random thoughts

Peter Jackson

2010-02-25T02:04:00.002+08:00

I'm just keeping this video in my blog for storage purposes. It's Peter Jackson's interview with Charlie Rose running 58 minutes long. I thought it was deleted from youtube and I'm quite happy that it's saved somewhere on the net-- google video to be exact.

Gone Too Soon: Michael Jackson (RIP)

2009-06-26T14:16:00.005+08:00

The first thing I saw when I opened facebook this morning was a shout out from a friend paying tribute to Michael Jackson. As instinct dictated, I checked Yahoo for confirmation of the news; and, true enough, at 50, Michael Jackson, an icon whose name in the 80s was only paralleled by Madonna's and surpassed by none has left us.

I grieve.

I come from the era of Jackson's music. As such, it is not possible for a person from my generation to not have at least one favorite song from a list of hits by Michael Jackson. Mine happens to be "Man in the Mirror" which inspired one of the poems I have written back in the days when I was young and idealistic.

To the King of Pop, I dedicate his song "Gone Too Soon."

We love you, dearest Michael. You have touched our lives through your music and your music will live for generations to come.

"Gone Too Soon"
performed by Michael Jackson

Like A Comet
Blazing 'Cross The Evening Sky
Gone Too Soon

Like A Rainbow
Fading In The Twinkling Of An Eye
Gone Too Soon

Shiny And Sparkly
And Splendidly Bright
Here One Day
Gone One Night

Like The Loss Of Sunlight
On A Cloudy Afternoon
Gone Too Soon

Like A Castle
Built Upon A Sandy Beach
Gone Too Soon

Like A Perfect Flower
That Is Just Beyond Your Reach
Gone Too Soon

Born To Amuse, To Inspire, To Delight
Here One Day
Gone One Night

Like A Sunset
Dying With The Rising Of The Moon
Gone Too Soon

Gone Too Soon

The Hunt for Gollum

2009-05-29T04:46:00.002+08:00

The Hunt For Gollum (HD version)
Uploaded by HuntForGollum. - Full seasons and entire episodes online.

Made by fans for the fans. My review to follow.

On Susan Boyle

2009-04-23T16:01:00.005+08:00

My young friend, Sydney, asked me yesterday if I have heard of Susan Boyle and I said, "I haven't." He then went on to explain that she is a talented singer from the show Britain's Got Talent and that she sang a song from the musical Les Miserables.

Now, that had me looking in YouTube. First of all, I grew up a fan of the songs from the musical Les Miserables. (Growing up, I was also a sucker for musicals!) I even remember having requested tapes of Les Mis and Evita from my friends as a present for my coming out party (you may have read about the event in your Ancient Civilization class) and which they gladly gave wrapped in so many layers of boxes and papers (yup, I remember that vividly). Abused is likely an understatement to describe those precious sets which saw a lot of playtime, pauses and rewinds. Also, my dvd of Les Mis' 10th Anniversary Performance is one of the most played in the house.

Quite critical of anyone's performance of songs from this musical, I waited for Susan Boyle to start singing. And although I was already given heads up by my friend that this woman is good, I was not ready for what was to come after. She's 47, definitely not a stunner and seemingly inarticulate with her responses (I thought she was funny trying to recall the word "villages"). I knew what the audience had in mind before she opened her mouth. Had I not been told about her, I would have thought the same thing. Plus, really, not everyone who appears on that show, pleasant looking or not, is talented.

Finally, she sang. She was outstanding from the first verse onwards. I did not know if I should cheer or listen. I had goosebumps, to say the least. I was in tears when the crowd started to cheer and stand up. It was Paul Potts all over again -- an unassuming individual with a not at all common talent. I was so happy for the generous comments given to her by Amanda and Pierce. And if I could just interject a gossip here, I'd say Pierce has a crush on Boyle. One of my favorite parts of the video was Simon Cowell's genuine awe as Susan Boyle delivered line after line of beautiful music. His face was unmistakably surprised and pleased. Seeing Simon looking like that -- priceless!

We, of course, do not know how far Susan Boyle will reach the contest as it is still on going. Regardless, she has already captured the hearts of so many people, mine included. I'm sure she's getting more hits on YouTube this instant than Elaine Paige. Since yesterday afternoon, I have played her video no less than 20 times and I'm still listening.

Susan Boyle, the stage is yours. The world, now having heard your voice, will not want to stop listening. Good luck!

Antipolo and Marikina - March 25, 2009

2009-03-26T19:24:00.013+08:00

Another sunduan treat with lolo. We cruised the streets of Antipolo and Marikina just for the fun of it. :)

Journal: Angkan invades Lipa - March 21-22, 2009

2009-03-23T15:48:00.026+08:00

It was a fun-filled weekend in Lipa, Batangas as our immediate clan had a reunion with another branch of our extended angkan. Tita Alice and her siblings (my mom's first cousins where Lola Angge is their matriarch) hosted the reunion of the two (or should I emphasize, two of the several) branches of the family tree at Bluroze Parks and Wildlife.

For our exclusive use was a gated section (called the Family Garden) where we had our own cabin, a pool, an activity area, a garden and an aviary. Beyond the reserved section were gardens of different variety as well as animals of different sizes and shapes. I've never been to this place and was quite impressed with their collection of flora and fauna.

The evening was pleasant and surprisingly cold (which was a welcome change for everyone). It was funny to hear four languages spoken all at once (Tagalog, English, German and Japanese) and at different decibels. Everyone slept late and woke up early. Apparently, time is never enough for catching up and getting updated if you are a part of this family.

The following morning and afternoon were rather lazy, food-filled and relaxed. We were greeted by a hearty breakfast followed by lunch! There were a lot of activities available to bond and kill time with. Everyone was all over the place -- swimming, eating, hiking, preparing food, singing, drinking, taking pictures and having fun. Between Li'l Anne and myself, we have a total of over 300 pictures in our cameras (whoops... I had Audrey's camera for my use, ha ha).

Anyway, now that I'm writing this entry, it only means I'm back from Batangas. I have yet to sort out the pictures and videos we have taken. I've randomly selected pictures for this blog and will be uploading the rest of the pictures and videos I've taken shortly (hopefully, haha).

(I'm obviously still in my non-writing mode!)

Angkan Sunday

2009-03-08T18:45:00.011+08:00

No, we don't live in the same house as most people think when they see our pictures. In fact, we live in three different towns although I must admit three of the six households are within lolo's unbelievable walking range. (My lolo's walking range is greater than mine! He claims to have walked longer distances in his youth. I'm not about to argue.) We just enjoy hanging out as a family and we don't even need an occasion to see each other.

This was a typical Sunday lunch at lolo's place which turned out as a family affair in Mega Mall.

Mama's Birthday Bash

2009-03-08T18:13:00.014+08:00

It was just us. By just us, that means the entire angkan - always in full force. :)

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, MAMA!!! WE LOVE YOU!!!

I'm sorry, blogs!!!

2009-03-08T18:04:00.003+08:00

I've ignored my blogs and all my other online accounts yet again. I promise to write stuff as soon as I spend more time on the internet. :)

For now, I'm putting up some pictures.

Journal: Year Ender Kalokohan

2009-01-02T13:18:00.002+08:00

...spent the last two days of the year with my family!!!

December 31, 2008

It was a rather disastrous Media Noche as we ended up with three boxes of pizza (all from Pizza Hut, family size) due to uncoordinated preparation. Haha. The same thing almost happened to the chicken. Good thing KFC ran out of their original recipe when Audrey and I went there.

Anyway, my sisters and I waited for midnight by entertaining ourselves in front of the videoke. Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix came after the midnight meal.

December 30, 2008

I don't know how it happened but before I knew it, I was out with my cousins Anne and Rommel shopping, eating and walking 'til midnight. Thanks to Mel's parents for picking us up. There were so many people out that night it would have been impossible to go home by ourselves.

At home, my sisters and I did some bonding time over coffee and The Iron Man 'til early morning. Tired. Saya. Kulit!

Late night coffee with Armi.

Out with Anne and Rommel for some clothes, accessories and FOOD!!!

Journal: My Birthday! (December 29, 2008)

2008-12-31T16:27:00.013+08:00

Damn! I hate adding another number to my age but I cannot deny the fact that I love birthdays, particularly mine.

I love birthdays. Always have. Always will.

As we often go out around this time of the season, this year's celebration came about because we couldn't skip town. Baguio will have to do without us this year.

It was my super mom who took charge and threw the feast for me. Yup. I'd call it a feast because I had more guests than our last Christmas reunion's attendance and more food than I expected for my celebration.

Hanapin ang tatlong Scholasticans. :P

My parents, Audrey, Armi and Dan were on their feet doing the errands for me as I waited for the whole thing to take place. Thank you! It was a relaxed and fun videoke session at home over a lot of chatter and food. Kudos to my cousin, Gian, for taking over the evening's entertainment just when I was about to run out of energy going around.

Duet

Inaanak Chloe sang "I Have A Dream"

Rebs: Daya! Di kumanta. Utang yan.

My Titas

Many thanks also to the following people who came to celebrate the day with me and lovingly showered me presents: Tita Ne and family, Tito Al and Family, Tito Bok and family, Tita Lita and family (straight from their Tagaytay retreat), Tita Zon and Tito Nok, Lolo, my cousins from the Avillano side (whose warm voices took sole custody of the videoke machine come late LATE evening, haha) and their significant others, our neighbors, family friends and my high school classmates. Whew. Thank you!

(panawagang bayan: friends, pa-donate lang po ng mga larawan. forgot to take pictures. I will be collating them in an album pretty soon. got pics na po from dan, audrey, mel, tita zon and ikay.)

December 29, 2008
4pm -12mn
Avillano residence

Christmas 2008 - recounting the day that was

2008-12-26T15:17:00.003+08:00

(Ok, screw the title. Let's make that 2 days of Christmas.)

I did get to attend one (and only one) Misa de Gallo. It was on the 9th of the nine and that was with Leah at the Our Lady of the Abandoned Church here in Marikina. Not being used to waking up at dawn, Leah and I decided not to sleep so we stayed at her place over kulitan and Animax until it was time to leave at 3:30 a.m. Puto bumbong was our breakfast of choice just to add to our very high Christmas spirits.

By the morning of the 24th, all gifts have been wrapped and placed under the tree. Nope, that's not entirely true. Armi and I did not bother wrapping our gifts for our inaanaks which is why you won't find them there. Oh, yeah -- looking at the presents, Mama's gifts weren't placed there as well. She kept them in another place so as not to get mixed with all of ours.

On the evening of the 24th, my sisters, Dan and I attended the evening mass before going home to a Noche Buena solely prepared by our mom. My dad was there to help clean -- his contribution to the feast, haha.

Notice our table. No fast food from KFC or Pizza Hut this year. Missing from the picture -- pansit, fruit cocktail, ube, leche flan, sapin sapin and biko. We decided to go all filipino this year (or mostly pinoy food) for Dan to experience the traditional pinoy Noche Buena.

Dan's first Noche Buena in the Philippines

before opening the presents

attacking the gifts with a vengeance

mama as she looks at us from the other side of the living room

the newly engaged couple

This evening was made even more special because at 1:15 a.m., Dan proposed to Audrey. Don't just check the ring, check Audrey's earrings as well.

Mamma Mia on DVD was next on the agenda until it was time to call it a night.

Drowse, sleep, dream -- then came the Christmas callers and the godchildren. We waited for them in the morning while watching some season 1 episodes of MacGyver -- Dan's present to me.

After lunch, we started preparing for the reunion. Oooopppsss -- somewhere along the way, Audrey found herself in another disastrous moment which landed her in the hospital for some brief and minor date with a doctor.

Before heading to Tita Ne's place, we decided to drop by Starbucks for some caffeine and a few camwhoring moments. We salute the baristas for serving us on Christmas day!

At the annual Christmas reunion, it was a crazy combination of people shouting gaily at each other, good food, good company, a lot of presents, picture and video taking left and right, parlor games and big prizes.

w/ our cousins

Audrey and Dan before they made the announcement to the clan.

food galore

Harry Potter mania... STILL!

2008-12-07T15:37:00.000+08:00

We're back on Harry Potter mode. Last night, Audrey and I saw the first movie installment of Harry Potter. After that, I saw "A year in the life of J K Rowling."

OBVIOUSLY, we are still not over the Harry Potter mania despite the last book of the series being released over a year ago. I'm excited to get my hands on the new book from the said author. The Tales of Beedle the Bard is now out in bookstores world wide and I'm getting my copy soon!

Madam Secretary of State Hillary Clinton

2008-12-02T01:36:00.002+08:00

After much anticipation in Washington, D.C. and just about anywhere on the planet, US President-elect Barack Obama has finally announced Sen. Hillary Clinton as the United States' next Secretary of State.

My faith in Sen. Clinton as a good and capable leader was cemented when I saw several debates during the primary which I followed with enthusiasm. This woman not only has the ability to be a good cabinet official, she has the balls most men lack (in politics anyway) when it comes to dealing with difficult issues. Her excellent credentials and her vast experience will follow her to her new office and anywhere on earth she will be taking Obama's campaigns.

Obama's appointment is a step toward regaining grounds the United States has lost after President George W. Bush declared his war on Iraq. Said Obama, "Hillary's appointment is a sign to friend and foe of the seriousness of my commitment to renew American diplomacy and restore our alliances,"

Like the rest of you, I am also waiting to see what kind of dynamics these two Democrats will display. I'm thinking this will be a good administration in the years to come despite the US' current state.

Opening December with a smile from the heavens

2008-12-01T18:53:00.003+08:00

I looked outside my shop's window and was wowed by the image before me. It was the heavens smiling. I read about it a week ago but totally forgot about this event which makes this evening another pleasant surprise. If you were looking at the sky around the same time I was, you would know what I'm talking about. It was the moon, Venus and Jupiter (the most visible heavenly bodies next to the sun) forming an image of what looked like a smiling mouth and two eyes. Everything in that clear sky seemed to pale in comparison.

Immediately, I called my sister so that she can take a picture of the sky and this is what she got. To anyone who may chance upon this entry, please note that we are not located too far from the equator, Northern Hemisphere.

It is an irony to be enjoying the brightness of the phenomenon when none of these are lights emanating from the bodies we're looking at. They are mere reflections of the sun's light. Moonshine. False light. But who cares? Certainly not me. Not tonight.

It was beautiful to say the least. Happy December, everyone. This is such a nice way to open this festive month!

Twilight

2008-11-29T17:56:00.009+08:00

Category: Movies
Genre: Romance

For summary of Twilight, please check the book review.

Lest I end up movie bashing, I will try to do with as few words as I can manage. First off, I'm glad I read the book before coming to see Twilight or I would have gone to the movie figuring things out when it was more than a task to not laugh or cringe at the things I was seeing. Yes, like most people, I thought the “glitter” looked ridiculous, the makeup was shabby, the acting of the ensemble was amateurish (have you seen a lead actress shudder so much?) and the editing lousy.

Twilight could have been better. It should have been better. With a movie running almost two hours, you would have expected more development in the characters, their relationships and the plot. Sadly, the shortcomings of the book were also the shortcomings of this movie. I'm most disappointed at the lazy screenwriting because I honestly believe Twilight (the movie) could have made a real good love story that makes sense despite the source.

Like the book, sadly, the movie only delivers on the “romance” side. The movie does it so well that it is the only reason why you would even want to see it again if ever you will see it again.

It is not an unwatchable movie. It's just not a good one. Especially not the acting and the effects. I rarely see movies for the effects and the acting and I normally forgive the director for not having casted well or having a small budget. I do take it to heart, however, that immediately after seeing this movie, my only reaction to the film was “hmmm....”

Twilight

2008-11-26T14:47:00.002+08:00

Category: Books
Genre: Romance
Author: Stephenie Meyer

When they said a lot of people are raving about Twilight, they should have qualified “people” to mean mostly teenage girls who have not developed much taste in literature or have experienced real romance. Really, there's that truth we have to accept about this book.

It's a book. It's not a GREAT book. It's not even close to anything good Young Adult books should be. Definitely not to be compared with Harry Potter in style or content or message. There's not much to this book than a girl gone crazy over a boy.

Bella Swan left sunny Phoenix with a heavy heart to move to rainy Forks, Washington to live with her dad. On her first day in her new school, she encountered Edward Cullen, a boy with an incredibly beautiful face and a temper, or so it seems. Her curiosity for Edward heightened when he saved her from an accident where he showed extraordinary strength and speed. Edward initially refused to explain this to Bella but chance was kind enough for her to stumble upon the truth. He is a vampire. He lusted for her blood in a manner comparable to none but he refused to give in to his weakness. Their love affair developed and as in any vampire story, trouble came. Bella became the subject of a hunt of another vampire and Edward and his whole blood sucking family got involved to save Bella from certain death.

I have to say that was an unnecessary piece of summary as “Bella swoons over Edward” itself would have been a good representation of the whole book. It was an easy read. The words did not require much thought. I'd equate the book to a straight forward diary of a typical teenage girl who cares none about the world except for the one true crush of her life.

The back cover of the book held words like “dark romance” and “gripping” and I beg to differ. Edward is as scary as Cedric Diggory, which is to say not at all. And no, it is not gripping. I only read until the end hoping to find what I was missing that supposedly makes this a great book (or as some say, the best book they've EVER read).

There are many ways a book can go wrong and Twilight seems to have amassed most of them. The only thing it did right was to target an audience with purchasing power.

1.Form: Redundant. Stephenie Meyer wrote and rewrote how cloudy it is in Forks, how beautiful Edward is, how much in love Bella is with Edward, how beautiful Edward is, how alone Chief Swan is, how beautiful Edward is, how clumsy Bella is, how beautiful Edward is, how Bella hated to dance, how beautiful Edward is, how crazy guys in her new school are over Bella, how beautiful Edward is. If I did not see Stephenie Meyer's picture on the inner leaf of the back cover, I'd guess she's gay and is merely using a woman's name as a pseudonym. Oh, did I already tell you how beautiful and perfect Edward's character is? I may have missed that. Yes, he is the epitome of physical perfection and, no, it was not emphasized at all in the book. It told of his god-like perfection ONLY a million times. Quite subtle, actually. If you are getting sick of this paragraph, I know why. I read the book and felt the same. Overkill.

2.Style: Simple and patronizing. It is the simplicity of her writing style that made this book a bestseller. People can read this book in one sitting without getting information overload. Meyer is good at it. Simplicity in writing style is good (but not always preferred) for materials targeting younger audience with short attention span -- as it is the best technique you can throw at them. However, she was too patronizing. She had to explain every single thought and action leaving none to the imagination or to the intellect. Why did Edward have to watch her sleep or take her to town or follow her anywhere or get jealous? Every single one – not just TOLD but EXPLAINED by Edward to Bella even when the reasons are not only obvious, they also have more than enough times been established. The other way round holds true. It's a book running 498 pages. It gets annoying, really. Told you it's redundant. Read number 1.

3.Plot: Weak. There are 24 chapters in this book; 25 counting the epilogue. Considering this book includes vampires, the meat of the story only started in chapter 17. Everything prior was a mere introduction of the characters, setting and, yes, as you have guessed, descriptions of Edward's perfection and beauty through the eyes of Bella. Don't hold your breath – there are more descriptions in those latter chapters still. The story would have been stronger if the events of Chapter 17 started earlier. In addition to the plot taking too long to fly, the resolution was not at all thrilling or worth the read from the first page. The most exciting thing Bella did was to escape to the ladies room and then home and then face the hunter. It was a waste for Meyer, in my opinion. With such a good opportunity to come up with an exciting ending, she could have saved her descriptions of Edward and instead taken more time in coming up with a more suspenseful climax and resolution. The chase, love's sacrifice in real distress – I would have thought more of Twilight had the ending been more thought of rather than seemingly finished in a hurry just so Meyer can start with the swooning all over again. Even the stand alone stories of Carlisle and Alice did not stand. They were equally weak and underdeveloped.

4.Genre: Romance. If you are buying this book for the action because you heard it has vampires involved, don't even touch it when you get to the bookstore. The action is minimal it's almost negligible. If you love romance that go overly cheesy and you still do not have this book, hop in your car (dressed or not) and step on the gas. It's mushy to the core. Drool to your heart's content.

5.Characters: Flat and shallow. If you can understand why I prefer Cinderella over Snow White, you will get why I said flat and shallow.

6.Message: Not all positive considering its audience. The book puts emphasis on physical attraction and physical beauty and brings out the message that it's OK to give up everything (family and ambition among others) at a very young age (our protagonist is a 17 year old girl) for your high school boyfriend. Sure, Ms. Meyer, that is the right time to decide who you will be spending the rest of your life with and never mind everything else. Uhuh. However, there is also a message about being one with your family in times of distress. That is the lone good one I got.

It's pop culture material. It's what Britney Spears is to the music industry: junk food – not so bad, but not at all good or will add any real merit except to boost sales and interest. People are buying because Twilight is easy to comprehend. It is something you can enjoy if you enjoy romance novels. It knows its target audience. Boy bands have the same fan base. That being said, you need not wonder why this book sells.

To me, the one good thing about Twilight is the idea that kids are still reading outside their required curriculum. That's good. And if Twilight is making kids buy books, sit down and read without being told, I am giving this book a passing grade. (And only for that reason.)

Anyway, I'm watching the movie soon. The trailer looks cool. I'm thinking, the movie can't get any worse. Or at least I'm hoping.

Batman, Turkey

2008-11-25T15:19:00.005+08:00

Ok, so the title of this blog does not exactly make sense to you. Apparently, there is a city in Turkey (yup, that would be the country) called Batman and their Mayor, Huseyin Kalkan, is suing Warner Bros. and Christopher Nolan for royalties from the movie The Dark Knight and then some.

"There is only one Batman in the world," Kalkan said. "The American producers used the name of our city without informing us."

The mayor even blames the franchise for unresolved crimes in the city. I'm thinking, perhaps the Joker and possibly the Penguin have decided to move there in search of Bruce Wayne although I doubt there are fans moving toward the Middle East organizing fan clubs. Then again, what do I know?

I guess being popular does have it's entertaining downside. I'm grabbing my popcorn and see how this one unfolds.

Scam in My Inbox

2008-11-09T19:50:00.009+08:00

I received this shameless letter from a supposed bank manager who is interested in making me pose as an heir to one of the unclaimed accounts in one of their supposed banks. It looks bogus, obviously. I mean, who in his right mind would contact a stranger, reveal his full name, his position and the name of his bank at first contact when the nature of his communication is criminal in nature?

Now, I've received several (scam) emails stating I have won this and that prize money or gift item and I only need to surrender my bank account for their reference but never has anyone claimed death of another person (likely fictitious), even citing a CNN article to build their case.

There are many ignorant people in the world, and, really, it's not their fault to be so trusting. There are many who do not understand the mindset of thieves. Sadly, these scamming demons succeed because there are others who think that luck has finally smiled upon them.

What strikes me about this particular letter, however, is that it targets greed and something more evil than that. It's a scammer hoping another potential scammer will take the bait. It's the hope of the former that the latter's immoral instinct will strike at the right moment.

Supposedly, it is "a partnership that will be of immense mutual benefits for both of us upon concluding."

I wonder if anyone is stupid enough to go for this proposal and be sorry in the end.

-------------

From Mr.Paul Omandy.
Accounts Management Department
Banque Atlantique Dapaong.
Private Telephone:+228 923 03 83

Dear Anna Avillano
I am the above referenced person ,i will want to bring this brief notice to your knowledge,seeking your unbiased cooperation in a partnership that will be of immensed mutual benefits for both of us upon concluding.

I hereby intimate you about records of unclaimed fund of total sum £5.2 million (Five Million,Two Hundred Thousand British Pounds Sterlings ) that i discovered during one of my routine checks and record updates in my department which belonged to a rich industralist/researcher (Mr K. Avillano ) who passed away on the 25rd December 2003 through a horrible plane crash..During this routine data updating, i discovered that there was no records of next of kin or heir mentioned in the ICP data folders of this bank account,hence why i have contacted you .the successful execution of this covenant.See more infos, log on to (http://www.cnn.com/2003/WORLD/africa/12/26/benin.crash/index.html

My banks internal policy as it relate to unclaimed foreign dormant accounts requires that after a period of 650 days of non running of such bank account, it will be declared unservisable and thereafter gets confiscated by the board of directors & trustees.

I hereby wish to present you to this claim as the next of kin inorder to avoid such negative result .So,upon your positive response to this covenant, i will give you more guildlines to the release and transfer of this fund to your choosen bank account,which will include the sharing paterns with all other required legal financial modalities to the repartriation of this fund.

Kindly send your quick response through my alternative email address.
You can also call with my indicated private telephone for more oral clarifications.

I am waiting for your immediate and positive
response to this call.

Yours sincerely,
From Mr.Paul Omandy.
Accounts Management Department

Are you one of us?

2008-11-07T15:51:00.006+08:00

--NUNG IKAW AY BATA... NAGAWA MO BA ITO?--

*kumakain ka ba ng aratilis?

Yes! We used to have two aratilis trees in our backyard, both of which were suitable for climbing! My playmates and I used to get those aratilis fruits while atop the trees and eat them just because that seemed the most logical thing to do.

*nagpipitpit ng gumamela para gawing soapy bubbles na hihipan mo sa binilog na tanggkay ng walis tingting?

Yes! Our next door neighbor, Aling Julie, had a gumamela bush. I can't remember who taught us that the gumamela flowers were good for making bubbles when mixed with soap but it really did make the soap mix more dense. Not only were the flowers used for making bubbles – I remember sucking the juice off the flowers and we thought they were actually sweet. Again, I do not know who taught us that but we were obviously gullible kids. :P

*pinipilit ka ba matulog ng nanay mo pag hapon at di ka papayagan maglaro pag di ka natulog?

My parents tried to force me to no avail. I wasn't the type to use my summer afternoons sleeping. I wanted to play play play! I used to sneak out of the house as soon as lunch was over.

*marunong ka magpatintero, saksak puso, langit-lupa, teleber-teleber, luksong tinik?

Yes! To add – syato, tumbang preso, luksong baka, agawang base, football, taguan, pepsi-7up, monkey monkey anabel, hoolahoop, chinese garter, jolens, text, sipa, jump rope (which was really a collection of rubber bands), etc.

I grew up playing. I was literally a street kid. I hated school at that time because it wasted precious play hours.

*malupit ka pag meron kang atari, family computer or nes?

We had a family computer. I remember collecting or borrowing “bala” for the family computer but I did not enjoy playing with the Nintendo as much as I did street games. And although I did spend nights playing in front of the tube, my sisters were the ones who were really good with Mario Brothers, Donkey Kong, Battle City, Popeye and most of the games in our collection. Hustlers, we called them. My favorites were 1942, Galaga and Karate Kid.

*alam mo ang silbi ng up, up, down, down, left, right, left, right, b, a, b, a, select start?

It's a cheat for some game but I can't remember this so I had to cheat my way into figuring this out. Memory loss. Hahaha.

*may mga damit ka na U.S.E.D., Boy London, Cross, Colors, Esprit, Blowing Bubbles at pag nakakakita ka ng Bench na damit eh naalala mo si Richard Gomez?

During my time, these were the popular brands! Haaaaayyyy. Let's add Reebok to this list. And yes, who can forget that famous Richard Gomez commercial where he was rowing rowing rowing.

*addict ka sa rainbow brite, carebears, my little pony, thundercats, bioman, voltes v, mazinger z, daimos, he-man at marami pang cartoons na hindi pa translated sa tagalog?

Yes! Adding to the list Smurf, my favorite Superfriends, She-Ra, Ewoks, Superbook, Flying House, Shaider, Voltes V, Astroboy, The Great Space Coaster, Punky Brewster (both live and animation), Ghostbusters, Scoobydoo, Loony Toons, Yogi Bear, Captain Planet, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and a lot more I can't remember right now.

We had stickers , texts (cards), coloring books, dolls and action figures (most of them we got free or cheap) to show our addiction to these shows.

Saturday mornings were the best days to wake up to because you just watch one cartoon after another.

*nanonood ka ng shaider kasi nabobosohan mo si annie at type na type mo ng dilaw na panty nya?

I used to watch Shaider – but obviously not for the panty. :))

*marunong ka mag wordstar at nakahawak ka na talaga ng 5.25 na floppy disk?

My memories of high school include learning Word Star in our computer lab and saving our assignments in those literally huge FLOPPY disks. I remember doing papers using Word Star. All those commands!

*inaabangan mo lagi ang batibot at akala mo magkakatuluyan si kuya bodgie at ate sienna...

Hahaha. This one is funny. My sister, Audrey, is the Batibot baby in our family so she must have wondered then.

*nung high school ka inaabangan mo lagi beverly hills 90210?

Oh, yes. I was in second year high school when I started wishing my zip code was 90210. I never thought living rich means living with those excesses until 90210 aired.

*gumagamit ka ng AQUANET para pataasin ang bangs mo?

Yes. I think I was in fifth grade when I first asked my mom to buy me Aquanet.

*meron kang blouse na may padding kung babae ka at meron kang sapatos na mighty kid kung lalake ka?

Yes, my blouses had paddings. Lots of bad memories. 'Nuf said.

*nangongolekta ka ng paper stationaries at mahilig ka magpapirma sa slumbook mo para lang malaman mo kung sino ang crush ng type mo?

My stationery and sticker collection started when I was in grade two. I was given a set by a family friend who was soon getting married. My mom was generous enough to add to my collection every now and then but I never really had those expensive ones from Gift Gate. I remember trading stickers and stationeries with my classmates and neighbors.

My first slumbook was a small one and I got it when I was in grade 5. It then got upgraded to a hardbound slumbook shortly but my obssession for slumbooks did not last long. I realized I was really not interested finding out my classmates' favorite mottos.

*kilala mo si manang bola at ang sitsiritsit girls?e si luning-ning at luging-ging?

Yes! NingNing and GingGing. My sisters were Batibot babies whereas I was from the Sesame Street generation. But trust me when I say I know all the Batibot characters and I can sing almost all the Batibot songs because I watched the show with my sisters.

*alam mo ibig sabihin ng time space warp at di mo makakalimutan ang time space warp chant?

TIME SPACE WARP, NGAYON DIN! I still say that from time to time. Really! Audrey recently got a dvd of Shaider and we started watching the episodes all over again.

My playmates and I loved those Japanese shows. Oh, I was Yellow Four from Bioman, for your information. :)

*idol mo si McGyver at nanonood kang perfect strangers?

I'm a BIG fan of MacGyver! Present tense, mind you. Anyone from my generation who did not like MacGyver has a questionable viewing taste. It's one of my all time favorite shows.

As for Perfect Strangers, I still can sing the opening song. I love Balki and his dance of joy!

*eto malupet... six digits! lang ba ang phone number nyo dati?

Not only is our subdivision faaaaaaarrrrr from being posh (we used to have carabaos grazing in one of the immediate lots), it is also far from any known civilization. That explains why it was not until the late 90's that we had PLDT lines installed in our area. They were distributing 7-digit numbers by then.

*nakakatawag ka ba sa pay phone ng 3 bentesingko lang ang dala?

My favorite red phone was the one adjacent to the grade school chapel, beside the bookstore . Three 25 centavo coins for an unlimited number of minutes or hours or days. :P

*cute pa si aiza seguerra sa eat bulaga at alam mo ang song na "eh kasi bata"?

Yes. Everyone knew cute little Aiza and her famous “achehcheh” expression.

*inabutan mo ba na ang Magnolia Chocolait eh nasa glass bottle pa na ginagawang lalagyan ng tubig ng nanay mo sa ref?

Yes. But my mom never bought those. My parents made me drink Ovaltine and Milo. I personally preferred Ovaltine because of the action figures found inside the can whereas Milo mostly had cards which bored me. :D

*meron kang pencil case na maraming compartments na pinagyayabang mo sa mga kaklase mo?

Yes! The more compartments and accessories, the more your pencil case was a buzz in class. I remember having those but I remember my classmates having better and bigger cases.

*noon mo pa hinahanap kung saan ang Goya Fun Factory?

My advantage over other kids. The Goya Factory is near our place. The factory smelled cocoa and it was a bliss passing by the place every time. My dad used to bring me there as a treat and we'd buy chocolates in their store which had nothing but their products sold. It was one chocolate rack after another after another. It was not at all like the one in the commercial but it's as close as you could come! My favortite was the Goya Puffy Cone.

Sadly, Goya has long since been bought by another company and it no longer generates the same magic it used to.

*alam mo lyrics ng "tinapang bangus" at "alagang-alaga namin si puti"?

Yes! “Alagang alagan namin si puti... bakang mataba, bakang maputi... tulong tulong sa paghila... hila hila hila... kariton at paninda.” I even remember the visuals that come along with the song. My favorite batibot song is their tagalog version of Twinkle Twinkle Little Star. It goes, “Ningning ng munting bituin, tanglaw sa gabing madilim. Sa langit na kay taas, nagsasabog ng liwanag. Ningning ng munting bituin, sana ay kaya kitang abutin.”

Trust me, I can sing or remember a lot of Batibot songs. First lines of songs I remember as I write:

“Pagmulat ang mata, langit nakatawa sa Batibot,”
“Isda da da isda,”
“Sabay sabay tayong kumandi-kandirit,”
“Bangkang papel,”
“Alin alin alin ang naiba, Isipin kung aling ang naiba?”

*alam mo ang kantang "gloria labandera".. lumusong sha sa tubig ang paa ay nabasa at ang "1, 2, 3, asawa ni marie"... hehehehehe?

I don't know “Gloria Labandera.” I don't know how that one even goes. But I do know “1 2 3 Asawa ni Marie”

*sosyal ka pag may play-doh ka at Lego... at nag-iipon ka ng G.I. Joe action figures! at iba pa ang mukha ni barbie noon?

My first Barbie was a gift from Santa Claus. My dad gave me an battery powered bike for Barbie which I liked more than Barbie itself. Our relatives from Batangas would make me clothes for Barbie because they are really good with the thread and needle and so I never had to buy clothes for my doll. Besides, the real Matel clothes were expensive and my mom wouldn't agree to such an expensive collection.

Lego, I had, but not a lot of them. I had to make do with dominoes and blocks which I enjoyed stacking one on top of another. I had clays but not of the Play-doh brand. As for the G.I. Joe action figures, I bought none of them. I just got the freebies from Ovaltine.

*inabutan mo pa yung singkong korteng bulaklak at yung diyes na square?

Hahaha. This one made me laugh. Yes. And those huge one peso coins.

*lumaki kang bobo dahil ang akala mo nangangagat talaga ang alimango sa kantang tong-tong-tong... diba naninipit yun?

“Tong tong tong pakitong kitong... alimango sa dagat... malaki at masarap... mahilap mahuli sapagkat nangangat.” I can imagine my sister, Audrey, singing this complete with actions. They bite? Ah... The education you get from songs.

*alam mo yung kwento ng pari na binigyan ng pera yung batang umakyat ng puno para bumili ng panty... and shempre, alam mo rin ba kung ano binigay nya sa nanay nung umakyat ng puno?

Nice joke, hahaha. But no, I never heard of that one when I was growing up. I guess I was around really wholesome people or people who were afraid of my dad.

*meron kang kabisadong kanta ni andrew e na alam mo hanggang ngayon.. aminin?

Andrew E's songs were played all the time. You don't have to like him or approve of his works to know his songs.

*laging lampin ang sinasapin sa likod mo pag pinapawisan ka?

Sometimes.

*bumibili ka ng tarzan, texas at bazooka bubble gum... tira-tira, at yung kending bilog nasinawsaw sa asukal?

Yes! And puto seko and Armi's favorite, lala.

*takot ka dumating ang year 2000 dahil sabi nla magugunaw daw ang mundo?

David Letterman was my favorite guy to watch at the turn of the millenium because he did spread this myth to the best of his abilities. :P

The Pursuit of Happyness

2008-10-11T16:05:00.004+08:00

Category: Movies
Genre: Drama

How far will you go to pursue happiness? How determined are you to attain the thing you want most in life despite the odds? How do you seek to define yourself?

Rock bottom. That was what Chris Gardner (Will Smith) hit after his wife left him, the IRS went after him and his landlord kicked him out. He's a good man who worked hard but just could not find the break in life he deserved. He and his five year old son, Christopher (played by Smith's son in real life, Jaden), took to the streets and lived in shelters as Chris continued to pursue that which has eluded him – happiness.

It's not a fancy movie to watch. Yes, it has Will Smith but it does not have aliens or space ships and a lot of special effects. Neither are there songs or fancy costumes.

This movie is down to the bare essentials --- a good script, good acting and a strong message that will move you to tears and to thoughts that you control your own destiny however hard life puts you through. The triumph of the human spirit in spite of life's adversities, a wonderful bond between father and son and love in the midst of despair are beautifully depicted and there's not much more you can ask for after seeing this movie when you know it has delivered.

HBO is kind enough to run this movie this October when it has already taken it's run April of this year. If you can still catch this movie, do take time to see it . It will give you the boost you need when you wake up the next day as you prepare for work.

(I had to overlook the fact that it's about a struggle to make money, this being a biopic of the real Chris Gardner. I'd like to think it's about finding stability and esteem. It's about attaining a goal and being the person you want to see yourself becoming. Who am I to judge? In Maslow's Hierarchy of needs, it's one step before the next.)

10 Random Facts About ME!

2008-10-04T14:03:00.001+08:00

1. I like mustard on hotdog. I once scoured the length of the Marikina River Tiangge for a mustard-bearing hotdog stand. Unfortunately -- NONE at that time.

2. I was a working student when I was in law school. Full time work, full time school, 2-4 hours of sleep a day (Mendiola-Easwood-Marikina, and the MRT was not in operation yet). My health failed and I could not and will not go back if it is to be the same routine. My friend, Ria (now a lawyer, YEY!) rushed me to St. Lukes Finals Week, 2nd Sem, Second Year -- that was my last day as a law student.

3. I love the new Marikina City Airport... er... the new SM City Marikina!

4. Twice rode helicopters. Well, four times if you count the rides back, hahaha. I love helicopters as much as I love cable cars! I like rides where you are not too far up and you can appreciate the terrain or whatever is down there. Too bad these are very rare treats.

5. In the Philippines, the farthest north I've gone is Aparri; southernmost is Davao.

6. I only learned there's no real Santa Claus at the age of 8. Such a gullible kid I was. (But being a Christmas person, I believe in the spirit of St. Nick... so... yes, Virginia, there really is a Santa Claus).

7. When I was in FIRST Year High School, as part of our curriculum (meaning required!), I read the following classics: Hope for the Flowers, The Little Prince, Jonathan Livingston Seagull, Pride and Prejudice, Around the World in 80 Days and A Christmas Carol. More in the next three years, but I'll write a separate entry for that.

8. My motto in life is YOU CAN LEARN ANYTHING. Don't let other people tell you otherwise! I also believe that when you don't know something, never be afraid to ask. Never be afraid to admit you don't know. Arrogance is a culprit to most people's ignorance.

9. Shortly after college, in Streetlife (I miss that place!), I was once DARED by my high school barkada to introduce myself to a CUTE guy who looked familiar to us. A guy from across the creek? A commercial model? Another classmate's ex-boyfriend? We've been trying to figure it out to no avail. Anyway, after a few pa-cute questions, I finally got my answer. He was a member of That's Entertainment. None of us admitted to watching the show or knowing beforehand but everyone admitted he looked familiar. Why could it not have been a Marc Nelson or an Illiac Diaz? Hahaha. LOSER MOMENT! =))

10. I've never forwarded chain messages via text or email... or multiply... EVER... :P

Selecta's Strawberries and Cream

2008-09-24T16:24:00.003+08:00

It's a must try!

I drooled over the picture of Selecta's Strawberries and Cream for about a month but never really got to try it out until the other evening when Armi and I decided to buy an 800 ml can from good old 7-11. Damn, it was good! We ate while watching Four Weddings and a Funeral and our hearts were torn between watching Hugh Grant and hunting for actual strawberries.

Trust me when I say the flavor is heavenly and that is whether you are a fan of the fruit or not.

I just wish the thing had as much strawberries as shown in the ads.

I may be intelligent!

2008-09-19T22:28:00.003+08:00

While waiting for time to tick in the office, Leah took a MENSA accredited quiz wherein you are graded as follows:

Scoring:
1 to 5 is Average,
6 - 11 Somewhat Intelligent,
12 to 18 Intelligent,
19 + Genius

Of course, if she tortures herself with a quiz, she thinks I should undergo the same torture. Fair enough. Friends are friends anyway – and I am one gullible friend, if you care to know. I hesitated to answer initially because I was busy answering my multiply inbox. As expected, I ended getting curious and curiosity is where all troubles begin.

It is a 33 item quiz which if you answer the entire thing correctly (unaided by cheating, as best as you can manage, hahaha), you are considered the geekiest of all the geeks and Einstein himself will rise from his grave to give you a medal. According to the Quiz, only 2 MENSA members have perfected the quiz which gave me an air of self assurance that should I not answer anything, only two men can gloat with arrogance. Anyway, for every answer made, the file instantly marks it as correct or not.

In less than 10 minutes, I was able to get 12 correct answers. Now, 12 puts me under the “intelligent” bracket and I'm completely happy with that. I stopped the moment I got that number. I mean, what difference does it make if I get a 12 or an 18, right? In high school, a B is a B, no need for the specific numeric grade – and I'm taking that high school mentality and I am accepting the fact that I'm intelligent (MENSA standards) -- that's that. If you want to dispute that fact, I say you go to MENSA HQ and argue the whole matter!

This whole entry, of course, is a senseless piece of crap and just like you, I am raising my eyebrows -- and all to claim that I do have a head (it does not measure my ability in spelling where I am a complete dunce, take note). I just don't use it as often or I stop at 12 most of the time, especially when I'm not in a geeky mood to do any better.

Oh yeah, I checked the entire thing. I guess stopping at 12 is a good idea; no additional stress necessary. I don't think I know the answer to the rest of the quiz anyway.

Oro, Plata, Mata

2008-09-18T15:48:00.016+08:00

Yesterday saw the launch of Oro, Plata, Mata, a collection of 50 beautiful and thought provoking stills from The Philippine Daily Inquirer's premiere photojournalist, Ernie U. Sarmiento.

Looking at a slice of the work of the man who now heads the Photo Department of PDI will give you an idea as to how impressive this man is and how far he has gone in his field after 25 years of hard work and determination. The collection boasts of a coverage which includes events that have shaped the country's history from the Marcos era to modern day issues and features personalities such as Corazon C. Aquino, Joseph E. Estrada, Cardinal Sin, Mother Teresa, Jose Maria Sison, Nur Misuari, Bill Gates among others.

Ernie U. Sarmiento, a photographer and a storyteller. Photojournalism requires that one is able to tell a story sans the use of words, not necessarily to awe with aesthetically pleasing visuals but to awaken the curiosity of the audience with pictures that capture human interests. Such is the job of this photographer's son.

The Exhibit Hall

It happens at times that a photographer can be an interesting subject as well.

L-R Anna, Armi, Ernie U. Sarmiento, his wife Eya and their daughter, Ikay

A TASTE OF WHAT THE EXHIBIT HAS TO OFFER
A light moment: The good Cardinal having a laugh with Mother Teresa during her visit to Manila
the aftermath of a tragedy that will only be known by one name: ORMOC (1991)
a body which has fallen from the truck shown in the previous picture: Ormoc (1991)
USISEROS: a group of civilians having a photo-op during the Gringo-led coup in 1987 -- and you wonder if Filipinos just do not have a real grasp of political events or just don't care.

Oro, Plata, Mata will run until September 24, 2008 at the Trinoma Cinema Lobby.

Paul Potts Audition in Britain's Got Talent

2008-09-17T15:02:00.004+08:00

Yeah, yeah... laugh... :P I'm into artists like Josh Groban, Russel Watson, Charlotte Church, Andrea Bocelli and other singers of their genre, young and old alike. I spend money buying their CD's (and tapes back in the days, lolz...) and I just can't seem to get enough.

Paul Potts is a welcome addition to the list of artists I have mentioned. (And he is coming to Manila soon!)

This guy is the real deal. I love his underdog status and his outstanding talent. One of the many reasons why I love Simon Cowell is this -- he has brought this Paul Potts out of obscurity and into our mp3 players (of course, I love Simon as well for discovering David Cook in American Idol, but that is another story!)

The video I have ripped off youtube.com is Potts' version of Nessun Dorma, the audition piece, mind you!

When he appeared on stage, no one expected much. I'm certain some even expected another William Hung. But look at the reaction of the audience and the judges once Paul Potts opened his mouth -- it's like watching the ending of Mighty Ducks or whatever underdog movie is out there.

It will give you the chills to know that something this great can come out of someone seemingly so ordinary!

Paul Potts, we are with you on this journey. You are truly inspiring!

The High School 'Kada 2008

2008-09-16T18:42:00.006+08:00

We were once called The Dreamers -- a group of nine girls on a journey to discover what life has to offer. We were named after a poem I have written back then and upon Sofia's suggestion.

Time has changed us some and space has parted the roads we now trek but I'm happy that after all these many years, we are still each other's constants.

I dedicate this entry to that group that once meant the world to me. For now, I see mostly Leah, Trina, Rebs and Claudes; but I do not ever doubt the fact that time and space will be kind enough to unite the nine souls of years past.

The Prestige

2008-08-17T17:40:00.011+08:00

Magic is composed of 3 parts or acts. The first is the PLEDGE where the audience is shown an ordinary object. The second is the TURN where the ordinary is turned into something extraordinary. The last part is the PRESTIGE where the magician brings back that which has been turned.

The Prestige is a story about ambition, competition, passion, obsession, love, deceit, secrets and lies. It takes you to a powerful journey of rivalry, romance, drama and the rise and fall of a dream only magic can accomplish.

Alfred (Christian Bale) and Angier (Hugh Jackman) are two magicians trying to climb out of insignificance and ultimately vying to be the best in the London scene. Friends and partners early in their careers, they were rifted by an accident on stage that resulted to the death of Angier's wife. It was since that their friendship has turned into a desperate effort to be the better magician - rivals on stage and in life.

A keen viewer would notice that the plot of this movie follows the pledge, turn, prestige format of magical performances. The story is gripping. The pacing of the story is not fast but it is dense and there are so many elements that will keep your attention as you wait for the prestige of the story to unfold. As to most great magical performances, this movie will leave you in awe after seeing it for the first time.

Acting credits go to Jackman, Bale, Michael Caine, Scarlett Johannson among others.

This movie is highly recommended to those who love mind boggling suspenseful dramas. If you have yet to see this movie, try catching it on HBO because that's where I saw it last night and for the first time. Otherwise, rent or buy a copy.

The Prestige was directed by Christopher Nolan (Batman Begins and The Dark Knight), co-written by him and was based on a book by Christopher Priest also called The Prestige.

--------------
I am now officially a fan of Christopher Nolan. With only a few directorial credits to his name and this being only the third movie I've seen, I will have to say his works are indeed impressive. I like the way Nolan retains a good cinematic experience in terms of artistically presenting the visuals w/o compromising the plot and the development of the characters. Those are the movies that I enjoy watching. Those are the movies I can see over and over. Those are the movies I believe do not waste my time and money.

Wall-e

2008-08-17T17:29:00.004+08:00

Category: Movies
Genre:Animation

Let's make this short and sweet.

Wall-e's concept is nice. A robot (Wall-e) is designed to clean up the planet after earth becomes uninhabitable while the other survivors of the human race live in outer space waiting for earth to be able to sustain life. Wall-e meets EVE, a robot from space designed to look for vegetation on earth and bring it back to space. As the two of them struggle to be together, they end up making the difference for men to return "home."

The movie should have been as short as that summary but Pixar thought it would be best to drag the audience to torture in order to make a point. For future reference, no talkies work in cases like The Road Runner and Wile E. Cayote because they are fun and interesting despite being predictable. Such is not the case for Wall-e. The human element of the story which shows us a satirical glimpse of an already technology dependent race should have been made longer and the chase between Wall-e and EVE shorter because, let's face it, there is only so much you can do with slow moving and barely talking robots.

The message about appreciating the planet where we now live is still there but the drag makes you forget even that. Anyway, I will not watch this movie again if I were to go inside a movie house solely for the purpose of entertainment.

The animation is good but nothing new or spectacular. I'm not sure if kids will enjoy this movie but I very much doubt it.

The victory in Osgiliath

2008-07-29T21:37:00.006+08:00

What some people do not understand about the Platinum Extended Edition of the Lord of the Rings is that the additions are not merely extended special effects irrelevant to the development of the story. If anything, these additional scenes are stories that will allow you to understand further each character -- the kind of development that an already long trilogy could not accommodate due to time constraint.

Of these extended scenes, I find Gondor's victory in Osgiliath my favorite as it showcases the line of the Stewards of Gondor, a very intriguing and yet, perhaps, most misunderstood bunch of characters in the Tolkien trilogy.

The scene appears as a flashback wherein Boromir celebrates victory with his people. It emphasizes the relationship between the brothers Faramir and Boromir and their relationship with their Father, Denethor.

I've long wanted to write an analysis about the House of the Stewards of Gondor and I may have yet to put it on hold a little further. For now, I am posting the extended scene found in the second DVD disc of the second part of the trilogy.

Enjoy.

The Dark Knight

2008-07-21T15:55:00.008+08:00

Category: Movies
Genre: Action & Adventure

Why so serious?

Well, Mr. Joker, the answer is because we have just seen a very disturbing perfomance from you. You've practically blown our minds away.

Wonderfully played, Heath Ledger. With all the raves given, I will have to say you very much deserve each and every one of them.

The Dark Knight is the second of Christopher Nolan's Batman, following the successful Batman Begins. It features a couple of new villains while retaining the cast of old. We have new characters in the persons of Two Face Harvey and the very manacing Joker.

In this Batman, we find our hero believing in another hero, Havey Dent, the white knight -- the face who will represent the eradication of evil, a common ground in which all the good guys can rally behind. A new dawn awaits Gotham City with a seemingly hopeful and idealistic person in Dent who believes in justice in the same manner as Batman but performs an official function as the District Attorney.

One problem surfaces. A man is ready to kill anyone not for money or fame. He is disturbingly without a purpose in his execution of death, unless killing to see the face behind the mask of the Dark Knight be a cause. He is the Joker and he double crosses every man he encounters, good or bad. The best villain yet in this series by Nolan. It is the Joker as none of us has imagined but is seemingly more realistic than any of the comic and comedic Jokers we've seen in the past. The best interpretation of the Joker yet.

My attention was never taken away from the onset given the drama of the plot and the thrill of the chase. It was more than I expected given that I already had a lot of expectations after the success of the first movie. This is the best Batman yet!

Disturbing, mind-blowing and whole lot of “kadiri” factor delivered subtly. It plays with the mind of the audience, the psyche element of the individual, in as much as it delivers as many adrenaline pumping scenes.

What I enjoy about Nolan's version of Batman is the human element he gives each character, hero or villain, even to a point of grossly deviating from our own concepts made familiar to us by magazines and animations and even previous movie versions of Batman.

Not only that, this movie provides an even more real and believable version of Batman's very popular gadgets and modes of transport. Who would ever thought you'd live to see the day when the Batmobile looking like a tank breaks down in the middle of traffic and in the middle of a very important chase? Quite unheard of! But that is the Dark Knight for you -- with every bit of real element as they can add.

This will be quite hard to top for anyone who will be making another version of Batman or other superhero movies, even perhaps for Nolan himself.

A must watch for lovers of action, suspense, drama and good movies in general.

Mamma Mia

2008-07-20T21:16:00.005+08:00

Category: Movies
Genre: Romantic Comedy

How do I start raving about this movie?

There are cheesy romantic comedies and then there's Mamma Mia, the best cheesy movie ever made. We saw this movie yesterday at Trinoma to much of our delight. Five minutes into the movie and I had to tell my friend "Am I so shallow to be entertained this much and this early?" Well, maybe I am.

The movie starts with Sophie (Amanda Seyfried), a young bride who lives in a beautiful Greek island, mailing invitations to three unknown men. As it happens, before her wedding, she decided to go through her mother's (Donna played by Meryl Streep) diary to find clues of her parentage. The perplexity of the situation boils down to who among these men is her real father when we find out as an audience that Donna herself doesn't know. When all men show up in response to the correspondence sent by Sophie, we find ourselves laughing and loving each mother and daughter moment as they go through their own dilemma of reliving a past in Donna's case, and looking forward to a whole new life in Sophie's.

The whole time the movie was playing, I was singing and clapping and laughing and crying (well, not really) and straining myself from standing up and dancing about the place. How can I not when the movie features songs by ABBA? Now, let me start by saying I grew up with my parents' music and I know and love the songs of ABBA as much as the songs of my generation -- and you've got to put premium to the music you've known as a child.

You can dance, you can jive, having the time of your life
See that girl, watch that scene, dig in the dancing queen

What makes this movie even better? It's Meryl Streep as you have not seen her -- swooning and laughing and prancing about the place like a teenager in love; it's Colin Firth singing as he strums a guitar; it's Remington Steele / 007 in all his charm; it's Amanda Seyfried with her sweet and adorable performance; it's the supporting cast with their exceedingly funny and memorable portrayals; it's the beautiful greek island adorned by the clear blue water of the Mediterranean Sea; it's one funny light hearted moment after another with the songs of ABBA at the heart of every scene.

I'm sold! For someone who rarely sees romantic comedies, I have to say this is one of the best movies I've seen in a long while.

Leah said she's definitely ordering a DVD of this movie as soon as it is released which makes me think I am not alone in my rave!

I strongly recommend Mamma Mia for a light and wonderful afternoon that will carry you singing the rest of the day!

Starring: Meryl Streep, Amanda Seyfried, Peirce Brosnan, Colin Firth

my reflection for today...

2008-06-08T17:29:00.006+08:00

The NORTH will always BE...

regardless where I go...

regardless of my orientation...

Thank heavens for the things that remain constant!

RCBC Cabuyao Robbery Update

2008-05-18T21:49:00.002+08:00

P1-M reward up for bank robbers; 2 guards held

By ARIS R. ILAGAN
MANILA BULLETIN ONLINE

Police authorities yesterday announced a reward of P1 million to individuals who will provide them information that will lead to the arrest of those responsible for the killing of nine persons during a bank robbery in Cabuyao, Laguna last Friday.

Chief Supt. Ricardo Padilla, director of the Philippine National Police (PNP) Regional Office 4-A (Calabarzon), at the same time, announced that they have taken in custody two security guards of the Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation (RCBC) branch in Cabuyao for investigation regarding the incident.

Padilla identified the security guards as Joel de la Cruz and Regidor Sapon.

According to police reports, Sapon voluntarily surrendered to police authorities last Friday to clear his name on any involvement in the killings and robbery.

De la Cruz, on the other hand, also showed up to police investigators, claiming that he failed to report for duty when the incident happened. Baltazar Aquino, a bank security guard who was among those killed in the robbery incident, took over the post of de la Cruz last Friday.

"The two security guards will be subjected to paraffin and polygraph tests as they undergo investigation to shed light on the case," Padilla said.

"We already lifted some physical evidence on the crime scene," Padilla added.

Police initially suspected a possible "inside job" angle after they discovered that there was no sign of forcible entry by the gunmen into the bank. They also theorized that the robbers entered the bank through the back door.

"Everybody should be considered as suspect," the PNP regional director added.

Aside from the robbery angle, police authorities will also determine if the robbers were high on drugs when they shot the victims – most of them bank employees – at close range.

Police authorities could not yet ascertain if the gunmen took money or valuables from the bank.

The incident was considered the worst bank robbery hold up case in local history. The victims were believed to have been ordered to line up before they were shot in the head one by one by the robbers.

Padilla said that they are closely monitoring the recovery of Isagani Pastor, RCBC branch marketing manager who was the only survivor in the attack, in a bid to extract information from him which could lead to the identification of the killers.

As this developed, police authorities said the P1 million cash reward will come from Senator Ramon "Bong" Revilla Jr. who will pledged P100,000; Laguna Gov. Teresita "Ningning" Lazaro (P100,000); and the PNP and concerned citizens who raised at least P 800,000.

2 security guards undergo paraffin and drugs tests

CAMP GENERAL VICENTE LIM, Laguna --- A P1 million reward is being offered for the arrest of the bank robbers at the Rizal Commercial Banking Corp. branch in Cabuyao, Laguna last Friday.

Chief Supt. Ricardo Padilla, Police Regional Office (PRO) 4-A director, said Senator Ramon "Bong" Revilla Jr. and Laguna Governor Teresita Lazaro offered P100,000 each while the remaining was offered by the PNP and friends of the victims.

The two security guards assigned at the RCBC Cabuyao branch are now under the custody of the police.

PO1 Anastacio Motas, Cabuyao police investigator, said the two security guards were turned over Friday night to the office of the PNP Criminal Investigation and Detective Group (CIDG) in Region 4A for interrogation. They were also subjected to paraffin and drug tests.

Security guard Regidor Sergio Sapon of Greyhound Security Agency told police that he was the bank’s duty guard from 6 p.m. of May 16 to 6 a.m. of May 17.

Sapon said security guard Joel Dela Cruz was the duty guard for 24 hours or from 6 a.m. Thursday up to 6 a.m. Friday.

It was learned that Dela Cruz had already filed a leave of absence effective May 16 because he was to go to Samar province.

A certain Shiela Banarez Otongan, production technician of Ivoviar Vivadent, Inc. located at Laguna Science Industrial Park (LISP), revealed that she was inside her Isuzu Crosswind parked in front of the RCBC parking area when her driver, Ferdinand Antonio, was approached and assisted by a man wearing black jacket going inside the bank.

Antonio was the bank client killed by the robbers.

Police said a huge amount of money was taken by the robbers from the bank even as authorities discovered that the vault still contained P3,086,520.76; ,623 and more than ¥1 million after the robbery.

Based on the records of the bank’s official log book, the robbers entered the bank at about 8:45 a.m. Friday and introduced themselves as policemen.

After carting a still undetermined amount and killing the nine bank employes and a client, the robbers fled through the backdoor of the bank and took the Mitsubishi Adventure with license plate XHS-341 of one of the victims and headed towards South Luzon Expressway (SLEX).

The get-away vehicle owned by slain Benjamin Nicdao was recovered abandoned at a convenience store in Barangay Turbina, Calamba City at around 1:15 p.m. on same day.

Senior Supt. Aaron Fidel, deputy regional director for operations (DRDO), who heads the Task Force-RCBC, said that at least four to five robbers gained entry at the bank.

Meanwhile, Isagani Pastor, RCBC area vice president, is still in the intensive care unit (ICU) at St. James hospital in Sta. Rosa City due to a gunshot wound in the head.

Supt. Ligaya Cabal, Scene of the Crime Office (SOCO) 4-A director, said that they had subjected to paraffin and drug tests the security guards who voluntarily showed up to the police last Friday night.

She said the results of their findings in the crime scene will be announced Sunday afternoon. (Ferdinand F. Castro)

President concerned over bloody bank robbery-massacre

A "fuming" President Arroyo has ordered police to quickly arrest the killers of nine people during a bank robbery in Cabuyao, Laguna, on Friday.

Executive Secretary Eduardo Ermita said Mrs. Arroyo wants a speedy resolution of the gruesome murders of 10 people in a robbery at the Cabuyao branch of the Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation (RCBC).

Ermita said Mrs. Arroyo is "fuming and dismayed" over the murders.

"It was definitely a work of the devil," he said.

Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Director General Avelino Razon has formed Task Force RCBC to investigate the massacre and robbery and arrest the killers.

The robbers were believed to have been allowed entry to the RCBC Cabuyao branch before the bank was to open Friday morning.

The victims were all shot in the head and believed to have been executed, suggesting that the bank robbery was an "inside job" and that they may have known and recognized the robbers.

Meanwhile, Deputy Presidential Spokesman Anthony Golez rejected calls for the revival of the death penalty amid demands for retribution from the perpetrators of the massacre.

"At the end of the day, there’s no indication that imposing the death penalty contributes to reduction in the crime rate," Golez said. (David Cagahastian)

Ranting Over A Broken Dispenser

2008-03-31T15:44:00.001+08:00

I'm starting to lose grip. I'm about to raise hell. Something as serious as a broken pineapple juice dispenser at the height of summer needs to be addressed in CODE RED hurry. The 7-11 outlet situated in front of my shop thinks differently and it's driving me insane. My liquid diet has thus been reduced to softdrinks and those expensive bottled drinks.

For two weeks now, 7-11's pineapple juice dispenser has been nothing but one useless piece of equipment. Apparently, the machine can no longer cool its liquid content which makes the juice stale within a few hours. The technician who checked the machine did not bother to pull it out from the outlet to work on it. No word yet on when it will be fixed but I have the feeling that it won't be anytime soon. The machine is still there sitting idly and comfortably as it did last night and many other nights prior. DAMN.

This is really not funny. The heat is not doing my head any good. I need my daily dose of cold pineapple juice especially now that it gets so hot in the afternoon; and, no, I don't want to have to go to the next 7-11 outlet which is a ride away from where I am just to get one.

I THIRST!
I CRAVE!
I WANT!

Lost Denouement

2008-03-01T17:51:00.004+08:00

February 29
Afternoon
Journal Entry #4

I was browsing through my notebook and I can’t help but laugh at the chaos of it all. Several pages skipped and a lot of lines scratched. More interesting are those that I leave after several paragraphs of discussion and introspection. I am, of course, referring to the journal entries that have not seen conclusion. Perusing the entries further, I happen to notice that they weren’t finished not because I could not focus on the ideas but because my mind cannot resolve the matters at hand.

My mind is like that at times. I don’t necessarily lose focus --- I lose answers.

Sorry for... But...

2008-03-01T17:48:00.002+08:00

February 29
Afternoon
Journal Entry #3

There’s something about the most recent Nido 3+ commercial that has caught my attention and it is not at all about wanting to drink milk.

I have seen this commercial only twice or thrice not being a fan of TV these days.

The commercial shows several kids doing what they have been taught NOT to do. One said sorry for giving away his food in exchange for a kiss from a dog and it made him happy. One said sorry for getting wet in the rain but said she found a friend in the process and she learned to share. One said sorry for getting herself all dirty in exchange for learning about plants and enjoying the experience of discovery.

I am several times older than those kids and yet I find myself in the same boat. I am sorry for defying the rules set but I do not regret the experience of getting that kiss and finding out how far a friendship can go. Neither do I regret the experience of discovery of things that grow when nurtured with love.

There will always be undesirable consequences for giving up food and going wet and getting dirty but they will have to be charged to experience.

Of Pens and Pensiveness

2008-03-01T17:44:00.004+08:00

February 29, 2007
Afternoon
Journal Entry #1

I am sitting here in my silent spot alone but for my own thoughts as company.

The crashing sound of water falling is louder than usual. The wind is much cooler. It threatened to rain earlier but Heaven is gracious enough to let out the sun. I lie between mountains, one side of which is providing me shade. Perfect.

My eyes tire from browsing the same page of the book I have brought. I guess even John Grisham cannot compete with the thoughts that have taken possession of my mind for weeks. Fortunately, I have brought my notebook and my pencil to keep me occupied. I write as an outlet and I think I have much to unload today. I’ll figure out soon enough.

Just for laughs...

2008-02-15T18:52:00.004+08:00

Text copied verbatim.

Dear Miriam,

The other day I set off for work, leaving my husband in the house watching the TV as usual.

I hadn't gone a hundred yards down the road when my engine conked out and the car juddered to a halt. I walked back home to get my husband's help. When I got home I found him in the bedroom. I couldn't believe my eyes. He was parading in front of the wardrobe mirror dressed in my underwear and high heel shoes, and he was wearing my make up.

I am 32, my husband 34 and we have been married for 12 years. When I confronted him, he tried to make out that he had dressed up in my lingerie because couldn't find any of his own underwear. But when I asked him about the make up, he broke down and admitted that he has been wearing my clothes for six months. I told him it had to stop, or I would leave him.

He was made redundant from his job six months ago, and he says he has been feeling increasingly depressed and worthless. I love him very much, but ever since I gave him the ultimatum, he has become increasingly distant, and I don't feel I can get through to him any more. Please can you help?

Mrs. B, Essex

Miriam says... A car stalling after being driven a short distance can be caused by a variety of faults in the engine. Start by checking that there is no debris in the fuel line. If it is clear, check the jubilee clips holding the vacuum pipes onto the inlet manifold. If none of these approaches solves the problem, it could be that the fuel pump itself is faulty, causing low delivery pressure to the carburettor float chamber.

A Sentimental Fool

2008-01-31T19:37:00.001+08:00

I feel depressed. My dear phone, Captain Tsubasa, fell for the nth time today and got it’s worst beating to date. When I opened my phone, it failed to do what it normally would. My heart stopped for a moment when the phone did not accept the entry beyond the time of day. This has not happened in the nearly five years I have owned my phone.

Although phones in the market have come and gone, I have not the slightest desire to update my 3660 which has an IR, a Bluetooth, a camera and all the earthly functions I could wish my phone to have. For nearly five years, this phone has worked for me and worked for me so well.

Although not feeling well as I am still recovering from flu, I surprisingly found the energy to run to the nearest cell phone repair station to have Captain Tsubasa fixed. The man diagnosed the damage to need a reformatting. Begging is an understatement. I pleaded for him to revive the memory of my phone. When I was told that there was no chance it could happen, it was as if I wanted to cry right there. Waiting was a curse. Getting my phone back after the repair felt meaningless.

That phone meant to me more than nearly five years of ownership and usage. It held many memories (happy ones, sad ones and even painful ones) in the form of messages to and from people who meant so much and still. It was a mini journal where I wrote my thoughts and reflections as well as little creative stuff occasionally popping out of my head in the middle of the night during lights out. It served as my reminder from year to year of birthdays and anniversaries of friends old and new. It held secrets of little accomplishments and marked certain eventful dates. Most special is a little folder of undelivered letters which kept my most honest thoughts and longings.

Call me a sentimental fool but that is how I am. I keep memories not in the form of pictures or souvenirs as most people do but through words and verses (at times cryptic) scattered in several journals in many forms.

My cell phone now, no longer has a memory. It is Captain Tsubasa no longer. And even if I can use the phone again, it does not have the same value for me now as it did yesterday. It is just an old piece of technology---ugly, empty and requiring replacement.

I’m saying goodbye to my phone soon.

Work Out Issues

2008-01-21T16:42:00.001+08:00

Two days ago, my mom suggested that Armi and I go to the gym for regular work out sessions. Yes, you read it right. My mom raised it casually although I can tell she is serious about it. She even offered to shoulder the monthly dues if we do it. That made me conscious a little. Have I grown fat over the holiday season? I don’t think so. I mean I feel like I’m still below 120 lbs. More importantly, my tummy indicator a.k.a. the-skirt-I-have-schemed-off-Leah’s-wardrobe-
shortly-after-college fits. Perhaps it’s my mom’s way of telling us we don’t have to have a reason to flex muscles (and given the work we do, we seriously need an outlet to flex).

Now, this is a serious matter for me given my previous attempts to become fit did not go well. Once upon an ancient time when I was in between jobs, Leah, my high school classmate who shares my passion for slumber (oh yes, we used to believe calling us before noon a crime) and I decided to play badminton on a regular basis to change our sedentary lifestyle (emphasis on the word REGULAR). We bought ourselves rackets and, on my part, shoes, so we can look the part. It went well… for about an hour. After that, we decided it was better to sit and watch other kids play basketball. My racket to this day is still in her house, most likely giving spiders a decent and comfortable place to weave and rest. Oh well, who says rackets have limited functions?

One other time, Armi and I decided to go jogging every morning. Venue: Sports Center. Ooooops… that should be SPORTS center (credit to Leah who raised an eyebrow at the mention of the place). That went well for a few weeks until I found myself sitting more than running. I gave that one up as well.

So what has changed? Nothing. But I have been giving the gym option a thought for two months although I have never really talked to anyone about it. I have even started considering my lifestyle and my personality and the vicinity. Given the rurality of my area, there are no fancy gyms around. However, the nearby ones have the basic pieces for gym use. I’ve been thinking, if I apply in one of those nearer gyms, I’d most likely be going more regularly unlike if I were to have to go to the mall. (I’m a procrastinator. I set off what I can set off, especially when it’s inconvenient. To me, long commutes are inconvenient.) If I have to be at work by 2 or 3 pm, I can go there at 12 or 1 thrice a week, lunch in between. Sounds feasible, but easier said than done. I hope other “perks’ come along so I’d really be motivated. For now, this idea is more an exercise for my mind and my will rather than my body.

I’ll keep the blog updated if I do find the will to actually do it.

Snail Day Sunday

2008-01-20T21:45:00.001+08:00

I’m starting this entry at exactly 9:05 p.m.

It’s a snail day today although Sunday has always been the busiest day here in the shop. Some days just are regardless of what happens. Yes, today IS a slow day and I’m stating it as a matter of fact.

As in most slow days, boredom beckoned uncontested. I checked my three Y!M accounts (and a fourth one, but I can’t remember the password of the last one) and I noticed that no one interested me. Don’t get me wrong... I would love to talk to them on other days of the week, just not today. Strangers provide better companions on days when there’s nothing going on probably because the idea of finding out something new from someone new is more interesting than hearing the same old stories rattled to your ears. With that, I did something I have not done since February of last year (and just twice or thrice in my entire life). I checked out the Y!M chat community to see if I can randomly find someone interesting to talk to. After 30 minutes of windows popping left and right, I gave up. If you know me, you’d know questions like “ASL” and “Do u hav cam/pic” do not exactly arouse my interest. Done with that, and I guess, never in a long while. Or at least not now since I’m not in the mood to pose as some ugly gay dude looking for some indecent affair. I used to find it fun scaring horny homophobic guys out of their wits and guts. Again, not today.

I tried opening an e-book saved in my computer. I tried YouTube. I tried the online boards I frequent. Nothing.

So I’m sitting here not knowing how I can kill time which explains this entry. I’m doing the regular shop duties and still everything is moving slower than the usual pace. How I wish I’m in my room watching the second season of Heroes which I started last night. That would at least guarantee me entertainment.

The day is about to end and nothing eventful has come out of it and I’m nowhere near expecting anything exciting will happen before it ends. Ho Hum Ho Hum. I’m not sad. I’m not depressed. I’m just waiting for someone to turn off the Sunday switch in a hurry, please. Oh, please.

A HOLIDAY SEASON IN PICTURES part 2 - BAGUIO CITY (DECEMBER 29 - JANUARY 2)

2008-01-05T18:26:00.002+08:00

It's no secret that my obsession for Baguio has a lot to do with the fact that it is the only place in the country where sunflowers abound.

Baguio... Baguio... Baguio...

How I wish I could've stayed longer.

Drinking a cup of hot chocolate at Chocolate de Batirol in Camp John Hay.

Of all the places in Baguio, I'd have to say Camp John Hay will always be my favorite. Can someone please offer me a job that would allow me to live and stay there? I'm posting this plea as an ad for my services... in whatever form or shape they may come. *wink*

At Burnham Park.

And, yes, we did rent a bike and a boat while we were there.

Audrey with Superhorse. Take a look at the picture and figure, hahaha.

With Armi and Mama.

Mines View does not really have much to offer except for the view and the numerous stalls which sell stuff found all over Baguio. Still, we went there to see if anything has changed. Apparently nothing has.

Audrey, Mama and Armi in front of the Cathedral on the first day of the New Year.

It was too cold to get out of our rooms to hear mass on New Year's Eve which explains why we heard it on the morning of the new year. Happy 2008!!!

Miss Tourism shouting, "MABUHAY! Welcome to La Trinidad, Benguet!" (hahaha)

This was our first time to go to the Strawberry Farm in La Trinidad and I must say that it was the highlight of the first day of 2008. Aside from the warmer weather which we welcomed, we had a blast taking pictures, picking strawberries, haggling, buying shirts, tasting wines and ube jams and eating dirty ice cream. My sisters and I agreed that La Trinidad's strawberry flavored dirty ice cream is better than any commercially made ice cream of the same flavor. It's a definite must-try. (And this is me again acting all Miss Tourism for Benguet... hahaha.)

Audrey seeming more strawberry-like than the strawberries themselves.

"Pick me! Pick Me!"

Armi finally removing her jacket after 3 days and 3 nights of wearing it.

Strawberry picking time! I may have done it incorrectly. Given that I'm tall, I should have just sat down instead of bending low. Oh well, there's always a next time to do it right.

Audrey doing it right.

Mama seriously studying the strawberries.

Posing in front of the Pink Sisters Convent.

We're not so tall after all.

At Teachers' Camp.

In front of The Manor.

A picture in front of it was the only thing I can afford at that time, hahaha.

A HOLIDAY SEASON IN PICTURES part 1

2008-01-04T21:03:00.001+08:00

For some strange reason the rest of the Metro did not have as many Christmas decorations, whether they be along the streets or inside buildings. Our home was not spared from this incident as the Christmas tree was the sole Christmas ornament at home. The tree was situated in the outer living room so that the passersby (a.k.a. neighbors who call or kids who peek) would at least have a view of whatever little Christmas spirit we could afford to share.

Christmas Eve. Around the tree to open gifts; but only after the traditional Midnight Mass and Noche Buena.

Opening the gifts took just about forever because of Audrey's many gifts from her grade school students. Of course, the rest of us were there to help open and bask in the glory of excesses. Thank goodness for students who love their teachers and for parents who want teachers to love their kids. *wink*

Christmas day at lolo's place. It's our traditional Christmas reunion. This time around, it was sponsored by Tito Al and family.

That's me and my mom just before the distribution of gifts.

What's a party without food?

I may have eaten half of that rainbow cake... no kidding. *burp*

With my sisters and cousins: Well, that's not the whole lot. Some just did not make it to this picture... but I'm happy our generation was 100% accounted for.

First Ladies all. The women behind every celebration in our family.

Audrey and Lolo: All smiles after winning one of the several BINGO rounds.

Alvin, Janno, Mae Anne, Anna, Audrey and Armi. Not much to say except that we were one tired lot.

Little cousins Renz, James and Enzo... as they wait for more gifts.

Just one of our many pictures at Tiendecitas immediately after the Christmas reunion.

1-800-IDIOTME

2007-11-14T21:23:00.001+08:00

I realized that over the last two or three months, I have been thrown into a universe remote from the real one, thus, explaining the apathy for anything that is worth words or verses save mushy lines and thoughts for my green blog. (It's not necessarily a bad thing. I'm just saying that's my alibi.)

I have made several attempts to write lengthy essays discussing everything from our new dog (I badly wanted to name the pup Piglet but I was overruled so she ended up being called Princess) to the US Primaries but none of them reached their conclusion. My most recent attempt was an essay regarding an essay--- Robert Fulghum’s “All I Really Need To Know I Learned In Kindergarten.” The funny things is that I stopped writing when I realized halfway I was merely explaining something self-explanatory. I was about to go the way of a reflection but my mind strayed into oblivion.

My mind is still lost. If you happen to find it, please call 1-800-IDIOTME. There will be cash rewards for anyone who returns it or gives information as to its whereabouts. My sanity has gone along with my mind so I am doubling the rewards if found within the next 30 days.

Thank you for bothering to read this senseless set of words. Really, there’s no need to expect more at the moment.

Do What You Can!

2007-11-11T19:45:00.000+08:00

Today's tip:

Once every so often, not at all rare, you start thinking of grand schemes to help people... to make their day... to improve their lives... to make them happy. You even wait for luck to help you along the way. Unfortunately, it is the grandness of the means that makes you unable to fulfill your goals and leave them as they are -- plans unfulfilled.

So for your benefit and theirs... do what you can. Just do what you can.

Lost in Stupid Thoughts

2007-11-11T18:26:00.000+08:00

There are times I think there's not much to life than seconds, minutes, hours and years passing. At other times I think there's much more.

I am favoring the former for now.

Courage

2007-08-27T14:07:00.001+08:00

A NEW MANTRA ON COURAGE!

Another take on life's significance

2007-08-18T13:00:00.000+08:00

In the greater scheme of the universe, I believe I am more miniscule than a speck of dust in the great Sahara -- not at all significant if I were to be hauled out as the desert would still remain as huge and as daunting. Who cares? If you are given a chance to live, is that not more than you can say for those who never had the opportunity? If given a chance to make a difference to a fellow insignificant being, is it less of a fulfillment?

So just go on and do as you do while causing as little hurt as you go.

Answering Prayers

2007-07-11T19:11:00.000+08:00

A wise man once told me... God answers all prayers.

The answers may be:

"YES."

"NO."

"YES, BUT NOT YET."

And since God is omniscient, I trust him to have the right answers all the time.

Are You Significant?

2007-07-11T18:50:00.000+08:00

Significance is relative...

to the degree of closeness,
to the time spent,
to the space shared,
to the wisdom imparted,
to the emotions caused,
to the inspiration given,
to the contribution to society,
to the life lived.

How are you significant?

On Soulmates

2007-07-10T21:51:00.000+08:00

It's sad to know if soul mates are real... that we walk through life without them or without finding them.

It's both a romantic and a depressing concept.

I want to believe that there is such a thing.

Fooling Around

2007-07-10T21:30:00.000+08:00

I've long held this notion that...

It must feel good to be on the receiving end of two "loves"...
---addicting...
---flattering...
---overwhelming...

But it must suck to be on the receiving end of half...
---time...
---attention...
---emotion...

Maybe...

What do i know?

Ask A Child

2007-07-10T21:04:00.001+08:00

Today's tip:

If you find that the difference between RIGHT and CONVENIENT is a thin line... ask a child. A child will tell you right away what you refuse to see... or admit.

Just for Laughs... Read Before You Buy.

2007-04-14T12:41:00.000+08:00

Contrasts in the Local and National Elections

2007-04-08T21:55:00.000+08:00

No talks of patriotism for now. Promise.
*****
Leah and I were talking about elections earlier and we have come up with a smart way to pick which of our local candidates will do. We will base our votes on looks, friendship and a certain amount of luck (as in mini-mini-my-ni-mo kind of luck). No, don’t judge us as stupid or crazy because we are not (OK, I'm not convinced myself but just think along). We came up with this funny way of selecting because we are so happy with the kind of governance we are getting here in Marikina.

Seriously.

Well, the choosing part, maybe… slightly a joke. But don’t count it as impossible because I just might do it. Let me explain.

Marikina is so blessed with a lot of good people. Must I add, a lot of our politicians deliver. That is why when they run, it is just difficult to come up with a solid choice. In my case, you want to fill up 150% of everything, or you want to vote more than one person for a single post. A good example of this is the congressional spot for the second district. I’m torn between Ome and Del. I have to come up with a good way of figuring out who to write – the opposition candidate who did well during his consecutive terms in Congress or the guy from the same party as MCF who is doing a good job as the incumbent. Both are good. Either way, the people will benefit. Given all else equal, what should be the deciding bullet?

Ha! This is the dilemma every voter would envy.

Unfortunately, the same cannot be said for the National Elections. We have a lot of options I’d rather not see chosen by the rest of the people. Let’s face it, however we look at it, we have a pathetic list of senatoriables (a term only used in the Philippines, I think, to connote a senatorial wannabe). Of course, I have to admit this set of senatoriables is better than the last (remember Jinggoy et al) but not in any way less stressful to the patriotic heart.

Checking the list of candidates, we came up with a partial list for the senate. Most likely we will not come up with the same 12 but we have agreed on the first 8. I will be expounding on our choices as soon as I have the slots filled. For now, I present our partial list written in no particular order:

Joker Arroyo
Kiko Pangilinan
Ralph Recto
Manny Villar
Chiz Escudero
Edgardo Angara
Sonia Roco
Noynoy Aquino

The following have been placed under consideration:

Allan Peter Cayetano
Loren Legarda

The following would most likely end up in my ballot:

Mike Defensor
Miguel Zubiri

Not Just Another Commercial

2007-04-04T21:36:00.000+08:00

Slow day today. Not surprisingly, boredom took over. I started surfing youtube.com for whatever thing I can think of. As I browsed the world wide web, I chanced upon this old commercial from Coca Cola. I must say this is one of the best commercials made locally and I commend whoever wrote such a beautiful and lyrical jingle.

This is definitely not just another piece of commercial.

At this point, I’m on LSS mode.

SANA
Sung by Nikki Gil

Sana'y masabi sa awit kong ito
Lahat na ninanais nitong puso ko.
Sana saan man patungo sa buhay,
May pag-ibig, may pag-asa, may saya at saysay.

Sana sa bawat sandali'y matikman pa,
Sarap ng pagsasama at simpleng ligaya
Tara na, sakyan lang, malay mo...
'Andiyan lang, 'andiyan lang ang hinahanap mo.

On Missing A Friend

2007-03-29T14:04:00.000+08:00

Y!M keeps me busy these days because I am in front of a computer 12 hours a day every day of the week. As I was chatting with one of my friends, the topic of suicide came up.

Suicide is something I learned about as an early college student courtesy of a high school classmate who should have celebrated her 30th birthday this year. However, she never went beyond her 18th.

Her name was Rochelle and she was a shy and quiet girl with a few friends. She was generous to the ones she kept close. She was an artist. She was smart. She passed the ACET but opted to go to UP. She really was good. But the other side of her is that she held so much grudges and had secret enemies she wrote down in a small notebook.

I was one of the few who understood her back then (or at least, I would like to think so) — one of the few she opened her feelings to. She hated Statistics and she hated Physics, not to mention the teacher who taught both subjects. She’d make me teach her the lessons before exams because her mind stubbornly refused to learn those subjects during class.

It was on our second year of college that it happened. My mom found an article about a girl who committed suicide. Different name but the address sounded familiar. My mom alerted me of the news and I started calling various police departments that day. It was confirmed. It was my friend, Rochelle, who pulled the trigger to end her life. I called her best friend, Karen, to deliver the news. Together with Karen’s dad, we went to the house of our departed friend to find out more. Apparently, the family wanted to hush up the situation so not much was done.

We were allowed to see her room where it happened. Apparently, it was one of those normal days where everything was a routine when the family heard the shot. BANG. Next thing they knew, a girl in her new peach gown was lying on her bedroom floor, flat and dead.

We proceeded to Rochelle's room. The walls could tell the story. The part where the bullet ricocheted was proof of a fell incident. Karen and I were allowed to read her diary. There it was. It was all planned as revealed by a diary that beheld so much anger and fear. It mentioned names and places of people and events we were all too familiar with. It mentioned of how she wanted them ill and how she suffered. It mentioned of how she planned a suicide and how she bought a dress just for the occasion. It mentioned of why she was not able to pull through with the suicide on a certain date and why she needed to re-schedule her execution.

The diary was one of the last things she held before she pulled the trigger as she wrote down her final goodbye. And there they were… bloodstains of our beloved friend on the pages of the diary that must have held stains of her tears as well.

Together with other classmates, we organized a mass for her… for peace and light….

But it was rather late in coming. Those that she should have had in life, we were only able to provide in death… love and understanding and prayers.

And to this day, I remember her. I will always remember her because she taught me so much that year – lessons that only can be learned outside books and in the harsh reality of life. I do miss her. How I hope that she is happy now, happier than she could have been had she been alive.

Rochelle, this entry is for you. I love you, my friend. We will see each other someday… in a place where everything makes sense.

Einstein's Riddle

2007-03-16T11:08:00.001+08:00

1. There are 5 houses in 5 different colors. In each house lives a person with a different nationality.

2. The 5 owners drink a certain type of beverage, smoke a certain cigar, and keep a certain pet.

3. No owners have the same pet, smoke the same brand of cigar or drink the same beverage.

QUESTION: Who owns the fish?

FACTS:
- The Brit lives in the Red House
- The Swede keeps Dogs as pets
- The Dane drinks Tea
- The Green House is on the left of the White House
- The Green House's owner drinks Coffee
- The person who smokes Pall Mall rears Birds
- The owner of the Yellow House smokes Dunhill
- The man living in the center drinks Milk
- The Norwegian lives in the first house
- The man who smokes Blends lives next to the one who keeps Cats
- The man who keeps the Horse lives to the man who smokes Dunhill
- The owner who smokes Blue Masters drinks Beer
- The German smokes Prince
- The Norwegian lives next to the Blue House
- The man who smokes Blends has a neighbor who drinks Water

Einstein wrote this riddle. He said 98% of the world could not solve it. It can be done. Be part of the 2% that could.

Harry Potter: Order of the Phoenix movie update

2007-02-12T18:34:00.000+08:00

The movie "Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix" will be shown on July 13, 2007. Below are some screencaps from the movie for your viewing pleasure.

Happy waiting!!!

Be Nice!

2007-02-10T03:39:00.000+08:00

Today's tip:

If you think being the boss gives you all the reason to act superior, better think again.

Be nice. It's for your own good.

Field of Dreams

2007-01-21T23:32:00.000+08:00

"If you build it, they will come."

Bring it on!

Dreaming of Rivendell

2007-01-15T16:27:00.000+08:00

I am so depressed right now, I am thinking of going to an imaginary place where there is nothing but beauty. Oh, how I wish to be transported to the land of dreams, the land of Master Elrond... Rivendell.

Defeated

2007-01-06T22:47:00.000+08:00

Oh, shed your tears,
My lonely stars,
For the trees grow not
And the rivers dry.

How silence tolls
Ever loud,
To fight the battles
Lost from start.

Deep sadness spells
What the heart's known since;
No sense in waiting,
Fate has been destined.

/amra

Not Enough Stars

2007-01-06T22:40:00.000+08:00

How many stars are in the heavens?
I dare ask all of thee;
For if countless is its number,
Why is there none for me?

Why is there none to answer
Those prayers i have cried?
No there can't be enough out there
For not one of them is mine.

Immense may be the universe,
Or so they say, I'm told;
Until it holds a star for me,
I'll always believe it small.

/amra

Shame

2007-01-06T22:34:00.000+08:00

if life is a failure
while death is pure
who is to say
where one should go?

his blood is black
her sweat is gold
the servant bleeds
the master is cold

the chamber opens
the door unlocks
the will surrenders
to heaven's dock

shame to the sinner
lust is the cause
a dark heart's deed
a spirit lost

/amra

Of Photos and Memories

2006-12-09T15:46:00.000+08:00

Today is yet another idle day for me. I was looking for things to do when I saw photo albums of my grade school and high school days (and some). Pick. Open. Wonder. (Music, Maestro: “If only I could turn back time…”) Darn. Those are the worst pictures anyone can ever take of anybody! The digital camera not being invented is no excuse for such horrible works! How they were ever developed beats the heck out of me. Pictures like those should never have left the photoshop in the first place. I, myself, could not bear look at them without cringing.

Let’s start with the hair. Long and unruly in one occasion; sticking out in another; and, oh, yes… a helmet piece in yet another. I do remember going to parlors back in the days and I never once got a beating. I should have. Looking at those pictures now, I wish I just went bald. It would have saved me the depression I am undergoing right now. Then again, I am no seer. I really cannot be faulted, right? Darn!

Next, the clothes. Why was I ever allowed to leave the premises of my room with those clothes on? Why did I even own them? Hideous pieces of rags! Tight pants… oversized jackets (a.k.a. cardigans)… big skirts… loose T-shirts. My friends should have made better use of their convincing powers over the disastrous state I was in. But wait… let me see what they wore.... No comment. What insults me is the idea that leggings are doing a comeback! No freakin’ way will I be tricked into buying and wearing those again!

Finally, the eyebrows. Let’s just say I’m happy I know better.

I know now why Scrooge was so bitter of Christmas Past!

So, what do I do now? Actually, it's more like what I did. I burned them earlier. Not that the memories will fade with the ashes. The happy memories of my birthdays and our reunions and my school days will forever remain in my heart. Happiness need not be trapped in photographs. I’m able to recollect at any time I wish to do so. I’m just trying to do away with the humiliation and embarrassment… both in the present and future!

Stepping Back

2006-10-18T12:42:00.000+08:00

Note: Allow me to talk vaguely about my thoughts right now.... "Vague" because I do not want to disclose specifics yet that may raise concerns. Anyway... here it goes:

I've come to a point in my life when stepping back is a better option than moving forward.

I don't want to think about it but it is a reality I just have to face: I am not getting any younger. And, at this point in my life, I feel I should already be fulfilled or on my way to fulfilling my dreams. That is not the case, however. I am where I am because it is comfortable for me to be here. Where I am has become a comfort zone I was hesitant to thread but threaded nonetheless. One thing has always been obvious... I am not happy where I am. I do not see the fulfillment of any of my dreams. I don't see myself involved in people and causes the way I have always wanted to be involved. I am nowhere.

It is, thus, that I have decided to step back. Leave the comfort zone as I know it and explore the life that could be mine. I am scared and excited at the same time. It is always scary regardless of how old or young you are, I guess. More important than that, though, is that it is exciting to find I can still afford to dare open doors. It is a sign of life and zest and zeal in me.

How would I fare? I honestly do not know. Do I care? Ofcourse, I do. But I care more that I will be doing things differently from now on. I will be moving through life as a person who is driven by desires and passion, not fear and comfort.

I look to the waters to give me, if not the answers, at least the serenity of spirit and the peace of mind to eventually pursue them.

I look forward... and I hope.

Ask For Help

2006-10-14T15:46:00.000+08:00

Today's tip:

Ask for help if you know you need it. Don't let your pride get in the way. People won't mind being asked so long as your requests are reasonable.

Don't assume people will know what you need by throwing in a few hints. Make sure they are direct and specific. If you need help, how can a friend turn you down?

Dumbledore's Army

2006-10-10T15:24:00.000+08:00

I saw this picture online and I want to post it here as well. This happens to be my favorite part in The Order of the Phoenix... Dumbledore's Army.

Google to buy YouTube

2006-10-07T14:04:00.000+08:00

I don't know how interesting this article is to the next person, but I have to accept that this is interesting for me... Google buying the most interesting thing online right now.

I'm a fan of YouTube and I don't know if their service will be affected by the acquisition. If it will be, I hope that it will be for the better. I trust Google to make it so.

Here is the article:

Google in Talks To Buy YouTube For $1.6 Billion

The Departed, A Disappointment

2006-10-05T00:17:00.001+08:00

Disclaimer: I would not dare call this a review... just an expression of my opinions (about the story mostly) shortly after leaving the theater. For the most part, this is just me ranting about the things that made my eyebrows raise and cross.

*contains spoilers*

Since 2004, we knew there were plans of a remake. It was not until this year that I have read anything about The Departed. I have written in a previous blog (middle of nowhere) that I was not so keen to see a remake of Infernal Affairs because the original movie happens to be a favorite of mine. However, with big stars and a good director, I just gave this movie a chance. Seeing the trailer even thrilled me.

This evening, I saw The Departed and I must say I'm not as happy with the outcome as I hoped. Minus the great performances of Leonardo DiCaprio and Jack Nicholson, the movie did not meet any of my expectations.

I am not saying Leo's performance is better than Tony Leung's. Leung was so great, I would not have cared if he traded places with Leo in The Departed. But Leonardo DiCaprio is Leonardo DiCaprio. He attacked the character differently which makes comparison difficult. I enjoyed his performance, though I would say not as much as Leung's.

Nicholson stole every scene he was in. Better describing it, he was the scene. He was Shylock at his meanest and the Joker at his sweetest.

Matt Damon's performance paled in comparison to Andy Lau's. Lau, as a mole, was smooth. Lau was believeable. Every duplicated scene Damon played was such a poor version of the original. Heck, a lot of times, I was irritated by his appearance on screen. Had I been any of the cops, I would have guessed he was the rat with his annoying presence.

The supporting actors were not convincingly critical. They were dangling elements in the story. In the original movie, the members of the triads and the members of the police, no matter how short their roles, were critical in developing the suspense and in the unfolding of the drama. In The Departed, the only real supporting character that I liked was Martin Sheen's and only because it was clear what his role was to the very end. I would have said the same of Mark Walburg's until the last quarter of the movie when his character was just thrown to insignificance. What I mean is this... if you were to remove any of these supporting characters, the story would still have been the same... or, no more or less exciting.

The script was confused and confusing. Why? Let's see. One, it is so long and yet it went back to the same issues over and over and over and over (stop!) again. What was that with Leo being a former cadet? We get it... there was doubt. Resolved. Move on! Apparently, the plot was so weak even the writers had to convince themselves the characters needed more justification. If they only followed the original order, then there would have been no need for a lengthy discussion. The moles' characters could have been dealt with while the movie itself was unfolding. Also, about Leo's family connections... Redundant. They should not have attempted to put the second movie of IA into the script. Oh, I would have to say the same of the envelope with "CITIZENS" on it. No need to show it 20 times before it was again critical in the story. That is how it works in suspense movies or books... the memory of the audience is critical in the guesswork.

Two, the microchips and the chinese gangsters and the operations and ... I don't know. They were supposed to be the reasons to drive the story... to let the story fall into action. Apparently, the audience did not really see why it was a cause for a big action. It was made to appear Mission-Impossible-like in terms of importance but it was handled by both cops and gangsters like it was petty theft. They could just have chosen liquor or drugs as drivers and they probably would have made a more convincing story out of it.

Three, the love angle. Hmmm. I didn't like it... but ok... it was how they wanted it done... so I'm giving that to them. But was the love angle between Leo and the girl even necessary? I'm not so sure.

Four, the ending. I don't know where to start. Why did Damon kill Nicholson? The story did not say. Why did Walburg kill Damon? The story did not say. The writers should have developed the characters to show motive or change of conviction. IA was able to do it. TD, not. Also, I don't know if I just missed it but what happened to the brown envelope that was given to the girl by Leo? Where did that fall into significance? I have a lot more comments on how the story got resolved, if there was a resolution at all. I care not to discuss at the moment.

The bulk of the story was at least loyal to the original. That would be the part were Leo and Matt were trying to discover each other. That was the exciting part. It was rather long in coming... but I liked it. Leo and Nicholson were the stars, however.

Overall, the script was too elaborate yet weak. It was like the writers were scared the audience will not be able to follow the story if left to their own judgment and imagination. Come on... pampering the audience to that level is just too demeaning. I deserve better than that.

MY TAKE: I may think differently had I not loved the original movie (movies). However, since I have, my say on this is that I was really disappointed. Given the people involved, I was expecting more from The Departed. No doubt, plotwise, INFERNAL AFFAIRS IS STILL BETTER! Shorter and better. With respect to the actors, I will just have to say that IA is more balanced. They have more interesting characters and more memorable performances save those of Leo and Nicholson in TD.

I can't wait to see the reviews of my fellow IA fanatics.

rating: 7 1/2 out of 10. I really just expected more.

A Stupid Question?

2006-10-03T23:35:00.000+08:00

Today's tip:

Don't be afraid to ask the stupid question that has been in your head for some time now.

Really, you may find that it is not the most stupid of ideas or questions after all. You may even be surprised with the answer you will get. You'll never know unless you ask. Be brave and let it out.

Just a thought. Good luck.

Morning News Bullets

2006-09-28T08:01:00.000+08:00

It's morning and I'm listening to the news as I write. I'm trying to finish an essay but my mind cannot be taken away from all the things going on around me.

It has been raining since yesterday afternoon and the eye of the storm has yet to hit the Metro at that. It's good that thus far, rain is only continous but not hard. Report says the eye is still moving north and will be here by lunch.

Signal number three has been declared in the Metro.

Classes in all levels have been suspended.

All government employees do not have to report for work.

Portions of the Metro are now flooded.

People are reported stranded in ports.

The Marikina River has overflown. The people in Tumana have been evacuated.

The entire Bicol Region does not have electricity. The region was hit hard last night.

Families in Pampanga have been evacuated.

Stock trading has been cancelled.

Number coding has been cancelled.

Oh no... high tide will be around lunch as well. The high tide alert has been raised.

Policemen, social workers and volunteers have been deployed.

I'm saving my thoughts for a later post or update. I'm waiting for more news and I'm hoping things will be better soon.

Rage Against the Storm

2006-09-27T18:26:00.000+08:00

Heaven's tears strongly fall on my shoulders,
His breath blows hard against my face,
He strikes his lightnings down a distance,
His anger and rage deafen my ears.

I wonder what causes him to act thus so
For such strong emotions he must show;
Is there a secret alone he keeps
Or does he share all of our griefs?

What to him are plagues and scars,
Or losing your kiths and kins in wars?
What to him are people in hoods and slums?
Does he know blessings don't often come ?

Does he even know the pain of brokenness,
That kind of pain you won't forget?
Does he know what causes a woman to cry?
No, he can't know love nor loss nor lies.

When children ask in fervent prayers
Does he know how they feel when "NO" is the answer?
He cannot know. No, how can he?
He is up there and here are we.

So when he takes the lives of my brothers
In big floods or tsunami wild waters
Just so he can act like some prick or brat
I dare say: Humanity has had enough.

/amra

*****
We can blame so many things, so many people, so many aspects of life, technology and nature, but why bother? Setting rage against the heavens is more romantic!

BTW, there's a storm coming within the next 24 hours.

Ode to the Sunflower

2006-09-26T13:46:00.000+08:00

you bid the birds and the butterflies to come
you grace the field with the warmth of the sun
you put a smile on all who to thee look upon
you teach the children to pray to the One

sunflower, with your sun-lit face basked in glory
you remind me of sweet songs and fairy stories
your big leaves stretched to the heavens humbly
i am reminded of all God's graces and bounty

i seek you, flower, as an inspiration
a life that is a dream and a passion
you bring beauty, yet wild and common
the example of creation in perfection

/amra

*****
one of the few things that genuinely puts a smile on my face...

Save Me

2006-09-26T12:55:00.000+08:00

save me
i shout so hard
yet no one hears me

save me
i stumble as i walk
yet no one catches me

save me
i cry so hard
yet no one heeds my pleas

save me
i try so hard
yet i fail completely

save me
i feel so numb
yet my pain is real

save me
i am in a crowd
yet i feel so lonely

save me
i drown so deep
yet there's no water around me

save me
i feel so lost
yet i'm where i'm supposed to be

save me
don't you dare lose me
before i disappear into the empty

/amra

.

Holding On

2006-09-23T12:25:00.000+08:00

i weep for i believe you lost now
i cannot see you when i close my eyes
i cannot hear your voice in the silence of the night
i have stopped dreaming that i am your wife

the touch of sunlight no longer makes me cry
how could it be when it is the reminder of your love?
the wind no longer gives me chills
is it because i've gone numb now and can no longer feel?

all those years we have spent together
now all lost, my heart cannot remember
and yet i feel incomplete without the pain
gone are the dreams, lost and spent

what will i do once i've stopped thinking of you?
act all is normal? that i cannot do
i bleed, i drown, i long for the love that is only mine
i want those days back, or the memories of time

/amra

*****
why i write sad poems, i can only guess.

On missing Freddie Mercury and loving Queen

2006-09-22T19:30:00.000+08:00

I did not include U2 and Queen in my last post because I want to create separate posts for them. This one happens to be dedicated to the latter... one of the many, I guess. I love Queen and I love Freddie Mercury more.

Freddie Mercury is the voice that captured hearts. I grew up listening to Queen but it was not until late high school when I discovered the Barcelona album which he did with Montserrat Caballe that I became an obsessed fan of Freddie Mercury.

I remember locking myself up in my room and drowning in the rock-opera nature of the songs in Barcelona. Being a frustrated singer, I can only dream of being able to sing the songs in that album... but who cares? It was my world for a long time. Freddie Mercury... and Montserrat Caballe.

Freddie Mercury is an opera-rock genius! Barcelona was his dream album which he helped write and produce. I will forever love him.

THE GOLDEN BOY
ARTISTS: FREDDIE MERCURY AND MONTSERRAT CABALLE
ALBUM: BARCELONA

BARCELONA
ARTISTS: FREDDIE MERCURY AND MONTSERRAT CABALLE
ALBUM: BARCELONA

HOW CAN I GO ON?
ARTISTS: FREDDIE MERCURY AND MONTSERRAT CABALLE
ALBUM: BARCELONA

*****

Brian May is one heck of a genius as well. You cannot love Queen and not love him as an individual artist.

TOO MUCH LOVE WILL KILL YOU
ARTIST: BRIAN MAY

The ultimate Queen piece:

BOHEMIAN RHAPSODY
ARTIST: QUEEN

*****
I can't find any copy of The Fallen Priest (from the Barcelona album as well). It's a great piece. I hope someone will post it online.

Random Music

2006-09-22T16:37:00.000+08:00

I'm feeling musical today. I'm just placing here some of my favorites... meaning, you can play the songs over and over and I will not complain! I dare you! There's no theme. It's all random.

Can it get better than this? REM playing a U2 original, "One". Adam Clayton is on guitar.

ONE
ARTIST: REM

This next one I heard when I was much much much younger; high school, in fact. They showed this on tv shortly after they did the tribute to Freddie Mercury in the UK. I'm a big fan of Queen, especially of Freddie Mercury. I was simply left numb when George Michael did this song. Enjoy!

SOMEBODY
ARTISTS: GEORGE MICHAEL AND QUEEN
TRIBUTE CONCERT TO FREDDIE MERCURY

Any girl would love to sing this song to her one someone. When I'm all high, this is one of the songs that plays in my head.

HEAD OVER FEET
ARTIST: ALANIS MORISSETTE

Not everyone is a fan of Spice Girls but come on, you can't deny the fact that they did come up with great hits and they did promote Girl Power! They may have been a fabricated group but for all it's worth, they did put their mark in the music industry and they will forever live in our hearts.

2 BECOME 1
ARTIST: SPICE GIRLS

I think this is the best Christmas Song ever made. If this song does not get to you, you are probably dense. Band Aid is Europe's response to USA for Africa.

DO THEY KNOW IT'S CHRISTMAS TIME
ARTIST: BAND AID

Russel Watson is one of my favorite singers. I have his CDs and, boy, are they worth the bucks you pay for them. Every song is just gold. I missed his concert when he came here. That is one of the concerts I wish I had been a part of. The one I'm posting is a Simon and Garfunkel original (until I find something I can replace it with... hahaha). Hope you like it.

BRIDGE OVER TROUBLED WATER
ARTISTS: RUSSEL WATSON AND SISSEL

This one just gives me the chills everytime I hear it. I saw a live performance at the Grammys years back. They had a guy play an angel of death and it was just so beautifully done. The song itself is an obra maestra. It's the best gangsta song I've heard.

THE CROSSROADS
ARTIST: BONE THUGS N HARMONY

I want to post 10 Michael Jackson videos here but would that not be emphasizing too much a point? I love the guy no matter how crazy he is. He is alone in the industry... no one can be a Michael Jackson! That's that!

HEAL THE WORLD
ARTIST: MICHAEL JACKSON

This is the un-evolved Mariah, the one that we loved. You know what I mean.

MY ALL
ARTIST: MARIAH CAREY

I'll kill myself if I don't include this one. Bette Midler singing one of my faves. How can this not make you cry?

WIND BENEATH MY WINGS
ARTIST: BETTE MIDLER

Blame my dad for this one. I love the Platters to death. I just got a cd over the summer with a compilation of their greatest hits and I have not stopped playing the cd. This is my favorite Platters song. (BTW, Queen also has a version of this song which is equally good.)

THE GREAT PRETENDER
ARTIST: THE PLATTERS

I'm a big fan of this guy and I don't care if he comes from a boy band. His Swing When Your Winning CD is simply outstanding! He did the classics and made them his own. I have several favorites but let me just post this one for now.

Let me not forget... he's way too hot!

MY BOJANGLES
ARTIST: ROBBIE WILLIAMS

This is the most played song on my mp3 player. I love the beat and the angst.
HARDER TO BREATH
ARTIST: MAROON 5

Ok, as someone who loves to write poems, I would love to say the line "Let me be the one to love you more." It's simple, direct, and SO POWERFUL! I would love to say it myself! That violin behind the voice is just amazing.

TO LOVE YOU MORE
ARTIST: CELINE DION

Lighthouse Family

2006-09-22T16:00:00.000+08:00

I just love and enjoy Gospel Pop/Rock. Of all the artists under this genre, my favorite has got to be Lighthouse Family. Their songs can just put me in a trance, delve into my soul and make me think of some place apart from where I am. At times, their songs bring me back to a time when my friends and I were young, innocent and idealistic... just out of school and ready to explore our abilities and our talents.

HIGH
ARTIST: LIGHTHOUSE FAMILY

BE HAPPY
ARTIST: LIGHTHOUSE FAMILY

LOST IN SPACE
ARTIST: LIGHTHOUSE FAMILY

*****
I can't seem to find my favorite Lighthouse Family song... Free. That would be the one which revives part of the lyrics from U2's One.

The Tokyo Trial

2006-09-19T17:56:00.000+08:00

THE TOKYO TRIAL

A movie is showing in Chinese theaters right now entitled the Tokyo Trial. It is a movie which historically depicts the trial held after World War II. Here, we are shown how high ranking Japanese officials and politicians were made to answer for war crimes brought to sovereign nations and individuals.

MY HISTORY

My grandmother, Luisa, had vivid recollections of the war as she personally experienced it as a young woman, wife and mother of two. During the war, she was forced to be separated from her husband, my grandfather, who was randomly picked and accused of being a guerilla during the Japanese occupation.

My grandfather was made to undergo water cure as a means of getting a confession. He was tied, strapped and made to drink water from a tube; and when bloated, the Japanese soldiers jumped on or kicked his belly and chest. It was a routine. It was done to him and several of his companions question after question after so many questions.

My grandmother, on the other hand, joined a caravan that drove east to the mountains of Montalban, Rizal along with several Filipinos she was not acquainted with to hide from the Japanese. She recalled the long ride and the food deprived days.

Those were truly evil times. A lot of stories have been told regarding the Japanese Occupation in our country, each one sad, harsh and terror-laden.

Bless their souls.

NOT A FOOTNOTE IN HISTORY

I enjoyed my History classes when I was in school, not counting the quizzes and exams that followed the lessons. I have heard of the Nuremberg Trials and know they were about the Nazis being put on trial for their war crimes. Why we did not emphasize the Tokyo Trials in our curriculum is a wonder to me. Most of what I know about this trial I found on the internet within the last two months as I have made my research.

The topic on the Tokyo Trials is just as important as the Nuremberg Trials in our History classes and should be discussed fully and not as a mere footnote in our history. It is more apt for us to know what happened to the aggressors of our country and the oppressors of our grandparents as convicted by the International Military Tribunal for the Far East. It is not enough to see the news on the claims of comfort women when a lot of their claims have become fruitless.

Let's us not hide history. Let us not distort it. Let us bring out the details of history that is Asian, not American. Our history books should not be faulted for it, but our academic system should be. Let us not make footnotes out of real stories that matter to us.

THE MOVIE

The movie Tokyo Trial is enjoying a great success in China and is being shown without cut in the cinemas. I cannot comment on the story just now because it has yet to be shown here. However, I cannot hide my excitement in seeing this film. The director, Gao Quanshu, wanted the movie to be authentic so the languages used in the film were Chinese, Japanese and English. Since the makers are Chinese, the emphasis is on the Nanjing Massacre. From the reviews I have gathered, it is well researched, it is powerful, and it is not a movie that will bring its viewers to hatred but one which will allow reflection. I'm looking forward to this history lesson and I know I will not be disappointed.

The Tokyo Trials

Japanes War Crimes

On Running Away

2006-09-15T20:20:00.000+08:00

There are times in our lives in which, when we look back, we ask the question, "What if?" My worst "what if?" is this:

As a teenager, I once thought of running away. With so much pressure before me, I wanted nothing more than to escape from the life as I knew it. I wanted so much to be alone... to be left alone.

I intended to run away but I could just not muster the courage enough to follow through. I had no idea where I would go or what I would do. Yes, the uncertainty of it was more than enough to scare the idea out of me. I do not know if I should be credited for standing my ground and thinking twice before making a great decision, or if credit should be given to my parents who set me up to a life that never knew labor and hunger by a long shot.

It's just that when I now come to reflect on it, I wonder how different my life would be if I did. Would I have looked for work? And if I did, what kind? Would I have made the effort to go back and finish school? Would I have done more stupid things on top of the one that started it all? Would I have come back to my parents and begged for mercy? I wonder if I was equipped enough at that time to have battled life on my own as I see kids on tv shows do when left to care for themselves.

And although I could only imagine the consequences, I am thankful that I will never really know the answers to those questions. I feel sorry for the kids who do.

No child should ever experience that kind of uncertainty. For no matter how difficult life is, children should be protected from the harsh realities of the world until they are old enough to face the reality on their own. If left on their own, Heaven help us, there may be no correcting the trauma that will eventually be their lives.

RUNAWAY TRAIN
ARTIST: SOUL ASYLUM
ALBUM: GRAVE DANCERS UNION

****
This song really speaks to me. I know it is sad but I love the message. This is one great piece of work. They don't do music like this anymore.

A World of Fools

2006-09-14T21:34:00.000+08:00

The world is filled with fools
You may be one of them, who knows?
Fools who know no better
Than to love and dream and fall.

The world has to be grateful
For without fools, I am told,
The world will stop and end and die,
The balance of the universe destroyed.

Only a fool can love without expecting
And give without rewards,
And make a fool out of one's self
For some bastard's pleasure and delight.

Fools in love, oh truth be let
Can do most anything;
Fly to the moon and back, or, better yet
Make the world stand still.

Fools express their hearts' desires
Through art and songs and verses;
You may be reading a fool's work now
Who knows? I'll take my chances.

Fools will fight lost causes
Wishing for a bend unseen,
Believing there will be a morrow
Without agony... a miracle, a dream.

Fools act to save the world and more
From hunger, war and pain;
They try to be fathers, brothers, friends
To strangers who have lost their way.

And though you take fools for granted still,
Who cares? I know, not them;
Loyalty and love they'll kindly give
Overflowing, no doubt, 'til end.

Why God even made such specimen
Martyrs, lovers, saints,
All fools within definition
Heaven's joke, I take.

And so I hear the angels cry,
"I spot, right there, that one
Who will bleed and die for another,
Make wings. Make wings. It's done."

/amra

****
I dedicate my poem to the fools of the world whose lives matter more than most.

To See the Ocean

2006-09-14T21:18:00.000+08:00

I need to see the ocean
Although there I don't belong
I need to hear the sound of water
To revive my spirit strong

Indeed, I need that moment
To reflect on my life and pains
To muster all my courage
In life's battles it has waned

I need the peace it can spare me
Because my life has gone astray
Confused are the thoughts inside my head
Bewildered, lost and shamed

I need the ocean to remind me
Compared to him I'm small
Insignificant in so many ways
Humble me, Ocean, I hope

Beside the water I will sit
Under the trees and shade
I shall write a poem, a song, a hymn
Proclaiming wonders I've been graced

When the day has come to pass
And the moon and stars all rise
I shall dream the most beautiful dreams
Yes, great Ocean, will you let me? Can I?

Alas, in the morning when I wake
To find my sorrows drowned
I shall look upon my reflection
A person whole and strong, unbound

Oh, bitter Life, you are all but past
After my journey is done
Because in the ocean I will leave
All of my tears behind

/amra

****
I wrote this because I'm dreaming of taking a one-month leave from work and just stay by the seaside and be lazy. I want to reflect and write, away from the crowd and the urban life. Is that too much to ask?

Jay Chou: An Introduction

2006-09-13T16:48:00.000+08:00

Jay Chou is my favorite Asian Music Artist of all time and I have in my shelf songs and videos of him as collected from my travels where his cd's and dvd's are sold. For about 3 years now, I have been following his career in music as he comes up with hit after numerous hits in Chinese speaking countries.

I know that most of you do not have any idea who he is but it is likely that you have heard his works. Most recently he has done the theme song to Jet Li's Fearless, and he starred and did the track for the movie Initial D. He is young. He is fresh. He is different from most others. In his concerts, not only does he sing; he also plays the piano, the flute, the guitar, the cello and the harmonica with extreme dexterity. His music is a combination of both eastern and western influences, both pop and classical.

Jay is acclaimed for his original works (where as most popular artists merely interpret works of others). He apparently started out as one of those artists behind the songs... writing, composing and producing for other artists more good-looking but less talented than himself.

The web can tell you much about Jay but let me just share with you his music. Although it is in Chinese, I hope you will be able to appreciate it.

The video I chose was inspired by the Godfather trilogy and is aptly called In the Name of the Father.

IN THE NAME OF THE FATHER
ARTIST: JAY CHOU

****
I'll just reserve my comment on his acting... as it is not one of his better talents. :)

I believe I got a darker version (literally)... or is it just my screen? Anyway, I love the part where he entered the church and the gun exploded.

LOTR spoofed

2006-09-13T05:17:00.000+08:00

This is just funny. I found this spoof online while I was searching for a particular cut scene in LOTR. Lord of the Rings should have ended this way... although it would have taken the romance out of the whole plot.

By the way, just to put on record, I am a major Tolkien fan. No disrespect meant! :)

HOW THE LORD OF THE RINGS SHOULD HAVE ENDED

Can You Find Me?

2006-09-12T07:43:00.000+08:00

Can you follow the river
That leads to the sea
That leads to the ocean
That ultimately leads to me?

Can you trouble your feet
To thread in darkness weary
And follow a battered path
So I will not be lonely?

Can you humble your soul
That you may find me
Lost, chained and broken
I pray to no longer be?

Can you make your heart
Beat to the rhythm of mine
So that our two hearts
Can now beat as one?

Can you read this poem
And know you are the one
Who has inspired me
To finally be found?

/amra

*****
I wrote this last night because I could not sleep (or is that I could not sleep because I was writing this one?). Hmmm... :) What was I thinking?

Sarah Geronimo Performs Halik

2006-09-11T16:49:00.000+08:00

This is one of the more memorable live performances I've seen on local TV. I'm not a fan of Aegis but I really like Sarah Geronimo and the way she did this song Halik a few months back. It's one of those performances that kept me glued until the end. This girl can really sing; and as a friend once commented... without effort!!!

My goodness... it's good somebody posted this online.

Click. Watch. Enjoy.

credit to Cassiiie for posting it in youtube.com

The Pinoy Christmas Season

2006-09-11T13:58:00.000+08:00

Christmas in the Philippines is not a day but a season. Yup, that would be the BER season. That means once the months of the year are ending in B-E-R, as in September, October, November and December, you know Filipinos are already in the spirit to celebrate Christmas.

It's crazy, I know. When I was in the main branch of National Bookstore last week to buy myself some writing materials, guess what they were playing. Not Mmmbop for sure. National Bookstore and other establishments here in the Metro have started playing Christmas carols. Some radio stations are doing it as well. And if that is not enough, I have received a forwarded text message greeting me happiness this holiday season.

Crazy!

I know it is sometimes just to mock, and sometimes just to put people in a happy mood... but that is exactly it. We are put in the mood for Christmas so early in the year that we get all excited and hyped months before the fact. It even gets more serious when we enter the 100-day countdown to Christmas because that is the time we start planning for the gifts, the parties, the programs, the decors and the food.

You want to hear something crazier? A few Christmases back, a radio station did a countdown to the 100-day Christmas countdown. I don't know when they started, but who cares? POINT TAKEN!

I love Christmas and I embrace my culture as a Filipino. However, when something is crazy, you have to acknowledge it as crazy... Filipino or not, Christmas-loving or not. I'm not complaining. I have grown accustomed to it and enjoy the idea of it. It has been like that since before I was born and it will be like that long after I perish.

And, oh, by the way, a lot of Filipinos do not really stop celebrating Christmas until the end of January, what with the late presents and those Christmas decorations we can't bring ourselves to put down. If I would be allowed to rename the first month of the year, I'd call it JANUARYBER, just to emphasize a point.

CRAZY? Yes, it is. You are getting the idea.

And for those of you who still wonder why the Filipinos have a high happiness quotient, well take a hint.

The Tokyo Trial: International Military Tribunal for the Far East

2006-09-10T02:18:00.000+08:00

Xu Wei
2006-08-28
Shanghai Daily

Behind the Tokyo Trial

The "famous" Tokyo Trial lasted two and a half years, from May 1946 to the November of 1948.

All Japanese Class-A war criminals were tried by the International Military Tribunal for the Far East (IMTFE) in Tokyo. The prosecution team was made up of justices from 11 allied nations: Australia, Canada, China, France, the United Kingdom, the United States, India, the Netherlands, New Zealand, the Philippines and the former Soviet Union.

During the Tokyo Trial, the Nanjing Massacre was treated as one unique example of the atrocities committed in Asia. Numerous eye-witness accounts of the massacre were provided by Chinese civilian survivors and Western nationals living in Nanjing at that time.

However, the horrific events of the Nanjing Massacre have never been emphasized in Japanese history textbooks. Two (Yosuke Matsuoka and Osami Nagano) of the 28 defendants died of natural causes during the Tokyo Trial. One defendant (Shumei Okawa) had a mental breakdown on the first day of the trial and was sent to a psychiatric ward. He was released in 1948 a free man.

The remaining 25 were all found guilty, many on multiple counts. Seven, including Hideki Tojo and Kenji Doihara, were sentenced to death by hanging, 16 to life imprisonment, and two to lesser terms.

Credit: KCIFC Philippines

*****
I'll discuss this in one of my entries.

The dream lost and wasted

2006-09-09T12:27:00.000+08:00

I can't get it out of my head. Yesterday, a friend of mine asked what my dreams were when I was 8. I said it was something in the line of social work... law... even medicine. Now, I come to reflect on my response.

It's true. As a child, I may not have known the technical aspects that go with those jobs, but I knew I wanted to do something that would help others. As an 8 year old kid, I WANTED TO SAVE THE WORLD. I wanted to be guaranteed of better days.

The idealism I had as a child I carried on as a grown up. When I was in HS, I always volunteered for causes... Pinatubo, National Elections, school outreach programs. As a student leader in college, I was even more active in my crusades, rallying for national and international issues and environmental causes. I continued to be idealistic shortly after graduation actively fighting for environmental causes both within the government where I worked and through environmental organizations I was then associated. I was truly active. I was out there. I was so sure that that would be my life.

Looking at myself now, my job, my lifestyle, my activities, I seem a totally different individual. WHAT HAPPENED IN BETWEEN? When did I become like the rest of the people in the crowd... just taking care of my own life and minding my own interests? When did I cut ties from all those that were my life? I refuse to believe that it was just a stage and this is what I'm supposed to be.

I find it sad to see there are more questions than answers. No wonder I'm ashamed. On a day to day basis, I accomplish nothing. I don't feel I have fulfilled my heart's desires.

How do I go back? Where do I start?

I'm lost... and more alarmingly, I may have lost the child within.

Coffee Shop Engagement

2006-09-09T03:54:00.000+08:00

i sit here sipping coffee
watching people as they pass
i think about my future
and some regrets about my past

dim lights streaming over
jazz music playing loud
strangers talking gaily
perplexed thoughts, am i mad?

i think of him, i think of him
i think of him and us
i think of the 3 years we've been together
broken promises and trust

hurtful words have been spoken
photographs torn and burned
unforgivable lies spun and woven
never will i let the same man hurt me again

he comes now to meet me
with his excuses well and planned
he showers me with hugs and kisses
old tricks to which i once succumbed

i look at him, oh bitter stares
tears about to fall
thoughts swimming in my head
my heart pounding strong

he says he loves me
to leave, he cannot bear
he begs me for forgiveness
gives reasons to start again

now the tears i've held back
fall unceasingly at last
people around us are now staring
no doubt, curious about us

i clench my fist, i grab my purse
and determined, i stand up
i walk away, i walk away
to a new life i must

/amra

****
thanks to starbucks for setting me in the mood to write this one.

Paris Hilton - Stars Are Blind

2006-09-09T01:23:00.000+08:00

I have to admit that I tried not to like the song because... well... I don't like Paris Hilton much. I tried... and I failed. I confess that I love Paris Hilton's Stars Are Blind enough to put it in my blog. That's saying a lot. I'm simply mad!

What I crave when I crave

2006-09-08T02:18:00.000+08:00

Just the top 10 things I crave for on a regular basis, and mind you... these are not necessarily my favorite food. It's just that I sometimes wake up knowing I should be eating them at that particular moment!

1. McDonald's hotfudge
2. Sweet corn
3. KFC, original
4. Pizza, regardless of the brand
5. Ice cream (double dutch)
6. MochaFrapp, Starbucks
7. Gulaman
8. Kare-kare
9. Barbecue
10.Sinigang

Wikipedia

2006-09-08T01:36:00.000+08:00

I don't know why I just have to write about it but I really am amazed with the way Wikipedia works. Not only does it feature a gamut of articles, it also allows discussion about the contents. What is more appealing to me is the fact that is has an anticredentialist spirit to it which makes it different from all other encyclopedia. Simply put, information may be written and re-written by people like you and me.

Sure, there will always be the argument that people may trash the site with false information. However, what is nice about it is that with the many people going online to check and guard the contents, the errors are just as quickly fixed. Wonder of wonders!

For those of you who, just like me, can spend hours reading trivial stuff... better make sure you add this site to your Favorites:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Main_Page

The Departed, remake of Infernal Affairs

2006-09-08T00:51:00.000+08:00

It is no secret that I have casted doubts on an Infernal Affairs remake... what with the first two films of the trilogy being included in the list of my all time favorite movies. Also, I could not imagine how Martin Scorsese could possibly americanize a movie originally set in Hong Kong dealing with HK triads. However, having seen the full trailer yesterday in the cinema, I have casted all doubts aside. In fact, I am excited to see the movie in its entirety. With the certainty of a good plot, action and drama of the original, plus Matt Damon and Leonardo DiCaprio playing the two double-agents, there is a movie that will definitely be a box office success.

Can't wait.

THE DEPARTED

Let me just attach a short trailer of the original. I love this movie. Enjoy.

INFERNAL AFFAIRS

Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf

2006-09-07T23:15:00.000+08:00

I don't know if you have heard of her but she is Africa's first woman president. She's from Liberia. A line I read written by Laura Bush in Time says "Johnson-Sirleaf is an example of what can happen when girls are educated." Knowing the conditions in Africa and the rough time she had growing up, it is such an inspiration to see a woman who once spent time in prison lead her own state to freedom and become its sovereign leader.

my recent works

2006-09-07T23:10:00.000+08:00

The Optimist

my eyes cast away the sorrow
my heart casts away the pain
i'll wake again tomorrow
knowing there's a world to gain

/amra

---------------------------------

Moonshine

moonshine spells trouble
just as the cliche goes
but moonshine is all the better
my true heart cannot show

moonshine stays with me
moonshine does not burn
and all the images i dare dream
mere illusions in the darkness yearned

love i cannot utter
love i cannot swear
no, better keep this feeling
all unto myself

a hundred times i woke up
and just as many i have cried
because the love i dearly long for
belongs to a bride, not i

/amra

Piracy

2006-09-07T21:05:00.000+08:00

Every now and then, we see advertisements in modern media telling us not to copy softwares as they are tantamount to stealing. There is truth in this in the sense that we get for free what should benefit somebody else; rightful owners and idea makers of the information or music or movies or pictures we download. Policy makers have tried to control it, musicians have rallied against it, and governments have negotiated with each other because of it. And so where do I stand in all this?

Now, I have to confess I am guilty of downloading materials for free over the internet, may it be music for my mp3 player or videos for my pleasure. Divisoria and Quiapo and God knows where else were places I've gone to just to find certain pirated copies of series or movies I may have missed or software copies that may be of help to higher learning. Embarrassingly, I read first the electronic version of "Harry Potter: The Half Blood Prince" before I had a copy of the hardbound (I got it on the very week it came out). I constantly download books and information online just because. Do these deeds make me guilty of the 8th Commandment? (Well, that would be me and many others.) Or does the fact that many people have come to accept the practice give justice to it's acceptability in this culture of quick and free knowledge sharing?

Is it wrong? The analogy of Robin Hood stealing from the rich in order to give to the poor comes to mind. Wrong? Ofcourse. Stealing is wrong. You will not hear a wise man tell a child stealing is wrong or right depending on the situation. It's wrong.

Now, is the act then justified? This is where we start to qualify and continue with the Robin Hood analogy. What makes it an acceptable practice even if we agree to the wrongness of the act? My say on the matter is that because the benefits are far greater, not only on a micro level but in a global scale, we allow it to prolifierate into our culture and our norms.

Case in point, knowledge sharing becomes easier and faster. The knowledge that was once limited to experts as they were reduced to annals found only in old private libraries or laboratories, or grand, old schools are now available to anybody who wish to view and learn. Benefits: It makes discoveries ever more dynamic and education more interesting. We have stopped to learn in the classrooms alone. Anybody can now see the secrets of the world with one click of the mouse.

The high school kid next door can now know as much about any topic as a graduate school student just by reading the same books and materials online so long as he is just as eager to learn as his more privileged counterpart. If you don't believe my hypothesis, you can start viewing discussion groups online and you can choose any topic and subject and you will almost always see amateurs, novices, or rookies (however you may want to call them) challenging experts regarding facts, sources and ideas. The power of the internet...the genius-fabricated world that breeds downloading junkies!

Financially, downloading and piracy perform the checks-and-balances to prices posed by companies on songs, books, softwares, and movies. Gone are the days when you will just have to say yes to whatever price a piece is offered no matter how over-priced. Now, producers and manufacturers have to meet the competition. How much is an individual willing to pay for an original, not necessarily a better quality of the same product found elsewhere?

Should piracy and downloading lead to the downfall of certain industries? I think not. But these industries need to rethink themselves over. Why should rockstars and actors earn so much for an amount of work that is more aesthetic than fudamental? Why should publishers earn so much when middlemen really do not get much of the share? Why should software companies put a high price on every program when these programs are the very foundations of more programs and softwares they will be creating? If a computer game is popular, will it not benefit the designer an equitable sum? Something has to give.

Piracy of software copies is not right but it is essential in the new world. It is the scheme that will balance the excesses and exclusivity of the old world. One day... when we have recovered from this ice age of unfair practices, we will be able to rethink our old ways and come up with a more egalitarian means of celebrating art and education without putting too much price on them. Until then... something has to give. Something has to suffer. And I would rather that those who have more will have less... than take away from those without.

Case closed!