Xmas 2008

Hey people! What’s up? It’s is but the holiday season. The most awaited time of the year for almost all people especially in the west. Happy holidays everyone!!! I wish all of us the best the season could possibly bring.

How was your Christmas people? Was it great? I hope so. As to mine, here in China, as usual, as Chinese people don’t celebrate this holiday. It’s getting popular, though. I had to give classes on that very day. But it was a grand celebration. A lot better than my first Christmas experience here. I really felt the real essence of the holiday. I enjoyed a lot. Another thing, I treated my adult students to dinner on Christmas eve, to somehow feel the essence of it. We went to a buffet restaurant. T’was a great surprise because a lot of people standing outside the restaurant. Good thing I booked the table for about 14 people the day before. It was a great idea. Then we went to ktv. Afterwards to Hilton hotel(bar). We finally went to a hotpot restaurant. Ended it up at around a quarter to 3 am. When I went home, at my doorstep, I was shocked, only to find out, I've lost my keys... I didn't know what to do at that fucking cold dawn. I went back to Hilton and asked the waitress who were cleaning the bar. They saw nothing. I went to the hotpot restaurant, and again I found nothing. Got no choice except to stay in a hotel... I went to a hotel, a cheap one. As I entered, everyone was sleeping (receptionists)... I tried waking them up, yet they sleep soundly that cold moment.

As I looked at the clock, it was like 4:30am. So, it's not also wise to pay 168 Yuan for 2 to 3 hours co'z I've got a class at 1pm. So I went back to Hilton and stayed at the lobby... That's how I spent the rest of the time. At 6am, I phoned our HR telling her about it. Then she said to come to the main office at 8 to get the duplicate. What a x'mas experience!!!... And again, I was hoping I could sleep for like 3 hours before my classes, there I met my boss, then we had a long chat. It ended up around 11:30. So no choice, I have to prepare myself for my class. After my classes, kindergarten one, I met some colleagues, foreign teachers from other branches then we had a short time talking for I have to leave them again, I have another class at 6pm. I told them I would come to the buffet restaurant after my class. Haaahahhaaa... But to tell you, we went to our boss's dinner party for x'mas is his birthday at the same time. All of us, including some Filipinos and a Chinese who are not bluniverse's.


Then, they were saying to go to Soho bar at Hilton again. I mean for me again, but for them it's not. I've got no choice... Imagine myself then that time, no sleep for 48 hours straight... Hahahahaaa.... What a x'mas!!! The next day, still have to do some classes... What a life...

That was my 2008 x'mas story. You, what is yours?

Here I am again

It’s been quite a long time I haven’t visited my account. Though I really tried to for several times, but time didn’t allow me to. I kinda miss doing my inspiration. Many of my friends were asking me about it why I wasn’t able to upgrade and post new ones. It somehow proves they are really following my blog. Thanks for that friends. You inspire me the most.

Things were getting complicated several months ago. Unexpected circumstances occurred without knowing them. I was bombarded with so many unavoidable situations which deliberately made my mind to wander around and confused. I was so busy to cope up with the fleeting time, hoping to bring out the things to its proper perspective.

Though I am not yet so stable with my present situation, I am going to see to it that I could continue doing it. I am going to try my best to allot sometime for my blog. I already miss half of my life for not doing my inspiration and wasn’t able to update the happenings of my life. I have a lot to tell this time but I am afraid I might not be able to let you know all about them. I am out of time. But I will try to do it slowly this time. Thanks for the inspiration, everyone, for being there all the time and for waiting for my next posts. Highly appreciated! Thank you so much! Have a good time everyone and be the best of what you are, all the time...

You can also visit me in my other sites:

http://eternallyyours-tax.blogspot.com

http://d-role-model.blogspot.com

…Thanks to GOD

One day, I was kinda gloomy because of what had happened to my sister back in the Philippines (she was robbed in Manila). I was really feeling so down. I didn’t understand myself. I didn’t know what to do. My mind was totally blank that time. I went to the office with no direction what to do. I just sat down in front of my computer waiting for a message from them. Just at that moment, I received this message from a friend. It really struck me the most, especially with the situation. I was really happy to receive it. The message goes this way….


Hello God,
I called this morning to talk a little while,
I need a friend who’ll listen to my anxiety and trial.
You see, I can’t quite make it through a day just making it in my own…

I need Your love to guide me, so I’ll never feel alone.
I want to ask You to please keep my family safe and sound.
Come and fill their lives with confidence for whatever fate they’re bound.
Give me faith, Dear God, to face each hour throughout the day,
And not to worry over things I can’t change in any way.

I thank You, God, for being home and listening to my call,
For giving me such good advice when I stumble and fall.
Your number, oh God, is the only one that answers everytime.
I never get a busy signal, never had to pay a dime.
So thank You, God, for listening to my troubles and my sorrow.
Good morning, God, I love You too, and I’ll call again tomorrow!


Such a wonderful message. I was relieved that time. I felt enlightened and so light. All my worries were gone and were replaced by hope and faith. Thanks to my friend who forwarded the message. So if you feel down, just remember this message and meditate on it. Have a good time everyone!

You can also visit me in my other sites:
http://eternallyyours-tax.blogspot.com
http://d-role-model.blogspot.com

…sHe WaS rObBeD

One rainy afternoon, I went to my friends workplace in another city, Luian, just to roam around during my off. We went to their office and she showed me their well-decorated classroom. I was really fascinated by their efforts in making their classroom conducive for learning. Absolutely beautiful!

We then entered to their well-arranged office. She told me I could use one of the computers, for it rained heavily, we would stay for a little while. When I opened my messenger, offlines of my sister filled the offline window. I felt a little strange. She was also online that time. So I asked her why, for I didn’t read all her offline messages. She invited me to view her cam. Only to find out, she was crying, she can't type a lot ‘coz she was crying aloud. I asked her what happened. She hardly replied to my messages. Tears flowed down her cheeks like the rain outside. I was so disturbed. I don’t want to see a woman cry, the more if she’s my sister. I kept asking her what happened. Then she said at long last that she was robbed. More than 100, 000 pesos (more than $2000) was taken and all her jewelry and mobile phone. I was so shocked that I could hardly talk, too. She cried the more. I told her not to be so worried about it. It is just money. What is important that nothing happened to you, I told her. It took me almost an hour giving her advice (that money was to be paid to the agency for she’s going to Taiwan again to work). I promised her to send money the day after for it was already evening. I was also so upset about it. So I told her not to cry anymore. It already happened. So at least she was a little relieved. She was still shaking due to nervousness, though. So I told her to go home and relax and not to think so much about it. Then we went home.

I was so worried about her situation. I just didn’t show it to her so that she would be strong. At home, I didn’t want to eat and ound it hard to sleep. I kept thinking of her situation. I am just thankful, too that nothing happened to our only sister. It’s just a trial, thanks for that, Dear GOD, it made us so strong. I know You won’t give us something that we can’t handle. So help us always and please be at our sides.

Friends, let’s be strong when problems come our ways. We can’t think of good solutions if we would be carried away. Let’s always be calm and think of solutions. We can’t solve them by making another problems. So let’s always be strong and be calm all the time.

You can also visit me in my other sites:
http://eternallyyours-tax.blogspot.com
http://d-role-model.blogspot.com

…I aM aGaInSt RaCiSm

I just want to share this true-to-life story about racism. I hope we all learn something from this. Take your time to read and share the news to all your friends. I just hope this RACISM thing would eventually vanish through this.



The following scene took place on a BA flight between Johannesburg and London . This is a true story. A White woman, about 50 years old, was seated next to a Black man. Obviously disturbed by this, she called the air Hostess. "Madam, what is the matter," the Hostess asked. "You obviously do not see it then?" she responded. "You placed me next to a Black man. I do not agree to sit next to someone from such a repugnant group. Give me an alternative seat." "Be calm please, the Hostess replied. "Almost all the seats on this flight are taken. I will go to see if another seat is available." The Hostess went away and came back a few minutes later. "Madam, just as I thought, there are no other available seats in Economy class. I spoke to the Captain and he informed me that there are also no seats in the Business class. All the same, we still have one seat in First class." Before the woman could reply, the Hostess continued: "It is unusual for our company to permit someone from Economy class to sit in First class. However, given the circumstances, the Captain feels that it would be scandalous to make someone sit next to someone so disgusting." She turned to the Black man and said, "Therefore, Sir, if you would like to, please collect your hand luggage, a seat awaits you in First class." At that moment, the other passengers who were shocked by what they had just witnessed stood up and applauded. "When you're down to nothing, God is up to something."


You can also visit me here:
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…sPeEcH iN NuMbEr 9 MiDdLe sChOoL

Least I expect it for we have two foreign teachers here in our branch school, the other one is from the USA. I never came to think it would be me to deliver a speech to this middle school, somehow inviting students in that middle school to enroll in our language center for the incoming summer term and for the next term. What a shock when I knew it few days beforehand. Got no choice, I convinced myself.

So we did came to the said school. Dismissal time when we arrived there. I met the students at the gate of the school. So we went to the teachers office and a warm welcome greeted us when we enter the office. I was with two Chinese teachers then. So few minutes later, I started my simple and little speech. Students were very eager to listen and they were able to ask a lot of questions. I did enjoy the moments with them. Thanks for inviting us to be there. We are greatly honored. Hope to see you all in the near future. Have a good time everyone.

You can also visit me here:
http://eternallyyours-tax.blogspot.com
http://d-role-model.blogspot.com

…yOuNgEr BrOtHeR’s BiRtHdAy

You might be thinking it’s the repeat, but it’s not. Totally different! My elder and younger brothers’s birthdays are just consecutive, one after the other, May 21st and May 22nd, respectively. The latter always complains, co’z we usually celebrate them as one. So on his birthday, somewhat what is left from the previous day is resumed. What a pity for my birthday, he always shares to us.

Well, for me, celebrations and big parties are not important in commemorating one’s birthday. It’s not the huge cakes, colorful balloons, well wrapped and fantastic presents, big parties that matter most, what is the most essential is the one that couldn’t be seen by our naked eyes. As the secret of the intelligent fox, “It is only with the eye that one can see rightly, what is essential is invisible to the eye.” I highly adhere to that. It’s perfectly true! In one’s birthday, as long as he is happy and in good condition, those are the most improtant things, and not the ones aforementioned. They are also good, though, but not necessary.

Man, it’s your birthday today, good luck to your state of life. Life is what we make it, as it is said. Best wishes for you and for your endeavors. Have a wonderful birthday. May your wishes come true. As the message I gave to our older brother, same to you.

May you special day be surrounded with happiness, filled with laughter, wrapped with pleasure, brightened with fun, blessed with love, remembered with joy and enriched with hopes. Here’s a simple message from your brother, hoping this birthday would bring joy to you, what you deserve of……….. …..years and years of great and happy days filled with lots of joy and love. Have a wonderful day! Happy birthday to you, brother!

I am hoping you are feeling happy and healthy. Be the best of what you are. Good luck and more powers to you. Success to the road you are taking. I love and miss you! Happy happy birthday to you.

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…eLdEr BrOtHeR’s BiRtHdAy

Celebrating one’s birthday is one of the most happiest moments in anyone’s life. He is very happy on this very day. Majority of my students even says that their favorite month is the one where their birthdays are found. Their reason is just, their birthdays are there. That’s all.

Today, May 21st, is my elder brother’s birthday. What a pity for me that I am away. I can’t celebrate with them. With this situation, I can do nothing except to wish him the best. I may not be there physically, but I’m there spiritually. I am with them. Bro, I wish you the best that the world could possibly offer. I am making this message for you, just for you!!!

May you special day be surrounded with happiness, filled with laughter, wrapped with pleasure, brightened with fun, blessed with love, remembered with joy and enriched with hopes. Here’s a simple message from your brother, hoping this birthday would bring joy to you, what you deserve of……….. …..years and years of great and happy days filled with lots of joy and love. Have a wonderful day! Happy birthday to you big brother!

I am greatly hoping success in your taken career. No matter what happens, we are at your side, journeying with you. Be always happy! Wish you the best! I love you big brither!!!

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…a FoRmEr FoReIgN tEaChEr ViSiTs

As our week started, we also started busying ourselves, doing our preparrations for our incoming classes in the weekends. As we were on the go doing it, we were just astonished as one man entered the office sneakily. Only to find out, he was our previous foreign teacher here in our branch. Our Chinese teachers snappily stood up and shouted like kids as they welcome him. T’was quite a long time he didn’t visit our branch, for he is now in the main office.

We went out few minutes after for lunch and we had a great talk and lunch. We even planned to go out in the evening. Let’s paint the town red tonight, I told them. So we agreed to go out and go to KTV in the evening.

We went shopping with him after our lunch. As we went back to the school, few minutes after, our head arrived from a middle school visit, and was very happy. When 6:00 came, we went out again and had dinner together. Afterwards, we proceeded to the KTV where we set when we had our lunch. Yesterday was a long day. We had quite a lot of activities. We enjoyed a lot. Thanks for the companionship and friendliness of my colleagues here.

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…M - O - T - H - E - R

"M" - is for the Mountainous struggles she did for us
"O" - means One worthy to be praised and thanked,
"T" - is for the Teardrops she shed just to give the best for us no matter what,
"H" - is for her Humility and kindness in rearing us, her offsprings;
"E" - is for her Eternal and everlasting care and support for us,
"R" - is for her Resourcefulness when meeting a backbreaking moment.

With these letters put together, they spell, "MOTHER," a word that means everything and very significant for me.

HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY!!!

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…HaPpY mOtHeR’s DaY tO aLL mOmS

Can you imagine the sacrifices she made for her offsprings? Have you thought of her importance? Have you thanked your mom for her unending efforts to raise you in the right path? Have you discovered her continuous support and eternal care for her children? Have you seen her love to everyone, especially for her children, that she even wanted to give her life to them? Have you detected her generosity towards everyone, more to her kids? Have you found her endless struggles to uphold security for her youngsters? Have you observed her perpetual devotion to her families? Have you treated your mom with high regard or the other way around? Have you observed that she's very willing to sacrifice and give her life for you?

Friends, we only have one mother. We may have many friends but only one mom. We are not what and who we are now if without our mom. We wouldn't even be in this world if without her. We are nothing. So, she is worth thanking a million times. She deserves them. If you weren't able to do so, do it now before it's too late. Let's say, "thank you and I love you, mom, together."

To all mothers out there, congratulations for a job well done. Thank you all for you endless efforts for us. You are our inspirations! We love you all. Happy mother's day to all of you!!!

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…FuNnY, sTrAnGe AnD eXcItInG mOmEnTs

After around 30 minutes past four in the afternoon, we successfully arrived in Beijing. I was so thankful we had a safe journey. Hurray! I exclaimed in my mind. I ultimately set my footprints in Beijing. We happily got off the train and started moving out.

Next was to search for the bus number we had in mind, through our search through the net, to get to the desired hostel we wanted to stay, during the days we would spend there. There were a lot of people outside the station waiting for the buses to arrive, for just directly outside the station is the bus stop. We peeped around to know whether our bus would pass that way. Too happy to know it’s one of them. We waited ‘till it arrived. People were like wild animals competing to pass through the bus’s door to find a comfortable seat. We didn’t involved ourselves at first, but we would be waiting for a long time if we won’t, so we also did on the fourth bus, at least not that much people as that of the first three.

After that funny moment was that, the problem where to get off, ‘coz we don’t know how to say it in Chinese, the one mentioned in the net. We ask someone, but couldn’t understand English. We just let it go. After a while, we saw subway symbol, so we got off the bus stop after. It was really so funny. No more problem ‘coz the direction in the subway is pretty clear enough to be understood.

We were thinking it's over, yet we were wrong. To look for the place was even harder. It’s mentioned it’s just near exit C, yet we roamed around but still we couldn’t find, we were bringing our luggage then.

I searched the place alone and let my friend stay at one side. I walked here and there, yet I didn’t find the place still. I met a family man calling a taxi as I searched for it, he was speaking Tagalog to his two children, meaning they’re Filipinos. We chatted for a short while ‘coz they were in a hurry. Then, I continued my search. We were almost at the point of discouragement when I came back. It was almost night time. I said, I would go on the other side. I was so exhausted finding the place. As I went forward, I saw a hostel, not the one we were looking for, I went in and asked, good they speak English. So I went back and got my friend who was also tired of waiting. We were done at around 8:00 or so in the evening, more than 4 hours looking for the place. That’s the problem of language barrier.

Have you experienced some? Well, funny, right? But only if you are patience enough, you can succeed this situation. Thanks for the patience of my friend and my unending efforts. So, friends, never give up and keep on striving. Good luck to our daily endeavors.

note: you can also visit me here;

http://eternallyyours-tax.blogspot.com/
http://d-role-model.blogspot.com/

…cAn’T dO aS pLaNnEd

Basically in life, for you to be successful, you must have to have numerous plans. We should not only stick to one, for life is like a ball, it’s round. So we aren’t all the time successful. It’s like a wheel, sometimes we are on top as well as at the bottom. We aren’t too sure either of what will happen tomorrow. So it’s good to have choices, that if one fails, we still have others.

Well, have you postponed a well planned activity? For what reason? How did you handle this situation? Is airting a plan a good idea? How would you react if a plan is cancelled or postponed? Is it a good habit to always delay a plan?

Friends, we can’t avoid meeting this kind of situation in life, especially when nature calls it. We can do nothing about it. We are not the ones controlling it. So be it! Life must go on. Just like today, with my case here in Wuhan. Since this is my last night here, we planned to go out, KTV or disco or night market shopping and so on. Going out tonight is what we planned, that if the weather cooperates. Yet, what is happening is that, it keeps raining heavily this time. I am pretty sure we wouldn’t be able to go out. Well, that’s no problem. Maybe next time we could do it. So we would just stay at home probably and rest early for we would leave here to Beijing at 7:00am tomorrow. I can’t wait and always think of it. I am very excited, perhaps.

Note: you can visit me here, too.

http://eternallyyours-tax.blogspot.com

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…eAsT LaKe & mUsEuM

My friend tried hard to roam me around the city on my first day. We had a hectic schedule that time. While we were eating our lunch, her colleague, Rudy, a Chinese teacher, phoned that she’s already ready to go to the other district, where the east lake and museum are found. They planned it in advance. So, we hastily go to the place where they have set to meet.

With the weather so hot, we were walking along the way to the dock where we could take a ferry boat to the other side of the Yangtze river. It was really freaking hot that time. The situation even got worsen when we were kinda lost in going there, it was her second time going to the place. Her colleague was already calling up asking where we were, ‘coz it took us quite a long time. At long last we were able to arrive at the place.

We took the ferry for about 10 – 15 minutes, then by bus to the east lake. I was really fascinated by the grandness of the said lake. The scenery is so serene and beautiful. In fact, there were around five couples having their pictorials around the lake, wearing their bridal attire. We encircled the lake and took lots of wonderful photos.

Later that afternoon, we went to the museums, history and arts museums. Structurally speaking, they really are very magnificent. They look like pyramids of Egypt, really beautiful. We toured around the museum for like an hour or more. We felt very tired of from our day activities. So we left without even seeing the entire displays inside.

Note: you can also check me out here.
http://eternallyyours-tax.blogspot.com
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…mY fIrSt TiMe

On my first day in Wuhan, I was bloody tired for I wasn’t able to rest the night before on the train. Then we had a lot of activities like playing badminton, going to park, crossing the Yangtze river and so on. Absolutely busy schedule we had that day.

Yes, my first time to cross Yangtze river by Ferry. I did several times by bus before. It was a great experience. The ferry is kinda big compared to ferries we have back home. This time, crossing only a river, it’s a nice and different feeling. Before back home, we had it crossing the sea, but here, just a river, which is comparable to a sea, too big for a river. We were around 10 to 15 minutes on the river. We had a wonderful moment as we crossed. We took pictures along the way, capturing the beautiful sites around it, the tower, tall buildings, cargo ferries, bridge, and the grayish-brown water. Maybelle, thanks for taking me there and experience a such marvelous instant. Thanks once again.

…iT’s mY pLeAsUrE

After a tedious job, you would of course feel tired. Yet, it’s so fulfilling if you know that your labor has done great things to others, especially they became successful in their careers. What a nice feeling! You’re like floating in the sky. You are proud of them as well as to yourself.

When my students came back from their regional battle, speech competition in the capital of our province, Hefei, I immediately asked my students about the results. They told me it was pretty tough. What a close fight! they said. I was overwhelmed by great happiness when they said someone would go to the next level, to Nanjing for another set of competition, inter-provincial competition. I was so elated and proud of her. She made it top three in the regional level. She is my student and at the same time, one of my trainees when I gave a speech training. She is in my Junior high class, though she is still in primary, for her English level is tantamount to that of the Junior high students. Congratulations to you and we wish you the best in the next level. We hope you would make it to the national level. You can make it. Believe in yourself. Remember, there's nothing impossible in this world if you do your best. GOOD LUCK TO YOU!!!

…tO mY eVeR-sUpPoRtIvE & rEsPoNsIbLe PARENTS

To my parents back home, this is for you, you are one of my inspirations. I labor hardly for you and for our family, as a whole. I am very proud to tell the world about you, to let them know how happy I am to have you. You are worth a thousand thanks! Even words are not enough to express my salutations to both of you.

It’s just that I badly miss them, especially when we talked about them with my adult students, last night during my class. I was kinda sad but I didn’t show to them. I do miss them, maybe because I am such a family-oriented person. Every time we talk about family, brothers or sisters, they always come to my mind. Miss you all so much!

My parents are just simple. They are only worried about the future of their children, our tomorrow. They are so concerned about it. They even always forgot about themselves, their own needs. They only focused on us. Such a responsible parents! I am so elevated to have such a lofty parents. (We really are). They did their best to educate us, that we can have a brilliant future, at the expense of sacrificing their own basic needs. Thanks for your care, Ma and Pa. I love you. We love you so much.

I honestly make this to let other people know, especially the parents out there, that POVERTY IS NOT A HINDRANCE TO SUCCESS. Only that if there’s a will, there’s always a way! They totally believe in this. They never let poverty barricade in achieving our bright future. It’s never a barrier, they strongly believe. We were all studying, five of us and without stopping even in the mid of difficulties. And now we harness the fruits of their labor, our labor. We are not what we are now if without them. Without their sacrifices, efforts and exertions, we wouldn’t have attained what we have right now. We owe you all these. Thanks a lot.

In spite of the hardships we encountered along the way, we were still able to survive. We have fought a good fight. As long as you have a strong will to do it, ample of courage to face challenges, a good deal of perseverance to persist until the end, sufficient enthusiasm, adequate forbearance, and a strong faith to the ONE above, there’s nothing impossible. And here we are now. Proud to say we survived, endured and outlived all the pains we encountered along the way.

Just wanna express my warmest thanks to all the people who in one way or another helped us in attaining our aims and goals in life. We are so grateful to all of you. We couldn’t be this successful if without you all. Most of all, to my dear parents, thank you and thank you so much to your unending support. Highest regard and thanks to the ONE above, whatever you believe HIM to be, thanks a lot. Ma and Pa, thanks for being always there for us. We love you! See you soon.

…FuLfiLLeD & hApPy

After I took my lunch, I was preparing myself for my siesta time ‘coz I always do this everyday, to somehow gain extra strength for my everyday battle. At least I could relax myself for about an hour or two. As I passed my living room’s table, I saw a lot of receipts jammed on top of it. It captivated my attention. I don’t want to take a nap this time. I wanna deal with this matter, I told myself.

I got all my paraphernalias for my scrapbook; my file folder, bond paper, paste and gather all my receipts on my computer table. I started pasting the receipts to the bond paper. It took me around one and a half hours. This is actually one of my interests, as you can see in my profile, collecting receipts. So I am really happy and fulfilled after finishing it. I told myself, “You’ve done a great job today!”

…bIvOuAc Of LiFe

I always crave for what is best. In anything I do, I see to it I carry the best results. I have to be sure I did the best thing, not only for myself but for everybody, as a whole. I always try to find ways to get what is desired, even more than that. Enough is not enough for me. There is more than enough. There’s always a room for improvement, betterment and success. I highly conceive that.

As I kept searching for what is best, I encountered a lot of hardships that I oftentimes fall, and find it hard to stand up again and face the world. It took me a while to sit back and relax, gain energy to be fully prepared for the next challenges I would come across. It takes patience, courage and hard work to be back again in this showdown of life. I did stand up and here I am facing the daily bivouac and struggles of life.

It doesn’t matter how many times you failed achieving your goals in life, it doesn’t matter how many times you kept falling and falling again, what matters most is the way you stood up, the way you fought to be back in the battle, the way you courageously faced the trials and endured the hardships you ran across. That’s the spirit of a fighter. Difficulties are always there waiting at our doors, but every time we go out to face them, we must have the right shield to protect ourselves, to cover ourselves in the arena that we might not be defeated easily.

So, let’s always shield ourselves with strength and courage all the time we go out. By that, we are always ready to face battle. Equip ourselves with knowledge and wisdom to cleverly fight in this battlefield we call earth. Be always ready! Learn from me, I always am.

…fReEdOm IsN’t FrEe

I watched a film last night for it is one of my favorite past time. It’s title is Sniper 2. I like this line uttered by the main actor, Tom Berenger, “Freedom isn’t free.” It strikes me the most. I personally like the film, too.

Friends, is it really true that freedom isn’t free? I came to think about it after I heard that line. History tells that freedom in fact, isn’t free at all. Am I right? Does that conclude it’s pretty true? Freedom from your parents also isn’t true at all cost. You have to show to them you are worth to be given one. Financial freedom, too is not easy to attain. You have to work for it. You have to see to it that you can stand financially in any circumstances.

So, let’s always work and do our best to attain freedom. Freedom at all sorts isn’t free at all. Strive hard to achieve it. Then, that’s the time you can say it’s totally free after all. Work hard and be free!

…dIfFeReNtLy SpEnT dAy OfF

After doing household chores early Monday morning, I went out and eat outside. Then, I proceeded to the downtown. I did window shopping for three hours, and finally bought shirts after. Hard to do shopping. That’s why I don’t like it. It’s just that, I need spring clothes this time, so I have to go and buy some.

I was terribly tired after. So I went home and slept for one a half hours. Then I checked my mails and planned to do blogging. All of a sudden, my phone rang, t’was Jim, a dear friend here who invited me to stroll around. I said I am totally free. So he picked me up and we went to the oldest park here.

I was fascinated with what I saw in the park, beautiful flowers bloom and trees turn green. Such a wonderful site for taking a break and amble around. Perfect to do meditations and reflections. Cool breeze touched my skin as we walked around the park, it’s really splendid. Lake adds beauty to it. I indeed had a fabulously spent day off.

As we were there, Jim’s phone rang several times and was told to be in the office for a significant discourse. So, he left and promised to be back in 30 minutes. I just read the books he left me while he wasn’t around. I did enjoy the place. I was surrounded by the beauties of nature. It was really a reminiscing one.

After a while, as I continued reading, I saw at a distant, a gentleman riding a bicycle, as he drew closer, I recognized him. He’s Stephen, a Canadian foreign teacher in the teacher’s college. I called him. He stopped and we did a nice chatting, then Jim arrived a short while after. What a coincidence! We were laughing ‘coz it’s as if we planned to meet there. We chatted for a short while only ‘coz Stephen had something to do. He continued riding his bike as we resumed our unfinished conversation. We truly had a great time there. I like it staying there, as if I am in heaven. Thanks Jim for that wonderful time. See you next time.

…LoNeLy No MoRe

Since I celebrated my 25th birthday here, I am lonely no more. Wanna know why? Considerably, I got a present from my colleague, a glass-like aquarium with two fishes in it. They are my ultimate companions now at home. I don’t feel sad anymore.

Kinda strange but in truth factual. I do talk to them. I am really happy this time that I have someone to talk to in my house. If I feel like talking, I just sit down in front of my computer table at home and talk to them. Aside from that, before going to work, I also talk to them as well as upon arriving. I kinda like asking them whether they are alright or something. I do treat them as members of my family. Before going to bed, too, I do the same. I also talk to them. Sometimes they are no longer moving, I guess they were already sleeping during those times, around 9:30 pm.

Well, thanks to the concern of my colleague, Doris. I have someone with me now. I ain’t lonely anymore.

…MeT a NeW FoReIgN TeAcHeR

As I am in a kinda small city, not the capital of the province, it’s very seldom to meet a new foreigner. So when I met a new foreign teacher yesterday, I was kinda elated to meet her. I was so glad to know that there’s one more foreigner at least near to my city, ‘coz she’s not in the city where I am in now.

When my boss came yesterday, after lunch break, he was with her. I was amazed and happy. Her name is Flora, from the States. She’s also out going. I like her company even if we just met yesterday. I can feel it. So I am just hoping I could meet her sooner or later. Thanks for visiting to our school. I would just like to ask for an apology that I wasn’t able to show you around, ‘coz I had a lot of classes. But maybe next time. I hope one day, I could also visit your school. It's a college in Chizhou, an hour and a half away from here. Flora, have a good time and take care always.

… uNdIsPuTeD

U – ndoubtedly factual, beyond any uncertainties, people around me found me to be something like this. They defined me as what they saw about me when we were together. Thanks for the great definitions.

N – evertheless, it’s all up to you to say something about me. What I would just enunciate is that, to emphatically know me better, join me ones, involve me twice, necessitate me thrice and that’s the perfect time to say something about me or any other people as a whole.

D – oes that mean something to you? Would it be applicable for you? Well, I would tell you, you can’t judge the book by its own cover. Define not the person by his appearance, you may eventually give a misleading information.

I – n such cases, be very careful about dealing with other people, they are as fragile as glasses. Too delicate to handle that you have to deal with extra care. They are also too precious to lose.

S – o, be gentle to those you meet everyday. Take them as special people in your life. They may in turn treat you the same way.

P – ut your shoes into their shoes, and you will feel what they are experiencing. In doing so, you won’t feel you are elevated and advanced than them. Be humble at all times.

U – nderstanding each other is one most important to happily deal with one another. So, I do try to do so. Take care of me, too. I’ll tell you who I really am and you would understand me more. Here we go. Fasten your seatbelt as we travel.

T – ax, the name I have been using since I was in high school. So many of my friends call me one. If you feel like you belong to them, find comfort to call me that. I would love to.

E – ustaquio III is my real first name. Kinda old one, yeah? Yet it’s so treasured by my family. It’s a name for three generations. Sound like Spanish as they say. Probably! Treat that with due respect.

D – amaolao is my surname. So please do esteem every person you meet daily. So do I. You can search my real name using Google, and you would know me more. Thanks people! Take care always.

…nO bLoWiNg Of CaNdLeS

As we filled the room with enjoyment and laughter, we felt tired and so hot, that we even called the assistant to turn on the air conditioner. We rested from dancing. This time, it’s the instant to light the candles and slice the cake they bought for me. A grateful heart is talking to you. Thanks a lot.

Such a good-looking cake they prepared. T’was a chocolate cake. Perfectly decorated. I do appreciate all of you, guys. They lit the candles for me. The big candle opened like petals of flowers, with candles on each, such a beautiful one.

We danced around the tables as we sung HAPPY BIRTHDAY SONG. We were like primary students turning around. I missed those times, acting like a kid in front of my family. I wasn’t able to blow the candles, ‘coz they were already out when we stopped dancing. I seriously sliced the cake and served them one by one. We delighted eating the cake and they, too, enjoyed putting icing on my face. T’was really a wondrous moment, worthy to be remembered.

We started singing and dancing again few minutes later. Then, we parted ways a short while after. I, in truth, was truly happy in that moment. Thanks for that feeling. I thanked all of them as we went home. Guys, you are one of a kind. Thanks for the acceptance. I do value that. Take care always and see you soon.

…KTV – tHe rEtUrN

Right after we basked the savory food during our dinner, we proceeded immediately to the KTV right across the restaurant. So funny, we had to hide the cake and soft drink, ‘coz it’s not aloud to bring them inside. We covered them with jackets for it not to be so obvious. Sounds funny, right? Then, we continued our enjoyment there.

Everybody tried to pick their songs and showed their hidden talents. The room was indeed full of laughter as we were singing and dancing. I couldn’t imagine myself doing it. But it’s kinda fun. We all enjoyed that time. It’s a thing I pretty like with these people is that, they are easy going. They are very friendly.

We had our songs one after the other. I also had the chance of sharing my hidden talent to them. And we all laughed. I like that place for they have lots of English songs, than that of the other night. And indeed, they also tried to sing a lot of English songs. Such a joyous moment! We were like kids singing and dancing together.

Guys, thanks for that marvelous time. I did enjoy it. My 25th birthday really was one of the most memorable one. I had such a great moment though away from family. Kinda I haven’t felt it. Thank you all for being there for me. Have a good time everyone.

…bIrThDaY – tHe RePeAt

As I was making this one, I couldn’t help but laugh ‘coz it sounds like a concert, the repeat. Hahahaha! Yet, it is truly factual. I did have other celebration the night after my birthday. I did consider my friends here to be very important, too. But they are not somewhat related to the school, I mean the company. So I didn’t want them to be with the first celebration, with my colleagues and students.

I was kinda shy to these people for I was late in going to the restaurant. I did a special speech training for an hour for those who were not able to come the other week. I came there at 7:00pm, right after my class, but we agreed to meet at 6:00. I told them about it, though. But I still felt shy about it. I don’t want them to wait for me for that long. I got no choice, anyway.

One picked me up at school for I don’t know how to get there. thanks Jim for that. When we came in, they were of course, there waiting for us. I did ask for an apology. Sorry for that guys. But they did understand the situation. I just told them to order ahead of time, so that when we would come, we would start eating right away. Yes, they did. They are all smart and professional. That’s one thing I like with this group. Thanks for joining me in my time of happiness. Greatly appreciated.

We did have a nice chat as we enjoyed the food. Some cracked jokes while we were eating and we all laughed. We truly had a great time together. We shared our experiences and so on.

I just wanna express my warmest and heartfelt gratitude to all of these people; Stephen (a Canadian guy, foreign teacher in the teacher’s college here), thank you for spending your precious moment with me. I know you are pretty busy, too. But you did come. Thanks a lot. To Jim, for picking me up and for arranging for the event, my contact person. Thanks a lot for the sensitivity. To Linda, my great adviser, thanks for the wonderful thoughts you’ve shared to me. To Wendy, thanks for being such a nice friend, just think positive as we always say it. Last but not the least, to Sarah, thanks for being there and for always being there. I highly valued your presence last night. Thank you so much guys.

"Friendship is a strong and habitual inclination in two persons to promote the good and happiness of one another." --Eustace Budgell

…oNe Of A kInD

My friends handed me a special, very exceptional birthday card with their signatures on it. It is bought from the US. Wendy had a business trip there and in Canada for several times before. So they gave me one.

It's my first time to receive a birthday card from other countries. Christmas cards I did. But birthday card, that was the first. It’s one of a kind experience. It’s really beautiful. It talks about friendship. This is what it says, “HAPPY BIRTHDAY! Special people are like flowers in the garden of life.” That’s in the front page. What it says inside is, “You always seem to go out of your own way to make other people feel special. That’s one of the things I like best in you.”

I was touched as I read it. Thank you so much everyone. It made my day so special, as well as my feelings. In addition to that, I was indeed very happy. Words may not be enough to express it. Thanks a million times.

…bLoW tHe CaNdLeS

As we savored the luscious food, some also enjoyed singing at the same time. I felt like I was at home, doing the same thing the moment we have a celebration like this. Homesickness was gone. It was diverted into happiness. Thanks for that feeling.

In the middle of the celebration, they let me sing two songs. They all clapped their hands. You know, only few English songs here. Then, we continued eating. Laughters surround the place all through out the entire event. I can see every one was also happy.

“Blow the candles, time to blow them now,” that’s what I heard from them. Yet, one Chinese teacher programmed the sound system before blowing them. So I still have to sing again, 25 minutes by MLTR ‘coz they said I am already 25. Well, I got no choice. Everyone stood up as I sing the song and clapped their hands altogether. I was really touched. Then, happy birthday song followed.

Darkness covered the room that time as I lit the candles while everyone was singing. I blew the candles of the two cakes after I made a wish. Then, they clapped their hands the more, even louder. Slicing of cakes succeeded afterwards. I handed each one a slice of cake. I indeed had a fun time. I was genuinely happy, too like everyone else. Then, eating, laughters, singing and talks continued. We all had a fantastic time. Around an hour later, we parted ways. Thanks for the time guys. I somehow forgot home. Thanks a lot everyone!.

…gIfTs I rEcEiVeD

I couldn’t imagine why they were able to have a such wondrous presents for me. They have no time. I made it a point not to tell them in advance so that they won’t bother to buy some. But I was amazed. They made it in just less than an hour. My boss phoned them an hour before dinner and told them the restaurant. Yes, they came with their respective presents. They entered the room and greeted me HAPPY HAPPY BIRTHDAY and wished me the best in life and here in China as they handed their gifts. I was filled with gratefulness and thanked them one by one.

Amazing gifts amused my eyes and diverted my feelings, for I was a little sad reminiscing those times I had with my family during this time. I truly appreciate the thoughtfulness of these people around me here. With my students, too, they are indeed worth calling, true and real friends. Thanks for the friendship you are offering.
I was filled with laughter as I opened each
of their presents. They, too enjoyed watching me opening them and capturing pictures at the same time. They also explained why they planned to buy them as I tore the wrappers. I couldn’t put in words what I felt that time. Indescribable! Well, thanks to all of you. I am in truth happy for your gifts. I just don’t know how to give back the kindness you showed me. I just wish you the best in your state of life, too. May all your labors be fruitful and successful. Thanks a lot.

…MiXeD fEeLiNgS

I barely couldn’t understand what I felt to my colleagues and adult students last night, as we celebrated my 25th birthday. Mixed emotions ruled all over the night. I was very happy with them. I wanna cry or something for like, they are real my families. I also felt like I was surrounded by my loved ones. But I still couldn’t take away the sadness for missing my family on that very day. But thanks to all of them for filling in the times where I should have spent with my family. You were there. Thanks a lot.

I don’t know how to thank you enough. Words are not sufficient to express my heartfelt gratitude to all of you. Thank you and thank you so much. You really were there during the times I badly need someone to be with, talk to and enjoy my day. To my adult students: John, Chris, Linda, Jupiter with his lovely wife and super talented daughter, you are not just my students, but also my real friends. I won’t forget those times. Thank you so much. Thanks also for your presents, I do love them. To my headmaster, to my immediate boss, Mr. Wang (whom I call dad), to my fellow teachers; Joana and Doris, and Matthew (an American guy), to our staffs; Susan and Joy, my warmest gratitude to all of you for being there. Thanks to all of you for your wonderful presents. I highly appreciate them.

It wouldn't be a such happy moment if without you guys. I would just be like an island celebrating my day if you weren’t there. I sincerely express my fondest thanks to all of you. Thank you and thank you. Have a good time and take care always.

…OnLiNe GrEeTiNgS

This is what I was just expecting from my family and friends back home. And they did. A lot of them did. With my friendster account, many tried their best to greet me on my special day, no matter how busy they were, they really spent time just to send their greetings to me. Highly valued guys! I do appreciate your efforts.

With my facebook account, quite a few spent their precious time just to greet me that time. Thanks to all of you people. I just couldn’t reply you all at the same time, ‘coz I am also a little busy. I am just going to tell you, I do appreciate what you did. Thanks for that.

With my yahoo account, e-mail and my messenger, super many of them greeted me. Since I wasn’t online for the entire day, I just opened this morning. A lot of offline messages from my dear family members and friends. E-mails also were sent that day, but I just read them today. To all of those who are so concern about me and truly remember my special day, it’s an honor to have you all. I am so lucky to have you, so precious and dear to me. Thanks for you comments and greetings. I just wish and pray that you are also happy everyday just like what you wished for me. Thank you so much everyone. Let’s pray for one another. Have a good time everyone!

My mobile phone also was very busy beeping. Many, too tried to greet me through my phone. Others even called me up just to express their sentiments. Very well fellas, thanks a lot. Take care always.

…mY fIrSt TiMe

You might be thinking of my birthday again celebrated away from home. Yeah, t’was my first time. Yet, it’s not what I am talking here this time. For almost a year now of staying here, I haven’t eaten mangoes, one of the best fruits in my hometown. It’s just that they weren’t worth eating as I saw them before. Wrinkling peelings discouraged me to buy them.

So as to mention, every time I go to grocery store, I never minded looking at them, for I knew the fact that they are not that pleasing. I always have this in mind, though I truly want to buy even a kilo.

When I passed the fruits section, one time, April 16, my birthday exactly, I was astonished as I looked at them. They were somewhat saying, “Look at me now.” They were very beautiful that time, so smooth, so yellow and so fragrant. I felt somehow it’s a nature’s gift on my birthday. With no disinclinations, I did buy one and a half kilograms. Kinda expensive, yet they are worth it. I do miss eating them. It was my first time eating mangoes here in China, on my birthday. Thanks for passing there that time that my longing of eating mangoes vanished. I relished that time eating them, as if I didn’t want that moment to end. Thanks for the wonderful gift!

…a ReMiNiScEnT tImE

I just couldn’t help but think of those days I happily celebrated this day with my family, relatives, neighbors and circle of friends. I feel I am homesick now. I just find this so peculiar this time. Couldn’t explain what I feel. Mixed emotions surround me now. So strange! Well, maybe because it’s a special time, yet away from them, and I feel so lonely, and first time to encounter this situation.

I have several impressions in mind now. I keep thinking of, “If only I were with my family, if only I were home, if only were not away, if only I were with my friends, if only they were here, if only we were together, if only… if only… if only…, I wouldn’t have felt this way, I wouldn’t have been lonely, I wouldn’t have been sad, I wouldn’t have felt homesick, I wouldn’t… I wouldn’t… I wouldn’t…"

Somewhat I hate everything. I do love music, yet I don’t want to listen to it. It would just somehow add my loneliness, especially listening to songs we usually sang together before. I would just remember those times the more, and add this odd feeling of mine. I don’t know what to do. I can’t understand. I just badly miss them, I guess. That’s why I don’t want to remember special occasions, ‘coz it would just make me feel lonely, instead of being happy. Well, thanks to technology that it’s just easy to communicate with them. But sadness still rules my world at this time. Yeah, I can do it. It would just be over in due time. I only have to be strong. Thanks a lot guys!

…tHe DaY I wAs BoRn

Ever since I got to know what’s going on around me, I never thought of experiencing this situation, celebrating one of the most special days in my life away from my loved ones. I was always around them when this day comes. We celebrate together, eat, laugh, sing and talk together on this day. Kinda sad to think about it now. But here I am, away from them. I have no choice except to accept the reality of life – we are not together always, right? I never had experience this before. Yet life must go on.

Well, now that I am away, I just wish I could make myself go back to the day I was born. I would never have felt sadness or whatever. I only thought of eating and sleeping, and be in the bosom of my mom or dad. Always being hugged, kissed and taken cared of. What a nice feeling! Yet it’s inconceivable. We always change and grow. And here I am! Proud to say I do exist and develop and grow.

Exactly 25 years ago, everybody was totally happy especially my family and all people around me, seeing a healthy baby came to witness the beauty of the world. They had a blank idea of what and who would I become in the future. They were just wishing I would live a good life and be successful in due time. Thanks for all their wishes and prayers, they are truly part of what and who I am today. I do owe you all a heartfelt thank you. I do miss you all. I love you and hope to see you all again very very soon. Thanks and have a good time. Hugs and kisses to all of you.

…tHoUgHtFuL PaLs

Thanks to my sponsors! LOL. My colleagues bought me some presents. They do find time to look for one and gave me this afternoon. There’s just one present I found so peculiar. Amazing! I couldn’t imagine ‘coz I never heard of this before.

When she handed over her present, she told me that I should be careful in opening it. It’s fragile she said. So I slowly opened the gift, tore its wrapper and opened the box. I saw a glass covered with somewhat foil and there’s water inside. As I picked it up. There are two fishes in side. Pretty small. It’s totally covered. I innocently asked, “How will I feed them?” They answered, no, no need to feed them. They won’t die for four or even five months. They added, I only have to put it in a cold place. No sunshine at all.

People, thanks a lot for that. I do appreciate them. Once again, I gratefully thank you.