People, especially Pinoys, love to take photos, selfies in
particular.Maybe to flaunt his outfit
for today, to share what makeup/skincare products she used on her face for the
day, to let his network know where he’s spending his vacation, or just to share
a relevant quotable quote. LOL!Whatever
our purpose is, I believe we were able to take even just a single snapshot of
ourselves for others to see.
During my school days, I’m a self professed selfie addict. I
admit it! It was crazy to think that I
really got fond of myself taking pictures upon waking up, before going to
sleep, or if I’m having a great time outdoors. But now, I take selfies with
caution. I must have a CONCRETE PURPOSE
why I posted selfie shots. I am aware
that some people doesn’t want their social network feeds clogged with pictures
of my face in different angles.. hehehe! That’s why, just wanted to remind you—hinay
hinay lang when taking and posting selfies ok?
Anyway, let me share to you some problems (well they’re not
really problems, maybe disadvantages or inconveniences) that you can encounter in
taking selfies:
I did my best to log out of work by 7 PM, on the dot. I need to go home to make up some time with
my husband after a few months of being extremely busy.
And I succeeded. Well, sort of.
I went out 7:05 PM.
From Emerald Avenue where my office is located, I walked
briskly with my laptop (without the charger to lessen the load), my ever
reliable, “not-that-big-but-not-that-small-either” shoulder bag, and my shawl
around my shoulders, and with my flat shoes on.
After 15 minutes, I walked from there to the MRT Ortigas Station. It felt good whenever I pass by on people
walking towards EDSA. For me it feels
like I saved precious time as I walked past them. It also felt like I am improving on my
walking pace, thanks to my twice a week jog with Zham.
Anyway, as I approached the escalator, I became like…
I just learned of the game Flappy Bird because some of my
Facebook friends have been uploading screenshots of their scores. At first I just went on and scroll my feed,
ignoring this kind of posts. But the screen shots from my fellow blogger Venus made me curious.
I downloaded this free game from the Apple App Store and
played right away. My first try was a
fail because I don’t know how to play it.
You have to tap the screen to make the 16 bit (or is it 8 bit?) bird fly
and flap its wings. Then as you go on
you will encounter those pipes above and below the screen, resembling those
pipes you see on the Mario game. You
should not let the bird bump on those pipes, or else it’s Game Over.
Image from http://time4thinkers.com/11-love-your-neighbor-as-yourself/
Intro: My random
thoughts that you are reading right now are written as I type. Meaning these are really in my thoughts and
in my heart as of this writing.
*****
The past months were, I could say, tough. Andaming nangyari. I actually dreamt about it happening few
years back but I ignored it. Now, it’s
happening. Personal attacks are made
against each other. Bashing and fault
finding on doctrines that were even embraced for decades. Broken relationships because of differences
in beliefs. I don’t know. I admit I’m not a theologian, or an expert in
God’s word, but I’m striving to become a kind of Christian that God can be
proud of.
I’ve made mistakes. I
knew I’ve hurt people because I talk too much.
Maybe I broke their trust on me.
God is still working on me. I
wanted the best that I can be. I wanted
to avoid doing my weaknesses. I’m trying
to be like Christ. I’m laying down to
Him my flaws and shortcomings. I wanted
God to transform me into a better person, exceedingly glorifying Him in my
every thoughts, words, and deeds.
Nung nag aaral pa ako, ayaw na ayaw kong sumasakay ng jeep. Marahil kasi maarte ako. Gusto ko lagi aircon. Hindi niyo ako mapapasakay sa jeep kapag ang biyahe ay lagpas sa distansiya ng minimum fare (more than 4 kilometers). Isa ring dahilan kung bakit ayaw kong sasakay ng jeep dahil sa polusyon sa Maynila. Pero may mga extreme cases naman na wala akong choice kundi sumakay ng jeep kahit malayong biyahe. Isang halimbawa nito kapag pupunta sa JIL Campsite sa Norzagaray. Lahat ng inarkilang sasakyan ay jeep. So walang choice. Kailangan lang maghawak ng plastic bag dahil… You know… Yun na yon.
Ngunit simula nang magkatrabaho ako, unti unti kong hinubad ang pagka-maarte ko (tanong para sa mga kapatid ko: Hindi na naman ako maarte, dava?). Dito ko natutunang sumakay ng jeep kahit sa malayong biyahe. Lalo na pag sa probinsiya ako naaassign, dahil kadalasan, wala namang FX o taxi sa mga napuntahan ko. Jeep lang ang meron. Kaya walang choice. Naranasan ko ng araw araw, bumibiyahe ako ng 40 minutes by jeep papunta sa client. At sa mahabang biyaheng ganito, madami akong naobserbahan at napansin sa paligid—sa loob at labas ng sinasakyan kong jeep. Gaya ng…..
1. May mga jeep na kahit nasa malayo ka pa, hihintayin kang makalapit papunta sa kanya (I’m referring to the jeep), umaasang sa kanya ka sasakay. Tapos pag nakalapit ka na sa naghihintay na jeep, pipilitin kang sumakay. Tapos pag hindi ka sumakay, bibigyan ka niya ng instant steam facial dahil magbubuga yan ng usok mula sa tambutso at sisiguraduhin niyang mabubugahan ka non. Pang asar lang. Pinaghintay mo kasi eh. Minsan naisip ko pag may mga ganyang jeep, dapat may nakahanda kang signboard na may nakalagay na “SORRY MANONG, HINDI PO AKO SASAKAY SA INYO. BIYAHENG CEBU YANG JEEP NIYO EH. PAPUNTA AKONG DAVAO. SORRY PO TALAGA.” Siguraduhin mo lang na sa malayo pa lang basa na niya yan para di na siya umasa.
2. Kahit nakatayo ka lang sa may bangketa dahil tinignan mo lang kung madumi yung kuko mo sa paa, may titigil na jeep sa harapan mo at magsusumamong sumakay ka na sa kanya. Applicable din dito ang effect pag di ka sumakay sa kanya, pati din ang suggestion kong “CEBU-ka-DAVAO-ako-scenario”.
3. Pagsakay mo ng jeep, kahit di ka pa nakakaupo, umaandar na agad. Nakakawalang poise. Matapos mong sakyan yung jeep, masasaktan ka pa. kaya ang suggestion ko diyan, humawak sa safety hand rails para di sumubsob at mapahiya sa mga kapwa pasahero (o sa driver kung ikaw lang ang sakay).
4. As much as possible, dapat EXACT FARE ang ibabayad mo sa jeep. Kadalasan kasi, hindi ka na sinusuklian. Nakakalungkot. Sabi ko KARAMIHAN ha. Mga 9 out of 10. Osige 8 na nga lang.
5. Kadalasan ang mga pasahero gusto maupo malapit sa entrance/exit ng jeep. Mga ayaw kasing mag abot ng bayad sa driver. Hehehe. Minsan naman may mga tao, kapag wala nang choice kundi dun sa malapit sa driver uupo, pag may magpapa abot ng bayad, biglang makakatulog, magtetext, magbabasa, o magbibingi bingihan. Madalas ako sa may bukana nakaupo.
6. May mga pasahero naman na pasaway. Sinabi nang No Smoking eh, naninigarilyo pa din.
7. May mga pasahero talagang nagwa-WANTUTRI.
8. May mga sumasabit pa din sa jeep kahit sinasaway na ng driver. Mga pasaway. Hindi ba nila alam na delikado yon?
9. May mga pasahero nagfifeeling model ng shampoo commercial, pinapahanginan ang buhok habang nakatanaw sa may bintana ng jeep. Samantalang ang katabi niya, alam ang brand ng shampoo niya dahil nalalasahan niya. Humahampas kasi sa mukha ng katabi niya yung buhok niya dahil sa hangin eh.
10.Meron din naman feeling model sa video ng videoke dahil nakatingin sa kawalan, tulala, tapos bigla na lang ngingiti. Ngiii.
11. Meron din naman na sa sobrang layo ng biyahe nakakatulog. Minsan sinasandalan ka pa.
12. Meron din naman na parang magpipicnic. Panay kasi ang kain habang nasa biyahe. Hindi man lang mag-share.
13. May pasahero din na sa wari ko, laging nananalong Mr./ms. Friendship o darling of the crowd sa lugar nila. Kasi bigla ka na lang kakausapin about anything under the sun.
14. Tapos meron ding kung makipag daldalan sa kasama niya sa lakas ng boses niya parang wala ng bukas. Alam na ng ibang pasahero yung pinaguusapan dahil sa sobrang lakas ng boses. Guilty ako dito. Pero hindi naman ganung kalakas yung boses ko eh.
15. Meron din naman na ginagawang library at study area ang jeep. Siguro hindi nakapag aral kagabi kaya sa jeep nagrereview at nagbabasa. Masakit kaya sa ulo yung nagbabasa ka habang nasa biyahe. Kayo ba hindi sumasakit ang ulo pag ganon?
16. Kadalasan, kaya nagtatagal ang biyahe kasi yung driver tinitigilan ang bawat taong nakikita niyang nakatayo sa sidewalk. At bawat kanto, nagsstop over para maghintay ng pasahero.
17. Nga pala, hindi ko maintindihan minsan ang mga barker. Sinasabing maluwag pa yung jeep eh ang sikip sikip na nga. Baka maluwag para makaupo yung langgam. Tapos kakalampagin yung gilid ng jeep kapag ayaw daw umayos ng upo yung mga pasahero.
18. Bakit pag sasakay ka ng jeep, walang bawal bawal? Pero pag bababa ka na, ayaw ka agad ibaba, kasi bawal daw magbaba sa hindi tamang babaan?
19. Ang mga pasahero, laging nag uunahang sumakay o bumaba ng jeep. Kahit lima lang silang sasakay at bakante naman yung jeep na kasya sa 20 na tao.
20. Dapat alam mo yung pwesto sa jeep kung saan walang direct sunlight na tatama sa yo. Para dun ka maupo sa walang araw.
So far, yan pa lang ang naobserbahan ko. Sanay na akong mag jeep ngayon.
Last night, I hurriedly went to the restroom to pee upon
entering our house from work. Dahil
ihing ihi na ako, I did not notice a small cockroach crawling on my right
foot. I freaked out and I shook it off
my feet. The cockroach seemed a bit
surprised too. Nangisay ngisay din siya
sa sahig, and I immediately crushed it under my feet. Tinapon ko sa basurahan pagkatapos. And I almost freaked out again because there
was a larger ipis hanging on the bathroom curtain. I picked up my slippers and attempted to “sandwich
the insect” between it. And I
succeeded. It slipped off my slippers
and “accidentally” flushed down the toilet bowl. I sighed in relief.
But after my restroom moment, I sat on my bed and I just don’t
know… I went to think of the two roaches that I “murdered”. I thought, what is really their purpose of
existence? Do they exist para sigawan?
Katakutan? Pandirihan? Apakan? Paluin ng
tsinelas?Patayin? Itapon sa malayo? Hahaha, the last three questions made me
remember a line from a hilarious local movie.
Anyway, I was brought to a moment wherein I made a self
assessment. Do I really know my purpose
of existence? I am thankful to the Lord
kasi hindi Niya tayo tinulad sa mga ipis, o sa kahit ano pang insekto o
hayop. It seems that these creatures have
the same reason of existing here on earth.
Walang kaibahan sa isa’t-isa.
Hindi unique. But to us who were
called by God, He has instilled on us a very special reason for living, totally
unique and different from each other. We
were created to live on a mission specifically designed for each and everyone.
As said in Ephesians
1:11, “In him we were also chosen, having been predestined according to the
plan of him who works out everything in conformity with the purpose of his will…” Our existence is based on His will, on what
He is planning to happen to our lives.
We should not worry because everything, His will and plan for us, shall
all come to pass. All we have to do is
to be sensitive enough to know and obey His commands, be more intimate with
Him, and live in accordance to what He has designed for us.
Oh well, I’m still scared of cockroaches, especially the
flying ones.
Okay, at past midnight, I was on my last batch of my load of two day's laundry. While the load was spinning dry, I went to my room to check my Facebook feed. Several message boxes were popped up on my screen, and I checked them one by one.
One is from my Filipino/Norweigan friend who is now here in the country. One is from a fellow member of our church's photo team. And there are other two--asking for a favor: please like this picture.
I clicked on the first one. What I saw is a group picture of a local JIL church members in Batangas, posted on our church's FB page. I replied to her and said that I was able to like that picture some time ago. She said thank you.
Then this. Next is from a friend, asking me to like a picture through the link he messaged me. I was a bit sleepy when I clicked the link--and I just had the most freaky mini heart attacked since college! What I saw is a picture of close up shot of a man in a coffin, with his eyes opened and looking at me!!!! I was so pissed off and in shock. I cannot understand why people have to do that. I just don't understand, really.
It took me a while to go downstairs and finish my laundry, but I prayed to God to help me overcome my fear. I breathed deeply, and went downstairs, and finished what I have to finish. But before that, I unfriended the person who sent me the link. Sorry.
From now on I will:
- be cautious on what links I should click and what I shouldn't.
- will ask the person who is asking the favor--"why should I have to 'like' the picture/post?"
- will not like a picture/post right away unless you're my parent, sister, brother, best friend, or my boyfriend.
Now tell me, we should really think before we click, right?
Hello guys! It's been a while. Yes. A while. August last year pa ako huling nagpost ng entry ko dito. And admittedly, I missed blogging! I became more focused on photography, on work, on the music ministry, and now on my wedding preparation, and diet.
This October will definitely be a jam-packed one! Here are the reasons:
1. October 5 is our 34th JIL Anniversary. Ano yung JIL? Church po namin yun. Jesus Is Lord Church. Ang simbahang kinalakihan ko na. Dito nabuo ang pananampalataya ko sa Lord, and I'm happy to say dito din ito nadevelop, at patuloy na dinedevelop pa. Naniniwala ako na ang church na ito ay tunay na pinanganak mula sa puso ng Diyos. Alam ko din na kahit kailan, hindi iniwan ng Diyos ang JIL. Maraming umalis, at may mga dumating din naman. Madaming nag iba. Pero ang proteksyon at pagsama ng Diyos sa simbahang ito, hindi naiba. Actually, mas tumindi pa nga. Anyway! Excited ako sa gagawin ng Diyos sa araw na ito. Bukod sa matinding walkathon at stand-a-thon (may ganung word ba) na aming pagdadaanan sa photo team, excited din ako dahil magiging way ang event na ito para madami pang makakilala sa Diyos. Yan naman ang isa sa mga misyon natin dito sa earth--ang mag evangelize, and mang encourage ng ibang tao, para mas makilala pa nila si Lord through us. Sorry sa taglish ha. I'm just typing as I think of what I should share. :)
2. October 6 and 9 - PROJECT MIRACLE Batch 4 Photoshoot! Pang apat na salvo na ito mga bro at sis! This time, ang iCare Compassion Ministries naman ang aming beneficiary. We are anticipating a lot of participants for this shoot. I pray na isa ka sa mga iyon. For more details, please e-mail me at karen@kkbmovement.org :). What's even more exciting about this is that mas pinatindi ang manpower for this shoot--we were able to invite more Hair and Make Up artists, and more support from our apprentices in photography. Exciting na nakaka kaba. But I know everything about this will never be in vain kasi for sure may patutunguhan itong project shoot na ito. Thanks to JIL, ZOE Light TV and iCare.
3. October 7 - Lead worshiper sa Sunday service after the anniv. So why did I mention this? Para mag brag? Hehehehe, noooo... Memorable po ito kasi last year, the sunday after the 33rd anniv, yun yung una kong lead worship assignment. This year, ganun ulit. Thrilling kasi nga kakatapos lang nga ng anniversary. Nakaka kaba na nakaka "pressure" (well I always feel this pag naaassign magpakanta sa church) in a sense na you, together with the whole team, should be able to usher the congregation in another level of worship. I thank the Lord kasi hindi ako makapaniwalang ilalagay Niya ako sa team na ito. Madami Siyang tinuro sa akin through this team, and masasabi ko na nag grow talaga ako not only as a worshiper, but as a Christian. Ang iniisip ko ngayon, I have to give my best and excellent offering of worship to Him, I need to be equipped and prepared. After all, He is the God of excellence. He deserves the best.
4. October 10-13 - Out of town. I'll write about this pero not here. Sa JIL website. Watch out. :D
5. October 15 - Prenup shoot. No, hindi kami ang ishushoot ni Zham (name po ng mapapangasawa ko). Kami po ang magshushoot. We've been doing this kind of shoots recently lang. It's a great feeling na maging part ng mga ganitong klaseng shoots. Especially if you were able to capture their perfect moment, worth na itreasure for a lifetime. I thank God kasi He's been using these talents to make other people happy. And on our part, a sense of fulfillment; knowing that through your lens someone will have a souvenir to look back on someday and remember that special moment.
6. October 20 - Another prenup studio shoot sa paborito naming studio: sa Camera Cart in Maginhawa St., Quezon City. I'll post some of the shots after the shoot.
7. October 27 - Wedding shoot. I will also keep you posted. :)
So yeah, this blog is just about anything. Hopefully I can update this regularly and I also hope you won't get tired of reading my entries! :)
Just a month and two days ago, I, together with my family and some close friends, asked for support to vote for my sister Karmi for STAGG's Most Liked Drummer of 2010. It was a very long one month for us.
For those who voted for her on the Music Source Facebook Page, have you ever wondered how her life as a musician have started?
Let's look back.
*****
Karmi, an "Aiza Seguerra" look alike (gusto ko lang talagang sabihin yan hehehe!), started to show her interest in music when she was in elementary... I guess, when she was in grade four or five. At first she started to play the guitar. She used to play that every chapel service in our school. Nung uso pa ang song hits at power pack na may guitar chord charts sa gitna, she studied the chords all by herself and for a short period of time she was able to play songs with that. She also learned how to play the bass guitar and a little bit of piano/organ.
See! Aiza Seguerra diba? :)
Upon entering high school, she started to play drums. Not on Pearl, not on Yamaha, or on any other brand of drum set.... but on an improvised one, made of water containers. She played drums for our small community church chapter every Wednesdays.
She eventually joined our Youth Band and then our church's Sunday worship leading team. Whenever the band joins inter-chapter competitions during summer camps, her drumming skills were never left unnoticed. Maybe because people are not used on seeing a girl playing drums. As years went by, this talent just went to a higher level of proficiency. At a very young age, she was able to conduct drum workshops in our church's different local chapters.
After high school, she entered UST to study Music, but a year later she auditioned and transferred to UP to pursue her studies, majoring in percussion. In this age she was exposed to different kinds of percussion instruments--the marimba and timpani to name a few (she even named her dogs after these instruments).
At 18, my dad gave her a Blue Sonor drumset as a gift for her. She even had a special slot on her surprise debut's program--the 18 drummers. Her drum guru, Sir Jun Regalado, even graced the event. I guess these things encouraged her to take her skill to another higher level.
Karmi using her drumset on her YouTube drum videos
Karmi with Drum Legend Sir Jun Regalado. Well this is not exactly her debut pic with him :D
Several years after, she was given the opportunity to be a part of our church's Central team of instrumentalists - the Jesus Army of Musicians (JAM). This paved the way to a "larger territory"--she was able to reach out and minister to our brethren not only here in the Philippines but also abroad by conducting workshops and performing on worship events and music camps in Thailand, Taiwan and Canada.
Karmi with the Musikatha team at JIL BC Canada's Anniversary
Drum Workshop at JIL Taiwan
Karmi with other Asian percussionists at SAYOWE - Thailand
Her being a part of this team made us realize how God significantly transformed her from a shy girl to an anointed, skillful young musician. This transformation pushed her to reach out more people. She was given opportunity to play drums for different artists like Richard Poon, Sam Milby, Acel van Ommen and Yeng Constantino. This opened doors to more opportunities for her as a sessionist drummer. Jack Rufo, one of the country's guitar legends, opened an audition to play for him on drums for a new band called Novus Luna. Out of the many who gave a shot, she emerged and given the chance to be the band's drummer. Together with Jack, Gareth Somers on bass and Barbara Jeanne on vocals, this band is now active and starting to make "noise" on the local music industry.
Novus Luna's song for RPG Metanoia OST - Star Cinema's entry to 2010 MMFF
*****
One night, Karmi was browsing the internet, and saw this STAGG Most Liked Drummer of 2010 Photo Album on Facebook, comprised of photos of nominated drummers from different famous bands. Here our conversation started:
Karmi: Ate Karen, tignan mo to oh. Kelan kaya ako manonominate sa mga ganito noh?
Karen: ..... *went back to the kitchen to look for something to eat*
Today, I was supposed to write about my Singapore trip about two weeks ago. But what happened last night is really worth the "write"--ASAP. :D
***
This year's celebration of my beloved Jesus Is Lord Church anniversary is, I could say, unique. First, because this is the first time since I become a JIL member wherein the anniversary was celebrated on the last week of October, and, on a Friday (we usually celebrate this every first Sunday of October). Second, it started late in the afternoon, in contrast to the usual 3PM kick off; which I understand, probably to give chance to our working brethren to attend since Friday is still a working day. And third, it took place a few days before All Saints Day. Well for me it's unique. :)
Oh, another thing. After being an attendee, then member of the 1000 voice choir, then dancer, then projectionist, then drummer (for a drum ensemble lang po)--now, I'm part of the anniversary production team, as an assistant.
I would just like to share the things that I saw, I heard, and I learned (and will never forget) about this glorious anniversary--Soaring Higher from Strength to Strength!
***
1. Dapat palaging may energy. Because there will be times you'll be running from here to there, you have to stand up almost all the time, you have to make your brain cells work. It's really important na bago ka pumunta ng Luneta, you were able to "charge" yourself. You even have to eat a decent meal (decent in terms of quantity and nutrition-wise). Energy is important to achieve alertness and presence of mind. In my case, I never slept properly for two days. I went to Luneta for the technical rehearsal Thursday afternoon, then I rushed to work in the evening, worked overtime, then rushed back to Luneta Friday after lunch. But I don't know, I was okay during the event, thanks to my Almighty God and a serving of Sarsi.
2. You should be spiritually ready. Being part of the production team is somewhat like a battle for me. It's like worshipping God even if you're not singing and dancing with the congregation. It's like you're in a pressure cooker for about 8 hours and you're liking it, because you're doing these things to glorify God. For me, everyone of us should be ready--for I believed this anniversary is God's perfect opportunity for Him to show His glory and revelation He stored for us. A timely chance for us to experience His mighty love and power; together with our fellow brethren who came from different parts of the country and the world (which was even made more possible via Live Streaming).
3. The power of the masking tape. I never thought the importance of masking tape until this event. It was very useful: nametag at pandikit sa kung ano anong bagay. A must have for a production assistant.
4. The power of the wristband. Or a friendship bracelet, whatever you wanna call it :p. Instead of an ID, a performer is given this blue wristband which serves a pass to the bleachers area.
5. The backdrop is so powerful. It made me shiver. It even came with my favorite color. :D
6. Overwhelming support of my church for my sister's battle. My sister Karmi was given a chance to show what she's got. She's currently on the top spot for Stagg's Most Liked Drummer of 2010. Thanks to all who supported and believed in her. Seeing her playing the drums for the JIL people brought me to tears. This was different. I could feel the love and support of these people for her. What made me happier is that I saw Karmi now with a new level of self-confidence.
Beat that drums girl!
7. Test of patience. There were instances wherein my weakest point was tested. I opted not to mention it here, but all I can say is that... I ruled over it.
8. VIPs. I was able to see and greet some famous people, but the presence of our Senate President, Juan Ponce Enrile, amazed me. At that age he is still in good shape. I did not vote for him last election though.
9. Powerful production numbers. Cheers to all who became part of the special presentations. I watched them again at www.jilworldwide.org, nakakakilabot pa din. I could say you really did your best, at performance level. Of course, our excellent God deserves this kind of offering. Very anointed talaga!
The youth of JIL Batangas during the technical rehearsal
10. Recognition of Bro. Eddie's works for the JIL Church. There was also a special moment for our dear spiritual director Bishop Eddie Villanueva. Truly he was mightily used by God in sharing the Gospel, in transforming peoples lives, and making them realize that they need the Lord's love and power in their lives. He was given an eagle "trophy" and a plaque. But these two are not enough, because I believe he has a greater and glorious reward awaiting him in heaven.
11. The people, kahit medyo mainit (medyo lang talaga), nakangiti pa rin. I know, that's so Pinoy. But I know again, they're smiling because they're happy that they made it to the anniversary :)
Powerful crowd!
12. Im not that aware that I'm actually placing my pencil, errr, Ate Fe's pencil rather; behind my right ear.
13. It's important that you have your mobile phone fully charged. I was not contacted by my friends because it went down.
14. Now I know the importance of a belt bag. I now say this is another must have for a production assistant. You can have your important things with you without carrying your bag by the hand. :)
15. For me, the anniversary is also a perfect time to see, meet and talk with your online/Facebook friends.
16. I don't know if it's just me or what, but I loved our dinner--Fried chicken with atchara. Naka-dalawang styro ako ng chicken and rice. Sobrang gutom na din siguro. Hehe palusot pa.
17. The power of RC Cola this time. I don't want to be a softrdrink addict again, but this made me awake for the whole event. At least hindi na coffee ang panlaban sa antok, para maiba naman. Mom, if you're reading this, don't get mad at me. Hindi na po mauulit. No to softrdrinks mode na po ako ulit. By the way, I gulped the last RC can sa ref kanina. Last na talaga yun promise.
18. The mighty men and women of God in black and flowery white. Mabuhay ang JAM VIA! You guys made a fantastic job in leading the congregation in the spirit of worship! :) Way to go Ate Edith and to the rest of the team!
Sis. Edith Mendoza leading the congregation in praise and worship
19. The mighty young men and women of God in violet! I super love your shirt! May ganyan pa ba kayo? Hehehe! You just scared the devil off with your powerful moves!
TEAM! :) Super like--the shirt! :D
20. The 32 acoustic guitarists. Very unique! 32 finest guitarists together for this special part of the praise and worship! Cheers to Kuya Paul, well, you're Kuya Paul eh! Kuya Paul equals EPIC WIN! Glory to God! :)
And they're just enjoying the moment!
21. Apat na bote lang naman ng Batis Mineral water ang naubos ko.
22. It's a very right decision for me not to wear heels during the anniv! I just wore my ever reliable flats. Perfect for running from the stage to the Kalabaw!
23. It's a good thing we were able to park our family car just a few meters away from the stage.
24. KKB's powerful number for Lupang Hinirang. Diane sang the national anthem superbly. It made me remember Charice on that kind of gown. So sweet looking but glamorous.
25. Cheers to my good friend Jade for taking care of my camera. Maaasahan ka talaga! :D
26. Ate Leslie and Ate Joan made a fantastic job in "managing the left and right side of the stage". Hehehe!
27. Special mention also to the MIS Team for LiveStreaming the event!
Mam Soc's team with one of my most admired writers--Ate Evelyn :)
28. The testimony portion.
29. Good weather. Though at first umambon at umulan ng mahina; but the rest of the night is just fine.
30. One thing I saw as a good one on celebrating this on a Friday is that the people really stayed up to the end of the program, kahit madaling araw na natapos.
31. After the heart-tearing suspense, throat wrecking shouting, leg spraining running here and there, and breath taking pressure, the production team did it! For God's glory. :D We went wild and in high spirits, we sang, danced, jumped, shouted in joy, and took endless pictures together like there's no tomorrow. I was sad because the anniversary went to an end, but was super happy because everything went fine (well almost), by the grace of God. I'm proud to become a part of this team! Mabuhay ka Ate Maidz, you're such a super woman!
32. And lastly, the Vision. The last part of the event amazed me. 44 pastors went on stage carrying the flags of the 44 countries with JIL Churches. Then 36 kids in national costumes of 36 countries followed them, representing the countries with JIL Churches in the next few years. And lastly, 36 young men and women followed the kids, holding flaglets matching the kid's represented countries, symbolizing the acceptance of God's mandate to continue the legacy in order to make this vision into a reality.
***
I'm really proud and honored to become a member of this glorious church. A church that stood up and tall for justice and righeousness. A nation loving church. A church that is genuinely compassionate not only to its members, but to every people in every race. A worshipping church. A church of great faith. A praying church. A church with a Vision.
I believe this will serve as a reminder for my fellow women friends.
My current schedule at work is at 9pm to 6am. Whenever I work night shift, and I don't want to work for early overtime, I used to leave the house at 8pm. I also take 3 rides to work: Tricycle to Pasig Market, Jeep to Bagong Ilog, and FX to Ayala. Though it's 3 rides, there's no hassle on my part because there's no traffic jam during this time at night.
Last night, I took the tricycle ride to Palengke. Check. Next, sumakay na ako sa nakaabang na jeep sa kanto. I sat at my favorite place - sa bukana. Para madaling bumaba at para di ako ang mag abot ng bayad sa driver. Pero I had this sudden feeling of selflessness, I asked the woman sitting in front of me kung magbabayad na siya... Pwede niyang iabot sa akin at ako na ang mag aabot sa driver. I felt good.
I'm an observer whenever I'm travelling anywhere. My sight caught this man, looking at me. Malagkit ang tingin. I felt weird.
I looked the other way, towards the driver. Since walang laman masyado ang jeep, I sat sideways, like sitting on a couch, pero not that "feel-at-home" way. Sakto lang. Then I was surprised the man that's looking weirdly at me went on the jeep and sat beside me. Sa kaliwa ko. Since I was sitting sideways, nakaharap ko siya all of a sudden. I was surprised, I immediately looked the other way. Sa bukana na ako nakatingin ngayon.
He sat beside me for a few minutes. I felt something touched my shoulder, but I ignored it. I cluctched my shoulder bag close to me. I kept on looking at my right side until he left the jeep. It was weird because he get off even before the jeep left the terminal. Pagkababa niya, he gave me this "maniac-ish" grin, and he never took his eyes off me until the jeep was far from him... until he was off my sight. I shivered.
Pagdating sa Bagong Ilog, I prepared myself to get off the jeep. Then there is this man who sits infront of me. He's looking at me weirdly. Then parang hindi na siya makatiis, he pointed at my left shoulder. And the woman in front of me (yung nagpasuyo ng bayad) is also looking at me, like she knew something "bad" has happened to me. She said, "yung lalaki kanina..." Hindi na niya matuloy yung gusto niyang sabihin.
I froze. Akala ko ipis. Magffreak out na sana ako. But I slowly looked at my left shoulder, and I was devastated. Something whitish, sticky and slightly bubbly is on my left shoulder. I was rattled. Nanginginig ako na hinawakan yung left shoulder ko, and the smell was weird, I could say terrible. I almost burst into tears when I said, "Para po". While I was walking, I got my tissue and hand sanitizer to clean up. I don't want to think about "what is that". But I was really devastated. However, I was thankful because nothing bad has happened to me. God is great, and good.
To my friends, specially the girls, take care of yourself, lalo na pag bumibiyahe kayo sa gabi. As much as possible, go in groups, or dapat may kasama kayo lagi. Most of all, pray. It's the strongest and ultimate protection you can get.
Now I am planning to not to take my usual travel routine.
Posted on May 24, 2010.
*** I went home from our cluster’s team building. Sobrang kapagod. Sobrang init pa, to the highest level. Sabi ko nga sa nauna kong FB status post: my head is spinning. Nakakahilo talaga. Dahil sa sobrang antok at pagod at sakit ng ulo, nakatulog agad ako. *** Pagmulat ko ng mata ko, nasa maganda akong hotel lobby. Nagulat ako sa suot ko. Bridal gown. Ang ganda. Tinignan ko ang sarili ko sa salamin, ang ganda ganda ko. Napaisip ako, anong meron? Pagtingin ko sa may hagdan, nakita ko ang nanay ko, papunta sa kinatatayuan ko. She was all made up as well. Lalo akong nagtaka. “Karen, halika na, nandun na yung mga tao, pati yung mapapangasawa mo...” HA?!?! What.... Lalo na akong naguluhan. Sino? Hindi ko kilala... Kaya tinanong ko ang mommy ko. Sabi niya,”Nagkasundo kami ng parents niya. Gusto namin kayo ang magkatuluyan. Papakilala ko siya sa yo pagdating natin don.” Kamusta naman! Blind wedding? Natawa na lang ako, pero natakot ako. Haller, hindi lang ito date... Kasal na ito! Waaaah! Pwede magback out? Pero wala na akong nagawa... Hinatid nila ako sa bridal car. In fairness... Camry ang kotse. Kanino kaya iyon? Pwedeng arborin? Papunta na kami sa simbahan. Hindi ko alam kung saan. Parang gusto ko munang mawalan ng malay for a moment. Hindi ko madigest yung mga nangyayari sakin. Nakakaimpatso. Pagdating namin sa simbahan, sinamahan ako ni mommy sa may garden. May lalaking naghihintay. Lalo akong kinabahan, parang gusto kong mag CR sa sobrang kaba. Pagkakita ko sa lalaki, mmmmm! Gwaping! Why not! Mukha siyang kagalang galang. Pinakilala ako sa kanya ni mommy. “Karen, siya ang mapapangasawa mo. Iwan ko muna kayo para magkakilala pa kayo.” Naisip ko, hello.... sa ganitong sitwasyon pa ha! Pagkaiwan samin ng nanay ko, nag usap kami. Naguguluhan talaga ako. Paano humantong sa ganito ang lahat? Hindi ko na maalala ang pinag usapan namin. Pero nung huli, magbaback out na daw siya. Ang dahilan? Ang pangit ko daw kasi. Ang gulo talaga. Hindi naman ako pangit ah. Yun ang nasabi ko sa sarili ko. Tska hello, di tayo magkakilala noh... Gusto ko siyang sabunutan noon pero bigla nalang siyang naglakad palayo. Kahit nabigla ako sa mga nangyayari, I was devastated. Nag “runaway groom” ang mapapangasawa ko on our “surprise wedding”! I went back to the bridal car. I was crying. Bakit naman hanggang sa ganito may rejection moment na naganap? Gusto ko na talaga umuwi at matulog na lang for a while. Or maybe longer than that. Nagulat na naman ako, sumakay ang nanay ko sa bridal car. Mukhang aware na siya sa pag walk out ng groom but it looks like she’s not worried. “Karen, bumaba na tayo... Nakapasok na sa church lahat ng tao at ang entourage. Ikaw nalang ang kulang. May lumapit sa amin at sabi niya siya nalang ang mag aaya sa yo na magpakasal.” Kewl. Ganun na lang yun? May proxy? Hehehe. Hindi ko na alam kung anong mararamdaman ko nung moment na iyon. Pero sige, go. Bumaba ako kasama ang nanay ko. Nakita ko doon ang lahat ng mga taong naging part ng buhay ko. Slightly, naging masaya ako. But the million dollar question is, “sino ang sumalo sa akin sa panahong ito?” Naglakad na ako sa aisle, pero instead of walking slowly, binilisan ko ang lakad ko. Ngunit kahit binilisan ko, parang ang layo pa din niya. I was surprised pagkalapit ko sa kanya. He was not even in a coat or tie or barong tagalog attire. He’s in casual clothes, at may luggage siyang dala. He’s tall. Pero nakatalikod siya sa akin. I placed my hand on his shoulder para malaman ko kung sino siya. Nung malapit ko nang makita ang mukha niya... *** Nagising ako. Arrrrrghhh! Yun na eh! Malapit na eh! Pwede bang matulog ulit? Para makita ko lang kung sino siya? Pero hindi ko na nagawa iyon. I’ll be late for church. Reactions?
Posted on September 14, 2009.
*** After several months (or few years) of overtime and weekend/holiday work and travelling to different places, I found the time to clean up my closet. Operation: Closet Overhaul. I just noticed that I've got tons of clothes to dispose of. I have to get started. Halo halo na ang mga damit ko. kasi minsan, dahil sa kawalan ng oras, hinahagis ko na lang sa cabinet ko yung mga kalalaba at kapaplantsang damit. Yung mga nakahanger, sabit na lang ng sabit. di ko na nasesegregate o pinagsasama sama yung pantalon, blouse, jacket, etc. Lagi ko kasing sinasabi, pag may time ako at pag nasa mood ako, aayusin ko din yan. aalisin ko din yung mga ibang damit diyan. and this is the time for that. I pulled out ALL of my clothes. Nilagay ko nang maayos sa kama. hiniwalay ko ang mga sinusuot ko pa, ang mga ayaw ko nang isuot, at yung mga gusto ko pa sanang isuot pero ayaw nang magpasuot dahil hindi na kasya sa akin. Walang problema sa mga sinusuot ko pa. Kaya maayos kong ibinalik ito sa cabinet ko. May mga ayaw ko nang isuot talaga dahil sa mga sumusunod na posibleng dahilan: * Hindi na siya uso; * Mga binigay sa akin na hindi ko trip ang style; * Pang-lalaking damit (akala yata lalaki ako eh. nakakalalaki talaga.); * Sobrang kupas na; at * Gula-gulanit na (layman's term--sira sira na). Nilagay ko ito sa malaking plastic bag. Bahala na sila mommy kung anong gagawin sa mga damit na ito. Marahil, yung mga pwede pang pakinabangan, ibibigay sa kawanggawa (e.g., ICare. oha!!!); o gagawing pangpunas ng sahig, bintana, pintuan, lababo, or kahit anong bagay na pwede at dapat punasan at linisin. At ang huling grupo ng mga damit: Ang mga masisikip na sa akin. Bakit ayaw ko silang itapon o ipamigay? Eto ang mga posibleng dahilan: * Sayang kasi; * Nakakapanghinayang itapon; * Baka pagsisihan ko pag tinapon ko; * Basta sayang; * Sayang nga kasi. In other words, ayaw ko lang. Gusto ko akin lang yun. Kaya binalik ko sa closet ko. Pero, naalala ko yung teaching ni Ptr. Albert Musngi ng JIL Pampanga. Nagamit din niyang illustration sa teaching niya yung pagooverhaul ng closet. Yung pagtatanggal ng mga damit na di mo na nasusuot at di mo na kailangan. Nandoon ako sa point na may mga ayaw akong itapon o alising damit kasi ayaw ko lang. Pero, ang mga damit na ito na hindi mo na naman napapakinabangan at nagdudulot lang ng waste of space sa closet mo ang dapat talagang alisin na to make room for newer, better, more fitting clothes. Eto yung mga damit na magagamit at mapapakinabangan mo pa talaga. Just like sa buhay natin. May mga bagay sa mga buhay natin--tao, event, sitwasyon, nakaraan--na ayaw nating i-let go. Eto ang mga bagay na hindi naman nakakatulong sa atin sa paglago into a better person, or better yet, a better Christian (redundant?). Hindi ko man maisa-isa dito kung ano ang mga posibleng dahilan, eto lang ang sigurado ako: Ang mga bagay na ito ang siyang nagiging hadlang para pagkalooban tayo ng Diyos ng mas maganda at mas bonggang pagpapala na magdudulot sa atin ng kasiyahan, contentment at transformation as a better Christian na nakakapabigay ng kaluwalhatian sa Diyos. Akalain mo yun! Sa pag aayos lang ng aparador, naisip ko yun. Kewlness. Awesomeness. hehehe. Teka lang ha. Aalisin ko lang sa cabinet ko yung mga DAPAT nang alising mga damit to make room for NEWER, BETTER, and MORE BONGGANG clothes. Maaaring wala pa sa ngayon. Someday. :)
