Prison Break

After I finished watching 24, I gave Prison Break a chance as someone recommended it to me. Impression? I found the first few episodes to be quite boring. But because tactical scenes are among my interests, I held on and waited until the succeeding epsisodes were slowly being digested by my system. Later on, I found myself engrossed viewing the Series, especially the Second Season.

As of the moment, I am through with Seasons 1-4. Admittedly, Prison Break is also a good TV Series. What made me like Prison Break more is Sarah Wayne Callies' appearances as the lovely Dr. Sara Tancredi (too bad, she did not appear in Season 3).

Although different in concept, Prison Break is as entertaining and as thrilling as 24. Nonetheless, I still like 24 better not just because Elisha Cuthbert is part of the cast but I can relate more to the lessons imparted by it as well.

Maktub!

24 (TV Series) Part 2

I just finished watching 24, Seasons 1-6. I have spent most of my leisure time lying on bed, eyes on the monitor, and watch the events unfold on the part of the good, the bad, and the reality. It was really worth it to devote over a hundred hours of my life to this kind of craft. Two thumbs up!

There are so many things to learn from the Series but these are the ones that struck me the most:

That it pays to be candid or straightforward at times rather than being sensitive.

That when you say alright, sorry, be careful and promise, be sure to really, really mean it.

That family and loved ones should not always come first.

That when faced by a fork in the road, consider all the options (weigh the pros and cons), and after coming up with a decision, stand by it no matter what.

That maintaining friendship and living its truest essence isn't a walk in the park.

That sacrificing one good thing for a better something is essential and indispensable.

And that trust can be used interchangeably with love.

I was skeptical when I was told that Prison Break is better than 24. Well, I remain to be such until I prove it otherwise. So if anyone of you is willing to lend or hand me a copy, it will surely be appreciated. Thanks in advance.

Maktub!

Synergizers, Not Good Enough For The Finals But

..we are definitely goood enough to bag the Runner Up!

With our loss over the Wild Buddies, (yeah! for the second time; and I thought we will make them pay! arghh. ok, enough; I sound too bitter already. eheh.) our opportunity to play in the Finals slipped away. So, we end up playing against Legacy B for the Battle for Third earlier tonight, which obviously, turned in our favor.

However, bagging such a win was not as easy as stealing candy from a baby. The game had a suspense-thriller ending but I don't feel like narrating blow by blow what happened so I'll be summarizing it in this statement: One's failure could be another's success. Yeah, our team's better because they were not good enough to be on top of us.

Congratulations to us! Yahoo!

Will there be a Third Season? I hope so.

Maktub!

24 (TV Series)

When I realized that I still can't get enough of Elisha Cuthbert even after watching most of her flicks, I decided to look for a 24 (TV Series) copy. I tried to do some downloading but alas, it will take a couple of months before the process can be completed; so, I forewent of the idea.

Good thing, I learned that Julian, has this DVD collection of 24. And because Peach, the first one to borrow the DVD, found the pace of the episodes a bit slow and boring, she decided to turn it over to me instead.

As for me, since my primary intention was merely to see more of Elisha, I anticipated that I will enjoy the scenes without her. To my surprise, 24 is certainly more than Kim Bauer. It is not just your typical feel-good TV show as it will literally put you at the edge of your seat (as it did to me), keenly waiting and thinking what will happen next. This suspense-thriller show is definitely worth spending your spare time with, and having Elisha as one of the main characters, what more can you ask for?

I already finished watching Season 1 (roughly 16-17 hours in total) and I must say, the twists and subplots are positively unpredictable. Can't wait to start the marathon for Season 2.

Maktub!

Synergizers Are Going To The Semis

Five straight victories, 4 straight loses; what a way to end the elimination round of our basketball tournament! As a result, Matadors, LCWD and our team are triple tied for the fourth and final slot. Good thing, a quotient/pointing system will be applied to break the tie. So, our win over the Matadors (who defeated LCWD) by a 32-point margin puts us on top. In effect, we are going to the semi-finals against Wild Buddies. Yahoo!

It's payback time!

I'll be right back after the semis for another update.

Maktub!

Cinderella's Drinking Buddy

Sigh, another wasted day! I'm still sleepy and definitely not feeling well. :(

At 4 pm yesterday, I was surfing the net for some stuff before going to school. While online, Peach told me that Francis wants to spend time with us since he will not attend his class. And by spending time with us, I know that what he actually mean are shot glass, pitcher, iced tea, pulutan and Mr. GranMa, and not just meeting up and chat about anything under the sun. With that idea in mind, I texted Francis "May klase ako, 'tol. Pero kung mapainom ka tas may pwerteng pulutan, pwede man baga mag-absent." (Got class bro. But if you're going to sponsor a drinking spree coupled with delicious finger foods, I can cut class.) See how easy-to-get I am! Exchanging my class with a drinking session. Very wise decision, huh? Tsk, tsk. Poor me.

And so, Peach and Francis came over to my place and welcomed the night with a liter of Mr. GranMa and 1-whole roasted chicken. As time passes by, we had a few good laughs, gave updates about ourselves, talked about others and of course, bragged a lot. Hahaha. Alongside those things, Mr. GranMa is gradually being consumed. Soon, the last shot was taken. BUT, the story didn't end there. The night is young and so is the effect of the alcohol in our body. Eheh.

Soon afterward, we decided to find another place where we can have our washing. For those of you who do not know what washing is, it is the part of a drinking session wherein you drink a round or two of beer after a 'hard' one. And by the term itself, washing is done to make something clean, meaning, it should 'make someone feel better' so to speak. However, based on several experiences, washing only worsens my dizzy feeling and eventually causes me to puke my gallbladder out - the reason why I really don't get why it is called as such. So if anyone out there knows the rationale of this apparently ironic drinking activity, kindly enlighten me. Eheh. Anyway, to continue with my narration, Peach and Francis wanted to sing the night away so we went to Myrnel's because they have a karaoke machine, aka video-singko, there. While we were there, we sang a couple of songs while gulping a round of beer or two. As the night grew a little older, we were told that it is time for the last order and so we agreed to pay the bill instead of making another order as the place will soon be closed. BUT then again, the story didn't end there. Yes, the night grew older but not enough to make us sympathize with it.

And so, we decided to go to another venue with a karaoke machine for another couple of rounds of beer. The agreed place? Peñaranda, Aircon Edition (the one in front of the infamous Lady Anne Disco Bar). While on our way, we pulled over at Tiya Bita's Fine Dining, aka Foodstep and Jollibombay, for our late dinner, then proceeded to Peñaranda right after. There we spent several hours singing, drinking, laughing, singing, drinking and laughing (Mr. Papacologne slash Folded and Hung slash Reebok indeed made our night! He's the man. Rofl). At 4 am, we left the place and proceeded to Biggs' Diner for a cup of coffee. After an hour, we parted ways and went home.

Whew, what a night!

But why Cinderella's drinking buddy, you mas ask? It is because I am making another resolution for myself (a follow up to my previous resolution). Can't wait until New Year for this one. From now on:

Alcohol intake stops at 12 midnight.

Yes, you read it right. I want to keep myself from drinking alcohol past 12 midnight. If I can't stop drinking, at least I should put limit to it. I assume this is easier than limiting the number of bottles that I should drink or that I should only drink beer. I can still stay beyond 12 midnight though but will just have to drink anything but liquor and devour the finger foods. Eheh.

Are you in doubt if I can make it? I, too, am in doubt. But you see, it has been more than 3 months now since I made a resolution regarding smoking (which I am faithfully abiding) so I guess, this resolution will not be that hard to keep. Hope it really is. Anyhow, I'll stand by it, slowly and steadily.

Maktub!

You Can't Win 'Em All

2nd Season Basketball Tournament

[Synergizers] Our team's five-game winning streak (one win is courtesy of the Happee team who already backed out from the tournament) has just ended earlier this evening; thanks to you Wild Buddies! Eheh. A 41-point margin is somewhat devastating on our part, but please allow me to excuse our team from this shame for the reason that two of our starting five players were not able to play. Oh well, a lose is still a lose, no excuses. But the Wild Buddies are a seasoned team; they have joined several tournaments already as a team. Imagine them playing against our young team which was just formed for the sake of this competition. Tsk tsk. Okay, I know. No excuses.

We still have three games remaining and we must win a couple of those games for a guaranteed slot in the semis round, fingers crossed. I'll post another update at the end of the elimination round.

By the way, Matadors also lost against DMS tonight (Season 1 Championship rivals). I miss playing with my old team. Hope they also get to join the semi-finals, and eventually meet them at the Championship round. Eheh.

Until then.

Maktub!

What's In A Name?

"What's in a name? That which we call a rose
By any other name would smell as sweet."
William Shakespeare; Romeo and Juliet (II, ii, 1-2)

According to Mosignor Moraleda, the celebrant of the mass I attended this evening, there are three names that we carry as we live.

One is the 'name' we inherited from our predecessors. It is the name that our parents inherited from their parents, which will then be handed down to us the moment we are born. It is the name to which we belong in the sea of people here on earth.

The next one is the 'name' given to us by our parents. It is the name by which we are called by others. It is the identity that we are superficially known for; the one that somewhat makes us unique from the rest of the world.

And the last one is the 'name' that we will leave to our children or to our loved ones. It is the name that speaks for what we have done while we were living. It is the name that matters the most. The same name may have been bequeathed to us by our predecessors, and we may have the same name as others have, but the name that we have made out of such names will be the one that will be remembered long after we have departed this world.

The name founded on love is the only name that will matter before the Lord.

And so I quote Stephan Grellet's words:

“I expect to pass through this world but once; any good thing therefore that I can do, or any kindness that I can show to any fellow creature, let me do it now; let me not defer or neglect it, for I shall not pass this way again.”

How about you? What's with your name?

Maktub!

Reckless Imprudence Resulting in Guilt Feelings

[Monday ; 4:25 pm.] While rushing down the street on my motorcycle to beat an enrolment deadline, I accidentally hit someone. A girl crossing the pedestrian lane got me stunned when she suddenly appeared right in front of my somewhat fast-moving vehicle. Good thing, I was able to depress the brakes strong and timely enough to keep myself from fatally injuring an innocent student. After the untoward incident, the girl, without saying anything or even looking at me, immediately walked towards the other side of the road where a number of people are standing by and waiting for a ride. While walking away, I was left asking her if she is alright. When no response was given to me, I parked on the streetside at once, got off my bike and looked for her in the crowd. When I couldn't find her, my guilt feelings grew stronger. Upon asking a couple of witnesses as to where she went, that was the only time when I learned that she already rode a passenger jeepney. Clueless about her condition and terribly feeling guilty, I just thanked God for saving the both of us from severe injury. And with nothing else to do, I then drove to school.

To the victim of my reckless imprudence, whoever you are, I'm so sorry my dear. I pray that no injury or trauma was caused to you by my carelessness. :(

Lessons learned: That even if you are already in the right place, you can still be in deep shit if you are there at the wrong time. That, from now on, I should drive prudently for the next untoward incident might be a disastrous and fatal one. And lastly, that God is really good.

Again, I praise and thank you dear God!

Maktub!

Saintly Shower

November 1, 2008 is a wet, flooded and muddy All Saints' Day at Bicol Memorial Park, Legazpi City. The rain poured down heavily for a couple of hours, causing a lot of people who usually spend time with their dearly departed ones until midnight or morning the following day to go home early.

As soon as we arrived at the cemetery, we placed several bouquets of flowers at the tombstone or tomb marker, lit some candles, offered prayers and recited the rosary for the eternal repose of the soul of our beloved deads, especially the soul of Papa. After a couple of minutes, the sky slowly darkened, drizzle followed and eventually started raining cats and dogs. Armed with an umbrella, I attended a mass celebration at 7 pm under the rain. The priest anchored his sermon to the verse of Matthew 16:26 which says:

"What good will it be for a man if he gains the whole world, yet forfeits his soul? Or what can a man give in exchange for his soul?".

He also mentioned that even if we spend 24 hours at the cemetery, offer lots of flowers and lit a dozen of candles, they will all be inutile and of no good if we can't say a prayer for the souls of our dearly departed ones. It struck me and made me realize that yeah, we spend time at the cemetery but spend only several minutes in prayer. What a shame. Sigh! Although the rain halts once in a while, it didn't completely died down until around 8:30 pm; but still, drizzle periodically poured down throughout the night. Minutes later, we drove home to avoid being caught by another downpour. Besides, we can always pray at home!

Maktub!

SFC Bicol Regional Conference - SFC ABLAZE

Ablaze may mean keenly excited or indicating excitement, or lighted up by, or as by fire or flame or resembling flame in brilliance/color, or lighted with red light as if with flames.

These past few days, I ablaze in one way or another.

I just came from a life-changing experience. It is indeed an honor being part of the first ever SFC Bicol Regional Conference (previously with Southern Tagalog for the SFC STaB Regional Conference). The SFC ReCon entitled SFC ABLAZE (anchored on the verse "I have come to set the earth on fire and how I wish it were already blazing." -Luke 12:49) is, as expected, a revealing and moving meeting with God. With sessions about the Holy Trinity and how to ablaze the world for Him, who would not be inspired?

This is how I (together with the SFC Albay Delegates) spent my weekend in Masbate City.

Friday, October 24:
For our 9 am meeting time, as usual, some were late and I definitely cannot be excluded. We left for Pilar, Sorsogon at 9:30 am. After an hour of travel and another hour of waiting, we departed through the Montenegro Shipping Fastcraft. We reached Masbate National Comprehensive High School at around 2 pm. Upon arrival, we had our lunch and immediately looked for a place to settle at (DepEd Masbate City Division Office warmly accomodated us for only Php150 - the place is very nice and the people there were very kind; thanks for the pair of basketball shoes that was lent to me and for the Indian mango fruits and seedlings that were given to us). We toured around the city through a motorcade at 4 pm and attended the opening mass at 6 pm. After the preliminary activities, we had our dinner, took a bath, dressed formally (okay, just semi) and proceeded to the hall for the evening session: Embraced by the Father [Lessons learned: That God is so rich that He can and He will provide all our needs; we just have to trust Him. That our Father loves us so much that if we offer everything to Him, we will be truly blessed.] The night was concluded by a short disco party of the knights and princesses - the heirs to the throne.

Saturday, October 25:
Woke up at 6:30 am and started preparing for the morning activity: Workshop Sessions. I attended the Counseling Workshop (Gift of Wisdom) with Fr. Felix Ponferrada. The workshop was truly nourishing; Fr. Felix is really a gifted counselor. Not only I learned about counseling but I also learned how to deal with my 'back subjects'. Listening to the unsaid, unearthing, forgiving yourself, cherishing yet treating the wounded past and printing good memories are just some of the things that I will keep in mind. After a couple of hours, we had our lunch break, took a short break and prepared for our basketball games wherein we played against Camarines Norte and Camarines Sur. With only 5 players in the team, mostly haven't played an officiated game, both games resulted against our favor. Nonetheless, we sweat hard and enjoyed the game. After the games, we went back to our 'barracks', rested for a while, freshened up and attended the anticipated mass. After which, we ate dinner and dressed up for the evening sessions: Saved by the Son [Lessons learned: The if we are to love and trust the Father, we ought to be more like Jesus - an obedient son of God. That whatever hardships and difficulties we encounter as we live our Christian lives and as we serve God, all we need to do is to simply remember what Jesus went through - His passion to abide by the will of God.] and Empowered by the Holy Spirit [Lessons learned: That it is by Holy Spirit that God is able to manifest His love for us. That if we learned to acknowledge the power and gifts of the Holy Spirit in our lives, we will be richly blessed and be able to go just about anything in serving God.] The night was concluded with a party with the Lord through worship.

Sunday, October 26:
Woke up at 6:30 am, packed our things and started preparing for the final session: Ablaze - Set the World on Fire [Lessons learned: That if God and His Spirit is with us, who can be against us? That if God and His Spirit is with us, we can set the world ablaze, we can conquer the world for Him, we can build the Chruch of the Home and the Church of the Poor.] Praisefest, symbolic pray-over of the continents and awarding ceremony concluded the conference. We rested for a bit, had our lunch, headed to the port and boarded the Fastcraft. We then bid goodbye to Masbate and say hello to Camarines Sur. After 2 hours of sea travel and an hour of land travel, I am back home - physically tired and exhausted but emotionally and spiritually nourished, inspired and invigorated.

What a weekend; what a bliss! God is truly an awesome God; I couldn't ask for more. I wished that the said conference would not come to an end. Conferences, for me, are like charging devices wherein I am being re-supplied with spiritual energy or power after a 'hard day's work' serving God. It is like taking a break, going home, resting, freshening up, nourishing and equipping yourself, reviewing your battle plan, and getting ready once again for attacks. It is paying homage to God and asking His grace, blessing, wisdom and 'encouragement' to enable you to keep going and conquer more territories for Him.

Looking forward to the SFC International Conference on February 20-22, 2009 in Cebu City!

Maktub!

A Nail In The Coffin

Just when most things are not going your way, here comes another one. Indeed, when it rains, it pours. And I couldn't say anything more. My heart is crushed and slowly crumbling. I am emotionally and psychologically pinned down to the ground. Been fighting hard to keep my head above the water, to stay away from resting in peace. But unfortunately, life just handed me a nail in the coffin. Good grief!

I don't know what to do now. Where and how to start. I am in a total mess. Please God, help me. I'm down on my knees.

Maktub!

Elisha Ann Cuthbert

Lucky Girl. Love Actually. Old School.
The Girl Next Door. House of Wax. The Quiet.
Captivity. He Was A Quiet Man. My Sassy Girl.

Recently, I found myself so into Elisha Cuthbert. Even if I already watched the abovementioned flicks, I still can't get enough of her. Got to find the materials for the episodes/seasons of Are You Afraid of the Dark and 24 where she starred in. The way Elisha looks, giggles or laughs, speaks and bites her lips, not to mention her beautiful face and damn hot figure, just knock me off my feet.

My addiction to this fascinating gal started when I was watching My Sassy Girl, the Hollywood version. I got to appreciate the movie because of the character being portrayed by Elisha. But not until the cast crawled in at the end of the film, I did not know who she was. Upon knowing the name of the person behind Jordan Roark, I did a little research and that was the only time when I learned some basic things about her.

I admit I am a such a big loser when it comes to Hollywood stuff. I don't pay attention to who's and what's in and who's and what's not in the American film industry. This is reason why even if Elisha has been in the business for half a decade now, I'm still clueless about her. Perhaps also, because I have not watched any of her television shows and flicks that I haven't got any single idea who is responsible for the characters of Katlin, Kim, Carol-Anne, Darcie, Danielle, Carly, Nina, Jennifer, Vanessa and Jordan. After watching her big screen appearances, I must say that she is a fine actress, personally speaking.

This 25-year old Canadian actress will be seen/heard in the following upcoming movies and shows: Guns, The Six Wives of Henry Lefay, Ny-lon and Cat Tale.

If you're wondering as to what am I talking about, better watch her films. Who knows, you might also be starstruck by her.

Maktub!

Some Recent Realizations

I realized..

..that no matter how 'experienced' you may be, never assume that you already know how to handle some things on your own to the point of doing away already with the vital things called preparation and coordination; otherwise, you will just make yourself look stupid, really stupid. worse, make others look the same.

..that no matter how good or intelligent you perceive yourself may be, never think that you are infallible. you can never run away from mistakes. keep your standards low to keep yourself from hitting the ground hard.

..that no matter how cautious you may be, time will come when you will find yourself at the wrong place and at the wrong time. and worse if there is nothing you can do about it. damn!

..that sometimes, your efforts will be just put to waste because of another person's effort. but i ask, when must you insist and when must you give way?

..that although you know that certain problems are to be left where they should be and not to be brought somewhere else, sometimes, you just can not. a simple reminder that you are not an electronically controlled or programmed creature.

..that Thai foods taste good. thanks Ate Cora for the treat; indeed, you are a talented Chef.


How about you?

Maktub!

What's Up With Me Now?

It has been a while since the last time I blogged; been running out of idea what to write. As expected, the thought of not writing anything here days after my last post bothers me. The not-to-let-five-days-pass-without-posting-anything rule is really getting into my nerves. Sigh! Instead of relieving myself from stress with this online journal, it became the other way around. This has been the scenario since I had this blog rolling. And the editing thing? To hell with it. I'm not out here to impress people but simply to express myself (I'm being reminded!). Thanks Peach though. Always a pleasure sharing my blog works with you. Until next time.

Anyway, things change. From now on, this journal would just have to wait for my attention. It will subdue me no more; it will serve me rather! Eheh.

And for the what's up with me now? question, here it goes:

First, I have been nursing colds and cough for more than a week now. I started with a rest-and-water therapy but I didn't get better so I resulted to trying the next best thing - taking medicine. Solmux's double-action property as being advertised, which I find to be a convincing one, seems to be futile with my case. The last resort? Antibiotic co-trimoxazole. If I still don't get well with this, time for lung-check. Might got some mycobacterial infection. I pray not!

Second, I am terribly stressed by the school term papers. Being a certified procrastinator, I expect the work to just pile up, and guess what? It did. Yahoo! One has been long due but still lying on top of my table, unfinished. Two more are due this week but still remain untouched. Tsk tsk. I wish the semester is over now so I can finally clean my mind with these stress-causing projects. Sigh!

Third, I have been hooked with the phBar forum - an absolutely wonderful site. Not only do I learn lots of stuff concerning BarEx and other legal matters, I also gained an instant cyber-family. This community is truly a blessing.

And lastly, the BarEx mania is down to its final stretch. This coming Sunday will be the last day of battle for my friends and classmates who are courageously attempting to slay the mighty dragon. I am hoping and praying that they all emerge as victors. *Hang on there buddies! One hack more and the beast will go to rest, for good.*

Well, I better get my ass moving now. Have to finish my term papers before it's too late.

Maktub!

A Profitable Servant

Years have passed since I was called into a renewal,
To accept and know Christ more in a way that is personal.

I’ve rejoiced, felt being changed and really gone out of my way
because He has touched me and healed all my dismay.

In my great delight, serving Him seems to be a good payment,
And maybe, in one way or another, a very good investment.

And so I focused myself in becoming a servant in His name,
Taking everything away including my shame.

Little did I notice, my passion for service started to grow,
Sharing the blessings I have to the less fortunate people I know.

I felt good, felt differently,
To these people, I have built camaraderie and became friendly.

Admiration came that entailed bragging my own,
Putting everything aside for my all to be shown.

To everyone, I’ve became known
For I have disregarded my family, even my studies I have thrown.

I exerted effort in showing and giving more,
Until I’ve become rotten and selfish to my very core.

For I have thought of doing more, and even my best,
Making everything at my very own hands be at rest.

I’ve became a man of service, believing that I was good,
Instead of being a man of God, leaving everything to Him for good.

I focused in strengthening the service that sustained me,
Serving so many people but not the One above me.

Soon I became a loser, because all my work to Him I didn’t offer.
For service did I thought was all that matter!

~ 3:58 am ; 11-12-03

This is also one of the literary works God inspired me to come up with during my YFC days. Truly, He works in mysterious ways.

To God be the glory.

Maktub!

KASUROG

SI KRISTO AMING BANTAYOG
BIKOL AT SOUTHERN TAGALOG
YFC MAGKASURUROG

Kaibigan, kapatid, kasurog kung tawagin
Binubuklod ng iisang puso’t panalangin
Bawat isa’y aalagaan at mamahalin
At si Kristo ang bantayog at tanging didinggin.

At kung puso ang iyong susurii’t titingnan
Purong pagmamahal, walang halong kaplastikan
Sa lungkot man o hirap, maging sa kasiyahan
Laging nariyan at t’yak na hindi ka iiwan.

Sa pag-ikot ng mundo’t paglipas ng panahon
Maraming trabaho’t pagsubok ang naghahamon
Na sa bawat lubak, pipiliting makaahon
Para maging matatag sa gagawing paglingon.

Upang lalong mapagtibay ang pagsasamahan
Iba muna bago ang sariling kapakanan
Simbolo ng isang tunay na pagbibigayan
Na kahit sinong tao ay kayang patunayan.

Respeto, pag-uunawa’t tanging pagmamahal
Ang sa bawat nilalang ang s’yang pinapairal
Maging sa taong may pusong sing-tigas ng bakal
Dahil t’yak na lalambot din ito pag-tumagal.

Ordinaryong tao ngunit hindi sumusuko
Dahil ang pagsuko sagisag ng pagkatalo
Pagkatalo sa mga labang ipinangako
Laban para sa katarungan at pagbabago.

Gulong ng buhay ay kay hirap maunawaan
Ngunit kung si Kristo ang ating pinaglalaban
Kailanga’y pusong lubos na naninindigan
At mga kasurog na ating masasandalan.

While going over some of my files, I saw this one. I wrote this tula (tagalog poem) way back in 2004; just a couple of weeks after our CFC - YFC STaB SHouT (Couples For Christ - Youth For Christ Southern Tagalog and Bicol Summer House Training) in Camarines Norte. I was a very active member of YFC Albay then. I was really moved by the experience I got from that activity, inspiring me to come up with this literary stuff.

To God be the glory.

Maktub!

Magayon Carwashed D' Chef's Matadors

We did our best but I guess our best wasn't good enough.

[Deadlock situation with eight seconds remaining on the clock.] A flashing coast-to-coast lay-up drive by Kuya Choy of the Magayon Carwash team blew our much awaited victory celebration away. Although a bit disappointed, we enjoyed the good game tonight. Everyone had fun and sweat really hard. Going to the finals and reaching a do-or-die Game 3 is defnitely not bad. After all, there is nothing at stake whether we win or lose. Sour graping? Perhaps. Eheh. Well, better luck next time.

To all those who played for the team, especially Fire & Ice, Air France and Yoy, sorry guys, we didn't make it.

What's next?
How about another sports/game?
Hmm.. Airsoft, anyone? Eheh.

Maktub!

September: A -Ber and Bar Month

The 1^st day of this month traditionally opens the Advent season here in the Philippines. The moment the -ber month sets in, decors, cards, carols, foods and anything related to the Yuletide season also begin to grow everywhere like mushrooms. Celebrating Christmas season the Filipino way is said to be the longest (starts as early as September 1 and ends as late as January 31), the merriest and the most vivid around the globe. But while September marks the opening of the five-month celebration of the Advent season for most Filipinos, bar candidates see it otherwise. Not only is September a –Ber month but it is also a Bar month, the dreaded Philippine Bar Examination that is.

After 4 or 5 years of studying Law and 5 to 6 months of intensive review, thousands of bar hopefuls face the toughest professional licensure examination in the country every year. Covering seven hours of each of the four Sundays of September, the examinees squeeze their brains out and storm heaven’s gate with prayers in order to, as much as possible, answer logically the series of questions according to the examiner's fancy provisions of the law for eight different bar subjects (two subjects for each Sunday; one in the morning and one in the afternoon) while staying sane all throughout.

Today, my classmates and friends are a week shy from the first day of the 2008 Bar Exam. I am praying hard that their hard work and sacrifice be rewarded and eventually get what they truly deserve. I am crossing my fingers that they all hurdle the bar with flying colors.

Special regards to Mi, Jude, Dhet, Arl, Anie, Mitch, Joe, Ate Kay, Ate Kaka, Ate Donnah, Ate Myr, Ate Ivy, Ate Vivian, Ate Vilma, Ate Annie Marie, Ate Joy, Ate Rotch, Hadj, and Yen – my soon to be Lawyers.

..“It shall be done to you according to your faith."
Matthew 9:29

God bless to all my friends and schoolmates who are going to take the forthcoming Bar Examination and wishing everyone a spirit-filled Christmas season.

St. Jude, pray for us!

Maktub!

My 45-Day Broilers

You will surely be missed.

Last Monday marked the 45th day of my 20 broilers; 16 of them already bid goodbye to serve their purpose, and the rest were fortunate enough to live a little longer as they were bought alive. And yeah, I did the dressing alone! All it takes is some guts to murder those helpless chickens.

For the past month and a half, I have been wasting alloting a portion of my daily 24 hours just to clean my broilers' poop (the volume of which increases as the broilers grow old) and refill their feeder and waterer with feeds, water and vitamins two to three times a day.

Aside from the broilers' daily routine of pooping, eating, pooping, drinking, pooping, eating, pooping, sleeping, pooping, eating and pooping again (they can also do several combinations of these spectacular activities), they have nothing else to do. Just imagine the sacrifice I endured - the foul smell they brought to my place and the tedious task of properly disposing their copius poop. Sigh!

I admit, I don't have any single idea about broilers, much more how to raise them. But what pushed me to venture into this agri-business is my desire to earn and have something to keep myself busy after losing my job. If carefully planned and studied, poultry farming is not that bad. In fact, it is a very good business if you have basic knowledge, a good place and enough resources. But sans these must-haves, I pursued with the business, which I consider an experiment as far as I am concerned. Little did I know that I will just end up as a loser - financially, physically and psychologically. I should have looked for a good and hands-on mentor first before I took the risk. Okay, next time!

On the other hand, I got some things to be grateful about this flopped business of mine.

First, I was given an opportunity to learn more about accountability. No matter how sleepy I am because perhaps I slept late the night before or I just feel like sleeping until midday, my unconscious mind tells my lazy ass to wake up, get moving and feed my hungry broilers once they start to get noisy. The same thing happens before the sun sets down or when I get home no matter how tired I may be. But take note, feeding is the cause and poop cleaning is the effect.

Second, it taught me something new. I learned about broilers and how to raise them. And the next time I venture into this kind of business again, I know better what to do. One good thing about it is that when someone talks about broilers, I will not be caught amazed by whatever he says, filling my mind with theories. Instead, I can already share some of my first-hand experiences.

Third, I got to have an animal to take care of once again. It was way back in my High School when I first took care of an animal - pigeon/dove of different sorts. It feels good to have something, especially an animal, to keep an eye on. And while attending to their needs, I find myself entertained and relaxed with their activities. So with my broilers, the memories of my then pigeons/doves and how I took care of them were somewhat relived.

And lastly, thanks to my broilers' delicious meat! Tinola, chicken adobo, and fried chicken are just some of the viands that my family enjoyed. And surely, those who bought from me will also enjoy or have enjoyed their hairy/feathery(?) meat because as expected, I was not able to clean them thoroughly. Eheh.

So just like life, no matter how bad it may seem, there are always some good things that we should all be grateful for.

So there it goes - In loving memory of my 45-day broilers.

Maktub!

Domain Names, Anyone?

Just when I was getting the feel of writing posts for my blog, or simply getting the feel of finally having my own blogsite after being left out for years now, my former colleagues are one by one having their own domains. Huhuhu.

My ever supportive blogging mentor and editor, Peachy, just recently bought www.atomicgirl.net and my former supervisor, Bhem, bought www.phoebeonline.com a couple of weeks back. Months ago, our beloved bossing Dex acquired www.psychosanctum.com, while my dear friend and co-worker, Ate Razh, purchased www.raziella.com last January.

Is there anyone else who was not mentioned?

Sigh. I think I need to catch up with them as soon as possible, or by the time I decide to join them, they might already be going somewhere else again. Eheh.

So what are the advantages of having your own domain name, you may ask?

• First and foremost, it gives you a personality or unique identity in the World Wide Web.
• With it, you can easily and conveniently direct your existing followers and potential followers to your virtual real estate, just like a building address where people can visit you anytime. (This is very much advantageous to those who are doing business in the Web as prospective customers will uncomplicatedly find your business niche in the Internet, should you be able to establish a good one.)
• You can advertise your own website instead of someone else's when sending emails as your domain name will appear already in the email address that you are going to use. This is because once you got your own domain name, you will also have your own domain name email address i.e. emailadd@domainname instead of emailadd@yahoo.com or emailadd@gmail.com and others.
  
• Domain names are easier to remember as compared to free web hosts, and they allow you to change web hosts without losing your web address.
• It further allows you to use custom error pages to prevent people from leaving your site because of broken links and other errors.

HOWEVER, having your own domain name means shelling out some bucks from your pocket. You need to spend for its initial purchase and annual renewal as well as the annual renewal of your web hosting. Although cheap, expenses are still expenses. But if you have a kind friend who's willing to take care of your domain's hosting for free, so much the better. As for me, I don't have money nor that kind of friend, and there's no compelling reason yet to get one so I guess I will just have to settle with Blogger for the meantime. Eheh.

Sources: this and this.

Maktub!

Finals: Chef's Matadors Vs. Magayon Carwash

Chef's Matadors are heading to the finals. Yahoo! With a covincing win (a 22-point lead) against the Nikko-Tin team, we snatched the championship slot. We were missing Fire & Ice though along with his clutch 3-point bombers; so, this one is for you, buddy. Eheh.

One more Yahoo! for my small time achievement for the day - I was able to successfully refuse a drinking session tonight. Eheh. Nonetheless, I'm looking forward to the 'big' celebration if we eventually emerge as champions in another best-of-three series. It is surely going to be one hell of a party. Woohoo!

Maktub!

Antolin Acuña Jr.-Fatima Pavia Nuptial on 08.08.08

August 8, 2008 – the opening of the most awaited Beijing Olympics and also the most awaited date of lovers Antz and Ting to take each other as husband and wife. At the St. Gregory the Great Cathedral, Antz looked great in an all-white coat and tie attire while breathlessly waiting in front for Ting who looked lovely in her wedding gown while promenading through the nave. Before the altar, the couple looked beautiful together. Having God as the ‘star witness’ of their unending love for each other, the two exchanged vows and rings, kissed and were wed. A simple yet elegant reception at The Concourse with family, relatives and friends followed right after. Hours later, the celebration concluded and the rest of the couple’s life together started.

By the way, I’m happy to be their Bestman (my first time).

A blessed married life to my dear friends, Antz and Ting. Cheers!

Maktub!

Just Quit It

Last night, we had a sorry loss in a best-of-three semis game for our supposed-to-be-friendly-but-turning-out-to-be-serious small time tournament. After the game, the Chef told us that we will just have a short ‘meeting’ at his place. About what? I do not know. I was a bit hesitant to go with them because I am having a weird feeling that it was going to end up meeting with Mr. GranMa instead. Nonetheless, I found myself driving to D’ Chef’s House. Upon arrival, I told Air France that I will not drink, and that I will head home right after the ‘meeting’. While seated, we had a ‘disappointed’ talk about what happened in the game and planned what we should do in the next game to win and consequently play in the finals. But my weird feeling wasn’t really weird at all. Mr. GranMa did sneak in and join our meeting. With an empty stomach, I regretfully found myself drinking and smoking. Tsk, tsk!

Okay, the temptation was so strong to resist so I told myself again that I will go home after we fnished the bottle. An hour and a half later, I was still sitting and drinking but was slowly getting dizzy. Good thing, the last shot was shortly coming. After a few minutes, the bottle was down. I really wanted to go but something’s holding me back. Unknowingly, Mr. GranMa called for backup. The next moment, I found myself continuously taking shots as the night grew old. Poor me; I went home lightheaded drunk. I even puked right in front of our gate. Fortunately, I still managed to drive home safely.

To cut the story short, I woke up this morning with a severe hangover telling myself not to smoke anymore and to, as much as possible, moderate my alcohol intake (save some reservations) for a number of reasons, hence, this post. And to cut it even shorter:

Quit smoking .

Drink moderately.

I know, some of you heard this resolution from me several times already but still find me doing the same thing over and over again. And I’m guilty of that. This time however, I’m not just going to do it verbally but I am also writing this post to serve as a reminder to myself. No promises, though. I know I can’t do this alone; help me help myself.

Maktub!

Fireproof

FIREPROOF is an action-packed love story that opens in September 2008. A movie that will leave audiences laughing, crying, and on the edge of their seats as they are drawn into the world of a firefighter, his wife ... and a marriage worth rescuing.

Definitely a must-see movie.

My reflection on this movie will be posted here soon after I have watched it.

Maktub!

Heavenly Hope

3 Not only that, we even boast of our afflictions,
knowing that affliction produces endurance,
4 and endurance, proven character,
and proven character, hope,
5 and hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out into our hearts through the holy Spirit that has been given to us.

Romans 5 : 3-5

Ut In Omnibus,
Glorificetur Deus.

Maktub!

The Traveler’s Gift

While thinking about what to post for some time now, several topics came rushing to my mind: ancestral origin, hometown, escapades, faith and love life(?), among others. The only problem is that I just can’t find a way to start one and come up with a good write-up. This has always been the problem of trying hard seasonal writers like me. Anyway, I can still use such topics in the days to come; just need to find a good motivation or inspiration perhaps so I can put them into words.

Now, why The Travelers Gift you may ask? I chose this topic because of a book that I finished reading a couple of months ago. The Traveler’s Gift is a book written by Andy Andrews, wherein he mentioned and creatively presented the seven choices that one must take into account in order to achieve personal triumph. I consider it very inspirational because I, as a naive traveler of life, usually look at the glass half-empty or in a wrong perspective (although I’m still in denial of myself being pessimistic), causing me to live a topsy-turvy life. And since I find it helpful to be always reminded of these must-make decisions so I could be guided accordingly, I decided to come up with this post. This will also allow me to share them with you guys.

So to Sir Andy, let me borrow some of your wits:

The Traveler’s Gift:
7 Decisions That Determine Personal Success

First Decision
The Buck Stops Here.

I accept responsibility for my past.
I control my thoughts.
I control my emotions.
I am responsible for my success.
The buck stops here.

Second Decision
I Will Seek Wisdom.

I will be a servant to others.
I will listen to the counsel of wise men.
I will choose my friends with care.
I will seek wisdom.

Third Decision
I Am A Person Of Action.

I am courageous.
I am a leader.
I seize the moment.
I choose now.
I am a person of action.

Fourth Decision
I Have A Decided Heart.

I will not wait.
I am passionate about my vision for the future.
My course has been charted.
My destiny is assured.
I have a decided heart.

Fifth Decision
Today I Will Choose To Be Happy.

I will greet each day with laughter.
I will smile at every person I meet.
I am the possessor of a grateful spirit.
Today I will choose to be happy.

Sixth Decision
I Will Greet This Day With A Forgiving Spirit.

I will forgive even those who do not ask for forgiveness.
I will forgive those who criticize me unjustly.
I will forgive myself.
I will greet this day with a forgiving spirit.

Seventh Decision
I Will Persist Without Exception.

I will continue despite exhaustion.
I focus on results.
I am a person of great faith.
I will persist without exception.

I hope these decisions will guide us all in dealing with our lives, victoriously.

postscript:

Thanks Tito Omec for sharing the book with me.

Maktub!

Law School

After 14 long years of studying just to finish a baccalaureate degree, which is said to be the minimum educational requirement to find a decent job, I decided to go back to school for another 4 excruciating years as a Law student.

Being a Political Science graduate, I thought that I have nowhere else to go but to pursue the study of Law. Never did I think that what I am about to go through is a journey to uncertainty. Why? It is because the foremost and ultimate goal of every Law student is to become a lawyer. Unfortunately, passing the Bar Examination is definitely not that easy, especially if you are talking about the Philippine Bar Exam. As a result, a number of times did I entertain the thought of quitting, or at least taking a break for a year or two, from Law school. Such thoughts rush in whenever I am overwhelmed by the terrible rigors of almost everyday recitation and/or short quiz as well as the periodic hell week (prelims, midterms and final examinations), not to mention the number of textbooks, codal provisions, cases and other materials you need to read, understand and keep in mind. Indeed, to be part of the legal profession is to do lots of hard work and sacrifice (of course perseverance and prayers included). Also, the need for me to work and earn money to be able to support my studies even made things difficult for me in Law school. With all these, my doubtful and not-so-confident mind consistently convinces me that the Law course is not my cup of tea.

Nonetheless, our batch was able to graduate. Starting from about 40-50 enrollees, 9 of us plus 9 irregular students survived and finished strong. Last March 2008, I received my LLB diploma. Together with my classmates, I am proud to say that:

“Studying Law is tough, but we are definitely tougher!”

My classmates are now preparing for the fast approaching 2008 Bar Examination. As for me, I decided to take the exam next year to be able to catch up with so many things. But sadly, I still haven’t flipped through the pages of any reading materials for almost 4 months now. Sigh! Hopefully, I’ll be able to get back on track and do what is supposed to be done before it’s too late.

Who among us will become a lawyer, He only knows. And so I say, God bless us all and best of luck.

St. Jude, pray for us.

Maktub!

Quo Vadis?

ORO SITE, LEGAZPI CITY - June 19, 2008 is the date that I and my officemates will never forget. In just a matter of 3 hours or even less on that day, the shocking purge of the US Auto Parts Network (Philippines) Corp., Legazpi City Office took place.

Clueless, helpless and overwhelmed, we were left with no other choice but to leave and receive separation pay after announcing the complete cessation of our workplace’s operation, which until now, some of us still do not clearly know why. While a few were given an offer to continue their services in Pasig City Office, most of us became jobless right then and there.

Today, the 18th of July, 2008 technically, officially and actually marks our last day of being connected with the company. How come? Here’s how, as written in a very touching love letter by the very concerned, sincere and regretful Country Manager (yeah right, sir! >:)):

19 June 2008

The Company in its business study to optimize its resources and strengthen its competitive and viability in the market, decided that some streamlining of our organization is inevitable thus requiring a reorganization of work assignments and the abolition of certain positions that are redundant.

In view of the above, we regret to inform to end your services with Company effective 19 July 2008. xxx

Well, this is just but one proof that in life, we really can’t win ‘em all. We gain some and we definitely lose some.

After three (3) years, eleven (11) months and three (3) days of working and earning money, I ask myself now, “Quo vadis, Lops?”

Maktub!

Blog + Blogger + Blogging = Blogosphere.

Coined from the words web log, a blog is a website that is regularly maintained by an individual (usually) or by a group. It features an assortment of text (personal journal, commentary, description of events, advertisements), images, web links, web pages and other stuff such as graphics, audios and videos that have (or have even nothing) to do with the blog topic or theme. Depending upon the focus, most blogs are updated by textual posts or entries, or by art (artlog), photos (photoblog), sketches (sketch blog), videos (vlog), music (MP3 blog), audio (podcasting) and others. Blogs also come in different genres to wit: personal, topical, political, business, health, literary, travel, research, legal, and educational. The act of updating posts or entries is called “blogging”, the one that does the blogging is called a “blogger”, and the world of weblogging or blog-related websites is being referred to as the “blogosphere”.

Sources:
Wikipedia
Problogger


As for this site, it is going to be more of a personal and topical blog. It will basically feature bits and pieces about law, reason, love, faith, life and anything in between. Images/photos, audios/MP3, videos and whatnots will also be added for delight and convenience purposes.

The posts or entries here are primarily intended for self-expression, but if they happen to impress you then that will just be the cherry on top. For one frustrated seasonal writer like me (please correct me if this is just a misconception on my part), putting up this blog is kind of hard. Not until nature forced me to learn and know anything about blogs and blogging, I had no any idea what it was about. As of the moment, I still need to learn a LOT; I’m just a neophyte in the blogosphere, as what my very, very beautiful and kind colleague called it. Well, like life, blogging is also best learned through experiences. So, here I am now – blogging my own way.

Maktub!