She was one of those office snubs that you know you wouldn't get along with. She has this demeanor that says "I'm all business so please don't mess with me" emanating all over her, as if to say, if you got nothing smart to say, don't even bother. Unfortunately when I met her more than a decade ago, she works in the same group as I am, and back then, I wasn't just as pesky as the Tasmanian Devil, I was the Tasmanian Devil. Maybe arrogant to a certain extent but definitely playful and immature. Surely it was just a matter of time before I started picking on her. I was messing around with her all the time but she actually held her own and surprisingly stung me with counter punches one after the other. Wit after wit she held ground and soon enough we knew it would be good enough to waste time on and see who can outsmart the other one first. She abruptly left the company but we kept in tabs and lived our whimsical friendship, for the most part via chats (shows you how much this friendship was worth LOL)
Every time I feel a little down I would reach out to her and just throw on a sarcastic rant only to find myself being equally ranted on in the process. My friend is as sharp as can be and I normally would hit a mental climax for a 15-20 minute chat with her. Nothing really sexual (ok maybe hints) but mental orgasm is really what it's all about. I've always admired a woman who is intellectually capable of expressing and explaining herself without much effort. Moreso someone who can push me to mental orgasmic heights and even better, allowing me to reach my pinnacle. There is just something that turns me on from a smart feminine head (don't get any ideas now). And this is what she does. She is the ultimate tease. You can't pick her brain all the time because she has, after all, a normal life and got better things to do than to satisfy my intellectual needs. She would berate you and make you feel like an imbecile if you can't keep up with the "smartness". She puts on a great conversation with you but then drops off the planet the moment Mommy duties arise or if it's too late in the night already (she's sleepy at 9). You would think that after all these years of conversing and chatting with her, I would truly know her already, right? Well, you never really know what buttons trigger somebody's dark side until you actually hit them.
We never really knew each other that deeply, I mean it's not like we are BFFs that go to lunch and shop together. We CHAT for crying out loud. But we know enough about each other's personal lives (though maybe not enough) to discuss or delve into it without the fear of judgment. So certain topics put our brains to certain boundaries and nothing really hits a person intensely if you serve them a slice of truth pie. I told you she left the company abruptly, maybe not feeling where she stands (and where she's headed) career-wise in the ladder. She is very smart so if better opportunities come her way, I'm not surprised why she wouldn't grab it. And while I don't have a steady track record myself for staying with companies that long (7 companies in 17 career years), it does not compare how often she moves from one occupation to another. To me, she is the ultimate job grasshopper. In the beginning it was the way to go. I mean if you can push your pay scale a thousand higher every darn chance you get, then why not?? But then in the middle of the journey, is what you're doing really worth the monetary increase?? Are you in a happy place now? Or starting to get disgruntled because it was the pay you really went for and not the job? We were young back then and when you're young, you can get a little impulsive and daring. But when life starts to catch up on you and the going gets tough, security is the way to go.
The economy isn't as friendly a few decades ago when education and experience really counted. Nowadays even if you're inexperienced, as long as you're cheaper than the person you're replacing, the company would hire you. It's all about stretching the buck and companies, thru technology, is slowly but surely making manpower, well, "manpowerless!" Seems like a pretty straightforward and reasonable argument right? Tell that to my mental bitch (or am I hers?). What I thought was a strong point was kapoot! She did not take it well, and threw the disappointing chatter to me as if I was her real life unsupportive partner. What the heck? I was merely implying that job hopping is not the best deal for her and that one day she wouldn't be as lucky. Not to mention that anybody above the 40 line is not necessarily a good item on your resumè. She tells me she is unhappy with her current work and I ask why did you leave the previous one anyway when it was peaceful there? Money. Aaaah that explains it! I was a persistent dick myself, lecturing her on why the short-tenured jobs. Where's the patience? What happened to growing corporately wise? She writes on the chat screen -- FU Robel, then logs out.
A few months ago I chatted with her a few erratic times, nothing mentally stimulating at all as if I was chatting with a high school student. The conversations were bland. I was in disbelief. Is this the same woman who normally puts me to the brink of an aneurysm? Or just a barbie? Alas, the conversations went dead. We lost communication in social media and emails was never our thing. I heard from the unreliable grapevine that she reconciled with her ex and decided to migrate here in CA with the entire fam. I'm happy for her and hope things work out well. Still I miss the wit, the clever punch lines and the skin-deep sarcasm. I felt abandoned and betrayed all because I served her a slice of truth pie. My goodness! Imagine if that came with some "whip" cream LOL
Wednesday, September 17, 2014
Wednesday, July 30, 2014
ASMR 07.30.14
The best music reviews come at the least opportune time. Just a spurt of randomness triggers your inner music demon and so after a long hiatus, ASMR is back once again.
Pick of the Week:
Love Someone by Jason Mraz (released 07.11.14)
Might Interest You Pick(s):
Hardliners by Holcombe Waller (released 05.24.11)
Closer by Mike Stud (released 07.07.14)
Retro Pick:
More, More, More by Andrea True Connection (released 1976)
Special Mention:
Mandatory Fun (Album) by Weird Al Yankovic (released 07.15.14)
Jason Mraz the crooner, the balladeer, the always composed musician shares his polarizing voice once again with his recently launched album YES! The carrier single Love Someone is truly inspirational and would put a lot of lovebirds back into a frenzy. The distinct acoustic guitar melody, as always present, reminds us how mellow and sincere his tracks are. His rendition of Boyz II Men's It's So Hard To Say Goodbye To Yesterday just took me back to why I love that song and Best Friend can easily be a genre favorite. The entire album is a composition of tracks that is suited more for couples that are already in love rather than those discovering it. This is truly worth the buy and is a perfect listening piece for any "chill-axing" moment.
There is something familiar about the sound of Holcombe Waller that reminds me of Foster The People and their hit single Pumped Up Kicks. I guess its the young vibrant sound that I always look for in an alternative pick. I always hear the song Hardliners on my playlist and has always been amazed by it. However, I never really paid much attention to the title or the artist until one boring night at a nearby Starbucks which finally put my innocence to rest. I really am surprised that the song did not create that much noise considering it is really a great tune. Check it out!
Rapping is impressive, but rapping and singing soul is off the charts! And Mike Stud truly made an impression with his single Closer, where he showcased his rap skills but also bolted out some R&B flavor into his song. This is a different take singing and rapping by one artist when usually it is a collaboration between two artists, say Robin Thicke and Kendrick Lamar or John Legend and Rick Ross. If you're impressed by versatility, then this song is for you.
I always have the thing for the retro and More, More, More is just one of the truly relaxing hits back in the 70s where music was at its purest. I feel like lying down and reminisce every time I hear this song (which I rarely do) so the moment it played in the iPod dock you know I had to crank it up. Andrea Marie Truden, the front woman for one-hit wonder Andrea True Connection (or at least I was not old enough then to know they had more hits), was not only an artist of music but she actually went into pornography, which makes her a truly free bird of the 70s.
Lastly, I had to do a special mention to Weird Al Yankovic's newest album Mandatory Fun. The guy is time-tested and has always delivered on his songs albeit parodies yet still very amusing. Lorde's Royals did not escape Yank's choices in Foil, Robin Thicke's Blurred Lines in Word Crimes and the now famous Tacky from Pharrell Williams' Happy. Yank had always made me laugh with his work and now it takes me back to the time when I cracked up so hard listening to You Don't Love Me Anymore.
Pick of the Week:
Love Someone by Jason Mraz (released 07.11.14)
Might Interest You Pick(s):
Hardliners by Holcombe Waller (released 05.24.11)
Closer by Mike Stud (released 07.07.14)
Retro Pick:
More, More, More by Andrea True Connection (released 1976)
Special Mention:
Mandatory Fun (Album) by Weird Al Yankovic (released 07.15.14)
Jason Mraz the crooner, the balladeer, the always composed musician shares his polarizing voice once again with his recently launched album YES! The carrier single Love Someone is truly inspirational and would put a lot of lovebirds back into a frenzy. The distinct acoustic guitar melody, as always present, reminds us how mellow and sincere his tracks are. His rendition of Boyz II Men's It's So Hard To Say Goodbye To Yesterday just took me back to why I love that song and Best Friend can easily be a genre favorite. The entire album is a composition of tracks that is suited more for couples that are already in love rather than those discovering it. This is truly worth the buy and is a perfect listening piece for any "chill-axing" moment.
There is something familiar about the sound of Holcombe Waller that reminds me of Foster The People and their hit single Pumped Up Kicks. I guess its the young vibrant sound that I always look for in an alternative pick. I always hear the song Hardliners on my playlist and has always been amazed by it. However, I never really paid much attention to the title or the artist until one boring night at a nearby Starbucks which finally put my innocence to rest. I really am surprised that the song did not create that much noise considering it is really a great tune. Check it out!
Rapping is impressive, but rapping and singing soul is off the charts! And Mike Stud truly made an impression with his single Closer, where he showcased his rap skills but also bolted out some R&B flavor into his song. This is a different take singing and rapping by one artist when usually it is a collaboration between two artists, say Robin Thicke and Kendrick Lamar or John Legend and Rick Ross. If you're impressed by versatility, then this song is for you.
I always have the thing for the retro and More, More, More is just one of the truly relaxing hits back in the 70s where music was at its purest. I feel like lying down and reminisce every time I hear this song (which I rarely do) so the moment it played in the iPod dock you know I had to crank it up. Andrea Marie Truden, the front woman for one-hit wonder Andrea True Connection (or at least I was not old enough then to know they had more hits), was not only an artist of music but she actually went into pornography, which makes her a truly free bird of the 70s.
Lastly, I had to do a special mention to Weird Al Yankovic's newest album Mandatory Fun. The guy is time-tested and has always delivered on his songs albeit parodies yet still very amusing. Lorde's Royals did not escape Yank's choices in Foil, Robin Thicke's Blurred Lines in Word Crimes and the now famous Tacky from Pharrell Williams' Happy. Yank had always made me laugh with his work and now it takes me back to the time when I cracked up so hard listening to You Don't Love Me Anymore.
Wednesday, June 18, 2014
A Compressed Mind Battling Procrastination
How long has it been since the last post? Two months right? Today I find my fingers punching on the letters of my laptop again while I munch on Famous Amos cookies. Nothing really compelling to write about, but just trying to kick the habit of not writing. It's not that my mind just froze and suddenly I have no opinion about anything Earth. I do, as always, but procrastination always get the upper hand in what usually is a lopsided battle. But today, I am victorious, I am free. Today, I lend my voice again to the blogging world. My slight dilemma though is I have scattered opinions about a lot of things, perhaps due to the decreasing blogging sensations. So to capture all of them, I went to old-reliable subtitles. Yes, I'm going a little OCD with my opinions.
====================
THE SPURS, BASHING LEBRON (STILL??) AND THE NBA FUTURE
Let's face it. The San Antonio Spurs just showed the world how basketball should really be played, and I can't be any happier. It's about damn time. It was beautiful to watch, Spurs fan or not. As I pointed out in random conversations I had of the NBA Finals, in this time when individualism is becoming the mentality of a lot of uprising athletes, San Antonio reminded us that a better team trumps better talent. Could you imagine if all those mid-level teams can enforce a similar system like that of the Spurs, where ball movement is the key? How competitive would the league be? Instead, a lot of teams try to isolate there superstars in crucial moments and hope that they can bail them out of a loss. Not saying it haven't worked before but with better ball movement, you will have a higher percentage of getting the best possible shot all the time. Besides, if you do implement the Spurs system, you don't need to put your superstar in a position where he needs to win it for the team. I am sure by the time the clock hits zero, the team would already be winning by a decent margin. Kudos to the Spurs and to Tim Duncan for winning his 5th ring. Kudos as well for Lebron James for an amazing performance in the series. I think he showed up and brought his game but not the same could be said about his team. Miami got exposed. The once trouncing defense the Heat has willed on to the rest of the NBA teams was no match to the 5+ passes per possession the Spurs applied, tiring out the Heat enough for them to find the easiest of baskets. The better team prevailed and it is not in anyway a reflection of Lebron not being able to deliver when it mattered most. In fact in Game 4, Lebron scored 19pts during the third yet the Spurs were still plus 5 at the end of that quarter. I never liked Lebron. I'm one of those who wished he didn't win a ring. But the man deserves credit, no doubt. I still don't get why a lot of the basketball self-proclaimed "know it all" still bash Lebron when he has accomplished so much already and will probably accomplish a lot more for the rest of his career. I guess as they say, haters would be haters :) Which leads me to the future of the Big Three in Miami. My bold prediction is if they can acquire another superstar (say Melo which I doubt will happen), then James, Wade and Bosh stays. If not, Lebron is coming back to Cleveland, Bosh would look for a lucrative contract somewhere and Wade retires in Miami in the next few years. Now for Melo, I just hope he stays with the Knicks and give the Zen Master a chance to turn the franchise around with him as their cornerstone. But if Anthony decides to leave NYC, then his best destination hands down is Chicago. We all know the Bulls' struggle is on the offensive end which Anthony would surely fill in. With a really effective defensive system already in place and Joakim Noah manning the paint, Melo's flaw in defense can surely be compensated. The only caveat is IF Derrick Rose can sustain his health and be the 2011 MVP that he once was. For the rest of the league, Kevin Love signs with my Lakers. Durant and Westbrook takes another crack at the championship this 2015 season and if they fail once more, Durant goes to Houston to reunite with his pal Harden and Westbrook would team up with Love and bring the UCLA connection to the purple and gold, just in time before Phil swipes Kobe out of LA to become a Knickerbocker. Haha! Kobe in blue and orange? Not happening.
MICHAEL JACKSON
I know this is like a month late but that hologram performance by the King of Pop at the Billboard Music Awards was both creepy and awesome, right? I can't believe I'm saying this but I miss Michael Jackson.. or at least his voice. The once polarizing music icon who was plagued with so much controversies passed away about 5 years ago due to alleged overdose. And though I didn't pay much attention to Michael's music after he became "white", I sincerely missed his distinct voice, his art of music actually, that propelled him to stardom. I've always hoped he'd come up with a song that would remind me of his glory days when he donned that multi-zippered red jacket in Thriller and stole the hearts of millions. But that came to an abrupt halt that day he left the real world. From thereon, I was at peace just cherishing Rock With You and Off The Wall as my old time favorite MJ hits. Until I saw the Jeep commercial not so recently and heard a catchy tune. I can already tell by the first line that it was Michael resurrected. And the song itself was not just a song he sang. To me it was reminiscent of the 'fro haired Michael back in the 80s. The soul distinct classic voice of the King was back and Love Never Felt So Good truly felt so good. Even in post mortem, you delivered. Thanks Michael for letting me appreciate you once again in song.
MY COACHING CAREER
I feel like I can end up being a motivational speaker some day. Well, sorta and so far I have motivated a bunch of kids to win the first 3 of their games convincingly. I started my coaching career for youth basketball a few years ago but not really to coach but just to team up with another coach so that both our sons can be on the same team and up our chances of winning. Since then I managed to stand on my own and have been sharing my best Gregg Popovich mantra to the Cypress Youth Basketball League. It's funny how I seem to amaze myself because I always scramble finding the right things to say when I am in front of my 12-14 year old bunch, only to end up sounding convincingly. I don't plan a speech ahead of time and normally I just wing it depending on the situation. So whether in practice or in a huddle, I come up with something I find very Stephen Covey-esque. By the end of the delivery I feel like I may have even made men out of them. Ok maybe not that far but I truly feel inspirational, or at least I think I do. I have come a long way in coaching youth basketball. Now I stand up and actually yell into my players as supposed to me being too timid before and just letting my players be when they are in the court. I used to never need water while coaching because my throat does not run dry of talking. But now I feel like I need Strepsils after every game. I'm proud a little bit of my evolution. Most particularly in our second game where I only had 5 players out of my usual roster of 10. No substitutions, long court, a very strong opponent (well at least by perception). So in practice and coming into the game, we were not very confident that we'll make it a close game, let alone a victory. But long and behold, as the final buzzer struck, not only did my team win the game, we beat our opponent by 14 points. It was amazing how my team executed the defense and the way they were sharing the ball would for sure make the Spurs proud. The validation came after the game when one of the parents from the opposing team shook my hand and told me that I coached my team pretty well. He was impressed and was sincerely happy for my team for doing a great job despite the adversity. I almost blushed. Good thing my older kid was staring at me so I had to play it cool haha! So far I have my players believing in themselves and my goal is to ensure that their feet is still firmly planted on the ground. Hard to keep a bunch of puberty kids in check, especially if they are in a winning streak. There lies my next challenge. But to this point, I can give myself a nice pat on the back. Grade: A-
THE DEATH OF A LEGEND
I got my Bachelor's Degree in San Beda College in the busy Metro Manila of the Philippines. I had a great run while I was there. A lot of ego tripping, fancy clothes, heavy drinking.. er.. studying I mean, and a lot of memorable faces to remember. I was very active in extra curriculars so I have met a handful of soon-to-be really famous Bedans. But none of those really compare to one symbolic face so synonymous to the academe himself, it would be a shame to call yourself a Bedan without truly knowing him. His name is Mang Roger. He is not a paid employee of the school, nor is he an alumnus, athlete or student. He is simply a vendor of what Filipinos call an aphrodisiac (among other things) and a truly ethnic delicacy -- the famous "balut" (premature duck egg). Honestly, I am not a big fan of the food but I have downed a lot of the "chicharon" that Mang Roger also sells. But what he sells is just a front of the man he truly was. He was always joyful, has a readily joke to share and has his way of marketing his goods that I have not seen in any other street vendors. His loyalty to the school is unparalleled as he exclusively (at least that's what I know) sells his merchandise in San Beda alone. He watches the NCAA games with the Bedan army and can be seen in almost if not all the social events in campus. It is almost impossible to have a Bedan event without seeing Mang Roger around. Students, faculty and even passersby would flock around him just to get a piece of balut (I swear he puts some sort of potion into those eggs that make it so irresistible to everyone). He was also, at one point, the only vendor allowed to sell his goods inside the campus. I guess due to sanitary reasons (too many eggshells around his corner and the smell of vinegar eventually getting pungent), he was booted out to sell with the rest of the street peddler symphony. He was a popular figure, a man recognized not only for his balut but for the personality and his pride of being a part of the Bedan culture. And to every Bedan who has witnessed Mang Roger in their tenure, he is part of the institution, no doubt. He is a honorary Bedan and the Red Army is so sad to see you go. I think I speak for every Bedan out there whom you and your famous balut have touched, that we will miss you and we are thankful for all that is you Mang Roger. RIP June 2014.
====================
The good thing is I have my mind's motor running again and my hands on my tool (and by tool I mean on my laptop). I always find satisfaction in translating my thoughts into sentences and exposing it to the netizens of this world. It is just the act of typing (really) is what I find most difficult. It's almost like wanting to have six-pack abs but always succumbing to the mightier bacon cheeseburger. However, even if my posts do become sporadic, I am still glad I have them few. I feel like finishing a post is like taking a shot of steroid into your ego. Aaah, the sweet smell of accomplishment, how shallow it may be! So here's to another successful parting of ideas from my imagination to yours.
====================
THE SPURS, BASHING LEBRON (STILL??) AND THE NBA FUTURE
Let's face it. The San Antonio Spurs just showed the world how basketball should really be played, and I can't be any happier. It's about damn time. It was beautiful to watch, Spurs fan or not. As I pointed out in random conversations I had of the NBA Finals, in this time when individualism is becoming the mentality of a lot of uprising athletes, San Antonio reminded us that a better team trumps better talent. Could you imagine if all those mid-level teams can enforce a similar system like that of the Spurs, where ball movement is the key? How competitive would the league be? Instead, a lot of teams try to isolate there superstars in crucial moments and hope that they can bail them out of a loss. Not saying it haven't worked before but with better ball movement, you will have a higher percentage of getting the best possible shot all the time. Besides, if you do implement the Spurs system, you don't need to put your superstar in a position where he needs to win it for the team. I am sure by the time the clock hits zero, the team would already be winning by a decent margin. Kudos to the Spurs and to Tim Duncan for winning his 5th ring. Kudos as well for Lebron James for an amazing performance in the series. I think he showed up and brought his game but not the same could be said about his team. Miami got exposed. The once trouncing defense the Heat has willed on to the rest of the NBA teams was no match to the 5+ passes per possession the Spurs applied, tiring out the Heat enough for them to find the easiest of baskets. The better team prevailed and it is not in anyway a reflection of Lebron not being able to deliver when it mattered most. In fact in Game 4, Lebron scored 19pts during the third yet the Spurs were still plus 5 at the end of that quarter. I never liked Lebron. I'm one of those who wished he didn't win a ring. But the man deserves credit, no doubt. I still don't get why a lot of the basketball self-proclaimed "know it all" still bash Lebron when he has accomplished so much already and will probably accomplish a lot more for the rest of his career. I guess as they say, haters would be haters :) Which leads me to the future of the Big Three in Miami. My bold prediction is if they can acquire another superstar (say Melo which I doubt will happen), then James, Wade and Bosh stays. If not, Lebron is coming back to Cleveland, Bosh would look for a lucrative contract somewhere and Wade retires in Miami in the next few years. Now for Melo, I just hope he stays with the Knicks and give the Zen Master a chance to turn the franchise around with him as their cornerstone. But if Anthony decides to leave NYC, then his best destination hands down is Chicago. We all know the Bulls' struggle is on the offensive end which Anthony would surely fill in. With a really effective defensive system already in place and Joakim Noah manning the paint, Melo's flaw in defense can surely be compensated. The only caveat is IF Derrick Rose can sustain his health and be the 2011 MVP that he once was. For the rest of the league, Kevin Love signs with my Lakers. Durant and Westbrook takes another crack at the championship this 2015 season and if they fail once more, Durant goes to Houston to reunite with his pal Harden and Westbrook would team up with Love and bring the UCLA connection to the purple and gold, just in time before Phil swipes Kobe out of LA to become a Knickerbocker. Haha! Kobe in blue and orange? Not happening.
MICHAEL JACKSON
I know this is like a month late but that hologram performance by the King of Pop at the Billboard Music Awards was both creepy and awesome, right? I can't believe I'm saying this but I miss Michael Jackson.. or at least his voice. The once polarizing music icon who was plagued with so much controversies passed away about 5 years ago due to alleged overdose. And though I didn't pay much attention to Michael's music after he became "white", I sincerely missed his distinct voice, his art of music actually, that propelled him to stardom. I've always hoped he'd come up with a song that would remind me of his glory days when he donned that multi-zippered red jacket in Thriller and stole the hearts of millions. But that came to an abrupt halt that day he left the real world. From thereon, I was at peace just cherishing Rock With You and Off The Wall as my old time favorite MJ hits. Until I saw the Jeep commercial not so recently and heard a catchy tune. I can already tell by the first line that it was Michael resurrected. And the song itself was not just a song he sang. To me it was reminiscent of the 'fro haired Michael back in the 80s. The soul distinct classic voice of the King was back and Love Never Felt So Good truly felt so good. Even in post mortem, you delivered. Thanks Michael for letting me appreciate you once again in song.
MY COACHING CAREER
I feel like I can end up being a motivational speaker some day. Well, sorta and so far I have motivated a bunch of kids to win the first 3 of their games convincingly. I started my coaching career for youth basketball a few years ago but not really to coach but just to team up with another coach so that both our sons can be on the same team and up our chances of winning. Since then I managed to stand on my own and have been sharing my best Gregg Popovich mantra to the Cypress Youth Basketball League. It's funny how I seem to amaze myself because I always scramble finding the right things to say when I am in front of my 12-14 year old bunch, only to end up sounding convincingly. I don't plan a speech ahead of time and normally I just wing it depending on the situation. So whether in practice or in a huddle, I come up with something I find very Stephen Covey-esque. By the end of the delivery I feel like I may have even made men out of them. Ok maybe not that far but I truly feel inspirational, or at least I think I do. I have come a long way in coaching youth basketball. Now I stand up and actually yell into my players as supposed to me being too timid before and just letting my players be when they are in the court. I used to never need water while coaching because my throat does not run dry of talking. But now I feel like I need Strepsils after every game. I'm proud a little bit of my evolution. Most particularly in our second game where I only had 5 players out of my usual roster of 10. No substitutions, long court, a very strong opponent (well at least by perception). So in practice and coming into the game, we were not very confident that we'll make it a close game, let alone a victory. But long and behold, as the final buzzer struck, not only did my team win the game, we beat our opponent by 14 points. It was amazing how my team executed the defense and the way they were sharing the ball would for sure make the Spurs proud. The validation came after the game when one of the parents from the opposing team shook my hand and told me that I coached my team pretty well. He was impressed and was sincerely happy for my team for doing a great job despite the adversity. I almost blushed. Good thing my older kid was staring at me so I had to play it cool haha! So far I have my players believing in themselves and my goal is to ensure that their feet is still firmly planted on the ground. Hard to keep a bunch of puberty kids in check, especially if they are in a winning streak. There lies my next challenge. But to this point, I can give myself a nice pat on the back. Grade: A-
THE DEATH OF A LEGEND
I got my Bachelor's Degree in San Beda College in the busy Metro Manila of the Philippines. I had a great run while I was there. A lot of ego tripping, fancy clothes, heavy drinking.. er.. studying I mean, and a lot of memorable faces to remember. I was very active in extra curriculars so I have met a handful of soon-to-be really famous Bedans. But none of those really compare to one symbolic face so synonymous to the academe himself, it would be a shame to call yourself a Bedan without truly knowing him. His name is Mang Roger. He is not a paid employee of the school, nor is he an alumnus, athlete or student. He is simply a vendor of what Filipinos call an aphrodisiac (among other things) and a truly ethnic delicacy -- the famous "balut" (premature duck egg). Honestly, I am not a big fan of the food but I have downed a lot of the "chicharon" that Mang Roger also sells. But what he sells is just a front of the man he truly was. He was always joyful, has a readily joke to share and has his way of marketing his goods that I have not seen in any other street vendors. His loyalty to the school is unparalleled as he exclusively (at least that's what I know) sells his merchandise in San Beda alone. He watches the NCAA games with the Bedan army and can be seen in almost if not all the social events in campus. It is almost impossible to have a Bedan event without seeing Mang Roger around. Students, faculty and even passersby would flock around him just to get a piece of balut (I swear he puts some sort of potion into those eggs that make it so irresistible to everyone). He was also, at one point, the only vendor allowed to sell his goods inside the campus. I guess due to sanitary reasons (too many eggshells around his corner and the smell of vinegar eventually getting pungent), he was booted out to sell with the rest of the street peddler symphony. He was a popular figure, a man recognized not only for his balut but for the personality and his pride of being a part of the Bedan culture. And to every Bedan who has witnessed Mang Roger in their tenure, he is part of the institution, no doubt. He is a honorary Bedan and the Red Army is so sad to see you go. I think I speak for every Bedan out there whom you and your famous balut have touched, that we will miss you and we are thankful for all that is you Mang Roger. RIP June 2014.
====================
The good thing is I have my mind's motor running again and my hands on my tool (and by tool I mean on my laptop). I always find satisfaction in translating my thoughts into sentences and exposing it to the netizens of this world. It is just the act of typing (really) is what I find most difficult. It's almost like wanting to have six-pack abs but always succumbing to the mightier bacon cheeseburger. However, even if my posts do become sporadic, I am still glad I have them few. I feel like finishing a post is like taking a shot of steroid into your ego. Aaah, the sweet smell of accomplishment, how shallow it may be! So here's to another successful parting of ideas from my imagination to yours.
Monday, April 28, 2014
The Sterling Sliver
Finally, a compelling issue to bring me out of hiatus. I probably would've been too indolent to write anything about it but this Donald Sterling news is getting in the way of me enjoying the NBA playoffs. And nothing ruins a run to the NBA Finals more than a social issue of this magnitude. So for the benefit of those who are still in outer space or is not in tune with sports altogether, current Los Angeles Clippers owner Donald Sterling is in the hot seat for some racial allegations he made coming from an audio tape that was publicly sent out by her girlfriend V. Stiviano. In the recording, which Stiviano's lawyer claims as legit, clearly airs Sterling's racial remarks towards African-Americans. Not surprisingly, this has caught the NBA world by storm and the outrage from all walks of life has been overwhelming.
There is no room for such behavior in professional sports, or anywhere for that matter. This has an undeniable effect to the players, the organization as well as the growing Clipper fans. On a social standpoint, it mirrors the same communal issues in any typical workplace. And like any racial-related case, it must be addressed. Confident enough that NBA Commissioner Adam Silver will ensure such actions are dealt with accordingly. On a professional standpoint, how do you see the Clippers deal with this situation? Do you win to play for an owner who does not respect you as a player? Do you win just for you, your teammates or for the team but essentially still winning for the owner? Or do you lose, and as an athlete, give up all you have worked for just to prove a point? As a person, I would understand if each and every one of the Clippers have a different take on this in terms of playing to win or not playing in protest. The problem is, deny it all they want, the Clippers are affected by this one way or another. I think it showed clearly on Sunday's loss to the Golden State Warriors. Not to dismiss the efforts by Mark Jackson's team, but it sure had something to do with the Clippers' lack of focus. As the Clippers go back to Los Angeles, what would the atmosphere be like? Should the Clipper fanatics not watch at Staples? Should they boo or cheer? All of which are distractions if you are making a push for a championship.
As a Laker fan, I almost feel sorry for the Clippers (in fact I actually do) because this came totally from left field. I felt like this year the team would go deep into the playoffs but now I truly have my doubts. Blake Griffin is a monster, Chris Paul is his usual dynamic self and the supporting cast can truly pose a challenge in the Western Conference. However, this kind of predicament has, and excuse my naivety if historically there was a similar incident, is unprecedented. This is not an injury to your star player, not a coach getting suspended, not a loyal fan missing out on a game. This is an owner who runs and benefits from a team that is comprised primarily by African-Americans but ironically is racist. This is not something that a team can easily adjust to. Nobody can just step up and take over the game. This is beyond basketball and should not be tolerated.
Ultimately, as a fan of the game, I wish the Clippers win it all. Not for Sterling but win as a sign of protest against racism. I understand that in the end, if Sterling still owns the Clippers, then he technically wins as well. But Chris Paul and co. still owe themselves, after all their hard work, the sweet taste of victory. I mean if this is in an office setting and you are in the verge of completing a major project, a once in a lifetime opportunity and something you already have worked hard for that would catapult your career to great heights, only to find out you are being discriminated by your boss, would you not go for it and deal with the racial issue later? It is not exactly setting aside a very important issue but rather putting professionalism a step ahead of derogation. After all, being professional would clearly say a lot to being socially profiled right? Perhaps it is the more gallant way to deal with it as a Clipper. But regardless how they show a sign of protest, Clipper or not, Sterling does not deserve to be an NBA owner. Not a chance, not even a sliver.
There is no room for such behavior in professional sports, or anywhere for that matter. This has an undeniable effect to the players, the organization as well as the growing Clipper fans. On a social standpoint, it mirrors the same communal issues in any typical workplace. And like any racial-related case, it must be addressed. Confident enough that NBA Commissioner Adam Silver will ensure such actions are dealt with accordingly. On a professional standpoint, how do you see the Clippers deal with this situation? Do you win to play for an owner who does not respect you as a player? Do you win just for you, your teammates or for the team but essentially still winning for the owner? Or do you lose, and as an athlete, give up all you have worked for just to prove a point? As a person, I would understand if each and every one of the Clippers have a different take on this in terms of playing to win or not playing in protest. The problem is, deny it all they want, the Clippers are affected by this one way or another. I think it showed clearly on Sunday's loss to the Golden State Warriors. Not to dismiss the efforts by Mark Jackson's team, but it sure had something to do with the Clippers' lack of focus. As the Clippers go back to Los Angeles, what would the atmosphere be like? Should the Clipper fanatics not watch at Staples? Should they boo or cheer? All of which are distractions if you are making a push for a championship.
As a Laker fan, I almost feel sorry for the Clippers (in fact I actually do) because this came totally from left field. I felt like this year the team would go deep into the playoffs but now I truly have my doubts. Blake Griffin is a monster, Chris Paul is his usual dynamic self and the supporting cast can truly pose a challenge in the Western Conference. However, this kind of predicament has, and excuse my naivety if historically there was a similar incident, is unprecedented. This is not an injury to your star player, not a coach getting suspended, not a loyal fan missing out on a game. This is an owner who runs and benefits from a team that is comprised primarily by African-Americans but ironically is racist. This is not something that a team can easily adjust to. Nobody can just step up and take over the game. This is beyond basketball and should not be tolerated.
Ultimately, as a fan of the game, I wish the Clippers win it all. Not for Sterling but win as a sign of protest against racism. I understand that in the end, if Sterling still owns the Clippers, then he technically wins as well. But Chris Paul and co. still owe themselves, after all their hard work, the sweet taste of victory. I mean if this is in an office setting and you are in the verge of completing a major project, a once in a lifetime opportunity and something you already have worked hard for that would catapult your career to great heights, only to find out you are being discriminated by your boss, would you not go for it and deal with the racial issue later? It is not exactly setting aside a very important issue but rather putting professionalism a step ahead of derogation. After all, being professional would clearly say a lot to being socially profiled right? Perhaps it is the more gallant way to deal with it as a Clipper. But regardless how they show a sign of protest, Clipper or not, Sterling does not deserve to be an NBA owner. Not a chance, not even a sliver.
Tuesday, January 14, 2014
Breaking Bald
Here's a word for you -- PROCRASTINATE! Almost half of the first month of 2014 gone and it's only now that I finally gave in to the desire, or lack thereof, to revisit my Blogger and type on. I couldn't even come up with an ASMR post eventhough I have so much music to share. But like the misfortunes of my life, I too have reasons on why it took me this long for a follow-up post from 2013. It was just not there. I mean I had scattered thoughts and was not inspired. Go ask Ron Burgundy, he would agree. But the truth is, I got into a funk. One night I just chose to grab a Playstation controller instead of a pen (and by pen I meant my laptop) which was the start of my blogging demise. So every time I have the spare hours to squeeze juices out of my brain, I end up creating new civilizations and battling Genghis Khan in a very outdated console game. The next thing you know, I have a can of Mountain Dew, cold leftover pizza and a few bags of potato chips accompanying me into the night. Okay, it is not that extreme but at my age, that should not be the case unless you work for EA Sports, which I don't.
Not to worry. I'm still active. I play darts and run the tread about once a month LOL! But seriously, I still play hoops as often as I can regardless of how loud the objection my body has. It is the only exercise I get so even if my physical self is deteriorating at a zombie-regressing rate, I always make it a point to burn the basket whenever I can. Besides, I think my boys have sucked me into their sock-matching-the-shoe addiction (an Instagram post very soon to prove this point LOL). And why not? If you can't elevate your game anymore and have accepted that the Iverson speed is no longer there, then might as well look good doing it, right?
Speaking of looking good, I think this perennial battle with baldness is a losing cause. My hairstylist is running out of ideas and it doesn't help that I have an airfield of a forehead. I already did Clooney and also went Korean but could not pull any of those Patrick Ewing/Vanilla Ice-high flat tops. Thank goodness for clothes, at least I can divert some attention away from my head to my Express-clad torso. Too bad though that I can't clothe cholesterol with my plaid shirts. I would've wanted to look good in a seizure (knock on wood). To be honest, my food regimen is whack! I can't stay off of red meats, and match that with a languishing metabolism, then I'm in constant need for statins. And lately, I have been craving for sweets particularly cakes and pies. Can somebody say Boston Cream Pie please? Tiramisu? The really devilish chocolate cake?? Ugh! Kill me now. And I can't seem to elude the idea that my used-to-be reliable sugar count has jumped ship and went berzerk already every time I sip into a Diet Pepsi. This sudden desire for sweetness has to account for something right? Ahh! Who cares? Life is supposed to be lived to its fullest and if I can't have my Quarter Pounder and Apple Pie, then I might as well get killed by Genghis Khan.
Anyway, I guess it's not too late (well it's never too late) for prudent confessions. I mean if Toronto Mayor Rob Ford is a self-confessed crackhead and still refuses to relinquish his post, then I guess I can get away with a free 24 water bottle-packed case at Walmart, right? Okay, I don't really know where I was going with that but I thought I throw it out there. But yeah, I finally cracked 2014 with a new post and for those people who reads my blog particularly in Malaysia, Russia, Italy and Germany, well I truly appreciate it. Thank you! I don't know who you people are but I'm happy you get to enjoy my useless, senseless, CAN live without write-ups! I'm back (but not sure for how long) and would avoid too long of a page break so I can spoil you with my unsolicited views of life, puberty (and poverty) and the taking over of Jimmy Fallon of the Tonight Show...
Until then...
Not to worry. I'm still active. I play darts and run the tread about once a month LOL! But seriously, I still play hoops as often as I can regardless of how loud the objection my body has. It is the only exercise I get so even if my physical self is deteriorating at a zombie-regressing rate, I always make it a point to burn the basket whenever I can. Besides, I think my boys have sucked me into their sock-matching-the-shoe addiction (an Instagram post very soon to prove this point LOL). And why not? If you can't elevate your game anymore and have accepted that the Iverson speed is no longer there, then might as well look good doing it, right?
Speaking of looking good, I think this perennial battle with baldness is a losing cause. My hairstylist is running out of ideas and it doesn't help that I have an airfield of a forehead. I already did Clooney and also went Korean but could not pull any of those Patrick Ewing/Vanilla Ice-high flat tops. Thank goodness for clothes, at least I can divert some attention away from my head to my Express-clad torso. Too bad though that I can't clothe cholesterol with my plaid shirts. I would've wanted to look good in a seizure (knock on wood). To be honest, my food regimen is whack! I can't stay off of red meats, and match that with a languishing metabolism, then I'm in constant need for statins. And lately, I have been craving for sweets particularly cakes and pies. Can somebody say Boston Cream Pie please? Tiramisu? The really devilish chocolate cake?? Ugh! Kill me now. And I can't seem to elude the idea that my used-to-be reliable sugar count has jumped ship and went berzerk already every time I sip into a Diet Pepsi. This sudden desire for sweetness has to account for something right? Ahh! Who cares? Life is supposed to be lived to its fullest and if I can't have my Quarter Pounder and Apple Pie, then I might as well get killed by Genghis Khan.
Anyway, I guess it's not too late (well it's never too late) for prudent confessions. I mean if Toronto Mayor Rob Ford is a self-confessed crackhead and still refuses to relinquish his post, then I guess I can get away with a free 24 water bottle-packed case at Walmart, right? Okay, I don't really know where I was going with that but I thought I throw it out there. But yeah, I finally cracked 2014 with a new post and for those people who reads my blog particularly in Malaysia, Russia, Italy and Germany, well I truly appreciate it. Thank you! I don't know who you people are but I'm happy you get to enjoy my useless, senseless, CAN live without write-ups! I'm back (but not sure for how long) and would avoid too long of a page break so I can spoil you with my unsolicited views of life, puberty (and poverty) and the taking over of Jimmy Fallon of the Tonight Show...
Until then...
Friday, December 6, 2013
ASMR 12.06.13
The holidays are just brutal with the cold weather and all the eating, and procrastinating is indeed the biggest enemy. But I'm trying to get a groove...
Pick of the Week:
Who You Love by John Mayer feat Katy Perry (released 12.03.13)
Might Interest You Pick(s):
Let Her Go by Passenger (released 08.28.12)
Defeatist by Cameras (released 11.26.13)
Retro Pick(s):
Tempted by Squeeze (released 1981)
My Sharona by The Knack (released 1979)
Stay by Lisa Loeb (released 1994 in the Reality Bites movie soundtrack)
Not really a big fan of John Mayer but I know for a fact that he is a great songwriter. This duet Who You Love (with his lady Katy Perry) simply depicts two people in love and it's about damn time a music power couple releases one. It's the classic Mayer voice but with a mellow Perry twist. Great pop pick and I am sure this is gonna be a chart buster.
When I first heard Let Her Go by Passenger, I was like "Why am I just listening to this track right now?" And so I find out that it was released back in 2012 but surprisingly just getting its traction in the US charts. I may have heard this sometime ago but only now had the chance to fully grasp the song, much like Zedd's Clarity which was also released in 2012 but only gained fame this year. Great song nevertheless and distinct vocals by Michael David Rosenberg!
Couldn't really figure out how to define this song Defeatist by Cameras. It is odd but in a good way. I like the mix of sounds and the way all the different parts of the song were blended. The album itself (The Best of Manimal Vol. 2) is an odd collection of songs as well, again in a good way. Dust Season by Papercranes is also a noteworthy song and you may find The Chapin Sister's take on classic Madonna's Borderline a little too different.
I was just browsing on the TV channels on a day off that was supposed to be dedicated for errands. Ready to hit the OFF button, the last channel I clicked on was HBO which then was showing Reality Bites. Sure did it for me! How can I pass up on that? It was a very influential film of my time and arguably one of the greatest movie soundtracks ever! And so Tempted, My Sharona and Stay all got my vote as retro picks clearly because I was smitten yet again by young and extremely cute Winona Ryder a.k.a. Lelaina Pierce. I really love both the movie and the soundtrack and the song When You Come Back To Me by World Party is just the jam isn't it??
Pick of the Week:
Who You Love by John Mayer feat Katy Perry (released 12.03.13)
Might Interest You Pick(s):
Let Her Go by Passenger (released 08.28.12)
Defeatist by Cameras (released 11.26.13)
Retro Pick(s):
Tempted by Squeeze (released 1981)
My Sharona by The Knack (released 1979)
Stay by Lisa Loeb (released 1994 in the Reality Bites movie soundtrack)
Not really a big fan of John Mayer but I know for a fact that he is a great songwriter. This duet Who You Love (with his lady Katy Perry) simply depicts two people in love and it's about damn time a music power couple releases one. It's the classic Mayer voice but with a mellow Perry twist. Great pop pick and I am sure this is gonna be a chart buster.
When I first heard Let Her Go by Passenger, I was like "Why am I just listening to this track right now?" And so I find out that it was released back in 2012 but surprisingly just getting its traction in the US charts. I may have heard this sometime ago but only now had the chance to fully grasp the song, much like Zedd's Clarity which was also released in 2012 but only gained fame this year. Great song nevertheless and distinct vocals by Michael David Rosenberg!
Couldn't really figure out how to define this song Defeatist by Cameras. It is odd but in a good way. I like the mix of sounds and the way all the different parts of the song were blended. The album itself (The Best of Manimal Vol. 2) is an odd collection of songs as well, again in a good way. Dust Season by Papercranes is also a noteworthy song and you may find The Chapin Sister's take on classic Madonna's Borderline a little too different.
I was just browsing on the TV channels on a day off that was supposed to be dedicated for errands. Ready to hit the OFF button, the last channel I clicked on was HBO which then was showing Reality Bites. Sure did it for me! How can I pass up on that? It was a very influential film of my time and arguably one of the greatest movie soundtracks ever! And so Tempted, My Sharona and Stay all got my vote as retro picks clearly because I was smitten yet again by young and extremely cute Winona Ryder a.k.a. Lelaina Pierce. I really love both the movie and the soundtrack and the song When You Come Back To Me by World Party is just the jam isn't it??
Thursday, November 14, 2013
Haiyan... again!
I'm no different. I use social media as an avenue to be heard, minuscule my audience or not, and so is the rest of the world. I have read so many posts about the Haiyan tragedy, so many articles, seen so many clips with everyone's take, point of view and what have you. Every praise, every criticism, every opinion. Someone reposting something he/she has read and trying to influence another reader to believe in it. I wonder what really is the agenda behind all of these?? As I said on my previous post, I hope the help is genuine and not in any way political. But interesting enough the political influence that I was hoping would not cloud the initiative to help the victims had gone, well, viral...
This is not about who is right or wrong, who needs to shut the hell up or not, nor influence what a person needs to do. This is about helping and the urgency for that aide. There will always be someone who will not care, who would continue with life as it should be, someone who would talk. There would be people who would provide a smart or stupid opinion i.e. racist comment by a Canadian teacher, and there is nothing we can do about it. That's freedom of speech. Just be ready to own up on what you say, especially in a time of crisis, because you would be subjected to scrutiny and judgement if you do, right or wrong regardless. As they say in the court of law, what you say can and will be used against you. I guess what I don't understand is the need to criticize people who are in the battlefield and can see what is going on as suppose to people who are miles away and who's intel comes from people other than themselves?? The ironic part is the need to defend oneself from reports that may very well be true? Now, this is not to undermine the people and the officials who are truly helping out in this time of need. There is no need to defend them. Their arsenal is the deed they are doing and reports about it would come freely if the act is evident. Maybe not immediate nevertheless it will. I do agree with a lot but not all of what CNN's Anderson Cooper reported and the one that really stands out for me is that there really is no organized effort (organized is the key) to help the victims. Maybe now there are signs, now that it is Day 6 and almost a week after. But it took that long?? The urgency in awareness is there alright but the urgency in action is the one missing.
Case in point.. when Japan was struck by that deadly tsunami a few years ago, on Day 2, the military is already going through debris and rubble to help find survivors and dead bodies. We can't let the actual survivors who just went thru hell be the ones to do this for themselves, right?? Sure there are reasons why it is taking too long to reach those areas that are isolated and remote and that there is no faster way to get through it. But this is what Cooper perhaps is pertaining to (or at least the way I understood it) that if access was the problem, shouldn't that be the first on the agenda? And while a sector of the government or military is doing that, another leg should be in charge for distribution and logistics. Should there be someone to map out what the operation is all about and delegate the priorities to the resources available? I know it sounds so easy and I'm not a certified tactician myself but that is what the government is for isn't it? They have men and women, elected and appointed, at a governing level who are capable enough to come up with a game plan and have it executed effectively and efficiently. A game plan, exactly. Organized as pointed out.
However, this is what I am talking about where politics come into play. The Philippine government, as a whole, has dug itself a deep hole, credibility and image-wise, long before this tragedy had ever happened. So whether their efforts to help is truly legitimate or not, there would still be doubts. It is part of it so let it be. Again, the authenticity of the act will speak for itself and there is no need to go to the Press or social media and defend the efforts of those who are being scrutinized but wholeheartedly is helping. It is not the image you project but the sincerity of your action because publicity should be the last thing on their minds. Filipino politicians are too conscious about what is being reported about themselves and honestly are not used to being criticized intensely and on an international scale. The goal really by CNN and other non-partisan networks is to inform the public. And whether they forget or just choose not to air the positive side of things, perhaps as a means to motivate and push for quicker help, this is nothing to be worried about. The glory will come down the line and the only validation you need would come from the survivors themselves. That is the one that counts, the ONLY one that counts. Unless of course you are (again) politically-driven, then your goodwill will surely be tainted.
I guess there is always a political twist in everything, whether in a time of need or even in triumph. And maybe my plea to make the rescue efforts to be non-political is absurd. Yet that should not deter me from sharing what I believe should be the ideal intention. I am far away and can easily be accused to be in no position to rant as I put myself into an ironic state. But I will in a heartbeat be at ground zero if I am able to. My two-cents may not count, maybe this is just another article worth ignoring. But I have already earned my right to speak because I made my pledge and my drive is not for glory but merely to put in my share of concern. I will say it again, I have and will continue to pray for the victims and for true help to be genuine and not in any way, no matter how preposterous this may sound, be political...
#prayforthephilippines
This is not about who is right or wrong, who needs to shut the hell up or not, nor influence what a person needs to do. This is about helping and the urgency for that aide. There will always be someone who will not care, who would continue with life as it should be, someone who would talk. There would be people who would provide a smart or stupid opinion i.e. racist comment by a Canadian teacher, and there is nothing we can do about it. That's freedom of speech. Just be ready to own up on what you say, especially in a time of crisis, because you would be subjected to scrutiny and judgement if you do, right or wrong regardless. As they say in the court of law, what you say can and will be used against you. I guess what I don't understand is the need to criticize people who are in the battlefield and can see what is going on as suppose to people who are miles away and who's intel comes from people other than themselves?? The ironic part is the need to defend oneself from reports that may very well be true? Now, this is not to undermine the people and the officials who are truly helping out in this time of need. There is no need to defend them. Their arsenal is the deed they are doing and reports about it would come freely if the act is evident. Maybe not immediate nevertheless it will. I do agree with a lot but not all of what CNN's Anderson Cooper reported and the one that really stands out for me is that there really is no organized effort (organized is the key) to help the victims. Maybe now there are signs, now that it is Day 6 and almost a week after. But it took that long?? The urgency in awareness is there alright but the urgency in action is the one missing.
Case in point.. when Japan was struck by that deadly tsunami a few years ago, on Day 2, the military is already going through debris and rubble to help find survivors and dead bodies. We can't let the actual survivors who just went thru hell be the ones to do this for themselves, right?? Sure there are reasons why it is taking too long to reach those areas that are isolated and remote and that there is no faster way to get through it. But this is what Cooper perhaps is pertaining to (or at least the way I understood it) that if access was the problem, shouldn't that be the first on the agenda? And while a sector of the government or military is doing that, another leg should be in charge for distribution and logistics. Should there be someone to map out what the operation is all about and delegate the priorities to the resources available? I know it sounds so easy and I'm not a certified tactician myself but that is what the government is for isn't it? They have men and women, elected and appointed, at a governing level who are capable enough to come up with a game plan and have it executed effectively and efficiently. A game plan, exactly. Organized as pointed out.
However, this is what I am talking about where politics come into play. The Philippine government, as a whole, has dug itself a deep hole, credibility and image-wise, long before this tragedy had ever happened. So whether their efforts to help is truly legitimate or not, there would still be doubts. It is part of it so let it be. Again, the authenticity of the act will speak for itself and there is no need to go to the Press or social media and defend the efforts of those who are being scrutinized but wholeheartedly is helping. It is not the image you project but the sincerity of your action because publicity should be the last thing on their minds. Filipino politicians are too conscious about what is being reported about themselves and honestly are not used to being criticized intensely and on an international scale. The goal really by CNN and other non-partisan networks is to inform the public. And whether they forget or just choose not to air the positive side of things, perhaps as a means to motivate and push for quicker help, this is nothing to be worried about. The glory will come down the line and the only validation you need would come from the survivors themselves. That is the one that counts, the ONLY one that counts. Unless of course you are (again) politically-driven, then your goodwill will surely be tainted.
I guess there is always a political twist in everything, whether in a time of need or even in triumph. And maybe my plea to make the rescue efforts to be non-political is absurd. Yet that should not deter me from sharing what I believe should be the ideal intention. I am far away and can easily be accused to be in no position to rant as I put myself into an ironic state. But I will in a heartbeat be at ground zero if I am able to. My two-cents may not count, maybe this is just another article worth ignoring. But I have already earned my right to speak because I made my pledge and my drive is not for glory but merely to put in my share of concern. I will say it again, I have and will continue to pray for the victims and for true help to be genuine and not in any way, no matter how preposterous this may sound, be political...
#prayforthephilippines
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