Christmas Won't Be The Same Without You

Christmas won’t be the same without you

Christmas won’t be the same if you go

All I need to see standing by my Christmas tree…. is Christ

Christmas won’t be the same without you

They say that Christmas is only for children. Others would say that Christmas is for our less fortunate brothers and sisters. Many say that Christmas is the longest and most expensive season of the year. In the Philippines, Christmas season starts at the very first day of the so called, “ber months”.

For the past years of my life, I will never forget all the delicious food, new bills, brand new clothes, toys, hugs, and kisses I received from my parents, god parents, siblings, relatives, and friends. They have made my Christmas truly exciting and memorable. When I was young, Christmas is all about receiving and using everything that I got to make me feel good and proud as a child.

For many men and women whether young or old who are in love or broken hearted, Christmas won’t be the same without the person they truly loved so much. In fact, a good number of people have tried to commit suicide or ended up their life because of losing the person they love for menial or grave reasons. Obviously, their life and love was focused on one person only. Is that really the ultimate reason for this season?

What happened to the true reason why we celebrate Christmas? Why do we view it differently? Why do we celebrate it in a manner that seems to be full of materialism and earthly desires? If we say that Christmas is the birthday of our Lord Jesus Christ, how do you think He really wants us to celebrate His birthday?

When there is a birthday celebration, we expect to have a euphoric party full of fun and frolic. We wear our favorite, posh, and branded attire that we have. We bring the most impressive gifts that we can give to the birthday celebrant and we partake in the most delectable food that can be served for everyone. Now I wonder, do we think, feel, and do the same way during Christmas day? Have we truly asked ourselves what we can do best for this day? Have we thought of doing what we can really do to make our birthday celebrant feel very much loved and happy?

As the song goes, Christmas won’t be the same without you….. Seemingly, Christmas is deemed as a selfish way of thinking about oneself and one person only. It can never be that meaningful without the person you desire to be with everyday of your life.

I hope by this time, we have all learned our lessons very well. Christmas is the birthday of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior. He is the one and only reason why we celebrate this season. He is what I long to see standing by that Christmas tree and no one else. I can only hope that all of us would be able to transcend our thoughts, feelings, and actions toward the true meaning of this holy event in our life as Christians.

Christmas won’t be the same without you

Christmas won’t be the same if you go

All I need to see standing by my Christmas tree…. is Christ

Christmas won’t be the same without you

Quo Vadis

People seem to be so consumed and preoccupied with work, vanity, sex, money, investments, relationships, and all other self serving desires and caprices available around us. Sometimes I wonder if they have thought that all of these things will go into past. These are just transient and that one day it will all end whether we like it or not. When that time comes, what will happen next?

When I was a child, I thought that life is about eating, playing, praying, sleeping, eating, playing, praying, sleeping, and eating, playing, praying, and sleeping again. Wow! Isn’t that exciting because everything is provided for you and you are free from all stresses and anxieties of life? It was like a never ending fun and frolic experience that I wish has never ended. I remember Inang (mother) would carry me at her back from our stairs just to bring me to our dining table so I can enjoy my meal with my siblings. Also, I vividly recall the time that Amang (father) would sleep beside me and make sure that I am having a good rest because he believes that I will grow faster if I sleep in the afternoon. Who doesn’t want to have this kind of life? It was indeed one of the most unforgettable experiences I will always cherish and treasure forever. If time machine is real, I wish that I can go back to those years of my life.

In life, I have met and talked with people who were confused about their course choice, career plans, gender identity, and spiritual beliefs. From my interaction with them, I have discovered that they just all needed to be cleared of what they really wanted in life, direction. It is definitely not an easy process but they have tried their very best to go to that path of life.

As I grow older and wiser, I have realized that life is not all about eating, playing, praying, and sleeping. I think that life is about finding meaning in everything that you do, otherwise, you are like in a trip to neverland and you don’t know where you are headed. Finding neverland will surely be an esoteric experience one would not want to travel. But where do I really want to go with all of this quest for meaning and pursuit for happiness which I always desire and long for? Honestly, I can intellectualize and spiritualize my answers to this simple but intricate question. Where do I really want to go from here?

Now that I continue to live my life, I need to be clear of what I want to do and where I really want to go. After all, I am the captain of my soul and the angel of my heart. I just hope and pray that at the end of my journey, I hope I was able to go and take the path that will lead me to the direction where I have to be.

Quo vadis! Where do you go from here?

Ako'y Isang Pinoy.........

Ako’y isang Pinoy sa puso’t diwa

Pinoy na isinilang sa ating bansa

Ako’y hindi sana’y sa wikang mga banyaga

Ako’y Pinoy na mayroong sariling wika……

Bata pa ako ng una kong marinig ang awitin na ito. Masarap pakinggan at sambitin ang bawat salita sa awiting ito sabay sa saliw ng himig na para bang ikaw lamang ay naglalaro. Dahil bata pa ako noon, di ko lubos na tanto ang tunay at malalim na kahulugan ng awiting ito.

Ngayon, batid ko sa aking puso at isip ang tunay na kahulugan at diwa ng pagiging isang Pinoy. Ako’y isang Pinoy sa puso’t diwa. Pinoy na isinilang sa ating bansa. Ako’y hindi sana’y sa wikang mga banyaga. Ako’y Pinoy na mayroong sariling wika. Totoo pa ba ngayon ang nilalaman ng awiting ito sa ating buhay? Naalala ko noong ako’y nag-aaral pa, pilit kong sinasanay ang aking sarili sa wikang banyaga. Sa katunayan, Ingles ang paborito kong pag-aralan sa klase. Sa bahay nagpipilit kami ng aking mga kapatid na gamitin ang wikang banyagang ito. Kasi naniniwala kami na balang-araw makakatulong ito sa amin.

Bakit nga kaya ganoon ang aking naging mentalidad? Sa paaralan puro wikang Ingles ang gamit dahil batid nating ito ay impluwensya ng pagsakop ng mga Amerikano sa ating bansa. Kapag naghanap ka ng trabaho at ikaw ay kakausapin para kilalanin ng mabuti, wikang Ingles ang gamit. Kadalasan isip ng maraming Pinoy na ito’y sukatan ng talino at galing. Kapag mahina ka dito, nakakahiyang malaman at minsan ay masabihan ka pa na wala kang pinag-aralan.

Ang mas nakakahiyang realidad ay kapag magaling at mahusay ka sa wikang banyaga, ikaw ay sosyal, mayaman, konyo, matalino, mahusay, at higit sa lahat ay kahanga-hanga. Napakapayak at nakakahiyang marinig ang mga bagay na ito para sa isang Pinoy na tulad ko. Sinikap ko mang maging maalam sa wikang banyaga pero ni kailanman ay di ko kakalimutan o ipagpapalit ang aking sariling Wika.

Maraming bansa sa buong mundo ang umunlad na gamit ang kanilang sariling wika. Pero tayong mga Pinoy, patuloy nating inaakap ang isang wika na di naman naglalarawan ng ating pagiging isang tunay at tapat na Pilipino. Sabi mo Pinoy ka? Bakit ang Lupang Hinirang kapag inaawit sa sinehan o kung saan pa man di mo man lang maawit ng may buong puso at kalooban. Sabi mo Pinoy ka? Bakit palagi na lang mas gusto mong tangkilikin at gamitin ang mga bagay o gamit na gawa ng mga banyaga. Sabi mo Pinoy ka? Bakit nga ba patuloy kang nagpapaka-sosyal sa paggamit ng wikang di naman sa atin nagmula. Sabi mo Pinoy ka? Bakit ang iyong mga anak natutuwa kang marinig na gamit ang wikang banyaga.

Hindi ko itatanggi ang katotohanan na malaki ang naitutulong sa paggamit ng wikang banyaga sa maraming Pilipino lalo na sa tulad kong naghahanap buhay sa ibang bansa. Pero maraming pagkakataon na nakakapagod gamitin ito dahil hindi ito ang wikang aking pinagmulan na dumadaloy sa bawat ugat ng aking buong pagkatao. Pilipino ako at Mahal ko ang bayan ko. Mamahalin kong buong-buo ang pagka-Pilipino ko. Kasama na rito ang paggamit ng aking sariling Wika.

Saan man ako mapunta o dalhin ng tadhana patuloy ko pa rin isasabuhay ng buong katapatan ang aking pagiging isang Pilipino. Dahil, “Ako’y isang Pinoy sa puso’t diwa, Pinoy na isinilang sa ating bansa. Ako’y hindi sana’y sa wikang mga banyaga. Ako’y Pinoy na mayroong, sariling Wika.”

Carpe Diem

This is the story of students at the respected "Welton Academy," a preparatory school in Vermont. Such schools were (and often still are) very conservative institutions that serve as high schools for parents who insist on sending their children to the best universities. Welton, like many prep schools, admitted only boys. The movie takes place in 1959.

The plot centers on the influence of Mr. Keating, a young and exciting English and poetry teacher, who is determined to teach his students to live life with absolute passion and to suck the marrow of life. Mr. Keating, using poetry as his vehicle, teaches his students to challenge the institutions around them.

Inspired by Mr. Keating's philosophy of life, many of his students recreated the "Dead Poet's Society," a secret club which meets in a cave in order to discuss poetry, philosophy and other topics. The club, which Mr. Keating had created many years earlier when he was a student at Welton, would be completely unacceptable to the conservative school, which discourages students from "thinking for themselves." Indeed, Welton students should be in their rooms, studying only the prescribed materials that their teachers assign.

The two main characters, one is the painfully shy Todd Anderson and the other who is exceedingly bright and popular but very much under the thumb of his overbearing father, along with their other friends, got themselves drawn to Professor Keating who has become a strong influence in their thoughts and actions. He encourages them to go against the status quo and each, in his own way, does this, and is changed for life.

"Carpe Diem!"

The most important words in the movie! Latin for "seize the day," or more generally, "live life to the fullest." Although a Latin term, this movie popularized it into a relatively uncommon expression used by English speakers.

In Real Life

We are not Dead Poets but living people, and as such, constant learners and communicators. Like the high school boys in the story, we discuss all topics under the sun, as part of our intellectual exercise and as we give “life to word” and give “word to life”. “Verbum vitam”. In real life, and as part of a collectivist society, we are Mr. John Keating to each other, as we are a mentor to each other and we are expected to influence one another to think critically and productively and express these thoughts in words to enable each other to live life to the fullest. That can only be possible if we put in our mind and heart to “seize the day” every day, as every day is a day of opportunity. For us to be able to live life fully, let us make it a point to “seize the day”, to suck the marrow of life. Let us do what we can today and not wait for tomorrow as the present is real. For yesterday is only a dream, tomorrow only a vision, but today well lived will make every yesterday a dream of happiness and tomorrow a vision of hope. Mark Twain once said that “Twenty years from now, we will be more disappointed by the things we did not do than by the things we did. So fellow humans, let us throw off the bowlines, sail away from the safe harbor and catch the trade winds of our sails. Let us explore, dream, and discover. Carpe Diem!

Mahiwaga Ang Buhay

Mahiwaga ang buhay ng tao
Ang bukas ay di natin biro
At manalig lagi sana tayo
Ang Diyos s’yang pag-asa ng mundo…….
Mahiwaga nga ba talaga ang buhay ng tao?
Sa aking pananaw mahiwaga nga ang buhay
Dahil kung ang lahat ng bagay sa mundo
Ay kayang arukin ng kaalaman ng tao
At bigyang kasagutan ang bawat katanungan
Marahil di na magiging mahiwaga ang buhay
Dahil ang lahat ay may tiyak na kapaliwanagan

Noong ako’y bata pa
Sabi ko sa aking sarili
Bakit kailangang may mayaman at mahirap
Di ba pwedeng lahat ng tao ay mayaman na lamang
Para wala na lang nagugutom at nahihirapan
Wala na ring nanlilimos at madudungis sa lansangan

Dahil ako ay mula sa kahirapan
Na lumaki sa kalinga ng aking ina at ama na dukha
Di ko man nais maging mahirap ay wala akong magagawa
Kundi makipamuhay sa karukhaaan na aking kinagisnan
Mahirap, mapait, masakit, nakakahiya at nakakapanliit
Ngunit di ko hinayaan ang sarili na panghinaan

Bakit ganoon?
Kahit anong pilit kong iangat ang buhay kong ito
At bigyan ng kaginhawahan ang aking mga magulang
May mga pangyayari na siyang naging hadlang
Upang ang aking hangarin ay di lubusang makamtan

Ngayong pumanaw na ang aking mga magulang
At binawi ng tadhana ang bahay na pinaghirapan
Tanong ko sa Maykapal, “Bakit nangyari ang ganito?”
Di ba't ako naman ay mabuti na tao?

Naging malungkot at magulo ang isipan
Nahirapang tanggapin ang pangit na karanasan
Damdamin at sarili ay lalong nagulumihanan
Naghanap ng kasagutan sa aking pinagdaanan

Ngayon wari ko’y batid ko na ang totoo
Mahiwaga nga ang buhay at yan ay totoo
Sa patuloy kong pag-aangat sa buhay na nabigo
Batid ko na ang Diyos ay kasa-kasama ko

Sa patuloy kong paglalakbay sa buhay na ito
Dalangin ko lamang ay gabayan ako
Di ko kayang unawain ang lahat ng ito
Dahil patuloy ang hiwaga na di ko lubos matanto

Sa bandang huli ito ang dalangin ko
Kung saan man patutungo ang buhay kong ito
Nawa’y masulyapan muli ang mga magulang ko
At makapiling din sana buong pamilya ko

Buhay na mahiwaga, salamat sa iyo
Dahil ako’y pinatatag mo at kailanma’y di susuko
Kung saan man at paano man magtatapos ito
Alam kong sa Maykapal ang huling hantungan ko!

FB World, My World

I started to have my very first social networking account thru the persuasion and magnanimity of my best friend Elvin. In fact, I told him that I don’t need one because I already have many friends plus I am not a tekky person as well. As I explore the ins and outs of it, I see myself developing great interest and alacrity into it especially when I was able to communicate with my family, friends, and classmates which I have not seen for ages. After the Friendster mania, the genius Mark Zuckerberg introduced the very famous and widely used Facebook.

Admittedly, I am one of those millions of users who got hooked into it. Just the same, I was able to get in touch with good friends since childhood and classmates from elementary, high school, and college. It really gives me a very good feeling every time I use it. Thank you very much to Mr. Zuckerberg for creating Facebook.

I religiously check my account and would feel very excited receiving invitations from old friends and from unknown people that I just met online. Every time I have new pictures, I would immediately upload it for my family and friends to see. I get to chat with them for long hours only to realize that I have failed to do other things which are important. Thank goodness I never accepted invitations from friends to play games which I think a lot of my friends on FB are into it.

As days passed by, I noticed that people apparently post everything in their account. Some would share beautiful and inspiring quotations, passages, stories, and pictures from different sources. Others would post feel good photos and memorabilia that I have never seen before. Also, I am reminded everyday of my friends’ birthday. Thus, I would send my short and sweet greetings to each and every one of them.

Sadly, I have observed that others are so insensitive and shameless posting pictures, websites, and words that are obscene and vulgar in nature. Needless to say, people find joy and happiness from sharing such kind of materials. Also, there are other people who are likely to enjoy announcing to everyone their location or whereabouts. Perhaps, privacy is not an issue for most of them. The biggest population likely to find gratification from uploading photos of food, personal trips, posh restaurants, branded items, partners in life, new cars, acquired properties, personal photo of their sexy and nude poses which they appear to be very proud to share to the rest of the world. Surprisingly, it has also become a venue for emotional catharsis for many who are sad, depressed, homesick, problematic or heartbroken which elicit different responses from friends.

The most pressing issue being faced by parents, school administrators, employers, and other concerned groups nowadays is how to teach and promote the proper use and control of it. Many of them started to block and monitor the use of it because of the growing danger it gives to many people especially to the young. In fact, news all over the world showed that many lives were taken away because of the relentless use of this social networking site.

It is a formidable reality that people from all walks of life regardless of race, culture, gender, creed, and even socio-economic status in life are hooked if not addicted to this great phenomenon called FB world. It surely has its pros and cons but it is always up to the person to exercise prudence, respect, control, and sensitivity towards the use of all social networking sites available. Ultimately, we should always be responsible and accountable to everything that we post and do with our personal account.

Is FB your world too?

Everything in this World is Temporary

“The only thing that is permanent in this world is temporary.”
- Socrates

Do you agree that everything in this world is temporary?
If you agree that it is temporary, look around you
How come there are many people who are preoccupied or addicted with things that will not last?
Like food, clothes, big house, land acquisition, prestige, power, sex, etc.
I may be able to explain all these from a psychological perspective
But I still believe that these are just means for us to strive for what is eternal
I don’t want to sound righteous or preachy but I strongly believe that many of us still enjoy the things of this world

When I was young, I always wish that I could have what I want
When I was a student, I always wish that I could get high grades
When I was working, I always wish that I could get high salary
When I have enough money, I always wish that I can have more
But as I grow older and wiser, I realized that everything in this world is temporary

Today when I woke up, I just uttered the words, “Thank you God for everything.”
I have thought that my life is temporary and that I have to live my best
But how can I do it if I am strongly preoccupied and influenced by my egocentricity
I always think of my past and future and tend to forget my present
How can I live a life not rooted on its temporal existence?

I do not have all the answers to my concerns, questions, and preoccupations
All I know is that life is short and that I have to live as if it’s my last
At the end of the day, I can humbly say that I have live a good life
A life that is rooted on what is good and eternal
I have shared to a friend that when the day comes that I have to finally close my eyes
When I open it again, the first thing I would like to see is God and my parents

As I continue to live in this world full of enigma and intricacy
I will always carry with me all the good lessons I have learned
So when the day comes that this temporary life comes to an end
I can humbly say to myself and to my God that I have tried to live a good life
Despite of my imperfections and human frailties

Now that I am living my present
I will enjoy every single day of it
As I will always be reminded of my guiding principle in life
“I shall pass through this world but ones
If therefore there be any kindness I can show
Or any goodness I can do
Let me do it now, let me not defer it nor neglect it
For I shall never pass this way again.”

Thoughts that Sprang from the RNHS Batch 1979 32nd Reunion

Thoughts That Sprang from the RNHS Batch 1979 32^nd Reunion

Thirty six years back, we were  pubescent boys and girls that stepped inside the grandiose and physically imposing Campus of what eventually  became our Alma Mater four years down the line.  From the confines of the relatively limited physical size  of our respective grade school locales,  I found it overwhelming to enter and walk inside a school Campus that is comparably gigantic in size and  populated by  students that cut across 4-year levels and coming from all the local units  that comprise the Municipality of Romblon, and even beyond.  The four walls of the Campus was witness to each one’s journey as we all took on the basic life’s tasks of building a sense of self and personal identity. Along the way, we formed relationships in our effort to define what we were, more in the context of collectivism than individuality.  I can vividly recall and with fondness as well quite a few gangs that came into being as a result of such an effort, i.e., MYREVE (Myra, Renati, Eve), BIMEBETH (Bibot, Melite, Beth),  the Bonggadera Girls (Mani, Ipin, Pinky, Nating, Eve, Cristy),  FLOREVE (which stands for Floro & Eve),   the inseparable  duo of Laling Malavega  & Josie  Rada, our own gang in 4^th year, comprised of Ellen, D. Uy, Melot, Elma, Tots, Turoy, and myself), the 3 Aspirants- that is how I call it now (Dadong, Turoy, and myself), among others.   It made me chuckle as I recalled  all these gangs that were formed that helped us in one way or another  define our sense of self as puberty turning into adolescents.  The Campus saw the physical transformation of young boys and  girls in us into young gentlemen and ladies, where, as would be expected, the latter outpaced and outsized the former especially in the earlier phase.

Thirty two years back,  we  were senior students who were faced with the dilemma between  being quite hesitant to  leave an environment that nurtured and comforted us for four years  and being excited about treading the new phase of life after high school. In March 1979, we felt sad bidding our Alma Mater farewell while at the same time  fulfilled about having conquered  the second tier of educational attainment despite its incidental challenges and barriers.  Some of us were looking forward with much eagerness to college life, others dreamt and could only wish that they could go to college, and there were those who had to or decided to, whether circumstantial or planned, enter into a marital state of life.

What would come after this would seemingly be a series of unending reunions whether in a large or small scale, official or unofficial. The idea of reunions appeals differently to graduates depending on their personal circumstances. In a general sense, those who judge themselves to be successful after schooling would look forward to being reunited with their batchmates while those who deem themselves otherwise may shun the occasion. On top of these, there are other reasons that are as peculiar as the individual is.  During such an occasion,  each one of us gets to be confronted with  common questions from our batchmates, such as: What did you finish? What is your work and where do you work? Are you married yet? Who and from where is your wife/husband? How many children do you have? This was the usual way of apprising each other during such an occasion.

Fast forward to 1989, 10 years after graduation, which by tradition in our school would be the first big ‘get together’ of the batch, Batch 79 held its first big reunion inside the Campus of our Alma Mater. I was not able to attend because it was summer break from school and it was the only time for me to do professional development related pursuits.  Then, 20 years from high school graduation, in May 1999, another grand reunion ensued.   That was the first instance I was able to participate. I remember that we kicked  off with our activities through a parade around the town followed by a Mass officiated by then Fr. Turoy, who after the Recessional Hymn led the batch in singing one of the batch’ fave songs “You Light Up My Life”. It was a joy seeing some batchmates for the first time after 20 years.

On a personal note,  let me intimate that basically I would prefer to shy away from attending reunions for a variety of personal reasons. I just do not feel comfortable being asked questions like “Are you married yet?”   To me, such questions constitute a form of social pressure that  I so despise. I find it disappointing that my batchmates or people in general  for no fault of their own may be can think of marriage as  the  only option that one has to take as he/she approaches a particular stage in life.   I find it difficult to explain that I am a non-conformist in this regard and in the microcosms that I have been part of for the last 20 years of my life, to be asked such questions is tantamount to having one’s human right being stepped into.  I hate the idea of having to defend my choices in life.  Hence, admittedly, I became quite distant for some time, preferring to manage my relationships only with a few, i.e., Wella, D. Uy, Pinky, Jo, Turoy, Pareng David, Mely, Osie, Baby, Joey, Selwyn, Nene, Jojo,  Van, Deo, Bendoy, Paeng (RIP), and Koka (RIP),  and perhaps a few names more.

It was just about quite lately when I decided to try to put my foot into the water again. For some time, I ignored Paul’s invite to me to join the Yahoo Group he set up for the Batch.  I am sure you noticed it Paul. However, the persistent prodding of Maggie in inviting me to be part of her FB contacts cornered me and made me raise both hands up. When she set up the FB Group for the Batch, I remember that in one of my first postings, Paul responded in a way that somehow knocked me down. In essence, he said he was glad to see me  part of the loop and his remark to the effect that ‘life is short, hence, we should set aside any ill feelings toward each other, and aspire to be happy’,   made me  re-examine my perspective on this whole matter about high school reunions. 

Thirty two years later, I feel very happy seeing the psychosocial transformation of the Batch both collectively and individually.  I am glad to note that the Group has matured tremendously as can be observed from what we decide upon and do to help batchmates in dire need of help, to mention one.  Our individual maturity  can be gleaned from how we  have been relating with each other, which has moved from superficiality to that of genuine care and concern, even if it is through cyberspace or face to face.  I am glad to note that seemingly we are all  taking the positive path as midlifers by creating or nurturing things that will outlast us, such as having children and rearing them  for most of us or creating a positive change that benefits others.  Each one of us took on different roles as we responded to God’s calling. Most responded to parenthood as a vocation while a few of us chose a celibate life. But despite our individuality,  besides being all children of God, one thing that commonly identifies us is we are all part of Batch 79 of RNHS (used to be RHS).  We have woven a  big common identity that binds us, hence, no more  labels such as Section Pearl, Diamonders, or Jade people, etc. While they remain positively alive in our memory, they now are parts of the whole that essentially is bigger than their summation. Most importantly,  I am happy to observe that each one has learned to regard the other  with RESPECT  and ACCEPTANCE and I urge everyone to continue doing so as any group devoid of  these two essentials  is bound to break apart.

Given my current circumstances, I was not able to take part in the 32^nd Year reunion of our batch that took place from May 21-22, 2011 in Romblon, Philippines, and I know I missed a lot, as in a lot. Hence, I look forward to the opportunity to be part of the next undertaking to meet old friends, relive the good old days with them, and touch base with ‘long lost’ friends and acquaintances. 

Let us carry on my dear batchmates and if it is for the good of our Batch, you can count on me for support in my own little way.

Carpe Diem RNHS Batch 79!

THOR: The Hour Of Righteousness

I was in Singapore last week to process my work visa and I had to wait for long hours before I could get back my passport with a visa stamp. Anyway, I decided to watch the movie Thor while waiting for the release of my passport.

Mighty Thor was the title of the cartoon super hero on television which I always watched when I was a child. I was always excited everytime I watched it back-to-back with the cartoon show Moby Dick. I couldn't help but feel the adrenalin rush into my body as a young fan of Mighty Thor watching his heroic deeds on the TV screen. The movie featured great sci-fi tricks and giant fight scenes. I felt that I was watching the Mighty Thor that I used to watch back then. I hate the feeling of having to go to the toilet while watching the movie. Hence, I tried to run as fast as I could so as not to miss any exciting highlights of it. Again, my adrenalin helped me do it.

The story was realistic and typical of many families with siblings who experience a lot of issues and conflicts. Anthony Quinn being the King, has exemplified an image of a father who was wise and firm with all his decisions. This is surely not an easy task to do for a father who loves his children so much and having to see them go through a painful process of learning.

Thor was punished by the King because of his attempt to overrule him by wanting to fight their enemies. The hammer was taken away from him and at the same time he was sent to planet earth powerless. According to the King, the hammer would only go to the righteous person, worthy of its great power and might. After all the pain, agony, and humiliation he hurdled, he redeemed himself from all his wrongdoings and became a worthy keeper of the powerful and mighty hammer.

It was “The Hour Of Righteousness” for Thor and he had to do what was right that time. He did not allow his brother to ruin everything and he even begged him to stop his evil plans. However, his brother was already succumbed by his ardent jealousy against Thor especially when he discovered that they were not real siblings. Instead of doing what was right, his brother decided to end his life and let go of everything. Thor felt devastated losing his brother and at the same time letting go of his personal desire to be with a woman he met on planet earth. He did it primarily because of his decision to protect his planet from the great havoc and catastrophe created by his brother. It was indeed a very difficult decision to make for Thor but he stood firm for what he believes is right and good for his people.

On my way home to Jakarta, I was immediately put into a human test. The driver who was supposed to pick me up at the airport was not there. Honestly, I felt quite upset about it but I let my EQ work for me. I decided to take a taxi and told the driver to take the fastest route going to my place. After few minutes, I just noticed that he passed by the long and winding road! Sounds like a song? It would surely cost me a lot considering that I didn't have much money. I started to question him and I caught myself up arguing with the driver in a very upset voice. In the process, I realized that I had to stop this inanity. I came into my senses when I remembered the story of Thor. Though I kept quiet and calmed down myself, the driver continued with his grotty talk. Nonetheless, I just allowed him to deliver his freedom speech. Good thing about it was that he spoke in a language which I don’t fully understand and it helped me not to engage further. It was tough knowing myself as a very assertive and outspoken person.

With all humility, it was “The Hour Of Righteousness” for me and I think I was able to do what was right. If not, I have surely ended up in a bad situation which could have resulted in more serious squabbles with the driver which I would definitely regret later on. Thanks to T.H.O.R. for reminding me to do what is right!

"Drowning Dubai"

After 70 very fast days of exploring and clinging on the possibility of getting a good and decent job in Dubai, I ended up exiting to Indonesia to avoid the overstay penalty of AED200 for the first day and AED100 for the succeeding days. Since I overstayed for a day, I paid the amount of Dhs200.


I was full of hope and positivity that I would be able to get a job within a month. I started to apply for a job by visiting all the websites recommended by my friends. Also, I paid a certain amount of money to a job search service provider that promised to  send my curriculum vitae to different companies, but to no avail.  I was not able to land a job within a month. Thus, I was forced to extend my tourist visa through the kind help of my friend.


On the extension of my visa, the same bleak scenario still hovered. Just the same, I sent my applications to different schools and companies. Since I have experience working for companies as an HR specialist and in schools as a Guidance Counselor and Teacher, I was quite confident that I would be able to get a job the soonest possible time before the expiration of my visa extension.


Despite  my situation, I was given a chance to conduct the very first seminar I have facilitated outside of the Philippines. Also, I was hired for two weeks as a “Counselor” in an educational firm. I did a part-time job as an English teacher to Koreans and I was invited to join a networking company that promotes health and beauty products. Honestly, it was quite satisfying but it was not the real job I was hoping and praying for. Nonetheless, I was very thankful to God because while job hunting, I was earning a little but still the real work opportunity seemed to be quite aloof.


As days passed by, I asked people to pray for me as I really needed to get a job because my days were numbered and I was really looking forward to start anew in Dubai. Finally, I received a call from a school where I applied as Special Education Teacher but they only offered me the Assistant Teacher post. Unfortunately, it was my last day in Dubai because I needed to exit that time, or else  face the consequences of having to  pay the daily overstay penalty of AED100. Thus, I couldn't stay anymore and start on the date the school wanted me to commence with my work.


It was not really good news after all because the school wanted me to come back using my own visa. They wanted me to apply for a 90-day visa so I can work for their school using my personal visa which is actually illegal. They said they will only issue my employment visa at the end of 90 days,  if I  pass their probationary period. Added to that, I was offered a salary which is lower compared to my last salary in the Philippines.


Wow! I don’t want to complain nor feel very bad about it because I know that I have a lot of things to be thankful for despite all these. However, I felt that it was quite demeaning on my part if I have to accept their offer. I know that I am just one of the thousands of Filipinos exploring a job in Dubai hoping that it will give us a better opportunity. Apparently, my expectations were not met.


I know that my experience was very minute compared to the many grueling stories of Filipinos and non-Filipinos as well who hoped and prayed that this place would  provide them  greener pasture. As I left Dubai, I felt quite sad because I was not able to achieve my purpose for coming but I am as always grateful especially to have gained new friends whom I will treasure forever.


Now that I am here in Indonesia, I am carrying with me all the positive traits and attitudes that serve as my strength as I continue to linger on God’s great plan for me. I hope and pray that this time it will not be a "drowning" moment for me.

Friends Are Gifts from Above

Friends.......They love you,
But they're not your lover
They care for you,
But they're not from your family
They're ready to share your pain,
But they're not your blood relation.
They are........FRIENDS! !!!!
A True friend......
Scolds like a DAD..
Cares like a MOM..
Teases like a SISTER..
Irritates like a BROTHER..
Finally loves you more than a LOVER.
Thanks a lot for being a GOOD FRIEND!

When I received this beautiful email, I have thought of making a blog about friends. I believe that friends are a gift from above. Don’t you think so?

I can’t count anymore the number of friends I have met in my life but rare that you find true and genuine friends. They say that friends come and go. You are only good friends when you are physically present with each other but when things change, you just lose contact and you see yourself again being with new friends. It may be true to a certain extent but the most important thing is that you have been real friends and you have known and loved each other like brothers and sisters.

For many, their good friends are their classmates, colleagues, people they meet on social networking, or anyone who was introduced to them. If I will be asked to enumerate my good friends, I have a long list to mention. I just feel very much blessed to have friends who are there for me through thick and thin and I would like to introduce them to all of you.

As I try to explore a better life in Dubai, I am grateful to God to have friends like Oliver and Lolong who are like brothers to me. They give me all the support and understanding that I need especially that I am away from my family. I consider them as my family here in Dubai. God blessed me more with good friends like Charity who has a happy personality and has taught me how to do the dance revolution here. My friends in Canada like Louie and Tony who are very generous and loving as friends. They even consider me as a member of their family. In fact, they are helping me out to be with them someday in Canada. My kind friends in Indonesia like Elvin, Harold, Tintin, Emy, Joecel, and Sharlene who were my stronghold when I was still working in Jakarta. I have a lot of good memories with them and I am more than thankful to God to have them as my friends. My real friends way back in De La Salle University like Malou, Neil, Daye, Mars, Rina, Reggie, Ennan, and Tita Lynn. I really felt loved and encouraged by them. They have contributed a lot to my being and learning. My former students who are now my friends like Mhel, Jeoffrey, Chelle, Louise, Mikey, Mark, Jammy, Ojee, Raffy, Eden, and the other peer facilitators of De La Salle University. You made me feel as young as you are. Ooopps, if you disagree, the more you will look like me:) My religious friends in the church like Bro. Nilo, Bro. Albin, Bro. Erasto, Bro. Ernesto, Bro. Fredierico, and Bro. Luis. I was able to serve and show my love to God through our ministry because of the many moments we shared and served God together as brothers in faith. My former bosses like Mr. Benjamin Lazo and Doc Carmen Pabiton who have been very supportive superiors and very loving friends to me.

Working abroad has blessed me more with kind friends from Indonesia, Singapore, Canada, China, India, and America. I will never forget Kate and Daniel who reminded me that life is very short to be unhappy. Wesley, who may not be a believer but has an open-mind, friendly, understanding, and is a more kind person compared to those who practice their faith. Alvan and Indra who have totally changed my perception of what a Singaporean is. Ms. Linda Hahn Santoso, who was my American principal but made me feel that friendship can be applied at work even if she was my superior. My sweet Indonesian friend Kristin who made me feel good as a person and as a colleague. She is one person I worked with who was very professional and mature. Also, Ibu Irma who valued and really treasured our good friendship. My Chinese friend Zhao, who is one person who showed me what true friendship is about. The cool dude Khadri who is a very caring, loving, funny, humble, generous, accepting, and cool dude. He is one of the kindest, sensitive, and good-hearted friends I ever have. Yasir who is equally friendly, concern, good-natured, funny, caring, and a soft-hearted dude. He made me realize that I have to value the trust and respect given to me by people.

Most especially, my loyal, loving, and lasting friend-, my siblings. They are my source of joy and strength and I know they will always be there for me no matter what. They are my friends through thick and thin in the truest sense of the word. Ultimately, I have God as my dear friend who loves me and accepts me unconditionally.

Now, do you agree that friends are gifts from above? I may not have mentioned all the names of the good friends that God has given me but I want them to know that I love them with all my heart. You are all equally important in my life and I will always be thankful to God for having you as friends.

I may sound like giving tribute and honor to my friends and that is really my intention. I cannot imagine a world without friends and I just hope that I am also being a good and "handsome" friend to each and everyone of them as well.

You are all indeed a gift from above!

I LOVE YOU AND MY LIFE WILL NOT BE COMPLETE WITHOUT ALL OF YOU MY FRIENDS!

The Time To Be Happy Is Now!

The time to be happy is now
The place to be happy is here
And the way to be happy
Is to make others happy
And to build a little heaven down here!


I remember first learning this song during my elementary religion class. Up to now, I still memorize this very short, happy, and beautiful song. Every time I sing it, I always feel good and at the same time I am reminded to be happy and to make others happy as well.

Happiness as they always say is something relative. Or, sometimes it is the relative of your relatives and the cousin of my neighbor. hehehehe! Kidding aside, while it is true that happiness varies depending on people's interests, values, beliefs, convictions, desires, wants, and all other things that you can think of, happiness will surely be the motivating factor if not the ultimate goal of many for living.

I have met a lot of people in my life sharing that happiness for them is when they are able to buy new shoes, branded clothes, bags, laptop, handphones, perfumes, cars, house and lot, and all other material things that they can think of. For others, they are happy doing what they want such as being with people, helping others, serving the poor, and other altruistic activities that one can indulge himself in. While others would say that they are happy living a simple life without pressure, competition, meeting deadlines and quotas of their work, as long as they are able to provide for their daily needs. Well, other groups would say that they are happy living a single life, married life, divorced life, drinking life, gambling life, sex life, and all kinds of 'life' that you may relate with.

At this point, I have come to realize that happiness is more than all the things that I have mentioned. I sincerely believe that it must be over and above the things that we can acquire. I think that happiness must be rooted in something that is universal. According to the famous philosopher Socrates, "Everything in this world is transient!" All things will fade away but living a happy life in the context of goodness and positivity will always be eternal, as it is the ultimate reason for everyone to continue living and loving.

Life is very short to be unhappy! It is your personal choice whether you want to live a happy life or not. I may not have all the things that I want but I think I have all the things that I need. Thus, I can say that I feel good for myself and I am happy for being so blessed . When you are happy, you are able to radiate and share that happiness to people around you. Don't you feel happy seeing others feeling good and happy too?

I hope that we all continue to share happiness to everyone we meet everyday. Just a simple smile to someone may be enough way to make that person feel happy. I invite you to join me in singing my favorite happy song, and it goes this way...........

The time to be happy is now
The place to be happy is here
And the way to be happy
Is to make others happy
And to build a little heaven down here!

On Good Manners!

When I was a 2nd year college student in psychology at the Polytechnic University of the Philippines in Sta. Mesa, I remember being so excited with my Effective Speech class. My excitement was doubled by the challenge of my braggart classmate who dared me that whoever gets the highest mark for our speech in class will treat the winner for snacks. I gently replied by saying, okay. Honestly, I got excited more because of the free snacks.

My speech was composed by my brother Billy M. Dionisio who made a soul inspiring speech and it goes like this.....


ON GOOD MANNERS!

When I was a small kid and the urge for fun and frolic was on me, my mother would usually tell me: Little boy don't do that, that's not good.Or perhaps: Young boy, next time this is what you should do. Almost everyday, those same bunch of do's and dont's.Those same soporific routine of words which have always disturbed me and stifled my childish curiousity.

One fine morning, as I walked through the thickly-peopled street going to school, I saw how a young boy escorted an old grandlady in crossing the street and the old woman was safe.  On board a jeepney one late afternoon, I witnessed how a middle aged man offered his space for a seat to a young lady. And the man painstakingly clutched at the rear of the vehicle until we reached our destination. Small but priceless deeds of good manners. Now, who says that chivalry is dead.

No sir, it is very much alive and it is here in the hearts of many a great man

If only all people in this world possess that one great trait in their hearts...
If despite all differences in conviction or race or creed or religion...
If only you and I will join hands toward the preservation of this one enormous treasure...
Then, undoubtedly, there will be peace, harmony, and understanding in this face of the earth.
You and I deserve the respect and dignity from our fellowmen.
Our country deserves the freedom and justice of human conduct.
The world deserves to be happy and the whole universe echoes for yearning and championing the cause of human right.  And all of this boils down to one basic and fundamental thing, good manners!

Now, when I remember what my mother would usually tell me when I was a small kid, "Little boy do that, young boy do this.", I admit in all admiration that she has her point. She has always wanted me to discover one great simple thing- Good manners, the ultimate secret of success. That old reliable trait that has made me and has changed me, truly a man!

After I delivered my speech, I vividly recall the tumultuous applause by my classmates and the sweet and beautiful smile of my teacher. She even asked me if I made the speech. I said that it was my brother who composed it.

When it was time for my teacher to announce who gets the highest grade for the speech, everyone was anxious to find out because of the deal made by my classmate. Then I heard my teacher saying the name, Edgardo Dionisio. I felt happy and proud of myself because I was able to deliver it with justice according to the evaluation of my teacher. True to her word, my classmate treated me for snacks. I enjoyed it so much because it's free.

Looking back 24 years ago, I still remember my proud moment and still memorize all the lines in that speech. But is that really the most important part of my experience? Is that what matters most at this point of my life? I think that the message is loud and clear. That I have to show and share good manners to people around me. Was I able to display good manners all the time? Maybe yes or maybe no.

I have realized that if only all the people in this world would greatly show good manners, there will be peace, equality, justice, mercy, love, patience, forgiveness, and all other virtues that you can think of. Let us be reminded to share good manners whoever we are with and wherever we are. After all, this I believe will be our gateway to heaven.

Thank you my beloved brother for sharing this great speech. I am proud to say that this is the reason why you are very successful in life. You have always been a good example of a person who always shows good manners.

Live and Let Die!

"It's only when you start to appreciate dying that you start to appreciate living." Mitch Albom poignantly described in his book Tuesdays with Morrie a story of a man who died of a rare disease and his life story has inspired many people who have read the book.

Death? What does it really mean? How come that this phenomenon apparently solicits various thoughts and feelings? We all know that death is something natural. We were all born to live and die. That’s the truth but what is it about death that we do not want? Is it how, where, when and why we are going to die that scare us? Is death a problem? How do people cope with this? Why is it part of nature? Since time immemorial, scientists and doctors in the field of medicine have been searching for all ways and means possible to prevent death from taking place. But is it really something that can be prevented?

Spiritually, death is seen as the ultimate moment to be with the Creator. It is the beginning of great joy and happiness with the Lord. However, is death really the issue or is it how we live our life in preparation for our death that is the real deal? Many factors like religion, culture, beliefs, customs, traditions, and attitude towards life contribute to this esoteric attitude that earthlings have towards this phenomenon.

In the movie "The Shoes of the Fisherman" starred by Anthony Quinn, one character said that, "Dying is easy but it is the living that defeats us." It may sound very radical but in a spiritual sense, it is true that dying is and should be seen as a simple and joyful reality that we all must inevitably face, expectedly with thankfulness, as it elevates our existence to a higher non-physical level and that living our mundane existence can overcome our spiritual wholeness especially if we allow ourselves to be dominated by our basic instinctual longings.

After the death of my father and my mother on the same year, I have fully realized that no matter what we do, no one can escape dying. Words cannot describe the pain that I feel deep inside me especially when I remember the happy and loving moments we shared together. But why do I have to focus myself on their absence? Why can't I focus myself on the people and things that I have with me now? Why do I have to preoccupy myself with their death and not feel the goodness that life has to offer?

It is the living that is the most essential part of our earthly human life. But what do we do with our earthly life? What do we prioritize everyday? What do we preoccupy ourselves with? What do we value so much that we tend to forget the very essence of living?

After the death of my parents, another depressing incident happened to my family. Our relatives filed a case against my mother when she was still alive so that they could legally make us vacate the place where we were born and grew up in. It was a case of a very small piece of land which my relatives could not let go and give to my mother, which they knew that she has the legal right to acquire for herself. Because of poverty, my mother was not able to do something to put it under her name legally. Thus, my opportunistic relatives maneuvered everything and they were able to have legal possession of it. I just can't understand why a very small piece of land, my opulent relatives who are now living in America, cannot let go of?

Live and let die! We have to live life according to God's goodness and kindness and we have to die from all our weaknesses, obssessiveness, insecurities, idiosyncrasies, greediness, lustfulness, and sinfulness so the day will come that we can say freely that dying and living are easy and both are a joyful circumstance because they are our ultimate gateway to heaven.

Live and let die now!

See You In Heaven!

The year 2010 was the most painful and depressing year of my life. March 24, 2010 was the day when I lost my father. We call him Amang in my country the Philippines. I returned to Manila in June 2009 only to realize that I would be the caregiver of my Amang. He suffered from emphyzema, a lung disease due to excessive smoking. I was there to feed him, bathe him, wake up early in the morning to attend to him, watch him while he was sleeping to scare away the mosquitoes and make sure that his medicines were given on time. I don't have any regret nor feel bad about it because it was the sweetest and loving moment I had with my father. I even remember one time when we rushed him to the hospital, he was running after his breath and by the grace of God he survived that struggle. I whispered to him and said, I LOVE YOU AMANG AND I AM THANKFUL TO GOD THAT YOU ARE STILL HERE WITH ME.

When I was younger, I had a lot of issues with my Amang. I grew up seeing him smoking and drinking with his beermates practically everyday. There was even a time when he embarrassed me in front of them and I was crying in shame and pity. I also witnessed how he humiliated my sister and younger brother too. It was very painful because I never expected that the person who should shower me with all the love and affection in this world was the person who gave me all the pain and suffering I don't deserve. But despite of it all, I LOVE AND MISS MY AMANG VERY MUCH. I know that he is my father that God has given me.

On July 27, 2010, my mother whom we call Inang passed away too. It was very unexpected because my mother was never treated for any disease at all except for her excruciating rheumatism. I have plenty of good and loving memories of my Inang. When I was a high school student, she said that I had to stop studying because they could not afford to send me to school anymore. I begged and cried to her and said that I don't want to stop schooling. Because of her unfathomable love and concern for me, she did everything so that I would be able to continue my studies. My mother was a balut (egg) vendor and every night I would join her selling balut on the street until midnight just to have money for my schooling the next day. She never got tired of working hard just to provide for the needs of the family. She would go to the point of borrowing money or items from people just to provide for her children. I remember her sharing that she wanted to study when she was young but her old folks didnt want to send her to school. She had a lot of sad stories to share and everytime I hear it, I feel very, very sad for my Inang. She is my number 1 fan. Everytime I would sing at home with my Magicsing, she would affirm me with all good words and praises and would clap everytime I finish a song. Eventhough it's hard for her to stand, she would carry her body just to please me to be my dancing partner. I would end up hugging and kissing her until she would ask me to assist her to sit down.

When I saw her dying, it was the most painful feeling of my life because I could not bear the sight of seeing her suffer and the reality that I was losing her. She had always been and still is my inspiration in everything that I do. But now that she is gone, I hope I am still making her proud.

Now that my Inang and Amang are both gone, I feel at times empty and sad because I grew up seeing and feeling their love and presence. Inang, Amang, I know that you are always there to guide us and most especially pray for us. I will try my best to be worthy of the blessing of seeing you again one day and still be my parents in heaven. I LOVE YOU BOTH AND I THANK GOD FOR HAVING YOU AS MY PARENTS.

See you in heaven!

Nigerians Are Good People:)

I was invited to give a seminar on the topic "Public Relations" to a bunch of government officials s from Nigeria. It was my very first time to conduct a seminar outside of my country. I was excited and anxious at the same time because I didnt have any idea what would the reaction of the participants be and I had not experienced yet conducting a seminar to a different group of people from a different race and culture. I was told that they are Nigerians who work as government officers in their country.

During our first meeting, I tried my best to get their attention and assured them that it would be a fun and learning session which I always try to do in every seminar or training that I conduct. Initially, I asked them to think of a word that would best describe them as a person and that would be their 'essence name'. I remember Warm, Friendly, Nice, and Love. I saw smiles and positive reactions from them especially when I called them by their 'essence names.

As we continued with our seminar, I was challenged to give my best because they were all active, assertive, and diligent participants. Also, I observed that they are the kind of people who like to feel good by making others feel good as well. They bantered with each other, called their friends by sweet names like "mama" and they made each other laugh and smile. Most of all, I just realized that the goodness I sensed in each one of them is rooted on their faith and love of God. "Love" even shared that she wanted to go to church everyday. "Friendly" on the other hand, started our session with a prayer that was full of passion and conviction. "Warm" surprised me the most because he held my hand without inhibition and prayed for me because that day I had a scheduled job interview. Friendly, wishes me well and blessed me like a mother. They all prayed for me, wished me well, and encouraged me that I will get the job. With all their prayers and encouragement, I got the job but unfortunately I was not able to share to them the good news because that day was also my last day to be with them. I am very sure that they will be very happy for me knowing that I got the job.

Ade, Sholi, Bose and Yomi, I will never forget your goodness and kindness. You made me feel good during the two days that we shared together. I hope to see all of you again but if not, I wish and pray that we would all see each other again in heaven. Right?

I feel proud and happy to have new friends from Nigeria:)