...surPRIZEd!!!

LENTEN MESSAGE

2009-04-10T10:50:00.000-07:00

Ponder on this...

In one of my conversations with God I told him I want a comfortable life, free of hassles - where I don’t need to worry about tomorrow. I told him about my needs and not to mention my wants. I even confided my fear of aging without finding the love of my life. And the list goes on. Then He said, “Almost all your heart’s desires are of worldly meaning, you don’t need my blessing to have them. All you need to do is work and in time you will have even more”. And then He continued by saying “I made the world as your playground, you can do and have whatever it is that pleases you but not to the detriment of any entity, living or non-living, if you can do that then peace can start with you.” All of a sudden I felt like a superhero with Spiderman echoing the words “with great power comes great responsibility”. I moved on by saying, “Lord, would it be too much to ask for someone to love? He looked at me and said “Why do you worry about ending up with someone or not? When you look around and see beyond sight, you may recognize the value of love in everything that your eyes witness. The sun rises up everyday to give life to all living things. Rain pours down to water the earth and prevents it from drying. The clouds serve as cover for my children living in the desert. Even the ants that give burning itch, though small, were created for a purpose – they are a constant reminder that no man is an island and that in unison there is strength.” As I listened to God, my face went red. I never felt more embarrassed. He continued by saying “When was the last time you woke up and thanked Me for the air that you breathe? When you landed a top rank, it was not luck, I helped you out. I gave you eloquence during your interview in the same way I helped Aaron to act as Moses’ emissary. Well you got the job didn’t you? But you didn’t even light a candle for that nor proclaim my glory. You kept it to yourself like an arrogant man. Then you left your post and blame Me for not granting you a perfect job? I provided you with the best I ever could but unless you be grateful for the love I have shown, you are unworthy for greater things. Show me you can be responsible in taking care of yourself and I will not deny you of a perfect partner. Do you think your pain pass me by unnoticed? I can see right through you but I would rather have you alone as of the moment than let you go through living in loneliness with somebody you don’t really need”. In that instant, I felt an arrow just pierced through my heart. “Do you have any idea how many hearts and souls get broken everyday?” he continued, “When it comes to matters of the heart, humanity succumbs to their emotional needs rendering them imprudent. As if the ultimate goal in life is to marry and have kids. Well how many of them got married, had kids then left? Their children grew up and committed the same mistakes their parents did. They never learn. And the cycle goes on. I made a covenant with your forefathers, Abraham, Isaac and Jacob that I will forever be in the midst of those who call me. Hear me then, I am the God who can do wonders throughout the ages and my stream is always greater than your scarcity. My only appeal is this, do not let the earth corrupt your innocence; you don’t have to lose it, it just needs to be maintained. Material investment will not guarantee entrance to my kingdom and only the wise will know this. I love you, and I am the only one who can love you unconditionally.” I wept. I just wept. His words are too deep and great for my diminutive mind and understanding. After that conversation with God, I know that the coming days will be a lot clearer to me. And for all of my shortcomings, I say Thank You Lord, because YOU NEVER REALLY LEFT ME……

P.S. To Jesus: Once upon a time I nailed you on the cross, so for the sake of your sorrowful passion and death, I can truly celebrate LIFE now….

A LETTER FROM SOMEONE

2009-03-26T21:48:00.000-07:00

I couldn't imagine how I felt when I read this letter. I was really shocked. As I tried opening it and started reading the few lines, I was nervous having lots of things running through my mind. For you to fully understand what i am talking about, here it goes... (I never changed anything, the grammar and so on... I just erase her email address...) I am anticipating some comments about this letter. i just don't know what to do...

Hello.
Please, do not be surprise - this letter is not a spam one. You will probably be amazed of the fact that I am writing you an e-mail. Yesterday I myself was amazed too, when saw your letter in my e-mail box. The letter was about love and sensations among people. The motto of the letter was like this, “search for love and you’ll become happy”. I liked this letter very much. There was a list of e-mails where I found yours. I decided to write you. Maybe you are seeking love too? Maybe it’s our destiny?

I do not know actually who was the person that had sent me that e-mail and how did he get my e-mail address. I think it is not important. The most amazing thing is that I can write you. I would like to know more about you. Providing that it is me who is the first to write, I want to say some words of my personality.

My name is Yuliya. I am 32 years old.. I from Murom it in (Russia). To me of 32 years. I the widow. My husband was lost in automobile failure!! I am cute, calm, kind and sociable. I think it is interesting to talk with you and discover new features of yours. Discover you as a person. I am a serious woman and I am looking for serious relations. For me it means no deception, no double jokes. I am looking for a real person who will manage to love and respect me. I hope you are searching for your love, too.

I do not think that in love-relations age and appearance have any importance. The chief factor for me is ability to love and respect seriously!I have lots of hobbies and interests in life. Among them you will find sport, cooking, books reading and definitely music. I am going crazy about housekeeping and house holding. I like tiding up and general cleaning. I am keen on experimenting in my kitchen. I love changes. I am fond of animals and prefer to lead a healthy lifestyle, thus, I do not smoke or use alcohol.

Hey, my new pen-friend. What can you tell me about yourself? I want to learn more about you. In my future letter I will describe my character and my personality more precisely. Definitely, I will send you some of my photographs. It will help you to understand who I am and where I live. My photos will reveal all parts of my life: my happiness, my pensiveness and sometimes melancholy. I am looking forward to your reply. I am really interested in knowing you better.
Remember of me.

Your new friend,
Yuliya

please do visit my other sites:

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

A LOVE LETTER

2009-03-26T21:30:00.000-07:00

Everdearest,

Perhaps you will be surprised upon receiving this letter of mine. It may never come to your senses I would write you such a great love letter, but I just follow what my heart dictates. I even have a difficulty following everything it commands. It tells me a lot that it’s really backbreaking to accompany everything it tells me.

My dear, I just would like to express my deepest feelings of love for you. I want to tell you this honestly and sincerely in person, but since we are miles away, I just put it in this way. I want to convey this message with you, holding your arms and gazing you in your eyes, but the distance between us doesn’t allow. I just hope you imagine me saying all this in front of you.

Dear, I absolutely know how hard it is to handle this kind of situation, as it is also hard for me, having a long distance relationship for quite a long time. But I struggled really really hard to fight against all the trials that come my way. I perfectly know that life has a lot of tests to offer in this kind of relationship, especially for the devotion and love for each other. And after all these, it is definitely said that, “TRUE LOVE” IS BOUNDLESS AND IMMEASURABLE AND OVERCOMES ALL SORTS OF ADVERSITIES. But as a matter of fact, if it’s truly unfeigned, it would even grow stronger each time it’s struck by these troubles.

My love, our love has encountered a lot of problems for many times, and I am convinced that it is true because the longer I am away from you, the greater is my yearning to be with you again. You are my inspiration, and each day, I am looking forward to meet you in the near future. I am so excited and couldn’t wait until that time comes. I treasure any thought of you, prize any memory of you that rise from the depths of my mind and heart, and live for the day when our distance will no longer be a problem.Until that precious moment arrives, I am sending you across the miles, my tender love, my warm embrace, and my most passionate hugs and kisses. I LOVE YOU, BABY!!!

Always here,

YOUR BABY

please do visit my other sites:

http://eternallyyours-tax.blogspot.com/

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

VALENTINE MESSAGE

2009-02-14T13:50:00.000-08:00

What does Valentine's day mean to you? Does it have a meaning at all? Hearts day as they call it, do you celebrate this very day? What do you usually do at this moment? Well, whatever plans you have for today, enjoy and have fun. As for me, I'm going to celebrate it with my students... I have a class until 9pm tonight.

A friend sent an early "Valentine" message to see if it will make it around the world by Feb. 14th. I like it so much. Thanks for sending it Mafe. The message goes this way...

For God so loV ed the world,

That He gA ve

his onL y

BegottE n
SoN
ThaT whosoever
Believeth I n Him

Should N ot perish,
But have evErlasting life." John 3:16

SHARE it around the World

SHANGHAI TRIP

2009-02-12T09:08:00.000-08:00

Early Monday morning, I hastily prepared myself for my Shanghai trip. I took a shower and went to CRH (fast train) station for my friend, LANZ was already waiting there. We bought two tickets and then had our breakfast at McDonald's for our trip was at 8:24 and t’was still 7:15. We had a great meal.

Boarding the train came and we gleefully find our car number and our seats. We were wondering why our ticket was a little expensive than the usual one. Only to find out, we were in a first class coach car. That was fine for it was so comfy there, few people, spacious, big and comfortable seats better than that of an airplane(the economy ones). We were so happy as we were heading to our destination. We make it to Shanghai at exactly three hours from the time we departed Hefei. I was so happy setting my first footsteps in the business capital of China. We then looked for the airport bus going to the international airport. As we found it, we immediately had our early lunch directly across the train station. Then we move our asses around and took pictures especially around the Shanghai expo 2010 logo. As we strolled along the busy street, we found small MISTER DONUT billboard. We headed to the place, got in and ordered donuts and lavishly devoured them for we miss eating these back home. Then time to take the airport bus for it’s like an hour going there from the city center.

When we arrived the Pudong international airport, almost an hour earlier than the expected arrival of our friend, we asked where do Philippines Airlines land. They told us to go to terminal 2 for we were at terminal 1. So we took the airport shuttle bus as what we were told. Looking at the big screen, we disappointedly find vacant seats to relax for the plane is delayed for almost an hour. We were wondering if we could still catch the last CRH going back to Hefei. Tired of sitting, we roamed around the airport and took lots of photos. We went to the maglev station for we planned to take it going back to the train station.

Happily, we went back to the waiting area for t’was almost the arrival time. Jubilantly, I went closer to the passengers exit for the airline was already announced to have landed. It took us like more than an hour to wait for him, only to find out he was questioned by the immigration for bringing lots of personal care stuff, for he only has tourist visa. He just explained they’re his present to his friends here.

We immediately ran out of the airport and took a taxi for we only had 50 minutes left before the last CRH leaves, but we were stuck in an enormous traffic. Well, it’s one of what Shanghai is famous for, dense traffic jam. So we were unable to get the last fast train. One more thing, our taxi fare was 156 RMB (23 USD), unimaginable for we are not used to have it in our city. Well, no choice but we had to take the ordinary train. One more frustrated situation, there’s no sleeper, we had to sit down for 6 hours. Anyway, that was my unforgettable experience in Shanghai. LANZ, thanks a lot for traveling with me there. COMRADE, thanks and congratulations, you made it here and good luck and welcome to China. Enjoy your life here.

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

SLEEPLESS NIGHT

2009-02-08T13:31:00.000-08:00

Sleepless night once again. I just couldn’t force myself to go back to sleep. I don’t know. Maybe because I am going to meet my all time best friend from the Philippines in Shanghai today, or maybe because it’s my first time to go there, too. I am like a little child so excited about something promised to be brought to somewhere or to be given something for a job well done.

Another thing, we haven’t meet for like 3 years now. So, it’s quite a long time. We’ve got lots of stories to exchange and another sleepless nights pretty sure. Hahahahaha. Looking forward to know all those stories about life back home. Well, I gotta go people, got to prepare myself for the trip. See you and take care. Have a great time...

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

IT IS BETTER...

2009-02-07T17:06:00.000-08:00

What is fame to you? Does it give meaning to you? Does this drive you crazy as what often people do? Do you also crave for this? Why do we always desire this? Why do we always try to accelerate ourselves and think that we’re better than others if we have this? Why do we have to be famous? What do you want to famous for? Are you one of them?

As we scan about what is happening around, indeed, there are many who are famous because of what they achieve, what they have and possess. Is it thier fault why they became as such? Of course not! They deserve it. But others are only second rate trying hard fellas who accelerate by putting others down. This is the contrary which is inhumane and barbarous. They are not gratified with what they can only have. So they do things even against human rights just to have the so-called, fame and success.

To tell you honestly, “It's better to be known by six people for something you're proud of than to be known by sixty million for something you're not.”(Albert Brooks). What is this fame for if you are not worthy of it. It’s not lasting and we couldn’t even bring it after we leave this journey here on earth. So why aim to be the most famous? As long as you’re doing your best shot in everything you do according to your state of life, that’s the real essence of it. Just do your best and SOMEONE will take care of the rest.

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

THOUGHTS TO PONDER

2009-02-07T07:57:00.000-08:00

Why do people always try to possess all the luck in this world? They’re not satisfied of what is justly imparted to them. They still want to acquire what luck others own. What a self-centered fellas! We can’t deny the fact that they’re around us. It somehow pushes others to think less of themselves and be driven like a cattle. They are impoverished by these big people. They forgot to prove themselves for they are not given a little piece of chance and be heroes in the strife.

"Frankly people, no matter where you're from, no matter who people think you are, you can be whatever you want, but you gotta start right now!"

Ponder on this and live it up. Cease not in believing in your capacity. Noone is gonna care about you if you yourself is not doing the same way. Always remember, we have the right to be here in this world, we all have a purpose. Don’t put yourself down. No matter where you’re from, you can achieve you dreams. No matter what people think you are, as long as you know you are veraciously living your life, success is in your palm. Stand up and right what is wrong. You gotta start right now. Heads up and move forward. You have to tell the whole world what they ought to know and demonstrate courage and perseverance till the end. Remember, we have to live life to its fullness. Stand, go and be free to spread your wings and fly as high as you can, always remember that...

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

08-08-08

2009-01-02T18:46:00.000-08:00

It happens once in a blue moon, twelve times in a century. So we are so lucky when it happens. We should mark our calendar for this. Only few people experience this moment. Well, what makes it special, anyway?

For the world, it is important for there was an international event on this day where majority of the nations participated. And for China, it is even more important for it hosted the said event, the Olympic games, where they got almost all the golds and eventually lead them to get the highest achievement in the event. They were the champions. So, does the date matters? Does it give meaning to them? For them, eight (8) is a lucky number. So does it explain?

Anyway, where were you on this very day? Could you still remember? As for me, it was kinda special and a mix feelings. I was so excited for I was going home for the first time on this day. I was in two countries during this moment. Kinda peculiar, right? But it was. My flight to the Philippines was 9:15 in the evening on this day and we arrived in the Philippine airport at around 12 midnight or more. I am not so sure of the exact time for what I was feeling was excitement and exhilaration. Though we didn’t land yet, but i am sure that we were already in the border of the Philippines before it turns 12 midnight.

So, what is your 08-08-08 story? Is this date significant for you?

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

Xmas 2008

2008-12-31T00:24:00.000-08:00

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

2008-11-30T00:36:00.000-08:00

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

2008-06-02T19:50:00.000-07:00

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

2008-06-01T19:20:00.000-07:00

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

2008-05-28T18:17:00.000-07:00

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

…sPeEcH iN NuMbEr 9 MiDdLe sChOoL

2008-05-25T03:06:00.000-07:00

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

2008-05-22T20:11:00.000-07:00

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

2008-05-21T19:42:00.000-07:00

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

2008-05-14T08:55:00.000-07:00

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

2008-05-11T00:00:00.000-07:00

"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

2008-05-10T23:00:00.000-07:00

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

2008-05-09T08:00:00.000-07:00

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;

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…cAn’T dO aS pLaNnEd

2008-05-03T06:12:00.000-07:00

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.

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…eAsT LaKe & mUsEuM

2008-05-01T08:25:00.000-07:00

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.

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…mY fIrSt TiMe

2008-04-30T03:04:00.000-07:00

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

2008-04-27T03:35:00.000-07:00

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

2008-04-24T02:56:00.000-07:00

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

2008-04-24T00:55:00.000-07:00

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

2008-04-23T18:52:00.000-07:00

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

2008-04-23T01:40:00.000-07:00

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

2008-04-22T18:45:00.000-07:00

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

2008-04-20T17:13:00.000-07:00

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

2008-04-20T17:00:00.000-07:00

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

2008-04-19T17:17:00.000-07:00

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

2008-04-18T20:49:00.000-07:00

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

2008-04-18T20:00:00.000-07:00

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

2008-04-18T19:28:00.000-07:00

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

2008-04-18T00:18:00.000-07:00

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

2008-04-17T21:20:00.000-07:00

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

2008-04-17T20:40:00.000-07:00

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

2008-04-17T19:25:00.000-07:00

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

2008-04-17T02:22:00.000-07:00

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

2008-04-17T01:54:00.000-07:00

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

2008-04-16T19:58:00.000-07:00

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

2008-04-16T18:47:00.000-07:00

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

2008-04-16T02:47:00.000-07:00

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.

…DiNnEr AnD KTV

2008-04-16T02:33:00.000-07:00

That’s my ultimate plan before when I would celebrate my birthday here. Somewhat no other choices. Well tonight, we are going to dinner and KTV. I invited all our staffs and all my adult students, for I suppose to have a class with them tonight. So we are going to have our class in KTV, joke. We will enjoy once in a while. They agreed, too. So no problem at all. They also like the idea.

So, my boss called the place in advance. Then he also phoned all my adult students and reminded them again and told them the place. So, see you all later, guys! Let’s enjoy and have fun. Thanks for being with me as I celebrate my happy moment. Let’s have a good time. Let’s party!

…I dIdN’t ExPeCt

2008-04-16T02:04:00.000-07:00

Well, as I announced to my colleagues that this day is my birthday, they were all surprised. They were shouting and blaming each other, for one has remembered but somebody said it’s not yet. So they were laughing and saying a lot of things but I couldn’t understand. They really didn’t expect that.

Someone actually asked me about it few days ago, but I didn’t answer yet. She asked whether it would be this month or on June, but somebody interrupted. Then, I wasn’t able to tell. So they were really surprised today.

They went home early in the morning. I was left alone in the office. I was a little sad. So I went home, too after few minutes. And when I came back in the afternoon, they weren’t in the office yet. Kinda strange ‘coz usually, they will arrive earlier than me. Only to find out, they bought some presents for me. I was so elated. Thanks for them. I somehow forget my loneliness and homesickness. I feel I’m at home with my friends. Thanks a lot! I cordially appreciate your efforts to comfort me. Thanks you very much.

…YoU aRe CoRdIaLLY iNvItEd

2008-04-16T01:25:00.000-07:00

As I celebrate my 25th birthday today, I am inviting everyone to celebrate with me. Join me as I blow the candles and take wishes. Wish me a happy, progressive, healthy, strong, and a long life. That I may survive through all the hurdles that may come my way.

It’s my silver birth anniversary, 25 years of existence and survival here in this battlefield, we call earth. I have fought a good fight, as St. Paul said, combating all the hassles that I met along the way. Thanks to all the people who in one way or another gave me a hand as I go on my way each day. Thanks a lot to all of you.

With this special day, come and join me in my happiness. Let’s forget our troubles. Set them aside and be free from them. For a short moment, let’s be happy and celebrate this such a special day. Let’s go to dinner together and KTV afterwards. Let’s have fun this day. Let’s be happy! Thanks a lot.

…DeSiDeRaTa

2008-04-16T00:15:00.000-07:00

It’s been a long long while I haven’t read this poem. Such a beautiful one. I just remembered the time when we had our presentation regarding this poem. Our teacher gave us time to make a real life situation drama to be presented in the class the next day, and should be based from the wonderful poem. We did all we can to have a fantastic presentation. We all cooperated and performed very well. We had a pretty high remark from our teacher.

I have accumulated a lot of learning from the poem, for it talks about life, attaining happiness, and, of course, the struggles one must do to achieve it. It gave me ideas on how to live my life in accordance with what is socially upright and ethically accepted. It showed me rooms for improvement, betterment and success. It opened wide doors for me to valiantly face the real life, the battle here on earth.

This is such an interesting and educating poem. Come, read and learn from it. Just like I did. Take you time and have fun.

"Desiderata" (Latin for "desired things", plural of desideratum) is an inspirational prose poem about attaining happiness in life. It was first copyrighted in 1927 by Max Ehrmann.
In the 1960s it was widely circulated without attribution to Ehrmann, sometimes with the claim that it was found in St. Paul's Church, Baltimore, Maryland, and was written in 1692 (the year of the founding of St. Paul's). Nevertheless, the estate of Ehrmann has kept various editions of the work in print. A spoken-word recording of the essay was made by Les Crane and reached #8 on the Billboard magazine charts in late 1971.
At least one court case has held the poem to be forfeited to the public domain because of distribution during and before World War II, but other cases have ruled that the assignee through Ehrmann's heirs holds the purchased copyright.

Go placidly amid the noise and haste,

and remember what peace there may be in silence.

As far as possible without surrender

be on good terms with all persons.

Speak your truth quietly and clearly;

and listen to others,

even the dull and the ignorant;

they too have their story.

Avoid loud and aggressive persons,

they are vexations to the spirit.

If you compare yourself with others,

you may become vain and bitter;

for always there will be greater and lesser persons than yourself.

Enjoy your achievements as well as your plans.

Keep interested in your own career,

however humble;

it is a real possession in the changing fortunes of time.

Exercise caution in your business affairs;

for the world is full of trickery.

But let this not blind you to what virtue there is;

many persons strive for high ideals;

and everywhere life is full of heroism.

Be yourself.

Especially, do not feign affection.

Neither be cynical about love;

for in the face of all aridity and disenchantment

it is as perennial as the grass.

Take kindly the counsel of the years,

gracefully surrendering the things of youth.

Nurture strength of spirit

to shield you in sudden misfortune.

But do not distress yourself with dark imaginings.

Many fears are born of fatigue and loneliness.

Beyond a wholesome discipline,

be gentle with yourself.

You are a child of the universe,

no less than the trees and the stars;

you have a right to be here.

And whether or not it is clear to you,

no doubt the universe is unfolding as it should.

Therefore be at peace with God,

whatever you conceive Him to be,

and whatever your labors and aspirations,

in the noisy confusion of life

keep peace with your soul.

With all its sham, drudgery, and broken dreams,

it is still a beautiful world.

Be cheerful.

Strive to be happy.

Max Ehrmann (September 26, 1872 - September 9, 1945), an attorney from Indiana, was best known for writing the prose poem "Desiderata" (Latin: "something desired as essential") in 1927.
Ehrmann, who was of German descent, received a degree in English from DePauw University, followed by a degree in Philosophy from Harvard University. He then returned to his hometown of Terre Haute, Indiana to practice law. Eventually this led him to work in his family's meatpacking business and in the overalls manufacturing industry. Finally at the age of 41, Ehrmann decided to forget such work and become a writer. At the age of 55 he wrote Desiderata, which achieved fame only after his death.

…A pSaLm Of LiFe

2008-04-15T23:28:00.000-07:00

I am just reminded of my high school life with this poem. Out teacher let us memorize this and recite in front. That was a reminiscent time. We all did our best, enjoyed and learned a lot from it. What a beautiful poem about our existence here on earth. Life is a battle that we have to face. Read and learn from it.

Tell me not, in mournful numbers,
Life is but an empty dream ! —
For the soul is dead that slumbers,
And things are not what they seem.

Life is real ! Life is earnest!
And the grave is not its goal ;
Dust thou art, to dust returnest,
Was not spoken of the soul.

Not enjoyment, and not sorrow,
Is our destined end or way ;
But to act, that each tomorrow
Find us farther than today.

Art is long, and Time is fleeting,
And our hearts, though stout and brave,
Still, like muffled drums, are beating
Funeral marches to the grave.

In the world's broad field of battle,
In the bivouac of Life,
Be not like dumb, driven cattle !
Be a hero in the strife !

Trust no Future, howe'er pleasant !
Let the dead Past bury its dead !
Act,— act in the living Present !
Heart within, and God o'erhead !

Lives of great men all remind us
We can make our lives sublime,
And, departing, leave behind us
Footprints on the sands of time ;

Footprints, that perhaps another,
Sailing o'er life's solemn main,
A forlorn and shipwrecked brother,
Seeing, shall take heart again.

Let us, then, be up and doing,
With a heart for any fate ;
Still achieving, still pursuing,
Learn to labor and to wait.

Henry was the son of Stephen Longfellow and Zilpah Wadsworth Longfellow. He was born February 27, 1807, in Portland, Maine. Portland was a seaport, and this gave its citizens a breadth of view lacking in the more insular New England towns. The variety of people and the activity of the harbors stirred the mind of the boy and gave him a curiosity about life beyond his own immediate experience. He was sent to school when he was only three years old. When he was six, the following report of him was received at home:"Master Henry Longfellow is one of the best boys we have in school. He spells and reads very well. He can also add and multiply numbers. His conduct last quarter was very correct and amiable."

…tAkE mE oUt Of ThE dArK

2008-04-15T19:49:00.000-07:00

By simply reading the title perse, it can actually catch the attention, just like what happened to me. When I first heard this song, I felt elated, upon knowing there’s this truly nice music, soothing to my ears as I listened to it. It touched my ego. I felt so sorry for myself. I kinda stayed in silence for sometime and wonder what I have done in this world. That’s after hearing this meaningful song. Thanks for music and for the singer. More powers!

Take me out of the dark
Gary Valenciano

Just what is it in me?

Sometimes I just don't know

What keeps me in Your love,

Why you never let me go

And though you're in me now,

I fall and hurt you stillMy Lord,

please show me how

To know just how you feel

You have forgiven me

Too many times it seems

I feel I'm not what you might call

A worthy Christian after all

And though I love You so

Temptation finds its way to me

Teach me to trust in You

With all my heart

To lean not on my own understanding

I just forget

You won't give me what I can't bear

Take me out of the dark, my Lord

I don't wanna be there

You've never left my side

You gave Your hand to me to hold

Oh Jesus, I'm no longer in the cold

And yet, I leave You there

When I feel satisfied

I'd like to thankYou every day

Not only when I feel that way

I've never known a Man

Who'd give His life for sinners like me

And yet, because He loves us so

He's promised us eternity

And we can have that promise

And be His if we have faith

And just believe

Teach us to trust in you

With all my heart

To lean not on my own understanding

We just forget

You won't give us what we can't bear

Take us out of the dark, My Lord

'Cause we don't want to be alone

Take me out of the dark, My Lord

We don't wanna be there, My Lord

Trust in You with all my heart

Lean not on my own understanding

I just forget

You won't give me what I can't bear

Take me out of the dark, My Lord

'Cause we don't want to be alone

Take me out of the dark, My Lord

I don't want to be there

Edgardo Jose Martin Santiago Valenciano, better known as simply Gary Valenciano (shortened to Gary V.), is a Filipino musician, composer, actor, producer, and gospel singer who is best known for many songs, especially those that became theme songs for movies. His energetic dance moves also garnered him the nickname "Mr Pure Energy.”

… tHaNkS I mEt YoU

2008-04-15T19:22:00.000-07:00

About three weeks ago, I met a lot of out going friends in my place. I am really happy in their company. They are all good and easy going friends. I am so fortunate I met them. They are real friends. Thanks a lot for the friendship. I highly appreciate that.

Last night, we had a grand dinner together. I met another new friend, Saus, I hope I made the correct spelling, their classmate in university. They are indeed very successful in their states of life. I can barely see it in their status now in the society. They are all good speakers of English, too. They have a good command of the language. Really great at their age, ‘coz as I know, only the new generations are studying English here. They are a few of the exemption! They are veritably clever, as I observed. They are in truth fortunate and successful.

In the same way, I am very open to them. I feel I am accepted. I do belong. Thanks for that feeling. I showed one to my flat after our dinner, which is not what I used to do with some of my friends. But with them, I feel so open. I am too flattered that they like to be with me, too. He helped me solve with the water problem in my flat. I was really grateful to him. Jim, thanks a lot. We had a great chat before he went home.

To everyone, be true and be what and who you are, and you will find people to understand you. And value them as you value your life. Take care of your friends.

…MeLaNcHoLiC yEt FeLiCiToUs

2008-04-15T18:38:00.000-07:00

Sounds belying, right? Have you experienced such a situation? In what way? How did it happen? They are two completely opposite from one another. Would it be possible? How?

Marked by the intense attention to the dramatical growth of my weight, I did lots of exercises every morning. I was kinda sad of having avoirdupois in the near future, ‘coz it’s in our race. My elder brother even is veritably fat at a very young age. I don’t want that to happen to me. So I must do something about it, I forced myself. I have to fight this fact as I convinced myself, I can manage the situation. I highly believe of the saying, “When there’s a will, there’s a way.” Pretty true, right?

Supervising oneself should be put in mind by all people, whether there’s development or its contrary in whatever they do. In doing so, life would be more meaningful and the world is such a wonderful place to be lived in. Everyone is so concern about everything, for everybody’s welfare. What a life if that happens!

As I monitored myself lately, after a faithful exercises every morning for almost three weeks now, I absolutely felt complete difference than before doing some exercises. When I ckecked my weight this morning, I was in truth surprised. I sharply dropped my weight. I am successful with my goal. I lost 5 kilograms in just more than two weeks. Amazingly great! Thanks to the sports complex near my flat, it somehow invites me to do exercises every morning.

So to all, there’s nothing impossible to a willing heart. No matter how difficult it may seem, but if you have the will to do it, you would truly succeed. Believe in yourself! If you won’t, who would? Trsut yourself and have faith to the One above!

…I dIeD SeVeRaL tImEs BeFoRe

2008-04-15T18:00:00.000-07:00

Can you imagine that? Sounds incredible, right? Can somebody die and live again for several times? Since when? Is it really true? Have you heard of such stories?

Well guys, I’m talking of different thing here. It’s not what you are thinking. Whether it is true or not, whether you believe in it or not, it lies in your hand. I have nothing to do about it. It is your right to do so. I do respect you for that. But as what I have said, it’s not what I am talking about. Then, what is that? you may ask.

Friends, I am just totally amazed by the beauty of nature. Such a perfect creation! After the cold season, winter, now comes the spring. Absolutely wonderful! Everything turns green. This is what I am talking about. Perhaps you were puzzled a while back. As you can see outside, gorgeous flowers are somehow smiling at you and saying how are you, very beautiful and fresh. Everything comes to life again. They all turn green and look happy. As their leaves sway, somewhat they are saying, here we are again, we’re back to life. We’re alive again. After quite a long period of death, here we are, we survived. After few months of struggles, we proudly say, we succeeded. what a nice words from them, if they can only speak. well, they're really beautiful and green. This time, they all look fresh, green and happy. So do I.

…QuItE eXpEnSiVe, HuH?

2008-04-14T01:35:00.000-07:00

Quite expensive or you just don’t have enough money? Which is which?

Well, I went to the supermarket one Monday evening. Something caught really my attention, ‘coz they are perfectly dissimilar to many. They are pretty smooth than others, big as compared to some, and reasonably yellow than the majority. I induced closer to them. I really wanted to buy them directly for I do miss eating them.

I was just shocked upon asking the price, really expensive. Proudly presents, Mabuhay Pilipinas! as I read the sticker attached to them. Straight from the Philippines. I was kinda happy as I read it. I felt I ‘m at home. Do you know what they are? Bananas! Dole! I bought some, around six pieces, I guess, it cost 10.29 RMB or approximately 70 pesos. Imagine! Pretty expensive, huh! But I do like it, of course, I love my own, as they said. But I really love eating them. For me, its price was just precise for it is imported. And they are worth it. Buy some if you see them. Absolutely mouth-watering!

…gReAt HaPpInEsS

2008-04-12T03:52:00.000-07:00

What is happiness? Is it easy to attain it? How would you define it? Are you a happy person? What makes you happy? Why? Are you a happy-making person? Or the other way around? Do you want to see other people laugh?

Many people crave for happiness, including myself. I always want to be happy. I am indeed a happy fellow, as others define me. I also want to make other people happy especially in their times of distress. But there are also many people, no matter how they tried to be happy, they can’t achieve it. As if it even goes away from them. While there are those people who are unhappy when they see other people happy and successful. I have had some experiences with these kind of people, I met them several times. They want to take away your happiness for they are not. What should you do if you met them?

Based from my limited experiences regarding this matter, I am not affected with these people. I just don’t mind them. As long as I am doing what is right, I don’t step on others’s rights, I don’t deceive people just to attain it, I am as strong as a tree. I am not bothered with them. If they say something against me just to put me down, for as long as I know I have a clean conscience, I’m not affected. Even if the world goes against me, it won’t cause me trouble. I would even be happy at least I would know who are really with me and against me. I hold to those who are with me, as long as I know I am in the right path.

What about you, how would you deal with this situation? Do you have the courage to face the world? That even the one you consider one of your best friends goes against you, even betrays you? What would you do?

Well, friends, we have the right to be happy. Behold not to those who caused you pain, yet forgive them. Don’t fight back. They will just realize sooner or later that they’ve done wrong. Be even grateful to them. You have the chance to sacrifice. Let’s always strive to be happy, no matter what.

…I dO mIsS yOu

2008-04-11T01:13:00.000-07:00

As I was looking at the pictures in my friendster profile, I saw the faces of some dear people to me. I kinda miss them. I keep telling myself I can do it. I can fight this feeling. I just couldn’t help but thinking of them, missing them especially when I’m alone.

Well, it’s too soon, I am going to be with them once again. I’m looking forward to that. Thanks to the internet that we kept communicating and seeing each other. It somehow ease my feeling. See you all soon. I do miss you and love you all.

…yOu’Ve GoT mAiLs

2008-04-11T01:03:00.000-07:00

Hmmmm. Sounds like a title of a movie, huh? Yes, indeed! It’s one. Have you seen it?

Well, last night, I was watching a movie entitled, ‘You’ve Got Mails,’ for as what I’ve mentioned in my profile, it’s one of my interests. I did enjoy though I was just alone. While I was at the climax of the movie, where the two main characters had to meet that time, for they only knew each other through mails, it turned off. I didn’t know why. But it’s showing the next movie. It’s not finished yet. Well, it’s just a cheap one, you know, with ten movies in a DVD. What the hell!, I shouted. I truly hate it. I haven’t finished the movie, the story.

Well, I played it again, hoping it might go on this time. As I forwarded the DVD, still the same. Can’t continue the story. Have no choice. I just went to sleep, unsatisfied with the situation. Have you experienced one? Isn’t it worth shouting? It's really irritating! What do you think?

…a JoUrNeY wOrTh ReMeMbErInG

2008-04-10T23:53:00.000-07:00

I always kept reminding myself, life is a journey. We are all pilgrims towards our future, and that we often meet some heartaches and problems as we go along. But we should always bear in mind the quotation that goes, “Beyond the hills of difficulties lies the valleys of success.” I always remind myself of that especially when facing hardships along the way.

As I added colorful pages to my life, I always make it a point that they are worth remembering. Just like my travel towards here. I couldn’t imagine how hard it was for us, we were two. I couldn’t even believe we made it.

From Cebu, Philippines, we took a plane directly to Hongkong. I felt perfectly great ‘coz t’was my first international flight, and at the same time, my first board on a plane. I was kinda scared yet excited. It took us almost three hours to reach Hongkong International Airport. I was really astonished for it is very huge. In fact, it’s one of the world’s largest international airport. Additional, it was voted by air travellers and it won the first place in the 2007 world best airport survey. We arrived there 30 minutes after midnight. We just roamed around the airport and stayed in the passenger lounge and waited for the morning. At 5:00 am, we started moving out.

What we had that time was just a print out instructions from our agent. So we tried asking around. Good that there are a lot that can speak English in Hongkong. We rode tram 13 from airport to the subway station. T’was pretty tough ‘coz we were bringing our luggage in a busy morning and we didn’t know how to purchase a ticket or use the electronic machine. There were a lot of people going to work and to school. We just paused for few minutes and observed as if we were resting. Then, we’ve learned how. Successfully, we did. From subway, we changed another train to Shenzhen.

We were really tired as we arrived in Shenzhen. After around 30 minutes, the agent’s men arrived and picked us up. They showed us to the train station and bought tickets for us to Jinan, where our agent is waiting. Shenzhen is a big and beautiful city. But we didn’t have time to roam around ‘coz of our luggage. We bought a lot of food like instant noodles, bread and cookies for it is close to 24 hours travel by train, as they said. It really is. We did nothing while we were on the train, just peeping through the windows, watching the beauty of nature, remembering our families back home, sleep, for t’was really a very long journey, almost 20 hours. Kinda tiresome and boring. We had no choice.

We arrived in Liaocheng and another guy met us at the train station there and we proceeded to the bus station for it’s still 2 hours away. Really exhausting! Then we arrived and met our agent. At long last, we were able to arrive at our destination and eat rice for we didn't have one for more than two days. We ate lunch together at around 3:00 pm.

We just stayed for around three days in Jinan, Shandong province. Then, we moved to our schools in another province, meaning, we had to travel around 9 hours by bus again. Terrible! I said at that time, we just kept traveling around China. But it’s just somewhat nothing for the entire China. After, we parted ways for we are in different schools. We met our respective bosses. Finally, our work life here started. We are in Hefei, Anhui Province, China, our final stop. Thanks for the safe travel. See you here!

…cOnFiDeNt AnD sMaRt

2008-04-10T22:43:00.000-07:00

How confident and smart are you? Are you not afraid to face people? Will you be able to think better under pressure? How are we going to rate one’s confidence and intelligence? How to test them?

As I continued my second day of the speech training, this time pure primary students. I was totally amazed by the confidence and intelligence of my students. They are somehow pretty ready to face regional speech competition. I let them recite their own speeches in front and I made some corrections and give additional advice, as what I am supposed to do. I did enjoy with their own way of delivering their speeches. They are still very young but very smart and confident. As I was at their age, I couldn’t make it, I thought.

Based on the activities that would take place on the regional battle, they would be given pictures and make a story out from them in few minutes. T’was also what I did. As young as they are, I couldn’t imagine they were able to make a marvelous stories under pressure. I gave them four pictures each and they have to choose two and make a story to each picture in five minutes. They had to share them in front after. They made it! They were able to share all their various stories. I could see great leaders in the future in them. So smart! Keep it up guys! Be prepared and be confident. Trust yourselves, I told them as I ended up the session.

…LeT iT gO

2008-04-10T11:57:00.000-07:00

Why is it hard to let go someone who is so dear to you? Why is it painful to do so? Why is it hard to accept it where in fact it’s a reality of life? Have you encountered some? What did you do?

Since we are just travelers here in this life, people just come and go. Others stay with you for a while, then go. Some stay for quite a long time, but eventually go. Still some stay seemly forever, yet finally they go. Others don’t even stay, they just pass by. It might be hard to accept it but let’s face it. It’s life’s reality. We have to learn to let go and move on. We can’t hold on to everything, since we are just passing by.

What should we do, then? We should always treasure and harness the time that we are still together with them. Make it remarkable at all times. Say sorry to those you wronged, thank you to those who had done great things to your life, I love you to those you truly love and care, to your family and friends. Let them feel it. It’s not too late yet. You might not have another chance to do it. Don’t be so timid, don’t be afraid to do it. Just do it. That’s why I really do. To my Mama, Papa, my only sister, my brothers, all my relatives and friends, and all those who in one way or another have been a part of my life, I say sorry, thank you and I love you all. I wish you the best. God bless us all.

…LoBsTeR

2008-04-09T01:02:00.000-07:00

After my tiresome day, my classes – speech training for those who are going to take part in the regional battle, I was invited by my student’s mom, who I personally know through the English corner, to eat lobster somewhere. T’was 8:50 pm then that time. I said it’s my pleasure. As we were walking towards the place, she also phoned another friend, an English teacher and at the same time, the owner of the school, a language center, too.

As we were near the lobster restaurant, the teacher was already there standing outside the restaurant. She looks familiar, I said. Only to find out, she’s the one I met last winter on the playground of her school, as I was playing snow with my senior high students. Her school is just beside ours. So we were glad to meet personally again, for we kept seeing each other ‘coz we’re just neighbors. We really had a groovy time while we were eating dumplings, luscious lobster and chestnuts. Such a wondrous moment! Thank you so much for that, I highly appreciate it. See you next time. ‘Til we meet again.

…OuR sEcUrItY

2008-04-09T00:59:00.000-07:00

I was surprised upon receiving offline messages from a friend of mine, as I opened my computer, telling me that there were also police officers came to their school. I asked her for what. She answered all about security situations in her place.

China is going to host the 29th Olympic Games this year. Due to this, they are checking the security around. They indeed prepared a lot. I am just glad to know that we are so secured here. Police men are in truth doing their respective responsibilities. What a nice feeling! Thanks men! Keep up the good work.

…sHoPpInG

2008-04-09T00:39:00.000-07:00

Where do you usually shop? Are you a wise shopper? Do you bargain if you go shopping? Do you haggle? Why do ladies love shopping? They always want to go shopping. They are afraid to be left behind by the trend. They always want to be in. For them, as if it’s not a poise if you are not in with what is new and trendy. On the other hand, gentlemen basically dislike shopping. It’s so tiresome for them, especially going with a lady, for they take a very long time while they shop. For them, it’s a waste of time.

I went shopping this morning. I am just out of spring clothes. It’s not so cold anymore. Gone are the thick coats. It’s another season, so another set of clothing. I bought three shirts, and two trendy cross necklaces. I am kinda happy. I am excited to wear them. I just feel exhausted. It’s always my feeling whenever I go shopping.

Well, what about you, how often do you go shopping? What do you usually buy when you go shopping? Are you particular of the prices? What I can say is, be a wise shopper. Look at the quality first and foremost. They may look like awesome, but the quality is not. So be very careful. Enjoy shopping everyone.

…mY wOrKpLaCe

2008-04-09T00:08:00.000-07:00

Everyone has a work to be done and this entails responsibilities. Logically speaking, everyone has responsibilities. Do you agree? How do you perform your responsibilities? Are you a dependable person? Can you be trusted? How do you execute your job? Are you happy with it? Are you satisfied?

Success in our work depends on us, how we carry them out. Another factor is the workplace, the environment, both the external and the internal environment. Sometimes we can’t perform our duties very well because of these factors. We are not happy with the environment. Am I right? So, why stay if that’s the case? Isn’t it that the reason why we’re here in this world is to be happy?

My work environment, both external and internal, is pretty conducive for productivity and development. I kinda like it here. Our location is somehow perfect. We are almost near to everything, supermarket, restaurants, hotels, banks, bus stations, malls. In other words, we are in the downtown area. We are on the third and fourth floor of a building. One thing good is that we have an elevator. We have a big, clean and well ventilated office for teachers. All of us have our own computers in the office. Kinda great! My colleagues are also easy going, kind, helpful and supportive. I unquestionably like it here. I was just lucky I was assigned in this branch school, as I heard, the most beautiful among the 10 branches. Well organized!

Well, you, friends, do you also have good working environments? I wish you all have. Make your workplace your second home and you will feel great. You pretty love to do all your stuff. You can do your work better and be productive. Thanks for journeying with me. See you!

…LiU’aN eMbRaCeD mE tWiCe

2008-04-08T20:21:00.000-07:00

Liu’an is one of the most promising cities of Anhui Province, where Jean, my best friend and ultimate partner here, is residing and at the same time teaching as of the moment. Such a gorgeous and benevolent fellow! Thanks for knowing her. I’ve been to this city twice before and I can truly say, it’s also a fantastic and progressive city, one must not forget to visit to.

My first visit was with Mary, another Filipino teacher here. That was National Holiday, after we arrived from our 3-day tour in Huangshan. We roamed around the city, to its resplendent park, highly developed one, surrounded by water, ate in a great restaurant, went shopping and bought some souvenirs. I stayed there overnight. The following day, I went back to my place. T’was indeed a corking experience. I enjoyed a lot with my best friends. We perfectly had a howling time together.

Last Christmas was the second. Their company organized a speech contest and, of course, headed by Jean. They invited me to be one of their foreign judges. Since we were not working that time, I absolutely said yes after confirming everything that I could have a 3-day holiday. There were eight judges during the contest, four of which are Chinese and the others are foreigners. I did enjoy the event. I’ve learned a lot. I was totally amused by the performances of the students. I greatly saluted Jean for such a successful event, for a job well done. The company actually booked a hotel for the foreign judges, but we didn’t stayed there for we also had to celebrate Christmas with some other Filipinos and other foreign friends in Hefei, who were waiting for us. So, we left after a wonderful dinner.

I heartily thanked Jean for such a wondrous experience I’ve had as well as to her supportive boss, Searching, a Singaporean, my earnest thanks to all of you for the trust and for giving me the chance to go through such a great event. I didn’t experience being a judge of a speech contest in the Philippines. So I really felt elated and honored. Once again, thanks for everything.

…LoNeLiNeSs

2008-04-08T19:24:00.000-07:00

The song, Shape of my Heart by Backstreet Boys says, loneliness is tragical. Is it? Why? How? Is it that serious? But is it normal to be lonely sometimes? Are you lonely? How do you fight loneliness? What do you do to overcome it?

Many of my Chinese friends here, they can’t stand my situation. They kept asking me whether I’m lonely or not. Even my students did. They said I’m alone, the only Filipino in the city, though there are around nine foreigners, but we don’t have chance to meet because they’re working on weekdays, I am not. I am working on weekends, they’re not. Only recently that I met them through an English corner established by the English lovers here. I said I usually go to Hefei, the capital of the province once in a while to meet my Filipino friends and some other foreigners. I added, as long as there’s internet, there’s no problem especially there’s music. I wouldn’t feel lonely. I am also praying all the time to overcome it. And I proudly said to them I did. With this situation for more than six months, I have lived a normal life. I just watch TV, movies, listen to music, surf the internet to amuse myself, I told them. They were not so convinced because if they were in my shoes, they said, they wouldn’t be able to make it.

Frankly speaking, I also feel lonely. I am lonely most often. But I don’t show it. I have no choice. I have to tell myself I am not lonely ,or else, I won’t be able to stay this long here. I have to be very strong to fight this loneliness, this boredom, so as to live a normal life. And here I am, still kicking. I have fought a good fight against it. I am no longer new to this situation.

Well friends, though we, as gregarious beings, need to be with others, but there are times that we have to stand on our own feet. There are moments that we're alone. Are you ready for that? Are you prepared by that time? If it happens, what would you do to amuse yourself?

…BoTtOmS uP

2008-04-08T18:32:00.000-07:00

In the middle of the day, enjoying my off, I received a call. A Chinese teacher, telling me that the parents of my student invited us, all teachers to a dinner. She asked me if I would be available in the evening and told me it’s okay if I would not come. I responded that there’s no problem. She added that she’s going to meet me at the school at 5:00 pm. But later in that afternoon, she texted me that parents moved the time for they are working, so she’s going to pick me up at 5:30. I was sleeping when I received the message, though.

The time came and we went to the restaurant together. It’s just five minutes walk from our school. We arrived there earlier and we proceeded to the reserved section. I still have time to take photos around. We had a great chat before they arrived. A little while later, our student arrived and we asked her where her parents were. She replied they're at the parking lot. Then they came and started ordering. Both of her parents can’t speak English, as expected, good that my colleagues were there to translate for me.

Food was served a short while afterwards. Cheers and bottoms up, the father invited me as he gave me a glass full of beer. I had no choice. It’s a Chinese practice to drink first before eating and we’re not used to that. We usually drink in the mid of eating or even after. I felt something strange inside. I knew it’s because of the beer. Then we started savoring the mouth-watering food, absolutely delicious. I was actually sweating due to the beer and ate no rice yet. My colleagues asked me if I was alright, I just pointed my stomach and they understood what I meant and I asked for rice.

Cheers and bottoms up came every now and then. My colleagues explained to my student’s father that I am still young and not used to drinking. He was expecting that foreigners are good at drinking because of what he has experienced with a German guy. What a pity for me!

I was stuffed. I ate a lot to somehow reduce the effect of the beer. Everybody also was. The food really is very tasty. As a whole, Chinese food is so luscious. My head is falling, I felt. I still have one glass left. The father wanted me to finish it before we would go. I slowly consume it and ate some more. At long last, I made it. Then we left. I really was 85% drunk. If we stayed longer and ordered more beer, I might not be able to go home alone. I was just fortunate that he understood. And I was very happy because they were truly friendly. Thank you for the bang-up dinner.

…mOrNiNg ExErCiSeS

2008-04-08T17:40:00.000-07:00

Exercises are important to our bodies. Do you agree? Do we really need to exercise? Why? If so, do you do exercises regularly? What kind of exercise do you often do? How often do you do it? Do you go to a fitness gym? How often? What time do you often do your exercises? Have you seen an effect on your frequent exercise? Are these good only for adult people, especially fat people? Who should do exercises?

Scientifically speaking, exercise is a process whereby the body performs work of a demanding nature, in accordance with muscle and joint function, in a clinically controlled environment, with the constraints of safety, meaningfully loading the muscular structures to inroad their strength levels to stimulate a growth mechanism within a minimum time.

Lately, I discovered that my weight increased dramatically. I was shocked as I checked it. I could hardly believe. I also easily get tired as I observed. It’s somewhat a sign that I indeed get fatter and fatter. I don’t want it to happen. Actually, I stopped doing some exercises during winter season ‘coz it’s bloody cold outside. I guess it’s the reason why I gained weight sharply. Since it’s not that cold now, I’m starting to do some exercises early every morning. I jog for around five to seven rounds in an oval near my flat, a sports complex. Then walk around it for two rounds to come down. Afterwards, I do around 30 to 50 set ups, around 20 push ups and weight lifting. I’m hoping I would deliberately lessen my weight, for I don’t want to be fat, ‘coz it’s in our race. We are a family of fat people.

Now, I’m getting healthier as I monitor myself. I feel so light everyday, energetic and happier. I guess these are the products of my exercises. I don’t get tired easily now. I felt like I look younger these days, fitter and fresher than ever. Many even are saying I’m blooming. Am I? They even added whether I’m in love. I always am.

Friends, exercises are significant to our lives. I just hope you are doing some. We need them even if we feel we are strong, young and slim. We still have to do some exercises to maintain them. Learn from me and stay healthy. That’s how life should be, to enjoy it fully.

…LoVe

2008-04-07T21:37:00.000-07:00

Loves makes the world go round and it moves in mysterious ways, according to songs. Does it? What’s your idea? What is love for you? Does it make sense to you these days? How to love? What to love? Who to love? When to love? These are just few of the queries about love.

People also have different views about it. Some call it true love. Others say puppy love. Still others tell crazy love. And many call it stupid love. Which kind of love are you having now? Are you sure about that? Think it over!

Books, movies, magazines, pamphlets, journals, songs, etc. also have their versatile definitions about love which somehow make people confused about its real meaning. Are you one of them? Are you confused about what really love is? Or do you also have your own explanations?

According to an author, Max Ehrmann, in his very famous prose poem entitled, Desiderata, “Do not be cynical about love for it is as perennial as the grass.” That’s why a lot of people became victims of love because they were so cynical about it, for true love is everlasting. It’s not like a toy that if you’re bored playing with it, you just throw it away. But love isn’t like that. It’s as perennial as the grass. Though somehow, it looks like it dies on winter season, but it’s not. It just peels off its leaves and blooms again like flowers on spring.

The Holy Bible says, "Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres." (1 Corinthians 13:4-7). And the ten (10) Commandments even are summarized into two (2), “Love God above all things and love your neighbors as you love yourself.” If only love reigns in our hearts, in our world today, there would have been no chaos, disputes and war, such a peaceful world.

Well friends, let it dominate in our hearts, our lives and everything will just go smoothly. Let’s strive to make it happen and make our world much peaceful, marvellous and harmonious to be lived in. Are you one of us?

…PoLiCe OfFiCers

2008-04-07T08:25:00.000-07:00

Pretty happy for it’s Monday and we’re off from work. I got up still early to do my exercise routine. I cooked breakfast after and went back to sleep again. I woke up at 10:30 am. I started cleaning.

In the mid of doing it, my attention was captivated upon hearing a music, sounds like a tone of a cellphone, only to find out, it was mine. Amazing! One of our Chinese teachers’s name appeared. I was surprised for I am not used to receive a call from any of them on my off. I answered and found out that there are five (5) police officers waiting for me at the office, she was told through a phone call from our headmaster. I wondered why he didn’t immediately call me. Confusion dominate my mind as I prepared myself as if I was going to work. I was kinda scared why they were there.

This confusion wasn’t resolved until I met them. As I reached the headmaster’s office, I greeted them happily with a big smile, shaking hands to each, saying I was glad seeing them. Then, conversation started. They asked me about my security here in the city, whether I encounter some problems and so on, all about my life and my protection around the city. They said that it’s their duty to protect me for I am a foreigner, and that they are glad I am here imparting my knowledge especially about English. They added that they will be checking me from time to time. They also proposed that I should visit one day their office once in a while, talking to them and sharing my experiences here especially my difficulties and troubles, like security, visa and so on. They said they might be able to help. I was really exhilarated knowing all these things, I am highly protected. How wonderful!

My confusion, nervousness and fear vanished after our great talk. Everything turned out into laughters. I went to our office after and checked my mails. Then, I went home for lunch. Remember this, overcome your fears by trying to solve them out. Be brave! Be courageous to face them!

…QQ aCcOuNt

2008-04-06T22:06:00.000-07:00

Eversince I set foot here in China, teaching, my students have been asking me whether I have an account in QQ, a Chinese site for chatting and so on like MSN, Yahoo Messenger, etc. It’s a big surprise that even primary students have it. I didn’t expect them to have one. As I asked them why, they just plainly reply, it’s part of the fads here in China. I sadly said, I absolutely don’t have one because naturally, I don’t know how to read and write Chinese. So they were a bit disappointed.

I was just surprised one afternoon (Saturday – April 5), three of my students from my junior high class followed me to the office and even to my computer table during the break, then asked me if I want to have a QQ number. I don’t understand that and don’t know what to do with that, I said. They gladly replied that they’re going to open it for me. I told them I can’t read and write their language but they responded they’re going to change it to English. Yes, they did! We successfully made it. I got one. This is my QQ number, 895296809. They gladly shared my number to their classmates and they were very happy. They even wrote it to the board. At long last, they said, you have an account now.

Thanks for the concern and sensitivity of my students. They really want to chat with me. Well, now that I have my account, I guess I would be very busy chatting with these people. But I would be glad to. Hope to chat and see you in QQ soon. Enjoy your day.

…sLeEpLeSs NiGhT

2008-04-06T17:47:00.000-07:00

Can we control our emotions, our feelings? Can we choose what to feel, how to feel and when to feel? I am just quite emotional. I am sensitive and easily got hurt. I am so fragile that you have to take care of, if you truly care.

Last night after my class, 8:40 pm, I immediately went to my apartment for I was exhausted from the day’s work. I phoned my family back home to greet our youngest brother, Happy Birthday. After that, I felt strange. I couldn’t sleep. I had mixed feelings. My mom cried while we were talking, saying they miss me a lot, and asking me when will I come home. That led me to shed tears, too. It’s very hard if you are away from your loved ones especially on special occasions. I was just sad because I wasn’t there, wasn’t able to celebrate with them. I even wished I could fly that time. This is maybe because I am just so family-oriented. I guess every Filipino is, due to our culture – close family ties. We are so attached to our families.

I really found it hard to sleep last night. I live alone in my flat and have noone to talk to. I was shy to call my Chinese friends here, thinking I might disturb them. It’s already a little late at night, 10:35 pm. I also didn’t want to bother my foreign friends in other cities, they might be tired like me, and probably be sleeping that time. This situation worsen my feelings. I just got up and increase the volume of my music, for I always sleep with music turned on. I arrange my things and folded my clothes decently. I was just worried ‘coz I was thinking of my ten (10) classes the day after, I have to get up early.

Do you know what I did? I forced myself to sleep. I had no choice or else, I would be sleepy in my classes and wouldn’t be able to execute them well. I, of course, don’t want that to happen. I always want to be active, enthusiastic and energetic in front of my dear students. I don’t want them to see me that way. I do believe, "teachers are the models of the students." So, I am always acting like one. Fortunately, I was able to sleep 30 minutes after midnight.

…iNsPiReD

2008-04-05T22:52:00.000-07:00

After having several classes, leaving my yahoo messenger available to everyone, I received a lot of messages from my friends who have visited and read my posts in my blog, as I opened the monitor of my computer. I was touched by the heartfelt contents of their messages, saying they like my posts. Such an inspiring ones.

To everyone there who has visited my blog and read it, thank you so much for your time. You are my inspirations to make it best. Thanks for your comments and for passing by. I am totally inspired to do more. Thanks for the chance of touching your life. I just hope you go with me as I go through and be always there by my side. You are truly my inspirations. Thanks again and have a good time. “Always do your best and God will do the rest.”

…SuCh A bUsY wEeKeNdS

2008-04-05T22:49:00.000-07:00

Universally speaking, majority of the workers has no work on weekends. So they can do whatever they wanna do on those days. Others travel, play sports, go to the beach, adventure, camping and many more. So what about you, what’s your schedule on weekends? What do you usually do?

Personally here with my work, we are completely peculiar. We are working wearily on weekends. As for me, I have eleven 45-minute classes on Saturdays and ten 45-minute classes on Sundays. Imagine that? We are wholly exhausted on those days. But on weekdays, I only have four (4) classes. Not that bad on these days. Pretty relaxing.

But anyway, as long as you are happy with what you do, everything goes smoothly. So, let’s strive to be always happy. If you’re not happy anymore, why still stay? Look for a new one. Am I right? Happy working everyone. Enjoy your jobs and take care. Have a good time.

…sPeEcH cOnTeSt

2008-04-05T22:21:00.000-07:00

This has added burdens to my busy week. I have to train students for the provincial elimination round. These students were the winners of the speech contest we had a couple of weeks ago here in our city. There are 31 students all in all to be trained comprising of primary, junior high and senior high students. It’s kinda tough, huh! There was even a time I trained an English teacher because there’s also a contest for them, English teachers category.

This has put much challenges in my career now. I just wish one of them will be brought to the national competition. I just hope for the best. The training happens at night as usual, meaning, I have to go home late. Well, it’s part of the road I’m taking, so I have to endure and take it as a challenge. Good luck to all of us in our struggles in life and success in everything we do. Have a good time.

…PrAyEr

2008-04-05T20:18:00.000-07:00

Note: Better not read if you are not Catholic, we might have conflicting ideas presented here…

Religious people don’t let the day pass without saying a prayer. They begin and end their day with a prayer. In fact, for priest, it is a mortal sin for them if they can’t celebrate a Holy Sacrifice of the Mass, even to the point of saying it alone if there are no people going to the church. That’s how serious they are in prayer. They fervently do it daily. But what is a prayer for you? Do you believe in the power of prayers? Whatever religions affiliations you may have or whatever you conceive God to be, I know you have your own prayer. How often do you say a prayer? Or do you even pray? How do you pray? Or do you just pray when you need something or when you’re in trouble? What if you are alright, do you still pray? Tough question, huh?

I was raised in a religious family. I remembered clearly, we have to pray the Holy Rosary everyday. This became stronger when I studied in a religious institution, run by nuns, when I was in high school. We were taught about prayer, how to ardently pray, what to pray, when to pray, and how to make it acceptable and pleasing to God. We do the Holy Rosary, too every night through a paging system, go to Mass twice a week, and pray extra Stations of the Cross on weekends. That’s how we were brought up there for we stayed in the school’s dormitories and can only go home once a year, for only two weeks. Quite short, though!

My belief in God and in prayer even became more stronger when I joined a religious congregation when I was in the university. I was an aspirant. We have to go to Mass daily aside from morning and evening prayers. We were serving the religious needs of the community at the same time. We were only allowed to go home once every semester.

As I was nurtured in a religious institutions, I’ve learned that Holy Mass or Holy Eucharist is the highest form of prayer, for in our belief, we receive the body and blood of Jesus Christ. Let me ask you, do you go to church and hear Mass? As Christians, it’s one of our obligations. At least once a week.

Considerably, as we continue our everyday battle here on earth, I sometimes think of what’s beyond this life, but our religion has an answer for it. What I only pray everyday is that, I placidly live my life and be away from people who are just vexations to my way as I journey. So, whatever you believe in, stick to it, for I know, we are praying and worshiping the same God but only in different names. Adhere to what you believe and torridly pray.

Dear friends, let’s unite together and pray to have a tranquil world, worthy to be lived in, and that the next generations could still harness the beauty of the world that we are experiencing now. let’s join hands and pray altogether. Don’t forget to pray everyday. “Prayer is the only way to connect with God,” I definitely believe.

…YoUnGeSt BrOtHeR’s BiRtHdAy

2008-04-05T17:21:00.000-07:00

Time is in truth gold and it is fleeting. It’s been a while that we were calling our youngest brother, “baby,” but now he is already 20 years of age. Somewhat he is already shy to be called one, because in few years time, he said, he would have his own baby. We were just laughing to him. We used to play and make fun of him before, but he knows now how to deal with jokes and tricks. We badly miss those days. We even wished that he would remain as a baby forever. But it’s impossible, right?

Today is his 20th birthday, two decades of existence here on earth, and I am oceans away from him. I couldn’t hug him and greet him personally. I couldn’t understand why my tears flows down my cheeks as I write this early this morning. I just miss him so much, somehow. I have mixed emotions now. I wanted to go home and celebrate with them. This is really one of my waterloo. It makes me sick and cry once there’s a celebration in my family and I’m away. Well life is like that, we just come and go, and we should go on no matter what.

Again, let me greet you whole-heartedly and all those who celebrate their birthdays today, HAPPY HAPPY BIRTHDAY! I just wish you all the best in this world, best for your future, happiness, miraculous health, for he was a little sickly, success in everything, long and happy life, and all good things life has to offer, I wish them all for you ‘coz you’re so special. I hope you stay cool and good all the time, I know you’re one. And I would like to ask an apology that I can’t be there to celebrate with you and buy you some presents and cake. Sorry for that. Once again, be the best of what you are. Happy happy birthday, baby brother!!! I miss and love you…

…MuSiC

2008-04-04T23:59:00.000-07:00

As I watched the ants crawled upon the wall, I noticed that no matter how busy they are, they still have time to stop and communicate to one another. But oftentimes, people don’t. Strange, right? Does that mean ants are better than humans as a whole?

With my busy schedule every week, my constant way of communicating is through music, listening to songs because with my situation, I still have to travel two and a half hours to see some of my foreign friends. It’s been my partner eversince I was a kid. I am well motivated to do my work better if there’s music. In fact, I often forgot the time as well as eating. As if it gives me an eternal vigor to go on with my work. It’s my life. Music is life for me and I could do the best when listening to it. It rocks my world. It makes my job lighter, easier and happier while on the go. It has a touching effect. It makes everything a piece of cake for me.

Many people also have several concepts regarding music. For some, it’s a loud noise. They can’t concentrate on whatever they are doing if there’s music. They prefer to work silently. Others find it annoying, loud and even disturbance. They don’t feel the vibrations when music is played. No feelings at all. Do you have the same opinions with these people? By the way, what do you think of music? Does it have an effect in your state of life? Well, what I can say is, it depends on the kind of music you are listening to.

Psychologically speaking, music has a healing power, that even scientists can’t explain until now. Intimately, there was this dying patient in a coma situation for several weeks, upon hearing a mellow ringtone of a cell phone from one of his visitor, the toes responded. It produced a little movement. Meaning, there’s a vivid sign of hope. Then that time on, the wife let him listen to similar music from time to time. Doctors couldn’t believe that there’s an enormous progress in his condition, until he was completely cured and lives happily now.

Another clear example, if you are familiar with the movie entitled, “Mars Attacks,” where people in that movie had done their best to negotiate with the aliens from Planet Mars. But everything turned out to be destruction and war. They fought with these aliens bravely but still they were defeated. Do you know what was the solution that devastated all aliens? It was the music listened by an aged woman that led to the death of all aliens. So, how is that explained? There is really something in music that noone can explicate.

Friends, whatever you conceive music to be, well it’s your choice. But I tell you, there’s an inner power in it. It can unite different races and even the world, for it is itself the language of the world, I believe.

…wInTeR

2008-04-04T19:07:00.000-07:00

Many of my Chinese students kept asking me why is my favorite season winter, where in fact, it’s not experienced in the Philippines. They couldn’t apprehend my thoughts why I do like it ‘coz many of them don’t like it for it’s definitely cold. Not yet satisfied, they asked follow up questions like, “Have you experienced snow before? Have you seen a real snow? And many more.

It is indeed resplendent, I told them. Mountains are capped by snow, the lake’s water is frozen, the trees, flowers and grasses seem dead and everything is white. What a stunning scene!, I added. I only saw all these on movies but lately I personally experienced it, play with it, such a wondrous moment.

Though it’s bloody cold, but it’s my pleasure to first experience it. As long as you completely covered yourself with hat, scarf, tights or thermal wear, around two to three sweaters, a pair of gloves and a coat, you won’t feel such a cold. I could hardly imagine I had such an experience. I thought it’s impossible for me to see a real snow.

Frankly speaking, when I was a kid, I thought snow wasn’t real, that it was just on movies, a mere camera trick, that it’s just a product of imagination. But recently I realized I was wrong. Snow is perfectly real. Sounds funny but true.

A lot of students told me I am a little lucky because the snow here in our place lasted for more than a month this year. They added, it used to last for only two or three days for many years because we are a little south. According to the news, there was a snow storm around China and it happened half a century ago. I just gladly replied, nature wants me to have a superb experience with it. But I was also kinda worried because the prices of basic commodities dramatically grew up due to the difficulty to transport them. Many of the travelers even were stranded at various bus and trains stations because of the said phenomenon.

I myself had a terrible moment during the snow storm. From my place to the capital of the province, it only takes two and a half hours by bus. But that time, it took us almost twelve (12) hours. We left 9:40 am (the first trip because they said, they are still clearing the road from the snow) and we arrived there at 9:30 pm. I was extremely hungry. I had no lunch and dinner, and I took my breakfast at around 6:20 am, hoping to catch the first bus at 6:40. T’was indeed an awful journey ever in my entire life, sitting down for almost 12 hours on the bus. T’was also a peak season for the travelers because the Spring Festival or Chinese New Year at that time was approaching. On the other hand, we were just lucky to arrive there safely which is the most important, no matter what.

But as for me, winter is still the best season. What about you, what is your favorite season? Why?

…YoU aRe NoT wOrTh CrYiNg

2008-04-04T18:10:00.000-07:00

Thinking of the days off ahead, everyone excitedly prepared to go home despite the weariness they felt from their respective stations. We joyously came out from work and bid goodbye to each other and parted ways. I could see the happiness in their eyes as they drove their scooter and bicycles and even humming songs. Evrybody was indeed happy.

As I was walking along the road to my flat (that’s what I used to do because it’s just pretty near from my workplace), I saw at a distant a huge crowd of people gathered at the other side of the road. I was hesitant to come closer for I thought somebody was stabbed and died or an accident and someone died. I was afraid to lose my appetite for dinner. Brought by my curiosity, I drew closer to the crowd. I could hear their noise somewhat blaming someone but I just couldn’t grasp their conversation because they were speaking Chinese. More and more people came closer and it created a long traffic jam.

When I peeped on the crowd to see what was really going on, I saw a bloody dog, a sheepdog, lying on the ground, hit by a private car. Without further indispositions, I went away having in mind, it’s not worth crying. There was a serious argument but I didn’t stay long because I couldn’t understand.

The case for me wasn’t solved yet, I don’t know whether it was accidental or what. All I knew was, it’s not worth quarreling or weeping. Do you think so? Would you act like somebody died for that? What do you think?

…fRaNkLy, I dIdN’t LiKe It

2008-04-04T17:39:00.000-07:00

Towards the end of my restful sleep, I was a little dismayed. I was awaken by the loud beep of my cell phone. I thought t’was my alarm but still so early. I detected it’s not my alarm tone. It’s a call, I believed. I picked it up wondering it might be an emergency. It’s a friend who has just arrived to his flat from a bar in Nanjing, a former capital of China. I was a little disappointed. From then on, I wasn’t able to go back to sleep. I started my day very early, 4:40 am and I am going to finish it at 8:30 pm from work. Isn’t it long?

I just wish that it wouldn’t happen again. I just did the things I used to do early and went to school pretty earlier. Have a nice day everyone!

…SpRiNg FeStIvAl

2008-04-04T01:22:00.000-07:00

What did you do last Spring Festival or Chinese New Year? Did you celebrate? Did you travel? Or just stay at home. Or where did you go? Who do you celebrate with? Was it great? What did you prepare?

Spring Festival is Chinese’s most important festival as Christmas for most of the western countries. On this day, they prepared a great dinner with all members of the family together. They usually eat dumplings. Children receive money from their folks and parents. They prepared for this event for several days. They usually clean their houses and wash all their dirty clothes, that they are clean to meet the new year. It’s one of their practices on this marvelous event.

It was really great for me ‘coz we had more than a month vacation. So I traveled around to meet some of my friends. My first stop was in Hefei, the capital of Anhui province where I stayed for a night. Then I moved to Chuzhou the next day, still a city of Anhui, where my colleague in another branch is residing, a Filipino. I stayed there most of my time. We supposed to go to Guangzhou, but because of the snow storm, we decided to stay. Days after, we went to Nanjing in another province, Jiangsu Province. It used to be the capital of China. We roamed around there by subway for the entire day. Then we went back to Chuzhou in the evening by train. My friend toured me around the city. I also met a lot of friends there. I even plan to go back there soon.

My first Spring Festival in China was really great. We also had a big dinner. Our fellow Filipinos prepared a big banquet. There were 8 Filipinos that time, all teachers and a Chinese, my friend’s colleague. I ate a lot for they served Filipino dishes which I missed for so long. We perfectly had a fantastic dinner together.

Then one day, we went boating in Chuzhou’s South Lake. We had a lot of fun. We preferred to rent a manual one that we could have a race. Everybody enjoyed the activity. Then we went to sauna, massage parlor and shopping. T’was really a perfect moment.

I somehow forgot my problems that time. Completely funny. I stayed there for almost three (3) weeks. Then I went back to Hefei again. We also had different celebration with some Filipino friends there. I could really say, Spring Festival is one of my best memories in China. What about you, do you have one?

…I wAs PaRt Of It

2008-04-04T00:35:00.000-07:00

One time, I was astonished because I was called to the office and was told I am going to have classes in a middle school in a county of my city. It was so because my colleague, an American guy, is going to Hongkong to process his working visa. I had no choice. I had to take all his 14 classes there, in addition to my own classes. Pretty tough, huh!

Upon reaching the school’s vicinity, I was amused by its grand beauty. Its location is perfect, away from the noise of the city. It’s surrounded by nature. Right across the school is a big lake which I can compare to a sea in the Philippines. At its back is a huge mountain. It’s also bordered by fruit trees. It’s indeed a perfect location.

The school caters students living from far-flung places. So they have to live in the school’s dormitories. They can only come home once a month for four (4) days, meaning, their weekends are accumulated and taken as one. Teachers are also living in the teacher’s dormitory for it’s really quite far from the city. Its population also is quite huge. There are more than 1000 students, purely senior high school students.

As for me, I didn’t stay there. I kept going home everyday ‘coz I have also a class at night, which made me much tired. I slept in the teacher’s dorm, though during lunch break before my class for it usually starts at 2:50. I was completely overwhelmed by the students’s pleasing character as well as that of the teachers’s. They are very friendly, kind and hospitable that made my stay unforgetable. They were hoping that I would stay longer but it’s out of my jurisdiction.

My short stay there was absolutely a memorable one. I just wish them success in their endeavor, the students, the teachers and the school as a whole. “Do you best and God will take care of the rest,” I powerfully believe.

… A gReAt DiEt

2008-04-04T00:16:00.000-07:00

Why do people go on a diet? Have you tried dieting? If so, what did you eat? What was your purpose? Is there a need to be on a diet? Why? Does it something to do with figure, physical appearance? Does that mean you are not satisfied with what you have and who you are?

Food plays a vital role in our bodies. It’s from where we get our energy. But it should be balanced, ‘coz I strongly believe, “everything in excess is not good.” So we have to make our food intake equal and balance.

This morning, for my breakfast, I had an apple, a banana, three (3) slices of pineapple and a glass of milk. Now tell me, am I on a diet? Is it already considered diet? What do you think?

…FrIeNdS

2008-04-03T10:00:00.000-07:00

As the song that goes, “Many people say true friends are hard to find,” do you think so? Are true friends or we call bestfriends really hard to find? Do you believe in that? Or they are just all around. You meet them everyday but you just don’t mind them.

Friendship is very broad because there are many different kinds of friends as people define it. There are friends in need, friends at school, old friends, colleagues, boyfriends or girlfriends, friends in business, even “fucking” friends for some, best friends and so on. But they are all friends. Which would you prefer to be with? To whom do you get along easily with? Who do you care the most?

With my short stay in this terrific world, I have also encountered a lot of friends as I continue my quest for a brilliant future in this bivouac of life. They likewise belong to those kinds of friends aforementioned above. I have as well accumulated a lot of answers from different people to the question, “What is a friend to you?”

Some people I’ve met gladly said that friends are like plants that you need to care and nurture. Others bluntly said that they are like diamonds, so precious that they can’t stand without. Quite a few strongly believe that friends are like the best books, though oftentimes the cover may seem not to be so elegant, but the contents are like bars of gold that you can treasure for a lifetime. Many powerfully said that friendship is eternal. It doesn’t ask “Why?” because for them, it’s a reason itself. It doesn’t inquire, “What if?” because it is willing to risk all. It doesn’t wonder, “Until when?” because for them, it doesn’t end. And still others even give me a passage, “In life, you will realize that the people you meet have a purpose. Some were put there to test you, others are there to use you, a few of them would teach you, and very few would bring out the better if not the best in you. Many may even cause you pains and heartaches but one must learn to move on.” They added, “so let go the people who can’t treat you right and hold on to those who love you in return and see your worth.”

Now, dear friends, your life lies in the palm of your hand. Your tomorrow is just a product of what you do today. So, take the best choice. Select the best answer to that question and hold on to them. Learn from others’s experiences. Be keen in choosing who you want to be with, because you definitely become like them, as it is said, “Birds of the same feather flock together.” Take a very extra careful with the people around you. Have a nice friendship!

Friends, thanks for passing again. I just wish you’ve already found your true friends. Hope you find this valuable and you learn from it. See you again next time. Take care of your friendship. Once again, thank you and always, be the best of what you are!

…ToMb SwEePiNg DaY

2008-04-03T02:40:00.001-07:00

Tomorrow, April 4th, it’s a holiday here in China because it’s tomb sweeping day. On this day, Chinese people visit and clean the graveyards of their folks. They spent most of their time of the day there and offer them fresh and beautiful bouquets of flowers. Cemeteries are filled with thousands of people on this very day.

In line with this, we have an additional day off. It’s another rest day for all workers in China. But in our case, we have plenty of classes in the weekends, in fact, we are going to have our English corners tomorrow late afternoon until evening, so our boss set today as our off, in exchange for tomorrow. Well, not bad at all.

I am wondering how to celebrate this. I don’t know how to spend my another one day of rest because I haven’t prepared an activity, for I just knew this yesterday. Well, I am just going to do my routines during my regular off. Do some exercises early in the morning, then take my breakfast, do laundry, clean the house, watch movies, sleep (actually most of my time is spent sleeping), do grocery, watch movies again and sleep. But sometimes, in addition to that, I go to park and enjoy its beauty, the flowers, trees, landscapes, lake and children playing. That’s how I usually spend my off. Somehow, I am going to do the same today. Rarely, I visit the riverside park, Changjiang river or commonly known as Yangtze river, just hiking along.

Well, what about you people, how do you spend your holidays? Your day off? Do you usually make plans in advance? Do you do the same thing every now and then? Or do you do various activities? Whatever they may be, enjoy your holidays.

I just hope you spend your holidays marvelously and enjoy them. Learn from me, we need to refresh ourselves after a heavy work. Have a good holiday and take care always. Have a wonderful day to all of us and as always, I say, everything happens for a reason. More powers to all of us.

…KTV at ABC

2008-04-02T20:09:00.000-07:00

People around the world have their own various ways on how to amuse themselves. They do different recreational activities, some like fishing, swimming, camping, sailing, indulge in sports, traveling and many more. Here in China, common practice by Chinese people is going to KTV, especially when celebrating a special occasion. In fact, I was amazed that we had to book at least two (2) days in advance to surely get a reservation particularly on peak seasons like holidays. This is so because of China’s vast population and it was National Holiday. Well, pretty surprising.

One of our Chinese teachers celebrated her 24th birthday a couple of months ago. She invited us to a dinner and KTV right after. That was I thought. But it was all in one place. We went to the most known and expensive KTV here in our place. I felt like I was in a movie theater, for the screen is like half of a movie theater’s. Yet the roon is like one sixteenth (1/16) of its size. The screen is really huge. The rooms are well ventilated, well decorated and well cleaned. I thought I was in a five (5) star hotel. It is really nice and big. Well, it’s Chinese KTV, so there are only few English songs. But I did enjoy as well as all my colleagues including an American guy. We all had lots of fun.

Recreational activities help us feel relaxed after an arduous and backbreaking work. We need them once in a while for us to be energized. All work and no play makes you dull. So plan them ahead of time and make them as enjoyable as possible.

Enjoy your days everyone and have a good time. Be reminded always, everything happens for a reason. Once again, thank you for passing by and take care always. Hope you learn something. Catch my next blog. Thank you and more powers to all of us.

…HuAnGsHaN – tHe MoSt BeAuTiFuL mOuNtAiN iN cHiNa

2008-04-02T03:29:00.000-07:00

Nature is eversince very beautiful. It existed for thousands of years, but its grandeur is still very eminent that no human creation can surpass. Its beauty is unending and never fading. It was, it is, and it will still be the same in the future. It is worth nurturing and taking care of.

Last year, when China celebrated its National Holiday (on the first week of October), people from different walks of life wandered around and visit some famous sites to celebrate the week of no work, including myself and some other friends. We visited Huangshan – the most beautiful mountain in China. We spent three (3) days there starting from September 29th until October 1st. It’s a four (4) hours away by bus from my place. But before reaching the mountain, our agent toured us to a nearby town which was built during the Qing Dynasty. Then, we continued to our destination. We stayed in a hotel at the foot of the mountain.

I’ve heard so much about this mountain long before from my students. But I just want to experience and witness how splendid the beauty of the mountain. I want to see it through my naked eyes.

Early the next morning, we hurriedly ate our breakfast to catch the sunrise on top. There I saw such a crowd going to the mountain.

Cable cars are also one of the highlights of the mountain. Since it is very steep, we decided to ride the cable car and perfect, because we were six (6) together and a cable car can only accommodate six people. Surprisingly, we saw its fabulous beauty as the cable car went up passing through gorgeous natural landscapes and a little spring approximately 1000 meters right down our cable car. About ten (10) minutes later, we reached the endpoint of the cable car, halfway to the top. We had to climb through slippery stairs because it was so foggy. We saw the sun once in a while and I extremely appreciate the color of the mountain, because it turns yellow once reflected by sunrays. That’s how beautiful the mountain is. They said it has different colors in different seasons. We spent our whole day climbing up and down from them and each has its own beauty to attract people.

I was totally amazed because there’s a hotel on top of the mountain, but it’s pretty expensive. When we stepped our feet on the highest portion, it felt so great knowing that we were about 2000 meters above sea level. Though very tiresome but it’s worth it. We rode another cable car as we went down at the other side of the mountains. As we reached our hotel, we were like logs lying on our bed after a short dinner because everyone is bloody tired from the whole day adventure.

On the third day, buying of souvenirs and traveling time going back to our respective places. Even if we slept soundly for about ten (10) hours, we still felt the fatigue brought about by the activity the day before. So we were also sleeping on our way.

Huangshan is indeed a great place to be visited. As Chinese people say, you won’t long of going to other famous mountains if you have visited Huangshan. Somewhat all the beauties of other mountains were put together in one place, and it is Huangshan. Waterfalls, springs, lake, natural landscapes, cable cars, restaurants, hotels, trees, all in one place. I absolutely had a well spent National Holiday.

So, everyone out there, if you have enough time, don’t miss to experience the magnificent Huangshan… And once again, thank you for your time and for passing by. Catch me up on my next blog. Have it in mind always, everything happens for a reason. Have a good time and take care always.

…JiUhUaShAn – ThE TeMpLe MoUnTaIn

2008-04-01T23:57:00.000-07:00

As we often hear the quotation, “The only constant in this world is change,” we should try not to be stagnant, we should keep on keeping on. Since life is a journey, we should always attempt to keep on moving on. As for me, I don’t want to be stuck in one place. I always want to wander around and see the beauty that the world has to offer because it’s unfolding and welcoming us to reminisce its grandeur.

Eight months ago, I and some friends went to Jiuhuashan – a temple mountain. In fact, there are 99 temples and the montain is very famous especially to the followers and believers of Buddha. It was known since 719 AD during the Tang dynasty in China. We spent two (2) days on the mountain.

I just couldn’t imagine why we were having that experience without a meticlulous plan, no preparations at all. It’s just that a friend of us mentioned when we were eating at McDonalds that she and her student were going to that mountain the day after. We jokingly said we want to go with them. She immediately phoned her student to book for two (2) more people to the agency. We were just lucky that it was not peak season. So we went there early the next morning.

As we approached the mountain, we were shocked seeing the green and picturesque mountain on top. We landed at the middle of the mountain and put our things in the hotel where we stayed in. After lunch, we started climbing and visiting those temples that the mountain is known for. I highly appreciated how splendid the temples are. They are highly preserved and taken cared of by the monks who are living there. We went in and out from one temple to the other, and each has its beauty to present. They were built thousands of years ago. It was really a fascinating experience. We were very exhausted as we went down and proceeded to our hotel and restfully slept that night.

We were awaken by a hard knock at our door saying, “Please prepare because in few minutes, we are going at the back of the mountain.” We were surprised for we didn’t know our schedule. But actually, instructions and activities for the next day were given after our dinner but we were not there because we went out to buy some souvenirs. It was also our fault. We hurriedly prepared ourselves and took a shower hastily. Unfortunately, they had gone as we went out from the hotel. The guard told us that we can wait for the next bus. Anyway, there were many visible buses around.

As we were on the bus to the other side of the mountain, I was enjoying capturing pictures for it’s astonishingly magnificent, and clouds were just directly under the mountain. After reaching the endpoint for buses, we still had to walk for about 20 minutes to get to the cable car station. You could actually climb to the top with 1000 steps if you have that vigor to reach the topmost. We had a very great moment seeing the beauty of nature seen from the top.

There, as we wandered around, we saw the Phoenix tree – the

oldest pine tree in China. It was planted around 1400 years ago. I was overwhelmed with great joy watching and taking pictures with the tree. We didn’t want to leave the place for we are surrounded by nature, clean and green tress, fresh air, water, temples, cable cars, hotels and well-developed road system, such a comfortable life in there. We took another route to go back to our hotel for lunch. Then, we packed our things because we had to leave a short while after.

I can truly say that my two (2) days there were perfectly spent. Experiencing the glorious beauty of nature is such a wonderful page added to my short stay in this passing life. I just wish that all of us, dear friends, treasure every single minute of our lives. Brilliantly spend each day for tomorrow is another day. Once again, thanks a lot for passing by and remember, everything happens for a reason. Have a joyous day to all of us. Have a good time and more powers.

…aN uNaNtIcIpAtEd PrEsEnT…

2008-04-01T00:29:00.000-07:00

Life is so magnificent that it is to be treasured every single minute of the day. As the expression, “Live life to the fullest.” With the presence of all pretensions, drudgery, misfortune, aridity and broken dreams, it is still so wonderful and worth living.

After a backbreaking weekends, I got up happily, did some exercise, jog for 20 minutes and went to work. I was astonished upon entering the office. A present caught my eyes on top of my desk, a white traditional Chinese shirt. Looking around wondering from whom it came from, I saw a brilliant smile from a Chinese teacher. She explained, “It is bought from Jiujiang Province. A friend of mine went there few days ago and I told her to buy a traditional Chinese shirt. I can still remember the time when I asked you about the meaning of souvenir, and you explained it very well and cited some examples. It’s one of your practice when you go to somewhere. So I think you can have this as a souvenir.” I heartily thanked her for the fantastic present. I highly appreciate it, amazingly beautiful.

I immediately went to the washroom to fit it. As I appeared in front of the mirror, it perfectly suits me well. So I showed them my attire. They commented, “It’s awesome. It looks good on you.” I was overwhelmed with happiness. In fact, I wore that for the entire morning in the office. I thanked her a lot of times.

Does that define that in life, if you are good to all people, they, in turn, be good to you? Does it best explain the golden rule, “Do unto others as what you want them to do unto you”? If so, dear friends, let’s strive to be fair and good to everyone and it will come to us a hundred times. Thanks a lot for your time. I do hope I once again touch a part of your valued life. Come and learn from me! Let’s always remember, everything happens for a reason. Have a good time everyone and more powers to all of us.

…NeVeR GiVe Up!!!

2008-03-31T19:57:00.000-07:00

Were you stuck in a place where all people have a strong belief in their own capabilities? Have you bumped somebody with an unparalleled ideals in life? Did you have a chance of debating someone of eminent regard of themselves? Have you adjoined a self-centered person? If so, what did you do?

An experience like this is one of a kind. You don’t even know where to place yourself. It’s hard to convey your own notions because somewhat you are not given a chance to speak them out. They just want to express themselves and make you believe that they are right, their side is the best, what they conceive is enormously the ones acceptable and lastly, they want to win you over. It’s really an arduous time meeting this kind of people. But they do exist. They are in our society and in one way or another, there’s a big tendency to meet them. Are you prepared enough for this? Do you have a bewildering reasons to defend your side? Are you courageous enough to meet them? Or are you a kind of person who just keep still and never argue even if you absolutely don’t gree with them? You just keep silent inorder not to make an argument because you don’t want to be in trouble.

Well, with my senior high class, we came to talk about realities in life, that life is full of mysteries and they were so eager to convey their own thoughts. We perfectly had a great discussion. We all enjoyed and everyone channelled their own opinions. There came an instant that someone mentioned about adversities that we normally come across with as we journey in this passing life. They had different views on how they look at them. Some attend to these as just trials that all people have and noone is excused, and it depends on how we are going to face them – an optimistic approach. They strongly said they can handle them bravely. On the other hand, there were also some who cited that these are just products of our carelessness. If we don’t do our best, we would surely meet them. Noone is going to have such a problem if he cares and knows how to handle his life. So everything depends on how he lived his life. For them, these were just the consequences of what we did with our lives. Do you think so? Do you agree with them? Which side would you back up with?

Well, friends, we should always bear in mind that in life, everything happens for a reason. Thanks and have a good time. More powers to all of us.

...a time to REMEMBER...

2008-03-28T01:34:00.000-07:00

After a coup d’oeil of my schedule yesterday, I found out that I would have a schedule at night, a dinner with my newly found friends here in my place. With no hesitations, I did all my stuff at work to finish earlier that I could prepare for it, ‘cause being with friends is one of my best moments in life, for I do value friendship a lot.

While in the mid of doing my job, my phone beeped, a message from one that goes, “Don’t forget our dinner tonight. I’ll pick you up at 5:30 at your gate. See you later!” t'was from Jim. I was reminded again. I smiled while reading it and thought, they really are good friends. I was excited for my first dinner with these people I met a week ago, in the English Corner, established by the foreign teachers in my place. Then, I continued my work.

5:30 came and I was picked up from my workplace by one with car, I thought, but he didn't drive I guess that time. Actually, he again texted me that he was at the gate, 5:20. I hastened down ‘cause I don’t want him to wait for a long time.

We made a great chat for we were early in coming to the restaurant. He asked me about my life and I did the same way. A little later, he showed me to his workplace just directly on the 5Th floor of the building, a law firm with 21 lawyers including himself. I was shocked as I entered his big office. He toured me around the firm and went down a short while after. In few minutes afterwards, the others came, Steven, a Canadian guy, Wendy, a lady who just returned from her trip to the US and Canada, a business trip and two more lovely ladies, Linda, a foreign expert bureau officer and Sarah, a law firm secretary.

I was a little hungry that time. With no further falterings, we ordered our dinner. I amazingly appreciated the beauty of the dishes served to us. Magnificent decors around them highlighted the grandeur of the mouth-watering food. It made me feel hungry the more. Then, we savored the food until we were stuffed. We were delighted with the dinner we had. Red wine also cheered our momentous night. We ended up 9:20 and parted ways. I absolutely had a great time with my new friends. It was really a time to be remembered...

I wish you all do too. Thanks for your time… Everything happens for a reason…

...congRATulatIONs...

2008-03-27T18:26:00.000-07:00

I was just puzzled when I received this message a couple of weeks ago. I couldn't believe about it. Mixed emotions were felt that time upon reading it. Imagine that? Well, the message goes this way...

Ref: 435062725
Batch: 7050470902/189
Winning no: GB8101/LPRC

CONGRATULATIONS!!!

Dear Winner,

We are delighted to inform you of your prize which was released on the 14th of March 2008,from the Australian International Lottery programme,which is fully based on an electronic selection of winners using their e-mail addresses from some sites. Your email address was attached to ticket number; 47001725 07056490102 and serial number 7741134002. This batch draws the lucky numbers as follows 5-13-33-37-42 and bonus number 17, which consequently won the lottery in the second category.

You hereby have been approved a lump sum pay of US$1,000,000.00 (ONE MILLION DOLLARS) in cash credit file ref: ILP/HW47509/09 from the total cash prize shared amongst eight lucky winners in this category. All participants were selected through a computer balloting system drawn form Nine hundred thousand E-mail addresses from Canada, Australia,United States, Asia, Europe, Middle East, Africa and Oceania as part of our international promotion program which is conducted annually. This Lottery was promoted and sponsored by a conglomerate of some multinational companies as part of their social responsibility to the citizens in the communities where they have an operational base.

Furthermore, your details(e-mail address) falls within our European representative office in Amsterdam, Holland as indicated in your play coupon and your prize of US$1,000,000.00 will be released to you from this regional branch office in NIGERIA. We hope that with part of your prize, you will participate in our end of year high stakes for US$1.3 Billion international draw.To file for your claim, please contact our claims department through the claims agent:

Name: Mr.Howard Greg
Tell: +234 803-2467781
E-mail:howardgreg.claimsagent111@yahoo.co.uk or
howard_greg@hotmail.com

Please quote your reference, batch and winning number which can be found on the top left corner of this notification as well as your full name, address and telephone number to help locate your file easily.For security reasons, we advice all winners to keep this information confidential from the public until your claim is processed and your prize released to you.This is part of our security protocol to avoid double claiming and unwarranted taking advantage of this programme by non-participants or unofficial personnel.Note: all winnings MUST be claimed by the 30th April, 2008; otherwise all funds will be returned as Unclaimed and eventually donated to charity organizations.

YOURS SINCERELY,

Mr.James Ross
Australian Lottery International (co-ordinator).

I am hoping somebody could tell me something about it. Does this exist? Is it true? Did someone got the same message before? What happened? What did you do? Please your thoughts about it. Thanks in advance...

...a keepsake...9/11

2008-03-27T17:51:00.001-07:00

Have you heard about the trucker who has painted his cab and trailer with the names of all those who lost their lives on 9/11?

The trucker's name is John Holmgren from Shafer, Minn. He has been 'pulled over' numerous times just so the troopers can get their picture taken with the truck.

...a MUST read one...

2008-03-27T17:29:00.000-07:00

I've got this one. just wanna share to you all.

We've got three very different movies that unlock secrets of the human heart, along with an exclusive chance for YOU to enjoy a slice of the San Francisco International Asian American Film Festival watch free on Jaman until April 3rd.

The Celebration1998 / 105 min. / Available in Most CountriesThomas Vinterberg's brilliantly acted drama packs an unforgettable punch as a tormented son throws open a family closet packed with skeletons.

Villa Paranoia2004 / 107 min. / Available WorldwideMadness and make-believe enable a young woman to unlock dark truths haunting a mysterious patient.

Import Export2005 / 97 min. / Available in Most CountriesAn utterly sweet cross-cultural romantic comedy about what it takes to win a girl's heart -- and her family's too.
Jaman on the GoThis week, our founder Gaurav Dhillon is in Hong Kong, hobnobbing at the massive FilmArt trade show, before he hits Mumbai to speak on a digital marketing and distribution panel at FICCI Frames 2008. Read more on our blog... While Gaurav's out spreading the word about Jaman - the ultimate destination for indie and international cinema (but you knew that!) - back at the homestead, we welcomed Cindy to the Jaman tribe. Cindy is a major pop-culture nerd and film geek, so be sure to add her to your Jaman friends, dish all day about cinema, and help her feel right at home.

...surPRIZEd!!!...

2008-03-27T00:48:00.000-07:00

A couple of weeks ago, I was just amazed with what I received from a distant friend, an e-mail. I could hardly imagine if it would really work. But with the responses I received from people I forwarded the message with, I can somehow say that it really works.

Well, to make it known to you too, I just wanna share this with you that hopefully it may lighten your burdens if you encounter such a dilemma in your life. This was the message...

NEW USE OF VICKS VAPORUB...

WOW! I was raised, and raised my kids with Vicks. How come I never knew this? I can't wait for my next cough.Amazing! READ IT ALL. It works 100 percent of the time,although the scientists at the Canada Research Council(who discovered it) aren't sure why.To stop night-time coughing in a child (or an adult, as wefound out personally), put Vicks Vaporub generously on thebottom of the feet at bedtime and then cover with socks.

Even persistent, heavy, deep coughing will stop in about fiveminutes, and stay stopped for many, many hours of relief. Thisworks 100 percent of the time and is more effective in childrenthan even very strong prescription cough medicines. In addition,it is extremely soothing and comforting and they will sleep soundly.I heard the head of The Canada Research Council describe thesefindings by their scientists when they were investigatingthe effectiveness and usage of prescription cough medicines inchildren as compared to alternative therapies like acupressure.I just happened to tune in to a.m. Radio and picked up this guytalking about why cough medicines in kids often do more harmthan good due to the chemical make-up of these strong drugs,so I listened. It was found to be more effective than prescribedmedicines for children at bedtime and in addition to have asoothing and calming effect on sick children who then went onto sleep soundly.

My wife tried it on herself when she had a very deep constant andpersistent cough a few weeks ago and it worked 100 percent! She saidit felt like a warm blanket had enveloped her. The coughing stoppedin a few minutes, and believe me, this was a deep (incrediblyannoying - every few seconds!), uncontrollable cough, and she sleptcough-free for hours every night she used it.If you end up sick, try it yourself and you will be absolutely amazedat the effect.

-Bong Suarez

Pass this on - especially to those with children or grandchildren.

Wish you would also experience what they have experienced about this magic. I just hope you would try if you have such a problem. Share it to your friends, too and see the amazing result.