There are times when I entertain a little self-pity because I didn't learn how to drive a car. Nowadays everybody seems to know how to drive a car and usually has a car of his own.
I sink a bit every time I go around for whatever purpose with a woman on the wheels. When I was young/old enough to learn how to drive, our family didn't have a car which I could use for practice driving. I didn't have the guts either to use the car of other people.
Furthermore, even if I learned how to drive I would have find it difficult to go places because I have that peculiar sense of disorientation about directions. Just a turn from a corner and I am completely lost.
Even in the province where I was born I am wondering why there are some places where my sense of direction is completely distorted and I cannot, no matter how much I try, put it in order.
I find it difficult to work away or far from where I live for in fact, even where I live, my sense of direction is completely opposite. What is south is north and what is east is west. Thanks God, my sense of down and up are still correct.
Monday, October 29, 2007
AN OPPORTUNITY
I had another chance to demonstrate my knowledge about hypnosis to a group of doctors together with some German citizens. It is a different feeling to be able to impart one's knowledge to one's colleagues, yes, I honestly learned all I knew about hypnosis through self-study.
The teacher in me is always trying to find an outlet for expression and whenever I have a chance I always jump at the opportunity for it always gives me a great and enormous sense of achievement.
It is not everyday that I have a chance to lecture to a group of doctors, though almost everyday I am able to share a little of myself to someone who needs enlightenment. Some enterprising persons can transform this chance into an earning process. They conduct a paid seminar by sharing a bit of what they know. In my case I always do it for free.
"They say that gratitude is the memory of the heart, and I have enough memories in my heart to last a lifetime". - William Kennedy Smith
The teacher in me is always trying to find an outlet for expression and whenever I have a chance I always jump at the opportunity for it always gives me a great and enormous sense of achievement.
It is not everyday that I have a chance to lecture to a group of doctors, though almost everyday I am able to share a little of myself to someone who needs enlightenment. Some enterprising persons can transform this chance into an earning process. They conduct a paid seminar by sharing a bit of what they know. In my case I always do it for free.
"They say that gratitude is the memory of the heart, and I have enough memories in my heart to last a lifetime". - William Kennedy Smith
Wednesday, October 24, 2007
NEGATIVISM
A lady Bank Manger approached me one time looking haggard and a bit depressed.She was so worried about her eye bags, which I wouldn't have noticed had she not reminded me about them.She thought they were symptoms of liver disease because she heard it mentioned in one radio program.
As a result of that negative thought she wouldn't be able to concentrate well on whatever she was doing, and if ever she did anything it was done poorly and lazily.
I explained to her that it was nothing but result of a disturbed sleep. The disturbed sleep was in turn a result of worries and negativism. She could easily see things negative or the darker side of anything.
I taught her how to practice positive conversion until her mind gets conditioned to it that sooner her attitude would be more positive and brighter. I saw how her face lighted after I gave her some easy examples.With a smile she went back to her office no longer conscious of her eye bags. Her subordinates noticed her new positive aura.
As a result of that negative thought she wouldn't be able to concentrate well on whatever she was doing, and if ever she did anything it was done poorly and lazily.
I explained to her that it was nothing but result of a disturbed sleep. The disturbed sleep was in turn a result of worries and negativism. She could easily see things negative or the darker side of anything.
I taught her how to practice positive conversion until her mind gets conditioned to it that sooner her attitude would be more positive and brighter. I saw how her face lighted after I gave her some easy examples.With a smile she went back to her office no longer conscious of her eye bags. Her subordinates noticed her new positive aura.
FEELING SICK
Mind power can be truly boggling as shown by the patient who consulted me one morning. He was complaining of clogged nose, sore throat, coughing episodes, hemorrhoids, small penis, not fully descended testes. His complaints are not uncommon but his attitude was the one that really counts. He felt very sick.
He believe he couldn't be relieve by any medications. He believed his penis was too small in circumference and too short in size and that his pubic hair was so thin. He thought the people are laughing at him.
He said he had spend a lot for medications but he felt that even the vitamins didn't do him any good. I suggested that he undergo hypnosis so I could persuade him to realize and discover his true assets.
Patients like him are many. I think they consist about 85% of patients seeking doctor's advice. They are the ones who really needed hypnotherapy but the irony of it is that instead of going to a Hypnotherapist they'd rather shop for doctors which unfortunately cannot cure them. The few who accidentally met my way were luckier. They sometimes get rid of their symptoms in one or two sessions. Speaking of this patient, it took me long to convince him to undergo hypnotherapy and now he is my most grateful patient.
He believe he couldn't be relieve by any medications. He believed his penis was too small in circumference and too short in size and that his pubic hair was so thin. He thought the people are laughing at him.
He said he had spend a lot for medications but he felt that even the vitamins didn't do him any good. I suggested that he undergo hypnosis so I could persuade him to realize and discover his true assets.
Patients like him are many. I think they consist about 85% of patients seeking doctor's advice. They are the ones who really needed hypnotherapy but the irony of it is that instead of going to a Hypnotherapist they'd rather shop for doctors which unfortunately cannot cure them. The few who accidentally met my way were luckier. They sometimes get rid of their symptoms in one or two sessions. Speaking of this patient, it took me long to convince him to undergo hypnotherapy and now he is my most grateful patient.
Friday, October 19, 2007
METAPHYSICS
One morning I woke up early, fixed myself at once in preparation for my early visit to my ophthalmologist.
I called my secretary in the office to find out if anybody requested for an appointment. It was good that there was none for then I said I could easily join my wife and my children on their way out so I could quickly go for an eye check up.
A 'kumpadre' called up to inform me that his brother was coming early, bringing with him some important documents we needed to close a sale of a lot along Tagaytay ridge. So, when my family left I stayed at home to wait for him. Meantime while waiting I read "Man and Metaphysics" by Donald H. Yett. It was all about the cosmic power and the cosmic consciousness.
I didn't expect to read important ideas I have been entertaining a long time ago as a great possibility, in fact already a reality, like the idea that our universe is merely an atom in the structure of the unlimited body of the absolute (God). When we say God is everywhere it is because the whole universe is God. God is limitless because the universe is limitless. And many other ideas so deep and so overwhelming that the ordinary mortal will find very difficult to comprehend. The book somehow absorbed me and of course the man I was waiting for never came. If that was cosmic order, who am I to question?
I called my secretary in the office to find out if anybody requested for an appointment. It was good that there was none for then I said I could easily join my wife and my children on their way out so I could quickly go for an eye check up.
A 'kumpadre' called up to inform me that his brother was coming early, bringing with him some important documents we needed to close a sale of a lot along Tagaytay ridge. So, when my family left I stayed at home to wait for him. Meantime while waiting I read "Man and Metaphysics" by Donald H. Yett. It was all about the cosmic power and the cosmic consciousness.
I didn't expect to read important ideas I have been entertaining a long time ago as a great possibility, in fact already a reality, like the idea that our universe is merely an atom in the structure of the unlimited body of the absolute (God). When we say God is everywhere it is because the whole universe is God. God is limitless because the universe is limitless. And many other ideas so deep and so overwhelming that the ordinary mortal will find very difficult to comprehend. The book somehow absorbed me and of course the man I was waiting for never came. If that was cosmic order, who am I to question?
THE ROSARY
Like in any other Catholic communities, the Feast of the Holy Rosary is celebrated also during the month of October in our town. It is Mother Mary's favorite Festival, the Rosary being her precious garland of prayer.
Regardless of what other believers claim, we cannot deny the fact that Mary is the Mother of Jesus because even as man, Jesus never for a moment loss His Divinity. Mary was conceived without sin that is why she is "blessed among women" for if not how could she conceive God in her womb.
Mary's intercession is very important, likewise her intervention in our affairs. God cannot deny Mary's request as proven during the wedding at Cane. Jesus wasn't yet ready to perform a public miracle but when Mary "requested" He quickly transform water into wine. In exchange to her continuous intercession in our behalf, all that she request is for us to pray the Holy Rosary. The Rosary makes her very happy.
For several occasions Jesus called Mary, woman. First, when He was lost in the temple; second, during the wedding at Cana; and third during the crucifixion, just before He died. "Woman, behold your son", "Son, behold your mother". Ever since, Mary became our mother. She became responsible for us but we must also do our duty and responsibility to her.
On top of all goodness, graces and care, she asks nothing in return but a garland of prayer... The Rosary.
Regardless of what other believers claim, we cannot deny the fact that Mary is the Mother of Jesus because even as man, Jesus never for a moment loss His Divinity. Mary was conceived without sin that is why she is "blessed among women" for if not how could she conceive God in her womb.
Mary's intercession is very important, likewise her intervention in our affairs. God cannot deny Mary's request as proven during the wedding at Cane. Jesus wasn't yet ready to perform a public miracle but when Mary "requested" He quickly transform water into wine. In exchange to her continuous intercession in our behalf, all that she request is for us to pray the Holy Rosary. The Rosary makes her very happy.
For several occasions Jesus called Mary, woman. First, when He was lost in the temple; second, during the wedding at Cana; and third during the crucifixion, just before He died. "Woman, behold your son", "Son, behold your mother". Ever since, Mary became our mother. She became responsible for us but we must also do our duty and responsibility to her.
On top of all goodness, graces and care, she asks nothing in return but a garland of prayer... The Rosary.
Thursday, October 18, 2007
ORPHANS
I have been observing them for several Sundays... a mother and her two sons. The father died several years ago and they are not rich. Whatever they are earning is possibly the little pension that the wife is receiving monthly.
The elder son is a bit stout and dignified looking. He is around 16 to 17 years old. The younger son who must be around 13 0 14 years old is thin in stature but very jolly. He is always kidding his 'kuya'. They are both handsome and neat.
The brothers alternate as 'lectors' for the Sunday mass. The mother sometimes participates in the readings and at times joins the choir. They are all very religious and contentment is clearly marked on their faces. I was deeply touched when I once saw the sons fix their mother's dress from behind.
It is very seldom that we see families like them... happy and enjoying peace of mind. Other families of their fate would have been indulging in self-pity and all negative behaviors, but this family is uniquely different. I am not embarrassed to admit that I envy them somehow though they are not rich and influential. Their happy disposition and proper religious involvement is truly commendable. To see orphans behaving the way they do is relieving. It is proof that this world is not after all, going to the dogs... no, not yet.
The elder son is a bit stout and dignified looking. He is around 16 to 17 years old. The younger son who must be around 13 0 14 years old is thin in stature but very jolly. He is always kidding his 'kuya'. They are both handsome and neat.
The brothers alternate as 'lectors' for the Sunday mass. The mother sometimes participates in the readings and at times joins the choir. They are all very religious and contentment is clearly marked on their faces. I was deeply touched when I once saw the sons fix their mother's dress from behind.
It is very seldom that we see families like them... happy and enjoying peace of mind. Other families of their fate would have been indulging in self-pity and all negative behaviors, but this family is uniquely different. I am not embarrassed to admit that I envy them somehow though they are not rich and influential. Their happy disposition and proper religious involvement is truly commendable. To see orphans behaving the way they do is relieving. It is proof that this world is not after all, going to the dogs... no, not yet.
DREAM RECALL
Recalling a dream is not always easy. This morning when I woke up I was reminded of a very interesting dream which I promised myself to record in writing after breakfast. It is now after breakfast that I am writing this and as I try to reconstruct my dream I found out that I am looking at a blank memory.
Now it is appearing piece by piece. I ate at a certain restaurant with some friends, two of them were "balding" like me. I remember that I paid quite too much for what I ate but a lot of money was still left in my pocket.
Then with the same friends I went to see a kind of concert and we were already at the hall waiting for the performance when we realized that the performers were not yet ready. I went back to my house to fetch my wife and my eldest daughter who at that time were still sleeping.
So, I found myself in a balcony of "our house" which was not in anyway similar to our real house. I saw some performers (the church choir) coming to do a rehearsal with me. Finally when all was ready for the beginning of the show I woke up.
Dreams are wish fulfillment. True indeed, I am missing those chats with peers in a restaurant. I am missing too, those cultural and variety shows that I used to see with my friends. Yes, I miss rehearsals of presentations where I usually direct and sometimes be a part of the show. My love for things beautiful, the arts, the cultural heritages are all trying to jump out from my mind.
Now it is appearing piece by piece. I ate at a certain restaurant with some friends, two of them were "balding" like me. I remember that I paid quite too much for what I ate but a lot of money was still left in my pocket.
Then with the same friends I went to see a kind of concert and we were already at the hall waiting for the performance when we realized that the performers were not yet ready. I went back to my house to fetch my wife and my eldest daughter who at that time were still sleeping.
So, I found myself in a balcony of "our house" which was not in anyway similar to our real house. I saw some performers (the church choir) coming to do a rehearsal with me. Finally when all was ready for the beginning of the show I woke up.
Dreams are wish fulfillment. True indeed, I am missing those chats with peers in a restaurant. I am missing too, those cultural and variety shows that I used to see with my friends. Yes, I miss rehearsals of presentations where I usually direct and sometimes be a part of the show. My love for things beautiful, the arts, the cultural heritages are all trying to jump out from my mind.
Wednesday, October 17, 2007
SEXOLOGY
Sex Therapist, Dr. Margarita Holmes' books on Life, Love, Lust, Pleasure, Passion, etc., are both enlightening and stimulating. She approaches sex problems in a very straight-forward and down-to-earth manner. She lays a dividing line between the physical, the psychological and the moral in such a way that her materials turn out to be very controversial.
She explained sexual needs as just another primitive urge very similar to hunger and thirst. But I think she neglects the fact that while food and water are the answers to hunger and thirst craving respectively, copulation is not that easily available for sex urges in a polite society of human beings.
But anyway for mature and intelligent readers, Dr. Holmes' book could be very educational and entertaining. I still believe that just the way one cannot just eat any food when one is hungry, one must not just indulge in any kind of sex activity when one is aroused. There must be some kind of limitations when it comes to discussion about sex matters.
While sexual dysfunction and sexual perversions can arise from ignorance about sex physiology, it must be taught with caution and with consideration about the moral aspects and the varied side effects.
She explained sexual needs as just another primitive urge very similar to hunger and thirst. But I think she neglects the fact that while food and water are the answers to hunger and thirst craving respectively, copulation is not that easily available for sex urges in a polite society of human beings.
But anyway for mature and intelligent readers, Dr. Holmes' book could be very educational and entertaining. I still believe that just the way one cannot just eat any food when one is hungry, one must not just indulge in any kind of sex activity when one is aroused. There must be some kind of limitations when it comes to discussion about sex matters.
While sexual dysfunction and sexual perversions can arise from ignorance about sex physiology, it must be taught with caution and with consideration about the moral aspects and the varied side effects.
OVERTIME
Overtime... What is it? It is the time we use to work after office hours. And what are office hours? Eight hours, twelve hours, four hours, it depends on what kind of office you are working.
A General Medical Practitioner has no formal office hours. He is at every moment of his life for as long as he lives. He is a doctor even in church while attending mass or during parties everywhere and anytime. Patient just pop-up from out of the blue to consult a medical practitioner especially if one is practicing in a small rural community.
When I hear people complaining about overtime I just smile. If anybody should complain, it must be me, a medical practitioner. But I got used to it after practicing my profession for almost 50 continuous years.
Looking back through the years, I see small but important achievements accumulating in the deep chambers of my memories. As School Physician I know the problems of students; as Company Physician I am exposed to ailments and problems of the laborers; as Insurance Medical Examiner I deal with the middle class and the elite group; as General Family Physician I treat everyone and attend to all sorts of personalitites; as Contract Worker in a foreign country I experience varied things, from the most embarassing to the most fulfilling but as Hypnotherapist I feel very proud of my various unique achievements.
Up to now in my retirement I am still doing overtime work if overtime signifies working after office hours. I am no longer very active practicing my profession but I am still overwork doing counselling to young boys and girls; attending to researchers from different schools; pacifying quarreling couples or patching-up generation gaps. But I still enjoy doing everything as they help mentain my youthful attitude in life.
A General Medical Practitioner has no formal office hours. He is at every moment of his life for as long as he lives. He is a doctor even in church while attending mass or during parties everywhere and anytime. Patient just pop-up from out of the blue to consult a medical practitioner especially if one is practicing in a small rural community.
When I hear people complaining about overtime I just smile. If anybody should complain, it must be me, a medical practitioner. But I got used to it after practicing my profession for almost 50 continuous years.
Looking back through the years, I see small but important achievements accumulating in the deep chambers of my memories. As School Physician I know the problems of students; as Company Physician I am exposed to ailments and problems of the laborers; as Insurance Medical Examiner I deal with the middle class and the elite group; as General Family Physician I treat everyone and attend to all sorts of personalitites; as Contract Worker in a foreign country I experience varied things, from the most embarassing to the most fulfilling but as Hypnotherapist I feel very proud of my various unique achievements.
Up to now in my retirement I am still doing overtime work if overtime signifies working after office hours. I am no longer very active practicing my profession but I am still overwork doing counselling to young boys and girls; attending to researchers from different schools; pacifying quarreling couples or patching-up generation gaps. But I still enjoy doing everything as they help mentain my youthful attitude in life.
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
SICK FAMILY
I was invited by a lady friend to see her friend who was deeply depressed, for possible hypnotherapy. When we reached the house I met a pretty young lady who was obviously in deep trouble. She just came from her Psychiatrist. I was told how she was exposed to several tragedies that somehow made her incapable of facing the many trials of daily existence.
In the course of our conversation the sick lady told me about her two sons who were both problematic, in fact they were given up completely by the school's guidance counselor for professional help. She said she was not in good terms with her mother and their constant quarrelling are picked by the children.
It was at this point when her mother arrived accompanied by her personal nurse.I immediately sensed something wrong. The old woman was the typical matriarch who was so assertive and must be very negative on her attitude towards her sick daughter who needed all the compassion and support necessary for her to recover from depression.
Seeming skeptic about my presence, she casually asked me where I practice. When I told her I was connected with the New Alabang Village Medical Specialists and that I lived in Ayala Alabang Village, her face brighten and she smiled with acceptance.
That family is in great trouble. I hope I'll be instrumental in curing them all so the New Hope and new life will find their ways into that home.
In the course of our conversation the sick lady told me about her two sons who were both problematic, in fact they were given up completely by the school's guidance counselor for professional help. She said she was not in good terms with her mother and their constant quarrelling are picked by the children.
It was at this point when her mother arrived accompanied by her personal nurse.I immediately sensed something wrong. The old woman was the typical matriarch who was so assertive and must be very negative on her attitude towards her sick daughter who needed all the compassion and support necessary for her to recover from depression.
Seeming skeptic about my presence, she casually asked me where I practice. When I told her I was connected with the New Alabang Village Medical Specialists and that I lived in Ayala Alabang Village, her face brighten and she smiled with acceptance.
That family is in great trouble. I hope I'll be instrumental in curing them all so the New Hope and new life will find their ways into that home.
Psychic Enthusiast
I met a psychic enthusiast. She is a woman above seventy but she looked younger than her actual age.. She developed her interest in Parapsychology when she retired a few years back.
Meeting a "psychic" in me was God's grace to her as she had been dreaming of someday meeting a"weired" person and she thought I have the "qualities". Our discussion jumps from one psychic phenomenon to another. Comparing notes on books we have read showed that we are reading same material so we talk of the same language in the same vibration an wave length.
I met her because my wife was selling her a lot along Tagaytay ridge so they went together on a tripping. She liked the lot and decided to buy it.
She has a son who is a physician married to another physician but she is interested in submitting herself to me for treatment of her asthma and I think because of her enthusiasm and confidence in the method as well as in me, she is already 50% cured.
Meeting a "psychic" in me was God's grace to her as she had been dreaming of someday meeting a"weired" person and she thought I have the "qualities". Our discussion jumps from one psychic phenomenon to another. Comparing notes on books we have read showed that we are reading same material so we talk of the same language in the same vibration an wave length.
I met her because my wife was selling her a lot along Tagaytay ridge so they went together on a tripping. She liked the lot and decided to buy it.
She has a son who is a physician married to another physician but she is interested in submitting herself to me for treatment of her asthma and I think because of her enthusiasm and confidence in the method as well as in me, she is already 50% cured.
Monday, October 15, 2007
JOGGING
Many years ago at Ayala Alabang Village, whenever time and weather permitted I jogged (actually walked) around the village with a daughter or a son. We did this at night after dinner and by that time there were not many joggers.
For our long walk we traversed the whole length of Maria Cristina. It was a long street that formed a big loop around several districts that included ours. During such moments I had a chance to discuss severals important topics and exchanged jokes with my children. We greeted other walkers that we met along the way. Sometime we played psychology with the dogs.
When we were in the mood we stopped for a while at the park. Occasionally we watched other walkers passed-by. Not very seldom, we also argued about certain controversial topics but most of the time we agreed at the end.
Walking around was habit-forming. It was very good for the health and very relaxing afterwards. Often we had a chance to help "lost outsiders" find the correct address they were looking for. We learned a lot from our hobby... lessons about life that my walking children would surely reminisce when they grow up and have children of their own.
To us, the green Narra Park with scattered lampposts was like a vision in a dream... beautiful!!!
For our long walk we traversed the whole length of Maria Cristina. It was a long street that formed a big loop around several districts that included ours. During such moments I had a chance to discuss severals important topics and exchanged jokes with my children. We greeted other walkers that we met along the way. Sometime we played psychology with the dogs.
When we were in the mood we stopped for a while at the park. Occasionally we watched other walkers passed-by. Not very seldom, we also argued about certain controversial topics but most of the time we agreed at the end.
Walking around was habit-forming. It was very good for the health and very relaxing afterwards. Often we had a chance to help "lost outsiders" find the correct address they were looking for. We learned a lot from our hobby... lessons about life that my walking children would surely reminisce when they grow up and have children of their own.
To us, the green Narra Park with scattered lampposts was like a vision in a dream... beautiful!!!
VEGETARIANS
Fruits and vegetables are good. Vegetarians are insisting that carnivorous people or the meat-lovers get sick easily. They argue that fruits and vegetables contain all the necessary ingredients for healthful existence. To prove their point they cite monkeys as a good example... surviving very well with only fruits and vegetables.
Meat is a good source of proteins, which serves as the body building materials used in the maintenance of health. But they say meat is also rich with toxins and other poisons that give rise to many ailments.
I agree that fruits and vegetables are good for our health but to an ordinary individual they are not always available. Only the very rich can really afford to buy variety of fruits and vegetables to keep their meals enjoyable.
Much as I want to be a vegetarian myself I am always force by circumstances to take other kinds of food specially with consideration to our social life style.
I am not embarrassed to admit that I haven't tasted the popular 'durian' but I am proud to say that while some people haven't seen 'chicomami', I have been fed up with it since my childhood. After all few have really seen and eaten 'sapinit', a wild cherry.
Meat is a good source of proteins, which serves as the body building materials used in the maintenance of health. But they say meat is also rich with toxins and other poisons that give rise to many ailments.
I agree that fruits and vegetables are good for our health but to an ordinary individual they are not always available. Only the very rich can really afford to buy variety of fruits and vegetables to keep their meals enjoyable.
Much as I want to be a vegetarian myself I am always force by circumstances to take other kinds of food specially with consideration to our social life style.
I am not embarrassed to admit that I haven't tasted the popular 'durian' but I am proud to say that while some people haven't seen 'chicomami', I have been fed up with it since my childhood. After all few have really seen and eaten 'sapinit', a wild cherry.
Sunday, October 14, 2007
COMPLIMENTARY
It had been a long time since I last attended a medical meeting, so when I went to join the meeting of Phi-lam life Medical Examiners I did not expect to see anyone until a lady physician came in pointing her finger at me.
I recognized her as someone who was with me when I worked in Nigeria, Africa. I came back to the Philippines in 1978 when my father died. I didn't return to Nigeria because I discovered that when I left, my wife worked again, contrary to our agreement that she would stay at home to take care of the kids. I couldn't allow my children in their formative stage of growth to grow up only with the maids. Three maids could never substitute for a parent.
It was my "staying" back home that triggered several misunderstandings between my wife and me. Ever since, she became very assertive and most of the time illogical and unreasonable. I just kept my patience, hoping and praying that finally all my children shall understand our "quite abnormal" family set up. The children shall someday realize my point while my wife shall finally acknowledge her own shortcomings.
My wife continued in her almost maniacal way in providing our children with material things, while I tried my best to be carefully guiding them on the right path to a better and more relevant life. It should have been the other way around but perhaps God allowed us to be together in matrimony because we would compliment each other somehow.
It did hurt me to see my wife worked so hard but it was that kind of lifestyle that kept her strong, healthy and youthful. In the course of our relationship I somehow discovered so many things that complimented us together. For instance in the choice of viand I always picked the back part of the milk fish while she would go with the belly. She likes the head portion of the lapu-lapu while I picked the tail part.In bread, she would rather eat the inside of a ban while I always enjoyed the outside more "cooked" part. Well, after 37 years we were still doing well as husband and wife... parents to our children and grandchildren.
I recognized her as someone who was with me when I worked in Nigeria, Africa. I came back to the Philippines in 1978 when my father died. I didn't return to Nigeria because I discovered that when I left, my wife worked again, contrary to our agreement that she would stay at home to take care of the kids. I couldn't allow my children in their formative stage of growth to grow up only with the maids. Three maids could never substitute for a parent.
It was my "staying" back home that triggered several misunderstandings between my wife and me. Ever since, she became very assertive and most of the time illogical and unreasonable. I just kept my patience, hoping and praying that finally all my children shall understand our "quite abnormal" family set up. The children shall someday realize my point while my wife shall finally acknowledge her own shortcomings.
My wife continued in her almost maniacal way in providing our children with material things, while I tried my best to be carefully guiding them on the right path to a better and more relevant life. It should have been the other way around but perhaps God allowed us to be together in matrimony because we would compliment each other somehow.
It did hurt me to see my wife worked so hard but it was that kind of lifestyle that kept her strong, healthy and youthful. In the course of our relationship I somehow discovered so many things that complimented us together. For instance in the choice of viand I always picked the back part of the milk fish while she would go with the belly. She likes the head portion of the lapu-lapu while I picked the tail part.In bread, she would rather eat the inside of a ban while I always enjoyed the outside more "cooked" part. Well, after 37 years we were still doing well as husband and wife... parents to our children and grandchildren.
Friday, October 12, 2007
UNIQUE LOVE AFFAIR
Love stories happen everyday.Many of them are ordinary attraction between opposite sexes that lead to matrimony. But the story I am going to tell is a unique one. It started more than a decade ago between a young Filipina music teacher who met an equally young, handsome French tourist.
The Frenchman traveled with his father's friend who owned a ship. When the ship docked at the Philippine ports for the needed repairs that would take several weeks, the Frenchman was invited by the Filipino Captain of the ship who happened to have a daughter who, incidentally was a close friend of the Filipina music teacher.
Their eyes met, their hearts throbbed faster, their minds communicated and the seed of love was planted in their souls. They talked, they played, they loved each other and got emotionally involved very deeply. Love was nurtured.
Parting time was difficult. The blooming love was greatly threatened by separation. It was hard to shallow but the young man must leave. "Good bye". "Keep in touch". "Till we meet again".
For ten years they exchanged notes, met each other in their dreams and love continued blooming. Both were exposed to different people and gained important experiences that matured them in such a unique manner.
After a decade their love stayed alive enduring a lot of trials and overcoming many difficulties. When the Frenchman came back he proposed marriage and a fairy-tale like Sacramental Wedding according to the Catholic rites was performed followed by a Garden Reception complete with "Typhoon". I was one of the "Ninongs".
The Frenchman traveled with his father's friend who owned a ship. When the ship docked at the Philippine ports for the needed repairs that would take several weeks, the Frenchman was invited by the Filipino Captain of the ship who happened to have a daughter who, incidentally was a close friend of the Filipina music teacher.
Their eyes met, their hearts throbbed faster, their minds communicated and the seed of love was planted in their souls. They talked, they played, they loved each other and got emotionally involved very deeply. Love was nurtured.
Parting time was difficult. The blooming love was greatly threatened by separation. It was hard to shallow but the young man must leave. "Good bye". "Keep in touch". "Till we meet again".
For ten years they exchanged notes, met each other in their dreams and love continued blooming. Both were exposed to different people and gained important experiences that matured them in such a unique manner.
After a decade their love stayed alive enduring a lot of trials and overcoming many difficulties. When the Frenchman came back he proposed marriage and a fairy-tale like Sacramental Wedding according to the Catholic rites was performed followed by a Garden Reception complete with "Typhoon". I was one of the "Ninongs".
HAPPINESS IS ELUSIVE
I remember vividly that time when two new families moved into our neighborhood at Ayala Alabang Village. Our next door neighbor must be very rich. They have several vehicles, two drivers and four maids. The Padre de Familia was a Cesar Montano look-alike, his two sons were both very handsome, just like the That's Entertainment guys. They were all very kind, very accommodating and seemingly very happy. But my wife and I wondered were the wife was until we heard from our driver that the couple were separated. Hearing things like that made me sad. Why did they not stick to each other long enough?
Across the street two houses away from ours were a young couple with a young boy of about four years old. The wife was obviously pregnant. As noted by one of my daughters, the young couple must be very lucky to own a beautiful house at their young age. They must be earning so much.
One day I saw them quarreling in front of their house. The woman must be very mad as she was shouting unprintable invectives. By any description, she was scandalous and remained that way for about an hour. When her husband kept quiet she turned her fury to her son. Mothers like her made me mad.
Happiness was always elusive. Externally Ayala Alabang Village was a picture of Peace, Calm, Affluence and Glory. To the outside it must be an enviable place to live. I myself was deceived that way until I lived inside with my family. I started meeting lonely and troubled people in their pathetic efforts to find happiness.
Happiness, I realized, was not a place or a thing that money could buy. It was a state of the mind. It lived in the heart, nurtured by love and illumined by the soul.
Across the street two houses away from ours were a young couple with a young boy of about four years old. The wife was obviously pregnant. As noted by one of my daughters, the young couple must be very lucky to own a beautiful house at their young age. They must be earning so much.
One day I saw them quarreling in front of their house. The woman must be very mad as she was shouting unprintable invectives. By any description, she was scandalous and remained that way for about an hour. When her husband kept quiet she turned her fury to her son. Mothers like her made me mad.
Happiness was always elusive. Externally Ayala Alabang Village was a picture of Peace, Calm, Affluence and Glory. To the outside it must be an enviable place to live. I myself was deceived that way until I lived inside with my family. I started meeting lonely and troubled people in their pathetic efforts to find happiness.
Happiness, I realized, was not a place or a thing that money could buy. It was a state of the mind. It lived in the heart, nurtured by love and illumined by the soul.
Thursday, October 11, 2007
GETTING TIRED OF TARDINESS
There must be something wrong somewhere, when only five persons out of one hundred honor their appointment time. This to me was very irritating and scandalous because I very seldom fail to make an appointment. As always, I nervously got ready too early in spite of my long experience of being "indianed" during meeting time.
One of my daughters got high grades in all subjects except in one where she was often tardy, thus depriving her the honor of being included in the Dean's list. Others have similar problems. My wife lost some very important business transactions due to tardiness too. Even if I woke them all early, they always found reasons to be late even for the regular Sunday mass.
In my case, it was always the other way around. I usually got too bored if not a bit angry waiting too long like that time. And oh, I remember he came... the patient I have been waiting for since one night and two hours ago. He made it. Many, many years later...Now it is still happening.
One of my daughters got high grades in all subjects except in one where she was often tardy, thus depriving her the honor of being included in the Dean's list. Others have similar problems. My wife lost some very important business transactions due to tardiness too. Even if I woke them all early, they always found reasons to be late even for the regular Sunday mass.
In my case, it was always the other way around. I usually got too bored if not a bit angry waiting too long like that time. And oh, I remember he came... the patient I have been waiting for since one night and two hours ago. He made it. Many, many years later...Now it is still happening.
ACT OF MERCY
Feeding the hungry is an act of Mercy that God expect Christians to do as prerequisite to enter heaven. The following anecdote happened many years ago when we were still residing at Ayala Alabang Village. To continue, this act of Mercy was often neglected more so now that the hungry were so many, that if you feed some you still feel guilty that you didn't include many others.
But hungry people are not necessarily poor or those who have nothing to eat, but also people who, by trick of circumstances failed to go home to eat. Like the piano repairmen then who were working with our piano. They both lived in Novaliches, which was a good four-hour trip from Alabang during traffic hours. Going back and fort wastes a lot of time.
So, the chief repairman asked me if they could do overtime so they could finish their work. Added to that, a typhoon was raging at the moment. I agreed knowing fully well that they would have to be fed several meals. Of course, it was not included in the agreement but there was no restaurant nearby. They would definitely got hungry and I thought this was opportune time for our family to do an act of mercy. My wife, the business blood in her, was adamant about the idea knowing how she herself got hungry so often while doing businesses.
She acceded to my suggestion anyway but I could feel that she was doing it with a heavy heart and the act some how lost the element of mercy.
The irony of it was the fact that many times we almost force visitors to eat when we prepared even if the visitors were claiming they were full. I prayed that God would enlighten us about this.
But hungry people are not necessarily poor or those who have nothing to eat, but also people who, by trick of circumstances failed to go home to eat. Like the piano repairmen then who were working with our piano. They both lived in Novaliches, which was a good four-hour trip from Alabang during traffic hours. Going back and fort wastes a lot of time.
So, the chief repairman asked me if they could do overtime so they could finish their work. Added to that, a typhoon was raging at the moment. I agreed knowing fully well that they would have to be fed several meals. Of course, it was not included in the agreement but there was no restaurant nearby. They would definitely got hungry and I thought this was opportune time for our family to do an act of mercy. My wife, the business blood in her, was adamant about the idea knowing how she herself got hungry so often while doing businesses.
She acceded to my suggestion anyway but I could feel that she was doing it with a heavy heart and the act some how lost the element of mercy.
The irony of it was the fact that many times we almost force visitors to eat when we prepared even if the visitors were claiming they were full. I prayed that God would enlighten us about this.
Tuesday, October 9, 2007
A HOUSE BLESSING
I was invited to a house blessing ( different from a plain 'house warming' which was nothing but gathering of people, without formal blessing). It was a big beautiful house, following provincial standards. All the furnitures and utensils were new, from the doormat to the curtains.
The decorations were many and varied. In fact, enough to confuse any observer not really because of the quantity but more so because of disparity. It was highly eclectic.
The fully decorated long buffet table was beaming with sumptuous foods mostly "hypertensives" and too rich to be damaging to health, well, like the foods people always offer during fiestas and similar occasions.
There were many visitors who were all impressed not only about the house but also about the source of money used in building the house. The house was very symbolic of the "sudden wealth syndrome", somewhat too showy for comfort.
On the side, I could feel something wrong. Some "very close relatives" were not around and I could feel the going on hassles among the clan. It was quite regrettable and pitiful that after giving out everything to make the house classy, colorful and really laud, was that in the final analysis what the priest blessed was not a home.
The decorations were many and varied. In fact, enough to confuse any observer not really because of the quantity but more so because of disparity. It was highly eclectic.
The fully decorated long buffet table was beaming with sumptuous foods mostly "hypertensives" and too rich to be damaging to health, well, like the foods people always offer during fiestas and similar occasions.
There were many visitors who were all impressed not only about the house but also about the source of money used in building the house. The house was very symbolic of the "sudden wealth syndrome", somewhat too showy for comfort.
On the side, I could feel something wrong. Some "very close relatives" were not around and I could feel the going on hassles among the clan. It was quite regrettable and pitiful that after giving out everything to make the house classy, colorful and really laud, was that in the final analysis what the priest blessed was not a home.
Sunday, October 7, 2007
Loving (?) Your Enemy
Enemy is an individual or a group that is hostile toward another. Enemy is an opponent; someone who is against your principle; someone who puts you down. It is truly difficult to "love" your enemy but that is what we are all expected to do.
Enemy may also be interpreted as anything against your welfare, such as foods that harms your health or habits that destroy you as a person. In this sense, many of us are greatly "in love" with our enemies. So we eat fatty foods and other junks. Not only that - we overeat. We take too much sugar, alcohol and salt. We indulge in prohibited pleasures and we abuse even our natural resistance. This of course is done not in the name of love but as an abnormal craving to which we happily and voluntarily succumb.
The whole world is in great trouble because nobody seems to be doing the right thing. Situations and events are not getting any better in any part of the planet. They say these are signs that the world is about to end... They say that these have all been prophesied in the Bible and they are bound to happen no matter what we do.The whole process is part and parcel of the universal cycle. So be it.
Enemy may also be interpreted as anything against your welfare, such as foods that harms your health or habits that destroy you as a person. In this sense, many of us are greatly "in love" with our enemies. So we eat fatty foods and other junks. Not only that - we overeat. We take too much sugar, alcohol and salt. We indulge in prohibited pleasures and we abuse even our natural resistance. This of course is done not in the name of love but as an abnormal craving to which we happily and voluntarily succumb.
The whole world is in great trouble because nobody seems to be doing the right thing. Situations and events are not getting any better in any part of the planet. They say these are signs that the world is about to end... They say that these have all been prophesied in the Bible and they are bound to happen no matter what we do.The whole process is part and parcel of the universal cycle. So be it.
ILLUSIONS
Illusions are configurations that one see instead of the real images. It is the misleading profile presented to the vision. It is a mistake idea. Illusions are not uncommon. They are experienced anytime, anywhere by anybody but more specially at night or when the place is not fully illuminated.
While jogging one early evening I saw an angel hovering over the gate of one house. I thought it was a huge toy or a caricature hanged there by the owner. As I came closer, I saw the angel moved gracefully, lighted only by the pale moonlight. It was only when I got close enough that I realized it was only an illusion formed by the overlapping shadows and leaves plus other factors.
I think ghosts, that many people see are illusions specially when the person concerned is already hoping or anticipating to see one... His mind works in such a way that what he imagines becomes a reality through the power of "Illusionism".
Sometimes I am beginning to entertain the idea that everything we see and everything that happens in this world are only illusions. The reality are deeply hidden in the hallow recesses of the subconscious mind.
Aside from optical illusions, there are many other forms of illusions, like what I experienced one time when a doctor promised to pick me up for a tripping to Cavite to see the lot that he was planning to buy. He never came or called up to cancel his appointment. Even that doctor could possibly be just an illusion.
While jogging one early evening I saw an angel hovering over the gate of one house. I thought it was a huge toy or a caricature hanged there by the owner. As I came closer, I saw the angel moved gracefully, lighted only by the pale moonlight. It was only when I got close enough that I realized it was only an illusion formed by the overlapping shadows and leaves plus other factors.
I think ghosts, that many people see are illusions specially when the person concerned is already hoping or anticipating to see one... His mind works in such a way that what he imagines becomes a reality through the power of "Illusionism".
Sometimes I am beginning to entertain the idea that everything we see and everything that happens in this world are only illusions. The reality are deeply hidden in the hallow recesses of the subconscious mind.
Aside from optical illusions, there are many other forms of illusions, like what I experienced one time when a doctor promised to pick me up for a tripping to Cavite to see the lot that he was planning to buy. He never came or called up to cancel his appointment. Even that doctor could possibly be just an illusion.
HERBALS
Herbal concoctions are generally medicinal. Someone told me about her discovery after I suggested to her to include "talbos ng kamote" to her diet, as it would improve her hemoglobin. To the broth that remains in the kettle after consuming the young leaves, she added 'calamansi' juice and purplish color turned fuscia. Then she added a little sugar and it turned like a real red wine.
I shared my own experience with 'abocado' leaves giving rise to a similar concoction. I also recalled a nun who suggested to me 'cogon' root tea. This is done by boiling 'cogon' root, then adding 'calamansi' and a teaspoon of honey. She claimed that it improves virility and helps open the different chackras.
Said nun also advised me to frequently eat salad made of fresh tomatoes with "sibuyas tagalog" and the Chinese "huan soy". I am supposed to take such salad three times a day but I just couldn't tolerate "sibuyas and huan soy".
She explained to me about lapu-lapu fish. It doesn't die of sickness but almost, always, of old age... It always swims over other groups of fishes, thus the symbol of power. The nun suggested that at least weekly I should eat the head part (never the tail) of the fish as it is there were all its powers are contained.
Left over broth after boiling corn is also usually discarded, yet, this liquid is very good for the kidneys and the intestines. It is ironic that we are throwing away a lot of nutritious and medicinal liquids, such as rice washings will all its invigorating vitamin B complex.
I shared my own experience with 'abocado' leaves giving rise to a similar concoction. I also recalled a nun who suggested to me 'cogon' root tea. This is done by boiling 'cogon' root, then adding 'calamansi' and a teaspoon of honey. She claimed that it improves virility and helps open the different chackras.
Said nun also advised me to frequently eat salad made of fresh tomatoes with "sibuyas tagalog" and the Chinese "huan soy". I am supposed to take such salad three times a day but I just couldn't tolerate "sibuyas and huan soy".
She explained to me about lapu-lapu fish. It doesn't die of sickness but almost, always, of old age... It always swims over other groups of fishes, thus the symbol of power. The nun suggested that at least weekly I should eat the head part (never the tail) of the fish as it is there were all its powers are contained.
Left over broth after boiling corn is also usually discarded, yet, this liquid is very good for the kidneys and the intestines. It is ironic that we are throwing away a lot of nutritious and medicinal liquids, such as rice washings will all its invigorating vitamin B complex.
Wednesday, October 3, 2007
The Protective White Light
We were on our way home one time, to the province via South Superhighway. As we turned toward Carmona interchange we heard a cracking sound as if the car's door was improperly locked. On checking, we discovered that our tubeless tires just burst. The driver changed the tire but it was 6:30 p.m. when darkness was beginning to blanket the world. The thought that we would be traversing Carmona, which that time have only few houses and many squatters, kept me a bit apprehensive.
Stopping on the spot for a longtime at night could be dangerous because of some unreasonable squatters in the area. And I knew that I only have my little penlight to use just in case, made me greatly scared while traveling without spare tire.
During moments like this, I try to dramatize my ideas, thinking of what is best to do depending upon the scenarios. As always, I have already surrounded the whole van and all of us inside with the protective white light of Christ. I repeated the mental visualization and felt secured. Before I knew it we were already at Aguinaldo Highway toward Silang. But it was raining and the night was dark.
Tagaytay was foggy that night. We could hardly see anything aside from the white line at the center of the road. I explained to my son the importance of tht white line which ordinarily doesn't seem to have any value at all.
My son enjoyed the "dreamlike" trip while we pass through cold "clouds". We forgot we didn't have spare tire until we reached home safe and sound.
Stopping on the spot for a longtime at night could be dangerous because of some unreasonable squatters in the area. And I knew that I only have my little penlight to use just in case, made me greatly scared while traveling without spare tire.
During moments like this, I try to dramatize my ideas, thinking of what is best to do depending upon the scenarios. As always, I have already surrounded the whole van and all of us inside with the protective white light of Christ. I repeated the mental visualization and felt secured. Before I knew it we were already at Aguinaldo Highway toward Silang. But it was raining and the night was dark.
Tagaytay was foggy that night. We could hardly see anything aside from the white line at the center of the road. I explained to my son the importance of tht white line which ordinarily doesn't seem to have any value at all.
My son enjoyed the "dreamlike" trip while we pass through cold "clouds". We forgot we didn't have spare tire until we reached home safe and sound.
RESTORATION
Restoration is putting or bringing back to its original appearance in order to make the object look like new or be in its previous good state. Thus, we restore a broken porcelain jar or a damaged object by doing our best to make the object look like the original.
Someone restored our broken porcelain planter and suddenly it looked so good as the original. Like magic, the defect disappeared and the broken object is back to normal.
This world would be much happier if things like broken friendship, broken camaraderie, broken marriage, broken clan relationships and other broken things could be restored back to their original conditions.
As we look around us, we see things that are rapidly breaking into pieces. Reputation, ambition, goal, hope, faith, career, everything. What is broken is not easily restored like restoring cracked porcelain. Furthermore, there are not enough restorer available and even if they are available, their services are not normally sought.
So, the world is littered with puzzle pieces that couldn't find their right position in the picture. Perhaps God is shaking the world to give it a new shape, a new configuration, a new puzzle for us creatures to put together.
Someone restored our broken porcelain planter and suddenly it looked so good as the original. Like magic, the defect disappeared and the broken object is back to normal.
This world would be much happier if things like broken friendship, broken camaraderie, broken marriage, broken clan relationships and other broken things could be restored back to their original conditions.
As we look around us, we see things that are rapidly breaking into pieces. Reputation, ambition, goal, hope, faith, career, everything. What is broken is not easily restored like restoring cracked porcelain. Furthermore, there are not enough restorer available and even if they are available, their services are not normally sought.
So, the world is littered with puzzle pieces that couldn't find their right position in the picture. Perhaps God is shaking the world to give it a new shape, a new configuration, a new puzzle for us creatures to put together.
Tuesday, October 2, 2007
HAUNTED HOUSE ???
There was no buzzer or doorbell around. I instead saw advertisements written on styrofoam: Ice Candy for sale; Spicy pusit for sale; Spicy dilis for sale! All the notices indicated a busy housewife was living inside.
Knock, Knock! Silence...Knock, Knock, Knock! Silence... accross the street I saw a laundry woman looking at me so I approached her to inquire about the person I was looking for.She said that the owner just left to go somewhere but shall possibly come back very soon as usual. So, with my driver, I waited.
Yet just five minutes ago, the phone, the landline was busy. Yesterday, the phone was busy from 10:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. then at 4:00 p.m. it rung but no one answered.This morning I presumed that the owner is at home as the phone was busy.
After half-hour wait I returned to my house and dialed the landline of the house where I just came from. It was busy. It could be a case of phone disorder but still there was something weird and eerie in that house when I peeped through the windows. I was supposed to examine an insurance applicant living in that house. He worked at the Manila Hotel at night and comes back home at 7:00 a.m. I was there at 9:00 a.m.
Knock, Knock! Silence...Knock, Knock, Knock! Silence... accross the street I saw a laundry woman looking at me so I approached her to inquire about the person I was looking for.She said that the owner just left to go somewhere but shall possibly come back very soon as usual. So, with my driver, I waited.
Yet just five minutes ago, the phone, the landline was busy. Yesterday, the phone was busy from 10:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. then at 4:00 p.m. it rung but no one answered.This morning I presumed that the owner is at home as the phone was busy.
After half-hour wait I returned to my house and dialed the landline of the house where I just came from. It was busy. It could be a case of phone disorder but still there was something weird and eerie in that house when I peeped through the windows. I was supposed to examine an insurance applicant living in that house. He worked at the Manila Hotel at night and comes back home at 7:00 a.m. I was there at 9:00 a.m.
EXCITEMENT
The other day I met a young couple. They were not really young for the woman was 31 years old. I didn't ask the man's age but he looked younger than the woman. Together they looked like friendly teen-agers, I didn't even suspect that they already have a child.
I enjoyed watching them as they jumpily giggled around the house, and told them so, as I gave them a parting advice: " I am truly fascinated by your joyfulness and a bit of carelessness, please don't quarrel".
Generally, newly married couples are happy. They are usually full of hope and future anticipations. If all couples could only be guided accordingly this world will be a little sunnier, a little happier and a little better.
Mine was a whirlwind wedding. The whole community predicted that our relationship at most could last only for six months. But we survived because whenever there is that temptation to make it quits I always tell my wife that through my counselling I have save a lot of marriages and I couldn't allow ours to go to the dogs. Last January 13, we celebrated our 37th Wedding Anniversary with five professional children and five happy grandchildren.
Perhaps what this world needs is more guidance counsellors, more seminars and more work shops on family life, but all these things would only be possible if the country's economy is enough to give every worker a decent and good-paying job.
I enjoyed watching them as they jumpily giggled around the house, and told them so, as I gave them a parting advice: " I am truly fascinated by your joyfulness and a bit of carelessness, please don't quarrel".
Generally, newly married couples are happy. They are usually full of hope and future anticipations. If all couples could only be guided accordingly this world will be a little sunnier, a little happier and a little better.
Mine was a whirlwind wedding. The whole community predicted that our relationship at most could last only for six months. But we survived because whenever there is that temptation to make it quits I always tell my wife that through my counselling I have save a lot of marriages and I couldn't allow ours to go to the dogs. Last January 13, we celebrated our 37th Wedding Anniversary with five professional children and five happy grandchildren.
Perhaps what this world needs is more guidance counsellors, more seminars and more work shops on family life, but all these things would only be possible if the country's economy is enough to give every worker a decent and good-paying job.
Monday, October 1, 2007
A LITTLE BIT OF PURGATORY
"For seven years during my college days, I was never late". I told my children one day to emphasize to them the value of punctuality. It has been my habit ever since I was a little boy to always come on time. I think I am guided by the principle that it is better one hour too soon than one minute too late...
When I make an appointment with anybody, I see to it that I am always ahead or if the one I am supposed to meet doesn't come on time I usually give additional one hour allowance for possible unexpected delaying circumstances.
The "Filipino time" of being late never taught me a lesson. I insists on punctuality although lately I discovered that it is most of the time not practical. Like during a meeting or a seminar I often waste so much time waiting for others who generally come late. Of course I read a book or do 'origamni' while waiting but it is still irritating to be waiting.
The irony of it all is when I married a woman who is so busy, so hardworking and so involved with so many businesses that she is never on time. The more irony is even doubled when all my children seem to have inherited their mother's trait. To me it is a bit of purgatory that I must cope in this world. It is highly ironic, however, that I am beginning to enjoy it all.
When I make an appointment with anybody, I see to it that I am always ahead or if the one I am supposed to meet doesn't come on time I usually give additional one hour allowance for possible unexpected delaying circumstances.
The "Filipino time" of being late never taught me a lesson. I insists on punctuality although lately I discovered that it is most of the time not practical. Like during a meeting or a seminar I often waste so much time waiting for others who generally come late. Of course I read a book or do 'origamni' while waiting but it is still irritating to be waiting.
The irony of it all is when I married a woman who is so busy, so hardworking and so involved with so many businesses that she is never on time. The more irony is even doubled when all my children seem to have inherited their mother's trait. To me it is a bit of purgatory that I must cope in this world. It is highly ironic, however, that I am beginning to enjoy it all.
RAIN-WATCHING
Rain-watching is fun. Everything you see is wet, fresh and alive. Car windows are closed and jeeps are covered with "trapals". You will wonder what is going on inside those tinted glasses and dripping "trapals".
It is possible that holdup men are making their day in one of those jeepneys. Perhaps a sick person is inside that car on the way to the hospital. Maybe some couples are quarrelling or lovers are romancing. It is very interesting to imagine all possible scenarios while I am quietly sitting in my office and looking through my windows.
I like to observe pretty girls in wet dresses, running carelessly as well as young men in their shorts and sandals running wet and wild to different directions.
Umbrellas of various sizes, colors and designs are like those blooming flowers in a newly watered garden, swaying here and there in wild abandon.
Even the garbage across the street look fresh while undergoing the natural process of decomposition. Sometimes it is nice to experience long rainy days. Even the grass looks happy quickly turning from yellow to green. Animals and insects dance and jump with joy; trees sprout new leaves; flowers bloom and fruits ripen. The more positive song for the rain must be: "Rain, rain...stay! With you around the whole world plays!.
It is possible that holdup men are making their day in one of those jeepneys. Perhaps a sick person is inside that car on the way to the hospital. Maybe some couples are quarrelling or lovers are romancing. It is very interesting to imagine all possible scenarios while I am quietly sitting in my office and looking through my windows.
I like to observe pretty girls in wet dresses, running carelessly as well as young men in their shorts and sandals running wet and wild to different directions.
Umbrellas of various sizes, colors and designs are like those blooming flowers in a newly watered garden, swaying here and there in wild abandon.
Even the garbage across the street look fresh while undergoing the natural process of decomposition. Sometimes it is nice to experience long rainy days. Even the grass looks happy quickly turning from yellow to green. Animals and insects dance and jump with joy; trees sprout new leaves; flowers bloom and fruits ripen. The more positive song for the rain must be: "Rain, rain...stay! With you around the whole world plays!.
ADAPTABILITY
Rain, endless rain, accompanied by flood all over the metropolis and many parts of the archipelago. Landslides are everywhere destroying houses, properties and lives. Workers are misplaced, students are confused and the rest if not sick, are simply unsure what to do.
Rain is God's grace. It is needed by the plants and by all living beings although when it rains really strong there are so many untoward happenings. Roofs start leaking, drainages begin clogging, flood overflows both on residential and commercial areas, vehicles are stranded on the roads, classes are suspended, electricity is disrupted and everybody has to make so many adjustments.
When it doesn't rain for a long time, drought follows and problems are greater. Whatever happens there are always advantages and disadvantages, good as well as bad effects but I think that is what makes life more interesting.
It is necessary that human beings be adaptable to their surroundings and to
the events happening around them. Nature is doing its duty according to the mandate of God, the Maker of everything Who is watching the world from the celestial point of view. He knows what is good for the most number of His creatures. God's voice is transformed into events when He wants to say something to us. Let us listen to what He is saying and let us leave everything to Him.
Rain is God's grace. It is needed by the plants and by all living beings although when it rains really strong there are so many untoward happenings. Roofs start leaking, drainages begin clogging, flood overflows both on residential and commercial areas, vehicles are stranded on the roads, classes are suspended, electricity is disrupted and everybody has to make so many adjustments.
When it doesn't rain for a long time, drought follows and problems are greater. Whatever happens there are always advantages and disadvantages, good as well as bad effects but I think that is what makes life more interesting.
It is necessary that human beings be adaptable to their surroundings and to
the events happening around them. Nature is doing its duty according to the mandate of God, the Maker of everything Who is watching the world from the celestial point of view. He knows what is good for the most number of His creatures. God's voice is transformed into events when He wants to say something to us. Let us listen to what He is saying and let us leave everything to Him.
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