Tuesday, November 16, 2010
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
Thursday, October 14, 2010
Driving and life
Warning: objects in review mirror become smaller as you drive further away. In life, things tend to become larger as you approach them, that's just physics and optical illusions. There is no point in making them bigger than what they really are, because in the end, they shrink as you past them by. That being said, good luck to all who have something big coming up
Ever noticed how when you are driving, you tend to miss a lot of the scenery that is flashing by? Life is kind of like that, you may be driven to go somewhere, but don't be so gung-ho on getting "there, that you forget to enjoy the drive. Slow down a bit, and look around you. Heck, stop once in a while to breath in the fact that you are on the open road. Everyone can drive from A to B and back; but it is the one who dares to take a detour, stopped randomly along the way, walk around to sightsee who may have a tale or two to tell.
Remember, nothing gets you back on your feet and walking again faster than a broken down vehicle. While it may seem inconvenient, I have learned not having a vehicle can be most liberating experience. From walking, comes time to contemplate, moments to observe.
Ever noticed how when you are driving, you tend to miss a lot of the scenery that is flashing by? Life is kind of like that, you may be driven to go somewhere, but don't be so gung-ho on getting "there, that you forget to enjoy the drive. Slow down a bit, and look around you. Heck, stop once in a while to breath in the fact that you are on the open road. Everyone can drive from A to B and back; but it is the one who dares to take a detour, stopped randomly along the way, walk around to sightsee who may have a tale or two to tell.
Remember, nothing gets you back on your feet and walking again faster than a broken down vehicle. While it may seem inconvenient, I have learned not having a vehicle can be most liberating experience. From walking, comes time to contemplate, moments to observe.
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
If you built it, they will come.
From the producers of “Field of Dreams” come this in-depth documentary on the story behind the invention of the vibrator. Critics have call it a “show stopper” ,“simply orgasmic”. Entertainment Weekly gives it “two thumbs up”. Rottentomatoes.com rates it a 92% certifiable fresh. Come see for yourself what others are raving to be the “most pleasurable experience of the year.”
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
Random
Leaves dawdling in the autumn breeze, streams trickling by, here I find myself once more, alone by the riverside. Oh, how the fiery leaves blaze, a glorious prelude to harsh winter’s bane. But who will remember until the branches are bare as autumn wanes. Once was I young, with many a dream. Old have I become, my radiance but a gleam. Perhaps it must be so, in my absence shall the essence of my presence be made known.
Treading the lonely and forgotten path; passing through unrecognized. Yonder I go, dare I linger? Oh, my life but a fleeting blip, my achievements like sand on stone. I am but a shadow, who shall notice? Yea I have labored, and much have I tried to give, but what is there to give when none sees the merit. Alas, I go, in search for something that I may never gain. My youth I have squandered, but willingly I stride forward, hoping perhaps to meet the one who will understand my troubles and lighten my way.
And here I will be, the lonely wind that blows gently. You shall know that I am here whenever you see the leaves rustle, the water ripple. I will be here, caressing the tips of grass as I pass through, swirling up the dust. Perhaps, then you shall remember me. Don't try to catch hold of me for I appear without a trace and leave without a sign. I am a free spirit, coming and going as I pleased. Like sand, you shall not contain me with your fingers, like water I linger not in one place too long.
Treading the lonely and forgotten path; passing through unrecognized. Yonder I go, dare I linger? Oh, my life but a fleeting blip, my achievements like sand on stone. I am but a shadow, who shall notice? Yea I have labored, and much have I tried to give, but what is there to give when none sees the merit. Alas, I go, in search for something that I may never gain. My youth I have squandered, but willingly I stride forward, hoping perhaps to meet the one who will understand my troubles and lighten my way.
And here I will be, the lonely wind that blows gently. You shall know that I am here whenever you see the leaves rustle, the water ripple. I will be here, caressing the tips of grass as I pass through, swirling up the dust. Perhaps, then you shall remember me. Don't try to catch hold of me for I appear without a trace and leave without a sign. I am a free spirit, coming and going as I pleased. Like sand, you shall not contain me with your fingers, like water I linger not in one place too long.
Sunday, September 19, 2010
Reflection on Listening
It was not too long ago that I shadowed an aging Monsignor as he made his daily rounds to visit those who are in need; primarily to be there, to listen as they share their stories with him. Late into the evenings and onto the darkest hour of a new day, I would follow him as he went from home to home, hospital bed to hospital bed; whatever the hour, however inconvenient. Always with a slight incline of his head, a knowing smile on his face, he would sit with fierce intensity and listened attentively as the person across regaled him with anecdotes of the day. Often times, they were hackneyed tales told many times before; yet, the monsignor never seemed to mind. Conversations were never hurried. Time stood still when he sat.
I have often found myself mesmerized by the way he listens. The monsignor plays the role of a transfixed audience with absolute ease. He knows when to nod, and when to nudge. His eyes never wavering, his body language always engaging; the monsignor can coax a dialogue from even the shyest of persons. When there are those who paced the room nervously as they spoke, the monsignor would get up and join them. Hand on the shoulder, heads close together, the two would walk together like old friends sharing a secret. That level of human contact, the connection that can exist between two people through conversation is awe inspiring.
The monsignor can be soothing and encouraging without trying. Perhaps it is the numerous years of sitting in confessionals, but no one is better at taking away the shame, the embarrassment, and the guilt that comes with revealing oneself through conversations. No one is ever vulnerable, or better put, no one ever felt uncomfortable with being vulnerable in the presence of the monsignor. Such was the greatness of his listening skill; he softens all edges, and removes all traces of defensiveness. Simply, through being sincere and creating an ambience of unconditional positive regards, the monsignor allows for conversations to flow. Following him, I have heard tales of humanity that spans the spectrum of human experience otherwise unheard of, unwritten, and would have remained unknown.
What is amazing is his skill to be still. I have known the monsignor to be a gifted orator, and conversationalist. He was a true erudite, well versed in arcane knowledge, up to date with current affairs. There was no shortage of wisdom in his words, and people gravitate towards him when he speaks. Yet, in those moments, when he is sitting across from a person, the monsignor never felt the need to interject. There was no urgency, no need to impress his intelligence upon those present; it was as if he had no personal agenda.
To an untrained ear it might appear at times that the monsignor is allowing others to dominate a conversation. If one is to listen closely, however, the monsignor is actually guiding without being imposing. A well timed comment now and then plants a seed that a person going off on a tangent would use to direct themselves back on track. As a result, people rarely stray far from point when speaking with the monsignor; he always manages to curb them back.
I remember asking him the secret of being a great listener, and his respond was, “Humility”. He said too often we go into a conversation expecting we have something better to offer. We elevate and insert ourselves with the notion that we are active participants who have been blessed with some amazing insight. In reality, a consummate conversationalist should be someone with true humility who would be willing to consider the possibility that God hadn't chosen him for that kind of honor. Listening is like going to a tea party with your own cup. That cup better be empty and ready to be filled, otherwise if you bring your own brew you may as well drink by yourself.
I don’t know what kind of listener I am. I know as a doctoral student, I am inclined to jump in and fix things. Perhaps that is the ego that the monsignor is warning me about. True humility then becomes a product of true confidence that stems from never having the need to be validated oneself through insertion into others’ stories.
I have often found myself mesmerized by the way he listens. The monsignor plays the role of a transfixed audience with absolute ease. He knows when to nod, and when to nudge. His eyes never wavering, his body language always engaging; the monsignor can coax a dialogue from even the shyest of persons. When there are those who paced the room nervously as they spoke, the monsignor would get up and join them. Hand on the shoulder, heads close together, the two would walk together like old friends sharing a secret. That level of human contact, the connection that can exist between two people through conversation is awe inspiring.
The monsignor can be soothing and encouraging without trying. Perhaps it is the numerous years of sitting in confessionals, but no one is better at taking away the shame, the embarrassment, and the guilt that comes with revealing oneself through conversations. No one is ever vulnerable, or better put, no one ever felt uncomfortable with being vulnerable in the presence of the monsignor. Such was the greatness of his listening skill; he softens all edges, and removes all traces of defensiveness. Simply, through being sincere and creating an ambience of unconditional positive regards, the monsignor allows for conversations to flow. Following him, I have heard tales of humanity that spans the spectrum of human experience otherwise unheard of, unwritten, and would have remained unknown.
What is amazing is his skill to be still. I have known the monsignor to be a gifted orator, and conversationalist. He was a true erudite, well versed in arcane knowledge, up to date with current affairs. There was no shortage of wisdom in his words, and people gravitate towards him when he speaks. Yet, in those moments, when he is sitting across from a person, the monsignor never felt the need to interject. There was no urgency, no need to impress his intelligence upon those present; it was as if he had no personal agenda.
To an untrained ear it might appear at times that the monsignor is allowing others to dominate a conversation. If one is to listen closely, however, the monsignor is actually guiding without being imposing. A well timed comment now and then plants a seed that a person going off on a tangent would use to direct themselves back on track. As a result, people rarely stray far from point when speaking with the monsignor; he always manages to curb them back.
I remember asking him the secret of being a great listener, and his respond was, “Humility”. He said too often we go into a conversation expecting we have something better to offer. We elevate and insert ourselves with the notion that we are active participants who have been blessed with some amazing insight. In reality, a consummate conversationalist should be someone with true humility who would be willing to consider the possibility that God hadn't chosen him for that kind of honor. Listening is like going to a tea party with your own cup. That cup better be empty and ready to be filled, otherwise if you bring your own brew you may as well drink by yourself.
I don’t know what kind of listener I am. I know as a doctoral student, I am inclined to jump in and fix things. Perhaps that is the ego that the monsignor is warning me about. True humility then becomes a product of true confidence that stems from never having the need to be validated oneself through insertion into others’ stories.
Friday, August 27, 2010
When bad things happens
I have learned that often times things won't go the way you want them to. As hard you pray about it, as much as you may hope for it, there will be days when all the lights will be red and the house of cards will crumple down. It is just the way the world works, moments of highs followed by moments of low. Up and down, up and down, and round around. I guess the important thing is when those moments arrive, you just have to take a step back and appreciate the times when things did go well, or were at least normal.
In the end, we just got to have faith and strive for the best we can. We cannot let ourselves be brought down. We will always feel the pull of gravity as long as we walk upon this earth, but that has never stopped us from reaching with out stretch arms to the stars above. Longingly we gazed upon the moon so much so that we actually end up conquering the heights and landed upon its face.
It is in our nature to let the negatives rule the day, we give too much credit to the things that go wrong. Probably because relatively few brag about success as much as those who bitch about failure. Probably because we want to pay more attention to the negatives so that we may alter our courses to avoid it. Probably because we like to see others suffer so as to feel good about ourselves. Or it is even possible that we want to out suffer someone simply because it seems to give us more character... Whatever the reason, as a species we tend to view the negatives as being more important. We overlook when things were actually positive. We take it for granted when things go our way, we think we deserve it; but that is really not the case.
Sometimes you have to earn the good things. Other times, you have got to just understand that even when you do your darnedest, chances are there are powers beyond you that dictates today may just be the day when you will be screwed. Its nothing personal. Instead, it is a chance to put things in perspective. It may even be an opportunity for growth.
I am not saying there is a pony in the horse manure that is flung at you, but it is nice to hope that there may be one. If nothing else, you can at least be glad that there is a horse somewhere that defecated the feces you are in, and chances are someone is very lucky to have that horse as a companion. And you can be grateful that while you may personally loathe the smell, color and feel of the crap you are in, it makes a great fertilizer to grow something you may actually eating eventually.
All I am saying is, shit happens, even to the best of us. When they do, don't let to bring you down. Don't wallow in your sorrow, instead reach up, because who knows, you may just be the seed that needs the nourishment before you can grow and bear fruit.
In the end, we just got to have faith and strive for the best we can. We cannot let ourselves be brought down. We will always feel the pull of gravity as long as we walk upon this earth, but that has never stopped us from reaching with out stretch arms to the stars above. Longingly we gazed upon the moon so much so that we actually end up conquering the heights and landed upon its face.
It is in our nature to let the negatives rule the day, we give too much credit to the things that go wrong. Probably because relatively few brag about success as much as those who bitch about failure. Probably because we want to pay more attention to the negatives so that we may alter our courses to avoid it. Probably because we like to see others suffer so as to feel good about ourselves. Or it is even possible that we want to out suffer someone simply because it seems to give us more character... Whatever the reason, as a species we tend to view the negatives as being more important. We overlook when things were actually positive. We take it for granted when things go our way, we think we deserve it; but that is really not the case.
Sometimes you have to earn the good things. Other times, you have got to just understand that even when you do your darnedest, chances are there are powers beyond you that dictates today may just be the day when you will be screwed. Its nothing personal. Instead, it is a chance to put things in perspective. It may even be an opportunity for growth.
I am not saying there is a pony in the horse manure that is flung at you, but it is nice to hope that there may be one. If nothing else, you can at least be glad that there is a horse somewhere that defecated the feces you are in, and chances are someone is very lucky to have that horse as a companion. And you can be grateful that while you may personally loathe the smell, color and feel of the crap you are in, it makes a great fertilizer to grow something you may actually eating eventually.
All I am saying is, shit happens, even to the best of us. When they do, don't let to bring you down. Don't wallow in your sorrow, instead reach up, because who knows, you may just be the seed that needs the nourishment before you can grow and bear fruit.
Sunday, August 22, 2010
Birthday Speech (Sept 2004)
I hope I don't have to make this speech intoxicated, in fact I would be ashamed if I have to give this speech under influence, but bear with me anyway.
Tonight is not about me, it is not about how old I am getting, and how drunk I am going to get. Tonight is all about you guys, the people who makes my life worth living, the people who inspired me to wake up each morning, who puts a smile on my face even on the dullest of days. Tonight, I celebrate my 21st year of existence on this earth, and somehow, I know this could not have been possible without the existence of my friends, my family, and all those out there somewhere hating or loving my guts. I don't think I get to say this often, nor do I have the guts to profess it out loud in fear that I may embarass someone, but the truth is - I LOVE YOU ALL. I know this sounds extremely cheesy/corny/sappy, especially coming from a guy, and I curse the society which professing love from a guy such a stigma.
To be honest, no words of mind can do me the justice of expressing really how much I am a better person because of you all. Words cannot describe how a simple smile, a short instant message, a welcoming hug from you makes a difference in my day. Many of you knows me as somewhat religious, although often enough I am sacrilege enough to make a nun blush (there I go again), but truly do I see God's grace, His image reflected within each and every one of you. I find no other way to explain how a bunch of people as great as you guys can choose to love a simple guy like me, I cannot explain how each time I seem to be faring poorly, at least one of you would pop up and lift my spirits up. How, whenever I seem to be withdrawing into myself, a simple nod, a shrug of the shoulders, a raise eyebrow or any expression from you can tease me out.
Over the years, I don't think I have done enough to deserve such great friendships, such heart warming love, but here you all are, your very existence imprinted deep in my heart always. So I want to propse a toast, a toast to friendship through sickness and health, a toast to all of you special people. The fact that I know you all, and the fact that you choose to remember me makes me feel special about myself. Thank you, and God Bless.
Tonight is not about me, it is not about how old I am getting, and how drunk I am going to get. Tonight is all about you guys, the people who makes my life worth living, the people who inspired me to wake up each morning, who puts a smile on my face even on the dullest of days. Tonight, I celebrate my 21st year of existence on this earth, and somehow, I know this could not have been possible without the existence of my friends, my family, and all those out there somewhere hating or loving my guts. I don't think I get to say this often, nor do I have the guts to profess it out loud in fear that I may embarass someone, but the truth is - I LOVE YOU ALL. I know this sounds extremely cheesy/corny/sappy, especially coming from a guy, and I curse the society which professing love from a guy such a stigma.
To be honest, no words of mind can do me the justice of expressing really how much I am a better person because of you all. Words cannot describe how a simple smile, a short instant message, a welcoming hug from you makes a difference in my day. Many of you knows me as somewhat religious, although often enough I am sacrilege enough to make a nun blush (there I go again), but truly do I see God's grace, His image reflected within each and every one of you. I find no other way to explain how a bunch of people as great as you guys can choose to love a simple guy like me, I cannot explain how each time I seem to be faring poorly, at least one of you would pop up and lift my spirits up. How, whenever I seem to be withdrawing into myself, a simple nod, a shrug of the shoulders, a raise eyebrow or any expression from you can tease me out.
Over the years, I don't think I have done enough to deserve such great friendships, such heart warming love, but here you all are, your very existence imprinted deep in my heart always. So I want to propse a toast, a toast to friendship through sickness and health, a toast to all of you special people. The fact that I know you all, and the fact that you choose to remember me makes me feel special about myself. Thank you, and God Bless.
We are not meant to understand
If there is something really wrong about the age we live in, is the lack of mystery in our lives. There seems to be a lack of wonder as we move into this digital age of informatics where almost all things are accounted for; if not, they are somehow forced into a frame work of theories for us to understand. No longer are sunsets a piece of artwork done by a greater being, but a series of wavelenghts penetrating the atmosphere at different angles, resulting in a quantative spectrum of energy beinf released. Dreams are mere results of the brain trying to define the irregular patterns of electrical brain activity.
In this day and age, we value knowledge and despise ignorance. We have focused on finding out the answers, our existence is no longer an abstract, but a concrete mission to definte the unknown. We have come to demand that all things are somewhat lay out in an empirical way. Schools are constantly encouraging kids to do certain things so that they could go to certain places. No longer is the focus on the joy of learning, but the need to learn. The process of learning is sacrificed for the need to attain information in the shortest time. Somewhere along the way, with technology being as efficient as it is, humans are forced to become even more efficient. Yet, does efficiency really mean being quick? Are we really meant to drive on the fast lane?
I don't think so. I believe that our lives are meant to be lived such that there is a constant source of mystery about what happens next. I believe we are meant to slow down and ponder more about the things that really matters, and never ceased to be astounded by everyday events. Joy comes from the unexpected, joy is a state when ones desire are momentarily met often in an undserving way. If we reap what we sow, there is happiness because we are rewarded. But if we suddenly won the lottery, that is joy because the money is not something we rightly deserved, yet it is there and our needs and wants are momentarily satisfied. So mystery is essential in our lives, because without it, we can not experience true joy.
It is like wooing a girl, what makes a girl attractive is not just her looks, but her mysterious aura. It is not what is exposed that makes her attractive, it is what is hidden that draws your attention and imagination. A fine romance involves understanding and sensitivity between the partners, but it also entail and element of surprise, an element of novelty which both can share continuously. If all is known, where is the joy? Kissing was not meant to be done while eyes are open, sex was not meant to be performed in broad daylight for the same reason. It is the mystery, it is about feeling the excitement that can only come with uncertainty of what will happen next.
Christianity is similiar to that sense. We were not meant to understand all things, in fact that is why Jesus spoke in parables, the Revelations was written in code. The joy of believing is not about knowing, but about being satisfied in the mystery. God is mysterious, He has His reason which we will never be able to comprehend because were never meant to. Maybe our live is a joke, who knows, but like all good jokes, where is the fun if we already know the punch line. I say humor ourselves, humor our lives, Slow down, and be mesmerize, take a deep breath and await the surprise, the punchlline, and ready to laugh at it. Don't try to jab the comedian into giving us the punchline, the key of their trade is timing. The best jokes, the most memorable lines are those which are unprepared, unexpcted but delivered at the precise moment.
In this day and age, we value knowledge and despise ignorance. We have focused on finding out the answers, our existence is no longer an abstract, but a concrete mission to definte the unknown. We have come to demand that all things are somewhat lay out in an empirical way. Schools are constantly encouraging kids to do certain things so that they could go to certain places. No longer is the focus on the joy of learning, but the need to learn. The process of learning is sacrificed for the need to attain information in the shortest time. Somewhere along the way, with technology being as efficient as it is, humans are forced to become even more efficient. Yet, does efficiency really mean being quick? Are we really meant to drive on the fast lane?
I don't think so. I believe that our lives are meant to be lived such that there is a constant source of mystery about what happens next. I believe we are meant to slow down and ponder more about the things that really matters, and never ceased to be astounded by everyday events. Joy comes from the unexpected, joy is a state when ones desire are momentarily met often in an undserving way. If we reap what we sow, there is happiness because we are rewarded. But if we suddenly won the lottery, that is joy because the money is not something we rightly deserved, yet it is there and our needs and wants are momentarily satisfied. So mystery is essential in our lives, because without it, we can not experience true joy.
It is like wooing a girl, what makes a girl attractive is not just her looks, but her mysterious aura. It is not what is exposed that makes her attractive, it is what is hidden that draws your attention and imagination. A fine romance involves understanding and sensitivity between the partners, but it also entail and element of surprise, an element of novelty which both can share continuously. If all is known, where is the joy? Kissing was not meant to be done while eyes are open, sex was not meant to be performed in broad daylight for the same reason. It is the mystery, it is about feeling the excitement that can only come with uncertainty of what will happen next.
Christianity is similiar to that sense. We were not meant to understand all things, in fact that is why Jesus spoke in parables, the Revelations was written in code. The joy of believing is not about knowing, but about being satisfied in the mystery. God is mysterious, He has His reason which we will never be able to comprehend because were never meant to. Maybe our live is a joke, who knows, but like all good jokes, where is the fun if we already know the punch line. I say humor ourselves, humor our lives, Slow down, and be mesmerize, take a deep breath and await the surprise, the punchlline, and ready to laugh at it. Don't try to jab the comedian into giving us the punchline, the key of their trade is timing. The best jokes, the most memorable lines are those which are unprepared, unexpcted but delivered at the precise moment.
On falling in love
Somewhere along the way, I think I have fallen in love with you, I don't know if it was the smell of your hair, or the way you smile, maybe even when you gave me a hug and everything seems to be just right. I don't know, but I do know you walk in my dreams frequently, and I don't want to wake up from them unless it is for seeing the real you. You have no idea the effect you have upon me. There are a lot of beautiful women out, possibly more beautiful, but in my eyes you are the most beautiful, and perhaps it would be great if I can say that to you each day for the rest of my life. It would even be greater if you accept it because you are. So what do you say, don't take my heart away, lets share our hearts for the remainder of eternity
Random poems over the years
Ode to my job
So begins a new day in this lovely office of mine where the sun don't ever shine, and flowers do die. Where egos soar, and morale dive into new depths each day. Oh what joy it is to witness the Olympian event of colleagues dodging responsibilities, jumping to conclusions, shooting their mouths off, and throwing crap around. it is indeed quite a sight to behold. And the cacophony of keyboards, pointless gossips, stifled giggles - what a symphony. The sun may rise and fall, the moon shall wane, and still this office shall remain an edifice of endless bane.
What jubilation is this, what trials and tribulations? Alas, but for a few dollars more I remain, a humble servant, squandering time and youth.
On Parting
I shall stand in the storm that you may not know the difference between my tears and the rain.
May thunders roar to drown out my cry of agony, winds to match my woeful wail.
May lightening flashes blind our eyes that we may not see our silhouettes fading in opposing horizons.
Oh, let me be soaked to the bones, willing, wanting, wishing the cold wetness to numb my heart.
And when the winds do stop, when the clouds do fade,
May the sun find you and I in a better place.
May God then in his mercy spread His brush,
Paint us a rainbow, bridging the great divide that parts us.
On Fog
A gray blanket upon God's green earth,
The dense fog veils me in its translucent embrace
Mother Nature's silky negligee, delicate and refined, clinging, lingering and alluring.
It urges me onward, daring me to explore, to extend myself beyond what can be seen.
Behold, a tranquil stillness punctuated only by the occasional rays and protruding shadows,
Heaven and earth merge in the midst of a mystic haze
I cannot see my journey's end, but heart's content at ease in this mist.
Death
Of Death which is certain, I shall waste no thought upon it.
Of the afterlife, which shall remain unknown to me until Mors himself beckons, I shall not dread it.
Only this will I fear with great intensity - a life so lived that it warrants a mediocre obituary.
I want no fancy epitaph, nor an elegant coffin.
I pray my funeral be simple, filled with bittersweetness.
But pray dear God, let me lived such that I garnered some great eulogies.
I want no more than a special place in my loved ones' fond memories.
I ask just to be remembered, by my name, by the multitudes I have touched.
I shall so die peacefully because then I know I have lived, and will live on.
Poet
The "poet", sitting in his dim-witted world, wrote.
He wrote of things insubstantial, using words of less than childish splendor.
All the while wishing, that these lines he wrote would spread his name,
until fame like wild flame brings him grandeur.
Ah, but those who read of his prose, shakes their heads,
Be it in mocking laughter, be it in dismal disapproval,
this they know, that he was by no means a poet.
Yet, still he wrote, and wrote, and wrote...
Listen
When you stop and listen, you will hear the voice of God through the whispering of the leaves, the songs of the birds, trickling sound of water falling and most of all through the comforting words of loved ones.
When you pause and look, you will witness the miracles of everyday life; from the rising sun, to the happy faces of those sitting across you on the subway, each is a living testomony that this day has indeed been blessing in itself.
And lastly, remember this, although God may be intangible in many ways (totaliter aliter), He is always there, ready to embrace you in the arms of your friends.. Therefore, do not be sad... Cry if you must, for once in a while tears are like the refreshing rain for the soul; but always remember to smile, because that is the rainbow which inspires all.
Inspiration came at night
"Oy! You awake?
Inspiration is coming, better get up and write down something.
Oh, but I am so tired and sleepy,
plus I have no pen and pad?
Perhaps it is best to let me sleep upon it,
I shall remember it in the morning.
Slept I, morning comes, inspiration flown."
I am handy
This earth that I walk, this air that I breathe, what does it all mean? The sky is vast, the stars are many, and yet here I feel so lonely. Memories upon memories, life is full of stories. Do I move forward, or should I walk backwards ever towards the future? The crowd past me by, like migrating birds southward flies. Who is moving, who is stationary? No one knows, life is full of alternates, dichotomies that seem to never end. Oh, but they do, and it shall be at that point that you shall find me. I shall be your balance, I shall be your reference. When you seek to soar up high, I shall be your anchor. When you wish to dive into the deep blue sea, I shall be your navigator. Here I will be, ever the one beside you in times of need. So forget me not, forget me not, for my name is Andy, and I am always handy.
Be not stressed
Be not stressed, no matter how unsurpassable the task may be, be not stressed. The skies is the limit, and though our roads may be filled with obstacles, we shall conquer them yet. Look behind you, see how far you have come? Oh, this mountain before you may seem tall, but consider the hills and valleys you have traveled thus far, were they not intimidating when you stood at the beginning? Life is a river, it moves on... no matter what happens, it flows like a river - ever downstream. Once in a while, you trip over the smallest pebbles; crash into protruding rocks; you plunge down the steepest falls. Other times, you flow by peaceful valleys and wondrous landscapes. Still we go, according with the flow. The torrent threatens to throw us off course, the current seeks to overturn our vessels, but still you will hang on, for the very hands which caused the waves are the same hands which shall steady your boat. Have faith little ones, in the midst of all the doubt, have faith.
Life is not often about destinations, but rather the journey which gets us to it. There are those who are fortunated to know what to do to get to where they wanted to be, but for many others, life is a continuous process of discernment. Deciding from moment to moment, making choices until we get to where we needed to be. Those choices helps us mature, there are no mistakes, just longer winding paths.
The wind
And here I will be, the lonely wind that blows gently. You shall know that I am here whenever you see the leaves rustle, the water ripple. I will be here, caressing the tips of grass as I pass through, swirling up the dust. Perhaps, then you shall remember me. Don't try to catch hold of me for I appear without a trace and leave without a sign. I am a free spirit, coming and going as I pleased. Like sand, you shall not contain me with your fingers, like water I linger not in one place too long. I am evanescent.
I wish you wouldn't
Je souhaite que vous cessiez de vous imposer dans mes pensees ? Je souhaite que vous ne m'ayez pas vole coeur, particulierement pas la maniere que vous l'avez fait avec juste un regard simple. Ne pouvez-vous pas voir ce que vous avez fait ? Vous avez pris mon ame, et a gauche moi inacheve. Je souhaite que je puisse m'abstenir a vous aimer mais je ne puisse pas arreter cette sottise, je ne puisse pas arreter mon infatuation pour vous parce que c'est vous.
If I have the chance
I often wonder if I had the chance, would I have the courage to ask you for a dance. I often wonder, if I was not who I am, would you have looked upon me with more favor in your eyes. Perhaps it was meant to be that my tongue is tied as I saw you walk by; just passing strangers beneath the same blue sky.
So begins a new day in this lovely office of mine where the sun don't ever shine, and flowers do die. Where egos soar, and morale dive into new depths each day. Oh what joy it is to witness the Olympian event of colleagues dodging responsibilities, jumping to conclusions, shooting their mouths off, and throwing crap around. it is indeed quite a sight to behold. And the cacophony of keyboards, pointless gossips, stifled giggles - what a symphony. The sun may rise and fall, the moon shall wane, and still this office shall remain an edifice of endless bane.
What jubilation is this, what trials and tribulations? Alas, but for a few dollars more I remain, a humble servant, squandering time and youth.
On Parting
I shall stand in the storm that you may not know the difference between my tears and the rain.
May thunders roar to drown out my cry of agony, winds to match my woeful wail.
May lightening flashes blind our eyes that we may not see our silhouettes fading in opposing horizons.
Oh, let me be soaked to the bones, willing, wanting, wishing the cold wetness to numb my heart.
And when the winds do stop, when the clouds do fade,
May the sun find you and I in a better place.
May God then in his mercy spread His brush,
Paint us a rainbow, bridging the great divide that parts us.
On Fog
A gray blanket upon God's green earth,
The dense fog veils me in its translucent embrace
Mother Nature's silky negligee, delicate and refined, clinging, lingering and alluring.
It urges me onward, daring me to explore, to extend myself beyond what can be seen.
Behold, a tranquil stillness punctuated only by the occasional rays and protruding shadows,
Heaven and earth merge in the midst of a mystic haze
I cannot see my journey's end, but heart's content at ease in this mist.
Death
Of Death which is certain, I shall waste no thought upon it.
Of the afterlife, which shall remain unknown to me until Mors himself beckons, I shall not dread it.
Only this will I fear with great intensity - a life so lived that it warrants a mediocre obituary.
I want no fancy epitaph, nor an elegant coffin.
I pray my funeral be simple, filled with bittersweetness.
But pray dear God, let me lived such that I garnered some great eulogies.
I want no more than a special place in my loved ones' fond memories.
I ask just to be remembered, by my name, by the multitudes I have touched.
I shall so die peacefully because then I know I have lived, and will live on.
Poet
The "poet", sitting in his dim-witted world, wrote.
He wrote of things insubstantial, using words of less than childish splendor.
All the while wishing, that these lines he wrote would spread his name,
until fame like wild flame brings him grandeur.
Ah, but those who read of his prose, shakes their heads,
Be it in mocking laughter, be it in dismal disapproval,
this they know, that he was by no means a poet.
Yet, still he wrote, and wrote, and wrote...
Listen
When you stop and listen, you will hear the voice of God through the whispering of the leaves, the songs of the birds, trickling sound of water falling and most of all through the comforting words of loved ones.
When you pause and look, you will witness the miracles of everyday life; from the rising sun, to the happy faces of those sitting across you on the subway, each is a living testomony that this day has indeed been blessing in itself.
And lastly, remember this, although God may be intangible in many ways (totaliter aliter), He is always there, ready to embrace you in the arms of your friends.. Therefore, do not be sad... Cry if you must, for once in a while tears are like the refreshing rain for the soul; but always remember to smile, because that is the rainbow which inspires all.
Inspiration came at night
"Oy! You awake?
Inspiration is coming, better get up and write down something.
Oh, but I am so tired and sleepy,
plus I have no pen and pad?
Perhaps it is best to let me sleep upon it,
I shall remember it in the morning.
Slept I, morning comes, inspiration flown."
I am handy
This earth that I walk, this air that I breathe, what does it all mean? The sky is vast, the stars are many, and yet here I feel so lonely. Memories upon memories, life is full of stories. Do I move forward, or should I walk backwards ever towards the future? The crowd past me by, like migrating birds southward flies. Who is moving, who is stationary? No one knows, life is full of alternates, dichotomies that seem to never end. Oh, but they do, and it shall be at that point that you shall find me. I shall be your balance, I shall be your reference. When you seek to soar up high, I shall be your anchor. When you wish to dive into the deep blue sea, I shall be your navigator. Here I will be, ever the one beside you in times of need. So forget me not, forget me not, for my name is Andy, and I am always handy.
Be not stressed
Be not stressed, no matter how unsurpassable the task may be, be not stressed. The skies is the limit, and though our roads may be filled with obstacles, we shall conquer them yet. Look behind you, see how far you have come? Oh, this mountain before you may seem tall, but consider the hills and valleys you have traveled thus far, were they not intimidating when you stood at the beginning? Life is a river, it moves on... no matter what happens, it flows like a river - ever downstream. Once in a while, you trip over the smallest pebbles; crash into protruding rocks; you plunge down the steepest falls. Other times, you flow by peaceful valleys and wondrous landscapes. Still we go, according with the flow. The torrent threatens to throw us off course, the current seeks to overturn our vessels, but still you will hang on, for the very hands which caused the waves are the same hands which shall steady your boat. Have faith little ones, in the midst of all the doubt, have faith.
Life is not often about destinations, but rather the journey which gets us to it. There are those who are fortunated to know what to do to get to where they wanted to be, but for many others, life is a continuous process of discernment. Deciding from moment to moment, making choices until we get to where we needed to be. Those choices helps us mature, there are no mistakes, just longer winding paths.
The wind
And here I will be, the lonely wind that blows gently. You shall know that I am here whenever you see the leaves rustle, the water ripple. I will be here, caressing the tips of grass as I pass through, swirling up the dust. Perhaps, then you shall remember me. Don't try to catch hold of me for I appear without a trace and leave without a sign. I am a free spirit, coming and going as I pleased. Like sand, you shall not contain me with your fingers, like water I linger not in one place too long. I am evanescent.
I wish you wouldn't
Je souhaite que vous cessiez de vous imposer dans mes pensees ? Je souhaite que vous ne m'ayez pas vole coeur, particulierement pas la maniere que vous l'avez fait avec juste un regard simple. Ne pouvez-vous pas voir ce que vous avez fait ? Vous avez pris mon ame, et a gauche moi inacheve. Je souhaite que je puisse m'abstenir a vous aimer mais je ne puisse pas arreter cette sottise, je ne puisse pas arreter mon infatuation pour vous parce que c'est vous.
If I have the chance
I often wonder if I had the chance, would I have the courage to ask you for a dance. I often wonder, if I was not who I am, would you have looked upon me with more favor in your eyes. Perhaps it was meant to be that my tongue is tied as I saw you walk by; just passing strangers beneath the same blue sky.
Saturday, August 21, 2010
Thoughts to live by
- Life is like dancing the Hokie Pokie. You put your foot in, you put your foot out; back and forth between the minute details and the big picture... that's really all its about.
-Warning: objects in review mirror become smaller as you drive further away. In life, things tend to become larger as you approach them, that's just physics and optical illusions. There is no point in making them bigger than what they really are, because in the end, they shrink as you past them by. That being said, good luck to all who have something big coming up.
- we are like pebbles on a beach. We become well rounded through constant bombardment of our trials and tribulations
- Sometimes, I look at life as a ballet instructors who likes to keep us all on our toes.
- Without tears, there won't be rainbows between people
-Without limitations, one may never realized how far one may go, and how far one have already come.
- Each moment lived is a near death experience
- Understand that life can be much worst, and move on. No sense in dawdling to wallow in your sorrows.
- Feeling lost is a blessing as it means you have options. You have the freedom to choose however you damn well please.
- The certainty in life is that nothing is set in stone, i.e. there will always be an element of uncertainty. Therefore, don't become someone who is too rigid or set in their ways. Sooner or later, even the hardest rock contours itself to the shifting tides.
- Learn the grammar if you must, but don't become a grammarian. Be a poet instead. There is no point in knowing the theory if you can't use it to be creative.
- A stickler is nothing more than a person with a stick up their butt. And often times, it is a stick that may be used upon them if they take it out too often to intimidate.
- In seeking for a potential mate, have an idea of what is your type; but don't expect yourself to be the "type" that "your type" is into.
- The only dangerous people I know are the ones who are absolutely certain of something.
- Be mindful of starting sentences with "I feel", it usually leads to a narcissistic monologue void of depth, meaning, and reason.
- While it is respectable and professional to be serious... sometimes to get the point through one must employ outrageous means.
- Profanity should be used sparingly so as to be profound.
- People don't desist because you insist. Don't become a cyst.
- In sex, condom prevents life. In life, no condom prevents sex.
- Popping bubbles should be equally important as making them.
- Go fly a kite. Life's too short not to enjoy simple pleasures such as a good breeze. Go take a hike and enjoy the scenery
- I don' think humans are meant to be efficient. If we were, we would be a robot, and life would be no fun.
- A good indicator of life is pain. A a sign of something worthwhile is struggle.
- Be good at dickering, otherwise you will end up bickering
-Warning: objects in review mirror become smaller as you drive further away. In life, things tend to become larger as you approach them, that's just physics and optical illusions. There is no point in making them bigger than what they really are, because in the end, they shrink as you past them by. That being said, good luck to all who have something big coming up.
- we are like pebbles on a beach. We become well rounded through constant bombardment of our trials and tribulations
- Sometimes, I look at life as a ballet instructors who likes to keep us all on our toes.
- Without tears, there won't be rainbows between people
-Without limitations, one may never realized how far one may go, and how far one have already come.
- Each moment lived is a near death experience
- Understand that life can be much worst, and move on. No sense in dawdling to wallow in your sorrows.
- Feeling lost is a blessing as it means you have options. You have the freedom to choose however you damn well please.
- The certainty in life is that nothing is set in stone, i.e. there will always be an element of uncertainty. Therefore, don't become someone who is too rigid or set in their ways. Sooner or later, even the hardest rock contours itself to the shifting tides.
- Learn the grammar if you must, but don't become a grammarian. Be a poet instead. There is no point in knowing the theory if you can't use it to be creative.
- A stickler is nothing more than a person with a stick up their butt. And often times, it is a stick that may be used upon them if they take it out too often to intimidate.
- In seeking for a potential mate, have an idea of what is your type; but don't expect yourself to be the "type" that "your type" is into.
- The only dangerous people I know are the ones who are absolutely certain of something.
- Be mindful of starting sentences with "I feel", it usually leads to a narcissistic monologue void of depth, meaning, and reason.
- While it is respectable and professional to be serious... sometimes to get the point through one must employ outrageous means.
- Profanity should be used sparingly so as to be profound.
- People don't desist because you insist. Don't become a cyst.
- In sex, condom prevents life. In life, no condom prevents sex.
- Popping bubbles should be equally important as making them.
- Go fly a kite. Life's too short not to enjoy simple pleasures such as a good breeze. Go take a hike and enjoy the scenery
- I don' think humans are meant to be efficient. If we were, we would be a robot, and life would be no fun.
- A good indicator of life is pain. A a sign of something worthwhile is struggle.
- Be good at dickering, otherwise you will end up bickering
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
It's Like This Between You And I
It's like this between you and I, we are rails of a track, always parallel never touching. The sun and moon may eclipse one another, but our shadows will never meet. How cruel a fate that we share, destined to be close but never close enough.
It's like this between you and I. My lips like a canyon yearning for your succulence. See how in your absence, my soul a gorge divide, my being eroded and dried. Lush green valleys that could have been reduced to nothing more but mere wasteland- barren, cold, wild and wide.
It's like this between you and I, vines that never intertwine. We are a kiss from eternal happiness, if only our lips touched. Yet, a moment like that was ephemeral, all else became surreal. Now we stood apart, a rainbow dead in its prime.
It's like this between you and I, companions of the mind, Judas of our hearts. Faithful friends, loyal companions; an epic love story unfulfilled. Is it tragic? Isn't it romantic? This excruciating ecstasy of an affair that can never be.
It's like this between you and I, constellations joint by imagination, unified for inspiration. A product of sleepers, of dreamers and idealists who wants nothing more than to believe there is more than random chance. We are towers of their bridge to hope.
Written February, 9th, 2009. Reposted here.
It's like this between you and I. My lips like a canyon yearning for your succulence. See how in your absence, my soul a gorge divide, my being eroded and dried. Lush green valleys that could have been reduced to nothing more but mere wasteland- barren, cold, wild and wide.
It's like this between you and I, vines that never intertwine. We are a kiss from eternal happiness, if only our lips touched. Yet, a moment like that was ephemeral, all else became surreal. Now we stood apart, a rainbow dead in its prime.
It's like this between you and I, companions of the mind, Judas of our hearts. Faithful friends, loyal companions; an epic love story unfulfilled. Is it tragic? Isn't it romantic? This excruciating ecstasy of an affair that can never be.
It's like this between you and I, constellations joint by imagination, unified for inspiration. A product of sleepers, of dreamers and idealists who wants nothing more than to believe there is more than random chance. We are towers of their bridge to hope.
Written February, 9th, 2009. Reposted here.
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
The beauty of darkness
The dimming rays bids welcome to the approaching eventide.
Let darkness allow to flourish all that the light sought to suppress.
May the night, in it's sultry darkness, be more revealing than the sun in all it's blazing glory.
For some things are like mirages, possible only in the day; all guises fade away at night.
And some thoughts like film negatives, best be shielded from light, lest the images be destroyed.
So, it is, I walk this night, shrouded in darkness that illuminates. My thoughts from back-burner to forward brought; just as shadows grow long whilst the days grow short.
My heart to roam more free than what limits of light accord.
Let darkness allow to flourish all that the light sought to suppress.
May the night, in it's sultry darkness, be more revealing than the sun in all it's blazing glory.
For some things are like mirages, possible only in the day; all guises fade away at night.
And some thoughts like film negatives, best be shielded from light, lest the images be destroyed.
So, it is, I walk this night, shrouded in darkness that illuminates. My thoughts from back-burner to forward brought; just as shadows grow long whilst the days grow short.
My heart to roam more free than what limits of light accord.
Thursday, May 20, 2010
In the face of storm
Have you ever driven through a storm? It is positively a most liberating experience. Thunders roaring in the distance, flashes of lightening slicing through the enshrouding darkness; and the rain, oh that seemingly continuous and yet discrete onslaught from heaven, it makes one feel alive just to be so close to such raw power. I love it.
Life presents us with storms, some are of the dreary nature, slowly wearing you down. Yet, if you should be so fortunate to find yourself in the midst of a gallant storm, may you share in the elation that I have felt when confronted with one. Laugh to it in the face, become maniacal if you must, for only in digging deep within our anima, can we release our basic selves and become one with nature.
As for those little storms that wanes the soul, laugh at it too, for they are no more than pesky little brats, not worth your while. In fact, habituate to their syncopated rhythm, and make it your lullaby. There maybe more rainy days than sunny ones, but we need to enjoy both as much as we can.
Life presents us with storms, some are of the dreary nature, slowly wearing you down. Yet, if you should be so fortunate to find yourself in the midst of a gallant storm, may you share in the elation that I have felt when confronted with one. Laugh to it in the face, become maniacal if you must, for only in digging deep within our anima, can we release our basic selves and become one with nature.
As for those little storms that wanes the soul, laugh at it too, for they are no more than pesky little brats, not worth your while. In fact, habituate to their syncopated rhythm, and make it your lullaby. There maybe more rainy days than sunny ones, but we need to enjoy both as much as we can.
Friday, May 14, 2010
The soldier's lament
The battle’s done, the victory’s won. Soldiers have quit the field one by one, until all have gone, all but one. Alone he stood, surveying the scene, the dead silence a sharp contrast to the lingering roar of battle cries still within. Gone were the echoes of crashing steel which once resounded like clarions across a trampled field. Gone were the moans of youths who became mortals, of men who bewailed their manifold sins. The crimson tide in the swaying grass, overshadowed by the brilliance of another setting sun. How fickle, how trivial are life’s struggles? Today the field groans, tomorrow the weeds grow. Tales will be forgotten, legacies eradicated; one’s significance relegated insubstantial. What is life then but to live in moments amplified by pure rush of adrenaline, propelled by sheer heights of fear, recovered from a deep plummet of self reflection.
Sunday, May 9, 2010
An ode to mothers from a boy's perspective
To be a man, is to know how to project oneself with confidence, be at ease with his environment, remain calm and collect in the midst of adversity, and be loved by his fellow human kind. Yet, from where does he learn these skills? Who prepares the boy to become the man? The logical answer would be from his father, for is it not the fathers who stands as a pillar of strength in the household? Yet, have you ever stop to ponder that it is very possible that fathers, like all fathers before them, learn their skills through their mothers? For who, between the gender, is the more observant one, the one who anticipates, the one who is better prepared? Who is more ready to imagine a world with their child, and instill that same imagination in their child to be used as empathy? Mothers.
A mother's love is the source of a man's backbone. It forms the foundation from which he sought greater heights. It is the shelter that he returns to in a storm. In order to be confident, a man must learn to trust. Trust that stems from the comfort in knowing someone will always have his back. Trust in knowing however far he strayed, he will always have a centering beacon to point his way back. Trust in knowing that he will always have someone to come running back to, cried to. Someone who will unfailingly soothe him, forgive him, comfort him; with plenty of bandages, tissues, laughter, hugs and cookies. From this trust, comes the confidence to explore his territory; to go beyond those front porch steps, through the yard, out the front gates, and venture into the world unknown.
It is a confidence grounded in the knowledge, however subconsciously, that he has a packed lunch in his bag. Even through the simple act of preparing lunch for her chid, a mother exerts her influence on his destiny. For a packed lunch is always a source of excitement and envy. It provides a boy with something to chew on, and more importantly, something to share with others. Our lives, as men, is enriched, because our mothers have packed for us a lifelong lunch of wisdom to lean on, think upon and offered to others.
A man learn from his mother what cannot be seen with his eyes. She teaches him to feel, to imagine, she teaches him intuition. A man's logic may give him substance, but it is his intuition and imagination that helps him stay afloat. Imagination is not just about painting a future or a parallel universe, it is about being able to imagine oneself into somebody else's place. Who else imagines better than a mother who constantly worry herself sick over ever possible scenario, and who telepathically knows what their child is going through? From their mothers, men learn what it means to reach out and touch someone's life in the most profound way.
So mothers, I present to you your sons. May you be proud of the man that he is to become. May he grow in your likeness, may he become the man you desire him to be. Happy Mother's Day. Many blessings to all of you who are mothers, or soon to be mothers, or have acted as mother figures to a child.
A mother's love is the source of a man's backbone. It forms the foundation from which he sought greater heights. It is the shelter that he returns to in a storm. In order to be confident, a man must learn to trust. Trust that stems from the comfort in knowing someone will always have his back. Trust in knowing however far he strayed, he will always have a centering beacon to point his way back. Trust in knowing that he will always have someone to come running back to, cried to. Someone who will unfailingly soothe him, forgive him, comfort him; with plenty of bandages, tissues, laughter, hugs and cookies. From this trust, comes the confidence to explore his territory; to go beyond those front porch steps, through the yard, out the front gates, and venture into the world unknown.
It is a confidence grounded in the knowledge, however subconsciously, that he has a packed lunch in his bag. Even through the simple act of preparing lunch for her chid, a mother exerts her influence on his destiny. For a packed lunch is always a source of excitement and envy. It provides a boy with something to chew on, and more importantly, something to share with others. Our lives, as men, is enriched, because our mothers have packed for us a lifelong lunch of wisdom to lean on, think upon and offered to others.
A man learn from his mother what cannot be seen with his eyes. She teaches him to feel, to imagine, she teaches him intuition. A man's logic may give him substance, but it is his intuition and imagination that helps him stay afloat. Imagination is not just about painting a future or a parallel universe, it is about being able to imagine oneself into somebody else's place. Who else imagines better than a mother who constantly worry herself sick over ever possible scenario, and who telepathically knows what their child is going through? From their mothers, men learn what it means to reach out and touch someone's life in the most profound way.
So mothers, I present to you your sons. May you be proud of the man that he is to become. May he grow in your likeness, may he become the man you desire him to be. Happy Mother's Day. Many blessings to all of you who are mothers, or soon to be mothers, or have acted as mother figures to a child.
Thursday, May 6, 2010
Things I have said over the years...
Treat not studying as if approaching something anew, but revisiting a different perspective regarding that which we have already experienced. The truth is this, should our ears be opened, our eyes seeking, and minds embracing, then we shall see the common thread. All knowledge is not foreign but rather links to one form or another to which we can relate and apply elsewhere.
The moment you stopped laughing and start taking yourself too seriously, targeting the "minorities" in your own backyard, following your emotions as opposed to your reasoning and claim your god is the only god - the terrorists win.
"When I see an elderly person, I remember them in their youth, when they were at their prime toiling on our behalf. When I behold the young, I imagine their future, bursting with potential for greatness. In that way, every person I meet, I find their redeeming quality, and I cherish them for it."
"Ya know, the last time I have felt this way about an exam was when I was a teenager getting my first physical, and the doctor reached down, grabbed me and asked me to breathe... and I didn't anticipate to feel that way again until I am in my 40s getting my rectal exam. Thank you graduate school for stirring in me such nostalgia."
"There's a difference between existing and living. To exist is to merely to have matter and occupy space. To live is to matter to others, and create space where it was absent before."
"The students are trying to learn, the teacher is trying to teach; but let's face it, the subject matter is in of itself very trying!"
"We have all become so accustomed to having distractions in our lives, every moment filled with activities of some sort that we forget sometime what we really need is to slow down, quiet down, sit down and just be."
"My friends, as you rush about in your individual lives, do not forget to utter a little prayer now and then because you may never know if those little prayers could save others from praying seriously on your behalf."
"To be grateful is to acknowledge the blessings of yesterdays, the promises of tomorrows, and the gift of living in the present. For appreciation allows you to see the value where worth can not be measured by earthly means."
"The pressing issue is not so much as to how well I understand people, but how well do I understand my internal/emotional response to them. Ultimately, it is my attribute to people which makes them worst or better."
"Look for someone who complements you rather than someone who pays you compliments."
"here is no sport in making someone feel bad about themselves, after all everyone has their internal demons to help you along. No, if you want t do something worthwhile, make people feel special about themselves."
"Ultimately... I think the more important lesson withing a relationship is to learn to love yourself more so that you have love to spare and share with another. That's the tipping point towards a better relationship, when you are able to love yourself in absence of one."
"Be sweet, be fluid; and like the combination of water and sugar, become the glue of your community."
Q: "Describe for me what you see in the ear." A: "Well, if you must, the TM looks a bit like a furled condom."
Checklists help as long as you don't put too many things on it. I think that is a great lesson for our generation: learn that we need not continuously raise our tolerance level lest we become overwhelmed.
"I am elitist with an inferiority complex"
"That whole Christian thing about turning the other cheek never quite worked for me... that is, until I discovered the joy of mooning."
A cup is only useful when it is empty. Therefore clear your mind of unnecessary thoughts, wean your heart of needless emotions. Open yourself, be ready to embrace, to accept, to understand, and to appreciate. Let your cup be filled with a concoction rich in flavor and sweet in aroma.
Laugh at yourself, laugh with yourself, and you will find laughing by yourself isn't that bad
As with many other actions in life: learn, because you want to, not because you have to.
People ask me how I remain positive and I tell them this, "I am an only child, and for the majority of my life I am my own source of entertainment. So I have learn to laugh at myself a lot. When I am down, I find amusement in my predicament. When I am up, I let my imagination soar." So laugh with me, because when I am around, you are no longer the only strange person in the room.
If I should fail, may it be in this rather than something more important. If I should trip, let it be now. See, as it is so with children who are closer to the ground and therefore can tolerate more falls, may it be with me as well. More importantly, may I never let my fear of failure prevent me from not trying. For I rather face the winds and howl back, then to hide and regret not giving my best.
I think part of the reason we procrastinate is because secretly we are all romantics inside, wanting to chase after that slipping time like those actors in the black & white film running along the train platform, trying catch up with the caboose that is about to whisk the love of their lives away (or, if you prefer, change the setting to a Greyhound Bus station).
Having trouble staying asleep means having trouble staying awake.
May you always be old enough to set a bad example, yet young enough to make mistakes.
Sometimes we strive so hard to seek the answers from without that we neglect the wisdom that is within. Don't look so far that you do not see the things that are in front of you. The acorn may reach for the skies, but it grows nonetheless one bit at a time.
What strange times these are, when waistlines are going further south, and the hemlines traveling too far north.
"It could be she is into you, or simply she is shocked by you, or it is dark, my point is this don't read too much into pupil dilation"
" A tie is essentially worn to draw one's attention to the male's organ, consider it a huge arrow pointing towards the proper place. Much like a form fitting evening gown functions for a women. Subconsciously, it is a show of fertility"
"the chink in the mail is a mailed order groom from China"
A: "sex is a broad topic"
Me: "yes, and it often involves one too"
"Three things essential for guys to remember: flick, lick and dick"
"So it turns out Diddily Squat did know Jack Schitt and vice versa"
"Liberal arts major: People who were taught to think outside of the box only to end up living out (in) of one"
"You know you are getting old when your bed spring get more action than you"
"Some women like to wear thongs to make them feel good, I wear a shirt and a tie"
"I need collars, my neck feels naked without them"
"I like to think I am one of the good guys, but why do I feel so bad right now?"
"I know life can be a lot worst, but it won't hurt if it was better."
"I think the color orange should really be called carrot. After all, C comes before O and therefore earns the prerogative of being named the color and vegetable"
"If you are going to be nice, chances are you will be the best friend to everyone but yourself"
"Why couldn't I be born earlier, then I would have been original"
"It could be gravity, or it could simply be you are fat"
"Its a full house in the banos until you hear someone flush"
"love is that which conjoins two or more by allowing vulnerability such that for a sacred union they touch upon the face of God"
Tonight at the library I met a girl with a great spine. Her name is Gray, and Gray's Anatomy is mighty fine ^_^
" Natural frequency is like the G-spot"
Sunday, May 2, 2010
Some thoughts to live by
- Without limitations, one may never realized how far one may go, and how far one have already come.
- Each moment lived is a near death experience
- Understand that life can be much worst, and move on. No sense in dawdling to wallow in your sorrows.
- Feeling lost is a blessing as it means you have options. You have the freedom to choose however you damn well please.
- The certainty in life is that nothing is set in stone, i.e. there will always be an element of uncertainty. Therefore, don't become someone who is too rigid or set in their ways. Sooner or later, even the hardest rock contours itself to the shifting tides.
- Learn the grammar if you must, but don't become a grammarian. Be a poet instead. There is no point in knowing the theory if you can't use it to be creative.
- A stickler is nothing more than a person with a stick up their butt. And often times, it is a stick that may be used upon them if they take it out too often to intimidate.
- In seeking for a potential mate, have an idea of what is your type; but don't expect yourself to be the "type" that "your type" is into.
- The only dangerous people I know are the ones who are absolutely certain of something.
- Be mindful of starting sentences with "I feel", it usually leads to a narcissistic monologue void of depth, meaning, and reason.
- While it is respectable and professional to be serious... sometimes to get the point through one must employ outrageous means.
- Profanity should be used sparingly so as to be profound.
- People don't desist because you insist. Don't become a cyst.
- In sex, condom prevents life. In life, no condom prevents sex.
- Popping bubbles should be equally important as making them.
- Go fly a kite. Life's too short not to enjoy simple pleasures such as a good breeze.
- I don' think humans are meant to be efficient. If we were, we would be a robot, and life would be no fun.
- A good indicator of life is pain. A a sign of something worthwhile is struggle.
- Be good at dickering, otherwise you will end up bickering
- Each moment lived is a near death experience
- Understand that life can be much worst, and move on. No sense in dawdling to wallow in your sorrows.
- Feeling lost is a blessing as it means you have options. You have the freedom to choose however you damn well please.
- The certainty in life is that nothing is set in stone, i.e. there will always be an element of uncertainty. Therefore, don't become someone who is too rigid or set in their ways. Sooner or later, even the hardest rock contours itself to the shifting tides.
- Learn the grammar if you must, but don't become a grammarian. Be a poet instead. There is no point in knowing the theory if you can't use it to be creative.
- A stickler is nothing more than a person with a stick up their butt. And often times, it is a stick that may be used upon them if they take it out too often to intimidate.
- In seeking for a potential mate, have an idea of what is your type; but don't expect yourself to be the "type" that "your type" is into.
- The only dangerous people I know are the ones who are absolutely certain of something.
- Be mindful of starting sentences with "I feel", it usually leads to a narcissistic monologue void of depth, meaning, and reason.
- While it is respectable and professional to be serious... sometimes to get the point through one must employ outrageous means.
- Profanity should be used sparingly so as to be profound.
- People don't desist because you insist. Don't become a cyst.
- In sex, condom prevents life. In life, no condom prevents sex.
- Popping bubbles should be equally important as making them.
- Go fly a kite. Life's too short not to enjoy simple pleasures such as a good breeze.
- I don' think humans are meant to be efficient. If we were, we would be a robot, and life would be no fun.
- A good indicator of life is pain. A a sign of something worthwhile is struggle.
- Be good at dickering, otherwise you will end up bickering
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
farts
The world is filled with different people. Some are like orgasms, they are loud and out there. Some are like lollipops, sweet and colorful. Me, I see myself as a fart, specifically the silent but deadly kind. I like to think of myself as someone who makes a quiet entrance, infiltrates the space, creates an impact, and leaves before people can pinpoint the source.
While one may not readily associate the stench of farts with fondness, a fart is nonetheless a good thing. It is a greenhouse gas protecting the ozone and encouraging leafy growth. It is a possible alternate source of energy for the future, especially if it has high methane content More importantly, it is a huge relief.
If you were to ask me how I would describe myself, I would say I am an old fart, I have been around.
While one may not readily associate the stench of farts with fondness, a fart is nonetheless a good thing. It is a greenhouse gas protecting the ozone and encouraging leafy growth. It is a possible alternate source of energy for the future, especially if it has high methane content More importantly, it is a huge relief.
If you were to ask me how I would describe myself, I would say I am an old fart, I have been around.
Saturday, March 27, 2010
Being film noir
I have discovered that one of the disappointments in life comes from expecting that people will change because of some action on my part. The disappointment, I can live with; after all, it is simply a matter of readjusting my expectations. Yet, I must admit, the very act of "lowering" my expectations disappoints me tremendously. It feels like an act of surrender, and with each surrender, a part of me dies. I regress as a person, I become cynical. My life slowly morphing into a novel from which film noir draws its inspiration.
I know I am being dramatic, after all, I am still a pretty decent guy ( I think). However, if this keep going the way it is now, I am going to become a wisp of the man that I once was growing up to be. Soon, women will find me attractive not because I am nice, but because I am damaged goods. They see a project, a wounded soul behind gaunt eyes that could perhaps be revived. Ah, what a foolish notion that would be, for I am a lost cause, and I will only convert them, creating more cynics, perpetuating the cycle.
No, I must put a stop to this. But how? How does one continue to have faith in humanity? How does one refrain from falling into the fallacies set for altruists? How?
I know I am being dramatic, after all, I am still a pretty decent guy ( I think). However, if this keep going the way it is now, I am going to become a wisp of the man that I once was growing up to be. Soon, women will find me attractive not because I am nice, but because I am damaged goods. They see a project, a wounded soul behind gaunt eyes that could perhaps be revived. Ah, what a foolish notion that would be, for I am a lost cause, and I will only convert them, creating more cynics, perpetuating the cycle.
No, I must put a stop to this. But how? How does one continue to have faith in humanity? How does one refrain from falling into the fallacies set for altruists? How?
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
Be
I believe that sometimes in our zeal to admire the success of selected individuals, we neglected the failures along the way which propelled them to that status. We failed to acknowledge the fact that they too at some point struggled tremendously to provide us with the perception of a smooth end-product. As such, we set for ourselves disappointment when we gaze internally and perceive our relative lack of mastery and elegance. Overtime, we grow to manifest resentment towards those very same individuals for making us feel inadequate.
I say our world would be a better place if we cease to compare ourselves to others. At the very least, let the yardstick of their achievements to which we measure ourselves against be mere guidelines. It is good to always strive for the very best, it is nice to have someone to look up to; yet, our singular lives would be a disaster if we could not look up to ourselves, look deep within ourselves, and look at ourselves without scorn.
In the grand scheme of things, there will always be someone who is better, someone who is worst, and someone who is your equal. If you end up being resentful to those who are better because they make you feel worst about yourself. If you despise those who are inferior, because you deem them beneath you. If you fear those who you are equal because of fear that they may surpass you. Then you may as well hide from the world because the likelihood is that each person you meet will have arenas whereby they are superior, inferior and equal to you; which conversely makes you equally loathsome.
No, be yourself, and be all that you can be, most importantly, be.
I say our world would be a better place if we cease to compare ourselves to others. At the very least, let the yardstick of their achievements to which we measure ourselves against be mere guidelines. It is good to always strive for the very best, it is nice to have someone to look up to; yet, our singular lives would be a disaster if we could not look up to ourselves, look deep within ourselves, and look at ourselves without scorn.
In the grand scheme of things, there will always be someone who is better, someone who is worst, and someone who is your equal. If you end up being resentful to those who are better because they make you feel worst about yourself. If you despise those who are inferior, because you deem them beneath you. If you fear those who you are equal because of fear that they may surpass you. Then you may as well hide from the world because the likelihood is that each person you meet will have arenas whereby they are superior, inferior and equal to you; which conversely makes you equally loathsome.
No, be yourself, and be all that you can be, most importantly, be.
Thursday, February 11, 2010
G-d is electric
I remember asking my teacher "why do we always bow our heads in prayer?" to which she replied, "Because that is where G-d is. G-d is our electrical ground, our fail-safe." For a six year old, that didn't make a whole lot of sense, but as I grow older and learned more about electricity, I began to see the wisdom of her words.
The Sniper
I met a retired Marine Scout Sniper once. He was a colorful character, a man of great testicular fortitude, and a war hero (which he is never shy of reminding me each time we meet). I enjoyed talking with him, partly because there is no end to the hilarity this man inspired in all those around him. And in part because beneath all that jovial exterior, lies an intelligent and observant individual who slips in gems of pure wisdom here and there, provided that you are on the look out for them.
I recall a particular conversation that we shared in which the subject of trust came up. He said that people nowadays do not know the meaning of trust, especially civilians. He continue to tell me how in the Corps, one must entrust one's life to the man next to you. This is especially true for a sniper. While movies tend to depict snipers as lone wolves, the reality is that a sniper relies heavily on his spotter to stay alive. A spotter is someone who goes along with the sniper to wherever he needs to be, and basically helps him pin-point his targets. More importantly, he watches the sniper's back.
You see, the Marine Scout Sniper's code is "One Shot, One Kill." In order for that to be true, each sniper is taught to devote his entire being to each shot. His entire existence, all of his energy is focused on that one bullet; willing it to hit its mark. This leaves him extremely vulnerable as all is his senses are focused on making that one shot, and it is up to the spotter to make sure that they are not outflanked in the process.
The reason I am writing all of this is not to bring up the ethics of the sniper's code (My take on that is unless I have served in the military, and shared in their livelihood, it is never my place to judge. If anything, we are in debt to men and women like my old friend who is willing to sully their hands for the sake of our ideals). What strikes me about that conversation was the utter trust this Marine has for his spotter.
"I could never go in and did what I did, and live to tell the tale if it wasn't for my buddy [spotter]. You have no idea of what it is like to be in the thick of enemy territory, lying prone, waiting to take a shot at a target hundreds and hundreds of yards away; meanwhile being totally clueless as to what is happening around you only a few feet away. My buddy took care of that, and I took care of the target, and that's that."
It is a pretty amazing testimony, and I think it teaches a valuable lesson, not just about the mere trust between humans, but perhaps to the trust between us and a higher being. You see, regardless of what religion you practice, what g-d you pray to, what faith you have; each of us is like my retired sniper friend. We each have been assigned targets that we want to "kill", and in order to do so, we must be able to devote our resources to that end. I can not speak for how faith works, but wouldn't it be nice if we can all focus on what we need to do, trusting that somehow, the powers that be will take of the rest for us?
I mean that is what religion is in essence. The liturgy, the theology, the observance, the adherence; it is that which connects us, grounds us to our immediate surroundings while we focus on our dreams, our goals, our pursuit of happiness. Our faith, our believe that there exists some greater being who will take care of our immediate worries, is what allows us the luxury to focus on life. Without it, we become vulnerable.
I recall a particular conversation that we shared in which the subject of trust came up. He said that people nowadays do not know the meaning of trust, especially civilians. He continue to tell me how in the Corps, one must entrust one's life to the man next to you. This is especially true for a sniper. While movies tend to depict snipers as lone wolves, the reality is that a sniper relies heavily on his spotter to stay alive. A spotter is someone who goes along with the sniper to wherever he needs to be, and basically helps him pin-point his targets. More importantly, he watches the sniper's back.
You see, the Marine Scout Sniper's code is "One Shot, One Kill." In order for that to be true, each sniper is taught to devote his entire being to each shot. His entire existence, all of his energy is focused on that one bullet; willing it to hit its mark. This leaves him extremely vulnerable as all is his senses are focused on making that one shot, and it is up to the spotter to make sure that they are not outflanked in the process.
The reason I am writing all of this is not to bring up the ethics of the sniper's code (My take on that is unless I have served in the military, and shared in their livelihood, it is never my place to judge. If anything, we are in debt to men and women like my old friend who is willing to sully their hands for the sake of our ideals). What strikes me about that conversation was the utter trust this Marine has for his spotter.
"I could never go in and did what I did, and live to tell the tale if it wasn't for my buddy [spotter]. You have no idea of what it is like to be in the thick of enemy territory, lying prone, waiting to take a shot at a target hundreds and hundreds of yards away; meanwhile being totally clueless as to what is happening around you only a few feet away. My buddy took care of that, and I took care of the target, and that's that."
It is a pretty amazing testimony, and I think it teaches a valuable lesson, not just about the mere trust between humans, but perhaps to the trust between us and a higher being. You see, regardless of what religion you practice, what g-d you pray to, what faith you have; each of us is like my retired sniper friend. We each have been assigned targets that we want to "kill", and in order to do so, we must be able to devote our resources to that end. I can not speak for how faith works, but wouldn't it be nice if we can all focus on what we need to do, trusting that somehow, the powers that be will take of the rest for us?
I mean that is what religion is in essence. The liturgy, the theology, the observance, the adherence; it is that which connects us, grounds us to our immediate surroundings while we focus on our dreams, our goals, our pursuit of happiness. Our faith, our believe that there exists some greater being who will take care of our immediate worries, is what allows us the luxury to focus on life. Without it, we become vulnerable.
Sunday, January 10, 2010
On worrying
I worry a lot. I used to blame it on an over-active imagination; but the deeper truth is I do not have enough of it. I lacked the true creativity, that simple willingness to be open to the tiniest window of opportunity, which makes a difference. I pride myself a methodical person- detail oriented, logical and precise. When in actuality I am merely a Scrooge of faith, miser of hope, sycophant to the majority, and slave to statistics. As I mature, I have unwittingly pledged my allegiance to practicality, I offered fealty to common sense. As a result, I reduced myself to the peanut gallery, securing my membership within the hoi polloi. Gone are the days when I delight in the unknown. I no longer see every uncertainty as a doorway to wonderment and enlightenment. If optimism is a strand of DNA, then the telomere of my particular strand has been severely shortened.
Over the years I have come to realize this: pessimism exists because as we grow older, we perceive our options to be limited, or rather the time and ability to search for alternatives is insufficient. Therefore we take comfort in certainty, we abide to the “gold standards”, and we take stock in the benchmark. So much so that when we are affronted with something beyond our realms of experience, we become stumped. We are horrified because our library does not seem to carry anything that specifically addresses the situation we are in. Our repertoire incomplete, and instead of trying to build upon what we know, we become fixated on what we don’t know. This scares us, immobilizes us, and gives more credence to the threat because now our ego comes into question.
We have allowed ourselves to become like rubber. Early in our inception, our plasticity is great. However, as time goes by, repeated use and constant exposure to the elements have weathered us into stiff erasers that no longer wipe away efficiently. We taint our slate with previous mistakes, black smudges all over. Consequently, we cannot start anew. Yet life is about starting anew. It is about being flexible to the ever changing tides, and finding new ways to adapt. It is about writing our stories in sand, and watch as the waves come in and collect it, adding it to the sea of collective narrative. We cannot be frustrated by it; instead we should rejoice that we are given a canvass that contains no end to the possibility on what we can draw upon it. Only when we release ourselves from the confines of physics, can we be free. Our imagination must stretch beyond the beaches and yearn for the horizons where the sky and ocean meet. When confronted with a problem, we are not erasers; our goal is not to remove it. The tides with come soon enough to render it insufficient. Ours is to play in the sand, and marvel at what we can do with it.
Over the years I have come to realize this: pessimism exists because as we grow older, we perceive our options to be limited, or rather the time and ability to search for alternatives is insufficient. Therefore we take comfort in certainty, we abide to the “gold standards”, and we take stock in the benchmark. So much so that when we are affronted with something beyond our realms of experience, we become stumped. We are horrified because our library does not seem to carry anything that specifically addresses the situation we are in. Our repertoire incomplete, and instead of trying to build upon what we know, we become fixated on what we don’t know. This scares us, immobilizes us, and gives more credence to the threat because now our ego comes into question.
We have allowed ourselves to become like rubber. Early in our inception, our plasticity is great. However, as time goes by, repeated use and constant exposure to the elements have weathered us into stiff erasers that no longer wipe away efficiently. We taint our slate with previous mistakes, black smudges all over. Consequently, we cannot start anew. Yet life is about starting anew. It is about being flexible to the ever changing tides, and finding new ways to adapt. It is about writing our stories in sand, and watch as the waves come in and collect it, adding it to the sea of collective narrative. We cannot be frustrated by it; instead we should rejoice that we are given a canvass that contains no end to the possibility on what we can draw upon it. Only when we release ourselves from the confines of physics, can we be free. Our imagination must stretch beyond the beaches and yearn for the horizons where the sky and ocean meet. When confronted with a problem, we are not erasers; our goal is not to remove it. The tides with come soon enough to render it insufficient. Ours is to play in the sand, and marvel at what we can do with it.
Monday, January 4, 2010
Random Ramblong on Relationships (Draft)
Existence can be a lonesome ordeal. Each of us independently circling the periphery; searching for that singular moment of recognition; hoping for a sign of validation from another individual to justify our mere existence. It is because of this that we fall prey to flattery and false idolatry. It is because of this many relationships do not work out. Simply because instead of searching for those who complement us, we are fooled into thinking that we need someone who compliments us. Somewhere along the way, we deem ourselves incomplete until we have gained approval of those whom we humbly offered our life’s work and ourselves to their judgment.
Yet, consider how easy it is for a critic to critique. Recall how easy it is for us to raise our expectations of others and for them to therefore fall short. Then you will come to realize the dreaded disappointment that awaits us should we choose to enter a relationship with that need in mind. No, my dear friends do not enter a relationship in hopes of external validation. Trust, that before you become one with another, you can be whole in yourself. Know that you can be your own entity with lots to offer and a burning desire to share. Otherwise, you will only enslave yourself, sell yourself short, and settle for something less than the truth.
Yet, consider how easy it is for a critic to critique. Recall how easy it is for us to raise our expectations of others and for them to therefore fall short. Then you will come to realize the dreaded disappointment that awaits us should we choose to enter a relationship with that need in mind. No, my dear friends do not enter a relationship in hopes of external validation. Trust, that before you become one with another, you can be whole in yourself. Know that you can be your own entity with lots to offer and a burning desire to share. Otherwise, you will only enslave yourself, sell yourself short, and settle for something less than the truth.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)