Big and bloated like a balloon but is full of energy and business acumen that whatever she touches eventually turns into money.
Protective and caring but also a daring mother---from cooking experiment to endless fault-finding, to husband-blaming---she doesn't run out of novelty ideas.
She moves eternally as she handles everything, every time, even during supposed moments of prayers.
Eloquent with the organ languages and ailment dialogs, she is my lovable, "huggable", incredible and definitely unforgettable better half. (---80 words: END)
Eighty words are not really enough to fully describe my wife but I was limited to that when my children requested me to submit" a write-up about their mother.
They were inspired by the graduation write-ups requested of every graduating student then. As a rule, everything must be said in 80 words. It was quite challenging but in truth even in three words I can describe my wife: "I love her".
Sunday, September 30, 2007
ENVY
Envy is resentment on another's advantage. It is a very negative feeling. It destroys friendship, one's future or even oneself. Once it is felt, it overwhelms the whole person and doesn't stop until the one affected is completely torn into pieces.
Yet, envy is so ordinary, so commonly experience by almost everyone most of the time. It is the reason why the poor is against the rich, the weak is mad at the strong, the ugly is angry at the beautiful and the old cannot accept the young. Yes, it is also the reason why some parents cannot tolerate the behavior of their siblings. Then they blame everything and everyone to cover-up his envy.
I realized this when I came home one afternoon and found my son playing basketball with his "barkada". They were noisy, jerky and jumpy. At first I was irritated but soon I felt how happy they were in what they were doing. They could have been doing other things and I would also be irritated not because what they were doing was socially unacceptable or intolerable but I have to acknowledge that it is because I didn't have a chance to be as happy as they are when I was their age. Now I understand.
Things have changed so much since our time. Every aspect of life has been completely transformed into something so new and so different that they become difficult to accept. But a deeper analysis reveals that it is not because those things are unacceptable but because in truth the old generations are envious that they didn't experience what the young ones are enjoying.
With the coming of the new technologies the gap between generations is getting wider unless you turned out to be like me who always follow the trend. Who said I am old???
Yet, envy is so ordinary, so commonly experience by almost everyone most of the time. It is the reason why the poor is against the rich, the weak is mad at the strong, the ugly is angry at the beautiful and the old cannot accept the young. Yes, it is also the reason why some parents cannot tolerate the behavior of their siblings. Then they blame everything and everyone to cover-up his envy.
I realized this when I came home one afternoon and found my son playing basketball with his "barkada". They were noisy, jerky and jumpy. At first I was irritated but soon I felt how happy they were in what they were doing. They could have been doing other things and I would also be irritated not because what they were doing was socially unacceptable or intolerable but I have to acknowledge that it is because I didn't have a chance to be as happy as they are when I was their age. Now I understand.
Things have changed so much since our time. Every aspect of life has been completely transformed into something so new and so different that they become difficult to accept. But a deeper analysis reveals that it is not because those things are unacceptable but because in truth the old generations are envious that they didn't experience what the young ones are enjoying.
With the coming of the new technologies the gap between generations is getting wider unless you turned out to be like me who always follow the trend. Who said I am old???
TALKING BIRD
I went to a house were there was a talking bird. I was fascinated because the bird was very talkative. There were times when it seemed to be talking sense. I enjoyed listening because doing so was very relaxing.
While listening to bird-talks could easily be thrilling, listening to some speakers is not always so. Some speakers could be boring to death, and this includes priest delivering homilies. You certainly know someone, a friend maybe or perhaps a neighbor who talks a lot of nonsense yet non-stop sometimes.
A good speaker generally doesn't talk long or if he does he injects his speech with sense of humor that keeps the listeners asking for more. I used to be a humorous speaker when I was young. I have hosted so many public presentations. In fact I was often the life of the party during gatherings. Some friends told me how I am missed during wakes and other parties when I am not around.
Birds are interesting when they can talk, no matter what they say. Man is adorable when he can sing like a bird no matter what the song is. Both could be more interesting for doing what both should do.
While listening to bird-talks could easily be thrilling, listening to some speakers is not always so. Some speakers could be boring to death, and this includes priest delivering homilies. You certainly know someone, a friend maybe or perhaps a neighbor who talks a lot of nonsense yet non-stop sometimes.
A good speaker generally doesn't talk long or if he does he injects his speech with sense of humor that keeps the listeners asking for more. I used to be a humorous speaker when I was young. I have hosted so many public presentations. In fact I was often the life of the party during gatherings. Some friends told me how I am missed during wakes and other parties when I am not around.
Birds are interesting when they can talk, no matter what they say. Man is adorable when he can sing like a bird no matter what the song is. Both could be more interesting for doing what both should do.
Saturday, September 29, 2007
BACK TO HEALTH
There is a power behind every incident, every experience, or every change that happens on anything in this world. Behind every power is a Superpower that can influence anything. Any transformation then whether for better or for worse happen only with the permission of the Superpower.
The same Superpower, whom I know to be God, can revive anything if He so will. I am confident that all the negative symptoms I am feeling now will be reverse into positive by God, the only Superpower.
I am not submitting to a general medical check up because I know what they are going to do. At my age they will find many "things" that will only invite further examinations and possibly further confusions until I am finally drained of my remaining strength that even God may not be interested in reversing.
I am therefore leaving it to God --- my health, my life,my future. I am feeling weaker and it is now that I am in need more of God's assistance.
He gave me life. He guided me during my period of growth. He guided my youthfulness and all my life God paved my way. I am confident that He will guide me now. Whatever were the causes or origin of all my symptoms I am now feeling that God permitted to take place will also be reversed accordingly until I am finally back to my healthiest condition --- back to my youthfulness less the sins. (Note: This blog was written in my diary on August 9, 1991, 16 years ago. Since then I never had any medical check-up, never take any special medications and I am proud to say that I still feel so healthy physically,mentally,emotionally,psychologically and spiritually. We are what we think we are...hehe...that is according to the Principle of Mentalism))
The same Superpower, whom I know to be God, can revive anything if He so will. I am confident that all the negative symptoms I am feeling now will be reverse into positive by God, the only Superpower.
I am not submitting to a general medical check up because I know what they are going to do. At my age they will find many "things" that will only invite further examinations and possibly further confusions until I am finally drained of my remaining strength that even God may not be interested in reversing.
I am therefore leaving it to God --- my health, my life,my future. I am feeling weaker and it is now that I am in need more of God's assistance.
He gave me life. He guided me during my period of growth. He guided my youthfulness and all my life God paved my way. I am confident that He will guide me now. Whatever were the causes or origin of all my symptoms I am now feeling that God permitted to take place will also be reversed accordingly until I am finally back to my healthiest condition --- back to my youthfulness less the sins. (Note: This blog was written in my diary on August 9, 1991, 16 years ago. Since then I never had any medical check-up, never take any special medications and I am proud to say that I still feel so healthy physically,mentally,emotionally,psychologically and spiritually. We are what we think we are...hehe...that is according to the Principle of Mentalism))
AGING PROCESS
'Pulsus deficit' is the medical term for skipping of the pulse beat. It is the sign of something wrong in the circulatory system. As I took my pulse the other day I discovered that I have 'pulsus deficit'. Occasionally, there was 'pulsus magnus' (strong pulse), another sign of something wrong. Added to that I experienced occasional shortness of breath and sometimes incessant coughing.
I was also experiencing this vague headache that came on and off plus a terrible attack of sleepiness even while reading a book, watching the Television or hearing the Mass. All the symptoms that I was experiencing were signs of aging and there was no way that I could deny that I was getting older.
As I reminisced my past life, I didn't see something very colorful for I was never a genuinely romantic; I didn't see much adventure as I was never truly daring; I didn't see something poetic as I was never really artistic; I didn't see great spiritual enlightenment either as I was never blindly religious.
But I could see many shadows, silhouettes and configurations passing across my fading memory. I was really beginning to feel old--- but with a genuinely positive attitude in life I was anticipating a return to my youthfulness, if not in age, at least in my heart and in my mind.
I was also experiencing this vague headache that came on and off plus a terrible attack of sleepiness even while reading a book, watching the Television or hearing the Mass. All the symptoms that I was experiencing were signs of aging and there was no way that I could deny that I was getting older.
As I reminisced my past life, I didn't see something very colorful for I was never a genuinely romantic; I didn't see much adventure as I was never truly daring; I didn't see something poetic as I was never really artistic; I didn't see great spiritual enlightenment either as I was never blindly religious.
But I could see many shadows, silhouettes and configurations passing across my fading memory. I was really beginning to feel old--- but with a genuinely positive attitude in life I was anticipating a return to my youthfulness, if not in age, at least in my heart and in my mind.
Friday, September 28, 2007
GO SLOW
This was one experience I often recall whenever there was heavy traffic. By all indications the traffic was heavy then so instinctively my son who was driving the car turned to Bicutan overpass to the service road thinking that it was easier there. Midway, we were obliged to turn back as we saw other motorists doing the same. The Superhighway was still go slow, so my son decided to try the opposite service road and realized what a big mistake he did. We only moved at turtle's phase.
Drivers are analogous to newly wed couples who were trying to find way through a marital traffic mess. They tried to go this or that way through any vacant space just to find out that they were entangled in more difficult traffic jam.
Like a cautious couple, drivers should drive carefully and rightfully to reach their destinations on time.
My daughter whose class starts at 9:00 a.m. arrived La Salle at 11:45 a.m. while we reached Quiapo at exactly 12:00 noon, an hour late for my regular time to return to the New Alabang Village Medical Specialits' Clinic.
We heard from a radio announcer that a truck full of coconut spilled out on the road causing the hell of a traffic.
Even in real life one bad or unlucky "driver" can contaminate all others. Our duty is to hold on tightly and calmly on our own motor vehicle---in the case of our analogy---the matrimonial car, because we are traveling daily in a very difficult traffic jam of life.
Drivers are analogous to newly wed couples who were trying to find way through a marital traffic mess. They tried to go this or that way through any vacant space just to find out that they were entangled in more difficult traffic jam.
Like a cautious couple, drivers should drive carefully and rightfully to reach their destinations on time.
My daughter whose class starts at 9:00 a.m. arrived La Salle at 11:45 a.m. while we reached Quiapo at exactly 12:00 noon, an hour late for my regular time to return to the New Alabang Village Medical Specialits' Clinic.
We heard from a radio announcer that a truck full of coconut spilled out on the road causing the hell of a traffic.
Even in real life one bad or unlucky "driver" can contaminate all others. Our duty is to hold on tightly and calmly on our own motor vehicle---in the case of our analogy---the matrimonial car, because we are traveling daily in a very difficult traffic jam of life.
HOMEWORKS
Homeworks and assignments were parts and parcels of student's life but when a teacher assign projects in every subject and homeworks everyday, he was not being helpful and he was not really teaching but rather confusing his students. I realized this when my children were still in the elementary and high school.
I noticed my freshman son was getting very temperamental one night. I decided to find out and I discovered that in science alone he was expected to cut pictures and write a two-page reaction, typewritten in long bands on each of the following subjects: Geology, Hydrology, Oceanology, Meteorology, Astronomy, and Volcanology. Did the teacher think anybody can really do it correctly in one week? In Christian Living at about the same time, my son's homework was to look for and cut out pictures of Churches in the Philippines.
I knew there were calendars that carry pictures of old churches but where to find those calendars then was another problem.
Aside form homeworks and projects students were expected to join field trips on every subject matter discussed in school.
I congratulated my children just for passing.
I noticed my freshman son was getting very temperamental one night. I decided to find out and I discovered that in science alone he was expected to cut pictures and write a two-page reaction, typewritten in long bands on each of the following subjects: Geology, Hydrology, Oceanology, Meteorology, Astronomy, and Volcanology. Did the teacher think anybody can really do it correctly in one week? In Christian Living at about the same time, my son's homework was to look for and cut out pictures of Churches in the Philippines.
I knew there were calendars that carry pictures of old churches but where to find those calendars then was another problem.
Aside form homeworks and projects students were expected to join field trips on every subject matter discussed in school.
I congratulated my children just for passing.
Wednesday, September 26, 2007
LIVING FOREVER
Another relative died and several others were in the hospital. For four consecutive weekends I was doing vigils in my town mate's wakes. I was already tired writing about deaths, so instead I am quoting a most unique last will and testament. This was sent to the Philipine STAR by Chartel Ylanan who copied it from the October 11, 1989 issue of the Visayan Daily STAR. The author was anonymous.
"Living Parts Left Behind At a certain moment a doctor will determine that my brain has ceased to function, and that, for all intents and purpose, my life has stopped. When that happens, do not attempt to instill artificial life into my body by the use of machine. And don't call this my "deathbed". Call it my "bed of life", and let my body be taken from it to help others led fuller lives.Give my sight to man who has never seen sunrise, a baby's face or love in the eyes of a pretty woman.
Give my heart to a person whose own heart has caused nothing but endless days of pain. Give my blood to a teen-ager who has been pulled from the wreckage of his car, so that he might live to see his grandchildren play. Give my kidneys to one who depends on a machine to exist from week to week. Take my bones, every muscle, every fiber and nerve in my body and find a way to make a crippled child walk. Explore every corner of my brain. Take my cells, if necessary, and let them grow so that someday a speechless boy will shout at the crack of a bat and a deaf girl will hear the sound of the rain against the windows. Burn what is left of me and scatter the ashes to the winds to help the flower grow.
If you may bury something, let it be my faults, my weaknesses and all prejudices against my fellowmen.Give my soul to God. If by chance you wish to remember me, do it with a kind deed or word to someone who needs you. If you do all I have asked, I WILL LIVE FOREVER. Lord,thank you for the joy of knowing that you love me! Thank you also for family and friends. And thank You for the privilege of life itself. Help me live each day for You".
"Living Parts Left Behind At a certain moment a doctor will determine that my brain has ceased to function, and that, for all intents and purpose, my life has stopped. When that happens, do not attempt to instill artificial life into my body by the use of machine. And don't call this my "deathbed". Call it my "bed of life", and let my body be taken from it to help others led fuller lives.Give my sight to man who has never seen sunrise, a baby's face or love in the eyes of a pretty woman.
Give my heart to a person whose own heart has caused nothing but endless days of pain. Give my blood to a teen-ager who has been pulled from the wreckage of his car, so that he might live to see his grandchildren play. Give my kidneys to one who depends on a machine to exist from week to week. Take my bones, every muscle, every fiber and nerve in my body and find a way to make a crippled child walk. Explore every corner of my brain. Take my cells, if necessary, and let them grow so that someday a speechless boy will shout at the crack of a bat and a deaf girl will hear the sound of the rain against the windows. Burn what is left of me and scatter the ashes to the winds to help the flower grow.
If you may bury something, let it be my faults, my weaknesses and all prejudices against my fellowmen.Give my soul to God. If by chance you wish to remember me, do it with a kind deed or word to someone who needs you. If you do all I have asked, I WILL LIVE FOREVER. Lord,thank you for the joy of knowing that you love me! Thank you also for family and friends. And thank You for the privilege of life itself. Help me live each day for You".
Life Insurances
All of a sudden there were so many applicants for insurance. Was it because the risk to life were so many that people want to insure the future of their families?
I honestly do not believe in life insurance. First, because the one insured never enjoys the benefits and in case of death the heirs, most of the time quarrel over the money involved. I knew a lot of families broken because of insurance benefits. I've also seen ambitions and crumpled, dreams that dwindled and even lives destroyed because of the false promises of insurance benefits.
But as a medical examiner of insurance applicants, insurance was doing me a lot of good. Most of the patients (clients) were generally healthy and the medical fee was almost always assured.
I examine clients for Philamlife, Sunlife of Canada and Aetna. I used to be medical examiner too, of Insular Life but there were not so many agents for that company.
As medical examiner I have a chance to meet people from all walks of life. Some of them became my regular patients, others turned out to be lot buyers and still others bought home-decor items as well s RTW item from my wife. Though I didn't believe in insurance as it was conceived I have to admit that people who believed were doing me a lot of good.
I honestly do not believe in life insurance. First, because the one insured never enjoys the benefits and in case of death the heirs, most of the time quarrel over the money involved. I knew a lot of families broken because of insurance benefits. I've also seen ambitions and crumpled, dreams that dwindled and even lives destroyed because of the false promises of insurance benefits.
But as a medical examiner of insurance applicants, insurance was doing me a lot of good. Most of the patients (clients) were generally healthy and the medical fee was almost always assured.
I examine clients for Philamlife, Sunlife of Canada and Aetna. I used to be medical examiner too, of Insular Life but there were not so many agents for that company.
As medical examiner I have a chance to meet people from all walks of life. Some of them became my regular patients, others turned out to be lot buyers and still others bought home-decor items as well s RTW item from my wife. Though I didn't believe in insurance as it was conceived I have to admit that people who believed were doing me a lot of good.
THE BLACK SHEEP
He is a sixteen year old six footer and ruggedly handsome, deepened by some fresh and raw pimples trying to ruin his cheeks.
His mother referred him to me because he often takes money from her bag. He did it several times and the mother was worried.
During the informal interview he related to me his story in between cute shy smiles. So, he admitted he was the "black sheep" of the family. He was completely misunderstood by everyone and he felt he was an outcast.
When he did wrong no one forgets but when he did right, no one remembers. No one noticed him at home and nobody gives him importance. In short he was craving for attention and a little care, a very typical dilemma encountered by teen-agers.
I explained to him that what he was feeling and what he was experiencing was normal. He was in the transition period from boyhood to manhood. He won't agree that he was still a child but he was aware that he wasn't yet an adult.
Somehow I was able to create a rapport between us so he submitted to hypnosis. He turned out to be a very good subject. He is scheduled to come back for more follow-up sessions as he was impressed during the first session.
His mother referred him to me because he often takes money from her bag. He did it several times and the mother was worried.
During the informal interview he related to me his story in between cute shy smiles. So, he admitted he was the "black sheep" of the family. He was completely misunderstood by everyone and he felt he was an outcast.
When he did wrong no one forgets but when he did right, no one remembers. No one noticed him at home and nobody gives him importance. In short he was craving for attention and a little care, a very typical dilemma encountered by teen-agers.
I explained to him that what he was feeling and what he was experiencing was normal. He was in the transition period from boyhood to manhood. He won't agree that he was still a child but he was aware that he wasn't yet an adult.
Somehow I was able to create a rapport between us so he submitted to hypnosis. He turned out to be a very good subject. He is scheduled to come back for more follow-up sessions as he was impressed during the first session.
Tuesday, September 25, 2007
Life Goes On
A mother died. It was a painful death. She was hanging the laundry outside the house, when she heard her grandchild crying. She run to find out but she slipped on the wet cement, fell down and hit her head. Just like that. She was fifty years old.
She was the fifth in two weeks who died young and suddenly. God must be saying something to the people of our community: that life is uncertain while death is definitely coming in no time at all.
For the orphans and others she left behind it was a sad moment but for the tired mother it was a transition, a rebirth. For death is very much part of life. It is a divine door where one passed from one level of existence into another, which is generally a better one.
Only the physical body dies. Life goes on beyond the grave because life is a quality of the soul and the soul cannot die. The soul will experience different stages of "death" on its process of purification towards perfection before joining the Creator.
Those who died unprepared remain as earthbound entities doing their chores when alive. When perceived, they are what we call ghosts.
She was the fifth in two weeks who died young and suddenly. God must be saying something to the people of our community: that life is uncertain while death is definitely coming in no time at all.
For the orphans and others she left behind it was a sad moment but for the tired mother it was a transition, a rebirth. For death is very much part of life. It is a divine door where one passed from one level of existence into another, which is generally a better one.
Only the physical body dies. Life goes on beyond the grave because life is a quality of the soul and the soul cannot die. The soul will experience different stages of "death" on its process of purification towards perfection before joining the Creator.
Those who died unprepared remain as earthbound entities doing their chores when alive. When perceived, they are what we call ghosts.
RECONCILIATION
Reconciliation is the establishment of harmony. It means forgiveness and at the same time forgetting the offense. It is accepting back the enemy. It is renewal of friendship.
One of the most important qualities of marital harmony is the capability of the couple to accept or apply reconciliation. It is the test of maturity and intelligence. It is the binding force of love; the string that keeps two bodies together.
He who is capable of loving must also be capable of forgiving, for then he becomes capable of living a truly Christian life. People who love each other have reasons to feel that way. When they quarrel they both become unreasonable, as they are both covered by a thick shadow of misunderstanding. They begin to feel nothing but the negative qualities of the other and unless the spirit of reconciliation is given a chance to work everything will be gone forever.
Reconciliation is a human quality because it is based on reason and only human beings are rational. Animals live together but animals also kill each other. On the other hand, humans forgive their enemies and this is the very quality that separates men from animals.
One of the most important qualities of marital harmony is the capability of the couple to accept or apply reconciliation. It is the test of maturity and intelligence. It is the binding force of love; the string that keeps two bodies together.
He who is capable of loving must also be capable of forgiving, for then he becomes capable of living a truly Christian life. People who love each other have reasons to feel that way. When they quarrel they both become unreasonable, as they are both covered by a thick shadow of misunderstanding. They begin to feel nothing but the negative qualities of the other and unless the spirit of reconciliation is given a chance to work everything will be gone forever.
Reconciliation is a human quality because it is based on reason and only human beings are rational. Animals live together but animals also kill each other. On the other hand, humans forgive their enemies and this is the very quality that separates men from animals.
MISCOMMUNICATION
Miscommunication is the failure of two parties to send message correctly. It is the inability to reach the other one. When there is miscommunication or worse still, non-communication, something is wrong somewhere.
Maybe the sender didn't send the the message correctly or perhaps the receiver didn't receive rightfully, but whatever is the cause, the result is sometimes catastrophic. What happens when couples miscommunicate? When teachers fail to reach the students or when friends misunderstand each other? A lot of unpleasant events follow. It can be as simple as snobbish silence or as destructive as a full-blown war.
Miscommunication started when men turned so proud that they planned to build a tower to reach God in heaven. God saw what were in their hearts so He willed that each one speak a different language. No one could understand what the others were saying and they were all humbled. The tower of Babel was never finished.
Misunderstanding due to miscommunication is very common nowadays and that is why the world is always in trouble. Even modern communication facilities didn't help solve the problem. Yet, if man can only nourish fully his sense of humor, so many misunderstandings and miscommunication could be felt and dealt with in a more positive manner.
Maybe the sender didn't send the the message correctly or perhaps the receiver didn't receive rightfully, but whatever is the cause, the result is sometimes catastrophic. What happens when couples miscommunicate? When teachers fail to reach the students or when friends misunderstand each other? A lot of unpleasant events follow. It can be as simple as snobbish silence or as destructive as a full-blown war.
Miscommunication started when men turned so proud that they planned to build a tower to reach God in heaven. God saw what were in their hearts so He willed that each one speak a different language. No one could understand what the others were saying and they were all humbled. The tower of Babel was never finished.
Misunderstanding due to miscommunication is very common nowadays and that is why the world is always in trouble. Even modern communication facilities didn't help solve the problem. Yet, if man can only nourish fully his sense of humor, so many misunderstandings and miscommunication could be felt and dealt with in a more positive manner.
MEDITATION
The true lover of knowledge is always striving after being.---Plato
Don't meditate, be in meditation.---Buddha
What we need is an enthusiastic but calm state of mind and intense but orderly work.___Mao Che Tung
When a man can still his senses, I call him illuminated.___Sri Krisna
The above quotations were all taken from the book Calm Technique by Paul Wilson. It is a book on mediation minus the magic and mysticism.
Who doesn't want to feel calm but alas! The world is so confused in great madness as if to be calm in this world is to be dead. But even in death there is disturbance.
They say if a certain number of people can only meditate honestly at a certain time and place, the serenity that they can accomplish will be enough to solve all the tension, apprehension, misconception, anger, fear, and all the negative vibrations that now circulate in the universe.
Let us all meditate and help save the world.
Don't meditate, be in meditation.---Buddha
What we need is an enthusiastic but calm state of mind and intense but orderly work.___Mao Che Tung
When a man can still his senses, I call him illuminated.___Sri Krisna
The above quotations were all taken from the book Calm Technique by Paul Wilson. It is a book on mediation minus the magic and mysticism.
Who doesn't want to feel calm but alas! The world is so confused in great madness as if to be calm in this world is to be dead. But even in death there is disturbance.
They say if a certain number of people can only meditate honestly at a certain time and place, the serenity that they can accomplish will be enough to solve all the tension, apprehension, misconception, anger, fear, and all the negative vibrations that now circulate in the universe.
Let us all meditate and help save the world.
Sunday, September 23, 2007
JUST COUGHING
I wish I am not experiencing incessant episodes of coughing but since I am, I'd rather find the positive effect of it. In the first place coughing is protective in nature. It is nature's way of expelling out foreign bodies invading the respiratory tract. It is the body's way of telling the person that something is wrong up there.
My coughing was triggered by the dust caused by so many tricycles along the road in front of our house when I accidentally inhaled too much. Added to it was the fine shower that caught me while walking on my way home. At first the coughing was mild but as days went by it got worse and more difficult specially when it was accompanied by musical wheezing. It disturbed my sleep, my professional duties as well as my sensibilities. There were times when I didn't know if I want more air or less ventilation, if I want it hot or I want it cold, if I need a blanket or not, if I should sit or lie down.
I begin to understand how my wife felt when she was experiencing coughing episodes herself. Now I can feel the difficulties encountered by asthmatic patients whom I thought to be overacting.
After several bottles of cough syrup I can now feel a little relief and strong hope that I will soon overcome this difficult experience. From now on I know I will be more understanding and more compassionate to other people's coughing. Experience is truly the best teacher and to be a good healer a doctor must experience being sick once in a while.
My coughing was triggered by the dust caused by so many tricycles along the road in front of our house when I accidentally inhaled too much. Added to it was the fine shower that caught me while walking on my way home. At first the coughing was mild but as days went by it got worse and more difficult specially when it was accompanied by musical wheezing. It disturbed my sleep, my professional duties as well as my sensibilities. There were times when I didn't know if I want more air or less ventilation, if I want it hot or I want it cold, if I need a blanket or not, if I should sit or lie down.
I begin to understand how my wife felt when she was experiencing coughing episodes herself. Now I can feel the difficulties encountered by asthmatic patients whom I thought to be overacting.
After several bottles of cough syrup I can now feel a little relief and strong hope that I will soon overcome this difficult experience. From now on I know I will be more understanding and more compassionate to other people's coughing. Experience is truly the best teacher and to be a good healer a doctor must experience being sick once in a while.
NOSTALGIA
God must be boiling something, somewhere. It was very hot anywhere I went. My head was terribly aching.I took analgesic and hypotensive to no avail.I didn't know where to go. This global warming was simply terrible.
I thought of the big Narra tree at the Church's plaza. I sat under it and felt a little relief. I looked around and saw evident signs of neglect.The weeds were widely growing and plastic of all kinds were littered all around.
My sentimental mind rolled back. To my right side where the municipal building stood shyly was the old "baraka" when I was a boy. It was not only a market place but also a multi-purpose hall for all community activities. The present basketball court used to be occupied by the "Dispensario", the equivalent of health center nowadays. There were big accacia trees lining the Mabini Street but were cut off when the road was widened in the late 40's.The last one in front of the convent was lately overthrown by a strong typhoon.
It was good to be young again strolling romantically in the boulevards of memories.Those were the days when there was no electricity and water supply in the community. We used ordinary oil and kerosene lamps. We fetched water from the brook. Children play happily during moonlighted nights.
Life then was simpler but more peaceful, more serene, more enjoyable. Nature provided most of the ordinary needs and people were happier. I closed my eyes and traveled back to my happy childhood in Alfonso. I was relieved of my headache as I felt calm and cold.
I thought of the big Narra tree at the Church's plaza. I sat under it and felt a little relief. I looked around and saw evident signs of neglect.The weeds were widely growing and plastic of all kinds were littered all around.
My sentimental mind rolled back. To my right side where the municipal building stood shyly was the old "baraka" when I was a boy. It was not only a market place but also a multi-purpose hall for all community activities. The present basketball court used to be occupied by the "Dispensario", the equivalent of health center nowadays. There were big accacia trees lining the Mabini Street but were cut off when the road was widened in the late 40's.The last one in front of the convent was lately overthrown by a strong typhoon.
It was good to be young again strolling romantically in the boulevards of memories.Those were the days when there was no electricity and water supply in the community. We used ordinary oil and kerosene lamps. We fetched water from the brook. Children play happily during moonlighted nights.
Life then was simpler but more peaceful, more serene, more enjoyable. Nature provided most of the ordinary needs and people were happier. I closed my eyes and traveled back to my happy childhood in Alfonso. I was relieved of my headache as I felt calm and cold.
Saturday, September 22, 2007
CALENDARS
A calendar is now considered a very ordinary item in every household. It comes in every form and shape and style but in whatever way it is presented its purpose is the same and that is, to give the correct date.
How the calendars came into use is a long, long story and up to now some nations are using different kind of calendar. In a sophisticated society a calendar is a neglected set of numbers but have you ever thought of a community without a calendar?
Those were the days when people have to calculate everything that happens. One must be very sensitive and extra ordinarily observant about everything around him so he can associate the language of nature with the events going on in the environment.
After so many trials, evaluations, changes and revisions, comes the present form of calendar and if the calendar will suddenly disappear, the whole world will not know what to do.
Try a simple experiment. Remove all the calendars and watches in your homes and find out what will happen. Let us therefore love the lowly calendar.
How the calendars came into use is a long, long story and up to now some nations are using different kind of calendar. In a sophisticated society a calendar is a neglected set of numbers but have you ever thought of a community without a calendar?
Those were the days when people have to calculate everything that happens. One must be very sensitive and extra ordinarily observant about everything around him so he can associate the language of nature with the events going on in the environment.
After so many trials, evaluations, changes and revisions, comes the present form of calendar and if the calendar will suddenly disappear, the whole world will not know what to do.
Try a simple experiment. Remove all the calendars and watches in your homes and find out what will happen. Let us therefore love the lowly calendar.
DEMOCRACY
Democracy means freedom and freedom is a condition of acting without compulsion. To be free is every man's wish. The reason why many are for democracy.
Psychology on the other hand deals with human behavior, which actually is an offshoot of the person's experiences together with other important factors. To understand why a person behaves the way he does, he must be observed while doing freely what he feels like doing. This is the reason why psychology intermingles with democracy---both deals with man's freedom.
If you have observed a child doing freely what he feels like doing and if you have noticed how contented and happy the child is, you will understand what I am saying here.
But adults cannot tolerate baby's freedom because freedom can also lead to accidents and destruction. So a child grows up to be suppressed and seems to behave better with a generous amount of intelligent suppression.
I believe that complete freedom is not good, in fact it is dangerous. What is good and attainable is guided freedom like a genuine democracy. It is beneficial because it improves human behavior. A true government of the people, by the people, and for the people. Long live democracy! Long live Psychology! Long live man who behaves freely and normally.
Psychology on the other hand deals with human behavior, which actually is an offshoot of the person's experiences together with other important factors. To understand why a person behaves the way he does, he must be observed while doing freely what he feels like doing. This is the reason why psychology intermingles with democracy---both deals with man's freedom.
If you have observed a child doing freely what he feels like doing and if you have noticed how contented and happy the child is, you will understand what I am saying here.
But adults cannot tolerate baby's freedom because freedom can also lead to accidents and destruction. So a child grows up to be suppressed and seems to behave better with a generous amount of intelligent suppression.
I believe that complete freedom is not good, in fact it is dangerous. What is good and attainable is guided freedom like a genuine democracy. It is beneficial because it improves human behavior. A true government of the people, by the people, and for the people. Long live democracy! Long live Psychology! Long live man who behaves freely and normally.
DIPLOMACY
Diplomacy is the act of convincing people in a nice way. It is the process of explaining things in a manner acceptable and/or tolerable.
Whenever there is trouble or misunderstanding, diplomacy is in order. This is usually executed by a person with "diplomatic" personality. Although there is a course that trains students to be diplomats, a diplomat is usually born.
Modesty aside, I think I have a diplomatic touch. In the practice of my profession I am often exposed to people and I can feel that I am by nature person-oriented.
I have indulged myself in many difficult situations and I can claim a high rate of success. If my success in diplomacy could be converted into cash, I should be a rich man by now.
While a professional diplomat earns much, a natural diplomat is not paid for his diplomatic works. But the sense of goodness after doing good, after being able to settle a problem or after helping in reconciling warring parties are more than enough compensation. There is nothing more valuable than the chance to be able to make other people happy.
Whenever there is trouble or misunderstanding, diplomacy is in order. This is usually executed by a person with "diplomatic" personality. Although there is a course that trains students to be diplomats, a diplomat is usually born.
Modesty aside, I think I have a diplomatic touch. In the practice of my profession I am often exposed to people and I can feel that I am by nature person-oriented.
I have indulged myself in many difficult situations and I can claim a high rate of success. If my success in diplomacy could be converted into cash, I should be a rich man by now.
While a professional diplomat earns much, a natural diplomat is not paid for his diplomatic works. But the sense of goodness after doing good, after being able to settle a problem or after helping in reconciling warring parties are more than enough compensation. There is nothing more valuable than the chance to be able to make other people happy.
Friday, September 21, 2007
WHITE CHRISTMAS
Ber months are reminders of Christmas and Christmas has many memories. I fondly remember what happened in 1991. It was not even Ber month when all of a sudden I experienced a "White Christmas" and I wasn't dreaming. At last it was snowing in the Philippines! The grass, the mango trees, the palm trees, the streets, the roofs and everything else was covered with "snow". I quickly scooped a handful and as quickly I came to my senses. What I was scooping with my hands were particles of sandy ashes falling freely from the skies.
The grayish ashes came all the way from the erupting Mt. Pinatubo in Zambales, the volcano that was slumbering during the last 630 years. Who or what awakened the volcano? According to former First Lady, Imelda Marcos it was a curse from God on the Cory Administration for not allowing the embalmed body of Ferdinand Marcos to be returned to the Philippines that time. Of course it was silly if not a stupid argument. Was it nature's reaction to man's cruelty? An Aeta leader believed so.
The eruption of Mt Pinatubo was only one of the catastrophic phenomena that happened. Mt. Unzen also erupted in Japan as well as Mt. Vesuvius in Italy. Cyclones and tidal waves destroyed Bangladesh. There were earthquakes, typhoons, tornadoes and tsunamis all around. Were these the biblical signs of the end of the world. Was God reminding us that we were dusts and to dust we shall return? Do we understood the message or do we need more sign such as terrorist attacks and other natural calamities before we are convince to sin no more?
The message is clear and loud, in fact not only deafening but also blinding. It is about time we pause for some reflections and introspections. God has been talking to us ever since but are we listening? If not, it is about time we begin contemplating before it is too late.
The grayish ashes came all the way from the erupting Mt. Pinatubo in Zambales, the volcano that was slumbering during the last 630 years. Who or what awakened the volcano? According to former First Lady, Imelda Marcos it was a curse from God on the Cory Administration for not allowing the embalmed body of Ferdinand Marcos to be returned to the Philippines that time. Of course it was silly if not a stupid argument. Was it nature's reaction to man's cruelty? An Aeta leader believed so.
The eruption of Mt Pinatubo was only one of the catastrophic phenomena that happened. Mt. Unzen also erupted in Japan as well as Mt. Vesuvius in Italy. Cyclones and tidal waves destroyed Bangladesh. There were earthquakes, typhoons, tornadoes and tsunamis all around. Were these the biblical signs of the end of the world. Was God reminding us that we were dusts and to dust we shall return? Do we understood the message or do we need more sign such as terrorist attacks and other natural calamities before we are convince to sin no more?
The message is clear and loud, in fact not only deafening but also blinding. It is about time we pause for some reflections and introspections. God has been talking to us ever since but are we listening? If not, it is about time we begin contemplating before it is too late.
Please Give Us Space
One time I had a chance to act as witness-sponsor to a wedding. It was a ceremony done inside a church at around four o'clock in the afternoon. It was officiated by a singing priest who was all the time trying hard to be cute.
During the homily the priest explained the different symbolisms of everything used during the rite. Emphasis was on the veil and the cord, which were supposed to keep the couple united and at ease with each other as one.
When communion time came the priest gave the new couple the chance and special privilege to offer to each other the Eucharist and to help each other drink from the cup. I noticed that because of the veil and the cord the spouses found it difficult to help each other as if they were moving in a very crowded place.
A similar symbolism was repeated during the reception when the spouses, after crossing their arms while holding their cups drunk their champaign uneasily. There were too many awkward movements when two people were held too close to one another. Difficulties follow every attempt to do anything.
There must be easier and more practical symbolism for unity that must be the pattern to follow afterwards. I just hope that some priest will realize this and suggest a kind of symbolism that could be more applicable in real life. After all the couple is expected to live together for better or for worse, for richer or for poorer, in sickness and in health...'till death do them part. Let us give them space for a harmonious existence.
During the homily the priest explained the different symbolisms of everything used during the rite. Emphasis was on the veil and the cord, which were supposed to keep the couple united and at ease with each other as one.
When communion time came the priest gave the new couple the chance and special privilege to offer to each other the Eucharist and to help each other drink from the cup. I noticed that because of the veil and the cord the spouses found it difficult to help each other as if they were moving in a very crowded place.
A similar symbolism was repeated during the reception when the spouses, after crossing their arms while holding their cups drunk their champaign uneasily. There were too many awkward movements when two people were held too close to one another. Difficulties follow every attempt to do anything.
There must be easier and more practical symbolism for unity that must be the pattern to follow afterwards. I just hope that some priest will realize this and suggest a kind of symbolism that could be more applicable in real life. After all the couple is expected to live together for better or for worse, for richer or for poorer, in sickness and in health...'till death do them part. Let us give them space for a harmonious existence.
Thursday, September 20, 2007
OWN SHADOW
When I was young I was very small, in fact in the fourth year high school there was a time when I was the only one wearing short pants.
When everybody was growing pimples on their cheeks, my complexion was clear and clean, so I would rub my face on the faces of my friends who have pimples just so I could catch up with their growth.
In other things I wasn't left behind but in as far as my physique was concerned I was a late bloomer. When I married I was still thin so I drunk twelve bottles of beer daily hoping to grow big.
Now that my abdomen is bloated I find it difficult to tie my shoestrings. I find it burdensome just to sit straight and find it tiring to walk, yet all these things I have to do daily. I am trying to practice dieting and jogging but I am still getting bigger, probably to compensate for all my frustrations during my younger days.
Then I saw myself in my youngest son. When he was in first year high school he was wearing long pants but he still looked small because in reality he was still the smallest in class. But he had big ideas and performances. Then suddenly he also grew big in time with his big performances in sports. He had earned so many championship trophies in tennis, medals in soccer and many other citations.
When everybody was growing pimples on their cheeks, my complexion was clear and clean, so I would rub my face on the faces of my friends who have pimples just so I could catch up with their growth.
In other things I wasn't left behind but in as far as my physique was concerned I was a late bloomer. When I married I was still thin so I drunk twelve bottles of beer daily hoping to grow big.
Now that my abdomen is bloated I find it difficult to tie my shoestrings. I find it burdensome just to sit straight and find it tiring to walk, yet all these things I have to do daily. I am trying to practice dieting and jogging but I am still getting bigger, probably to compensate for all my frustrations during my younger days.
Then I saw myself in my youngest son. When he was in first year high school he was wearing long pants but he still looked small because in reality he was still the smallest in class. But he had big ideas and performances. Then suddenly he also grew big in time with his big performances in sports. He had earned so many championship trophies in tennis, medals in soccer and many other citations.
DEEP SLUMBER
Sleep is the natural periodic suspension of consciousness during which the powers of of the body are restored. To sleep is to rest and recharge one's energy. Different people have different sleeping habit as each one also has different sleeping needs.
Some people sleep long while others sleep less but I know no one who hadn't experienced sleep as there is no record of one who didn't experience wakefulness. Both sleep and wakefulness are natural needs of every living individual.
There is a disease called Narcolepsy whereby the one affected just sleep continuously. It is due to some disturbance in the nervous system. There is another malady called Insomnia which is the exact opposite of Narcolepsy, when the affected person cannot sleep. Both maladies are very unpleasant and nobody feels happy being affected by either of the ailments.
Many people, specially politicians, sleep on their work or job. The Somnambulists walk in their sleep. During sleep a person dreams and while he is dreaming his wishes are fulfilled. If not for the wish fulfillment while dreaming, there would be so many nervous wrecks.
Through Hypnosis I can induce a sleep-like feeling called trance, and help people overcome their problems.
Some people sleep long while others sleep less but I know no one who hadn't experienced sleep as there is no record of one who didn't experience wakefulness. Both sleep and wakefulness are natural needs of every living individual.
There is a disease called Narcolepsy whereby the one affected just sleep continuously. It is due to some disturbance in the nervous system. There is another malady called Insomnia which is the exact opposite of Narcolepsy, when the affected person cannot sleep. Both maladies are very unpleasant and nobody feels happy being affected by either of the ailments.
Many people, specially politicians, sleep on their work or job. The Somnambulists walk in their sleep. During sleep a person dreams and while he is dreaming his wishes are fulfilled. If not for the wish fulfillment while dreaming, there would be so many nervous wrecks.
Through Hypnosis I can induce a sleep-like feeling called trance, and help people overcome their problems.
Sunday, September 16, 2007
VOLCANIC ERUPTION
I will not forget that date. Wednesday, June 12, 1991. Mt Pinatubo which has been sleeping in the last 630 years was suddenly awakened and engrily erupted, in time with the celebration of the 93rd Independence Day . The occasion was dubbed Ash Wednesday as the volcano started spewing tons of ashes and sulfuric fumes which darkened the skies all over Zambales and the neighboring communities.
On June 15, 1991, eve of Father's Day, night came early in Metro Manila at around 3:00 p.m. It was pitch dark and people wondered if it was due to the rain clouds spawned by a typhoon or the ash falls from the erupting Mt. Pinatubo. It turned out to be the horrible combination of both that triggered fears in the hearts of the people who scurried home to be with their love ones.
At around 5:30 p.m. it rained grayish sandy ash all over Metro Manila. The ashes were itchy to the skin and irritating to the eyes. I quickly gathered a handful into a small glass container for souvenir.
God says men are dusts and to dusts all men shall return. In the handful that I scooped from our backyard, I imagined how many great men and women as well as charlatans who lived a long time ago were represented in my ash souvenir.
On June 15, 1991, eve of Father's Day, night came early in Metro Manila at around 3:00 p.m. It was pitch dark and people wondered if it was due to the rain clouds spawned by a typhoon or the ash falls from the erupting Mt. Pinatubo. It turned out to be the horrible combination of both that triggered fears in the hearts of the people who scurried home to be with their love ones.
At around 5:30 p.m. it rained grayish sandy ash all over Metro Manila. The ashes were itchy to the skin and irritating to the eyes. I quickly gathered a handful into a small glass container for souvenir.
God says men are dusts and to dusts all men shall return. In the handful that I scooped from our backyard, I imagined how many great men and women as well as charlatans who lived a long time ago were represented in my ash souvenir.
IN THE MOOD
Mood, according to the dictionary is a pervading influence that colors outward appearance or apparent character. A person is either in the mood or not in the mood. When a person is in the mood, everything turns out good, bright and colorful; all incidents seem to be joyful ones; even healthy energy flows vigorously all over. The sense of humor becomes evident and every other person around is in one way or another affected by the good vibrations.
There are times when we just don't feel to be in good mood. This is the day when we wake up feeling tired, when we don't feel like eating, when it is burdensome to work, when anything that others do irritates us because even heaven seems like falling on our head.
When we are not in the mood we don't want to talk, we just like to be alone and once we are alone we think of all our frustrations and disappointments in life. A negative vibration that brings about gloom, hatred, and fear, surround us. If we allow ourselves to be conquered by a bad mood, our day is completely ruined.
Think as if you are happy and you'll be happy. Start singing, or just humming a happy tune. It will generate positive vibrations that will drive away the bad mood.
This afternoon the sky is darkened by the typhoon but the lights are brighter and more colorful. I see a rainbow.
There are times when we just don't feel to be in good mood. This is the day when we wake up feeling tired, when we don't feel like eating, when it is burdensome to work, when anything that others do irritates us because even heaven seems like falling on our head.
When we are not in the mood we don't want to talk, we just like to be alone and once we are alone we think of all our frustrations and disappointments in life. A negative vibration that brings about gloom, hatred, and fear, surround us. If we allow ourselves to be conquered by a bad mood, our day is completely ruined.
Think as if you are happy and you'll be happy. Start singing, or just humming a happy tune. It will generate positive vibrations that will drive away the bad mood.
This afternoon the sky is darkened by the typhoon but the lights are brighter and more colorful. I see a rainbow.
POVERTY
The smell was 'fecaloid' and flies were swarming all around. The grandmother was holding a dirty feeding bottle with brownish milk formula inside. The mother was holding a young girl affected with chicken pox. Two other dirty children were roaming around the house. Another young girl brought in orange juice with a drowning mosquito.
I was waiting for the husband who was scheduled for medical examination in connection with his insurance. I excused myself from drinking the orange juice explaining that I was suffering from upset stomach since I ate too much jack fruit the night before.
The place was just behind Nescafe Factory in Alasbang, Muntinlupa. I was not a fully neglected community but definitely it was a deprived area. The man I was waiting for was leaving for Saudi Arabia after an hour. His house was a small one with two bedrooms, a sala-dining area and a small "sari-sari" store in front.
A colored TV was on, near an obviously newly acquired china cabinet. It was a happy family if not for the unhygienic atmosphere. As I was waiting for the man my mind wondered on hundred of communities like it if not worse, scattered all over the country waiting for economic progress. But progress comes only in the form of progressive volcanic eruptions, floods and typhoons, and other catastrophic events.
They say God speak through events. The bigger the event, the louder the message. Let us all carefully listen to what God is saying through all the calamities coming one after another in progression.
I was waiting for the husband who was scheduled for medical examination in connection with his insurance. I excused myself from drinking the orange juice explaining that I was suffering from upset stomach since I ate too much jack fruit the night before.
The place was just behind Nescafe Factory in Alasbang, Muntinlupa. I was not a fully neglected community but definitely it was a deprived area. The man I was waiting for was leaving for Saudi Arabia after an hour. His house was a small one with two bedrooms, a sala-dining area and a small "sari-sari" store in front.
A colored TV was on, near an obviously newly acquired china cabinet. It was a happy family if not for the unhygienic atmosphere. As I was waiting for the man my mind wondered on hundred of communities like it if not worse, scattered all over the country waiting for economic progress. But progress comes only in the form of progressive volcanic eruptions, floods and typhoons, and other catastrophic events.
They say God speak through events. The bigger the event, the louder the message. Let us all carefully listen to what God is saying through all the calamities coming one after another in progression.
DARKNESS
Power failure is getting common. All of a sudden puff!!! And there is blackout (more commonly called brownout). You start fishing for flashlight, candles and matchbox jut to discover that nothing is in place. So you start bumping on objects both hard and soft, sharp and breakables as well as each other.
The automatic light is out of order because you forgot to charge it when there was light. You begin cursing Meralco and the Government but never yourself in spite of your own contributions to the country's maladies.During a blackout, a mansion was totally burned down after a lighted candle fell down from its stand and its flame caught the carpet, then the curtains, then everything around while the whole family was at the ground floor waiting for the resumption of power.
A lady was raped when she was caught by the blackout while jogging around the village. A drug addict saw her groping in the dark, grabbed her, brought her to an even darker corner behind thick bushes and when the power came back she was completely deflowered.
Let there be light!!! God said long before electricity was discovered...during that time when there was nothing but darkness...and there was light
The automatic light is out of order because you forgot to charge it when there was light. You begin cursing Meralco and the Government but never yourself in spite of your own contributions to the country's maladies.During a blackout, a mansion was totally burned down after a lighted candle fell down from its stand and its flame caught the carpet, then the curtains, then everything around while the whole family was at the ground floor waiting for the resumption of power.
A lady was raped when she was caught by the blackout while jogging around the village. A drug addict saw her groping in the dark, grabbed her, brought her to an even darker corner behind thick bushes and when the power came back she was completely deflowered.
Let there be light!!! God said long before electricity was discovered...during that time when there was nothing but darkness...and there was light
Saturday, September 15, 2007
FREEDOM
To be independent is to be free and to be free is to be able to do what you want to do. But to do what you like doesn't mean you'll do anything just because you feel like doing it and you think you feel good actually doing it.
There are norms of standard to follow: Personal, social and moral. How do you do what you want to do separates the men from the boys and the women from the girls.
After so many years of being independent there are so many things that we are free to do, and we are overdoing to the extremes. Look at our leaders, look at our officials, look at our teachers, look at our students, look at our movies and look at our media. Look at graft and corruption all around even inside some churches.
There is so much freedom in all aspects of our society that we allow ourselves freedom to go to the dogs and finally we may even allow ourselves to go to hell.
Before Sodom and Gomorrah were destroyed there was so much freedom; there was complete independence. Freedom and independence were also the reason for the universal sin that triggered the universal deluge.
It is not good to be slaves for slavery is nothing but curtailment of freedom and independence. Let us not be slaves but let us use our freedom to do good and in doing well let us help others do well too.
There are norms of standard to follow: Personal, social and moral. How do you do what you want to do separates the men from the boys and the women from the girls.
After so many years of being independent there are so many things that we are free to do, and we are overdoing to the extremes. Look at our leaders, look at our officials, look at our teachers, look at our students, look at our movies and look at our media. Look at graft and corruption all around even inside some churches.
There is so much freedom in all aspects of our society that we allow ourselves freedom to go to the dogs and finally we may even allow ourselves to go to hell.
Before Sodom and Gomorrah were destroyed there was so much freedom; there was complete independence. Freedom and independence were also the reason for the universal sin that triggered the universal deluge.
It is not good to be slaves for slavery is nothing but curtailment of freedom and independence. Let us not be slaves but let us use our freedom to do good and in doing well let us help others do well too.
Of Tapes and Glues
Before the invention of Scotch tape, gluing paper was very ceremonial. I experienced using cooked rice spread evenly and thinly on one side of a carefully cut strip of paper before it is used to patch things together, then the use of cooked flour that gives smell after a few days.
During the Japanese occupation, we, the pupils were ordered to cover all American pictures in all books. We used the ripe fruit of "anunang" as glue. It was very effective and good smelling too.
I think glue and tapes are relatives. They serve similar purpose: to help things cling to one another. Metaphorically it is like love that binds the persons together.
Now both glues and tapes come commercially in various containers with different shapes, colors and usefulness. Some are very deceiving just like their human counterparts.
With the coming of tapes and glues, come also sealing waxes and the likes. The whole nation is in complete disarray like broken pieces of papers in danger of being blown away; like a roof with many holes. We can all serve as tapes and glues and sealing waxes to keep our country in better shape.
During the Japanese occupation, we, the pupils were ordered to cover all American pictures in all books. We used the ripe fruit of "anunang" as glue. It was very effective and good smelling too.
I think glue and tapes are relatives. They serve similar purpose: to help things cling to one another. Metaphorically it is like love that binds the persons together.
Now both glues and tapes come commercially in various containers with different shapes, colors and usefulness. Some are very deceiving just like their human counterparts.
With the coming of tapes and glues, come also sealing waxes and the likes. The whole nation is in complete disarray like broken pieces of papers in danger of being blown away; like a roof with many holes. We can all serve as tapes and glues and sealing waxes to keep our country in better shape.
Friday, September 14, 2007
Phone Secrets
Before the advent of the cell phones, the ordinary land line is the most commonly used. I remember one very interesting experience that happened that time. I phoned somebody in her office but she was out. The operator requested me to wait while she was checking about my inquiries. She hanged the phone and it took quite a while, so I heard all the dialogs going on in the office.
There seemed to be a problem around. I could hear the voice of an angry man and those of women trying to argue. None of them realized that someone was listening attentively to their troubles. It could have been avoided had the secretary been smart enough to have covered the mouthpiece of the telephone.But the damage was done already, and things like these went on everyday in so many offices and homes.
The next one I phone to was supposedly a reputable school. The person I needed must be a little far away as I heard the secretary shouting the name of the person I requested. It was not enough that she shouted as I could hear her jokingly cursing the other person who was a teacher of children in their formative stage of growth.
During the early days there was a subject called "Good Manners and Right Conduct" and during those days both teachers and students behaved better. Ows! now with the cell phone there are hundreds of other kinds of scandals.
There seemed to be a problem around. I could hear the voice of an angry man and those of women trying to argue. None of them realized that someone was listening attentively to their troubles. It could have been avoided had the secretary been smart enough to have covered the mouthpiece of the telephone.But the damage was done already, and things like these went on everyday in so many offices and homes.
The next one I phone to was supposedly a reputable school. The person I needed must be a little far away as I heard the secretary shouting the name of the person I requested. It was not enough that she shouted as I could hear her jokingly cursing the other person who was a teacher of children in their formative stage of growth.
During the early days there was a subject called "Good Manners and Right Conduct" and during those days both teachers and students behaved better. Ows! now with the cell phone there are hundreds of other kinds of scandals.
KEEP RIGHT
I learned how to drive a car. I learned it too late, when my reflexes were already sluggish, when my eyes were already defective, when other drivers have turned dare-devils and unmindful of the rules.
Though I knew the basic of driving, I was afraid to drive. If ever, I would always be driving according to the rules but if all the other drivers around me were driving recklessly, disorderly and carelessly, I would be bumped all together from all sides.
In Nigeria, Africa, driving was most difficult, for there were no traffic lights as there were no traffic policemen nor traffic rules.
I envy all good drivers. I should have learned how to drive when I was younger, but those were the days when there were few cars and we didn't have one. We were too poor to pay a driving school and I thought there was nothing more embarrassing than being caught "driving without a car". I pity even those good drivers who were abusive on the wheels, those who were daringly offensive, those who drive as if they were destined to the graves.
In the village where I used to live many families have as much cars as there were members of the family. But it is regrettable to note that many members of those families would still be living if they didn't have that many cars.
They say driving is simple and yet I cannot do it, though of course, there are things I can do that many others can't. I drive my own destiny.
Keeping right is the rule not only for drivers but also for everyone to follow in his trip to eternal life. Come to think of it, if we follow the rule KEEP RIGHT, we are following the Ten Commandments.
Though I knew the basic of driving, I was afraid to drive. If ever, I would always be driving according to the rules but if all the other drivers around me were driving recklessly, disorderly and carelessly, I would be bumped all together from all sides.
In Nigeria, Africa, driving was most difficult, for there were no traffic lights as there were no traffic policemen nor traffic rules.
I envy all good drivers. I should have learned how to drive when I was younger, but those were the days when there were few cars and we didn't have one. We were too poor to pay a driving school and I thought there was nothing more embarrassing than being caught "driving without a car". I pity even those good drivers who were abusive on the wheels, those who were daringly offensive, those who drive as if they were destined to the graves.
In the village where I used to live many families have as much cars as there were members of the family. But it is regrettable to note that many members of those families would still be living if they didn't have that many cars.
They say driving is simple and yet I cannot do it, though of course, there are things I can do that many others can't. I drive my own destiny.
Keeping right is the rule not only for drivers but also for everyone to follow in his trip to eternal life. Come to think of it, if we follow the rule KEEP RIGHT, we are following the Ten Commandments.
Thursday, September 13, 2007
JESUS' FACE
In the Chapel of the Holy Face of Hesus at Hidalgo, Quiapo, I chanced to attend a Mass for the Vowing Ceremonies of eight nuns. They all vowed for chastity, poverty and obedience. All of them looked so radiant in their light-blue-green habit topped with white hood. There was additional white veil like that of a bride.
I saw them all closely during the offering. They were all exhibiting a peaceful and serene smile. You could feel their inner joy and satisfaction. They all look so triumphant after making their vows. It must have taken them many days and night s of prayers, meditations, introspections to make a very important decision. It is heartwarming to know that there are still women like them whose vocation is to serve God through the people.
During this age of materialism it is martyrdom to enter the convent. Of course their vow is only for one year. This is probably the final test before they are eventually married to Christ spiritually. With their white veils held in place by white garland, they looked like choir of angels about to render a heavenly song.
During the homily, the officiating Bishop said: "You will not really see the Holy Face of Jesus until you look closely at all the faces of the people specially the very poor".
I saw them all closely during the offering. They were all exhibiting a peaceful and serene smile. You could feel their inner joy and satisfaction. They all look so triumphant after making their vows. It must have taken them many days and night s of prayers, meditations, introspections to make a very important decision. It is heartwarming to know that there are still women like them whose vocation is to serve God through the people.
During this age of materialism it is martyrdom to enter the convent. Of course their vow is only for one year. This is probably the final test before they are eventually married to Christ spiritually. With their white veils held in place by white garland, they looked like choir of angels about to render a heavenly song.
During the homily, the officiating Bishop said: "You will not really see the Holy Face of Jesus until you look closely at all the faces of the people specially the very poor".
CELEBRITIES
Celebrities are well known people. They are the luminaries, the V.I.P's. They are the people you want to meet or at least see closely. Considered as celebrities are politicians, entertainers, actors, actresses, singers, comedians, writers, TV personalities and popular people in sports specially basketball and boxing.
Having celebrities as patients in my clinic is something I can boast around. Once I attended to a veteran and award winning actress Tita Muñoz. I also had a chance to to treat Janice de Belen during her early days on TV. I have also as a patient, Consul to Bangkok as well as her father, a retired Judge.
Chito Blanco was a popular basketball player during his days in Ateneo. In 1981 I remember Cherry Valera, the Archer of the year that time and all the other Philippine Archers were under my care. I also attended to brothers Harmon and Jerry Cordiñera. the later belonged to Pure Foods Team who lately joined showbiz.
As patients they also have their own personal and family problems. Inside my clinic they ceased to be celebrities and I just felt very good doing them good.
Other celebrities who came my way were Alejandro Roces, Maria Montilibano, Loren Legarda, Jaime Licauco, Dr. Alfred Stetler, Rene Mariano, Felice Sta. Maria, Nick Enciso, General Fidel Ramos (later to become president of the Republic). I also had a chance to mingle with Gen. Eduardo Ermita, the late Rene Cayetano, Congressman Roilo Golez, Senator Manny Villar, Senator Bong Revilla, Rudy Fernandez and Lorna Tolentino. One time during one of my travels I had a chance to sit side-by-side with Diether Ocampo and Rica Peralejo as well as Piolo Pascual. Most of the celebrities I had been in contact with were also down-to-earth and very humane.
Lately my guests at jardin Gaudom were Ross Harper-Alonso, Ika Laurel and Juddha Paolo.
Having celebrities as patients in my clinic is something I can boast around. Once I attended to a veteran and award winning actress Tita Muñoz. I also had a chance to to treat Janice de Belen during her early days on TV. I have also as a patient, Consul to Bangkok as well as her father, a retired Judge.
Chito Blanco was a popular basketball player during his days in Ateneo. In 1981 I remember Cherry Valera, the Archer of the year that time and all the other Philippine Archers were under my care. I also attended to brothers Harmon and Jerry Cordiñera. the later belonged to Pure Foods Team who lately joined showbiz.
As patients they also have their own personal and family problems. Inside my clinic they ceased to be celebrities and I just felt very good doing them good.
Other celebrities who came my way were Alejandro Roces, Maria Montilibano, Loren Legarda, Jaime Licauco, Dr. Alfred Stetler, Rene Mariano, Felice Sta. Maria, Nick Enciso, General Fidel Ramos (later to become president of the Republic). I also had a chance to mingle with Gen. Eduardo Ermita, the late Rene Cayetano, Congressman Roilo Golez, Senator Manny Villar, Senator Bong Revilla, Rudy Fernandez and Lorna Tolentino. One time during one of my travels I had a chance to sit side-by-side with Diether Ocampo and Rica Peralejo as well as Piolo Pascual. Most of the celebrities I had been in contact with were also down-to-earth and very humane.
Lately my guests at jardin Gaudom were Ross Harper-Alonso, Ika Laurel and Juddha Paolo.
Wednesday, September 12, 2007
HANGER
I noticed one empty hanger hanging from a hook at the back of my clinic door. It is where I hang the gown that I use in attending to my patients. This particular hanger is made up of hard wire covered with small plastic tubing.
Some hangers are made of wood while others are made of plastic, some are strong, many are weak that they sometimes give way to the dresses hanged on them.
I remember those days when hangers were not yet popular. Those were the days when people use few sets of clothing. At most two pieces for daily use, one pair for Sunday and very special one for very special occasions. Hangers weren't needed then. Mothers fold the clothes after ironing them.
When hangers came around people found them useful. Dresses need not be folded. Hangers are space savers, so instead of a long line for drying clothes hangers are used.
Housewives and housemaids literally hang on hangers. Straightened hangers maybe used to loosen drainage; it could be a shield against a biting dog; it holds falling objects, all one has to do is shape it and twist it into different forms as needed. One pupil won a Christmas decor competition using hangers strategically formed to symbolize Christmas.
A businessman who was in a hurry one morning put on his coat with the hanger. He didn't notice it until at the social function that he attended there was a moment when everybody must look up to follow the loosened balloons. His nape was pricked badly by the sharp end of the naked hook. Moral: Don't allow the hanger to hang on you.
Some hangers are made of wood while others are made of plastic, some are strong, many are weak that they sometimes give way to the dresses hanged on them.
I remember those days when hangers were not yet popular. Those were the days when people use few sets of clothing. At most two pieces for daily use, one pair for Sunday and very special one for very special occasions. Hangers weren't needed then. Mothers fold the clothes after ironing them.
When hangers came around people found them useful. Dresses need not be folded. Hangers are space savers, so instead of a long line for drying clothes hangers are used.
Housewives and housemaids literally hang on hangers. Straightened hangers maybe used to loosen drainage; it could be a shield against a biting dog; it holds falling objects, all one has to do is shape it and twist it into different forms as needed. One pupil won a Christmas decor competition using hangers strategically formed to symbolize Christmas.
A businessman who was in a hurry one morning put on his coat with the hanger. He didn't notice it until at the social function that he attended there was a moment when everybody must look up to follow the loosened balloons. His nape was pricked badly by the sharp end of the naked hook. Moral: Don't allow the hanger to hang on you.
BEYOND TECHNOLOGY
A microscope is an instrument that magnifies minute objects or microorganisms not ordinarily visible to the naked eye. With the aid of a microscope, specially the electron microscope nothing too small cannot be studied and scrutinized. Even the viruses and the chemical compositions of anything available caan be studied under a microscope.
On the other hand, a telescope is an instrument that brings nearer, far, far away objects so that these objects could be studied in detail. Both instruments are helping to bring closer to the observer things that are not necessarily conceived by the natural senses.
As time pass-by improvements in technology are bringing man closer to all things from all directions just to find out later that there are more and more mysteries beyond all those directions. Very recently a super sophisticated telescope discovered a void in the outer space with a diameter billions of light years in size.
As the mind of man expands further and further away he realizes that he is not getting any closer to what he is looking for. When man can no longer comprehend what is beyond, he is convinced of eternity, the endlessness of everything. It is only then that man is convinced of the existence of an all powerful God, the totality of this incomprehensible eternity. God is forever beyond technology.
On the other hand, a telescope is an instrument that brings nearer, far, far away objects so that these objects could be studied in detail. Both instruments are helping to bring closer to the observer things that are not necessarily conceived by the natural senses.
As time pass-by improvements in technology are bringing man closer to all things from all directions just to find out later that there are more and more mysteries beyond all those directions. Very recently a super sophisticated telescope discovered a void in the outer space with a diameter billions of light years in size.
As the mind of man expands further and further away he realizes that he is not getting any closer to what he is looking for. When man can no longer comprehend what is beyond, he is convinced of eternity, the endlessness of everything. It is only then that man is convinced of the existence of an all powerful God, the totality of this incomprehensible eternity. God is forever beyond technology.
Monday, September 10, 2007
THE WINNER
One night, long ago, I had a chance to go to the Casino in Tagaytay City. Like other Casinos that I have seen in the movies there were many gambling tables, slot machines and other technologically sophisticated gambling boxes.
There were many people. Rich-looking matrons and aging men who must all be very lonely in their own dwelling places that they go to the casino to gamble for a little happiness. They usually go home empty-handed and even lonelier, so they return and double their root money.
I wasn't tempted to try any of the games. I just watched, not necessarily the games they were playing but the people playing them. Our companion won Php 780.00 in Black Jack. He treated us for dinner at Taal Vista Hotel. It was an enjoyable experience being my first time to enter a casino and to be rubbing elbows and shoulders with the rich influential even for just a brief time.
Externally it is really tempting to be rich. Money says a lot externally. Externally, money truly glitters. Unfortunately or fortunately the inside of the person matters more than his external appearances. One with internal treasure is always the winner.
There were many people. Rich-looking matrons and aging men who must all be very lonely in their own dwelling places that they go to the casino to gamble for a little happiness. They usually go home empty-handed and even lonelier, so they return and double their root money.
I wasn't tempted to try any of the games. I just watched, not necessarily the games they were playing but the people playing them. Our companion won Php 780.00 in Black Jack. He treated us for dinner at Taal Vista Hotel. It was an enjoyable experience being my first time to enter a casino and to be rubbing elbows and shoulders with the rich influential even for just a brief time.
Externally it is really tempting to be rich. Money says a lot externally. Externally, money truly glitters. Unfortunately or fortunately the inside of the person matters more than his external appearances. One with internal treasure is always the winner.
Balikbayan, one more time
Filipino travelers, the Balikbayans and the 'Pabalik-baliks' are a funny group. You will see them in airports anywhere around the world with their heavy hand carries. Yes, the 'pasalubongs'. Coming from abroad they bring home everything. The left overs, the hand-me-downs, the second hands which they distribute to their relatives and friends upon arrival.
The relatives and friends, in turn, offer them welcome parties left and right and prepare local delicacies and locally made materials for them to bring back home. This time they carry everything, from a piece of wooden curving to a metal marble "almeres". They buy cheap house dresses and other cheap what-have-yous, which ordinarily are taken for granted by permanently staying Filipinos.
They of course laugh at themselves and at being Filipinos. When properly encouraged they start confessing the "honest" truth. How difficult actually life in the state is, how hard they also have to work there, how they secretly wish they could spend more vacations in the Philippines.
Anyway, every time they come to the Philippines for a visit they can always manage to present a happy face and project a seemingly happy life. Happiness is home.
The relatives and friends, in turn, offer them welcome parties left and right and prepare local delicacies and locally made materials for them to bring back home. This time they carry everything, from a piece of wooden curving to a metal marble "almeres". They buy cheap house dresses and other cheap what-have-yous, which ordinarily are taken for granted by permanently staying Filipinos.
They of course laugh at themselves and at being Filipinos. When properly encouraged they start confessing the "honest" truth. How difficult actually life in the state is, how hard they also have to work there, how they secretly wish they could spend more vacations in the Philippines.
Anyway, every time they come to the Philippines for a visit they can always manage to present a happy face and project a seemingly happy life. Happiness is home.
MENTALISM
Atom is supposed to be the smallest particle, yet no matter how small, it is so spacious inside as to allow protons, neutrons and electrons to play inside. From a combination and congregation of atoms are made particles of matter that eventually give form to all that our senses could perceive.
Sometimes during my meditations I can feel that the universe we know is only one divine atom, the smallest unit of God's greatness, and that God actually is made up of a combination and congregation of these divine atoms so incomprehensible by the human mind it could only be understood spiritually and eternally by the spiritual and eternal mind of man.
That the mind exists is non-arguable, yet the mind is not made up of atoms or anything material. God is therefore perceived by the mind because God, indeed is non-material.
Since the mind is not made up of parts it must have been existing ever since with God, and like God can never die. That is why the mind is powerful. It is part of God, its power belongs to God, it is everywhere like God because at all time it is with God.
Our bodies are temporary vessels that houses the material aspect of our being under the guidance of the mind, which connects us all and unites us all with God.
Sometimes during my meditations I can feel that the universe we know is only one divine atom, the smallest unit of God's greatness, and that God actually is made up of a combination and congregation of these divine atoms so incomprehensible by the human mind it could only be understood spiritually and eternally by the spiritual and eternal mind of man.
That the mind exists is non-arguable, yet the mind is not made up of atoms or anything material. God is therefore perceived by the mind because God, indeed is non-material.
Since the mind is not made up of parts it must have been existing ever since with God, and like God can never die. That is why the mind is powerful. It is part of God, its power belongs to God, it is everywhere like God because at all time it is with God.
Our bodies are temporary vessels that houses the material aspect of our being under the guidance of the mind, which connects us all and unites us all with God.
Sunday, September 9, 2007
R I N G S
Rings are circular objects worn around the fingers. They have different significance as there are different shapes and styles. They are also made up of different materials usually precious ones like gold or silver adorned with shiny expensive stones or symbolic figures.
The Pope's ring signifies authority and power handed from God to His earthly representative. A wedding ring is a symbol of continuity in relationship. Engagement ring means commitment, graduation ring is a mark of one's profession or calling.
A ring could also be a status symbol like the 24-karat gold ring worn by Middle East workers or the diamond-studded ring common among the rich and influential. There are uniform rings worn by members of an organization and there are rings adorned with miniature watches or rings serving as one decade of the Holy Rosary.
Some women fill their fingers with rings and they very seldom look good that way unless they are acting in a play. Some men do the same, thus exhibiting their insecurities in life.
I own a few rings that I wear on different occasions. My wedding ring, which I wear regularly, my college ring that I occasionally exchange with my "gulugod-pagong", a diamond-studded one gifted to me by my thoughtful wife. Lately I gave it to my daughter in exchange with "lapiz lasuli" that I am now wearing daily.
Without a ring a feel very empty. With it I feel the balance with the ring on one hand and the watch on the other. I ring gives me confidence.
The Pope's ring signifies authority and power handed from God to His earthly representative. A wedding ring is a symbol of continuity in relationship. Engagement ring means commitment, graduation ring is a mark of one's profession or calling.
A ring could also be a status symbol like the 24-karat gold ring worn by Middle East workers or the diamond-studded ring common among the rich and influential. There are uniform rings worn by members of an organization and there are rings adorned with miniature watches or rings serving as one decade of the Holy Rosary.
Some women fill their fingers with rings and they very seldom look good that way unless they are acting in a play. Some men do the same, thus exhibiting their insecurities in life.
I own a few rings that I wear on different occasions. My wedding ring, which I wear regularly, my college ring that I occasionally exchange with my "gulugod-pagong", a diamond-studded one gifted to me by my thoughtful wife. Lately I gave it to my daughter in exchange with "lapiz lasuli" that I am now wearing daily.
Without a ring a feel very empty. With it I feel the balance with the ring on one hand and the watch on the other. I ring gives me confidence.
STRANGE GOD
Fortune-telling is a kind of superstition. The Roman Catholic Church does not allow it because believing in fortune-telling is like believing in a "strange god". But even some priests enjoy palm reading and some other sort of foretelling the future.
When I was young someone read my fortune even without me requesting for it, and what a reading it was. He told me to avoid courting a girl whose name begins with A or M. I happened to be in love with someone whose first two letters of her name were AM. I was told to look instead for someone whose name begins with S or P and yes I knew someone whose first name begins with S and the family name begins with P. She was supposed to be my lucky partner but she later became insane.
The fortune-teller also told me that my first child would die and then after the birth of my second child the mother, my wife, would die. I didn't give much attention to that until I got married and was reminded of it when my second child was about to be born. What if my first child die suddenly just before the birth of the second child and what if my wife dies after delivering my second child?
The unsolicited fortune reading really haunted me although I claimed not to believe. When my wife delivered my second child and no one died I knew the reading wasn't true. Now I have five children all very healthy with their own families and children. My wife is simply so strong she could live up to a hundred years. "Thou shall not have strange gods before Me".
When I was young someone read my fortune even without me requesting for it, and what a reading it was. He told me to avoid courting a girl whose name begins with A or M. I happened to be in love with someone whose first two letters of her name were AM. I was told to look instead for someone whose name begins with S or P and yes I knew someone whose first name begins with S and the family name begins with P. She was supposed to be my lucky partner but she later became insane.
The fortune-teller also told me that my first child would die and then after the birth of my second child the mother, my wife, would die. I didn't give much attention to that until I got married and was reminded of it when my second child was about to be born. What if my first child die suddenly just before the birth of the second child and what if my wife dies after delivering my second child?
The unsolicited fortune reading really haunted me although I claimed not to believe. When my wife delivered my second child and no one died I knew the reading wasn't true. Now I have five children all very healthy with their own families and children. My wife is simply so strong she could live up to a hundred years. "Thou shall not have strange gods before Me".
Thursday, September 6, 2007
SYMPTOMS
Loose Bowel Movement (LBM) is one of the most disturbing symptoms experienced by a person. It usually starts with a vague internal spasm that quickly becomes more severe that necessitates bowel movement.
The symptom can start anytime, anywhere, whether inside a bus or an elevator; it also occurs in the midst of a conference or while walking in a parade. It sometimes give rise to some embarrassment.
Nature has a way of protecting a person. This is brought about through the appearance of different bodily symptoms. Like a tired leg is an invitation to rest; epigastric pain is a request for food and dry throat is asking for water.
Some symptoms are mild while others are more intense; some come too early while there are those that appear late. Cancer can spread and do much damage because the pain that goes with it comes only in the later stage when it is already widespread.
A headache can be very confusing because painkiller or a good rest can easily relieves it. Intestinal spasm is the most dangerous because it is the most unpredictable and the most difficult to control once it is there. LBM is untidy, unhygienic. It is degrading, disrupting and humiliating sometimes. But afterwards it leaves behind a slim figure and a very great feeling of relief. Fat women wish they would experience LBM every now and then.
The symptom can start anytime, anywhere, whether inside a bus or an elevator; it also occurs in the midst of a conference or while walking in a parade. It sometimes give rise to some embarrassment.
Nature has a way of protecting a person. This is brought about through the appearance of different bodily symptoms. Like a tired leg is an invitation to rest; epigastric pain is a request for food and dry throat is asking for water.
Some symptoms are mild while others are more intense; some come too early while there are those that appear late. Cancer can spread and do much damage because the pain that goes with it comes only in the later stage when it is already widespread.
A headache can be very confusing because painkiller or a good rest can easily relieves it. Intestinal spasm is the most dangerous because it is the most unpredictable and the most difficult to control once it is there. LBM is untidy, unhygienic. It is degrading, disrupting and humiliating sometimes. But afterwards it leaves behind a slim figure and a very great feeling of relief. Fat women wish they would experience LBM every now and then.
Wednesday, September 5, 2007
SILENCE AND PATIENCE
I accidentally happen to go shopping with a couple of Balikbayans who requested my wife to accompany them. It was a very tiresome affair that took up all of one day.
First we went to the condominium unit of a Chinese importer where there were files and files of imported clothing. The lady Balikbayan was so meticulous and choosy, as she was also very talkative. She communicates and says something about every item that touches her hands. She kept on counting and exchanging every piece of cloth before deciding which one to buy.
Then we moved to the residential house of another importer where we were shown many women's dresses. The same Balikbayan was not satisfied in just scrutinizing every style but she decided to fit each piece to herself. After many hours of picking, fitting, throwing and exchanging she finally decided on several items. I thought that was the end but it took her more time to compute and re-compute the total then compute and re-compute again the peso-dollar exchange rate.
When her husband and I were finally about to give out a sigh of relief she started pondering on some baby dresses that attracted her fancy but couldn't decide as she didn't know whom to give those dresses. So she began thinking of everybody's daughter to whom such dress would fit. She even requested her husband to help her think. The husband who was visibly irritated just patiently kept very quiet.
The husband taught me a lesson on patience and silence as secret tools to keep a long marital relationship.
First we went to the condominium unit of a Chinese importer where there were files and files of imported clothing. The lady Balikbayan was so meticulous and choosy, as she was also very talkative. She communicates and says something about every item that touches her hands. She kept on counting and exchanging every piece of cloth before deciding which one to buy.
Then we moved to the residential house of another importer where we were shown many women's dresses. The same Balikbayan was not satisfied in just scrutinizing every style but she decided to fit each piece to herself. After many hours of picking, fitting, throwing and exchanging she finally decided on several items. I thought that was the end but it took her more time to compute and re-compute the total then compute and re-compute again the peso-dollar exchange rate.
When her husband and I were finally about to give out a sigh of relief she started pondering on some baby dresses that attracted her fancy but couldn't decide as she didn't know whom to give those dresses. So she began thinking of everybody's daughter to whom such dress would fit. She even requested her husband to help her think. The husband who was visibly irritated just patiently kept very quiet.
The husband taught me a lesson on patience and silence as secret tools to keep a long marital relationship.
Tuesday, September 4, 2007
INTRIGUE
Intrigue is a good destroyer. It destroys friendship and sometimes life itself. A person with inner fear and insecurity usually cause it. Creating intrigue is this person's only source of enjoyment. It is the only thing that makes him/her happy.
However, while it makes the intrigue-maker happy, it also brings about a lot of problems to persons involve, thus resulting to various troubles that can sometimes be so complicated and irreversible.
An intrigue usually starts as a whisper to one ear that comes out later louder through the mouth that eventually ends up in a confusing loud shout that disturbs many concerned individuals.
Many members of the same family are not in speaking terms with each other due to intrigues. Clans indulge in war due to intrigues. The damages and lack of progress that accompany every intrigue cannot be denied.
But I learned one thing. In a small community the worst intrigue if disregarded by those concerned can last only for about three weeks. After that, no one is interested in discussing it as usually there are new intrigues, which are more interesting to ponder on. But a finally intrigue can last for generations because a heavy heart could be transmitted to the psyche of th offspring and they not only carry but often magnify the original cause. Avoid it.
However, while it makes the intrigue-maker happy, it also brings about a lot of problems to persons involve, thus resulting to various troubles that can sometimes be so complicated and irreversible.
An intrigue usually starts as a whisper to one ear that comes out later louder through the mouth that eventually ends up in a confusing loud shout that disturbs many concerned individuals.
Many members of the same family are not in speaking terms with each other due to intrigues. Clans indulge in war due to intrigues. The damages and lack of progress that accompany every intrigue cannot be denied.
But I learned one thing. In a small community the worst intrigue if disregarded by those concerned can last only for about three weeks. After that, no one is interested in discussing it as usually there are new intrigues, which are more interesting to ponder on. But a finally intrigue can last for generations because a heavy heart could be transmitted to the psyche of th offspring and they not only carry but often magnify the original cause. Avoid it.
Homecoming
Bienvenida Party! Welcome and Mabuhay! It had been a long time since we last met. How was everything? Fine! Ok! But of course...there were so many Balikbayans in town last May and there were welcome parties left and right. Recollection of the by-gone days. Comparing notes.
This was the flavor of the month. Very Filipino. An extension of Fiesta Mentality. As usual the Balikbayans bragged about their lives in the greener Pasteur and more often the welcoming friends or relatives felt envious secretly wishing to be where the Balikbayan came from. Though deep in the heart of the honoree was an endless repentance for having left the country.
There were those who really made it good abroad but they were not so many and their hearts were also longing for home. In spite of the negative events happening, in spite of all the natural calamities, in spite of poverty and lack of order, there was no place like home.
A typical Filipino Home was warm and hospitable. It was beaming with love and care. It was kind and protective. It was like the mother's womb and going back home was like returning to the womb where one can feel so secure and carefree.
That was why the Balikbayans were contented. At home they felt triumphant and needed. They have that sense of fulfillment and power. Their egos were bloated and they felt floating on clouds after eating all the native delicacies again. After seeing all the beautiful spots they went back to their "greener Pasteur" with air of greatness, for who, after all, shall treat them like heroes but their own abandoned friends and relatives. The "Brain Stay" who kept the country alive.
This was the flavor of the month. Very Filipino. An extension of Fiesta Mentality. As usual the Balikbayans bragged about their lives in the greener Pasteur and more often the welcoming friends or relatives felt envious secretly wishing to be where the Balikbayan came from. Though deep in the heart of the honoree was an endless repentance for having left the country.
There were those who really made it good abroad but they were not so many and their hearts were also longing for home. In spite of the negative events happening, in spite of all the natural calamities, in spite of poverty and lack of order, there was no place like home.
A typical Filipino Home was warm and hospitable. It was beaming with love and care. It was kind and protective. It was like the mother's womb and going back home was like returning to the womb where one can feel so secure and carefree.
That was why the Balikbayans were contented. At home they felt triumphant and needed. They have that sense of fulfillment and power. Their egos were bloated and they felt floating on clouds after eating all the native delicacies again. After seeing all the beautiful spots they went back to their "greener Pasteur" with air of greatness, for who, after all, shall treat them like heroes but their own abandoned friends and relatives. The "Brain Stay" who kept the country alive.
Monday, September 3, 2007
g e n e t i c s
Inborn traits are traits inherited. They are traits genetically transmitted from the parents to the offspring. No one can choose his inherited traits, they just come out with him when he is born and they make up one third of his life.
His environment provides the other third and the last third is given off by education. As such, where one lives and studies count so much in the realization of his total personality. Active rolls played by the three factors that guide his growth and development decides the fullness of a person.
While it is no longer possible to choose one's parents after birth, these parents are usually the ones responsible for the lives of their children. Very unlucky indeed are children born with bad traits running in their genes. Good parents must try their bests to offset those bad traits by giving their children a good education and exposing them to a good environment. But the parents who themselves are victims of unwanted traits cannot always do the right thing as they are slaves of their own inherited traits. They just watch their children grow as they are.
As the children are transformed to adulthood they begin to feel their needs and find ways to fulfill them. So they enroll to different improvement courses and expose themselves to people they like with hopes of realizing their own dreams. But behind them is always tagging those inherited traits that keep them unique and different from others.
His environment provides the other third and the last third is given off by education. As such, where one lives and studies count so much in the realization of his total personality. Active rolls played by the three factors that guide his growth and development decides the fullness of a person.
While it is no longer possible to choose one's parents after birth, these parents are usually the ones responsible for the lives of their children. Very unlucky indeed are children born with bad traits running in their genes. Good parents must try their bests to offset those bad traits by giving their children a good education and exposing them to a good environment. But the parents who themselves are victims of unwanted traits cannot always do the right thing as they are slaves of their own inherited traits. They just watch their children grow as they are.
As the children are transformed to adulthood they begin to feel their needs and find ways to fulfill them. So they enroll to different improvement courses and expose themselves to people they like with hopes of realizing their own dreams. But behind them is always tagging those inherited traits that keep them unique and different from others.
Sunday, September 2, 2007
BALIKBAYAN
"Balikbayans" are homecoming Filipinos from different places abroad. Different "Balikbayans" show different mannerisms that give themselves out. There are those who brag so much about their many activities from where they came from, not knowing how eloquently he airs his true insecurities.
There are those who suddenly forget their native tongue and starts speaking slang English thinking that they are sounding great that way. There are those with many "pasalubongs" forgetting to remove the "sale" and "reject" tags. Some go to the extent of explaining the details of every place they visited, trying to empress their listeners, who usually "swim along" with them out of kindness and sympathy to help them boast their declining egos.
I like "Balikbayans" who are truthful; those who repent for leaving their country; those who still enjoy the regular Filipino meals; those who give advises not to follow what they did; those who truly feel lonely, homesick and lovesick, for they are so real, so genuine, so down-to-earth, so Filipino that you will feel like embracing them and welcoming them home.
If those who are abroad think we who are left behind do not know what they are experiencing there, better stay where they are. They help 'decongest' the country with their likes.
There are those who suddenly forget their native tongue and starts speaking slang English thinking that they are sounding great that way. There are those with many "pasalubongs" forgetting to remove the "sale" and "reject" tags. Some go to the extent of explaining the details of every place they visited, trying to empress their listeners, who usually "swim along" with them out of kindness and sympathy to help them boast their declining egos.
I like "Balikbayans" who are truthful; those who repent for leaving their country; those who still enjoy the regular Filipino meals; those who give advises not to follow what they did; those who truly feel lonely, homesick and lovesick, for they are so real, so genuine, so down-to-earth, so Filipino that you will feel like embracing them and welcoming them home.
If those who are abroad think we who are left behind do not know what they are experiencing there, better stay where they are. They help 'decongest' the country with their likes.
Fiesta
Fiesta is one of the good Filipino traditions. It is one of the many religious motivations used by the Spaniards during Christianization time to encourage people to go to church. It is so effective that after 400 years it is still around gathering people not necessarily to the church but to different houses. Some say it is economically destructive and many Filipinos are hooked to it to the point of bankruptcy.
We attended one Fiesta one time at the nearby town, together with a teacher friend and her French boyfriend. I humorously tried to shock the Frenchman culturally by telling him that we were to visit 12 houses and that in all he was expected to eat full meal or else his host would feel insulted. First he took it as a joke but after visiting three houses and eating full meals in them he requested me to forgo the remaining houses that we scheduled to visit. He must have enjoyed the experience although it was the simplest fiesta celebration without even a fair, the colorful arks and street buntings or the marching brass bands.
The spirit was still alive. Barrio folks were coming to town to pay homage to the patron saint. The church was full the the rafters with the noises of the vendors outside merging with the homily and the prayers inside.
Fiesta is the Filipino "broad spectrum antibiotic" to all kinds of ailments. A Filipino is always happy and alive during Fiesta days.
We attended one Fiesta one time at the nearby town, together with a teacher friend and her French boyfriend. I humorously tried to shock the Frenchman culturally by telling him that we were to visit 12 houses and that in all he was expected to eat full meal or else his host would feel insulted. First he took it as a joke but after visiting three houses and eating full meals in them he requested me to forgo the remaining houses that we scheduled to visit. He must have enjoyed the experience although it was the simplest fiesta celebration without even a fair, the colorful arks and street buntings or the marching brass bands.
The spirit was still alive. Barrio folks were coming to town to pay homage to the patron saint. The church was full the the rafters with the noises of the vendors outside merging with the homily and the prayers inside.
Fiesta is the Filipino "broad spectrum antibiotic" to all kinds of ailments. A Filipino is always happy and alive during Fiesta days.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
