LeiReviews: The Getaway

LeiReviews: The Getaway: The Getaway by leishop featuring feather flower hair accessories Roberto Cavalli metal shades forzieri.com Tarina Tarantino hair accessory...

Becoming Jane

I saw this movie last year around Christmas.  It was a sad story.  Jane the author of well-received novels lived a melancholy life… at least, that’s how I see it.

 

She gave up on her beloved. She did not believe in the ability of the man to succeed. Her vision of Tom was jaded of the fear of the unknown. Perhaps, we need to see beyond circumstances. If she believed in the man that he is, and supported his dreams, it would be a different ending. What Tom needed that time was someone who would believe he can. She did not.

Wouldn’t it be great to know someone believes in us?

SMEs in the Philippines

SMALL AND MEDIUM ENTERPRISES comprise 99.6% of all registeed buinesses in the Philippines and employ 70% of the workforce

Small Business : 10-99 employees
Medium Business: 100-199 employees
Large Business: 200 or more employees
Micro: 1-9 employees

There are legislations in the Philippines that help and support SMEs. The Magna Carta for Small Enterprises in 1991 tried to consolidate government programs to promote and develop SMEs. In addition, there are mandates for lending institutions to provide loan assistance especially set aside for SMEs.

However, due to the innate character of Filipinos dreading risks, people tend to just depend and lean their backs on big companies for employment and monthly salaries. They opt to be employees forever. On the other hand, there are those up for the challenge but need finance to start. Years ago, private banks used to be reluctant to lend to SMEs but are now showing their support in the endeavors of boosting the economic growth. Another aspect to be considered is the access to technology and skills. Starting a business is not a walk in the park. It requires skills and know-how, or else, you will just see your investments to the drain. Filipinos need to learn the right skills needed to begin. We can not just rely on mere experiences. It is important that we learn the proper way, through books, learning institutions that will equip the future business magnates.

But even if the Filipinos are ready to run through this race of entrepreneurship, the government should back it up with infrastructures and communication system needed by these businessmen. We need roads to transport products to make the supply chain efficient enough to ensure the smooth flow of operations, maximizing the resources will help minimize the expense for logistics.

As a nation, I believe we are getting there. We just need to think positive about it rather than speak ill of the country’s future. Let’s all look forward and be hopeful. Philippines is on it’s way.

Watched StepMom Last Night

I was sick since last week. I don’t know what’s wrong with myself lately. Actually… I do know. We know things that bother us… we just don’t want to blurt it out. Sometimes, scared of the fact to confirm our depression or frustration. We don’t utter things because it becomes confirmed and real.

I am okay now. Anyway, going back to the subject matter. I saw StepMom last night. I can’t remember if it was my 2oth or what, but I like the movie. It has depth. I feel for the mom who got cancer. It’s never easy to leave your children. I don’t have children, yet. I understand how she feels knowing she’ll be leaving the people dear to her. She would want to be there for them when they go to high school and choose their major in college. But she won’t. My mom was at the couch sleeping amidst the thunderstorm last night. I was looking at her. I thank God she is still there. I’ll be 30 in 2 months. I thank God for my mom and dad. Through the days I was at home, I felt I am still their youngest girl. They were taking care of me. My dad even brought Piknik the other day. He knows how much I love the snack. I know I’m not that young anymore, but I feel I am in the comforts of our home.

I’ve been going through a lot of ponderings these past few days. I’ve been trying to be okay in my green room, and waiting on God to finally send a word to lift my hopes up again. Then, I realized that my parents have always been there for me. Sure, we disagree over a lot of things. My decisions, my career, but I will always be their little girl.  They will always be my mom and dad.

I will get married and have my own little home.  It’s good to know I belong to a great home. A complete set of parents, a happy, home that I will carry in my heart as I pass the lessons learned to my future babies. Actually, I never thought I wanted to have a family… until this year. So, let’s just wait and see. I know what I want now. I want to pass the heart my parents gave us to my future kids and give them the same love my parents taught us.

Thank you, Father for my parents.

An Epiphany in Anawangin Cove, Iba, Zambales

When I went to Anawangin Cove in Iba, Zambales last weekend, I realized one thing… an epiphany I believe I should have encountered years ago.. but perhaps, it was just the right time for me to realize. Maybe I was just busy doing other things which required me to be stationary. I needed to finish my graduate studies and the ministry at church was just getting started. Now, it seems as if I entered a new season and doors are opening everywhere.

THE WAVES WERE DIVINE. The waves splashing through the mysterious brown rocks along the shore in Anawangin Cove were divine. The wind carries the waters and make them touch your skin, as if whispering something. There is something enigmatic with such a scene… That’s when it hit me. Going to different places is not just for fun. Travelling and experiencing the world in different views and angles, in the eyes of different people help discover you. It was only then I realized the purpose of roads, vehicles, boats and bridges. God created and trained mighty engineers and great inventions for people to bridge territories and see the beauty of His creation. I agree to what He said, “It is good.” I believe God wants us to open gates of this earth and capture the exquisite beauty of His creation. After all, why would God create an earth so vast and astonishing if He doesn’t want it to be to seen?

DISCOVER. Everytime we see and discover a new place, a new community, we discover people and learn life through their eyes.  As we unravel a whole new world that exists beyond the walls of our bedroom and workstation, we uncover the secret chambers of our hearts… our visions extended, our perspectives broadened.

This is the purpose why I travel.

Living Beyond the Walls of Intramuros

And the story is on.


I can still remember my first day at the university. I can still see how I looked and what I was wearing.  I went pass the gates of Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila and went to the registrar’s office to get my ID. It was the start of my 4 years, actually add another 2 years for my MBA.


My university life was the most exciting level for me. I enjoyed going to school, eventhough I would need to travel a full 2 hours. I like looking at the walls of Intramuros. I apprecite the dark-mossy texture of the walls. It’s old, dramatic and profound.  The very streets of Intramuros have a different feel into it. The atmosphere is calm, but you can sense the history of the people who lived during the time of Rizal and the other heroes of his time.  It became my second home and it was an honor to be educated within the walls that stood past battles and blood.


I hope we can build more “Intramuros.” It doesn’t just show our culture and distinct architectural styles, but it’s good to be reminded and surrounded by history. It makes us wonder and relive the passion of Filipinos for their country in those critical years. I believe, to see such would help us realize that we should be thankful of the freedom we have now and focus on what to do to maintain and cultivate the legacy they passed on to us.


Try to visit the walls.

Beautiful Mind: Windows of Princeton

When I think about my life… how I began, my today and how tomorrow will unfold, I remember the words of Mr. John Nash in the movie… “I’m terrified, mortified, petrified…stupefied by you.”

          Certainly, there were days when I try to study and see what will become of me.  I’m facing a lot of challenges, my relationships with the people around me, my career, my flight in the graduate school, my church and what I really want to happen in this short time…my passion, I sometimes get scared.   Because for a fact, no one really knows.   But Mr. Nash lived his life, walked freely around the campus and even wrote calculations on the windows of Princeton, based on his perception on how to live.  He did, not what he needed to accomplish but what he really wants.  And that is to solve mathematical problems - the mystery of numerical equations.  He believes in it.  And was not afraid of it.  He had the courage to dig deep within the unknown.  He faced life and all of its imperfections because that is the only way he knows how.  He has faith in his God-given talent that he can.  He knows what his purpose is, and that’s exactly what he did.  He has the freedom and courage to dare the world to listen to him.  And I want that in me.  Now that I am trying to complete my graduate degree, his life inspired me to give all that I am for what I have chosen.  To continue and never give up.  Not be frightened. And allow the valor living inside us surface as we venture the undefined horizons.  Once in a while we all live and die, but in this life all we can do is to die and live again.
         
            As an MBA student, his story made me value education more.  I became utterly grateful of the fact that I am educated and have a chance to broaden my horizons by entering this course.  In addition, John’s contribution to his country inspire me to help, through the best of my abilities whatever there is I can offer for the betterment of our nation.  I want to use the knowledge I gained from years spent in this institution, not just for my own advantage, but as well as for the common good.  And even if I may not be as intellectual as him nor any of his colleagues in Princeton, I believe I can do my share to help establish a better and stronger republic through educating others.  This is one of the reasons I applied for graduate studies. To be an educator like most of the people I admire.   Help the next generation of eager minds understand that we still have a chance to lift up the economy, low as it may seem, by first embedding good values to their fresh mindsets.  As well as emphasize the weight of staying within the borders of our beloved country rather than eloping for better, greener pastures.

            Some may think I am opposing the reality and vying the impossible, but if John Nash showed that when we do believe in something, together with the faith we hold in our souls… we can make things happen.  Mr. Nash did not let himself be confined within the very corners of his dormitory, nor the pessimistic impressions of his friends and superiors.  But he tried, even pushed himself to the limits to make something greater out of him.

            He influenced me to be professional, in every aspect of the word, to work with my fellow classmates and associates.  Grant them the respect they deserve.  Value their uniqueness, perceptions and judgments.  His life taught me to aim for something more remarkable than the usual, which is not just for my sole benefit but for those around me as well.

            Mr. John Nash’s life was not easy like the rest of those who breathe.  He studied, worked, was hurt and felt betrayed by his own exquisite mind.  But he continued.  And his will to survive against all the odds which emerged before him was worth all the pain he needed to endure.  And it speaks to me.  That no matter who you are, how wealthy one may become or how many diplomas one may obtain in his lifetime, it boils down to one fact - we are not perfect.  And we cannot stand alone.  And for Mr. John Nash, he needed the unconditional love and compassion of his wife.  It reminded me of the people who had, are and have always supported me.  My family.   Like Mr. Nash, his wife held on to him during the most difficult scenes in his life.  Her words saying, “ …but when I look at him and I force myself to see the man I married and he becomes that man.  He is transformed in this man that I love and I’m transformed into someone who loves him”, inspired me to love my family, above all things which exist, because I know they are and will always be my home, my refuge and my strength.  I also believe that the role played by his wife was one of the greatest reasons how he was able to get back on track.  She had a very profound and exceptional part in his struggles and I believe that was the most important miracle in his life.  Again, her courage helps me understand more the depth of the words “unconditional love”.  She truly is the one behind the success of John Nash.
         
            Knowing great people and recognizing how astonishing their lives have been encourage me to understand life further.   In that way, I may deserve the word professional, or an MBA graduate.  But let us still remember the essence of King Solomon’s famous words of wisdom… truly everything is meaningless.  I may have tons of degree, I might even get a doctoral course like my mentors, or be one of the greatest businessmen in Philippine history… but those are just titles embellished with beautiful frames.  Those do not fully define who we really are.  Achieving a Nobel Prize is just a bonus, we should always be reminded to look beyond the most-desired award, and that is a better spirit which sprang in us because of the decades of hard work and devotion, accompanied with the shedding of blood through our  hearts, lessons learned from failing now and falling again, rising from life’s hurdles, how lost one can become, and most importantly how we found the road home -- is the achievement and victory in itself, grand in its simplest form and still undoubtedly immeasurable.

Martin The Dreamer

When people are pressed down by injustice and stripped-off their selfhood, they may plunge down the grave, but faith and hope which are heaven sent will resurrect their lives and make them climb up from the pit of despair and inequality. The hope they breathe flowing with the breeze in the morning while waiting for the new sunrise will help them gather courage which is found in every heart determined to face and fight not just for oneself, but for everyone who has the right to be treated as equal, not just flesh and blood, but as human -- with soul, body and spirit.


Sir Martin was the embodiment of greatness found in every soul, converged into a person with deep convictions who is willing to fight not with violence but with a noble and valiant heart prepared to sacrifice one’s life for the redemption of everyone. Truly, his moving speech entered the lives, not just of those who were present in that fateful day, but dwelled in the minds of those who heard his words carrying the spear and fire of wisdom. I believe God did not plan such violence and oppression against his highest creation, that is why He would send people of higher calling to subdue this shockingly dreadful cruelty. His time here on Earth was not wasted. The words flowing from his heart became alive and gave stronger revelation rooted with passion and love for freedom and equality. The message was not just for the people in North America, but it represents every person who is under such disparity.


He lived by faith and not by sight. His heart was looking directly at the future, when his children will no longer be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character. He may not live to see the fulfillment of his prophetic dream, but his children did and so his grandchildren and great-grandchildren and that is -- his life’s purpose… undoubtedly completed and remarkably divine. His life was a blessing to history. The life of Dr. King carries the fragrant atmosphere of freedom, that when people start dreaming, indeed, it will come to fruition. It may not happen in our time, but trust that in God’s time it will.

Travelling Around Manila

I spent my childhood and teenage years in just one school. It was approximately 15mins. on foot.  Basically, I was used to travelling within short distances and that was my life for almost 11 years.  But it was a totally different story when I graduated from high school. I received a letter from a certain university in the capital and there it was, my new route was already set.. new life and new adventure.

When I created this blog, I thought  I would fill it with my up and coming trips in and out of the country. But then, another epiphany came just minutes ago. I realized why not share with you guys how I lived and tell you stories of bizarre adventures I had within the metropolis and outside Mega Manila.

I must say, the four years I spent in the university is one of the most unforgettable episodes of my life. It has all the drama and adventure. It was freedom and responsibility at the same time.

I particularly enjoy my travels to and from my university. I enjoy my ride on LRT Line 1.  Eventhough the ride is tough and crowdy, which is understatement, the best thing about it is looking through the window at sunset and see the grandeur of the Manila skyline. It is breathtaking. Seeing the orange-violet-reddish horizon is worth it. I must say I am happy to be living in this country. I appreciate the freedom, which not all countries around the world get to understand and experience. The smoke, the heat and crowd we pass by everyday are meaningful backgrounds of the city life. Every building and street has its own history to tell, and as we walk pass through the pavements and street corners, we make a mark and engrave our footprints on this very land… Manila knows we lived and cherished its streets.





Photo Source:
http://missiontrainingjourney.blogspot.com/2011/08/lrt-forever.html

Makati Skyline in the Philippines

I am a believer. Whenever people ask me if I want to go abroad to work, I would always say “Naah. I’ll stay here.”  Some pessimists wonder why not just go out of the country and earn more in greener pastures?

I just know it in my heart that no matter what we hear and see today around us, the sun will always shine in our nation and will be brighter than ever. I used to work in one of the most beautiful buildings in Makati – the RCBC Tower, and look through the clear glass windows at 4 or 5AM during my break and see the beauty and calmness of the sky above Makati. I thought, Philippines will have more of these. That was about five years ago, and I still believe it. Now, as I travel around Metro Manila, I see towering condominiums and buildings… and smell progress and development.

We can not always depend on what others say. If we know in our hearts we have the will and faith to see through everything, they may not come along and support every endeavor we have screaming within us, we just have to continue running and finish the race. I believe it is God-given. It’s called faith.
Cheers to all Filipino believers.

No Matter Where You are in the World

Going home is the best feeling of the day. It’s seeing the familiar faces, and being with souls who know your history. We may have traveled the world, some even went outerspace, but the best place and spot in this entire galaxy is that one spot with those closest to your heart. It may be the kitchen, the couch or a small little coffee shop just around the corner... but that’s where intimate conversations begin. Those are the moments when smiles and laughter resonate within your soul. These are then engraved in your spirit, something deeper which causes you to build sky-high memories you will cherish beyond these moments of immeasurable bonding.

No matter where you are in the world, still the best place is the place beside your beloved.

Thank you, Mang Dolphy

I was at work when I heard the news that Mang Dolphy passed-away. I grew up watching his old films, some were black and white movies. I remember watching and enjoying re-runs of John and Marsha on RPN 9 on weekdays after school. 

What makes him the King of Comedy in the Philippines?

I don't know much about his personal life. I haven't had the chance to see him personally. I just know him through TV commercials, Home Along the Riles, and other TV programs. But what fascinated me about Mang Dolphy is his simplicity. Whenever I watch an interview with him, he always sounded humble and down-to-earth.

Mang Dolphy is one of the few genuine actors who can make us laugh and cry at the same time. I saw some serious scenes he had and was amazed of the fact he can move you in a way and leave a twinge in your heart. That's remarkable. He knew his craft and he changed the lives of Filipinos by just making us smile.

They say doing comedy is more difficult than doing drama. I haven't tried any, but there is something special about comedy. Comedy brings joy to people and not grief. It's one selfless act of playing a role. It's noble for it eases the pain of the one searching for something that would hold and lift the weary heart, even for just one whole film.

I believe Mang Dolphy found his life's purpose in comedy. He was able the help and change the world through his gift of making people happy. Without a doubt, the sound of his name will always make us smile.

We are grateful. Thank you, Mang Dolphy.






Photo Source:
http://helloballoon.com/ 
　

I Wonder About the Kids Chasing Jeepneys in Cubao

I've been working somewhere in Quezon City for almost 4 years now and I have noticed some things don't change. There were homeless kids around. They get on the jeepneys, giving away envelops to passengers. I see them everyday, doing the same old thing, chasing jeepneys and begging for money.

I wonder about their parents and their relatives. If they are orphans, then, I wonder about the government who promised to take care of these kids. They need shelter. They need food. If we could do something more precise, specific and comprehensive. I wonder. I wonder what kind of life they have to face in five to ten years if chasing jeepneys and giving out envelops are the only skills they use to survive.

This morning, my mom was watching a documentary film about the education system in our country. We don't have enough schools, enough books, enough chairs, tables and classroom. The teachers are also looking for greener pastures in other nations. Can we blame them?

This has been a cycle. We have chosen different leaders, and have experimented on their characters, backgrounds as if doing a trial and error solution to an algebra equation.

I am not complaining. I am just wondering... Just another human being hoping that life will be better for everyone.

One Great Heart to Teach

When I was about to finish grade school, I remember one particular tv ad. It says, "Choose a job you love and you'll never have to work a day in your life." The simple message was engraved in my heart and I kept pondering about the truth beyond those words. When I found this job, I found my purpose. They say that great men change the world. As teachers, we help change the world... because with the patience and dedication we have for our students, we help change their lives. The astonishing truth that we are miles away from them, and yet here we are giving the best of who we are to them - unravels the purpose of our existence. We help create great individuals of great minds... and great men are only taught by great teachers. Wherever our students go, whatever they accomplish, we are part of their greatness... simply because of someone's one great heart to teach.... So teach, with all of your heart.