Problems: Actions please?

The facts presented here were all part of the researches made in the book of Bp. Antonio Ledesma, “Healing the Past, Building the Future: Soundings from Mindanao”.

Here, let me share to you something about the problems of Mindanao, specifically, the problems of our Bangsamoro brothers and sisters.


So, i would like to invite everyone to reflect about this things and share your opinions on how are we going to achieve a saustainable peace and development?

The island of Mindanao from the Philippines is still struggling with regards to peace and development especially with the struggles of the Bangsamoro people who are asserting their full efforts in having a diverse individuality, history, territory and ethnicity against from what they believe as discrimination from the majority. They want to have the right to self determination, which is relatively a recognized right by the United Nations. 

The problems that the Bangsamoros are facing include their issues for ancestral domain, human rights, agrarian related things, and social and cultural discrimination and many more things.

This issue is already old, yet there has not been a concise solution to resolve this problem. But there are several attempts to solve this, like the Memorandum of Agreement on Ancestral Domain (MOA-AD). From the article that can be found in “A Primer on Dialogue Mindanaw”, it was reported that the MOA-AD was supposed to be signed in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia on August 5, 2008 but due to the petitions filed by the local governments from many cities in the Philippines who appealed for the rights for consultation about the agreement, the Supreme Court issued a temporary restraining order instructing the Philippine Government not to sign the MOA-AD. But months later, it has been finally declined on October 14, 2008.

From that experience, a series of severe violence happened. Many were killed and many communities were affected, which resulted to the displacement of more that half a million civilians by the end of the year.

But take note that many people are doing their best in restoring the life-full of dreams and aspirations of the Filipinos in attaining peace again. Peace talks are still being organized and the National Government of the Philippines are also doing their part in restoring peace with in the country.

Eco Font – Change your default fonts now and save the world

This post was from the Challenge:Future community. So be sure to check out them!

 

EcoFont is a font (much like Times New Roman or Arial) that you can download and install on your computer for free. Behind the eco font is a very simple and elegant idea that helps us save up to 25% of ink when we print. The magic? Ecofont is designed with small, invisible to the eye holes in the letters. So, when you print your documents, school reports, lettters and more, you use less ink but enjoy the same benefits.

 

Now, imagine if millions of people around the world start using the Ecofont today? A small change, but many ripples. So, don't delay: download the font now, go through the easy installation process, and make it the default font on your computer. It will only take a few (instead of some)minutes....So, just future it!

 

Download the ecofont now and help save the world even in your smallest ways. Click the image below to view the download site.

 

 

But aside from downloading this font, i encourage you to make ECOFONT YOUR DEFAULT FONT NOW! if you don’t know how to do that, then read the rest of this entry and let me teach you how to set your default font in your Microsoft Word 2007.

 

First, you need to install it in your computer. Copy the .ttf file and paste it in My Computer –> Local Disk C –> Windows –> Fonts after that, wait for the installation to finish and open you MS Word 2007.

 

Here’s the interface of your MS word 2007.

Under the home tab, go to the Styles tab and click the small icon which was already marked in the picture above or you can hold alt+ctrl+shift+s

 

You will then be directed here. Click now the Manage styles button which has been marked in the image above as well.

Click set defaults

 

Set now youur desired formats but be sure to select ECOFONT VERA SANS as your default font and tick the option circle New Documents bases on this tempalte and click OK.

HAPPY TYPING WITH YOUR NEW ECO FRIENDLY FONT =)

SPREAD THE WORD! THIS ISN’T A SECRET ;)

XOXO,

SKEEPER

Tomorrow is the Day

After 2 weeks of tiring yet fun practices, the big night will already come! The Ateneo Fiesta Choral Competition will then be graced tomorrow night at the university Covered Courts. Ofcourse, I am excited with a little nerve-wrecking feeling as this will also be our first time to join. but despite this, i am sure that we will give the grandest song tomorrow night. (may God be with us)

 

Just to tell you about my day today, well well well. The parade was also exhausting. I can feel the pressure of all the crowds around me and the festive atmosphere was really exxage but it was fun you know. I was graved down to deep thoughts during the parade. Well, don’t just ask me about the topic. I am not even sure if i was thinking correctly or not. Sometimes, i am like this. But it is cool hehe.

 

Then finaly, we went to our practice. Tiring yet fun as i usually say. Just a second thought though. I believe that i was never tired because i love what i  do. i love singing. yes. and it went to the extremes during our meet ups. I guess i will join the Liturgical Society and to share God with others through singing. I love to do that. I would love to.

 

But before the practice, me and my friends, JP and Sham went around the campus to look for the Choral Competition Competition and to clarify some things. We had topsy turvies as we cant locate that particular persons then me and JP decided to do the searching while Sham will go back to our practice room to meet the group. We ran here, ran there and ran everywhere. Went to a stall to buy some juice then went to room with a word-less answer from the person whom we are looking.

 

practice then lunch. We then went down. I am really craving for some barbecued porkchop but damn hell! it’s too expensive. though i can afford it, i still had my doubts. Then Jp asked me if i want it, then I asked, “No. I can handle it you know:” then he  ordered 2 porkchops and paid for the bill. well thank you. haha. I saved 50 pesos. :)) but it’s not the end you know, we looked for some drinks. I told him that i want some shake but he refused to buy it because he doesn;t want me to drink something cold because the choral competition will be tomorrow already. I just dont want to spoil my voice too. He bought a canned coke and a bottled water for me. blah blah blha. then ate at the room. in short, FREE LUNCH FROM JP! :D

 

then the practice went good when we resumed. and then we had our break. I really enjoyed the break with my friends and classmates,  Ryan, Anette and Greggi and with JP too. we sang we sang and we sang. boohoo! that was great! :D

 

Well, i have to goo. that’s all for now :D

 

 

 

xoxo,

Skeeper

Destiny. Yes. I am inlove.

Yes. I am very much inlove at the moment. Before anything else, let me first give you my own definition of the phrase in love. my state of being in love is not really much similar to other' people’s point of view. When I say in love, or when i am in love, i usually see this person in any happy thing that i will see as if this person is indeed the real reason as to why i am very much happy. I usually see that person in songs, movies that i like or even in stories, poems and in my day to day life experiences. We usually do the talking in Deviantart through notes. yes. we want to have a private conversation as to why i so love that person. but having someone who is very far from me is somewhat difficult to deal with. I dont know why. they say, love can fulfill your happiness and contentment with relationships even if you are miles and miles apart. But human as i am, i still need someone who can give me an inch-distance from where i am standing to that person’s position. About the image in the left, i created that months ago. And yes, it is part of my 100 theme challenge and i am portraying Destiny here. I realized that yes, i can add this image here in my blog post so that i can share what my classmate and friend told me about this art as a form of appreciation and salutation that:

Destiny needs hardwork and

patience to be fulfilled.

 

 

 

 

and i agree to what my classmate said. if you really love someone, dont just wait there and to just sit all day. make a stand. show to that person that you love him/her before it’s too late.

 

and yes. i am inlove with someone right now.

 

 

SHHHH.

 

 

 

xoxo,

Skeeper

yPeace Conference Part 1

Before I begin this blog entry, please be informed that this is the first part of my blog as I will make 2 parts for this particular experience:

• My experiences
• My Learning and reflections

 

First things first

 

The whole experience was very amazing! for the nth time, i was able to mingle with my fellow youth leaders and fellow peace makers as we were able to exchange ideas about peace, culture and faith. The first time I saw the invitation for this conference, I was really much determined and excited because this will really be a good venue to meet new friends too while we learn something new too.

 

When i finally read the email that I was selected in the conference, I felt really happy that I shouted in the Guidance Office in our university (since I am always there because I am part of the Ateneo Peers’ Circle). They all congratulated me and even my parents and siblings were too excited too when they heard about it. I really thanked God for this thing.

 

Early Arrival

 

Days passed and my most awaited day already came. Then everything happened so fast that i already saw myself at the Manila Airport again. I really miss Manila. The usual things happened during our arrival. Someone fetch us, waited for some people and went straight to the venue. But I was surprised when we talked to Rene (one of the facilitators) as people like him really amaze me. You know, dynamic, good communication skills, etc. Thumbs up for him!

 

We were all welcomed in Hyatt Hotel and finally, I saw Sir Jomar again and the rest of the loving and cheerful staffs. I first met the ever dynamic Sir Jomar in Camp Friendship help in Davao City and i am still happy that I was able to see him again. Me and my new friends then went to Robinson’s to have some walk and to have lunch.

 

 

Amazing right? But you know, if you really want something, do it! Just make sure that this will not ahrm anyone in this world. If you will just continue to be passionate in the things that you really want and if you will put your best always, then ofcourse, sooner or later you’ll succeed.

I was pretty much amazed with the decorated flowers there. I guess that there was a competiton when we came and I was really wowed will all the I saw there. Fresh, colorful flowers, cheerful thoughts from the people and amazing talents of the Filipinos. I am really much happy that there are really people pratice being more creative not just in painting, scultputre, etc alone. But I am very much WOWED that they can also do something like these beautiful things

And I say President Noynoy there too! And I really saw how the people wanted to have a picture of him. Everyone started to rant, etc. At first, I thought that there was a problem in the mall because everyone’s starting to run from here to there and everywhere!

 

But you know, that even was quite symbolical in the sense that i myself saw this yellow-themed man whom i can say that, “OH! that’s our president”. I remembered talking about him here in  my blog entry when I wished for a very fruitful Philippines. When I was walking back to the hotel, it made me think for a while because all of us in the conference (I said to myslef) will be all leaders and peacemakers from the different parts of the country and I know deep inside me that we will all be part in the success of our country for all of us are part of the Philippine Government. Noy noy cannot do it all by himself for he also needs all of us too. So please, let us stop all the critiques and negative issues regarding Noynoy and let us do our part too.

 

Then i went back to the hotel, ate my dinner and started to make my assignments and reports so that I can concentrate to the conference when it will start the day after. And I;m happy that i was finished everything on time! It was amazing though haha. Since i dont have all the materials needed for my report and assignments. I chatted with my friends through Skype and Facebook after, checked my deviantART account and replied to all their messages and love <3 then, I met my roommate, he’s from Bauio City representing the Kankanai Tribe.

 

The Conference

 

 

I will not really explain everything here as i will put my experiences here in my next blog entry where i will share the things that I learned and some reflections too! I do love photoblogs so I will really do my best that i will make this a very beautiful photoblog too!

 

I was really happy that I was able to have a lunch with this amazing man where me and my friend learned many things about his life. He shared to us his experiences as a part of the United States Embassy family, about the places he were able to visit and about his family, state and his assignment in Jerusalem. We talked so much that we had a good conversation and I hope that we will be able to do that again :)

 

We really love to eat! YES! we really do. But most of all, we really love to take pictures and to keep the memories that we will have in the conference. You know, these pictures will surely remind us about this very wonderful experience that we had with each other. Now, i am really missing everyone and everything too!

Aside from eating, we also love to pose too. hahah. You know, These pictures will surel remind us about this once in a lifetime experience. A memory that is surely worth keeping <3 I met new friends, shared my opinions and insights, gathered new knowledge and worked with these brilliant people. That for me was indeed amazing!

 

These two pictures are indeed amazing! :D When i found these two flags standing there in our venue, I immediately planned to have a picture beside those two flags because for me, it symbolizes the Philippine-American friendship. I just hoped that I brought my  Philippine-American friendship pin with me that I got from Camp Friendhip 08. :D hahaha

 

 

Food and Stuffs :”>

 

The reason for our full stomachs. hahah. The Market Cafe where you can find lots of dishes prepared made specially for you. From here you can find lots of varieties from American dishes, Korean, Chinese, Filipino, etc, served with fresh milk, fresh juices, and lots more! If you will go to Hyatt, make sure to check out Market Cafe. (No. i was not paid by the Hotel to advertise Market Cafe. hahaha. this was perhaps because of my love for the place)

 

'I’m not a good photographer when I took this picture. hahaha I dont know if this picture will make you hungry or not but i tell you, this was really good! Now, i can already think about the food that I ate there and  i badly want them now. hahah. Well, this was part of my experience there and I am really happy. :D   This was I guess taken during our third day there in the hotel. With me is Kuya Enzo from Bukidnon. He’s really an amazing person.

Fruits and desserts?   AMAZING and LOVELY! Go see it for yourself. ;)

I was able to reflect on some things regarding the breakfasts too that it is when we welcome the brand new day and where we see the value of our presence during the conference. It is a good way of showing and saying that, “HEY THERE! Good morning and goodluck for the rest of the day. Here. Come sit with us and let’s have a chat.”

For me, it’s one of the best things in the conference because during our meals, we were able to elevate the meaning of the act. THat we aren;t just there to fill our stomachs but to believe that it is one of our many ways to deepen our relationship with each other so that we can work together more. Just a simple thought but you know, if many people will think this way, then for sure, we’ll be optimistic for the rest of the hours with in the day.

 

This picture was taken during our last breakfast Wah! Im really missing these guys and ofcourse everyone too! Although we just spent 3 days together, but still, everyone has a special place in my heart already! just a simple testimony that the conference was indeed great! I am hoping that sooner or later, we will ba able to have the chance to share a meal together and to have more time to talk and to share anything under the sun too!

So this will end my section about food. hahaha. And so, i can officially say that I am hungry :)

 

And yeah! Thanks to my friend Trish, i took some of her pictures so that I can share some of my favorite food here. Please let your tummy have some snacks first before viewing the rest of the post for this will surely make you hungry. HAHA

 

View Full Album

 

Let me tour you to Hyatt

 

and so i will be your official tour guide as i will try to roam you around in that very beautiful place :)

 

This is Hyatt from the outside :D When you’re here, you will feel like you’re in a separate world. Though this hotel lacks something, but still, it’s good :) From this section, you will find other interesting places in Hyatt :D So come join me now ;)

 

I can see the stretch of the Roxas Boulevard from my room window. It looks really cool. I really miss Roxas Boulevard and ofcourse the Manila Bay. SO i was really happy because i can see a beautiful scene from my window too!

 

It’s really good to think that the local government of Manila is doing their best to maintain the cleanliness of the bay. It would be almost equally sad if ever they will not take good care of this very beautiful blessing from God and Nature. At least, tourists who are visiting the Philippines will not think that Manila is a dirty city already. And another obseravatio is that, Manila is not really overpolluted now compared from the Manila before which is already a great start.

In the pictures above, you can see our bathroom/comfort room and at far right side, you’ll see  my picture with a very beatiful painting in a lobby near Market Cafe.

 

till here guys! :D please make surethe rest of the entry sooooon <3

 

 

 

 

Keep this a secret

 

 

ve Skeeper <3

The New Twitter

Seriously, I love the video!

You can check it out here:



The new interface is clean and it's like you're using Tweetdeck right infront of your eyes while using your own favorite browser.

Twitter is the best way to discover what's new in your world. From football to film to philanthropy, people are using Twitter to discover what's new about what they find interesting.


Twitter has always been about getting a lot in a little. The constraint of 140 characters drives conciseness and lets you quickly discover and share what's happening. Yet, we've learned something since starting Twitter—life doesn't always fit into 140 characters or less.


Introducing a new, re-engineered Twitter.com that provides an easier, faster, and richer experience.


On the site, you'll see the familiar timeline, yet underneath each Tweet is a handful of information, deeper context and even embedded media. Simply click on an individual Tweet and a details pane slides out on the right and reveals this content.

-Source Twitter

Check it out soon! It will be released sometime this week, ;)




xoxo,
Skeeper :D

Protect The Lady (A dedication to women with breast cancer)

 

I was just playing around with my Adobe Illustrator with the thought that I want to make my vectors as beautiful as possible, everytime i doodle or to create a masterpiece there.

Because, i am now dreaming of becoming the Vector Gallery Moderator in DeviantART soon!

Well, while i was walking, i was thinking about this simple art and i want to dedicate this to all the women with breast cancers.

This is quite symbolical you know. The colors represent the diverse people with diverse personality and diverse beliefs but they have a harmonious relationship that will empower women especially those with breast cancers.

The colors symbolizes us, to those who care so much about them. we are there to protect them as what the title is all about.

Thy shades symbolizes the coolness of every woman because they will always be beautiful in my eyes. i so love the women around me. not because i am having a want-to-have relationship love. but the love that i am talking about is the love that can help me realize that i should work with them, that i should work for them so that i can also show how much i care for them :)

The woman, ofcourse, symbolizes every woman in the world. full of beauty and full of love and full of care

so to everyone, love the women around you :heart:

please pray for those with breast cancers too :)

till here!


xoxo,
Skeeper :D

10 Wishes

This is for a contest in DeviantART . Please take note that the persona in this memoir is a girl :D thank you

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

I am 18.

I used to think about the memories I have in the past with you.

You. Yes you! You who gave me another reason to live, you who gave me another chance to be happy, and you who gave me another way of celebrating with others. Apart from this, are your wishes that I will keep forever, forever in my mind and forever in my heart.

It all started when we were in my birthday party when I was 8. We're still so little that time. I can still remember us playing in the garden, with other kids around us. I can still see the bubbles that the clowns play, I can still see my birthday cake as you helped me blew my magic candles, I can still remember the icing on your nose- then on my nose- then back at your nose. The emotions filled the gaps of our existence as I opened your gift to me and found out that it was a story book that I truly love. We went inside the house, sat in our sofa and made it our throne. Then as the day passed by, we read the story, page by page, word by word. Then up to that very moment is all I can remember, when the final words had been said, "And we lived happily ever after", well, of course, by you.

I started to walk as my phone kept on ringing. I don't even know what to do. All I can hear is the unending heartbeats that I feel. For the second time your brother's been calling, I still hesitated to answer it. But on the third time, what else can I do? What else can I think? Well, still, the memories that I have with you.

I got very excited with my first cellular phone when I was 9. That was just in my first thoughts I guess. I don't even think of any reason on why I should have it. So what I did, was to look at it the whole time, thinking of nothing as if it was only a blank wall that I can face the whole day. It is so blank that no one is texting or calling me that time. I placed my phone on top of the table when mom called me for dinner. All I thought was that the night will be my dullest birthday ever. But when I finished dinner, after we said our nightly prayers and yearly thanksgiving on my new year, I got my phone with the thought of setting the alarm for the next day, but it is up to that moment, where I realize that the moon is at its brightest glow, when I finally saw a text message coming from you, "I would just like to greet you a very happy birthday before I finish off the day."

I am now seated on a bench seeing the beautiful lake in front of me. I see the ducks lined up as they wave their squishy wet tails. Up above there is the endless horizon, giving me enough air for me to breathe so softly, so tenderly and so admiringly. I still have the memories here whenever I am with you.

My 10th birthday seems to be the most adventurous event of my life. the first birthday that I am not with my own family as our class decided to have a field trip up in the lakeside, 3 towns away from ours. I dropped down my bag to drink some water. You helped me build my tent, and then offered your lunch to me as you said, Sorry. This is all I can give for now. Soon, I'll have something for you. I promise. Happy birthday."

I got some of our favorite chips inside my bag and I'm eating it now as the wind's caressing my whole body. Out of nowhere came to the point where I felt your presence in my mind.

I can still remember when my parents invited your parents to join us in the restaurant for my 11th birthday dinner. We were very happy because many times, we were always there for each other especially on my very special day. We ordered our favorite pasta dish and favorite flavored ice creams. When the food already came, dad asked you to lead the prayer. And I felt silent after I hear the words "May this grace will give my friend the strength for the fruitful years to come. Amen."

I started to pick up flowers from the rose bushes nearby the benches. I called your brother and told him to give the ordered flowers to some random person he will see along the way. I felt awkward for not being able to think of what you like most in life. Then I remembered the thing that happened on my 12th birthday when we were in our garden, weeding and picking up roses.

I thought that was a worm. That little creature is so disgusting for me before. I really hate the brown and hairy body of that creepy crawler. I was about to spank it with my slippers when you suddenly grabbed my hand with your hand and stopped me. You picked a rose, let that creepy crawler crawl onto that and put it on the rose bush. I don't know if you're crazy that time or something but what I loved the most is that thing that you said to me after that, "It's not a worm. It's a caterpillar." You pointed a butterfly from a distance; we looked at it closely as it flew from one flower to a flower. It made me happy. Then, you picked another rose, removed the thorns, cut the stem into a small one and place it on my ears and said, "Someday, I know you'll crawl into this rose and be a butterfly soon. May you find the perfect butterfly in your life."

Your brother just arrived in the lakeside just after I picked the roses. I went straight to the car and I am now neatly removing the thorns found on the stem of the roses that I am holding now, the very same thing that we used to do ever since. Just after I removed everything, I just sat down quietly and gently closed my eyes and eventually fell asleep.

It was my 13th birthday. It's 4 am and I heard singing voices accompanied by a guitar. At first thought, I thought that I was just dreaming or it was just some of our disturbing neighbors who always sing with the karaoke until dawn. Isn't that annoying? Yes! it was. And it is until now. But then, I realized that those people were singing the Happy Birthday song. I immediately went out from bed and went straight to my room balcony. And to my surprised, I see candles everywhere- on my rails, in the garden, lanterns all lighted up, and every person, my classmate and family, each holding a candle for me. They're singing endless happy birthday songs for me. I had tears in my eyes on that very special early morn. It's one of the most amazing birthdays I had in my entire life! When the singing and merry making were already done, everyone started to enter the house and ate the simple food that my family prepared the night before. Well, my family really loves to surprise me. I thought it was my mom's idea since she always surprises us. Just as everyone were starting to leave, you talked to me for a while and said, "I hope you enjoyed my early surprise for you." I felt very happy that it was you who initiated that surprise. I was very touched with what you did and with what you said that you did that because, "I just want you to be happy."

We are now approaching the city proper and I am so excited to go to the other side of the country- our destination. I would like to see the freshness of nature again. Not here in the city, I always see pollution, dusts, smokes and traffics.

It was during my 14th birthday when your brother offered to accompany us to buy the things that we will offer for the Sunday mass. You went to our house early in the morning and you were surprised to see me in my attire, ready to go already. We had a good laugh since you always call me Slowpoke because of my super slow motion. It was already 7 o'clock in the morning that time and the traffic was already extreme. We got bored that we decided to think about the things that we will buy. We agreed to buy this and to buy that and we were already okay that time. As we were conversing that time, a young boy knocked through the car window, begging for some money. You asked for some change from your brother and gave it to the boy. I can still remember saying to you that we should not tolerate their actions for just asking because they need to earn for a living. But then, you told me that maybe, they're just still on the wrong track but you were so optimistic that time that they will change for the better sooner or later. I asked you again on why are you doing that thing. And you gave me a simple answer of, "Because that can make me happy."

At last, we are now leaving the city proper and we are now entering the rural area of our vicinity. Your brother offered me a drink and I am now drinking it. This is so refreshing. We are now talking for some things. And eventually, we came to the point where we were talking about Visas.

I was expecting that my Visa will be approved on my 15th birthday or days after my 15th birthday. I was really excited that time because I really want to go to the United States of America to meet my relatives there whom I haven't seen for so long. You were also excited for me that time. With your excitement, I can still remember that you always text me and call me so that you will be updated if my Visa is already okay or not yet. We were eating that time in our house when my Father approached me and told me about the sad news that my Visa was not successfully processed. My feelings went extremely down. After all the excitement that I had before, I felt that I was already hopeless that time. You accompanied me outside our house to take a deep breath in the garden and talked to me about some things. You told me that I should not cry. But what else can I do? I've been wanting to go there already I said. After exchanging some words, you felt something strange and told me to call your dad. I asked you what the problem is. But you demanded that I should call your father at that very moment. I rushed inside the house, worrying about what's happening. I told that about what happened to you and he immediately rushed to the garden even if I am not yet done telling what happened. I called your dad but then, my dad and mom already took you to the hospital and I followed with your mother too. Are you over-reacting with the feelings that I have that time after my Visa was declined? That was the thing that comes into my mind that moment. But I still prayed for your fast recovery of whatever the reason is. After three days, you eventually went out from the hospital and I asked you what happened but you told me that it's just nothing and you added, "Don't rush on knowing things because they will eventually come to you at right place and at the right time."

Me and your brother are still conversing about the things that are happening to our lives lately. We're now talking about some of the "What-Ifs" of our lives. So, I remembered you once again.

Just after a year later, we asked ourselves about the "What-Ifs" of our lives. I'm already 16 that time when we had one of the most serious talks in our entire lives. We tried answering if what if we're not friends? What if we're not this close? What if we were not born? There are still many things that I would like to add here but it will take me 10 years to write done everything as we were able to talk for about hours about those "What Ifs". What if… what if… what if… What if my Visa was approved? What will you do? That's the very thing that really tucked in my mind. "I will never miss you." I was shocked with your answer that time. I felt angry with you that time because after all the years of friendship, you will not miss me? How could such a friend like you do not miss a friend like me who is millions of miles apart? But then you added, "I will not miss you because in your heart, I will stay."

We are still driving and from what I can see from the road side is the ocean with a very tiny island from the very far stretch of the ocean. I wondered on what are the things that we can see there. I really want to go there and see for myself and discover many things regarding that island. This is exactly the same feelings when my visa got approved and I was able to go to US already a year after.
   

This is probably the most boring birthday of my life because you're not here with me for the first time. We were miles apart so we can never have neither lunch nor dinner or even just for us to talk personally. I was expecting that you will find an alternative. Maybe you'll greet me through chat or just send me an email. I eagerly waited for your greeting. I am already 17. And still no greetings from you yet. Where are you? Are you still even here? Answer me please. Are you still even here… with me?

At last. We are already here in the place where I can see and feel you again. I see mom standing there and dad together with her. Your mother approached me now as she welcomed me with a joyful hug because I just came back from the states and they all greeted me a very warm 18th birthday greeting. For a year, I've been longing to celebrate my 18th birthday with you since we were not together last year. And at last, I am here already with you. At last. I am already here, not to see you but rather, just to feel you.

I neatly placed the roses i picked for you in front of your picture. I can now see your face at last. Your picture, you're so thin there. I wonder why you are like that. But you know? I am really happy that we are together now. Not only we are together on my birthday but because, we are now sharing the same date of birth. There are more reasons to celebrate right? The day that I was born here on earth and your birthday that made you born there in Heaven.

Happy birthday to us dear.

But just as I was about to leave and be with my parent already, your dad approached me and gave me your letter dated three days before my birthday last year:

"My ultimate wish for you is for you to have a happily ever after story. I'm really praying that I can still greet you on your 17th birthday this year before I end up my heavenly days with you here on earth. Sorry. This is all I can give for now. Soon, in the second life, I'll have something for you. I promise. May this serve as a grace for you which will give you the strength for the fruitful years to come. May you find the perfect butterfly in your life. I just want you to be happy, because that alone can make me happy as I guide you from above. Don't rush on knowing things because they will eventually come to you at right place and at the right time. And remember, I will not miss you because in your heart, I will stay. And I hope that I am still there in your heart because I will always be your friend until the end…"

I didn't want to end up reading your birthday wishes for me. But for now, let me have the opportunity to say not only a wish for me but a promise for you until eternity, "i will continue to live for you. I promise. I will forever be with you."

Happy birthday to me and happy birthday and anniversary to you too.

Treat Me as Someone Else

It's been just months since I first met you. For the first few days, I acted like I don't know you. The feeling is just plain. We passed by the corridor without even waving our hands together or to just even take some time to smile. I don't even know your name. All I know is that you were someone who is new to our world. Someone whom I can never expect to be in my own little world.

But every time the day allows us to meet, the unexpected things come.  Every time I see you, the feeling of something grows as if I am a flower and you are the water and my reason that I am growing.

At my first thought, we still treat each other like strangers. 

But I hope that we'll treat each other as someone else.

Out of nowhere came, the time when I saw you standing alone while I am sitting here talking to my friends. I can still remember your innocent eyes looking at your phone, and then looking around, and back to your phone, as if you were just looking for the time for something to happen.

I can still remember my feelings that time. I wanted to call you and join us but, I was too shy. I feel like a puppet. Dangling around the elegant scene as I can see you glazing like the sun that shines so thin. Well, not as bright as I say, but bright enough to make my day.

I took a deep breath, gather some positive feelings around and called you. I spanked myself and asked myself, "Dang. Are you crazy?". I stopped for a while and took a good look for what I have done. But it was too late. You were already walking towards us, more specifically, towards me.

You sat down beside me and asked my name and I asked yours.

 From then on, we then treated each other as friends.

But I treated you as someone else.

Slowly, I started to unveil your character. Slowly, I am starting to see your very own self. From an innocent person into a more loving one. You trusted me so easily that you had shared many things to me. I started to feel something that made me feel happy. We spend many nights talking to each other. We spent countless hours, making fun, having some merry moments and being with each other even if we're a mile apart. You always open up my day and never ever failed to close my night as I say, "Sweet feeling. Thank you."

I know that I will be your guiding star but I don't know if you know that too.

You treated me as your big brother.

But I still treat you as someone else.

ENOUGH! I just want to share this thing to you. I love you from the bottom of my heart.

Now, can you treat me as someone else too? Someone whom you can call "Mine" forever?

Painting with Lights

I’m in the dorm now. Im a little bit tired even if i rode with a private service. Overall, traveling to and from the city is really really really tiring.

 

Well anyway, the other night, I was browsing my pictures folder here in my laptop when i found some of the interesting pictures with my classmate and friend Micco Jay. I think the pictures was taken last semester after our debate classes.

 

Painting with lights  really intrigues me before so i told Micco that we need to do that thing as soon as possible.

 

This was my first attempt. I dont even know on how do that special thing. It makes me think however that i can do it. I saw many pictures before in my most favorite art and community site DeviantART. I was pretty much amazed on their creativity in light painting. Indeed, seeing myself doing this was indeed a great experience for me since i myself wanted to this thing from the very start.

 

Check out the attempts of my friend Micco, Just click the pictures so that you can view it clearly.

 

 

Take a good look at the second picture of Micco. He acts like Dumbloedore there. Hahah. kidding XD Well, did i told you that I really love my name? I tried writing my initials with some cool lights. My first attempt was unacceptable therefore, i tried writing my name again. Take a good look at my pictures.

 

 

The experience was indeed fun and exciting! hahah.

 

Try it guys! Here’s a simple tutorial that i found in the internet: Painting With Lights Tutorial and also see this webpage with lots of beautiful masterpieces and tutorial as well: Another tutorial with example

 

Till here!

 

 

xoxo,

Skeeper

I see 5 homes.

Home sweet home. <3

 

But sadly, only for two days. Tomorrow, i will be leaving bound for the city where I am studying. Once again, I will miss my family.  Well, nuff said. Now, about the 5 homes.

 

Last month, i am very much aware that there’s a nest in our garden. But to my surprise, my 3 year old nephew called me to go outside the house and to meet him at our garden. And he pointed his finger towards the herb where the nest was built. And i did not only saw 1 nest but i saw three nest!

 

But i tell you, this is where I can see two nests made by those cute little birds for their cute little eggs.

Here’s the herb by the way. I am not sure with its name but i know that it’s an herb. Or pardon me if it’s not an herb. I just dont know this thing.

 

In our window, i was also amazed that there’s another nest there. It’s really cute. It’s like they’re making a new community in our house. Sometimes, i wonder if birds do communicate whenever they will decided to make a house for their families. I mean, do they have a neighborhood system? It’s definitely cool to study smething related to that – honestly.

 

 

But that’s not all!

 

There’s another set of nests in our Chinese Bamboo plant. Well, i apologize for not taking a close picture of the nest. It looks like that i just took a picture of the Chinese bamboo itself and not the nests. Shame on me.

 

Well, whatever the case is, i am excited to see the hatchlings soon!

 

Some Insights

 

Actually, it makes me feel good that those birds are like making a community in our house. Lucky for them because they made their nests in our house. I know that they will be safe there. This is so peculiar. I mean, i think that even birds have the sense of communication in building a community.

What do you think? i think that it’s cool. Maybe, they’re making that so that they can work hand in hand everyday as they continue to live. Isn’t that sweet and amazing?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

,

xoxo,

Skeeper

 

 

Technorati Tags: journal sharing environment

In the next 2,190 days of our lives as Filipinos

After the ‘i-think-clean’ Presidential elections of the Philippines, I believe that yesterday is another beginning of the lives of Filipinos around the world. A day that can even change the way we live in the past regime. Whether it’ll be for good or for the bad thing, we cannot say yet. But one thing is for sure, that everything will be in its proper place (I hope).

Personally, as a youth, I always believed in the capacity of Gibo Teodoro. Well, I will always believe in him no matter what. I’ve been a volunteer of Gibo here in our city and went through some enjoyable moments during the campaign especially when the NGOs and some friends here managed to have a street party where we converted the boring night into a joyous night with a festive atmosphere,  jolly attitudes and noisy night. I was really hopeful that my bet will win for the elections. I WAS REALLY CONFIDENT that time. But then, things do come in unexpected packages. all we have to do is to accept reality.   Yesterday was declared as a special non-working holiday since we are celebrating the Inauguration of our President elect Noynoy Aquino.

I’ve been living in a dormitory for 3 years already and since I’m away home, I dont have some of the things like you do have like the television. And yes, I was not able to watch the history in the making yesterday. What a shame on my part. But it’s just okay with. It’s really okay with me since i know the reason on why my parents didn’t allowed me to bring my television here with me. Well, it’s really part of the discipline that i should accept as a student.

 

In the next 2,190 days…

I am hopeful for the present administration. As a Filipino, it is my obligation to put my trust to our leaders. But above all, as a person, it is my choice that i will make it into action.

In the next 2,190 days…

I will try to see my use as part of the Philippine Government. I will do my best to take part and to be aware of the things that will happen in the days to come and to never put some grudges into them even if i am doing nothing. Well, this kind of attitude is very visible in our present situation. People tend to become apathetic but then, when the worst time comes, they are the first ones to blame the government. Think people, think! have you ever done something so that our administration will continue to become successful?

In the next 2,190 days plus plus plus, i will value my nationality. I will always treasure it. And there is one thing that we aren’t sure of yet. Things are vulnerable to sudden changes. We are not sure if he will serve us in the next 2,190 days to come or even more or even less. But we have to remember that there are may things in life that we can do as a nation. but there is one thing that we can be sure of and that is to pray. God will always be here for us no matter what.

 

So Noynoy, Congratulations, Good luck and God bless.

 

xoxo,

Skeeper

 

A Sad Pinch in my Heart

i am serious.

got broken. i have been detaching myself from the world i am seeing now. been very depressed for my insecurities. been very much displeased with my troublesome thoughts. been very much aware of the sadness present in my surroundings.

but then, i promise to move on and get a life again.

as a DEVIANT and as a blogger, i will never give up.

(Tell me that i am right and i will surely be alright)

I love you. whoever you are.

Aside from this, i was really touched with the Daily Deviation ^Norke featured last 2010-06-23. this made me think of the story behind that deviation.

Here it is:

care by ~3yen on deviantART

Nuff said. you feel something too. feel the love with in you guys. let everyone feel that you love them.

 

 

xoxo,

Skeeper

IFP Conference Experience

Initiative for Peace: Focus in Mindanao

It is one of the best conferences that i experienced in my entire life! the whole thing was indeed fun and i am very happy that i was able to meet new people from all walks of life that i can say that already took a spot in my heart. Meeting such great people and experiences did not only enhanced my knowledge and skills but also strenthened my ideals, faith and moral values towards in meeting peace in my heart and in my community.

Just a short background in the coference that i attended:

 

The Luzon People

The conference taught us many things that will really play an important role in meeting our goals and aspirations from our country and for the whole world in general. The conference made us think again of the historical background of the conflicts we are experiencing in our communities. We had really a hard time yet memorable sharing during that activity and the good thing here is that we were able to share our experiences of the conflicts which made the people from Luzon more aware of the situations in Mindanao. Moreover, we all able to trace down the history of conflicts which i believe is a basis that we really know something about the situation.

“People from all walks of life come together for peace and harmony.”

This is during our meeting too. We really had a fun time here together with the Mindanao People and with our two lovely facilitators, Meike and Danica. At first, our ideas crashed up until we had the chance to put everything in its proper places. Just a quick reflection, even if given just a little time, if we will just work together, then we can always do great things.

Here’s the final output from the people from Mindanao and the bottom image shows the final output from the people from Luzon. I believe that grouping us in that way was intentional and im happy with it because we were also able to see the differences of the two outputs which made us realize many many many things regarding the issues we are experiencing.

So enough for the introductory part and let’s proceed to my wonderful experiences with the most wonderful people i just met.

My trip began from Ipil to Zamboanga to Cebu. It’s my first time in Cebu City but it’s already my seconf time to stay in Cebu International Ariport since i went there already when i was arranged in a connecting flight bound for Davao City.

We stayed at Roseatte Pensionne and the room was really great and comfortable. So thank you so much guys! ^_^

This was one of the most first games we played during the conference. we really enjoyed this game together with the ‘Mingle Mingle’ game. All the games prepared by our facilitators are really great and exciting and i was really amazed on how they planned things and every game marks unique ideals and lessons that are important to learn. During the conference, I am also brought with me some of the things i need like the Kit that they provided to us together with my ever loving sign pen i found in our cathedral here. I bet God gave that to me :) and the Dialogue Mindanaw and Healing the past, builiding the Future book by our beloved Bishop (now Archbishop) Antonio J. Ledesma, SJ DD. these things really helped me a lot.

The conference will never be completed without the pictures that  we took that will remind us of this very great conference where our friendship started and where our trust to each other was built.

This photo was taken at the local downtown branch of Shamrock, the home of Cebu’s finest delicacies. If ever you’ll go to Cebu, do not forget to buy Otap, Piaya, Lady Finger, Barquillos and many things here. They are sure fresh and tasty. This was the beginning of our two-hour break where we went very wild to Ayala Mall and Shamrock. hahaha. Kidding. but yeah. we acted like kiddies that time XD

A pose outside Shamrock. We really had fun during the short stay outside the conference venue but as adults, we are really much taught of keeping responsible of the time. So we tried to not be late for the next session since they gave us a long time to go around the city. Thanks for the lovely people <3

In the conference, we had many many many activities starting from the warm up games, eating, sessions/seminars, trust games, film viewing, sharing time and the buddy group time. One of the most memorable activity that we had is this activity:

Step one: We were asked to make a circle and to sit close to each other. We thought that it was just a simple activity which will only require us to sit and to utter something random. But we were wrong. It gave us a shock of our lives. positive shock of course ;)

Step two: The fun just began as you can see here. We were asked to lie down to the persons beside us and to put our arms on top of our chest and to close our eyes. The whole thing is really great and that was the start of the unending trust to each other.

Step three: They started to remove our chairs and to just lie down in our seatmates and to just relax on their bodies while other people are relaxing on yours too. I think that it was Christal who took my chair out and i thought that she was just arranging my chair and i started to open my eyes and saw Carlos and told me to close my eyes and then I realized that they were actually getting my chair. And they always say, "Trust each other.”

To be honest, I almost fell down as i think that i was one of the first persons who took my chair off me. and my legs were really shaking that time as my position was relatively imbalanced to Laila’s body and to Rubie’s body too. But then we were happy that we had a successful activity.

I can also remember the usual places where we usually stay during our free time. Rooms 401 and 304. And ofcourse, our stay was made happier and alive because of the ice creams that we usally buy in…. *drum roll please*

hahaha. The convenient store is sure convenient. That’s the only thing that i can say. 

This was one of the most memorable experiences i had during the entire duration of the conference. A fun night with our loving, beautiful and handsome facilitators. hahaha. yeah! they are all good looking and very brilliant minded at the same time. They are one of the most amazing persons we have met. Thank God for those wonderful persons in our lives. The whole night was filled with happy moments, crazy acts and joyous dances and sharings. The picture picture sessions at the convenient store was really amazing and plus, we got the chance to be with them for a longer time while having fun doing and talking about anything! I really love the persons there.

When we went to Ayala Mall during our free time, I had the chance to go to National Bookstore to buy some construction papers for a simple surprise to our facilitators. I spent 2 nights and some hours looking for some simple origamis in youtube and tried to make them. I tried many things then i found a simple way to make a cat. but i failed because i lack time so that’s why, i was just able to make the cat’s head and just folded the letter and attached it to the head.

But i am happy that they liked my simple remembrance to them. I tried to make it as personal as posible.

Here are my paper cutouts and my letters too! I am so happy that i was able to make the letters and the sad thing is, i was not able to take a picture of the final output because i was already rushing that time. But im still happy.and i hope that i was able to make them happy as well <3

 

Every things that starts also has an end. but that will not end the friendship and trust that we just built with the people in our lives. This picture was taken as the first batch of the group is about to leave and to go back to their respective lives. back to normal they say but ofcourse, the memories will always stay in our hearts, forever. Thank you so much guys.

These wonderful people, i will always treasure them in my life and will serve as my inspirations as i continue to celebrate, share and generate more lives with others.

SIDE TRIPS!

So so so, ofcourse, i intentioanlly extended my stay in Cebu City so that i can explore Cebu City. YAHOO! good thing that i was able to tour around with Maki, Razil, Mark, Jal, Hoby, KC and Joey. The whole thing was indeed fun and i am really happy :D

Cebu is really a great city with many beautiful scenic spots and lively places. And i am so happy :D really happy :D

Destinations:  THE MAGELLAN’S CROSS, STO. NINO CHURCH, CEBU METROPOLITAN CATHEDRAL, FORT SAN PEDRO, AYALA MALL, CHEAVER’S GRILLE

The picture on the right side of the screen shows a short yet informative information about this historical site which was built in 1941.

This is me at the site of the Magellan’s Cross. The place is really amazing and im very hapy to see this for the first time as this place is really historical in our Phlippine culture and history.

  me with Maki, Mark and Razil. We really had a good time. but hell! the sun was really hotttttt that time. but still, we had a good time :3

A closer view inside. Then we bought some candles and lighted it inside the Sto. Nino church What to expect here? People who are actually selling candles and they have lots of colored candles available which symbolizes many things. From studies, work/career, love, prayers for the Baby Jesus, Mother Mary and Papa Joseph. Ofcourse, to think, prayers are enough but then, candles make our prayers more meaningful as they can add more feelings especially when we are lighting them.

Here’s m candle. I offered it to God to thank Him for the wonderful experiences He is constantly giving me. and ofcourse, to my family and friends too :D

This is also the historical Sto. Nino church. The whole thing is really amazing. From the outside to the inside of the church.

A pose with Maki. One of newest and best buds :D He is really a great guy :D

Next destination was the Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral. Man, their Cathedral is so beautiful and the style is very antique. The gothic themed church is really a great spot and the park in fron of the church is really amazing and clean. i admire the cleanliness of the Cebuanos. KUDOS!

Then we went to Fort San Pedro and filled our cameras with vanities. hahaha

This is the very beautiful place. You can see canons here, strange rocks, beautiful landscapes, castle-like architecture and many more things! The whole place is very silent and it will really soothe your tired body and mind.

“The strange vanity inside ourselves brought all of us closer to each other.” -AHAHAHA

Did you guys know that we are also models? hahaha.

See? i told you :3

But then, some of them need to leave early to catch up there respective flight schedules. So sad but then i realized that staying with them is enough to complete my day.

Everyone left already except for Kc, Joan, Jal and Me. KC and Joan stayed in our room and we went to the mall too. Then, we went to Cheaver’s Grille which is really far from the downtown area. but we really had fun :D

Some of the food there plus the two lovely ladies. :D

So the day ended when we went back to our hotel room and stayed there for a while then we went to Pacific Hotel to lead KC and Joan there. Then i packed my things and prepare for my departure :( I overslpet. yes. but thanks to my mom who called me to check if i am already awake. MOM, thanks and I LOVE YOU! you are the best. I went down at the hotel 10 minutes before the arrival of the van that will take me to the airport. 2.30 came and i was really worried already. I need to be at the Ariport 2 hours before my flight. 2.31… 2.32… 2.33… 2.34… i was sooo worried.

But God is guiding me. I saw a taxi approaching the hotel with Carlos, Bas, Billy, Michelle and Luiza. I am so thankful to them. Really tahnks guys :)

They also told me that they will stay with me until the van will arrive. that made my heart melt with joy ofcourse.

When it was already 3.50, they called a Taxi and finally, i left with a happy heart. I am so happy that i was with them when i left the hotel and i felt more their love and care to all of us. While on the taxi, i had a constant talk with the driver and i told the driver some of the things i learned in the conference. and i also told them that they are our friends who are helping our country. and we should be thankful to them.

everything went very smooth while im on the airport. and i’ll not go into the details of what happened there as i am tired now. hahaha

The sky was filled with a ocean-like clouds. It was really amazing.

and i’’m home now.