Hiatus No More

My almost five months hiatus in blogging had several shares of reasons behind. As much as I am tempted to scribble it here I’d rather keep mum of the reasons tailed on it.

Figuratively speaking, it’s like when God showered me with blessings, the devil worked double time to distract me forcing to experience with like a bunch of concerns.

I thought I was defiant but not.

Admittedly, one of the most vivid reasons is that “I simply lost my usual zest to write”. I’ve tried my hardest to write, to express, chronicle even the not so interesting part of it but I simply succumb to “mental block.

Of Movie Night and Life Lessons: Life of Pi

A while ago, I was able to watch the movie "Life of Pi" - if you're thinkin' that maybe I'm outdated already with movies, pardon me, I'm in a country where cinema is not part of their culture. The comfort of having a laptop and a shared downloaded movie from my community friend satisfied my eagerness to see the whole film as it had shared rave reviews and awesome appreciations.

Ngayon lang ulet nagkaroon ng time to write after watching a movie. Inspiring kasi ang movie kaya na-inspire ako ulet magsulat hehe! Palusot? haha!

Of Sunset, Dates, and Neighborhood Stroll with Little Caleb

A photo I took of the sun that is about to set with the "Dates" tree
as the back drop

It's been quite a while since my last entry. Some blogger friends would ask "Bakit wala ka nang new post?" Others would say "You have a reader in me, please post". How sweet and encouraging it is to receive such words. 

Messages sent directly to my inbox or if they happen to catch me online. Replies to which would just end like this "I'm pre-occupied with some important things as of the moment". 

Yes! and a big yes! As much as I want to write but there are some things which need high priority as well. So, these things that had occupied most of my time lately were the reasons of my being quite inactive in the blogging world. 

That's just life, sometimes we're prompted with lots of things that -whether we like it or not, we have to face quick & fair and square.

Anyway, I'm here now. At least I can offer you something light and bubbly- naks bubbly! may bubbles na kasama? haha!

Obstacles As Disguised Opportunities

I so miss my blog and writing of course. More so, I miss blog hopping - reading new posts from my blogger friends. Well, occasionally I browse some of my friends' entries but only for reading purpose minus the commenting. Like what I used to when I'm not ready yet to say any comment. I'd rather read and leave.

Negative Friends

Are you surrounded by them? Have you ever dealt with negative people before? If you have, you will know that the experience is quite a downer.

In our lives, we often encounter in our circle of influences those that belongs to the so called “negative friends” - often cynical, can't even smile with your ideas instead always finds a way to criticize them badly, too pessimistic most of the times and chooses destructive criticism over constructive. It's hard to have them around right? 

It's not that you don't want to have a long time friendship with them but it's just that if they have nothing to say good to you, it's better not to discuss anything with them. Never talk about anything that you care about to a negative person, they will literally drain your willpower.

It's How You Play It - A Mother's Day Tribute

During childhood, she’d always tells me “character is more important than any winning or success”. 

That in any battle in life, it is all about the performance you’ve shown regardless of winning or losing. It's how you play it!

Any pursuit of victory is a noble goal but the winners in life appreciate the pursuit more than the victory itself. 

Overtime For God

Early afternoon today, my wife and I together with our cute little boy Damien Caleb including mommy attended a community teaching in our CFC Center we discreetly called “EASTWOOD”. 

Uh! Wait, we’re not in the Philippines  yet haha! We called our CFC Center in Al Ahsa as such to adhere to our security protocol.

Why we have such an abiding attitude when it comes to security? Well, if you’ve been following this blog you may very well know where my current location is. If you’re a newbie here, a back read of few posts will give you a plausible hint.

In fact even our CFC Center in Khobar and Dammam had its own share of aliases. One we call as “ROCKWELL – where SFC activities are mostly held, the other one is “GLORIETTA” – where CFC activities happen. We even have one in Dammam with a name “THE FORT”. Mga famous and posh malls lang ang name ano..hahaha. So now I guess you know why we have to do such name calling of these places of our community activities.

A Quiet Hero

There are times when silence has the loudest voice. – Leroy Brownlow

Since I don't have any updates to share with you, I once again borrowed a story from Chicken Soup series which I think is a good read. As usual, I am inspired by the story and the wisdom that has been shared in it. Enjoy the story and have your own reflection after.

One of the most important lessons I learned from my stepfather is that true heroism is silent and sober. Heroes take journeys, fight wars, and battle incredible odds, but they never seek praise.

That Smoldering Good Looks Can Be A National Threat?

Omar Borkan Al Gala
Credit to the real owner of this photo

Few days ago, this was our topic. That three overly good looking men from UAE were expelled (deported) from Saudi Arabia during a cultural festival for quite a weird and irrational reason. 

We we're like wonderin' why would they be expelled if their purpose is just to represent their country for that festival. Weird right? 

But look at his face, somehow he resembled that of Jesus Christ in a quick look. Indeed, women will fall for him once they have sought him.

There Is No Easy Way Out Being A Christian

It’s 11:43PM now. 

Surrounding's still cool brought about by the aftermath of a heavy sand storm a couple of days ago. 

Changing weather is beginning to let its presence felt. By the way, weather is constantly changing from winter to summer now. And like anyone who complains about the hot season in Pinas, we too have our own share of agony here. 

Too bad for us because the scorching heat of the sun can reach at a maximum of 50+ degrees. Imagine that? Would you want to still work in the Mid East? 

Well, there's nothing to worry since all the houses here require good ventilation and a heavy duty airconditioning system. 

Anyway, that's not my topic for tonight. This post is about some realizations. Of being a Christian in the most unChristian culture.

The Shopping Trip

“Every action in our lives touches on some chord that will vibrate in eternity" 

- Edwin Hubbel Chupin.

"Jane, hurry and get your coat. We’re going to the store.”

I ran to do as my father instructed. A shopping trip with Dad was a rare treat. He traveled a great deal of the time, and I cherished the unexpected opportunity to be alone with him.

Once in the car, I asked, "Where are we going?"

Dad only smiled. "You'll see."

To my surprise, we didn't take the usual turn to the area's one department store. (This was in the pre-mall era). Instead, we turned down an ally where small row houses lined the road. Dad parked the car, got out, and walked to the front door of the first house on the street. Within a few minutes, he returned with Connor, a boy from our church.

The 365 Life Lesson Project - Life Lesson 2

We Can Never Be Too Careful. 

There are situations in life that put us into testing water where sometimes we're caught off-guarded with our actions.

That sometimes, our being close to the person has the tendency to border into an occasion where we're too much attached and we somehow tend that every kind of joke can be thrown to that person without offense. Even in an inadvertent attempt aimed to kid around. 

Later when we realize that we already went overboard, eventually hurting them.

My Apology, My Lord

Dear Lord,

I can’t sleep tonight!

I feel so lonely.

My heart carries a heavy load of guilt because I have unintentionally offended someone I consider close to me.

I have laid flat on my bed but I am wide awake and cant' even feel the sense of being sleepy.

Though I've conveyed my sincere apology but I just feel that it is lacking due to a sour response.

Honestly, I am damn stupid why I did drag a name that has been valued the most. Though, it was purely unintentional but I still err. The very thought that I had pinched a portion of my close friend's heart is enough that I did so wrong with that joke.

A Political Outburst

Generations of partakers in the elective process had grown to be a believer of the promises candidates have been audibly screaming in their platforms during caucus and campaign periods. But are these promises have meet ends?

You POLITICOS are elevating yourself as a public figure thus being a role model follows. But why are the things that you put into laws are the very same things you religiously break?

You keep saying, We'll do this! We'll do that! But I don't think you can fool us anymore. 

You've told us do not fight with others, to work things out, to respect others, to share not to be greedy. Then why you yourselves are doing the things you've told us not to do?

An Answered Prayer

A DM short of reply in Twitter!

His direct message reads:

“Thanks God! Engineer na po ako Dad! Thank you so much sa prayers. Sobra sobra. Thanks for believing! :)

Ignored tweets in @Mentions. Not even an FB message at his inbox!

Perhaps, he might be thinking that I just pass on the chance to greet him and be joyful for another important milestone in his life knowing that I, together with many other friends and family alike, were in unison in wishing and praying that he will surpass his upcoming Board Exam then.

It’s like I totally shut down my world from him. If I were in his position, I too, will wander what’s goin’ on? Why my online dad didn’t even care now that I earnestly passed my exam?

We Always Have A Choice

“What has life to offer me when I grow old”? - This is the first line of the famous song "Next In LIne of After Image (I don't remember which year) that literally hit me while thinking of the first thing to write about this post. 

Quite sad isn't it? Well, I won't focus on the tear-jerking thoughts in here, though, maybe along the lines I may hit some emotions. But I'll try to make it as interesting and short as possible- knowing I'm a wordy guy. I wish I could have all the elements in writing to do all these. But heck! I'll give it a try.

Cliche tells us that "life is what we make it". I agree to it. We choose what we want, we choose our decision. Our daily existence is part of how we partake in the banquet of the world. There, we have plenty of choices - and WE ALWAYS HAVE A CHOCE! which one to pick up or out, which one to pursue and which one to make our stand for. In life, we are presented with myriad of choices. Choices that sometimes fit or unfit our system.

Inspiring People No. 2 - Kevin Villanueva -"An Orphan's Gift For His Parents"

Kevin Villanueva

"People exit in our lives, sometimes for no apparent reasons. Death is the most difficult to accept. But when all else's gone, nothing but memory will keep us cherishing them. And the same joyful moments that will propel us to intensely chase and realize our dreams for them."

Facebook has been one of the most effective social medias that launches ordinary people into overnight celebrity. I had been a witness of many and some of them had shared a page in my blog through a feature-length story. 

I am proud that through my writings I can express my admiration and joy toward these people. Thus, inspiring me more to continue what I love to do - to write stories, more so of human interest stories.

Of Summer Days, Nostalgia, and Nipa Hut

A resemblance of our ancestral house - which even until now still standing
it is that same house where we rest and relax during vacation.

Earlier, I wired my sister in Pinas to ask for an update about the documents I am requesting from her. Luckily, the progress is nice - at least it's not immobile.

Part of our casual convy touched a topic I so long desired to experience again. She enthusiastically told me that  John Howard (my eldest nephew who recently just graduated) will be going for a solo trip back to our province in Sibuyan Island in Romblon on April 6 - this coming Saturday.

Assorted Thoughts

Ideas keep fighting over an influential slot in my mind lately. Picture out those wrestlers ready to land their fake punches and throws to their opponents – that’s how I imagine these ideas are like. Full of ideas yet because of congestion no one succeeded to spring out into something worthy.

Plenty of ideas coming in, but I can’t expound, some suddenly go away without even staying for like an hour. Assorted – various, mixed, classified, multifarious or whatever will you call it.

The Awesome Blogger: March Edition - MEET Pao!

This post is kind-of inspired by watching the movie “Letters To God”. Maybe a bit, but the truth is, I just need some kind of a motivator, a propeller for my mind to set into the mood of writing and come up with a masterpiece tailor-fit post for him.

I don’t know, literally the movie has nothing to do with the person that I am going to feature for my March issue of  “THE AWESOME BLOGGER”. 

Oh! I know what’s running on your minds. Perhaps you might be thinkin’ like this, “Why there’s no February issue? What the heck? Well, let’s leave it at that. Let us assume it’s my prerogative to except the month of February since I was busy during my vacation and writing one, even selecting my feature, was really a difficult thing for me. My mind was focused on the meet-ups and all the (mis) great adventures hehehe!

In My Own Eyes - A HOLY WEEK Reflection

"You give me hope in spite of everything;

You give me love even with so much pain”

These are the very lines from the song sang by the character of Ben (Tyler’s older brother) in the movie “Letters To God” that struck me the most. How profound isn’t it?

Earlier, we had our mini-recollection as our response in observing the holy week season here. Our location only permits a discreet observance. I’m still so thankful for the miniscule opportunity to express our faith.

On the other end, we don’t focus on the fear but we focus on how fear can magnify our courage to serve more and to glorify our one great God despite restrictions. And I personally believe that God protects us with his unbreakable shield. But of course, we are well-aware where we stand – our high respect to the culture and religious tradition remains our top priority.

Nang Mag-Birthday Ang Kuneho

Alam ko medyo excited kayo na basahin kung ano ba ang nilalaman ng blog title na eto. Mukhang interesting di ba? Unusual kasi sa akin ang magbigay ng title na panghayop- hahaha.

Pero ibahin nyo ito. DI ito hayop, di rin bagay, TAO ito. Taong nagkukubli lang sa codename na kuneho. At ang taong kunehong ito ay isang malapit  na kaibigan ko.

This is just my simple share in making the “KUNEHO” birthday a special one.

EARTH HOUR: Creating Awareness About Climate Change

As we go global in today's era, our concern also goes on a global scale.

Earlier, a small group of community friends gathered in our abode to experience once again and be one among millions around the world in observance of the worldwide phenomenon called ‘EARTH HOUR’. 

I, for one, has been so blessed to have been practicing this global effort for the past 4 years already. Since 2009 when I first knew about it I had become a believer of this advocacy.

His Name Is JOHN HOWARD - And I Am Proud Of Him

Eto ang mga panahon na ginagaya mo si Lee Min Ho hahaha! (Joke)
Kaya naisipan mong mag long hair hahaha!

8:18PM - KSA

As of this writing, I'm pretty sure you're in your bed already, sleeping deeply, and perhaps communed with softly cushioned pillows on both sides of your bed. And probably right now, your snoring sound have passed through your window sills echoing right across your neighbor's house- LoLs!

Or maybe you're in a beautiful dream - walking towards the aisles ready to receive that one special paper that you've worked hard for 3 long years to achieve. 

We Create The Change, We Inspire The Change, & We Are The Change

"Our existence is not for our own sake. We aren't created to be on our own, we are created to be of person to others." - these are the lines I always go back whenever I am participating in a social endeavor. I always remind myself that I am a person for others. That my existence is inspired by the people around me. And that I should work, continue to work hand in hand with people congruence to my vision and mission for the betterment of my fellow beings - more particularly those who can hardly meet ends, physically challenged, and most importantly those who are on their golden days already.

Of Shuttlecocks, Rackets, and Fellowship In The Court: BADMINTON with PBOers

L-R (Mar, Pao, Empi, and Me, on top Arvin)

It's kinda odd that I need to read some blogs out of my circle of bloggers to trigger me to write again. Honestly, I'm really having a hard time processing my thoughts. As if I don't even know how to write anymore. I can't even easily expound an idea. What the heck is happening to me?

Is there something wrong with me? Is my zest in writing have gone sour? Oh no! it is a bad thing- really a not-so-good-idea to entertain with.

I held-off writing for quite sometimes already - a couple of weeks or so. After posting three entries about meet-ups and a thank you post, I suddenly feel like I'm drown in again to "sabaw moment". I shouldn't have permitted a long period of hiatus. The pending entries in my drafts if only they can speak would really prompt me begging to finish it off and post 'em.

Isang Pasasalamat sa DAMUHAN

Whenever I join a contest I always say this statement: "To be given a chance to participate is such a big privilege, winning if it happens is just a secondary thing- more like a bonus, a topping on a cake."

Isang pribilihiyo at karangalan!

Eto ang unang pumasok sa aking hinuha at namutawi sa aking mga labi ng mabasa ko ang sandamakmak na  mga tweets at personal messages patungkol sa aking pagkakahirang bilang isa sa tatlong pinakamabagsik   sa panitik sa patimpalak ng DAMUHAN.

Nakamit po ng inyong lingkod ang IKATLONG KARANGALAN sa patimpalak ng pamosong blogger  at kaibigan kong si Bino Bautista. 

Katulad ng sinumang nananalo sa isang patimpalak, di maitatanggi na labis ang aking pagkatuwa. Di ko man siya maipakita sa panlabas pero sa puso ko ay parang may mga kompetisyon ng fireworks tanda ng selebrasyon.

A Reunion with Kay and Jeo: RESORTS WORLD – Newport, Manila

It was a meet-up we longed & waited for a year. Obviously not our first.

Finally it happened in a place I never knew (wow, taga ibang mundo lang ako haha!) – RESORTS WORLD.

We had our first meet-up way back year 2011. It was early December. The place was at Ayala Triangle in the famed business district of Makati.

PINOY BLOGGERS - Grand Meet Up - MALL OF ASIA

Starbucks By The Bay at Mall of Asia.
L-R (Grah, Arline, Cheenee, Axl, June, Josh, Pao, & Kat) 
Standing: (Mar, Me, Arvin, Senyor (Christian) & Moises)

It's way too late of a post but it deserves to be posted anyway. 

PBOers are waiting for this I'm sure. (Or masyado lang akong assuming - lols). Hmm..alam ko they're waiting for this - haha!

So far the biggest of all the meet-ups I’ve had. And the grandest I must say.

Something To Smile & Be Proud Of - LOVE LETTER to FILIPINOS

Dr. David H. Harwell

Below is a "LOVE LETTER" - not about a typical boy/girl relationship but it digs deeper than that. It talked about praising our race. 

When I read it, my heart melted that I wanted to look for the person to thank him for saying many nice things about us. 

The letter made us remember that we are a chosen race and that we exudes love and compassion as a result of our sacrifices. 

A letter reminding us to love more our race and our being a Filipino.

This is from the writings of Dr. David H. Harwell as published in Philippine Daily Inquirer on February 17, 2013 (Sunday) as seen by yours truly in Facebook.

It is worth sharing that I personally share it here in my blog for you - my blog readers.

Anyhow, we have been so blessed to have received countless accolades from different people not from our race. But, it is more lovable and more heartwarming to receive it from someone who expressed his deep connection to us. And that person is Dr. David H. Harwell.  Don't skip read or else you'll miss the full extent of your smile or how fast your heart will melt. THIS IS A MUST READ!

DID YOU KNOW? - Something Great About JAPAN Worth Sharing

Cherry Blossoms Season

I read this beautiful information about Japan shared in Facebook timeline. I just feel the urge to share so that we can also reflect on.

It's pretty awesome reading articles like this as it awakens my interest to work for the common good of our people. 

It brings out a sense of nationalism in me and the pride of being a Filipino as well.  I am a common Juan and is proud of my race.

Ok, let us know what great facts this nation are made of.

BLOGGERS’ MEET-UP: About Meeting Place, Of Food, Of Fun, and Of Awesome Bonding - PART 3

We had our chit-chat, the "getting to know you" portion. We finished feasting with the succulent foods. We bond even more with our "bowling game" encounter - and loosen up with so much fun. 

What's more? Will there be more? The answer is YES. Siyempre, I had promised kasi eh, so I need to deliver.

This will be the end part - the wrap up portion. And I must say the most sensible. Ito kasi iyong part where we squarely expressed our "first impression" towards each other - upon which in my point of view highly matters and significantly related when meet ups happen. 

Ito na yung part ng "brasuhan" hahaha..something like "ayusin mo sasabihin mo or else di ka makakauwi ng buhay" -hahaha..just kidding.

NOTES TO SELF: Focus On The Positive, Recognize Your Shortcomings, Examine Your Core Values and Always Forgive

Jay, I want you to realize that you’re a good person, that your intention is pure.

Your heart breathes compassion. Do not allow yourself to be penetrated by instruments of evil that might ruin the good in you.

Do not be discouraged by people telling you, you’re like this and like that because you know yourself better.

There might be some inaccuracies & inconsistencies in some of your actions but it does not mean you’re defined by it. Never allow anyone to define you for who you are not.

You’re a sensitive guy, caring, and passionate with what you do. Allow it to flourish and outwit the attempts of devil to defile you.

If you have done something wrong unintentionally, learn to repent and forgive. It is because in forgiving you’re enlarging your future and increasing your network of influences.

Most of all, try hard to practice humility in words and actions. 

You're a sensible guy and you know your core values.

So FOCUS ON THE POSITIVE, RECOGNIZE YOUR SHORTCOMINGS, EXAMINE YOUR CORE VALUES, and ALWAYS FORGIVE.

It is in your most adverse moment that the good in your heart will shine. Take courage to unleash it and defy the odds of negativity looming around you. 

And most of all, when things seem to be too big to handle let go and let God. You can always rest your case to God.

Reminding you,
YOURSELF

BLOGGERS’ MEET-UP: About Meeting Place, Of Food, Of Fun, and Of Awesome Bonding - PART 2

Me, Senyor (Christian), Pao, Mecoy & Bino

I'm pretty sure you're kind of "bitin" sa first part ng meet up namin. You might be guessing, thinking, assuming there's more of it. Well, yeah there is  and here’s the second part of our meet-up last February 9.

Just a bit of info - most of these bloggers hailed from the South of Manila except for the rose among the thorns - Senyor who happens to be from Pasig. I came from Carmona, Cavite, though I got a place in GMA Kamuning too, Pao from Calamba, Mecoy from Cavite City and Bino is from Alabang. 

Wonder where we headed-off after the Fish and Co. experience? The photo on the upper left was the teaser - actually 'the proof'.

BLOGGERS’ MEET-UP: About Meeting Place, Of Food, Of Fun, and Of Awesome Bonding - PART 1

Pao, Me, the famed blogger 'Bino' of Damuhan, and Mecoy

If you pursue blogging, one must (in my opinion) be ready to the idea of meet-ups with fellow bloggers. It's hard to exist as a blogger if you're not open to such things. 

Well, for anonymous bloggers it may  sounds threatening to them. For anonymous ones, it's like unmasking their anonymity and so I presume that they aren't really into "meet-ups" which is clearly logical. 

Meeting up strangers that only exists in the online world somehow gives us qualms and misgivings right?

There are “what” and “if” that haunts us occasionally. Pretty normal right? 

But on the other end of the rope, there is this certain amount of excitement that pushes us to go and to get to know them in real time and real world. And that's what had happened to us  last February 09, 2013 when we finally had our chance of seeing each other in person.