They call it fate

Paulo Coelho once wrote in The Alchemist that "When you really want something to happen, the whole universe conspires so that your wish comes true.". Some people would think that God pulls up one of his tricks and utter some chants to let this happen, while others believe that they don't need Him to make these things happen, because it's their hardship and perserverance that they are where they are now, and that God has nothing to do with it.

I didn't believe on this quote at first, for maybe because I was too naive and I haven't yet experienced what it feels like. But despite not knowing what it's like to understand the meaning, reading it from this book has given me inspiration that I didn't expect would be kicking back into my life. But this is fate we're talking about, so surely, this would come back and haunt me (or is it?). And haunted me again it did. But this time, I had to combine not just my belief but efforts as well. And it's quite fulfilling and satisfying when something you have longed to happen would eventually and unexpectedly occur, even though you have planned it would work from the start. Did that even made sense? Well, it doesn't matter, because as long as you believe in something, it'll happen. 

These can also be called as blessings in disguise, unless you're an atheist or agnostic. But if you're not, then I could say that you might relate to what I'm saying now. It doesn't matter whether you're a Catholic, Christian, Muslim, Protestant, Born again, or any other religious group that you can think of (and I apologize if I haven't mentioned yours.). I think, that as long as you believe that there is a God, and that He is someone greater than everything else, then you're good to go. I mean, you know what I'm talking about.

Sometimes when you feel like you've been given too much of what you ask, you feel honored that you feel like you don't deserve all these blessings showering upon you. That you don't have the right to receive these gifts, or that you're not worthy enough to be given too much of what you have asked Him. But the first reaction you would have once you receive it? Grateful. You're thankful that He has given you what you need and longed for, and you praise him for all the blessings that He has, has always been, and will soon give you.

But most of the time, we take things for granted. Let's say you live you in a first world country where you can buy everything you want. Okay, not exactly everything, because you still need to earn money to buy whatever it is you want. Let me try to think of mundane situations here. For example, a family is able to go camping whenever it's the long weekend during summer. I guess you can say that they're either grateful that they're able to go out and spend time as a family, and also, enjoy the heat that summer has in store for the rest of the season before the leaves start drying up again and turn red or brown. They may or may not appreciate this moment, but if you think about it, every little thing that we are given are meant to be thankful for.

An aspiring scholar who's entering university for the first time has worked so hard to be accepted at a school he eagerly wishes, that when he receives his Official Letter of Acceptance from this school, he jumps for joy and thanks whoever he can thank, gratified that he received this blessing. That's pretty normal if you ask me, but if this would give him the education he longs for and this is the only way he can help his family, then, it's huge for this student. Is this what they also call fate?

So if you want something to happen and it does, it all depends on your belief on whoever or whatever you think has given you this blessing. It can be God, fate, the cosmos and stars, or just yourself. As long as you're grateful and don't take everyday things for granted, then you deserve even more than just what you wish for.

A rollercoaster ride

Just a quick jot to reflect on the thoughts that have harboured my mind today. Today is the Philippine National Elections (technically, it was yesterday as I'm on the other side of the world) and having gone through the news every hour, I felt different feelings that I haven't had for a long time. 

The May 10 elections also made history as this is the first time in the country that the automatic machines are used to tally the votes. This means that there won't be any more manual counting, no need to count for days (or months) to know who won the most coveted position in the land. There will be less violence, as the ballot boxes are now safe and machines (or cards) will used to record the votes. I thank Senator Richard Gordon (and Presidentiable) who made and defended this bill.

I thought the Filipino voters are wiser now. But it turns out, I was wrong. Waking up this morning and reading the news on the internet has got me on my toes. Initial reaction: I was disappointed. Appalled. Angry that my chosen candidate wasn't elected. Furious that the one I have deemed as incompetent and not worthy of the position was leading. Mad that the people I have known my whole life supported this person who hasn't done anything during the entire 12 years of his position as a Congressman and Senator was first in the tallies. 

A bus ride later, I was still in denial that Noynoy Aquino would even be considered as a President, that if it wasn't for his name or his parents or his infamous sister he wouldn't be known more than the man he is now. And add the fact that second on the poll was former President Joseph Estrada, a convicted plunderer and impeached former actor, what more can I ask for? That was the time when I lost hope, the hope that the Philippines doesn't deserve all the great and worthy leaders that they didn't want to get elected. I lost hope, thinking that for whatever s**t that happens on that country, they deserve it. That they're to blame. A while ago I didn't want to say it out loud, but I was thinking that I'm ashamed of my fellow Filipinos, for they clearly are not ready for change. How can they not see Gilberto Teodoro or Gordon as their beacon of hope? That these men are the change that the people has been longing for?

Venting out my frustrations through the only way possible, I posted my thoughts on my usual hangout, Anti-Pinoy. When I was still feeling down with the results, little did I realize that I was beginning to accept the truth that was soon dawning on to me. I was thankful that there are some people who stiill tried to stay positive, despite the turnout of the election. And they were right. There are also some things that I'm thankful for. I'm thankful that Noynoy is leading, as he was able to prevent another Erap Administration (I shudder at the thought should this happen again.). I'm thankful that the automation flowed smoothly, despite the glitches that were seen in some areas, but they were still able to go through the election. I'm grateful that there weren't many deaths involved, unlike before that lives must be sacrificed again and again just to bag a seat.

Hnaging out at another Filipino forum has given me hope and made me more positive towards the end of the day. Reading the Gordon supporters' comments have made me realize that life should still go on, and we should still help each other for a better Philippines.

This tidbit of news that the third placer in the Presidential race conceded and congratulated the leading also made me smile a bit, even though I consider him corrupt and not fit to be a President. 

At the end of today, I have become more accepting, and realized that I should still support the current administration. I may still be bitter about it, but at least, if anything should still happen in the future (or another People Power *rolls eyes*), I know in my heart that I didn't wish for him to be the President. Yes, that's right. I won't take the blame. I won't feel guilty, because I didn't choose him in the first place. But enough of that. I don't want to resort to this. What's important is that I still have a little hope for my country that this would soon be on the list of the top countries in Asia (and in the world), a nation that I can be proud of not just of its wonders and breathtaking sights, but of the people who can defend their homeland. 

And I can still be proud to call myself a Filipino, even after all of this. But before that, I need to become a better person first. Only then can I be proud of my nationality when I have become a better individual for my nation.

This post was very random, in my opinion, and I thought about it quite fast (and out of the blue too), so pardon some stupidies (if you find some, or if you think there are) and grammatical errors.

Why I became an anti-Pinoy

Nowadays I always visit this blog called Anti-Pinoy where they talk about how the dysfunctional mind of a Filipino works. Or how Filipinos reacted to the Adam Carolla story that made me (and everyone at the site) ashamed of my fellowmen. Oy, if you think I'm being racist, then you better get your act together and read the website. And I'm not saying I'm perfect either, for if everyone was born perfect, then the world wouldn't be like this today. Try to browse through some posts, ponder for a while, do a reflection that would make you aware of your actions. Just do your research and self-discern before making a refutable comment.

So after a few days of stalking, I pulled up my courage and made my first comment on one post that is completely different from the post that I commented on. But everyone (especially the moderators) welcomed me with open arms, because I threatened them and told them that I wanted to make myself feel at home in that place, which they gladly obliged.

Because I've been inspired by their writing and thoughts, I decided to do a personal post on why and what Filipino people have to change, a thought that must have been heard from a million people as well, and taking advantage of their hospitality while in their house.

Why I became an anti-Pinoy

(Or why Agua Bendita is better than The Last Prince)

  Welcome to the world of fantasies and idealism, where most people spend their time watching shows that seem to not run out of cliched plots. I have no intention of inadvertently mentioning the upcoming Philippine elections this May 2010; it just so happened that my views have changed not just because of my exposure to the internet, but mostly because of reality kicking in. The latter applies best I admit, for I was able to recognize my country's flaws and compare it to one of the most livable countries in the world, the place where I am now. As an anti-Anti-Pinoy would say, "You traitors!", that just because I now live in a better country and I'm away from home gives me the right to look down on my fellow Filipinos. But in fact, it's the other way around. I have learned to understand the archipelago's history, culture, and society looking at them from a thousand miles away. And this is why I became an anti-Pinoy.

  When I first stepped on the snow a few years ago, the air had a refreshing feeling to it. At first I thought it was because of the clean and unpolluted surroundings. But then I realized that there was more to it. Not only is this a new and uncharted country for me, but the people, culture, and laws were different as well. A huge step-up from the typical and Filipino lifestyle that I was used to.

  Jetlag was one thing; but homesickness is worse than that. Despite getting used to living here and an Asian market just two blocks from our house, something is still missing. I can't claim this fact on behalf of every Filipinos who live abroad, but this is what most people feel when they grew up and spend many years and would suddenly undergo a change from their home country to a completely diverse place. Because of this, I learned two things: discipline and responsibility. Two traits that all Filipinos must have nowadays. Without these two, a country wouldn't progress to what it is today. South Korea wouldn't be the world's leading manufacturer of major companies if it wasn't for their discipline, perseverance, and nationalism (A typical example, but I'm just stating reality. I mean, can you imagine that they had a war in the 50's and recovered so soon?). Alright, the remaining two are important as well, but here I can say that Filipinos can do this and take action–if necessary and required (ah, I hope no one gets offended.). But sometimes, Filipino pride goes too far–so far that other Filipinos would blame their actions which results into a a more humiliating act.

  There is nothing wrong practicing nationalism and patriotism. I'm all for it. I do it once in a while, if I feel like it (shame on me), and I try not to overdo it. I sort of understand the Filipino society on why they will continue to patronize foreign products because of our history. But I guess, in little (and improving ways), Filipinos are beginning to appreciate what they have. However, to strive harder to achieve a  universal goal is one thing that they lack. And also, we need a major change that will improve ourselves and our society. And this large change involves the impending elections on May 10th (now you know where I'm getting at.). But don't worry, I'm not going to dictate why you should vote for my preferred candidate. Instead, I will tell you to vote for whom you like not because of their popularity, winnability, or lineage, but because of what they have done and what they can do more. A citizen has the right of suffrage so as much as you can. Go  ahead and practice it because this is not for just you, your families, nor your future generations, but for the entire country as well. 

  I learned that a person can change if he initiates the change within himself. However, in order to change oneself and others, there should be conditions and restrictions implemented so that discipline and responsibility will take effect. And who will enforce these "rules"? It can be oneself, a friend, your parents, the company president, or the leader of your county, as long as these laws are for the person's best interests at heart. 

  In a perfect world, there is no perfect leader who tells you what to do because the reality is, they also think about themselves and how they would reap from their position. There is no perfect person who can change overnight and be all saint-like. It takes practice and an effective authority to carry out these rules that would encourage an individual to succeed, which in turn, will make his dwelling place first-class. So, set aside those overactive imaginations (which should be in our dreams, actually) and pointless shows. Time to wake up and smell the garbage. 

A/N: For the record, I have never seen Agua Bendita. I just saw this ad for this show on a Filipino newspaper my mom picked up from the supermarket. The Last Prince I have, when our tv provider offered a 3-month free preview of the network a while ago. When I saw it, I thought it was so bad, that it's hilariously good to watch (just not everyday though, because I might go insane).

There you have it, my friends. One proof that I have changed after living in another country for two years. Two years. It took me two years and a blog to realize these unacceptable truths about myself as a Filipino and the people. It's quite disappointing in a way, that somehow, I've lost my faith to my fellowmen. But I'm not saying that I hate the Philippines, because I still love it, and it will probably never change. I guess the country and its people need a lot of tweaking to run again.


These are my sole opinions only and I did not intend to use AntiPinoy as my basis for this post. It just so happened that we share the same sentiments.

Let us not forget...

I almost forgot that I had these pictures. In December of last year our class had a field trip for our English class at Asper Centre, the Jewish Centre of Western Canada Inc. and met a Holocaust survivor where he talked about his experience in the camps. I regret that I didn't take his picture; it would've been nice for everyone to see.

Here are some of the pictures that I took from the museum; it's not a lot because it's not that huge really. 

Which reminds me, April 12th was the Holocaust Remembrance Day, so posting them made some sense too, for us to commemorate and remember them.

the sound of the South

And proud to be, I must say.

I love Urbandub. This is one of my favourite Filipino bands that is currently streaming on the Philippine tv and radio. They became popular at around 2006, when Original Pilipino Music (OPM) became the mainstream sound. Which is great, really, because these artists finally have the ability to release their creations and be appreciated by the masses. Back then, in the late and early 2000s, foreign artists were making waves on the radio. Music videos that were shown on MTV had a few of those which were OPM. Looking back, I think it was quite tragic, to think that we don't appreciate the artists who speak the same language and who understand us better than these artists who live in another land and have a different culture.

But enough of that. I’m here to discuss about one of my favourite bands, and even though I’m away from that country, they’re still making waves not just on the national radio but touring around Asia for their concerts as well. Last I heard, they went to Singapore to promote their new album.

Anyway. Just what does this band have that’s got me talking like an idiot? Heads up, I’m not really a music expert to know these stuff. So expect me to not mention the guitar riffs and drum beats because I know nothing about those. I would add some facts as well, which would be mostly taken from their Wiki page, my ever-reliable source (pfft). Although I have to say, their music is always changing, and it’s very addicting. At least for me, that is. But I know I’m not the only one. But why would people actually like their music and last this long? Well, because it’s different. And the writing is awesome, for Gabby Alipe is able to convey the feelings that a normal being feels, not just emotionally and physically, but he talks about a person’s internal dilemma as well.

So as of now, they have five albums under their name, and I'll give a bit of description on each (because I have nothing to do even though I do).

Released under Lighter Records in 2001, Birth was the start of this fresh band. Seeing as they're independent, the sound quality isn't exactly what your top-notch player would like to play. But I guess it's safe to say that this is where and how everything started. This album was how it was supposed to be, a 'reggae' band, thus the name of the band, but because of the line-up changes and their contrasting tastes in music, they weren't able to be what they were supposed to be (and this is according to Gabby Alipe himself, the vocalist and composer). Looking back, this album compared to others was fresh and heavy.

Three singles were released in their debut album, but didn't exactly hit it off strong yet in the music charts. In 2003 this struggling band released another album called Influence. The album took a 180-degree turn from the first. Still under the same independent record label company, but with a better sound quality and more experimental melodies. Tracks such as Soul Searching and A New Tattoo were taken notice by some people, the former garnering an award as the 'Best song of the year of 2003' in the NU 107 Rock Awards. Despite not knowing them yet, they were able to win an award as the 'Best Album of the Year' in 2004 from the same awards show. While I was enjoying some other Filipino artists during these days, little did I know that this band who will greatly influence me has already started making noise in the undergound scene.

I was a working and responsible citizen in 2006 when I did a favor for my brother who asked me to buy the Embrace album that was released in 2005 by EMI Music Philippines. Being the kind sister that I was (and still am), I bought it for him without an having an inkling of what this band was. I didn't mind listening to the heavy riffs and rock music, I was used to it. I grew up hearing different genres of music, so hearing them the first time didn't give me that 'I-hate-listening-to-rock-music-because-they're-loud' look. Instead, I listened to the lyrics, like I usually do when I listen to an artist, and when the last track hit its final note, I was in awe. I wasn't that excited at first, but when I started inserting them in the player every now and then, I didn't realized that they've already made an impact on me. By this time, they were already making waves in the mainstream radio and television. A few were starting to take notice of these Cebuanos whose sound is better than the other band who hail from the south who was already making it to the music charts at that time probably due to popularity and *ehem* face value. It's not really all about the looks in order to make it big in the music industry. What counts is their album's shelf-life, or their appeal not just to the masses, but to the music buffs, geeks and mostly their fans as well. Give it a few years down the road, and where are they now? *pause* Alrighty, it seems I've digressed a bit and got distracted for a second.

By the release of their fourth album in 2007, Under Southern Lights instantly became a hit with their first single 'Guillotine'. This time, they were heading the charts with each released single. This album took another turn from their last, which raised a few eyebrows (including myself), but it was nothing huge that would make me change my mind and forget this band that has greatly influenced me by that time. Listening to it the first time would make a person wonder what happened to their music, but after clicking a few repeats, one by one, I began to appreciate them all over again.

Fastforward to 2009. Signing up with their new record label MCA Music, The Apparition was released. As if the former album wasn't 'Urbandub'-ish enough, this was considered their most experimental album yet. Their first single 'Gravity' has that trademark, so it wasn't much of a shock, but the others took a 360-turn from all their past albums. But I won't say anything more about the change. I've just started listening to this album yesterday, and actually, at this moment, I'm listening to the album again, specifically 'A Call to Arms', which is now one of my favorites. I could listen to this song again and again, for it still has that distinctive Urbandub music. I don't know why, but the lyrics reminds me of Influence, with Soul Searching coming to mind. The tune reminds me of the first two tracks in Under Southern Lights. But back to the album. Don't ask me how I got this, despite me being on the other side of the world, with no access to a cd at the local Music store. I used different means, but once I step on the lands of my forefathers this summer (my most awaited homecoming), this band would earn another $8 (or PHP 350. Just a guess. I have no idea how much OPM cds are nowadays.) for their album. Another satisfied and excited fan, another reason for them to be inspired and work even harder.

And to show you how much I love Gabby Alipe, John Dinopol, Lalay Lim and JanJan Mendoza, I'll post my copies with their signatures except for the fourth album that doesn't have one yet (and yes, I am a fangirl. You should have figured that out by now.):

Three days ago the band celebrated their 10 years of influence in Cebu, their hometown. With 10 years and five albums under their belt, is it that much of a change? Well, yes and no, because what this band does with their music is experiment and at the same time continue progressing, making each and every album different from one another, but have that same attribute that makes it an Urbandub song. To have a clue on who the heck they are, you can visit their Facebook fan page. But since you can't play any music on that site, you can visit their official Myspace page, and after listening to some tracks and begin to like them, you can then add them to your Facebook page and buy their original albums. 

Left to right: John Dinopol, Gabby Alipe, Lalay Lim, and JanJan Mendoza

Detective Conan: episode 3

I said to myself that after doing the second episode, I would move on to the first case Mouri solves without Conan's help. But after seeing this episode again, I realized that this is also important, for this is an introduction to what I said earlier that I would discuss later on. So as much as I would like to move on to the next one, I have to do this first.

Detective Conan episode 3: And Idol's Locked Room Murder Case

Homecoming Part I

A few months more and once again I will be back to my hometown, the Philippines. This is exactly why I named this blog "Homecoming" for I long to go back to the place where I was born, and where the roots of my heritage came from. Where my forefathers shed their blood, sweat, and tears to be free from the hands of the Conquistadors. To once again explore places that I have never set foot on, reminisce the past and cherish every single day God has given me. 

I may not have all the time in the world when I get there, for I would be touring the city and visiting some sites, refreshing my history once again. But of course, the most important agenda for me is to spend time with my family, the relatives who have seen me grow up for a number of years, and friends whom I shared my life and soul with.

No one could argue when I say that there is no place like home. Although I have already considered Canada my home, nothing could still take me away from the place that I spent most of my entire life. And what's more, coming from a third world country to a much better and developed place, comparisons are inevitable, flaws and disappointments are felt most of the time. But I think what's different about me is how I view my hometown, now that I'm in an unfamiliar country where not everyone speaks my language, where I need to speak another foreign language despite learning it at school back then. It is true, the Philippines is lucky to have English as their second official language, for they have an advantage when they travel to english-speaking countries such as here in North America.

To live in a country that is rich is multiculturalism can be a blessing―especially for the person who has just set foot in a strange territory. It would be an advantage too, in the long run, for that person would be able to appreciate the culture he has once he sees himself unique from everyone else. If from before, he took his ethnicity and nationalistic identity for granted, coming to a new country would be a change from the norm, adapting with the new lifestyle, but unconsciously preserving his heritage, proud of who he is.

I'm sure some feel the same way as I do, but for those who haven't yet, I say to you: it is a very satisfying feeling to know that you are different from others which makes you honored to come from such a country and history.

And this is why homecoming means a lot to me.