Calling the Shots

PARUSA, Uno

2007-04-05T12:41:00.000+08:00

I thought I could endure any form of punishment, as long as my grades would not suffer the consequences. But this was just too much.

After 6 nights of waiting, at last, I received the text message I've been waiting for:

"anak confrmed na ang alis ntin mmya. txt na lng kta kung wat tym ka pnta"

I was in UP then, checking what miracle I could muster for my dark future in academics. At last, we won't have to hide from anyone who are still thinking we already left the country. Geez.

It sucked how that good news became the bearer of my day's misery.

It all started as a bad stomach ache after I ate a 711 tuna sandwich and mini-slurpee. My tummy started to rumble while I'm on the MRT on my way to Dad's office. Nothing I could not handle, I thought. Just wait.

Dad and I met up somewhere in Nichols and he brought me to Lufthansa Technik, his beloved company. That was my first visit for ages so I need to build a good impression as the son of a Division Manager. Ehem. I proudly strut through the parking lot with my Pop. Ang angas (kuno). Then I remembered. Oops! I forgot my ID sa kotse.

"Pa, pahiram ng susi, naiwan ko ID ko sa kotse."

I ran back. Opened the car. Got my ID. Then locked the doors.

Guess what I don't have? THE KEYS.

Oh DAMN. That almost killed me. We are leaving for the airport in half an hour. My dad's waiting just a few meters away. ALL our bags is in the freakin' vehicle. I was panicking, screaming my lungs out inside. What the hell am I going to do?!

Then I remembered. We are supposed to meet Ma in an hour and we have extra keys BACK AT HOME! Now if I could just text her to get 'em. Bring the keys here. Wishing they are still at home, no traffic, and all this could be done in an hour without Dad knowing! Whew! Talk about MISYON IM-PO-SIB-LE.

But I had to do it. I walked frantically back to Dad. I looked like I just killed someone. Now I know what cold sweat is. I was pale and I don't know what to say. Dad noticed.

"Oh, bakit? Nakuha mo na ID mo?"

Should I spill? Or do I execute my oh-so-NOT-genius plan? 'Til next post.

Flight

2007-03-30T16:40:00.000+08:00

I'm flooded with pain and confusion. I just could not deal with all of these. Really.

I'm leaving the country in 5 hours. Well, hoping to leave. Yet I could not feel the excitement. I just could not care anymore. I'm numbed by what's happening around me. The heat is making my life hell and I'm sooo stressed out.

I have another dilemma regarding my acads. I have two unfinished projects and an uncertain, dark future with an old enemy, Electricity. Man, I haaate this subject. Although I feel it's been pretty easy this sem, it's still a problem. It's evil I tell you. Evil.

It's really depressing how just last week I was unburdened by our Holy Supper and now, I'm back to my bad ways and I have to worry about tons of psybaggage. Now, I learned for a fact that:

anyone is addicted to something. A vice, a drug, a bad habit.
anyone will declare to the world that he has control over the matter. He will stop, refuse, and even TRY to resolve it. But these things are just so. damn. IRRESISTABLE. New Year resolutions my ass.
anyone will succumb to these weaknesses in their most fragile moments. Stressed, depressed or just plain annoyed.
anyone can never be perfect. You are bound to do lots of stupid stuff. Deal with it. Tomorrow's a new day. Deal again.
anyone just have to wait where these things take them. It is going somewhere. Just don't think to much about it.

So I'm giving up. Or more like giving in. That's my key to happiness from now on.

Pilipinas, kitakits in two weeks. I know it will all be better when I come back.

Grey's A Nut To Me

2007-03-23T11:13:00.000+08:00

I just had to post this! It's freakin' hilarious:

ACTUAL SENTENCES FOUND IN PATIENT'S MEDICAL CHARTS at the PHILIPPINE GENERAL HOSPITAL (PGH):

1. Patient has chest pain if she lies on her left side for over a year.
2. On the second day the knee was better, and on the third day it disappeared.
3. She has no rigors or shaking chills, but her husband states she was very hot in bed last night.
4. The patient is tearful and crying constantly. She also appears to be depressed.-- Yes, sometimes its true.
5. The patient has been depressed since she began seeing me in 1993.
6. Discharge status: Alive but without permission.
7. The patient refused autopsy.
8. The patient has no previous history of suicides.-- Yes. cuz prolly, the patient has had history of suicide attempts. Acceptable sa chart yan.
9. She is numb from her toes down.
10. While in ER, she was examined, X-rated and sent home.
11. The skin was moist and dry.
12. Occasional, constant, infrequent headaches.
13. Patient was alert and unresponsive.
14. Rectal examination revealed a normal size thyroid.
15. She stated that she had been constipated for most of her life, until she got a divorce.
16. The lab test indicated abnormal lover function.-- It prolly meant liver function, i think its just a clerical error. Pwede na yan sabihin sa husgado.
17. The patient was to have a bowel resection. However, he took a job as a stockbroker instead.
18. Skin: somewhat pale but present.
19. Patient has two teenage children, but no other abnormalities.

Snippet # 1: Make Over

2007-03-20T10:15:00.000+08:00

I'm on a mission this week.

Mayroon kaming Special Gathering sa church this coming Sunday so I have to get ready.

So in the coming days you will see me "transform" spiritually, mentally, "academically" and maybe, physically. Hehe. I'm not turning into a werewolf, but I need a total self overhaul. Lalayo muna ako sa mga tukso at kalayawan (ang lalim a) this week.

The thing is napaka-timely ng naiisip kong "pagbabago". Why?

This is the final week of classes so I really need to do serious business. I have 3 pending CS projects to finish. Sana makatulong ako kahit kaunti sa groupmates ko.
I have a somewhat alarming epiphany just days ago. I really need to lose weight. Most of my clothes do not fit already. And the few ones that do do not fit me nicely. And I'm getting so much (bad) attention. My family and I are set to fly to San Francisco next week; And foreign country = tons of food. So I have 8 days to starve myself to "fitness". No rice and desserts, FOR NOW.
I'm formulating a new blog concept. It's quite similar to The 21st Project, which sadly was a failure. Pero inspired ulit ako because my life will enter a very drastic change next year. And it's not just graduation. :)

So for the coming entries, snippets lang muna and updates ang mapopost ko. Hindi ko kasi ma-update lagi kung serious-mode yung posts. Hehe.

Now for some photos of KADBin after Master Minds '07 last Sunday:

Bakit ako lang naka-pose dito? Haha!

Now you know what I've been busy about for the past two years. :)

Like a Wheel

2007-02-14T19:21:00.000+08:00

Life that is.

Last week I was all beaten down by the unpredictable weather and shocked by deaths I could not even imagine. In short, that week's a downer. I already had the momentum. Only to lose it again. (whatever)

Now, I'm up for it (again). My sore throat's out, ended my medication, and have my schedule fully-booked 'til summer. :)

The Ninth?!

Ooooooh. I almost forgot. It's the Week of Luuuurve.

I for one, do not celebrate V-Day. Maybe it's all bitterness of being single. I repeat. Single.
Or maybe because I don't believe in saints. Believe it or not, the latter's most likely.

I actually do not feel alone or "empty" or even "incomplete" this week. Being single does not bother me. Yet. Well, except when people, particularly my friends, slam it to my face.

Last Sunday, our barkada had this reunion-slash-get together. We have not seen most of each other since New Year and that's a long time - if you live here in Bacoor. Everybody's got more busier from classes and OJT to land trips and Tagaytay. I thought it was just another "movie" party as we prepared to watch Jhossa's film (yes, she's an indie actress now. hehe).

Man, tragically, I was wrong.

Abe is with his girlfriend, Dada. Jhossa's with Mak. A certain someone is with her special someone (sorry. it's a "secret"). And Rochelle's coming... with Edmar!

What's worse than being the third wheel? It's being the freakin' NINTH WHEEL!

I felt like I was being beaten up in my own house. The funny thing is that, weeks before, I actually swore to everyone that if ever that happened, I will get a girlfriend. Immediately. Ha! Good luck sa 'yo pare! Haha!

Riding the Ferris

I'm actually all dressed up already for this year's UP FAIR! Woohoo! Rockestra, baby, here I come!

On A Roll

I hope I can still keep in touch with my blog this coming weeks since like I said, I will be really "booked up". To name a few, I will be hosting the Nationwide Math Wizard tomorrow, facilitate the STD (Student-Teacher Dialogue) this Monday, plan a reunion party for my elementary friends, finish a couple (make that three) of CS projects, and more KADBin activities. Whew! I need to catch my breath there.

Man, what I'm missing is a date. Bummer.

Strike!

2007-01-27T23:00:00.000+08:00

Man, I am sooo pissed.

I got stood up today. Three times.

What a waste of time, energy, and even "money" (as if I have it). Maybe I was born to be left alone or something. Or maybe it's just karma for my lack of punctuality the past year. But eventhough my overblown tardiness get into people's nerves, I was still present. And when I'm there, I'm there. I make my presence and even my absence count. Well, maybe because I'm the "leader", duh. A followerless leader, maybe. Why oh why do these often happen? Wala bang naaawa sa akin? I was even early today! Too early for my "regular" standards.

Time: 1030 hours

Got a District Meeting at Dasmariñas, Cavite. My "companion". Did. Not. Show. Up. Nor Call. Nor Text. Lovely.

STRIKE 1!

Time: 1600 hours

Got a Visitation schedule. Man, I sent alot of Lahatxt to make it happen. Guess what? ZERO Attendance.

STRIKE 2!

Time: 2000 hours

Got a weekly caucus schedule. A few came. And I mean FEW. Two, three, maybe. So we cancelled it. What a waste. Now I'm pissed.

STRIKE 3!

I'll remember these times tomorrow. These kids need another wake-up call.

HOME RUN NA 'TO.

Back in the Game

2007-01-21T07:36:00.000+08:00

At last, a whole new entry! It's been like what - 5 months? Whew!

It's been a pretty eventful and unforgettable new year. 2007 is actually looking bright from where I'm at. Alot have changed. Damn. New friends. Weight gain. Lessons learned. And a bunch of rediscovery and realization. Caroline once said to me that I'm being too senti and emo in my "writings". I wonder if I can change that this year. All I need is some spunk, spice, and everything nice. Bleh. Man, It's a slooow morning for me. Hehe.

Not that anyone care, but a few of my collegues might have noticed that I've been pretty much secluding myself from society. For the past weeks since classes started, I walked and wandered in isolation. I went home early everyday, missed genmeets, avoided tambay, even conversations took me much effort. And I lost all interest in texting! Imagine that. Maybe I just didn't have that "grand entrance to 2007" I was wishing for. So like what I said, time for rediscovery, readjustment, and reevaluation.

And man, did I discover alot. The more I got boring, the more new insights I absorb. Adjustments were rough. But I'm happy. Now I know I'm equipped with tools I need to "move on". How exciting. Heh.

For me, the new year starts here. NOW.

Happy new year, everyone.

Until I Wake Up

2006-08-14T06:06:00.000+08:00

There's nothing in motion and I'm satisfied...

I miss it. Badly.

Holding hands.
Watching movies.
Irresistable stares.
Smacks ang long kisses.
Silky hair.
Late night chatting and texting.
Typical dates.
Sweet talks and silent walks.
Tight hugs.
Umbrellas and drizzles.
Sharing drinks.
The "hello's" and "goodbye's".
The "love you's" and "miss you's".

Damn. When.

... No Disappoinments Until I Wake Up.

P.S.
Shoot. Krusty The Clown just died. Love Vintage Simpsons.

Head Rush, UNO

2006-08-06T06:30:00.000+08:00

After committing a mortal sin, the worst so far in my book, I was back to square one last Wednesday. My mind was again out of whack 'til Thursday afternoon.

I made a decision. If I really wanna evolve and change then I have to kill. AS IN KILL. Whatever sucks me back. I hate the endless cycle.

Good thing it was Church day and I had the most fitting chance to ask for forgiveness. YET AGAIN. I know He's very hurt by what I've done. I was so ashamed to pray and ask for stuff I want. So instead, my prayer was just all "thanks" and "sorrys". It was weird, I was crying and begging yet I did not feel Him. I know He's mad so why give me the satisfaction, right? Have to make up for it.

It was a miracle how my life got a quick turnaround after that church service. Rollercoaster ride, anyone?

LOVE RUSH?

My mom has been setting me up with this Barrio lass and we finally met after the church service. My mom has become really obssessed of matching me up, it's getting beyond weird and annoying. Nauuna pa siyang manligaw at magpa-cute sa babae bago niya ipakilala sa akin. Natatawa ako sa taste ni Mama - basta raw "hindi katulad niya". Haha. Medyo snob and quiet nga kasi si ina. Pero ang gusto niya - pretty, makulit, and accomodating. Kaya apply na kayo sa Mama ko. Hehe.

Anyway, she's nice. The girl I met, that is. I'm tempted to say I might be interested but I'm really not in a hurry. Mas gusto ko pa rin siguro kasi makatagpo ng isang active CBI member sa UP - yung sophisticated and smart. Haha. I wish.

KADBIN RUSH

The KADBin caucus we had that same night gave me a much bigger grin. Everybody was there except Ate Ai . And everyone was just spilling with great ideas, I was overwhelmed. Astig. First time nangyari yun. We had a real "discussion" about things that must be done. The meeting had a few disagreements and arguments but it was fruitful. It lasted a good hour and a half.

I'm really excited with KADBin's new movement. The organization means so much to me because it has God's blessing and all my friends are there. It's a double treat, what more can I ask for? I just hope I can share this passion with every single member in the Kapisanan. Because everything's worth it, believe me. It's like building a giant barkada and family. Gimik with a cause. The perks are endless.

The day ended on a high note and with a few texts with Miss Barrio lass.

God made me want to be a very good boy again. Ha! The next day was a different story. Hmmm...

Frustrations, DOS

2006-07-26T11:16:00.000+08:00

Di pa tapos ang Thesis Madness ko. Yan tuloy di ko matapos ang posts ko dammit.

Andito ako ngayon sa Zanktuary Internet Cafe at malapit na ako mag-time. Sana ma-update ko na to mamaya. Hehe.

Frustrations

2006-07-21T15:03:00.000+08:00

With that thing (or curse) called THESIS.

It's relatively doable and manageable, no doubt. But there were these series of unfortunate events leading to the almost disastrous day yet. Yesterday was the last straw.

Now here is the Recipe for Disaster.

1. Missed first day of thesis. Leaving me groupless and clueless.
2. A supposed-to-be-groupmate forgot that we're supposed to be groupmates and joined other (better?) research teams. First shocker of the semester.
3. I was listed as an "Individual" researcher. Like I said: Groupless.
4. Fortunately, there were two other "Individuals", and we team up! Yey.
5. From groupless, we went clueless. Computer Vision and Artificial Intelligence. Sounds good. Now what's next?
6. Clueless is to topicless. Ang hirap mag-isip. But we thought of a few "interesting" ones: (Don't mind the titles)

Detection of Pornography in Movies - First choice. Don't ask.
Word-Generator for Scrabble - What?
Emotion Recognition Through Facial Expression - This made me giggle.
Mobile Text Extraction from Images - Mobile note-taking. I could use that.
Customer Statistics Through Surveillance Cameras - My lame idea.
Detection of Shoplifters Through Surveillance Cameras - Fat chance.
Real-time Weblog Updating Through Live Video - For all addict blogistas out there!

7. Missed first day of advising. See a trend?
8. All. Topics. Rejected. Saya.

What heppens next? Itutuloy ko pagkagaling kong SM. Hehe. Pasalamat bukas. Need new clothes (and wardrobe).

Tired

2006-07-17T00:06:00.000+08:00

Of doing your best yet its Always. Not. Enough.
Of always getting sucked back to Square One.
Of feeling like shit when you wake up.
Of broken promises.
Of raging hormones.
Of being lost.
Of yesterdays and tomorrows.
Of Now.

Top 8 Reasons Why This Week Sucks, TRES

2006-07-11T23:05:00.000+08:00

Reason #3: 3 BLOWN FUSES.

Background: I flunked College Electricity last year.

I'm retaking the course now. And it's not looking good.

We had our first EEE lab experiment last week and we we're reintroduced to a bunch of electrical devices. You know what, I actually learned something. How refreshing.

Just when I thought I can be an electrician for a living, we "broke" the multimeter we were using, a device which measures voltage/current/resistance and loads of stuff. Our professor jollily replaced it.

We have blown the fuse. Again.

Switcharoo! We secretly switched the broken device with our seatmate's good one... only to BURN IT AGAIN. Naughty AND stupid. We broke the record of "Most Multimeters Destroyed". We switched it back and 'fessed up. Nah. We didn't. Ha!

Electricity hates Me.

Reason #2: 2 JEEPNEY RIDES.

I will never forget.

Jeepney, The First

Ever rode the Sarao with annoying bunch of people? You know, the loud and talkative ones who shout their throats out, rambling about stuff not even blog-worthy (like this is? Haha!). Well, this is worse. I'm not conservative. I, myself, spits out a few bad words every now and then (I'm not proud of it; I hate my "shit" mannerism). But I've never heard anyone who cursed so much like that guy who sat in front of me last week in a UP-MRT jeep.

I never knew you could put the words shit, gago, hayup, walang hiya, tanga, bwisit, 'tang ina, bobo, and kupal all in one sentence! And he said it in one breathing! Another world record. I really felt sorry for the professor he was dissing. Shit talaga.

Jeepney, The Second

Child + Puke = Me, Dirty.

Plot this equation on a graph and you'll find the roots (of my ass-kicking tendencies). Obvious bang may exam ako bukas? Hehe.

The Number 1 Reason. Tomorrow!

Top 8 Reasons Why This Week Sucks, DOS

2006-07-10T00:02:00.000+08:00

Reason #6: 6TH DAY OF JULY.

Requirements, papers, eyebags, headaches, LQ, awkward weddings, wasted time. I had better days.

Here are 6 subreasons why this was my worst day so far:

I had to (start and) finish a 12-page paper THAT DAY. Astig talaga ako sa cramming. Sumakit ang ulo ko doon.
I slept only 2 hours because of #1. Sleep is my bestfriend. Without it, I get really cranky, haggard, and scary. So give me my sleep! Langya, for almost 3 hours nakatulala na lang ako sa PC sa sobrang bangag.
I missed all my classes that day and I was in UP for just about 2 minutes. Seryoso. Mas matagal pa yung travel time ko (4 hours). Pinasa ko lang yung paper for 1 second. Sayang wala na akong Bonus Points for perfect attendance (Ha! Asa pa.).
LQ si Ma at Pa. Naku po. Ayaw pansinin ni mama si papa. Ginawa ba naman akong tulay?

Mama: Coy, itanong mo sa papa mo bakit hindi niya inubos ang baon niya.
PEPz: Pa, bakit hindi mo inubos baon mo? (Kunwari curious.)
Papa: May bumili kasi ng Pizza sa office namin.
PEPz: Ma, may bumili raw ng ---
Mama: Narinig ko na.

So high school.

5. I got involved with a very weird wedding set-up. At last, I got my very first "Best Man" gig sa kasal. Nung araw na yun, wedding rehearsal. Pero hindi ako pinapansin ng groom. Bakit? Abangan. Haha!
6. Superman sucked and Pacman won. Wala lang siningit ko lang dito. Haha! Kumanta na naman kasi si Pacquiao e! Langya.

Reason #5: 5.0.

Singko. Yan ang aabutin ko kung di ko pa maaayos ang mind blowing sked ko. I got my first bad long quiz this semester sa Statistics 130. Aba at on the spot ko lang nalaman na may quiz that day with matching cheat formula cards at calculator pa classmates ko.

Reason #4: 4 Zits.

I started my "Be Healthy" week with 4 ugly zits. Ang arte 'no? Nadagdagan pa yan dahil sa Reason #6. Patay ubos na naman ang Panoxyl ko. Some advice naman on skin care dyan, Ching. Si Jet rin e nagka-pimples na. Mana sa akin. Haha!

COMING UP! Top 3 Reasons!

Top 8 Reasons Why This Week Sucks, UNO

2006-07-08T12:28:00.000+08:00

My week that blew... in a nutshell:

Reason #8: 8 DAYS.

It has been THAT freakin' long since my last post here! And that doesn't make me feel good (Thing #1, anyone?). Ang dami ko pa namang gusto ilabas, ireklamo, at ikwento sa mga may pakialam na tao(READ: You.). So watch out. There's gonna be a lot of rants in this post. Hehe.

Reason #7: 7 VERSUS 2.

Mom and I had a fight this week. And it was "huge". Maybe not huge in content but huge in action.

Never thought this Network Wars would literally drive Mom and I into a word war.

We were watching primetime news with the family and Mom's workers the other night. I flipped channels; we were watching both "TV Patrol" and "24 Oras". Then there came the issue: Bench Fever. In "24 Oras", they presented the segment teaser like this: "Mga Kapuso stars, rumampa sa isang sikat na fashion show..." then they cut to commercials. I went back to "TV Patrol" just in time to catch the same segment topic. It was just that - a fashion show with "famous" celebrities as models. No Kapamilya distinction. No nothing. They even mentioned names and showed strutting popular GMA stars.

So I blurted out, "Bakit ganun sa channel 7? Laging start ng headlines nila: 'mga Kapuso Stars...'? Sa channel 2 hindi naman. Pinapakita pa nga nila yung artista ng kabila."

Then came the end of the world.

That statement caused a spark in the generally Kapuso crowd I was with. First violent reaction? My mother.

It just got worse when I flipped back to "24 Oras" while the topic in heat was being featured. And I was right. Bench Fever looked like a Kapuso fiesta in that segment. There were no "others" in sight.

"Kitams," I teased.

Then came the war. It was a "healthy" argument I must say. But never thought it could ever be that... Intense.

Now the burning question: Why the difference in the event segments?

My mom supplemented the answers - the obvious and the unlikely:

Kailangan i-expose ang stars ng station (Yes, ABS-CBN does that too)
Puro Kapuso lang naman talaga ang nandoon, 4 lang ang sikat na Kapamilya doon (Hehe. Naexagerrate ata)
Wala nang maipakita ang Channel 2 na artista nila kaya pati yung sa kabila na-feature rin
Wala nang sikat sa Dos
Ang sama-sama ni Lopez. Namamirate [pirate], nanggagaya, fg@#kh*... (Now that was just rambling. Hehe)

I ceasefired. Nakakatawa na pinag-awayan talaga namin yung ganung mga bagay. We felt uneasy after that. We may have thought the same thing - What were we thinking?!?

After a few moments of awkward silence, she whispered to my ear, "Sige na nga, panalo na ang Channel 2." Natawa talaga ako. If only networks in this country were civil (or sweet) like my Mom, I'm sure we'll all love them.

UP NEXT: Reasons #6 - #4

Nostalgia: Mabagyong Buhay Masci

2006-06-28T22:20:00.000+08:00

I wrote this article 3 years ago for The Mascian:

"Sukob na! Halika na! Sabay tayo sa payong ko..."

Yan ang kinakanta ng mga kapamilya nating taga-ABSCBN the rainy season last year... Pero, pagdating sa Masci, hindi ganyan ka-romantic ang tag-ulan natin. Andyan ang pambaliktad-payong na hangin, nakaka-sipong ulan at siyempre, mawawala ba ang minsan lampas tao na baha --- bahang di lamang sa kalsada makikita kung hindi pati sa lovers' lane. Isama na rin natin ang mga tiny puddles sa quad, hallways at lalung-lalo na sa CR. Hindi nyo na matatakasan ang mabagyong buhay diyan sa Masci. Kaya ang mabibigay lamang ng The Mascian ay kaunting rainy-day tips sa inyo:

1. Alamin ang panahon bago umalis sa lungga mo.

Manood ka man sa "Magandang Tanghali Bayan" o sa "Unang Hirit", walang pagkakaiba yun. Basta malaman mo lang na babagyo o hindi. Kung may signal na, mas maganda na ring huwag pumasok. Pero huwag namang EXAG. Mamaya, ambun-ambon lang, di ka na pumasok...

2. Know your surroundings.

Kung alam nyong palaging binabaha sa paligid mo, laging magdala ng bangka... hindi joke lang. Kung binabaha nga naman ang lugar nyo ng matindi, mas matalino nang magstay sa bahay. Mahirap na ang ma-shoot sa mga manhole na nakakalat sa tabi-tabi...

3. Maging laging handa.

Alam naman natin lahat ang kailangan kung umuulan. Laging magdala ng payong, kapote o kung puwede pa - bota. Para safe di ba? At kung nasa FX o sasakyan kayo papuntang school, makinig ng radyo. Sa mga ganitong panahon, hindi advisable ang matulog sa vehicle. Be alert. Kaya nga may halos dose oras tayong klase di ba? Para matulog? Ooops.. joke na naman yun... Magdala rin ng extrang saplot sa katawan katulad ng t-shirt, pantalon, brip/panty (basta underwear), medyas, atbp. Para diretso na sa Robinson's pagkatapos di ba? (Joke joke joke!)

4. Huwag mag-panic sa baha.

Minsan, sa isang buhay ng Mascian, ay mapepeste ka. Lalo na kung ang mga dadaanan mo ay lubog sa baha, malamang ay ibababa ka na ng FX driver sa dulo ng street at lalakarin mo na lang... Para sa mga sitwasyon na walang takas katulad nito, ito ang tips namin sa inyo:

~ E kung alam mo naman palang baha e bakit ka pa bumaba? Para maiwasan ito, umuwi ka na lang. Wala nang pasok... di mo ba narinig sa radyo?

~ Kung pansamantalang nablangko ang kokote mo, at andyan ka na, nakalusong sa baha, ang dapat mong gawin ay... maglakad. Malamang. Huwag kang tumakbo dahil mahihirapan ka lang lalo na kung hanggang bewang ang tubig. Hindi ito beach. Ang mga tubig na tatalsik sa mukha mo ay punung-puno ng ihi, tae, laway at iba-iba pang basura ng kalikasan.

~ Kung ikaw ay natatakot ma-shoot sa manhole... ay problema mo na yun. Huwag tatalun-talon sa tubig sa pag-asa mong maiwasan ang mga butas. Di mo nga nakikita diba? Mamaya ma-swak ka pa sa butas...

~ Kung ikaw ay naiihi at di na mapigilan ang tawag ng kalikasan... pigilan mo pa rin. Kahit nakalubog ang kalahati ng iyong katawan sa tubig, hindi ibig sabihin pwede ka na ring jumingle. Hindi ito beach o swimming pool para ihian. Narinig mo na ba ang leptospirosis? Maawa ka naman. Huwag nang dagdagan ang dumi ng flood water. Pero kung di mo na matiis, bahala ka... sino bang makakaalam?

5. Yehey! Nasa Masci ka na!

Kung sa palagay mong masaya na ang buhay mo at nakarating ka na sa paroroonan mo, akala mo lang yun. Basa ka na, mabaho pa, jumingle ka pa sa underwear mo tapos papasok ka pa? Depende sa trip nyo yan mga tsong... Well, sa totoong buhay, pagdating mo sa gate ng masci ay lalo ka pang mapepeste dahil sa layo ng linakbay mo ay wala palang pasok. Pero mas lalo kang mapepeste kung may pasok pa rin pala (Ang gulo ko 'no?) Siyempre kung may pasok, puwede kang madulas sa CR, bahain sa lovers' lane, matalsikan ng putik sa quad, o ulanin sa classroom (oo, puwede mangyari yun sa Masci). Ano? Kaya nyo pa ba?

At yan ang mabagyong buhay Masci... saya 'no? Hehe.. Peace sa inyong lahat!

July 7, 2003

Progress Report: Semana Uno

2006-06-26T21:39:00.000+08:00

First week's done. Now let's see what we accomplished, sha' we?

Strenghten KADBin's Leadership

Monthly Meeting: Present officers introduced
Caucus: Plans for officer recruitment finalized
District Meeting: Secretariat orientation and future activities unveiled
Organization Census: Forms almost completed

CHECK!

Have a Closer Relationship with God

Nightly Prayer Appointment: Estabished - every 9:30 PM
Church Services: Indescribable

CHECK!

Be More Organized

Daily and Project Schedule:Finalized
Organizer Notebook: Filled-out

CHECK! This. Out.

Wonder how I spend a typical day? I took a Time Management test and look at this:

Classes: 2.5 hours
Studying: 1.5 hours
Sleeping: 6 hours
Exercise/Sports: 1 hour
Family: 1 hour
Grooming: 1 hour
Meals: 1 hour
Transportation: 3.5 hours
Relax: 2 hours
Friends/Gimik: 2 hours
Church: 2.5 hours

TOTAL: 24 HOURS

What do you think? Am I "balanced"? Do I need to change anything? I need insights. Hehe.

Behind the Things #14: Backfire?

2006-06-23T23:38:00.000+08:00

14. Be More Organized.

Funny.

It reads and sounds differently from what I'm doing now.

I'm more spaced out, more reckless, and lazier than ever before this week.

I maybe suffering from acute "First Week" flu. You know, when you allow yourself to slack off and screw up the first week of anything you do since you can "always" make up for it in the coming weeks. Well, the thing is you can never make it up. You get stuck; if not with the "flu" then with the consequences.

I feel like this task completely backfired on me. The plan was "be more organized", but instead, I felt the worst horrors and discomforts of being disorganized this week.

I relearned that when you're aimless and unsystematic:

You lose stuff.
You miss stuff.
You forget stuff.
You waste stuff.

Now that I've fixed my daily schedule, hope things fly right on target.

Tomorrow's another day.

Juan

2006-06-22T08:53:00.000+08:00

I'm sooo frustrated.

I'm halfway into week 1 yet I haven't really accomplished anything yet.

I've been late to school Every. Single. Day. What's up with that?

Ang hirap pala kapag nakasanayan mo nang maging tamad at procrastinator. Even if I had my plans all laid out for that day, I just end up watching TV, surfing, or day dreaming.

Buti na lang at hindi pa naman nagugulo yung timeline ng tasks ko this week (see The Days). But I really need to be disciplined already. Siguro hinihintay ko lang yung pag-fix ng daily schedule ko tomorrow pero kailangan ko na talaga ng time management ngayon pa lang.

I have three things to do this week. Numbers 14, 20 and 21 (Am I playing Deal or No Deal?). I'm already having progress with 20 and 21 but not quite there yet.

I need to Pull. Myself. Together. NOW!

Late na naman akooooooooooooooooooooooooooo!!!!!!!!!

Yum

2006-06-20T22:07:00.000+08:00

And it has begun.

It was a sky-high launch! The project made its debut last Sunday.

And to mark that new start, I made sure it would be un-for-gettable.

We had our KADIWA't Binhi (the Youth Organization which I preside) Monthly Meeting that day. The long, stressful days I had last week? It's all because of this. The preparations. The promotions. The event.

For those who don't know, this isn't just any ordinary "meeting".

Our main objective in the organization is to keep reminding the youth of our church not to stray - not to do things that might as well be left unsaid (READ: Naughty, bad, bad things). Meaning: As much as possible, we prevent them from being influenced by dark forces (READ: Masamang Barkada). MEANing: We invite and convince them to join several (wholesome but fun) activities in the org to expose them more to good deeds. MEANING: We have to be cool enough, funny enough, or good-looking enough to steal a fraction of their attention. MEEEANIIING: It's hard work.

Kids these days. Pffft.

It's hard to offer guidance to these people without sounding too preachy. And who likes too preachy? I don't. No one in this generation does. So we, as heads of the youth group, has to come up with different, interesting ways to snatch them into our "world".

And now - the "meeting". Just think of it as a live brochure of what the org is about and all its benefits to your mind and soul. We show pictures and video clips of our past activities and prove to them that having fun isn't about getting wild and drunk but doing things with your friends that are worthwhile, helpful and inspiring. In fact, last summer, we went to the beach, organized a sportsfest and then taught a bunch of (un)fortunate children. Now that was fun. And rewarding. Just ask Ching. And Jet.

And look, my to-do list that day before the Big Meeting at 4:30 PM:

Give out fliers. That was 6 in the morning and I looked really haggard and sleepy. I hope I didn't scare them off. Hehe.
Find a guest speaker. On the spot. Imagine that. I've been calling every nurse I know (since our topic was about Health: ChiKalusugan. Nice.) for two days and no one agreed to do it. I was sooo psyched when Joanna's mom showed up the last minute! She saved the day!
Make a music video. Since I'm no expert, editing and making that 5-minute video took me 3 hours. Time well spent, huh?
Make a powerpoint presentation. All recycled.
Encode. The Programme, the Topic Guide (which I coppasted* from the Net), the Certificates.
Photocopy. Freakin' 100 copies of everything.
Think of Ice Breakers. Pinoy Henyo. How original. But hey, it was fun.
Set-up the place. Tables, booths, souvenirs, etc. Whew!
Talk in front. This was the easiest. I could just ramble all day.

It was a success. Thank GOODNESS!

About 70-80 people attended. It was a small fraction out of the 800 sheeps(?!) we were looking after but it's ok. The promotion was weak but nevertheless, we were prepared.

But still, there were two things I would rather forget:

Many of the facts I presented about the topic which I got from the Net was ALL. WRONG. As confirmed by our guest speaker. Damn you, GOOGLE!
I forgot to retouch before I faced everybody! Nawala yung linigo ko! NYAKKK! It was embarrassing. Ang haggard ko raw. Halatang may binigay na effort sa event. Haha! Damn, my video coverage pala kami nun!

But all in all, at the end of the day, I felt great! Good start for the project.

Bad trip nga lang at on the way to Joe Kuan for my "Victory" dinner ay na-flatan kami ng gulong! Naglakad pa kami ni Jet waaay back sa bakeshop to get the extra tire. Whew! Exhausting talaga.

Yan tuloy naparami ang kain. Hehe.

Tocino. YUM.
Fried Rice. YUM.
Itlog. YUM.
Iced Tea. YUM.
Siomai. YUM.

Hay buhay. YUM.

*copy-paste

Genesis

2006-06-18T21:28:00.000+08:00

This is it.

I woke up this morning feeling tired. I did not feel anything special. My thoughts were blank and I was a bit dazed. Then I remembered - this is the day. A reawakening. I got excited as if it was my birthday or something. It's funny how I make a big deal out of this stuff - this "project" - but I really was stuck in a rut for a very long time and it is freakin' time to get out.

But first, I need His help.

That was 4:30 in the morning. I stood up realizing how distant I have been.

I dressed up - wore Jet's shirt, pants and shoes then left.

I can't believe the sun's already peeking at 5 AM.

I went to church. I thought it was the best way to start the day and this journey. Of all things, what I need is guidance and I sincerely want it.

When I entered the building, I got really annoyed when it was already full - all seats were taken.

"Great way to start off, PePZ", I thought.

I had to sit in the "wings" of the building, waaay back in the church. I prayed, asked for forgiveness, and begged for His presence.

I did not feel a thing.

Then there it was - an empty seat. I saw one inside the main congregation. I knew that was what I needed so that I could be more focused on the service. I needed to feel something. Anything.

"Nakakahiya. Nag-uumpisa na tapos ang dami pang tao..."

Our church is very organized in our worship services especially when it comes to seating. And church officers are always around to make sure everything runs smoothly and orderly.

But still.

I stood up, walked a few steps across the room and took the seat. I got a few stares from an officer. He tapped my shoulder and said, "Doon ka na lang kaya." Pointing to a much better chair. Again, I went a few more meters.

Nothing.

Where is He? I was desperate.

FLASHBACK!

One year ago (June 14, 2005):

I locked my self up in the car. Man, it was like I'm PMS-ing, I wanted to cry. What a sissy. Now you're thinking, "Ang hina naman nito." And it's true. I really felt weak that moment. But I didn't cry, thank you very much. I was just bombarded by many pessimistic thoughts - Is this all worth it? What am I supposed to do? Why does this always happen? It seemed like a light case of depression and overthinking. My mind moves in mysterious ways...

Then I faintly uttered, "God, please talk to me..." followed by ramblings of some sorts. I prayed. I don't know; It was just so solemn that time I almost imagined a Voice will answer from the back. I heard nothing. At the back of my mind, I envisioned Him showing up as bright light or some old lady we see in cliched Darna movies. I wished He could show up in a dream and give me a 'sign' what to do...

_________________________________

I just closed my eyes. Then the last choral song before the prayer started. Damn, I was still searching.

Inside me I was shouting, "God, please..."

And then there it was. It was the last 4 lines of the song when I got goosebumps. I felt Him.

_________________________________

FLASHBACK... (cont'd)

...My cellphone beeped. I have one new message.

It was from a youth org member, Ate Aileen, who I didn't catch last night. As I started reading the message, goosebumps were already tingling from my leg up:

"Be a person full of love and life.
Stay simple yet happy.
When things go wrong, don't go blue.
Just say "I will get through."
Remember, GOD loves you,
tapos andito pa ako... for you!"

A tear fell. That message was just overwhelmingly meaningful to me. The goosebumps never left my body. I held my phone near the heart. He didn't show up. But I felt Him.

END.

A tear fell. Just when the minister uttered his first word in our prayer.

Tick-tock

2006-06-16T23:09:00.000+08:00

I'm exhausted.

One more day to go 'til I cut the ribbon on this project.

One. More. Day.

Can I do this? Ngayon pa nga lang ngarag na ako and my average hours of sleep is 4-5 na lang.

It has been a very long week yet I KNOW this weekend will be alot longer. Sayang ang dami ko pa namang kwento baka mawalan na ako ng time. Hehe.

Maaga na naman bukas. Need to regain strength.

Now Charging...

Butterfly Carnival

2006-06-14T01:42:00.000+08:00

First day high!

I proclaim this day as the Best First School Day in my life.

There really was no "event". It was rather a bunch of random stuff strung together.

But the day was great. I dunno but it was exciting and refreshing. It was as unpredictable as this horrible weather we are now experiencing. It has its downsides though. But I guess anything is waaay better than...

FLASHBACK!

My blog entry last year ("Second Day Funk"):

Of course, any good day has its minor downsides. If tripping in a busy intersection in front of the AS building is minor! Haha! It's good I can laugh about it now. At that very moment, I felt numb. I just wanna die. I wanted to act as if I fainted to reduce the embarassment. Well, I'm not that dramatic so I went back to the 'hating myself while looking stupid' act. I did very well, thank you very much. I always wanted to make a decent image when school year starts. You never know - "First impression, lasts." Now if that 'impression' is the one that'll last with the unsuspecting witnesses, then my year is screwed. There were pedestrians all over the place! I just couldn't look at their faces for the fear that every time we bump into each other, I'll remember the shame again and again till I die (or till I graduate (if I graduate before I die))! I just kneeled down as if my relatively-new shoes were at fault. Then I realized it was my muddy shoes' doing! Dammit! Whew! That was traumatizing. But I got up, got my nerves back, and walked away just as if nothing happened. My mind was screaming, "DON'T LOOK BACK!" But of course, I couldn't help it so after 50 meters of walk of shame, I turned around. Everything's normal again. I smiled thinking about it.

END OF FLASHBACK.

The horror. I remember it was like an endless horror train 'til I reached the Eng'g building.

At least today was all good. It was a nice roller coaster ride - with minor bumps, big drops and great rush.

THE TOP 3 BUMPS

1. Being tardy in my first class ever this semester. (Hate Public Transportation)
2. Sweating like a pig the whole day because of the damn weather.
3. Wasting money over a crappy dinner.

THE TOP 3 RUSH

1. Talking and catching up with old friends.
2. Compliments over my weight loss. (Yes, I'm shallow)
3. Being asked to sing tomorrow morning in front of freshies and different orgs. (I just rehearsed, imagine that)

THE BIG DROP...

... this freaking keyboard!

I cvan't type cvontinuously without looking like a eretaerfdedf idfiot!

See what I mean?

I'm done. I'm off to Compex.

Independence

2006-06-12T21:00:00.000+08:00

In 22 weeks, I'm turning 21 and there's no stopping it.

Yes, I'm excited and I'm really looking forward to this new chapter of my life but something's holding me back. I guess I'm not over being a kid yet. Man, I need a shrink.

I do feel I have lived a full life these past years but there's been hundreds of stuff I've been longing to do or achieve. I'm stuck. I just don't know how to start.

Now, I'm here; together with a very good support system (Read: YOU). For the next 21 weeks, I'll work my butt off to finally realize all these.

But first, I had to cut down the "hundreds" since well... uhm, I'm human. I picked only 21 things to put on my to-do list out of many which auditioned (heh).

Very simple things - basic stuff that can actually improve my existence and make my life more comfortable and worthwhile. Let's leave the complications 'til I'm 30. Hehe.

This week will be the planning stage before I kick-off the project this Sunday. It's a big goal, I know, but I need the challenge. It'll also make my hands full for the upcoming weeks. And that's good. See I love being busy. It makes me more productive and and it makes gimiks and rest more rewarding.

I'm stepping out. I'm not stuck anymore.

Happy Independence Day, everyone.