An Inconvenient Truth

About The Film

               An “inconvenient truth” is said to be an idea, information or concept that rather be kept than shared. Yet as long as one keeps it concealed, he continues to suffer because of the anxiety of getting it disclosed in time. That is why it’s inconvenient. The movie is mainly about global warming. It was mentioned in the documentary that a group of evaluators of the findings on global warming has a memo that aimed to reposition global warming as a theory rather than a fact. Thus, as an advocate of combating this environmental concern, Al Gore encourages scientists to speak up as well as the government to accept the fact that global warming is true and alarming. Hence, global warming is the one pertained to as the “inconvenient truth.”

Summary of the Film in 10 Words

       The film tackled the causes and effects of global warming.

Five Evidences Used by Al Gore to Support His View of Anthropogenic Global Warming

a. His first evidence is the study of his college professor named Roger Revelle. The study is about the measurement of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. Al Gore shared that the result of the study is startling. He showed a graph that conveyed the number of CO2 in the atmosphere going up from the year 1958 onwards and projected that it the worst is yet to come.

b. The second proof that supported his view on this issue are his comparisons on the previous and recent pictures of melting glaciers such as the ones found on Kilimanjaro, Switzerland, Peru, Argentina Glacier National Park, Columbia Glacier, and the Italian Alps. He also shared a picture of the status of the Himalayas. He also added that within a half-century people who depend on the melt water coming from it for their water consumption would experience a very serious shortage because of its rapid melting.

c. He also presented the results of the digging of core drills in Antartica that reveals the temperature on a particular period because when the snow falls, it traps little bubbles of atmosphere. Hence, they can go in and measure how much CO2 was in the atmosphere the year that that snow fell. They can measure the different isotopes of oxygen and figure out a very precise thermometer and tell what the temperature was, the year that that bubbles was trapped in the snow as it fell. He reported that it’s researchers found out that it’s the first time in 650,000 years that the CO2 level has gone above 300 parts per million, together with a graph projecting its going up.

d. Furthermore, he emphasized the relationship of the CO2 level and temperature. The higher the CO2 level, the higher the temperature is. The results of the drilling in Antartica attest the higher temperature that the world is experiencing.

e. Gore discussed more on the higher temperature. He presented the 10 hottest years ever measured. In atmospheric record, the hottest temperatures all occurred in the last 14 years. He added that the hottest of all was 2005(the most recent datum when it’s released). Heat waves also are prevalent he shared. One such phenomenon killed 35,000 people in Europe. India experienced 122 degrees Fahrenheit on the year the latter happened. In the American West, on summer 2005, a lot of cities broke all-time records for high temperatures and number of consecutive days with a 100-degree temperature or more.

f. He also had data on the recent ocean temperatures. He emphasized that the warmer the oceans, the greater the strength of the storms that are formed. He proved this by enumerating a number of strong hurricanes that occurred. Not just hurricanes but tornadoes and typhoons as well are happening in an intensified level. He named hurricanes Frances, Jeanne and Katrina among others from other countries such as the typhoons that happened in Japan and Brazil.

g. Al Gore also used the evidences of heavy precipitations leading to flooding. He specified the flooding in India and China. He said that because of the rising temperature, evaporation is triggered strongly. Because the evaporation off the oceans puts all the moisture up, when storm conditions trigger the downpour, more of it falls down.

h. He too did present the fact of global warming relocating the precipitation that makes some parts of the world such as Darfur and Niger in Africa to experience drought. There’s even this lake, the Lake Chad which almost dried to nothing because of the growing temperature. According to the film, this is so because with higher temperatures, soil evaporation dramatically; thus, it sucks the moisture out of the soil.


A Reaction

       Al Gore is a father I would like to have. Don’t get me wrong though. I love my Dad. It’s just that despite all the facts as to the causes, effects and issues regarding global warming, which is the film’s main topic, what really struck me the most is his sharing about his life. Short clips of him telling how he feared losing his son and how is his life as a kid really got me. I know I’m drawing the line in a wrong place here; yet for me the film isn’t just about the “inconvenient truth” which he pertains to as the intensifying anthropogenic global warming. It’s also about a disclosure of the heart. It’s also an imparting of a life’s learned lessons. Likewise a flickering of a fire to move not just to save planet Earth for the next generations but also of following the calling that we hear not by our ears but by our hearts. For him, this calling is moving people to act on global warming and view it as a moral issue that everyone, whatever their race may be, must combat through his slide shows and talks.

        Perhaps, his film affirmed his calling. The film for me succeeded to open the eyes of those who are still ignorant or just plain apathetic. His multimedia presentations effectively pointed out his points. The data that he presented is very reliable and convincing. Also, his opinions are logical and sound. One thing though, he didn’t suggest any specific way to fight the issue aside from telling that the government must take more attention to this as much as they pay much attention on terrorism and economic development. There, there is the fishy part for me. It somehow sounded as a movement with his personal interest hidden on his pocket. It’s like he is suggesting that he is the right person to handle this issue hence he must have a position in the government.

     But then again, “It is not from the benevolence of the baker that we get our bread but from his self-interest.” What matters now is the truth that must be accepted and acted upon quick. Global warming is real and it’s alarming.

This is actually my assignment in my Environmental Science course about the film " An Inconvenient Truth."

The Great Global Warming Swindle

About the Title 

          The term “swindle” means to obtain or get money, property and any other forms of advantageous gain through deliberate deception, trickery, cheating, or telling and propagating lies and false ideas. The film’s title, “The Great Global Warming Swindle” conveys the creators’ belief that global warming is not caused by anthropogenic activities but is just continuously asserted to be so by many scientists because of the funds that they can acquire from researches concerning this. They also deem this issue as politically influenced. Hence, the people behind this film pushes the idea that anthropogenic global warming is a lie and is "the biggest scam of modern times." In other words, it is a swindle.

Summary of the Film in 10 Words

            Anthropogenic global warming is a lie and an exaggeration.

Five Arguments Used to Support the Film’s Stance on Anthropogenic Global Warming

1. The sun’s activity is very influential on global warming and cooling than any other anthropogenic or natural activity on Earth. The film even presented a graph showing a nice correlation of the occurrence of solar flares and the increase in earth’s temperature.
2. In contradiction to the asserted great effect of the increasing greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, the film argued that 95% of greenhouse gases is water vapor. Water particles in the atmosphere in the form of clouds serve as the reflector of incoming solar heat and thus is the one that has a greater impact on our temperature, greater than the greenhouse gases.
3. Carbon dioxide has a minimal influence on climate change. The film stated that CO2 is only as small as 0.054% of the Earth's atmosphere. It added that activities of us human race contributes much less than 1% of that. This percentage is so much small compared to the contribitions of volcanoes. Animals and plants also produce 150 gigatons of CO2 each year, significantly bigger than human’s. Decaying leaves produce even more CO2, and the oceans are "the biggest source of CO2 by far." Human activity is reckoned to produce only 6.5 gigatons of CO2 each year. Thus , as a conclusion, man-made CO2 emissions alone cannot be causing global warming.
4. The relationship between atmospheric carbon dioxide levels and temperature change is opposite as most are forced to believe. The documentary stressed that increase or decrease of carbon dioxide levels follows the increase or decrease of temperature rather than and not otherwise. It argued that as the global climate cools, the Earth's oceans absorb carbon dioxide. On the other hand, as the climate warms the oceans release carbon dioxide.
5. The documentary also lobbied the fact that there has been occurences of warming before. Thus, the warming that we are experiencing today is nothing unusual. They added that temperatures were way more extreme during the Medieval Warm Period, when great western Europe is in it’s peak of prosperity.

My Reaction

       
        The documentary really paved and created another way of viewing Global Warming for me. I am a little surprised when I eventually realize what it’s about. Somehow it lightened the issue of global warming as an environmental concern. Instead ,it emphasized that it’s really driven by self-interest and political influences. This film has kind of shook my understanding on what the issue is. I am uncertain now as to what manner I would deal with the issue. If it’s not that serious, then I won’t care and I suggest that the government would do as well. There are many researches that are more worthy of the funds that they are giving to the scientists dealing with this issue. There are many concerns much deserving of the efforts they are exerting such as how to combat poverty, malnutrition, starvation, pandemics, graft, corruption , crimes, terrorism etc.

      Also, as I imply from the film, we humans have not much power in combatting this problem as it is mainly caused by nature itself. Who can control the Sun? The film said that it’s the origin of most climate variability. Hence, none of the movements pushed can solve this problem wholly. It just a waste of effort and money.

I am not an expert to give criticisms to the evidences presented in the film. Yet, convincing as they are for me, I deem it’s not bad to deal with the issue, whether it may be serious or not. For one, being apathetic to it may consequently lead to the one that they are opposing. No one knows for sure that we are causing or not causing this dire global warming. The fact that we are discussing about it, and debating on it’s truthfulness is a manifestation that there are things to settle.

***Another assignment on my Enivironmental Science course. Now it's about the film "The Great Global Warming Swindle." The submission of this work is our last meeting since the Semester is about to end. I felt kind of sad. I want to thank my teacher, Sir Levi Francisco. More power to you!

What Makes a Man Truly Human?

To start, a man has unique physical attributes. He has a physique directly attributable to what a human being is. The way he talks, walks and do physical activities is distinctive of him. Yet these are the superficial ones. What makes a man truly human?

It has been said by Aristotle that “Man is a rational animal.” Hence, a man has the capability to think soundly. Humans do make decisions with the aid of reason. We have the ability to weigh things as to their pros and cons, and their rightness or wrongness. We are not like animals that just base their actions on their instincts. We are not like robots which only do what they are programed of. We have our rationality to rely on.

Consequent to our being rational is our being curious. We seek for answers. We seek to know what is not known. We look for certainty. Perhaps that’s why philosophers did philosophize in the first place. Moreover, humans do move to satisfy this curiousness. Somehow it’s persistent. Concrete outcomes of this persistence of curiosity are all that we have today. Technology, medicines, foods etc. are ones. Some persons even became alive as a product of curiosity. Thus, we don’t stay in whatever current state we are in, such as being ignorant. We move forward. Humans strive to get what’s good and comforting, such as knowing.

Sartre, an existentialist, said that “Man is condemned to be free.” That human beings have absolute freedom. Whatever arguments against his belief are, one thing is sure, we have freedom to exercise. We human beings can choose among choices. We can and can’t to things. We can or cannot will ourselves to do things. Also, we are self- making beings. We are products of what we do. Hence, we are products of our own freedom.

Together with freedom is responsibility. Human beings are responsible not just on his own well-being but on others as well. We are not alone. We need to co-exist with others. Human beings are social beings.

Human beings are both rational and social in nature. We are free. We are responsible. These qualities guide us as to what extent we are becoming a true human. Thus, it is the way a man lives his life is what makes him truly human. A man is the highest form of animal. A true human is a righteous man.

Another last paper on my Philo on Human Person I. What's with my teachers this sem? They really make me feel sad with their last words in our very last meetings. Anyway here is my integration paper.

Strolling Around Albay



At Embarcadero de Legazpi
 

           A tour in its essence is going into places. Indeed I’ve gone into different places which are somewhat new to me. I’ve already visited most of them in the past only that my memory about them is now vague. Revisiting them at this point in my life seem to bring me back to my past when my mother is tenderly holding my then cute little hand  and telling me how was her life during college while walking in the streets of Legazpi City. By that, I can say that I was brought to enkindle my personal history. Thanks to this tour.

Places no matter how beautiful or historical they are will not be that wonderful if one is alone; hence, if he doesn’t feel “at home”. I guess I appreciated the places I visited more because of my friends and my classmates who’ve been with me throughout the activity.

Some of the places I’ve already been into because of the similar activities during high school. But some that I learned this time seem to surprise me making me ask: “Did they tell me that before?” I think I just did not take them seriously before. Maybe it’s now that I became more mature that these places made sense.

View of Mayon Volcano at the side of Daraga Church

Perhaps not all that I visited this time are familiar to me. Some of them are new to my sight. I can say some of them are disappointing but some of them are really wonderful. It’s my first time to be in Embarcadero. The place is just decent contrary to what I’ve heard about it. What’s more disappointing is the super high fences before the said place that seem to block the view of the nipa houses that resemble those houses of those squatter areas in Manila. I’ve heard of this before but it’s really different when it came into reality. Truth really hurts. Are they that hypocrites as to conceal them?

At the stairs leading to the inside Daraga Church

Most importantly, since this is a learning journey that I’ve been into, I believe I recognized more the value of these presently existing and very tangible places that are said to have played a part on the life of the early inhabitants of the Philippines. Seeing them and being on them led me to become conscious as to how important they for affirming the facts and information that I’ve heard and read about them. There are times that I feel skeptical about what is being instilled on me about certain places but I deem I just need to take them all in and believe. I guess no one can satisfy my curiosity and end my skepticism unless someone from the past confirm them as true. That is, to believe and to appreciate these places as they are and what is known about them at this time.

 

 

Doubting and I

            How can one be sure? How can things be attested? What is  the truth amongst stances that are claimed to be such?

            For one, I am not certain as to the submission date of this paper. Well, I am to blame. I lost the paper where I wrote the pertinent information on. Worse, I even lost my memory as to what the due date is. One thing is for sure though, this must be accomplished as early as possible. This will be submitted sooner or later.

            Perhaps, doubting when I am supposed to submit this made me feel uneasy. I need to know the specific date that this should be passed. I was motivated to search for it. That's why I asked a classmate of mine as to when is the submission date. She answered that this would be due on September 4, Tuesday. I was relieved, though there is still something in me that makes me ask if she tells me the right information. Nonetheless, this must be made.

            Doubting or not trusting as to the certainty of her answer somehow lead me to realize the fact that I have a paper to make regardless of when the due date is. As, Rene Descartes' “universal methodic doubt states”, doubting precedes certainty. In other words, doubting is the foundation of  clear and distinct knowledge.

            Also, doubting affirms one's existence. Not just my existence as a human being but also the existence of the problem. As he had said, doubting one's existence confirms that he really do exist. “ Cogito ergo sum.”

            Once I was asked, what is more true than truth itself? Now, I can confidently answer that doubt is more true that truth itself. One cannot doubt that he is doubting, for that mere doubting that he doubts proves that he is in doubt. Complicated yet simple isn't it? Additionally, it's because of the doubt that one is motivated to search for the truth. Doubting makes attests a truth.

            I don't deny that I don't trust anyone I just newly meet. They'll have to pass a series of unwritten criteria first before I give them my confidence.

            I also don't deny that I did doubt if my course is really the one that is for me. I admit that until now I still do. But there are times that I venture into other fields such as singing, dancing, facilitating among others . I can do all of them all right. Yet there comes a time that I unconsciously compare them to accounting, having the latter in my opinion as more apt for me. Now, that uncertainty is kind of alleviated.

            Confidence and trust must not be given totally to someone or something. Hence, if one does, he is prone to manipulations and deceits. Better to keep everything that is worthy the benefit of the doubt. They may be doubting as well.

            Doubting perhaps is not always outwards. Everyone including myself must also reflect and decipher the truth of their identity and personhood. “The unexamined life is not worth living.” Socrates had said. I admit that there are things about myself that I doubt. Many of them in fact. Some major things. Now, I know that it's just right for me to just do it. Eventually this will lead to the certainty that I am longing for. Most importantly, I must not just ignore them. The fact that I am doubting confirms that I have problems to settle.

            Thus, the lesson that struck me among  all our midterm lessons is Rene Descartes' philosophy about doubt and his quest for certainty.

 This an essay about Descartes's philosophy about Doubt made by me.           

A Hero who Lived in Today’s Heroic World

It has been said that “Being a hero is about the shortest-lived profession on earth.” Indeed it is. It runs true with the demise of Jesse M. Robredo, the former secretary of the Department of Interior and Local Government and former mayor of Naga City. His untimely death, age 54, blaming the four-seater Piper Seneca plane’s engine malfunction that lead to its lethal crash into the sea, a kilometer away from the runway, and about 55m (180 ft) underwater, have had people saying that he was gone too soon.
 
Personally, I don’t know him as most people older than me do. Being born so much later than him, I was not aware of his greatness as a person, a leader, and as a public servant until he was already a corpse. That is, what happened to him has brought his life’s accomplishments to the limelight. Having known him and what he had achieved and done, I label him as one of the modern day heroes. I now agree with most people who deem that he was gone too soon. He is so promising. He could have effected so much more change that would benefit our country.


He is a hero on his own right. In fact he is the very definition of what a hero is. Defined by oxforddictionaries.com as “a person, typically a man, who is admired for their courage, outstanding achievements, or noble qualities,” it is just righteous to acknowledge him as a hero.

Plato said that “A hero is born among a hundred, a wise man is found among a thousand, but an accomplished one might not be found even among a hundred thousand men.” Well, we found one in Robredo. “He won the 2000 Ramon Magsaysay Award for Government Service (Asia’s version of the Nobel Prize) for his good governance programs. He has also received 13 other major awards, including the 1998 Konrad Adenauer Medal of Excellence as Most Outstanding City Mayor of the Philippines,Junior Chamber International (JCI) 1994 Ten Outstanding Young Persons of the World (TOYP) Honoree, Junior Chamber of the Philippines (JCI-Philippines) 1990 Ten Outstanding Young Men of the Philippines (TOYM), and the first ever “Dangal ng Bayan” Award of the Civil Service Commission”1. Now who can argue that he is indeed a very accomplished man?

He is also a very dignified and noble individual. His words say so.

“The most important ingredient of leadership is character. Most of the proficiencies can be learned, but what's inside you is something that's difficult to change,” Robredo once said in a television documentary.2

"Hindi rin sapat na tayo ay mahusay lamang. Hindi lahat ng matino ay mahusay, at lalo namang hindi lahat ng mahusay ay matino,” he is fond of telling colleagues, according to the DILG website. “Ang dapat ay matino at mahusay upang karapat-dapat tayong pagkatiwalaan ng pera ng bayan.”3


Perhaps it’s not just his authentic words, but his works as well show how noble and humble he is as a person. Enchong Dee, now a well-known celebrity and a former beneficiary of Robredo’s scholarship program, shared that Sec. Jesse doesn’t want his works to be broadcast. In parallel to his statement, is his "Anti-Epal" campaign, one of the ordinances that he implemented while seated in DILG. The ordinance is about "banning names or initials and/or images or pictures of government officials in billboards and signages of government programs, projects and properties."

The late DILG Secretary is also an epitome of honesty and justice. He was known to be frugal and strict as to the usage of the city’s treasury. He looks thoroughly into the allocation of the budget before he approves a certain undertaking. He uprightly dislikes “cosmetic projects, preferring instead to spend funds on vital infrastructure projects for the greater public good”4. Once he said, “At least, may karapatan kaming sumingil ng buwis dito at hindi namin inaaksaya ang pera.”5

“When he was appointed as DILG secretary in 2010, Robredo brought the same values to the agency, focusing on drumming up public support for the Full Disclosure Policy. This would require local government units to disclose in public places the 12 key financial documents that show how their funds are spent.”6

In times of troubles, he remains firm on what he believes is right. “He had an occasionally testy relationship with the President, who revealed to the media that he had disagreements with Robredo during the 2010 campaign, especially when it came to scheduling. Despite the personal setbacks, Robredo remained steadfast in his vision for the DILG and the country.”7

An additional support to his being very down to Earth comes from his speech during the awarding of his Ramon Magsaysay Award for Government Service.

“During my tenure, a number of newsmen have tried to defame me with unfounded accusations. A few groups dismissed some of my official acts as motivated by selfish political objectives. Perhaps they may have been right and that I may have erred in a few of my judgments. But whether they were right or wrong, I had often asked myself, as a result, these questions: Should I seek another alternative course of action? Or should I consult our people further to find out if there are far better ideas than the one I had? The bottom line was a response that involved our people even more in the decision making process.”8

He accepts the fact that he is a man who also makes mistakes. Yet, from this mistakes he founds the light to improve if not change the decisions that he made not just to save his name but most importantly for the betterment of his governance. He is a man with imperfections, being courageous and humble enough to affirm this, and perhaps a wise man, he seeks help from other people.

“From both his parents,” said the Magsaysay Foundation bio, “Robredo learned the virtues of caring for others and frugality and the value of a modest lifestyle. From his father in particular he learned that protecting the integrity and honor of one's family is of highest importance, and the children were expected to contribute their share in doing that.”9

He is a family oriented man. “When he became mayor of his city in 1988 at the age of 29, the youngest at the time, Robredo reported to work promptly at eight in the morning. However, he made it a point to go home for lunch and dinner at his wife”10, Attorney Maria Leonor "Leni" Gerona-Robredo’s insistence, the RMAF biography said. “At mealtimes when everyone was required to be present, he encouraged lively discussions including politics.”11 Just like him, “he had always encouraged his children to speak their minds”. 12

He, together with his better half is a morally upright parent. “One of the couple’s stated principles according to Ramon Magsaysay Awards Foundation (RMAF), was that, ‘If our children cannot inherit anything material, at least they will inherit a good name.’”13 How admirable he is as a father. No wonder how he had touched so lives, especially the Nagueños. Losing him is like losing the city’s father.

“He served the city for an unprecedented six 3-year terms as local chief executive.”14 It was during his term that the city was called one of Asia's Most Improved Cities by Asiaweek Magazine. Under his leadership, Naga has transformed into the premier city of Bicol Region. He had his sleepy hometown evolve into one of the models of good governance in the Philippines. It was also during this time that he has changed and touched so many lives through his projects.

“…we have institutionalized the urban poor federation whose members were given access to land, employment, housing, livelihood and basic services. Women’s groups were organized and trained to indulge in more productive endeavors such as livelihood development and environmental protection. Even homegrown cause-oriented groups during the tumultuous period of coups and armed confrontations asserted their role as mobilizers of popular democracy by declaring Naga City as a zone of peace, freedom and neutrality.”15

                         -portion of his speech during the awarding of his Ramon Magsaysay Award for Government Service

Asiaweek Magazine also cited Robredo in 1999 for bringing dynamism and innovation to public service, the local bureaucracy, improving dramatically stakeholdership and people participation in governance, and community concerns from housing to public health matters.

As a student it was that said he turns away from parties and night outs with his peers, although he allowed himself an occasional movie. He preferred to stay home to study or to watch television,” according to the RM bio. He has been an exceptional student attested by multiple academic achievements and a number of degrees under his belt. He is an Edward Mason Fellow and a graduate of Masters in Public Administration at the John F. Kennedy School of Government, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts. He earned a degree in Industrial Management Engineering and Mechanical Engineering from De La Salle University, and then an MBA from the University of the Philippines, finishing at the top of his class as university and college scholar. He really is a person to look up to for every student like me.

Thus, after unfolding his achievements and noble qualities, who can help not admiring him? I certainly do admire him. Tributes which poured in for him also reiterate how people think highly of him. I even have a teacher who almost cried when Robredo’s death was mentioned. Another teacher of mine also told stories about personal encounters and how my teacher regards him highly. Also, there have been posters, fliers, tarpaulins, and yellow ribbons that convey great appreciation and gratitude for him all over the city and other parts of the country.

“Our political history has shown that we have put the burden of running this country to our “best” people for too long. And yet the gap between the rich and the poor has grown wider. For this country to succeed, we need to make heroes of the ordinary people. We need to make heroes of ourselves”

- Then Naga City Mayor Jesse Robrdeo at the Commencement Exercises of the Ateneo de Manila University, March 29, 2003

Now that one of the “best” people is gone, may more ordinary people emerge out to be like him - a hero.

__________________________

1 http://blog.codesignstudios.com/jesse-robredo-accomplishments-biography-late-dilg-secretary/ 2 Jesse Robredo: Good governance guru and ideal family man BY PATRICIA DENISE CHIU & KIMBERLY JANE TAN, GMA NEWS August 21, 2012 5:23pm 3 Ibid.4 Jesse Robredo: Good governance guru and ideal family man BY PATRICIA DENISE CHIU & KIMBERLY JANE TAN, GMA NEWS August 21, 2012 5:23pm 5 Ibid. 6 Ibid. 7 Ibid. 8 http://www.rmaf.org.ph/Awardees/Response/ResponseRobredoJes.htm 9 http://www.interaksyon.com/article/41012/profile--jesse-robredo-like-magsaysay-man-in-a-hurry-to-serve-do-good 10 Jesse Robredo: Good governance guru and ideal family man BY PATRICIA DENISE CHIU & KIMBERLY JANE TAN, GMA NEWS August 21, 2012 5:23pm 11 Ibid 12 Ibid.

13 Jesse Robredo: Good governance guru and ideal family man BY PATRICIA DENISE CHIU & KIMBERLY JANE TAN, GMA NEWS August 21, 2012 5:23pm 14 http://www.dilg.gov.ph/secretarys_biography.php 15 http://www.rmaf.org.ph/Awardees/Response/ResponseRobredoJes.htm

Karatong ( Philippine Folk Dance)

           Ang Karatong ay isang magarbo, masaya at makulay na pagdiriwang sa Cuyo, dating sentrong bayan ng Palawan. Mga bulaklak ang pinagtutuunan ng atensyon sa selebrasyong ito, partikular ang bulaklak ng matamis na manggang matatagpuan lamang sa bayan ng Cuyo.

           Labis na kinasasabikan ng mga mamamayan ng Cuyo ang pagsapit ng ika-27 (dalawampu't-pito) ng Setyembre taun-taon, kung kailan masigabong namumulaklak na ang matatayog na mga puno ng manggang nakahilera sa gilid ng mga lansangan at pati na rin sa malalawak na taniman. Ang araw na ito ay siyang pagdiriwang ng Karatong.

           Napakaligaya ng selebrasyong ito. Nagdaraos ng makulay na parada para sa pasasalamat kay San Agustin, ang patron ng Cuyo. Sumasali sa parada ang kababaihan na nakasuot ng tradisyunal na baro't saya at patadyong. Sila rin ay may dala-dalang bunga mangga, isang makulay at malaking representasyon ng bulaklak ng mangga. Hawak-hawak ang mga ito, magiliw silang sumasayaw sa saliw ng isang rondalla at ng mga Karatong.

           Samantala, karatong naman ang dala ng kalalakihan. Ito ay isang instrumentong pang-musika na gawa sa maikling kawayan. Masining nila itong pinipintahan at dinedisenyuhan. Kanila itong itinatali sa beywang at pinatutugtog sa pamamagitan ng dalawang patpat.

Isinasagawa ang parada sa kalagitnaan ng hapon. Nagsisimula ito sa patio ng simbahan at nagtatapos naman sa plasa. Nakamamanghang tingnan ang napakaraming makukulay na bunga mangga na umiindayog sa ritmong bigay ng mga karatong.

           Sa pagdaan ng panahon, ang magarbong parada ay nagkaroon ng mga pagababago sa mga hakbangin at pormasyon. Di gaya ng dati, hindi na lamang ito isinasayaw tuwing pista. Isa na itong katutubong sayaw.

"Little Bad Boy: Binatang Rizal sa Europa"

shadowness.com

            I understand now why the documentary is entitled "Little Bad Boy: Binatang Rizal sa Europa". Yes, the film did not even present Jose Rizal being rowdy and loud yet it has shown how he is as a bachelor. He indeed knows how to make ladies fall in his net through the use of his alluring words and perhaps his looks. He is an epitome of a man who knows how the ins and outs of romance. To support and attest this, the film presented an excerpt from the series of love letters written to Rizal by a Belgian woman named Suzanne. “In a letter sent to Rizal while he was traveling in Spain, she wrote: "There will never be any home in which you are so loved as that in Brussels. So, you little bad boy, hurry back." Well, what he means by “bad” and how “bad” he is arouses creative imaginations. Altogether, he is a normal social being who finds a companion.”¹

            Aside from being skilled in making “the moves”, he is really a very fortunate man. To live a life under the moonlight shining in Paris and in other places in Europe is really a manifestation of how affluent his family is. It really is an experience not everyone could afford. It is a privilege not everyone could avail. Perhaps, it is safe to conclude that his being affluent had a great role on molding the national hero that he is.

            That is, being wealthy as to study in the grounds of Europe paved the way to his greatness and fame. Mentioning fame, I was really amazed how a man, not a single drop of Filipino blood running in his veins namely Jean Paul Verstraeten could be very enthusiastic with regard to Rizal's life and works. The intensity of his interest and adoration to Rizal is far stronger than most fully blooded Filipinos have. He is so into Rizal that he even pledges to let everyone know the hero and his ideals which is very admirable. Jose Rizal indeed touched lives and influenced minds more than he intended to. His greatness is not bounded by the Philippines' shores.

            Perhaps what Verstraeten is doing is an act to look up to. It is for anyone including myself to just continue staring or to start to do the same. But in the eyes of the heroes, both the living and the dead, it is always best to take the similar path that they have trod. 

            Clips of his living descendants were also shown. The places that he has been into, the paintings having him as one of the subjects, photographs, works among others that has his touch were also presented. These existing things just prove that he really did exist and not just a figment of an imagination. He is real.

            All in all, the documentary film by Howie Severino and his I-Witness team for me presented a new way of viewing Jose Rizal. He is a normal rich boy who lived a life typical of a blooming bachelor. Knowing him and his works is a calling to every Filipino so that we could attain a certain level of admiration that would soon compel us to do as Verstraeten is doing.

^{1 http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/209429/news/specialreports/as-young-man-in-europe-was-rizal-a-little-bad-boy}

Is Psychology relevant to the field of Accounting?

morpethschool.org.uk

                Accounting is defined as the process of identifying, measuring and communicating economic information to permit informed judgment and decision by users of the information. Its purpose is to provide quantitative, financial information about economic entities to statement users so that they could make informed judgment and better decision. On the other hand, Psychology is said to be the scientific study of human behaviors and mental processes. How are they related?

            Perhaps it is obvious that Accounting involves intensive mental processes. Hence, it has problem-solving portion that entails analytical and critical thinking. It has complex processes and principles  that need to be understood, stored in the memory and be conformed with. Generally, psychology can study how we do these mental processes, what things influences them, how our memory and intellect behaves , among others. This way of dealing with the mental processes is under the Cognitive Psychology, a specific  sub-field of Psychology. What is Cognitive Psychology?

            “Cognitive psychology is the scientific investigation of human cognition that is, all our mental abilities – perceiving, learning, remembering, thinking, reasoning, and understanding.  Fundamentally, cognitive psychology studies how people acquire and apply knowledge or information.”¹

            From the explanation on what  Cognitive Psychology is comes their second link of connection. How we apply accounting knowledge and information is under the scope of psychology. How can we use the objective data coming  from the accounting process properly and accordingly can be improved and enhanced by Cognitive Psychology.

            “Understanding the way a client approaches decision making related to corporate earnings and expenditures is at the heart of the practice of cognitive psychology. So the more training in cognitive psychology an accountant receives, the better able she is to do her job and manage her client as well ”²

            Indeed, psychology is connected and important to accounting . But it is worthy to note that accounting process is for the users to make informed judgment and correct decisions with regard to their firms. They have a counselor- client relationship . The accountant does not only disclose numerical information per se but also the interpretation as to how they affect the business establishment. Subsequently, they leave update as to the the financial standing of the firm and give hints as to how to adjust to losses and improve the earnings. Somehow, a background of Counseling Psychology is relevant to this job especially when a losing business is owned and managed by the same person.

¹ http://www.scholarpedia.org/article/Cognitive_psychology

² http://smallbusiness.chron.com/apply-cognitive-psychology-accounting-38759.html

           

         

Why do we need to commemorate Jose Rizal in modern times?

jose rizal by ~zeiralliv on deviantART

            “Seldom seen, soon forgotten.” Things, persons and even ideas that we do not see and use as often most probably will just be forgotten. The same applies to our national hero, Jose Rizal. His life, works and his contributions leading to what our country is today must always be seen, felt and celebrated.

Rizal’s greatness must be acknowledged. A day would not suffice if one would enumerate his great deeds. Thus they must not be neglected and be set aside to rot. Instead, they must be appreciated. The contributor likewise be applauded.

Remembering him and acknowledging his works in a way leads and motivates people to do follow his footsteps. Celebrating significant events with regard to his life such as his birthday  and honoring his memory through discussing thoroughly about him at schools somehow brings us to those days when Philippines is not yet the way as we have her today. Consequently, it must arouse the question “Did the situation really change?” Rizal as the man to look up to when Filipino nationalism is mentioned inspires everyone to be the same as him, at least in the most little way.

Perhaps commemorating Rizal not only must bring forth appreciation but also ignite transformation. Each one who is being introduced to Rizal, his life and works, must eventually become the Filipino that Rizal is. Hence, be a nationalist and a patriot by heart and by action.

By that, a new kind of revolution shall arise. A revolution not to oust colonizers but one that is to combat problems of our country such as corruption, poverty among others. A revolution brought about by a great love for our country. Hopefully, the revolution lifts up our country and that it becomes the nation Jose Rizal himself dreamt.

Yes, we are his successors. We are called to continue his works and advocacies. We need to be steadfast in our efforts and be vigilant to threats.

These are the reasons why I think we need to commemorate Jose Rizal at modern times. He must live on. He is immortal.

Filipino Identity

Identity is such a sensitive term. There are people who suffer from what they call an “identity crisis”. I cannot give the particular definition of this term as professional psychologists can but I know it is a state of confusion that leads into asking “who one is” as well as “what one is”. Adolescents usually go through this for they are in the stage of finding themselves. Some also feel this in the later part of their lives. It’s just these times when they begin to seriously quest for an answer about the nature or essence of their being and the search for an identity. That having said, do Filipinos also experience this kind of dilemma?

I believe we are. We are not just aware of it. I mean, it would be easy for me to say what our identity is if I just know it. It’s a sad fact that most of us, including me, do not take time paying attention to who and what our identity as Filipino is. We just ponder on this when the situation tells us that it’s compulsory. This affirms what the prominent Filipino author Nick Joaquin has said. He said that the identity of the Filipino today is of a person asking what his identity is.

So that is, we do truly have an identity crisis. But what is this “identity” that we are searching for? That is, what is this assignment all about?

According to the Dictionary, the word “identity” is a noun that means “the sameness of essential or generic character in different instances”.

So in other words, I am basically being asked to present what I think is the similarity of every Filipinos’ important or common character in different occasions.

On the deeper sense, I am asked to present what our identity as defined earlier so that we could identify ourselves as Filipinos. That is, to prove to be, or consider as, the same as everyone else who call themselves Filipinos. Thus, specify a certain Filipinohood that would eventually unite and bind us as one people.

So the quest to our identity begins here. I am equipped of its definition as our map in this strange world. That is, I deem it’s just right to adhere on its denotation to end up with the correct result.

“SAMENESS”

Now, the definition has the important term “SAMENESS”. By that, I must present things that are exactly alike with all Filipinos. Hence, they must be the same.

“OF IMPORTANT”

Next to the word “sameness” goes “of important...” So what are the same essential and pertinent attributes that all Filipinos must possess?

First and foremost Filipinos live and/or are citizens of the Philippines. They can either be born here or acquired their Philippine citizenship through undergoing certain processes. Likewise, they are individuals who can trace a Filipino connection in their family tree to say that they have a “Filipino blood” and have obtained “Filipino genes”.

 “OR GENERIC CHARACTER”

Subsequent to that is the portion that says “or generic character”. This part all in all just pushes me to point out common distinctive qualities and traits that Filipinos manifest.

The Admirable Ones

Filipinos commonly offer food and decline the offer. “Kain!” (Let’s eat!) This is how Filipinos acknowledge anyone who stumbles upon a flock of Filipinos eating. This is our distinctive way of offering food to strangers and people we barely know. In fact, it could be a way of greeting someone while you’re eating. Instead of saying “Hello”, you say “Let’s eat!” Now the thing that makes it a bit baffling is that it’s polite to offer to share your meal with a person, but, it is equally polite for the other person to decline the offer. It makes me wonder “why offer in the first place if you don’t expect the other person to accept it?” Well in fact most people who get offered to eat decline the offer regardless if they’re starving or not.

Also, we are famous for being very hospitable and delightful to be with. In all modesty, I must say we are the warmest people one will ever meet. Hospitality coupled with smile is another rarity found only among Filipinos. A “very gracious host” is always the positive comment of every foreigner once he leaves or departs from the Philippines. In fact they would comment that Filipinos everywhere love to smile even though they are suffering. Being hospitable adorned with lovely and natural smile is almost like a second nature to every Filipinos.

The deep religiosity is another trait which is innate in the Filipinos. When we say innate, it is already embedded in the very nature of every Filipino. The sense of deep religiosity is what makes the Filipinos face every trial; economic, political upheaval, natural disasters and, even personal ones, with firm courage and strong belief in the providence of God. Sometimes, natural disasters are “sparks” because they awaken the nature of Filipinos to call out to their god for help. We can notice that in the recent natural calamities, people would no one to turn to but to god who gives them strength, hope and courage in the face of seemingly uncontrollable situations in life. And what can we say of the turning point in our political life in EDSA. Did it not happen because of the influence of our religiosity? One could really feel the “hands of god” in those troubled times. Blood shed and countless innocent civilians would be killed where it not for the people’s unceasing prayers to move heaven and earth; Democracy would not be restored. Religiosity in every Filipino is a mystifying force that unites each one, especially if their motivation is good. This trait is also manifested in every Grand fiesta of each city or barrio. In Cebu for instance, a foreigner would be filled with awes and wonder upon observing the Sinulog festival and the way the Cebuanos celebrate it.

The trait of strong family ties is a distinctive feature that makes us Filipinos stood out to the rest of the world.Where on earth can you see that even in their old age, members of Filipino families still live together in one roof, if not, adjacent to each other? Because of such remarkable closeness, parents sometimes have difficulties letting go of their children and thus results to having them stay for as long as they want. For this somehow explains why grandparents are commonly seen living with their children in the Philippines. Unlike the way people grow old in the west where they are provided with outside homes and care giving, Filipino elderly enjoy their remaining lives inside their houses with their children and grandchildren looking after them.

Another trait Filipinos made themselves exceptional from others is their strong respect for elders. Children are taught from birth how to say “po” and “opo” to teach them as early as possible how to properly respect their elders. These words are used to show respect to people of older level. Even adults will be criticized for not using these words when speaking with their parents or people older than them. Inside the family, the parents are expected to receive the highest respect from the children along with the elder siblings; as they are given more responsibilities to look after younger siblings when parents are not around. Children fighting back or addressing parents or elder siblings with arrogant tone are not at all tolerated.

We children as well as those adults who still live with their parents are also not allowed to leave the house without their parents’ permission. Upon arriving home, conservative families expect children to practice the kissing of hands or placing their parents or elder family members’ hand to their foreheads with the words “mano po” as a sort of greeting.

Filipinos are cooperative. They value the virtue of helping each other and other people. They cherish the ancestral trait of bayanihan, which means cooperation. In rural areas, when a man is building, repairing or transferring a house to another place, the neighbors come to help him. Through Bayanihan, Filipinos become heroes to each other.

The Filipinos are noted for their durability and resiliency. Through the ages they have met all kinds of calamities-- revolts, revolutions, wars, earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, typhoons and epidemics. They can assimilate any civilization and thrive in any climate. Against the adversities of life or nature, they merely bend, but never break. They possess the formidable durability of the narra tree and the resiliency of the bamboo.

Well these are just some of the positive attribute that Filipinos are observed to commonly possess and manifest. By them we can say that we are Proud to be Pinoy. But, human beings that we are, we are ambivalent. We have the tendency to exhibit good things as well as bad habits. Here are some of them:

The Despicable Ones

First is gossiping. Yes the good old gossiping became the past time of most people especially in the urban areas which causes fight amongst neighbors who gossip bad things and at the same time doesn't have any proof.

Second is lack of discipline. Yes you can see many people in the Philippines that lacks discipline, for example crossing the street even without the pedestrian lane or even when it is not the right time to do so. This is also the reason why there are a lot of road accidents in this country.

Next would be the colonial mentality. Filipinos tend to buy and patronize things that are imported and doesn't even care for products that are made in their own country. They tend to buy branded shoes even if it's smuggled or fake as long as it's branded but doesn't have a good quality when in fact some of their products are better and are exported by other countries. This is also true with those Pinoys who idolize more foreign artists, singers, books and movies rather than the local ones.

Subsequent to that is what they call "Filipino time". It means that we are not punctual and always comes late in meetings or jobs. Filipinos give so many alibis such as flat tire or the most commonly used "traffic jam".

Another is the one they call as “Ningas-cogon”. It is a negative trait, by all standards, because it begins ardently and diligently but this diligence eventually dies down as soon as it begins. This trait renders one inactive and unable to initiate things or to persevere.

Then comes Mañana or "Bukas na" Habit or the procrastination deeds by Filipinos.Negative, because one constantly postpones action and accomplishes nothing. This aggravates a situation, a problem grows beyond correction, a leak or a small break becomes a gaping hole. This arises from an slothful mentality that a problem will go away by itself.

We also have the trait of extreme loyalty to a group or “Pakikisama”. Negative, because one closes one's eyes to evils like graft and corruption in order to conserve peace and harmony in a group at the expense of one's comfort. Some negative results or manifestations of this are:

• palakasan (show of power)
• sipsip (bribery)
• palusot (alibi)
• lagay (bribe)
• bata System (nepotism)

Bahala na (resignation) - Negative, because one leaves everything to chance under the pretext of trusting in Divine providence. This trait is really laziness disguised in religious garb.

Utang na loob (indebtedness) -Negative, because one overlooks moral principles when one is indebted to a person. One who is beholden to another person will do anything to please him, thinking that by doing so he is able to repay a debt. One condones what the other person does and will never censure him for wrongdoing.

So those are some of the generic and distinctive characteristics of Filipinos.

"IN DIFFERENT INSTANCES"

The last but not of least importance is the phrase “in different instances”. This led me logically to conclude that identity and that the mentioned “sameness of important or generic character” are seen and felt in diverse occasions and that the act of identifying ourselves with others happens at particular times. Hence, the sense of identity is, and must be experienced. It is important to note that experiences are subjective and that we can have personal and unique encounters.

For one, we love to proudly identify with those Filipinos who made and/or continuously making a great job in their fields. We felt united when Manny Pacquaio has a fight. We felt one and became proud when Venus Raj and Shamcey Supsup had their places in the prestigious Ms. Universe pageant. We feel as one community while watching and shouting for the Azkals. There are other Filipinos who unconsciously unite us and strengthen our sense of identity. I thank them.

Perhaps it’s not just this “Proudly Pinoy” moments that we can identify with our Filipinos. We also become one during down times. We become united in helping our fellow countrymen recover after strong calamities struck. Typhoons, earthquakes, landslides, flashfloods among others are some of the different instances that we become more aware of our identity as one people too much that it overflows.

But it’s so sad to say that we wait for these extremes to happen. Why don’t we become united in combating poverty? How about fighting corruption? In this instance we also become one, in apathy.

Enough to say, we only become the ideal Filipinos at both extreme pleasurable and extreme difficult moments. We become our negative side at times when we remain ignorant and indifferent in social issues that are already in front of our eyes.

But I believe these positive and negative sides of our beings are just integral parts of our Filipino Identity. They’re part of our system as Filipinos. As David Hume has said, “There’s no such thing as self. We only have a bundle of selves.” Using Hume’s argument, there is no such thing as a Filipino identity- only a bundle of many Filipino identities.

That is, our identity cannot be defined and confined into words or even music or video presentations. As said, it is felt subjectively. It is experienced. The Filipino today is a collection of his many and varied subjective experiences. It is aroused unexpectedly and unconsciously at times when we don’t think we’ll feel it.

Now the challenge to each and everyone is how to use and will this awareness of identity into solving and combating perennial and serious problems that we are all involved in -The challenge to use this identity to effect change and progress.

Also, being aware of the negative side of our identity must bring forth improvement if not eradication of them bad habits. Likewise, consciousness of what we have as positive traits must lead for us to strengthen and maximize them for the benefit of all.

Hence , the sense of identity must be felt in our hearts. It must be felt rushing through our veins. For we have one blood - the blood that the Malays, Spaniards, Indonesians, Chinese, Americans, British among our other ancestors’ bloods comprise. They must be lived and imbibed.

We are one people. We are Filipinos.

***This is actually one of my assignments during my freshmen college on my Philippine History course. I might've copied paste some of the facts here. So I apologize for that and would like to give credit their sources. Definitely some of them are mine.

QAF ~ Brian / Justin ~ One more day ~ Vast

This is not sex. This is lovemaking. Yes, this is love overflowing. This is reveling in the pleasure you feel when your partner is pleased himself. And this kind of love does not limit itself to those who are "straight". Gays equally deserve it. This video by the way is one of the episodes of the series Queer as Folk. I commend and thank its creators. This changed my life.

I Hope I Learned

We may be overwhelmed by how huge our tasks look and project to be; yet, doing them systematically, doing them step by step, breaking them down brick by brick, we may be surprised by how easy truly are they after all. So I say to myself and now I am sharing it to you, look into tasks through a wise and open eye. Be organized. Be courageous to avoid temptations. Be steadfastly motivated, interested and most importantly be COMMITTED to attaining your aspirations, whatever they may be. Be strong. Possess a firm state of thinking and beliefs. Be patient and persevering. Don't give up too easily and too soon. Always strive to be the best that you can be. BE YOURSELF. EXPLORE THE POSSIBILITIES YET ADHERE TO ONE AND ONLY PRIORITY. As said, you cannot serve two masters simultaneously.  If one makes you feel out of track, disregard it. Experience what needs to be experienced. They may be good or bad. They may let you fall down and make you feel lost. But, ALWAYS LOOK FOR THE LIGHT THAT'LL GUIDE YOU TO YOUR RIGHT PLACE.

These are the things I have learned during the second semester. I pray that I will be the improved and assured version of who I used to be for the next few years of my college life.

Brian & Justin ~ I finally do ~ Merry Christmas 2010

Youtube indeed is like Narnia. One can discover many things. While searching something I have seen this hyperlink. Watching this makes one realize that gay romance can be as romantic as with those labelled as "normal" ones ( here in the Philippines). I felt love transcending and overflowing. I pray that everyone be open-minded enough to accept the diversity of people manifested by this.

"Emo" Who?

voguemagz.com

Back then, I despise those people who call themselves as 'emo'. But right now, perhaps because I have already grown up and become more mature as to have open-minded perceptions regarding thoughts and ideas, I somehow scolded myself for doing that.

I am a person who wants to express my identity - just like them. You see, being an 'emo' is a way of life. Hence, it goes synonymously together with people being vegetarian, being a monk, among other kinds of peculiar lifestyles.

By that general classification comes the very specific way of how this emotional people groom themselves. Their closet mostly includes tighter fitting pants and very dark colored shirts. Their hair are dyed-black and most of the time grown long enough to cover their faces. The longer hair in front with the spikes in the back is also an Emo- or emotional look or perhaps their identifying mark . Emo is also being known with tow hot emo guys and two emo girls kissing each other. From pictures all on the web to the music videos. Hot emo girl to girl and well as hot emo guy to guy is becoming more and more adventurous and more open concluding; Emo meaning being comfortable with oneself. Its a more direct way of altering the feelings one has without words, just emotion.

www.fanpop.com

Also they are labeled as persons who are always suicidal as to cut their wrists with blades. Yet, not all emos are like that, I am sure. Most importantly to take note is that basically the word "emo" short for emotional has its foundation on the genre of music which elicits strong emotion through music close enough to punk and rock but not hard rock.

Indeed, it surpassed being a genre of music itself. It is now a way of life, a way of expressing one's self, a way to freedom, to happiness, to individuality. It's a state of mind such as love.

Sometimes I wish I could be like them. First, because I want to also kiss boys without being stereotyped and all. Second, I want to be who I am without all the pressures brought about by rigorously following the norms and standards of the society. I just feel that being what they are will make me a very happy person. I don't know if this thought will be of reality, yet one thing is sure, I respect them for we share a code. We want self-expression with freedom and respect.

An Accidental Look-back

It's never too late ,right? I just checked out my drafts and found this. I don't know what happened but somehow I didn't publish this one the time I wrote this. Well right now some of them has been solved and gone together with time. I have grown up. I'm already in college. I have a better perception on what and who I am. My Mama already had her permanent vacation in the most beautiful place ever created. I have been given the Leadership Award for my exemplary performance as a student leader. I just do not want to let this be set aside. This is part of who I am. Someday, I will look back to this and realize how years fly very fast, how my worries and anxieties arose given my particular lifecycle stage, and how I learned from them. Life is wonderful. Here, the post goes.

There are things that really bother my mind. Horrible things that keep whirling in my mind. Things that prevents me to smile.Things that that creates a barrier between me and happiness. Here they are, please comprehend them and genuinely understand my condition as I siphon them out of my anxious and weary mind. Just a simple request, please keep this a secret , don't tell anyone.Respect me as an owner of this account.

1. I really find it awkward when one asks me if I'm gay. I dont know. I can't give them an answer. Even I,myself am confused.Please don't ask me ok? It makes me more confused.

 2.My mom's condition.She's just getting worse.

3. My future.I'm kinda pressured now about the career I have to choose as a living, what school to attend in my college.

4. How to satisfy my fellow Bridgetines with my job as their  the Student Council Chairperson.I wish my colleagues and moderator help me. Well,Sir Sharik helps me a lot. He's a person to look up to.

5.How to balance my life as a student and a son. There's just many things to accomplish with both of the two.

I wish I can solve them. But as they said take one step at a time. I hope answers will come over me.I hope I could be strong and courageous .I wish I can be faithful to God and believe in him with all my heart. One thing's for sure, I'll try with all my might to overcome them!

The Last Song, Miley and Liam

I just watched The Last Song, again. I watched it several times already yet it never fails to let me drift away and yearn for the euphoric sensation to never end. I wish I could be stuck in the moment. I just felt so elated. Also because of I felt inspired and motivated. And it's really a good thing for right now, I am like a wheel without a driver. 

Movies like this are wonderful. Maybe it's the story. It's a creation of one of the best authors in the world after all, Nicholas Sparks. I super duper love his novels. Perhaps maybe it's because of Miley Cyrus. Golly, I think I am falling for her! Haha =). She's just so convincing. She played the role very well and shattered the general view of her as this child superstar who has the best of both worlds. It's not that it's a bad thing. Well, she will forever be Hannah Montana for many of us. She is already an icon. 

Right now, I am thankful that I have downloaded some of her songs. I am listening to it over and over again after I watched the movie. Like I have said, I do not want for the feeling to end and it's one of the ways that I did to achieve that. 

Maybe it's also because of the gorgeous Liam Hemsworth who just turned 22 last January 13. He was just this ideal guy who stayed and understood with empathy the girl that he loved in down times. To add, he has this pair of sparkling eyes on which you could see the world and realize how wonderful it is. Maybe it's their chemistry. Their kisses are noteworthy to pay attention with. No wonder they have won the Nickelodeon Australian Kids' Choice Awards 2010 Kids Choice: Fave Kiss. And it.s not just that ! They have been also nominated for Teen Choice Awards ,Choice Movie: Chemistry. 

Maybe it's her brother who was played by Bobby Coleman. I definitely am carried away when the time that he learned about her father's condition. We shared a link perhaps. I remember my Mama and the fact that it's really hard to lose her and even harder to say goodbye. Cheers to him. Maybe it's her father played by Greg Kinnear. Maybe it's the beach. Maybe its the whole cinematography. Well, it's all of the above!

I am not able to read the book yet but I swear to God that I would someday. Every word would be cherished. As for the movie, it's part of my life now. Someday I'll look back and say that was one a heck of a movie!

Request to Nicholas Sparks: Please let there be a sequel!

This song is one of the theme songs of the movie. It was played the very last and so for that I have gotten the Last Song Syndrome. This one is entitled "I Hope You Find It" performed by no other than Miley Cyrus. I love the way she sang it. It's full of emotion and the lyrics are that simple yet because of that it's an effective way to convey the innermost feelings.

One thing, their love team is called "Miam". I'll be a Miam fan forever!