Reflecting on it

For Weeks, I have been grappling for ideas… making myself to write, finding inspiration in writing… exploring good things to write about.

Its been a while, I wonder how well I have become… have I been the person I want to be? I am in the place where I really want to be?

And it made me question myself… is this what I want? What do I really want?

Witnessing a Ritual

It was early morning, just before I start my interview with Manobo Tribal Leaders in Esperanza, Agusan del Sur, Datu Makalipay and Datu Mandagase started the day with a ritual first... this is to bless me before I start my task that it may be fruitful.

They have prepared a Betel Nut, tokens, wine, a lighted candle and a native chicken used for rituals. They started to rant in their dialect. Then after the whole ritual, I observed Datu Makalipay pour water at the four corners of the offering.

"This is to invite the spirit to wash hands and join a meal with us." He said.

That's what they call "panawagtawag"

It's Your Life... Face It!!!

"its okay to rest... giving up is another thing"

Everyone is entitled to a life of its own… one’s success or failure does not depend on the people around him/her… but rather how he/she chose to live his/her life. “Life is what we make it,” such a cliché yet it mean so much.

One can make a move on an impulse and before you know it… it already changes a life. Perhaps it is right to say that every move one makes can either make or break its life. Indeed, coming up with decisions isn’t always easy like the usual days… sometimes, its hard to come up with one when you know a lot of things is at stake… you weigh things up over and over again… until you still cant come up with a right decision. So you weigh it up again. Perhaps, you really just have to make a decision now and get ready for the scenarios. Let those people who are meant to get hurt be hurt… let those people who are meant to get mad be mad… just let things be. In the end, things will fall to its place.

Face it… life is filled with imperfections… failures and hurts are part of it… just as success and joy also have their part. What works for someone may not work for another… one is different from the other. So you have to deal with it. Sometimes going beyond what is conventional can even put a direction to person’s life… (I’m not insinuating rebelliousness here…I’m just stating the reality of life.) Just because a son or daughter decided to leave home, it already makes him or her the ungrateful son or daughter… just because a person chose to live beyond the norm, it already make him or her less that of a person… just because a person is silent, it already makes him/or her a person without substance… just because a person finds it hard to have good diction, it already makes him/her dim-witted.

In this world… there will always be people who talks behind someone’s back… some would even throw insults right through someone’s face… there will be people who puts judgment on the things someone does who for them seem so unlikely.

It doesn’t matter how wrong you have been… it doesn’t matter how you have messed things up. What matters is you’ve learned from your mistakes and you’re willing to give your self the chance to make things right again… go on with your life… along the way… people may not approve the things you feel is worth the risk… just do your thing… stand your ground… never lose your character. Because when all the things around you seem to fail… it would not be so hard to get up again… because you know who you are.

Active Saturday: Busy ME

• took a shower at 430am. Had coffee, sausage and toast for breakfast. I was preparing for a Meeting with the Manobo Community of San Toribio, Esperanza, Agusan del Sur.
• Arrived at the place at 9:10 in the morning, had a chat with “Datu Makalipay” with regards to the Agenda of the meeting – CADT Application together with the National Commission for Indigenous People, and discuss about the things needed to be done and plan the activities in the processing of the Tribe’s claim.
• Traveled back to Butuan at 1:44 in the afternoon, where my friend, Mona is currently waiting for me at my place, she arrived in Butuan all the way from Manila this morning at 10:20 in the morning, today.

Manic Monday: Meeting with Mayor

I had a very early morning... I left for the office at 530 am, had a 30 minute ride from my place to the office. And prepared everything I would be needing for the meeting with the Mayor of the Municipality of Esperanza, Agusan del Sur.

After 3 hours of travel, I finally able to reach the mayor’s office. Indeed their Mayor is approachable and kind different from how I pictured her to be. She was so accommodating and even offered to be of help in our project.

Maria's Farewell Dinner Sunday

• Woke up at around 9 in the morning, had coffee with my officemates, Lot, Jerlyn and Lot’s Siter, Maureen, they went for a sleep over last night after we had a good time at Maria’s Despedida Party.
• Went to the office, and had a little chat with our Engineer, Nico, who will be flying for Thailand at 1:30 in the afternoon.
• In the evening, I went to Maria’s place (an expatriate from spain) She had her despedida last night and this evening is a special dinner with Pafid Caraga family. She and friends, Aitana and Macarena prepared a typical Spanish meal --- omelet. Of course, with my favorite—PIZZA Baby, had chicken and man Ice Cream (ICE CREAM MONSTERS>>>>)

Inspired by Her Reflections

I was on the road heading for Bukidnon, when I received a text message from Ayyi, a good friend, former officemate, and a peace advocate. Indeed, she is one of the few who I can share insights with regards to peace and humane perspective... and so yesterday morning, we agreed to fast, and fill our minds with good things and reflect. We are not Muslims, but we do respect them and their Islam faith. I have learned to understand more of the Islamic faith because of Ayyi and the people she introduced me with... and through her, I found an inspiration in my present work... one of the few whom I adore for just being a person for others.

I just read her mail today, and she sent me an inspiring note that her mother made...and I feel I need to share it with people, so I'm sharing it with you guys... this is an inspiring piece for me, since I myself is working at an NGO which supports Indigenous People whose rights were violated and how we need to read a piece such as this to give us something to reflect on and look into ourselves... hope this piece inspires you just as it has inspired me...

The Force of Truth

Reflections on the Eve of Ramadhan

The other day I was watching a friend as she slept. She had just come back from a heart-rending trip to Pikit where they had commenced relief work. In the brief moment we were together she described how distressed she was at the recent turn out of events. The same sentiments were echoed by my other friends in Iligan, Marawi, Cotabato and Zamboanga. Mindanao has slipped into another cycle of violence. This has been going on for several decades. And it is making people like my friend frustrated about all the energies for peacebuilding that many people like her have put in.

Halfway through her sharing she dozed off unconsciously and for me the least I could do was to allow her that space to rest. It gave me a profound sense of joy to watch her.. In the midst of all the hatred and chaos that has gripped her homeland, she was an image of peace

But in my heart, I could feel her pain.

We have been friends for eight years. Those were the years when Mindanao became a refuge from a phase of disillusionment about methods of work and patterns of relationships I had opted to take in my social involvement in Luzon . We met two years after I had returned to Mindanao to fulfill the seed of a promise I made as a young community volunteer in Kitaotao Bukidnon in the mid-80s. In the past years, I developed strong ties with her people so naturally it felt like I was a sister to them. Our NGO had been invited to help train some of the MNLF combatants who were trying the ways of peace in their community. I remember how we would talk about their struggle till midnight and how they were trying to get used to a life where they were able to move around freely. When my daughter graduated from high school, they volunteered to come as our guests in place of the other relatives who could not come from Mindoro . “We are now your relatives”, they said. I had never felt so touched by such gesture in my whole life.

At that time, my daughter did not have any idea who they were but now, as a young and idealistic worker for an IP and Muslim education program in Mindanao , she is proud to share with others how an entire squadron made it to her graduation guest list. And how all of them had to scrounge their allowance to be able to come in their best clothes.

Today, she just got back from volunteering in the evacuation sites in Pikit too. She is very engaged in peace work and obviously shares the same affinity for the Moro people that I have.

When the All-out War displaced thousands of people in that same place eight years ago, she wanted to go and bring some old clothes and blankets for the children. Somehow that did not happen inspite of the arrangements my friend was trying to make then. This time she was able to do it with her own connections.

We have both lived the best period of our lives here in Mindanao . As I continued to interact with more IP and Moro groups, I became more aware of the complexities of violent conflicts which manifested in poverty, injustice and war. I felt the simplest thing I could contribute was my own experience of how a peaceful life can be more meaningful as an aspiration. Lately, my mentoring work with development facilitators of the BDA have opened my eyes to the beauty of Islamic principles and how people can be mobilized for community development through value transformation.

In 2005, an opportunity to migrate to Canada became an embarrassing choice in the midst of the serious work that needed to be done here. Mindanao had become my home and there was a tugging feeling in the heart at the thought that I had to leave. As we marked our eighth year here, the decision to build our family nest in Davao had become a wiser option. And for me and my daughter, life has never been better.

But today, on the eve of the start of Ramadhan, we both reflect on “salam” and what it means for the Moro people who have been bombed, displaced and forced to a state of insecurity and risk all their lives. It has always been said that war is crazy but this is perhaps the craziest one, having come at the heels of all the peace efforts of so many stakeholders. I try to search for what positive things can be gathered from this situation and it is only my friend’s sense of humor I can think of. How she can remain lighthearted in this situation is something that escapes my mind.

I love my friend for she has taught me more lessons than I could have possibly learned on my own. I guess that is the reason why inspite of the many differences and disagreements we had to hurdle in the past, I just had to honor the connection we had nurtured from the start. No matter how many twists and turns our relationship had taken, it just had to be embraced fully.

In much the same way that she has accepted me as a friend in her homeland of ancient memories back.

Tonight, I will light a candle for my friend and her people. Maybe not just one candle. Several candles to invoke the peace that is within each one. The times are getting darker, no solution seems to be in sight, and people are growing more restless. Violence begets violence and all I know is that this cycle has to stop on both sides. I would like to keep the flame burning in my vision. Firstly, for my friend, that she will be able to keep her faith in peaceful ways firm. And then for all those who have the responsibility to stop the war to just do that. To end the thought that problems can ever be solved through violence. And with finality, to cease all actions that contribute to that.

As my friend starts another period of fasting, I would like to journey with her to the depths of the cleansing ritual that I have integrated into my own personal tradition of purification. Let me take a fast from the hopelessness and negativity that shrouds this beautiful land. Let me break away from my own internal contradictions as I check how I to can be contributing to the entrophy of energies pulling us into the abyss of despair. And from my cleansed state, let me emerge the innate qualities of purity, peace, love, wisdom and bliss.

From that state of power, I am able to fulfill the vision of peace and love that God has steadily held for us… all these lifetimes. Only then, I believe, can my actions be truthful and beneficial.

Om shanti.

to all my friends...

sorry wasnt able to hangout with you the last time I went home... try to make it up to you next time... love you all!!! mwah!!!

My Dearest Miah ;p

I kinda missed those people who I used to hang out with some time in the past… those people who have been really real people who saw the good as well as the bad qualities in me… people who scolds me when I’m into my craziness sometimes and still accept me for who I am… (Sound cheesy?) hmmm… I know, but I can’t help it… I do missed them… there’s just so many things I’d like to share with them but I know its kinda impossible coz they are just so far away.

So I’m posting this letter instead…

Miah,

Hope you’re not laughing your tummy out while reading this… (lol) I will truly miss that sleep over and movie marathon we used to do… those little fights, even the big ones that made us comfortable with the friendship that we have… Oh, I can’t believe that you’re actually venturing on your own now… though I have always been ready for this moment… still not easy getting used to the fact that you’re actually miles away from home.

But hey, you must know that I am truly proud of you for actually deciding for yourself and take a stand in handling your future… definitely, I am seeing a new Miah… the independent and still cheerful type. :)

live well.

rhon

Meeting up with Ang Pagdadalaga ni Maximo Oliveros Director ;p

While waiting foe "Cheng-Cheng", i decided to update my blog... (lol) well, actually, my friends, coi, fern and I are preparing for a dinner meeting with Aureous Solito (Pagdadalaga ni Maximo Oliveros-Director) and Guttierez Mangansakan II (House Under the Crescent Moon).

Aureous will be our guest speaker for tomorrow's Forum : "Cultural Identities in Documentary Films". at the Institute for Indigenous Peoples Education Training Hall, Mabini St., (fronting Nanay Bebeng Restaurant) Davao City. The event will start 9 in the morning until 4 in the afternoon...

Kinda Excited here... its my first time to meet him in person.. and to actually talk to him about his works and his styles in doing his films :) see yah! :)

Redhead on: Education System in the Philippines

Two Sundays ago after our Pizza Trip at Picobello Restaurant, Coi, Fern, Sheng, Ayyi and I, headed to Mix FM Station for the ViewFinder episode where the guests happen to be our bosses. The topic was indeed interesting and real damn important – The Philippine Education System.

During the entire show, they were discussing the difference between education in the Philippines and Education abroad. A Master’s degree in the Philippines is only a College degree in other countries or even lesser… what could be so wrong in our Education System?

For one, Basic Education in the Philippines is only 8 years while in other countries their basic education allots 12 years, 6 years elementary and 6 years secondary. This could be one of the reasons on why quality education in the Philippines is poor compared to other countries. Another factor to consider is the enhancement of the way children are being taught. Please pardon me, there are a lot of good and exceptional educators in the Philippines, but there are also some who really need to adapt to new techniques for educating their students. Based on my observation, there are teachers who need to undergo training to enhance their teaching skills to help children learn better.

And I appreciate that the Department of Education (Deped) and the Basic Education Assistance for Mindanao (BEAM) found a way on how to deal with problems such as this… by enhancing the Basic Curriculum to somehow keep up with the global world… and at the same time conducting trainings for teachers to somehow apply new strategy in their teachings. As what Ian D’arcy Walsh termed as: Higher order thinking skills.

Having to work in the Institute for Indigenous Peoples Education (IIPE) somehow opened my views on quality education in the Philippines, and somehow, I figured that there is a complete difference in the way kids are being taught in city compared to the rural areas. Of course, it is all because children in rural areas don’t have the kind of resources children in the Urban has. Another thing is that, some prefer to work than to study because of wanting to eat than to learn.

Seldom do you find a kid who shows interest in school in the rural areas… most of them help their parents work in the farm to have something to eat.

A good thing though that the government and private sectors, reached out to these areas who really needs education the most. In the countryside, children find it hard to learn to speak English and learn math, for the reason that they are exposed to a different world. Thus, it is where strategic way of teaching is needed for kids to learn better and to think for themselves, and that is why it pays to have a good teacher; I guess kids are not the only one who needs to be trained but teachers too. They need to study and adjust to the enhanced curriculum by undergoing training that is needed to improve their teaching method. And based on the Enhanced Curriculum offered by BEAM and DEPED, we are finding a way to develop quality education in the Philippines.

Documentary Film Forum

redhead on: Documentary Filmmaking Workshop

We are now on the 3rd day of our Documentary Filmmaking Workshop. The first day, was a great start, we had Canadian Filmmaker, Dominic Morissette as our speaker, we discussed about his techniques in filmmaking and also his film, Afghan Chronicles. How he did it. And what made him come up with the subject and questions goes on and on.

In the afternoon, we discussed about History of Documentart Films, its theory and practice with Guttierez Mangansakan II as the speaker. The day turned out well… and learning were brought with me on my way home.

I wasn’t able to attend the 2nd day through because of my scheduled shoot for a commercial. Well that’s all for now… I’ll give you more update soon. J

Missing our Moi-Moi :)

I had the opportunity to talk to my moi-moi just now…. And I realized how much I missed her after finally hearing her voice. And so Ironic that we have so many things that we want to tell each other and yet we still end up grasping for words to share… and so I decided to allocate a portion of my blog to my ex-room mate, dear friend, a family, who made a great contribution in my life… here it goes.

As a room mate, like me, she is so sleepy head. Well actually, because of filmmaking, we seldom have enough sleep because we get to shoot til dawn, and both have to get ready for work and school in the morning… she goes to school… I go to work.

I admire her for her enthusiasm… man she really lighten up my mood specially in my gloomy days… she is a friend worth keeping… that sunny disposition and she even has her own vocabularies and terms that is completely funny… “Have a sitting down” and the likes… she is smart, loving and is my source of inspiration… a friend when I have nothing and when I have so much.

Were actually distance apart at the moment… and she’s doing well in her new career and I am so proud of her… she deserves it… she has a good heart and strong soul. I missed her… I hope well have a chance to talk again.

*Congratulations on your film mona... :) (she made a film for kontra agos film fest: "A step for My Dreams"

--rhon--

Friendship Once Lost now Found

It really amazes me how things happen the way they do… how moments seem to unexpectedly take place. Sometimes, things can be so awkward that it took me a while to comprehend and cope up with it… but sometimes things can be so elating that you just can’t seem to express how happy you can get with the way it turns out.

Just recently, I just had a very unforgettable and lifting experience; I really never thought it could happen, but boy? It did.

I was able to reunite with my childhood bestfriend after 15 years of not able communicate with her… and it’s so unbelievable to actually see her in my workplace… in the advertising production to be exact.

We were playmates since babies… We even consider each other as sisters. We only parted when my family moved in to Davao City because my dad was reassigned to DENR XI. My mom just started her boutique business in Davao. I basically started my formal studies in Davao. Though, we communicate constantly through letters, but the moment came where we hardly read each other’s letters and hardly write to each other… until we finally lost the chance of communicating… and I never thought I’d see her again, since her family moved in to another city… after 15 years… I had that chance of seeing her… so ironic that it isn’t so hard to know her again… and still treat each other as friends… even sisters. We bonded together, trying to make it up for the lost times.

She’s actually my VJ for my commercial, her name is KAT… Love you sissy J

my ever dearest long lost best friend

My First time to work with Kat... me motivating Kat for her spills

-rhon-

Food Trip with Good Friends at Torquoise Turkish Restaurant

I had a great time with friends, French, Maricel and Harold today… we have planned the food trip 3 days ago and everybody was just so excited.

Harold fetched me at my place at 3 in the afternoon. He was with his brother Jan… we dropped him off to work while Harold and I headed to SM City Davao where French is waiting at the Torquoise Turkish Restaurant, fronting the National bookstore. Its not really my first time to eat at the restaurant coz we had our share sometime in the past with Kat and French… was just so excited because it was Harold’s first time to have a taste of their exciting cuisines.

French had his taste of Adana Kebap in wraps, while I also ordered one for myself, and have Harold taste the Chicken Shish in wraps… a moment later, Maricel, French’s special friend arrived.

Adana Kebap really kinda spicy but it does taste really good… especially when you topped it with the vegetables and yummy garlic sauce, while Harold and I were enjoying our meals, I chatted with Maricel, and her interest for books… It was actually my first time to meet her and boy, she is smart. She loves to read best seller books… and we actually shared same interest in Bo Sanchez’ works… (One of my favorite authors)

As we were enjoying each other’s company, French and I decided to order a dessert and we decided to order Yogurt Mango Float. Was smiling coz Harold seems to find the taste to be weird. It actually tastes sweet and sour at the same time plus a taste of mango… can’t blame him though, he’s not really very fond of yogurt.

And we really can’t get enough of this food trip so, we ordered one more dish… the Pilaki… its actually made of beans, and herbs… and it taste real fine.

And Lastly, the Ayran, the Turkish traditional healthy drink… tastes weird but good… you can actually have it sweet or salty depending on your taste buds… well Turkish peeps want it salty… as what the manager, Ishmael once said.

Wow, I really had fun and boy… you must try it… really good… J

After the food trip… Harold and I went to Kuya Mac’s editing shop to get my pc… and head back home. He helped me setup my pc… and headed home…

*French, Thank you for the treat… I really enjoyed the food… till next time.

*Maricel, its nice meeting you… hope we could chat again next time, and talk more about our favorite books…

*Harold, thank you for fetching me up, and have me company throughout the day, you’re still the best… next time around okay?

the Adana Kabab in wraps

inside the Turquoise Turkish Restaurant

-rhon-

redhead on: The National Earth Day

I was on my way to Marco Polo Hotel for the launching of the commercial I directed, when I found myself stuck in heavy traffic. Good thing though I’m an hour early, I wouldn’t have to worry about getting late. (whew).

I wondered what was the traffic about, when seldom do I encounter Traffic in Davao. Then I figured, it was all because of the National Earth Day and a parade is about to start to promote a clean and green environment

Talkin’ about a clean and green environment? How do we keep it clean? How can we do a way with global warming? What are the necessary steps to be taken?

My dad works at the DENR XI, somehow, I grew up with dad telling me about being responsible for my wastes. He tells me about waste management and the ecosystem which he actually brought a map to show me all about the ecosystem. During my younger years, he would bring me along with him for a coastal cleanup along with his officemates, to somehow make me understand the importance of taking care of my surroundings.

I am lucky that I was given that kind of exposure, somehow, I happen to bring it along with me in everywhere I go, to dispose my waste properly. Based on the scenarios I have observed over the years is that majority lack proper knowledge in dealing with the environment. Some are even careless of the effect of their improper disposal of their wastes. Not realizing that by just merely an improper waste disposal creates a chain of negative effects.

Take for one, global warming? What causes global warming? And what are the effects it gives us?

There are different kinds of people in the world, different ways of learning, different ways of teaching… perhaps; we should consider a way on how to educate people according to their status.

-rhon-

Simply Nothing

I am supposed to stay at home and rest but due to a very busy schedule for the upcoming weeks… I have no choice but to work on Sundays… Well, I know you have been waiting for my posts about the commercial advertisements I have been very busy with for the past weeks… but I guess I’ll just have to post about it after I’m finished with the entire ads… well I have two more commercial projects and every time? It really excites me.

Well anyway, after showing up in the advertising agency today… I went to finish my other NGO project and right after? I went to hang out with my filmmaker friends over a pizza at Picobello’s Italiano Restaurante.

It’s really been a while since I spent time with these guys and man I really missed them… How I wish I could spend more time with them, but I know after this, it would take us some time to get together again…

Getting Ready for Commercial Shoot

Whew... was looking for this moment where I can finally breathe for just a bit. I just finished my script for the commercial shoot tomorrow... featuring the Hof Gorei Resort.

Anyway, though pressured, am excited at the same time... talking about Island Hopping in Samal Island, in Davao and trying out different water sports of the Hotel, indeed excites me... can't wait really :) heheh

Ooopss need to pack now... see you guys later :)

--rhon--

Backtrack 4thYear High School Memories

THINK BACK TO 4th year High School... Let's see how much you remember and how much you regret..
Got this tag from MIAH thanks sis! :)

What section were you?
- St.Therese

Who were your seatmates?
- Nathalie, Shelby Fong

Still remember your english teacher?
- Yeah, Mrs. Adriano

What was your first class?
- Values

Made friends to the lower years?
- yeah.. :)

How was your class schedule?
- fine...

Made any enemies?
- yeah... normal lang naman un :)

Who was your favorite teacher?
- Ms Adriano, Ms, Jaena and My Trigonometry Teacher... (sorry forgot the name)

What sport did you play?
- CHess, volleyball

Were you a party animal?
- Nope....

Were you well known in your school?
- So So

SKIP CLASSES?
- yeah...

Did you get suspended/expelled?
-Nope...

Can you sing the alma mater?
- Immaculate Conception, My dear Alma mater, _______ university I give thee my salute... huhuh,,,, UICIANS, karemember pa?

What was your favorite subject?
- Trigo and English

Did you go to the dances?
- yeah... prom and programs...

Where did you go most often duringbreaks?
- we eat outside the school with my friends shelby, nat, mary ann, Ira...sometimes we stay at the library... make our assignments.

What did you do on the last day of school?
-Nagparty with my class!!!

"Live life to the fullest"

An Awakening

Today, I felt the need for change. Actually, I never realized I needed it until I found myself in an emotional state. I didn’t understand why I am experiencing such a hard time with my emotions… later did I realize that it was because I was struggling my way out of the so called comfort zone. And it takes really such a gut and will power to pass through that rut for me to rediscover myself.

Its so amazing that you can actually discover something new about yourself even if you think that you already know your identity… perhaps one can say that every circumstance is a lesson to learn about yourself even more… good or bad… all of it is a great room for learning… and I guess every time you welcome learning. You also have to give a room for change… it makes life worth the fight I guess… (lol).

--rhon--

Mindanao Filmmakers Awarded at NDU!!!

Last week, February 25, 2008. The Micromedia Production along with other filmmakers went to Cotabato City for a screening of their films in Notre Dame University... the screening was attended by the Canadian Ambassador, Desjardines and other guests from different LGU's and Organizations in the country. The said event was also the awarding of the Best Film, Best Community Story and Citation of Excellence among the Seven Mindanao Films shown in in the Kontra Agos Film Festival.

Filmmaker, Sheron Dayoc of Zemboanga, receives the award for his Film, "Dreams" as Best Film among the 7 Mindanao Films.

Fernand Salinas, represents Filmmaker, Monalyn Labado in accepting the award for the Citation of Excellence for the Film, "A Step for my Dream."

Filmmaker, McRobert Nacario, receives a citation of excellence award for his film, "Biniton"

Canadian Ambassador, Desjardines, checking out the Film, "Biniton"

On a Hearts Day

As I woke up this morning, I instantly grabbed my phone, as part of my daily routine. Alas, as expected, my inbox is filled unread messages of love and the entire day was indeed messages of sweet thoughts on love. Hmmm… people are so into love today… me? I find it to be the usual days… well what do you know, sometimes, you can’t be a love junkie on the day intended for the hearts. :)

My day continued with meeting up with my sister. I kinda planned not to work today… I intend to pamper myself… seems like I’m into love after all, only I’m more in love with myself… (Don’t we all? tsk tsk tsk). I went on to the salon and had my hair done. Right after my hair makeover, I feel the need to feed my brain. (tsk tsk) so I headed on to the bookstore to find myself a book, only to find out that the book I’m looking for is not available… (so lucky!!! Grrr) Oh well, not having that book will not derail from enjoying my day :)

For my appetite, my sister and I ended up in pizza hut, as I was craving for pizza (yum yum yum) sadly, my sister seem to forget that I happen to be a vegetarian… so I have to take away those meat toppings of my pizza… but hey… pizza still so damn delicious...(all smiles).

Finally, I done it the first time… not going out with someone of the male species on the hearts day… and it was still pretty fine. (lol) I just realized… you can really have fun… even maybe if you only have yourself as your own company… hehehe I did!

Are You an Angel?

image source: http://www.angel-guide.com/images/angels-picture-angel-prayer.jpg

What is you idea of an angel? Do you picture it as a celestial being? Is it someone who has wings? Fair skinned? lovely? Had there been a time that you wondered if they exist?

Let me share with you my idea of angels... they exist. We see them everyday, giving us sweet smiles across the street, giving us a hand when we needed it, hugs us when we feel downcasted, lighthearted, a picture of a peaceful being, where you see is positivity... optimism.

They literally don't have wings, but the possess great power. They are human beings who discovered their powers through attracting anything that is positive and living up with their virtues. And what are these virtues anyway? 64 virtues all in all my friends... and to name a few let me introduce you to: accuracy, commitment, equanimity, acceptance, zeal and the list goes on and on.

You might be wondering why I am blogging about this... well, I happen to get inspired by the thought that we can be angels in this world... spreading love and joy to others... teaching by example. Om Shanti Friends :)

--rhon--

Essays and More

I still remember how I used to cram in my research papers, thesis stuffs and reaction papers for my subjects in college… deadlines and all. I still cram sometimes, only its all about office works now and bosses to please (lol). I figured, that there are actually sites the helps you in making your research papers... finding essay online… talking about custom writing? Hmmm… maybe students would have some interest on this… there are really some who finds it hard to transform their ideas and knowledge on something into a creative custom essay… and as said there is always a solution to this dilemma. Well, standout essay can actually help you with your essay projects without having to worry about plagiarism and you actually have full control of your paper on how it should captivate the readers plus, you are assured that your essay is proofread by professionals. So if your planning to buy essay… try standout essay.

Om Shanti

Rest your mind oh dear child,
Silence it for a while
Do not let negativity fill in
Remember the peace you have within

Relearn the lesson you once discerned
Attract positivity and let it be your friend
Fly now from the comfort of your distress
For great things are yours to possess

Remember oh child what is innate
Discover your powers and have faith
Face the world with a smile on your face
For you are a being of PEACE

Om Shanti...

--rhon--

Sow What You Reap

When I look around my atmosphere… different faces of veracity is served before me… different faces of logic hits me as I try to dig deeper in the actuality of things.

Why is a country richer than the other? How come an offender gets away with transgression, while there are some bent down by humiliation cannot be looked at beyond the disgrace? How come, those who work hard on something don’t get the chance and those who do shortcuts often get the commendation?

They said in a rat race, only the smartest, the fastest and the fittest wins the game. With this thought, one can say that only the smart and wise owns the world.

Experience taught me that working hard is useless without working smart… but experience also teaches me how success can be useless when nothing within you smiles.

Does really outsmarting another makes one a winner? My family taught me the value of “sowing and reaping…” and somehow I grew up with it. I believe that the world gives you back what you set out… love begets love… trust begets trust… respect begets respect… it is always something for something. If one gives away distrust and injustice… he gets it back a couple of times more… we get what we deserve.

All of this, still sums up to the Golden Rule: “Do unto others, what you want others do unto you.”

Life isn’t winning all the time… nor does one have to outsmart everyone to win. Its all about winning together through reaching out…

--rhon--

Practice What You Learned

There was a time when we were doing a film, I was so eager to learn about video editing. I would spend most of my time at the studio, watching my friends, Kenth or French doing video editing... Sometimes, I would even drop by Coicoi's office, to take a peek at his video works... and to know the basic in video editing. So one night,when Kenth was capturing some scenes from the videos, he gave me and Karina the chance to explore the Adobe Premiere Pro2. I remembered how scared I was at that time because of the thought that I might just mess it all up... but Kenth was really so nice, that he encourage us to give it a try... he left for a while for us to have a better room for learning...

Finally, after a while of hesitation, I get myself to tinker the keyboard, and you know what made me? The fact that I was already there and it was my chance to practice what I've learned.

What's the point of hanging out in the studio a number of days a week trying to learn the craft and be able to practice it? It's like learning the alphabet, you start with A,B,C but not able to reach X,Y,Z. And so I thought to myself that If I'm not able to do it at that time, I may never really get the chance to do it... so I did it... so glad I did. Because I realized that I am capable of learning new things... and you know what? After I learned Video Editing, I started to get paid by doing the craft... and I never stop learning :)

My point is, if you want to explore your qualities... don't stop learning until you master it.

Howdy Friends!!! :)

Hi guys, I haven't been really updating my blog for a couple of days now... well, been really busy with work lately plus I'm still adjusting to the changes taking place in my life. Oh well, here are some update going on in my life at the moment. :)

Well I am actually hanging out with Ayyi and Lucky right now, discussing about almost anything... love, life, family,responsibilities and careers. After office today, Ayyi and I went to Damosa Gateway and grab some pasta and pizza... well lucky arrived after a while, and we were discussing about life and our perspective about it.

After dinner, we transferred at Fagioli to have some tea, well good thing I brought my laptop with me... I got myself a programming offer... tempting but I have to check it out first... do i still have time for it? considering that I am managing two websites and still working on my script for the film we are coming up this year plus write ups for the publication... wheew... Now you understand, why I find it hard to update my blog... (laughs). But hey, I will really really really try to get in touch with you guys... perhaps in the evening after work just like what I'm doing now.

I guess that's all for now... :) thank you guys for dropping by my site... I will be checking on your site in a while :) Please feel free to leave a comment... I am so excited to read it :) hehehe nice evening :)

--rhon--

The Truth on Winning

I had those moments when I feel so beaten up... when I fall down unto my knees over and over again. Sometimes I even want to give up on something.

Those were the moments when I feel that am not doing well enough that I often find myself thinking... questioning. "What's the point of keeping on when I often lose the game?"

But thank you to that someone who uttered this lines to me: "What makes one a winner is not just being on top of the race... but staying in the race... and getting up when you just stumbled."

Hmmm... something to ponder. :)

--rhon--

The Good Life

When everything around me seem so vast, I usually find myself losing track of what is important, and ending up not knowing what to do… right there, I know I am in desperate need for simplicity.

One person always remind me of how wonderful simplicity is… A friend I never expected to stick around when things around me seem to fail. He was the one who introduced me to “having pleasure with little things.” The Little things that I once never appreciated because I thought of success as wanting more and having more, without thinking that little things make up the big things. But through him, I learned that success could also mean contentment.

He is an image of a friend with a genuine heart… thank you… for just being there. :)

Spreader of Love

Thank you Jhona for these awards... I really appreciate it :) Again.. thank you :)

--Rhon--

Links and a whole Lotta Links

Cut and paste the following starting here.

I have randomly selected 5 of you below to be tagged and I hope that you will similarly publish this post in your blog. You will have to tag 5 other bloggers and just keep adding on to the list. (Do not replace, just keep on adding! Yes we hope it will be a long list!)It’s real easy! Tag others and see your Technorati Authority increase exponentially! The benefits of Viral Linking:

- One of the fastest ways to see your technorati authority explode!
- Increase your Google PageRank fast
- Attract large volume of new traffic to your site
- Build your community
- Make new friends!

The Strategist Notebook Link Addiction Ardour of the Heart When Life Becomes a Book The Malaysian Life Yogatta.com What goes under the sun Roshidan’s Cyber Station Sasha says Arts of Physics And the legend lives My View, My Life A Simple Life Juliana RW The Callalily Space Petra Summer in Blue My DanceFloor

I would like to tag Bheng, Rhon, Precious, Theresa and Petra.

Allow me to tag... miah, eye4films, sexymom, butchay, justine.

Blog of the Month Award

Got this award from the kind, thoughtful and very idealpinkrose... thank you girl :) now allow me to share this with jhona, julie, eye4films and nancy :) Have a great day ahead of you... mwah! :)

--rhon--

In the Actuality of Things

So weird that you are sometimes taken off guarded by things taking place, when you have been trying to get ready for it all your life. Sometimes, it's even hard to accept seeing it right through your very eyes for the very first time, even if you have been aware about it all along. Weird that you feel like exploding and yet you can't utter even a single word...

--rhon--

A Tag from Cathy

Thanks Cathy for this Tag... been a while, hope to see you soon :) Mine is January

JANUARY: Stubborn (You can't force me to do something if I don't want to... and I do what it takes to get what I want even how hard it gets.) and hard-hearted. Ambitious and serious.(I always look forward for the big things while doing the little things, I work hard through the little things to take hold of something big... and I am very serious when I work:) ) Loves to teach and be taught. Always looking at people’s flaws and weaknesses. Likes to criticize. Hardworking and productive. (Since I started working and had my own business, I now realize the value of hard work and making the most of what is there) Smart, neat (all people are smart in their own way... so there's no such thing as dull people... only lazy I guess) and organized. Sensitive and has deep thoughts. (I am indeed sensitive based on the comments of those people close to me... and I always try to find time with myself and reflect on things... I guess that's what makes me sensitive.) Knows how to make others happy.(I believe that everyone has a unique way of making someone happy... I do have may way, by not being funny... I am a bad joker.) Quiet unless excited or tensed. Rather reserved. Resistant to illnesses but prone to colds. Highly attentive. (I take time to listen to people... that's my way of reaching out to them.) Romantic but has difficulties expressing love. Loves children.(I have always loved children... As a matter of fact my heart goes out to them... for me, they are a blessing in every person's life) Loyal. Has great social abilities yet easily jealous. Very stubborn and money cautious.

Here are the rules: 1. Mention the person who tagged you and created to link back to them. 2, Copy-pastes the traits for all the twelve months. 3, Pick your month of birth. 4, Highlight the traits that apply to you. 5, Tag 12 people and let them know by visiting their blogs and leaving to comment for them. 6, Let the person who tagged you know when you’ve done it.

Here are the people I wish to tag :) MIAH, JULIE, GANDA, IDEALPINKROSE, FLORA, JOWELL, BATANG BUOTAN, GEISHA, FRANKIE, JOAN, WITCHYBOOP, MY TEXAS LIFE

THE MONTHLY FLAVORS, WHICH ARE YOU?

JANUARY: Stubborn and hard-hearted. Ambitious and serious. Loves to teach and be taught. Always looking at people’s flaws and weaknesses. Likes to criticize. Hardworking and productive. Smart, neat and organized. Sensitive and has deep thoughts. Knows how to make others happy. Quiet unless excited or tensed. Rather reserved. Highly attentive. Resistant to illnesses but prone to colds. Romantic but has difficulties expressing love. Loves children. Loyal. Has great social abilities yet easily jealous. Very stubborn and money cautious.

FEBRUARY: Abstract thoughts. Loves reality and abstract. Intelligent and clever. Changing personality. Attractive. Sexy. Temperamental. Quiet, shy and humble. Honest and loyal. Determined to reach goals. Loves freedom. Rebellious when restricted. Loves aggressiveness. Too sensitive and easily hurt. Gets angry really easily but does not show it. Dislikes unnecessary things. Loves making friends but rarely shows it. Daring and stubborn. Ambitious. Realizes dreams and hopes. Sharp. Loves entertainment and leisure. Romantic on the inside not outside. Superstitious and ludicrous. Spendthrift. Tries to learn to show emotions.

MARCH: Attractive personality. Sexy. Affectionate. Shy and reserved. Secretive. Naturally honest, generous and sympathetic. Loves peace and serenity. Sensitive to others. Loves to servants others. Easily angered. Trustworthy. Appreciative and returns kindness. Observant and assesses others. Revengeful. Loves to dream and fantasize. Loves traveling. Loves attention. Hasty decisions in choosing partners. Loves home decors. Musically talented. Loves special things. Moody.

APRIL: Active and dynamic. Decisive and hasty but tends to regret. Attractive and affectionate to oneself. Strong mentality. Loves attention. Diplomatic. Consoling, friendly and solves people’s problems. Good and fearless. Adventurous. Loving and caring. Suave and generous. Emotional. Aggressive. Hasty. Good memory. Moving. Motivates oneself and others. Sickness usually of the head and chest. Sexy in to way that only their lover can see.

MAY: Stubborn and hard-hearted. Strong-willed and highly motivated. Sharp thoughts. Easily angered. Attracts others and loves attention. Deep feelings. Beautiful physically and mentally. Firm Standpoint. Needs not motivation. Easily consoled. Systematic (left brain). Loves to dream. Strong clairvoyance. Understanding. Sickness usually in the ear and neck. Good imagination. Good physical. Weak breathing. Loves literature and the arts. Loves traveling. Dislike being at home. Restless. Not having many children. Hardworking. High spirited. Spendthrift.

JUNE: Thinks to make with vision. Easily influenced by kindness. Polite and soft-spoken. Having ideas. Sensitive. Active mind. Hesitating, tends to delay. Choosy and always wants the best. Temperamental. Funny and humorous. Loves to joke. Good debating skills. Talkative. Daydreamer. Friendly. Knows how to make friends. Able to show character. Easily hurt. Prone to getting colds. Loves to dress up. Easily bored. Fussy. Seldom shows emotions. Takes Time to recover when hurt. Brand conscious. Executive. Stubborn.

JULY: Fun to be with. Secretive. Difficult to fathom and to be understood. Quiet unless excited or tensed. Takes pride in oneself. Has reputation. Easily consoled. Honest. Concerned about people’s feelings. Tactful. Friendly. Approachable. Emotional temperamental and unpredictable. Moody and easily hurt. Witty and sparkly. Not revengeful. Forgiving but never forgets. Dislikes nonsensical and unnecessary things. Guides others physically and mentally. Sensitive and forms impressions carefully. Caring and loving. Treats others equally. Strong sense of sympathy. Wary and sharp. Judges people through observations. Hardworking. Not difficulties in studying. Loves to be halo. Always broods about the past and the old friends. Likes to be quiet. Homely person. Waits for friends. Never looks for friends. Not aggressive unless provoked. Prone to having stomach and dieting problems. Loves to be loved. Easily hurt but takes long to recover.

AUGUST: Loves to joke. Attractive. Suave and caring. Good and fearless. Firm and has leadership qualities. Knows how to consul others. Too generous and egoistic. Takes high pride in oneself. Thirsty for praises. Extraordinary spirit. Easily angered. Angry when provoked. Easily jealous. Observant. Careful and cautious. Thinks quickly. Independent thoughts. Loves to lead and to be led. Loves to dream. Talented in the arts, music and defense. Sensitive but not petty. Poor resistance against illnesses. Learns to relax. Hasty and trusty. Romantic. Loving and caring. Loves to make friends.

SEPTEMBER: Suave and compromising. Careful, cautious and organized. Likes to point out people’s mistakes. Likes to criticize. Stubborn. Quiet but able to talk well. Calm and cool. Kind and sympathetic. Concerned and detailed. Loyal but not always honest. Does work well. Very confident. Sensitive. Good memory. Clever and knowledgeable. Loves to look for information. Must control oneself when criticizing. Able to motivated oneself. Understanding. Fun to be around. Secretive. Loves leisure and traveling. Hardly shows emotions. Tends to bottle up feelings. Very choosy, especially in relationships. Systematic.

OCTOBER: Loves to chat. Loves those who loves them. Loves to take things at the center. Inner and physical beauty. Lies but doesn’t pretend. Gets angry often. Treats friends importantly. Always making friends. Easily hurt but recovers easily . Daydreamer. Opinionated. Does not beloveds of what others think. Emotional.Decisive. Strong clairvoyance. Loves to travel, the arts and literature. Touchy and easily jealous. Concerned. Loves outdoors. Just and fair. Spendthrift. Easily influenced. Easily loses confidence. Loves children.

NOVEMBER: Has to lot of ideas. Difficult to fathom. Thinks forward. Unique and brilliant. Extraordinary ideas. Sharp thinking. Aim and strong clairvoyance. Can become good doctors. Dynamic in personality. Secretive. Inquisitive. Knows how to dig secrets. Always thinking. Less talkative but amiable. Good and generous. Patient. Stubborn and hard-hearted. If to there is to will, to there is to way. Determined. Never give up. Hardly becomes angry unless provoked. Loves to be halo. Thinks differently from others. Sharp-minded. Motivates oneself. Does not appreciate praises. High-spirited. Well-built and tough. Deep love and emotions. Romantic. Uncertain in relationships. Homely. Hardworking. High abilities. Trustworthy. Honest and keeps secrets. Not able to control emotions. Unpredictable.

DECEMBER: Loyal and generous. Sexy. Patriotic. Active in games and interactions. Impatient and hasty. Ambitious. Influential in organizations. Fun to be with. Loves to socialize. Loves praises. Loves attention. Loves to be loved. Honest and trustworthy. Not pretending. Short tempered. Changing personality. Not egotistic. Take high pride in oneself. Hates restrictions. Loves to joke. Good sense of humor. Logical.

A Tag From Julie

I got tagged by, Julie.. thank you for the Tag Julie...

Its pretty cool tag I got! All you have to do is spell your name using the letters and their corresponding meanings. Amazing!... Here is the meaning of my name...


Tagging: Scotty's Princess, walking tower, ody, shiera, joan and Frankie :)

Spell Rhon?

R: Good gf

H: Freakin’ beautiful eyes

O: Has one of the best personalities ever

N: Sexy

__________________________
Name Meaning Here:
A: Gorgeous
B: Loves people
C: Really easy to fall in love with
D: Is great in bed
E: deeply in love with his/her gf/bf
F: People wild and crazy adore you
G: Never let people tell you what to do
H:Freakin’ beautiful eyes
I: Loves to laugh
J: Makes people laugh
K: Really silly
L: BEST SMILE
M: Makes dating fun
N: Sexy
O: Has one of the best personalities ever
P: Popular with all types of people
Q: A hypocrite
R: Good bf/gf
S: Lives life for fun
T: Great kisser
U: Gets blamed for everything
V: Not judgmental
W: Very broad minded
X: Never let people tell you what to do
Y: Loved by everyone
Z: Lives life for fun

Enjoy spreading the tag!...c",)

All Smiles :)

-Rhon

I received a blogger friend award :)

Man, I feel so elated... i just received a blogger friend award from butchay... thank you so much for sharing this with me... I really mean it because this is my first time receive something like this... thank you so much...

It is really so nice of you... thanks again :)

meme

I was tagged by rj... to jot down 8 things that I am grateful for... here's my list.. thanks rj :)

1. I'm thankful for my family... who have been there to support and guide me in my decisions and still letting me decide for myself.
2. being able to know people everyday through their blogs that inspires me with my decisions with life... true... and for that I wanna thank you blogger friends :)
3. for my film experiences that makes me adore films more and more... and to people that I have worked with when it comes to filmmaking... it has been a great experience working with you guys, to the Likhang Mindanaoan, to the Huling Balyan ng Buhi, to Marsokwatro, to Biniton.... thank you for the experience... lets do more films :)
4. To my friends who have been there for me all through out...you are indeed a treasure to keep.. thank you so much... :)
5. I'm thankful for my job... coz I get to pay my bills and shop... hehehe :)
6. To my professor in college, who have been my critique, thank you so much sir... I have learned so much from you... you're one of the reason why I strive hard to make a difference in my chosen field... thank you for reminding me to be a person of substance.
7. To those people who helped me with my business.... I have a lifetime to prove my sincerest thanks to all of you :)
8. Lastly, to God... for this moment of reflection and simplicity that made me feel really blessed.

I wanted to tag these special people.... I want to know what inspires them... :) butchay, breggie, camille, noel, teebob, tales of mere existence, miah and witchyboop. :)