Unresolved. This is what it is. Jesse Robredo's death remains a mystery. We are not stupid. You don't just die from a plane crash without any reason aside from engine failure. Where is the investigation at right now?
I think all those awards, honours, and what not given to Jesse Robredo were all a show. These are not enough to ease from the loss we had when our dear Jesse died. If the dead could speak, I bet Jesse would say that he'd be pleased, and his death not a waste, if what he started in the local government reform was continued.
About the government, what are you doing right now? P-Noy? You could have focused more on figuring out what had happened (unless you already know), instead of showed us some grandeur on TV like when Cory Aquino died from some cancer (a lot of people die of the same disease, even worse, but don't get that much attention). Attention does not solve anything. All those fancies are worthless. They don't change a thing. I would have appreciated it and would genuinely say that I see the government is really doing something if, instead for a grand ceremony for my modern-day hero Jesse Robredo, I see some real investigation, some real concern, some real effort to find out why things happened, why our Jesse died. Yeah I appreciate that grand stuff, but it's not supposed to close the curtains on what's happening. Gov't, I'm not saying you're evil or what, but there are two types of sins: one if you do something evil (commission), and the other is when you don't do something that you should have done (omission).
I don't know about this traditional politician Mar Roxas, but he's nothing like Jesse Robredo. This Mar Roxas goon is all about the position, about the elections, about climbing the political ladder. I hope that you do your job well, or at least even match what Jesse has done. We don't need another pretty politician face in that, not that you have one. We don't need another personality who looks good on screen. We don't need someone who waves confidently on camera, and flashes a smile when on the microphone.
On a final note, I just want to inspire a response from anyone who would be reading this. You may have your own thoughts on his death, speak up. Here's a report about Jesse's last actions before he died:
"Robredo confronted head of anti-illegal logging task force, Paje says
"
Link: http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/266548/robredo-confronted-head-of-anti-illegal-logging-task-force-paje-says
Sunday, September 9, 2012
Real Freedom.
I've always reflected on the real meaning of freedom, and I even sometimes doubt rules (although I follow them). I am sometimes confused, and I do doubt myself sometimes whenever I preach that rules and freedom are not mutually exclusive. But it's just really refreshing to read the below article regarding freedom. It speaks so much truth about freedom, and the illustration on freedom and rules blending well together just shows what it really means to be 'free'.
"Most people in our post-modern society are crying freedom from rules and regulations. Surely freedom means that you can do what you want, doesn’t it?
"By way of illustration, picture this scene: a high speed train is hurtling along its tracks towards its destination. Now imagine the same train leaping off its tracks, crying freedom and running across open fields, completely out of control. Which of these scenarios is a true picture of freedom? The train running smoothly along its tracks as it was designed to, or the train hurtling out of control, throwing passengers out, killing and destroying right across the field? If a train leaps its tracks, it’s not free – it’s dangerous.
"To use another illustration, imagine you go out to a concert one evening to hear a solo pianist perform. You are expecting to hear some relaxing classical music or perhaps some jazz, but the pianist announces that he is a “free” musician and is going to play some of his own compositions. Being a “free” musician means that he doesn’t believe in or follow any of the conventional rules of music – he just plays a random, discordant and unrelated series of notes and chords. How many of us could listen to that for any length of time? Maybe you would you like to go to such a concert – but that’s just the novelty element!
"A train off-track, picture of real freedom?
"The fact is, all good music is expressed within the framework of a set of rules which are interpreted in various creative ways. Even a genre such as jazz, which many consider to be very “free” in its expression, has certain rules that govern it. A jazz pianist will drop the root note of his chords and “colour” them by sharpening or flattening notes in the middle – to put it roughly! But he is still moving within predefined boundaries to express subtle nuances of sound."Read more: http://www.colindye.com/2012/04/16/sexual-freedom-or-sexual-bondage/#ixzz25tbkCZsp
So, to conclude, freedom and rules are not mutually exclusive. They are complementary. :-)
Sunday, August 26, 2012
C.S. Lewis quotable quotes - Mere Christianity #1
I wasn't able to quote any favorite lines from previous chapters. I'm going to start with Chapter 4 and add on more later. I wish I have done this (blogged about/quoted extensively) while I was still reading "Miracles" and "The Great Divorce". I think I did post some quotes but then these were already buried in Plurk, Twitter, and Facebook. :-(
Anyway, I'm reading "The Complete C.S. Lewis Signature Classics" published by HarperOne (an imprint of HarperCollinsPublishers, just for the sake of paging reference. I plan on buying more of his works once I'm done reading this, or if I have more money to do so, whichever comes first. Hehe.
Chapter 4: What Lies Behind the Law, pg. 28
On Laws of Nature, and on Laws of Human Nature:
"The so-called laws may not be anything real--anything above and beyond the actual facts which we observe. The Law of Human Nature, or of Right and Wrong, must be something above and beyond the actual fact of human behaviour. In this case, besides the actual facts, you have something else--a real law which we did not invent and which we know we ought to obey."
Personal note: I'd like to adopt Jack's quick "definition"of reality as "something above and beyond actual facts which we observe." I like how he was able to demonstrate this definition throughout his books such as in "The Chronicles of Narnia", and "The Great Divorce", as well as "Miracles" (the only ones I've finished so far). This definition is further expounded by the above quote, as "a real law which we did not invent and which we know we ought to obey." I've thought of this earlier, and I'm thinking of using "patience" as an example to this apparent truth. I cannot construct a scenario where a person wouldn't want, or would demand, patience from others, especially when we're not doing something right. It is a 'rule'. I am excited to read "The Abolition of Man" and the appendix explaining C.S. Lewis's comparison of world beliefs/religions, observing this Law.
More posts to come! :-)
pg. 28-29
"Ever since men were able to think they have been wondering what this universe really is and how it came to be there. And, very roughly, two views have been held. First, there is what is called the materialist view. People who take that view think that matter and space just happen to exist, and always have existed, nobody knows why; and that the matter, behaving in certain fixed ways, has just happened, by a sort of fluke, to produce creatures like ourselves who are able to think. By one chance in a thousand something hit our sun and made it produce the planets; and by another thousandth chance the chemicals necessary for life, and the right temperature, occurred on one of these planets, and so some of the matter on this earth came alive; and then, by a very long series chances, the living creatures developed into things like us. The other view is the religious view. According to it, what is behind the universe is more like a mind than it is like anything else we know. That is to say, it is conscious, and has purposes, and prefers one thing to another. And on this view it made the universe, partly for purposes we do not know, but partly at any rate, in order to produce creatures like itself--I mean, like itself to the extent of having minds. Please do not think that one of these views was held a long time ago and that the other has gradually taken its place. Wherever there have been thinking men both views turn up. And note this too. You cannot find out which view is the right one by science in the ordinary sense. Science works by experiments. It watches how things behave... why anything comes to be there at all, and whether there is anything behind the things science observes--something of a different kind--this is not a scientific question. If there is "Something Behind", then either it will have to remain altogether unknown to men or else make itself known in some different way. The statement that there is any such thing, and the statement that there is no such thing, are neither of them statements that science can make. And real scientists do not usually make them... Supposing science ever became complete so that it knew every single thing in the whole universe. Is it not plain that the questions, 'Why is there a universe?' 'Why does it go on as it does?' 'Has it any meaning?' wold remain just as they were?
Personal notes: Too rich in content. Comments to follow after. It's pretty late and I need to sleep soon. :-s
Anyway, I'm reading "The Complete C.S. Lewis Signature Classics" published by HarperOne (an imprint of HarperCollinsPublishers, just for the sake of paging reference. I plan on buying more of his works once I'm done reading this, or if I have more money to do so, whichever comes first. Hehe.
Chapter 4: What Lies Behind the Law, pg. 28
On Laws of Nature, and on Laws of Human Nature:
"The so-called laws may not be anything real--anything above and beyond the actual facts which we observe. The Law of Human Nature, or of Right and Wrong, must be something above and beyond the actual fact of human behaviour. In this case, besides the actual facts, you have something else--a real law which we did not invent and which we know we ought to obey."
Personal note: I'd like to adopt Jack's quick "definition"of reality as "something above and beyond actual facts which we observe." I like how he was able to demonstrate this definition throughout his books such as in "The Chronicles of Narnia", and "The Great Divorce", as well as "Miracles" (the only ones I've finished so far). This definition is further expounded by the above quote, as "a real law which we did not invent and which we know we ought to obey." I've thought of this earlier, and I'm thinking of using "patience" as an example to this apparent truth. I cannot construct a scenario where a person wouldn't want, or would demand, patience from others, especially when we're not doing something right. It is a 'rule'. I am excited to read "The Abolition of Man" and the appendix explaining C.S. Lewis's comparison of world beliefs/religions, observing this Law.
More posts to come! :-)
pg. 28-29
"Ever since men were able to think they have been wondering what this universe really is and how it came to be there. And, very roughly, two views have been held. First, there is what is called the materialist view. People who take that view think that matter and space just happen to exist, and always have existed, nobody knows why; and that the matter, behaving in certain fixed ways, has just happened, by a sort of fluke, to produce creatures like ourselves who are able to think. By one chance in a thousand something hit our sun and made it produce the planets; and by another thousandth chance the chemicals necessary for life, and the right temperature, occurred on one of these planets, and so some of the matter on this earth came alive; and then, by a very long series chances, the living creatures developed into things like us. The other view is the religious view. According to it, what is behind the universe is more like a mind than it is like anything else we know. That is to say, it is conscious, and has purposes, and prefers one thing to another. And on this view it made the universe, partly for purposes we do not know, but partly at any rate, in order to produce creatures like itself--I mean, like itself to the extent of having minds. Please do not think that one of these views was held a long time ago and that the other has gradually taken its place. Wherever there have been thinking men both views turn up. And note this too. You cannot find out which view is the right one by science in the ordinary sense. Science works by experiments. It watches how things behave... why anything comes to be there at all, and whether there is anything behind the things science observes--something of a different kind--this is not a scientific question. If there is "Something Behind", then either it will have to remain altogether unknown to men or else make itself known in some different way. The statement that there is any such thing, and the statement that there is no such thing, are neither of them statements that science can make. And real scientists do not usually make them... Supposing science ever became complete so that it knew every single thing in the whole universe. Is it not plain that the questions, 'Why is there a universe?' 'Why does it go on as it does?' 'Has it any meaning?' wold remain just as they were?
Personal notes: Too rich in content. Comments to follow after. It's pretty late and I need to sleep soon. :-s
Sunday, June 10, 2012
Lessons in Life: "A Lot" (Numbers)
It's not how much you have, but how much you need, and how much you can handle, that matters. It says a lot about fulfillment.
"A lot" does not mean satisfaction. It can mean "too much" or "too little" for those who can't handle it. "A lot" suits the person who knows what amount is right for him. And if "a lot" is the right number, then "a lot" it should be.
Why am I writing this? Because I just realized that I don't need a lot right now. I don't think if I was given "a lot" that I'd be ready for it.
"A lot" is a responsibility. How much responsibility can you handle? Well, maybe we can all equally take on responsibilities (no matter what the degree). But how prepared, and comfortable are we with responsibility? Responsibility requires commitment, and hard work. Feel free to add to that list of the requirements of responsibility. But it's not easy.
I have a habit of thinking of "I used to be this or that, etc." But what's important is "now". The past, its memories, can serve as points in time we can get back to when we want to have short breakaways from the current. But there is no use in lingering, and dwelling in them, while abandoning the present. And, we work for the present, expecting for something in the future.
I hope that in writing this, I am opening up a door within me that would allow me to take on responsibilities, big or small. I want to grow loving and fulfilling my responsibilities, so I can be prepared for more as I go. May this be a start.
"A lot" does not mean satisfaction. It can mean "too much" or "too little" for those who can't handle it. "A lot" suits the person who knows what amount is right for him. And if "a lot" is the right number, then "a lot" it should be.
Why am I writing this? Because I just realized that I don't need a lot right now. I don't think if I was given "a lot" that I'd be ready for it.
"A lot" is a responsibility. How much responsibility can you handle? Well, maybe we can all equally take on responsibilities (no matter what the degree). But how prepared, and comfortable are we with responsibility? Responsibility requires commitment, and hard work. Feel free to add to that list of the requirements of responsibility. But it's not easy.
I have a habit of thinking of "I used to be this or that, etc." But what's important is "now". The past, its memories, can serve as points in time we can get back to when we want to have short breakaways from the current. But there is no use in lingering, and dwelling in them, while abandoning the present. And, we work for the present, expecting for something in the future.
I hope that in writing this, I am opening up a door within me that would allow me to take on responsibilities, big or small. I want to grow loving and fulfilling my responsibilities, so I can be prepared for more as I go. May this be a start.
Saturday, May 5, 2012
Change is eternal.
I don't know how I'll feel in the future. Would "it" still be the same tomorrow? Because, yes, I am aware that change is eternal.
Can I be blamed if I feel...?
Can I be blamed if I feel this way?
Can I be blamed if I feel sad when you're away?
Can I be blamed if I feel like you always have your way?
Can I be blamed if I feel like you want me to stay?
Can I be blamed if I feel sad when you're away?
Can I be blamed if I feel like you always have your way?
Can I be blamed if I feel like you want me to stay?
What can you say about someone who...?
What can you say about someone
who broke your heart
way before things have even started?
What can you say about someone
who mended your broken heart
after the same one broke it?
What can you say about someone
who asks you to prepare about the future
that hasn't even happened?
What can you say about someone
who talks about things
as if the same one has seen it ended?
I can say nothing about that someone,
yes I have no words;
for I stand in awe of that someone
who did those things before.
who broke your heart
way before things have even started?
What can you say about someone
who mended your broken heart
after the same one broke it?
What can you say about someone
who asks you to prepare about the future
that hasn't even happened?
What can you say about someone
who talks about things
as if the same one has seen it ended?
I can say nothing about that someone,
yes I have no words;
for I stand in awe of that someone
who did those things before.
Saturday, April 28, 2012
There is a time for everything.
I have a private dreams blog. I just posted two dreams. One happened in December 2011. The other March 2012. I wasn't able to post them as they happened. But these dreams, and my posting them 'later' taught me that indeed, there is a time for
everything. I haven't posted these two dreams for a reason, because they
were waiting for something. It wasn't time yet for them, and this
happens to be the perfect time.
To end this post, let me share the following verses:
Ecclesiastes 3: 1-8, 15-17
both the righteous and the wicked,
for there will be a time for every activity,
a time to judge every deed.”
To end this post, let me share the following verses:
Ecclesiastes 3: 1-8, 15-17
A Time for Everything
3 There is a time for everything,
and a season for every activity under the heavens:
and a season for every activity under the heavens:
2 a time to be born and a time to die,
a time to plant and a time to uproot,
3 a time to kill and a time to heal,
a time to tear down and a time to build,
4 a time to weep and a time to laugh,
a time to mourn and a time to dance,
5 a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them,
a time to embrace and a time to refrain from embracing,
6 a time to search and a time to give up,
a time to keep and a time to throw away,
7 a time to tear and a time to mend,
a time to be silent and a time to speak,
8 a time to love and a time to hate,
a time for war and a time for peace.
a time to plant and a time to uproot,
3 a time to kill and a time to heal,
a time to tear down and a time to build,
4 a time to weep and a time to laugh,
a time to mourn and a time to dance,
5 a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them,
a time to embrace and a time to refrain from embracing,
6 a time to search and a time to give up,
a time to keep and a time to throw away,
7 a time to tear and a time to mend,
a time to be silent and a time to speak,
8 a time to love and a time to hate,
a time for war and a time for peace.
...
15 Whatever is has already been,
and what will be has been before;
and God will call the past to account.
and what will be has been before;
and God will call the past to account.
16 And I saw something else under the sun:
In the place of judgment—wickedness was there,
in the place of justice—wickedness was there.
in the place of justice—wickedness was there.
17 I said to myself,
“God will bring into judgment both the righteous and the wicked,
for there will be a time for every activity,
a time to judge every deed.”
Envy is Evil.
Envy is evil. We all are aware of that. Even if one does not believe that it is anymore. But why is it evil?
I've put a lot of thought in this, and probably feel convinced enough to the gut that another word about it feels like it won't do much more. At least for myself. But let me pour out anything I think about why it is indeed evil.
Endlessly thinking of how another person will always have something that you'll never have. This ceaseless observation that would lead to longings to have (lust), to covet (if applicable), to destroy (one's self, or the other). And the list never ends.
And, there's also the instance of trying to please others, and "improve" and "beautify" ourselves just to get to the point of getting the object of our envy's attention. And what's next? We forget to love ourselves, to give importance to what we have; and everyone does have a lot, we're just too blind to see it.
Alas, we can't be blamed for being feeble. We are only human. But that's what we need sheds of truth for -- to remind us of who we are, and what we can be, no matter our current state. Life is not easy. That is why there is always the temptation of envy. We always have a choice. We can always fight. Doesn't guarantee winning every time, but there will be "wins" if we at least try all the time to make a right decision. And there is also HOPE. Without it, without a reason to live, without love for ourselves, without any glimpse or expectation for something good to look to in the future, what do we have?
Self love. I'm not sure about the others who have no problem with this, and I cannot speak for them certainly. But I believe a lot of people are suffering from this. I must emphasize that we must teach ourselves, or at least learn, to love ourselves. This will banish the illusions of envy -- of the things it asks us to do to "quench", just for a short while, its tingle.
Lastly, I can't help but say how much LOVE indeed is the ultimate solution. And I'm not talking about our misconception of "love" that is either lesser, or more than, the required amount that it misses the target. I'm talking about the right kind, the pure type of love, that is so hot it melts away everything evil, in the end showing gleaming gold like in a furnace.
I've put a lot of thought in this, and probably feel convinced enough to the gut that another word about it feels like it won't do much more. At least for myself. But let me pour out anything I think about why it is indeed evil.
Endlessly thinking of how another person will always have something that you'll never have. This ceaseless observation that would lead to longings to have (lust), to covet (if applicable), to destroy (one's self, or the other). And the list never ends.
And, there's also the instance of trying to please others, and "improve" and "beautify" ourselves just to get to the point of getting the object of our envy's attention. And what's next? We forget to love ourselves, to give importance to what we have; and everyone does have a lot, we're just too blind to see it.
Alas, we can't be blamed for being feeble. We are only human. But that's what we need sheds of truth for -- to remind us of who we are, and what we can be, no matter our current state. Life is not easy. That is why there is always the temptation of envy. We always have a choice. We can always fight. Doesn't guarantee winning every time, but there will be "wins" if we at least try all the time to make a right decision. And there is also HOPE. Without it, without a reason to live, without love for ourselves, without any glimpse or expectation for something good to look to in the future, what do we have?
Self love. I'm not sure about the others who have no problem with this, and I cannot speak for them certainly. But I believe a lot of people are suffering from this. I must emphasize that we must teach ourselves, or at least learn, to love ourselves. This will banish the illusions of envy -- of the things it asks us to do to "quench", just for a short while, its tingle.
Lastly, I can't help but say how much LOVE indeed is the ultimate solution. And I'm not talking about our misconception of "love" that is either lesser, or more than, the required amount that it misses the target. I'm talking about the right kind, the pure type of love, that is so hot it melts away everything evil, in the end showing gleaming gold like in a furnace.
Wednesday, February 29, 2012
Yesterday
There is just so much we owe to yesterday
Because he is in charge of whatever worry that we carry today
So let us not be tight towards him and not give him what he's due
For he's supposed to take care of every worry and woe
Before our every night ends
We should not neglect our task that is to, with ourselves, make amends
To let go of grudges, exhaustion, and worry
That we can appreciate and behold tomorrow in its full glory
Tonight, that is what exactly I will do
To give thanks for the rest and repose that I am entitled to
And cast on the shoulders of what is to be yesterday
All the transpirations, and weariness of today
Wednesday, February 22, 2012
The Question that I want to ask the Philippine Government
Right now, I was actually reading "Harry Potter: The Goblet of Fire". But before I could go on with the rest of the chapter I was at, I suddenly had this question pop out loudly off my mind; I actually have already been thinking of it for ages, with various degrees of intensity in my head: What kind of work/job do or can High School/Non-College Graduates have (referring to either those that has started or haven't started college)?
With that question, I wonder if the Philippines can be able to house citizens who have graduated from High School, and still give them hope and assurance of work? Is a college degree really that necessary to have a future, even just decent food to the table, including some bills and monthly rents? Is it possible in the Philippine society to cater to high school Filipino graduates by allowing them to have decent jobs?
There are people who have graduated from high school and haven't started college; and most of them are losing hope in life. Various circumstances surround them, which are the reason for not being able to finish (or even start) college. And, most to their grim, that is the start of a fading hope.
I wish for the Philippine government to be able to create a kind of society that would allow a just-enough opportunity for these people, whom I believe comprise a big sum of the Philippine's population. I believe it that for them, finishing high school is already an achievement, and entering college a big hurdle. But, I also wish that we, the society, I believe a basic unit or part of the Philippine gov't, can be able to give something back to them as a reward for having achieved something, which is a high school education.
High school education is not a joke; it is not worthless. I hope we can give it its proper due, and recognize it for its true worth. I hope we can be a pool of possibilities for people who finished their high school education. And, in return, that empowerment will be their hope -- a hope that will uplift majority of the Philippine's society.
I, a Filipino citizen, highly blessed to have graduated from college just recently, dream of being one of the people who caused change, a transformation, to our society. I envision seeing our land having just enough jobs for our countrymen, even those who only had a high school education. I hope that the work of my hands, that which I will be doing in the near future, can be a brick that would build up a shelter for these people, one that will help them help themselves. Be it an educator, an entrepreneur, a business-owner, a public servant, or a mere citizen, I wish to help in any way I can.
Hoping not to end in wishful thinking,
Hew "Luke Quaint" Miggoid
PS
Are there good benchmarks we can follow to create jobs for our countrymen? Have we really been that proactive in transforming the labor system in the Philippines?
Tuesday, February 7, 2012
Your Return (The Moment Of)
It was in an unexpected situation when I saw you.
An unpleasant place where we met.
I see you're quite brand new.
With that dazzling new look, clothes, and cut.
As your appearance have changed, so has your name.
There's just so much time has done on you.
Your gaze is sharp and still and fixed.
Your face looking moist, soft, and smooth.
And I stand beholding your countenance.
I still see the innocence in your eyes.
Behind your eyes, your mind thinks there's no return.
There is no hope, only good bye to who you were.
Your dreams, your good ambitions, they have disappeared.
All you think is left are your mistakes in front of you.
You tighten your grip for fear of your past, while your future looks bleak.
The only hope left for you is a bitter end.
Oh how I wish I could tell you, "do not fear".
How I yearn to restore your faith in life, and in yourself.
These magic words are enough to bring you back your life.
Words we all long for, much particularly words of love.
I hope in the end, may love, like light, finally find us from our being lost.
At last, we'll have our lives back.
Notes:
Have we ever met someone we knew before, who was really close to us? Only to know that person has changed so much? And, that "change", isn't so "good"? And have we ever wondered why they have changed "that way"? And is there any way to "get them back"? Those are the questions that filled the lines and letters of this poem. I hope you find a deep connection with it as I have.
An unpleasant place where we met.
I see you're quite brand new.
With that dazzling new look, clothes, and cut.
As your appearance have changed, so has your name.
There's just so much time has done on you.
Your gaze is sharp and still and fixed.
Your face looking moist, soft, and smooth.
And I stand beholding your countenance.
I still see the innocence in your eyes.
Behind your eyes, your mind thinks there's no return.
There is no hope, only good bye to who you were.
Your dreams, your good ambitions, they have disappeared.
All you think is left are your mistakes in front of you.
You tighten your grip for fear of your past, while your future looks bleak.
The only hope left for you is a bitter end.
Oh how I wish I could tell you, "do not fear".
How I yearn to restore your faith in life, and in yourself.
These magic words are enough to bring you back your life.
Words we all long for, much particularly words of love.
I hope in the end, may love, like light, finally find us from our being lost.
At last, we'll have our lives back.
Notes:
Have we ever met someone we knew before, who was really close to us? Only to know that person has changed so much? And, that "change", isn't so "good"? And have we ever wondered why they have changed "that way"? And is there any way to "get them back"? Those are the questions that filled the lines and letters of this poem. I hope you find a deep connection with it as I have.
Monday, January 30, 2012
"Indak" (Dance) by Up Dharma Down (English Interpretation)
I've Googled the lyrics of the song with only the intention of getting deeper into it, and I've noticed there were already translations. The sight of many translations disheartened me quite a bit.
I wish to write my own translation some time in the future, when the "feeling is right", when the song "runs through my veins", and on that time that my heart is in "full communion with the song". To be honest, right now, those aren't the case. But, little by little, I think it's getting less and less scripted that I'm telling myself to write my own english "interpretation" (and I refuse to use "translation") of the song.
So, enough for my introduction (aka "rant"). After the first song I wrote an english "interpretation" of (Tadhana by, of course, my beloved Up Dharma Down), I "fell in love"with this song. It's fresh, it's new, it's still alive. "Tadhana" is still nice, but this is just the "song of the moment" for me.
So, here goes my interpretation of the song in english:
Habang nalulungkot ka, isa nama’y natutuwa
Notes: I think Armi has that habit of improvising lyrics, especially towards the end, or at least giving it a little twist so there is a difference between those recorded in the studio, and those performed live. I'm just not sure which is which.
Tatakbo, gagalaw
(Tripping, swaying)
Mag-iisip kung dapat bang bumitaw
(Wondering if I should let go of my hands)
Kulang na lang atakihin
(The only thing left [that still hasn't happened] is my heart failing [me])
Ang pag-hinga’y nabibitin
([And] as my breathing skips)
Ang dahilan, alam mo na
(The reason [why], that you [already] know)
Kahit ano pang sabihin nila
(Despite whatever that they say)
Tayong dalawa lamang ang makakaalam
(Only the two of us will know [about it])
Ngunit ako ngayo’y naguguluhan
(But right now I'm feeling so confused)
Makikinig ba 'ko sa 'king isip na dati pa namang magulo?
(Will I listen to my mind that has since been a mess)
O iindak na lamang sa tibok ng puso mo
(Or will I just dance to the beat of your heart)
At aasahan ko na lamang ang hindi mo aapakan ang aking mga paa
(And I will only hope that you won't just trip [or step] on my [delicate] feet)
Pipikit na lamang at mag-sasayaw habang nanonood siya…
(I'll just close my eyes and I will dance while [in one corner] he'll watch)
Paalis at babalik
(I am going, and I'll come back)
May baong yakap at suklian ng halik
([Bearing] with me hugs and [an] exchange of kisses)
Mag-papaalam at nag-sisisi
(I'll say goodbye, and [as I am] regretting it)
Habang papiglas ka ako sayo ay tatabi
(While you [try to] resist [me], beside you I will sit)
Tayong dalawa lamang ang nakakaalam ngunit hindi na matanto
(It's only the two of us who know [about it] but [now] I can't figure out [anymore])
Kung sino nga ba ang pag-bibigyan ko
(Who it is that I should [keep or] have around)
Makikinig nga ba sa isipan na alam ang wasto
(Should [or will] I just listen to my mind that knows what is right)
Ngunit pipigilan ng pag-ibig niya na totoo
(But dissuaded by his love that [I know] is true)
Iindak na lamang ba sa tibok ng puso mo
(Will I just dance to the beat of your heart)
At aasahan kong hindi mo lamang aapakan ang aking mga paa
(And I will hope that you will not just trip [or step] on my [fragile] feet)
Pipikit na lamang at mag-sasaya[w] habang nalulungkot ka
(I will just close my eyes [and I will dance] in reverie, while you're in [your] misery)
Pipikit na lamang at mag-sasaya, habang nalulungkot ka
(I will just close my eyes in reverie, while you're in misery)
Habang nalulungkot ka
(While you're in misery)
Ako'y litong-lito, tulungan niyo ako
(I feel so confused, will anyone help [me]?)
Di ko na alam kung sino bang aking pagbibigyan (ko)
(I don't know anymore who I will [consider to] have around)
Ayoko na ng ganito, ako ay litong-lito
(I don't want this anymore, I feel so confused)
(While you're in misery, the other one is merry)
May isa (o minsan) naman ay lumuluha
(And another one [or sometimes] grieves)
Notes: I think Armi has that habit of improvising lyrics, especially towards the end, or at least giving it a little twist so there is a difference between those recorded in the studio, and those performed live. I'm just not sure which is which.
I haven't seen them live yet. I don't even have any of their CD's. But despite the temptation in cyberspace, I would rather wait and buy their albums. I also await the day to see them live. Kudos to Up Dharma Down. I'm a true fan.
Saturday, November 19, 2011
Unveiling of Next Week
My Saturday night is a really exciting night. I'm excited about a lot of things. I'm anxious about a lot of stuff. And those things I'm thinking about (that makes me excited/anxious) will mostly happen in the coming week. ;-)
Starting tomorrow, I'll be busy, but I'm very excited about it. My Thesis Defense is scheduled on Monday. I'm supposed to prepare for an overnight. I might also be assigned to print "Demo Kits" for our thesis defense. I don't wanna forget that I should bring with me some scratch papers to use for the test-printing of our system. Another thing is I'll bring all my "appliances" (cables, internet, etc.). I hope my group mate does not forget his printer. Then, after preparing for an overnight (my attire should be ready, presentation materials, clothes, etc.), when I get to my group mate's house, we'll be starting our rehearsal. I plan for us to review our document very well, but to also focus on the flow of our presentation.
This is my last defense ever for my undergraduate degree. Talk about happiness and excitement! I'm about to end a phase of my life. ;-) After that, I'm totally free!
Next week, Tuesday, I might meet with my former professor, now turned IT professional. Hahaha. A group date (with two other friends in college). After that, I might go to school, then accompany my best buddy, and have an overnight at their place (for the 3rd consecutive time)! ;-)
I'm also planning to clean up my room next week, because I never really had the chance to do so. Our house helpers are not doing the deed that right lately. Maybe I can rearrange my stuff myself. :-)
And how about some physical activities? I have a planned jogging exercise at my college's sports center. I'm looking forward to it! I also want to try swimming with my thesis mates once our defense is over.
So, here's a good night! :-D
Starting tomorrow, I'll be busy, but I'm very excited about it. My Thesis Defense is scheduled on Monday. I'm supposed to prepare for an overnight. I might also be assigned to print "Demo Kits" for our thesis defense. I don't wanna forget that I should bring with me some scratch papers to use for the test-printing of our system. Another thing is I'll bring all my "appliances" (cables, internet, etc.). I hope my group mate does not forget his printer. Then, after preparing for an overnight (my attire should be ready, presentation materials, clothes, etc.), when I get to my group mate's house, we'll be starting our rehearsal. I plan for us to review our document very well, but to also focus on the flow of our presentation.
This is my last defense ever for my undergraduate degree. Talk about happiness and excitement! I'm about to end a phase of my life. ;-) After that, I'm totally free!
Next week, Tuesday, I might meet with my former professor, now turned IT professional. Hahaha. A group date (with two other friends in college). After that, I might go to school, then accompany my best buddy, and have an overnight at their place (for the 3rd consecutive time)! ;-)
I'm also planning to clean up my room next week, because I never really had the chance to do so. Our house helpers are not doing the deed that right lately. Maybe I can rearrange my stuff myself. :-)
And how about some physical activities? I have a planned jogging exercise at my college's sports center. I'm looking forward to it! I also want to try swimming with my thesis mates once our defense is over.
So, here's a good night! :-D
Saturday, November 12, 2011
On Volunteerism
It's at my last year (and last term) in college that I have sincerely contemplated and thought about volunteerism. In the previous years, I hated it. Why? I'm not the type to go out and "explore lands", and "help others" by "volunteering" in events called for by different organizations. Why? Because I think that, though noble, they're too temporal and unsustainable. Too one-sided. I dream instead of helping people by becoming rich, then engaging in philanthropy.
I believe in supporting a cause that I really believe in, then going full-blown with it; not of volunteering just about anywhere the wind of volunteering blows, and at the end of the day, fooling myself that I was satisfied for that night for helping others, then forgetting it the day after. I'll just renew the "contract", and help again, then I'll feel good again, then I'll forget the feeling. Then I'll do it again to feel good for helping. But, it never really ends. The short-term needs of people are met; they are left there hoping for another wave of volunteers. Do they really obtain hope in getting a better life just from volunteers? My thought is that volunteering should end, because the need for it has been eliminated; that just means that people have become self-sufficient. That is what I want to see.
I have been "unsupportive" and "inactive" a lot of times because I lack the necessary appreciation of things; usually because I think that if something is not sustainable, why waste in investing? I'd invest if I'm sure about the thought already. I wouldn't want to join an organization and stay there for the "association" nor the company. It's the cause, not the friends you gain.
I'm lucky, though, to have finally "found" what I believe is a cause that I genuinely wish to support; that is the EDUCATION OF THE POOR. There are lots of poor people lacking the same education I have. The kind of education that empowers decisions, gives voice to people. The challenge here is that even those who are educated still encounter that problem; so, it mustn't be the kind of education that you can find in books. Maybe it's the kind of education about surviving in life, and succeeding. It's about the kind of education of finding out that you have that identity as a Filipino, as an individual, and you have a power to choose.
I wish to engage in volunteerism acts soon related to Education. I particularly want to teach. And, what I love the most about Education is not teaching technical subject matters; it's about empowering the minds of people, both young and old (particularly the fresh and young minds). It's about showing them that they have the capacity to grow, to absorb. The impediment of lacking the "materials" is a treatable illness, and the impoverished can still enjoy education beyond the books. That is something I want to see. That is a cause I would want to support.
Upon writing this, I've realized something about myself. I've been too inactive, too busy waiting for "that one thing", that I have missed out on experiences that could help prepare me for "that one".
Help--it starts early; do not delay it. Do not be like that servant who received one talent, and buried it on the ground, waiting for a "worthy cause" to spend the talent with; cos, in the end, time ran out for him, and that "cause" he was waiting for never came (Parable of the Talents). Maybe we are the ones who would create a "cause". Increases don't mean never losing a talent you have invested. It may be a part of the process. But the important thing is to use the talents, and eventually there will be an increase.
Another principle I've learned here is that what you sow is what you reap. Engaging in volunteer acts doesn't go without it's own rewards. The superficial benefits may be for the short-term, but the learning, the experience, that is something that builds up in time.
This is a new page in time. I hope to engage in this personally, and heave a great amount of learning.
Links:
1. Parable of the Talents - http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew+25:14-30&version=NKJV
2. What you sow is what you reap - http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=galatians%206:7,9-10&version=NKJV
I believe in supporting a cause that I really believe in, then going full-blown with it; not of volunteering just about anywhere the wind of volunteering blows, and at the end of the day, fooling myself that I was satisfied for that night for helping others, then forgetting it the day after. I'll just renew the "contract", and help again, then I'll feel good again, then I'll forget the feeling. Then I'll do it again to feel good for helping. But, it never really ends. The short-term needs of people are met; they are left there hoping for another wave of volunteers. Do they really obtain hope in getting a better life just from volunteers? My thought is that volunteering should end, because the need for it has been eliminated; that just means that people have become self-sufficient. That is what I want to see.
I have been "unsupportive" and "inactive" a lot of times because I lack the necessary appreciation of things; usually because I think that if something is not sustainable, why waste in investing? I'd invest if I'm sure about the thought already. I wouldn't want to join an organization and stay there for the "association" nor the company. It's the cause, not the friends you gain.
I'm lucky, though, to have finally "found" what I believe is a cause that I genuinely wish to support; that is the EDUCATION OF THE POOR. There are lots of poor people lacking the same education I have. The kind of education that empowers decisions, gives voice to people. The challenge here is that even those who are educated still encounter that problem; so, it mustn't be the kind of education that you can find in books. Maybe it's the kind of education about surviving in life, and succeeding. It's about the kind of education of finding out that you have that identity as a Filipino, as an individual, and you have a power to choose.
I wish to engage in volunteerism acts soon related to Education. I particularly want to teach. And, what I love the most about Education is not teaching technical subject matters; it's about empowering the minds of people, both young and old (particularly the fresh and young minds). It's about showing them that they have the capacity to grow, to absorb. The impediment of lacking the "materials" is a treatable illness, and the impoverished can still enjoy education beyond the books. That is something I want to see. That is a cause I would want to support.
Upon writing this, I've realized something about myself. I've been too inactive, too busy waiting for "that one thing", that I have missed out on experiences that could help prepare me for "that one".
Help--it starts early; do not delay it. Do not be like that servant who received one talent, and buried it on the ground, waiting for a "worthy cause" to spend the talent with; cos, in the end, time ran out for him, and that "cause" he was waiting for never came (Parable of the Talents). Maybe we are the ones who would create a "cause". Increases don't mean never losing a talent you have invested. It may be a part of the process. But the important thing is to use the talents, and eventually there will be an increase.
Another principle I've learned here is that what you sow is what you reap. Engaging in volunteer acts doesn't go without it's own rewards. The superficial benefits may be for the short-term, but the learning, the experience, that is something that builds up in time.
This is a new page in time. I hope to engage in this personally, and heave a great amount of learning.
Links:
1. Parable of the Talents - http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew+25:14-30&version=NKJV
2. What you sow is what you reap - http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=galatians%206:7,9-10&version=NKJV
Monday, November 7, 2011
Xenophon, Socrates
Xenophon, Socrates:
"Do not be surprised at my plain speaking; the wine helps to incite me, and the kind of Love [Eros] that ever dwells with me spurs me on to say what I think about its opposite.
For, to my way of thinking, the man whose attention is attracted only by his beloved's appearance is like one who has rented a farm; his aim is not to increase its value but to gain from it as much of a harvest as he can for himself. On the other hand, the man whose goal is friendship is more like one possessing a farm of his own; at any rate he utilizes all sources to enhance his loved one's worth.
Furthermore, the favourite who realizes that he who lavishes physical charms will be the lover's sovereign will in all likelihood be loose in his general conduct; but the one who feels that he cannot keep his lover faithful without nobility of character [kalokagathia] will more probably give heed to virtue [areté].
But the greatest blessing that befalls the man who yearns to render his favourite a good friend is the necessity of himself making virtue [areté] his habitual practice. For one cannot produce goodness [agathos] in his companion while his own conduct is evil, nor can he himself exhibit shamelessness and incontinence and at the same time render his beloved self-controlled and reverent."
"Do not be surprised at my plain speaking; the wine helps to incite me, and the kind of Love [Eros] that ever dwells with me spurs me on to say what I think about its opposite.
For, to my way of thinking, the man whose attention is attracted only by his beloved's appearance is like one who has rented a farm; his aim is not to increase its value but to gain from it as much of a harvest as he can for himself. On the other hand, the man whose goal is friendship is more like one possessing a farm of his own; at any rate he utilizes all sources to enhance his loved one's worth.
Furthermore, the favourite who realizes that he who lavishes physical charms will be the lover's sovereign will in all likelihood be loose in his general conduct; but the one who feels that he cannot keep his lover faithful without nobility of character [kalokagathia] will more probably give heed to virtue [areté].
But the greatest blessing that befalls the man who yearns to render his favourite a good friend is the necessity of himself making virtue [areté] his habitual practice. For one cannot produce goodness [agathos] in his companion while his own conduct is evil, nor can he himself exhibit shamelessness and incontinence and at the same time render his beloved self-controlled and reverent."
Friday, October 7, 2011
Casting Doubts about the "RH" Bill
I'm pretty interested about the RH Bill topic. I normally don't buy something out of face value. When the bill was first mentioned (prolly in 2006/2007?), I was hopeful and open-minded about it. But, when I got educated about the implication of contraceptives (moral, physical, social, cultural, etc.), and so on, my opinion changed. I think those who "deny" the disadvantages of contraceptives, and it's heavy connection with the bill, are highly uneducated about it, and that they do not really have a decent say about this bill.C To be fair, I want to learn more about the bill, too. But, maybe I can do that by asking questions.
Here are the things I want to scrutinize about the RH Bill:
- What does it say about adoption/people who have difficulties in child bearing?
- What does it say about orphans, and the people who already are the "victims" of poor reproductive healthcare, particularly "mistakes" that cannot be undone?
- What about the idea that the poor should've had been unborn, instead of living an "undignified life"? Does the RH Bill really dignify human life by deciding, or suggesting, that those who live "undignified lives" should not suffer, and not be born instead for that to happen?
Also, in the future, I want to comment about this post: http://scapnational.wordpress.com/2011/10/06/student-leaders-stand-up-for-the-rh-bill/ - I heavily want to criticize the comments of the Tapat leader. It's worth criticizing.
I also hope that those who are against the bill present more credible, logical arguments against it. We need modern thinkers. But, just because something is not modern, does not mean it's not good at all.
(I had to cut this short because I need to sleep already)
Here are the things I want to scrutinize about the RH Bill:
- What does it say about adoption/people who have difficulties in child bearing?
- What does it say about orphans, and the people who already are the "victims" of poor reproductive healthcare, particularly "mistakes" that cannot be undone?
- What about the idea that the poor should've had been unborn, instead of living an "undignified life"? Does the RH Bill really dignify human life by deciding, or suggesting, that those who live "undignified lives" should not suffer, and not be born instead for that to happen?
Also, in the future, I want to comment about this post: http://scapnational.wordpress.com/2011/10/06/student-leaders-stand-up-for-the-rh-bill/ - I heavily want to criticize the comments of the Tapat leader. It's worth criticizing.
I also hope that those who are against the bill present more credible, logical arguments against it. We need modern thinkers. But, just because something is not modern, does not mean it's not good at all.
(I had to cut this short because I need to sleep already)
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