Nothing's Easy

(image from: http://macscouter.com/usscouts/cartoons/KNOTS_MB_climbing.jpg)

I was always travelling, I mean commuting, on a daily basis. I do not have a car and as of now, I would like to keep it that way. For a freelance Events Specialist, it is a must for me to meet different people everyday. Travelling via jeepney, bus, and railways are my professional kind of sea to where I catch my fishes. Fishes like prospect clients, suppliers, and most of all, life's teachers. Taxi becomes an option only if I am really late, if my hands can't carry the loads of things that I bought, or if I'm not feeling well.

With this, basically, some people asks me, "bakit di ka bumili ng kotse? (why don't you buy a car?)" or "mag-taxi ka na lang (ride a cab)." I often answer "wala akong pera (I have no money) :D. Seriously, it is very uncomfortable travelling on a heavy traffic. It is very uncomfortable riding a cramped jeepney. It is very uncomfortable to ride an overloaded bus. It is also very uncomfortable to be on a jam-packed railway. So the easiest way is to ride a taxi. But wait, isn't it hard to have a taxi to take you on places like MALABON, NAVOTAS, and MAJARLICA Village? Damn... Nothing's easy.

The taxi I was riding one so early morning/ so late night, passes along the Manila Pier, North Bay Boulevard. People taking this route do know that this place is loaded with "informal settlers". The driver complains "Hating gabi na traffic pa din! (It's midnight and it's still a heavy traffic)." I told the driver that the route Pier to North Bay would've been so wide if the original government plan the road was followed. But unfortunately, the other half has been occupied by the informal settlers. They were relocated and given their own house and lot but they still keep on coming back. They say that there is no decent source of income thus their livelihood turns bad to worst. Living in their relocation area is very HARD.

Fact: Almost EVERYTHING is HARD. Some people find it hard to live with lots of money to spend. Some people was burdened where to find money for their vices while their family has nothing to eat. Some even begged for death to come but they keep on living longer. Therefore, nothing is easy. Some people think that regardless their perseverance, they still can't make it out of the slump. Yeah, perseverance is one of the keys but regardless how much work a person put into his life, if he causes problems to others, I doubt that he would have a good and prosperous life.

Fact: NOTHING is IMPOSSIBLE. Aside from putting your faith to the Lord above, industriousness, discipline, and smart work are the basic success stories elements. And also most importantly, by being good to others. We cannot control the problems that come into our lives. We can definitely minimize the problems caused by ourselves but we do not have control on what others do to their live that affects us.

Problems are problems, challenges are challenges. We cannot run from it. Reagardless how fast you run, at the end of the day, you will still have to deal with it. Nothing's easy but also nothing is impossible. We usually deal with problems in a very negative mood but in reality, you can still solve it with a positive attitude. We cannot change our burdens but we can definitely change the way we approach them. Positivity clears way to the proper solution, negativity dooms people and their relationships. Best opportunities, great lessons, and strengthening experiences are concealed in the hardest of problems. Regardless how hard life is, it is not impossible to be happy. Face it, we all have to deal with it, so it's up to you how.

A Funny Twist

(image from http://www.cartoonstock.com/lowres/ear0512l.jpg)

I heard in an FM radio program that this DJ, who is known to give a straight to the point advices to his callers and listeners, have a problem which he usually try to solve for others. That same DJ cried on air because of his personal dilemma. I will not elaborate more in his problem regarding his lovelife. I only want to share this same situation that happens to a lot of people. People can say some good advice to those who are in a difficult situation. This usually happens among friends and families. It is not meddling but showing concern and giving motivational help for those who really needed it. The issue is being in a twisted situation. A dilemma that you have actually given solution for others but ironically, now that you're personally experiencing it, are in need of that same solution. We usually know how to solve it for others, but how come we have a hard time dealing with it ourselves?

Seldom are people who dealt their problems head on and finally move on. We all have the capacity to do that. But for whatever reasons maybe, personal affinity to the problem, human weaknesses, risks, are only considerations to take a look at but should not hinder upon doing the appropriate solution and action. People always know what is right. We all do have problems that were custom made for each and everyone of us. But really, emotions are the biggest pull down factors for us. Hey, what pulls us down may actually push us up. Once you're down, there is nowhere else to go but up, just keep moving.

I am currently dealing about this problem. We all have to prepare for our future and family life. In fact, I always gave advices to my compeers who were in that situations, an example was having an unplanned pregnancy way before even planning to settle down. I do give advices and always happy to help those who need some "enlightenment". Here is my situation: I worry about that promise I gave to my girlfriend for us to be wedded next year but what hunts me is the fact that I still do not have the capacity and the right to be a financially stable family man. It depresses me. I do not want to get older without a family. It is hard to follow your child growing up, specially that the world is rapidly changing and provides gaps for each generations. And we all do know that human life span is getting lesser and lesser as years gone by. I do not want to be financially unstable with children entering high school with me as either their sick or dead father. It really frightens me.

I know I gave people advices on those same problems, but actually, I do need to remind myself of those advices. A personal time for yourself is all you need. What I did is I stop for a while, shutdown my computer, get away from any outside distractions and just focused on myself. I did a personal check up. Where am I right now, what is the goal that I have to achieve, and what is that problem thats causing me to slow down or blocks my way. It is like giving myself a time to heal and recover from the scars of scares. And after the evaluation, we can come up with a solution. What we actually need is within ourselves. We are all capable of solving our problems. That is why it is called "problem", because problems have solutions. If the a situation has no immediate remedy, therefore it will have in it's own time or it shouldn't bothered you at all. Most of the times we create our problems. We can also inject our respective solutions. I am not saying that you should be just positive because knowing what are on the negative side is as much as important. For me, I found out that I simply lose my motivation, that is the problem. What pulls me down, the feeling of time running out has become a push up factor for me to be more industrious and smart. To be more motivated and inspired. All I need and we need to to is to be broad minded. Be calm. Be responsible. And most of all, be caring for yourself.

Expect Less

In his first State of the Nation Address, our beloved president Benigno "Noynoy" Aquino III did not fail to put flowers unto his message (http://www.gov.ph/2010/07/26/state-of-the-nation-address-2010-226/). Indeed, like what have happened in his oath taking, and what he has said during his campaign, everything is about how evil his opponents are and how dirty the previous administration were. To be honest, I don't even know if he personally writes his messages or he has a ghostwriter. Whoever wrote it amazes people who easily fooled by sensationalized statements.

As far as I am concerned, I can compare his messages into a Chicharon. Regardless how huge his words are, how crunchy they may sound, but still it has no sense, just full of air. Why do we have to hear about how worst the Gloria Presidency was and his words that he is leading us on a "straight path". I would love to hear what he will do for us to walk on his promised "straight path". His platforms, his plans, his promises. He has a vision but no mission, he has objectives but has no way on how to meet them.

Disappointing... Instead of leading us forward, he keeps on hunting the failures of the past. We have learned from the past, now we could remedy our present to have a brighter future for each and every tomorrow. I don't want to agree on this but with the way things are happening in his few weeks in the office, to be not pessimistic about our country's future, I think every Filipinos may EXPECT LESS so you will feel our country ACHIEVE MORE.

The Person Our Country Needs

This momentous day signifies the triumph of democracy through the Filipino people. We do know that the result of the Presidential race is a result of a clean and honest election. It is the first automated, first that the nation coped up with the advancement of the modern age. It is not surprising that the outcome is based from what the majority really inked on the ballot. It is not surprising because this is the nature of the true Philippines. The general public vote for the person they think our country needs.
And there he was, standing in the Quirino Grandstand and took his rightful place, a place given by the Filipino people. The man our country needs. To be honest, I did not vote for him. But hey, he won and he deserves a chance. He deserves respect. And regardless who we vote, he deserves our whole hearted support. He is what the majority says our country needs.
Can he give all of us a better life? Good education for each young Filipinos? Sufficient, if not more, income for every Filipino household? Ample food in our tables? Employment? Security? Can he abolish poverty? Can he totally wipe out corruption? The answer is he cannot.
The hard truth is he cannot do that. He is definitely not who our country needs. Not even those who ran for president and other positions along and against him. The slapping fact is that he might can give the best programs and rightful reforms but it is still up to the people being addressed to that program to take the initiative. He can give every people living in the squatters area home but it is still up to those people who were given those houses the choice to be relocated in their respective abode or continue living to a place where they do not have to pay for water or electricity. He can give a memorandum for better education but it is still up to the student to study or just fool around. He can create more jobs but was the unemployed qualify for a position knowing he fail a lot because he just do whatever he wanted to do during his years studying? How can he pull down our electric and water bill if many Filipinos have jumpers in their houses? How can he stop calamities if we ourselves cut trees, waste precious water, smoke, throw our garbage wherever we want. This is just some, there are a lot more things unsaid that makes each and everyone of us responsible for our own sufferings.
He is not what our country needs. He is just a representation of the many, a person that will serve and assist our country. It can’t be done by one man alone. The persons our country need are us Filipinos. Until the time that every Filipinos became responsible for themselves, for others, for his or her environment, and for the nation, the day of us going back to the glory that was ours is quite far-fetched than what we expect. Be responsible, know your role, do your part.

The Capacity To Choose

Another school year has started, another batch of hopeful-soon-to-be-professionals are striving hard to finish their journey towards graduation. Usually, parents provide their children the gift of education in the hopes that their children will have a better life in the future. Future... hmmm... future of the students, it only means their waiting professional life. And for the most, it is about employment. I would like to share an employment situation that I witness happening to a highly qualified person placed in an "orthodox type" of company.

This person is known in their campus as an "intelligent, down-to-earth" type of student, very active in curricular and extra curricular activities. That garner her credentials and awards. An officer of a national level student organization. After her first project based work, she was hired by a top real estate development firm as a marketing officer.

As usual, like every eager newly hired employee, she submits herself to what the company demands from it's people, but unlike many others, her company usually gives a single day-off per month (in their department), per employee. Marketing officer by job title: marketing officer, events organizer, and supplies purchaser by job description. They were given a high salary grade but still, human body has its own limitations. The management's response is that they give a high pay grade and the extra days are counted as overtime. A fast financial and professional status promotion, but faster toll on an employee's health. Aside from lack of rest, pressure and daily dilemmas in the workplace contribute in a fast health deterioration. Indeed, a high price for a secure employment.

What do you think, would a future professional be eager to work if he or she will be hired by a company with this kind of manpower treatment? I don't think so. We know that money run everything in this world, but bear in mind that there will be no money if there is no people. Manpower, people, human resources, whatever you want them called, are still the most important asset of a company. There is a price in every money, but you cannot put a price on a person. The company pays for the work and service done, not buying a person to be their wage slaves. Sadly, this is how I saw her situation.

But again, the company is being managed by people, so definitely they have emotions, reasons, drive, and heart. We cannot change how the company treat their employees over night, Rome wasn't built in one night. You cannot change your workload, but you can change on how you approach it, on how you handle it. The truth is that a person cannot be depressed by any outside influence, unless he or she permits to. If you feel that a situation is starting to be depressing, stay away from it. And when the pressure is building up, don't worry, regardless on how you approach it, a problem always have an answer, so better deal with it cheerfully. We are all different and unique in our own special way. We have the capacity to decide. To influence and be influenced. Do not expect them to change for you. But you can change for the better and somewhat affect your workplace. An impressed boss usually listens and treasure their outstanding employee. The management do what they do because they think it is the best for the company. Anyways, you definitely not be their employee and being paid by them if they didn't exist at all. Remember that a higher level achieved by a company, the harder it gets to stay or even climb farther. But once excellence become a daily routine, it will never be hard to produce the highest quality of performance permanently. It is not the company that makes honor possible, it is always the people inside and working in it. A boss will always have an ear to those who makes him cheer. You can always take a time out, but once you quit, you can never go back. Every pressure and expectations makes a person better, every problems and challenges makes a person wiser, and every punts taken and experiences learned makes a person stronger. You cannot make your boss look at your situation right now, on how tired and how sick you are, but human boundaries are always meant to be extend beyond limitless . Make yourself better each day. Anyways, if they can't see it, you can always talk it to them. They cannot do anything but to give you your well deserved rest. Just be ready when you return to the office, make them see what an ample amount of rest can do not only for the employee but to the company as well. Anyways, if you think that change is impossible, you can always do yourself the favor of looking for another company while still working, or save enough money to put up a little business then quit. It is always important to pay respect to your company. Make sure that they will have enough time to look for a replacement. We always have a choice. We always have the capacity to decide. We always have the responsibility for the outcome. And regardless the difficulty, the best always comes from the right decision.

When It's Time

It has been more than a month since I have last blogged. To be honest, the hype of the previous election has got into me. A month before the first automated election was held, there was a good reason for me to politically inspire my blog, to help for a greater cause. But unfortunately, we didn't win the election, and fortunately, we won the honor and respect of the public. The cause is pretty much alive and continues to grow only in another form.

I would like to explain the reason why I should stop blogging for a while. I didn't blog not because of any kind of depression due to the result of the HALALAN. I didn't blog not because I lose my will to do it. I didn't blog not because of dismay. I didn't blog because I know it is not yet time.

For me, blogging is my way of sharing my personal insights and experiences to other people. To affect their lives positively and help them even in my humble way of awareness and inspiration. How will my blog be able to serve it's purpose if its still politically motivated and somewhat very much painted of what has just happened last May? How will I able to reach out if my thoughts are trapped in the previous national scenario. It would only produce sentiments on why my candidate and our cause have the right to triumph on the said event. It is just that I still want us to be heard, just to let the people know the truth, then regardless the verdict, we will openly accept it. So now, it is not what my blog should be painted with. I have to let it be kept and serve as a new form of knowledge. The key word: KEPT. It is a wonderful memory. I should learn and grow from it and not hinder me from learning and sharing new thoughts. I let myself enjoy the time to move on and learn the proper way to carry it with me. Things should be handle in its own time. When it is time to eat, you should eat. When it is time to work, you should dedicate it for it. When it is time for your family, do not go to the company of your friends or even doing office work. When it is time for your friends, you should enjoy that time with them. And everyone should always have the time for themselves. A time to assess, regenerate, and recover from everything. Like the time-off I have given myself. Responsible Time Management and proper handling of situations are the key to your today, tomorrow, and the rest of your lives. Live and enjoy everything in it's own precious time. Because when it's time to go back to Him, you could definitely can't stop it because "it's time".

Walking on a border line

We certainly know the emerging subculture called Jejemon. They are individuals who makes a word different by means of changing it's appearance and even it's spelling. I can say at first that it is somewhat colorful and creative but there is something not right about it. What is wrong about it is that those people already applied that improper grammatic construction to their daily lives. A "lifestyle" as they say. What is improper is not a "lifestyle", it is destructive. Some businesses even capitalized on it. I personally received a text message from my mobile network about a certain promo that uses Jejemons way of talking as a ringback. It is cute at first and irritating after, and it is definitely wrong.

Those kids in that generation could have a hard time communicating in a proper manner. Especially, we train our kids to be creative and innovative but always take morals and ethics into consideration for them to be ready to the professional world. Ask a high school student to speak proper tagalog, take note, not english, TAGALOG, to the elders. Most of them really find it hard to fluently speak their native language. We are all walking in a border line, we cannot always play safe. We, as human beings, have the capacity to decide on what option to take. We should always take precautions and responsibility on our actions. Go beyond the walls of technicalities but always be sure that your move is always grounded by morality and ethics. Let's take the Americans as an example. Definitely, they culture of the black americans, the way most of them talk, like "there ain't no shit about it", "wazzup doug?" are some basic colorful words that we might be hearing from them. Ask them to write or speak proper english, they will definitely be properly outdone by Filipinos. I can't imagine native Filipinos who can't speak their native tongue.

I like the move made by the Department of Education. Please read the link: http://www.sunstar.com.ph/manila/deped-declares-‘all-out-war’-vs-jejemons

Another thought, we could not make our children take drastic actions because they know that they can say sorry and go for a fall back. They should also learn discipline and responsibility. It is not only our obligation to the young ones but to each and everyone of us as well. CReativity is something that nourishes and flourishes life, not destroy it. Language is part of a culture and culture is life. Always do what is right and you can never go wrong.

Bridge of Possibilities

It has been a long time since I have last blogged. I have been thinking of ways to remove the smudge of politics upon making a piece. But until now politics has never left my thought. Maybe because I learned so much in this past election. And I know I have given all my efforts to support a wonderful cause. Anyways, to divert my senses from it, I tried to remember some wonderful stories that has given me the paint, brushes and means on how to make life colorful instead of the ordinary black and white. Maybe you know this story but I will tell anyways.

There are two young lovers who is so committed to each other. Since they are from different schools, they rely on their cellphones to bridge their communications. They graduated college and haven't change their sim cards since the time they met. They have different line of work but still they continuously text and call each other. Day and night. But one day, while the girl was on a trip and now going back to the Philippines, the guy has met his demise, died of a car accident. He was buried right away so that the people who visit him at his wake wouldn't have a gruesome image of the guy. Since the guy treasured the cellphone so much, they bury it with him. The girl wasn't aware of the unfortunate event since she is on a trip. After three days of rest, she went and tried to surprised the guy at his home. The mother greeted her in a very grieving mood. She told the girlfriend that the boyfriend died and was buried right away. The girl laughed and said that the boyfriend is trying to pull up a prank, even conniving with his mother. So what the mother did was to show her the photos of the wake and the accident scene. The girl didn't believe it and told the mother that they were just talking to each other last night. It is impossible the mother said. But suddenly the girlfriend's cellphone rang and to their horror, her boyfriend's number was flashing on the screen. At first, they were hesitant but still the girl answered the phone, uses the handsfree so that the mother could listen as well. They heard boyfriend's voice and told her about what his mother have said. The boyfriend confirmed that he indeed is dead and said "Mommy, Honey, don't worry. I am okay here with Saint Peter. Totoo pala, malakas talaga ang signal, Making Great Things Possible... Globe."

You can tell me that it is corny but still that joke made me smile. The truth is I told you that story to share you my insights on what has happened to me this past few days. I was at the hype of the election. For one year I have spend right amount of time researching about each presidentiables so that I may know who will I go for. A month later, I voluntarily campaign for someone who I believe is the right man for the highest national position. He never won the presidential race. He conceded and congratulated the winner early as what he has promised to do. Heartbreaking. But hey, I realized that yes, he didn't won the election, but with what he has done, he has won the respect, trust, and admiration of the majority. That is a landslide victory. Presidents cannot command trust, honor, and respect from his constituents. Only the people can give it to the rightful person. After loving the voluntary campaign, going through gruesome defeat, I know what I have learned bridge me over to a higher level of knowing. What I learned is that experiences should never be forgotten because ugly or not, it escalates you to a higher level. Great things will continue because my candidate will pursue his plans for the nation even in his lesser level of political responsibility. After the gruesome mud slinging in the election period, we achieve not the presidential office, but the nation's heart, trust and confidence. This blog is not meant to promote a brand or something. I just used this idea for all us to be reminded that after dedicated hardwork, great things are all possible.

Akala Mo...

It was I think early 2009 that an advertisement by Senator Manny Villar was aired for the purpose of knowing him further instead of jumping into an early conclusion. The jungle was titled AKALA MO. It is quite obvious that Filipinos do jump to conclusions. My basis is that Filipinos do love gossips or chismis. The past election was full of colors, dark ones I must say. I'll be frank, it is actually not hard for me to accept my candidate Sen. Manny Villar lose this election. What is making this Presidential run a heartache is that I see my candidate being ganged up by all of his opponents, hammering him by issues which are definitely half truths if not a total lie. Imagine, everybody's throwing something on him, Jamby, Erap, Gordon, and especially Noynoy. Villar isn't the one who throw the first mud. He actually try to be cool about the situation.

C-5. People believe that it is a project into which Sen. Villar earned so much, a corruption they say. Why does the case did not prosper? He would definitely have been put in jail with this issue. Why does his accusers haven't brought this thing up to the Supreme Court or the Ombudsman? We know that they are not stupid, they are wise enough not to pursue the case against him not because they lack of evidence, it is simply because there is actually no evidence at all, no case at all. The C-5 road is a project in which a group of subdivisions not only owned by Vista land but it's competitors as well have their owned roads that are accessible to C-5, these roads are not part of C-5. All properties have documents proving they are of Zonal values, legal values. No over pricing. They even haven't paid Vista Land for any right of way. They included the roads accessible to C-5 as part of the Highway. So what's to accuse about this issue? There is a private corporation developing the first C-5. Yes it is true, with a high toll fee that won't be affordable to a low level earning Filipino. It is the government's task to provide roads free of charge. It is what our taxes are for. There is no double insertions. There is actually to parts that should have a budget allocated, you won't mix budget if you are a good budget manager. The budget for this two parts should be independent from the other, otherwise it the budget will be mishandled. The Budget was approved by the Senate's Finance committee whose members are also Villar's accusers. If they approve it, they should also be accused of corruption. Those accusers are intelligent indeed knowing that most of the people will just believe in whatever dirty politics they say. People believe in what we called "maling akala."

Villar isn't really poor in origin is one of the stupidest gossips that I ever heard. Nakaligo ka na ba sa dagat ng basura, he does. After living in a room apartment in Moriones, Tondo, and since he have a huge family, his father loaned from GSIS so that they can afford to buy a house beside Smokey Mountain. So definitely when it rains, it floods, a mixture of water and garbage. We at the depress area were not new with the "dagat ng basura." He studied in a parochial school intended to educate poor children. This school is now a private school. While his brother his dying, like what everybody will do, you will not worry about how much a good medical service costs, you worry that later, you just give him the best just to make sure he lives. Unfortunately, his brother didn't make it. Funeraria Paz just service the body but the wake was made in their own house. It won't be that costly since they didn't do it in Funeraria Paz'es Chapel. It doesn't mean that when you are a businessman you are rich. Even the Takatak vendors on the street are businessmen. They just bought two pails of small shrimps and sold it in Divisoria. Since Christmas Eve is a time of buying your ingredients for the your Christmas delights, they definitely spend their time selling on streets. Nagpasko sila sa gitna ng kalsada. Again, people doesn't know because they are contented to hearsays instead getting the truth by themselves. Akala na naman.

Villaroyo? Ows come on! Another black propaganda saying that Manny Villar is the secret candidate of President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo. The people easily believed it, for whatever stupid reason that I cannot ponder. Let us have a quick review from the past. Manny Villar is the person fast tracked his impeachment, he was the House Speaker back then. After sometime, Arroyo came to power. Again, another impeachment issue but now against Gloria Macapagal Arroyo. Hello Garci and ZTE scandals were both being pushed through by Senator Villar but, on the other hand, Congressman later turned Senator Noynoy Aquino voted on the Arroyo's favor. Better read this article: http://100araw.com/gloriarroyo-hello-garci-and-luisita-206 You can definitely concluded that they do have connivance, thus betraying public trust. Who is now Arroyo's candidate? Wait, I mean candidates. Aside from Gilbert Teodoro, Senator Dick Gordon is another presidentiable who gain much of Arroyo's favors. Indeed he did great regarding Subic but it is not actually a work of that single man who claimed all the praises. He is an ex-cabinet of GMA as a Secretary of Tourism into which he uses it's funds for his personal campaign. Travel taxes or tourist taxes were financing Gordon's campaign. GMA do know that. We may even think they're close. I can't remember any scene that he opposed his benefactor regarding corruption while he accuses other politicians. Erap? Of course we know that they have grave issues but we do know that GMA is not stupid. She is one of the best scheme-artist that we have here. Definitely she won't let Erap free that easily without any conditions, say, plotting against her or going against her. It is only unexpected that he still have that large numbers of supporters. He is indeed a people of the masses. We can never disregard any possibilities but hey, they are indeed factual. Jamby for me, as I see and know her, she is a person who takes destroying reputation as a pleasure. Now people, you think you know it all? even I didn't know it all, at least I know this much. Akala mo na naman di ba?

Vista Land and Stocks issues? That Manny Villar influences the stock market, Securities and Exchange Commission? For a person who knows business and studied business, this accusation is a shit. No one, not even Michael Jackson or the Pope can influence it. How much more Manny Villar. Stock Market is a different world, SEC is an independent, private entity that only depends on factual business money life. A person who tries to influence it may have made the whole world as an enemy. Enrile and Erap do know this well. Again, they have the capacity to exploit ordinary people, people who do not understand and listen to mere hearsays. Anyways, Enrile is a known as a destroyer of forest and natural resources. Why not go after him Jamby? Erap has stocks in Filinvest and Alpha land if I'm not mistaken. Akala mo ha.

If ever MBV won, how will he regain all his campaign expenses? The answer, he won't. He already has that much money alotted for the campaign which came from a sale of one of his company or intellectual property amounting to billions which they share among their children. They didn't touch they're savings or own money for the campaign. They are indeed managers. They know how much is for what expense. Even all of us know that money is no matter upon accomplishing a dream. Kung ang pagkamatay sa maling akala ay mabilisan, malamang iilan na lang ang mga pinoy ngayon.

There are a lot of issues. He is still a man of his word. He told his employees that he will definitely concede even at an early stage if he really saw that the discrepancy is really that wide. He did that. He face loosing as a man. He told people that this will be his last three years in politics, believe me or not, he will retire from it as he promised. It is sad that I feel that we are no different from the Jews who still wait for their Messiah. If we only exert much effort instead of accusing someone ignorantly. We wasted our capacity of learning and discovering. Baka magalit si Lord. Maraming namamatay sa maling akala.

Who's the REAL MAN?

I have been carefully watching the presidential race and it's candidates through media: news, blogs, and records from the past. As time passes by, as the election comes faster and nearer, things are becoming much clearer to me. The question is, who is the real man? A certified genuine leader who should rightfully take the seat in Malacanang Palace and govern the country for six years (unless there will be some changes in our constitution), and deliver us to the glory that was ours. There are many points to consider and many facts to gather and later test its' authenticity so that the decision that I will make will be a solid and responsible one. But lately, it all comes down to this "manly" question: WHAT WILL THEY DO IF EVER HE DOES NOT WIN? Their answer is vital because it will reflect on what kind of a person they are. Majority of them will think that they have been cheated, and one of them, Sen. Noynoy Aquino even said that another EDSA will be raised to overthrown whomever was seated. He considered he was cheated once he never win. Remember that he is also the person who said that surveys (an aspect that makes him so confident to say that he will win) are like documents being sold in Quiapo or Recto. He claimed that he has already won the contest. Was he really thinking when he say those words? And now he is telling us that the results from a psychiatric examination are fake? I am not verifying the authenticity of that record but I do know from years ago, from the time that the records are nothing of significance, that he has been treated for medical conditions.

I will not elaborate on other candidates but I will share my view towards them. I will not consider Erap definitely because he already has his chance that he lost because he wasted it. What he is doing today is grabbing other's their chance for the role, it is like stealing. And hey, he wanted to legalize Jueteng, so what's next, prostitution and drugs? Gibo, like Erap said, is one of the persons in the making of a president but was moving in the shadows of the Arroyos (he states that he will forever be loyal to them). We cannot expect change for that, I do not want to have a puppet for a president. Dick Gordon is a true transformer, he is kind on the television but cruel when the spotlight is gone. He uses the funds to do his job but claim it that HE does it, not the FILIPINO taxpayers. He Has no moral values, ask his ex and employees. Jamby doesn't really aim to reconstruct our nation, but she aims to destroy anyone who opposes her. She is a bitter wicked woman who concentrates on what she can do to destroy one's reputation, for her the better thing to do is mudsling against other people rather doing her rightful business. Brother Eddie is most likely qualified but I do not like a person that misleads the facts. I sometimes watch Diyos at Bayan and what I can say is that everything should always go in accordance to what he wanted the viewers to know, either fact or his own personal view. Like when he gathered his supporters in the Quirino Grandstand (if I am not mistaken) and he told the attendance is way much smaller than what he had said on media. Simple things that can really put a big hole in one's personality. JC and Nic are people who I think should elevate their status to the next level, not in the highest level. It is not ambitious but I think they need more time to further prove themselves.

Now there is only one presidentiable that I know that have the guts, the pride, and the honor to accept the result given by the Filipinos. He told the employees in one company celebration that if ever he see that at an early time his opponent's winning margin is way larger than his, he will definitely concede and step down to give way to the winning candidate. He is man enough to accept the result, whatever it maybe. He is indeed a genuine man who honors his words and know how to handle losses. A man that I believe almost none could ever have outdone.

Imagine, who in the right state of mind will sacrifice his supporters, turning them into fanatics that are willing to shed their blood to that person who exploits their innocence, and perhaps, ignorance? I am not that good kind of a person but I definitely know that I should sacrifice, not them, if I am in his situation. With that, isn't it a ground for him to be called a "wicked man"? Noynoy's way of facing defeat... sacrificing the people who believes in him, instead of protecting them. Wait, the whole Aquino kids are active in the first People Power, even little Kris, but where the hell is Noynoy? Maybe he is having a vacation? Maybe he is busy studying? Or maybe he is taking medication. In that I do not know. What I do know is: Villar is the REAL MAN among others.

Why Manny Villar?

I encountered this sound blog created by Ms. Noemi Lardizabal-Dado about why people should also have Manny Villar as a wise presidential option. http://aboutmyrecovery.com/2010/04/20/why-manny-villar/

She raises some strong points on why to vote for Sen. Manny Villar. I love for a fact that a person who writes something is not just intelligent but also responsible as well. We know for sure that this election is a very colorful and deceiving one. I was aware about the real world when I was still 17, I started working and deal with grown ups at that early stage. Honestly, at first I was pro Noynoy, simply because unfortunately someone died, like what Sen. Villar have said. But I am a person who questions my principles and decisions. Because what is right thing to do now is a terrible thing to do tomorrow. What is constant to me is to know more and change for the better. Which have left me knowing not only him, but also other candidates. The good, the bad, and even the worst. I really allot a huge amount of time to do my national obligation as a citizen of our country to do some researches and find facts myself. I am not a fan of hearsays but I use them to know the real deal first hand. And I could definitely and proudly say that Manny Villar is the making of a real LEADER. Take note: LEADER. A President is just a government position. What makes it a number one national leadership role is the person behind it. Villar possesses the virtue and value of a true leader. Here is a link to know why from another blogger:

http://www.thepoc.net/voters-education/6003-undecided-on-manny-villar.html

The most interesting facts that I have found out is how Mr. Manny Villar and Mr. Benigno Aquino III answers this question: WHAT WOULD YOU DO IF YOU LOSE? I have learned that Sen. Villar answer this in his meeting with his employees in the holiday season "Kung sakaling manalo ako, most likely hindi ninyo ako makikita muna dito. Pero ok lang, kung matalo ako, mas madalas tayong magkikita-kita. Kung sakaling maaga pa pero malaki na talaga ang lamang, magcoconcede na agad ako. Tatanggapin ko agad ang pagkatalo ko. (If ever I win, you will most likely will not see me around here. But it is ok even if I lose, you will always see me around. If ever that the margin of votes between the winner and I is really that big, I will concede right away and accept the result of the election.) In the contrary, what Sen. Noynoy is telling about and showing about what he will do if ever he loses, guys I'll be brief about this, he is conditioning his supporters to go and do another EDSA Revolution. From that answer, I think people should think twice about voting him. Again, do some research and know the facts first hand. Please, it is not only your future, but your children's future as well. Be responsible, be wise.

The Last Card: King of Spades

A have a typical high school life. I am one (it means we are many) class clowns in our batch. I don't know if it was sheer liveliness or just a juice of our youth but we always crack jokes to make the class burst in laughter. But whenever there's a contest, like these class jesters are usually the one who gave the wild idea and creates marvelous concept. The person In applaud most is Leo Aquino and Lourdes Severo. They are people with jokes but definitely one of the most sensible people in our batch. I, on the other hand, belongs to the people who rarely attend classes just to play basketball. It is when my classroom adviser talk to me about what will happen if I continue this attitude, specially we are nearing our graduation. She told me: "I have handled you since your third year, and I have seen you in your lower years. It is evident you fail in the first three quarters but always get a score in the fourth good enough to save your whole annual term. You too have ideas that are so outrageous and seemingly radical that always brought out your kind of ingenuity. You are only hardworking in areas you love and seemingly ignore those that bores you. You have a great gift but you either hide it or misuse it. Think about it. You were never there whenever that gift of yours was needed. Don't make them useless. It will just fade and so your future. Think about it."

I did graduate high school and make sure that in my college days, I will use those gifts. And I do learn more to have other skills and enhance what are presently acquired. I have learned that TALENT IS USELESS IF YOU'RE ALWAYS ABSENT. Time is always at the essence. Talent, or skills, always go hand in hand with time. Using them is like sharpening a sword. And like swords, they can be full of rust when they are just hidden. Always be there. You can never know when your opportunity will rise. While waiting, why not sharpen your sword. You will never know what kind of object that your sword must strike.

King of Diamonds

I know for sure that almost all of us have attended a family celebration. May it be reunion, birthdays, or just simple gatherings. There is always a person who will prepare, coordinate, or handle every event. Have you ever took an initiative in handling such happenings? Not only in your family or friends' bonding moments but this also happens in a office where departments or company wide outings were being organized. When I was working in a typical office, you can see those who volunteer to plan and organize the event and those who just smirk and wait for things to be handled. Events are a simple thing that will not raise your pay grade but will definitely raise your level of knowledge, socializing ability, and most of all increase your credentials.

Most of the employees hate extra work but this are actually opportunities given for them to learn and improve. Like most people, they didn't notice that an opportunity just passed them. They let a part of luck slip away. We know when we are over worked or when we can still accommodate extra work and exert extra effort. This lesson is for those who have enough time to spare for but let uses it to in a less productive way.

BY ALL MEANS DON'T SAY IF I CAN, SAY I WILL. This lesson teaches us to face the challenge and top the others. There is no triumph when there is no obstacle. So there is no succeeding when we are doing nothing. Success is a series of daily effort. We may not earn financially but it will give us the capacity to be better than the others. It will give us the capacity to earn more than what we should have. And it will give us a boost nearer to success.

The Queen of Spades

Why does shit happens? It is not always an unforeseen event nor something caused by other person. It is usually an "experience caused by our very own carelessness. When I was working on a bank, I told my manager that even if I am an events person, I have the capacity to easily learn and adopt to new things. I think it is one of the reason why they hired me. It was a totally different world for me. I am not used to working with a routine systems with numbers, and I know I am a person who needs to let my creative juices into work. But I still stay and learn. What happened to my next six month is "same shit, different day" experience. I always feel heavy going to work. I exerted effort that seems to be never enough. My time-in is 6:30 am but I was already working at about 5 am. I should be going home by 4 pm but I always extend until 8 or 10 pm. Whatever preparation that I have done the day will never be enough for the demands of the next day. I really felt like a dolphin taken away from the sea and put into the dessert. Why do I have experience that? I think maybe I am too young that's why I took the risk (anyways, I have learn and it is a gain situation for me.) But I think I haven't prepared myself to it. I just jump into the bandwagon and come what may. Another lesson learned, it is good taking risks but be sure you know what will happen before going through it.

My girlfriend is a marketing and events officer in a real estate firm. She is doing great in her work, but like a typical employee, she experiences shit-load of happenings. She was forced to be more creative than the usual. She was always going through extended hours of work. But still the workload never decreases. It is a different situation but some little things that should be taken care of are usually the things that causes her delays. So the next day, this small snow is now a huge snow ball. We all have a share of those experience, especially, like her, she was overworked.

It is somewhat strict but what we do today defines our tomorrow. We should always do our best in the present so that we have a better future. The Lesson here is: THE BEST PREPARATION FOR A GOOD WORK TOMORROW IS TO DO GOOD WORK TODAY. Hey, it doesn't mean good work is just doing what you have to do, it means do better everyday, good was never enough. So if shit do happens, despite of all the works done, you know that it is manageable and you'll be able to convert that shit into gold.

Jack of Spades

My perception of success is that a true success never stops. It either maintain its position or aim higher, but it never drops down. For me, a person cannot be successful when he resist learning or didn't even learn. Learning is changing and change is the only constant thing on earth. If you can change and be able to adopt to any environment and in every scenario, definitely you are able to survive and succeed on time's challenge.

We all know that Sarao is a benchmark, a pioneer when it comes to jeepney manufacturing. As far as I know, they dominate their industry but started to fall around the 90's. They realize that upon transforming a military, scrap mobile into a public transport vehicle, the jeepney becomes the dominant transportation machine in the Philippines. The realization was there, the innovation was there but why does Sarao doesn't seem to be the dominant jeepney manufacturing company that they used to be? The answer, they stopped growing, they stop learning, they stop adopting to changes. They become very conventional. It is given that there will always be a competitor in one's industry. May it be small or monstrous one, it doesn't matter. What matter is what you can do and what are you capable of doing. It doesn't only mean talent, it doesn't only mean skills, but what matters is how much you learn and able to learn and still capable of learning, and then implementing. We cannot be cavemen all through our life, we cannot be nomads all through our existence, we are capable of improving, we are all destined to be successful. We can never learn unless we started to listen. We can never teach a person who doesn't want to learn. It is like a cap full of coffee, our efforts of putting more coffee to it will only be put to waste because it's space is full, loaded. But we are not a cup, we are capable of adjusting to our environment, our mind is boundless when it comes to ability to learn more. It is only up to the heart to open it's door. Always be reminded what the Jack of Spades is sharing: SUCCESSFUL PERSONS ARE ALWAYS LEARNING.

CAYGO: The Tenth Spade

As I have said in my previous blog, I have a working experience being a service crew, I will indicate which food chain but definitely I know most of them follow this simple rule. CLEAN AS YOU WORK, CLEAN AS YOU GO. In short, CAYGO. I am a business management major and I for one definitely would recommend that some time in a management student's life should he get an experience working as a service crew. I have learned a lot being one of them. I have learned the production operation process, the manning and scheduling, socializing, and most of all, the Clean As You Go policy. Everytime you do something, for instance, make a vanilla mix to be used in making a sundae, a certified crew should always learn to sanitize everything, specially the materials and hands so that it will not cause any infection or contamination. It is also a requirement to meet a high quality product. Operating or making a vanilla mix is not an excuse for the workstation to be untidy. It is a must to keep it clean and orderly. And after the procedure, clean again the workplace. It is definitely easier to work in a clean workstation than experiencing the hassle and stress caused by being disorganize or dirty place. It is also a disciplinary and fellowship training. It doesn't only complement your coworker but also develop a good impression towards everybody in your office or production area. Cleanliness is next to godliness. An orderly, clean place makes every process go smoothly. When you incorporate it in the way you work, you will definitely manifest in your personal lifestyle. Anyways, most of the people that is easily irritated or easily distracted are those person which has no orderliness. We can start by throwing our trash to the proper place (I mean trash bins). If only all parents could train their children about organizing and cleaning, I see a peaceful and bright future ahead.

The Nine of Spades

Have you ever been in a situation that you really think that you do not have any choice but to do something wrong just to be able to survive? Honestly, in my years of living, I always experience that it is seem necessary to do such bad acts just to survive. But as I grew up, I realize that there is always a choice given to us. There is no such thing as a "no choice" situation. We always have to decide but some of us always choose the easy way out of a predicament. Let's set a typical example: I have this interview with ten "in-need" girls, college lasses that goes into prostitution, as a project in psychology. One of the question asked is why did they turn into prostitution. Eight of them answered they need money for their tuition fee since they were self supporting, two answered that they have spent their tuition budget and they have a growing financial (luxury) needs. Those eight answer further that they have nothing else to offer that's why they need to do such services. I asked them if they have tried applying for part time work like service crew or sales representative to compensate to their needs instead of going into prostitution. Seven of those eight answered that it is a very demanding work and money from sex service is higher and faster to gain. So definitely, they do have a choice. They want the easiest way out. Spirituality aside, we are human beings, the thing that separates us from other animals is reason and morality. I have been a service crew and yes, it is money hard earned for those who does not know how to enjoy and enjoy thew learning. I have learned a lot and meet new friends. I can be a hacker at that time but I chose the right thing. DO IT RIGHT THE FIRST TIME (ALL THE TIME) is one of the lesson that I never forget. History is a witness to those people who gain or achieve through evil actions. It's either they ended up killed, disgraced, or left nothing even dignity. It is not a question of what is necessary but is it always the right, appropriate, and just thing to do. Going into the right direction, however rough the road is, will always end up in a glorious destination. We always have a choice. Do it right all the time.

Eight of Spades

Imagine what if the generation before us just leave things the way it was. Meaning, like cavemen, what if they just let the fire out and just continue eating raw meat? In short, what if the people before us didn't have any plans or any initiative to improve their lifestyle. It is possible that we will still be cavemen if we are not gifted by curiosity and discovery. We inherited a better living, aside from national debts, than what our predecessors has experienced. It is not just a responsibility. It is a law. LEAVE EVERYTHING A LITTLE BETTER THAN YOU FOUND IT. There will always be someone who will search and create a life enhancement discovery. It is a primary obligation for every living generation. A typical parent will always find a way to provide a better way of life to their children. Then these children grow and become parents, they will also do the same. It is a cycle of life.

This law also applies in our careers and relationships. A success driven person always see to it that he accomplishes his responsibilities ahead of time. He always exert an extra effort to make thing more accurate and will leave his boss impressed. He will not mind taking overtime and will always be volunteering in any additional work or events. He has passion. He wants a better life so he works better each day. There is nothing wrong with it, given he never neglects any other obligation, specially to himself and his loveones.

In relationship, we always do a special thing for our special someones. Like cooking for them or buying a simple gift, and even just writing a note that says "Hon I need extra cash, now" just kidding, trying if you are still paying attention. A simple note like "you make everyday worth smiling." Simple things are usually overlooked. But these simple things have a huge impact in someone's life. A simple smile will always lift some worries from yourself and from other people.

We shouldn't stop improving. Once we stop, it will also mean the end of us. So always remember: LEAVE EVERYTHING A LITTLE BETTER THAN YOU FOUND IT.

The Seven of Spades

The Holy Week is a season of time out and reflection. Some uses this week for enjoyment and family reunions. Being able to experience church life for almost fifteen years, I usually uses this time to reconnect with God, to mend some broken lines that I have caused. No one is to blame, like a favorite break up quote, "it is not you, it's me." Actually, I didn't want to neglect my blogging and I would even like to focus on some religious themes but an opportunity showed. I have this college feasibility that is known as EGGCHEFLAN, the leche flan inside an egg. Our group won the feasibility of the year award that made us leave a legacy into our campus. I also continue making that everytime someone ordered. It is Holy Week, so therefore, for me its a time for God. But an event asked for EGGCHEFLAN to be used as an Easter Egg and be given away. My girlfriend helped me out in making three hundred seventy five pieces of EGGCHEFLAN and forty five pieces of standard leche flan. It took us Thursday midnight until Saturday lunch to finish all of our products. It is needed by Saturday afternoon. Thank God for He help us beat the time. While working, we also took time to reflect on things that have come to us, may it good or bad experiences. We never felt that we can do nothing, we also know that we can do something for God has let it be given to us. We reflect while working. While others weren't reflecting and even using this solemn time to have a good time (drinking liquor non-stop, even making loud noises that counters the sound of pasyon). It is okay to enjoy as long as it is worthwhile. As long as it replenishes our energies and our spirit. As long as it doesn't hinder anyone to have their time for themselves. As long as we do what is right. I admit, I worked and took advantage of that time to have some extra income, that also helps me excel more in my craft. While working silently, I am also reflecting. God is so good that He always helps me see the opportunities not seen by others. That He makes me aware that WASTE YOUR MONEY AND YOU'RE ONLY OUT OF MONEY BUT WASTE YOUR TIME, YOU'VE LOST A PART OF YOUR LIFE.

The Sixth Spade

Whenever we are in a situation into which we are striving for a higher goal, say, professional promotion or business development, I often hear that we should work warder to achieve something. For me, it is actually an incomplete mix of dedication. Yes, we should work hard or increase our efforts but it is not always the case. Sometimes, there are better ways to gratification. We should always remember to WORK SMARTER, NOT JUST HARDER. It is like there is a tall and massive wall that blocks your path, we sometimes need not to break the whole wall or climb over it when we can just go around it. In an ordinary office environment, the only thing constant there is an increase or workload or having greater responsibility, if we try to finish everything up all at the same time, we just exhaust ourselves until we never meet any of the deadlines. Maybe we should do one thing at a time, or better yet, we should not let the work load pile up. Finish it as soon as it's given. Or exercise time management. I have this mentality in my collegiate days where I never go home as long as there's a single assignment left unfinished. After that, I can do whatever I want whenever I'm in our house. All of the resources are at the school. I am not the type of person that brings the responsibility in the school or at the office at my home, vice-versa. We all have responsibilities everywhere and it is our obligation to attend to them in their proper time and place. There is always a better way. Another is if we approach our jobs in a lighter way, even if we seem not to be satisfied in our professional life, it is our choice to continue taking it or leave it. If we cannot give it up, we should look at a brighter side, anyways, we can always try to learn new things and think that either ways, we are in the win-win situation, they gave us salary while we learn more from them. If the opportunity rises, we know that you are much more qualified to a better career. It is always up to us if we want to be better or miserable. Always our choice. WORK SMARTER, NOT JUST HARDER.

The Five of Spades

We all know that time is one of the things that a person cannot take back. It's importance is connected to our own, our very lives. As time is measurable by life existence, lifetime in which our duration, our time is our own responsibility and obligation. I have always stressed that we value our time because it is a part our our lives. We misuse it, we misuse a certain part of ourselves, a part that we cannot take back or even replace. The ugly truth is, the way we handle our time has a definite impact towards others, we somewhat affect them. Like if we were late for an appointment, we not only waste our time but also the other person's time as well. Responsibility and obligation goes with time.

People who were aspiring to be successful, like me, was often asked a question about our personal vision. Nobody would say that he would like to be the poorest person on earth, we all do want to achieve. I saw this college classmate of mine who is currently jobless. He has a bright vision of his future, he said that he knows that his time will come. But as far as I know, he is just putting sometime on the internet for any online job application and the rest will be gaming, malling, and some other activities that usually kills time. I asked him, since when did he have a job, he told me, "Oh! I haven't realize that it has been six years!. How time fly so fast." But he still believe that his time is yet to come, his opportunity to rise will present itself. Now, what he didn't realize and I think he haven't thought of is "is he ready?" We all did apply for a job but it doesn't mean that it is the only thing to do aside from breathing. There is always a better thing to do.

I believe that each and everyone of us has our own time to shine. But we should realize that shining starts at a small ray of light from the horizon until its full bloom in the top. Our time starts from the day we learn what to choose and has the capacity to decide. It is not other's obligation to do what is best for us. It is in our own hands. While, for example, waiting to be hired, why not do something to make yourself better. Attend some seminars or skill workshop. Do some voluntary work to know more and enhance our professional knowledge. Better qualify ourselves. Then when the opportunity arises we know when is the right part to strike, a perfect timing. We should be ready. Always. Success is close to those who make themselves closer to it. TIMING IS THE ESSENTIAL INGREDIENT TO SUCCESS, BEING THE RIGHT PERSON, AT THE RIGHT TIME, AT THE RIGHT PLACE.

Four of Spades

Have anyone seen the Jollibee commercial of Chicken Barbecue? Everybody could say that the new product is so juicy and oh so yummy. I am one of them. I am a huge Jollibee fan. When my friends and I went to their store, I saw the so called juicylicious chicken barbecue in their warmer as a small, dry textured product. I didn't even bother to order it due to it's appearance but my friend does. Like what I have suspected, it is not like what the commercial says. We really are disappointed. It is actually the opposite of what was being advertised. So everytime someone asked me what can I say about the Jollibee Chicken Barbecue, knowing that I am well-verse with their products, I will honestly not recommend it. Anyways, it seems that some people liked it but I can fearlessly say that majority aren't.

There's this one humble carinderia that specializes with lugaw (congee). The store is not really a flashy one but their food is way more delicious than of those classy competitions. They charge cheap or reasonable (tubong lugaw) but the taste is something you could remember and even savor even days after consuming their product. Their store never runs out of customers. And people from distant places didn't mind long drives just to experience and taste their cuisine. They didn't have any TV or radio advertisement. But customers keep on coming and their volume gets bigger and bigger.

yes, there is always a need to market and promote one's product. It is a way of expressing your product to the market. But what is more important than those costly advertising and promotional gimmicks is the quality of the product. It tells a lot not only about the product but most specially about the company also. Poor product grade means improper company function and system. The product is most likely the face of the company. People will like the advertisement for some time, but the product is something from the company that becomes a part of the customer's lives. Quality assurance is an attitude that boost a normal person or company into a winning force. GIVE THEM QUALITY, THAT'S THE BEST ADVERTISING.

Three of Spades

Stress is a natural feeling nowadays. I can't clearly point out what or even who is responsible for having stress. The most definite answer that I can say is that a person having a problem also experience stress. But not everybody who has problem has stress. Maybe some people know how to handle problems, or even stress. The root of the stress tree is definitely problems. This tree produces various fruits like mental illness, physical exhaustion, and many others. I also think that majority of warlords or warfreaks experiences stress for a long time and still harbors it. These are people with a lot of fear that keeps on haunting them. They just let the fear grow deep inside them until it engulfs their whole being. See, having stress has a tomato effect. A rotten tomato put in a basket of fresh tomatoes affects and rottens the rest. Same with a stressful person put in a peaceful working community will most likely affects the entire workplace.

The truth is, there is nothing that will stop stress from happening unless we do something about ourselves. We cannot stop problems from happening, but we can change the way we handle them. First of all, never do the usual mistakes that people is do. Never run away from problems. Face them. Because every problem has its own solution. The way of solving it maybe hard but there is always a better way to do them. Also, never point the problem given to you to anybody else. It is given to you because you are the right person to best solve it. Sometimes, we do not have to solve the problem because it can be solve by time itself. If we cannot let others solve our problems for us, definitely, there are times that we cannot solve the problem if the problem is not addressed to us. Case ownership. The problems will definitely be solved if we do something about it. So therefore we should not let dilemmas affect us and also others. We control them, not the other way around. If we were pressure and stressed out, it is definitely our choice. We have the choice to face it in a positive way. They are actually stepping stones for us to better ourselves. A reminder from the Three of Spades: THE BEST WAY OUT OF A DIFFICULTY IS THROUGH IT.

Second Spade

I had my confession today after years of pushing myself to my limit. For fourteen years of serving our Lord as a sacristan, I left the organization and the church to see if what I need for me to excel is time for myself. That's why I cut my attachments from the Church. I did this course of action because I was pondering what would I be if I leave ell my commitments and cut all my attachments in the Church. I thought of it because I felt that I was going nowhere. I have served God but in return, I don't see myself being successful at all. Yes, I have done great works and great things inside my organization and inside the Christianity. But as I was thinking, all of those achievements are faith-bound. I have an ambition. I do want to be rich. I am hungry for success. I am afraid of being just a server. With no warnings, I just stepped out and quit. Yup, I am rebuilding my life. A no commitment life other than to myself. I indeed finished college. I did have a very promising career. I did have the luxury of being "only me" towards everything. To cut it short, all I think of and all I care for was me. I saw myself going towards success. I started to realize that I have wasted so much time serving the church and serving others. I felt freedom. But about a year ago, four years after I left the Church, I reevaluated myself, am I happy? I graduated college being a top grade feasibility student, I did have an experience being on a national cheering competition, I do have an opportunity to have another set of friends, and I do broke a relationship. It was all for myself. I transferred from one job to another whenever I felt that the first company is going downhill and the next one being really not into me and most of all, being able to get employed right away. The third one is a project based job that I was never paid for my services, I actually volunteered because I really want to have the experience being with that event and at the same time, being with my girlfriend at work. It is just one month of being an unofficial volunteer and another one month as an official volunteer. Then I tried being a technical representative while learning new crafts until I realize that I am not practicing my degree. The degree that I am very proud of and worth proving to be a foundation of success. I tried to be an entrepreneur. I tried being a fish sauce supplier for starter but have to let it go due to personal reasons. It was also then I realize that I am missing something. I am not only missing something but I also realize that leaving my commitments to the church and cutting of my attachment is the worst thing that I have ever done. I have a goal but my life was empty. I do savor the luxury of serving myself but I felt being alone. I have left myself in the Church. I was afraid of being unsuccessful that's why I think leaving is the best thing to do. I just walk in a dark path. I've been excellent more than I was, that was only because He prepared me for those. He never left me even if I keep on running away from Him. People say I am a no-stress person, that I can handle almost impossible task with ease, I did it because he made me do it. He never left me. I was never afraid because I am achieving but I don't think it will be the same if He abandoned me as I did to Him. My fear causes me to run away. The same fear that made me run in the dark direction. But still, He never left me. I felt it when I was struggling, that everything I am today is to Him I owe. He even gave me someone to serve as a guide and savior. She was made a tool for my salvation. It took me years to realize that. I am struggling now because I am starting my new business. Now, I can say that I am still afraid but for me (being again with Him and always with her) I can say that I can face the challenges and failures head on. I am stronger now, because I realize that being fearful makes somebody resourceful. That makes courageous heroes out of desperate situation. I have learned that COURAGE IS FEAR THAT HAS SAID ITS PRAYER. Let's get it on!

The Ace of Spades

What is QUALITY? A certain dictionary defines quality as: high grade; superiority; excellence. If that's the meaning of quality, how can it be achieved? Why does every people expect quality in their products and even in their lives? If all of us seek for these quality living, why does only few people attain such way of life?

I used to work for an international bank. These said firm has a long tradition of quality and excellence with it. But it doesn't mean that people inside their offices experiences a happy professional life. Some of them sees themselves as a robot who executes the same processes in a day to day basis. They may be promoted but still they are stuck with their routine, like a hamster running on it's play wheel. They know they're bored but what can they do? Employment is very hard to find nowadays. They find themselves trapped. That is a problem.

I also have peers that have grown with me in our barangay. Most of them are undergraduate which makes proper employment hard for them. If I asked them if they are contented with the way they are living, they usually answer "what can I do? I didn't finished college. So I have to be contented with the way things are happening." Worst thing is that they even made themselves more binded in living a poor life because of an unplanned marriage. Unplanned in a sense that the girl got pregnant so they were forced to live together, with another baby suffering a fate worst than his/her parents have experienced. There is only few people in this situation that have achieved, let's say 60:1.

Whatever shit dumps into our lives, whatever trials and challenges meet us in our way, there is always a better way on doing things. A routinely job can be much enjoyable if you try to offer extra effort and take extra responsibilities for you to learn more and excel . It is really hard but if you think it is not really the stuff for you, go find what you think suit you most. There is always a better thing to do to have a better life. If you are unable to graduate, there is always an option to work while studying. If studying is a far option, try to do some extra jobs to have extra income. Again, there is always a better way to have a better life. The point is QUALITY ONLY HAPPENS WHEN YOU CARE ENOUGH TO DO YOUR BEST. You have the freedom to choose. Nobody is liable in your own life but you.

38th Card

Computer shop is one of the businesses that exist today. And it is still growing. It is rarely to see a place with now computer shops within it. Some are even operating near their competition. They indeed have saturated markets but how can some lost their customers or didn't even get their prospect customers while the other shop has all the customers waiting for their turn? I think we cannot blame the marketing, the promotion or even the pricing. Some shop, regardless whether their a computer shop or any other establishments, focuses on how to reduce their services or product's price or how their offices will become more appealing to their prospect client. While others focuses on what the customers really need and what will benefit either parties. It is true that those above mentioned matters are important but there will be no more essential than giving what the customers' demands. Knowing what they really want will make your business necessary for them. It is also a way of reaching out to them, creating a better connection. Anyways, when money pours, it is easy to do some renovation or improvisation.

Another thing when it comes to ordinary people, like students. Base on my experience, some of my classmates prefer to attend Physical education class rather than any other classes. I for one really enjoy playing basketball with them. But let's look at the larger picture: PE develops our physical well-being while classes like Management, accounting, and the like prepares us to what the real world is about. Although we will be just using perhaps twenty five percent of what we have learned in our scholastic years but hey, they're still twenty five percent. Yup the rest are learning based on our experience but scholastic lessons were always useful in our daily lives. We enjoy the things that are enjoyable to us but we should also learn to enjoy those boring but necessary things that we have to take with us as we grow up. You cannot like unless you want them.

Always remember what the King of Hearts states: DON'T MAJOR IN MINOR THINGS. They are necessary too but always look into what the whole picture is telling you to do. Focus on your goals, not on the diversions.

Queen of Hearts

This I think all of you, men, will agree with me. This quote from my Queen of Hearts is mostly applicable to women. "MOST PEOPLE DON'T KNOW WHAT THEY WANT BUT THEY'RE PRETTY SURE THEY HAVEN'T GOT IT." I'm just kidding when I say that this is mostly applicable to women because actually not all women were like that and not all men are not like that. Actually, nowadays, I can see women more empowered than men. I don't know what's happening or is there any change of tides but most ladies nowadays were pretty much sure what they want with their life and their family's future and they risk everything just to achieve it. While I can see some of my co-gender just waiting for things to happen.

Okay, let's cut the chase, I for one, used to be thinking that I feel incomplete that's why I keep on looking and asking or working for something so I may have it. Most of the times, I will ask or seek or work again because I want something else or another. We people are really can't be satisfied. Some will say that they are already contented with their lives maybe because they have already achieve their meaning and realize the reason of their existence or they are just bluffing. It is better to be the first one that I mentioned than the latter. There is no wrong when achieving something, as long as you get it or work for it in a very honorable manner. Everybody should know what they want to do with their lives or else you will end up driving yourself to work so hard that you and later ended up in the wrong destination. It is the usual cause of unhappiness or emptiness or both. The issue here is to know yourself that will enable you to see what is your purpose or what is it that you are wanting. With that, you can plot your towards attaining your goal. It is not wrong to always seek for the best. Just always remember, what is best for others may not be best for you. You are your own man and you have your own destiny to build. Be contented only if you give your best shot. Always aim for a higher standard. And know when to stop. Getting things that have no meaning to you is the same as stealing from others that may have use to it.

The Jack of Hearts

There is no constant thing on earth but change. I bet it is very true. Regardless on how much a being like himself, whether he likes it or not, he cannot stop changing. There are a lot of aspects, especially for us humans, to consider when it comes to changing. I remember the words that elders here often uses when someone uses alibi to escape their misdeeds "Huwag kang tumanda ng paurong." As our body age so does our wisdom. And most especially the way we handle our responsibilities.

In my dire times, when I feel that everything seems hopeless, I always asked myself "how mature am I to handle this?" Maybe it is not yet time or maybe I am way behind my development, but if I cannot get through this now, when will I ever overcome it. All of us will grow eventually, so why hinder ourselves? We should not just grow, not just change, but we should be better each time. Time changes and it demands goes with it. It is so important to remember and live by this lesson from the Jack of Hearts: COMMIT YOURSELF TO CONSTANT IMPROVEMENT. Don't be contented with what you are right not. There is always room for growth. If you feel you are the best now, do you think you're still the best tomorrow?

Respect

I have an argument for you, here it is: Respect is earned, not given.

What do you think? Maybe some will agree. Actually, majority of the people who I ask this question say they do agree with the phrase. But if you ask me, I would definitely say that generally, respect is always given, it was only earned once somebody breaks it or a person shamed himself or by others. I think it is quite misunderstood. Respect is given while trust is earned. They are two different issues.There is no question that you should always have to earn trust, especially when the two persons involved are complete strangers. While every people is entitled for their freedom which everybody should always respect, no matter what the person is. Like you pass by a total stranger, basically you will just leave him in peace if you have nothing to ask of him. That's respect, a simple example. He didn't have to exert any effort for you to respect him. It is a must. It is a general rule that respect to be given is a MUST. It is mandatory. It is general. For me, it not actually a point to argue with. I just made this blog for the simple fact that most people should not interchange respect and trust. The sad truth is that they live by the term respect should be earned. Imagine if we do not respect somebody by the mere reason that they didn't do anything to earn it. If from the very start that wrong way existed and generally practiced. I think it would be either the human race become extinct due to constant wars or we all live our lives on an anarchy. Peace comes with respect. Like what the golden rule suggest: DO UNTO OTHERS WHAT YOU WANT OTHERS DO UNTO YOU. If you want to be respected, show respect. You cannot love if you do not respect. The lose of respect is a lose of silence, of peace, and of course, love. Respect one another, that is the beginning of a peaceful and harmonious existence.