Airdrop Hunting 102: How to Find Crypto Airdrops
Now that you know what airdrops are, it’s time to take the next step: finding them. Spotting quality airdrops can be the difference between earning valuable tokens and wasting your time on low-potential projects. Here’s how you can discover promising airdrops and get started on your journey.
**Where to Find Crypto Airdrops**
Airdrops aren’t hidden treasures—you just need to know where to look. The best places to find them include:
**1. Dedicated Airdrop Platforms**
Websites like Airdrop.io, Airdrops.io, and CoinMarketCap Airdrops list active and upcoming airdrops. These platforms often provide details about eligibility, tasks, and deadlines.
**2. Social Media**
Follow blockchain projects on **Twitter**, **Discord**, and **Telegram**. Many projects announce airdrops directly to their community, so staying connected is crucial.
**3. Crypto News Platforms**
Websites like CoinGecko and CoinDesk sometimes highlight major airdrops, especially from high-profile projects. Subscribing to their newsletters can keep you updated.
**4. Community Forums**
Reddit groups like r/cryptocurrency and Bitcointalk have active discussions about new airdrops. These forums often feature real-time user experiences and tips.
**Tools You’ll Need**
To participate in airdrops, you’ll need the right tools:
**1. A Secure Wallet**
Set up a non-custodial wallet like MetaMask, Trust Wallet, or Phantom. These wallets allow you to control your private keys, ensuring your funds and airdrop tokens are secure.
**2. A Reliable Email Address**
Use an email address for signing up for airdrops, but avoid sharing your primary email. This reduces exposure to spam.
**3. Blockchain Explorer**
Platforms like Etherscan or Solscan help you track wallet activity and confirm token receipts.
**Tips for Evaluating Airdrops**
Not all airdrops are created equal. Here’s how to identify worthwhile opportunities:
**Research the Project**: Look for projects with active communities and a clear roadmap. Airdrops from established or promising teams are more likely to gain value.
**Check the Requirements**: Avoid airdrops that demand excessive personal information or seem too good to be true.
**Monitor Deadlines**: Many airdrops have specific eligibility periods or claim windows—don’t miss out.
**Staying Safe**
Airdrop hunting is fun but comes with risks. Protect yourself by:
Never sharing your private keys.
Avoiding suspicious links or fake websites.
Using a separate wallet for airdrops to keep your main funds secure.
**What’s Next?**
Now that you know how to find airdrops, the next step is learning how to complete tasks effectively and maximize your chances of success. In the upcoming article, we’ll cover common airdrop requirements, task completion tips, and strategies to boost your rewards.
Stay tuned as you level up your airdrop hunting game! 🚀
Airdrop Hunting 101: What Are Crypto Airdrops?
If you’re new to cryptocurrency, you might have heard the term "airdrops" floating around. Airdrops are one of the easiest ways to get started with crypto because they often allow you to earn free tokens without any financial investment. But what exactly are crypto airdrops, and why are they so popular? Let’s break it down.
**What Is a Crypto Airdrop?**
Think of an airdrop as a free giveaway, but instead of getting products or samples, you receive cryptocurrency tokens. Blockchain projects use airdrops to spread the word about their platforms, grow their communities, or reward loyal supporters. These tokens are sent directly to users’ wallets, often in exchange for completing simple tasks or just being an early adopter.
For example, if a new project wants to encourage users to try its platform, it might offer free tokens to people who join their community or hold a specific cryptocurrency in their wallet. These tokens can then be used within the platform, traded, or even held as an investment if the project becomes successful.
**Why Do Projects Offer Airdrops?**
Crypto projects use airdrops as a way to promote themselves. It’s a win-win strategy:
**For Projects**: Airdrops attract users, create buzz, and increase token holders, boosting the project’s visibility.
**For You**: It’s a chance to receive free tokens, which could grow in value if the project becomes popular.
Airdrops also reward early supporters and encourage people to explore new platforms, which helps projects gain traction in a competitive space.
**What’s the Catch?**
The best part is that most airdrops don’t require you to spend any money. However, you may need to complete simple tasks like following a project’s social media pages, signing up for a newsletter, or joining a community chat. Some airdrops are even automatic—if you hold a specific cryptocurrency in your wallet during a "snapshot," you might qualify without lifting a finger.
**What’s Next?**
Now that you know what airdrops are, the next step is understanding how to spot them and get involved. In the next article, we’ll explore how to find upcoming airdrops, the tools you’ll need, and tips for getting started safely. For now, keep an eye out for airdrops mentioned in the crypto news or on platforms like CoinMarketCap’s airdrop section.
Stay tuned for more beginner-friendly insights into airdrop hunting, and soon you’ll be earning free crypto like a pro!
Friendly Stranger
Tristan's P.O.V
"Trish, can you make it fast? We can't be late you know" I yelled at my wife.
She rushed out with the kids, Leo who is just 13 years old and Tori who is 9 years old.
Leo is actually blind, he got blind when he was just 5 years old, he played excessively with sand that they got into his eyes and damaged it.
I've been all over the world but no doctor has been able to make him see again, I can't bare to see him in pain cause he is my first child. Aside from that, I've a huge personality to keep.
Right know we are going to the province, I have some business to do there so I'll be going with the family especially for Leo since he loves nature.
Our house at the province is full of nature so it's just right for him.
He walked into the car with the help of his stick, I just couldn't believe my son became blind at a young age.
"Dad, are you really gonna demolish those houses?" Tori asked as she sat beside his brother.
"Yes dear, those people are occupying the land for free, I bought that land with my money and now I need it to build another one of our companies" I said.
The driver drove off.
"Dad , but you have enough money to buy another land why don't you just leave those people cause it's gonna affect a lot of them. They have no place to stay" she said.
"Tori what did I say about asking too much questions?" Her mother said saving me from her questions.
"It makes the gods of answers angry" she said sadly.
I smiled then faced my phone, Leo didn't even utter a word, he just placed his headset on his ear listening to music. That has been his hobby since he got blind.
~Hera's P.O.V~
I watched Mika playing around, she has lived her whole life without a father, she is just ten years old but she is very sharp. She loves to help her grandmother with herbs and leaves for treatment since that's what we live on. Only if the government can help sponsor my dear daughter cause she is really good at medicines for any type of sickness, since she learn it from her grandmother.
She looked at me then smiled, we are as poor as church rat but all thanks to God we were able to stay in this small place, all thanks to the owner that left it freely.
"Hera .. did you hear that Tristan the owner of this place is about to demolish it for business use" my neighbor said.
I sighed then looked at Mika as she played with the herbs, grinding them.
I wonder what medicine she is making now.
"Kira please let's forget about that, who in his right senses will demolish a house with people in it? Aside that we only live in nothing but cheap materials of houses here so of course he'll pity us" I confidently said.
"I hope so" she said then walk away.
Mika ran to me minutes later, she fell before she got to me. I laughed then played with her hair as she came closer.
"Mom I'll be going to that beautiful house now" she said revealing her gap teeth smiling at me.
"Mika , I pray you don't get caught one day" I said then played with her hair.
"Who will catch fast and furious like me. Mother please watch grandma well, she complained of her leg hurting her so please watch her well" she said.
She kissed my forehead then ran away.
I can never be unlucky with her around me.
"Wait Mika, what medicine did you make this time?" I asked as she was already far from me.
"Mom they have a blind cat so I made this for the cat" she shouted back so I can hear her.
I smiled then waved to her.
~Mika's P.O.V~
I gently snuck to the rich man's house, I pray I don't get caught. Soon I was able to get to the backyard full of nature, I just love nature. I walked to the place the cat always stays quietly.
"Hey Mingo" I said then sat beside him.
"Mingo I think I'll leave very soon cause the free space we are staying will be demolished soon though I don't want that to happen but we don't have a choice" I said as I brought out the medicine.
"I'll use this to wash your face now so be quiet" I said then used it on him.
He meowed gently using his toe finger to scratch me, I yelled then hit him gently.
"Stay well you lazy cat" I said then used it to wipe its face well. He scratched me again this time, it's deeper.
"Oww" I said then washed his face again.
Suddenly I heard a voice but I didn't see anyone.
I stood up gently.
"Ghost?" I said.
"Ah grandpa" I said again.
"Grandpa have you come to talk to me again?" I said while closing my eyes.
"Tch, you're really daft" I heard the voice again.
I looked around and finally saw the person behind that voice. He is sitting beside the peach tree.
I smiled then walked to him.
"Hey cute guy in black glasses, it's not right to talk to a girl like that" I said.
"Well I can.. to a thief, I'll call my father for you now" he said sounding like a baby.
"Go on call your daddy, daddy's boy" I said.
"Really? Wait and watch me" he said then stood up, he took the stick beside him, he kept hitting it on the floor as he walked.
"Idiot , you're walking directly to a tree" I said.
He didn't even answer me.
"Can't you see you're walking directly to a tree" I said again yelling this time.
He trembled with the way I yelled so his stick fell, he bent gently searching for it.
"Are you blind? It's right in front of you" I said not realizing.
"Wait .. wait .. you're.. you're .. really blind?" I asked as he searched for his stick innocently.
He kept searching for it innocently that I didn't know when tears fell down my face.
~Tristan's P.O.V~
I picked my phone then dialed Luca's number.
Begin to demolish the houses, even if there are people in the house, demolish everything and any one that stops you. They have been given three day warning before so I don't care of they die of disobedience.
~Leo's P.O.V~
I gently searched the floor for my stick, I kept looking for it but I couldn't find it cause unfortunately I couldn't see. Just then someone placed it in my hand.
"At least you should have someone beside you if anything happens" she said then placed it in my hand.
"Can I be your friend?" She asked.
I don't even know the meaning of friends, since I got blind everyone and even my friends have distanced themselves from me but she ... she is asking to be my friend?
"Even tho you lack manners, you can be my friend" I said.
She laughed then smacked me playfully.
"Ow" I said rubbing the back of my neck
I didn't remember when's the last time I smiled.
"See, the sky is blue right now " she said then gently took me to sit.
"The birds are flying now. Did you know that if they poo on your head you'll have good luck forever" she said.
"It's disgusting " I replied.
She laughed.
She kept talking to me, making me smile. She even made me dance.
I just couldn't believe someone can make me smile.
"Okay, I'll try to pick some fruits" she said.
Before I talked I felt her footsteps.
I sighed and soon she brought fruits.
I smiled then collected it from her.
I suddenly felt free with her and I love her presence maybe cause she accepted me even if I'm disabled.
~Mika's P.O.V~
Mom will be expecting me home now but I have to use this medicine for this guy even though it is dangerous because I haven't even tested it yet, I couldn't even find the cat again so I don't know whether it worked or not.
"I'll use it to wash your face, I made it myself" I said.
He smiled to me.
"I trust you" he said.
"I really like you" he said.
I smiled then used the medicine to wash his face, it was hurting him but he held it in.
"Okay I'm done" I said.
"I don't really feel anything except that it's really peppery" he said.
I sat beside him.
"Maybe it didn't work" I said then sat down beside him.
I wished it worked cause I really want to help him.
"Ah, it's late I have to go home now" I said.
"I'll come back tomorrow" I added then pinch his face and ran home...
I really wish the medicine worked.
To be continued..
So what do you think?? Please say something nice 🙂 🙏
Her ideal man(Chapter 2)
Xienna's POV
I love the way he is touching me, I feel every part of my body responding to his touch and I wonder why but I love it. He kissed me like his life depending on it, I was so in love with the new feelings until I started to feel unwell, I feel my head banging as he hold my hair.
"I..I.. think I'm gonna be sick"
I said amidst of kissing, he didn't stop rather he pressed hard on my breast making me moan.
I moaned into his mouth with a mixture of vomit, I vomit into his mouth, he quickly tilt his head away spitting out every now and then. I wanted to go to him but I realize I'm sitting on the balcony block.
I quickly get down looking as he spit out, I still don't feel well so I vomit down the balcony not even caring if anyone is there.
"You bitch!" I hear him before I could turn to him he held his hand back.
I stared at him in fear, I couldn't define his facial look anymore, his lips are so plump now and my heart kept throbbing.
"Go away" he said as he push his hair backward.
I didn't utter a word rather I left dragging my feet, I'm already sober I guess. The way he yelled at me was so intense that I felt my body shivering.
I went back to the spot where I left the everyone, they weren't there anymore so I just took my keys from the chair and left.
This cant get any worse right?? Can't believe I almost lost my virginity in a one night stand. Now I know why Kai told me to wear skirt, that evil witch!
I got home late, luckily mom slept already. I can't even answer any questions right now.
The way I felt with that guy was good and at the same time confusing. I feel like I'm gonna regret it the moment the sun rises.
I took my shoes off, throwing them to a corner, I slept like a log of wood on my bed.
(Morning)
I threw my alarm away, gosh I forgot to switch it the hell up last night, I wanted to sleep for a bit but then last night scene flashes in like a dream. I sat up immediately rubbing my sleepy eyes.
"I didn't do that.. did I??" I asked rhetorically looking into space mostly at the huge picture of myself just in front of me.
I stood up gently, I was still in yesterday's cloth. I almost shouted.
It's true !! I kissed a stranger!!
I yelled into my pillow after falling in my bed.
I sat up again like a freak.
"Okay I almost lost my Virginity. Damn! Xienna, fuck your stupid self" I hit my head countless times.
I finally admitted to myself it was no big deal and most girls of my age are probably married, right??
I asked myself as i brushed my teeth, I'm so used to talking to my self.
I walked out of the bathroom, I wore a white mini skirt, I wore it with a black tube. I wore my white slipper and I went downstairs.
"What the hell!!!!" Mom yelled standing up from the couch.
I trailed my steps to her smiling brightly, I wanted to give her a kiss but I was welcomed with a bad slap. I held my face looking at her with disbelieve.
"Mom?" I asked with a confused face.
That's the first time mom would actually hit me.
She put the tablet right into my face so I can see it, I am surprised just like her. I placed my hand on my mouth with tears pricking down my face.
My God !! I'm dead !!
"Is this how I teach you?? I know I can be persistent or maybe a little impatient but I never trained you this way. You know how famous I am, you know my opponent is looking for every opportunity to tarnish my image but what did you do? You gave them a free way. What do you want me to do now? I'm gonna lose tons of contract, after your dad left, it was always me. I'm always there for you and this is what you'll repay me with? I said get a boyfriend, I never meant ruin my image.Now tell me Xienna ... What will I do now?
It's all over the internet with millions of veiws, even if I pay the bloggers to get rid of it .. what about those who ready shared it. Before you know it the entertainment news will carry it all over T.V and boom I'll lose my name, investors and customers. That means my company will be gone."
She talked pacing around with her tablet on her chest. The living room is pretty wide, mostly designed in white just like mom loves.
"Mom.. I'm.sorry " I manage to say
"Are you kidding? Ohh okay sorry is not a magic word that can suddenly clear the mess you created. Gosh??!!"
She touched her hair as she took a sit on the white sofa, I stood far from her cause I don't want another slap.
"Go to your room, you're grounded forever and I mean it."
I dare not to argue, I ran upstairs with tears in my eyes. So now this happened all over a one night stand damn!
I sat on my bed, covered my face with my hands almost crying. Just then Kai came in through my window.
"Hey best"
She said to me as she bounced sit on my bed.
"Did she yell at you so much?"
I turned to her, she already dyed her hair to chestnut brown, she packed it up in a bun. She wore red bum short with black crop top and red flat heels.
"I read it online"
She rolled her eyes as she shifted it to her phone.
"Hey, did you even know who you .. you know.. smooched" she said in a mockery tone.
I smacked her head then stood up pacing around while she rubbed her head.
"I don't know! I really don't "
"I only asked please"
She showed her phone to me, I collected it looking at the guy in the pics . He has a black hair with fair face, his muscles were well built up and his lips looks pinkish and soft.
"Who is that??"
"Gosh! Are you dumb? It's the guy you kissed"
"What? Wait, I didn't kiss him. He kissed me"
I said while pacing around again.
"So i found out he owns the club, that's why he has private building were he smooch all his girls, he is a player."
I looked at her astonished or maybe with pity for myself.
"My first kiss was taken by a Playboy?"
She nodded.
"Xienna, the public is talking about you too a lot. Every blog news keeps uploading"
~Damian Adams and Xienna Montana caught kissing~
She read it out loud. I turned to her.
~Didn't realize she is also a slut
~Damian is a Playboy
~I knew she is not as holy as her mother claims
~What do you expect from rich spoilt kids, they're probably gonna say "it's all for fun"
"I am not kidding" I yelled at Kai
She raised her eyebrows making me calm down.
"I'm scared Kai"
She smiled then came to me.
"I'm scared for you too"
I stared at her badly then pushed her away while she laughed.
📌 Adams' Mansion 📌
Lloyd's POV
I paced around my room as I called Damian's number repeatedly, did he even realize what he just did? He is going to ruin my name and the company with this scandal he created.
"The car is ready " my P.A said as he came in.
I took my phone with this I ran out.
I got to his house few minutes later, I saw him trying to enter his car. He wore a white round neck polo with black jean and black boots.
"Damian" I called.
He sighed then pushed his hair backward.
"Did you even realize what you did? I didn't even said you shouldn't do whatever filthy things you wanna do but I warned you not to ruin my image so how come this happened?"
He didn't answer me, he played with his car keys looking at the water fountain in front of us.
"Dad, leave" he talked gently.
"I bought this house for you coward!" I yelled.
He didn't move an inch.
"Well, I realized why the public are bashing us. They will think that you guys are just having fun, so I'm setting a marriage between you and Xienna Montana"
"What?" He looked at me
"Yes son, do you even know her mother? Clarisse Montana, an independent hardworking woman. This stunt you pulled is also affecting her so that's the best way to solve this issue.
I can't just let my company go down because of you."
"Sir, the share holders request for a meeting. Some are even threatening to withdraw."
"Stop them by all means, prepare a meeting with Clarisse Montana in C.M companies"
He nodded then left.
"Dad, you can't tell me what to do okay. I have the right to choose who I want to marry, you can't just walk in here and tell me what to do."
I didn't even answer him, now this is payback time.
"You're going to marry that girl and that's final. I'm your dad!" I yelled at him.
He scoffed then entered his car and drove off. I don't seem to blame him cause I saw the young me in him.
Xienna's POV
Kai went away so it's just me and my teddy in my room, I didn't know what to do though. I kept shaking cause I know the company is mom's living strength, she hardly has time for me because if it.
Just then my door flung open, I watched as mom entered like an actual model. She wore a black suit that flattered her shape well, I can't help but admire my mom, she is so pretty with awesome shape and I'm glad I took that after her .
"You're getting married in a week"
She said as she sat on my bed just beside my leg.
"Uhm .. I don't understand" I stuttered pinching my stuffed toy.
"Llyod Adams just had a meeting with me and we agreed that you and Damian Adams will get married soon. That will keep the public shut and strengthen both companies", she said tying her thick black hair up.
"I don't want to do it" I uttered.
"You dare not tell me what you want to do cause since you started doing things on your own, nothing turned out well." She stared at me with her scary face.
I almost cried cause all she actually cares about is the company.
"Mom I'm sorry"
"You better be" she said then left.
I lay on the bed looking at the four blade fan.
"I don't even know anything about marriage."
I sighed!
To be continued...
Are they really gonna get married? What do you think readers🤗
Her ideal man(Chapter 1)
Xienna's POV
I smiled wonderfully as I finally found my phone under the bed, I wonder how it got there though. I sat on my bed still in my pj , I dialed Kai's number smiling to myself
We just graduated from college in flying colors.
me: Hey Grandma
I talked first
Kai: Are you coming?
She asked completely ignoring my greetings.
me: To?
I rolled my eyes as if she was right in front of me
Kai: Club! I told you some of our classmates organized a party
me: At the club?
I asked sarcastically
Kai: You better move that baby butt and come here okay. If you won't I'll hate you. Seriously, do you wanna die a virgin, imagine I've never seen a college student pass college without breaking that hymen or even kiss a guy.
me: Dude, I got lucky. I guess.
Kai: You have to come okay. I don't want to see my only bestie die a virgin
me: Fine. I'll be there not to flirt with guys just to spend some time with you and maybe Sky.
Kai: The guys will be coming though
I didn't answer. I'm sure she rolled her eyes
Kai: Don't wear a khaki trouser please...
me: well... Uhm okay
I said not even getting a hint of what she meant by not wearing trousers. I heaved a big sigh as I went to the bathroom, it's after seven in the evening which has almost gotten to my curfew. Not that my mom set that for me, it's just an habit I developed
I always plan everything well and keep to time, I hate wasting time on irrelevant stuff maybe that's why I'm the youngest in college to graduate.
After the quick shower ,I walked into my "walk-in closet" I won't lie! My room is pretty fancy with a lot of stuff and rare designs. My mom is pretty rich if you ask me even though dad left us when I was just 5 she strived hard in order to be in this position.
I picked out a short flay skirt, it's my first time wearing it. Usually I wear jeans (not fitted) with baggy shirts or polo ,I love to wear something comfortable.
I picked the short skirt with a black crop top mom bought me last week, she'll be so happy to see me in them. I tried to wear make up but I'm bad at it, I took my jacket with my phone and car key and down the stairs.
Mom was actually on call, she wore a blue jean with black denim top . Mom is so fancy, I wonder who I resemble with my lazy attitude towards fashion
"You ruined it with that pony tail"
She touched my hair gently.
"I hope you finally get a boyfriend "
She said as she stroked my pony tail, I felt like a sad puppy.
"Well.. I'm not ugly "
I said shifting from the stairs to the dinning room which is a little far. Mom strolled behind me with her heels making rythemic sounds to the tiled floor.
I took out a milk from the fridge just near the mini dinning table in the kitchen.
"That's why I keep wondering why you don't have a boyfriend yet"
I sighed as I knew we are about to start the topic I hate the most, I dropped the milk on the sink table, I watched her as she made her hair fall on her shoulders . She has brownish hair with a touch of white, not a sign of old age, it's natural .
"Mom I have to go "
I rushed out before she starts another lecture of how I ain't a kid anymore and I need to get married or the fact that she gave birth to me at the age of 18, which to me is bizarre.
I entered into my car, I played an album of Nightcore so I can roll in my thoughts of a happy life, maybe .. one day .
I got to the club, I've been to a club once and I hated it.
I texted Kai looking around the club, it's pretty decent though except that some idiot still kiss by the corners and some guys won't even give me breathing space
"Hey bestie!"
She said walking to me in her black heals , she wore a black stripeless dress that covers her hips at least .
"You went with that skirt ?? Seriously take off that jacket"
She rushed to me then took the jacket revealing my crop top with tiny strap
"Not fair" I immediately covered my body with my arms.
She smiled and dragged me to the guys
Well, almost everyone I know are there, starting from Bianca to Tyler and all that stuff but I guess we've pass that stage now.
"Hey , mommy's pet is here"
Bianca shouted and they all laughed.
I sat down with Xavier, he smiled at me, I smiled back. I wonder why he kept his beard though, he does look like a grown man.
"She looks hot though" Tyler said, which making me blush.
They all nodded looking at me.
"Who wants to play date or dare?"
Tyler asked looking at me, I blushed again cause he is super cute. He has a tattoo on his wrist and neck, it's not that too much but it's hot.
"Let's start with Xienna" Bianca suggested.
I looked at her and said
"Date"
I like the fact that I surprised them.
"Date Tyler for a week"
My bestie said.
I coughed looking at all of them
"I'd rather drink a whole tequila bottle" I said and I mean it.
"I like that better" He said.
I sent him a bad stare regretting the fact that I said that. My bestie which now seemed like a foe gave me a bottle of tequila.
"Okay this is annoying " Xavier said.
I wanted to show them I'm no mommy's pet so I took the bottle and drank, it tasted bitter with mint mixed together. It sent a little burn to my throat but it still felt good and I wanted more at least it made me have a good feeling inside my body.
I closed my eyes as I gulped it in, I heard the guys cheer so it got into my head and I drank it more, I got used to the taste and to me it tastes better than orange juice .
"Okay that's enough Xienna" I heard Xavier and Kai but I ignored it.
I continued to drink it down not thinking for a second, I finally opened my eyes as the bottle became empty.
"Wow so cool!" Bianca said.
She smiled at me and I felt like I slammed her down.
I started to enjoy the sweet feeling and atmosphere in the club, I smiled at any little thing they said.
"Are you okay Xienna??" Xavier asked
I nodded my head trying to stand but I fell down, Xavier stood up with me.
"I'll just go to the bathroom" I uttered
He nodded then lets go of my hand, but then I found myself waking to no where in particular until I found myself in an awkwardly quiet balcony.
It's kinda awkward that a club will have a place with no one I know around forcing my eyes to widely open to see clearly until my eyes saw someone. I have no idea who he is, eventually I fell on the floor cause the place was slightly dark and he was wearing black.
"What are you doing up here?" he asked looking at me with a sincerely wicked face.
I stood up staggering since I'm drunk.
"W..we....well I'm looking for the bathroom" I stuttered looking elsewhere.
He came near me so I could see his face and I almost tripped, he looked so hot, his face wasn't scary like I presumed and the black long sleeved top looked stunning on him. The silver necklace he wore added more looks making me wanna fall.
He gently placed his hands around my waist sending shivers down my spine, I swallowed hard, not like I haven't been touched this way though I have never had a boyfriend let's just say I had a lot of bad guys chasing me then.
He didn't say a word rather his hand did the talking, he gently used his finger to make circles around my waist.
"Sexy.." he said into my ear in a whisper
I couldn't say a word like I was deaf and dumb, his breathe gave me a whole lot of tingles, he gently bit the sensitive part of my ears, he planted a small kiss on my neck too. I stood still not knowing what to do or say, all I knew is I couldn't push him off me.
He put his lips on my jaw gently sending his breathe to my face, I closed my eyes inhaling his perfect perfume. He continued to rub his wet lips on my face then he kissed my nose.
I opened my eyes slowly cause I didn't feel his breathe on mine anymore, he placed his lips on mine before I could open my eyes. I felt his soft lips on me, they tasted like strawberry mixed with mint.
I love the way his hands gently rubbed my waist, he take his hands gently to my lap making me moan. He rolled his tongue into mine and I sincerely didn't know what to do, that's my first time kissing a guy.
He bit my tongue too making me gasp, my tongue found themselves in his , I wonder how he did that but I love it.
He took my up on something that felt like a sit, I didn't care cause I was so much enjoying whatever was happening.
I found myself stroking his hair as I moaned, he knows how to perfectly handle my body to make me feel good, something I hated so much .
I gave him full access to my body, he raised his hand to my tummy through my skirt, he planted a kiss on my cleavages. I didn't want to open my eyes as his touch made me feel good.
He kissed me again this time more hot as I was already perfect in tasting his tongue and putting mine in his, I felt like I was perfect though and I enjoy it.
He continues to tease my body just like I want and it felt so good. This night has never been better!!!
Guide on how to write Project Proposal paper
1. WHAT IS A PROJECT PROPOSAL?
A project proposal is a written document containing all the details about a project which is planned to achieve a particular goal or solve a particular problem. It contains what is proposed to be done in the project.
The main purpose of preparing a project proposal is to make sure that all the details of the project are presented properly in a systematic way so that any stakeholder including funding agents can easily understand what all is about.
Many project proposals however are prepared for more specific aims like the following:
To meet the requirements of funding agents wishing to fund the projects.
As a selling document to market the project to all the stakeholders so that they can
support the project.
To guide all the activities, resource mobilization and operations (when it gets
implemented) of the project.
To serve as a reference document for future projects or plans.
2. COMPONENTS OF A PROJECT PROPOSAL
The components of a project proposal and particularly the details contained there-in depend on the type of project and the specific details required by the stakeholders in the project especially funding agents. In general, for community development projects the following are usually the main components.
Executive summary
Background and justification
Goals and objectives
Project implementation
Project budget and costs
Monitoring and evaluation system
Appendix
For income generating projects (IGPS) proposals the details vary slightly because they are essentially business plans IGP proposals contain the following key business planning elements or components;
A marketing plans
Production/operations plan
Financial plan
3. PREPARING A PROJECT PROPOSAL
1. THE EXECUTIVE SUMMARY (what is it all about?) This part appears first on
the proposal yet it is the last one to be prepared. What is contained in the executive summary are the main highlights of the whole proposal and therefore can only be identified after preparing all the other parts.
The executive summary is prepared for purposes of those executives who including
representatives of funding agents who may be interested in the project but do not have enough time to go through the detailed information. They would like some “quick” information on which to make a decision. However, that information must be attractive and sufficient enough for that decision.
This section of the proposal should answer the following simple questions and contains in summary the respective parts.
Where are we now? This refers to the analysis of the problem on which the projects ID - based.
Where do we want to go? This gives a quick outline of the goals and objectives of the project.
Which route shall we follow? This gives an outline of project components,
strategic interventions, outputs activities, assumptions and resource inputs.
How shall we travel? This is a summary of the implementation plan.
How shall we know we have reached? summary of monitoring and evaluation system
How much shall this cost? Main highlights of the budget.
2. BACKGROUND AND JUSTIFICATION (Where are we now) This part of the
proposal addresses the identification and selection aspect of a project. To be able to focus on this, this part must clearly present the problem or the need that the project is addressing or to be alleviated. It also explains the general situation and aspects that are relevant to the problem or need on need on which the project is based. In particular this section should include the following aspects.
2.1 Problem identification. The circumstances that led to identification of the current problem the project wants to solve or alleviate. This section should explain why the problem was considered a priority and particularly the main criteria or basis for its selection as a project.
2.2 What has been done so far? There should be a statement of how the problem is developing. What has been done to address the problem? What others have attempted to do about the problem and the gaps which the proposed project can fill. This helps in justifying the intervention you have chosen. Are there other previous evaluations? Give them as much evidence as possible of the need and demand for workable solution for the problem.
2.3 Relevance to the policies and priorities. This part should explain its relevance to policies and priorities of the community or organization.
3. GOALS AND OBJECTIVES (Where do we want to go?
Goals are broad statements of what is ultimately to be accomplished while objectives are more specific aims which the project is to achieve. This section therefore should contain the following;
Overall goal mission or developmental aim of the sector or programmed.
The project purpose to be achieved after completion of the project
Specific objectives to be achieved within the project
All these shows what will have been achieved when the project is completed.
4. PROJECT STRATEGY/COMPONENTS (which route shall we take). The project
strategy is a major component of your proposal. It deals with the overall design of intervention that will help in meeting the objectives and the overall goal. In particular it must clarify explain and precisely state the component the entire project. It should give a description of the project scope in terms of issues to be addressed and coverage. For instance, if it is for a service in what will it will serve the prospective beneficiaries?
This section therefore will contain details of the following items
Main beneficiaries of the project
Broad strategic intervention
Assumptions, objectively verifiable indicator (OVIs) and the means of verification.
Major outputs or key result areas of the project
Activities to help in supporting outputs, major invention to achieve the project purpose
Feasibility study results
4.1 Implementation (how shall we travel?)
This section of the proposal is meant to give an outline of the proposed methods of operation using the project plan. It contains three major components:
Work plans – this can also be called work scheduling. These work plans are
drawn from the major outputs and activities contained in the strategy. They are now planned in terms of time, outputs priorities and who is responsible. Activities are broken into sub-activities and put into a time schedule.
Resource inputs in this section, all the resource inputs are given in details and are matched against specific activities and outputs. Resource inputs include human, physical, material and financial resources.
Management and organizational systems, this should give some details of the
expected staffing requirements and specific who will be responsible for what. Policies and procedures and developed to indicate how the project will be managed.
4.2 The project budget (how much will it cost?). The project budget is of
very great importance to all stakeholders. Therefore, it must be well prepared. The components of the budget will depend on the design and requirements of the project. The best approach for a project is to prepare zero-base or priority base budgeting which does not base the budget’s historical data.
In the project proposal the following main areas must be included
Evaluations (timing and their purpose).
The monitoring systems particularly reporting systems and persons responsible.
Who will be responsible for monitoring and evaluation?
It also includes provisions for both the internal and external evaluations.
Appendix. This section is often ignored but it is very important. It contains documents or illustrations that have too much detail to be included in the main proposal e.g. feasibility study analysis. It should also contain any other extraneous information which is meant only for reference. This includes the profile of your organization or resumes of key persons. 4.0 making the proposal more effective and acceptable One can come up with a proposal which has all the technical aspects but which still cannot “self” because of the way it is prepared.
The following are some of the things to be keen about when writing a proposal
The language, must be polished and suitable for the purpose for which the
proposal is meant. If the proposal is technical, it must appear so even in its language and particularly the use of the correct words and terms. The grammar must also be polished.
Information, the proposal must give enough information without being unnecessarily
verbose or too technical.
Illustration - wherever necessary, appropriate illustrations must be included. Good use of matric/tables is helpful for presenting analysis of issues. However, any issues that are too detailed should go to the appendix.
Numbering, must be appropriate and sequenced.
**Steps to follow when writing a project proposal:**
A good and logical way to go about writing the proposal is to start be preparing a draft followed by the final copy. This ensures that there is room for ‘polishing’ your proposal before presenting it.
1. Gather the project planning facts (develop the project plan/design)
2. Research and collect all the background information. Much of this should be available from the project document.
3. Draw an outline, containing all the components (main sections and sub-sections). Stick to the recipient’s guide, if any.
4. Write the first draft
Start with section (s) you like
Do not pay attention to spelling and grammar at this time
Make it as complete as possible
Spread your time for writing
Make use of numbering but do not use too many divisions.
5. Editing and revision
Give yourself a day or two before revisiting the document
You need self-criticism – try objectively
Use pencils for small corrections
Check the sequencing of titles, headings and numbering
Check and correct grammar
Be anonymous
Write the final draft, print and appropriately
**Project proposal writing: conceptual framework**
Keep going
Some of us could experience disappointment when we realize we are not the people we were meant to be back then. People have high expectations of us. But I've come to the conclusion that college life will never be simple. People who are on the same level as you will join you, though you cannot exclude the possibility that some of them will be better than you. But that doesn't mean you have to evaluate yourself against them.
In college, there is more of a competition between you and yourself. You will be upset over a grade you have no control over—a 2.25 or perhaps a 1.75. Then what? You are not characterized by your academic performance, I assure you. It does not define anyone. It's important to remember that your current situation is the product of various factors.
Once an honor student, now merely a survivor. We don't have to live up to other people's expectations, I'm now saying to everyone. This is, after all, our life. We must never give up; that is the most crucial thing. We must never stop giving ourselves a second chance to succeed despite our setbacks.
The most significant accomplishments we could ever have are not Latin awards, medals, or certificates. Rather, those are the people we've encountered along the way, the lessons we’ve learned in the middle of our mistakes, and the determination to finish the race against all odds.
Here's to those that gave their all to finish the race without a Latin honor or whatever they call it these days. Even just finishing the race is a victory, and I'm happy for you! We have more room to develop and opportunities to become greater versions of ourselves. It's not too late to start over!
16 Advices for Engineering Students and Young Engineers
1) Learn fundamentals and engineering principles. Figure out how you may apply them in real-life. I knew a lot of young engineers who are good in solving engineering problems that requires equations and formulas but does not have an idea on how it may apply to real-world problems.
Engineering economy is a good example. Try to use what you have learned at school in real life. Your basic duty is to 'learn as much as you could and use what you have learned.'
Study hard and learn as much as you could. Being a student provides you an excellent avenue to learn more because you are full-time working with it.
Nowadays, a lot of working professionals do not have much liberty to learn new things because of ‘time’ and by being ‘busy at work’. We are currently in the ‘era of technology’ and every few years it progresses ‘very’ rapidly; thus, engineers should embrace change and be adaptive to this technological progress.
2) Try to expand your ‘learnings’ on every subject, especially on professional subjects. If for example, the subject covers only chapters 1-25 of the reference book in the syllabus, but the book, however, has still more than 30 chapters.
Do your best to learn from the material as much as you could. Self-study the material and try to learn anything from it. You can ask mentors for some help. Do not just read the book, do learn from it. This is the real purpose of authors.5
Great Engineers like O. Heaviside, M. Faraday, and N. Tesla have no formal education, they are purely ‘self-taught’ engineers coupled with focus, commitment, and sheer-will. They are often dubbed as an ‘Engineer’s Engineer.’
In a real-world, engineers in the field are often best-learned through ‘learning-by-doing or self-studying.’ Self-study is something that does not come easy but lasts longer. Isaac Newton did most of his work through ‘self-study’; thus, his monumental book ‘principia’ was born. Albert Einstein did also the same thing while working with the theory of relativity, and so Erwin Schrodinger as well.
3) Learn 'by-heart' the fundamentals. Fundamental theories are important for engineers. Wiring designs, skin effect, short circuit analysis, transfer function, algorithms, among others. Remember 'when the mind forgets, the heart cannot.' So, learn ‘by-heart.’
4) The real purpose of education is ‘to enhance or to improve a version of you'. A good education ‘alters a version of you’. Just like a chess player, he can improve his chess skills through practicing, mentoring, studying, etc. Do remember that ‘the only best education you can get is the education that you can give to yourself.’
5) If you are good on a particular subject and someone (a classmate for example) asks for your help; Aid him and teach him properly, not by lending answers to the problem but through teaching him on how you arrived with your answers. Help him understand the topic and he will be grateful to you. As the saying goes 'give a man fish and you feed him for a day, teach a man to fish and you feed him for a lifetime.'
There are some unexpected cases where the person whom you help way back in college, turns out to be a manager of a certain company and a client of your project. You will never know how things may ‘turn tides’ in the future.
6) Practice your communication skills. They are often ignored but these skill sets are the most important for engineers. I knew a lot of engineers who are good in solving engineering problems but are oftentimes cannot expressed their ideas properly.
7) Enhance your interpersonal skills and learn to work as a team; be a responsible and mature individual. In a real-world project, engineers do not work in isolation, they work as a team.Just like in a basketball or in a football game, members need to work as a team to win a championship.
Professionalism is also an important factor for engineers. Show up, be on time, and dress properly. When you are given a task, commit with the task, and finish it properly. Do not abandon ship. Outstanding engineers deliver their work with quality and in time.
8) Success is really nothing but a ‘summation’ of constant practice, working sleepless nights, facing your own doubts and criticisms of others, fixed tenacity, and kept on trying after so many times of failures. It is indeed through failures that we succeed because we learned from it. Best lessons in life usually come through failures.
For young engineers, I advise to ‘take a risk’ or lose your chance. I still remember when I watched a movie entitled ‘Bar Boys’ where a Law professor once said, ‘the purpose of life is to be defeated by greater and greater things.’
9) Being engineer, a field or industry experience are of utmost importance, a practical experience is something that book can never teach you, it is through experience that an engineer is highly valuable.
For an engineering professor aspirant, I suggest gaining some years of field or industry experience before teaching in academe. Learn also to network with other engineers.
10) Pursuing graduate studies in engineering is a good investment to rebuild your relevant skills.
11) As an engineer, 'safety engineering' is one of the most important subjects. Always practice ‘safety’ whether at work or at home. It is an important duty of every engineer, whether you are a civil, electronics, architect, mechanical, electrical, chemical, sanitary, industrial, metallurgical, plumber, computer, etc.
In every work and projects, ‘safety’ should be a top concern. Many lives and properties have been damaged and lost due to negligence of safety.
12) Have an advocacy to help our environment by doing simple things like disposing your garbage properly, plant trees or backyard gardening, maintain cleanliness to our rivers, lakes, seas, and oceans, etc. Environmental degradation, global warming, climate change, among others are eminent problems nowadays.
What’s the use of being a ‘success’ if the environment around you is destroyed? There are a lot of simple things we can do to take care our environment. Have an advocacy to volunteer, there are organizations from different sectors that needs our help.
13) Teach younger generations on what you know and how to do things correctly and properly. They may keep these things in mind as they grow older and pass it to next generations. This is your legacy as an engineer.
14) Do not hurry with your dreams in life, all will take place on its proper time. In GOD’s own time. We all have our own timelines and our own crosses to carry; hence, be patient and stay calm.
Just do what you need to do and finish what you need to finish, one step at a time. Remember patience and perseverance are priceless.
15) Be humble and keep practicing humility. Humble people earn more respect. Personally, I admire people who are down-to-earth, low profile, and who works in silence. So as the saying goes ‘stay humble, work hard, and be kind.’
16) And lastly, whether you succeed or fail in life, always acknowledge the Lord. Be thankful always and ask for guidance, wisdom, and strength. You will never know how the future may ‘turn tides’ to you. Remember the story of Job in the Old Testament.
Great things take time
As someone who is prone to self-doubt, I lost track of how many times I had already asked myself if I was qualified for this course. I don't know if I'll survive engineering or if I'll just pick up a card and shift.
I was an achiever from grade school until senior high school. But things changed when I enrolled in an engineering course. Things become clearer; I am not good at Mathematics, and numbers will bury me to death.
I hate numbers, but plot twist, I'm still studying engineering. I didn't shift, I didn't stop. Why? If I'm not good at Mathematics, why am I still in this course?
The real question is, should you be intelligent in Mathematics when pursuing an engineering course?
From an average student’s point-of-view who thinks that numbers are silent killers, NO! You don't have to be well-inclined with numbers.
So, how are you going to survive engineering when you're not good at Math? Or any tips on how to survive engineering?
1. Believe in yourself. Some may consider this as toxic positivity but believe it or not, when you believe in yourself, you're making things possibly happen. You're making the heaviest backpack become lighter. Believing in yourself doesn't mean being so full of yourself and always winning, it's about having strong faith in yourself and standing up after stumbling. Things may not come as easy as we expect them but believe that they will be ours and that you can have them.
2. Do an advance reading. Reading with comprehension sharpens the mind. When you practice advanced reading with comprehension and eventually turn it into a habit, you’ll slowly become the person you’ll never think you’ll be.
3. Never settle for what is served, and have a good study habit. I know I said that you don't have to be intelligent in Mathematics to be and survive engineering. However, let's all be honest! Those who are into Mathematics have an advantage compared to those who are not. You may not be good at numbers but you can do something about it. Instead of just relying on the files and lessons being given and discussed, spend an hour or more in searching for sample problems and other explanations. Dive to YouTube and look for tutorials. Browse on the internet. Search for learning materials(advance reading also applies here). Practice and practice Math problems. Never settle with the idea that you're only a typical surviving student. Go, bruh, you can do it!
4. Surround yourself with the right people. When I say the right people, it means those who will never influence you to skip classes and prioritize other things instead of doing your assignments and studying. Live in a supportive environment. Study with them, and hang out with them when you are free.
5. For religious students, pray. When in trouble, believe that He is with you and he will never leave you.
6. Treat yourself. Let's not glamorize engineering. It's a stressful course! You’ll lament, you’ll get mad, and your mental health will deteriorate. When you have free time, never hesitate to treat yourself. You don't have to roam in Malls and be at beaches. Treat yourself in a way that you can and you'll never regret. You can do it by resting, sleeping, talking with your loved ones, visiting friends, going to church and places, and connecting with different people. Don't deprive yourself of the chance of being happy and stress-free even for a day.
7. Invest in things that will help you. Invest in books, calculators, and other learning materials. Invest in a good desktop or laptop. Some had survived engineering without having a laptop but having one will help you in doing computer-related subjects.
8. Know that what you feel is valid. Cry if you want to cry but never think of giving up. Remember that this too shall pass.
9. Be curious. Look for information and feed your curiosity.
10. Remember that you can ask for help. You can ask for help from a block mate, a professor, a friend, and from seniors.
11. Set priorities. It's like in Economics, the opportunity cost. You have to give up something to obtain what you desired. Setting priorities doesn't mean limiting yourself. It's about knowing what should be prioritized and taken into consideration.
I hope this post helps you in any way. Don't forget to like the page, spilling coffee in engineering for more posts(coming up).
Before scrolling, take note of this quote from the great Dutch Post-Impressionist painter, Vincent Willem van Gogh.
“If you hear a voice within you say you cannot paint, then by all means paint and that voice will be silenced.”
Students' challenges in online learning
The COVID-19 pandemic forced students to miss opportunities for attending regular classes and enjoying face-to-face interaction with teachers and other learners. Because of this, schools and universities to have to look for alternative methods to their conventional teaching modes in classrooms, such as distance and blended/flexible learning forms (Al Ghazali, 2020). Online learning is not new to us. In tertiary education, universities around the world were offering massive open online courses (MOOCs) before the COVID19 outbreak. But today, every students enrolled is on online education including those young children. Online learning has its downside from previous researches and up until now. Its effectiveness is always questionable since students are accustomed to face-to-face class and learning online has many distractions. Some students in face-to-face class would not listen to their teachers, some were sleeping during discussion, and some are passive listeners. In online class, it will be harder for students to keep their eye on the screen for long hours and they are most likely diverted to social media sites. There are also times that students are working, driving, playing, and sleeping while their teacher is discussing. Teachers had difficulties in monitoring students in face-to-face class but online class is more difficult. Technical problem like unstable internet connection is not uncommon to students and teachers which disrupt the discussion and learning of students.
In Philippines, the sudden migration of education from traditional learning to remote learning has put students at a great disadvantage. Problems like overloaded lesson activities were also expressed by the students. Teachers would require them almost three activities in a subject, thus giving them less time to carefully answer them all. This difficulty had a huge impact on the stress and anxiety levels of the students. Also, poor learning environment is detrimental for students to comfortably participate in remote learning. Establishing a positive and conducive learning space has long been a problem in distance education especially in most poor households (Rotas & Cahapay, 2020). The understanding of the student is dependent on its social group in online setting. Students who are part in social groups will learn more than studying alone. Students can learn more if they interact with their friends or classmates and discuss their understanding of the topic. Some students feel shy to raise questions to teachers. Others are left behind due to internet connection problems and distracted by their environment. Online platform, technology, and social involvement of students are the key factor to online learning. This theory is focused on the social engagement of students through online learning. Not all of us can study on our own. In this time of pandemic, going outside the house is risky and meeting with their classmates is crucial. However, they still can through online platforms. Students discuss and share their learning through online chat or online meet. They ask their classmates of the things they don’t understand but feel shy to ask their teachers.
The purpose of this study was, therefore, to inform educators about the major issues and strategies that affect the quality of teaching online courses in higher education and examine the literature to identify major challenges and issues in teaching online higher education courses, organized and provided the issues under topical classification, and provided some suggestions to address the issues for online educators.
Understanding Poverty
How can we define poverty? Well in this article I'll share to you about my thoughts in poverty. We can actually define the word poverty by mainly see if that person is financially and essentially stable in living. Which means that the income level from employment is so low that basic human needs can't be met specifically the basic needs of a family such as house,food, clothes and lastly which is the most important thing, education. And yes I am aware that poverty is not a hindrance when it comes to that because there are lots of opportunities like scholarships but we can't deny the fact that not all people are privelige to have that, that's why out of school youths' data base are keep on increasing. And if that happens many will be unemployed due to lack of education. An unemployed person cannot be able to afford enough & nutritious food for his family and their health. A weak person lacks the energy required for the job. A jobless person remains poor only. Thus we can say that poverty is the root cause of other problems as well.
**CAUSES OF POVERTY**
According to the Noble prize winner South African leader, Nelson Mandela – “Poverty is not natural, it is manmade”.
In my opinion I agree to his statement because as I read the book of Genesis, as God made the humans he already gave us the freedom to make choices so meaning to say being poor is a choice and it is indeed man-made. There are various causes of poverty but the most important is population. Rising population is putting the burden on the resources & budget of countries. Governments are finding difficult to provide food, shelter & employment to the rising population. One of the best example of this is no family planning, if people only think the consequences in having a big family can lead to poverty rising population can be prevented. Unless if they're financially stable then they can actually make children as many as they want.
The other causes are; lack of education, war, natural disaster, lack of employment, lack of infrastructure, political instability, etc. For instance, lack of employment opportunities makes a person jobless & he is not able to earn enough to fulfill the basic necessities of his family & becomes poor. Lack of education compels a person for less paying jobs & it makes him poorer. Lack of infrastructure means there are no industries, banks, etc. in a country resulting in lack of employment opportunities. Natural disasters like flood, earthquake also contribute to poverty.
In some countries, especially African countries like Somalia, a long period of civil war has made poverty widespread. This is because all the resources & money is being spent in war instead of public welfare. Countries like India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, etc. are prone to natural disasters like cyclone, etc. These disasters occur every year causing poverty to rise.
**EFFECTS OF POVERTY**
Poverty affects the life of a poor family. A poor person is not able to take proper food & nutrition &his capacity to work reduces. Reduced capacity to work further reduces his income, making him poorer. Children from poor family never get proper schooling & proper nutrition. They have to work to support their family & this destroys their childhood. Some of them may also involve in crimes like theft, murder, robbery, etc. A poor person remains uneducated & is forced to live under unhygienic conditions in slums. There are no proper sanitation & drinking water facility in slums & he falls ill often & his health deteriorates. A poor person generally dies an early death. So, all social evils are related to poverty.
**Government Schemes to Remove Poverty**
The government of India also took several measures to eradicate poverty from India. Some of them are – creating employment opportunities, controlling population, etc. In India, about 60% of the population is still dependent on agriculture for its livelihood. Government has taken certain measures to promote agriculture in India. The government constructed certain dams & canals in our country to provide easy availability of water for irrigation. Government has also taken steps for the cheap availability of seeds & farming equipment to promote agriculture. Government is also promoting farming of cash crops like cotton, instead of food crops. In cities, the government is promoting industrialization to create more jobs. Government has also opened ‘Ration shops’. Other measures include providing free & compulsory education for children up to 14 years of age, scholarship to deserving students from a poor background, providing subsidized houses to poor people, etc.
Poverty is a social evil, we can also contribute to control it. For example- we can simply donate old clothes to poor people, we can also sponsor the education of a poor child or we can utilize our free time by teaching poor students. Remember before wasting food, somebody is still sleeping hungry.
My significant other
"JESUS Christ, Ley! What the heck are you wearing?!"Bliss opened to me. She almost spilled the juice she's drinking, the moment she laid her eyes at me.
I smiled at her and spin like a model. I'm wearing my new leopard print mini skirt and tube. Of course anyone who will see my outfit will drop their jaws!
"Duh, Bliss! You told me there's going to be a party later, right? And that guy named..."I immediately stop and think, trying to recall that guy's name again.
I saw how Bliss' two eyebrows met as I watched quietly. She then put down her glass at the bar counter and still crosses arms!
"For pete's sake, Ley. His name is Justin! You're rich in seductive form but you're lacking in memory plus."
I rolled my eyes at her. It's sometimes annoying when you have a friend who is super talented. As in every time you met? You will look like a fool.
"I'm not that old! You're just smart, "I said. I then flipped my perfectly curled hair and turned away.
Bliss again sat on the wooden stool of the bar counter and focusing on her cellphone. I had little eyes on her but she didn't even noticed me.
This girl, I noticed she always had a textmate. The question is, who? Because apart from Harry Potter and Percy Jackson, no other man could ever draw the attention of her.
Perks of being a bookworm.
I shook my head and look in the mirror. I can smell something fishy but it's up to her first. I have more important things to accomplish and that's to seduce that commoner named—ah just! Commoner handsome!
"Where the heck is Nico and why can't I see him these past few days?"I asked Bliss while I'm busy scanning myself on the mirror.
"Why are you asking? Miss him?"
My eyebrow arched heavy wards after Bliss' response. My goodness! Is she serious?!
"Bliss! What the heck are you saying? My god! Don't say ridiculous things that can make me feel bad. Please -"
"Then don't ask me! I don't have the idea where your flirty fiancé is. Maybe he went to the party or busy flirting somewhere."
I stopped staring at my stained glass reflection and quickly turned Bliss over. This girl, sometimes I don't understand if Nico and I are just old or that she is Esther of "The Orphan". Kind of crazy, just pretending to be a teenager, near the menopausal stage. She's always hot tempered.
Bliss' look made me stare. Is it trouble?
"I feel bad about our mission today when you wear it—"
"What's wrong with dress? I look hot and sexy as always! But of course it's different now," I said. "Look, you yourself said the commoner was there at the party, right? So, I came prepared!"
I saw Bliss slapped her face as if I said something stupid. I throw her a sharp stare while holding back, not to throw a fit.
What the heck is her problem?
"Hey" I called her. "What on earth is your problem and it seems like heaven and earth are breaking you? Even my beauty is — "
"Nico is my problem!"she shouted at me. "You both want to end this engagement but you don't take things seriously."
She even stood up and walked straight to me. Again she hardly stared at me which I took a step backward.
"How can you say that you can persuade Justine in wearing that when he's going to that party as a server and not as the host! "
I was dumbfounded with Bliss' sudden outburst. I just shook my head. It might be too much coffee so it is.
"Hello ladies now we welcome you-what the hell, Ley?!"Nico opened the door. He even covered his eyes with one hand, but could still be seen peeping.
"Assh*le!"I blinked at him but he still didn't care. I even put on my coat just to cover myself once again.
I stared at him and from there formed a troubling idea in my mind. I started walking closer to Nico while slowly removing the belt of my black coat. That jerk noticed my approach so he started to retreat as he raised two hands in front of me.
"Ley, whatever you're planning on Stop it if you don't want to—"
"Repent? Why would I regret when you're enjoying the view?"I said in a very selective way.
I again took a step forward towards Nico and saw how his pale face turned into a deeper shade of red. But I haven't finished there yet. I even enveloped both of my arms around his neck and leaned closer, closing a few inches of our distance.
"Ley..."
Nico closed his eyes and waited for my next move. I was about to burst into laughter when suddenly something went wrong behind me.
"What the f*ck?!"I turned around and saw Bliss' sharp gaze. "What the hell is your problem—"
"You look so gross! . "When you make a miracle, get a room and stay out of my sight. You two are gross!"
Before I could even say anything she quickly marched out. Nico left us inside Bliss' private villa. My eyebrows automatically arched when I shifted my gaze beside me. Nico's eyes still closed.
Once again I approached Nico's face and slap my little coat.
Clarkson seriously stared at me as he repeatedly rubbed his face. I shook his eyes but his reaction didn't even change.
"What are you looking at?"I meanly said. Again I put on my coat because I was starting to chill.
Nico pouted his lips, "you really love to hit me physically"He wasn't able to finish his sentence because I quickly stripped off my heels and weighed in on him. The jerk retreated as two hands were raised in the air.
I just shook after what happened. I checked myself again on the mirror, making sure that I am still drop dead gorgeous.
"I need to end this annoying bet in one swoop," I said on my mirror's reflection. "Brace yourself commoner. Aphrodite's descendant is coming your way..."
It was past nine in the evening when we reached the party venue. The flashing lights were dancing to the beat of the music. It was dark around but the night was lively.
"There you are!"Sam the party host, said. She walked straight to us and welcomed me with a peck on my cheek. As much as I wanted to wipe off her filthy touch on my pretty face, I knew it wasn't classy.
I quickly glanced at Sam's head to toe. This bitch really know how to make herself feel like a queen. Well, she's just sorry because I'm the only queen on the whole campus.
She smiled to us and it automatically look at Nico which next to me. A mischievous grin blown up my face.
"I'm so glad you've made it to my small party!"she said, the sticky look still didn't take Nico away.
"Nice party!" Bliss said. "I'm parched, guys. I'll be going, okay?"
I couldn't stop Bliss because she had been to the bar counter at Sam's house. Once again I looked at the plastic bitch who was now watching Nico.
Seriously?!
I turned to Nico and gave him a sight of disbelief
He just shrugged at me.
"So! Do you want to dance, Nics?"
I was almost overwhelmed by my own saliva when I heard the way she called Nico. I know for a fact that she likes this bastard. So even though we're not really in good terms she has no choice but to invite us to the party. How desperate.
"Uh, sorry but I am with my fiancée," Nico said which made me laugh.
I leaned towards Sam and whispered something, "nice try, girl. But you need to try hard next time. You look desperate."
I saw how her eyes shot wide open. I drag Nico over and I flipped my hair and walked straight to the bar counter where Bliss was.
"You can let go of my hand now, Jerk!"I said to Nico because he had too much feel in my hand.
"Wow ! I am ashamed that you yourself have insisted on holding my hand earlier, "he complained to me. "With that you really use my fame!"
Again he put his arm around me. We glared at each other before Bliss hit us both.
"It's okay!"Nico and I said in unison.
"Can you guys fight later please, let me enjoy this night just for once" Bliss said. "Let, I saw Justine a while ago. Go freshen up and get this deal done tonight—"
"What are you planning to do with that mess?"Nico said he was looking to us.
My forehead knelt, "you are the one who thinks this strategy so keep quiet"
Bullying: Let's stop this!
What does the word "bullying" mean?? It is in our knowledge that bullying means mocking someone because they're different. Bullying is also a form of oppression that is used by force. This often happens in school and usually young people are victims. One case in the Philippines is the so-called bullying. Bullying has three types as follows:
**SOCIAL WARNING**. - a kind of bump in which bullies ruin their reputation and deal with other people of their victimization.
**PHYSICAL** . - this is the physical pain and destruction of his property. Here comes the alleged punching, kicking, slapping, punching and more.
**STRONG LANGUAGE**. - a type of language in which bullies use. It is also teasing, insulting, sarcastic, shouting, swearing, insulting, humiliating in front of many people and others.
We also have what is called “CYBER BULLYING” which internet is the way to attract fellow humans. We will see and witness this season on websites such as facebook,twitter, and instagram. Not only in the status of seeing the bill but also posting pictures that their victim would ruin.
School students are usually tempted to experience it. They just find it strange that they see it immediately they will tempt it or they will notice a child alone will immediately move it and then be tempted. Such scenes often occur when some students are helpless, sometimes when a teacher blames what they are doing just to say that just because the victim is afraid he just got to agree with it. Whatever painful word came out of the bullies' mouth as if the victim had just ignored it for fear. Usually the victims of the bullies are young people and they know that there is no enemy against them.
The school is also becoming increasingly popular with physical illness. Few students were informed of the bullying their classmates had beaten. Just as a kid of grade six pupil victim allegedly bullied by the rib when the classmate hit her. This is one example of the bullying in a physical way.
Discrimination is also bullying, where it refers to our race. Destroying and comparing with another race can be one of it. Bullying on sexuality is also not good. This is the problem with people who are opposed to women and men or gay and lesbian. They are bullied based on their gender.
Bullying has causes and effects. First is the lack of interest in education and not attending school. Second, pretending to be sick for not going to school. Always wanted to be alone. There is a bruise or wound that the parent cannot tell the reason. And what can happen to a victim can also lead to suicide.
By law, the Anti-Bullying Act of 2013 signed by former President Noynoy Aquino, all schools in the elementary and secondary school are required to make police anti-bullying in their institution. A copy of the police needs to be provided to students and parents. The police include banning bullying within the school and all school-related activities. The use of bullying technology is also prohibited.
Bullying is a common problem in any school. If you are afraid of suffering from this violence, you may find it to avoid going through such situations. If anything happens, don't blame yourself; the responsibility always lies in what happened. However, you can do a few things to reduce the chance of becoming a victim. Learn to adopt calm and confident attitudes to prevent bullies, avoiding the school places they attend etc. If you can't help but find it, report the situation to an adult. When the victim does not show up, he or she may suffer serious consequences.
**WHAT TO DO IN THE EVENT OF SUCH VIOLENCE?**
•Always walk with friends. Create solid bonds of friendship with kind and helpful people who bring positive things to your life. Stay close to them at school. This contact system can prevent bullies.
•Always stay close to a group of friends. Eat and walk with them in between.
•Bullies often follows people who seem lonely. If accompanied, they will not go to you.
•Avoid areas that often clash. This approach is very simple: at school, do not go to the same areas occupied by aggressors.
•Clashes are often the place where there is little adult supervision, such as the farthest points from the yard. Avoid these areas.
•If you have to go through this place, always get a friend of yours.
•Find a trusted adult who can help: a teacher, principal, your parent or school employee.
•You are not reporting something stupid; bullying is serious. If you suffer any aggression, maybe other students will suffer too. You will do everything in a favor, including the abuser, by dealing with the situation.
•You can ask the school to take some steps to combat bullying.
•Talk to other people your age about bullying. If you are unsure what to do, talk to other students at the school. They may have suffered acts of violence from both individuals as well. You can also think of strategies for everyone to come up with against aggression.
•If necessary, defend yourself. If bullying continues to bother you, even after being ignored, assert yourself without being emotional or aggressive. If the person thinks he or she manages to affect his or her psychological well, he or she will not stop. It is best to act calmly and quietly.
•Raise your voice and say something like "No. Stop it". Then stay away. Don't start fighting who can shout out loud.
•If the bully tries to argue with him even after you impose yourself, say something like "I can still talk to you, but I won't argue or fight."
•Use plain body language. Straighten your back, face the eye to the eye and speak in a clear and direct tone.
•Defend other people. Don't just stand when you see someone being beaten. Speak up. You can be in that situation - and maybe you want someone to defend it.
•Be kind and helpful to the victim of bullying. If you know that a classmate suffers from school violence, approach him and make friends.
•If you notice that a particular student suffers a lot, talk to an adult. The child probably needs help.
•Do your best to avoid cyberbullying. This is a common problem that can also be tackled in some ways:
•Avoid sharing content that may embarrass you with the wrong hands, such as intimate photos and videos. The same for friends: beware of what you post about others, as they can also be victims of bullying.
•Use only protected and detailed passwords. If someone steals your data, you can log in to your account and post dangerous information about yourself.
•Check your privacy settings. You can prevent cyberbullying by simply sharing personal information with close friends.
A letter to someone
Good day to you! I heard that you want to visit my country this coming Christmas. Philippines is a wonderful place to visit during Christmas because we have the longest Christmas celebration. This is due to the Filipino society’s strong family values, with Christmas being the time families reunite. It is expected that Filipinos should spend Christmas with their families, often going home to their respective hometowns. Filipinos have a positive attitude towards foreigners they like to approach them, tell them stories, splash some humor, exchange experiences and suggest food or travel destinations. You can really feel their warm welcome. And I’d like to let you know that when it comes to the best destinations you can count on me. Top of my list is Boracay, you can spend your Christmas at the world-famous beach to make it extra special! Boracay is well-known as a top beach destination in the Philippines, but the island isn’t only beautiful in the summer. During the holidays, you can relax on the fine white beach and swim in the clear waters, and have one of the most memorable Christmas festivities in the Philippines. Second is Baguio, despite the fact that it does not snow in the Philippines, you can still feel the chill and dress in your winter clothes even if you are in a tropical country. Most Filipino families travel to Baguio City for their Christmas celebrations in the Philippines. People would drive for more than 6 hours for the cold wind in the air, the big pine trees, and the vibrant night market. Next is Pampanga, this province isn't known as the Philippines' Christmas Capital for nothing. Because when the Christmas season arrives, Pampanga is illuminated by lanterns produced by residents. The Giant Lantern Festival in San Fernando, Pampanga is something to look forward to if you visit the region. Expect a street dance performance and a parade of giant bright lanterns. And my favorite place Siargao, a terrific site to celebrate Christmas in the Philippines because it is home to numerous gorgeous islands, rock pools, and intriguing cuisine spots in addition to being one of the top surfing spots in the world. Lastly, Tagaytay there are restaurants in Tagaytay with fantastic views of the Taal Volcano, but if you’re feeling adventurous and want to see it up close, the hike might take anything from 30 minutes to an hour. Because the occasionally steep terrain might be exhausting, especially for first-timers, those who prefer not to hike can ride. Trekking to Taal Volcano will undoubtedly add excitement and pleasure to your Christmas celebrations in the Philippines. I can’t wait to see you soon and show you how great our place is.
Best regards,
Lusipir
Understanding the self
Self is how we define and accept who we are. It is made up of physical and mental characteristics that assist us in objectifying our own reflective awareness based on what we observe. The more we learn about ourselves, the more knowledge and understanding we get, which gives us an advantage in understanding others, especially those who are not accustomed to opening themselves up to everyone.
Each one of us is unique in our own way and to further know what makes a person unique it is when he/she discovers his/her talents and abilities that every person dreamed to have. Uniqueness comes from within it manifest itself inside us, all we have to do is to study and master it in order to have it totally. Find what you are good at because by doing this you can actually reach true happiness and peace of mind. Just like for example in choosing a career, you should listen to what your heart speaks and don't let others decide what path you'll be going because it will only give you so much pressure and might end up regretting.
**ADVANTAGES:**
Emotional stability- living according to moods can clearly ruin our day so by maintaining a stable emotions it helps the person to balance his/her life problems without over reacting to it.
More empathy towards others- the more we understand the essence of the self the more we empathize others because we already have the knowledge on what's going on to him/her.
Improves self discipline- it enables us to keep away from our bad habits and enhances our self for the better. Also if we maintain self discipline, our life will be easier to work on.
Improves decision making- it allows the person to posses a leadership skill because improving decision making requires experience so by having this benefit the person will surely achieve his/her objective.
More self control- it helps the person to avoid troubles and balance his/her emotions at a certain point.
**Which do I think my definition of self belongs to what perspective?**
I think it belongs to Psychological perspective because in this perspective it talks about how a person perceive other people. Just like what I said in my definition of self that the more we learn about its aspects the more we understand others. Also in psychological a conscious awareness of one's physically, as well as one's inner character and emotional life, are all part of the self experience. Which is basically inline to my definition that physical and mental attributes that helps us objectify our own reflective consciousness base on what we see and experience.
Personally, I consider myself belongs to Psychological perspective because I push people away due to trust issues from my previous experiences in friendship. There are times I literally generalize people who wants to be friends with me has an intention to take advantage of my kindness. Which is not a good mindset because I look at people as opportunists. Therefore, I agree that cognition, emotions and behavior affects one another because it has been demonstrated that what I felt inside reflects on how I act and how think.
The love potion
Howard had always admired Historia.
From his childhood, he had always fancied the girl. He loved the way her nose stood straight, her lips soft and plush, her eyes white shiny balls, her waist thin, her hips wide and round, her breasts firm and her buttocks plump.
He was literally in love with Historia, she was everything he wanted in a woman.
Although Howard had always admired Historia, he never found the courage to approach her, to profess his love to her. This could be because he himself was nothing to write home about.
He was short, stout and muscled. His nostrils were big, his hair was balding, his mouth wide and his eyes so small that it looked as if he squints before he is able to see. Also, he had a skin that looked ashy and dry no matter the oil he applied on it. He looked like a bad version of a dwarf.
In fact, he was ugly. Everyone knew this, and he himself knew it, too.
Now, not only was Howard ugly, he was poor too. He hardly had money to feed himself, talk more of another person. He had no huge farmland, or many farm animals and he had no yam barn.
Everyone in the village, especially mothers, often subdued their stubborn and offending children by threatening to take them to live with Howard.
“If you don’t behave,” they would say, “I will drag you to Howard’s house this evening and he will give you the beating of your life. And after that, he will force you to live with him.”
Perhaps, the reason why he never approached Historia was because he believed that she would never love him because of his hideous look and financial status. And also, maybe because she had other rich and handsome young men to her beck and call.
One day, on his way to the farm, he saw her in front of her father’s house, feeding the enclosed cattle with foliage.
Her looks captivated him again. He wanted to see her brown eyes, her soft skin and her beautiful face up close. He desired that.
Gathering up courage, he approached her for the first time.
Immediately Historia laid eyes on him, smile left her face. It was evident that she didn’t want anything to do with him.
“Hey, fine girl,” said Howard in his booming voice. “My name is Howard, and I a–”
“I know,” Historia interrupted. “But why would I care?”
“I thought maybe we could get to know each other a little better,” He said, smiling though he was ashamed.
“I’d rather talk to these cows,” She replied before turning, and then heading into her father’s hut.
Because of her attitude towards him, and his own desire for her, Howard swore that he would teach her a lesson by making her love him.
So, the next day, he visited the shrine of Angeles the most powerful medicine man of their village.
He told the man that he wanted something that could make a girl fall head over heels in love with a man. The old man just smiled, revealing the missing tooth of his mouth, before assuring Howard that he had the right thing. The man held up a small wrap containing a powdery substance. He told Howard that the substance was a love charm a love potion. He hastily grabbed the wrap, and paid for it.
Before Howard left, the man told him that he only needed to add a pinch of the substance to the food of the girl he wanted. The man warned him not to add more than a drop, otherwise he would regret it.
Historia usually ate outside her father’s obi, Howard knew this. So, the next night, while she left her food to go and grab water from inside, he sneaked into their compound to pour the substance into her food. Fearing that the little he added might be ineffective, he poured the whole content into her food. After that, he sneaked back to his own house.
The next morning, Howard awoke to find Historia waiting for him outside his hut. Immediately she laid eyes on him, she smiled. And her eyes glittered with love, her pupils dilating. Before he could say a word, she threw herself on him, and began to kiss him.
He led her into his house and they spent the morning kissing, cuddling and making love. Towards afternoon, Historia left to feed their hungry cattle.
That same evening Simon, Howard’s best friend came to visit him. He broke the terrible news to him.
Historia had died!
She had mistakenly opened the cattle enclosure and the hungry animals stampeded and mauled her with their hoofs and sharp horns. Their legs squished her head to a bloody pulp and she died on the spot.
Howard spent the whole evening crying. As night fell, he began to get over her death, but he still found himself unable to sleep. As he laid in bed, tossing and turning, he suddenly felt a presence in his hut. Turning over, he was horrified to find the ghostly figure of Historia standing by his door. When she raised her head, he realized that the skin of her face had been ripped off, revealing the bones underneath.
Before he could react, she jumped atop him and began to kiss him passionately, mashing her bony teeth and mutilated lips against his own. She loved him even in death!
He screamed and screamed but she didn’t let go until morning. When an exhausted, disgusted and terrified Howard finally came out of his hut the next morning, he was surprised to see Historia’s father waiting for him.
Immediately the wrinkly old man saw him, he jumped onto his body and began to kiss him.
The man must have eaten the remainder of his daughter’s food, and was affected by the charm. The old man didn’t let Howard go, he even dragged Howard inside to continue with their loving and kissing.
Towards afternoon, the old man finally left. And when Howard came out, he was horrified to find at least thirty rats in front of his hut. Even before he could talk, the long tailed, sharp toothed, hairy and long eared rodents jumped on him, slithering and wiggling themselves all over him.
They must have gone through the used plates of Historia.
They didn’t let go until very late at night, and during this time, Historia returned again.
Everyday, Historia’s old father, the rats and Historia’s ghost returned to Howard in the morning, afternoon and night, respectively to make love with him. They did this until the end of his life.
The girl who can predict the future
Rena had always been different. Unlike other girls of her age, she often kept to herself.
She never played with other children, or interacted much with her parents and siblings. She preferred sitting alone in her room, silently staring at the mirror.
When other children came to play with her, she would say or do something that would have them crying, running into their parents arms.
Rena’s parents had taken her to a psychologist to know why she ostracized herself from others; to know why she acted so indifferently.
After much examination, the psychologist proclaimed that nothing was wrong with the girl, that maybe she was just introverted and loved being by herself.
Because of Rena's unusual character, people began to whisper that she was possessed. And this worried her parents greatly.
One day, Rena said something unusual. She asked her father to tuck her to bed.
This was strange to her parents because she usually went into her room by herself immediately after dinner. She never liked it when others came in to converse with her.
Because of the unusual request which her father saw as a progress, he agreed.
Father put Rena to bed, and then sat beside her to tell her a story. Rena giggled as she listened to her father’s story.
After a few minutes, she became sleepy and her father stood to turn off the light. “Goodnight, my beautiful Rena,” the father said as he headed towards the door.
“Goodnight daddy,” she slurred from the bed. “Goodnight to mommy, too. Goodnight to Nika. And Goodbye to Carlo.”
The father stiffened, and then turned to ask, “Why did you say goodbye Carlo?”
Rena rubbed at her eyes. “I don’t know. It seemed like the appropriate thing to do.”
Though it was weird, father left the room and went into the room he shared with his wife.
The next evening, while pooing in the toilet, Carlo, Rena’s younger brother, found out that he was bleeding from the anus. And even before anything could be done, he began to vomit blood from the mouth, too.
Her panicked parents rushed into the toilet to help him. Before they could decide on what to do, the boy suddenly collapsed, his eyes glazing over. In that every instance, he was dead.
Rena’s father and mother wept at the death of their youngest child. Sorrow shrouded their house that day. As this was going on, Father found it a strange coincidence that Carlo died just after his sister, Kemi, wished him goodbye.
A few months later, Father was tucking in Rena to bed as she had demanded him to. Just as he was about to leave the room for his, she said, “Goodnight daddy. Goodnight mommy. Goodbye Nika.”
The very next day, Nika, Rena’s elder sister died after she tripped on the stairs and came tumbling done to her death.
“Oh my gosh!” thought the father. “Rena must be possessed. This is no longer a coincidence. She is indeed in contact with a spiritual kingdom.”
For this, the father drove Rena to their pastor’s house so they would hold a deliverance. The pastor was an old friend of theirs and also a family advisor.
Immediately they arrived at the pastor’s house, the father explained everything that had happened to the man. The pastor agreed that Rena was possessed.
“I shall pray for her deliverance,” pastor Jeff said.
The man spent hours bombarding Rena with prayers. After he was done, by now he was sweating and disheveled, he told the father that his daughter had been delivered.
Rena’s father drove them home, happy that his daughter was okay now.
Several weeks later, when Rena was about to fall asleep, the father heard her say, “Goodnight mommy. Goodbye daddy.”
The father flew into shock immediately. Goosebumps tinged his spine, and hot sweat dripped down his back. He remained awake throughout the night; he couldn’t sleep a wink. The voice of Rena saying goodbye to daddy ran across his mind at several intervals.
Immediately father heard the first cock crow, he jumped off from his bed. One thought came across his mind as he fixed himself up for work, “Has his end come? Would he die as Rena had always predicted?”
Throughout that day, he was nervous in his office, and he kept glancing at the clock. He figured that if he could survive until midnight, that means he would be okay. That means that Rena’s prediction had failed.
Father didn’t want to go home. Seeing Rena at home would remind him of his dire situation, so he stayed in his office, working and watching the clock.
Finally, it was midnight. He breathed a sigh of relief and finally went home. After all, it was over.
When he got home, his wife said, “I’ve never seen you work so late. You look tired, too. What’s the matter?”
Father said, “I don’t want to talk about it. I just spent the most tensed and worst day of my life.”
His wife said, “You think you had a bad day. You’ll never believe what happened to me. This afternoon, Pastor Jeff dropped dead on the altar just as he was praying for me.”
You look happier
"Elly, at last Tita allowed us to go out" Nica said. You can actually see in her face the smile and excitement to go out with me.
"Couz no. I don't like this, look at me it doesn't suit on my baldy head" "it's very embarrassing" I said that stops her from looking for my clothes to wear.
"But couz ever since you have come from the states, you didn't even get out of the house. Don't you want to have some fun and maybe we can see Jake as well " Nica said while holding my hand to comfort me.
"HAHAHAH are you kidding? you know I left him for no reason right?" I smiled at her while wiping my back tears
"But he promised to you that he will wait for you" she said , that makes me think of our memories back then.
PAST***
"Babe what if I'll leave will you wait for me?" I said.
"Why? You're leaving?" He asked before looking at my face that I immediately shook my head.
"Ofcourse not! I just want to know your answer that's why and perhaps I have no reason to leave you, and if that happens where would I go?" I fake a smile.
"Well of course I'll wait for you no matter where you go. Remember I promised to you that you will be my one and only? No matter how long it is I'll wait for you.”
PRESENT***
I remembered those words from him and until now I'm still hoping for his promised.
"Let's go?" Nica's invite which I nodded even though I'm not comfortable and not ready to see Jake in case.
We quietly traveled to the mall to shop.
I miss this! Everytime we're bored we go directly to the mall. Buy whatever we want and watch our favorite movie.
I have been confined to our house and to hospital for several years so I think I deserve giving myself a break.
"Woaahh best! I miss you! Thanks God tita allowed you to hang out with us. Said by my one and only best friend here in the Philippines.
"You're still have a noisy and annoying mouth Denise" I smiled at her.
"Well girl aren't you informed that this is natural? Hahaha" she slides right into my elbow.
"Am I part in this?" Nica said when Denise and I walked.
"Opps sorry! I thought nobody's with us" Jokingly Denise said to Nica.
I miss this.
We just ate random foods that we like and played in the arcade.
"Girls let's go watch a movie" I said while the two are lying in the chair because they're so full.
"That's a great idea! I like that" Nica suddenly stands up with an excitement on her smile.
"Okay, I'll buy the tickets for us" Denise raised her hand.
"Me and couz will buy the pop corn and drinks" Nica smiled at me immediately with a wide smile and a nod.
"Are you happy couz?"she asked as we walked into the pop corn line.
"Sup-- Jake" seemed like I stop walking when I saw my boyfriend in the pop corn line too.
"Huh! Jake your boyfriend?where is he?"
"Chantal, this is our pop corn" I hear Jake telling that to a meztisa woman.
That brought me tears.
Why they seem so happy?
The way he look at the girl is so different from the way he looked at me before.
Who is Chantal?
"Couz let's just go home"
"Elly you're favorite movie Harry Potter will release today!" Denise shouted.
"Shit that voice" I whispered.
"Why didn't you buy a pop corn yet?" She asked.
Nica explained to her everything so we went home to avoid personal contact with Jake and his new girlfriend. It's very painful seeing the one you love looks happier without you. But I have to accept the consequence because I was the one who left him in the first place.
"Mom, I can borrow my cellphone?" I asked mom when we got home.
"I'm sorry but your dad broke your cellphone and simcard"
"Can I borrow yours?"
"What are you going to do?" She asked me before getting her cellphone in her bag.
It's been a year without my cellphone.
I immediately made a new account because I knew my old account was hacked.
Yet I did it immediately and chased Jake's account and chatted him.
I can't believe he has anyone else, I am still hoping that Chantal is not his new girlfriend.
I know he wouldn't break his promises.
I was nervous on chatting him right away.
"Babe, who's with you lately? It's like you're close! Is she your cousin?"
I waited for his reply before I shed tears when I read his response.
"No, She's my first girlfriend.
She bring me back to life again from those time you left me for no reason."
Maybe it was my fault, I left him for no reason but I didn't want to. I don't want to have bad blood in my brain I don't want to have a stage 4 cancer.
"Did you know that day you promised me. I want to tell you that I just ran away from home to see you because my family didn't want you because of the accident with the motorcycle.
I hold on to that promised before I was taken to the states for surgery.
Yes I didn't tell you because I don't want you to worry and blame yourself if I died.
I tried to call you the day we were leaving but my cellphone took off so I couldn't reach out you.
Sorry if I left you without saying goodbye.
But it's already too late because many years passed by before I came back here."
Those are the words came out from my mouth and I really wanted to tell him this "I'm really sorry if I hurt your feelings" but then I realized what for? He already happy with his new girl.
End
Why did you forget me?
"Who are you?-" the way she asked who I was- was enough to kill me just imagine my own girlfriend asking who I was.
"its me love Trevor" her forehead creased as she look at her mother confused, my girlfriend got an accident causing her memories to fade, causing her to forget me, she had an amnesia what's worst? I'm the only one she forgets.
"mom who is he? where's Morgan?" that caught me off guard I couldn't stopped my tears when my girlfriend ask for her ex in front of me, it's crashing me down!
"Chloe, Trevor is your boyfriend sweetie" she shook her head, its really hurts!
"mom where's Morgan? love! love!" she shouted looking for her ex, love that endearment was for me only. A minute later a guy entered the room and hugged Chloe, she cried harder and hide herself behind Morgan's back. She was afraid of me, I can see it in her eyes. Morgan is my friend, I saw how worried he was when he look at me, but at the same time I pity myself because it feels like I'm not the one she wants. She still hide herself and even hold his hands, jeez love your killing me.
Before I went outside I look at them but then my tears fell down because of the pain felt. I went outside because I couldn't take it anymore. I saw how Chloe holds Morgan's hands tightly. I smiled bitterly and watch them looking so sweet.
I went to the bar just to cool off I just couldn't handle the pain, I felt pain a lot today.
"Trev" he tap my shoulder and look at the bottle of beer which has no beer inside because I finished it all.
"You know what Morgan" I smiled bitterly "none in my wildest dream to cry because of a woman, I didn't wish this to happen but here I am looking like an idiot crying because I can't do nothing about it. She can't even look me straight, I felt like I'm the bad guy whenever she hides herself from me."
"I hate you" I suddenly laugh.
"but because my girlfriend doesn't remember me, and she remember's you instead and what's worst she choose you over me. I have no choice but to accept it" I stand up and look at him then I walk away after.
"take care of my girl Morgan don't break her heart" the last word I said after I left.
Time flies so fast di ko namalayan na nandito na ako sa simbahan watching my girl marry his man that I thought was me, I already accept it, but it just hurt so much knowing that we'd end like this, I smiled bitterly watching them from afar looking so happy, while here I am, hoping I would wake up from this nightmare.
I just could'nt accept the fact that she forgets me easily.
They only know you when you have money
After we passed our requirements, we all came out.
"Bro let's eat at JOLLIBEE." Travis invited me one of my friends.
"But I prefer Mcdo because we always eat in Jollibee, let's choose McDonald's this time." Franz said.
"But we can't eat there without the permission of Louis." Kurt said and put his hand on my shoulder "the decision will be yours." I nodded at them.
I always treat my friends everytime we came out, but that's okay to me because I believe the more you give the more you will be blessed.
When we get inside the Jollibee, there's a lot of people eating so we look for a place to sit.
"Look everyone an empty seats." Ricci pointed out.
We all followed Ricci, I saw two tables left every table has four chairs but we're nine so it means only eight person can occupy there.
"Which one of us will be separated?" Laurence asked.
"For sure it's not me, I don't want to leave you guys." Cris said at the same time.
Everyone was seated and I was left standing."All right I'll just look for some place to sit." I told them.
I searched for an empty seat and soon found it where my friends were just behind me.
Later on our orders came so Jeffrey brought me my food and we started eating.
"let's take a pic guys." Franz said, "hey Louis face here." He added so I face them with a sharp smile on my lips.
After we ate we decided to go home. With my car they all get inside even though they were trying hard to get everyone in.
I drop them off in their houses and only two were left in the car that's me and Harry because his house is far away from those guys.
While we were on the trip I couldn't help but look at my side mirror because I think something's bothering him.
"Are you okay?" He looked to me as I spoke."Do you have a problem? Dont be shy to share it with me." I added.
Harry is known as a quiet person in the group.
He slapped first his face before he looked at me." My brother is in jail right now because of drugs, we need a big amount of money so we can get him out." he said.
"How much do you need?"I said
"Twenty-five thousand bro."
"Alright I'll give it to you tomorrow, so your brother will be released."I said as I looked at him from the side mirror of the car.
"Thank you Bro, thank you very much."he smiled.
When I got home I didn't have anyone in my room and took a bath,after I bathed I went out of the bathroom and went to the cabinet to get some clothes. My phone suddenly ring so I answered it.
"Jeff?"
"Hello"
"I have something to tell you." He told me.
"What is it?"
"Can I borrow money from you I have nothing else to go, my mom was run into the hospital because she had a heart attack."he said in low tone.
"How much do you need?"
"Fifteen thousand bro."
"Okay tomorrow I'll give it you tomorrow." I said
"Thank you so much bro. I have nothing else to say but thank you, may God bless you more." He added.
The next morning I was in the bank account to withdraw money then I gave it to Jeffry and Harry later on I went home.
I would have heard the door of the house as I heard it inside.
"how could you to do this! Why did you sell this house!! This house is very important to us why?" Mom shouted.
"I have nothing to pay I lost in casino." Dad replied.
"I already told you that gambling is not a good idea.." Mom stopped when she saw me at the door.
"Louis you're here, did you eat already?"
"I'm still full."I said and go to my room.
As I was lying in bed I heard voices downstairs so I get up quickly, I saw Mom kneeling to a lady.
"please I'm begging you, I'll pay you as soon as possible. Just don't take this house from us." Mom cried in front of her.
"Mrs. Castro, where are you going to get money to pay me? Your business already bankrupt. Leave now coz we will move here tomorrow." She said.
I also noticed that our luggage is already outside, I approached my mom and take it. "Let's go mom."
"You will not take anything in this place even that car, your house isn't enough to pay your father's debt"
I came to dad and punched his face "it's all your fault, if you stopped your gambling at first we wouldn't be experiencing this!" I burst out.
"Forgive me, son forgive me."Dad cried.
*********
With the money I left in the bank, I thought of finding a rent, I thought my money was a lot but when I checked it... only 15 thousand left.
Months passed we were still struggling to live. The worst thing is my parents are getting sick, I didn't even continue to study because no one would take care of my parents.
I contact my two friends for owing me before but they didn't show theirselves. I also came to my other friends asking for help but no one lend a hand to help. I came to them one by one but no one helped me.
The famous guy in school
It's my night class right now and I am so desperate to go to the restroom because I'm having a stomach ache. When I reach the restroom suddenly there's no electricity, I literally can't see anything and I'm afraid in darkness specially if I'm alone. But because of this stomach ache I endured the fear. Since it's very dark I accidentally went to the wrong door. I really have no idea that the restroom I entered was for males.
"Prott... prottt...pro...prott " the sound of shit coming out of my a**. This all because of the food I ate early I didn't know that it was spoiled.
"Why is it there's a smell of cigarettes here! That's scary"I said in my mind that I could smell cigarette smoke.
Suddenly the light came back.
"Are you sure bro?" a guy asking someone.
"Yes, tomorrow after the play I will tell her" replied by the familiar voice.
I think he's going to confess to the girl he likes.
"How about your bestfriend Tina? She likes you right?" He added
"I know but she's just a friend to me and that won't go any further."
"You're not scared? Reese is the girlfriend of Mikey and we both know he's famous here in the campus, aren't you afraid?" He asked.
"They already broke up, so he can't do anything. I think Reese also likes me so I'll grab the opportunity"
Suddenly something seemed to hit the other door of the rest room.
"prottt.. "I'm super embarrassed.
Soon someone came out from the toilet. And I heard its sudden punch in the mirror and when he came out of the restroom I immediately cleaned up my hands and when I came out I saw that the mirror had broken and it has a trace of blood.
I didn't forget what I heard earlier. Annd as the day of my crush confession came I was really thinking of a plan to stop my crush's plan.
"HAAAA"
People shouted at theater after I turned off the power switch for fear that my crush will confess to the girl he likes. Although I was afraid of the dark I endured it and now I was reaping the floor like a dog. Suddenly someone stuck to my lips which made my eyes bigger than a tarsier. I know it's also a lip but a man's lips. I immediately punched his face so he fell down. Slowly I touched the floor but I think something's wrong because I am touching someone's private part so I screamed and kicked the man in front of me since everyone was shouting so I'm lucky because he can't have his revenge. I immediately stood up and slammed the door. I immediately went out and again I saw light. No one else came out the door I was going through because it was behind the theater. When I remembered the man I had beaten earlier I immediately ran away from the theater because he might come out too. I went to the cafeteria and bought something to eat because I was hungry for what I did.
"two cheeseburger and an apple juice please" I said but the suddenly I saw a hotdog and remembered the scenario earlier which I accidentally touched someone's private part.
"Ewww"
"If you are not interested about our product then don't buy here" the vendor said.
"No, you are mistaken. I'm so sorry" I apologized then I paid for what I ordered.
I went out from the cafeteria and went to my favorite place which is the garden and there ate my order. My mouth was full of cheeseburger and I laughed as I thought of my crush's confession failed because of me. Just call me what you want but what can I do, if my cupid hits me. I got something caught in my throat because of my laugh and I almost cried because of that. But then someone patted my back and gave me my juice.
"Ahh, what a relief thank you...I thought I was going to die " I said
The man sat next to me and took my hamburger then took my juice and drank it too.
"Hey!" I yell at him.
"It doesn't mea you helped me you have the right to take my food! have some respect!"
"Huh really Ms. Christina Dela Cruz?" he said.
"Why do you know my name!? "I was worried when he suddenly raised my ID
"Why do you have my ID? " I said when I saw my ID he was holding.
I immediately pulled it off and was surprised because I knew the person I was facing today, he's Mikey the famous and mighty Mikey. Well he's a heartthrob here in school that's why he's known. I wonder how does my ID went to him.
"You're curious why I have you ID" he said annoyingly.
"Don't tell me... "I answered him but I stopped suddenly.
"Yes it's me! I'm the one you kissed at the Theater! And not just that! You also touched my private part. And lastly you have the guts to punch in the face? Like wtf?! I'm the ex of the woman who had been performing earlier on the stage and was planning to turn off the lights because I knew that crazy guy who was his partner in the play will confess to her and I didn't want that to happen! But thank you for turning off the lights on time. But why? What's your reason?"
"A... ahh.. I'm sorry!"I have nothing else to say but that's all.
"I don't want to accept your sorry! "he replied directly.
"huh? "I said
"You know I have a hard time making that plan because I will lose my honor as a man but because I love her I forget that."he said
"I like the guy! He's my crush. So I did that because I heard him talk to his friend in the restroom... " As I continue to talk he suddenly interrupts.
"Restroom of men!?"he suddenly asked
"Huh? Ah eh..?"shame on me
"So that was you! HAHAHA" he laugh
"What do you mean?.. " shame on me as I remember the night of our night class when I was having a hard time in my stomach ache.
"HAHAHA" he laugh loudly
"Your hands are okay right?" I asked
"Your stomach how was it?" I was ashamed of him asking that.
"Dang it, the smell! I still prefer to smell a cigarette!Hahaha" he teased.
"Hey! Why are you like that you're talking to me as if we're close!" I said coz I'm really annoyed.
"Right!"he said and stood up "Uhm- no! Starting today we're close. You're my comrade!" He said.
"Comrade? What?!"
"I'm not yet forgiving you for what you've done to me so being my comrade you can pay for that. Whenever I call, you need to go with me! Or else you'll be paying for neglecting it. Clear?" He said loudly and left.
"Comrades? Crazy bastard! "I have nothing to say but that.
Because of what happened the plan didn't go on success. I was walking with my best friend Matthew to class. We also met his friend, Aaron.
"Hello Matt, hello to you Tina" Aaron greeted me with a laugh behind us.
"Tina? HAHAHA"
And it was Mikey. He teased me but I just stopped myself. He just looked at us and passed through the middle of us he pushed Matthew further. Yes my crush is my crush. Even though I heard what he said in the restroom but I still couldn't change the fact that I like him.
Days had passed I have received the orders of Mikey and I couldn't resist for it and obey them all. Sometimes he even takes me on his way and treats me nicely. Which has benefits to me too. We always follow my crush and his ex wherever they go. One time we followed them I was surprised that Jacob was gone while we were just laughing so he fell into the ditch of the old man.
We also tried to audition the play so we could watch the two more and more and we would always have them play and yes we were accepted but we got kicked out right away, because of our jealousy we are not doing our roles right.
We also went to the cinema but not to date but to follow his ex and Jacob. We have a very funny experienced that time because of the horror we watched and we were both scared we threw the pop corn and we encountered a fight. More and more we met each other. We did our best to keep an eye of my crush and his ex. And yes we did it!
Judgemental mindset? Let's change it!
Why do people jugde easily others?
When I was a child I learned from school and my home to be kind, that includes to never judge others on the other hand.
One of the things most of us are taught is the saying “Don’t judge a book by its cover” And yet, despite our best efforts, many of us fall into the trap over and over again because there are times we can't control our minds not to do so. So why do we do it knowing that it is not good?
Here are four common reasons that explain this particularly bad habit of judging other people.
•FEELS LIKE WE'RE ABOVE THEM
-Bringing other people down is one way people lift themselves up. By judging others harshly, we compare ourselves to them and find ourselves superior. Compared to their life, their behavior, their physical appearance, their status and many more that we feel it doesn't suit on the standard. But this kind of comparison is false and unhealthy because God made us unique and different so on the other hand we don't have the right to judge one another because the moment we judge them we are insulting our only creator. Instead of finding flaws in others, we should do much better to focus on how we can become our best selves.
•COVERS OUR OWN WRONG DOING
-More often than not, we are bothered by the qualities in others that we choose not to see in ourselves, having that kind of behavior makes us toxic because in our minds it's okay to judge or look something that is bad to others and often not includes ourselves. We rail against another’s habits, appearance or lifestyle choices because they are the very ones we dislike in ourselves. It can be called insecurity as well because we tend to guard others imperfections instead of focusing on ourselves.
•MAKES US FEEL WE BELONG TO A GROUP
-Honestly most people loves to judge others because they're thirsty for attention and they feel like judging can make them part of a group. Let’s say there is a work situation where one person complains about something, and then another person agrees, and then another and another. Before you know it, a group has formed around negativity which is a no no because of the negativity around. Sometimes this negativity can be funny and based around a silly situation, but often the negativity can be at the expense of another.
HOW TO BREAK THE JUDGEMENT HABIT
If you’ve recognized your tendency toward judgement, here are a few tips to break the habit:
-As much as possible stop yourself by judging others if you find yourself judgemental judgment because it will only give you so much hatred in your heart and will lead you to toxicity that may affect the people that surrounds you. This takes a greater awareness than we usually have, so the first step (and an important one) is to observe your thoughts for a few days, trying to notice when you’re being judgmental. This can be a difficult step. Remind yourself to observe.
Once you’re more aware, you can then stop yourself when you feel yourself being judgemental. Then move to the next step.
-Try to understand others situation before making a conclusion. Instead of judging someone for what he’s done or how he looks, try instead to understand the person. Put yourself in their shoes, try to empathize so that you will understand the whole story. Try to imagine their background. If possible, talk to them. Find out their backstory. Everyone has one. If not, try to imagine the circumstances that might have led to the person acting or looking like they do.
-Acceptance is the key. Once you begin to understand, or at least think you kind of understand, try to accept. Accept that person for who he is, without trying to change him because all of us are made differently and we should be grateful for the things we have, by showing kindness to everyone will make this world a better world where negativity could not foster. Accept that he will act the way he does, without wanting him to change. The world is what it is, and as much as you try, you can only change a little bit of it. It will continue to be as it is long after you’re gone. Accept that, because otherwise, you’re in for a world of frustration.
- Spread Love. Once you’ve accepted someone for who he is, try to love him. Even if you don’t know him. Even if you’ve hated him in the past. Love him as a brother, or love her as a sister, no matter who they are, old or young, light skinned or dark, male or female, rich or poor. Although we're differently made in this world but in the eyes of our creator we are only the same so spread love as much as you could because only love will give you peace and happiness living in this world.
The importance of contentment in your life
WHAT IS CONTENTMENT?
Contentment is a state of happiness with what you have, who you are, and where you are, in other term you are satisfied in your life. It is respecting the reality of the present and facing it with no regrets. It is appreciating what you do have and where you are in life, which is a good step for living a happy life. Contentment does not mean the absence of desire; it just means you are satisfied with your present and enjoying what you have right now, and trusting the decisions you made and wait for the turn that your life takes will be for the best.
Many people today think life is a race where you must be the best at everything. People keep on rushing things without thinking what will be the outcome. We might want a pretty car, a bigger shelter, a good paying job but we can't deny the fact that some of rich people wanted to live in a simple life because of less expenses and responsibilities. The moment we achieve one thing we really wanted to aim, the race for the next thing starts which is another goal will be unlock. Instead of looking back at the distance they have covered, they stretch themselves to cover the distance that remains. And in some cases, this is when ambition becomes greed. But on the other side of the topic there are still individuals who are grateful of what they have and contented of the life they chose.
HOW IMPORTANT CONTENTMENT IS
The importance of contentment is outlined below. Some benefits of contentment include:
INNER PEACE
-Peace of mind is a great way to have freedom from stress, anxieties and worries in day to day life and can help you to become a calmer, more relaxed, and patient person overall. This can lead to a happier existence because you do not let your worries overpower you instead you handle it in a proper way which means you prevent being swayed and agitated by events, problems or difficulties. Contentment brings peace of mind and positivity that can develop growth and self-improvement. This does not mean you can’t have dreams and aspirations. You can accept the present and still wish for a better future. Contentment only means to be at peace with the present. If you are not at peace with what you have achieved at your current status in life, it can be more difficult to work toward a better future because it will hinder you from thinking a lot, just stay focus and practice contentment in your mind to be able to have peace.
HAPPINESS
-Contentment promotes happiness because when you're satisfied of the life you have right now you're not blocking the joy coming to you. When you are content with the present, you are letting go of sometimes painful cravings for what you can’t have. As a result, acceptance settles in, practice it within you so that everytime a difficult situation will come you can definitely solve it without hesitation. Therefore, when you accept your situation, you are allowing yourself to be happy.
Also when you are already contented, you may not desire for anything more than what you need. The abundance of your current situation is enough to lead a joyful and healthy life. Contentment often leads to the realization that joy doesn’t come from material things nor money, happiness comes within by starting to release negativities and manifesting kindness.
SIMPLE MINDED
When you are able to determine your wants from your needs, you are preventing yourself to burden up. You free yourself from the stress of wanting more stuffs.
Instead of wanting your possessions to grow, you start working on self development. Because at the end of the day, simplicity fueled by contentment.
End your insecurities
Why am I so insecure?
Most of us feel insecure sometimes, but some of us feel insecure most of the time. The kind of childhood you had, past traumas, recent experiences of failure or rejection, loneliness, social anxiety, negative beliefs about yourself, perfectionism, or having a critical parent or partner can all contribute to insecurity. Being insecure to someone is one of our bad habit as a human, we tend to look beyond ourselves just to be like someone. We forgot that everyone is unique in its own way, we do not need to copy somebody's lifestyle because being yourself is enough to please anyone. And when it comes to luxury things instead of being insecure of them having that why not keep that as an inspiration in order to strive more in life.
The Effect of Insecurity
•Insecurity can lead to mental health issues like depression, low self-esteem, and anxiety. They are also often a contributing factor to eating disorders and substance use disorders.
•Insecurity can affect us in countless areas of our lives. Every person will notice their inner critic being more vocal in one area or another. For example, you may feel pretty confident at work but completely lost in your love life or vice versa. You may even notice that when one area improves, the other deteriorates. Most of us can relate, at one time or another, to having self-sabotaging thoughts toward ourselves about our career. Old feelings that we are incompetent or that we will never be acknowledged or appreciated can send our insecurities through the roof.
•Relationships, in particular, can stir up past hurts and experiences. They can awaken insecurities we’ve long buried and bring up emotions we don’t expect.
How to overcome insecurity?
KNOW YOUR VALUE
•Valuing yourself and not comparing it to others is a best way to avoid insecurity,you will feel wealthy inside and will gain confidence at the same time.
PRIORITIZE YOUR NEEDS
•Prioritizing your basic needs such as food, clothes and shelter will be a great advantage because it helps you discipline the way you think by putting first the important things before anything else.
EMBRACE YOUR FLAWS
•If you can embrace your flaws you can start being more true to yourself by accepting that you are not perfect. It allows you to measure things with the right perspective. In a more general sense, you are framing your reality more soundly and not based on a false notion of self.
BE HAPPY
• True happiness comes within yourself so make the best choices in life that will never put you to regrets. In the state of happiness it promotes and help to combat with mental health issues and improve your lifestyle.
Self Confidence: my way on building it
Have you ever felt insecure to those people who have undeniable self-confidence? As for me, a long time ago I was insecure to them like "where did they got that kind of confidence?", one time when I was still a high school student, we had a school activity, my teacher told us to make a presentation, so basically we had a class discussion planning on who would lead us, I was in the corner listening to my classmate and thinking to just go with the flow, then it was decided who would lead us and the presentation what to present were already chosen which was a dance number.
I was nervous because that was my first time to dance in public though I can dance good, so I asked my leader if I just can be part of the propsmen(lol), but my leader didn't agree, worst is he wanted me to put in front of the class, moving forward, my teacher saw me dance and she was amazed how good I was(lol), though she was kinda disappointed because I wasn't confident while dancing, she gave me a little talk of encouragement and starting that day slowly I build my confidence.
Building our self confidence can actually be advantageous to us, it attracts people to listen to our ideas or even let them agree with us. A life with confident, is a life with great vision in life, it is being determine that you can achieve whatever goals you have. It is also letting go of negative vibes in our life and attract the positive vibes.
Building our self confidence is not easy task, unless you're trained or born with it. It took me the whole highschool years for me to have my self confidence now, it was hard for me because I was introvert type of a person. With preserverance and dedication to build my confidence, somehow I managed (lol).
Here are the things I did in building my self confidence.
**1. Knowing weaknesses and strengths**
Identifying weaknesses and strengths means getting to know ourselves, asking which we are good and bad at, things to improve more and etc., It can actually helps us on what aspect in our life we need to focus on flourishing, in my case my strength was my dance and my weakness was my communication and socializing skills, since I was already good in dancing, I focused too much on how to enhance my communication and socializing skills or you can do vice versa.
**2. Learning speaking English**
Speaking English can actually be a big factor for your self confidence, nowadays people who are good on speaking English defines as an intellectual person, but it's not just that because learning English can help you remove your insecurities and negative thoughts of not being good enough.(though it's only applicable to me)
**3. Gather Knowledge**
Knowledge is power, it's important for us to have knowledge on various things for us to have confident on what we are talking, if you're just talking nonsense things you're not being confident, you're making yourself embarrassed. In addition with enough knowledge, it's actually helping us to remove some negative thoughts like afraid to commit mistake.
**4. Open up**
Learning without application is useless, so practice what you've learn for you to asses yourself on what is your progress. Opening up will help you train yourself on how to handle a certain situation, it also helps us to understand that failure is part of progress.
**5. Physical Appearance**
It is important that the way you look is appealing to others, building your posture and making yourself presentable can actually help you boost your self confidence, so always make sure that you are healthy and lively.
Self confidence may be good to us, However, too much of everything isn't good anymore, know the situation and ask yourself if your self confidence actually making others uncomfortable, too much confident actually is not confidence anymore instead it is arrogance.
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Build your trust
How significant trust is?
Trust is one of the most crucial building blocks of becoming emotionally intimate with someone. It's absolutely fundamental for a healthy, close relationship. And yet it is far easier and takes a lot of time to build with someone because by showing your intentions to someone you must earn first their trust. Trust goes hand in hand with essential components of a relationship, such as honesty, open communication, vulnerability, and respect. If trust will break it will be a very difficult situation to handle but if you're willing to change your mistakes then rebuild their trust in a different way this time, a way more sincere and persistent.
Here are some trust management tips to start by:
•Keep your word
-Keeping your word defines who you are and what people think of you. Words are building blocks of your existence and they reflect the integrity of yourself. The point of building trust is for others to believe what you say. Keep in mind, that building trust requires not only keeping the promises you make but also not making promises you’re unable to keep. Not honoring your word enough times can have people running in the other direction when they see you coming.
•Communicate effectively
-Approaching someone needs communication, this is the most important life skill because this will measure your eagerness to be with someone and this will lasts an impression to them. Poor communication is a major reason why relationships break down. Good communication includes being clear about what you have or have not committed to and what has been agreed upon.
•Take time to earn trust
-Trust takes years to build but regardless of years it allows people to know each other even more. Building trust is a daily commitment. Don’t make the mistake of expecting too much too soon. In order to build trust, first take small steps and take on small commitments and then, as trust grows, you will be more at ease with making and accepting bigger commitments. Put trust in, and you will generally get trust in return.
•Think before you act
-To prevent unreliable result we need to learn the golden rule; Think before you act. By applying the rule you will have the time to think deeply and decide for the better possibility. Only make commitments that you are happy to agree to. Have the courage to say “no,” even when it disappoints someone. If you agree to something and can’t follow through, everyone involved is worse off.
•Be honest
-Telling the truth will make the relationship grow stronger so do not take for granted the chance because if you lie to someone your record to them will automatically disappointing. The message you convey should always, always be the truth. If you are caught telling a lie, no matter how small, your trustworthiness will be diminished.
•Express what you feel
-Expressing your emotions can build better relationship because it avoids conflict and resolve it immediately. Being open about your emotions is often an effective way to build trust. Furthermore, if people know that you care, they are more likely to trust you. Emotional intelligence plays a role in building trust.
•Always do what you believe to be right
-Doing something purely for approval means sacrificing your own values and beliefs. This decreases trust in yourself, your values, and your beliefs. Always doing what you believe is right, even when others disagree, will lead others to respect your honesty.
•Admit your mistakes
-When you attempt to hide your mistakes, people know that you are being dishonest. By being open, you show your vulnerable side, and this helps build trust with other people. Being real is way better than being pretentious, it may lead you to a difficult situations if you keep on pretending just to show them you never make mistakes.
Anger management tips
It's normal to feel angry from time to time in response to certain situations because we humans have emotions. But sometimes people experience an uncontrollable anger that often escalates, especially when the provocation is minor. In this case, anger is not a normal anymore and may lead you to danger if you let anger manifest in yourself it will be a major problem to face.
For me anger isn’t a ‘bad’ emotion. It can actually help you to be honest or to stand up for something you believe in. There’s absolutely nothing wrong with feeling angry. What matters is how you cope with and express your anger. Just don't let anger overpower you so that you can still balance your emotions and decide properly.
Are you ready to get your anger issues under control? Here are some anger management tips to start by:
•THINK TWICE BEFORE YOU VOCALIZE
-Thinking before you speak is a really good habit to develop, to avoid causing trouble in your life. This will also help us understand more the situation before doing something like replacing the negative idea to something positive.
-In the heat of the moment, it's easy to say something you'll later regret. Take a few moments to collect your thoughts before saying anything and allow others involved in the situation to do the same.
•KEEP CALM WHEN YOU'RE IN A SITUATION
-Staying calm allows your mind to think properly and take decisions accordingly. Calming yourself prevents fight and allows you to settle things in a calm manner. Having the clarity in mind is very important in dealing difficult situations or urgent one because it will provide you the solution you're looking for.
-As soon as you're thinking clearly, express your frustration in an assertive but nonconfrontational way. State your concerns and needs clearly and directly, without hurting others or trying to control them.
• ENGAGE YOURSELF IN PHYSICAL ACTIVITIES
-Physical activity can help reduce stress that can cause you to become angry. It will also boost your immune system and helps your brain works productively. If you feel your anger escalating, go for a walk or run, or spend some time doing other enjoyable physical activities.
•TAKE A BREAK
- Taking a break for at least 10 minutes every hour can help to reset your mood, it promotes positive wellbeing and reducing stress. It also helps your mind to be relax and maintain your productivity all throughout the day.
-Timeouts aren't just for players in a game. Give yourself short breaks during times of the day that tend to be stressful. A few moments of quiet time might help you feel better prepared to handle what's ahead without getting irritated or angry.
•PRACTICE FORGIVENESS
-Forgiveness is a powerful tool. If you allow anger and other negative feelings to crowd out positive feelings, you might find yourself swallowed up by your own bitterness or sense of injustice. But if you can forgive someone who angered you, you might both learn from the situation and strengthen your relationship. Forgiveness matters, and we will be its primary beneficiary because it will help us develop peace to go on in life.
-Being a forgiving person not only leads to healthier relationships, but also to lowered blood pressure, better heart health, and even a stronger immune system. So we must practice this one so that anger issues won't dominate.
•APPLY HUMOR SOMETIMES
- Sometimes when a conversation is getting serious and you know it will lead you to an argument, if this happens apply some jokes to release tension.
-Lightening up can help diffuse tension. Use humor to help you face what's making you angry and, possibly, any unrealistic expectations you have for how things should go. Avoid sarcasm, though it can hurt feelings and make things worse.
Character Traits: Practicing Daily
Before pandemic, I don't really have concerns on what I am doing daily, as long as I have fun then it's alright, However, due to what happened in our world, at first it didn't affect me, but then months had passed since the pandemic, as I browsed the internet reading and watching interesting videos, I came across a site that offered money on every articles that you will publish, so I tried it then yes they payed money in every article I published though it's not that much, but I enjoyed what I'm doing, one month later I realized that I depended on the site too much and my attitude had changed I easily got irritated, I became impatient which opposite to my attitude before pandemic, I became coward on facing my problems instead on finding solution I browsed the internet trying to escape, I isolated myself from others and not making a conversation with my friend even if through chat and many more to mention.
One day as I browsed YouTube to watch videos, one video which the YouTube recommended me to watch caught my attention, so I watched it and it became a wake up call to me, because what the video told me was about an athlete who's a champion then he stopped training because he thought he's already doing fine but in reality he's slowly making himself fall down. The video made me realized the situation where I am in on that moment was the same with the athlete, that night I asked myself if I'm really slowly making myself went to a wrong direction, so I decided to make myself become a better person, when morning came I started to practice some good habits which can help me, and one of those practices which I habitually practice daily were my three character traits which for me a big factor in becoming a better person.
First is **courage**, before pandemic occurred, whenever I faced problems I always find solution, However if I can't find a solution or the problem is too much for me to handle, in most cases others would just let the problems be because perhaps of their pride they're afraid to ask help, in my case, for me asking help to others means that I am a weak person, I am coward because I depend on them and can't help myself, even though in my mindset asking help is an act of a coward, still I took courage asking help to my friends and especially to my family, for me asking help to my family is the most courageous thing I ever had. Because of the pandemic I often hide my problems or act like I don't have problems, but now I habitually practice it by opening myself to my family like having a conversation with them, and finding a solution to my problems by myself. Having courage is not just about facing danger and overcome it, it's also involve on expressing ourselves and accepting who we are.
Second is **patience**, when pandemic occurred I discovered myself became impatient, especially when I started publishing articles in the site which pay money, in most cases it took a very long time for me to create a good article, However, because perhaps of my greediness I published three to five articles per day for the sake of money that I might earn, even though the article don't have any good content, but if my articles that I published don't earn money I got irritated which affect me especially on making decision, fortunately a video from YouTube made me realize that what I'm doing was wrong, so today I enhance my patience, instead on publishing three to five articles a day, what I did was I published articles three to four times a week, and not too focus on the site if I earn then it's good but if not it's also alright. Patience for me is a key to become a better person because it enables me to assess things.
Finally is **friendliness**, by nature I'm a friendly person like literally I always make the first move in making friends, in my circle of friend I'm the noisiest, when pandemic occurred at first the communication with my friends was still there, but as time goes by it slowly fade and I'm no longer making the first move to make a conversation because it's so tiring, more time goes by I completely isolated myself like literally I deactivated my facebook account so that I won't receive any news from them, what I did was reading manga, watching anime, publishing articles and others which can divert my attention, However, by isolating myself from them, I felt empty figuratively speaking I lost my smile, when I realized my mistake I took the courage to contact them saying hi, at first it was akward but fortunately I able to handle it, so right now I develop my friendliness because for me being friendly is a great advantage in the future, you will know how to handle different person.
Habitually practicing good character traits, are actually a great decision for everyone because it helps us in many aspect of life, it also helps us to become a better person, it may not easy because of course we are not a perfect being, However, with consistency I think we can do it and if also we are willing to change ourselves to become a better person.
Character traits of a Successful person
How do you define a successful person?
For me a successful person are the ones who are responsible, independent, creative, passionate, persistent to reach their goals in life. Learning and emulating these characteristics and traits of highly successful people from a space of growth and self-improvement will help you achieve the success you’re dreaming of.
In this article I'll share to you the qualities that defines success so you can identify what’s needed for your own path to success.
•SUCCESSFUL PEOPLE FELICITATE;
-Compliments from others makes us feel better. Giving it to people who are striving to be better makes them more productive and will bring impact for self development.
• SUCCESSFUL PEOPLE LEARN TO DISREGARD
-Forgiveness doesn't mean forgetting or excusing the harm done to you or making up with the person who caused the harm. Forgiveness brings a kind of peace that helps you go on with life. The art of forgiveness is the art of letting go of the past and strive harder. Successful people know that to forgive doesn’t mean condoning what someone has done, but rather releasing the negative emotion around it for their own peace of mind because the more you hold on to situations the more you will struggle so it is a must to learn how to let go things that brings sorrow.
•SUCCESSFUL PEOPLE ARE WILLING TO ACCEPT RESPONSIBILITY
-To be successful, you have to accept that you’re responsible for your actions, your reactions and ultimately your success and failures. This creates a mindset of empowerment and control. Accepting responsibility will give you the power to make positive changes with your life.
•SUCCESSFUL PEOPLE HAS A PLAN
-Successful people focus, not just on what they want to do, but also how they want to be. Planning your life gives you control and will help you keep from wasting time on tasks that won't bring you closer to your specific goal. If you create a plan then you get to make choices and decisions, rather than leaving things up to chance, or worse yet, letting others make decisions for you.
•SUCCESSFUL PEOPLE FOCUSES ON THEMSELVES
-While successful people focus on their personal growth and concentrate on their responsibility for success, unsuccessful people spend much of their time focusing on what others are doing. Without focusing on ourselves enough, we become depersonalized and eventually depressed.
•SUCCESSFUL PEOPLE ARE HAPPY FOR OTHERS SUCCESS
-Displaying genuine happiness for others can only bring some of that happiness into your own soul and life, as well. Successful people look at others achievements and celebrate with them because it’s about being supportive to one another and exhibit happiness for the benefit of everyone.
•SUCCESSFUL PEOPLE HAS A PLAN
-Successful people focus, not just on what they want to do, but also how they want to be. Planning your life gives you control and will help you keep from wasting time on tasks that won't bring you closer to your specific goal. If you create a plan then you get to make choices and decisions, rather than leaving things up to chance, or worse yet, letting others make decisions for you.
•SUCCESSFUL PEOPLE ARE OPTIMISTIC
-Positive thinking stimulates your brain to make sure it is functioning at its best. Having a positive mindset put you on the direction of success and a negative mindset will only put you towards failure.
•SUCCESSFUL PEOPLE ACKNOWLEDGE OTHERS WORK
-Apreciating someone's work is showing respect to them. If the success is a team effort, even if most of the work was done by you, you give credit to other in order for your team to be more motivated.
•SUCCESSFUL PEOPLE ARE FLEXIBLE
-Everything is temporary and change is inevitable. Successful people realize this and know that change is a necessary part of success. And so they’re willing to embrace change. Choose to see all change as positive and always serving you on your road to success.
**FINAL THOUGHTS**
Successful people definitely have a different perspectives on success to those that try and fail.
A mindset of gratitude, teamwork and putting more emphasis on the journey rather than the destination are all key elements when it comes to success.
Suicidal thoughts: Raising awareness
How is it feel to be suicidal?
People often ask me this question because I post a lot of suicidal thoughts on my social media accounts. Most of them are my friends and relatives, but I don't usually share to them the real reason of what I feel because there's one time one of my classmate ask me why am I so depressed in social media and I told him why but he just said to me that I'm just overreacting to things that were not supposed to. I really thought he will understand my side but he disappoints me so from that time, I decided not to tell others what's in my mind and just post it instead. But that was before not until I manage how to deal with it. What I did I read a lot of articles about coping up suicide in order to overcome this illness and thank God, I made it.
If you’re thinking about suicide, your pain may seem overwhelming and permanent. But there are ways to cope with suicidal thoughts and feelings and overcome the pain.
If you’re having suicidal thoughts, no matter how much pain you’re experiencing right now, you’re not alone. Always find a friend to uplift you by drowning. Many of us have had suicidal thoughts at some point in our lives, but always think that the're lots of things to be happy so if you're having suicidal thoughts always think the memories that brought joy in your life like your family, friends, interests and etc. Feeling suicidal is not a character defect, and it doesn’t mean that you are crazy, or weak, or flawed. It only means that you have more pain than you can cope with right now. But with time and support, you can overcome your problems and the pain and suicidal feelings will pass.
Some of the finest, most admired, needed, and talented people have been where you are now. Many of us have thought about taking our own lives when we’ve felt overwhelmed by depression and devoid of all hope. But the pain of depression can be treated and hope can be renewed. That's what I learned from my experience. Just try to find yourself even more and understand it then move on. Moving on is the only way to overcome situations like this because if you let yourself stay on what you are right now you'll missed the opportunity to be happy.
Even problems that seem hopeless have solutions. So don't loose hope there will be a rainbow after the rain, you may having a bad situation right now but it doesn't mean that you have a bad life. At some point in our life we need to be tested in order to be prepared for the next battle in our journey.
**HOW TO COPE WITH SUICIDAL THOUGHTS**
-Remember that while it may seem as if these suicidal thoughts and feelings will never end, this is never a permanent condition. You WILL feel better again. In the meantime, there are some ways to help cope with your suicidal thoughts and feelings.
**THINGS TO DO:**
•Talk with someone every day, preferably face to face. Even though you may feel like withdrawing, ask trusted friends and acquaintances to spend time with you. Or continue to call a crisis helpline and talk about your feelings.
•Make a safety plan. Develop a set of steps that you can follow during a suicidal crisis. It should include contact numbers for your doctor or therapist, as well as friends and family members who will help in an emergency.
•Make a written schedule for yourself every day and stick to it, no matter what. Keep a regular routine as much as possible, even when your feelings seem out of control.
•Get out in the sun or into nature for at least 30 minutes a day.
•Exercise as vigorously as is safe for you. To get the most benefit, aim for 30 minutes of exercise per day. But you can start small. Three 10-minute bursts of activity can have a positive effect on mood.
•Make time for things that bring you joy. Even if very few things bring you pleasure at the moment, force yourself to do the things you used to enjoy.
•Remember your personal goals. You may have always wanted to travel to a particular place, read a specific book, own a pet, move to another place, learn a new hobby, volunteer, go back to school, or start a family. Write your personal goals down.
**THINGS TO AVOID:**
•Being alone. Solitude can make suicidal thoughts even worse. Visit a friend, or family member, or pick up the phone and call a crisis helpline.
•Alcohol and drugs. Drugs and alcohol can increase depression, hamper your problem-solving ability, and can make you act impulsively.
•Doing things that make you feel worse. Listening to sad music, looking at certain photographs, reading old letters, or visiting a loved one’s grave can all increase negative feelings.
•Thinking about suicide and other negative thoughts. Try not to become preoccupied with suicidal thoughts as this can make them even stronger. Don’t think and rethink negative thoughts. Find a distraction.
•Giving yourself a break from suicidal thoughts can help, even if it’s for a short time.
**RECOVERING FROM SUICIDAL THOUGHTS**
-Even if your suicidal thoughts and feelings have subsided, get help for yourself. Experiencing that sort of emotional pain is itself a traumatizing experience. Finding a support group or therapist can be very helpful in decreasing the chances that you will feel suicidal again in the future.
**STEPS FOR RECOVERY**
•Identify triggers or situations that lead to feelings of despair or generate suicidal thoughts, such as an anniversary of a loss, alcohol, or stress from relationships. Find ways to avoid these places, people, or situations.
•Take care of yourself. Eat right, don’t skip meals, and get plenty of sleep. Exercise is also key: it releases endorphins, relieves stress, and promotes emotional well-being.
•Build your support network. Surround yourself with positive influences and people who make you feel good about yourself. The more you’re invested in other people and your community, the more you have to lose—which will help you stay positive and on the recovery track.
•Develop new activities and interests. Find new hobbies, volunteer activities, or work that gives you a sense of meaning and purpose. When you’re doing things you find fulfilling, you’ll feel better about yourself and feelings of despair are less likely to return.
•Learn to deal with stress in a healthy way. Find healthy ways to keep your stress levels in check, including exercising, meditating, using sensory strategies to relax, practicing simple breathing exercises, and challenging self-defeating thoughts.
@Lusipir