Grants RTD

MBFI Reflection #2

The recently held Grants Roundtable Discussion gave me a bird’s eye view of who the beneficiaries of the Foundation are and their advocacies. It is very inspiring to know that the organization I am connected with has touched the lives of people in different sectors of the society through its benevolent works. The concept of “paying it forward” was manifested in the institutions and foundations being helped by the Foundation as they carry on their own advocacies to create a massive and global change in their own way.

Since we were informed beforehand that we were to submit a reflection paper after the roundtable, my first thought was to look for a foundation whose advocacy would correspond to my own interests, which were child development, education and environment.

I was familiar with the Family Farm School because one of our requirements to be able to complete a course in college was a module specifically made for them. It was just unfortunate that their president was not able to present his organization because I was really looking forward to hearing about the success of their projects for the farmers’ children.

Cartwheel and Trichet impressed me not only because they have catered to the special needs of the indigenous people and the special children, respectively, but also because the people behind these two organizations were, to some extent, the unlikely people to be involved in these kinds of work. When asked why did they stay and continue doing what they are doing, they both answered that their love for children made everything seem easy. They both wanted their beneficiaries to gain the respect that are due to them. I realized that these beliefs coincide with the Foundation’s mission of “supporting programs which strengthen the core sectors of the society as well as respond to the needs of the disadvantaged.”

On a more personal note, this roundtable provided a venue for me to start my healing process on the death of my cousin. While working at the SOS Foundation she was diagnosed of having nasopharyngeal cancer. She underwent chemotherapy and radiotherapy for more than a year before she passed away March last year. Due probably to the chemicals injected to her, the treatment left her bedridden and depressed. I started looking for an organization or a support group that would help her and our family cope with all the strains that we were experiencing that time in dealing with her sickness.

It was very unfortunate that I became aware of Carewell Community only during the Grants Roundtable. Should I know about the services they offer to those with cancer (and their families), my cousin would have probably died happy. This, however, did not prevent me from being thankful to the founder of Carewell Community. It is encouraging to know that the Philippines has this kind of institution that promotes physical, emotional and even spiritual wellness among those who are stricken with cancer.

I have always believed that all things in this world are interconnected. The goodness that we do and the person that we become after are results of previous goodness that we have experienced. As the old adage goes, goodness begets goodness. In 1969, Margaret Mead said, "Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it's the only thing that ever has." The principle of “paying it forward” as adopted by the Metrobank Foundation would initiate a butterfly effect that would uplift the lives of the people and of the society in general.

~~~

Rosalindas of the Foundation

Me, Malou, Trish and Marge

The GEAPH Team

Khalid, Me, Aviec and Gloria

SFC Bicutan Upper Household Planning

Things that I learned from my Boss

On Work
Do everything that you can, in everyway possible to complete a task. When you have done everything, sit back, pray and let God finish the work.

In Dealing with People
In life, you will meet people who think that the world revolves around them, in dealing with them, remember that God will not ask you who won the battle but how much love you showed them in response to their arrogance.

On Pain and Suffering
Offer every suffering and every pain to God. Things will get better, you’ll see.

On Life
At the end of each day, reflect and ask yourself “Have I been an instrument of God’s love to people around me?”

On Faith
He has this theory that with the exception of Christ, Mary is one of the best examples of how a Christian should live his/her life. He said that as Mary received the good news that she was to carry in her womb the Son of God, so one must also receive a glorious message from God. And just as she said “Be it done unto me according to Your word,” we too must also respond with the same heartiness. He further explained this by stating that as time went by, Mary moved to the back and let Jesus take the front seat. He interpreted this by saying that as we grow in love with Christ, people should see Him in everything that we do. It is He who should be seen in us because we are His.

~~~

I have two best friends. Bestfriend-1 is ever sweet and warm while Bestfriend-2 is very cold right now. Hindi ako sanay. So I just have to wait. Hintayin ko na lang na magustuhan ulit niya akong kausapin. Nakakalungkot lang but lately I’ve been trying to get in touch and I can not feel that she wants to talk to me. It’s ok. Sad but it’s ok. Nakakalungkot kasi I am getting use to being left behind by people whom I loved the most.

Extra! Extra!

Question:
When will you stop being sad?

~~~

Realization:
Sometimes, it is better to open up your thoughts to those who do not know you that much. I told four men what happened and they replied:

Man 1: Biyaan mo na yun. Pangit yun!
Man 2: Halika na Jing, sugudin na natin!
Man 3: Jing, you should be happy for him because God answered your prayers. You should know what you want and then pray for it, it seems like He is really listening to you.
Man 4: Maybe it’s for the best.

Man 3 made me want to shut up and cry (I didn't, thank God - but he eventually told me to shut up first and let him talk - haha!). Man 1 and Man 2 made me laugh out loud. As in, ang kukulit! :) I love them! Man 4 gave me a very sweet hug.

Surprisingly, I feel ok now.

~~~

Extra! Extra!

Special Recipe for Heart's Peace Candy

A bottle of preserved anger
½ cup tears
¾ cup acceptance
1 & ¼ cup laughter
2 cups hope
2 cups faith
4 cups love

1. Heat the preserved anger to melt. Add tears. Stir to dissolve. Cool slightly.
2. Add acceptance and faith. Mix well. Stir in hope and love. Blend well.
3. Place everything in God’s hand. Bake for 25 minutes.
4. Top with laughter.

~~~

Let Your Spirit Shine!

Noel Cabangon

Let Your Spirit shine!
Be the sun to end this darkness so that we may find,
the scattered pieces of the selves we lost
On roads we left behind

Let Your Sprit soar!
Be the wind to lift our weary hearts just like before.
How we long to hear the music of your voice!
Let your breath refresh our troubled world just once more

While the world rushes through its days
There's a secret presence shining from every face
All you need is to slow things down,
Take the time to look around
And you may find God's special hiding place

Let your Spirit fall!
Your the rain that purifies and heals our battered souls
May you touch our wooden wounded hearts
May you mend our broken lives, make them whole

While the world tosses trough the night,
There’s a sacred presence rising from every side
All you need is to slow things down,
take the time to look around and you may find God's special hiding place

Let your Spirit burn!
Be the fire that melt our frozen hearts
Please help us learn to dare to love without the usual fear
Of giving everything with nothing in return

O come and set our spirits free
Give meaning to the lives we lead,
Show us where to go, that we may find the One we seek
Where else can we go but only to you who sets us free?

6 Months After

MBFI Reflection #1

Today, exactly six months and ten days since I transferred work, I am going to write the difference between the job that I left behind and the job that I have now as a Program Assistant at MBFI.

When I arrived at MBFI I was confident enough that I could handle almost anything and everything that the management would give me. After all I came from a government institution with only twelve people (Executive Director, 4 technical staff, 7 administrative staff) running everything. My assignments in my previous job included: (1) handling a convention of scientists with more or less two hundred participants; (2) being an editorial staff of several publications (scientific journal, monograph and annual report); (3) coordination with the media for all the news releases in major events; (4) representing the Academy in different gatherings/meetings pertaining to gender and development, maintenance of the Academy’s scientific library and the likes. These were all on top of my official assignment as the one who handled the Academy’s scientific linkages function – both in the local and in the international arena.

I entered the Foundation during the awarding phase of the 2007 COPS. Sir Paul and Khalid had prepared everything for the awarding ceremony. All I had to do was observe and assist them in polishing minute details for the event. I used to wonder why there had to be a lot of people involved in the awarding ceremony when from the place I came from, only three or four staff were required to attend and assist in the conferment of a National Scientist in Malacañang. When the day arrived, I saw how organized everything was. Then I understood that these people were there to perform their tasks properly and accordingly based on what was planned.

A few weeks after the said event, Sir Paul announced that I would be the one to assist him in handling the 2007 TOWNS Search. I was so excited. Finally! I have work. With all the coordination meetings, preparation of materials and documents for the final judging, awarding ceremonies and winners’ forum, work really came pouring in. I was hesitant to ask help from people as I was used to doing things on my own but they have been generous enough to offer their help whenever I needed one. There were times when I became discouraged and disheartened by everything. I felt like I was a fresh graduate learning the ropes all over again.

After six months of being involved in the Foundation, I came to realize a lot of things. My stint at one of the government’s recognition and award giving agency exposed me to a selection and judging process that is very much different from what the Foundation is doing. Although I have nothing against the processes in my previous job, in comparison, the technical and scientific way the Foundation evaluates each nominee and finalist is much more impartial.

I admire the way people work here. To impress their employers, employees would often say that they give their 100% to their work. In the Foundation this statement is not just another word of the mouth. Officers and staff really give their 100% to their work which can be seen in the events and outputs each unit have. People are not contented with an “ok na ‘yan” output. Thing have to be reviewed, commented and if possible perfected in every angle. The opportunity to strive for excellence and growth are recognized and addressed. And that, I think, is where the difference with other institution lies.

I must admit that I really had a hard time adjusting. The process continues as I had to learn and unlearn a lot of things but whenever I feel down and distraught, I would always try to remember that before I got accepted here in the Foundation, I prayed for a work that would help me grow as a person and as an employee. With the Foundation’s tagline of excellence, I know that there are still things to change and improve in me but for now I am thankful.

Be as a Little Child

Fr. Brian Steele

A small child can be a great teacher to us at times. Look at the way a child plays, observe the child who trusts in his/her mother. Listen to a child who makes known a request to the parent. Notice the way a child embraces the parent. Certain characteristics such as innocence, simplicity, dependency, purity of heart are how we are to relate to God as Father.

Today we celebrate the life of a saint who desired to make herself child-like, not childish. Therese desired to be little, since, as she was later to discover, it was through her littleness that God would achieve great things. In her writings, Therese of Liseux teaches us what it is to be totally and completely abandoned to God the Father. We can come to a Father who loves us and anticipates our every need. This, as Therese would suggest, is the "little way of love". This was the great secret to her sainthood and her being proclaimed as doctor of the Church. I have often read the writings of Therese and come to the conclusion that the spiritual life is really quite simple, and I am the one who makes it so complicated!

In her writings, Therese borrows the image of the elevator , a modern convenience we have become quite accustomed to now. However, in her day it was something new and inventory. Therese understood the elevator as a convenience in her day to reach a higher level. No longer would one have to trudge the stairway and become exhausted at having traveled so many stairs. All that one had to do was to step inside the elevator, press a few buttons and the machine would activate and bring you to your destination. You just have to stand there and wait.

Therese borrows the image and understands that Jesus is like the elevator. His are the arms that lift us to the Father. All one needs to do is rest in His arms effortlessly and confidently that Jesus lifts us to the Father. That is the way a child behaves if they are confident in the parent's love for them.

In the Gospel the disciples learn a lesson. They are beginning to become popular. They jostle for position, status and attention. They behave childishly. Jesus shakes His head, realizing the intention of their hearts and perhaps afraid it might end up a bit rough! He calls the disciple to Himself and places a child among them. "The least among you shall be the greatest".

~~~

Happy feastday my beloved St. Therese of Lisieux! Thank you for loving me and for just being there for us. :)

Kakantahan muna kita ng konti.. ay, hum na lang muna pala.

You Fill My Heart
SOMETHING MORE - songs for the skeptics

hmm. hmmmmm. hmmmmmmm.

Mwah! :)

I want the real thing

09:45 pm

I was listening to Kalapana’s Real thing in my Muvo Vidz. Sabi ko kay Lord, “give me a song. Not just any song, but a song that is for ME.” So I pushed the joystick up and let it browse through the 49 songs in my player (excluding the subfolders). And guess what, when I let go of the joystick, I got the same song - Real thing by Kalapana.

Grabe na ito. I am not in love! My goodness. I had a very very very short relationship with Crush last August but I quickly ended it up as soon as I realized that he is not – as in NOT the right one for me. Grabe, I never thought I would do that. We are still friends though. I convinced him that hindi kami bagay talaga and that we are better off as friends.

I now realize that it is better to be single than to be with someone you don’t love. I am still waiting for the right one to come along my way. Hey! Nasan ka na ba? Bakit ang tagal mong dumating? :)

Sabi ng mga former officemates ko nung nalaman nila nangyari, baka daw pagsisihan ko ginawa ko kasi daw I am not getting any younger, matanda na daw ako. If there is another lesson that I learned from this recently ended relationship it is that 27 is not yet old. I am still young and until I think of myself as old, I will not be old.

Now I do not have to let go of anything because (in the first place) I did not choose to hold on to anything. And I am ok with it.

~~~

11:03 pm

hmft! war kami! kala ko we're ok as friends!
hmft! mega tampo na naman! hmft! >:(

Hapag ng Pag-Asa

While doing my assignment in DevC 263, I got the urge to turn on the radio and it surprised me to hear Mr. Joey Velasco, the painter of “Hapag ng Pag-Asa,” was being interviewed by three radio hosts who are unknown to me.


The whole interview was so inspiring but the discussion that got through me was on why the children, who represented the twelve (12) apostles, are not looking at Christ. Critics of the painting pointed out that in all last supper paintings, the apostles are looking at Christ. This is to show that the followers are Christ centered. They said that the “Hapag ng Pag-Asa” painting was theologically incorrect. The painter answered them by saying that it doesn’t matter whether we are looking at Christ or not. He is still there for all of us, willingly and openly embracing each and everyone with His unending love.

Then I remember this song…

Iniibig kita
Hangad

Hindi ka kailangang magbago
Kahit ito’y mas ibig ko.
Hindi ka kailangang magsikap ng husto
Upang ika’y ibigin ko.

Iniibig kita,
manalig ka sana
Ako’y kapiling mo
Kahit ikaw pa ma’y mapalayo.

It’s so nice to write again.

Love unfailing and a birthday wish

I do not have anything special in mind right now. I mean I usually gather/make memories every weekend to sustain me through the week. Meaning, baon ko yung good memories that I gathered every weekend to get me through a week’s worth of work and to shield me from any other unfortunate events.

We just had our CLP’s Talk 9 – Baptism of the Holy Spirit last Saturday night and I assisted Joy in praying for the participants. I felt recharged. Sabi nga si Arlene yesterday, “Naka drugs ka ba?” kasi I was (and still am) super hyper. I am not exactly happy, I just cried my heart out to the Him last night during our 10 o’clock prayer, and yet I am fully aware of the love that is enveloping me now.

Next Sunday would be my mom’s birthday. At ngayon pa lang, I am praying na for a peaceful and happy birthday for her. Two years ago, she had her worst birthday. She found out about my father’s relationship with another woman. I know how broken hearted she was then. Kaya last year, I really prayed hard for her to have a really happy birthday. I think she got it naman. I accompanied them (my mama and papa) to Los banos to attend the morning mass and then we ate breakfast at McDo. I really really hope that this year would be a better one for her. Sana walang may toyo at mag-tantrums. I am keeping my fingers cross.

Starting yet again

I started last Monday to what I consider as my 5th job since I graduated from college. From the very ideal work in one of the agencies under the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), I transferred to the private sector to be part of the country’s no. 1 bank’s foundation.

My first day was ok. I expected it to be that way. Orientation and filling out of probably a dozen or so forms. They were all fine with me. Second day, I had to ask my partner in the unit that I am in for work because I have nothing to do. Third day, I asked him for ANY work that he's willing to give me. Pinatulan ko pati yung filing and organizing of forms. I was SO BORED. My God! Sa NAST mamatay-matay na ako sa dami ng trabaho and yet here, wala akong ginagawa! I have to beg people pa to give me work. I sent a text message to Ms. Cha containing this message: “Sayang ang pinasusuweldo nila sa akin”. :( I mean this excludes the fact that I do not have an internet connection and that my computer does not have a drive D (CD ROM) and that it cannot read a memory stick because the USB ports are not working. They are all fine with me; I took those things positively because I was thinking now is a new beginning. I can focus on doing my work really well because I really really want to prove that I am a good worker - not only to my co workers but also to myself. My attitude towards work and self esteem went from super high to super low while under the supervision of my previous boss – one of the reasons why I had to let go of the previous job.

Sad? yes, but at the same time relieved.

People here are a bit more “professional” not only in looks but also in their attitude towards their co workers. Of course, I am still in the “politeness stage” since I am new. But I hope and pray that it will continue for a very long time.

Anyways, I am writing this entry to kill time. Yup people, I am killing my time here because I still have nothing to do. And it’s only 10:58 am. There are still a lot of hours to go before 5:30pm.

~~~

I went to UP Diliman last Saturday with a friend. He wanted to buy a copy of the Gary Granada’s CD on Hierarchical Selection. I usually don’t go out with new acquaintances either male or female kasi I am scared na baka wala kaming mapag-usapan. Yet from the time he fetched me from my house at around 11:30am up to the time we separated (around 6:30pm) we were talking non stop. :) Nakakatuwa. Unfortunately the CD we were looking for was not available. We went to PAWB instead to see the caged wild animals and to take pictures. I toured him around kasi nga PAWB was one of the places we visited last April 30, 2007 during the S&T museum tour for the teachers.

After we spent hours taking pictures, I accompanied him to the mall to buy a memory stick. After that we talked for about an hour more and then I went home to Laguna. Super late na kasi. My parents were expecting me to be home at around 3pm. I told them I’ll be early. Kaya lang, how can I refuse a good company? Minsan lang kasi ito eh. After we parted I received a text message from him, he said thanks daw and that he had a great time daw. Oh well, ako din naman. :)

Nakakatuwa! I am breathing life into my social life. Naks! :)

~~~

I have a scheduled Museum Tour (Again! Yey!) on Saturday.

Ms. Cha told me that NS Vergara’s asking if I am still willing to present my video (institutional PSHC Video) to Teachers and Tour Guides.

My answer? OF COURSE! With pleasure and with all my heart Sir! :) Yey!

~~~

Update on Carlo

He is now growing his hair. Sobrang ikli pa rin pero at least maitim na. kasi before kitang-kita talaga yung whiteness ng scalp niya, super puti. And last week only, I was teaching him the actions of Twinkle Twinkle (Little Star). Nagkataon I have an mP3 of the said song pero instrumental. Nung ipinakinig ko sa kanya, nagaaction pa rin! Hay… I like that baby boy. Meron siyang inclination sa music (walang kokontra, this is my blog and he is my favorite cousin! :)

~~~

4:01pm – hay, thank God!!! Hindi ba halatang wala kaong ginagawa? :D

~~~

4 minutes to go before mag 5:30! Yeyeyeyeyeyeyeyey!

~~~

5:34pm babay!!!!

Wait

Hay... hay... hay.

Wait patiently for the LORD. Be brave and courageous.
Yes, wait patiently for the LORD.

Psalm 27:14

I can let go now

Hindi ko pa nakukuwento but I was invited by my “inaanak” to see him and his family the other week. I declined. In as much as I wanted to see him, I cannot allow myself to be close to his family again. I just can’t. I’m ok now. I feel lighter now and I do not want to be burdened again with any ill feelings from the past.

I Can Let Go Now
Alison Krauss

It was so right
It was so wrong
Almost at the same time
The pain and ache
A heart can take
No one really knows
But when the memories cling and take you there
Till you no longer care
You can let go now

It's not right for me
To cling to you
Somehow I just needed time
From what was to be
It's not like me
To hold somebody down
But I was tossed high by love
Almost never came down
Only to land
Where no love is found
And I'm no longer bound
I can let go now

~~~

If someone hurts you repeatedly, you are commanded by God to forgive them instantly, but you are not expected to trust them immediately, and you are not expected to continue allowing them to hurt you.

Purpose driven life p. 143

Gilmore Girls - again

2.05 - Nick & Nora, Sid & Nancy

JESS: So what are you doing now?
RORY: I have some homework to finish.
JESS: Okay, then I'll leave you this last little trick. [hands her a book]
RORY: You bought a copy? I told you I'd lend you mine.
JESS: It is yours.
RORY: You stole my book.
JESS: Nope, borrowed it.
RORY: Okay, that's not called a trick, that's called a felony.
JESS: I just wanted to put some notes in the margins for you.
RORY: What? [looks through the book] You've read this before.
JESS: About forty times.
RORY: I thought you said you didn't read much.
JESS: Well, what is much? Goodnight Rory.

Transcript from: TWIZ TV - Gilmore Girls

Wish i'd meet someone like Jess :)

~~~

More pictures from the Gilmore Girls:

Proposing with a thousand Daisies


Luke and Lorelei under the "wedding" chuppah :)

Pilgrim's Theme

Bukas Palad

Tired of weaving dreams too loose for me to wear
Tired of watching clouds repeat their dance on air
Tired of getting tired of doing what's required
Is life a mere routine in the greater scheme of things

Through with taking roads someone else designed
Through with chasing stars that soon forget to shine
Through with going through one more day - what's new
Does my life still mean a thing in the greater scheme of things

REFRAIN 1:
I think I'll follow the voice that calls within
Dance to the silent song it sings
I hope to find my place
So my life can fall in place
I know in time I'll find my place
In the greater scheme of things

Each must go his way, but how can I decide
Which path I should take, who will be my guide
I need some kind of star to lead me somewhere far
To find a higher dream in the greater scheme of things

The road before me bends, I don't know what I'll find
Will I meet a friend or ghosts I left behind
Should I even be surprised that You're with me in disguise
For it's Your hand I have seen in the greater scheme of things (REFRAIN 1)

BRIDGE:
For Yours is the voice in my deepest dreams
You are the heart, the very heart
Of the greater scheme of things (REFRAIN 1)

REFRAIN 2:
Why don't we follow the voice that calls within
Dance to the silent song it sings
One day we'll find our place
For all things fall in place
For all things have a place
In the greater scheme of things

~~~

I am going to tender my resignation letter today at 4pm and will be leaving NAST after a month. :( Sadness. I will miss DOST so much. Deep sigh…

Field trip - 2

I know visitors are not permitted to take pictures inside museums but since they wanted to promote their museums to teachers, they allowed us to take some. Kaya super thankful ako. I will surely treasure them.

UST Museum


Museong Pambata



National Museum



Orchidarium
Someone from the group made me one of his subjects kaya may pictures din ako. :) yey!

Dear Crush

Hi! I haven’t seen you for almost a week now. How are you? I hope you’re ok. I just wanted to thank you (and your mom) for making me feel beautiful for the past few months now. I was wondering two weeks ago when this will end. I guess now is the right time to put a stop to this temporary madness. But I thank you for making me feel alive again. Even for just a moment. We’re so much alike. From what I’ve learned from you (through casual conversation) we are both in love with the traditions of our culture and our religion. We both like learning new things - you are the teacher and I am the student. I like learning new things from you. It’s just so nice to know that for once in my life, I met somebody who’s in love with what I love. Pati nga sa flavor ng biscuits pareho tayo ng gusto. But I guess I’ve been sending wrong signals. Am I really sending you wrong signals? Am I really pushing you away? Probably. But maybe you just don’t like me enough. As plain as that. I don’t know. All I know is that I like you. Dito ko na lang sinusulat. I will never have the guts to say these things to you. I don’t know if you’ll ever read this. I hope not. When I reviewed my list, you qualified and were able to meet at least 80% of my standards. Funny you thought of them as too high. Anyway, it’s done. I’ll just do what I always do. I’ll be my usual self. I’ll be quiet and aloof. I’m good at it you know. Ganun yata talaga. I probably haven’t met “him” yet. I’ll wait as I’m waiting for the past two years now. I just pray to God to always give me hope. Katulad din ng pinagdadasal mo. Sana din mameet ko na siya. I’ve been waiting for him for so long now. I hope he’ll love me enough to like me. I hope… Yun lang po. Mwah.

Vote AGHAM!

Email Subject: COUNTRY'S INTERNATIONALLY RECOGNIZED SCIENTISTS FORM PARTY LIST

TO ALL INTELLIGENT VOTERS:

After long years of freedom curtailment under martial law, the authors of our present constitution must have been so obsessed then in looking for new ways that would strengthen our new democracy. The idea of including the party list system in the country’s electoral process is a solid proof of this obsession! The rationale of the party list system is that there are sectors, which badly need representation in congress so that bills that should directly benefit them could be crafted and eventually passed into laws. But since these sectors do not have a fighting chance against the well-oiled political machinery of the dominant political parties, the constitution provides that they may form their parties. They shall then apply for accreditation by the Commission on Elections. If they meet the required qualifications of a party list, they are accredited and allowed to campaign. If their parties get the required number of votes, their nominees will then become congressmen.

In its early years of implementation, the Filipinos were so excited about it that almost all sectors want to be accredited: from the war veterans, to the farmers, to the women, to the youth and even to hold your breath, an anti drug group named MAD for Mamamayang Ayaw sa Droga! In fact, actor Richard Gomez who claimed to be a nominee of MAD almost became the Honorable Congressman Richard Gomez!

For the coming May 14 elections, the latest sector to throw their political hat into the political ring via the party list system are the top national scientists with no less than former University of the Philippines System President Dr. Emil Q. Javier as its National President. The scientists call their party as AGHAM or Alyansa ng mga Grupong Haligi ng Agham at Teknolohiya para sa Mamamayan, Inc.

Agham’s flyer says that it is a national sectoral organization of Filipino science workers most of whom are field and laboratory research assistants, technicians and laborers, as well as science and mathematics teachers, extension agents, engineers, inventors, health professionals, and science media practitioners and otherwise ordinary Filipino citizens who strongly advocate a science and technology-explicit national development agenda. It is a non-stock, non-profit corporation registered with the Securities Exchange Commission (SEC) and is accredited by the COMELEC in the party list.

The entry of the real top caliber scientists (its nominees are awardees of numerous prestigious international and local recognition for their achievements in their specific field of science and technology) in the political system is perhaps the best thing that ever happen in the country’s political processes.

AGHAM’s nominees are no doubt among the best minds that this country has ever produced: First nominee is Dr. Emil Q. Javier, former UP System President, former UP at Los Banos Chancellor and current President of the National Academy of Science and Technology. The second nominee is a muslim brother – Saeed A. Daof, who is a peace advocate and currently the Director of the Center for the Promotion of Peace and Development in Mindanao . The third nominee is Dr. Angel Alcala – former Secretary of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources and former President of Silliman University.

With AGHAM’s offer to serve the country, here is a wish that the Filipino voters would not miss this rare opportunity of sending the nominees of the most qualified party list to congress. As the country tides over the 21st century beset with scientific issues (issues such as global warming, computer-hacking, genetic engineering, etc…) we need AGHAM nominees in Congress to take the lead in drafting legislative measures that would scientifically address the issues!

Field trip

I went on a field trip last Monday.

Actually it’s the Teacher Orientation Program (TOP) project of the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) – Sub-Committee on Science and Technology (S&T) Museums, and the Department of Tourism for the NCR.

Last week, NS Vergara asked me to present the Philippine Science Heritage Center or the SALINLAHI’s institutional video to the teachers who will attend the program. I produced the said video as a final requirement for my DevC 207 course and NS Vergara said that it could be used to market the museum to the different schools in the country. There are still revisions to be made in the video but since I do not have the time yet, I presented it to the teachers. It went ok naman.

Anyway, we visited seven museums. Ang saya noh?! Seven museums! :) imagine! Super saya!

Doll Museum, Marikina


Shoes Museum, Marikina


World of Butterflies, Marikina


Shoe Gallery, Marikina


Philippine Science Centrum, Marikina


Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wildlife, Quezon City

See this? I would rather hold a snake than a caterpillar. :) di kaya ng heart ko.

Grabe! It was so fun! Para akong elementary student. Super amazed. Next Monday meron ulit! Can’t wait! :)

When we need love the most

Author unknown

A university instructor posed a riddle to her graduate education class. "What has four legs and leaves?" she asked, hoping the students would realize that by considering alternative meanings to the words "legs" and "leaves" that they could arrive at the solution -- a table. However, one woman unexpectedly answered, "My last two boyfriends." Maybe you can relate.

People will leave relationships for any number of reasons and sometimes they should, for not every friendship has a healthy future. Some well-intentioned people come together in heat and passion and all that is left of the union when the fire goes out is a pile of ashes. Others bring along so many destructive problems and behaviors that a happy relationship has no chance of long-term survival.

But what about when friends, lovers or family bolt from the relationship at just the wrong time? After all, those we want to love are not always "lovable" or easy to get along with! Is a temporary lapse into craziness reason enough to run?

Author John Gray sometimes tells about a young mother who asked her visiting brother to get her some pain pills. He forgot and, when her husband returned home, she was upset and in pain -- more than a bit crazy. He experienced her anger as a personal assault and exploded in defense. They exchanged harsh words and he headed for the door.

His wife said, "Stop, don't leave. This is when I need you the most! I'm in pain. I've had no sleep. Please listen. You are a fair-weather friend. If I'm sweet, you're okay; but if I'm not, out you go!" And then tearfully, and more subdued, she said, "I'm in pain. I have nothing to give. Please hold me. Don't speak...just hold me." He held her and neither spoke -- until she thanked him for being there.

It is easy to love those who are at their best. But it is during those times we are unlovable that we may need love the most. And what a beautiful thing when we get it. And even more beautiful when we find the grace to give it.

~~~

I've wanted to share this article for the longest time. Tapos it slipped my mind, tapos nawala, tapos nakita ko ulit kaya po ngayon ko lang nai-post. :)

Let me focus on the last three paragraphs – on the availability of a person to respond to the need of another person.

I've read it somewhere that the best gift anyone can give is his/her gift of time. When a person loves somebody he/she would be available for that person no matter what. It is making time when there is none. Making oneself available, or the thought of "just being there," may not only mean that you will always be there for him/her physically. A listening ear or even a warm hug, for example, can mean so much to someone who is in need. It can be a very good expression of love.

Fr. Elpi, during last Sunday's 8am mass, mentioned that one of his parishioners shared her problems with him. Due to the weight of the problem, he did not and could not say anything. He just kept quiet. In the end, the woman thanked her for listening, for just being there.

Sometimes we just need to be assured that we are not alone in this world and that somehow there is somebody who will be there for us whenever we need them the most. Especially whenever we are in our most unlovable state.

I seek you for I thirst

Bukas Palad

Though many times I run from you in shame
I lift my hands and call upon Your name
For underneath the shadow of Your wings
My melody is You

Oh Lord I seek You for I thirst
Your mercy is the rain on the desert of my soul

Oh Lord I raise my lifeless eyes
And see Your glory shine, how your kindness overflows (refrain)

Oh Lord Your sanctuary calls
I yearn to be with You in the rivers of Your love (refrain)

~~~


with National Scientist Benito S. Vergara

My other parents

I am going to write about my family now.

My mother has four brothers and one sister. Being the eldest cousin, I have been fortunate enough to remember and experience their caring and their love for as long as I can remember.

Ninong was the one who took care of me during my first two years. According to his wife, I was always with him when he was courting her. He was the one who taught me how to add when I was 4 years old. He has seven kids, Jeff, Jeric, Jena, Junjun, Jaica, Jay-anne and Jester. Jeff and Jena grew up with Inay. We’re like brothers and sisters. Since Jeric and Jena were called early home by God Ninong and Ninang only have five to take care of. Jep is now mature enough to work abroad. He went home last month to attend his sister’s funeral. I miss him so much.

Tito Ding was the one who always brought us bread. He was a baker. When we were small, he would prepare special bread for us - one that was extra small or extra big, depending on his nephews’ and nieces’ wish. He would always bring us cheese. Kaya super favorite ko ang cheese. He now has two boys, Patrick and Jomel. He would always tease the youngest kid around – nowadays it’s Maemae’s and Troy’s turn. In a year or two, it would probably be Carlo’s turn to be teased. Last Saturday he asked me to accompany him to buy PC. I went with them siyempre, besides the I have nothing to do naman. When I got back from Megamall, I texted them (mama, papa and him) the same same message so may “love you”. Nakakatuwa kasi he replied with “ingat ka, kumain na ng dinner, lab u 2.”

Tito Joel was the one who took care of us during our early years until grade two. My mama and papa were staying in Manila during weekdays and would only see my brother and I during weekends. He was the one who would bring me to and fetch me from school, the one who would always make sure that we would study our lessons well. He has two kids. Maryel and Rafael Troy (a.k.a. ang pinaka-mabait kong inaanak). Super caring pa rin until now. He and his wife gladly scrutinized my first boyfriend up to the last detail. He and my Papa get along pretty well. They were the “makakakampi” among mama’s siblings.

Tita Luz or Taluts, as I fondly call her, was my mother’s only sister. She took over Tito Joel’s job of taking care of us when he got married. She was the mother of us all. As in! We would often say, “lahat ng apo ni Inay, dumaan sa kanyang pangangalaga.” From Grade 3 up to 4th year high school, she would bring us food during lunchtime, protect us from bullies and reserve seats for us in our school service. Siguro nga, kung hindi ako lumipat ng school ng college, she would still change our “sapin sa likod” during lunch time and would still fight the fight for us. Super protective and super mag-alaga! I consider myself lucky for being her niece. She would probably not like me if I’m not her relative. I just know. I think I am her favorite. She has two boys, Gello and Carlo (our youngest). I pity the women whom her kids would love and marry (haha!). Lagot sila kay Taluts :).

Then, there’s Tito Dan. He was the one who taught me the alphabet, the one who taught me to add and subtract numbers beyond number four. When my brother and I were kids, we would wait for him to come home hoping that he would bring us pasalubong. We would lock him outside when he doesn’t have any (hehe! salbahe noh? :). When I was a kid he was my favorite. He would bring me stationeries and bracelets and pins (brooch type) and rainbow cakes. I just realized now, that the reason why his middle daughter, Maemae favored him over anybody else (and vise versa) was because Tito Dan has always been super sweet to little girls. His eldest daughter, Danna ceased to be showy in her sweetness probably because she’s in her adolescence na. However, I could still hear her say “Papa, basa na ang likod mo, pupunasan ko,” every now and then. He has three kids. Daniel Troy, the youngest is still super sweet kahit na boy siya – manang mana sa Papa niya.

Anyway, I am just sharing this because I want the world to know how great and how kind my aunt and uncles are. They are part of who I am now and who I am going to be in the future.

Holy week activites

April 5
Maundy Thursday
Bisita Iglesia
with SFC Bicutan



~~~

April 6
Good Friday
Watched the Procession
With Mama and Papa, Inay, Carlo and JepJep



~~~

April 7
Saturday
Sampalok Lake

I went jogging at Sampalok Lake with Boy, Danna, Gian and Mama. Stayed at San Pablo the whole day and played with Carlo.



~~~

April 8
Easter Sunday
Dolores, Quezon

The whole family along with Inay, Jep, Danna and Boy went to Dolores to attend the 7:00am Easter Mass.



~~~

Crush took this shot :)

Jesus' redeeming love

Redeeming Love

Refrain:
I come boldly, trusting only
Your redeeming love
Flowing freely, from your side now,
Your atoning blood.
Like a river, like a fountain,
Like a cleansing flood.
I pour out my worship to you
For your redeeming love.

V1:
My glory in your cross of shame and suffering
My glory what the world disdains as nothing
I will glory in such foolishness
I will glory for its nothing else
Than your wisdom and your awesome power my God

(Repeat Refrain)

V2:
My glory in your deep humiliation
You found me and you crowned me with salvation
I will glory all my sin and guilt
Has been covered by the blood you spilt
And now I'm living in your resurrection and light.

(Repeat Refrain)

Palm Sunday in Bicutan

Taken during the 10:00am mass at the Our Lady of the Holy Rosary, Lower Bicutan, Taguig City

Hay...

May crush ako.
He’s making my heart jump and grasp at the same time.
Hay… And I can’t do anything about it.
Parang akong high school! Sheeeeeeeeet!

Crush ko na yun dati kaya lang,
I immediately brushed off the feeling.
Hindi ako sanay. He is way beyond me.
And he is strict din. Feeling ko lang.

Basta, kasi when he talks he knows what he’s talking about. Confident eh.
Tapos, he also has this personal relationship with God.
I have a feeling that we talk and relate with Him in the same manner.
Plus his mom has a great taste. :)

Anyway, I’ll see him later. We have a meeting. Yey! Me excited na!

Just writing it down to get it out of my system
I have been doing that since Wednesday last week – getting him out of my system.
Failing and failing still.

Hay…

Oh my God! I’m babbling!

I Know Him By Heart

Vonda Shepard
Paul williams and Jon Vezner

Theres a secret path I follow
To a place no one can find
Where I meet my perfect someone
I've kept hidden in my mind
Where my heart makes my decisions
till my dream becomes a vision
And the love I feel
Makes him real someday

Cause I know he's out there somewhere
Just beyond my reach
Though I've never really touched him
Or ever heard him speak
Though we've never been together
We've never been apart
No we've never met
Haven't found him yet
But I know him by heart

Am I living an illusion?
Wanting something I can't see
If I compromise, I'd be living lies
Pretending he's not meant to be
Cause I know my hearts worth saving
And I know that he'll be waiting
So I'll hold on and I'll stay strong till then

Cause I know he's out there somewhere
Just beyond my reach
Though I've never really touched him
Or ever heard him speak
Though we've never been together
We've never been apart

No we've never met
Haven't found him yet
But I know him by heart
No we've never met
Haven't found him yet
But I know him by heart

Farewell

Dear Jena,

I have so many things to say but I haven’t had the time to fix my thoughts yet. So kwentuhan na lang kita, even though I know that you know what has been going on since last week.

They asked me to give a simple eulogy on behalf of your Ina and Ama. Your brother, Jeric, was given a beautiful and touching funeral and we, your cousins, also want you to have one. Marielle bought half of those balloons. She was probably hoping that you would see how beautiful they were up there. Rafael Troy, my inaanak, was scolding Daniel Troy for not “properly” taking care of you (they were both 8 years old). Jayjay, Gian, Patrick and Boy stayed up late for several nights just to sit beside you. Gello, Mae-mae and Dana begged their parents to let them miss classes to be with you and many others. You know how our family copes during time of crisis.

After expressing gratitude to those who came to give their sympathies and prayers, I told them a little something about you. I told them about your preference for beautiful things. Although it came as no surprise since you were also a beauty yourself.

I told them about our discussion during one of your chemo sessions. The one where you said, “Ate, siguro may dahilan ang Diyos kung bakit ako may sakit ng ganito, ano?” You didn’t know how surprised I was when I heard that from you. I wasn’t used to discussing God’s plan with any of our cousins least alone with you. Well, at least not yet, until you made that statement.

I have always believed that God made us for a reason. I am glad that before you left, you became aware that God has this wonderful plan for each and every one of us. In a way, I envy you. You have already fulfilled your purpose and you have done it with flying colors. Samantalang ako, I am still looking for my purpose. Still wondering why God made me.

Sabi nga nila, mourning is for the living. We mourn for ourselves. We mourn because we will not be seeing you for quite a while. We mourn because we will miss you so much. On the other hand, I am very happy for you. I know how you love life but wherever you are right now, I am sure you’re happier because you’re already home.

We thank God because he has given us the chance to know and be with you during your stay here on earth. I know you are up there somewhere watching over us. Please hug Lolo Ciano and Jeric for us. Au revoir. We love you so much. See you in our dreams.

Love,

Ate

Dear Jena

Hi. I do not want to ask you how you are doing right now simply because I know that you’re not fine. I don’t know if you are aware but your ate is a coward. Since our talk last December, after I got out of the hospital, I know that your health is deteriorating. I cannot bear witnessing that because I have this image of you being a strong and healthy young lady. I know you since you were born. We grew up together. We may not have the same outlooks in life or follow the same fashion statement, but I know that we are closer than close.

I have always admired your guts, your will and your single mindedness. Alam mo ba yun? Minsan lang kitang nakitang umiyak before ka nagkasakit. Natatandaan mo ba yun? I’ll always remember that. Kasi dun ko nakita that you’re also human. Isang beses lang and I know that I couldn’t bear seeing more. Yet when you got sick, I have been a witness to a dozen more maybe. Inay and Taluts and your Ina have witnessed much more than that. I hope you understand that I am weak. You may have noticed that lately every time I see you, I shed tears. I cannot even look at you without crying. You do not know how much I hurt just seeing you in pain.

I have always asked God to give me healing hands. Para I can cure sick people. I don’t know if He has given me that though I’m still praying for it. I’ve always prayed for you to be healed completely. Now I’m loosing hope. I do not know what to ask God anymore. I am torn as to whether to pray for your complete healing or just pray for you to be with Him. Because I know that with Him, you will be free from all the pains you’re experiencing now. In the end I just prayed for His will to be done.

I miss you so so very much. Everytime I see young ladies who are so vibrant and cheerful, I remember you. I remember you in their smiles and in their girly features. I wish I could see you in that state again. The one where you are so knock-out fashionable and so mataray and so snobbish looking. I wouldn’t mind, promise. Because I know deep inside you have a super soft heart and a super sensitive nature. I wish we could talk and discuss again about anything under the sun – about our loves and crushes, about our other cousins who are so super malalandi (according to our and Taluts standards), about our family, and about our life. Anything.

I still pray for your complete healing. I don’t think I can stop praying for that. For whatever answer He will give us, always remember that I love you so much. So so much. We will always love you.

Love,

Ate

Dig this!

In a span of three months, two people asked me to be their Maid of Honor. One is to be married on July 28 and the other one is tentatively scheduled in December.

Who am I to refuse? Ayt?

My answer to both: "I'd be very happy to be your Maid of Honor"

:)

~~~

I heard baby Carlo just had his hair cut. :) will post pictures here next week.

House addiction

HOUSE, M.D.
Season 1, Episode 5: DAMNED IF YOU DO
Original Airdate on FOX: December 14, 2004

Chase: It’d be better if you don’t have any visitors. Once we isolate what’s causing your allergy, then we can be a little more lax. [Sister Augustine turns away from the window and starts to cry.] I can pray with you.

Sister Augustine: I want to die. Why has He left me?

Chase: I was in seminary school. They asked us once what our favorite passage was. I chose 1 Peter 1:7. “These trials only test your faith to see whether or not it is strong and pure. Your faith is being tested as fire tests gold and purifies it.”

Sister Augustine: “And your faith is far more precious to the Lord than pure gold; so if your faith remains strong after being tested, it will bring you much praise and glory and honor on the day of His return.”

Chase: He hasn’t left you. The only thing in the way of your knowing if he’s left you is your fear. You have a choice: faith or fear. That’s the test.

Sister Augustine: Do you think faith doesn’t mean I won’t die?

Chase: It will affect how you experience your death, and therefore your life. It’s up to you.

Sister Augustine: Why did you leave seminary school.

Chase: A test. You passed. I didn’t.

~~~

Sister Augustine: When I was 15, I was on every kind of birth control known to man, and I still got pregnant. I blamed God. I hated Him for ruining my life, but then I realized something. You can’t be angry with God and not believe in him at the same time. No one can. Not even you, Dr. House.

~~~

Sister Augustine: You told me your favorite passage. Would you like to hear mine? [Chase nods]. “Celebrate and be glad, for your brother was dead and is alive again.”

Chase: The prodigal son.

Sister Augustine: He’ll be waiting for you when you’re ready.

~~~

Two of my most loved men in the world: Carlo and my father

Myoclonic jerk

I learned this from Dr. House (Season 1, Episode 2):

Myoclonic jerk - very common when falling asleep. Respiration rate falls, and the brain someties interprets this as the body dying, so it sends a pulse to wake it up.

~~~

People often accuse me of being naïve. Wala tayong magagawa dyan, I like happy endings eh. So I believed James Yap when he said that he loves Kris Aquino (watched them at Rated K last night).

Post ko na lang din dito pag nagbago na belief ko.

Don't be afraid to ask

Background

I slept at around 8 pm last night to be able to wake up after an hour or two to study. You see, my brain functions well in the wee hours of the evening/morning. So at around 10 pm, I literally had to drag myself out of the bed to start working on several assignments.

At around 11:30 pm I was exhausted... of staring at my computer. I haven’t finished anything yet. I decided to rest :) – wala pa nga nagagawa, rest na agad! Anyway…

I turned on the TV and saw Bo Sanchez preaching. That was my first time to watch him preach and I would like to share with you what he imparted. The topic was really appropriate and timely and he delivered it very well. I just hope you won't get bored reading this.

Ok, let’s start? Game!

Bo’s topic for February 21, 2007: “DO NOT BE AFRAID TO ASK”

As a prelude to his discussion, he mentioned that on the first day of his first visit to the US, as an invited speaker, he ate biscuits alone during lunchtime. Without knowing that there was a banquet prepared for speakers, he sat in a corner and ate his “baon”. Luckily, on the second day, one of the hosts found him in his corner (eating biscuits) and invited him to join the rest of the honored guests to the banquet. He was so “nanghihinayang” because he was unable to join them on the first day. Because he didn’t know. Because he didn’t ask.

As children of God, we are given the opportunity to ask God for what ever we wanted and needed in life. That is how great our God is. He hears our prayers and if the time is perfect and according to His will, He also provides the answer. However, we do not practice the art of “asking” properly.

Have you ever had the feeling that you are afraid to ask something from Him? I did and still do sometimes. Nakakahiya kasing humingi kay Lord eh. Baka naman sabihin na niya, sobra na ako. Feeling ko kasi, He has given me a lot and yet I am still asking for more. BUT! – take note of the “but” – that is very wrong and Bo provided us with some reasons why humans are afraid to ask.

So, kindly read on:

Reason number # 1: Ignorance
People are afraid to ask because they do not know that they CAN ask and that God allows them to ask.

I would like to quote Bo on this:

Be specific when you pray! Be specific with what you want! The universe is waiting for you to be specific! Have a goal. Have a deadline. The Universe responds to those who know what they want!

He gave out examples:

1. When single people ask for a husband/wife they just pray: Lord, I want a good husband/wife. But the word “good” is very vague! Be specific! Do not go and settle for kung sino-sino lang. Ask the Lord to give you someone who is faithful and kind and etc.
2. When you ask to receive financial blessings, be specific. Don’t just say, Lord, I want “more” money because having an additional 25 centavos or 1 peso is also more than what you have before you ask for “more”.

Reason number # 2: Low self worth
For this part, Bo referred to 2 Kings 2:9-10:

When they had crossed, Elijah said to Elisha, “Tell me what I may do for you, before I am taken from you.” Elisha said, “Please let me inherit a double share of your spirit.”

He responded, “You have asked a hard thing; yet if you see me as I am being taken from you, it will be granted you; if not, it will not.”

According to Bo:

We humans, especially us Filipinos, have very low self esteem. As in very low that if we are to be Elisha, we would probably say, “Naku eh wag na lang, nakakahiya naman!” If forced, we would probably end up saying, “Sige na nga, kahit katiting lang ng blessings na ibinigay ni Lord sa iyo, ok na sa akin.” And to think that Elisha asked for a double of what Elijah had received.

Come to think of it, no one is deserving of God’s love. But we receive all the wonderful blessings we are enjoying now because He loves us so much! That is why we call it grace! All we need is ask, and it will be given to us.

Reason number # 3: Fear
Bo said:

People are afraid to ask because, they are afraid to be criticized by other people. They don’t want to look like arrogant and ingrate.

Reason number # 4: Pride
I guess I don’t have to quote Bo on this part. The word will explain itself.

Reason number # 5: Wrong belief
Bo explored this topic by saying that we were raised believing the following:

1. God is stingy.
The truth is: God is very generous! Look around you and witness his generosity!
2. Following God entails hardship and suffering because God is present in our trials and pains.
The truth is: God is also with us whenever we are happy and experiencing His blessings.
3. The mere act of asking is wrong!
The truth is: God is waiting to be asked. We should ask to receive.

And finally, Bo asked, “How should you ask?” and he answered: with expectancy!

In Mark 11:24 Jesus said:

So I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it and it will be yours.

He said:

Ask like a child. Because children, when they ask for something, expect that it will be given to them. They will find ways to receive what ever it is that they ask.

Yun lang po. :) I hope you feel the same way I did after hearing these things.

It’s already 1:53 am. Wala pa rin ako natatapos. Well, I finished this… so sige na nga! May natapos na ako! Off to work on my assignments again! :)

Have a great day ahead.

*Sniff*

Happy Valentines Day everyone!

I just wanted to share this. :)

Feb fever

It’s Valentines and it’s probably ok to be senti :)

I watched the Wedding Date the other night. My second time to watch said the movie.

My Best friend’s Wedding, on the other hand was on at another channel. Same actor for the role of leading man on both movies.

I used to love My Best friend’s Wedding. I memorized the sound tract of the film.

When I heard this:
From the moment I wake up,
Before I put on my make up,
I say a little prayer for you…

I remembered that I used to pray for him every single day. Thanking God for giving him to me every single day. So it was probably safe to assume that He knew how much I loved him and that He knew what He was doing when He pulled him off my life. Anyway…

A year or so ago I criticized the Wedding Date. Said that it was not that good compared to the Wedding Singer and the Wedding Planner.

Well tonight, I preferred the Wedding Date to My Best friend’s Wedding. I just felt like seeing the leading woman end up with the leading man. Kung baga, I wanted to feel the kiligness.

Someone sent me this text message (sorry, I can’t remember who):
Whenever I see couples kiss and make out, watch romantic movies and hear love songs… I smile and feel good cause I know love still works. If not for me, at least for others. – Ally McBeal

I like the man’s role in the Wedding Date. I like the way he hugged the woman when the woman found out that her sister slept with her (the woman’s) ex.

Wala lang… I missed being hugged. I haven’t had a nice, sweet and tight one for a very long time now.

Yun lang. No more.

And it’s Valentines… I have the right to be senti. Ayt?

~~~

As for Wednesday, we have prepared different activities for the N2D. I’m super excited na. :)

~~~

You are The High Priestess

Science, Wisdom, Knowledge, Education.

The High Priestess is the card of knowledge, instinctual, supernatural, secret knowledge. She holds scrolls of arcane information that she might, or might not reveal to you. The moon crown on her head as well as the crescent by her foot indicates her willingness to illuminate what you otherwise might not see, reveal the secrets you need to know. The High Priestess is also associated with the moon however and can also indicate change or fluxuation, particularily when it comes to your moods.

What Tarot Card are You?
Take the Test to Find Out.

Hapiverthdey Arlene!

Dear Arlene,

I know, I know! Tomorrow pa ang bitthday mo
but i don't know if you'll be online tomorrow.
And besides, i'm super excited na to greet you.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY to my bestest friend! Mwah! Mwah! Mwah!

Cheers! A very tight hug for you! Mwah!

My Wish
Rascal Flatts

I hope the days come easy and the moments pass slow,
and each road leads you where you want to go,
and if you're faced with a choice, and you have to choose,
I hope you choose the one that means the most to you.
And if one door opens to another door closed,
I hope you keep on walkin' till you find the window,
if it's cold outside, show the world the warmth of your smile,

But more than anything, more than anything,
My wish, for you, is that this life becomes all that you want it to,
your dreams stay big, your worries stay small,
You never need to carry more than you can hold,
and while you're out there getting where you're getting to,
I hope you know somebody loves you, and wants the same things too,
Yeah, this, is my wish.

I hope you never look back, but you never forget,
all the ones who love you, in the place you left,
I hope you always forgive, and you never regret,
and you help somebody every chance you get,
Oh, you find God's grace, in every mistake,
and always give more than you take.

But More than anything, Yeah, more than anything,
My wish, for you, is that this life becomes all that you want it to,
your dreams stay big, your worries stay small,
You never need to carry more than you can hold,
and while you're out there getting where you're getting to,
I hope you know somebody loves you, and wants the same things too,
Yeah, this, is my wish. Yeah.

My wish, for you, is that this life becomes all that you want it to,
your dreams stay big, your worries stay small,
You never need to carry more than you can hold,
and while you're out there getting where you're getting to,
I hope you know somebody loves you, and wants the same things too,
Yeah, this, is my wish.

hugs,

Jing-Jing

Favor please

Please offer a simple prayer for the complete healing of my cousin, Jenalyn L. Brion. She has cancer.

Every little prayer that you will offer will be greatly appreciated by me and my family. May the good Lord bless and keep you.

Thank you very much and mizpah.

Simeon's Canticle

Music by: Manoling Francisco, SJ
Arrangement: Paulo K Tirol
Soloist: Celia Uy
Keyboards: Paulo K Tirol

Lord, let Your servant go in peace
For Your Word has been fulfilled.

A Child shall be born to the Virgin,
And His Name shall be called, "Emmanuel."

My own eyes have seen Your salvation
Which You have prepared for all men.

A Light shall reveal to the nations
And the glory of Your people, Israel.