I'm 25.

I'm a quarter-of-a-century old, and I never thought I'd see the day I'd reach this age. I was only 15 then, thinking 25 was too far and those with that age were too old. Look at me now, wrinkles around my eyes and my body laden with unwanted subcutaneous fats, but then I'm happy. :) I used to not want to talk about my age especially around the younger ones because that made me feel old, and then I thought to myself: Where's the beauty and grace in ageing when I refuse to acknowledge it? They say life begins when you're 40, and I'm nowhere near that so that doesn't really make me old. ;)

Looking back to the year that has been, I am very thankful for the blessings given to me, the wonderful people around me, the lessons I've learned, and the wisdom I've acquired. Those people that greeted me (even without Facebook reminding them) made me feel so grateful. I was overwhelmed with greetings and well wishes. I must have done something right to deserve all the love I'm receiving.

There are still so many things I'd like to improve on. I'm keeping a mental note on those so the next time I turn 26, I'd tell myself I've gone a long way. :)

I Miss High School

I love these people to the moon and back!!! <3

The shooting of 27 innocent children and adults in Connecticut must have been the most devastating news for the year. I have been drowning my computer screen with information and testimonials from those present during the shootout since the time the news broke out, and I still can't help but shed some tears. I am so blessed to be alive. It could have happened to me. It could have happened to my equally innocent little nephew or cousins. That could have been my hometown. But alas, it was not, and what better eyeopener to remind me to thank God for another day.

My heart goes out to every innocent children, mother, and teacher killed. The suspect still deserves attention AND our forgiveness. We owe him that despite everything that has happened. He may, after all, also be a victim. Even Jesus said, "My Lord, forgive them for they do not know what they are doing." Who are we then to deny him that?

Let's say our prayers of thanks and eternal repose of their souls. There are a lot of things to be thankful for, as there are also a lot of things to be sorry for. Let's start making a list, maybe then we'd see how very blessed we are.

RHB

I really don't know where I stand in the very controversial RH Bill. While in mass a while ago, the priest said people cannot be indecisive. It is either I'm with it or against it. It's really hard, especially because the second reading has already been passed. One more and it's over; the majority has spoken.

What I am pretty sure is that I just want a better life for me and my fellow Filipinos. If there are parents with eight, nine, or more children, with blue-collar jobs and living in the slums, HOW ELSE WILL THEY BE ABLE TO PROVIDE FOOD AND EDUCATION FOR ALL THEIR CHILDREN? That is always the biggest question. And there is also a solution to that, I know. Family planning may count as one. It is very hypocrite then for others to say that it doesn't solve anything. But to say that it is the number one and most effective way is also very shady when there's good governance, increase in employment and wages, or better access to health care and education for all citizens, especially the youth. I wish those with power would realize that. It gets really depressing to see them decide on something where there are more vital issues to focus on, but I am also not saying it is of any less importance.

When you live in a country like mine, national issue like this becomes extra personal for most. They shove their beliefs upon every person's throat they meet, as if their opinions are the only thing that matter. When you express your thoughts, they disregard them and start to babble about their own. It's crazy!
Your thoughts?

100 Years :)

Hello!

I can't believe it's been over a year since I've last seen my high school friends! It's starting to actually sound ridiculous for we live in one country, but has never found the time to hang out with each other. My friends, that is possible. I'm so glad I finally took this long vacation. Seeing old (likewise new) faces brings a lot of fun memories.

The friends I've made in high school are the people I've missed the most. High school was the best! I see one friend and remember how we've used to laugh together or cram after lunch because of an upcoming Trigonometry quiz. I see another and remember sharing stories in a big field just at the back of our school over green mangoes and salt. I see a group and remember how we were so tempted to skip our cleaning errands after class so we could hang with the others and talk about the day. Last night, over starry sky and a quiet space away from the crowd, we reminisced about the days that's been. We had our favorite and least favorite teachers and how their subjects affected us. Practical Arts, Algebra, Trigonometry were among the worst subject we don't seem to get amidst our efforts. We talked about people, places, and ideas. So much has changed. I was even asked to pay for a "guest fee" for our school's centennial celebration. It was crazy! I've been with the same school since my preparatory days until the last four years of my high school. I am now back to being a tourist at a place I once called my only home.

For the few remaining days I have in town, I plan to get back to my roots and reconnect with friends and family. I cannot wait to see everyone. Thank You, Lord, for this wonderful chance. :)

An Ocean of Hope

I remembered my Singapore trip with college friends last 2010. It was the best. We were all thrilled. We didn't sleep  on our first night there. We kept creeping out of our room to eat and dance around the hallway. We were trying not to laugh too hard. We were giddy because we were actually together on an out-of-town getaway. I tell you I would have framed that moment if I could. I would have time frozen and then bask again in the happiness it brought.

The following day we went to visit a nearby cloister with nuns busily going about their daily routine. We were met by the head of the congregation as we came with religious persons. She was clad in pink all over, save her face. She had a high nose and a pretty mouth, especially when she talks. She had a certain aura that exudes gentleness. We gathered around in a circle while she was trying to get to know each and every one of us. You could say that was really nice of her, especially when she was coaxing us to heed the "calling" and come join the religious life (insert blank look). Herein lies the story.

She was 14 when she first visited a monastery. She was so sure she wanted to become a nun then. She told the superior of her intention and was told to come back again after high school. You are too young, my child, she said. High school came and another visit meant a futile attempt into cajoling the superior. Are you sure? You have to think about it, she said once more. Four years went by and the calling became even more persistent. Of course the parents had to be in the picture. Being the only heir from a family whose business is textile and international trade, they just had to be. She was trained quite intensively for she would one day take over the family business. She was sent to travel to most parts of the world for both business and pleasure. Suitors, expensive gifts, words of flattery and what have you soon came flocking. I still felt empty. And there's that voice, she said. Finally while in town for a short stay, she was invited to a daytime cruise with friends. I had my gold bracelet, an heirloom from my grandparents. It was so special to me and by accident, I dropped it in the middle of the ocean, she told us. She asked God to help her find it, even to the point of making it a sure sign of entering the congregation if it will be found. I was so sad. But while frolicking in the beach and playing with the sand, lo and behold, the bracelet was in my hand, just before the sun set, she narrated. The rest, they say, is history.

I have goosebumps as I type, and I still get them no matter the many times I've shared this piece. Dropped in the middle of the ocean and found on the sand thereafter?! Seriously?! Who can ever do that?! Only the most powerful, omnipotent, and all loving God... Tonight, I needed a little pat in the back. Tough times like these when hormones are raging, I think aloud this story. I have been looking forward to my most awaited vacation. Guess what? I woke up five minutes earlier than my scheduled flying time. I wanted to kill myself. How could I not hear the alarm?! Why did it had to happen? Then I stop and think, there must be a reason. And then I let God take full control. I don't really have any words of wisdom to share as what the sister narrated, but what I know is that whatever we're experiencing, He has willed it. :)