SKINWHITE U SPARK

One fine afternoon, while browsing my Facebook feed (to look for funny videos and inspirational quotes and to stalk my crush hihi), I stumbled upon SkinWhite's ad about their anti-bullying campaign. It caught my attention so I decided to give it a shot. I submitted an application containing my thoughts on why I should be chosen as an advocate and a few days later, I got a confirmation and I can still vividly remember the happiness I felt that time.

After that, we had a briefing. I got to meet the other girls and the whole U Spark team and I must say that I am really looking forward to working with people as passionate as them. 

Below is the BTS video of our shoot and a few clips of us (the six advocates and the brand representatives) sharing our thoughts about the campaign and the positive impact it can bring.

You can also watch the high definition version here.

Read more of my reactions upon being chosen as an advocate here:

Get to know more about the campaign and the advocates by visiting USPARK.

SUBMITTED MY FEELS

Time check: 1:02 a.m.

People say that the ones who are up at this hour are either lonely, brokenhearted, or students with papers due tomorrow. Well, I'm NOTA. *sighs* Actually, I'm still awake because I am really excited to share with my nonexistent readers everyone my featured article on CANDYMAG.COM.

Hurrah!

I have already published that write-up months ago but it really feels great to have it posted on a site as powerful and as influential as this Filipina Teen's Best-est Friend Online.

So for those who are ready to join the girl who wallowed in misery and self-pity six months ago, feel free to read THE ART OF GETTING BY.

CAGED HOPE

"If you do not go after what you want, you will never have it."

Thank you to the team behind this video for the Decentralized Asian Transnational Challenges (d'CATCH) Manila for allowing me to share my story. I hope this will inspire more people to pursue their passion and follow their heart's desire.

YOU CAN ALSO WATCH IT HERE

FIVE MONTHS AND A RIVER OF TEARS LATER...

Taken from the bouquet of roses he gave me for my nineteenth birthday.

Faded and wilted.

Just like our story.

Just like our love.

CASE STUDY: ASST. PROF. FAYE MARTEL-ABUGAN, M.A.

Ma'am Faye, the bonggang-bonggang CA adviser, is one of the people I look up to in the field of communication. So when we were given the chance to interview successful individuals who took up the same program that we are currently taking, it was her who immediately came into my mind. I was fortunate enough because despite her busy schedule, she was able to spare a few minutes for me. Below is the narrative I have written (in her point of view) based from the interview that I have conducted. If, by any chance, young aspirants like me get to read this, I hope Ma'am Faye's story becomes an inspiration to you to always aim for more and become the best in whatever you do.

---------

It was not at all that different from the world I grew up in. Only instead of typewriters and broadsheets, there were cameras, microphones, and spot lights. Instead of editors, writers, inks, papers, and printing presses, there were directors, production assistants, yards of thick cables, and production houses. You see, there is this sense of magic in working for TV.

As a young girl, I remember dreaming of landing a job in the biggest broadcast company. We are actually a family of writers so I have always known that I will work for the media. That’s what I had in mind when I entered the University of Santo Tomas during the year of 1989. I took up Bachelor of Arts in Communication Arts and on the side, I was part of the Artistang Artlets’ production team. During my time, there was no Tomasian Cable Television yet so I treated my experience in AA as a training ground before I got exposed to the real world of Communication Arts.

I was in my junior year when my research professor-slash-TV 5 human resource director, Ma’am Lanuza, offered an internship in the aforementioned broadcast company. Unfortunately, I came in late so other students already took the slot. I was really sad back then because I had my eyes set on working for that television station after graduation. I had no choice but to move on so I decided to grab the opportunity of having my on-the-job training in a small production house owned by Sir Emmy Pascual, one of my professors. One of the most remarkable projects that I have done there was the audio visual presentation for San Miguel. Since Sir Emmy’s production house did not have the equipment and other tools needed, we went to another production house that was surprisingly a block-timer in TV 5. They had a talk-cum-comedy show entitled “Stay Awake” top-billed by Joey de Leon and Jimmy Santos. Since I was still interested in becoming a part of the said station, I tried my luck and asked if they needed an intern. Sadly, they were not looking for any since they were just a small company but I still left my resume just in case. My internship in Sir Emmy’s production house ended but since I still had a lot of time left, I took the opportunity of having another internship in GMA. It was election period that time so they needed volunteers and since I grabbed that chance, I was assigned in the radio department which is more commonly known today as DZBB. Surprisingly, after that, someone phoned my mom and asked her to let me return the call. Upon doing so, I was greeted by the production house that was block-timing in TV 5. They needed an executive producer that time and they remembered the resume I left so they tried to contact me right away. With my little experience and great ambitions, I accepted the offer and handled the show immediately. I remember leaving our house in Novaliches at eleven in the evening then going to Makati to pull out the needed equipment and then heading towards Joey De Leon’s humble abode in Pasig to get the paintings that will be featured in the show and then travelling to Quezon City to get the sponsored food from Ping Ping’s Lechon and then finally going back to Novaliches for the taping. I felt the burden of the work as I became not just the executive producer, but the associate producer, talent coordinator, writer, and even production assistant as well. I still enjoyed the job, though. But when I realized that I have already reached my full potential and I have already done everything you can imagine in that company, I left with a grateful heart.

Right after graduation, I became a production coordinator or road manager (as some people would call it) for one year. I then worked as a freelancer in TV 5 for three months. But twenty years later, I am happy to still be part of the said station. I have been a part of the production team of several shows like Everybody Hapi and other sitcoms. Apart from that, I am also currently handling the Communication Arts students of UST. I think that is one of my greatest achievements. But if you want more, I would be happy to enumerate some.

Of course, I am a proud mother not just to my lovely child but to my students and my babies in Tomasian Cable Television as well. And speaking of TOMCAT, I am also happy for the awards that we receive from several prestigious award-giving bodies and even more elated to say that I am one of the minds behind Tiger Radio. Now, as a part of TV 5, I think my achievement there would be producing several shows and working with high caliber actors and actresses. But it’s not Christmas everyday. I mean, in my journey, I also had a few hits-and-misses. I tried working on my doctor of philosophy degree but I had to stop after two years just because I realized that it was not my time yet. I also feel sad for the people I have hurt along the way. It’s inevitable, yes, especially when you are in this industry. But what I have realized in my many years of existence is that you should you should learn from your experiences and mistakes. And ever since I became a Christian, my eyes have been opened to the reality that there is a time for everything and the experiences that we have really happen for a reason.

Now, to answer your question regarding the things I want to achieve, well I still want to pursue my doctor of philosophy degree. As for TOMCAT, I want this organization to have a wider reach and if possible, become an open-circuit television. I also want to empower more people to make media content and flourish in the field of communication. And lastly, I want the best for my daughter. I want her to be happy in the program that she is taking up and I want her to grab every opportunity that comes her way.

As a mother, friend, professor, and media practitioner, I just want to tell those who will be able to read this study to know what you want in life, find joy in it, and have the guts to go after it. Opportunities do not come knocking at your door. You should be brave and willing enough to look for it and make the most out of it. Open yourself to the possibilities around you and never be afraid to make mistakes because only then will you be able to grow.

TO PETER PAN...

...WITH LOVE FROM WENDY.

I can still vividly remember that line from our fourth-grade play.
I was the girl in blue and you were my cute elf... my Peter Pan,

... my childhood enemy (and crush),

... my burger buddy,

... my kakulitan,

... my adventure-seeking partner,

... my twin,

... my happy pill,

... my better half,

... my confidant,

... my protector,

... my best friend,

... my number one fan,

... my inspiration,

... my prince,

... my love.

You were my everything.

We were so happy... so in-love. But while we were growing together, we (or maybe I) didn't realize that we were already growing apart. I still have no idea why this enchanted story must come to an end. All I know for sure is that I'm finally ready to let you go. Loving you must mean I really have to set you free. I'm giving you the freedom you desperately asked for. It hurts more than you can imagine. The pain in my heart is like a wound that will eventually heal but will leave a scar. Things will never be the same again because everywhere I go and everything I see holds a special memory of us two. But there's nothing else I could do. I can't breathe without you but I have to. I want you to be happy with your new life (and love). I may be facing this new year without you, but do know that I have my family and friends by my side. It's been nice meeting you, and even more wonderful to have been a part of your life. All those years we spent together will forever be treasured. Rest assured that everything we have shared— the experiences, laughter, tears, and great moments will always have a special place in my heart. They were all beautiful, by the way. This may be the end of our journey as a couple, but definitely not as friends. Keep in mind that I will always be here for you. If God permits that we meet again someday when we are both ready, then I will welcome you with forgiveness and open arms. But if it's really not meant to be, then I will just look forward to that day when we can finally face each other with smile on our lips and happiness in our hearts.

So I guess this is it. We have reached the last page of our fairy tale. I will really miss you, prince charming. And I think I'll have to endure missing you everyday until I don't feel anything anymore. Have a good life.

---------

PS: By the way, this is our last photo together. Our last good memory. I don't want to let go of you too soon, but I don't want to hang on too long either.

CASE STUDY: RIZA DELOS SANTOS

For our Marriage and Family course, we were asked by our professor to conduct a case study about any individual who is currently facing difficult problems rooted in the family. I have decided to focus on children not only because of their vulnerability but also because I believe that they are the ones who greatly need our help. The narrative below is a short part taken from the whole case study and I hope that this becomes an eye-opener to all the readers.

---------

It’s half past two and as dozens of people came rushing in the Marikina City Social Welfare Development Office, I caught a glimpse of this skinny and innocent-looking girl. As I was intently observing her, a social worker approached me and told me that the child that I was looking at was the one assigned to me for the interview that I will be conducting. They led us inside a small but conducive library. As she propped herself against a plastic chair, I handed her a chicken fillet sandwich and she gave me a warm smile that really touched my heart. Riza Delos Santos, this fourteen-year-old girl that I am talking about, is the second among the four children of a forty-year-old barker and a garbage collector of the same age. Her brother is just a year older than her and her two other siblings are 8 and 11 respectively. They used to live in a shanty in Sta. Elena, Marikina but when her parents got separated, Riza and her siblings made the streets of Calumpang, Marcos Highway, and Katipunan their home. They roamed the aforementioned places in search of money to feed themselves and because of that, none of them ever had the privilege to go to school even just for basic education.

I felt really sad upon hearing that. When I asked her if she wanted to study, she nodded shyly. But she immediately responded “Pero mas gusto ko pong makapag-aral yung mga kapatid ko.” I asked her why she never thought of getting a scholarship from the mayor. She replied, “Hindi ko po kilala si Mayor e. Tsaka dati sabi ni Mama pwede na ko mag-aral.” She drew a square on thin air. “Kaso nawala niya yung papel.” “Papel?”, I inquired. I was wondering what paper she was referring to. When she said she didn’t know, I just asked her if she knew how to read and write. She told me that she only knows the alphabet. She gets confused when they are already used to form complex words and sentences. She knows how to count though. Riza told me that her parents imparted a tad bit of knowledge to her when it comes to numbers.

While munching on the sandwich, I pushed myself to ask her what happened. “Bakit ka napunta dito?”, I uttered. Without hesitation, she informed me that this was already her eighth time to be detained. When I asked her why, she simply responded, “Nahuli pong namamalimos e. Pati po yung tatlong kapatid ko kasama ko dito kasi nahuli rin.” I convinced her to explain the situation further. She told me that they use two methods when begging: the “kalabit” and the “bigay-sobre”. I got curious so I also asked her if she is one of the kids that syndicates use to get money. She shook her head firmly, but whispered “Pero totoo po yung mga yun kasi may mga kaibigan na kong bigla na lang nawala.” I was surprised to hear that. “Bakit ka ba namamalimos?”, I inquired. She told me that she wanted to help her parents. But apart from that, she also told me that she had no other choice since it was her who decided to leave home because of her parents’ separation due to financial problems. Riza explained that her mom uses their money to buy methamphetamine or shabu from “Bitoy”, the supplier. I got the surprise of my life when she told me that on the third time she got detained, she was already using “pencil” or more commonly known as rugby. However, she immediately added “Pero tumigil na po ako.” I was relieved then. Since we were already talking about her parents’ separation, I asked her how she felt. She told me that it really broke her heart and that is the reason why she decided to abscond. She said that she had no one to go back to since both her parents already have their own families. Her dad will even soon have another baby. When I asked her to choose between her mom and her dad, she told me that she will always choose her mom because she never had the urge to hurt them. Her dad, on the other hand, had an iron fist. He would hit them whenever they did something wrong or whenever they had adversities to overcome.

That’s when the issue of blame came in the picture. I asked, “Sino sinisisi mo sa mga nangyari?” “Yung mga kaibigan ko po siguro. Sila naman po nag-impluwensiya sa’kin magbisyo at mamalimos e.”, Riza answered. She told me that her parents, although poor as rats, never wanted them to beg for money. “Sana nga lang hindi sila naghiwalay”, she added.

I looked around the library and asked how Riza was. She told me that she was doing just fine. According to her, there are times when she would feel happy because of her siblings and friends inside the CSWDO. They would either watch the television or play inside their cells. Every Tuesday, Friday and Sunday, they would all gather in a room and have a Bible study and sharing with volunteers from the local church. She even told me that one of the most memorable things that she has acquired from the sessions was to learn how to forgive and free our hearts from anger and resentment because only then can we let God in our lives. Unfortunately, her happiness is just temporary. Most of the time, she would just feel sad and helpless; hopeless, even. She said that she really misses staying at home with her mom and dad because they only get to visit her and her siblings every Tuesday and Friday. I then catechized her about her real situation in the detainment cell. She retorted that the social workers watch over them but do not really interact with them that much. She added that they get fed three times a day with soup, noodles, or rice meals. In total, there are fifteen of them inside a cell and they sleep on native mats with only blankets to shield them from cold nights. What adds to her disappointment is the fact that some of the rugby boys inside the CSWDO would catcall and invite Riza and her friends to have sex with them. She has already been traumatized because rugby boys would beat them from time to time just to extort their earnings from begging. “Gusto ko na talagang umalis dito”, she whispered.

I asked her what other wishes she had in mind. “Syempre mabuo po yung pamilya ko, mailayo yung pamilya ko sa hirap, maisama yung mga kaibigan ko sa paglabas, at magkaroon ng maayos na bahay.”, she enumerated. I then had a follow-up question: “Anong gusto mong maging paglaki mo?” She answered that she wants to be a doctor— a pediatrician to be exact. And when I told her to give a message for kids who are facing the same situation, she gave me an answer I will never forget: “Wag mawalan ng pag-asa. Ako paglabas ko dito magbabagong-buhay na ko. Sana kayo rin.”

BRINGING BACK THE CHILDHOOD THAT FADED AWAY

I used to be a part of this story

Where I resided in a wondrous place

Wee but glistening things made me happy

They never failed to put a smile on my face

I remember the days when I moved freely

I explored the world and inquired around

Hatred was unknown and my heart loved purely

Like a lifeless doll, I slumbered safe and sound

I long for the times I subsisted in dreams

When everything was occult and enchanting

Though I know it is as strange as it seems

In reverie, I find myself wanting

To go back, cease the time that passes swiftly

Reliving the young that laughs innocently

MY FIRST LOVE

"You see," she said, "your first love isn't the first person 

you give your heart to— it's the first one who breaks it."

 Lang Leav

THE ART OF GETTING BY

Get by  -  phrasal verb (/ɡet/ verb (present participle getting, past participle gotten/ˈɡɑt·ən/ or got/ɡɑt/ )
                      - to manage or continue to exist in a state or situation where something is lacking


In this case... YOU.

It's been a month since you left and I still can't find the perfect words to weave together to express how I really feel (or felt that night you bid goodbye). You left my heart shattered and I don't think it will ever return to the way it was before. Everytime I think of you, the pang of regret and yearning engulfs me. And it sucks. It sucks because I can't do anything about it. I feel so helpless. Hopeless, even. How will I start fixing myself when I know for a fact that a huge part of me is missing because when we parted ways, you took that piece away with you? I still can't believe that all those years filled with pure bliss, sadness, unexpected moments, and unforgettable experiences are now nothing but mere memories of a great love I once knew... memories that I know I should be burying because they all still remind me of you. It hurts, yes. And I don't think the pain will ever be gone. But right now, the only thing that I should be doing is trying to learn how to live without you. No, this is not me moving on. Not yet. This is just me trying to accept the fact that you are already gone. This is just me trying to face the reality that this "letting go and moving on" phase will be sad and long. And finally, this is just me trying to get by... trying to continue existing like nothing ever went wrong.

(Definition of get by from the Cambridge Academic Content Dictionary © Cambridge University Press)

ON LETTING GO AND MOVING ON

"In the end, only three things matter: how fully you lived, how deeply you loved, and how well you learned to let go of things not meant for you."

This quote, lifted from one of the pages of Fr. Jerry M. Orbos' book entitled Just A Moment, has been one of my favorites ever since. The last line is what actually  struck me the most. Let me share with you snippets of my life. Let's go back to the time where it all began. 

As a child, I have always loved writing stories and poems. So when I entered fourth grade, I decided to enrich my craft by joining writing competitions where I have fortuitously won most of the time. Moreover, I have been a part of our school paper where I became the Editor-in-Chief. When I entered high school, I still continued pursuing my passion so I was fortunate enough to be given the position of Columnist in our official newsletter. But by the time I was about to take various college entrance examinations, my hopes of becoming “successful” got in the way. I thought that by becoming an accountant, I will be guaranteed with a high-paying salary and a bright future ahead of me. But I was wrong. I decided to let go of my dream of becoming a writer and pushed myself to turn my back from my world of words to face a future filled with numbers. It was a difficult decision but I really wanted to give my family a better life so I pursued a program far different from the career I have always dreamed of having. 

But perhaps it is true that when you are meant to do something, the universe conspires to help you accomplish it. During the summer of 2013, I was invited by my sister who is currently taking up AB in Communication Arts to audition as a radio jock for UST Tiger Radio. Since I am an exuberant teen, I decided to give it a shot. After that, we also tried out for Magic 89.9, Monster Radio RX 93.1, 99.5 Play FM and Mossimo Radio. Fortunately, we were both chosen to become a part of Magic 89.9’s Street Team and I was blessed to be one of UST Tiger Radio’s newest jocks. During the training, workshops and shows, I have come to realize that I am back on track. I have been given the opportunity to be involved in the field of communication once more. Apart from the aforementioned activities, I have also been given a chance to host an event for the very first time. I was invited by the Isetann Mall to host U-Belt Dance Duo. Add to that the fact that I have been receiving great feedbacks from the people around me with regards to my communication skills. One good example would be my Oral Communication professor who inspired me to become better in this field. Thank you, Ma'am Pia! 

I must say that I found true happiness not in crunching numbers but in weaving words together and in speaking either through the radio or in front of a large crowd. And all of these things pushed me to follow my heart's desire. I decided to shift to the AB in Communication Arts program. As luck would have it, I passed the shifter's exam and am now a step closer to fulfilling my dreams. This academic year, I can already proudly call myself an Artlet and believe me, it still gives me goosebumps everytime. 

I am still not certain of the future that's waiting for me. Yes, it's not easy to start anew especially when you're already halfway through. But one thing's for sure: I am beyond happy because I can finally take the path truly intended for me.

So if you are having doubts right now about anything, always remember the three simple rules in life (anonymous author):

1. If you do not go after what you want, you'll never have it.

2. If you do not ask, the answer will always be 'no'.

3. If you do not step forward, you will always be in the same place.

OBJECTION, YOUR HONOR

Their lives are risked for justice

They fight for what is right

They bolster the spirits of the innocent

And go against the oppressors with all their might

These people are called lawyers

They are our modern-day heroes

Polished by years of study

Reliable defenders against our foes

But their job is not that easy

They also have to take the side of the wrong

Only coffee can keep them awake

When they have to read thick books and stay up too long

They have to be clever

They need to be witty

They are required to be emotionally strong too

So as to outsmart the other party

I dream of becoming one someday

A righteous person with integrity

Who will, if given the chance, defend

And put all the oppressed out of their misery

------

It was three years ago when I wrote this poem. Looking back, I think this was one of the reasons why I decided to take up Accountancy. A lot of people told me that it would be a good pre-law program so I took heed. But I think the wind of fate blew me to a different path. But nevertheless, I am still happy that this became one of my dreams because it really pushed me to to focus on my studies and even encouraged me to excel academically. So here's the aspiring CPA-Lawyer three years ago. (Don't mind the background hihi).

THE POWER OF HASHTAGS

How powerful can a symbol be? How helpful? How useful? Well, this article answers all our questions about one of the most abused utilized symbols today.

READ IT HERE: http://www.kittenshq.org/features-/2015/7/9/tigeradioust-hashtag-a-millennial-tool

I am happy and honored to be featured in this write-up along with my co-jocks Macy and Chase. Thank you so much, Tomasian Cable Television and Neem Cahoy for this beautiful article. More power to the official broadcasting arm of the University of Santo Tomas!

Join in on the fun by tuning in to UST Tiger Radio via mixlr.com/ustigeradio.

#MoveOnKaNa

Yesterday, I had the opportunity to board for Tiger Radio Chill Pill. I'm DJ Avery, by the way. Hihi. Okay, moving on. I had about a week of preparation for the topic, the spiel and the playlist. It was difficult but it was really fun. A few minutes before I went on-air, I was really praying for the show to be a success. And as Jesse Mccartney's "Just So You Know" was playing, I was really surprised to see the number of listeners gradually increasing. You see, when I auditioned for Tiger Radio and became a trainee, I was already happy with a handful of listeners. But yesterday evening, I got overwhelmed to see more than 200 people tuned in. And would you believe it? Our topic #MoveOnKaNa landed on the second spot for Philippine Trends! Take a look:

Wow. It just felt surreal to have a lot of people support you and your work, knowing that you have given your hundred and one percent. I'm not sure if anyone will be able to read this but I would like to take this chance to thank everyone who tuned in last night. You all don't know how happy you made me feel. Thank you for the appreciation and kind words although I had a few mistakes while boarding. I hope this success continues for the whole Tiger Radio Team.

If, by any chance, someone gets to read this and is clueless about what I'm talking about, try tuning in to Tiger Radio via mixlr.com/ustigeradio every Wednesday at 8 to 10 in the evening for your dose of #TRChillPill. Bye!

TO MY ONE AND ONLY

My Unmasked Superhero

One brave soul took a courageous journey,

not fearing solitude when he went to another country.

Tears from his loved ones were shed,

even from friends who were with him when he was hanging by a thread.

People know him as a wonderful father,

a responsible husband and a loving brother.

He works hard and gives his all for his family's sake—

a sacrifice not everyone is willing to make.

This, for me, is true bravery.

For the latter is not just about going to war and taking a bullet for somebody.

It's actually about being selfless and true.

So to my unmasked superhero, I want to say "Thank you".

You are that one brave soul who took a courageous journey.

You are the man I proudly call "Daddy".

And the reason why I look up to people who go overseas for their family

is because of your one-of-a-kind bravery.

------

Happy father's day, daddy! I love you!

*photo taken about five years ago hihi

PUSHED TO THE LIMIT

*The photo's not mine

A cross to bear— this is how most students view college life. The constant demands, together with the pressure from other people, can definitely make any individual insane. But aside from the tension that academics bring, extra-curricular activities also put a great weight on one’s already unbearable burden. The piles of homework, projects, and quizzes, when combined with the tasks from non-academic activities can make a person feel overwhelmed. All these boil down to one thing— stress. 

It is a phenomenon experienced by many and is usually attributed to as the main cause of depression. The latter is just one of the many effects that this adaptive response can bring. It is a state of low mood and has a great effect on one’s thoughts and feelings. But aside from that, people who experience stress also undergo physical and behavioral changes because of health complications. Loss of weight, lack of sleep, illnesses, and inclination towards vices are just some of its manifestations. Other physical outcomes would be aches, nausea, pains, and even constipation. The behavioral consequences on the other hand are feelings of isolation, neglect, and aversion to activities. 

Unfortunately, stress does not only affect a person physically or behaviorally. It can also take a toll on an individual’s cognition and emotion. A few examples would be memory problems, poor judgment, moodiness, and agitation. 

Having stress in life is truly unavoidable.  The burden of school works, the pressure from the people around, and even the difficulty of conforming to the society’s standards of a responsible individual all have a great impact on a student who is still trying to adjust to the changes that are happening not only to his surroundings but to his own body and life as well. It may seem normal for everyone is experiencing it but stress, when not given proper action and attention, may lead to drastic outcomes and worst, may even take the precious life of an individual who may possibly be the next great mind in history.

CRASIS

*The photo's not mine

“Just when the butterfly thought the world was over, it became a butterfly.” Like the magnificent creature that opened and displayed its wings at last, the brusque girl who once got rejected because of her manly actions and physique finally had the chance to reveal the beauty that was within her all along. No, it was not grief from the negative response that created the unexpected turn of events. It was actually the longing for love that outweighed the pain of rejection.

Love indeed works in ways we can never gauge.  The sudden change of disposition, the improvement of physical appearance, and even the minor modifications in our actions are all caused by this burning passion. When hit with this kind of affection, one feels the need to adjust and make some alterations on his external features so as to look good in the eyes of the one he adores. The changes can be seen from the way he mixes and matches his clothes down to the way he presents himself not only to his significant other but to the people around him as well.

However, that actually becomes a problem in the long run. When summer is over and the once astounding characteristics of an individual have already vanished, the love that once existed between the two beings may disappear along with it. What people should realize is that change done superficially will never last. A “come-and-go” transformation just to conform to the expectations of others will never equal the lasting effect of modifications that occurred within.

Yes, love truly encourages change. But it should not only happen on the surface. What this powerful force wants a person to improve are the inner attributes that will definitely last for a long time. After all, when you love someone, you love them not for something as temporary and as shallow as their looks but for who they truly are deep down to the soul.

OVERWORKED AND UNDERSLEPT

PHOTO TAKEN FROM: LINK

A mental, emotional, or physical strain brought about by burdensome circumstances, more commonly known as stress, is not unusual for many. In fact, according to the American Psychological Association, “on a scale of 1-10 where one means ‘little or no stress’ and 10 means ‘a great deal of stress’, people aged 18-33 are reporting an average of 5.4.” The bracket evidently pertains to people who are in college.

Our fast-paced world demands a lot from us. To be competent enough, one must not just finish at least fourteen years of study, but must excel all throughout as well. Accountancy students are not new to this situation. From the time they have started taking up the program up to the time they are about to take the board exams, the pressure given to them is unimaginable. In a world full of competition, students tend to go beyond their own capacities just to be on top. They extend their hours of review or go through intensive tutorials which lead to sleepless nights. Add to that the mountain-pile of homework and quizzes that the professors give out. But aside from academic matters, majority of these students also juggle their schedule to fit extra-curricular activities into whatever time they have left. A few examples would be running for student council presidency or trying out for the basketball team or even participating in various academic and non-academic competitions.

At first, being active is good because it shows how productive a student is. However, these kids unconsciously abuse themselves by doing things all at once. The most noticeable effect of stress is the emergence of illnesses like headache, gastrointestinal problems, and even heart complications. Anxiety and mood swings may also occur and may even lead to a more severe disorder like depression.

There are a lot of articles published today which provide information on how to fight stress. But probably, the three most effective are: eat, prioritize, and laugh. One should eat nutritious food to replenish the lost nutrients in the body. Another helpful tip is to carry a planner and stick to a checklist so tasks can be done immediately. But after going through all that stress, one thing that students, specifically those taking up Accountancy, should not forget is to have fun. After all, as the famous line goes, “All work and no play makes John a dull boy.”

THINK GREEN

PHOTO TAKEN FROM: http://www.biochar-international.org/profile_Neil_Lumanlan_biochar_stoves

Typhoons in the Philippines are not unusual. However, those that cause great flooding have become unbearable for many, especially those who have been affected tremendously. Ondoy, Milenyo, and Yolanda are just some of the most severe downpours that the Filipinos have managed to live through. But no matter how resilient we are, we do not have the capacity to withstand all its drastic consequences forever. One typhoon survivor had the same realization.  Right after the life-changing typhoon Ketsana, he immediately thought of ways on how to reduce, if not totally eradicate, the repercussions of global warming. A University of Santo Tomas Instructor, Mr. Neil Ian Lumanlan devotes much of his time making gasifier stoves and intensifying the benefits it can give. The biochar, a charcoal used as a soil amendment, is the end product of these green stoves. Studies show they can be utilized to produce negative carbon dioxide emissions which can hopefully save our planet from being destroyed by the unwanted results of our own slackness. According to the International Biochar Initiative, this newly-discovered charcoal can be used to refine soil quality for better agricultural produce; can draw down atmospheric carbon; do not pollute land or water; and can recover processed heat for energy production. But most importantly, they can enhance the ecological conditions for biodiversity and thus, improving sustainability. With these perceived benefits, Mr. Lumanlan tries his best to promote this new green technology. As an instructor, he teaches Accountancy majors how to build stoves from tin cans that will eventually produce biochars and even gives them sample products from his own business to be used in their own homes. But aside from that, he also makes an effort to travel to provinces and help farmers build their very own version of biochar-producing green stoves. Simple yet truly revolutionary — these are the words that would best describe this young man’s projects towards a cleaner and greener environment. After experiencing the drastic effects of climate change, he believes that this simple step can make a difference and may really help the people around him to change and save our beloved planet before it’s too late.

SWEET TOOTH

I've been staying in the hospital for three days now and it's really sucking the life out of me.

It's a good thing that I can finally do something fun. So for my comeback post, I would be blabbing about my previous trip to an eat-all-you-can dessert buffet.

After a very stressful week in school, my friends planned to unwind by heading to Love Desserts located in Banawe, Quzon City right after our last class. Since I was in the mood for some sugar rush, I decided to tag along. It took us two jeepney rides from UST and a bit of walking.

When we reached the restaurant, it was jam-packed so we had to wait for more or less two hours just to get in. The place was quite small and it did not have any proper holding area so it was really disappointing.

But when our turn came, we all cheered like little kids because our tummies were already going crazy. Upon entering, this is what welcomed us:

WOAH. 

I have never seen so much desserts in just one table. But that's not all! For only two hundred pesos, all the sweet treats can be yours for two hours. Yes! It's an eat-all-you-can buffet restaurant. Here are some of the desserts that we have tried:

Crepe, shake, pie, cake... name it and they've got it! But for my final verdict, I would only give it three stars out of five (3/5).

As a sweet tooth, I was expecting the treats to be really delicious and sweet BUT THEY WERE NOT! As a matter of fact, some of them were tasteless and the rest was just okay. All in all, the gastronomic experience was not so phenomenal. An unlimited serving of desserts was a first so I guess it's what got my hopes up high. But for those who are not really into very sweet snacks and drinks, then this might be the perfect place for you.

MYTHOLOGY: ITS PURPOSE AND EFFECT

Our Literature professor asked us to write a thousand-word essay regarding the purpose and effects of mythology, specifically on the image of men and women. I posted it here to share to everyone my masterpiece that I have worked on for six straight hours. Enjoy reading! :)

-----

Myths have already reached into all the nooks and crannies of the lives of everyone. Although they lack authenticity and reliability, we have to admit that these stories have played a huge part in explaining the universe and all that is in it. They act as a medium of conveying ideas of how the world was formed, how humans were created, what happens after life, why people act the way they do, how certain practices originated, where laws were based, how heroes use their god-given powers, what attributes to emulate, and what happens to those who do good and evil things. So based on the aforementioned statements, we can infer that myths were primarily constructed to explain the unexplainable. They unravel mysteries that the human mind can not simply make sense of. Aside from that, these narratives also justify a culture's activities. They explain how rituals and norms were conceived. They present guidelines for human beings as well. The individuals in these texts usually portray roles that are supposed to be imitated by the readers. They basically act as role models — archetypal beings who experience difficulties but overcome them by making use of their admirable qualities. But the most wonderful thing that a myth does is give meaning to life. These stories, no matter how unbelievable they may seem, have inherent reasons of how things happen and morals that somehow give inspiration to whoever makes an effort in pondering upon them.

It is already apparent that these myths can greatly affect one's outlook in life. Perhaps that is the reason why most of our beliefs and actions today are deeply rooted in these fictional texts. A good example of that would be gender stratification — an inequality between men and women. A lot of stories show that the actions and attitudes of the characters are based on their capabilities and limitations brought about by their gender. As a matter of fact, these stories may have even paved the way for the society to make a clear distinction between the male and female persona. They have actually made the former superior over the latter.

Although the story of Genesis in the Bible is not really considered as one of these deliberately made-up narratives, it still depicts a story similar to those of the myths where women are subservient. The act of taking a man's rib and putting it in a woman's body is simply telling us that women are dependent on men. Aside from that, they were also created to serve as a companion and helper of the latter. It implies that the role and abilities of the female persona are limited and were created for the sole benefit of the male persona.

Another Biblical narrative that depicts discrimination is the story of Samson and Delilah. Delilah, who is obviously the woman, is described as beautiful and seductive. Again, it shows stratification because she has become an object of desire for Samson, thereby exposing women as a visually striking display to be looked at.

A good myth that is quite similar to that is the Panay- Visayan folktale entitled "Tungkung Langit and Alunsina". It is an account of creation that was formed from the love story of two gods. Tungkung Langit, the man, possesses all the good qualities like being industrious, responsible, loving, and kind. He is the ruler who works hard for coordination and order. Alunsina, the woman, is the absolute opposite. She is lazy, jealous and selfish. There was even a part in the story where she was described as just waiting in their abode for the coming of her husband. It gives us an idea that women are associated with the private space of the domestic, and men are linked to the public domain of work. Again, it is an utter discrimination between the two genders.

Another example is the Cherokee creation myth. This is quite different because it talks about a brother and a sister — the first two human beings on earth. Superiority was depicted when the brother hit his sister with a fish and forced her to multiply. The role of women was clearly established in this particular scene. It simply shows that they were originally intended to follow the orders of men and bear children for them.

More bigotry can be seen in the famous Filipino myth entitled "Si Malakas at si Maganda". Malakas, the man, was created first and he was the one who decided where his mate would come from. It only signifies that men always come first and they possess the ability to make important decisions.

Yes, it is true that myths are not something that we should completely believe in. However, like any other story that circulates in our society, these false narratives have a great tendency to influence whoever hears them. Now, based on these fictional texts, one can easily become aware of the image that myths have formed in the minds of the people. They have showed us that women are meant to be submissive and men are expected to exude dominance. The disappointing effects of these accounts are evident in our world today. Men have become the symbol for strength, while women are seen as weak individuals. This can be considered as one of the reasons why a lot of men take advantage of women. The latter get abused, belittled, neglected, and objectified. It is truly frustrating to see that most of the female population experience discrimination because of physical limitations which were even more emphasized because of stories propagated centuries ago.

But fortuitously, beliefs are gradually changing over time. We are finally in the process of breaking free from the common notion that our society must follow a patriarchal system that actually puts men in a pedestal. Many people are really hoping that this would come to a completion sooner so the future generation would not solely base their actions from ancient stories and thus, putting an end to previous practices where an entity must always be placed above the other.

THE END OF GENDER STRATIFICATION

Inequality has always been present in our society. Slavery, racism, and discrimination in social standings are just some of the most common examples that we know. But gender stratification for me is the worst.

Centuries ago, men were always put on top. The women, who are apparently weak, can do nothing but be subservient. A good proof for this is the story of Tungkung Langit and Alunsina. This text is basically telling us that men possess all the great characteristics — industrious, loving, kind, and organized. They are the rulers who work for order, peace, and coordination. Women, on the other hand, are the complete opposite. They are lazy, jealous, and selfish. All they do is stay at home, wait for their better half, and feel fulfilled by serving him.

But today, this is not the case anymore. Most of the women are the providers for their family. They have become more competent and equally hardworking. In fact, women have already become a symbol of strength. They, who were notioned as weak, are now the perfect epitome of individuals who exude beauty and grace even under pressure.

26: GROWING THROUGH TEMPTATION

THE PURPOSE- DRIVEN LIFE

DAY 26

POINT TO PONDER: Every temptation is an opportunity to do good.

VERSE TO REMEMBER: "God blesses the people who patiently endure testing. Afterward they will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him." James 1:12 (NLT)

QUESTION TO CONSIDER: What Christlike character quality can I develop by defeating the most common temptation I face?

-----

I have mentioned before that when I get annoyed at people who have poor attitudes, I tend to share my thoughts to my close friends. I want to stop myself from doing so but I always get tempted and I know that it's not something God would be happy about. So if I would learn how to defeat that temptation, I can prevent myself from speaking ill of others and I can finally find peace. This is what we call "self-control". It's one of Christ's characters that I would absolutely love to develop.

Before I end this post, I would like to share some ways on how we could overcome the different temptations that we face from day to day. These steps are written on this chapter and I must say that they have really helped me change some of my wrongdoings. I hope they can transform you too.

1. Refuse to be intimidated.

2. Recognize your pattern of temptation and be prepared for it.

3. Request God's help.