Blue Phoenix - Thoughts of a wandering traveler

Lost

2009-11-02T19:38:00.002+08:00

THE hardest thing to find is that which was never lost at all.

Caught in the midst of things

2009-10-30T20:33:00.005+08:00

IN as much as I would want to say that I had been lazing about and I had neglected this corner of the web, I know very well that that will not be truthful. But not totally, for being wrapped within sloth's welcoming embrace had been instrumental for the very long inactivity in this blog. Also, the previous entry before this isn't really counted, as it was done for a particular advocacy.

Caught in the midst of things pretty much sums up all the reasons I can put forward as to why the last real update had been in September. I'm not complaining though, since at the very start of the year I had plainly stated I'm putting my personal thoughts on second as I prioritize my career.

There are moments though, very precious and few if I have the liberty to add, when I just can't put anything before my desire to sit in a special corner and allow my thoughts to conjure prose that will truly embody the ideas flowing around in my head. Now, when such instances happen to coincide with the availability of time, or urgency of need, I manage to update and enliven this blog.

However, such occurrences got rarer and rarer as tons of work-related tasks filled my schedule. And as of the moment, I'm caught in the midst of anticipation and preparation for another storm that threatens the country.

In their truest sense of "corporate responsibility", my bosses stationed me to what we may call the "front lines" in this line of duty I belong to. Staying in this hotel since last night, though, gave me the opportunity to relax (sort of) and write; the typhoon is expected to hit land in two to four hours but there is but trickles of rain and mild breeze where I'm at.

Therefore, I take the liberty to write something down, to remind me that I must not give up on the plans I've already set. And as I go about doing things according to plan, I still must not set aside everything that truly defines who I really am, even if I'm too caught up in the midst of things.

Blog Action Day: Climate Change

2009-10-16T21:18:00.002+08:00

DESPITE the apparent inactivity of this blog, truth be told, I had been spending the past weeks more and more online than I usually did. I blame my laziness, foremost, for the lack of updates, although mental exhaustion from work is really the main culprit.

Anyway, I just had to put this one up, so as to at least comply when I signed up for the blog action day initiative. Yeah, yeah, I missed the event by a day. But I had forgotten about the dates (time does fly by so quickly especially if you’re busy), and I didn’t realize I should’ve updated at least last night.

This year’s Blog Action Day is focused on climate change. Frankly, I don’t think anything I’ll be saying had not been said before, but I’ll say my piece nonetheless.

Climate change is no longer just a theory proposed to make humans feel guilty enough to take care of mother earth. The past disasters here in the Philippines (which are among the things I would’ve blogged about had I not been caught in the midst of preparations) readily shows us the ugly face of the changing world.

People should be more and more aware of the ill-effects of neglecting the environment. For my part, I join initiatives such as this blog action day (sort of, at least). However, knowing that something should be done is but scratching the surface; it is in ACTUALLY DOING WHAT SHOULD BE DONE that targets can be achieved.

I wouldn’t like to blame anyone, but I do agree that developed countries should put more effort in cleaning up the mess that they had accumulated through the years. C’mon now, they got rich because they neglected the environment, why not clean up their mess?

What I really want to say now is this: the best option for all of us is in coming up with TRULY RENEWABLE ENERGY. Instead of merely trying to curb the ill-effects, which are not sure to reducing risks, why not think of moving on and diminishing the damages along the way?

As of now, there isn’t really any GREEN energy readily available. The closest maybe is solar, but solar panels and batteries aren’t totally environmentally-friendly, when you think of it. I’m afraid that we may just be solving a few problems and creating new ones instead.

Such are the mistakes we have done in the past; the great amount of intoxicants in the air – mostly generated by burning fossil fuels – reached the levels they are now because people used to think that they’re cheap and they’re the best energy sources at that time. But history had proven otherwise; and the people of today are falling victims due to past failings wrought about by nothing else than greed.

But let’s move on. The human imagination is among our infinite resources; there are plenty of promising options that can lead us to a better tomorrow. Hand in hand, perhaps we can see a brighter sky over the horizon when get our acts together in the proper harmony. There’s still hope, let’s take our chances.

All in a day's work

2009-09-04T21:09:00.006+08:00

IT used to be that Jherskie and Heights are like oil and water. But these days, things like these following pictures are part of a day's work.

Sorry for the short updates. I've been meaning to blog about the usual stuff, but I'm usually very much exhausted these days.

Just a few pics

2009-08-29T22:33:00.008+08:00

I ought to make long updates, largely due to the immense length of time from my last post. But then again, I'm feeling lazy to churn out anything more substantial than these few lines. At the very least, allow me to share a few pictures I've taken over the weekend. Oh, where I went? Palawan. =P

No weekend still

2009-08-07T21:38:00.002+08:00

The past week had been so busy, but all the work doesn't want to end just yet. Despite all that amount of labor, I'd be having no weekend still. XD

But then again, I did promise myself to prioritize my career. I. Will. Not. Complain.

Virtual warfare

2009-07-27T23:50:00.003+08:00

Alright, I'm currently being addicted to the War of Emperium feature of the private Ragnarok Online server I'm playing. For those who have not a glimmer of idea what that means, let's just say it's about one guild (essentially an organization of players) going head on against another. Of course, it's and inherent feature of the game, but I didn't participate in WoEs while I was playing in the official servers.

And because of my renewed interest, I've gotten a liking to studying warfare particularly through detailed analysis on the shows in a certain cable TV channel about history. =P

AND... I'm again lacking sleep because of it. XD

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Edit: I think I'll update this post some other time. =)

I HATE HSBC CREDIT CARDS

2009-07-23T23:01:00.002+08:00

I HATE HSBC CREDIT CARDS!

Pardon the rant post, but I hate the damn credit card company. If any of their agents come knocking at your door, or calling you up to offer, IT'S BEST TO SHUT THEM UP BY TELLING THEM THEIR SERVICE SUCKS. And if they ask, tell them Jherskie says so.

Thank you.

Ends and beginnings

2009-07-22T21:50:00.000+08:00

THE end of the beginning is where the end is beginning.

Half-baked 'blood'

2009-07-20T21:23:00.005+08:00

WHILE I can't say I truly detest the film, Harry Potter and the Half-blood Prince, I will not really praise it either. And although many reviews have been positive, I can't say I'll be joining them.

Ladies and gentlemen, I hope you do understand what I mean with this post's title, and read on what I have to say.

For a movie I had been itching to watch for months, 'Half-blood Prince' just doesn't meet its purposes, story-wise. I guess it's due to the fact that they wrote the script as a compromise between die-hard book fans and the regular movie-watchers. With about as much as 80-percent of the original storyline chucked out of the window to fit the 150-ish minutes of screen time, and hordes of scenes suddenly (and magically) inserted, HBP is almost a new universe, if not an alternate reality, to the Potter world.

Alright, I'm being too harsh, I know. But hey, I went to cinema hoping to see "Harry Potter and the Half-blood Prince" the movie. Instead, I was treated to "The prelude to the 2-part movie that will follow". C'mon now, HP and the HBP is a great book in its own right, but why sacrifice the whole film?

Sure the movie's elements are good; superb special effects and stunning graphics coupled with nice cinematography and moving musical scores worthy of the Potter movie series and fandom make up the film. But in between the awesome scenes, particularly in those dull moments, the viewer is left to think, "Lolwut?"

I confess my hearing isn't too well, but I'd contest it isn't too bad either. I swear I never let my eyes leave the screen longer than it took to blink (or check if my wallet's still in my pocket), but I just got lost in translation. Many portions of the story are so muddy I won't have known what's happening had I not read the book several years ago.

And that, in my honest opinion, is where the movie fails big time. They seem to attempt to please us die-hard book fans, and not leave the non-book readers alienated by the story at the same time; but I dare say they didn't meet both targets.

A great matter to note is the identity of the HBP - a very intriguing subject as one sifts through the pages of the book. Really, the movie should've been about him, yet he just said, "I am the HBP," in the end without fanfare. No grandiose explanations. No emotions. Nonsense.

However, one cannot ignore the fact that the 150-ish minutes of screening time are engaging. And although there are several dead scenes - thankfully appearing only for brief moments - the good ones manage to make up for them. In fact, I really applaud everything about the film save the storyline; various emotions and themes are carefully brought together using exactly the best devices to achieve the cinematography I save up movie-ticket-prices for. Yeah, I hate much of the story, but I don't think I wasted my time and money for it.

So all aspects taken into consideration, and with as much objectivity as I can muster, I bestow my rating for the movie that is, "Harry Potter and the Half-blood Prince". Drumrolls please.

*Insert sound effects here*

I give it: 8.5/10

A post brought to you by the rains

2009-07-16T16:46:00.001+08:00

EACH man has his own cross to bear, so they say. I firmly believe that, though at times I need to constantly remind myself that many of my current woes are not considered problems by some. Conversely, others are terrified of things that have not much bearing on my books.

I am in a continuous love-hate relationship with my job, and many times I really do feel like throwing in the towel and walking away. There are many moments when I simply think that I’m just a waste of salary at the office, but of course I realize that I’m useful in several other ways.

And my perpetual lack of direction has its up and downsides as well. I’m usually satisfied with being a feather blown by the winds – getting to places I didn’t know existed. But at the end of the day, I pose the question to myself, "Just where the heck am I headed to?"

There are lots of things I wanna do, so many destinations I desire to see. However, I’m usually out of energy to explore – these days I’m always slouching and passing the time away.

Sloth is such a sultry mistress whose tempting I simply cannot ignore. But she's gone for a moment, and I've got some time. And so here's another update, to this old blog of mine.

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A/N: I really hate the strong rains for ruining my plans to watch Harry Potter and the Half-blood Prince this afternoon. But it kinda made up for it by providing some inspiration, and a few rhyming lines, to re-liven this blog.

Tales of Jherskie the Sage

2009-07-12T21:32:00.002+08:00

I met a man once, he was very excited at the time. His wife's pregnant, he said. But at that moment, I knew his son will not be born to see the light of day.

I never got to tell him what I thought was just a figment of my imagination. I haven't seen him after leaving the conference, but the news managed to reach me somehow. His wife had a miscarriage a few weeks after that incident, relayed another acquaintance.

And it was indeed a boy.

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A/N: I first gave the name Jherskie to a character in one of my fanfics for the game, Ragnarok Online. Though I never got to finish the story, I still haven't given up and continue dreaming of finishing said fic to this day.

I Am Immortal

2009-07-10T21:57:00.003+08:00

NOW, that is the latest in my constantly-growing list of things-I-tell-people-who-ask-when-I'll-change-my-civil-status. I said it in a jest, really, although the girl who inquired didn't seem to think I was joking.

And if you're reading ('coz I have an inkling that you may chance upon this post some time), I really don't know why you thought I'm delusional. It's a joke, for crying out loud! =P

Rambling... or not

2009-07-06T21:48:00.004+08:00

For the past seven days, I've been hoping to squeeze in time to blog about this particular topic, yet didn't manage to. And yeah, this is already past due, but WTH. I'm making this (sort of) review anyway.

OK, in a nutshell, it's one of those movies you'd go to the cinemas to watch. Pardon me if I might sound like a hypocrite, but guys, better see this on the big screen. Why? Because that's what this movie is made for.

So what can I say for what many bills as "the worst-reviewed top grossing film of all time"? I. Effing. Love. It.

Yeah, the story's not worth a shot (for being too clumsy and far-fetched). And if lead actress Megan Fox says you watch Transformers 2 Revenge of the Fallen for the action scenes and not the acting, she does mean it. In fact, you'll only disappoint yourself by watching it without the full effects afforded by the movie houses.

The special effects are truly flawless. If they say they spent billions for those, I'm more than willing to buy the idea. While I can't swear the cinematography is equally good (due to some effing scenes that are too unnecessary and downright terrible), I can still say that the movie is a true eye candy in its own right.

To each his own, I guess. But I really do appreciate the film in it's entirety. However, I won't be harping against those that hold a grudge towards it. In the truest sense, they are right. The movie's too dumb, the storyline's too predictable, and the events are totally illogical.

They ask, why did Sam and the others have to find the Matrix of leadership when a sliver of the Allspark is all it took to revive Megatron? Oh that's easy. Optimus is a Prime. And Primes need the Matrix of Leadership to revive them from death. (Lolz, I can't believe I'm acting this silly)

And robots having offsprings? Why not? The viewers can see Wheelie humping, so why can't they have "several generations" that can be "lost in the civil war"? =P

OK, enough with the stupidities. One doesn't need to be a fan to appreciate the movie. Unless you're my mom, who claims to like the first movie more, but that's a different story.

I'm actually willing to overlook a bit of offending portions of the movie, and give it a real review. However, the "Robo Heaven" scene is too corny even for my usual corny standards. I know no other plot device can tie up all the loose ends, but it just ruined the experience.

So, I'm not giving it a grade, unlike in my other mini-reviews in this blog. But I'd still recommend watching it, it's too good to pass. Also, remember Starscream's "Cowards get to live another day" line and Jetfire's father, who was the first wheel. XD

Twelve months

2009-07-06T20:51:00.005+08:00

SIX months after this particular post and I find myself thinking again. I did say I'll consider lengthening my stay if I get upgraded. But I'll leave it at that. "Consider" is the key word, and I have 12 more months to ultimately make up my mind. =P

Straight Slap

2009-06-29T15:29:00.003+08:00

There are things that we usually expect to happen that, although expected, can sometimes hit us so strong in the face that no amount of preparation can compensate due to the suddenness that they occur. Like a strong slap delivered to your proffered cheek - you did offer the left one but the strength of the blow could just be too much.

As of now, I just wish the ones I'm expecting will not come at the same strengths as previous expected events. I did expect those things to happen (and still expecting the next few rounds), but yeah, I was still caught unprepared. But as they say, time to move on now that the burden is off my shoulders.

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A/N: I just had to get this post out of my system so I can continue working on something I should be focusing on. Pardon the numerous times I used the word "expect" and its variants, I just am not in the mood to search for synonyms at the moment.

Long Live

2009-06-27T22:34:00.004+08:00

Though not really a fan, I am one with the world in acknowledging that the death of Michael Jackson is a big loss for the music industry. The King of Pop's demise couldn't have been more ill-timed, happening barely a few months before his comeback concert, which die-hards fans are really waiting for. The king is dead, long live the king!

The event underscores a very basic truth: that we are all mortals doomed to cease our breath at the fated time. Nonetheless, it also brings to light a far greater fact that many people seemed to be oblivious to.

That, my dear friends, is the simple truth that along with the snatching of life, death also brings about immortality. Truly, a dead person lives on in the hearts and minds of those whose lives he or she has touched, one way or another. And so long as that memory remains etched into the consciousness, the deceased will remain alive for all eternity.

Note to self

2009-06-26T21:13:00.001+08:00

I must adjust this blog's layout. It seems that the current one doesn't look good on widescreen format monitors. XD

Pushing the pen

2009-06-21T23:07:00.004+08:00

I'M currently pushing myself to write; I have lots of things to work on, and I think it's about time I exert some effort to get them done. Apparently, my writing skills are at an all time low; I can barely string together two sentences to come up with a paragraph that, hopefully, makes sense.

Setting that aside, though, I allow myself to wallow in pleasant reverie as my actions bring forth fond memories of the days when I had been more proactive, and writing well enough. My "prowess" with the pen is still intact, as evidenced by the several blogs posts that had long been running in my head, although I haven't updated them to cyberspace, yet.

And then again, "yet" is the word. I'm yet to begin drafting that which-must-be-finished-by-tomorrow evening. Nothing to worry about though, I have the whole night to myself. =)

Swine Flu in Town

2009-06-15T22:38:00.004+08:00

FOR perhaps the first time in living memory, the grapevine failed to deliver the hottest news to my doorstep. In fact, I had to rely on the national news on TV (delivered via the station located a hundred miles away) to know what's happening in a village a good 2 to 3 kilometers from home. And that dreadful news is that my town is now affected by A(H1N1), AKA the swine flu.

In as much as I would want to, I'd rant about how useless the government's actions are as regards preventing the spread of the disease. However, doing such will go directly against my "limit-the-rants-in-this-blog" directive, so I'd just leave it at that. But I think it's proper that I voice out my opinions, nonetheless. I'll just tone down the rants a bit. =P

For those who still do not know, the village in question is about the remotest in my town. I actually haven't gone to that place, though I have passed one or twice near it when taking an alternate route I'd only take on certain occasions. So that leaves a great mystery as to how the virus got there in the first place. Current theories include a group of people on medical mission, and a foreign national, bringing it to that place.

Solving that mystery isn't top priority though. It's curtailing the spread that is mainly on everyone's minds. And what are people doing about it?

As relayed via the news report (the grapevine seemingly succumbed to the flu already and fails to function as before), government medical personnel are going about handing out vitamins and antiviral drugs. I JUST SINCERELY HOPE THAT THE PEOPLE ARE TOLD NOT TO TAKE THE MEDICINE IF THEY'RE NOT AFFLICTED, to avoid the novel virus from evolving by interacting with an already immune host. I know a person or two will likely down those drugs as soon as it's been handed, and that's worrisome. It'll be catastrophic for the influenza strain to evolve when the cure for the novel one is still not around.

Frankly, I'm no longer assuming that people are really keen on preventing the spread of the disease. The mere fact that it reached my remote town is already proof that not everyone is thinking of avoiding the continuous transfer, and almost imminent mutation, of the virus. What I'm bearing in mind now are ways to avoid contacting it.

But what I'm getting ticked at the most is that the health department seems to be downplaying the disease' effects. Sure I agree that the endemic Dengue fever is far more fatal, however it is but foolish to just put A(H1N1) on second priority due to the lower fatality rate.

At the end of the day, it is a matter of personal crusade against the virus that should be at the heart of everyone. Preventing the spread of the disease through all means possible, even if it means going on self-quarantine for several days, should be what each one of us must bear in mind always.

Re-tracing

2009-06-09T21:53:00.003+08:00

There are things I (thought I've) left behind way back the time I decided to grow out of a certain hobby of mine. Like a ghastly shadow silently lurking always but ever so near, however, it managed to resurface and get a firm grip on me that is almost as strongly as before. But it doesn't really matter, though. I have learned how to better control myself now.

Nonetheless, I got hooked (a bit) again; and this time I have to retake all the fundamental steps I have gone through before. And as with every other circumstance when one needs to relearn the ropes, there is always that time when one is able to reminisce of the good times. Yeah, I'm basking on those memories I thought I have already thrown to fly with the winds.

I'm back, and I'll try hard to do what I do best.

Of mobile phones and other company-related matters

2009-06-06T23:37:00.003+08:00

Thanks largely to an uncommon twist of (company) events, I had been unfortunate enough to experience another of those-long-work-weeks that I thought I had left behind in team ACeS. For seven straight days, I was running across the province, traveling several hours per day, climbing up hills and down through valleys, and speeding along little oceans of mud. And yeah, the inevitable, driving while using my mobile phone. XD

Don't get me wrong, I'm actually against the use of mobile phones especially if the vehicle we're talking about is a frikkin' motorcycle. Anyway, I've been using the company vehicles yet again, and I had only resorted to answering phones calls while on the move if I couldn't help it.

But that is not the point of this post. I merely stated what I've been through, and that I'm glad I have 2 days of rest starting tomorrow. Or make that one day starting the day after tomorrow. Whatever.

Thing is, I'm beginning to consider the trivial bits of circumstance that some newly-enforced company rules are raising into focus. Sure, I can accept the loss of the TCP. And I certainly can't do anything if we still don't have the salary adjustment, or mid-year bonus.

But the increased likelihood of being denied OT pay just because the company is keeping it to an average of 10%? Or the increasingly rampant requirements for which we can't ask for the appropriate OT pay, for the same aforementioned reason? Truly, I can't stop myself from fearing much worse.

I'm back

2009-06-03T21:38:00.003+08:00

There are things I have long given up hope on. But there are those for which I still haven't. And with a renewed passion, I take up my pen and write, write, write again - for nothing can satisfy me more than to share my thoughts and put them in the archives of eternity.

Many things have caused me to slack off and fill my mind with mundane thoughts. Although they are not necessarily what I had yearned for, I still can say that they'll serve their purpose. What is important in the here and now is that I'm resuscitating my blog again.

I'm back. I hope I stay longer this time.

Salvation in Termination

2009-06-02T23:20:00.003+08:00

OK, the title isn't so imaginative as it's supposed to be. But at least it's straightforward. Dear readers, this is my mini-review of the film, Terminator Salvation.

A bit of background information is in order, I suppose. For starters, this is already the 4th in the Terminator series, which catapulted (more or less) California Gov. Arnold into stardom, and the movie follows a few years after the time line of the 3rd film, Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines. We see John Connor (portrayed by Christian Bale, aka. Batman), all grown up and fighting with "The Machines" as the story is supposed to be.

And as the story is supposed to be, this is all about keeping Connor and his father, Kyle Reese, alive. And yeah, salvation. The title says salvation, right?

Maybe it's but proper to at least say that when they said 'Salvation', they did mean it. The movie is all about that theme, to the point that things are quite predictable. Apart from the personal salvation of Marcus Wright, and the salvation of the human race by Connor, it is also a salvation of the series from antiquity.

While it is true that viewers will not find anything new in the film, as most of the scenes are done in reference to other elements from the previous movies, there is that cinematographic factor that manages to bring all of those together so as not to make a film that is half-done, or half-raw.

As a matter of fact, I do believe that watching the film on the big screen is worth the more-than-the-usual hassles I encountered. Come to think of it, I've been through sudden changes in work schedule, unfriendly weather, and a vehicular incident all because of my desire to watch it. It IS that good enough that I DO NOT feel any regret in even going to the movie house at a very late time, and under unfavorable premonitions.

Anyway, the gritty details: cinematography is really good, sound effects - quite enough, and special effects are as to be expected of a high-budget film. Bale's acting is, I have to agree with other reviewers, a bit bland and doesn't help the story much. Unless that's how he's supposed to act thing out, which will make the story a bit more terrible when it really isn't.

Basically, the movie is about Connor, Wright, and Reese. If I may add so, it's like you can divide the movie into frames-that-show-either-of-the-three, and frames-that-show-neither-of-them-but-gives-superb-action-sequences-in-lieu-of-the-three-main-characters.

But all in all, I still love it. Given that it provides a wonderful movie experience, the film gets a score of 8.5/10 from me.

This post is brought to you by... (AKA, Wowowee is an insult to the Filipino intellect)

2009-05-29T16:30:00.007+08:00

For what can be considered among the longest time ever, I've been procrastinating over and over; hence, the inactivity in this blog. No, scratch that. I haven't been procrastinating; I've been deliberately stopping myself from posting.

You see, I haven't been getting some good inspiration to blog about. All I've been thinking are negative thoughts, especially with what's happening in the country these days.

But since I do know that it doesn't do me good to keep all of such things to myself, I might as well let it all out in this (increasingly becoming common) rant post. To simplify things (as I'm just venting out anyway), I'll put them in a little list.

As stated in the title of this update, "Wowowee is an insult to the Filipino intellect." I've been hating the show for years now, trying hard to distance myself from the accursed noontime show. But during those times when I simply can't avoid it (like when people in the office are watching, and I'm hurrying to finish a report), my disgust at everything in it just enforces my view.
Follow up to #1, "Wowowee is exploiting stupid viewers." Forgive me for the term, but I just won't bother myself in trying to find another phrase when that is exactly the point I'm saying.
Filipino politics is getting worse and worse as years go by. I have *almost* lost all hope in the mother land. I just pray that the coming election next year (if it will not be postponed by the corrupt politicians in power), will NOT be the final nail to the coffin in which the future of the country will be trapped forever.
I'm slowly giving up on the Philippine Senate as well, particularly seeing the likes of Bong Revilla (who's using a scandal just to get publicity as he can't do anything else to be noticed by the public), Mar Roxas (shamelessly using a woman, and a few paid kids, to further his unpopularity and political career), and Manny Villar (who's just a plain hypocrite). If there is one redeeming action that the other Senators can do to salvage what is left of their dignity, that will be to kick Villar out due to abuse of position in relation to the C5 extension controversy. And by the way, I do believe he's guilty of using his influences for financial gain.
Stupid Filipino soap operas are the main culprit behind the sorry state that the country is in. As long as there is one STUPID Pinoy soap opera that basically tells the viewers to take the Martyrdom expressway via STUPIDITY lane, then we'll never run out of citizens willing to sell their votes during the elections. And there goes the last rays of hope for a better future in this (slowly becoming God-forsaken) place.

End rant post. I do hope I won't be updating anything like this anytime soon.

Warm and dry

2009-05-08T21:35:00.005+08:00

The strong summer sunshine that flooded the entire place would have told a different story if not for some telltale signs, such as a puddle of mud and a strong river current, that undeniably stated of a storm that blew the night before. But time was ticking, and I was running late. Nonetheless, I couldn't help but marvel at the pristine beauty that heralded the beginning of a wonderful summer day. The day would've been perfect, if I was at the beach, but jobs are piling, and I could only long for another sunny moment while keeping my fingers crossed. *Sigh*

Random pic

2009-05-03T20:55:00.001+08:00

An Afternoon Flood of Memories

2009-04-26T23:20:00.006+08:00

A rather strong downpour this afternoon had, once again, forced me to abandon the use of my PC lest a sudden strike of lightning fry it's components (which I incidentally just cleaned a few hours previously). Thus, I was left with nothing to do, although I don't do anything much even when the device is on, anyway. XD

So, I pushed myself to take care of a few matters I should have carried out long ago. And among the things I managed to do was tidying my room. Although I wasn't keen on cleaning up, being the lazy person that I am, I had more than enough time and there was nothing else to accomplish (sleeping was deliberately taken out of the options, by the way).

And there I was, sorting out stuff and rearranging bits and pieces of my past. Hordes of correspondences in envelopes began appearing out of everywhere, and so did grocery receipts, billing statements, travel tickets, souvenirs, memorabilia, et cetera, et cetera.

While rummaging through the pile, I just couldn't help but reminisce. With each item that my fingers touch, floods of memories began pouring as steadily as the rain against the rooftop.

Old notebooks - filled with various data and whatnots - swept me back to my days in training, and brought back images of a past I've long since forgotten. Here and there lay old payslips, and I just couldn't help but wince a little, as if it pained me that much, when I realized I am now still getting less than what I used to get in my previous job of 3 years ago.

A trinket or two reminded me of the time when pRO was at it's peak. Those items I eventually placed in very accessible locations, along with a few blank CDs and network cables that should have been used already, but wasn't due to several circumstances.

Eventually, I finished extricating the things that I must keep within reach, and stowed the others in the proper storage places. Having done everything I thought I should do, I grabbed my phone and sank myself down upon pages of e-books that lay dormant in the device's memory card, while helping myself to some chips that led me down further memory lane.

Summer's missing

2009-04-26T19:09:00.004+08:00

While scientists are saying that the freak weather the country is experiencing at the moment is a sign of global warming, I have an altogether differing view. Sure, having strong downpours during the month of April is something that hadn't occurred in recent history, and the shift in the air current patterns that is causing it is a side effect of the phenomenon.

But really now, people are missing something. Had it not occurred to many that perhaps this incident is mother nature's way of saying something like, "Well, since Jherskie ain't goin' to Bora due to the cancelled TCP, might as well postpone summer until next year..."

Lolz. =P

Just joking. ^_^ I also believe this is a sign of global warming, although acknowledging the cause can't get us anywhere near to stopping the rains during my beloved season. Moreover, it doesn't change the fact that after last month's escapade with the OSA babies, I still haven't been to another summer outing. All I've been doing for the past weeks are work-related activities that really aren't that fun. Sigh... =|

Choices

2009-04-21T23:32:00.003+08:00

WE all have our own choices to make: there are those who find it easy to say 'yes', while others give their 'no' without second thoughts, and some find it best to wait.

Summer Rain

2009-04-15T21:13:00.005+08:00

There are incidents that arise quite suddenly that despite the very imminent warning signs, some are still caught barely prepared for the consequences. Nonetheless, not everything may really be unwanted, 'coz a bit of rain after a boring, hot summer day can be the perfect ending to one that had been so mundane.

Reflection

2009-04-11T01:16:00.004+08:00

Over the past few days, I've gotten one of those rare chances to reflect and think things over. It was largely due to some work-related activity involving a great deal of travel that I found time to ponder and re-discover some of those things that I've been forgetting as time goes by.

As of now, there's no question regarding my future plans: I've already made my mind to, again, let the fates decide one way or another. No, it's not the things to come that I greatly thought of; rather, I spent a lot of time reminiscing the things that I'd rather not bring to my consciousness during any ordinary day.

I remembered one thing in particular: that I have lots of frustrations and failed dreams. They still haunt me, although I rarely realize that they do; as a matter of fact, they are deeply buried in my subconscious mind that even if I don't live the negativity associated with them, they still alter my way of thinking and still cause some actions or decisions that I'd not have had in the first place.

Despite all my frustrations, I still emerge in control somehow. Perhaps this is due to a stronger analytical mind than before, or maybe brought about by a more fortified will power. One thing's for sure though - I still get to see the brighter side of things.

We can't have everything, I've long accepted that fact. But the thing is, I really do not ask for anything much, but sometimes I get what I never wanted and I find the things that I've longed for continually slipping away from my grasp. I do have more than what others may be in need of, however I can't lay my hands on those that I really yearn for.

I had never been one to fall for stupid mistakes, but all the wrongs I've done - they surely are greater as compared to what others may cause. This had always been one of those frustrations: that I screw up at the gravest possible way, in the most critical time, and at the worst place that I could. I had never wished to be perfect; I just wanted to be a better me.

Yet through it all, I can't help but feel satisfied over the littlest things with each wondrous passing day, in every sumptuous meal on the dining table, and at every sensible post I can put in this blog.

Left Behind

2009-03-25T05:56:00.002+08:00

Always bear in mind that with each step you take, you'll leave behind something that may never be the same again.

Weekend Get-away

2009-03-23T22:08:00.003+08:00

Here's another one of those posts that are long overdue for, er, posting. It's about how I spent the previous weekend, and for the whole week that immediately followed, I had been trying to blog about it (but never got to, so yeah).

Last year, we got together and dined with style in Isdaan. The year before that, we attended a dinner dance party. And for this year, our group, now unofficially called OSA babies, spent a weekend up north. We went to Baguio and La Union. ^_^

The trip was largely thanks to: 1. Jom's funding (he's fully-loaded 'coz of a good-paying job in the US); and, 2. Jasper's meticulous planning skills (which border on obsessiveness). The weekend get-away is by far one of the most convenient trips I've had, largely due to the rather tight schedule imposed by Lolo Jasper. XD

Our journey began at noon on the 14th, and we arrived at the hotel at 6PM. Dinner was our top priority; we basically fled the hotel quickly after checking in. After the tasty treat, the others opted for boating in the man-made lake of Burnham Park. I had no choice but to get on the frikkin' boat and maintain balance for half an hour (I was scared that my weight was enough to capsize the small water craft). XD

We had coffee after the 30-minute ~~torture~~ boat ride. In between sipping our hot drinks, we had the usual chatter (actually a continuation from the story sharing that began during the 6-hour trip to Baguio) about our lives and plans. After about an hour of laughing our heads off at each others' jokes, we went back to the hotel and had our photo shoot. Lolz. =P

(We actually came up with future business plans while Joms was using his DSLR camera, but I'd keep the minutes of the meeting confidential at the moment.) ~_^

Breakfast the next day was "complimentary" at the hotel, and after we filled our stomachs, we left for Good Shepherd Convent for the_usual_pasalubong. After grabbing the treats, we went to Tam-awan, and had even more photo ops. =P

It was already past noon when we left Baguio City for La Union. We had lunch at around 3PM by Sea Park resort. After posing for several pictures, we stripped down and had fun at the beach. ^_^

By 6PM, we left the beach and made our way to Dagupan, where we had dinner. It was already 9PM when we ate. I was really so hungry the whole time. T~T

Anyway, the whole 36-hour get-away was too fun-filled that we motioned to have another reunion next year. Next stop: Boracay. =P

Summer Song

2009-03-22T17:03:00.004+08:00

The warm winds carry with it a tune of celebration, of exhilaration and excitement, joy and contentment; making up a festive tune with this consonance of sounds, nature's music-makers and people's voices herald the onset of the wondrous season. Ah, summer is here, and the fun now begins!

Whirlpools of emotions and whirlwinds dancing in the air; swirling sounds filled with merriment permeate the atmosphere. The sun is up, the beach lays waiting, pack up the bags, and let's get going! ^___^

Living

2009-03-10T19:53:00.005+08:00

The best way to live is to live for the present, the future, even the past - far beyond mortality, and even before nascency.

Freedom

2009-03-09T19:32:00.001+08:00

The only problem with freedom is too much of it.

Defining 'frantic'

2009-02-22T18:40:00.004+08:00

In the immediately preceding post, which I posted 4 days ago, I did mention about "frantic efforts" to lose weight ("subcutaneous fats in particular"). I believe it's but proper to expound on this and share how I really define "frantic."

But before everything else, I suppose I'd give this whole post justice by providing some background information about me, myself, and I my never-ending struggle to get leaner.

I was a healthy child way back when, with 'healthy' meaning "not sickly and with strong constitution, able to run away most of the time in the game of tag, harang-taga, langit lupa impyerno, im, im, impyerno and whatnots" and not necessarily with too much layers of flabs to look like the Michelin mascot. Although my childhood wasn't necessarily too full of happy memories, I could at least pride myself in saying that once upon a time, I could tease someone as baboy (pig), taba (rotund) or whatever term was uso back then.

The problem began when I entered the stage of puberty, which also coincided with the time when I started to get high grades in class (I leave you, dear readers, with the task of imagining how the two are connected). ^_^ Basically, my BMI increased and my waistline grew a tad more than what is appropriate for a normal kid. But, back then I didn't mind. I was growing, and people say it's part of growing up (along with acne, breaking voices, and others that I know you can still recall).

I breezed through my remaining student years getting a bit more plump than what I would've wanted. Mind you, though, that during my college years I was already thinking of getting a leaner frame. But the bottom line is, my body wasn't my priority, even if I was starting to hate how I look. ~_~

If I could have spent more time (and resources) back then, I know I would. However, time and money were two things I never had in great quantities back in those days, and pushing my grades to the pinnacle was all I could do to ensure a brighter future.

Nonetheless, the time came for me to get this battle started. It was during the review for the board exams. The usual low budget + stress brought about by reading tons of materials and recalling insane amount of mind-boggling formulas + adjusting to a new, polluted environment had provided a valuable by-product: fat reduction. =P

It's been (nearly) 5 years, and I can still ~~smell the fresh paint~~ (sorry, just can't help but quote from a favorite movie of mine) remember the joy I felt whenever people would say Ang laki naman ng ipinayat mo... Harhar!

Anyway, the succeeding 2 years had me going through enough stress to keep my weight at bay. Nonetheless, something happened last year that totally ruined everything. I was transferred here in my present team. XD

Well, for the past year I had been neglecting my health too much that I gained back all the weight I've previously lost. And now I'm stuck again with my old BMI. :(

Thing is, my favorite season is fast approaching, and with it are plans for some supposed-to-be-memorable weekend get-aways. This fact had this immense pressure upon me to get that body I had been striving for. I just can't go to the beach looking exactly this way. I. Must. Do. Everything. In. My. Power. >:[

Hopefully, this rather ~~short~~ lengthy background information had covered all the vital facts. Time to get to the main point of this post: my definition of 'frantic.'

They say that a picture paints a thousand words, so maybe I can save enough space for those thousand words by putting this picture up:

I had to divert a lot of my almost-always-limited funds to buy this baby. We've been together for more than a month now, but I'm yet to see any favorable developments. XD

However, aside from the sad development that there are still no good developments, there's a spreading rumor that the company will be foregoing the annual, customary, Team Celebration and Planning. D:

Talk about bad luck. XD

Not in the Best Mood

2009-02-18T21:49:00.003+08:00

I really am not in the best mood at the moment. There are just so many events that took place recently, and they really do not leave the kind of memories you'd like to cherish.

Several years ago, I wrote in an essay that I'd like to live my life to the fullest and, one day, sit back and reminisce at how colorful my past would have been. I had always striven to fulfill just that, though at times I'd like to shoot myself in the head for trying out a few things I shouldn't have.

And right now, there are just so many of those "few things" that I'd wish I can undo. Too bad CTRL+Z doesn't work in real life, or else this post would have been entitled otherwise.

Well, I got involved in a vehicular accident about 3 weeks ago, and although I'm thankful there weren't any serious injuries, I can't help but get frustrated with the daily commute I'm forced to face until the insurance company releases the payment for the repairs. And speaking of said insurance company, the process may take a few months if the crew of the repair center is to be believed (the insurance company is notorious daw for it).

Of course, my professional career is not at it's brightest point again, with me almost changing my career path from a telecoms engineer to a computer programmer/accountant/PR officer.

But among my great frustrations is the fact that I'm still gaining weight (subcutaneous fats in particular) despite my frantic efforts to lose them. XD

If not for several fall back plans that prove to be working (and some back-ups that do not serve their intended purpose), I'm still able to keep myself afloat and not sink into another bout of depression. For one, I'm well aware that it'll take too much to get back up.

But most of all, I just can't afford to break down any time soon. There's light far beyond the horizon, no matter how faint it may seem, and the mere possibility of a slightly brighter tomorrow is all it takes to keep me going even if I'm not in the best mood.

A Breather

2009-02-13T22:31:00.004+08:00

Tonight I take a breather from the_usual_stuff I do to get paid. It had been two weeks since I last updated with a real post, and I just have lots of things to blog about. Sadly, I still don't have enough time to blog about them all. D:

As always, I'm merely pushing myself to take my pen again (figuratively, that is) and come up with something that will at least tell you, the very few of you who usually drop by (you know who you are), that I'm still not giving this blog up. =P

But of course, this post is a bit special from the_usual_advisories. Tomorrow's Valentine's Day, and we all need to take a breather from the_usual_stuff that eat up most of our time. ^_^

Happy Valentine's Day! =)

Helping

2009-02-12T21:21:00.002+08:00

Sometimes, the best way to help another is to just listen; lending an ear, and empathizing with what someone has to say, is often more beneficial than it seems.

The Path I'd Take

2009-01-26T23:03:00.006+08:00

As with the previous year, I'd be putting greater focus on career development. I figured that it'd be best for me to grow up as a professional since I'm not really getting any younger. (Personal maturity still on indefinite hold) =P

In several posts last year, I mentioned several aspects of my job, particularly the PA or performance appraisal. If last year, the PA was too much of a big deal, this time around it was too much, let me say downplayed, for lack of a better word. And yeah, I had passed my PA report already without me blogging about it.

The PA will, of course, remain the basis of the salary adjustment and/or promotion recommendation. However, some department *cough* (HR) *cough* must've thought that rushing the appraisal process might save money or something so they hurried us line employees to submit our individual PA reports with just a few days of notice.

Yeah, I spent a bit of time with my report so I wasn't able to blog for the past weeks. But I did put my career as priority#1, right?

Last year, I said I'd make sure to be ready for a promotion this time around. But meh... I was more confident last year to get upgraded as compared to now. I won't expound more, as I don't want to bring up bad memories. XD

But if there's one thing I also decided, it will be this: that I'll be basing on the outcome of the appraisal the path I'd be taking a year from now. Put straightforwardly, if I get upgraded during this appraisal period, I'd consider extending my stay in this company even after my bond expires in about a year's time. If I get promoted next time instead, I'd decide whether to leave the company or not when I can officially tender my resignation. But if I'd still remain as a Junior Engineer after next year's appraisal, then there's no question about it: I'd be leaving on the first plane that'll take me elsewhere.

XD

Before we go further...

2009-01-26T21:36:00.003+08:00

Happy New Lunar Year! =D

I wanted to write several updates today but had to drop the idea to give way to a few other things that came up. Hopefully I can come up with something before I get too sleepy. XD

Oh yeah, a few more words into this advisory. I said in my previous post that I'll think of 3 things this year (Career, wealth and health). And yes, this blog doesn't fall in any of them, unless I decide to monetize this in the future.

However, it doesn't necessarily mean that I won't be giving this blog much attention. I'll still update every once in a while, especially when inspiration strikes. But in the mean time, I'll try to emulate oxen by working hard and concentrating on my career, which is my top priority this year.

Well, I hope to let you read something new when you visit this blog again. Please drop by soon. =P

Starting time again

2009-01-19T21:24:00.003+08:00

The clock on my PC clearly states that it's January 19, 2009 here in this part of the ~~globe~~ world where I'm in, but nonetheless, I'll begin my posts for this year with a brief outline of my plan of actions. Now, I won't be boring anyone coming to read my blog with a long list of mundane matters because in the first place, I have only three things to bear in mind this year:

Career

Health

Wealth

=P

I've decided to make separate blog entries for each of them, instead of expounding on a single post. More about these three soon. ^^,

Happy New Year!

2009-01-01T00:44:00.000+08:00

Because the lack of a PC won't stop me from posting my greetings.

Happy new year! ^^,

The last, long post of 2008

2008-12-31T07:08:00.004+08:00

Yeah, you read it right, this is my last, long post for 2008. I know this should have been posted maybe later this afternoon (or as close to 12 midnight as possible), but I have to leave in an hour since I've got a 24-hour duty 'coz of the holidays. XD

Anyway, I'll try to squeeze in everything I could in this post. After all, 2008 had been a colorful, and very fruitful, one. So, let's begin. =)

The promise which is 2008
2008 had been a year of promises - I began the year with lots of promises, which I either kept or broken. Don't get me wrong, I don't flaunt broken promises, 'coz I also believe that promises should be kept no matter what. But one thing or another led to another thing or so, and before I knew it, time frames could no longer be followed.

It is during this year that two major, and unforeseen, events changed so much in me and caused several plans to either be dropped or shifted. The greater of the two is, of course, the sudden transfer from teh ACeS to my current team. This not only affected my professional career (think of starting from scratch after a year of hard work and learning), but my personal life as well.

Career change
I'd be a hypocrite if I say that the transfer is an unwelcome event, 'coz it wasn't. Career matters set aside, the change in work environment very much helped me set a few things in motion (as well as obtain new experiences). For one, I managed to re-align my finances and let our house get some of the renovations it had been in need of for the past 15years or so. And although I haven't stayed true to paying up all my credit cards, at least I am managing my money more efficiently since I'm staying at home.

Moreover, I got to learn lots of technical stuff in my new team. At least now I'm confident that I DO DESERVE to get that upgrade come next assessment. Either that, or start planning on seeking greener pastures. (This part of the plan is still hanging, pending the results of the next annual PA)

I guess I'd cut that bit about work at that point. I do want to chronicle a few more events, but I think they're pretty confidential stuff. Let's just move on to the next major event this year, which is...

Bye pRO, Hello RainRO
Yeah, I consider that something big for this year. Of course, I had been thinking of leaving pRO for good (for several reasons, such as LU!G focusing less and less on CUSTOMER SERVICE and more on CUSTOMER EXPLOITATION).

I never thought I could get pRO out of my system, because it was one of the mental mechanisms I employed to balance out the dull existence of living teh ACeS life. But several turning points shook me to reality that pRO had long passed the point of no return (from the place called oblivion). And then I chanced upon RainRO, and I soon learned to unlearn my loyalty to pRO (in which I had been a faithful follower for the past 5years).

Long story short, I replanted my roots to a server that doesn't promise anything more than a fun playing environment. And after sweating it out for a few months, I managed to let go of all my attachments to pRO (my account is still active, though).

Of course, my renewed addiction to Ragnarok Online via RainRO is hogging most of my online time. I hadn't been updating this blog, since I'd rather level my characters than come up with proses and updates.

Still, I find this life a bit better than ACeS (which I admit I no longer miss).

In 2009
I'd end this year-ender with a few words about my plans for next year. Yeah, career stuff will dominate every aspect of my goals (I do hope for an upgrade *crosses fingers* ). And did I or did I not say that I believe promises should be kept no matter what? =P

My plans for the coming year will include those things I failed to accomplish in 2008. I'd add up a few more objectives, perhaps when the need arises, but all in all, I expect to face another fruitful year.

Happy New Year! ^^,

Just a quick...

2008-12-24T23:36:00.001+08:00

Merry Christmas!!! Hoping for great times this holiday season *cheers* ^^,

Officially unofficial

2008-12-05T23:47:00.002+08:00

Well, after roughing it out for a few months now, I might as well make it official. I've left pRO for this:

Please give it a try, if you may. I'm not actually endorsing it, but I do find the server much more pleasant than pRO.

A/N: I'll probably upload this post later after checking my previous entries.

Smile! =)

2008-12-01T18:58:00.002+08:00

If you're anywhere within the Philippines right now, I suggest you take a look at the moon. You'll probably see something like this...

Zooming to as much as my phone could:

Smile!

Bye Bye, Vampire

2008-11-06T09:29:00.002+08:00

It had been easier than I expected, and I'm really grateful for it.

Our company did some reorganization a few weeks ago, and I was assigned a different group. Same team, though, but a different set of duties and responsibilities.

Among the members of the group, I have the least experience in handling the equipment we are now solely in-charge of. Yeah, yeah, rookie much as always (but hey, since I always start from scratch, I always have a shot at getting an "improved" rating on my performance appraisals, right?) =P

But there is something very much welcome amidst all the changes - no more graveyard shift! ^^,

Bye bye, vampire. I thought all those months of never-ending night duties had made me nocturnal already, but thankfully I was wrong. Adjusting to the normal people schedule (as my friend Mai calls it) had been easier than I expected. Now I can look forward to getting sufficient amount of sleep and getting back on-track with body workouts.

Eagle Eye Candy

2008-10-29T23:51:00.004+08:00

Whether it's three or four weeks of going to the mall just to check if the movie's showing, it doesn't really matter. All the wait and wasted effort proved to be worth it, though, as Eagle Eye is generally as good as Hollywood films get.

Owkay, good things first. Cinematography and editing, direction and sound effects - they're all good, nothing to say against them. Basically, there's no dull moment in whole 2hours of playing time, although I'd admit that the story's predictability is way too much that one can really expect what to happen next. I think this fact is rather advantageous, as the viewers are left to concentrate more and more on each scene - and each scene is really well-caught on film.

Well, apart from Wanted, this is another movie that had me yearning to watch another re-run after finishing the first (but didn't due to time constraints). But like Wanted, this movie's biggest flaw lies on the story itself.

(NOTE: I wrote this review after reading other interviews of the movie) It seems many critics think that preposterous is but too soft a word to describe the plot - and I do have to agree with them. It doesn't take a telecommunications engineer (such as myself) to figure out that the main idea behind the Eagle Eye program is not just unlikely, most possibly such a notion will be nipped off the bud the moment someone suggest to turn all mobile devices into BigBrother-able sound receivers. Technically, it's not gonna happen soon (with soon here meaning the next 100 years or so) because everyone and their mothers will most probably object to the idea.

No, cellphone companies will not market handheld devices that can relegate their controls to a foreign entity. And yes, technophobic, it's still safe to buy that phone you're eyeing for so long.

Absurd plot elements or not, Eagle Eye is generally great. There are lapses, yes, but the whole movie experience makes up for it. And for a movie that tries hard to make the viewers as dumb and technophobic as possible (whether or not it succeeds is a non-issue), I'm still satisfied with the ticket price and the hassles of dropping by the movie house week after week just to check. Although I'm not keeping my fingers crossed for a sequel, I'd still give the movie an 9.0/10.

Driving logs

2008-10-29T23:25:00.004+08:00

Out of necessity, I usually drive to go to work. (But please don't ask what brand, model, etc., I'd rather keep that a secret) =P

So for the past six months, I've been plying the 20-km highway connecting my town to the nearby city where I work at least 10 times per week. And of course, that is regardless of the weather condition (for example, I've been through an awfully strong rain in the middle of the night), and time of day. I've got to work, and I've got to get there on time.

I can say that each trip is an experience worth blogging, although I can't say for sure if what I'll write is... pleasant. XD This is why I'm adding another label (Driving Logs) to my posts, please expect these blog updates to be road-related.

Through my eyes

2008-10-27T21:44:00.003+08:00

About two or three months ago, I decided to try my luck on one of the many contests I saw on TV (c'mon, I'm sure we all did, one time or another, right?). The rule was so simple, yet ultimately complicated at the same time. XD

Oh yeah, the contest I'm talking about is Nat Geo Asia's Genius of Photography. Basically, the contestant is made to choose, among a set of photos, the one picture that the original photographer liked best. A very simple rule, right?

Well, the hard part is guessing the person's rationale. Choosing the right photo is one thing, finding out why he liked it is an altogether different and totally mind-boggling task. C'mon, how will you know what a stranger is thinking, when you don't know him in the first place?

Seeing there's no chance of actually guessing the right one, I chose to just put my own thoughts into it. I was thinking, well, we might be thinking the same thing anyway. But of course, we weren't, else I'd be blogging about my winnings, right? XD

Anyway, for me the best among those photos is the one entitled, "Multicolored Reflections." Here's my reason:

"Color greatly attracts the eyes, and Multicolored Reflections does command attention. Aside from showcasing how light play can truly spice up photographs, this picture also tells how things may be seen in "a different light" - that is, that a thing's beauty is multi-faceted and that looking at something in various angles and lighting conditions may reveal something more than the eyes can see. Furthermore, Multicolored Reflections leaves a strong imprint upon the beholders - a forceful declaration of how photographers ensure that a thing's beauty, captured at the precise moment, may be given its own place in eternity."

Thinking about my words, I come to realize something I had been missing all along - the reason why I love traveling and taking pictures. I may have been too distracted to the point that I was just going with the flow of activities, and not really doing what I really wanted to do in the first place - taking photographs that will let others see, in my own perspective, the true beauty of those places where I had been.

Nothing much in this post

2008-10-27T00:49:00.002+08:00

I've been procrastinating again, and the list of things I should have done is getting longer. There are the topics I should have blogged about several weeks ago, as well as the revisions I should have effected on this blog's template and on my friendster profile page. Then there are also the endless computations and projections, project studies and implementations, and the whatnots in between - arrgh!

Owkay, my body clock got messed up because of several events during the past few weeks. I'm still pushing myself to get back on track, but still failing at it 'coz of several side activities that are draining my diligence. XD

Two Out of Three

2008-10-18T00:49:00.002+08:00

Two days into my 3-day mandatory leave, and I still don't feel like I'm taking a break. XD Maybe it's 'coz of the unusual amount of the_usual_chores that I do almost on a daily basis, but I could swear that that wasn't two whole days! Pfffft...

Or, perhaps, I'm feeling this way because I'm really excited to go to LU Live!? I dunno really. I'm going on the second day, though, since I don't have that much of a budget for it.

Anyway, I just thought about not having some R&R despite the fact I'm on mandatory leave. I do remember that back in ACeS, the 3-day mandatory leave was something we look forward to. But then again, in that team we can extend the mandatory leave to as long as 10 days of utter bliss. HAR! HAR! HAR! (I only stretched mine to 8 days, actually, although I was the schemer behind my teammate's 10-day vacation last year) =P

Well, as my mom puts it, I feel this way because I had been passing time the same way as I do on a regular work day (particularly when doing the graveyard shift). Yes, it's probably due to the length of my stay in ACeS that I still haven't gotten the hang of how I do my work around here (ie., merely spending 8 hours on the office and staying at home for the remaining hours of the day).

Still, over-analyzing and ascertaining the root cause of this situation doesn't change the fact that tomorrow's the last of my 3-day mandatory leave for this year. And I'll still be busy on the next two days after that to actually have time for some R&R. ~_~

In Four Days

2008-10-16T00:12:00.003+08:00

I certainly know not what events can transpire in the next four days. I cannot say that the world economies will recover - no, stock markets are not my thing. I also cannot predict whether the weather will truly be fine or not - I'm not a meteorologist. But one thing I do know will hold true is this: I'll be 25 years old in four days' time.

Yes, the fourth day from now is my 25th birthday. And it never rains on my birthday. =P

Now, I do not know why it never rains on my birthday - I just noticed it, and I do hope it stays that way. I only like rains for my plants to flourish well, but my natal day happens but once a year, so the downpours can take that day off. ^^,

The month of October is one of the peaks of the stormy season; many of the strongest typhoons devastated the country on this month. But no matter how great the weather disturbances could be, they always stayed away from my birthday. Quite great, isn't it? ^_^

A Better Approach

2008-10-15T00:54:00.008+08:00

Poverty is a global problem with enormous implications in our pasts, presents, and futures. It is an ever-growing predicament that continues to engulf more and more individuals, especially in the world we are in right now.

Let's face it - poverty is everywhere, and it is developing as a threat to what must be a bright future for us. It brings complications far worse than many give it credit for - as issues like terrorism and dissent are largely due to an increasing number of people caught within it's grasp.In order to move forward, it is crucial that everyone takes part...

While it is true that more and more of the poorest of the poor are being entrenched into living lives of violence, I still believe that there are ways to turn all of these around. And I also believe that, in order to move forward, it is crucial that everyone takes part in countering this otherwise adverse trend.

Yes, governments all over the globe are trying their best to eliminate poverty, particularly in their areas of sovereignty. However, I highly doubt that all of their deeds are really for the best - after all, they only work for what they adjudge as best serving their own nation's interests.

It is precisely because people and governments are not collectively addressing poverty that I am getting more skeptical as to whether their actions will be all for the best. Because in doing so, they tend to sacrifice those they could just to attain their desired ends.

I'll just use a certain market example to show my point. Let's just say that most people would like to buy their necessities in as cheap a price as possible. Many will pay less for their food if they just could. Surely, their government will likely try to "protect their welfare" and keep the food prices down. The downside? How about those farmers that produce the goods, must their "own welfare" be sacrificed so that consumers will get the cheapest-priced merchandise?

There are other better examples, I think, but I'll just use that one since it makes the illustration a little less complicated. Of course I can google up some bits of information, and come up with cross references to how the current first world governments had, at one time or another, exploited the poorest of our nations today. But that is beyond my point.

Thing is, the better approach to solving this burgeoning dilemma is collective action aimed at uplifting EACH and EVERY INDIVIDUAL in the world. Merely creating jobs for the unemployed WILL NOT END POVERTY, especially if we're talking of salaries in the bare minimum levels. Getting all kids to have primary education is also not as effective, since schooling doesn't necessarily mean the future generation will have a future.

The journey towards the eradication of poverty is one in which the voyagers must travel together with complementary cadences.If we are to put an end to poverty, we can only do so by joining hands and taking the proper steps TOGETHER. Everyone, from the members of the highest social strata down to those living below the poverty line, must do their part in an approach that is better than separate, and totally unrelated, courses of actions.

Now if the members of the upper class will cease exploiting those in the lower classes, and if the lower members will stop trying to bring down those in the higher levels, there will be a clearer path for everyone to follow. That path is a road that must be traversed with all the people walking side by side towards the common goal of development.

Truly, the journey towards the eradication of poverty is one in which the voyagers must travel together with complementary cadences.

Spaghetti month

2008-10-11T23:21:00.005+08:00

It began as an excuse, and then turned into a challenge. And before I know it, a month has already passed.

At first, I was just too lazy to come up with any update. A few days onward, I thought I'd challenge myself with how long I can keep my thoughts to myself. Couple those with some facts like crappy work schedules, tons of house duties, and a renewed addiction to gardening, gaming and interior decorating and that would likely explain the inactivity around here. XD

Moreover, I had also entertained the thought of quitting. For the past month when I wasn't writing down anything, I felt wonderful without the pressure of having to come up with something worthwhile for my (I hope not so) few readers to read. But no, a pressure-less existence just isn't my thing. I really must continue writing, because I need to.

So enough with procrastinating - updates are already long overdue. I also should post something relevant to this year's Blog Action Day's theme (poverty) - the day is just around the corner, because it's already October.

Oh yeah, it's already October!

Nah, I haven't forgotten about that since there are lots of reminders to keep me posted. And those reminders come in the form of noodles mixed with red tomato/ketchup sauce. Neighbors are flooding us with that that I hereby dub this month as "Spaghetti Month" ^^,

(And yeah, I'd get even in a few days - I'll also be send my neighbors some spaghetti on my birthday).

Return of teh Vampire

2008-08-30T23:50:00.004+08:00

Due to a sudden twist of unfortunate events, I find myself going back to being the nocturnal animal I used to be back in ACeS. I think I need not emphasize the fact that that lifestyle really had detrimental effects on my health. This is why I was thankful that when I was transferred here in my new office, I had to do the graveyard duty only *once* a week.

Sadly, until we have enough manpower, I have to do 3 night shifts per week. *sigh*

Apart from the hassles associated with such shifting schedule, another significant reason had got me wanting to go and tender my resignation right away (LOLz). I'd have just shrugged all of it off if not for that peculiar timing with which all of these had to take - I already had plans that had been set several weeks/months before. I'd just reset the plans if I could, however the plans involve going to events that occur only *once* a year. *another sigh*

Things such as this are among the reasons why I no longer see a future in this company. Nagtatrabaho ako para mabuhay, di ako nabubuhay para magtrabaho (I work in order to live, not the other way around). Really now, don't the higher ups realize that small things such as this are pushing the employees to seek greener pastures? These days, I don't think they do.

Abrupt Changes

2008-08-27T22:53:00.004+08:00

In the light of several events that happened over the past few days, I've decided to effect several changes to my plans (both short- and long-term ones). The core objectives are likely the same, but I'm gonna do some major overhaul over the plan of actions.

This is basically why I didn't bother blogging for a whole week - I figured that I needed to think back and pinpoint what exactly I must be doing for the future (and yeah, I'm largely referring to money matters here). Among many other things, this blog's direction is also greatly affected, since I'm abandoning a few plans I thought of setting into action (well, like putting google ads, for instance).

My immediate course of actions include wrapping a few loose threads here and there, and preparing for the bigger goals I've set. I just hope I can bring my ideas to reality, and finish those I must. Two years more 'til I can go to the next levels - can't wait (ie., my resignation letter is pretty much full of reasons/justifications right now). XD

Commemorating Language Month

2008-08-19T23:07:00.005+08:00

EVERY August, this country I'm in commemorates the father of our national language (Manuel L. Quezon) by having what is called, "Buwan ng Wika" (Language Month). Yeah, I'm in the Philippines and the national language is Filipino (an amalgamation of several leading dialects, actually, but prominently Tagalog-based). Of course we speak English, considered our second language, because of several reasons (the top ones would be since the economy's also depending on foreign trade and since it provides jobs to call boys and girls. puns intended. Hehe) =P

During the "Buwan ng Wika", everyone is enjoined to speak the national language as a sign of respect for that which is considered the nation's soul. However, as oil can't be mixed with water, there are several aspects of our day to day existence that just can't go with that flow of patriotism (this blog included, because I think there are those of other nationalities who happen upon it one time or another).

And then came one moment when my idle mind came up with another crazy idea: why not, under the guise of national pride, dedicate a whole day when everyone in the country should use Filipino exclusively? It's plainly absurd, yes, but I have listed down a few things here that could offer some 'compromise.' ^^,

Telecoms

Tagalizing

"Ang numerong pinindot ay di maabot. Iba na lang ang pindutin."

"Ang iyong kaligayahan ay pinutol na dahil hanggang doon lang ang iyong binayad."

Banking and Finance

"special"

"Dagdag", "Bawas", "Pagpaparami",

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Note: I'll just update this post some other time. I'm quite sleepy now. :)

Return to status quo

2008-08-19T22:49:00.003+08:00

I'm quite calmer now that I've vented out on my last post. Therefore, things around here will be going back to the way they were before (since I still don't intend to stray from the usual mood of this blog). I have some topics I lined up for discussion, and I would have blogged about them if not for those recent happenings in the country that prompted me talk about current events.

Also, I'm joining the Blog Action Day again, as I did last year. Topic this time around is poverty, and I think I can express what I have in mind as regards the matter over the next few weeks.

On Philippine Current Events

2008-08-18T19:14:00.005+08:00

IT seems I am yet again breaking my word with this post. I had, time and again, said that I'll try to keep this blog free from political posts because that is how I really wanted this to be. But I just can't let the things happening in Mindanao to just pass by. It just had to stop.

PLEASE OBLITERATE THE MILF.

There. That's my stand. I had given up believing that the Moro Islamic Liberation Front is really fighting for a peaceful Moro land in the country's second largest island. I'm not totally against autonomous regions in this country (but I seriously doubt they're for the best), but what this group is asking for (BJE) is something that goes against my books in so many ways.

Really, why the need for autonomy, if not just asking for POWER? Why ask for division, when there is not even cooperation within their ranks?

The recent bouts of violence that transpired in Lanao today clearly shows that the peace treaty with the MILF will not be different from that with the MNLF. In other words, the MoA-AD will not provide a lasting solution to the peace problems in Mindanao. Scrap it all. Destroy the MILF, and seek other ways to achieve a peaceful Mindanao.

MILF problems aside, there is another matter I decided to include in this post. Since I'm straying away from the usual mood of this blog, I might as well pull out all the stops.

First of all, I am no fan of reality shows, much more those talent searches. But my parents had been watching Pinoy Idol on GMA7, and since the show was airing during dinner time on the past Saturdays, I had no choice but to watch it as well. As a matter of fact, I didn't care who'd win the effing show several weeks ago, but the announcement of winners last night just got my blood boiling.

I don't claim to be good in music. Heck, I even disagree with my younger brother as regards his definition of the term (I don't count much of the emo songs these days as 'music'). But I'm sure many will agree when I say that the winner, Gretchen Espina, is not deserving of the title, "Pinoy Idol." I don't give a damn about Ogie Alcasid's excuses (that the winner was determined via text votes), the whole damn show was a farce in the end! This winner doesn't even have the star potential, I highly doubt she'll make it big.

Two thumbs down to the frikkin' TV network for fooling the viewers! I really respected GMA network, thinking it values honor much more than rival ABS-CBN. But no, they're both worthless.

So now, I'm sticking to anime. At least Code Geass managed to salvage whatever respect I had left for it, with R2 episode 19.

Planting in Ipo Reservoir

2008-08-15T22:02:00.004+08:00

SINCE I have been harping much about environmental awareness lately, I thought it’s about time that I really do some concrete actions and get my hands dirty by actually doing… something. =P

So, I took advantage of an opportunity that came swinging my way – a tree planting activity organized by our company. Get that. Organized. By. The. Company. And yeah, we were kinda paid to do so. ^^,

Alright, alright, I don’t wanna sound like a hypocrite here. I’d still do it even if I weren’t given a one-day community service leave. Anyway, I could do with the exercise (and the trek) as I’ve been increasing my body mass index (BMI) ever since I was relocated in my new office, and, more importantly, I love plants (need I elaborate, or should I just point you guys to one of those posts preceding this one?) =P

Oh yeah, this is where we planted the narra seedlings:

Ladies and gentlemen, Ipo Dam – one of the three reservoirs that provide a steady supply of water to the capital city (er, if my memory serves me right, it’s the smallest of the three – with the La Mesa topping the list, and Angat the second). So yeah, you people in the capital might soon be drinking the water that washed my feet after the tree planting. Hehe. ^^,

The activity was fun, although very short. As a matter of fact, our travel time far greatly exceeded the duration of the tree planting (we only planted for about an hour vs. the more than 5hour-journey). And while I was replanting the seedlings, I was also noting the environment (feeling adventurer/explorer, hehe).

There were lots of giant forest millipedes, and of course, mosquitoes! XD Too bad I left my camera phone behind – I was afraid it may fall on the water, as we had to ride a boat to get to the planting site – I’d have taken lots of pictures of the things I found there (yeah, there were wild *orchids*, but they’re not in bloom, or else I’d have snitched them and brought them home *joke*).

Despite the fact that I was only able to plant at most 50 seedlings (I was hoping to get a most-planted-seedlings-award, haha!), the activity was satisfying enough. I did manage to accomplish much, if not all, the goals I’ve set – ie., getting away from work, sweating out excess poundage, and going places. I really look forward to doing this again (next year, since we only have on community service leave per year). =P

Paningit lang...

2008-08-15T21:56:00.004+08:00

Please don't mind the title if you don't understand it (it's a phrase in the vernacular, btw). I just wanna say that trying to update on a daily basis is, er... something I'm not gonna do anymore. I just realized that I can't do it, for several reasons. XD

Shii's Song

2008-08-14T22:21:00.006+08:00

WEEKS ago, my friend James introduced me to Shii via a post in that_message_board that I used to frequent. And ever since I first saw the video on Youtube.com, I have loved the song mainly for the nice melody and the solemn message. The video, Shii's song, is a flash rendition of Shii the cat singing her version of Wind's Nocturne.

I loved the song enough for me to consider replacing the current playing song on the background ("Where Love Doesn't Reach") with it. But I decided against it in the end. =P

Still, I have the song playing continuously whenever I'm at the office and there's nobody else around, especially when I want to sleep. Hehe. It's very much relaxing, both for mind and spirit, and it helps me snooze off quickly (while on duty, that is.) ^^,

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Note: Post updated to suit the standard BLUE PHOENIX style.

First Anniversary =P

2008-08-12T23:55:00.002+08:00

I really have quite forgotten how long it had been. Turns out, Sandra here had been with me for a year already. And as if to commemorate our anniversary, she produced these nice flowers. =P

There they go...

2008-08-12T22:22:00.003+08:00

THERE they go... again. And this time, the family’s gotten bigger. Plus, they’re out to prove that two thousand years of existence ain’t enough for some people (namely, Zi Yuan and Lin) to come up with a simple solution to a simple problem. YRLY.

Alright, I’m supposed to be doing the usual movie review after watching a film, but I just can’t seem to maintain neutrality (as I always did) on THAT particular movie (hint: it’s about a mummy, a tomb, a dragon and an emperor). But I ain’t saying it’s very bad – not at all, sir/madam - it’s just bloody retarded in the end.

Well, for those who at this point still haven’t figured the insinuations, I’m talking about "The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor" – the movie I watched a couple of days ago (four days and running, to be exact). The reason for the late review is my usual laziness coupled with the usual weather disturbances and recurring power interruptions.

First off, the good: this movie had everything; the bad: maybe a tad too much.

True, the story is quite solid enough, following a few years after the last Mummy storyline. The original couple, now retired, is happily living a monotonous English life somewhere in London while their son had taken over the task of tomb raiding (albeit secretly in the beginning). As expected, the mummy (in this story, a Chinese emperor) is resurrected through a bizarre twist of events and wreaks havoc. And as if in conformity with the two preceding films, the resurrected villain needs something to achieve completion (and conquer the world) and manages to clear those necessities one by one – only to be defeated in the end. Defeated, mind you, by being stabbed on the heart by a cursed dagger - the very dagger that could have killed him long before had Zi Yuan just thought of resurrecting him one sunny day and driving the blade the instant it was possible. But no, it wouldn't make for a good movie, would it? The mother and daughter tandem just had to wait for the O'Connells to finally put things to and end.

In other words, the movie was quite predictable. Furthermore, it tried to squeeze in lots of scenes and story material in such a relatively short span of time (2hours) such that some shots are noticeably hurried and under-exposed.

On a subjective viewpoint, I’d say I didn’t enjoy it as much as the producers would have wanted, plainly because I personally didn’t like what they did with the third movie. This is coming from one who truly liked the first two movies.

If I were to put it bluntly, this movie just isn’t the sequel I was hoping for. But it could be just me, of course.

Yes, the movie ain’t so bad. In general, it’s worth the ticket, I daresay. I’d still give it a 7/10 despite the shortcomings I listed above, mainly because watching it was a nice enough experience (really better to watch it on the big screen instead of on the_usual_channels). And yeah, it is a good date movie, if I may add. I really wasn’t expecting it to be so, but I guess that it’s good as it is anyway.

With the Blowing Winds

2008-08-10T23:54:00.002+08:00

HEAVEN knows what all things will lead to, and for my case I rest the outcome of my decisions to the winds. There are things that are just beyond the scope of human abilities – and it’s better to watch the consequences and react from there.

But not always of course.

Still, the inevitable fact remains that human wisdom will never be sufficient to fully understand a complex reality such as the future. No amount of planning, no amount of precaution, nothing within a mere mortal’s powers can prepare everyone for what is to come.

And although it’s wise to save up for the rainy day, it’s always better to savor every moment spent under the sun. Live life to the fullest, so as not to regret every step taken, and not long to bring back every second that has already passed.

Finding Our Purpose

2008-08-05T22:05:00.007+08:00

I suppose I should make a follow-up to the post immediately preceding this (or something of the matter). Ahhmm... But I don't think I have enough to say about the environment at this point to make another full blog update. Oh well, I think I'd just blog about that-which-came-upon-me- through-the-usual-channels. =P

What I'm talking about? The animated movie from Pixar, Wall-E, which is a nice film over-all, that's what. And yeah, it's not yet released in this part of the ~~Globe~~ planet. Hehe.

Alright, let's all glance over the_usual_channels I spoke of, and just focus on the film. It basically succeeds in it's objectives as a kiddie movie (er... was there ever one?). Nice graphical renditions, good storyline, a nice plot (pretty straightforward without any plot twists) - in other words, kids should enjoy it. (I'm a kid at heart anyway, so at least count me in). ^^,

The reason why I thought a review of WALL-E is a good follow-up to the preceding post is that this movie also talks about the ill-effects of bastardizing the environment. Set in a gloom futuristic earth, the movie very much implants a clear picture of how the planet may end up if the pollution problem is left unchecked. In other words, the planet will die and human beings may be forced to settle in outer space.

WALL-E succeeds in reaching out to the viewers plainly because of a very simple approach (ie., a children's film approach). It also manages to relay it's message effectively, if I may add. And the movie also proves that there's no need for in-depth, fancy dialogs to build up a nice story about love between two (seemingly) sentient robots. (Well yeah, I didn't expect that the two can very well carry out a conversation despite their ability to only say "woll-eee" and "ee-vee")

But if there is something the movie wanted to convey to the audience, I think it would be: we should all act to save the planet because no one else will do that for us. We should at the very least find our purpose, our part in the collective effort to save the planet. And after knowing what we are to accomplish, we should put them into action and not wait until things are already too late.

A Fundamental Step

2008-08-05T21:18:00.004+08:00

NOWADAYS, the world is getting a beating from the forces of nature, which seem to be becoming more and more violent as the years go by. Yeah, global warming is a large factor behind these weather disturbances (and whatnots), and I do believe we should all really seriously think about our future.

Come to think about it, nature really isn't going against us. The cataclysmic weather phenomena we are experiencing for the past few years is directly, or at times indirectly, caused by humans, who seem to be not acting their part (and behaving like animals, in a sense).

I do believe that one of the first steps we need to undertake is to acknowledge the fact that these hardships we are going through is caused mainly by our own actions and inactions. These catastrophes - typhoons, hurricanes - are naturally-occurring mechanisms that balances and maintains the equilibrium, although their disastrous effects are worsened by recent human activities.

Again, I'd quote the Filipino saying, "Ang di lumingon sa pinanggalingan, di makararating sa paroroonan." We should always bear in mind the past errors we've committed, try our best to rectify these mistakes and avoid repeating them yet again.

Just a quickie

2008-08-04T14:11:00.005+08:00

Seeing that it's already August, I decided that I should first put up a short advisory before going on with blabbing about mundane stuff. I'll try to make it as brief and concise as possible, because that's what advisories should be about, right?

Well, last month I was able to churn out a total of 27 posts. Hopefully I can go beyond that this time around, since my actual target is a blog post a day. Owkay, I didn't quite do just that in July - I rather made two posts a day in the latter part of the month. =P

Hopefully I can stick to that plan for the succeeding months (although I already have a backlog of three posts). And I also hope to carry out other plans with the remainder of 2008 (such as losing all the excess poundage I've gained ever since I stopped frequenting the gym).

AAAANNDDDDD... I'm also yet to pay my credit card debts. XD

Rain Woes

2008-07-31T21:51:00.004+08:00

JUST how crazy can the weather here in the tropics get? I've been living in this place all my life and yet I still can't predict just how the day will turn out. Waking up to a sunny morning just to get drenched in the afternoon rains is not a happy experience. RLY. XD

Owkay, I'm ranting again. And I'm ranting about the weather!

Bleh! Don't mind me please. I'm just frustrated about getting wet in the rain even with my rain gear on.

Still, I'm thankful for the rains. My plants seem to enjoy the humidity, and several of them are bearing flowers now.

Hmm... So I haven't posted any new pics lately. I'll just update this post later and upload a few pics. Here's to hoping my cellphone camera doesn't fail me tomorrow. Cheers! *Drinks up rainwater. XD*

UPDATE: So I hate the rains, but Sandra seems to be enjoying them. Look! She has two flower spikes already. =P

Hopefully, she'll be in full bloom by the latter part of the month.

Life-Changing Moments

2008-07-31T21:07:00.003+08:00

HOW often do people come across life-changing moments? Funny that just last night, I was dead sure that that the answer is "very rarely, if not at all." In fact, had I managed to blog about it last night, the main idea of the post would have revolved around how scant those chances are, when people can stand up to prove themselves.

But the weather was a bit uncooperative, and I had to sleep early because of the thunderstorm. And when I woke up this morning and thought about it thoroughly, I realized that my previous answer had been wrong, so wrong.

I was mistaken last night, because I forgot a very important point - that when we say life-changing, we don't usually mean momentous incidents. And this morning, I remembered just that, and it suddenly struck me that my point of view had been wrong.

Every single moment of our existence, and each one of our decisions - no matter how small or insignificant they may seem - they all have a great effect in our future. We just can't shrug off a little deed in the morning as bearing no consequence to how our day will turn out.

Taking that into consideration, the answer to my first question changes to "an infinite amount of time."

=P

Dark and Light, Dull and Bright

2008-07-29T22:05:00.005+08:00

EVERYONE has a tendency to be evil, but everyone is also predisposed to be good. That pretty much sums up the main point of "Batman: Dark Knight." Yeah, yeah, it's already old news but I managed to watch the movie on the big screen just a few hours ago.

Owkay, to that summation I'd wholeheartedly agree. I for one am a believer in the inherent goodness in everyone and everything, and I also acknowledge that even the thinnest paper has two sides. But if I am to give my own rating to Dark Knight, I'd give it only a 7.5/10.

Sure, the movie ticket is more than worth it. Actually, the movie is lengthy (and dragging at some points) by my standards. I've lost count of how many times I glanced at my watch to check the time, and after the movie I just couldn't stand right away (as if my legs have decided to sleep there and then).

Dark Knight is fine over-all, the acting is good as well as the direction and cinematography. Effects are quite well and not overdone (I really loved how the hospital was blasted to smithereens, hehe). I suppose there weren't over- and under-exposure of some scenes (because frankly, I've lost track at one point or another). But I'm not satisfied with the story, and I think that a different script would have fared better.

AANNDDD... I'd have to disagree with that cellphone SONAR thing. I don't suppose mobile phone manufacturers would design SONAR-capable handsets even if they were directed to (and I won't believe they'd ever be ordered to do just that). I won't say it's a stupid idea, but I'm not saying it's a bright one in the first place.

On to the next movie, I suppose. Good night! (^^,)

Two Years Since

2008-07-29T21:36:00.004+08:00

REGARDLESS of what we all have been through, no matter how far apart we may be right now - one fact remains and it remains true to this day: "Once a Sikatorse, always a Sikatorse."

Yes, it's more than two years since we started our journey. I know many of you guys are planning to leave next year (I'd very much like to join you but I just can't). But wherever your feet may take you, wherever you may decide to let your roots be replanted - we'll always be the best and most democratic, the biggest and most coherent of all the batches that made up the CDS.

Cheers to two fruitful years! Hope to still see you around this time around next year! =P (Or rather, don't forget to send the regular group emails, should you no longer be part of the company then.)

Counting down

2008-07-28T19:45:00.003+08:00

SEVERAL years back (well, two to be exact), I had not seriously considered working in a different land. As a matter of fact, I used to tell anyone who'd ask, "I'd go abroad, but only as a tourist." Back then, I wished to stay in this country while pursuing my dreams (although I still didn't know what they are).

But in the light of all the work-related events that transpired during my now two-year stay in this company, I had come to that painful decision to swallow my pride and 'go with the flow.' Yes, I'm counting down 'til I can officially tender my resignation ('coz I'm not legally capable to file it until about two years from now). And I'm not the only one - many of my co-workers who started at the same time as me had already expressed their decisions to go as well.

Borrowing the words of one of my batchmates in Sikatorse:

"If you don't go after what you want, you'll never have it. If you don't ask, the answer is always no. If you don't step forward, you'll always stay in the same place. Take risks, for life goes on."

Gauging the Changes

2008-07-26T23:54:00.007+08:00

KEEPING track of changes, particularly those minuscule accretions or reductions, is not always easy especially for who have a tendency to ignore the accumulating discrepancies until the differences are much too obvious. More so if the changes we are talking about are changes in an individual's attitudes and views in life. Yes, I'm talking about myself here, but I guess many can relate to me anyway. XD

So I haven't been noticing until just a moment ago, those subtle changes in me that I failed to notice 'coz of the things that are keeping me busy these days (like sleeping at home or on the job; LOLz). Lately I have been slowly attaining a few of my goals (which I set at the start of the year) and I didn't realize that I had. Blame it on the distractions, perhaps, but I think I know the real reason why I just shrug them off until the change is so great to ignore. I ignored the changes because they are just the initial, necessary steps I had to implement to attain my true objectives.

I don't know exactly when, but I have been slowly fulfilling #1 and #5 of my 2008 plan of action and the results are quite conspicuous already. I now know I'm a more mature individual/professional as compared to a few months ago, and I'm now looking at things at an even better light.

Yeah, I've been complaining much about some company stuff that occurred not-so-long ago, as well as my moments of indecision. But these days, I have succeeded in closing the books of old wrongs and directing my attention instead to the future ahead. I have, so to speak, matured well enough to keep myself at peace with the things that used to make me bicker and sulk in a corner. If before I used to say, "poor me, having to suffer through these...", now I can proudly say, "oh, so this is why I had to undergo those 'tortures'..." =P

Yes I have changed, and it isn't really the kind of change I always wanted (except of course for the still continuous lost of excess poundage, which is among the wanted ones). In truth, I never thought I'd see things the way I do now. But yeah, I have come to a decision that I used to despise because of my nationalistic idealism - to pack my baggages and allow my roots to get planted elsewhere.

Yes, I've finally given up on this country and I'm preparing to relocate. Although I feel it is pretty hypocritical of me to say so, I have accepted the fact that at times eating your own words is far easier than it seems. Giving up pride for more vital necessities is a mark of maturity, I surmise, and being able to do just that show how much I've changed without me knowing it.

A Possibility(?)

2008-07-25T00:18:00.003+08:00

IF I had just managed to keep track every time, I might have enough data by now to contest whether it may really be attributed to just coincidence. Oh, what I am talking about? Nothing really =P

Lately I just keep noticing that about 90 percent (or more) of the time, I'd be receiving text messages on my phone whenever I touch it. YRLY. SRSLY. I dunno if this phenomenon is just pure coincidence or what, but the almost-mathematical accuracy is just getting on my nerves.

Just picture this, every time I'm at home I have this habit of putting my cellphone on top of the PC table (for easy access). My work (which extends even to the periods when I'm off-duty) ensures that I receive more than enough calls/texts than the average cellphone user, so whenever I'm at home I try to distance from it as much as possible. And just about every time I feel the need to take a peek at my phone, a message will suddenly pop up - whether be it work-related, or any other message from my friends.

And that is what makes me curious. Why do I always feel the urge to touch my phone just a couple of seconds before a message arrives? Had I ever welcomed the absurd possibility, I'd be claiming now that the nature of my job had made me sensitive to radio waves that I have a working RF antenna somewhere within my body. =P

Passed Generation

2008-07-23T23:04:00.005+08:00

EVERY time I frequent the places where I used to hang out with my college buddies, I realized more and more that my generation had passed. Or something like that. Yeah, yeah, I should have known that long ago but certain courses of events have preventing me from thinking about it. I'm a full-grown adult human physically, but please allow me to remain my childish self from time to time - in this blog at least. =P

After every trip to the mall, I am left to ponder why it still feels as though it was just yesterday that I was a college student. Several years after obtaining my degree and yet it doesn't seem too far away.

The answer isn't too hard to find, actually. I had joined the workforce for more than three years already but those weren't serious (at least that what I think).

In other words, three years had passed and most of the people my age have gone on with their lives. Many have attained that level of professionalism and career success I'm still dreaming of. There are several more who have started their own families (and are now blessed with kids). Yet through it all, there remains the same Jherskie who essentially stayed the same.

Perhaps it's because of the nature of my work around here, which lets me stay in touch with the ever-changing world. Or maybe it's my online activities that do the trick. The thing is, I failed in grasping the reality that I should have gone on with my own generation.

But still, there's no use denying that the body grows old. People, places and things change, even if those standing as spectators fail to notice the sublime differences. Fads and trends come and go; popular concepts die out and become unpopular.

And me? I'm remaining as one of the spectators watching how change is repainting the colors of the world around us. I can't go on with the flow of the new generation that superseded mine (may the all-powerful deities bless these young ones, wake them up from the ugly hair styles they're sporting, strip them of the ridiculous clothes they're wearing, and lead them to live more useful lives). But how long I'll just stand and watch, I'll let time decide while I sit down waiting.

Ramblings

2008-07-22T23:48:00.004+08:00

I had always been wondering - am I really destined to know everything I wanted to, yet not be able to utilize them to the utmost I desire?

The immediately preceding post before this one (Knowledge) is a conclusion I came up with after reading this wikipedia entry about geeks. Knowledge for knowledge's sake is a path of life for many - and I think I'm among those who have chosen this path.

I have an insatiable thirst for knowledge. As a matter of fact, my love for traveling is but an offshoot of my desire to know the world better by viewing it through my own eyes. I was not one to travel for traveling's sake, but rather I journeyed because i wanted to acquire the knowledge firsthand via my five (or perhaps six) senses.

Never before had I acknowledged my affiliation to geekdom, but it was never an issue anyway. All the people around me saw me as the general info quiz bee champion, nothing more and nothing less.

All of that is just a fraction of what I really want. Deep inside, I do not simply wish to just know. In reality, I wanted to know and apply the knowledge I have acquired. I want to know how the food in different parts of the world taste like, and how the local people cook them, and I wanted to cook them myself if I really enjoyed the taste.

But lately I have seen that things are not going the way I would have wanted. The past few years have borne witness to how much wisdom I have acquired, yet there wasn't much instances when the information proved handy for my part. True, I know how the greatest writers in history have been able to persuade their followers, but I never had the skill to simulate that and capture the effect even in a small scale.

I know lots of things, yet not many people know that I do; the reason behind so simple - I never let anyone know what I know. Don't call me selfish or something, I'd share my knowledge if I could. But of course, a large amount of information isn't so useful to begin with - there's just too much clutter and what is truly essential may be hidden well among the mess I call my memories.

One thing's for sure though, the knowledge of which among the information in my memories are useful is one of the things I've yet to know. Perhaps when I've grown wise enough to discern which is trash and which is a gem, I'd have stopped rambling about mundane stuff such as this.

Knowledge

2008-07-22T06:25:00.001+08:00

Knowledge for knowledge's sake is how the geeks put it, right?
=P

Too Much Assumptions

2008-07-20T12:08:00.003+08:00

A double-edged sword, it may seem to me, which yields it's power to the one who efficiently wields it - figuratively, I'd say that about a peculiar characteristic of one of my skills.

Nah, I'm just bluffing. C'mon, please don't take it seriously. =P

It's... not actually a skill. It's just a stubborn quality of mine that is useful at times, yet had placed me in trouble for several times now.

I'm talking about my seemingly-inherent tendency to make assumptions. I can't really remember when I started relying on them, but I suppose it started back in my school days, particularly during one of my numerous math lessons (which go something like, "now class, assuming that this variable is kept constant despite all the other factors changing as a result of...").

The thing is, I seemed to have developed a reliance on those assumptions that I sometimes don't take every factor in whatever decision I make. There are times, as well, when I just half-assumed the facts instead of obtaining them. Oftentimes, such incidences have led to not-so-good outcomes, and I had to start a few things all over again.

And yet, I still can't stop myself from making assumptions whenever quick facts are presented before me. I find it easier to deduce the information I wanted instead of plainly asking for them. Maybe because it's also because of the nature of my profession (engineering) to make assumptions in dealing with unknowns in the various formulas we use, but yeah, I'm not yet so good at it.

Not so long ago, I tried to just stop assuming altogether, but all my efforts were futile. So, these days I'm just restraining myself from relying on my assumptions. The way I see things at the moment, I'm going on the proper path. I just hope that this path I'm taking really is the best.

Question and Answer

2008-07-19T00:11:00.002+08:00

When asking not for fact or opinion, your personal answer is the best for whatever question you may bring up.

My Decision

2008-07-18T23:02:00.004+08:00

Not so long ago, I've come upon a decision, which I still hope and pray to this day that I'll be able to stand by. It was during those numerous moments when I was searching for a path to take, that I resolved to bear in mind always: respect individual free will. That decision stemmed from my belief that there is beauty in everything, and the world is good as it is with all the individual idiosyncrasies that compose it.

Whether people would understand that decision or not is not really of any concern to me. In the first place, it had been a very personal decision - a call I made myself.

Choosing to respect the rights of each and every individual to do things on their own volition is not really a serious matter with world-changing consequences. But the actions of a few individuals may of course affect the world we live in, be it for better or for worse (I'd really prefer the former).

Even now I can't say that my decision is all for the best, but I wanna believe that it is so. Maybe it's because I want to have faith in the goodness of the human spirit, or I simply just don't want to share responsibility for wrong doings committed by others - the bottom line is that I've made my choice and I'll strive to stand by it.

Rearranging Revelations

2008-07-18T00:13:00.004+08:00

You may or you may not ignore the post before this, and you may do so with this one. I won't be talking enough sense anyway.

As I was driving on the way home late this afternoon, I suddenly had the urge to rearrange the letters that make up my surname. Don't ask me why I was thinking of that when I should be focused more on driving, 'coz I no longer remember why I did think just that.

Anyway, I just realized that when the letters of my surname (Ambion) are rearranged, they'd make up, "BIOMAN" ^_^

(Yeah, I did waste your time just like that.) =P

NOTE: I'm not making up conspiracy theories here (LOLz). A quick search of the word "Ambion" at google will give pages of pharmaceutical companies. The ever-so-trusty Wikipedia, on the other hand, had this stub about Ambion Hill (not to be confused with Silent Hill).

'Coz I Must Post Something Like This Now

2008-07-17T23:58:00.003+08:00

I actually had a few thoughts in mind that I ought to have blogged about, yet didn't manage to. Right now, I'm appreciating the wisdom in my friend, Mai's words when she said something like this a long time ago: Parents who learn the ways of the internet are a force to reckon with.

Alright, I was in the mood to write something a few hours back, but my mom had been using the PC to chat with my uncle in Saudi Arabia. XD

And then, after they finished their lengthy chat, my mom pestered me about that supposed earthquake tomorrow. XD So, I had to squeeze in time to find this page just to let her know the obvious - that it's just a hoax email perpetrated by those who don't have much to do. I'd accept that my adolescent cousins and their classmates would be gullible enough to take it seriously, but adults?

Whether there'd be an earthquake within the next 24hours is not really my concern until the ground starts shaking (at which case I'd just do what is obviously the best thing to do - wake up from sleep and run out of the house as quickly as possible).

Justice and Laws

2008-07-16T01:18:00.003+08:00

Aart Hilal, who like myself, is a fan of Paulo Coelho, had given me the link to our favorite writer's blog. Yes, I've known the Coelho actively updates his blog, but I never tried to look at it until Aart provided the link ('coz I'm lazy just like that).

So there I was, skimming through my favorite writer's posts, until my attention was hooked onto one critical question: "What distinguishes an unjust law from a law that we simply do not want to comply to?" I paused for a bit of time and pondered. And then, I posted a reply that goes like this:

"I still think it's just a matter of perspective.

As others had commented before me, the question of distinction between an unjust law and a law we simple do not want to comply to is a subjective one. The human heart will know if there is justice to the rules brought down upon the people.

But as always, the heart is easily blinded.

Some may easily say that a law is unjust, while some will just say it is not (and they'd all not comply with it in the end).

The easiest measuring stick with which people can discern whether or not a law is unjust is this: if a law serves to bring about social order, make every member of the society equal in ranking, privileges and responsibilities, foster a good environment for the development of EACH and every one of the individual members, and nurture and protect individual freewill - then surely that law is just."

Awakening

2008-07-16T00:37:00.004+08:00

Recent turn of events had managed to awaken me, and made me face the tough reality: that far from becoming the person I had wanted to be, I'm becoming quite the opposite. Perhaps it was because the process was subtle and incremental, but one thing's for sure - that my weaknesses remain while the things I consider my strengths are slowly dissipating with each passing day.

I no longer know how much time had elapsed since I told myself that I'll always use my head in whatever decision I'd make. It doesn't matter now, 'coz I've already broken that vow out of a whim just to get a shot at being rebellious one time or another. Yes, I did say I'll follow the best and most secure way available. But I have long strayed from the path most people take, aiming to make a new one that I hoped will let people remember me for (or something of the matter; I'm really not so sure what I'm blabbering about right now). =P

Looking back at some of my most recent memories, I see that I had become self-centered (something I really used to despise). I've had my share of vanities and prejudices, and many a time I also cared not for the people around me, but for my own selfish concerns.

But the greatest error of all, is that I still don't feel sorry that I had done those things. I guess maturity's still a long way down the road for me. But this time, I'll savor every step towards the goal.

A Nation’s Soul

2008-07-14T21:53:00.002+08:00

Language is a nation’s soul; it binds and fosters ties, bridges and overcomes indifference and miscommunication, and makes a nation, a nation. At the very least, that is what I believe.

Yeah, I do love to study languages for several reasons. Of course, apart from my native tongue (Pilipino), English is my second language and I’ve learned using it since primary school. But there are a lot more in this world, and I’d learn them all if I could.

Lately I’ve been delving much into manga, and I now know Nihongo a bit more than before. And it is actually because of my increasing interest in learning the Japanese language that I realized that I really am interested in languages. Hehe. (But back in my student years, I also despise language subjects) =P

Anyway, one thing about languages is that by carefully looking at several aspects, one may know more about the people that speak it. A person need not to learn all a language’s intricacies and idiosyncrasies to know that it genuinely reflects the nation, which uses it.To know about the people, it is important to know their language

Well, I’m no expert at this stuff, but I’ve deduced a little from the bits of knowledge I have of the languages I know. Yeah, Pilipino sure is family-oriented, Nihongo an honor-oriented one, and English is as straightforwardly-businesslike as it is, or something like that. (I’d rather not elaborate on this matter, as I'm still lacking data to back it up).

The bottom line is, to know about the people, it is important to know their language, and vice-versa.

Knowledge from the ‘Witch’

2008-07-14T14:36:00.002+08:00

Whenever I find I’ve got enough money to spare for a book (which happens once in a blue moon, or something), I always prioritize Paulo Coelho’s works. Of course, I don’t always buy his books, especially back when I was still collecting the Harry Potter series. But whenever came an instance I had to choose between a lesser expensive (and way thicker) paperback and one of Coelho’s, I’d buy his work even if they cost more. Such is the quality of his writing, which I had grown to admire and respect so much.

Thus, when I had the chance to shop around for a book several weeks ago, I immediately scanned the prize-winning collections of the bookstore since I knew that all his works are placed there. I really didn’t bother considering the other authors available, because I’d have preferred to buy one of Coelho’s books anyway.

The choices were narrowed down, but I still wasn’t able to decide right away which among his books I’d get. So, I looked at the brief descriptive on the back of each book, and I knew at once which one will use up the book coupon I’ve been saving. Oh yeah, I was buying a book because the book coupon I got when I bought Harry Potter 7 last year was expiring. Hehe =P

“How do we find the courage to always be true to ourselves – even if we are unsure of who we are?”

The moment I read those lines, I knew I had to buy Coelho’s “The Witch of Portobello.” Perhaps it was because I had been subconsciously asking myself that question, or maybe I was very much intrigued by the premise, or probably because the book cover is blue – or all these may have affected my choice – but sure enough, I never let the book go.

The way of presenting Athena’s tale reveals just how great Coelho has gotten in the craft of storytelling. Through the narratives of the different people who knew her, the intricately beautiful life story of Sherine Khalil, who preferred to be called Athena, was relayed to the readers in a subtle manner that highlights just how much we may know a person, yet not know him/her at all.

The Witch’s style very much suited the objective of finding out that which we never knew was missing in the first place – who we really are. Coelho’s words made me realize that people may say that they fully know what they really want to achieve in their lives, yet not understand that they had just been deceiving themselves into believing they actually know.Only a person will know who he really is, but what he knows about himself will not always remain true

For my part, I began to understand that whether I know where my feet are taking me or not is immaterial in this daily joyride of my existence. Indeed, every step taken is already the destination for the previous one. What is important is to savor every moment, for happiness is such a fleeting experience that lingers only long enough to be recognized.

Anyway, I found two among the numerous quotables in the book’s pages that best sum up what the Witch had taught me:

“In order to forget the rules, you must know them and respect them.” – Nabil Alaihi

“Desires are never satisfied, because once they are, they cease to be desires.” – Deidre O’Neill

In essence, only a person will know who he really is, but what he knows about himself will not always remain true because man is not, and never will be, a stagnant piece of creation.

Stalemates

2008-07-10T13:58:00.004+08:00

Chess is a part of my childhood that I had always never acknowledged. I know the rules, I know some moves, yet I never took to liking the mind sport.

I'll admit that I never got into chess since any chance of me developing a liking for the game had been continuously nipped off the bud by two factors: 1. my brother who taught me the rules never intended me to like the game (in other words, he seemed to have just wanted someone he could always beat); 2. I don't really like the underlying principles upon which the adversaries battle.

Yeah, I got discouraged right off the beginning since my older brother just wanted to keep beating me at it (I supposed it was because he was, in turn, always beaten by his classmates back then). =P Don't tell me I'm just sour graping or something, but I do hope everyone realizes that beating someone up to encourage them to be better is VERY MUCH different from beating them just on a whim.

Nonetheless, factor 2 is the more important factor. I just don't like chess. Period. But why, you ask?

While chess is a great strategy game (which should surely suit me), it is but a continuous battle of sacrifices for the "greater good." I never had been one to believe that principle, and so I shunned away any prospects of honing my strategy skills for chess. Plain and simple, I don't like sacrificing even just pawns to get the objective - that is, to kill the enemy's king.

Another thing I don't like about it are stalemates (or standoff, whatever you may prefer calling draws). Real life just won't allow a tie in any of it's true contests. In the long run, stalemates in the real world are nothing but periods of inactivity wherein both sides are just re-formulating their strategies.

But then again, you may be wondering why I'm writing about something I don't really like. Well, aside from the fact that the other rules of chess have practical uses in real life, the show I'm quite hooked onto these days, Code Geass, is pretty much a complicated game of chess.

And yes, the latest episode I watched, episode 13, shows just how ugly a game of chess can get (in terms of sacrifices, that is). Yeah, yeah, I'm a Shirley Fenette fan deep inside, and I don't like her being killed off just like that. And being taken out of the story just because there was a stalemate in her feelings for Lelouch doesn't make things any better.

I don't like chess. I don't despise it, but I just don't like it.

Hancock

2008-07-09T16:43:00.006+08:00

For a superhero movie, I expected more. That, in a nutshell, is what I can say about the movie I watched yesterday. I mean, the ticket price was the same as with Wanted, yet Hancock had me thinking in the end, "Did I or did I not just waste my time (and money)?"

Oh, by the way, if you're a fan of the movie, please stop reading this post and check out the other blogs I usually frequent (links are on the right portion of the page). I can't promise that this post will be a good read if you are a true blue Hancock fan.

A very short screening time with an equally pointless plot - if I had known that Hancock was about those, I wouldn't have bothered to watch it. I admit I was enticed with the movie trailers on TV, but I didn't expect that that was all there was to it.

Yeah, yeah, I'm a bit pissed with the movie since it didn't even meet my minimum criteria. And to think I sacrificed precious hours of sleep, went to work on the morning shift, and scrammed like hell from the office as soon as my shift ended just to ensure enough time for me to watch the movie twice if ever. But no, I couldn't even stand to waste time staying in the cinema as soon as the credits rolled.

Okay, Hancock's not a total waste, I admit. The visuals are good enough, to say the least. But I don't need a movie to know how important common sense is. As in, if a pissed person told you not to call him/her an asshole/crazy/f*ing deepshit, you know you shouldn't cross the line (especially if the one you're planning to call an asshole/crazy/f*ing deepshit can easily throw you to kingdom come afterwards).

And no, I still don't believe that divorce is an option. Just no.

=======
Note: I did say I'll put a review of Witch of Portobello, but I just had to put this one first. I'm just
f*ing mad. At myself, for even thinking the movie would deserve the ticket price.

Been keeping myself busy...

2008-07-05T22:52:00.003+08:00

With reading, reading, and reading. ^^,

Oh yeah, I've also been watching out for new episodes of Code Geass, as well as new releases of Naruto and Soul Eater. Lately I've delved into Claymore as well.

But I think I must do justice to those, and talk about them in separate updates. Anyway, if I can manage to, I'll be blogging about Paulo Coelho's "The Witch of Portobello" in my next update. I just finished the novel a few moments ago. =P

A Year Later...

2008-07-05T18:37:00.004+08:00

I see that today is two days shy of a year since I wrote the post, Dreaming and the Dinner Dance. Yes, almost a full year since we sat down and dreamed of putting up our own business, and that dream still remains in the realm of fantasy. =P

Anyway, this week is the foundation week of my alma mater, Wesleyan University - Philippines. Part of the celebrations is the alumni homecoming event, dubbed "C'Ya at Wesleyan," and I attended with Lolo Jasper. The old Genre gang/OSA tambays were supposed to go, too, but weren't able for various reasons.

Overall, the event was fun even though I didn't win in the raffle *sob* T-T

A Confession at Night

2008-07-04T01:28:00.004+08:00

I confess - I gave in. I'm an ordinary human being after all.

A mere human of flesh and bones, I am, yes. But I did not heed the 'call' before. I... I restrained myself, not out of a willingness to follow the rules, but on my own volition. I wanted to prove that I am above such humanity!

But yes, I gave in. Who can blame me for seeking what my body yearns for? Is it not because of 'this' that the existence of the human race is ensured?

Who can point an accusing finger at me, when the act was carried out in secret? There never was any evidence to be found, to begin with. No witnesses around, except for the creeping darkness in the middle of the night. No one, save for myself, to retell the tale of that moment when the wind blowing was oh so cold.

I. DID. IT.

There you go - a written confession. I'm not saying I'm proud to have done it, but there's just no point in denying it. My body yearned for it, and I merely obliged.

So I slept during my shift, any problem with that? Now if you'll excuse me, I'm off to dream land once more.

=======
Note: I really should sleep lest I write something scandalous next. Hehe. =P

Acceptance

2008-07-04T01:09:00.003+08:00

Many times in my life, I tried to do things my way - or so I believed back then. I persisted in what I thought was the best option, unmindful of long-term consequences. Following neither logic nor the promptings of my heart, I sought to defy the almighty powers that be.

Alas! I've been fooled - fooled by my own self into believing that I did what I really wanted. In truth, I never was one to make the decisions that had shaped my fate - the fates seem to have been shaping my decisions for me.

Yes, I'm finally surrendering, giving in to what I refused to believe. Acceptance - it had patiently waited for me to come in all humility. And now I take on my destiny.

=======
Note: This is what I come up with while listening to music that ought to have put me to sleep, but prompted me to write an update instead. Go figure what songs I'm currently listening to. =P

Since I'm not in the mood...

2008-07-03T00:19:00.002+08:00

I'll just post an advisory. =P

I've added a blogroll somewhere in the right part of this blog (the part containing links to other blogs). Thanks to Mikan/Eli who taught me how. (Now I don't have to manually check for updates. hehe)

Oh yeah, I do have a few matters I'd like to blog about. However, I just can't push myself to come up with the right words. Writers' block and whatnots - I'm sure you know what I mean.

Wanted: More Action

2008-07-01T20:12:00.004+08:00

I was finally able to watch "Wanted" on the big screen just a few hours ago. That trip to the movie house had been canceled several times, and thankfully I was finally able to squeeze it into my schedule.

By the way, I don't usually watch movies on the big screen unless I'm quite sure it will be worth it. =P

The movie proves to be worth all the effort I put into going to the theater, as well as the ticket price. Nearly two hours of cinematographic awesomeness, a brilliant story, a very nice twist - this movie has it all.

The only thing I could say against the movie is that it's quite short - bitin! I was actually thinking of watching it a second time (because we can do that in the local theaters), but I eventually decided not to since I did not want to go home late.

And no, I won't be giving spoilers nor will I discuss anything further. WATCH IT. Don't ask any more questions. My rating for Wanted: 9.5/10

My Mantra

2008-06-29T22:11:00.002+08:00

"I will not get depressed... I will not get depressed..."

Yep, that's my mantra these days. As usual, the contributing factors are present (they always are), and I can't focus on anything much aside from those that I should not. This is why I'm telling myself not to fall into the pits of depression.

I know it's a lot easier to fall than to get out. XD