanding, “Hawiya… ID… Hawiya… ID” Show me proof that you exist.

The degradation is compounded by the sense that no one cares… that the outside world is oblivious to the hardships Palestinians endure.

Especially in Gaza, where for two years, families have faced the collective punishment of blockade… and for three weeks at the start of this year, they were subjected to devastating attack – with nowhere to run and nowhere to hide… not even UN hospitals or schools.

Today, a million people -- almost 70 percent of Gaza’s population -- are refugees. Homes lie in rubble. Hospitals lack power. Sewage pipes threaten to burst. The economy has totally, utterly collapsed. Unemployment is approaching 50 percent.

One resident calls it “a jail where no prisoner knows the length of his sentence.”

And not one penny of the billions of dollars pledged for reconstruction has gotten through.

More than half the population of Gaza is under the age of 18.

Children did not create this conflict… but they are its greatest victims.

Just listen to the words of the four small children who were found by the Red Cross in January… in the shell-battered neighborhood of Zeitoun… clinging to their mothers’ corpses:

They couldn’t speak. They were too weak to stand. They hadn’t eaten for days… while the firefight raged outside the door… and their families died inside.

They were alive… but being alive is not the same as surviving. These children had nothing but their mothers’ love… and now they have lost that too.

And the worst threat of all is the cynicism so many people feel… the sense that Middle East peace is hopeless… that we’ll never find a solution.

Because if we throw up our hands and say, “This problem is too hard,” we’re not just writing off a “process”… or writing off a “road map.” We’re writing off people’s lives.

But let me be clear: it isn’t just the lives of Palestinians at stake. Israelis too need a future of peace and security.

They too need to be free of wailing sirens announcing an attack.

And they too need to grow up without the shadow of walls and watchtowers… for as a columnist for a leading Israeli daily wrote this spring, one of the casualties of occupation may be a healthy state of Israel itself.

So what must be done?

On the political front, we need courage, accountability, and action.

And we see signs of hope, as President Obama and his team invest their time and capital in breathing life into negotiations for two viable, secure, sovereign states.

We see signs of hope, as all 22 members of the Arab League have offered Israel full recognition in exchange for withdrawal to its pre-1967 border.

We see signs of hope, as brave people on both sides say they are ready to give peace a chance – 64 percent of Palestinians, and 40 percent of Israelis, who support the Arab League plan.

Now, all sides must take responsibility for building on this momentum. And let me say clearly: That responsibility includes the Arab world. We decry the actions of Israeli extremists, but must work harder to rein in our own. We look to the West to do more in support of Palestinian needs, but must do our part – and must press the Palestinians toward unity among themselves.

At the same time, as my husband His Majesty King Abdullah has said, it is time for Israel to choose: “To integrate into the region, accepted and accepting, with normal relations with its neighbors. Or to remain fortress Israel, isolated, and holding itself and the entire region a hostage to continuing confrontation.”

And from America, too, we need sustained commitment… creative engagement… and leadership… to keep the parties on the path to peaceful co-existence.

But we need even more.

Because true peace depends not just on new lines on a map. It is not just the walls on the land that must go. We must take down the walls in our hearts. There has been so much pain, so much loss, so much fear, so much hatred and mistrust. True peace depends on reconnecting the bonds of our common humanity.

I was moved by something JK Rowling said in her commencement at Harvard last year. She said that humans have the unique ability to “think themselves into other people’s places”… to learn and understand new things they’ve never actually experienced.

And yet, many “choose to remain comfortably within the bounds of their own experience, never troubling to wonder how it would feel to have been born other than they are. They can refuse to hear screams or to peer inside cages; they can close their minds and hearts to any suffering that does not touch them personally; they can refuse to know.”

Rowling went on to say, “I might be tempted to envy people who can live that way, except that I do not think they have any fewer nightmares than I do… I think the willfully unimaginative see more monsters,” she said. “They are often more afraid.”

She is right. So often, we dread what we do not know. We live in fear of the things we cannot see. But we’ll never move forward by closing ourselves off. The only way to grow is to reach out.

To truly make peace in the Middle East -- or anywhere in the world – we all have to learn to think ourselves into other people’s places. To put ourselves in other people’s shoes. To make room for other people’s hopes and fears. For the more we can appreciate one another’s perspective, the more dimension and depth we add to our own.

And in many respects, that’s what a liberal education is all about. It’s about asking questions without prejudging the answers. Drawing lessons from other peoples’ experiences. Testing and refining our own values and beliefs. Developing the habits of an open mind.

When we shine the light of inquiry… broad-mindedness… and compassion… that is how we find our way to our own best selves. The more open we become, the more we find we can contain. It’s the “lux” that leads the way to “veritas.”

And when it comes to the Middle East, no matter how great the fears, no matter how deep the mistrust, if we shine that light, we are sure to reveal what has always, and will always, be true: There is no difference between the love Palestinians and Israelis feel for their children. No difference between their laughter… or their tears.

We share one humanity. As one of my heroes, Desmond Tutu, likes to say, “We, all of us, have been made for goodness. We have been made for laughter…we have been made for caring, for sharing, for compassion; for we do indeed inhabit a moral universe and; yes, goodness is powerful.”

Yale, as global citizens, we have a responsibility to one another. In our interconnected world, there are no zero sum games. We win or lose together. We all have a stake in peace and justice – for all of us are diminished by their absence. Let us work together, in the Middle East and around the world, to make peace come true, for good.

Thank you very much.

Beds Are Burning - TckTckTck Campaign (time4climatejustice)

2009-10-14T08:33:00.002+08:00

This is one campaign where, ultimately, everyone wins.

Nike moment

2009-10-12T12:26:00.000+08:00

I tagged along in my aunt's jaunt to Pearl Farm and Malipano Island yesterday for the opportunity to soak up the sun. It has been a long time since I spent time close to pristine waters and feel the serenity that being close to nature brings.

The trip was a last minute decision on my part, which later reminded me once again that doing something unplanned definitely has its rewards. I came home tired but happy after spending the day on boat trips [lost count after three], running and swimming from one end of the island to the other playing a version of Amazing Race, eating seafoods and fresh fruits, and soaking up the sun like there was no tomorrow.

It was truly an amazing day. Thank you universe!

When I Begin To Mean Someday

2009-10-08T10:57:00.007+08:00

It is true that everyday we see and hear stories that inspire us. No matter where we are or what we are doing, there will always be that someone, that event that would remind us of the grandness of the human spirit.

I have found many of my inspirations in sports. Maybe that is why even after all these years and after my retirement as an athlete, the passion continues to burn like an eternal flame. There is so much greatness in the people I had the chance to meet there. I am sure that this is how it works as well for those who choose to devote their life in art, science, or whatever it is that breathes life to a singular passion.

Today, I cried after watching this video. I cried not because I feel sorry for them but because once again I am reminded that there is so much greatness in this world.

I am passionate about sports because it is a platform to learn the values of Olympism. Sports bring out the magnificence of the human spirit. It unites us in ways we cannot imagine possible.

I used to say that someday I would join a triathlon race. But I have never truly believed that I would. I am not a good swimmer and I do not like the idea of swimming in open waters. I know how to ride a bicycle but I never had any experience riding it in busy roads. I run but I have never yet tried finishing a 21K or 42K marathons. When I said someday, I guess I really did not mean someday.

After watching this video, two things came to mind: 1.) I have removed myself so far from the path of what I am passionate about that it diminished my capacity to believe, 2.) Someday means someday to me now.

Today is going to be another beginning of more of the best days of my life.

Singles and Matchmakers

2009-10-05T11:30:00.000+08:00

One of the perks of moving back to the province is the chance to hang out with old friends I have lost touched with for years. With the exception of Leonor who managed to track me a few years back, I lost all contact with the rest of our high school barkada. Meeting old friends always comes down to catching-ups especially if there is time to spare.

The thing with catching-ups though is I tend to stand out as the only single in a group of married girls. Somehow conversations lead to remaining single guys (if any) in our high school batch and their glowing credentials as potential boyfriends. If there is one thing that makes me smile each time it happens is the ingenuity and creativity of my girl friends in imagining possibilities to find me a boyfriend.

Being single this long certainly makes me a magnet for matchmakers. I wonder how long they can hold out? For now, I do not have plans of budging. :)

Proudly Pinoy

2009-10-02T10:39:00.000+08:00

It is the resilience, solidarity, hope and smiles even in the most adverse conditions that make me truly proud of my fellow countrymen. There are many heartwarming stories out there that fills me with hope that moving forward, all will be well. Hats off to all the kindhearted souls and unsung heroes who give what they can to help in this time of need.

(Photo from here)

Every Vote Matters

2009-10-01T22:35:00.003+08:00

Earth Hour's Vote Earth. It's Time To Show Where You Stand.

When The Phone Rings

2009-09-26T13:27:00.008+08:00

There is nothing like a phone ringing at the crack of dawn that turns my blood to ice. It is perhaps the saddest thing about reflex, it kicks in much faster than logic. I know there is no reason to fear the sound of a telephone ringing but I react to it like I operate on pure instinct.

Fear is learned and so it can be unlearned. I am confident that anyone, including myself, can pretty much unlearn anything. Too bad it is never easy. I think it requires at least twice willpower and time. The end result is not about having a clean slate because all that was learned served their purpose. They cannot be truly erased. This is why it is much harder. It is like removing a part of myself in the process.

For me it is not just about the sound of the phone as it peals into the quiet of the early morning hours. It is about that child in me that woke up in a dark night not knowing that it would be her first encounter with death. A child may be incapable of fully grasping situations but he or she can pick nuances that create strong memories.

Over the years, most of the shocking news of emergencies and deaths of those close to my heart happened cloaked in the darkness of the night or just before dawn. This is why I try to keep my cellphone on when I sleep. I think cellphones are kinder. They give this feeling that it is not going to be a total blindside. Seeing a name along with that ringing lessens the feeling of foreboding. It gives a sense of being prepared for something I do not know.

I turned off my cellphone last night and woke up this morning with the sound of a phone ringing. Everybody was sound asleep and our land line just kept on ringing. It reminded me of the last time, a few months ago, when I woke up in the dark and learned that my lolo is gone. Little wonder I was hesitant to answer that call.

I realized one thing from that call I answered this morning. I cannot turn away from whatever it is that I fear. Not everything that comes at me in the dark is to be feared. I could pretend not to hear and wait for the sound of whatever it is that wakes me up to stop. But if I do that, I am not only delaying the inevitable but I am shielding myself from knowing what I may need to learn in that exact moment.

Cheers

2009-09-17T15:39:00.000+08:00

There's just sheer beauty in what these kids have done. Imagine the creativity, passion, time and determination to prepare and execute this. Amazing!

My Metaphysical Trapeze

QOTD

QOTD

The Girl Who Can't Be Found

The Symmetry of Words

Quest Physics

Rowing in The Social Network

QOTD

A Lesson in Hope

QOTD

About Time

Honor and Excellence

A Yen For Travel

My life according to Tears For Fears

Change

R.I.P., Uncle Benny

Inward Bound

QOTD

SOTD: Sam Isaac - Bears

Prayer is a Time to Reconnect

Ultimate Dreams

I Could Do With A Little Insensitivity

Ang munti ko ring pangarap

The Invitation by Oriah Mountain Dreamer

A glimpse beyond the big B’s of Philippine sports

Making my vote count

Random Musings of a Rowing Umpire

Why You Have To Do What You Have To Do

Reconnecting with nature through sports

Tales of passion by Isabel Allende

Hot

Power interrupted

Whatever that was

A dog's tale

Defying gravity

Giant

Cool runnings

I believe, I can

Thinking out loud

I hear you

The emotional piece of me

Vanilla twilight in the waking hours of dawn

Failure and Imagination

World Health Day 2010 - Promotional video

Handbook 2010

How cool is that?

Michael Jackson’s Thriller Inmates, The Sequel: This Is It [VIDEO]

Life is too short, so...No

Happy New Year!!!

"All You Need Is Love" by 156 Countries

So long, 2009!

Something Wonderful Is Coming in 2010

Where 24/7 videoke sessions would be fine

Merry Christmas!

More please!

PH Regular Holidays & Special (Non-working) Days for CY 2010

a mental note

And I wonder...

Congratulations Team Philippines!!!

Can't wait

Believe that

It's getting personal

Chasing rainbows

Choosing A Dreamless State

Because we can

Sweet dreams are made of these

One day...

Nothing but the truth

Hindi ako nagtataka

pa-repost

Warm again

Lovely

Happy 20th CRC!!!

My one vote

Pinay long jumper wins gold

Natural state of things

go the distance

Philippine Rowing Team quad in Asian Champs Finals A

The Philippine Rowing Team's quad reached Finals A finished 6th in the 13th Asian Rowing Championships held in Yilan, Chinese Taipei. Congratulations and kudos for your best effort and for giving your all in the intense races with Asian powerhouse teams!

Read more about the recently concluded 13th Asian Rowing Championships in Chris Perry's (FISA Development Consultant, Asia) China stands out at Asian Champs.