When A Bright Star Burned Out (Fiction)
"**Don't read while you're in a moving vehicle**," Sirius' mother reminded him. "**You might strain your eyes or get dizzy**."
"**I'm aware of that, Mom,**" Sirius replied. He flipped a page of his printed notes and continued reading. "**But, I must spend more time studying to ensure winning the contest."**
" **Okay. I'll drive slower then so it won't be a bumpy ride and you can read properly**."
"**Thanks. But make it fast enough to reached the venue on time.** " The words he uttered were almost incomprehensible because his mouth was stuffed with roasted peanuts, food for the brain.
The mother and son both sat in silence. Both minding their own businesses.
Sirius will represent his prestigious high school and state for the National Astronomy Quiz Bee. One hour of the trip, he has been reading. He reviewed and prepared for weeks, yet he was still studying at the last minute of the contest.
Sirius may not be a typical child prodigy, a genius,and innately talented, but he is a bright star. He excels in academics and sports and has a talents in arts, music, acting and writing. A jack-of-all-trades. He excels at what he does because of continuous learning, studying and practicing, together with his determination and patience. Sirius is looked up and loved by almost everyone because of his bright glow.
Sirius' mother is always present in his competitions, seldomly, together with his father when the man was not overseas due to work. The woman always provides the supplies and signed documents Sirius needs in every competitions, drives her son to the venue if possible, and pays if there are registration fees.
After the nearly three hour drive, they finally reached the space museum. They immediately went inside building and proceeded to the museum auditorium.
There are four rounds in the competition, namely: Easy, Average, Difficult and if necessary, Tie-breaker.After the three intense rounds, 30 hot questions, right and wrong answers, hours of squeaky marker sounds on the board and deliberation of points, the contest is near its end.
The host of the competition walked towards the center of the stage. "**After the careful deliberation of accumulated points from the three rounds, we have a tie,**" the host said in full energy.
Then a table filled with each participant's name and the total points from participants in each round, and their overall score were projected on the screen.The host continued, "**With a total of forty-five points each, the highest pointers are Joe Sheldon from Texas.**" Then, the thin guy walked towards the front stage and came back to his podium.
"**Murphy Teller from Pennsylvania."** The girl wearing thick glasses did the same thing as instructed.
"**And Sirius Donovan from California**." And, Sirius followed. The audience clapped for all of them but his mother's cheer and claps stood out.
The quizmaster explained the rules again. He then discussed that the wrong answer is sudden elimination.
"**If a man weighed 200 pounds on Earth, how much would he weigh on Mars?**" the quizmaster stated the question twice. "**Go!**"
The two participants, Joe and Murphy, immediately solved their answers on their scratch paper. Sirius calculated the answers in his head after remembering that an object or person on Mars would weigh 37.83% of its weight on Earth.
"**Time's up!**" the quizmaster spoke after one minute. "**Raise your answer boards.**"
Three of them raised their boards with the same answer: 76 lbs. Everybody got the correct answer.
"**Next question. Diwata -1 was a microsatellite launched to the International Space Station on 23rd of March, 2016 by which Asian country?**" The quizmaster repeated the question. "**Go!**"
Their eyebrows furrowed as they tried to think of the answer. Their faces were blank, lost in the thought.
"**Time's up. Raise your boards.**" It was the quizmaster again.
Vietnam was the answer of Murphy which caused her to be eliminated. Joe and Sirius were both right with their answer— Philippines.
"**We're now down to two participants but there will be one champion**," the host said. The crowd cheered.
"**What is the apparent magnitude of the Alpha Canis Majoris or the Sirius star?**" the quizmaster asked twice. "**Go!**"
Sirius couldn't help himself to smile because of the question related to him. After his mom saw the curve on his face, her heart was filled with hope.
A smirk was formed on his opponent's face. And there was a sparkle in his eyes as he wrote down his answer on the board.
The smile was erased on Sirius' face, as he was consumed by his thoughts. His forehead was dotted by beads of sweat. He swallowed numerous times in just a few seconds.
A minute passed."**Time's up. Raise your boards**," the quizmaster instructed.
Sirius looked at his mom in the audience with eyes, the same as his answer board. Blank. Then, he forced a smile. His mother's eyebrows furrowed and lost the sparkle in her eyes earlier.
Sirius' opponent, Joe Sheldon, got the correct answer and became the National Astronomy Quiz Bee Champion.
After the contest and awarding ceremony, mother and son exited the auditorium and strolled around the museum. Sirius still got a medal for being a first runner up.
They were in line to buy souvenirs."**You still did great. But you're almost there**," his mother said. "**Did you forget it? I should've limited you with your gaming. Anyway, let's join more contests soon**."
Sirius busied himself by checking the rocket ship items displayed. He didn't respond.
After buying some memorabilia, they went to the planetarium. At the time they entered, it was quite dark. They sat and waited for it to start.
"**You might already know it. But did you know that space is dark despite infinite light sources like stars?**," Sirius said. "**Space is a near-perfect vacuum, it has exceedingly few particles, there's virtually nothing in the space between stars and planets to scatter light to our eyes. And the light of the stars and other bodies is stretched out into microwave, infrared and radio waves which are invisible to human eyes**."
"**I haven't thought of that,**" she replied.
"**The same with light, sound also can't travel in a vacuum. So it's quiet in outer space**," he added. She just listened.
The planetarium got brighter. A star map was projected onto the dome-shaped ceiling.
"**Mom, did you know that stars burn themselves out and continue glowing? Through nuclear fission, the hydrogen atoms fuse together to form helium atoms, which releases an extreme amount of energy, thus the stars appear burning.**" He paused for a moment. "**But the stars might die because they exhaust their nuclear fuel, by shining too brightly**.''
"**That's sad**," she scratched her head. "**You know too much about space. You can substitute the curators now**," she joked.
Sirius pointed out the big star on the ceiling. "**Mom, look**!"
"**Is that Sirius? The star your dad named you from? It's the brightest star seen in the night sky.**"
"**It is**," he replied. Is it? " **- 1.46**," Sirius uttered.
"**Huh? What?**" She's puzzled.
"**The apparent magnitude of Sirius or how bright it is. The answer to the last question**."
"**You just remember it now? Did you forget it earlier? You should have studied more instead of gaming. You could've been the champion**."
"**No, mom. In fact, I already knew the answer earlier. I want to lose. I'm sick of all these**." He paused for a moment to compose himself. "**You just want me to win these contests so you can have something to brag about to your workmates, neighbors and churchmates. I still join anyway to be appreciated and loved by both of you, especially dad, because without my awards, I'm just nothing**."
He stopped himself from crying. He continued, "**I'm like a star. I've been suffering in the dark space, in silence and in distance. I've been burning myself out so people can see me shine when they look up to me.**"
"**I'm sorry son, that we made you feel that way.**" Tears stream down her face. "**I've been a black hole sucking your brilliance and restricting you. Forgive me**."
He hugged his mother. And just like the words he kept for years, the tears he had been keeping came out.
The Hole (Flash Fiction)
"Wake up."
She opened her heavy eyes. Sunlight had already found its way through the thick canopies of trees and tents towards her face. The lush vegetation appeared greener and more alive and some flowers bloomed from the touch of morning dew. The birds were chanting their songs.
"It’s time to explore," her boyfriend continued.
While she was asleep, he cooked their breakfast on the bonfire nearby their tent. After sharing the quick meal and cups of coffee, they tidied up their sleeping bags and utensils in the tent. The bonfire has been distinguished.
Few meters from their tent, in the heart of the forest, in a clear area devoid of flora, there was a huge sinkhole.The two found out on the Internet that the sinkhole was over a thousand years old with a diameter of 30 feet, according to experts, and it was filled with mysteries. Rumors have it that the foreign governor general who fought in the war 300 years ago hid his treasure in the hole before surrendering to the rebels, while other versions say bodies of prisoners of war were dumped there. For the tribes in the forest, the sinkhole was the den of the gigantic snake, the guardian of the forest. Some speculated that the sinkhole was a portal to a different universe or a rabbithole into the supernatural world. Others said that a sinkhole was a wormhole to travel across time.
They were here to explore the sinkhole and uncover the truth about its mystery. Both were explorers, treasure hunters, and bloggers. They met two years ago in the Catacombs in Paris and formed a friendship from their interests that turned into love. Exploring abandoned places, archaeological sites, and nature together became their bond and livelihood.
In the two huge trees embraced by moss and wild orchids, the trees nearest to the sinkhole, they attached ropes they would use to rappel down the hole. They packed their bags with the tools, medications, and food they might need later when descending through the hole.
They started rappelling down. Due to its age and being untouched, the soil in the sinkhole was hard enough not to crumble or erode. Nonetheless, the two were still cautious with their movement.
Over 100 feet below, they reached the end of their rope. This caused them to swing around in the air and disturb the wall of soil around them. Loose rocks and soil started to fall below.
They decided to unknot themselves from the ropes and jump. A few feet below them was clear water accumulated in the sinkhole over the years. The water splashed as they jumped into it. And the clear water turned cloudy from their disturbance.
Muddy water gushed from above as the rain fell. They immediately tried to climb to reach their ropes after they realized that it was raining. But the splashes earlier made the soft soil harder to penetrate with tools. As they tried and tried to climb, the soil eroded.
They treaded in the water to stay afloat for hours, with the hope of the water getting high enough to reach the rope. Their bodies got tired after hours of attempting to climb and stay afloat. After several hours, their bodies began to fail.
Their bodies sank further into the sinkhole. As they sank deeper and deeper, it got darker and darker. But everything became total darkness as they lost their consciousness towards the depths of the cold water.
"Wake up."
She opened her heavy eyes. Sunlight had already found its way through the thick canopies of trees and tents towards her face. The lush vegetation appeared greener and more alive, and some flowers bloomed from the touch of morning dew. The birds were chanting their songs. Again.
"It’s time to explore," her boyfriend said. Again.
Sa libo-libong akda't artikulo, bakit daw ito? (M'eron akong 3 punto)
Isa sa mga paborito kong kurso (subject) sa nakaraang semester ay ang Pagsasalin sa Konteskstong Pilipino. Maaring dahil kinahihiligan ko ang pagsusulat, may malaking maitutulong ito sa akin at nakakuha ako ng 1.25, pinakakataas na grado ko nagdaang semsetre. Ang aming pinal na eksaminasyon ay magsalin ng artikulo, akda o aklat na may kinalaman sa Railway Engineering. Sa libo-libong lathalain at mga akda na may kinalaman sa aming program, bakit nga ba ang ito ang aking napili. Ito ay tila singhirap ng paghahanap ng mga artikulo, pananaliksik at akda na gamitin sa RRL.
Ang aking napiling artikulo ay ang “Britain’s heritage railway are booming. But demographic timebomb looms” na isinulat at nilathala ni Stephen McGrath noong February 4, 2016. Ito ay tumatalakay sa mga benepisyo, suliraning kinakaharap, kasaysayan at ang bukas ng mga pamanang daang-bakal sa Britanya. https://citymonitor.ai/transport/britains-heritage-railways-are-booming-demographic-timebomb-looms-1801
Natanong ako ng aking propesor, sa libo-libong artikulo, bakit daw ito. Ang katanungang ito ay tumatak na rin sa akin. Ang aking isinaling akda ni McGrath na "Yumayabong ang Pamanang Daang-bakal ng Britanya. Ngunit, Papausbong ang Suliraning Demograpiya" ay bunga ng tatlong punto at rason:
**Nadiskaril na Kasaysayan**
Sa unang semestre ng klase, sa kursong Railway Engineering Orientation, kami ay pinanood ng “Daang-bakal”. Ito ay isang I Witness dokumentaryo ni Kara David na tumatalakay sa kinahatnan ng mga sistemang riles sa Pilipinas. Marami akong natutunan tungkol sa Manila-Dagupan Northline, kabilang na ang kahalagahan at kasaysayan nito, patio na rin ang sinapit nito sa paglipas ng panahon.
Sa kasalukuyan, sa pangunahing depot sa istasyon ng Tutuban ay nakatengga ang mga treng sobra sandaang taon na ang tanda. Karamihan ay kinakain na ng kalawang at nabubulok na ang mga bahaging gawa sa kahoy. Halos lahat naman mg bahagi ng riles ay natabunan na ng konkreto ng mga bagong kalsada at lahar noong sumabog ang Bulkang Pinatubo. Ang ilanay mawala dahil kinalakal na ng mga tao at ginawang bahagi ng mga bagong istruktura gaya ng tulay, kabahayan at barangay hall.
May mga istasyong tila binabawi na ng kalikasan matapos lamunin ng kagubatan gaya ng sinapit ng Himpilan ng Gerona at Calasiao na nagdulot ng pagguho at pagbiyak ng gusali. Ang istasyong ng tren naman sa Guiguinto at Angeles ay naging biktima ng pambabastos ng tao matapos babuyin ng bandalismo at gawing palikuran. Ang ilang himpilan naman ay ginawang opisina,tahanan, kapilya, barberya at sa mabuting banda, museo.
Naging malaking bahagi na ang Linyang Maynila-Dagupan ng kasaysayan. Ito nga ay naging saksi ng tatlong pananakop sa Pilipinas. Ito ay ginawa sa panahon ng Espanyol at binuksan noong 1982. Ang konstruksyon nito ay pinangunahan ng mga inhinyerong taga-Britanya at ang mga primera klaseng materyales at mekanismo ay inangkat pa sa ibang bansa. Ang linya ay nagdala ng progreso sa mga bayang nasa ruta nito. Naging kasangkapan rin ito sa himagsikan dahil napadali ang pagbisita sa mga probinsya tulad ng ginawa ni Jose Rizal na dumalaw sa Pampangga upang manghikayat ng bagong kasapi ng La Liga Filipina. Bumagsak man ang demand ng sistemang daang-riles sa panahon ng Amerikano dahil sa pagtuon ng pansin sa mga kotse at pagpapagawa ng mga kalsada, naging sentro namn ito ng labanan at base na kailangang ipanalo noong Digmaang Pilipino-Amerikano. Sa panahon ng Hapones, ang daang-bakal ay instrumento sa madaling paglipat ng mga tauhan at armas, at saksi ng pagmamalupit nga mga Hapones sa mga Pilipino gaya ng madugong ‘Death March’ at 'Death Trains'. Ayon kay G. Arturo Corpuz, may akda ng The Colonial Iron Horse, “Marami na ring pinagdaanan ‘yan (Linyang Maynila-Dagupan). Bahagi na ‘yan ng history kaya dapat alagaan natin ‘iyan, parang Intramuros.” Ako ay sumasang-ayon dahil nga ang mga daang bakal, tren at himpilang ito ay may ginampanan sa pagbuo ng kasaysayan kaya hindi marapat lang na mabaon sa limot, bawiin ng kalikasan at makaranas ng pambababoy. Mahalaga na ang nakaraan at kasaysayan ay hindi madiskaril at patuloy na umarangkada sa hinaharap. Kaya, napili ko ang artikulong nabanggit upang mapakita ang pagpapahalaga at pag-aalala sa mga makasaysayang pook gaya ng daang-bakal na maaring pamana sa hinaharap.
**Karunungang Byaheng Britanya-Pilipinas**
Binaggit ni Virgilio S. Almario sa sanaysay niyang ‘Sulyap sa Kasaysayan ng Pagsasalin sa Filipinas’ na malaki ang naging tungkulin ng pagsasalin sa paglipat at palitan ng kultura at kaalaman sa buong mundo. “Kasangkapan ang pagsasalin para ganap na makinabang ang isang bansa o pook sa impluwensiya mula sa isang sentro o sulong na kultura,” dagdag pa niya.
Isang malaking industriya ang sistemang daang-bakal sa Britanya kaya isa ito sa may mga pinakamabilis, maasahan at ligtas na sistemang riles sa buong mundo.At isa pa, ang bansang ito rin ay maraming pamanang daang-bakal (heritage railway) na nakatutulong sa tursimo, lokal na transportasyon, at pag-aaral lalo na sa pag-iihinyero, komersyo, kasaysayan at sining. Isa ring rason na napili ko ang artikulo upang magamit natin ang karunungan at karanasan mula sa bansang may sulong na kultura at larangan gaya ng Britanya sa ating papausbong na industriyang daang-bakal. Isa rin sa mga kahalaganng pagsasalin ay ang maunawaan at matutunan ang mga bagong kaalamang panteknolohiya mula sa iba’t ibang panig ng daigdig na matutugunan ng pagsasalin ng napiling akda.
**Hindi pa Malayo ang Nararating**
Isa sa mga katangian ng taga-salin ay sapat na kaalaman sa paksang isasalin. Dahil ako ay nasa unang taon pa lamang sa aking kurso, hindi pa malayo ang aking nararating— wala pa akong malawak at malalim na kaalaman at karanasan sa pag-iihinyero at industriya ng sistemang daang-bakal. Nang basahin ko ang artikulo ay nauunawaan ko naman ito at alam ko rin ng iba pang mag-aaral kahit sa ibang kurso. Sa kadahilanang ang akda ay hindi masyadong naglalaman ng mga teknikal na salita at jargons na para maunawaan ng mga mambabasa na wala sa industriya. Para sa estudyante na wala pang masyadong alam sa paksa, isa itong malaking bagay. Hindi ko na kailangang pang bumuo ng mga salitang teknikal at iba pang proseso na para lamang sa mga dalubhasa sa larangan. Napili ko ang artikulo para isalin dahil sa tingin ko ay angkop ito sa aking kaalaman, karanasan at kakayahan kahit hindi pa malayo ang aking nararating .
***Gaya ng tren, ang kasaysayan ay maaring madiskaril o wala sa landas. Ang karunungan at kultura naman ay tila mga pasaherong bumabyahe, mula sa isang lugar tungo namn sa iba.At tulad ng riles na may hangganan, ganun rin ang aking kakayahan at kaalaman. Kaya maman, napili ko ang artikulo ni Stephen McGrath para sa pinal na eksaminasyon para sa pag-arangkada ng makasaysayang nakaraan, makarating ang kaalaman mula sa sulong na kultura sa kanyang destinasyon at maging banayad ang aking paglalakbay sa kahingiang ito kahit hindi pa malayo ang aking nararating.***
The Runaway: Family is Home (Fiction)
"Where did we go wrong in raising him?" My mother's voice penetrated through the walls.
"Last week, he held party here without our permission. Now, he's cutting classes to smoke with his friends," she continued.
They've been scolding me since we got in the car, coming from the principal's office this afternoon. This continued until we got home. The pasta for dinner was paired with more scolding and lectures. I swear, the drama is tiring, but I got used to it. Just let everything go in one ear and out the other.
"I'll talk to him again tomorrow," my father said. "Let everything cool down for now."
As if they would see me tomorrow. I've been packing my clothes into my bag after they sent me to my room.
I waited for them to fall asleep, typically around midnight or 1 am, while watching a movie to kill my boredom. After watching, I just left my phone together with my ATM card, even though I didn't have cash,just to avoid getting tracked.
It was already 1:30 am on Saturday morning, so I exited my bedroom, avoiding the wooden door's creaking. And I walked down the stairs on tiptoes. I left a note in the fridge stating that their scapegoat son is fleeing and will succeed in starting a new life on his own.I grabbed a snack I found in the fridge and sneaked out of the house.
I walked and walked, getting farther from my home and closer to a new city. I found a cargo truck getting fixed on the side of the freeway and had a chat with the driver. I hitchhiked on his truck, going towards a new city and hoping to get there alive. I didn't want to go to my relatives and friends because they would probably snitch on me.
"Wake up!" the driver said while shaking my body. "I'll go to my warehouse. You can now drop off here," he continued.
I thanked him for his help. I also thanked God that the driver wasn't a serial killer.
It's already morning and I'm hungry. I grabbed a sandwich and a carton of juice from my bag and enjoyed it. It will probably be my last proper meal for now because I don't have any money.
I hopped from establishment to another and inquired about any vacant positions I could apply for. There were vacancies in some places, but they won't accept me because I'm only seventeen and just a HS senior. This country indeed has high standards regarding employment. Imagine needing a degree to apply for dishwasher and helper jobs.
My eyes focused on the road while I moved from shop to shop, searching for plastic bottles, cardboard, and metals I could collect and sell in the junk shop. I was happy that I could collect a lot, which meant I could earn more; at the same time, I was sad about the citizens' improper waste disposal. At around noon, I sold the two kilos of plastic bottles, around four kilos of cardboard, and a kilo of scrapped metals and cans for a total of $2. I spent half my income on lunch in the eatery near the junk shop.
I went to the park and sat on the cardboard. I found some charcoal earlier and I smeared it on my face and body to become dirtier. I changed my clothes into my old faded ones and put some dirt and charcoal in them. I placed an empty tin can in front of me. I'll be begging for now, also a form of rest because I was just sitting.
Some passersby dropped some dimes and pennies in my can. Others offered food and drinks, which I gladly accepted. But the most memorable individual was the one who gave me $20. He was filming himself while giving a money, probably for a social media content. I wonder if he will still help without a camera.
I watched TikTok videos about people finding new stuff in the dumpster and also fresh and unexpired food. I wanted to try it, so I left the park after the night came and went to the downtown area and ate a burger for dinner.
I checked out the dumpster of the popular donut shop. There was a garbage bag containing donuts and other pastries, without traces of dirt or any smell. These were probably just made on this day and unsold. I think it was better to be donated to the food bank and to the homeless rather than to be wasted. I grabbed the bag containing donuts, my food for days.
I also went to the dumpsters of bookstores, toy shops, and convenience stores. I got some toys with dented boxes, books with slight fold marks, pens, and some unexpired crushed ramen noodles and crushed potato chips. It was sad to see some new objects just going to waste because of some small imperfections, but anyway, I can sell those at decent prices.
I went back to the park to sleep on the benches. I hugged my backpack containing my food, clothes, items to sell, and money to avoid it getting stolen.
It's Sunday morning. I woke up, ate donuts and crushed chips, and took a short bath in the public restroom in the park. I should look presentable when applying for a job.
It's still the same cycle, with additional change. Inquiring about and applying for aa job. Collecting bottles, cardboard, and metals to sell. Begging in the park. And selling my books, toys, and pens while begging and applying. I must hustle hard. I need to save money for capital for a business or an instrument for busking so I can earn more. I need to be successful on my own, one step at a time.
The night came again, time for dumpster diving. I met a homeless guy like me, just one year older than me. He was so friendly. We talked while checking dumpster to dumpster.
I learned that he dropped out of school and got addicted to cigarettes and alcohol, and that his parents were gone in the accident while looking for him. He didn't listen to his parents' advice and now regretted his life going off the rails. He advised me to go back to my home while I still had it.
His advice just went in one ear and didn't come out the other. It lives in my mind, rent free for a while, dumpster diving. I bade a farewell since he would explore the dumpsters until the morning.
On my way back to the park, I noticed that the homeless man walking in front of me was holding a newly bought long sausage sandwich. A child sitting in the card box excitedly called her name. Then the man sat with the child and the girl, probably his family.
I watched them as I slowly walked. The father opened the footling sandwich and divided it into three. It was noticeable that their daughter had the biggest part. He also offered his piece, but the child declined. And they all eat together with a smile on their faces. Despite hardships, they're strong and happy together.
I was melted by this experience. And a tear escaped my left eye. I realized how parents sacrifice a lot for their children. My parents just want what's best for me and to protect me. I've been childish and selfish in my actions.
It's true that you will only realize the value of something once it's gone. You will only appreciate the warmth of your home in the freezing weather, the roof over your head when it's raining, and the family around you when you're alone. I want to go back home. Still,home is where the heart is.
"Son!" I heard my father shouting behind me. My mother said, "We've been looking for you."
I tightly hugged them both and my drizzle of tears earlier became a rain.
I'm finally home.
Youth Empowerment Anthem: Taylor's "Best Song for Social Change"
You probably heard her songs "We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together", "Bad Blood" and "Look What You Made Me Do". If you're not a fan, you might think that she is just a pop star who writes songs about her exes and enemies. Taylor enjoyed proving people wrong, and she will do so again about your assumption when you dig into her discography.
When you lend your ear to her discography, you will discover more songs, aside from her life in general, about her mother and blood (*The Best Day, Marjorie, Soon You’ll Get Better*), friends (*Fifteen, Tied Together With A Smile*), musical journey (*Mean, Welcome to New York*) and more. Also, she was once a country singer who shut her mouth and stayed neutral, thinking she knew nothing to influence voters. Now write songs about politics (*You Need to Calm Down, Miss Americana and the Heartbreak Prince, Only the Young*). During the pandemic, Taylor used her song-writing and story-telling prowess to craft fictional stories in her songs from Evermore and Folklore, which won the Grammy Album of the Year. Then, Taylor became the first female artist to win a GRAMMY for Album of the Year thrice.
Speaking of the Recording Academy, new award categories, amendments, and rules were announced. One of those is the Special Merit Award: Best Song for Social Change, for which I think one of Taylor’s songs deserves to be nominated or win. I also tried submitting it through songforsocialchange . This powerful song proves how youth can save the future and bring change around the world, not just by its message in lyricism but also by its impact. The masterpiece I’m talking about is "Only the Young." https://songforsocialchange.grammy.com/
https://youtu.be/GJU-S1t2r1M
A soundtrack featured on "Miss Americana", Taylor’s documentary about her life and career, "**Only the Young**" is a song inspired by the ’18 US elections, when Taylor saw the hopes of youth dashed after doing everything, canvassing and trying so hard to rally their candidates. It discusses gun violence, vote-tampering concerns, and "big-bad-man" leaders. It’s an anthem encouraging young adults and teenagers to voice for what they believe in. And Taylor let this song be used in a democratic political ad for the 2020 US elections that urges youth to vote and supports the Black Lives Matter protests, LGBTQIA rights, and other social justice movements.
https://youtu.be/1VO2_KG6g-Q
The song wasn’t only relevant in the US, as it was widely used in different countries, including mine, the Philippines. Many Filipino netizens found new meanings and parallels in the song lyrics, which became widely used during election campaigns for Leni-Kiko, whose majority of supporters were youth. During the campaigns, there were placards with lyrics from the song, and the hashtag #OnlyTheYoung trended on Twitter as it was used to tweet election-related content.It even reached #4 in the Daily Top Song PH charts on Spotify on Mar. 10 with 264,484 streams.
I can still remember it all too well when I attended a campaign rally of the candidates I supported in the PH National Elections 2022, in Cavite , Philippines. I’ve seen a placard with Only The Young lyrics and lyrics from other songs like "**When you are young, they assume you know nothing**" from Cardigan. There were also placards and shirts quoting Taylor from Miss Americana, "**I wanna wear pink and tell you how I feel about politics**" and "**I want to be on the right side of history**."
In Myanmar, Only the Young lyrics were quoted in posters used in protests against the coup.
Source https://twitter.com/earthMixSwiftie/status/1366238860213035010?t=wTxur46zaXeH5uhsSRqvvw&s=19
During Thailand’s anti-military dictatorship protests, the hashtags #OnlyTheYoung and #WhatsHappeninginThailand trended.Youth even used the lyrics in their placards and their Taylor Swift merch during protests, a reminder that Taylor first-ever cancelled a show, the Red Tour Thailand because of the coup started in 2014. Just recently, the song and its hashtags are trending after the death of 22-year old Mahsa Amini during protests.
Source https://twitter.com/patpichatan/status/1294966800946327554?t=Y7363XINsSSkrq0MQVdkaw&s=19
Only the Young became widely used as background music for the montage of social issues to raise awareness on social media and when the empowered youth acted. The song, its lyrics, and the hashtag #OnlyTheYoung were used in tweets and posts to raise awareness and protest, primarily by youth.
Only the Young is eligible based on the eligibility criteria above. The song was just released two years ago,includes melody and lyrics, and contains lyrics with profound social influence and impact.
Basing on the selection criteria, I highly believe that the song promotes understanding—it raises awareness of people’s experiences and issues facing; peace building—let youth fight for their freedom; empathy—the reason the song was written in the first place, as Taylor empathizes with the youth; and being positive—it promotes hope and empowerment of youth at the same time, addressing gun-violence and other issues. In the way the song was used, especially when it trends and its lyrical content bring awareness about certain issues which benefits the general public.
**Jose Rizal, one of the heroes in the Philippines, said, “Youth is the hope of our future.” A quote which I believe only the Young embodies because “Only the young can run.”**
Philippines Leaving ICC
Few years ago, Former President Duterte revoke the membership of the Philippines from the International Criminal Court (ICC). The ICC was established in July 2002 and it investigates and punishes people for their atrocities. Duterte’s decision may have an advantage but the Philippines and the Filipinos will miss the benefits of the ICC.
In my opinion, the advantage of revoking ICC membership will only be felt by individuals who did or will do crimes against humanity, genocide, and war crimes. They can escape the accountability of their atrocities, if not persecuted by their national justice system. Another thing, the ICC has its shortcomings but leaving does not actually became an advantage, unless the Philippines is a power nation. The said court lacks enforcement power, has low conviction rates, allegedly has bias and taking sides, and lacks resources, yet it is still improving. After all, it’s better to be a part of one than none.
Leaving the ICC is highly disadvantageous. If the judiciary branch of the Philippines didn’t investigate and punish individuals who commits war crimes, genocide, and crimes against humanity and even favored them, there were no last resort that will serve the justice. It’s bad for a country with weak and unfair justice system, just like ours. Also, it helps the victims of the said crimes around the world who demand justice and redress by punishing the oppressor and suspect and through the Trust Fund for Victims, to help rebuild their lives. Another, it protects the children and women who were prone to these crimes. Besides, the ICC strengthen the ties between countries as it mandated by international community,supported states and civil society, involves states in it’s governance, and it builds stable societies. The ICC also prevents the occurrence of these crimes in the first place by holding those who do these into account. If the country left this international court, the individuals especially politicians will likely to do these crimes especially if they have connections or control in judiciary system. Furthermore, ICC promotes global peace and order, a symbol of hope and stands for equality.
Sources:
https://www.coalitionfortheicc.org/explore/20-icc-benefits
https://accessaccountability.org/index.php/2019/09/26/criticisms-and-shortcomings-of-the-icc/
https://www.standrewslawreview.com/post/pros-and-cons-of-international-criminal-law-and-its-impact-as-a-transitional-justice-mechanism
Coffee and a Love Story (fiction)
James was the first to arrive at the coffee shop. He certainly wanted to leave an impression of being a gentleman. He was constantly checking his face from his phone's reflection, fixing his hair from time to time, and flattening his fanciest suit with his hands while waiting for Inez.
James was courting Inez, and they'd been dating for months. Everything started two months ago in the cafe near the university . Since the cafe was peaceful, clean, had a good ambiance, and was in close proximity to the university, it was a perfect place to study and do school work for students just like them.
They'd been sharing glances and smiles for years in the cafe, but everything changed. One day, two months ago, the shop was filled because of the heavy rain. Inez came and ordered, but there were no tables left. Without any choice, she had to sit with James because he was alone at one table.
Recalling from his memory, after Inez finished her cup of Americano and a piece of bagel, she left hurriedly because of class. Due to her hasty movements, her wallet was dropped, which James saw and kept. The wallet contains a few hundred peso bills, an ATM card, and IDs, as checked by James. He later texted the phone number on the ID. Then they started texting. And texting turned into dating.
Inez was a huge coffee lover, and so was James. So their dates are composed of discovering new local coffee shops, trying trendy coffee recipes online in their homes, and traveling to farms to buy fresh medium-roasted coffee. Recently, they tried making Dalgona coffee and they went to a province to buy coffee made from palm civet dung.
Three minutes later, James was struck as he saw a beautiful girl in an elegant white dress with her hair flowing as she walked. Meeting Inez was not new to James. Yet, every moment he saw her, his world stopped.
"Sorry to keep you waiting," she said.
"It's okay, I'm just three minutes early."
They went to the counter to order. Inez ordered an espresso and James chose the same. They paired it with blueberry cheesecake and glazed donuts.
The two were eating when he heard a familiar voice.
"Hi, James." It's August, his ex-girlfriend, together with her boyfriend. "And it's my boyfriend, Stephen."
"Meet Inez, my... friend," he smiled while introducing his girl. Then they shook hands.
August noticed something.
"Oh, you're drinking coffee. As far as I remember, you hated coffee because it tastes like medicine and bitter gourd. We didn't even have a coffee date, and you're a tea person," August said. She continued, "Anyway, good bye. We just saw you and wanted to say hi. Enjoy! "
August and Stephen waved to the two and walked towards their table to eat.
"What did she say?" asked Inez. "So you lied to me about liking coffee?"
"I'm sorry," he replied.
"What a strange coffee lover. A fake one. "
"Please forgive me. I just did it so we could have something to spend time on and get closer with you." He held her hand on the table. "It was a lie at first. Later on, I learned to love coffee, especially when I'm with you. There's no bitter coffee as long as we have sweet moments. "
Actually, Inez was not mad. She was touched that he was willing to drink something he hated for her sake. This proves he really loves her.
"I have something to tell you too."
"What is it?" he asked.
"I meant to drop my wallet at the time we shared tables, so you can contact me. So we can talk," she replied. "I had a crush on you for so long."
He had a big smile painted on his face, and he felt thousands of butterflies in his stomach. He couldn't believe what he heard.
Before he had a chance to talk, she started to speak first. "There's more I want to tell you."
"What? It's just a prank or joke. If yes, you got me. "
"No, silly. You have had a glaze of donuts on the side of your lips for a long time, "then she laughed. "Let me wipe it."
She walks closer to him. As their distance was getting closer, James' butterflies multiplied.
Inez leaned closer. And she removed the glaze on his lips with a passionate kiss. James was shocked. His face turned red and he felt his stomach was starting to explode from all these butterflies. But it was not the most exciting part yet.
She hugged him and said, "We're now officially boyfriend and girlfriend."
Plans and Thoughts on "Quiet-quitting" School
I'm not giving up just quiet-quitting.
Since I started school, I've been a grade conscious student. I have been trying to achieve awards and honors, to be on top of class, and to join as much as extra-curricular activities I would love like quiz bees and journalism contests. I'm an average honor student, not an overachiever though. I've been an inconsistent honor student especially in elementary, transferring from schools to schools from different provinces, and grading systems changes, but two things are consistent — academic burnout and decline in my grades.
I noticed that though out the years, my grades are higher in the first semester (first and second quarters) than the second one (third and fourth quarters), if not the same.
This decline in my grades was highly caused by academic burnout. In the start of classes, I tend to give it all my best which burns me out. Then I just do the bare minimum, sometimes lower than that, in the remaining months of the school year which worsened by procrastination. In other words, I'm a "ningas-kugon" in every school year and slacking off as days go by because of burnout. There's an imbalance in the efforts and energy.
This is obvious during pandemic and online classes. During this setup, it's more tiring, burning out and stressful. In recent academic year, during my first year in college, I got a 1.30 GPA in the first semester and became a President's Lister. But in the second sem, I only got a 2.14 GPA. Of course, the reason is burnout. There are times, I didn't even do what's the bare minimum. In one of the subject which is Rizal, I only complied 9 out of 15 final assessments. In most subjects, I don't even study for exams and quizzes. And I don't participate in recitation and been absent most of the time in the online class. This was very far from my academic performance in the first semester in which I ensure to pass high quality school works on time, I review for quizzes, and had a complete attendance in most subjects. This phenomenon is also noticeable when I was in Grade 12, a school year in modular mode during pandemic.
A few weeks ago, I stumbled upon a TikTok video about "Quiet-Quitting". This became a hot topic across social media. It was described by the creator as "you're not outright quitting your job, but you're quitting the idea of going above and beyond. You're still performing duties but you're not longer subscribing to the "hustle culture" mentality that work has to be your life- the reality is, it's not." The coined term might be new to the ears but I think the concept has been around for ages like in the saying "magtrabaho nang naaayon sa sahod" in workplace. https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSRPk9Lrp/
I think, in terms of school, quiet-quitting is still doing duties and activities in school but not subscribing to the "achiever" culture mentality has to be your life. It's doing the bare minimum not above and beyond, to learn and pass. Basically, it's "basta-makapasa-lang" mentality of most students.
The video became a food for my thoughts. That's why I've been thinking and planning to quiet-quit school next academic year. You might wonder why. There are numerous reasons why.
I think, quiet-quitting will prevent my academic and college burnout because I don't have to exert much energy and effort. With these there will be imbalance in energy as I stick to bare minimum. And I don't have to raise my expectations such as achieving perfect scores which also add up to my burnout when not met.
Just like what I said earlier, there are moments I'm not even doing the bare minimum. I'm not complying my school works, not completing tasks on time, being absent and tardy, and not reciting in class. With quiet-quitting, I should have done these which can prevent decline in grades. In terms of school works, my bare minimum is still greater than others. So I won't settle with less about my school works when quiet quitting and I'm still grade conscious.
Another reasons is health. The past few months, I've been cramming to complete my backlogs stacked up because of burnout. I've been skipping meals and sleeping for 5 hours or less. I lost 8 kilos, unhealthily, without working out and proper diet. Burnout and stress are also not good for my mental health and emotions. There are times that I have sacrificing meeting friends and other gatherings so I can do my remaining tasks. Overall, I want to be healthy, physically, mentally, socially and emotionally.
Since childhood, my life has been revolving around school and academics. It seems like I'm missing out and at late teen, I have fear of missing out (FOMO). I planned to quiet-quit because there are things I wanted to try and prioritize but I haven't because I'm busy with school. I want to discover more things I love, things I would enjoy. And I want to spent more time I enjoy like writing stories, reading novels, watching anime and movies.
Also, one of the reasons is I'm not sure with my path yet. I'm not sure I would continue studying Railway Engineering in PUP. I would love to apply for military or maritime academies to help my family by reducing expenses on dormitory, allowance and food (they're free) and having job security in the future. It seems like it would be a waste if I give all my effort in the university and going back to zero again when I transfer. But I would still do the bare minimum to maintain my grades so I can continue studying with my course if I decided not to transfer.
People are still torn with the idea of quiet-quitting. Some are already doing it, others don't. Since people have different goals, different views and different circumstances, for me, quiet-quitting can work for others, while ineffective for some. In my case, it would be effective for me in terms of academics.
How about you? What are your thoughts on quiet-quitting? Do you do this or you go above and beyond your work?
Source:
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSRPk9Lrp/
Mga Akda at ang Pagpukaw sa Kamalayan: Rizal
Bilang isang manunulat, nais kong magbigay ng kaalaman at aliw sa aking mga mambabasa ng aking mga kwento at iba pang akda. Pero mas tila gusto ko pang mas palalimin iyan. Nais ko ring magbigay ng inspirasyon, pumukaw ng kaisipan at magbigay ng impluwensya sa pamamagitan ng akda dahil sa aking mga natutunan tulad ng aking hinahangaang bayani. Kaya naman masasabi nga nating "pen is mightier than sword".Sa mga nagdaang buwan, pinag-aralan namin ang buhay, mga ambag at mga akda ni Rizal.
Apat sa mga akda ni Jose Rizal ay ang Noli Me Tangere, El Filibusterismo, annotation of Sucesos de Las Islas Filipinas at Philippines a century hence. Ang mga ito ay humubog sa pambansang pagkakakilanlan ng bansa at ng mga Pilipino. Dagdag pa riyan, ang mga ito rin ay nakatulong sa pagkamit ng kalayaan sa pamamagitan ng pagpukaw ng kamalayan ng mga Pilipino sa pang-aaping dinanas at kamulatan sa ideya ng kasarinlan, kalayaan, reporma at rebolusyon. Ngunit, hindi lang iyan ang kaugnayan ng apat na mga akda. Napansin kong magkakaugnay ang apat na akdang ito sa pamamagitan ng pagtalakay sa kalagayan ng Pilipinas at mga Pilipino sa nakaraan, kasalukuyan, at hinaharap, noong panahon ni Rizal.
Una, ang komentaryo ni Rizal sa Sucesos de las Islas de Filipinas ni Antonio de Morga. Bunga ng pagnanasang malamang ang kasaysayan ng bansa bago dumating ang mga Kastila at teorya na ang bansa ay masagana at nagsasarili sa lagay na ekonomikal, napagdesisyunan niyang magsaliksik at magkomenteryo sa akda ni Morga. Ang sanaysay ay naglalaman ng pagwawasto sa mga sinulat ni Morga na inayon hindi sa pananaw ng dayuhan. Ito rin ay naratibo ng kalagayan sa usaping pamumuhay, pagkain, armas, edukasyon, batas, pananamit atbp sa bansa at kasaysayan nito na nakaayon sa Pananaw ng isang Filipino at sa kontekstong kultura ng Pilipinas.
Sumunod ang parehong Noli Me Tangere at ang El Filibusterismo. Ang mga nobelang ito ay tumatalakay sa epekto ng pananalakay ng mga dayuhan na nakaugat sa Pilipinong lipunan na dinanas ng mga Pilipino noong panahon ni Rizal. Masasalamin dito ang pang-aabuso ng mga prayle ng simbahan at maging ng mga tiwaling opisyal ng gobyerno na isinatauhan nina Padre Salvia at Padre Damaso at iba pa. Makikita rin ang epekto ng kolonyalismo sa pananaw ng mga Pilipino sa kanilang lahi gaya na lamang ni Doña Victorina kinikilala ang sarili bilang Kastila at ginagaya ang mga kababaihanng Espanyol. At sa panahon ito rin umusbong ang mga repormista at rebolusyonista gaya ng tauhang sina Ibarra at Simoun. Sa Noli Me Tangere at El Filibusterismo ay makikita ang kalagayan ng Pilipinas at mga Pilipino noong panahon ni Rizal.
Panghuli, ang “Philippines, a century hence”. Ang sanaysay na ito ay nahahati sa apat na bahagi. Ito ay nakabase sa naunang akda ng Alemang si Von F. Jagor na “Travels in the Philippines”. Isa mga hulang naglngyari ay ang pagsakop ng Estados Unidos sa bansa, sumunod sa Espanya. Gaya nga ng pamagat, ang akdang ito ay pananaw at prediksyon ni Rizal sa magiging kalagayan ng bansa at mga Pilipino sa mga taong darating.
Sa pamamagitan ng mga akda ni Rizal ay napukaw ng kamalayan ng mga Pilipino sa kanilang pagka-Pilipino at nakatulong upang makamit ang ating kasarinlan. Ang mga akda rin ni Rizal ay nagsisilbing salamin ng kalagayan ng bansa at mga mamamayan nito at maging ng mga mananakop, sa nakaraan, kasalukuyan at hinaharap, sa kanyang panahon.
Pagkakaiba ng Noli Me Tangere at El Filibusterismo (sa kabila ng pagkakatulad)
“Ang pluma ay mas makapangyarihan kaysa sa tabak.”— isang kasabihang pinatunayan ni Jose Rizal. Hindi maipagkakaila na ang dalawang nobelang isinulat ni Rizal, ang Noli Me Tangere at El Filibusterismo ay may malaking ginampanan sa pagkamit ng kasarinlan ng bansa ng mga Filipino. Dahil ang mga nobelang ito ay makatotohanang pagsasalamin ng mga karanasan ng mga Pilipino sa kamay ng mga mapang-abusong simbahan at bulok na pamahalaan sa panahon ng Kastila, ang mga ito ay nagbukas ng diwa ng mga Pilipino sa kanilang mga karanasang pang-aapi at daan sa pagtuligsa dito. Ang Noli Me Tangere at El Filibusterismo ay nagsusulong ng kamalayan ng mga Pilipino tungkol sa kalayaan, kasarinlan at liberalismo, mapa-reporma man o rebolusyon. Ang mga likhang ito rin ni Rizal ay pumukaw ng pambansang pagkakakilanlan ng mga Pilipino.
Bukod sa pagkakatulad ng Noli Me Tangere at El Filibusterismo sa paglalarawan ng pagtuligsa sa pang-aapi ng simbahan at pamahalaan at pagsulong ng reporma sa edukasyon sa panahon ng Kastila at pagpukaw ng mga ito sa kamalayang pambansa at diwa ng kasarinlan at kalayaan ng mga Pilipino na daan sa pagkamit ng kalayaan, marami pa itong pagkakatulad gaya ng bansang pinaglimbagan, wikang ginamit sa pagsulat, tagpuan at ilang mga tauhan, at malamang, ang may-akda. Sa kabila ng mga pagkakatulad ng dalawang akda ay mayroon din itong pagkakaiba, gaya ng dedikasyon, bilang ng kabanata, makabukuhang pabalat at syempre, pamagat. Gayunpaman, may mas malaki at mahalaga pa itong pinagkaiba.
Ang Noli Me Tangere nobelang romansa na umiikot sa bidang si Crisostomo Ibarra na umuwi sa bayan niyang San Diego matapos pitong taong nag-aral sa Europa na may baong hangaring maghatid ng pagbabago sa bayan lalo na sa pagreporma ng edukasyon ngunit marami siyang balakid at magiging kalaban. Ang tema ng nobelay ay nakatuon sa pananaw ng idealismo at optimismong bida — kahalagan ng edukasyon, liberalismo at ang pinakamahalaga, reporma. Ito ay makikita sa kagustuhan ni Ibarra na magtayo ng sekular na paaralan lalo na’t pinaniniwalaan niyang walang kalayaan kung walang liwanag. Ang akda ay may hatid na damdaming pagpapatawa, kagaanan, romansa at optimismo. Ang nobela ay sinasabing mas nakatuon sa aksyon at galaw sa banghay at mga eksana
Sa kabilang banda, ang El Filibusterismo naman ay nobelang politikal na tungkol sa bidang si Simoun, isang mang-aalahas na umuwi sa Pilipinas matapos ang 13 taon sa labas ng bansa upang iligtas ang kanyang minamahal at maghiganti sa mga Kastila. Kung ang Noli ay nagsusulong sa reporma, ito naman ay nakatuon sa rebolusyon. Ngunit, ito ay hatid lamang ng sariling interes na paghihiganti ng bida. Ang mga damdamin naman sa akda ay galit, sakit, kapaitan, at mas mabigat at malalim ang tema at pangyayari kaysa sa unang nobela. Ito naman ay mas nakatutok sa mga diskurso, usapin at diyalogong magpapaisip sa mambabasa.
Ang Noli Me Tangere at El Filibusterismo ay parehong nagbigay ng daan sa pagpapaunlad ng rebolusyon. Ang dalawang akdang ito ay nagbukas ng isip ng mga Pilipino sa mga pang-aaping dinanas sa kamay ng mga Kastila at sa kamalayang kasarinlan at kalayaan sa pamamagitan ng reporma o rebolusyon man. Sa kabila ng parehong ginampanan nito at iba pang pagkakatulad, ang dalawang nobela ay maraming pinagkaiba. Ang pangunahing pagkakaiba ay Noli Me Tangere ay nobelang romansa na nakatuon sa reporma at edukasyon at ang El Filibusterismo ay politikal na nobelang mas nakatuon sa usaping rebolusyon at paghihiganti.
Patriotism in the present and Rizal Law
This is the second part of my recent article "On dying patriotism, does the passage of Rizal Law really warranted its objectives?" https://read.cash/@Nyctofiles/on-dying-filipino-patriotism-does-the-passage-of-rizal-law-really-warranted-its-objectives-b1d17e5b
The recent article deals about whether the passage and conversion of the bills into Rizal Law or R.A. 1425 achieved the objectives taught about by the sponsors regarding patriotism and nationalism. In this article, we'll know if the objectives are achieved, the moment after the Rizal law has been signed into the present.
President Ramon Magsaysay signed the bills into Rizal Law on June 12, 1965. Then, I think that the objectives were attained thereafter. As stated in the Section 6 of Republic Act 1425, the Act shall take upon its approval. And the Article 2 of the Civil Code provides that "laws shall take effect after fifteen days following the completion of their publication in the Official Gazette, unless it is otherwise provided”. From my understanding, after the law is approved, the courses about Rizal life, works, and writings, libraries with adequate numbers of his novels and the translation, print and distribution of such novels were all came into being. Then, as students learn about Jose Rizal and his novels, particularly Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo, the students sense of love and loyalty to the country would flourish, they would honor the heroes especially Rizal as they learn about them and be suffused to the ideas, values and acts of Rizal—validating the objectives of the sponsors.
It is said that the course about Rizal’s life and writings sparked the nationalist reawakening began in UP campus during Marcos dictatorship. We can say that the objectives resonated in the past and I think it still resonates today. Iskolars ng Bayan, believe that the spirit and memories of our national hero are still very much alive. In a youth-oriented webinar held by DOST, youth and students conveyed their strong idolization of our national hero in numerous ways in the “Idol ko si Rizal” segment and showed the declaration of pledges on the role of youth in the development, enrichment and advancement of our nation with the aspiration of Jose Rizal in “Ako Naman” segment. While doing research for this essay, I have read statements and answers from other students like me. “ I believe that by passing the bill into law gave youths like me certain knowledge and understanding regarding of what happened to our country during the time of our national heroes… I became fascinated with what Filipinos can do before with their intense patriotism and nationalism,” one student from PUP stated in his essay. And even during the last election period, youth fought for what they think was right for our country. Many are still voicing out their opinions regarding issues in our country. It's evident that youth still admire Jose Rizal and apply his values and ideals and gain interest about history and social issues, made possible by the teachings about him and his writings.
In this modern time and as technology advances, many would say that patriotism is dead. It's true that many have colonial mentality, consuming other's culture more than our own, and trying to fit in in international standards. But I think objectives of Rizal Law still resonated in the present. Many youth actively engage in civic activities and serve the country in a way they can. It might be true that the sense of patriotism is weaker. But remember, a course about Rizal and his writings alone can’t be one source of patriotism. How about intellectualization of our language or changing the education system to fit our needs that the foreign countries? Our culture, declining wars and conflicts, globalization should also be considered. Besides, school is not the only place where patriotism and nationalism should be taught. I think Rizal Law played it’s part to flourish the patriotism among youth, honor heroes who died and spread Jose Rizal’s values and ideals in his life and writing, from 1956 until the present and to the future.
Reference:
https://amslaw.ph/philippine-laws/civil-law/civil-code-of-the-philippines(1)#:~:text=ARTICLE%202.,unless%20it%20is%20otherwise%20provided.
https://teamcrisostomo.wordpress.com/effects-of-the-rizal-law/
https://www.dost.gov.ph/knowledge-resources/news/74-2022-news/2728-youth-speaks-rizal-is-an-inspiration-to-our-generation.html
https://www.studocu.com/ph/document/polytechnic-university-of-the-philippines/bachelor-of-science-in-electrical-engineering/assessment-for-rizal-life-and-works/23186970
Here's the first part if you haven't seen it yet:
https://read.cash/@Nyctofiles/on-dying-filipino-patriotism-does-the-passage-of-rizal-law-really-warranted-its-objectives-b1d17e5b
On dying Filipino patriotism, does the passage of Rizal Law really warranted its objectives?
The Senate Bill No.438 entitled An Act to Make Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo Compulsory Reading Matters in All Public and Private Schools, Colleges and Universities and for Other Purposes was proposed by Senator Claro M. Recto for he believed that reading the novels of Rizal would strengthen the Filipinism among youth and would foster nationalism and patriotism. Senator Jose P. Laurel, the sponsor of the SB 438, believed that the novels and ideas of Rizal would open the mind of the Filipinos to the effects of colonization and teach how to live the way characterized by strong love for the country and strong desire to build a great nation, thus these ideas should be exposed to youth. These two educated nationalist desired the future generations to independently stand and govern the nation, away from foreign impacts. Congressmen Jesus Paredes and Arturo Tolentino also believed in reliving the kind of life Rizal led and his vision for the country among youth because the youth shall serve as future leaders in the future generations. Also, similar version of the bill which was House Bill No. 5561 was filed by Representative Jacobo Gonzales of First District of Laguna. He said, “The bill selects the writings of Rizal because he is the greatest of our national heroes, the staunchest apostle of nationalism, the greatest man the Malayan race has ever produced and a universal genius and hero of humanity. We have chosen the Noli and the Fili for in their pages we see our lives as before a mirror our defects as well as our strengths, our virtues as well as our vices.”
In general, the following are the objectives conceived by authors, sponsors and supporters of the Rizal Bills: First, to rededicate the life of youth to the ideals of freedom and nationalism for which, our heroes lived and died. Next, to honor our heroes, particularly national hero, Jose Rizal for their devotion of their lives and works that shaped Filipino character. Lastly, to suffuse the life, works and writings of Jose Rizal, particularly El Fili and Noli, which are a constant and inspiring source of patriotism to the mind of youth, especially in their formative years in schools. I think those objectives were validated as the Senate Bill No. 438 and House Bill No. 5561 by Senator Claro M. Recto and Congressman Jacobo Gonzales were signed and converted by President Ramon Magsaysay into Republic Act 1425 or Rizal Law.
Researchers say, learning about heroes inspires and motivates youth to become heroic themselves and exhibit the cherished values, admired qualities, ways of overcoming challenges and heroic acts that the heroes possessed or done. Students can learn from Jose Rizal’s experiences and life and be inspired and acquire his values and beliefs such as patriotism. Personally, from what I have learned in class, I am eager to finish my education despite the struggles and doubt around me just like Jose Rizal who was bullied in his early education in Biñan and took exams starving and had biscuits as breakfast when he was short on fund abroad. Also, literature can play a significant role in shaping a country’s destiny and history because it can be an instrument to awaken national spirit. For example, the novel Max Havelaar written by Eduard Douwes Dekker, which tells the story of a Dutch colonial leader and his treatment of Indonesian people, ignited the Indonesian youth’s spirit of nationalism that led to the Awakening Movement in 1908. Of course, another great example is the novels of Rizal that is a wake up call for Filipinos and indirectly sparked the revolution. According to Tullock in his article “America Will Be!” — The Importance of Literature and History in Teaching Patriotism to Children, literature is one of the great touchstones of both pride and open-mindedness simultaneously and it must be used to foster both to the youth. This modern tendencies of patriotic education is part of the American children’s curriculum. This may play a huge role in the country’ sense of patriotism given the fact that in a 2021 statistics, 85% of Americans consider themselves as being patriotic, and 64% even own an American flag. It is evident that literature can boost the citizens’ sense of patriotism and nationalism, especially youth. Teaching the Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo would impart patriotism to the youth and influence self-reliance, self-respect and freedom.
In conclusion, the passage of Rizal Bills into law warranted the objectives conceived by sponsors in 1956. Teaching courses about Rizal’s life, works and writings particularly Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo, having libraries with the adequate amount of Rizal’s novels, and translating, printing and distributing these novels free of charge would lead the growth of sense of patriotism among the youth, honoring the hero they’re studying about and suffuse Rizal’s ideals and values from his writings.
References:
http://thelifeandworksofrizal.blogspot.com/2011/08/why-study-rizal.html?m=1#:~:text=The%20Rizal%20Law%2C%20enacted%20in,in%20shaping%20the%20Filipino%20character
https://www.doinggoodtogether.org/dgt-newsletter/why-heroes-matter
https://cyberleninka.ru/article/n/america-will-be-the-importance-of-literature-and-history-in-teaching-patriotism-to-children
https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.thejakartapost.com/amp/life/2016/05/20/how-literature-awakens-nationalism-in-times-of-uncertainty.html
https://www.statista.com/topics/2482/patriotism-in-the-us/#topicHeader__wrapper
College essay # 3
Why do we have items "Made in China", "Made in _______"?
I own a Twenty One Pilots band shirt made in the UK. The Oxecure Acne Clear Powder Mud I use to clear my pimples was made in Thailand. The Mongol Dust-Free Eraser I have was manufactured in China while my Faber-Castel LV7 Pen is from Malaysia. My Realme Phone was assembled in Indonesia. The Nescafe Classic Coffee stick is produced in the Philippines, so does my MSA College Admission Simulated Test Book. I wear a Banana Republic Premium Polo Shirt made in Cambodia and American Eagle shorts made in Bangladesh. I have items at home made in the Philippines and, of course, made outside the country. And why? It's not just simply export importation.
I possess some garments, gadgets, skincare products, and stationeries from foreign countries because of economic globalization that refers to the international mobility of people, capital, technology, services and products. I noticed that my khaki shorts and polo shirt were manufactured in Cambodia and Bangladesh despite the companies originated and having headquarters in the USA. I learned that these companies moved their capital and production to developing countries for cheaper labor. That explains the large textile and garment industry in developing countries especially in Bangladesh, whose export of garments is its principal source of foreign exchange earnings. This does not only applies on production of garments, most electronics, stationeries and other goods were produced in Asia even though the multinational companies were from other bigger countries (Faber-Castel -Germany, Mongol-Canada, Realme-China). Another thing,the coffee were made in the Philippines but it’s from a Swiss multinational and the largest food and beverage company, Nestle. To sum it up, I have my clothes,phone, stationeries and skin care made in other nations and even the other products made in our country listed above because of Economic Globalization— the products were able to be transported from a country to another, also the company making them and the workforce, technologies and raw materials needed.
The creation of organizations, agreements, and partnerships among countries such as ASEAN Free Trade Area Agreements (ATIGA), General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT), and World Trade Organization (WTO), aimed for free flow of products, services and investments and regulations. I have numerous items listed above that were made outside the country that made it successfully, faster and easier here because of these agreements and partnerships. In general, thanks to economic globalization— the integration of countries in the global economy.
The Philippines depends on the import of electronics, petroleum products, machinery, motor and communication parts and others. While other nations depends on the country’s export of metals, fruits, electronics, wood crafts and more. Because of economic globalization—the interdependence of different countries and regions across the world, I have items from other countries especially my phone a part of our country’s largest import.
In conclusion, I have these numerous items for variety of interconnected reasons. The movement of the goods, services, technology, information and capital all over the world; the partnerships and agreements of countries in the global economy; and the interdependence of countries and regions on their products, services and investments across the world, I have the items listed , particularly, the imported ones. Lastly, all defines the economic globalization. Which means I been able to have items made in other countries because of economic globalization.
How about you? What items you are using that were made outside the country? Is it a good thing or a band thing?
Also, let us not forget to support our local brands. Support local business. And support our country.
Sources:
https://asiasociety.org/education/manufacturing-malady
https://borgenproject.org/garment-industry-in-bangladesh/
https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&source=web&rct=j&url=https://asean.org/our-communities/economic-community/trade-in-goods/&ved=2ahUKEwiVmc2c5u https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&source=web&rct=j&url=https://asean.org/our-communities/economic-community/trade-in-goods/&ved=2ahUKEwiVmc2c5uX
The Good and Bad (and Ugly) Effects of the Pandemic to the Environment
The coronavirus outbreak brought changes and adverse impacts throughout the planet. Employments and businesses, economy, education, tourism, and also the environment were affected. The pandemic brought positive and negative effects to the environment, some were short-lived.
The Good
There is a reduction in human travel and journeys, as a result, fewer people are hurting or killing wildlife in roadways. In a study, roadkill rates reduced by more than 40% on the first few weeks of pandemic restrictions in 11 countries that includes Spain, Israel, Estonia, and the Czech Republic. Another thing, fewer ships are traveling through world’s ocean and waterways. Experts predicted the 4.1% increase in global maritime year in 2021. Flights also reduced because of pandemic, decreasing the risks of bird strikes. Also, pandemic benefited the wildlife by disrupting the hidden supply chains and other human activities that disturb the fauna.
In one study, it was found daily global carbon dioxide level fell by 17% during early months of the COVID-19 pandemic. Another research showed the 20-40% decline pollutant nitric oxide across US, China, and Western Europe. Also, in different study from September 2020, experts claimed that the pandemic improved the air quality, reduced green house gas emissions, development in the ozone. Some positives effect of the pandemic is decline in air pollution and green house effect.
A study found that pollution levels fell by almost 16% in India’s longest lake during lockdown. And in a different study, it was determined that the amount of trash leaking into the sea of Kenya because of lockdown- related beach closures and restrictions in travel. The pandemic causes travel restrictions and limited commercial activity that improves water quality and health of bodies of water and reduced water pollution.
In general, pollution was reduced. Because of imposed travel restrictions and lockdowns, usage of vehicles declined which lessen air, and also noise pollution. The pollution in land also decrease as there were fewer people outside.
The Bad
One of the key negative outcomes of the pandemic is the plummeting amount of medical waste. In fact, the medical waste and haphazard use in healthcare institutions increased from 10-20 times. It’s a threat public health and environment.
The medical waste is not the only thing increased, but also the domestic waste. Because of quarantine and social distancing in the pandemic results to the 15-25% increase in household waste. Also, restrictions led to increase of domestic waste as people prefer online shopping and home delivery.
Due to the lack of source of income and reduced people including authorities during pandemic, the exploiters, poachers, illegal loggers, illegal wildlife in market became busier. According in satellite images, the deforestation surged in several hotspot places. Another, there’s rise in illegal fishing in the Philippines and Brazil. Some experts were worried that there would be an increase in natural resource exploitation in low income countries due to economic hardships brought by pandemic.
The Ugly
The COVID-19 pandemic caused negative and positive effects in the country. The ugly thing is the positive effects of the pandemic were only short term. Everything will be back as it used to be, or worse. And the negative impacts it brought will the environment for so long to recover.
People were getting sick during the pandemic, but our planet was already sick ever since. Our planet need a rest to heal.
Sources:
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/how-covid-19-has-changed-the-face-of-the-natural-world#A-pandemic-of-change
https://edinburghsensors.com/news-and-events/the-effect-of-the-covid-19-pandemic-on-the-environment-following-one-year-in-lockdown/
Another school essay dump. We still have classes so I am unable write. #DeansListCutie
Hide-and-Seek (a flash fiction)
They haven’t found me yet. I’ve been hiding here for so long. No one knows I'm here.
I’m sure, I already mastered the art of hiding. If hide and seek is a sports, I would become an Olympian. Tag already became a professional sport, I wonder when will hide-and-seek receive same treatment.
Most of the time, when playing hide and seek with my friends or siblings, I am always the last one to be found. I remember, there countless times I fell asleep while hiding. And the time I came out of my hiding spot, the game is already over. My friends already got home. I hate when this happens, why would they give up on finding me. It’s unfair but I got used to it. That’s why I reveal myself after being bored and tired of hiding.
There’s also an instance that my father scolded me,one afternoon. I hid and didn’t eat dinner. He still haven’t seen me until mid night. Then the morning after, he lectured me for hours.
This time,I’m still hiding. No one found me yet.
This place is dark that I can only see my real self there. I can’t see, but I think there are other people hiding here. But who I am to meddle in their own business? We’re just trying to avoid to found.
My actions are limited in this claustrophobic space. I must control my movements so no one will discover me.
It was quiet in there. I just hear murmurs of secrets. Short and almost inaudible chats so no one will found them.
Lonesome, I hide there. With fears and pains.With a heavy chest. Thinking about risks.
Hide and seek was not fun as it used to be. I feel the “it” were predators and I’m the prey hiding. And being found is like losing my life or a part of it . I am trapped. Ain’t it fun.
Of course, this was not child’s play anymore. This was not the game I used to play with my friends and siblings. Not the game I wanted to be in the Olympics. Not the game I’m good at.
It’s s real life. Yet,I’m still hiding. Hiding in this closet. The closet that restricts my actions and suffocates me. The closet that caters us. The closet that hides who I really am.
Why do I still need to hide? When will people accept me when they found me?When will I be free? And not just me, all of us.
I am inspired to write it because it's June,the Pride Month. I quickly wrote this since this month is near to its end. That explains the low read count and vague and unorganized statements and narration.
It's been a while since I wrote a flash fiction. I wish I delivered what I have in my mind. I will appreciate your comments, ideas and criticisms.
Anyway, Happy Pride Month to those who celebrate it! You have my respect, love and appreciation.
Thank you for reading!
Kabuluhan ng Pagsasalin sa Kontekstong Filipino
Just like on my stories and other articles, I exert same ( or greater) effort and time on my written school works. So, I think, they still belong here. And also, a form of warming up my seat before writing actively again.
I published this essay here so other students who searched on the topic and course and see it. For their source, idea or inspiration.
**Pagsasalin sa Kontekstong Filipino:**
**Ang Dila, Danas at Diwa**
Mula sa pagkakalakalan sa pagitan ng iba’t ibang rehiyon sa kapuluan, maging sa mga karatig na bansa; tungo sa doktrinasyon at pananakop ng Kastila at pag-usbong ng bago at nasyonalistang kamulatan ng mga Pilipino; tungo sa korido, awit, at komedya sa mga tanghalan at aliwan bago matapos ang ika- 18 siglo; tungo sa dagdag pang pagyabong ng panitikan sa pananakop ng mga Amerikano at Hapon; hanggang sa pagpapayabong ng wikang pambasa at karunungang bayan at kamulatan sa kasalukuyan, hindi maipagkakailang may malaking ginampanan ang pagsasalin sa buhay ng mga Pilipino at sa Pilipinas, mula noon hanggang ngayon. Kaya naman, inilalarawan ni Virgilio S. Almario sa sanaysay niyang ‘Sulyap sa Kasaysayan ng Pagsasalin sa Filipinas’ ang pagsasalin bilang isang naging mabisang kasangkapan sa paglalaganap at pagtanggap ng mga naturang pamana ng sibilisasyon sa iba’t ibang lugar sa buong 60 introduksiyon ng pagsasalin na maaring gamitin sa pagpapairal ng kapangyarihang pampulitika at pananakop, at ugnayang pangkomersiyo ng mga bansa. Dagdag pa rito na naging kasangkapan din daw ito para tuluyang makinabang ang isang bansa sa mga impluwensiyang galing sa sentro o sulong na kultura. At ang mga ito nga ay danas ng mga Pilipino at Pilinas. Tunay ngang may gampanin ang pagsasalin sa kalakaran ng bansa sa daigdig, pagpapayabong ng kultura sa Pilipinas, pagpapaunlad ng panitikan, mabilis at mabisang kominikasyon, pagpapayaman ng wikang pambasa, at pagpapalawak ng kaisipan at kaalamang nakapaloob sa teksto. Kung sa pagsasalin pa nga lang na pinangangahulugang ‘paglapat ng teksto mula sa isang wika tungo sa isa pang wika’ sa Merriam Webster ay may malaki nang ginampanan sa iba’t ibang aspeto ng buhay ng mga Pilipino at estado ng Pilipinas at marami pang mabuting epekto at benepisyo hanggang sa panahon ngayon, ano pa kaya kung ang pagsasalin ay nakaayon sa kontekstong Filipino?
Kung ayon kay Michael Coroza na ang lahat ng pagkatuto, pag-unawa, pagpapaunawa at pakikipag-unawaan ay kinasasangkutan ng proseso ng pagsasalin. At ito daw paulit-ulit na proseso ng tatlong D: Danas, Diwa, Dila. Para Naman sa akin, ang kabuluhan at kahalagahan ng pagsasalin sa kontekstong Filipino ay makikito at umiikot sa parehong tatlong D na nabanggit: Dila (ang wika), Dana’s (ang kultura), at Diwa (ang kamulatan).
**Pagsasalin sa Kontekstong Filipino at ang Dila**
May isang kasabihang Italyano na “traduturre, traditure”— translator, traitor sa Ingles. Ito ay patutsada sa mga Pranses mg mga Italyano na nakaramdam ng sama ng loob dahil ang mga akdang isinalin ni Dante sa wikang Pranses ay pagtatataksil sa kagandahan at katuturan ng original na likha. Ang kasabihang din ay isang pagtanggap na walang sinuman ang tapat sa orihinal na teksto kung ilalapat ito sa ibang wika. Isa sa mga dahilan ang puwang ng leksikal (lexical gap); ito ay ang kawalan ng isang salita o parirala ng katumbas o kahulugan sa pagsasalin sa ibang wika. Ang mga tayutay gaya ng puns, palindrome, at spoonerism, ang barirala, sintaksis at iba pang bagay na walang katumbas sa ibang wika ay ilan lamang sa mga ito. Noon, dahil wala pang direktang katumbas ang salitang ‘kilig’ sa Ingles, kalimitang pamalit ang pariralang “butterflies in stomach”. Dahil walang direktang salin, pinupunan ng mananalin ang puwang ng leksikal gamit ang katumbas. Kaya, ang pagsasalin ay maaring kasangkutan ng pagsasakripisyo ng literal na katumpakan para sa pagsasalin na mas tapat sa estilo at punto ng orihinal. Sa pagsasalin sa kontekstong Filipino, gumagamit ng pananliksik (saliksik-salin) upang punan ang puwang ng leksikal para sa mas tumpak at angkop na akda para sa karunungang bayan.
Sa isang bansang mayroong higit sandaang wika tulad ng Pilipinas, ang pagsasalin ay isang kasangkapan para ilakip ang kontribusyon ng iba’t ibang rehiyon at pangkat etnikong kultura at kaalaman tungo sa pambansang kamalayang nakabatay sa wikang pambansa. At isa pa, ang pagsasalin sa kontekstong Filipino ay nagpapaunlad at nagpapayaman ng wikang pambansa—Filipino.
Isang malaking bagay na mayroong tayong mga naging mga programa, organisasyon, institusyon at batas na nagsusulomg ng pagsasalin sa kontekstong Filipino para sa ikauunlad ng wikang pambansa at karunungang bayan. Isa sa mga mahalagang programa ay ang ‘Panitikan Series’ na itinatatag ng samahan ng mga manunulat mula sa tatlong pangunahing pamantasan sa bansa— ang Unibersidad ng Pilipinas (UP), Pamantasan ng Ateneo de Manila (AdMU) at Pamantasan ng De LaSalle (DLSU) na naglalayong “maglathala at maglimbag ng mahahalagang likhang panitikang dapat basahin ng mga mag-aaral sa literatura at Kulturang Pilipino “ Isa sa mga tuntuning gabay ng Panitikan Series ay ang pagsasalin ng mga rehiyonal na akda tungo sa Filipino. Hindi maitatanggi na ang programang ito ay may ambag sa pagbuo ng pambansang panitikan. May mga salitang nanatili gaya ng 11 salitang Cebuanong ginamit sa ilang akda: hungot, tughong, agsa, lamaw, binuyok, agpangan, sangig, sanggab, tinustos, bantingan, at bungot-bungot. Dahil sa konseptong isinagawa, mas madagdagdagan pa ang bolabukaryo sa pambansang wika mula sa katutubong salita. Isang daan sa pagpapayaman ng wikang Filipino.
Ang Aklatang Bayan ay isa rin sa ilang programa ukol sa pagsasalin sa kontekstong Filipino. Ito ay sinimulan ng Sentro ng Wikang Filipino noong 1994 nang mangailangan ang Unibersidad ng Pilipinas ng aklatang binubuo ng mga libro sa iba’t ibang larangan at disiplina matapos ideklarang gawing midyum sa pagtuturo sa kolehiyo ang Filipino. Ang Aklatang Bayan ay nahahati sa sari-saring serye batay sa larangan at disiplina, ito ang mga sumusunod: Aklat Bahandi ( isinaling internasyonal at rehiyunal na akda), Aklat Binhi (agricultural), Aklat Danum (agham pampagdaragat), Aklat Ili (agham panlipunan), Aklat Paraluman (agham at sipnayan), Aklat Pasad (pag-iihinyero at mekaniks), Aklat Sanyata (sining, panitikan, wika, huminidades) at Aklat Uswag (ekonomiks). Ito ay naging instrumento rin sa paglilinang ng wika sa pamamagitan ng paghiram ng mga teknikal at siyentipikong konsepto mula sa wikang Espanyol at Ingles at maging natibisayon ng mga ito, at paglikha at paghanap ng katumbas na salita sa wikang katutubo. Halimbawa, ang paggamit ng salitang Ilocanong “rabaw” na katumbas ng “surface” sa sagsigan o heometriya. Hindi lang pagpapaunlad ng wika ang naidulot ng Aklat Bayan. Napatunayan ring maaaring gamitin sa pagtuturo ang Filipino at may kakayahan sa inteleltwalisasyon nito, sa tulong na rin ng pagsasalin sa konseptong Filipino.
**Pagsasalin sa Kontekstong Filipino at ang Danas**
Ayon sa isang Pranses na dalub-aghamtaong si C. Levi-Strauss, “ang wika ay isang bahagi ng kultura, produkto, nito at kamatayan nito.” Nakasaad naman sa teorya ni Jm Lotman, isang Rusong iskolar, mananalysay at dalub-aghamwika: “hindi iiral ang wika maliban nalang kung ito ay bad sa kontekstong kultural; walang iiral na kultura kung hindi ito nakasentro sa kayarian ng natural na wika.” Dagdag pa, ang kultura raw ay ang mekanismong istrukturap na magbibigay kayarian sa pamamagitan ng pangunahing sistemang modelo (wika) at pangalawang sistemang modelo (sining, panitikan, relihiyon, atbp.). Nangangahulugang ang wika at kultura ay konektado at hindi (o mahirap) mapaghihiwalay. Sinasabing ang pagsasalin ay gawain na di maiiwasang masangkot ang di banana sa dalawang wika at dalawang tradisyong kuktural (Toury, 1978). Kaya, kung ilalapat ang teksto sa ibang lengguwahe, dapat ding isaalang-alang ang kultura. May pagkakataong noong 1977, nagbigay ang pangulo ng Poland ng talumpati at ang kagawaran ng estado ay kumuha ng Rusong interpreter na wala masyadong karanasan sa pagsasalin sa Polish. Sa halip na “noong ako’y umalis sa Estados Unidos” na winika ni Pangulong Carter,ito ay” noong iniwan ko ang Estados Unidos,” ayon sa interpreter na ikinasira ng imahe ng pangulo sa araw na iyon. Dahil ang kultura ang magbibigay ng konteksto sa wika, marapat lang na aralin ito para sa mas angkop at tiyak na pagsasalin.
Sa pagsasalin sa kontekstong Filipino, dapat isaliksik at pag-aralan ang wika, kultura sa Pilipinas, kabilang na ang kasaysayan, tradisyon, kabutihang asal at mga bawal (taboos) at ganoon na rin sa katumbas na wika. Inaayon rin ang pagsasalin upang matugunan ang pangangailangan, nakasanayan at naaayon sa madla na kokonsumo ng teksto—lalo na ang mga Filipino. Isang halimbawa ang ‘Sintang Dalisay’, ang adaptasyon ng Romeo and Juliet ni William Shakespeare: ang mga pangalan, relihiyon,musika at sayaw, tradisyon at kabutihang asal ay sumasalamin sa pagka-Pilipino. Mapapansin din na karaniwang isinasagawa ang pagmamano at pagyakap sa mga akda at palabas na Pilipino na hango sa dayuhan na nagsasagawa ng pagbebeso-beso, dapdag pa ang paggamit ng po at opo. Hindi lang iyan;pagkaing Pinoy, hindi Tteokbokki o kimchi at Katoliko sa halip na Buddhist, ay ilan lamang sa mga halimbawa ng pagbabago sa kultura sa adaptasyon ng mga dramang Koreano. Base sa mga mga ipinaliwanag, inilarawan at inihalimbawa, may kabuhulan ang pagsasalin sa kontekstong Filipino sa pagsasaliksik at pagpapaunlad ng kultura ng Pilipinas, kalakip na ang wika na nagpapalalim sa pag-unawa sa mga ito.
**Pagsasalin sa Kontekstong Filipino at ang Diwa**
Batay sa panayam kay G. Cardenas, ang Filipinolohiya ay isang disiplina ng karunungang nakabatay sa makaagham na pag-aaral sa pinagmulan at kalikasan ng wika panitikan, kultura, kasaysayan at kominikasyon at iba pang batas ng karunungang Pilipino, gayundin ang pagpapaunlad ng karunungang ambag mg Pilipino sa daigdig ng kaalaman. Nakasaad naman sa papel ni Abadilla na ‘Wisyo ng Konseptong Filipinolohiya’,” mahalaga ang pagkakaroon ng maayos na kaisipan sa pagproproseso ng mga karunungang bayan tungo sa pambansang karunungan at kamulatan.” Winika naman ni G. Lain na ang Filipinolohiya ay nagtataglay ng makamasa, iyentipiko at makabayang edukasyon. Masasabi matin na may gampanin rin ang pagsasalin sa kontekstong Filipino sa Filipinolohiya sapagkat ang pagsasalin ay isang maayos na pagproproseso ng karunungan mula sa mga rehiyon para maging pambansang karunungan at ito rin ay siyentipiko (nakabatay sa pagsasaliksik), makabayan at maka-Pilipino. Ang pagsasalin sa Kontekstong Filipino ay naglalayong paunlarin ang kasanayan sa pagsasalin na may gabay ng pananaliksik (saliksik-salin) na nakalapat sa konseptong Filipinolohiya, sa pag-unawa sa kahulugan, teorya at kahalagahan ng pagsasapraktika ng pagsasalin tungo sa Intelektuwalisasyon ng Wikang Filipino. Nangangahulugang ang pagsasalin sa kontekstong Filipino ay mahalagang kasangkapan tungo sa Filipinolohiya at bise bersa: sila ay magkaugnay.
Dahil ang pagsasalin sa kontekstong Filipino ay nakabatay sa sariling wikang pambansa at sa konseptong Filipino, masasabing na ito ay nagsusulong din ng iba pang kamalayang gaya ng Sikolohiyang Pilipino, Pantayang Pananaw at Pilipinohiya.
Ayon kay Mendoza, ang Sikolohiyang Pilipino ay uang pamamaraang pangsikolohiyang may kalipunan ng mga metodolohiyang higit na angkop at may pagpapahalaga at pagkilala sa karanasang panloob ng mga komuninad at ng mga Pilipino. Ito’y pag-aaral ng diwa ng mga Pilipino at ipinanganak mula sa karanasang, kamalayan at oryentasyon ng mga Pilipino na nakabatay sa pagkakaugat sa ating wika at kultura. Ito ay matutugunan rin ng pagsasalin sa kontekstong Filipino, dahil ang mga karanasang panloob mula sa iba’t ibang lalawigan hindi mula sa mga dayuhan ang pokus nito, at nakaugat sa wika at kultura na pinatunayan sa mga naunang talata.
Sa pagpapakahulugan ni Salazar, ang Pantayong Pananaw ay panloob na ugnayan ng katangian, kaalaman, karunungan, at karanasan ng isang kabuuang pangkalinangan na ipinanapahayag sa pamamagitan ng isang wika. Ito’y naglalayong habiin ang pagkakaiba sa pambansang konsepto upang lumikha ng pag-iisa. Gaya nga ng halimbawa kanina ukol sa Panitikan Series, ang pagsasalin sa kontekstong Filipino ay intrumento upang ilapat ang etnikong kultura tungo sa pambansang karunungan. Ang mga akda sa ibang wikang katutubo, ay magiging isang kaalaman ng lahat kung ito ay nasa Filipino dahil lahat tayo ay makakaunawa nito.
Ang Pilipinohiya, ayon kay Covar, ay diskursong nagmumula sa naratibo ng indehenisasyon na naglalayong maging isang disiplinang nanggagaling at kumikilala sa pambansa/ panloob/ pansariling talino at karanasan. Ito’y nagpupuntong bumalangkas at lumikha ng kaalaman tungkol sa bansa mula sa ating pananaw, hindi mula sa pagtingin ng mga Kanluranin. Gaya ng ibang kamulatan at diskurso, ang pagsasalin sa kontekstong Filipino ay kasangkapan rin sa Pilipinohiya dahil ito ay nakabatay sa Filipinolohiya at sariling wika, kultura at karunungang mula sa iba’tibang dako ng bansa na pinagyayabong pa.
Naging malaking bahagi na ng buhay at pagkakakilanlan ng mga Pilipino at Pilinas ang pagsasalin, mula sa wika, relihiyon, kultura, sining, panitikan maging sa edukasyon, kalakalan, at kaunlaran. Marami na ring pagbabago at pag-unlad gaya ng pagsasalin sa kontekstong Filipino na may malaking ginampanan at kabuluhan sa ating Dila— pinagyabong at pinaunlad pa ang pambansang wika, nagbigay tagumpay sa paggamit ng Filipino sa pagtuturo, at nagpatunay na may laban tayo sa inteleltwalisasyon ng wikang pambansa. Sa ating Danas— mas napalalim pa ang pagkakaunawa at pagpapahalaga at tumaas ang level ng kaalaman ukol sa kultura ng mga Pilipino. At sa ating Diwa— isang kasangkapan para maisakatuparan ang Filipinolohiya, Sikolohiyang Pilipino, Pantayong Pananaw, at Pilipinohiya.
Mga Sanggunian:
GEED 10113 Pagsasalin sa Kontekstong Filipino Modyul
GEED 10103 Filipinolohiya at Pambansang Kaunlaran Modyul
https://ncca.gov.ph/about-culture-and-arts/in-focus/pushing-the-national-language-development-through-translation/
http://www3.uji.es/~aferna/H44/Cultural-implications.htm
https://www.jstor.org/stable/306702?read-now=1&refreqid=excelsior%3Af136df432ffc051349838a38b363836d&seq=5
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2210831910000056#:~:text=Lotman’s%20theory%20states%20that%20%E2%80%9Cno,211%E2%80%93232).
https://podarilove.ru/tl/yazyk-i-kultura-statya-sootnoshenie-yazyka-i-kultury/
https://blog.oup.com/2012/09/traduttore-traditore-translator-traitor-translation/
https://www.altalang.com/beyond-words/traduttore-traditore/
Nadiskaril na Nakaraan Tungo sa Kinabukasan: Linya ng Maynila-Dagupan
Ayon sa ating mga mananakop na mga Espanyol, ang mga daang bakal ay daan din ng pagbabago at pag-asenso. Sinasabi ring bago bumuo ng lipunan ay kailangan munang maglaan ng oras at enerhiya sa paggawa ng mga tren at mga riles nito. Hindi maipagkakaila na hindi lamang mga pasahero at mga kargamento ang kayang ihatid ng sistemang transportasyong ito. May kakayahan rin ang daang bakal na magdala ng progreso at trabaho sa mga bayang nakapalibot dito. Ang sistemang ito ay nakakabawas sa daloy ng trapiko, mas tipid sa enerhiya, nakakabawas sa polusyon at may epekto sa pagtaas ng ekonomiya ng komunidad. Hindi lang basta mas mabilis, may malaking kapasidad, mura, ligtas at organisado ito. May epekto rin ito sa maaaring resulta ng mga digmaan at sa paghubog sa ating kasaysayan. Sa kabila ng mga benepisyo at bentaha ng sistemang riles, mayroon din itong mga bagay na kailangan pang paunlarin at disbentaha. Kaya sa paglipas ng panahon, paano natin dadalhin ang nadiskaril na bahagi ng nakaraan patungo sa pag-arangkada nito sa kiinabukasan?
Malayo pa rin ang lalakbayain ng sistemang daang bakal sa Pilipinas. Napakarami pang kailangan paunlarin at baguhin dito. Kailangang pagtuunan ng pansin ang aksesibilidad nito lalo na sa taong may mga kapansanan; bilis ng tren na mas mababa pa sa *speed limit* ng mga kotse; kaligtasan at seguridad ng mga pasahero,maging ng mga *informal settlers* malapit sa mga riles; abot-kayang modernong sistema: mga polisiya at pamamahala at ang nakaligtaang pagpapahalaga sa pamana at kasaysayan gaya ng sinapit ng Manila- Dagupan Line. Mula nang magsara ang Manila- Dagupan Northline ay napabayaan na ito at tila kinalimutan na. Dumagdag pa sa dahilan ng sinapit ng linya na ito ang mga disbentahe ng mga sistemang riles gaya ng mataas na *maintenance cost,* napakalaking kapital na may kahirapan sa pagbawi, at ang kawalan ng pleksibilidad nito sa industriya.
Sa panahon ng mga Espanyol, ang Manila-Dagupan Line ay sinumulan sa tatlong bahagi: Manila-Bagbag, Bagbag-Mabalacat at Mabalacat- Dagupan at binuksan noong 1892. Ang konstruksyon nito ay pinangunahan ng mga inhinyerong taga- Britanya at ang mga primera klaseng materyales at makanismo ay inangkat pa mula sa ibang bansa kaya naman kalidad ng sistemang daang bakal na ito ay kayang makipagsabayan sa ibang bansa. Nang dumating ang mga Amerikanong mananakop, mas napagtuunan ng pansin ang mga kotse at iba pang sasakyan at ang pagbuo ng mga kalsada kaya bumaba ang demand sa daang bakal. Sa Digmaang Pilipino-Amerikano, Ang mga istasyon ng tren ay naging base na kailangan ipanalo at ang daang bakal ay naging sentro ng labanan. Ang linyang ito ay naging aksis ng digmaan patungong Norte ng Luzon. Sa panahon ng mga Hapones, naging saksi ang mga istasyong ito sa pagmamalupit ng mga Hapones sa mga sundalong Pilipino at Amerikano. Napakahalaga ng daang bakal sa digmaan para sa paglipas ng mga sandata at tropa kaya ganoon parin, naging sentro rin ng digmaan ito at pinag-aagawan ang mga istasyon. Noong Ikalawang Digmaang Pandaigdig, ang Maynila ay ikalawa sa mga pinakamasirang syudad, sumunod sa Warsaw, Poland. Kaya naman apektado ang daang bakal at nasira ang ilan sa mga ito. Dahil sa mga pinsala ng mga nagdaang digmaan, dumagdag pa ang mga pagbaha at hindi maayos na pananatili ng sistemang daang bakal na ito, nahirapan nang bumangon ang Manila-Dagupan Line hanggang malugi at magsara ito noong 1988. Matapos iyan ay tila kinalimutan na ito sa pagdaan ng panahon.
Sa pangunahing *depot* sa istasyon ng Tutuban ay nakatengga ang mga treng sobra sandaang taon na ang tanda. Karamihan ay kinakain na ng kalawang at nabubulok na ang mga bahaging kahoy. Ang mga treng bahagi ng ating kasaysayan ay ngayon ay pinabayaan.
Karamihan sa mga bahagi ng riles sa Linyang Maynila-Dagupan ay natabunan na ng konkreto ng mga bagong kalsada, may ilan na sumisilip pa para ipaalaala ang kanilang kasaysayan. May mga riles din na maaaring natabunan na ng lahar mula sa nagdaang pagsabog ng Bulkang Pinatubo. Ilan ay nawawala na dahil kinalakal na ng mga tao. Mayroon din namang ginawang pundasyon ng tulay, kabahayan, at *barangay hall.*
May mga istasyong tila binabawi na ng kalikasan na kanilang pinagmulan at ang Ilan ay parang hindi na umiiral sa paningin ng nga tao.. Ang istasyon sa Gerona, Tarlac ay nilamon na ng kagubatan kaya naman may mga bahagi na ng gusali na biyak at gumuho na. Sa istasyon ng Calasiao, Pangasinan, mga halaman ang nanahan at mga basura. Ang ilan naman ay nakatayo pa rin ngunit tila nakalimutan gaya ng istasyon ng Meycauayan, Bulacan at Dagupan na marurupok na ang sahig na huwebles at ang pulang ladrilyong pader.
Ang ilang mga istasyon naman ay maaaring biktima na ng pambabastos ng tao o nabigyan na ng bagong silbi. Ang makasaysayang istasyon ng Guiguinto, Bulacan kung saan ang isang grupo ng mga prayle ay sinalakay ng mga Katipunero noong 1896 ay puno na ng bandalismo at basura. Pambababoy gaya ng mga basura at bandalismo rin ang sinapit ng istasyon ng Angeles, Pampangga at dumagdag pa rito ang umaalingasaw na baho dahil ginawa na itong palikuran ng mga tao. Ang istasyon ng Malolos, Bulacan ay nagsilbing opisina para sa Northrail, samantala, naging tahanan naman ng isang pamilya ang istasyon sa Paniqui Tarlac. Ang istasyon naman sa lungsod ng Tarlac naging barberya, tindahan at munting simbahan.
Ayon nga kay G. Arturo Corpuz, nagsulat ng *The Colonial Iron Horse,*”Marami na ding pinagdaanan ‘yan (Linyang Maynila-Dagupan). Bahagi na ‘yan ng *history* kaya dapat alagaan natin ‘yan, parang Intramuros.” Ang mga daang bakal, tren at istasyong ito na bahagi ng kasaysayan ay hindi lang dapat mabaon sa limit, malamon ng kalikasan at makaranas ng pambabastos ng tao. Marami pang paraan para ang mga ito’y buhaying muli, maipreserba at pakinabangan na hindi isinasaalang-alang ang pagpapahalaga sa pamanang bayan at kasaysayan.
Isa sa mga pinakamabisang paraan sa pagpreserba ng pamanang ito ay ang pagtatag ng mga museo. Ganito ang ginawa sa Himpilan ng San Fernando. Ang istasyong ito ay ang binabaan ni Jose Rizal nang siya ay bumisita sa Pampangga upang manghikayat ng mga bagong kasapi ng La Liga Filipina. Dito rin natapos ang madugong *‘Death March’* at kung saan isinakay Ang mga bihag patungong Capas, Tarlac para ikulong sa Kampo O’Donnell. Ang istasyon ng Capas, Tarlac ay naging museo rin. Ang istasyong ito ay naging saksi ng masalimuot na karanasan ng mga bihag dahil ang istasyong ito ay naging huling destinasyon ng *‘death trains’* —kung saan pinagsiksikan ang mga bihag ng Hapon na dumanas ng '*Death March’*. Sa kabilang banda, naging saksi rin naman ito kabayanihan at malasakit ng mga Pilipino na tumulong at nagpakain sa mga bihag kahit pa man sila ay saktan ng mga Hapones.
Mas mapapakinabangan pa ang mga makasaysayang tren na nakatengga lang sa *depot.* Maaari itong gamitin ng mga estudyante, lalo na ng mga nag-aaral ng *Railway Engineering* para maging instrumento sa pag-aaral. Mas mabuti ito kaysa bumase lang sa mga larawan at para mapag-aralan din ang kasaysayan ng kanilang industriyang papasukin. Ganito rin ang ginagawa sa *flight schools* at *marine engineering schools* kaya mayroon silang mga modelo ng barko at eroplano.
Maaari din namang ayusin at ipreserba ang mga tren at daang bakal para maging atraksyon. Ganito ang ginawa sa isang tren na binansagang *Legendary Siete* sa Sagay, Negros Occidental. Ang treng ito naging saksi ng masaganang industriya ng asukal at troso sa probinsya. Naging bahagi rin ito ng isa sa mga malalagim na aksindente ng tren sa Pilipinas, matapos mahulog sa bundok na pumatay sa 82 manggagawa noong Setyembre 2, 1954. Para maipreserba ang kasaysayan ng Siete at masaksihan ng tao, ito ay ipinapakita sa Sagay City Public Plaza.
Isa rin sa maaaring gawin para maipreserba ang kasaysayan ng daang bakal at tren ay ang *Heritage Railway.* Ito ay kung saan ang tren ay pinapaaandar para maging buhay na kasaysayan sa pamamagitan ng paglika muli ng eksena sa nakaraan. Puwede rin itong gawing atraksyon para sa mga turista. Kaso, sa lagay ng ating bansa ay mahal ito at tila impraktikal, hindi tulad ng mga bansang may *heritage railway* gaya ng Estados Unidos at Britanya.
Ang daang-bakal at ang sistemang tren ay may malaking ambag sa pamumuhay ng mga tao, sa ekonomiya ng komunidad, pag-unlad at sa ating kasaysayan. Isa sa mga daang bakal na naging malaking bahagi ng kasaysayan mula sa rebolusyon laban sa mga Espanyol at maging sa Amerikano, Death March hanggang Ikalawang Digmaang Pandaigdig at sa hinahanap pa ay ang Manila- Dagupan Northline. Ngunit, ang linyang daang bakal ay binabawi na ng kalikasan, binastos ng mga mamamayan, at pinabayaan at kinalimutan. Maraming paraan para ipreserba at alagaan ang bahagi ng kasaysayan na ito.*“Hangad namin* a*ng maayos at maginhawang paglakakbay.”* dahil malayo-layo pa ang dapat lakbayin upang ibalik sa pag-arangkada ang nadiskaril na bahagi ng nakaraan— ang Daang Bakal ng Maynila-Dagupan.
**Sanggunian:**
Railway Engineering Orientation Module 1: Introduction to Railway Transportation
https://kapampangantraveller.wordpress.com/2017/04/24/old-train-station-pampanga/
https://www.experiencenegros.com/siete-the-legendary-iron-dinosaur-of-negros/
https://savingplaces.org/stories/10-on-tuesday-how-to-preserve-historic-train-stations
https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.heritagerailway.co.uk/%3famp=1
https://heritageconservation.wordpress.com/2006/07/27/manila-dagupan-railroad/
"Daang-bakal"-I Witness Documentary ni Kara David
I wrote this for a final requirement in one of our subjects in Railway Engineering. I think, I should share it.
I guess, long time no see. I've been focusing on my class and school works. And these worth the sacrifices— I became a President's Lister in the first sem and passed the PMAEE twice. I'll be more active when this academic year ends on July since I want to maintain my grade.
Thank you!
Thank you @Corpsekunno for sponsorship.
Ngayon ko lang nakita kasi medj busy talaga. Thank you!!
Luckily, we didn't have class in ROTC this Sunday. That's why I've been able to write a new article.
How are you? If I will describe how I am right now, it would be a lyrics from Taylor Swift's 22.
Read my article here: https://read.cash/@Nyctofiles/how-am-i-im-happy-free-confused-lonely-at-the-same-time-4f91da74
How am I?: I'm happy, free, confused & lonely at the same time
***We're happy, free, confused and lonely at the same time***
***It's miserable and magical,oh yeah***
-22, Taylor Swift
https://youtu.be/AgFeZr5ptV8
“***How would you characterized yourself***?” our instructor asked in our class in ‘Understanding the Self’. Some of classmates described themselves as a notebook that will collect knowledge, memories and experiences; as a traveler, discovering and learning new things and experiences as he travel in life; as a jigsaw puzzle that still needs a quest for missing pieces and needs to be completed and built and more interesting answers.
I would characterized my self as a *paradox* or a *contradiction*. I have traits and characteristics that contradict each other. The most basic example is I’m kind of grade-conscious but I procrastinated a lot and I was always late before. Also, I’m thrifty but kind of impulsive on buying.
The main focus of this article is how am feeling these days. It’s kind of contradicting just like me. Its’s miserable and magical. **I’m happy, free, confused, lonely at the same time**.
I’m happy.
It’s almost a month since our class started. I can still remember the struggles and problems from getting my requirements in school to application. Then, the initial results brought me to tears. Finally, here I am in my dream university. I’m just thankful that my tears, frustrations, disappointments, and efforts lead me here and reached my dream. Despite the academic stress in the university, I'm happy that I made it this far.
The pandemic brought a lot of changes to everyone’s life and it changed me. Last school year, in Grade 12, I lost my interest in studying.I reached a point that I haven’t passed any schoolwork in some subjects and got 80% of grade and I was not ‘with honors' in the second semester. But now, I’m glad that so far I don’t have any backlogs or experiences passing my works late, even though I procrastinate a little. And I’m always present in class and doing well in quizzes. Sadly,I can’t want anime and be active here because of being busy.
I was not changed academically by the pandemic, I was also changed socially and physically. Now, I’m going out a lot and spending my time with friends, very far from before that I was just stuck in the house with my social accounts deactivated so no one can disturb me. Also, I gained a lot of weight and acne breakout but now I’m working on my body and my pimples are now able to be counted with my fingers. I’m happy that I’m able to bring change in myself even in the slightest way.
I haven’t seen my mother for almost four years because she went to Mindanao. Of course, we miss her. I’m very excited and happy because she will be home in the next few days.
I’m happy that I still have my friends around. They’re always there. We hang out more often and eat ‘merienda’ together. And moments with them bring me laughter, fun, and peace.
You know why I used lyrics from Taylor Swift’s song *22* from the album *Red* in the title? I’m so excited for her rerecorded version of Red this coming November 12! I’m happy and excited and looking forward to the said date. Also, I can’t wait for the All Too Well short film. Please be sure to check out her new rerecorded album next Friday if you want to be heartbroken yet happy at the same time.
I’m free.
I don’t have much to say about being free. Luckily, I’m not in an overprotective family. And I’m already 18 and old enough to decide for myself and do what I want. Several days ago, my friends, former classmates and I enjoy and have fun in the beach. Some of us drank alcoholic beverages, including me. I went home and they didn’t scold me (or haven’t discovered it, LOL). Anyway, I don’t drink often, just occasionally.
Also, I’m free with my own prison I built. I’m free from those negative thoughts and feelings I had since the pandemic. My chest and mind became lighter and lighter as I freeing myself
I’m confused**.**
I’m literally confused, especially with our lessons. The past few days I’m struggling with our lessons in Chemistry for Engineers. The lesson was just given to us(asynchronous class) and I had hard time self studying. I’m not even sure if I got correct answers in the assignment. I’m confused with chemicals equations and stoichiometry in Chemistry. I’m manifesting passing grade cutie!
As days pass and as our lessons get harder, I’m getting more confused. I don’t know if I’m sure with my chosen degree program. I’m doubting and confused with my decision because of my capability and skills.
I’m lonely.
I don’t exactly know why but I always feel lonely, especially at home. That’s why most of the time, I distract myself with music including anime, writing and school works. I’m not alone but I feel lonely—that’s it.
But it’s fine being lonely, you’ll learn how to be independent and be there for yourself.
Just like from the music industry's song lyrics I am feeling happy,free, confused, and lonely at the same time.
I want to ask you. **How are you?**
You can describe what you feel using a song lyrics or title in a new article if you need a prompt. And genuinely, you can express how you feel in the comments.
We supposed to have classes in ROTC every Sunday but it was announced yesterday that we don't have meetings. So finally I got free time given that I already finished my school works that will due tomorrow. I have time to write something.
Again,I'm Nyctofiles,reminding you to stream **Red( Taylor's Version)** on November 12!
To the Swifties out there in read.cash, what's your favorite Red track and what are you looking forward to in November 12( 11 or 13 here in the Philippines,I'm not sure😭)
My top three are Begin Again,I Knew You Were Trouble and 22 and special mention to All Too Well and Holy Ground. I'm excited for the short film and Run ft. Ed Sheeran.
Thank you everyone for reading!
Understanding the Self- Journal 1
I realized that read.cash will be a good medium for this, not other blog sites. I can just send the link to my instructor.
And I'm still happy that I'm able to write even it was schoolworks. And I can still share them with you.
On October 16, we had our first meeting and class in the subject 'Understanding the Self'. Over all the class still felt like what first day of class I used to since the time of face to face classes. I learned a lot, not just on the lesson but also more about my classmates and instructor. It seems like Understanding the Self is also understanding everyone. I also learned that there are things I haven't learned yet about myself.
Even it was not part of the lesson, I want to highlight the introduction made in the beginning of the class. It's good to see my classmates' face and to know whether they are single or not, just kidding. Joking aside, I enjoyed knowing more about them, not just their name, but also a glimpse of their perspective, experience and life through the one question we answered when introducing ourselves.
The question given by Ma'am was 'Would you rather return to the past or go to the future?". I agreed with most of my classmates answers even though theirs was different from mine. I can see their point. I answered that I will return to the past not to fix my failures and mistakes but to spend more time with people especially childhood friends because I was always transferring and moving since childhood. Another reason was the fear of the unknown future. I wasn't confident with my answer and the way I answered because I am not really good at expressing my thoughts through spoken words.
The instructor also asked about our idea and prior knowledge about the subject. Most of my classmates shared their thoughts and I wasn't one of them. I wa not confident with my answer and I got regrets the moment lesson started. My answer in mind tackles Philosophy, I'm right but I didn't recite.
When the instructor was discussing the lesson, there were blurry memories uncovered and information recalled from the back of my mind. Names such as Socrates, Plato, St. Thomas Aquinas, and Rene Descartes was very familiar because these philosophers including their philosophies were already taught in Philosophy class in Grade 11. While others are pretty new to my ears.
I easily understood Socrates' and Plato's perspective on the self not just because I already learned about them, but also that their perspective were not too complicated to my understanding. These includes perspectives from St. Augustine, David Hume and Gilbert Rule too.
On other philosophers' perspective on the self, I had hard time understanding by just listening. Plus my attention was divided because I'm doing something else. But after reading the instructional materials, I easily comprehended the lesson.
It's not exactly what I believe in but Gilbert Ryle's perspective on the self is my favorite one. According to him, the body and the mind are not separated and the self is the behavior including the emotions and actions shown by the person.
Most people define a person or one's 'self' by just one's actions and emotions, especially in these times. Behavior tells a lot about someone but it can't be the only basis if a glimpse was only seen to define a person. But still, I somehow agree with Ryle.
Anyway, this is my favorite because I remember a lyrics from Taylor Swift's 'Daylight' from this perspective:
"I wanna defined by the things I love/ Not the things I hate/ Not the things I'm afraid of/ Not the things that haunt me in the middle of the night."
It's kind of irrelevant but I connect the two given that love is an emotion and action. With Ryle's perspective together with Swift's be lyrical prowess, I can and want to be defined by my love for good friends, night, coffee, music, anime and writing. Not the failures and experiences I'm afraid of. Not the feelings and thoughts that haunt me in the middle of the night.
During and after discussing the lessons, the instructor asked some questions. One of these is "What will happen to yourself after you die?". It was answered by my classmate with a biblical statement that our soul will go to either heaven or hell. I have my answer in mind and I don't want to share it with everyone. Even though there will be no wrong answer, I don't want to recite with fear of people judging me.
Other questions were "How would you characterized yourself?" and "What makes you stand out from the rest?What makes you special?". I'm happy for my classmates that were able to answer these. I keep thinking and thinking for answers. Until now, I'm not able to answer these. I hope that what I have learned and I will learn in this subject will help me to formulate my answers. I'm not even sure if I'm standing out from the rest or am I special.
To conclude everything,I learned a lot from the lesson, learned things about my classmates, and I learned that there are things I need to learn from my self. I haven't completely understood my 'self' but I know that time will come.
Mind Over Matter(the time they got power)
**TRIGGER WARNING:**
**The story contains violence.**
Good day. The classes in PUP already started. Because of that,I was unable to write something new. There are few drafts in my notebook that I wrote a month ago that I will be posting. Thankfully, I borrowed a more efficient phone so I can write more and be more active here. Thank you.
It was a story about power. A story of three kids unleashed in their diary.
One got a super power and wanted to be a hero.
One was empowered by his power to take actions.
One whose knowledge was her power became powerless.
December 12, 2010
Dear Diary,
Hello diary! I have an exciting new for you. I'm sure you will love it. I'm very excited to tell you this. I’ve got a power! It's telekinesis. I can control objects using my mind.
I always see this in movies, just like in the movie ‘Carrie’ in which the main characters killed her bullies during the prom. I don't want to be like Carrie, I want to be heroes just like the protagonists in anime and TV series that I've watched. They save and help people with their powers. I want to do the same too and become a hero.
Now, I'll tell you about how I got my power. LOL, I don't exactly know how HAHAHA. But I just knew that I have a weird feeling with my body when I woke up.
Okay, I will just tell how I discovered it. I was having a very exciting dream. In the middle of the night, in my dreams, I was in a pirate ship from my favourite anime. I was one of the powerful and skilful pirate crew. Some members just like the captain, who has a rubber-like body, have different powers after eating magical ‘Devil fruits’ in exchange of their ability to swim. We set off to a treasure island and found a chest containing the said fruit. As the weakest one in the group, they decided to give me the fruit so I can have powers. I knew it taste nasty but I want to be powerful as them so I agreed. I grabbed the weirdly textured yellow fruit and before my mouth touches it, the alarm clock interrupted my dreams. I was still sleepy and too tired to move my body but I desired to stop that annoying clock that woke me up from my fun dream. I was frustrated and stared at the ringing clock with anger. To my surprise, the alarm clock fell, causing it to stop making annoying sounds and fulfilling my desire about the clock. That time, I realized that I had powers.
I tested if I really had a power. I tried to lift the pillow beside me without using my hands. It floated magically into the air in a slow pace. Confirmed! I really got power. I also tried to make you drop from the table to the floor. I'm sorry.
I ate breakfast alone. My grandpa was already on the farm while my grandma was on the public market selling vegetables. My brother Chester is not always there. But it was a good thing so I can play with and practice on my power. I ate by using my mind to control the utensils. It was a bit messy with pieces of rice all over the floor and table. And my glass of milk almost fell after losing my concentration. After the meal, I realised that I shouldn't use my power because of laziness.
I invited my best friend Hayley to the house so we can play. I also told her about my power and she can't believe it. I trust her because she’s my best friend. She advised me to not tell anyone about my power. She was right. I don't want to be hated, hunted and called ‘freak’ by other people. I'm so proud of my power because it is very cool. Keeping it as a secret saddens me. I think I should hide my identity when using this power just like most superheroes.
In the afternoon, I went to grandpa’s farm to help him. When he was fetching water using huge buckets of water on each hand and carrying a sack of fertilisers over his shoulder, I was using my power to make things lighter and easier for him to carry. At his age, he should not carry those things heavier than I. I hid behind the huge tree when I used my power so he wouldn't notice it. There's a trace of confusion and yet relief in his face when the stuff he's carrying for years became lighter. After that, I removed weeds and insects on the crops with ease using telekinesis.
Before sunset, I went to the public market. As I was getting closer to my grandma's vegetable stand, my heart was beating faster because of the commotion of people on the spot. I felt relief when I knew that grandma was safe. The everyday noise in the market doubled that time because everyone was shouting “thief” and “pickpocket”. Some guys, I'm familiar with others being butchers, were chasing the man who stole the lady's purse. And most shoppers were stepping aside, afraid to get hurt with the thief's knife.
I made the tables turn, like literally. Using telekinesis, I made some tables on the side of the path to collapse and fell, blocking the way and causing the thief to slip and slow down. Because of what I've done, those butchers successfully captured the thief and surrendered to the police called earlier. After that, I helped my grandma to close her stand and carry the goods going home.
Billie Joe saved the day! I wish I can help more people tommorow.
Tomorrow, I need to train with this power so I can be a strong hero. When I'm stronger, I can save and help more people.
I hope Chester won't find out about my powers. I'm sure he will have the same power as me also.
That's a day, see you tomorrow. Bye diary!
-Billie Joe :)
12/13/10
Dear Diary,
I checked the contents of Billie Joe's diary after the moment I woke up,the usual thing I do to know his activity and protect him. I discovered that he has power. I always believe him because he's the kindest person everyone will know. I tried if I can do the same too. I learned that I can use telekinesis too just like little brother. We are brothers after all. We are one.
With an empty stomach, I left the house at six in the morning without other people in the house noticing.
I walked and walked until I reached a house many blocks away from ours. Then,. I've seen a familiar face. The man was busy with his plants in the front yard. He hadn't notice me yet until I used my power to make one of the flower pots rise into the air. It's funny to see the panic in his face and how he ran like a child.
I laughed so hard that he finally noticed me. Then he shouted "Monster" as if I was the only one. I laughed harder because it was really funny and to insult him.
He thought I'm the monster but he's the one who killed our mother in front of Billie Joe at the age of four. He killed our single parent whose abandoned by her good-for-nothing husband. She's Billie Joe all had when he was young. My younger brother has been crying every night for years, being haunted my that nightmare, because of this monster. The monster who snuck in our house to stole money. And he was not contented from what he got, he killed our mother after using her body for his sinful pleasure.
I controlled the floating flower pot to accelerate toward his direction. He was lucky enough to dodge it.
He ran inside the house, afraid and panicking. Before he close the door I managed to control a rock as stopper, avoiding the complete closure of the door. I pushed the door with ease with telekinesis even he was pushing from inside.
When I got inside, he ran towards the kitchen to have weapons. He's dumb. I used the power to control all the different types of knives and some forks float in the air. And I made him fly for a moment, slamming and pinning him into the wall with telekinesis.
One by one, knives accelerate towards him. I was avoiding to hit his vital organs so can have the taste of all the knives and utensils. He screamed like a swine in the slaughter house when those sharps knives cut into his arms,legs and shoulders. I remembered that he was apologizing but his screams was more pleasant to hear.
I left him in his pool of blood that keeps larger and larger as his blood drains. The kitchen was bloody as hell. I was lucky that I can use my power without getting near. I can't stand having a stain of blood from a monster.
I think, Billie Joe will be happy because of what I've done. I gave justice to the death of our mother. If the officials won't give her that,I will. I already did.
This power is very cool. I can give people what they deserved— justice,equality, peace,safety and more by eradicating the evil ones. I can't wait to do that.
-Chester
Dec. 18, 2010
Dear diary,
Its been days that Billie Joe was absent in classes. I was very worried about him. I really miss my best friend and I'm excited to see him.
When I had a chance to see him, I will tell him that I like him. He's my crush. I hope he already noticed that.I think, I won't see him for so long but my feelings will wait for him.
Yesterday, the police came into the school asking my classmates about Billie Joe. I was asked too about Billie's weird actions and his activity.
I told them everything about his telekinetic powers. They believe me because they already witnessed it when the police and DSWD officials got him. I told the man about Billie wanting to be a hero to save and help people. But they don't want to believe me in one thing.
Billie Joe won't kill anyone. It was his brother Chester. How come they believe on something supernatural not on something that has been there before. Billie Joe has a multiple personality. This country never prioritizes mental health. They believe about mind over matter more over his state of mind.
-Hayley
This prompt by @meitanteikudo has been in my notes for months. And I've been thinking about this story for a long time and wondering how I can execute my ideas and thoughts the way I love. Finally, I did with this concept. Thank you for this prompt!
Personally, I love to have Telekinesis too and I will do the same as Billie Joe. I will use my power to become a hero and enjoy.I also like Teleportation and Time travel.
Thanks for reading!
Labels are like a Fire (Are labels for the best or worst? )
Labels are like a Fire
“I've been searching for you in the whole school campus. I thought you were just playing in the school grounds again with your friends. You are just here in the waiting shed. “
“I'm too tired to play. And it is labelled waiting shed to wait here. “
“Fine, Mr. Obvious. We’ll just walk and drop by the ice cream parlour. “
“Yay! I want some coffee crumble and mocha ice cream. “
“ Okay, we’ll buy that later. While we are walking, tell me about your day in school, son. “
“I got a 100% score in our quiz in English class today and the only one among us. “
“Woah! What a smart kid, just like your mom. And of course, just like me.”
“Because it was too easy. Then my mind got tired on the following classes. There are classifications, types and kinds of something. Labels here and there. “
“Tell me about it. “
“ In Biology, we are taught about classifications of organisms from Domain down to specie. Then there are types on each categories. My head hurts just thinking about it. And tomorrow, we have a test about it. I need to study tonight. “
“Just keep it easy. Don't pressure yourself. Let's have a quick review based on my knowledge in my memory about taxonomy. What are the five kingdoms? “
“There's Kingdom Animalia, another is Plantae.... Uhm... Sorry, I forgot the other kingdoms.”
“It’s okay. Don't stress yourself out. I’ll teach you later and give tips to memorise the lesson easily. But whatever score you will get, I'm still proud of you. What about others? “
“Okay dad, thank you. Then in Literature, we learned about different kinds of poems.”
“Oh, interesting. So what's the three-line poem with a typical 5-7-5 meter or something with a total of 17 syllables?”
“It’s haiku.”
“Give me your example now. I’ll give you a moment.”
“Wait. Let me think.”
“Sure. ........”
“I’m done!
I miss my ice cream
It’s coffee crumble flavour
We’ll buy it later.”
“You're still thinking about your ice cream? Anyway, I love that. Nice one“
“As you should be. “
“Next. How about poems that don’t follow certain meters, and rhyme scheme? “
"Free verse."
“Okay, last one. What do you call the 14-line poem and William Shakespeare written popular poems in this form? “
“Sonnet. Easy. “
“I see, you're good at Literature, too.”
“You know that I love writing,a thing I inherited from you. Be sure to help me on my school project due next week. We need to make a scrap book containing different types of poems I should have written. “
“Sure. You'll get the highest mark. What else? “
“We are taught about different types of four sided polygons or quadrilaterals in Geometry class. There are types according to sides and angles. It was easy because I don't need to solve for something. I guess, easy for now. “
“Let's just leave that here. I hate mathematics.”
“Hey, dad? “
“What is it?”
“Why do we need to classify things? Why need to label them? I’ve learn about different types of matter, sentences, angles, and others in school.”
“We label things to organise and put things in order. We also do this to classify things and find connections among them, specify things and communicate better. Let's talk about your ice cream. For example, how would I know that you would like to eat coffee crumble ice cream when you said ‘I want food’. There are a lot of food in the world and ice cream is one of them. And there are countless types and flavours of ice cream around. By just telling you want coffee crumble ice cream, we can communicate better and faster.”
“So, is labelling for the best?”
“Yes. Our world is complex and comprised of countless things from objects we can see to thing beyond our senses to things that just products of our minds such as concepts and emotions. We need to put these things in order and organisations through labels. “
“Okay. But labels also put a gap between us, humans, and cause chaos not order.Just like people fighting over different political or spiritual views.”
“You’re talking beyond your age, son. We’re just talking about school and ice cream a few moments ago.”
“Just curious.”
“You are talking about the other face of the flipped coin. I can say labels are like fire. We use fire for cooking, heat and others so it is useful and helpful to us. Fire was discovered to make things easier. But it can bring danger and disaster when used to hurt others with intention and when not properly handled. Labels are like fire.”
“I understand that other face of the flipped coin, dad. That's why mom was burned to death because we are Asians in this foreign country.”
“.......”
I've been thinking about this analogy for so long. This is my story for @JonicaBradley 's prompt which is **Labels**. If you want to write about this prompt, I'll drop the rules below.
Another prompt is from @meitanteikudo . I saved this one in my notes, looking forward to write about it before. I enjoy writing about it because I'm not good with dialogues with narrations. #promptfactory
My Rainbow After the Storm; I passed my dream university!
It's been a while since I published something here. Unfortunately my phone already gave up three weeks ago that's why I'm inactive here. Nice to meet you again. My friend let me use her old phone so I can publish my works soon.
I spent my boring weeks reading and writing stories. Gonna publish them as soon as I can.
This phone still have issues such as unable to connect to 4G network and hard touch screen (I've been typing this for days) so maybe I won't be able to reply etc. immediately.
I really wanted to share this with you because I already published something about my concerns on college admissions. It was a long one.
My Rainbow After the Storm
From Kindergarten to Grade 12, my journey in school and with education is almost coming to its final chapter. It is in beginning of an end. I will be a college student and the admission and enrolment was not easy as what it was way back in elementary and high school. My college admission journey was a storm.
It is a story of my college admission journey. A story about failures, achievements, disappointments, frustrations, the effects of pandemic, and hope.
THE STORM
**PHILIPPINE MILITARY ACADEMY(PMA)**
My friend and I took the Philippine Military Academy Entrance Exam around August of 2020 in Bacolod City. We came there with their private vehicle from a two-hour-drive away city. I was lucky by saving money and avoiding being late and lost in an unfamiliar place by coming with them rather than commuting.
Before the exam, the men-in-uniforms checked our required documents, inspected our body for tattoos and piercings, and measured our height whether it reaches the minimum 5-feet requirement.
You might already know that I love coffee. That’s why I became the definition of ‘coffee-addict’ in the midst of the entrance test. During the examination that started at around 9:00 a.m. that ended at noon, I was drinking three bottles of coffee specifically Kopiko 78° and eating biscuits. Prior to that, I already drank a bottle, giving a total of four. I would prefer a black coffee but I didn't have time to go to a fast food or cafe, so I just bought some in a nearby convenience store. Coffee aided me during the exam, I guess by boosting my memory, increasing my alertness, and improving my logical and reasoning skills. That's why I always have my cup of coffee when competing in quiz been, reviewing and even when writing.
Then the day came that PMA FB page posted the list of PMAEE qualifiers. I was glad to one of more than one thousand passers from tens of thousands exam takers. My family and relatives and of course my friends are happy for me too. There was still sadness in my heart because my friend didn't pass the PMAEE.
The second part of the qualification process of becoming cadets was next—the ‘Complete Physical Exam’(CPE). It was quite expensive but it was worth taking risk for. The qualifiers from Visayas should go to Cebu City for CPE. I just came to Cebu when the location was later changed to V Luna, Quezon City. I’m lucky to be accommodated in the military camp there before my flight—free food and lodging. On the bright side ,the flight there was two to four thousand pesos cheaper than in Neg. Occidental. Besides, I was able to see a glimpse of Cebu even for a short time.
I won't be specific because I'm planning to write an article about my experience on CPE in Quezon City eight months ago. Probably when I qualified for CPE again after passing this year's PMAEE. All I want to state is this two-week CPE was my best experience in these worst times. I made friends and met new people, hearing about their reasons for applying for PMA inspired me. I was able to escape the imprisonment in the house because of the pandemic and I gained new memories and experiences. Some of these running 3.2 kilometres in 21 minutes; being completely naked with other guys in a small room; taking a bath with just a super small bucket of water, the same size with the one containing biscuits; and wondering where my thousand-peso went even though I seen on the honesty store downstairs buying snacks, notably turon and a carton of sterilised milk. There are more and I hope to share it with you soon.
Time flew swiftly and the list of incoming cadets was posted on the page. I wasn't one of them. I already expected because it was a tough competition. I didn't perform well in the Physical Fitness Test and interview. Besides, the outcome of the Neuro-psychological test was not really good. I learned that I have high level of depressive, anxiety, and impulsive traits. Those were not any diagnosis though but I think the pandemic and academic stress on distant learning really affected my mental health. Now, I'm working on my fitness and mental health, not just for the next CPE but for myself. Anyway, I am very happy for my friends that will be future soldiers in the country; they deserved it.
Honestly, I don't see myself in the field of military and law enforcement [yet still rank 5thamong 15 fields on my National Career Assessment Exam (NCAE) results]. The opportunities, benefits, and privileges in the PMA are my motivations. And I have a plan when I became a cadet I will choose Air Force so I can become a pilot when I retired. PMA is a prestigious military academy with quality education and facilities. Being a cadet will guarantee a secured job in the future as 2nd Lieutenant and there is a salary being cadet. Being not wealthy, admission to PMA is a big help for me and my family, so I was kind of disappointed. Also, people are lot on me; the pressure was heavy just like the rain in the storm that just came after a peaceful and sunny day.
**PAMANTASAN NG LUNGSOD NG MANILA (PLM)**
Because of the Covid-19 pandemic, most universities and colleges didn't conduct entrance exam. Many based the admission on grades and PLM was one of them.
I wasn't confident with my school grades even my GWAs exceed 90%. I took the chance of online application and admission to apply to many universities as I can to have multiple choices or backup schools. I applied and processed my documents not just with the reason I said earlier, but also this university has a good quality education and did well on board exams.
When the list of qualifiers for the essay exam based on the grades was released, I was frustrated. My application was not yet verified when the results were out so it means I was not part of evaluated applicants. My small chance of passing was reduced to zero because of that. Because of frustrations, disappointments and over thinking, the thoughts in my mind got louder just like the heavy drops of rain as they hit the metal roof, accompanied by thunders.
**PHILIPPINE STATE COLLEGE OF AERONAUTICS (PHILSCA)**
PHILSCA was also one of the colleges with grade-basis admission. I was happy to be apply there because it was too far there was an exam. Still, I'm not confident with my grades.
I always check the applicant module online to check my status, nothing changed. Just like my experience in PLM, my application in PHILSCA was not evaluated when the results were out. I became more disappointed with myself when I learned most of BS Aeronautical Engineering passers have GWAs higher than 95%.
When I was a kid my dream of being astronaut became more attainable—becoming a pilot. That's why PHILSCA is one of my dream state college because it offers programs related to aeronautics and aviation. Even if I can’t become a pilot, I still want career in the aviation industry (or engineering). With the released results and what happened to my application, I didn't stop myself from shedding a few tears from my bottled up feelings. The tears was countable by my fingers, but not the million raindrops that seems unending, with a chance of flood.
**UNIVERSITY OF THE PHILIPPINES (UP)**
Ever since, UP was my ultimate dream university. I’ve always seen this one of the most prestigious universities in the country on TV since I was a kid. I really want to be admitted there because of the good quality education and performance of the university. Other reasons are the diverse cultures in the campus knowing that UP is a melting pot of Filipinos coming from different provinces all over the country; and the activities and programs in the campus. I also love the academic freedom and freedom of expression there—no uniforms and hair dyes are allowed. I was fascinated the campuses too; I can't imagine what my campus life would be.
Before the start of classes last year, months before I became a Grade 12 student, I spent nearly a thousand pesos for reviewers. I set aside animal and social media and spent my time and focused my attention on studying. While others were still asleep and before the bird sing, I was reviewing at 4 am.
My GWAs in Junior High were still high though, but on my subject that will be needed for evaluation, my grades are disaster especially on Math. In the UPCAT, 40% is based on grades and the test itself is 60%(there were still other factors that will affect the evaluation though), that's why I was dedicated to review so I can increase my chance of passing.
The moment it was announced that there will be UPCAT, my high hopes fell and reached the rock bottom. I was devastated. My grades were nothing compared to others’. And I thought that I just wasted my time, effort, and money on reviewing (but I didn't, I’ve used what I learned in PMAEE and other exams).
I still applied with a little hope because grades was not just the sole basis. Course and campus choices, socioeconomic status, school grade system, and performance of the school on UPCAT etc. are in their algorithm.
In July, the results were out. When I checked the portal, “THANK YOU” was what I got not “CONGRATULATIONS”. I didn’t pass and my University Predicted Grade was so low. It didn't reach the cut-off so I was not able to apply for reconsideration. I checked the results at 5 am and tears flowed from my eyes then I went back to sleep.
I was sad for my friends and other friends because we didn't make it. There was still happiness in my heart because some of my friends way back in Elementary and schoolmates passed. I was happy for and proud of them yet there’s still “sana all” in my mind.
With the previous results from PHILSCA and from UP—my dream university and college, July was when the storm reached its peak strength, velocity and rainfall. When will the weather change?
**TECHNOLOGICAL UNIVERSITY OF THE PHILIPPINES-MANILA (TUP)**
With failures after failures and disappointments after disappointments, I had a change of heart. I decided to stop and enrol for college next year. I didn't learn at all with the modular learning with subjects like Chemistry and Physics that are important with Engineering courses I will be taking. I wasn't ready for college yet. I’m planning to study and improve my math skills and knowledge to be ‘college-ready’ and look for a job.
When I received a message from my relative that I would go to Cavite and study there, I panicked. I told my aunt that I’ll have a gap year and she got angry because time will be wasted. She was right but it's already around August. Most university already ended their admission period and some already started classes.
I looked for other open schools online and TUP-MANILA was one of state universities with engineering courses that still accepts application that time. The only engineering courses with remaining slots was BS Electronics and Communications Engineering. I didn't want it but I don't have other choice and applied anyway.
Because I’m a little bit dumb so I missed the pre-assessment exam for engineering courses. I waited for an email for days. In my surprise, it was just in the Spam section of my mails. I was three days late.
Few days later, I received another email. There will be another pre-assessment exam that will be the final one. When the date and time of the said test came, I don't have cellular load or money too buy load that time.
With my negligence and stupidity, I decided to give up. I had a change of heart again. There was still one university I was waiting for, for more than six months. It was my last ace. I was being pessimistic so I told myself that I won't pass and will stop. But there was a part of me hoping.
One university to go, what does the storm will leave behind?
THE RAYS OF SUNSHINE
**TECHNOLOGICAL UNIVERSITY OF THE PHILIPPINES – VISAYAS (TUP-V)**
**And CARLOS HILADO MEMORIAL STATE COLLEGE (CHMSC)**
I just applied to two state university/college in our province of Neg. Occidental. I don't have intentions to study in this province. I want to live in solitude or in a dormitory in my college life away home which I don't like the environment. And I am planning to be a working student when there will be face to face classes in the campus.
I just took the exams to spend time with friends and travel out of the house. I passed the entrance exams on both. I was wondering whether the outcomes were because of what I’ve reviewed for UPCAT, the coffee I was drinking during the exams, or the lucky pencils and eraser that I used to pass the PMAEE.
You might be wondering why I would rather stop when I passed the two. I already told the reasons earlier. Additionally, I don't like the courses offered which are the Electronics Engineering in TUP-V and Civil Engineering in CHMSC (the only engineering course it offers ). I was still glad that I passed both, boosting my confidence when I was doubting myself because of failures here and there.
I appreciate the rays of sunshine in the midst of the storm but I want to experience bright sunny day. The storm will come to an end, either with a drastic aftermath or new beginning. Or both.
THE RAINBOW
**POLYTECHNIC UNIVERSITY OF THE PHILIPPINES (PUP)**
I would love to study in PUP with the same reasons as UP. Students have academic freedom and freedom of expression. Both are two of the most prestigious universities in the country. Just like UP, PUP is also my dream university.
I applied around February. At first, I thought I can't apply for any engineering courses because these requires at least 86% subject average on Math, Science, and English from Grade 10 and 11. That time, I don't remember my grades, but I know I got an 80% in Math on the second quarter of tenth grade. I was worried about my subject average in Math, my weakness. When I got my Grade 10 card, I was relieved. It was 86.
Because my subject averages and GWAs reached the minimum requirement and I was from STEM strand, I was able to choose Mechanical, Civil, Electrical, Industrial, and Railway Engineering respectively.
Days were passing. I was always checking the portal if my application form has been verified. I was traumatised by my application in PMA and PHILSCA. Days before the said date of release of results, my application was not yet evaluated. I don't want to experience the same fate again. And I'm glad I didn't, I got verified.
On August 25,on my time schedule, I opened the website to check my results. I didn't qualify to any course I’ve chosen, just wait listed. Disappointment and giving up came to me.
When I checked the results, I was instructed to wait for an email on September 6 about my admission as a wait listed. I waited and hope.
My prayers have been answered. I received an email just like the other hopeful wait listed passers. I was instructed to check the website on September 8-10 for my results.
I nervously visited the website. Gladly, I was qualified to my last choice which was Railway Engineering. This course was pretty new not just in PUP but also in the country. I chose this for less competition. I’m happy that my decision was right , knowing that engineering courses are easily depleted—thousands are competing for limited slots.
I was still thankful to pass in my dream university even in my last course choice. I’m happier that I have friends and former classmates that will be soon my schoolmates. And I won't waste a year of being a NEET if I didn't land to any job.
With the last university I'm waiting for, my last ace, I got the last laugh.
After the storm with rain as heavy as my feelings through the months; loud raindrops and thunder just like my mind and flood caused by the tears. There is a rainbow in the sky.
'Holding Yourself Back Test': What's holding me back(in life & read.cash)?
From **reaching our full potentials** to **achieving our goals** to **starting a progress** to **attaining success** to **accomplishing achievements**. Either these are big or small, takes a moment or almost forever, and a one small step or a big leap in our life.
Sometimes, we are almost there and just few steps closer to these things but there's holding us back—**ourselves and our traits.**
In my life, there are moments that there's a colossal walls standing in front of me, blocking my way and journey; and there's a monster that pulls me back, abducts me, or messes my sense of direction so I can't move forward in my journey.
But, these walls and monsters are my creations. I can say they are me. Sometimes, I am my own enemy.
(Photo courtesy of Will Porada via Unsplash.) https://unsplash.com/@will0629 https://unsplash.com/photos/ZaGcU6BxJEc
I already said in 'Difficult Person Test': How Difficult Am I to Deal With? , my article about the Difficult Person Test and the results, that I enjoy taking personality tests to know discover more about myself and assess myself. By doing this, I can determine my characters and traits that need changes and improvements. https://read.cash/@Nyctofiles/difficult-person-test-how-difficult-am-i-to-get-along-with-b4c1d9f0
Another personality test I took few weeks ago is Holding Yourself Back Test. This test is about the seven elements or factors that hold people back or one's traits and characteristics that stand in their way of their own success. https://www.idrlabs.com/holding-yourself-back/test.php
This topic has been in my '*to-write list* ' for a while. Finally, I have the energy and will to come back again here after being occupied by school stuff and personal matters and write about this topic.
I will share the results of the said personality test and the explanations from the site about the factors. Also, I'm going to tell my experiences in my life and in this platform related to the factors that hold me back.
Things will get messy and revealing here.
Getting Stressed
Getting stressed is the highest among seven factors. It's true that I have poor stress management and coping skills. And I easily often get stressed, even in the most simple things.
The lines in my forehead at this age is one of the evident signs of this traits. Because of 'getting stressed ', I always get angry and irritated. I also lose focus most of the time. Because I'm always get stressed, I always cope with unproductive ways and sometimes harmful such as binge watching anime or shows, surfing in the internet amd social medias, stress eating (sometimes), and getting addicted with coffee/caffeine which are wasting my valuable time that I can use for something more important.
My academics and daily life are not just affected from getting stressed but also my journey in this platform. I haven't reached my goal here yet because I always hold myself back. Instead of writing articles, I'm watching anime ,browsing in the internet,or partially reading my books to cope with stress and avoid getting stressed. I'm a type of person who needs in a perfect consition to do something like writing, so when I'm stressed, I can't and don't want to write.
I wasted my time and opportunities because of stress that leads to procrastination and laziness.
I can't dodge, I'm really guilty about this. I am high in this factor, same percentage with getting distracted and perfectionism.
I always think that I'm not good at something, so sometimes when opportunities and interests knock, they are not welcome. When I know, I don't have a chance on something, I won't go with it. So I have a loads of 'what ifs' in my life because I didn't try things because I criticized myself before doing it. I also have insecurities mostly about talents and skills because I criticized myself that I'm not good enough.
The good thing is self criticisms and self doubt are my motivation so I can do better and improve. Also, because of this trait, I avoid big disappointments and frustrations by thinking negative about results. I always do this about my contests in or outside the school and admision exams, that's why I don't usually get disappointed about negative results.
In this platform, I also criticized myself that I'm not good enough when I read amazing works from great writers. But they still inspire me.
I was not pressured and molded to perfect especially in school while growing up so I the origin of this trait on me is a mystery. And perfectionism is so high.
I'm type of person who really plan things in my life and whole life. As perfectionist, I really want these go as what they should be. So when things, don't go with the plan I am really disappointed.
I don't want others to view as perfect or close to it, but I want me to be perfect on things I can control and my works. Also, I have a weird habit, which I think still roots to perfectionism. This is starting to do something in the start of the year(Jan. 1),start of month(first day), start of the week(Monday for me), and when time is on sharp (such as 3:00,5:00). For example I planned to be healthy so I want to jog everyday, I will wait for either monday or start of the month or write an article at exactly 8:00 AM. Yeah, it's weird.
I admit that I'm perfectionism about my works here so I write too slow. And I'm aware that sometimes what's perfect to me is still bad. I always get frustrated when I can't perfectly express my ideas and what's in my mind and when I don't reach my level of perfection.
Guess who's writing a paragraph of the article because became a little bored and then will go to the social media app? Of course me, I'm always distracted that's why this factor is high.
It's true that I lose attention and interest on something when I don't feel excited anymore. And I am inconsistent with my long-term plans. One example is my plan of saving and investing, and I'm always distracted by temptations and 'gonna-treat-myself' personality because I find temporary or long term excitement from buying or what I will buy.
I always get distracted writing and reaching my goal here especially after self criticisms and getting stressed after being comsumed by my books and anime.
The trait 'no enthusiasm ' is still pretty high or maybe in between.
Honestly, when I lose enthusiasm at something I will take a break and when my enthusiasm comes back, I will do the same. But it doesn't mean that I don't love what I'm doing anymore. We just need to rekindle the excitement and take a break.
In here, one reasons I'm always inactive is this reason. There are moments were I lose interest in here, writing and even earning.
This trait is low because I don't often fantasizing. I am always 'tulala' and zoning out but I'm thinking deeply about my life and decisions not being in a complex fantasy. I think, I'm imaginative but I know the best time to be like this.
I like taking risks but I dont have risky behavior that's why this element is so low. I'm careful with my actions and even words.
Over all, I am significantly holding myself back with a 64.29%. I'm aware that I'm always hold myself back but I didn't really know in what way. So with this test, I'm glad to learn about my traits that hurdles my succes and I will try to fix and minimize them.
Now that I learned about my traits that holds me back, I'm gonna SHAKE THEM OFF, and they will let go.
***"Baby, I'm just gonna shake, shake, shake, shake, shake***
***I shake it off, I shake it off"***
You can try the test too! It's good for self assessment and educational purposes. And keep in mind the test is not 100% accurate and can't be used as diagnosis for something.
Besides, the test is free,based on a university research and made by professionals.
All you gonna do is rate the 35 questions, like the one below, how they applies to you. It will just take minutes so this is not a waste of time.
Here's the link if you want to try it and share you results too.
https://www.idrlabs.com/holding-yourself-back/test.php
Sources https://www.idrlabs.com/holding-yourself-back/test.php
Photos are screenshots from the website, I don't own the explanations. No copyright infringement intended.
Also, the finishing lines in the article is from the song Shake it Off by Taylor Swift. https://open.spotify.com/track/0cqRj7pUJDkTCEsJkx8snD?si=tjfzjqm7TxC2Z1Ha_uzLOg&utm_source=copy-link&dl_branch=1
Thank you for reading!Aside from some traits stated above, I'm also busy about college admission,graduation and personal matters so I'm inactive here.
Pets are not just 'animals'!
*(Photo courtesy of* *Alonso Reyes* *via* *Unsplash**.)* https://unsplash.com/@alonsoreyes https://unsplash.com/photos/b-E_IyoPDFk
***"HEY***, *you guys! Guess what? I'm here today with Chopper at the park for a walk.* " Trixie is extending her delicate arm, holding her high-end phone to film herself showing her fierce eyes and sculpted cheek and jaw complemented by her jet-black hair. Then, she flipped the camera of her phone to show the dog to her ten-thousand audiences. She flipped back the camera again and answers some of the audiences' questions and talk with them. The early-20s lady is live on Instagram and still talking with her audiences.
Trixie Kreimhild is an IG influencer with over four-million followers. She's well-known for her niche which were travelling, make-up and pets. Many admired her for having a soft spots for animals. In fact, Trixie donated recently to an international wildlife organization.
Trixie added an IG story of a short video with a sticker that indicates the time that initially shows her fair legs and branded running shoes in motion of walking then she adjusted her phone to reveal Chopper walking with her, on a cute leash.
The Pomeranian dog with brown and fluffy fur is a head-turner. The dog wears a pink hat with antlers and a little blue backpack which resembles the cute reindeer pirate character from One Piece named Tony Tony Chopper. The name of the dog is from this character, given to the dog by Trixie's brother, Trevor Kriemhild.
Trevor is really fond of animals, also anime and music that's why the name of their pets is from anime and music. He's the one who others stereotyped as nerd because of his jet-black hair covering his eyes and he spend most of his time at home playing, writing and reading.
The pet and it's owner were already done on their one-hour walk at the park which mostly consist of photographs and videos.
Habitually, Trixie take selfies and photos of Chopper. Right now, the two are on their way to a cafe for a breakfast. Trixie took a selfie inside of her million-dollar car then she found Chopper being cute. She photographed Chopper, sitting cutely with seatbealt on and immediately added it on IG story.
"*Finally, we're here*, " Trixie told Chopper, as if the pet would reply. After parking, she got off the car. She's carrying the dog like it's a baby.
"*Hello! Good morning*," greeted the man in mid-20s in a green plaid flannel shirt under a brown apron. He has a wide smile painted on his face that shows his white and straight teeth.
Trixie smiled."*Good morning.* "
The server's eyes still stuck to the cute dog. "*Can I pet him* *and have a selfie?* " asked the server. He really want to pet the dog the moment Trixie entered the cafe.
Trixie smiled and nodded as approval. The server immediately left the register. He asked Trixie to take the photo from his phone while he's carrying and petting Chopper.
The server came back and asked the lady about her order. There's pet-friendly food in menu so Chopper can eat there.
Trixie and the server had a small chat about pets. The lady learned that the server was also the owner of the cafe. Besides, he love pets and has three dogs. That's why there are food available for pets in cafe.
After the chitchat, Trixie headed to the al fresco area of the cafe where pets are allowed. It's a garden filled with flowers under colorful umbrellas placed to each other to give shade and as lovely decoration.
As usual, Trixie took selfies. She also took photos of Chopper sitting, with beautiful flowers in the background.
The food she ordered came. She took a photo of her Instagram-able colorful doughnuts and cake and latte art. Chopper has muffin.
After the breakfast, Trixie and Chopper went home.
"*I'm home*," Trixie said as his enter the door of their house. Chopper is walking behind her.
"*I'll bring Chopper and Taylor later to the pet shop later for grooming*, " the lady told his brother. Trevor is sitting in living room playing games, while the Persian cat named Taylor, is sleeping on his legs. He's also the one who named the feline creature, taken from his favorite singer.
Trevor replied, " '*K*. " Still looking at the game at the television.
His went to her room to take a bath after exercising. After that, she's now sitting in the living room comfortably.
Trixie is browsing in her phone, choosing her selfies and photos of Chopper she'll going to post in her Instagram account. Taylor is now beside her playing with Chopper.
Trixie's leg bled. "*F*CK OFF! MY PRECIOUS FACE* ! " the lady screamed. Taylor scratched her.
The cat flew feet away after Trixie kicked her.
Trevor's thick eyebrows furrowed and jaw tightened,showing his defined jawline. The teen has warm and soft face which is now burning and fierce with anger.
"*WHY DID YOU HURT MY PET?!* " He screamed at her sister.
"*Of course, she scratched me! Now, I nees to wait for my wound to heal to take selfies and shoot my make up and skin care tutorial!*" Trixie explained.
" *Even so, you shouldn't hurt them!* " Trevor is now petting Taylor.
"*Why are you siding with them?!PETS ARE JUST ANIMALS. ANIMALS*!" the sister replied.
"*Pets are not just animals! You're the 'animal' here,not my pets! Please don't use them to deceive people that you love animals in social media! Stop pretending!*"
This always happens.
Trixie left the house after the argument and went to her trusted dermatologist. She had her wound to be treated and healed, as soon as possible.
She arrived at the clinic and got off. On her way inside, there's a stray dog at the side walk. Because of her frustration and disgust, Trixie kicked the scurvy and malnourished dog,what she thinks is just an animal.
Both of them are animals. One is God's creation which can be pet and family. One is a wolf in sheep's clothes who thinks pets are just animals.
Here's photo of Tony Tony Chopper for context and to lighten your mood from the trash you've read:
(Photo courtesy of Toei Animation from their tweet.) http://www.toei-animation-usa.com/
This is my article for @JonicaBradley 's tenth prompt which is **Pets**.
All I want to say is be kind to pets and other animals. Don't be like Trixie, be like her brother.
Also, don't be fooled by those cunning wolves.
Help me grow as a writer. You can give your criticisms, opinions and thoughts about my stories.
Thanks for reading.
When I was a kid,I'm not just a kid:I'm a chef, artist,actor and more
***Did you teach your playmates alphabets and number while holding a stick in role playing game and thinking you were a teacher?***
***Did you play with fire and cook flowers, leaves and grass in a can, thinking you were a chef?***
***Did you mix and experiments with liquids in your house when you're young thinking you were scientist?***
I guess,you did. That's same applies to me. Because when I was young, I'm thinking that I'm not just a kid. It feels like I'm talented in different fields. When I'm a kid, I'm my own version of chef, actor, scientist, dancer, artist;you name it,almost everything.
When I was a kid, I'm my own version of chef
*****Barbecue***** ***for me, for others it's just different leaves and flowers skewered with stick from the broom.***
*****Soup***** ***also known as a variety of flowers, leaves and fruits of ornamental plants cooked in water.***
*****Spaghetti***** ***is long grasses soaked in sauce made of crush flowers.***
***My*** *****Halo-halo***** ***is just cut leaves and flowers mix with bubbles from detergent as shaved ice.***
When I was a kid, I'm thinking that I was not just a kid. I'm my own version of Chef. Back then, I including my sister and cousin used to pretend we're cooking when playing. *'Lutu-lutuan'*, what we all call it. They have a cooking set toys composed of plastic utensils and cookwares and some plastic food ingredients. They also have ceramic cookwares that we use in real fire. The ingredients we used are products of our creativity and resourcefulness such as plant parts. We tried making food like oyr version of cakes and more from the food we can buy from stores, one example is *Fudgee Barr* decorated with *Crimstix* and candies.
The food we made may taste bad and we have bitter experiences like pain by burning ourselves in fire or quarrels. But, it was all good and sweet experience I miss.
When I was a kid, I'm my own version of artist
***Figures of people that look like lollipop and sticks.***
***A worm which looks like just a single curve line.***
***An airplane which didn't look like one that I imitate from my father's drawing.***
When I was a kid, I'm thinking that I'm not just a kid. I'm my version of artist. I really enjoy drawing when I was younger. I always told my parents to buy me a paper and pencils when they leave or we're on the mall. I enjoy drawing my favorite cartoon characters like Spongebob Squarepants and the penguin I forgot about(not Pororo, it's like a stop-motion cartoon),animals, and vehicles such as rocket and airplanes because I dreamed to be a astronaut or pilot. I also made paintings that I decorated on our tree house which is just a scrap plywoods drawn with landscape by crushing flowers on its surface. I also love coloring, that's why I have a lot of coloring books. Additionally, I made jewelries from Santan flower and staples and so are you. Just like back then, I'm still not good at art today. I wish I was talented.
I was creating things I considered masterpieces when I was young. Today, I might be in rough textures, dark colors and lines of downfall but it's part of the me creating my career,better self dream's happening and future.
When I was a kid, I'm my own version of actor and director
***"Kunwari babarilin kita ha ta's matutumba ka pero bangon ka ulit. "***
***"Kunwari susuntukin mo ako ha. H'wag mo laksan. Tapos mamatay ako. "***
When I was a kid, I'm thinking that I'm not just a kid. I'm my own version of actor and director. My friends and I always play back then like we're action stars,heros or people with powers. We act like enemies and fight without hurting each other. We also direct each other by suggesting actions.
I'm a great actor back then, my cries because of my brother and sister will continue even I stopped hour ago when my parents came home.
I miss playing roles and acting when I was young. It was fun. Now, I'm acting and directing my own life,not fictional roles.
When I was a kid, I'm my own version of dancer
*****Kagat labi.*****
*****Itaktak mo!*****
*****Boom Tarat-tarat.*****
***Just imagine me dancing to some of these songs.***
When I was kid, I'm thinking that I'm not just a kid. I'm my own version of dancer. When my family watch noontime shows a decade ago and the songs above played, I danced when my patents told me because I'm gullible. I dislike dancing but some times I enjoy it especially when my mother will give me 5 pesos. I'm aware that my feet are both left so I don't really like dancing. I will danced just for grades.
I miss dancing like a worm sprinkled with salt. I was just going with the flow and harmony of the music back then. Now, going with the flow of life and trying to be with harmony.
When I was kid, I'm my own version of MORE
From treehouse to house to my garden fences, when I was a kid, I'm my own version of ***carpenter***.
I miss building our so called house made with blankets or sometimes cardboards. Also, I made a tree house just a feet above the ground HAHAHA.
Mix here. Mix there. Mix everywhere. When I was a kid, I'm my own version of ***scientist***.
I really love watching science shows. Sometimes, I experiment with my own by mixing liquids I found in the house.
Planting is no joke. That's why I love it. So when I was a kid, I'm my own version of ***gardener***.
Planting is one of my interests since I was young. I love planting vegetable plants. I even plant garlic cloves and onions from the kitchen, yet I never experienced harvesting these.
Run like in a marathon. Bike like one of Tour de France cyclists . Jump in Chinese garter like a high jumper. And more. When I was a kid, I'm my own version of ***athlete***.
I always play outdoors when I was younger. I'm competitive and some games unleash my inner athlete. These memories aren't just in my mind. You can see them in my knees and elbows as scars.
When I was kid, I play but this is not just playing. Sometimes,it feels like I'm an actor, artists, carpenter, and such. Playing is not just playing. There are more versions of myself surfacing in the surface.
**Challange Accepted!**
I was tagged by @Corpsekunno on the article Nostalgic Memories From The Past: When I Was Younger. Again, thank you. https://read.cash/@Corpsekunno/nostalgic-memories-from-the-past-when-i-was-younger-34562a24
This article is about the challenge started by @bmjc98 on her article Getting To Know You More Challenge : When I Was Kid. Also check it out: 16 Days Before My 1st Year Anniversary On My First BCH Platform Ever. https://read.cash/@bmjc98/getting-to-know-you-more-challenge-when-i-was-a-kid-6c5daa12
I will tagged @wakeuplincs , @Koyang , @Viktor105, and everyone who want to write about the challenge.
Thank you for reading.
Joining the Trend: Would you rather read this or ignore this?
0.Would you rather be late on this trend or miss the fun?
Lately, I've read numerous articles about this challenge. Yeah, it's fun. I know, I'm kinda late but I don't want to miss the fun.
I would rather be late on this trending 'Would You Rather ' Challenge by @kingofreview than miss the fun.
I used the site either.io after reading @kli4d 's Would you rather be late on this trend?. He used that site. It's good one because you will see the choice of other people and their comments why. http://either.io/7095/would-you-rather https://read.cash/@kli4d/would-you-rather-be-late-on-this-trend-6be2e115
You will know more about me by reading this. You will see how weird and different I am in some aspects. And you will know some of my experiences in life. And you will see how my mind thinks . Also, I want to thank everyone.
*****Let's Start*****
1.Would you rather have everything you touch turn to dust or have everything you touch turn to gold?
I will be the modern-day King Midas in reality with my answer. I would rather have everything I touch turn to gold than dust. The majority thinks the same.
Gold is more valuable than dust and other than that, it's more useful. I think, you can live longer and effectively with a touch of gold than dust. You can use a golden glove all the time so you can avoid to turn your loved ones and food into shiny metal. You can't wear a dust glove though. Also, it can be your source of income and wealth. Just be careful that you won't be chased by kidnappers who know your abilities and by lightning that is attracted to your house full of gold.
2.Would you rather burn to death or drown?
I don't like both to be the cause of my death. But I would rather burn to death, but the nice 69% doesn't think the same.
I nearly drowned twice in my life. That feeling, being underwater and unable to breathe and losing strength and swallowing too much water, is the worst feeling ever that I don't want to experience again. Drowning is a slow creeping suffering.
I know that even accidentally touching the flame in the match hurts, how about burning to death? This is the most painful wr can experience. But I chose *drowning* because being burned to death is extremely painful in the beginning but the pain will later subside when our nerves are already burned or not functioning. Also the body is highly not recognizable.
3. Would you rather be wanted or be needed?
I think, I am always opposing many. I would rather be wanted not be needed.
To be needed by someone is great. Isn't it heartwarming to be I-can't-live-without-you of someone? But what if, people already achieved what they needed from you or you don't have the reason they needed in you?
That's why I want to be wanted, not by the police,lol. Wanting me is a choice of the heart not based on life circumstances and body.
4. Would you rather get $20 or get frequently complimented for 1 day?
I really appreciate people's compliment but I would rather get $20 than a lot of compliments in a day.
Compliments of others are inspiring and boosting my confidence. But I'm not used to a lot of compliments and it will make me uncomfortable. So want to get $20, but not that I hate compliments nor I love money. One, two, or no compliments at all in a day is super okay for me.
5. Would you rather run 26 miles or swim 5 miles?
I would rather run 26 miles because I don't have a choice. I can't do the other.
I don't know how to swim so I would rather run 26 miles or almost 42 kilometers. But it's better than drowning. I think the longest I run and jog is just 10 kilometers, but with practice and improving my body, I think I can run 26 miles.
6. Would you rather live in an amusement park or live in a zoo?
Living in an amusement park is fun,what the majority thinks. But I would rather live in a zoo.
Amusement parks are indeed fun. But I think, I will still get bored over time especially when I already rode on all the rides. Besides, the environment is noisy.
In zoo, it will be more peaceful compared to amusement park and the environment is most green —nature. Not gonna lie, some times I get bored in a zoo. But I think, living with animals is not boring.
7. Would you rather be in jail for a year or live in complete isolation in the mountains for a year?
I guess it's obvious, I would rather live in the solitude in mountains for a year.
To be in jail, is included in my friends bucket list and mine. I know, we're weird. Nonetheless, I would rather live in a mountain alone–it's a dream not just in a bucket list. Besides, jails are congested.
I want to experience living in the mountain in solitude. There I can enjoy gardening and explore. It's also a peaceful environment to read books and write. I love to be home alone but living alone is different. I'm sure, I won't get bored there even there's no phone signal. Just make sure, there's no deadly animals around.
8. Would you rather jump forward 10 years of your life or go back 10 years of your life?
I would rather go back 10 years of my life than jump forward. That's also the majority's choice.
I don't know what's ahead in the future and it can be terrifying so I don't want to go there. I'm afraid to see my future.
Going back to my past, it's better. Going back ten years ago, I would be eight years old. I will enjoy my childhood more and I will try to love Mathematics. I have regrets that I don't listen to Math class to the point that I hate it and uninterested that I brought in High School. I wish I could be better at Math because it's important in my chosen career. Also, I will teach my young self to invest money.
Hey guys! I'm not able to write an article about my 1 year anniversary in read. cash and appreciation to all of you because of some circumstances.
But I would like to thank everyone,my sponsors, friends, readers and to all part of my journey. Thank you for the support, ideas, inspiration and motivation you are giving. THANK YOU! I'm really thankful to all of you. ILY.
-Clyde
My First Read.Cash Anniversary! - Q&A
A year slipped away into a moment in time. Read.Cash and I are now together for a year. What a year of ups and downs, struggles, changes, and growth.
Three weeks ago, I posted a short post asking for your questions about my journey in this platform. This time, I am going to answer them.
Off all the articles you have written or publish, which one do you think is the best one for you and you are proud of?
A question from: @Corpsekunno
I won't base on the quality, views or tips on the articles for choosing the best article and the one I'm proud of.
I think my best one is my very first article I wrote which I intended to post here. It's Sierra Madre Philippines : Let's Protect Our Protection. https://read.cash/@Nyctofiles/sierra-madre-philippines-lets-protect-our-protection-sign-the-petition-5f30c1c1
For me it's the best and the one I'm really proud of because I really achieve my dream and goal in writing which give information and also influence and lead change.
This article is about Sierra Madre and how this mountain range protects us, and also the flora and fauna. I don't know if signing petitions really help to avoid the construction of a dam in this area but some people signed because of the article. I'm just happy and proud about it. Hoping to write more articles with message,lesson and information.
Another one is My Top 5 Songs That Left Me in Tears which the article I have with the highest tips. I'm proud of it because I share the thing I love which is listening to music. I love talking about it and others share theirs too. https://read.cash/@Nyctofiles/my-top-5-songs-that-left-me-in-tears-84c58391
What/ who motivates you to keep writing when sometimes you don't get a tip?
A question from: @ExpertWritter
In the name of being honest, I write to express and use my time effectively but also there's a part of me that is looking at those dollar signs– I also want to earn. So there are times I got unmotivated when the bot doesn't visit me.
Sometimes, when I don't get a tip; appreciation,feedback, and comments that shows liking to my works of people in this site really motivate me. There are moments that I think that my works are just a bunch of garbage put together, and still people like these and making me more confident about my works. People's appreciation, admiration and feedback warm my heart and motivate me to continue writing and be better at this thing.
As an observant person, sometimes I noticed that there are writers including friends whose works are not completely visited by the bot. They motivate me because they continue to write and publish, no matter what.
And sometimes I just keep in mind that earnings don't really matter and life is full of ups and downs. Then I will write again, and again.
How did you find this platform useful to you? What are your experiences both achievements and failures?
Questions from: @renren16
Read.Cash is a big helping hand. It's beneficial to me by being source of money that I use for buying things I need and also want. From my cellular load for my online classes and requirements, weekly groceries ,and transportation fair when there's important to go to, and to my wants and treat to myself like new shirts and even eating outside, I'm thankful to read.cash for these. Also, with this platform I can hone my skills in writing and express what it's in my heavy chest and busy mind.
I don't know what my achievements are but the things I consider my achievements are earning with my passion, self-improvement ,and meeting and having new friends. I'm glad that I can earn money with the thing I enjoy which is writing. Also, I achieved self-improvement in this platform like improving my skills and creativity,learning by watching and reading things that source of muly ideas and improving my socialization and communication skills. And I met friends and acquaintances especially in times were I was away with my close friends and classmates.
I think my failures in this site is giving up and having no goal or unable to achieve it. When I joined the platform, I still have doubt that it will work so I just posted my poems written for schoolworks. Seeing that I just got cents which I think is a waste of time, I abandoned my account and given up. Three or four months later,I came back and wrote again and regretted my decision back then. Even I am here for a year, I still haven't achieve one Bitcoin Cash and struggling to keep some for this. But this failure is still okay because the money didn't went to waste.
Things that frustrated you. Like did you felt some people disagreed with your thoughts and downvoted your works? Or did others bashed your craft? If yes, how did you deal with this and if no, why do you think why not?
Questions from: @Eunoia
Most of the time, I'm frustrated with myself. I'm frustrated because I'm unable to extract and fully express my ideas in my mind. Also,when I haven't followed the time I set to write and when I got distracted.
As of now, I still haven't experienced people bashing my craft and met people disagreed with your thoughts and downvoted my work. Possibly, there are individuals who disagreed with my ideas but they don't express it in the comment so I wouldn't know. But I experienced having disagreement with someone in the comment about "Kids are not investment", something like that. But it's a healthy discussion and we're respectful with each others opinion.
I think the reason that people haven't bashed or disagreed with my works and ideas because I'm careful with my words. I am trying to avoid topics like politics, and religion and faith to stay away from arguments.
If someone disagreed with me and gave a thumbs down, I will understand him/ her because we have different perspective unless it's unethical or immoral. Then, when bashing happened, I won't give a fact(no profanity HAHA) and maybe report them. Bashers are not useful, they will judge you and your work without any basis. I would love critics, not bashers. Maybe I will make them my inspiration so I can improve to the point that I won't be bashed.
Challenges and difficulties you faced on your read.cash journey.
From: @kli4d
I'm having difficulties by just using a phone. I don't have a laptop so I am using and struggling on a phone given to me by my grandmother, three years ago, I guess. The model was old–Oppo A37 so it has low storage and battery. My storage is already full so I can't download Canva which I can use for lead ages here and also Telegram to interact with other users. I just stick to traditional draft through pen and paper, which I still prefer but slows me down.
And other challenges and difficulties are mostly internal conflicts and my traits like laziness, shy to interact with others,being unmotivated, writer's block and more .
How did you discover this platform? Share your story.
A question from: @Pattatunay
I'm following a Facebook page that posts satirical news, it's ***Philippine Read***. I really like their content so I always check out and read their news posted.
One day, I was intrigued on their post about read.cash. It was a referral link of @NinoJade ,but now he's @SikritPirson. Check his works out.
That day, I discovered this site and registered later on. The time I followed a rabbit that led me to a Wonderland.
I also tried submitting my news entry on the said page. You can read it here and will be posted below. https://www.facebook.com/PhilippineRead/photos/a.121078992963095/128251242245870/?type=3&app=fbl
Again, I want to thank those people who asked. I'm grateful to y'all.
I'm going to write about my journey and appreciation to all of you in a new article. But right now, I want to thank my sponsors, my friends along the way, silent readers,subscribers,communities and everyone who is part of my journey. God bless you all, stay safe. Ily.
I've been inactive for days because I was busy celebrating graduation with friends and I had a headache.
I'm back again and I have surprises for this day. Check out my article later.
@Nyctofiles
