How Much Love Do You Really Have For Nature?
**na·ture lov·er**
*noun*
— a person who enjoys spending time in the countryside and observing wild animals and plants.
Perhaps, by any chance, you have already came across with this term. It could be that you have seen from your friends’ status, or, it could be a term that describes YOU. Accordingly, a nature—lover is a term that pertains to a person who enjoys spending time in the countryside and observing wild animals and plants. This could be your friends, friends of friends, maybe one of your family members, me, you or each and everyone of us. We can't refute the fact that the majority finds peace blending and interacting with nature, of course, who would not be, right? https://www.google.com/search?q=nature%E2%80%94lover&oq=nature%E2%80%94lover&aqs=chrome..69i57j0i546l5.9026j0j9&client=ms-android-oppo-rev1&sourceid=chrome-mobile&ie=UTF-8
Just yesterday, I and my family took a quick visit to a popular tourist spot here in our place. It is among the destinations I mentioned in my article entitled, “Here’s Why You Should Visit the Municipality of Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur, Philippines”, and it is no other than the most visited Langan Falls/Mini Falls in our barangay. https://read.cash/@jstjylrd_/heres-why-you-should-visit-the-municipality-of-sta-cruz-davao-del-sur-philippines-fafe70c6
It was not my first time of being there, in fact, I frequently visit there when I was a kid since it is not that far. During that time, there were only three (3) that you will behold: the clear and pristine river, tall trees that provide shade below, and the clean surroundings. This time, however, as I took my first step inside the area, I saw before my very eyes how things became very different from how it used to be. Plenty of tourists were visiting the place. Plenty of stalls and stores surrounded the river. And, one thing that captured my attention and broke my heart, was the scattered trashes left out by the tourists.
And just recently, I saw a status in Facebook from a concerned citizen regarding to her sentiments towards the irresponsible tourists who recklessly left their trashes after their stay. Most of these wastes are plastic wrappers from junk foods.
I suddenly thought of the same experience I had yesterday in my own place, which urged me to raise awareness about proper waste disposal in this platform. I came up with a question which is supposedly for those people who lack of knowledge about proper waste disposal, yet, later on, it turns out that this issue is all about each and everyone of us. Whether you are a nature-lover or not, how much love do you really have for nature?
Is your love for nature only meant for fun?
When I say love to nature for fun, it is all about what you can get from it without giving back what you have taken. It is given that, we interact to nature because we want to relax, while providing a stimulating atmosphere for our senses. We also long for adventure through exploring outdoors that gets us ready to make our positive impact on the world. However, if this kind of fun means forsaking your care and love for the environment, then your love for nature is only meant for fun. https://nature-mentor.com/love/
Is your love for nature only meant for clout-chasing?
When I say love to nature for clout-chasing or chasing clout, I mean someone chasing power or popularity on social media through saying that he/she is a nature-lover. Wanting for popularity across social media is no new at all to us anymore. Some people use the nature to create a good impact to their viewers, thus, gaining popularity. While I see no wrong in this when they also take good care of the environment, this action will become a wrongdoing when they forsake the nature by not disposing the wastes properly. In simpler terms, if this clout-chasing using nature means forsaking your care and love for the environment, then your love for nature is only meant for chasing clout. https://acceleratetv.com/six-signs-you-are-a-social-media-clout-chaser/#:~:text=In%20the%20wise%20words%20of,you%20are%20a%20clout%20chaser!
Is your love for nature meant for its welfare while enjoying it's beauty?
When I say love for nature for its welfare while enjoying it's beauty, I mean remembering and doing your responsibility to take good care of it, after you receive the benefits from it. There are still people who are mindful of their wastes in, for example, in rivers and beaches, and I salute them. This the real love that we must give to nature.
Final and Closing Thoughts
In life, there are two kinds of love: genuine and fake love. Genuine love enables us to do things without condition, while, a fake one is an opposition. Similarly, having real love towards nature should enable us to take good care it, with or without condition. These conditions I am pertaining to are the fun and the fame I mentioned above. It should be remembered always that these 2 things are the usual benefit we can get from nature, and, there's nothing wrong with that. However, one thing that I wanna repeat and give reiteration is how those things should be done by still remembering the responsibility towards us. By doing such thing, we can be called a genuine nature—lover, where we can respond to the question, “how much love you really have from nature”, through having love which is great enough that exceeds beyond conditions.
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Hi everyone! Thanks for reading my article. I hope you have a good day. Stay safe and see you around.
LIVE LONG AND PROSPER!
How Evolution Changes the Face of Bayanihan, A Filipino Tradition
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In this world filled with never-ending chaos where crab-mentality and discordance are being normalized by the majority, the concept of Bayanihan is a silver—lining amidst these coexisting darkness in this modern times.
During the past decades, Bayanihan is a demonstration of the locals who come together, collaborate, and relocate a Bahay-Kubo, the Philippines’ national house, from one place to another. The Bahay Kubo or Nipa Hut, is a traditional house built using local materials such as wood, bamboo and nipa grass. As an exchange, the proprietor will arrange a modest feast for everyone and will later turn to be a joyous celebration for all. Indeed, this tradition merits preservation in these contemporary times.
With the constant change we have felt the past couple of years which includes the emergence of modernization, the traditional Bayanihan became a candle whose light was slowly extinguished notwithstanding. In the present days, Bahay-Kubo is now rarely seen in comparison to the old days. We often see houses usually built-up using concrete materials. While I do not view prosperity as a disadvantage, one thing that makes me feel sad is how it affects our culture and tradition negatively.
Looking at the different dimension of the impacts of modernization, one thing that is worth-mentioning is how it saves this tradition from its total disappearance. Bayanihan, little did we know, has been slowly evolving from how it used to be. For example, Philippines is renowned being a home of plenty of natural disasters. In fact, the country being situated in the typhoon belt in the Pacific, experiences 20 typhoons on average annually. In addition, "Pacific Ring of Fire" location renders it susceptible to regular earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. Bayanihan, in these serious cases, emerges in some ways, even during this pandemic.
Bayanihan is the Filipino term used to describe people working together out of generosity to achieve the same goal. In the verge or after the calamities, Filipinos are really helping each other through giving financial, moral, and emotional assistance in order to lessen the burden caused by those calamities. Regardless of how affected they are, they show up and give helping hands to others as much as possible. https://startnetwork.org/news-and-blogs/tackling-covid19-in-the-philippines
Bayanihan is the much-cherished Filipino spirit of solidarity, civic unity and cooperation. This tradition, fortunately, is still being demonstrated overseas. Especially during the pandemic, the Overseas Filipino Workers (OFW) in Netherlands, united as one in order to assist one another. Despite of being million miles away from the homeland, the opportunity to implement Bayanihan was successfully done. By that, solidarity, civic unity and cooperation became the new face of Bayanihan. https://blogs.lse.ac.uk/covid19/2021/05/06/we-are-filipinos-we-do-bayanihan-we-help-each-other-undocumented-migrants-in-the-netherlands-during-covid/
Bayanihan spirit is manifested in various projects and acts of kindness . For example, Coronavirus disease was being responded by the Filipino community in the Midwest through an outpouring spirit of Bayanihan manifested in various projects and deeds of kindness. These were done through providing food to healthcare front-line workers, producing and donating cotton face-masks, and the providing relief goods to localities in the Philippines. https://dfa.gov.ph/dfa-news/news-from-our-foreign-service-postsupdate/26687-bayanihan-spirit-lives-on-as-filipino-community-in-midwest-responds-to-covid-19-pandemic
The reality of this present time suggests that the traditional Bayanihan, unfortunately, has been slowly disappearing. It may sound sad, but, it is something that the Filipino can attest. As we continue to climb the summit of modernization, we can also say that it is a factor that contributes to the evanescence of the traditional face of Bayanihan. While it may sound to be a negative aspect of life, one thing that we have also observed is how it evolved from its supposed way. This evolution resurrects the spirit of Bayanihan, while preserving the real of essence of this tradition.
Now that this naturally-occuring process helped the humanity to resurrect this tradition, it is now our duty as Filipinos, to preserve this one through applying it everytime and everywhere to anyone. We must give justification that Bayanihan is all about Filipino people working together out of generosity to achieve the same goal, a much-cherished Filipino spirit of solidarity, civic unity and cooperation, and that, Bayanihan spirit is manifested in various projects and acts of kindness. We must be steadfast at conserving its essence so that the next generation can recognize and develop it, since, it is one thing that gives identity to us Filipinos.
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Someone Accused Me Of Plagiarism
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It’s exactly 6:17 in the evening and I am outside sitting all alone. Blending within the darkness under the old, gigantic mango tree, and wander in my own perception until I get lost in my own thoughts are the things I prefer the most. I can see the bluish sky being slowly devoured by the darkness above.
Whist I was in the verge of reflecting things within myself, I suddenly remembered this one unpleasant experience I have encountered last night. Something that I never thought would happen here. Something which I never thought would come from a respectable and popular person here.
You may have not known this that much, but I keep on trying my best to interact with my fellow writers here as much as possible. It's one thing that @Sydney2 told me to keep on mind, and, I do this by liking, and commenting in their articles, as well as responding to those people who drop a comment in my own article. What happened was, I came across with a well-written article that was all about the author’s report, specifically his/her earning. I tried to read it, comprehend it carefully since there were some unfamiliar terms being used, and, dropped my comment later on. It was written by someone whom I will not completely name to avoid more trouble. The username starts with the letter ‘P’ and ends with ’A’, and has seven letters all in all. He/She is also very popular here, and earns bigger amount, perhaps, he/she’s been here for almost or more than a year.
Although I can't exactly remember my comment because I forgot to take a screenshot, all I knew was, I just commended his/her article, and even asked some tips in order to improve my earnings as much as he/she has. I can't also remember that I commented something malicious, or bad comment, since I wanna contribute something positive in this platform.
Hours passed, I saw on my notification that the person replied to my comment. I was overflowing with excitement and happiness back then, knowing that finally, a famous personality, has responded to my comment. My eyes widened, I pouted, I frowned, and, with confusion and disappointment, I tried to understand his response again and again. I also noticed that my comment was in the spam section, and blocked me later on. I thought at first that the comment was just a sarcasm or I just misunderstood it. Yet, when everything sunk in my system, there I realized that he he threw unpleasant words and phrases towards me such as:
**trash**
**lack of integrity**
**lack of intelligence**
**plagiarism**
**someone who will never improve.**
I calmed myself first because I admit, I was not ready for these words. These are something I have not received in my entire life, and was just thrown towards me by someone whom I have not known personally, and someone whom I looked up to here in this platform. I am actually not hurt since I can attest to myself these are not all true and dissembling. The thing that just made me anxious is, why did he/she utter those words? By that, I want to take this opportunity to reply and debunk all of those propositions in this article, one by one, since I was not able to respond because he/she blocked me already.
1.) Trash
A trash is something that is considered as a discarded matter. In other definition, it is a person or people regarded as being of very low social standing . Firstly, I don't really know why this user called me trash, however, I know in my self that I am way more than a trash. Secondly, trashes are worthy so am I. Lastly, trashes, still, have uses,so do I. https://www.google.com/search?q=trash&oq=trash&aqs=chrome..69i57j0i271l3.1720j0j9&client=ms-android-oppo-rev1&sourceid=chrome-mobile&ie=UTF-8
2.) Lack of Integrity
Integrity is defined as the quality of being honest and having strong moral principles; moral uprightness. The opposition to this is what the person wanted to call me.I may not be honest at all times since I lie sometimes, I know deep down my entire existence that I established moral principles and have moral uprightness within me. https://www.google.com/search?q=integrity&oq=integrity&aqs=chrome.0.69i59j69i57j69i177j69i57j69i58j69i60j69i61j69i60j69i59j0i271.1734j0j4&client=ms-android-oppo-rev1&sourceid=chrome-mobile&ie=UTF-8
3.) Lack of Intelligence
Well, in this part, I cannot really say that I have a very high intellectual quotient to tell that I am an intelligent being. All I know is that, everyday, I seek for knowledge so that there's something I can spoon—feed to my brain. I thirst for new idea, thus, I read in order to suffice it. I may not be the most intelligent, but one thing that I am most proud of is that, I keep on trying. And the most important thing is, I have respect.
4.) Plagiarism
Among all of these, being accused of plagiarism is one thing that worries me the most. Plagiarism is a serious accusation, hence, I should not let this one pass. Firstly, I am a student researcher myself. I competed not once, nor twice or thrice, but quadruple times in a Regional Science and Technology Fair; a research competition level across the whole region 11 or Davao Region. Prior to this, I had to compete quadruple times in the Division Level where I got to meet student researchers from whole Division of Davao del Sur. I was taught at school, by my research teacher, research coach and research coordinator, to always give citation and reference to any borrowed ideas, even if you have paraphrased it. Evidently, you can see that in the majority of my articles that I always include citations and references when necessary. Secondly, I know how to make citations and references, whether it be in APA (American Psychological Association) format, MLA (Modern Languages Association) system, Chicago style, the Harvard system, and the MHRA (Modern Humanities Research Association) system. Lastly, I know that plagiarism is a serious crime. The logic is, why would I do something which puts me in a terrible situation despite the fact that I know how to avoid it?
5.) Someone who will never improve.
I don't agree with this one since this is illogically wrong. There will always be a room for improvement. Always remember that.
Final and Closing Thoughts
Until now, I still couldn't recover from this thing. It also carved an unforgettable mark in my whole system. Maybe someday, this will leave me and allow me to move on. I actually wanted to forsake it, but there's really something that urges me to write this article. Perhaps, to explain my side, and, let anyone be aware about their comment no matter how harmless it is. No matter how nice and pleasant you are, this article tells you that there will always be a person who will treat you rudely, and that person, can sometimes be somebody you look up to, someone whom you expect to uplift and motivate you as a beginner, and someone whom you less expect to do such bad act towards you. This may be worst experience I had encountered in this platform so far, but it’s one thing I will never forget in my stay here nonetheless.
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Note: This article was written last night, at the specified time above. I only had the opportunity to post it this morning. Moreover, this also was not uploaded as a mean to add more fuel to the fire, but, to explain my side and raise awareness to beginners like me.
Update: I tried looking for my comment in his/her article but I cannot see it anymore because of this:
Lead Image: Edited Using Canva
Photo in the Lead Image Source: iStock https://www.istockphoto.com/photos/man-with-magnifying-glass
Thank you for reading stay safe and see you around.
Live long and prosper!
Have You Ever Thanked God the First Time He Broke You?
Note: This is a work of fiction.
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"Can you still remember the first time you were completely shattered?", asked by an old pastor. It was five years fast backwards when we had this annual youth fellowship, that we used to attend. The pastor smiled wide-open, and looked at each and everyone of us. Some teenagers laughed, and some were just waiting for his mouth to speak up again. "If yes, what did you do back then?", he added as he walked around the stage. He paused for a moment and again asked, "have you ever thanked God the first time He broke you?".
I had no idea what was the word 'broke' accurately meant during that exact moment. It was kinda confusing for me since, it could have pertained to any situations. All I knew back then was, I was happily living my life with less anxiety or worries about something. Little did I know, I will reach the point in life where, I can encounter the essence of this felicitous question asked by the pastor.
The smell of year 2019 is still a fragrant aroma for me. It was when I spent the last days of my life as a student, before the COVID-19 interfered what was supposed to be a perfect timeline. It was also the year where I firstly experienced the most tragic days of my life. That was also when, an unexpected accident happened to my father. I cannot truly imagined what was the exact emotion I felt that time, and all I did was to lock myself in a room. I wept all day long, imagining how a God could be so reckless in taking away my father's life after I have been so faithful to him. I cursed him, and questioned the point of life, and his existence. It was like losing my whole faith at that point of my life.
Weeks passed. Those were the hardest battles for me to conquer, I admit. Then, I realized that, crying all day long was not the solution and cursing God was an erroneous action we could ever do.I went outside and reflected through looking at the vastness of the sky. I was like a bird that was captivated in the cage for a very long time, and was freed. The brightness of the sun, the birds freely flying, and the grasses freely dance along with the wind. I realized that, if the sun still shines, why would I let darkness rule over myself? If the birds are still freely flying, why would not I free myself from pain, hatred and anger? And if the grasses still dance along with the whispers of wind, I would not I sway for a while and dance along with the rhythm of life?
The question of the pastor flashed back in my mind. "Have you ever thanked God the first time He broke you?". My answer would be no, because at first, I was ignorant enough to recognize him in the midst of the negativities in my life. I was devoured by ignorance, thinking that it was better to cry at all times and cursing was a satisfying to do. However, later on, I suddenly realized that I was alright. And yes, I thanked him for that. I was grateful enough to acknowledge his will after that heartbreak. There was an immense pain, but his love was always more intense.
The reality is that, most of us can never recognize God when we are at the weakest point of our lives. Although it is okay to weep, but what I learned suggests that what is wrong is when we let these emotion rule over ourselves. The reality also is that, we have different form of heartbreaks as we go through life. But that is not the case. What matters the most is how you handle those heartbreaks. Will you let ignorance freely consume you like what I have been? Or will you move on and face life with more courage? How about you? Have you ever thanked God the first time He broke you?
The spotlight is yours; share your words.
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Hi. Thank you for reading. Stay safe and see you around.
Live long and prosper!
Here’s Why You Should Visit the Municipality of Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur, Philippines.
The Municipality of Sta. Cruz is among the nine (9) distinct municipalities in the province, Davao del Sur, and one (1) component city, namely the **City of Digos, Bansalan, Matanao, Magsaysay, Hagonoy, Kiblawan, Padada, Sulop and Malalag**. This is also the oldest municipality among the other. In fact, according to an article entitled Welcome to Sta. Cruz, it is more than a century-old municipality that was legally created last October 5, 1884 and it is the third oldest town in Mindanao. The Bagobo term LABO, which means marshes, was the first name given to this gulf. The first inhabitants of the region were members of the Bagobo-Tagabawa tribe, commanded by Datu Ali. https://stacruz.gov.ph/
Pioneers claim that Sta. Cruz got its name in 1880, when Spanish colonizers tried unsuccessfully to convert the stubborn residents to Christianity by planting a cross beneath a shelter. Another group of immigrants settled close to the cross that was close to the location of the current municipal building, and the area became known as "SA CRUZ," which translates to "at the cross."
Aside from this colorful history of Sta. Cruz, it is also a dwelling place for the diverse wildlife species. Who would have thought that there is a tarsier here in our municipality? It is an abode for different kindhearted ethnic tribes; from the Badjao, to the Tausug, Maranao, Bagobo-Tagabawa and Taga-Kaulo—they made the municipality a meaningful home. It is also a pleasant natural setting for majestic tourist destinations. From highlands to lowlands: from the peak of tall mountains, following the trail of mountain ranges, to the cold and pristine waters in the rivers and long water falls, to the unexplored strange caves, down to the clear and satisfying beaches. Meanwhile, while travelling has been becoming a trend these days, plenty of travellers have been visiting those different tourist destinations oftentimes.
Therefore, in this article, I will be showcasing the different tourist spots. Here's why you should visit the Municipality of Sta. Cruz.
Let's take our first trip first, to the highlands of Sta. Cruz. Welcome to the Spectacular Sta. Cruz!
**Mountains**
**Mt. Quibarangan/Mt. Quibarangan**
—it is located in Sitio Langan, Coronon, Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur, Philippines, my place of residence. It takes a couple of hour before you can reach the peak, however, exhaustion is worth it once you can see this.
**Mt. Fortune**
—located at Malusing, Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur is Mt. Fortune. It is the last one to be discovered by the tourists, and the last one to be recognized by the Department of Tourism in Sta. Cruz.
**Mt. Loay**
—is located at Sitio Loay, Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur. It is the first mountain peak to be frequently visited by tourists. You can see the whole Sta. Cruz once you are at its summit.
**Mt. Dinor**
—Sinoron, Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur is the location of the famous Mt. Dinor. It is the home for various wildlife species.
**Bamboo Peak**
—is located at Jose Rizal, Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur. It's a good location to witness the beauty of the creator.
Rivers
**Langan River**
—located at Sitio Langan, Coronon, Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur, Langan river is mostly visited by tourists from the Mt. Loay, Mt. Fortune and Mt. Dinor. Since there is a mountain range that connects each places, Langan river is the last stop of some hikers.
**Pilan River**
—located at Sitio Pilan, Sinoron, Sta. Cruz Davao del Sur. Tourists can pass here if they want to reach the peak of Mt. Dinor.
**Sibulan River**
—located at Darong, Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur, Sibulan River has been a tourist spot for water tubing. The river is very long why it is appropriate for the said activity. It is situated near the national highway.
**Water Falls**
**Mini Asik-Asik Falls**
—located at Sitio Pilan, Sinoron, Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur, the Mini Asik Asik falls would captivate your attention with the relaxing feature. It can just be seen near the Pilan River.
**Mailum Falls**
—is located at Sitio Langan, Coronon, Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur. It's the only known waterfall in our place which can be seen few kilometers away from my home.
**Tomari Falls**
—less than a year after it was officially launched, Tomari Falls emerges as one of the most visited waterfalls in Sta. Cruz. It is situated in Sibulan, Sta. Cruz with a light 3-4 kilometers of trekking.
**Tacub Laya Falls**
—three years prior to this lovely waterfall in Saroso, Sinoron, Sta. Cruz's debut, it has been considered one of the Sinoron Ecopark's must-see sights. This may be the farthest waterfall in Sta. Maria and requires a strenuous 13-kilometer hike from barangay hall. Cruz in terms of trekking distance, but unquestionably one of the most pristine because to its location within the Buribid Mountain Range's forested region.
**Biga Waterfalls**
Rock Formation
—the most unique feature located at Sitio Pilan, Sinoron, Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur. It showcases different piles of rocks, showing magnificent formations. This can just be seen beside the Pilan river.
Beach Resorts
**Pasig Islet Beach Resort**
—located at Brgy. Bato, Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur. If you want an ‘instagrammable’ tourist spot, you can't go wrong with Pasig Islet.
**Tajos Beach Resort**
—located at Sto. Niño Village, Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur is the domain of Tajos Beach Resort—YDURS place. If you're finding a tourist spot with relaxing view while having a decent foods and drinks to intake, this place might be the one you are looking for. It is a combination of a beach resort and café and grill restaurant.
And there ends our adventure for today. There's so much thing that our municipality can offer. As a resident myself, I feel so proud that I belong to this community wherein nature is part of our life. Tourist spots are not the only thing that my place has to offer. There are some tourist attractions that I was not able to include since there are only few informations, and I'm not familiar to them. There are still plenty of them and I will discuss them in my next articles.
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Let me guys know which tourist attractions you liked the most through commenting on the comment section below. Stay safe and see you around.
**LIVE LONG AND PROSPER!**
Officially, a Grade 12 Student.
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A gloomy, cold dawn embraced me as I aroused from my seven hours of sleep. I was awakened by the blaring sound of my alarm I set last night. With my eyes half-opened, I stood up, turned the light switch down, and opened my window. I felt the gentle caress of the icy-cold wind all over my face, 5: 00 in the morning. The cloud was feeling unwell, as if the rain would attempt to fall soon. I paused in that very moment in awestruck when the thought of enrollment on this day hearkened back.
I decided to take a quick visit to my articles here in read.cash and see if there is an improvement in my earnings. My morning turned monochromatic when I witnessed that there was no improvement at all, and, it even had a drastic abatement in my earnings, from $12 to $11. However, I deeply appreciated those people who kept on interacting with me by dropping some nice comments. Instead of putting my whole attention to it, I just tried reading others’ articles, and, played Mobile Legends (ML) afterwards, specifically, in the arcade mode, Magic Chess (MC).
One and a half hour has passed when I heard the drizzle outside and it is when I remembered that I had some clothes to hang up. My friend, who would be my company in going to school, also messaged me that she and the others were set to go. I instantly recalled that we agreed 7 AM as our meeting time, since there would be plenty of enrollees for sure if we go late. I hurried every things up; I took a quick bath, eaten, and dressed up. I did all of this in thirty (30) minutes, and left home by 7:00 AM. Yes. I can read your mind. Filipino time.
I took ride in a pedicab, a small pedal-operated vehicle, which is used as one of the means for transportation. I had to take 20 minutes travel, so I arrived by 7:20. My friends were contacting me already since all have them were at the school already. I ignored them since I was on my way already. My attention was captivated by this timeless scene, although, I have seen this many times. The scene may have not be taken well, but this look way more majestic in person. Nostalgia would always follow after I'll gaze at it, since, it has been part of my student life and it reminds me so much of my first day as a student life.
Minutes have passed, I finally arrived at the school. I stopped first before entering the gate. I can't help but reminisce how far this institution has gone. Can you believe that this was a public market before? I remember my sister complain about the foul odor coming from the canal when the school was still under construction. Imagine the scenario when those students were learning together with that loud bang from the construction. Imagine the ambience, the temperature and the other loud noises. Now, look at the outcome.
I used to pass here while it was still under construction before, and now, behold the great changes it had as time went by. According to the teachers, we will be the first one to utilize the school with complete facilities. Looking at it sends shiver down my spine. I felt very excited so I decided to go in, and I saw my friends, waiting for me to arrive. They also reserved an enrollment form for me so that we could fill it out together and finish fastly since we will be heading to a meeting for the opening of Brigada Eskwela on August 15. After filling out the form, we submitted it to the teachers.
Lastly, I am now officially a grade 12 student for the school year 2022-2023 of Academic Track, under the STEM strand. It is a strand that focuses on Science and Technology, Engineering and Mathematics to students. This means that I am step ahead towards studying Engineering in college. I am looking for a safe and effective blended learning, face-to-face and modular,in this school. While I expect that this will not be an easy chapter, I hope and pray that I can endure all the struggles and finish this school year with flying colors.
LIVE LONG AND PROSPER.
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Hi everyone. I just created my noise.cash account, and you can visit it in this link:
[ https://noise.cash/u/jstjylrd ]. Let's be mutuals. Thank you. Stay safe and see you around.
Goodbye July, Welcome August: My Birth Month
The month of July had been a busy, yet extraordinary and indelible month for me. It is where I was able to experience the comebacks of different religious activities I used to participate prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, and reclaim the feeling of being in there. Moreover, it was also my comeback here in read.cash after several months of taking a break because of the lack of motivation. And now that the we should bid goodbye to July and welcome the month of August, which means a new set of experiences is yet to be unlocked, let us look back on my remarkable events for the month of July.
July 2, 2022: Feeding and Reading Culmination Activity
Last July 2, the organization SSG or Supreme Students Government of Sta. Cruz National High School conducted the culmination activity for the Feeding and Reading project.
I had a part in the said event since I am the Public Information Officer (PIO) of the said organization, and I was also the Master of Ceremony (MC).
Moreover, the said project aimed to eradicate illiteracy among the children in Barangay Sinoron, specifically, by teaching them how to read and test their knowledge. We also offered foods for them to enjoy the moment. It was successfully conducted through the support of the Local Government Unit of the Municipality of Sta. Cruz, the officials of Barangay. Sinoron, the active participation of the different SSG officers which include me, the guidance and supervision of our SSG adviser, and the financial support of our school.
July 7, 2022: The Distribution of Allowance in TESDA
As you have read in my article I Am A Proud TESDA Scholar, I am a TESDA scholar. On July 7, 2022, our instructor told us that the allowance was to be released, so, we hurried at Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) - TESDA Davao del Sur Provincial Office Davao City, Davao del Sur. https://read.cash/@jstjylrd_/im-a-proud-tesda-scholar-e74bfe45
But before we went there, we had to enter the Carmelo delos Cientos National Trade School at Padada, Davao del Sur.
The allowance given was just the 50% of the supposed P4,800. 00 or $86.65. As promised to my family, I treated them that day.
July 18, 2022: Youth's Monthly Gathering
The monthly gathering among the young people of 3 churches has been our part of our monthly activity before, however, it was stopped because of COVID-19 pandemic. Fortunately, it already happened again on July 18. We got to see our brothers and sisters in Christ. We also planned for our upcoming Team Building on August 12, 2022 this day.
July 19, 2022: Birthday Celebration of Kyle
We attended the 1st birthday celebration of my godchild, Kyle. He is my first godchild so I really made sure to go. I also brought a gift for him.
July 21-22, 2022: Sports Fest 2022
As what you've read here in my article entitled Sports-Fest 2022: Encourage to Build One Another,we attended a Sports—Fest and it was our first time. It was very memorable. I will forever treasure the morals and memories I had during that event. https://read.cash/@jstjylrd_/sports-fest-2022-encourage-to-build-one-another-413ed102
July 25, 2022: My read. cash comeback
I have been here in platform for 4 months, however, I took a break after my first earning here. I felt demotivated the last couple of months, fortunately, I found an inspiration to continue. Now, I'm finally back. Currently, I have an earning of $11.33 for 7 articles, although it was supposed to be $12. There are still 2 articles left untipped, that's why I feel a bit disappointed because it is already 2 days and the random rewarder seem not to recognize. I also observe the inconsistency in BCH: in increases, and then followed by a drastic decrease.
July 30, 2022: Family Fellowship
And the last on the the list is the family fellowship, the latest event. You can read it here in my article entitled Family Fellowship 2022. https://read.cash/@jstjylrd_/family-fellowship-2022-2d11142e
Conclusion:
And those are the amazing experiences I had in the month of July. I can say that this is is the busiest month I had so far. This month may pass, but the memories will remain forever in my heart. As the month of August enters, I am looking forward for a more prosperous and productive life, and stay here in read.cash. Since August is also by birth month, my advance wish is that everyone can have a happy life wherein we can achieve everything that our hearts desire, and that, we can surpass every hurdles that we are going through. Lastly, I also wish that the virus Monkeypox, won't cause more long sufferings to us people. Live long, and prosper.
Stewardship of Life
*Disclaimer: The context of this article is only based on my acquired learnings from the speaker during the lecture in our Family Fellowship yesterday.*
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When you hear the word ‘stewardship’, what idea instantly comes to mind? If you answer “having something in your possession” your answer is correct, however, the bottom line of this word is more than that. It covers up everything we have in ownership, both in the perspective of the worldly and biblical principles. Our life, for example, is one of the possessions entrusted to us, thus, we became a steward, being responsible and accountable for it, which leads to the concept of stewardship. Let's take a look at the different angle of the definition of the word stewardship.
Worldly Definition:
Stewardship is an act of being a steward , wherein, you are in control or maintenance of something, especially one that functions. Planning and managing resources responsibly is the essence of the stewardship ethic. The principles of stewardship can be used in a variety of contexts, including the natural world, business, health, education, and other fields.
Biblical Definition:
Stewardship is utilizing and managing all the resources that God entrusted for his glory. It is also the central essence of biblical view which manages something that brings glory to God. Becoming a steward of life is important for it helps you know yourself.
1.) Stewardship of life refers to your first purpose.
We Christians believe that everything did not happen just by chance, and, we believe that it happens for a purpose. Resemblant to this, our existence means something.
*1.1 It talks about how spiritually-driven you are before the Lord.*
A Christian can be categorized into 2: worldly-driven and spiritually driven, albeit of being Christians. The sad reality is that, Christians are often involved in the worldly activities which may ruin their image in front of the unbelievers.
We Christians must remember our purpose in Matthew 28:19-20,
*“Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world. Amen.”*
*1.2 It simply talks about your usefulness and dedication before God.*
We need to remember that as Christians, we have duties to do: to know God and make Him known. Since God gave us life, it is our devoir to glorify him by showing our usefulness and dedication before Him. However, life can sometimes be rough which extinguishes the fire within ourselves and sometimes question God's existence. Little did we know, were just too far from. Therefore, in times of our hardships, we must draw nearer to God.
2.) Stewardship of life refers to your time.
*2.1 It simply reminds you of your remaining days, months and years*.
Psalms 90:10 (NV) states that,
*“[As for] the days of our years, in them are seventy years; and if [men should be] in strength, eighty years; and the greater part of them would be labor and trouble; for weakness overtakes us, and we shall be chastened.”*
Let's try to reflect this one. The bible states that a man shall only live for 70 years. How do you plan to spend it? Try subtracting your age to 70, and whatever the difference is, try to imagine how are you gonna spend it. Since God gave us life, we must think of a good way to spend, especially in a divine way.
Ecclesiastes 9:10 (NIV) also reminds us that,
*“Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might, for in the realm of the dead, where you are going, there is neither working nor planning nor knowledge nor wisdom.”*
The primary reason why God lets us to wake up is to do something for him.
*2.2 Above all, it reminds the time you've spent to God through the opportunity he put on your shoulder.*
2 Corinthians 5:10 tells us that,
*“For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each of us may receive what is due us(A) for the things done while in the body, whether good or bad. ”*
We are reminded that at the end of the day, we are held accountable for everything that we do. We must use our life and our remaining time to glorifying the God who gave us life and time. We not should also wait being bedridden or unable, before wanting to do all the things that God instructed us to do, thus, use your time well. Now, in the scale of 1-10, how much can you rate yourself base on your performance in God's ministry?
3.) Stewardship of life talks about your focus and priority.
Matthew 6:21 says that,
*“For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”*
Now, try asking yourself, “where and who your treasure is right now? In life, we have plenty of focus and priority. But, have you ever had placed God as your top priority? Or, you only did prioritize your habit? This habit, in an instant, will become your focus, will turn out to be your treasure and the worst is, will become your idol. If serving God is our habit, He will become our focus, our treasure, and the sweetest thing is, He will become our idol. No one else.
Conclusion:
Stewardship of life pertains to the purpose, time, focus and priority. If you're not faithful in Him, when it comes to these things, therefore, you are not a faithful steward. He who is faithful in little is he who is faithful in much. As a steward of life that God bestowed upon us, it is our duty to glorify and please him. The primary reason why God lets us to wake up is to do something for him. Therefore, we should not waste the remaining seconds, minutes, or hours in life. We should use it positively so that at the end of the day when the judgment happens, we will be blameless.
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You can also check the related articles below:
**Stewardship in Material Things by** @dauntless_marquess
Stewardship in Spiritual Things by @lonestranger https://read.cash/@lonestranger/stewardship-of-spiritual-things-3aa26b92
**ENJOY READING! STAY SAFE AND GOD BLESS.**
Family Fellowship 2022
***‘A family that worships God together, stays together. ’***
We have just arrived home from an another tiring, yet memorable experience to look back on. I instantly picked up my pen and my paper to share to you this one. It was the comeback of the Quarterly Family Fellowship among the Missionary Baptist churches in our province, Davao del Sur, and Davao City. It is a very big deal for us since, it was the first family fellowship we have successfully done after the ceaseless series of pandemic. I can't wait to acquaint it any further with you all, so, happy reading.
4:00 AM— 6:35 AM
We were waken up by our father at exactly 4:00 in the morning in order to be not left out by the bus we have borrowed from our municipality, Sta. Cruz. Although the water was so cold, I tried to pour plenty of ‘tabó’ filled with water to finish it as fast as I could. After that, we ate a small portion of rice and viand to arrive in our waiting area by 5:40 AM. Exactly that time, we were already at the waiting shed, our meeting area, along with other church members. When we came, the bus has not arrived where we were. We were to set off by 6:00 AM, so, we were all worried because we thought, there could had been a problem and we might not be able to join the said activity. 30 minutes had passed and we were still waiting. Fortunately, after several minutes of waiting, it finally arrived and we settle ourselves in.
6:35—8:35 AM
Before we set off, we prayed first, for our safety and God’s guidance for the whole day. After the prayer, we subsequently started our trip. It was so smooth and we have not encountered any troubles and accidents along the way. We were amazed by the majestic views that we encountered, unfortunately, I was not able to take pictures of it and some shots had bad quality.
But, in order to give you some idea, the things that astonished us were the narrow, elevated road wherein, the ocean, mountains, trees, and some volcanoes, can be seen above. Several beaches were also visible at the top. Despite of these amazing views, fear was somehow evident in me, knowing that any moment of that time, we might fall off the open pit beside of the road. Yet, God is so good that He did not let it happen.
**8:35—9:30 AM**
After a very long ride, at last, we arrived at Sta. Maria, Davao Occidental, the venue of this month’s Family Fellowship. Supposedly, it should be in their church, yet, they decided to conduct the activity in the school , since there were plenty of delegates.
The first thing I have observed is this beautiful view which can just be seen easily since it is in front of the school. I couldn't help but to just stare at it for a long time. Others were taking pictures of it, and I had it in my mind to also take a picture once the program is done.
Afterwards, we proceeded to their commodious school gymnasium. By 8:40 AM, the program started. It was commenced by an opening prayer, singing of short choruses, and presentation of 13 Missionary Baptist churches. A lecture followed it, having the theme ‘Stewardship of Material Things’, which will be featured by @dauntless_marquess in her next article.
9:30—12:00 PM
After the lecture, we took our snack before proceeding to the Divine Service. I also took the opportunity to roam around the place together with my brother. I happened to see these flowers [ could be lotus] floating on this small body of water. I don't know the name of these flowers, but I assumed that they were Lotus.
We came back to the gymnasium since the time allotted for the snacks, was already consumed. The divine service followed, and it was formally started by an opening prayer, followed by a scripture reading, tithes and offering, and, special number per churches, then, another lecture started. The theme of the lecture was ‘Stewardship of Life’, and, I will be discussing it in my next article so watch out. After the lecture, we fell in line, and had our lunch.
12:00—3:00 PM
Our lunch was so smooth, and, everyone has eaten. One (1) hours was apportioned for the lunch alone. After 1 hour, the chapel hour took place. Another lecture with a theme ‘Stewardship of Spiritual Life’. This will be discussed by @lonestranger so check it out. After the lecture, we had a short Bible Quiz while having our snack. I didn't enjoy the game that much, but atleast, I have enjoyed the snacks. 10 minutes later, the activity ended and everyone was busy taking pictures. That was my opportunity to take pictures, so, I grabbed it.
Afterwards, we left the venue carrying all the happy memories I will forever treasure.
In Conclusion:
It is always true that a family who praises God together, stays forever, for with God, anything shall be possible. Consequently, falling apart would be a thing that God would unreasonably do. On the other hand, the feeling that the thing , fellowships, which we used to do just came back, is so satisfying and surreal. I am beyond blessed and grateful that for once, we were able to see each other other again, even if the pandemic is not yet over. What makes this activity even more memorable is the bond we can share together with the family, in a pious or devout way.
Should You Be Worried About Monkeypox Virus?
**Hi, fellow users and readers!**
I was intrigued by the news I saw online whilst I was freely scrolling down on my feed. Another virus has been creating cacophony internationally! The fact that we still have not fully recovered from COVID-19 yet, it is so heartrending to perceive that another plague, Monekypox, is yet to devour the entire country. With a weary heart and disappointment, I rummaged the internet and here are the informations I have assimilated.
**What is the Monekypox Virus?**
According to World Health Organization (WHO), albeit clinically less severe than smallpox, monkeypox is a viral zoonosis (a virus that spreads from animals to people). It has symptoms that are comparable to those of smallpox.
The West African clade and the Congo Basin clade are two separate clades, or genetically related lineages, of monkeypox viruses, according to the World Health Organization (also called the Central African clade). Evidence suggests that the Congo Basin clade is more likely than the West African clade to cause severe and deadly disease and may also be more transmissible.
The WHO states that despite the name of the virus, monkeys and other nonhuman primates are probably not the pathogen's major hosts, but this has yet to be proved. Instead, it is believed that rodents represent the monkeypox virus's native natural reservoir in the wild. Although humans and other primates are susceptible to the virus, they are accidental hosts, which means they are not a permanent "reservoir" for the virus.
**The Outbreak of Monkeypox Virus in History**
According to the WHO, research monkeys at the Statens Serum Institute in Copenhagen, Denmark, had a pox-like ailment in 1958, which led to the discovery of monkeypox. A 9-month-old boy who lived in the Democratic Republic of the Congo was found to have the first known human case in 1970.
Benin, Cameroon, the Central African Republic, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Gabon, Cote d'Ivoire, Liberia, Nigeria, the Republic of the Congo, Sierra Leone, and South Sudan are the 11 African nations where human cases of monkeypox have been documented since 1970.
Over 500 suspected cases, over 200 confirmed cases, and a case fatality rate of about 3 percent have been reported in Nigeria since 2017. Cases are still being reported today.
The first monkeypox outbreak outside of Africa occurred in the United States of America in 2003, and contact with pet prairie dogs that had the disease was to blame.
**The 2022 Outbreak of Monkeypox Virus**
Health officials in the U.K. reported numerous cases of monkeypox in London and surrounding areas, just one of which was connected to overseas travel. The number of cases in the UK. soon started to increase when officials in other European nations reported their own cases, and the first cases in Canada and the United States were discovered in mid-May.
Monkeypox started spreading at an alarming rate in non-endemic nations in 2022. Following the discovery of the first cases in London in May and the reporting of more than 16,000 cases in 75 countries and territories by mid-July, the WHO declared the epidemic a public health emergency of worldwide concern .
**Signs and Symptoms of Monkeypox Virus**
Monkeypox takes one to two weeks to incubate, or the time it takes for symptoms to appear after exposure. Monkeypox infections frequently begin with flu-like symptoms, such as:
Fever
Headache
Muscle pain
Fatigue
Swollen lymph nodes; this swelling can be seen in a number of places, including the armpit and neck.
Following this, the recognizable "pox" rashes start to show up, typically on the face, inside the mouth, and then on the hands, feet, and other limbs. These rashes can mirror those brought on by the Varicella zoster virus, which causes chickenpox, as well as those brought on by several STIs, including syphilis and herpes.
**Fatality of the Monkeypox Virus**
Comparing the Congo Basin clade to the West African clade, severe illness and mortality are associated with a higher risk. According to the UCLA Fielding School of Public Health, estimates of the case fatality rate for the West African clade range from 1 percent to 3.5 percent, whereas estimates for the Congo Basin clade range from 6 to 10 percent (opens in new tab).
The West African clade has been responsible for the 2022 outbreak. Out of more over 16,000 cases, there had been five documented deaths as of July 23, when the WHO declared the 2022 outbreak a public health emergency.
**Prevention of the Monekypox Virus**
Some nations have laws in place that limit the importing of non-human primates and rodents. Animals kept in captivity who might have monkeypox should be quarantined right away and kept separate from other animals. Animals that may have interacted with an infected animal need to be confined, handled with regular safety measures, and monitored for signs of monkeypox for 30 days.
**Treatment for Monkeypox**
Although many patients recover without the need for specialized care, there are no medications licensed especially to treat monkeypox. However, in severe cases, patients might be given antiviral drugs meant to treat other infections. For instance, they might be given tecovirimat (trade name TPOXX), a smallpox treatment that also fights off other orthopoxviruses, per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
**In Conclusion:**
Taking into consideration the alarming cases of monkeypox virus worldwide, there's no reason for us to not be worried. Sooner or later, this monkeypox might turn out to be as worse of COVID-19. There must be ways to prevent it, yet, we still should not be confident, and, must do something to stop it for a possible exponential cases internationally. Certain actions must still be done in order to avert its massive spreading. Most importantly, we must must not wait to experience a pandemic, again.
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Reference:
1.) Centers for Control Disease and Prevention. (2022, June 14). Updated Case-finding Guidance: Monkeypox Outbreak—United States 2022. Emergency Preparedness and Response. https://emergency.cdc.gov/han/2022/han00468.asp
2.) Lanese, N. (n.d). Monkeypox: Symptoms, pictures, treatments & vaccines. LiveScience. https://www.livescience.com/what-is-monkeypox-symptoms-treatment
3.) World Health Organization. (2022, May 19). Monkeypox. World Health Organization. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/monkeypox
4.) UCLA. (2022, May 26). What Do We Know – and Need to Know - About Monkeypox? Fielding School of Public Health. https://ph.ucla.edu/news/news-item/2022/may/what-do-we-know-and-need-know-about-monkeypox
Mobile Legends: Bang Bang: Its Pros and Cons
“Welcome to mobile legends. Five seconds 'till the enemy reaches the battlefield, smash them! All troops deployed. First blood. Double Kill. Triple Kill! Maniac! Savage! God-like! Unstoppable! Legendary! ”
Perhaps, if you are not a Mobile Legend player, you would not know how it feels like everytime I hear these lines from the announcer. Needless to say, I became so obsessed and addicted to this game since last 2019. I remember having my Nokia G11 and I did not hesitate to install the game in my cellphone. I can say that I became obsessed and addicted to it because wherever I go, I can hear a quiet sound of those lines above. Also, everytime I got killed or defeated, I will throw my phone, which was the reason of its damage.
In this article, I will provide a brief overview of the game Mobile Legends, as well discuss its pros and cons, and state my learnings at the same time.
**Brief Overview of Mobile Legends: Bang bang**
The mobile MOBA game Mobile Legends: Bang Bang, also referred to as ML or MLBB, was created and released by Moonton, a ByteDance subsidiary. Mobile Legends: Bang Bang is a multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) mobile game. The game is available for free and is only monetized through in-game purchases such as characters and skins.
Each player controls a distinct "Hero" character with unique abilities and traits. The basic objective of heroes is defined by six roles: "Tank," "Marksman," "Assassin," "Fighter," "Mage," and "Support." These positions define each player's responsibilities for their respective teams. Players can also customize their heroes' builds, which include in-game equipment and emblems.
The game pits two teams of five players against one another in real time. You can choose different modes of game like Classic, Rank Game, Arcade (Magic Chess, Brawl, Mirror, Death battle, Overdrive and Mayhem). A classic battle arena game requires players to engage in combat over three lanes in order to capture the opposition's tower and defend their own. In contrast to conventional MOBAs, there is no hero leveling or pay-to-play element; instead, skill, ability, and strategy determine who wins and loses.
**Pros of Mobile Legends: Bang bang**
**Builds Social Interaction**
Since Mobile Legends is a 5v5 game, each team needs 5 members for the game to start. Friends, or even strangers who play the same game, can play this together while traveling, commuting, or even on their lunch breaks, through following and inviting them on the game. Personally, I met a lot of new people because of the game, and, having a lot of good friends is indeed satisfying.
**Promotes Concentration**
Mobile Legends needs concentration, quick thinking, and most importantly, patience. Both team must concentrate in order to be aware of the tactics of everyone. Without concentration, you and your teammates cannot have an awareness to the opponents' moves. Therefore, your ability to focus is developing.
**Improves Analysis Capabilities**
In order win the game, both team must analyze the moves of one another. Each must also think of a strategy to outsmart the opponent: in can be of the line-up, rotation, counter, and re-counter of items. Because of this, I can say that Mobile Legends improves analysis capabilities.
**Promotes Teamwork**
Teammates are required to play multiplayer games. This encourages the player to think of teamwork as a tactic. The player may benefit from this in his future employment as well as in the development of a more understanding mindset toward his team. Mobile legends requires collaboration and communication with the team. Without these things, the line-up and rotation of the team will be messed up, leading to their defeat.
**Can be Good Source of Income**
With so many e-sports leagues springing up around the globe, it is now possible to become a professional gamer and support oneself through gaming. Through streaming online, or making TikTok, Facebook and YouTube content, plenty of people are already earning money just by playing Mobile legends and other online games. One of them is ChooxTv, and I'm a follower of him because he is funny and does not not take the game seriously.
**Cons of Mobile Legends: Bang bang**
**Causes Addiction**
One of the main drawbacks of Mobile legends and other internet gaming is this. Online games are intended to be addictive, but it is up to the individual to prevent addiction. One study compares drug addiction with online game addiction as being equally harmful. A student's academic performance may also be impacted by this addiction. Therefore, ALERT! If you ever feel like you are wasting a lot of time on your computer or smartphone. Your mental health could be in peril because of this.
**Increases Aggression**
When playing Mobile legends and you have no squad, you will be teamed to random players. These players can be of less experience, verbal abuser, intentional feeder, going idle or offline, or to sum up, they are toxic players. This actually increases aggression, and I have been there before. The level of tension experienced by the player while playing online games differs. When under pressure, a player may become hostile to others around him. In a psychological experiment, it was shown that those who played violent video games were more angry and less patient than other people.
**Absence of Exercise**
This only really becomes an issue if someone substitutes playing online games such as Mobile legends for time they ought to be exercising. The amount of exercise gained by playing a game is small because it is done while sitting in a chair. A person would not be getting the exercise and fresh air they need to keep healthy if they spent the most of their free time playing video games.
**Can Lead to Obesity**
As a result of absence of exercise, obesity might happen. As strange as it may sound, obesity is one of the most prevalent issues seen in gamers. Players can become so engrossed in their games that they lose sight of their hunger and eat more than is necessary. Additionally, because online gaming does not include any physical exercise for the additional calories to be burned, the player's body will begin to store more fat.
**Bad Vision**
A player's perspective may become warped if they spend a lot of time using their phone or computer. I noticed when I frequently played Mobile legends before, my eyes became blurry and I experienced headaches many times.
**In Conclusion**
The fact is “everything is good but in moderation. ” Online games were originally meant for fun and entertainment. The other advantages I have mentioned are just the existing results of playing online games as the yield of good usage. On the other hand, the disadvantages I have listed are the fruit of improper usage and abuse to the game, however, it would be so liar of me to deny that I did not experience all of those disadvantages. I have been there, yet, I was able to manage my temper, my time, and even set limitations. Now, I only play 2 times a day for I have to more here in read. cash.
The First State of the Nation Address (SONA) of Philippine President Bongbong Marcos Jr.
On the 30th of June 2022 took place the inauguration of the 17th president of the Republic of the Philippines, Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ Marcos Jr., at the National Museum of Fine Arts. Bongbong Marcos or BBM, the son of the late dictator and ex-president of Philippines, Ferdinand Marcos Sr., won the national election on May 9, 2022 by a historic and landslide vote of 31 million votes, despite of being the most controversial among other candidates.
After two months of his inauguration, he delivered his State of the Nation Address (SONA) at 4 pm on Monday, July 25, at the Batasang Pambansa in Quezon City, the first in his six-year term in office. A constitutional requirement and annual tradition, the State of the Nation Address (SONA) is when the president provides an update on the state of the nation, reveals the government's objectives for the upcoming year, and suggests legislation to Congress.
In this article, I will discuss and explain the summary and highlights, as well as the things he did not mention during his first SONA.
**Summary and highlights of his first SONA.**
**Agriculture**
Boost food production, handle the food crisis, aid farmers, build roads from farms to markets, and modernize the agricultural industry.
**Agriculture Reform**
Adopt legislation validating the current agrarian reform loan, which will benefit approximately 654,000 people.
**Climate**
To lessen the worst effects of climate change on the nation, seek out new energy sources and encourage the usage of renewable energy.
**Digitalization**
Distribute National IDs more quickly and connect the nation to the internet.
**Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD)**
Enhance the rights of single parents, continuing the 4Ps program, and strategically distributing aid.
**Economy**
Make the Philippine Development Plan for 2023–2027 represent the socioeconomic policies, strategies, and programs of the government.
**Education**
Improve the performance of Filipino students in the subjects of science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM).
**Energy**
Reduce the cost of electricity for consumers through building new power plants, using renewable energy, and other measures.
**Foreign affairs**
Encourage "strong and increasingly complex" international ties while ensuring that the Philippines' foreign policy is solely based on the needs of the nation.
**Health**
For Filipinos living in remote rural regions, there should be simple access to hospitals and health centers with affordable medications.
**Infrastructure**
Maintain the "Build, Build, Build" infrastructure initiative while placing a new emphasis on expanding the nation's railroad network.
**Migrant Employees**
Automate contract verification processes as a top priority, and issue safe Overseas Employment Certifications (OEC) that OFWs can carry on their smartphone.
**Tourism**
By improving highways, airports, and tourist attractions, tourism can be boosted.
**Things Marcos left out in his first SONA (Luna, F., 2022).**
**Human rights and the war on drugs**
Marcos has declared his intention to prosecute Duterte's drug campaign in a new way, but he has not indicated if he will assist the probe by the International Criminal Court.
**Labor issues and contractualization**
Agrarian reform, unfavorable working conditions, and issues with intellectual property for workers in the creative industries were all topics covered by Marcos. He additionally encouraged the Department of Migrant Employees to make sure that it was reachable to Filipino workers abroad. However, the president barely touched on other problems that affect workers.
**The transport crisis**
Since the government's coronavirus task force relaxed quarantine regulations to general population quarantine in June, commuter problems have become the new normal. Even while Marcos mentioned improving railways and public transportation, he generally said so in the context of infrastructure initiatives he wanted his administration to promote.
**The fuel crisis**
When talking about the transportation crisis, commuter groups and unions for transport workers have noted that drivers looking for other employment options is a major contributor to the decreased availability of transportation on the roads.
**The** ***how*** **in blended learning**
Marcos only reaffirmed the Department of Education's claim that it was getting ready for the push toward in-person sessions by November. Prior to the SONA, the president claimed that despite the plethora of potential problems, blended learning is still feasible in some contexts.
**Arbitral award**
Marcos briefly discussed his administration's "friends to all, enemies to none" foreign policy, but he didn't address how he planned to enforce the arbitral decision that Beijing is displeased with over the South China Sea.
**Peace talks**
The National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict's recommendation for an amnesty for armed insurgents was not mentioned by Marcos.
**Crime and corruption**
Interior Secretary Benhur Abalos told reporters before to the SONA that he anticipated the president would discuss national security. In contrast to former President Rodrigo Duterte's SONAs, Marcos' address included no explicit mention of crime, corruption, safety, or security in the nation and did not give any instructions to law enforcement officials.
**In Conclusion**
I firmly believe that the first SONA of President Marcos Jr. was good, although, there are some things that he was not able to give explanation and concrete plans. On the other hand, we, as the citizen of our respective state and countries, are all hoping for a good change. We are all looking for a brighter tomorrow, free from violence, poverty and oppression of freedom. With that, I also look forward that the president will be able to cover and address the crucial issues the country is facing. Together, let us achieve change despite of varying perspectives.
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**Reference:**
Luna, F. (2022, July 26). Things Marcos left out in his first SONA. PhilStar. https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2022/07/26/2197838/things-marcos-left-out-his-first-sona/amp/
Weighing Opinions: The No School Uniform Policy Under the New Administration
School uniforms are irrefragably important. It gives identity to us students, as well as a distinction among other group of people. However, with the new, dominating administration in the Philippines and with this ongoing pandemic we are still facing, the vice-president at the same time, the Department of Education secretary Sarah Duterte, pronounced the wearing of school uniforms as ‘optional’, and ‘not mandatory’ in all public schools in the country. Although this sounded beneficial to some, other people did not consider it as advantageous and even linked it to certain issues like discrimination and violence.
In this scenario where there is a barrier in the perspectives of the people, who should we listen to, believe on, and, what would be our stand? In this article, I am going to view and explain both sides of their opinion, at the same time, state my stand and insights regarding to this topic.
**The Disadvantages of No Uniform Policy**
***( I came across with this news article by Estanislao, 2022 of Rappler, a renowned news website which is the opposition of current administration, about the disadvantages of the said policy. Below are the core/main idea in the said article.)***
**Not requiring students to wear school uniforms can be considered anti-poor.**
Parents will be obliged to buy new clothes for their children once the school uniforms will be not required. In contrast, washing and wearing the same uniforms can money, as well as laundry costs. In the point-of-view of the micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) or any business activities, it will be greatly affected since the students shall be not buying their product.
**Concerns on Attire Discrimination**
From the published news article by Chi, 2022, the concerns on attire discrimination was raised after the vice-president made the school uniforms optional. This can be an opportunity for the education department to create reconfigurations regarding sex-based and stereotypical uniforms. This will allow them to preach about gender and development and inclusiveness, among others. However, it is better to let them decide on this when they are more capable of weighing things out.
**Concerns on gang fights and violence.**
Some people usually think that students become more prone to violence if they do not wear school uniform. This is because, gang members or other members of sorority can easily blend with the students due to the absence of school uniform. In this case, gang fights and other sorts of violence can easily take place.
**The Advantages of No Uniform Policy**
**Eases Budget Burdens**
With the crisis caused by the pandemic we all are still facing, it would be a burden for the student and parents to pay or buy school uniforms. Since it was 3 years ago when face to face classes were implemented, students will be forced to pay or buy since the past uniforms can not be fit or those are unwearable already. From the news article by Perez, 2022 of ABS-CBN network, the vice-president pointed out the the increasing prices and economic losses due to the pandemic. Below is her official statement.
"Even before the pandemic, it is not a strict requirement for public schools to wear uniforms (DepEd Order No. 065, s. 2010) to avoid incurring additional costs to the families of our learners. All the more that it will not be required this School Year given the increasing prices and economic losses due to the pandemic. "
Moreover, in the news article by Araja, 2022 of Manila Stadard.net, the Commission on Human Rights CHR executive director Jacqueline Ann de Guia had this to say: “this is a compassionate policy that considers the financial difficulties of indigent families who are unable to afford the cost of uniforms due to the rising prices of goods and commodities, as well as the economic constraints resulting from the pandemic. ”
**Teaches students about being adaptive.**
This experience can teach students on how to deal with complicated situations. The ability to adjust to changing social norms and situations is a talent that students who dress themselves every day at school acquire. Uniforms do not help students learn how to make wise decisions while preparing for their first college visits, job interviews, internships, or promotions. After all, workplaces and social settings demand different standards, whereas uniforms offer a prefabricated, conformist solution. In addition, teens forge independence by living with the consequences of trial and error.
**Encourages Independent Thinking**
In addition to a variety of visible social groups, economic classes, and ethnic or religious traditions, children and teenagers at school must deal with a variety of clothing trends. These differences can lead to friction and even societal isolation, but they can also encourage young people to value different viewpoints and exercise critical thinking
**Taking My Stand on this Topic**
I am a student, and our school did not strictly impose the wearing of uniform. Fortunately, I have not had unpleasant experiences having no school uniform. Weighing all the pros and cons of this topic, I agree with the implementation of no school uniform policy for the reasons:
1.) The no uniform policy actually respects the incapability of poor students like me, and, even creates an easier path towards having a free and accessible education in midst of crisis.
2.) Anyone can wear something cheap, yet, appropriate to the dress code of the school. It doesn't have to be something expensive. As long as we look presentable, I don't think there can still be a discrimination in terms of our attire. At the end of the day, going to school is not going to a fashion show.
3.) Gang fights and violence are the concern of the school, and how they implement security around the school premises.
4.) This policy is optional: it respects the students' life status and free will.
**In conclusion.**
Along with the demise of the past administration, enters a new way of governance which falls from the hands of the newly elected heads of state and government . With the simultaneous plans and efforts to create favorable change, comes the different perspectives. However, I hope that we support the administration for their plan, missions, visions and goals will only work out if we put our hundred percent support to them, especially if it means something good for the people and country. We are still slowly going back to normal, therefore, let us take things slowly.
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**Reference:**
1.) Araja , R. (2022, July 22). CHR cites Sara’s policy banning school uniforms. Manila Standard. https://manilastandard.net/news/314246057/chr-cites-saras-policy-banning-school-uniforms.html
2.) Chi, C. (2022, July 19). Concerns on attire discrimination arise after DepEd makes uniforms optional. Interaksyon. https://interaksyon.philstar.com/trends-spotlights/2022/07/19/222594/concerns-on-attire-discrimination-arise-after-deped-makes-uniforms-optional/
3.) Estanislao, J. (2022, July 22). OPINION] In the name of uniformity. Rappler. https://www.rappler.com/voices/imho/opinion-in-the-name-of-uniformity/
4.) Perez, A. (2022, July 18). Duterte: Wearing uniforms 'not a strict requirement' for public schools. ABS-CBN. https://www.google.com/amp/s/news.abs-cbn.com/amp/news/07/18/22/duterte-uniform-not-a-strict-requirement-for-public-schools
Sports-Fest 2022: Encourage to Build One Another
Beaming smiles and warm personalities welcomed us as we stepped onto their floor for the very first time. After an hour of a very tiring travel, we finally arrived at Davao City Missionary Baptist Church, the venue for this year’s sports-fest. It was a two-storey building, erected at Batalla Village, somewhere in Davao Region. The ground floor, where their church was, had a very welcoming ambience, while, the second floor, their parsonage, was spacious-enough for all campers.
A **sports-fest** is their church’s annual activity, especially, for their youth. It is a way to encourage their young people to take part in different activities such as sports, develop an active participation, create enjoyment, and fun without external pressure or reward, as well as to perform all of these goals in a godly way. This year, fortuitously, we managed to partake in this very momentous activity along with the bonhomie of other delegates.
In this article, I will try and be going to remember and recapitulate all those crucial activities we did, at the top of my memory.
**The Arrival and Registration**
There were sixteen (16) of us who participated in the sports-fest. We arrived at exactly 8:30 AM and the people there were very felicitous. Everyone was smiling to us even if it was still our first time joining the said activity, and even shook hands with them. After a couple of minutes of our arrival, we fixed and organized all luggages in a designated area. We also registered ourselves, and paid a registration fee of P 50.00 ($0.89) for our meal, which is good for 2 days. Someone also took us to a quick tour in the whole area. Afterwards, we all settled ourselves inside the church since a lot of delegates were already coming.
**The Acquaintance, Cheers and Yells and Indoor Games**
At exactly 9:30 in the morning, the officers and facilitators of the said event randomly sorted and grouped all of us according to four colors: green, red, yellow and blue. I belonged to green team, having two of church mates with me. We were tasked to create a yell and a banner that would represent our team. At first, we were all hesitant to speak because we haven't known each other. I spoke first so that everyone will follow, so, everyone did.
Everyone extrapolated to name our team ‘Green Ekklesia’. Afterwards, we presented our cheers and yells, and, competed in the flag raising contest. We won the first place because two of teammates, Raz and Jake, were too fast and gumptious. Lastly, we played some indoor games which were ‘food racing’ and ‘hola-hoop relay’. Haplessly, we didn't win the game, yet, we enjoyed it. We relaxed, had our lunch, and prepared ourselves for the ball games.
**Ball and Board Games**
This was the most exciting and awaited part of this sports-fest which was comprised of **basketball,** **volleyball**, **badminton**, **chess**, and **scrabble**. Every team must provide representatives to every sport. I was one of the representatives for the volleyball, **badminton (doubles),** and the representative for **badminton (single).** I felt perturb that time since it was my first time playing those games in an actual court.
Playing **volleyball** was the most embarrassing, yet a good experience for me. During the first match, I wasn't able to catch the ball and just even watched it land on my front. The audience were laughing at me, but, I dealt it with full confidence and laughed myself as well. Another embarrassing moment was when I did not know how to serve a ball, however, my team still won the first place due to coordination and communication.
We also won as champion in **basketball**, as well as on chess. On the other hand, we lost the match against our opponents in the sports badminton, and scrabble, yet, it was indeed a remarkable and memorable experience.
I commend my teams for not just being good at sports, but also for possessing the spirit of sportsmanship throughout the game.
**Body Band, 4-Pics-1-Word, Comical Skit**
**Body band** is a game which aims each members of the group to produce sound without the use of instruments and other materials, but the body alone. In this game, we were not able to win it because, although, all of us were good, but one group really nailed it.
**4-Pics-1-Word** is a game wherein the facilitators will show us four pictures, and we will guess the word behind those pictures. We were given some papers and a pen. We, unfortunately, did not win this one because the other group did better.
**Comical Skit** is a short, comedy performance about a particular topic. Comedy is not really my thing, so, I had to overcome this one and get out of my comfort zone. The theme of this year's sports-fest was “Encourage to Build One Another.” We relate our concept to this, as a result, we won this game since my group members were naturally-born comedian as well.
All in all, our team won as first-runner up, however, I learned that the said activity was more than just winning: it was all about sportsmanship, communication, interaction, and encouraging everyone to build one another. This experience is what I can say as one of my most memorable experience I will treasure forever. I met a lot of new people, conquered all my fears, got out of my comfort zone, became active physically and most importantly, built a connection and relationship among other people for a short period of time. As the theme says, ‘encourage to build one another’, we must encourage everyone, especially the weak, tired and lonely, and, build them the way we think is the right thing to do, especially in a godly and righteous way.
I'm a Proud TESDA Scholar
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At first glance, there are things in life that we anticipate as impossible, yet, turns out later on that it is not. My experience as a TESDA scholar, being closely akin to this, can be sought as an abrupt decision. I never really had a fix move, and, just went with the flow. It was also 1 month ago when I participated and now, I am very close to having my first national certificate II (NCII) that will be freely provided by TESDA. Perhaps, questions like “what are those terminologies?”, “what are the advantages of having an NCII? ”, “what specific course is he training under TESDA? ”, “what were the travails had he experienced? ”, and “how was his journey all in all? ”, are now building up in your mind. Now, let's answer and discuss all these questions one by one.
**NCII**
A National Certificate (NC) is a type of certificate that will be issued when a candidate has demonstrated competence in all units of competency that comprised a qualification under a desired course. Just like me, if I'll pass the assessment, I will surely receive an NCII afterwards . A National Certificate (NC II) will be issued to students who passed an assessment related to their desired and chosen course.
**TESDA**
The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) is the government agency which is tasked to manage and supervise technical education and skills development in the Philippines, usually, the technical-vocational courses like SMAW. Furthermore, they strengthen ties with the Department of Education (DepEd), another government agency in the country, through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that establishes a Joint Working Group in order to harmonize technical vocational education and skills training in the country.
**What are the advantages of having an NCII?**
Having an NCII will make it easier for me to have a job under my field of expertise, or a job I really wanted. Most skilled jobs require this certification for faster processing of job application. It will also be a great advantage, especially working abroad. I can remember our trainer who used to remind us that the NCII saved him from being nothing. He also urged us to acquire it so that we can also be like him someday.
**What specific course am I training in TESDA?**
Since the course being offered for free by the Provincial Training Center (PTC) of Davao del Sur is SMAW, I am training it for a month. SMAW or Shielded Metal Arc Welding is a process of welding utilizing coated electrode. This type of welding is the most basic, at the same time, the most in-demand kind of welding process inside and outside the Philippines.
**What were the travails have I experienced?**
Honestly, when the proper training began, I still had an ongoing modular classes which I needed to finish. Since the training would start from 8:00 in the morning and would end by 5:00 in the afternoon, I only had the opportunity to answer all my modules during night time. Aside from that, we were only given one (1) week t retrieve all the thirteen (13) modules together with the answer sheets. Thankfully, I was able to manage my time, even though I am not a night owl, and not even used to staying up late in the evening. One challenge as well is that, I am youngest among all the trainees. Their ages ranged from 20-35 years old, and, I'm only 17. I had to interact with them, although, I felt it very odd. As time passed by, I just get used to them and was also able to blend with their attitude.
**How was my journey all in all?**
All in all, I must say that the journey was very worth-it and enjoyable. I also gained a lot of learnings I have not encountered before. Welding was really not my thing, so, I had to get out of my comfort zone work along with my team. It may had been very sudden and unexpected, notwithstanding, we managed to last ‘till the end: very near from the NCII we've all been waiting for.
I am a proud TESDA scholar. With the great opportunity they have bestowed upon us, we can now see a brighter future ahead. Years from now, conceivably, I can see myself being the person I have been aiming to be. It may still be a long run, but, I am sanguine that I can make iy happen. I am and will always be proud to say thay I'm a proud TESDA scholar.
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On the Conclusion of S. Y. 2021-2022: The Author’s Phenomenology
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The implementation of hybrid learning in the verge of pandemic was no easy. Being a student who once underwent such type of modality, I must say that it was indeed a challenging task to both teachers and learner, yet, it was victoriously concluded by us students who turned out to be a completer, or, a graduate. Others have even done it with flying colors. Now, as I look back to those days, these are the three (3) things that I have realized along the roller-coaster ride of school year 2021-2022.
**1.) Studying seemed difficult at the start.**
It is given that we are all affected by the rampant cases of COVID-19 pandemic. No one held a great exception in having distress emotionally and mentally. In fact, there is major increase in the number of people who report symptoms of stress, anxiety, depression and insomnia during the pandemic, compared before without the virus ( Mayo Clinic Staff, 2022). Similarly, I felt those symptoms that made me lose my urge to study through blended learning. I became anxious and had no focus on the topics I needed to understand. Needless to say, I did study just for the sake of passing. The published article from (Stanford University, 2021) pointed out that kids are more stressed than they were before the pandemic, they have more work, they are less engaged in school, and their relationships with teachers and [other] kids are strained. Perhaps, this one could explain it.
**2.) Studying amidst pandemic is better when you have peers, but, the truth is, it's only yourself who you have at the end of the day.**
According to (Tran, L.2020), studying with friends can reinforce your learning habits and understanding, thus, I highly suggest that you must surround yourself with positive friends. Unfortunately, not all do have friends and I'm one of them. Before, I felt tired forcing myself to study even if the truth is, I am really sick of it. Understanding the wonders of Science and the complexity of Calculus all by myself, honestly, was not my thing. I got low scores on quizzes, summative, and exams. One thing I was able to discern was that, there was no one who got my back that time. Those classmates who used to be my friends, had an another circle of friends. No one cheered me up. No one helped me to atleast explain simple details to me. No one was there when I needed help. In contrary to that, I used to cheer them up, and even helped in explaining some things to them. Weeks have passed, everything sunk in: I only have myself, thus, I must strive harder to pick myself up when I am at my lowest.
**3.) Hard-work and perseverance are the key to success.**
No matter how rough the situation is and would be, the only to way to make it better is to exert hard-work and perseverance especially in finding solutions. Studying amidst pandemic requires hard-work and perseverance. Without these two (2) things, I might not be able to pursue it: not even with flying colors. Fortunately, I managed to cope up with stress and remained focus to my goal. Newt Gingrich, American politician, historian, and author, had this quote which says, “Perseverance is the hard work you do after you get tired of doing the hard work you already did.”
Hybrid learning, blended learning, modular modality, online learning , traditional learning or how you call it, one thing will never change : education is a great challenge that is worth-doing. All modes of learning have certain obstacles by which all would also require hard-work and perseverance. I am forever grateful that I was able to experience such phenomenology and learn plenty of realizations. These realizations can be a pillar as I enter the next school year, and transform it into my advantage to outsmart the challenges on the next chapter of my life.
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**References:**
1.) Mayo Clinic Staff. (2022). COVID-19 and your Mental Health. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/coronavirus/in-depth//art-20482731
2.) Stanford University. ( 2021, March 21). Student stress during the pandemic. News and Media. https://ed.stanford.edu/news/student-stress-during-pandemic
3.) Tran, L. (2020, November 3). 8 Benefits of Studying with Friends. Australian National Institute of Management and Commerce. www.imc.edu.au
I'm gonna start blogging about my daily activity. Haha. Wish me luck!
I'm gonna start blogging about my daily activity. Haha. Wish me luck!
Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone: A Book Review
Magical. Remarkable. Timeless. If you are into intriguing and fast paced novel, you can't probably go wrong with Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone. It is first of the seven famous Harry Potter books by a British author Joanne Rowling or also known with her pen name as J. K Rowling, that has 309 pages, and, was released in 1998. Most importantly, it is where Harry Potter, the main character, was introduced to the wizarding world from the viewpoint of the Dursleys, and, commenced his sublime and fun-filled adventure in Hogwarts along with his camaraderie with Ronn and Hermione.
Harry Potter, at eleven, began his life anew when he discovers that he is a wizard and is invited to attend Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, after being raised in the miserably unfair home of his Uncle Vernon Dursley. Harry's parents were murdered by the main antagonist in the novel, Lord Voldemort, when he was an infant, which leaves a lightning bolt scar on his forehead. He then learns that a powerful wizard and his minions are after the sorcerer’s stone that will make this evil wizard immortal and undefeatable. While, the rest is Potter's introduction to the magical world.
Whilst I definitely recommend this book to the reader, I would've also loved to recommend it to them who have not totally understood the movie series, as well as to some kids and teenagers. Them who have not totally understood the movie, since the informations in the book are very detailed and the words are just easy to understand. Moreover, to the kids and teenagers because it is full of fantasies and imagination, values the importance of friendship, and, sparks joy.
This book is full of fantasies and imagination like at one point in the book, when Harry Potter is asked to catch a flying golden ball while flying on his broomstick. Harry Potter stands on his broomstick and tries to reach for the ball, but he falls off the broomstick in a very tense moment.
The book also gives highlight and value to friendship. In one part of the book, Harry decides to go after the sorcerer’s stone before the wizard reaches it, but his loyal friends, Hermione and Ron don’t let Harry face this danger alone.
Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone is a good book to spark joy, especially those can very well relate to the fantasy world. In one part of the book where Harry, Ronn, and, Hermione sat with each other in a train towards Hogwarts, I really felt that there was a joy sparking inside my system. The moment also that they are together, the book carves a smile on my face.
Furthermore, the book is well-written in a sense that, the descriptions of location, items, and, characters are all clear and appropriate. For example, the school structure, Hogwarts' make the controlling of story's pace hand. On the other hand, there are some minor failure in this book, and, one of it is some of the details were not included. For example, the author did not give highlight to Harry Potter's experience in muggle world. Overall, the book is well-written, and, is successful at providing the readers the best they deserve.
Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone finishes off a very superb start that anyone who reads it, will dare to finish reading the other 6 books. Truly, the book, up until this day, is magical, remarkable and timeless. No wonder why the book itself, as well as the author, J. K Rowling, deserves all the attentions and praises they have received for more than 2 decades. Hence, they deserve to be called as “legends“.
On Philippines' Reopening of Classes: A Position Paper
The world's system may have altered that much as it rotates on its axis, but not this firm belief I etched in my system that schools are students' second home. As COVID-19 interfered and messed up with the timeline, schools were closed. After years of battling with the deadly virus, discussion whether schools in the Philippines shall, or shall not reopen when a COVID-19 vaccine has been found. I beg to disagree that schools in the Philippines shall only reopen when a vaccine for COVID-19 has been found. Other factors, also, should be considered like the country's pandemic situation, and, health-promoting schools principles and approaches.
Firstly, the country's pandemic situation has to be considered when reopening the classes in the Philippines. This would make sense since as of April 28, 2022, approximately 3.69 million people had been confirmed as infected with the COVID-19 virus in the Philippines. Of those, over 3.6 million had recovered and around 60 thousand died (Statista Research Department, 2022).
Moreover, a news article written by Ombay (2022) pointed out that “school year 2022-2023 may open earlier depending on pandemic situation according to Philippines' Department of Education.” By collaborating these two ideas, I can say that it is still not ideal to reopen classes in the midst of alarming high number of COVID-19 cases in the country. Hence, country's pandemic situation must be considered as well, and, not just the discovery of COVID-19 vaccines.
Secondly, schools' capability at conducting face to face classes should also be considered. In a journal written by the World Health Organization (2020), there is a checklist that indicates the essential actions at national, subnational and school level. In the school level, one essential action included is “assessing the feasibility of implementing protective measures before school reopening based on the recommendations of national and subnational/local authorities” (World Health Organization, 2022, p. 11).
It is also crucial for schools-related policies and programmes to consider the challenges facing the most vulnerable and marginalized in accessing services in education and health. This is also similar with the study published by Sarmiento et al., 2021 where they claimed that “ school health protocols in conducting face-to-face classes must be planned carefully following national and international guidelines ” (p.3).
Thirdly, there are some people that consider COVID-19 vaccines as crucial for our offense and defense against the virus, and, agree that schools in the Philippines shall only reopen when a vaccine for COVID—19 has been found. While I also believe the scientific benefits of the vaccines, those should not be made as sole basis for the opening of classes.
Aside from the evidences I stated above, McKenna (2021) of Scientific American pointed out that “data cannot yet tell us if COVID-19 vaccines hinder transmission of SARS-CoV-2.” This simply leads us to a notion that any COVID-19 vaccine can't give us a hundred percent probability that all students shall be made safe during the reopening of classes. Further, it should not be made as a sole indicator for the reopening of classes.
Finally, it is my contention that schools in the Philippines shall not only reopen when a vaccine for COVID—19 has been found. Instead, several factors should be considered like the pandemic situation in the country, as well as the schools' capability at conducting face to face classes should also be considered. Schools are students' second home, and, sending students to school just by considering the vaccines alone is like sending students to disaster. Therefore, the aforementioned factors must also be considered to ensure the safety of students amidst the deadly pandemic.
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**References**:
McKenna, S. (2021). “Vaccines Need Not Completely Stop COVID Transmission to Curb the Pandemic”. Scientific American. https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/vaccines-need-not-completely-stop-covid-transmission-to-curb-the-pandemic1/?amp=true
Ombay, G. (2022, March 26). AY 2022-2023 may open earlier depending on pandemic situation –DepEd. GMA News. gmanetwork.com
Statista Research Department (2022, April 29). Coronavirus (COVID-19) Key Figures in the Philippines 2022. Statista. www.statista.com
Ombay, G. (2022, March 26). AY 2022-2023 may open earlier depending on pandemic situation –DepEd. GMA News. gmanetwork.com
Sarmiento et al., (2021). Face-to-face classes during COVID-19: a call for deliberate and well-planned school health protocols in the Philippine context. Journal of Public Health (Oxford, English). DOI: 10.1093/pubmed/fdab006
World Health Organization (2020). Checklist to support schools re-opening and preparation for COVID-19 resurgences
or similar public health crises. ISBN 978-92-4-001746-7
A Brief History of Cryptocurrency
**What do you think is the first real-world Bitcoin transaction in history?**
*a.) A bucket of chicken*
*b.) A gallon of ice cream*
*c.) Two large pizza*
*d.) Two pairs of shoes*
***We'll know the answer of this question as we continue to delve into the article.***
**Concept of Cryptocurrency**
The concept of cryptocurrency came into existence in the late 1980s, having the goal of creating a currency that could be sent anonymously, without using centralized entities, like, banks. An American cryptographer, **David Chaum,** made **Digicash**, which was an anonymous cryptographic electronic money, in the year 1995 ( Hamacher, 2022).
So far, that was an early form of cryptographic electronic payments in the history. It also required the users of the said software encrypted keys before the recipient can receive it, after withdrawing from the bank.
Furthermore, other personality that became part of the idea of cryptocurrency includes Nick Szabo, who designed Bit Gold in 1998.
**Bit Gold** was Bitcoin's direct precursor. It was like a typical game that offers a reward after you win. It was done by requiring the participants to dedicate computer power in solving cryptographic puzzles. Once done in solving the puzzle, a reward can be received. This combination of Chaum’s and Szabo’s concepts together resembles the idea of Bitcoin.
However, things went ironic when **Szabo** himself could not solve the puzzle of the double-spending problem, or digital data that can be copied and pasted, without using central authority.
Here comes the other mysterious person/s using the pseudonym a decade later, from the article of Jones, 2022, a man named **Satoshi Nakamoto** published a white paper called Bitcoin – A Peer to Peer Electronic Cash System.
This is where the history of Bitcoin, and subsequent cryptocurrencies, began.
**How It Started** **(2008-2010****)**
Satoshi Nakamoto published the white paper called Bitcoin – A Peer to Peer Electronic Cash System on the 31st of October, 2008. It describes the functionality of the Bitcoin blockchain network. On the other hand on August 18 of the same year, he then formally began the work on the bitcoin project, and, purchased Bitcoin.org. The value of Bitcoin that time, specifically in April 2010, was less than 14 cents. It surged to 36 cents 7 months after, when a pizza was bought on May, specifically, 2 large pizzas. http://Bitcoin.org
Hence, from the question above, if your answer is letter c, or two large pizza, then you're accurate! Did you guys get the correct answer? Share it on the comment section below.
**Market Formation** **(2010-2014****)**
After the aforementioned incident, Bitcoin has proven that it had real world value, although, it was not worth much yet. From 36 cents, it has gradually risen to $1.06 in February 2011. In the spring, in part due to a Forbes story on the new “cryptocurrency,” the price took off. There was a continuous surge from early April to the end of May, the cost for a Bitcoin increased from 86 cents to $8.89.
Issues Became Predominant and The Worst Happened (2014-2016)
As a staring platform, ups and downs interfered the timeline. Because of an intentional, anonymity and lack of centralized control, the digital currency became an easy and vulnerable thing for crimes and criminals. As a result, the worst thing happened in January 2014. The nightmare began when Mt. Gox, the world's largest Bitcoin exchanged, collapsed. Rumor has it that a massive heist happened, and an 850,000 Bitcoin were slowly losing staring from 2011. Afterwards, they declared a total bankruptcy.
The Rise and Comeback of Bitcoin (2016-2018)
From rags to richest, Bitcoin has recovered from the incident in the year 2014 as their prices elevated consistently year after year. From $434 in January 2016, to $998 in January 2017. On the other hand, a new blockchain project called Ethereum, a number two cryptocurrency on the market, created noise in the cryptocurrency world.
Competition against Ethereum happened from the emergence of other blockchains like Cardano and Tezos. Hence, the cryptocurrency world continues to expand and grow in market cap, making its massive comeback.
**Bust and Eventual Recovery (2018-Present)** ***(Jones, 2022)***
Later on that year, Bitcoin, as well as Ethereum, did not acquire long-term sustainability. Continuous hackings became a catalyst that became the very main reason why financial regulations and security concerns were raised. As the year 2018 ended, Bitcoin had dropped down to around $3700. Prices did not stay down however, and since the end of 2018, Bitcoin, along with most other cryptocurrencies, Ethereum included, have rebounded in the present (Jones, 2022).
**Conclusion**
At present times, cryptocurrency, or blockchain, has proven its versatility, not just in the digital world, but also in the real world we are moving in. Especially, during these trying times, I've seen a lot of articles here in read. cash where its utilization in a specific country, is being highlighted. It just feels so good to look back in the past. It was because of the 2 large pizzas, and, the rest are satisfying history to look back on.
**Reference:**
**Jones, E. (2022, January 7). A Brief History of Cryptocurrency. CryptoVantage.** **www.cryptovantage.com** http://www.cryptovantage.com
**Likos, P. & Hicks, C. (2022, February 4). The History of Bitcoin, the First Cryptocurrency. U. S News & World Report.** **moneyusnews.com**
http://moneyusnews.com
Reaping What I Planted: Sharing What I've Earned
When you plant, what thoughts exactly do you have in mind? Imagine a farmer who plants a piece of seed. At the start, he can either be a believer, or, skeptical.
Believer, who doesn't have sufficient knowledge about what lies at the very end. But, believes that there is a hundred percent probability that the seed will successfully yield its fruit no matter what the odds would be like along the way. And, skeptical, in a sense that, there are thoughts that the seed will not germinate due to any circumstances. Or sometimes, a combination of believer and skeptical. There are times, although, that the start of the process would be unlikely. But a farmer who perseveres is the only one who reaps what he planted at the end of the day. And, that's how my journey here in read. cash went like.
I started as a lone writer who had less knowledge about this website. Honestly, I was just influenced by my sister who happened to gain bigger earnings already. Considering that, I told my self to try my luck, and started making my own account. Yes, by what I've described on the first paragraph, I'm a believer. I didn't mind all those negativities running through my head. I began writing and publishing my first ever article. However, as what most of the farmers what encountered, the random rewarder did not give any tip on my article. Several weeks have passed. I kept on asking my sister about such thing, and, she only said to be active as always, or wait.
It was the time where I became skeptical. Even up to this day, it did not give any tips to that particular article yet. I lost my hope. But, I suddenly felt like moving on and tried making another article. I wrote my second piece and luckily, the random rewarder has given a tip already. That gave me a drive to make more and more. Truly, a farmer who perseveres is the only one who reaps what he planted at the end of the day. And just this day, I have now reaped the fruit of my hard works. But, you may be wondering, how, or to whom am I gonna be spending that money.
The very main reason why I wrote plenty of articles is, to earn money for my mother's birthday. I had a total earning of $10.84, which is convertible to P568. 3412 in Philippine peso. My sister, on the other hand, had an amount of $10, which is P524.3 Thus, we had a total amount of $20.84 or 1,092.6412. From that, we gave life to our mother's birthday by buying some foods. The first food that we bought was 3 pieces 11 inch pizza, with variation of flavors. It costs P 570.00 or $10.87. That second one was a cake that has a price of P 350.00 or $6.68. And the last is, 5 pieces of milk tea, and, we paid P 170.00 or $3.24. While the rest is for travel expenses. The day was really a fun-filled day, not just for us, but also for my mother.
The process of planting all my efforts in writing articles, has finally paid off. Indeed, there were lots of hurdles along the way. But, we can never earn, unless we take a move, move on, or persevere. Aside from that, I guarantee to all the writers here in read.cash who have doubts, that you should not listen to the negativities is your head. In addition, don't ever lose hope if ever it seems like, the random rewarder is not noticing what you've published. Just keep on trying. Write more articles. Not just an article, but a good quality one. http://read.cash
Lastly, I thank all my sponsors who gave me not just tips, but also inspirations that keep me going. I may not know you are all personally, but your simple actions tell me that you are good people. Also, those people who support my journey, my warmest gratitude to all of you. Because of you, I reaped what I planted, and shared what I earned.
Reviewing Related Literatures
We are all familiar with different sorts of printed materials, especially those common ones, like magazines, books and newspapers. However, in other kind of piece of writing, there is this thing termed as a “research paper”. A research paper is a piece of academic writing that aims to analyze, evaluate, or interpret a single topic, quantitative or qualitative, using empirical and scientific evidences. Basically, it is consist of five general chapters, and one of which is the Chapter 2 and it is the review of related literature (RRL).
Ridley, 2012 gave description to literature as any oral or written record of man's significant experiences that are expressed through an ordinary manner. It is conveyed or expressed directly, like those that are written in books, journals, articles, and other online reading materials. On the other hand, indirect expressions are those that are not written or spoken at all, yet, is a mirror image of someone’s environment. From these idea, we will come up with the definition of Review of Related Literature by Prieto et al., 2017, which is an overview of all the writings relative to a specific topic. To add more, it is the process that pertains to the collection, selection and the reading of books, journals, reports, abstracts, and other reference materials.
In this article, we will learn the three different steps in reviewing related literatures.
**Step 1: Search for the Literature**
1. **Narrow down your topic**. In gathering different sources or literatures, you should have focus like a clearly indicated scope, as well as the aim or goal of the said review.
2. **Be specific**. Isolate and center only your desired research on key themes or issues that is inclined to your interest.
3. **Be wise in choosing literatures.** You can choose studies conducted by experts and authorities under that particular identical field. And, as much as possible, use peer-reviewed articles or journals.
**Step 2: Reading and Citing Source of Material**
The following are the three terms to express recognition of author's ownership of borrowed ideas in accordance to *Sharp, 2012.*
1.) **Acknowledgement.** This gives identification to people who gave contribution throughout the making of the manuscript, which is written of course at the start of the paper.
2.) **References or Bibliography.** These are the general list of literary materials with the inclusion of all books, journals, theses, and dissertations, together with other aforementioned sources above. These are arranged alphabetically. The informations needed in making the referencing list are:
*a.) Author's name*
*b.) Date of the publication of the source*
*c.) Page number where you found the information*
*d.) Publisher*
*e.) Place of publishing*
*f.) Volume*
*g.) Edition*
*h.) Other relevant information (URL, DOI, etc.)*
*Example:*
Benton, J. J. (2004). Hydroponics. A Guide to Student Experiments Growing Plants without Soil. Cornell University. Retrieved at: http://csip.cornell.edu.
3.) **Citation, or in-text citation**. This is referring an author within the main body of text. It can be done by paraphrasing, summarizing, or through quotations. There are three basic methods of referencing the authors and these are **APA (American Psychological Association),** **MLA (Modern Language Association)** and the **Chicago Manual Style.**
Step 3:) **Creating or synthesizing your review of related literature.**
**Synthesizing** means to putting separate facts, etc. together to form a single piece of work. It can be done by some pattern techniques like **paraphrasing, quoting, and summarizing** it. In doing so, you may either change the arrangement of ideas, structures of language by using **synonyms, changing format of words by comparison-contrast, chronological order, passive-active sentences, inductive-deductive order,** or **fusing opinions with the author's ideas.**
Reviewing related literature cannot only be applied to writing research papers. This is also essential in writing essays or articles, and publishing it in any website like the read.cash. By doing so, this will strengthen someone's claims of any systematic, purposeful and well-defined output. Also, it is will give assurance to your readers and sponsors that your work has been well conceived. All in all, reviewing related literatures is a step to become an influential and effective writer. http://read.cash
**Reference:**
Prieto et al., (2017). Practical research 1 for senior high school: Qualitative. Quezon City, Metro Manila: LORIMAR Publishing, Inc.
Ridley, D. (2012). The Literature Review: A Guide for Students. Los Angeles: Sage.
Sharp, J. (2012). Sucess With Your Educational Research. USA: John Wiley and Sons.
Think Before You Speak: Read Before You Think
Picture out life without the presence of printed materials as newspaper, books, or magazines. What do you think would it be like? Would it be pale and dry? Or, would it be an ideal point of life thriving at the peak of modernization along with technologies?
Everyday, we read those materials that provide us with various informations. Through reading, we are updated with certain contemporary issues in the country we live in, or across the world, without heavy reliance on gadgets. However, not all readers are capable of evaluating piece of writing by which, he or she reads or validates not the facts in a particular written piece. Needless to say, not all readers are critical readers and critical thinkers which instantly leads to failure in logically evaluating the claims being expressed by the writer. Moreover, others fail to examine the evidence or arguments presented, nor assess the strength of supporting details or evidences and the argument. To read critically for reasoning includes **identifying assertions**, **formulating counterclaims,** and**, determining textual evidence.**
Firstly, an **assertion** pertains to somebody's claim or belief which can be true or not. Completely speaking, it is a technique applied in using a forceful declaration and positive statement pertaining to any belief or fact. There are four common types of assertion which are **facts, convention, preference and opinion.** A **fact** is any unbiased statement that is based on objective proofs like experiences, observations, and conclusions of studies of research. **Convention** pertains to a belief that are socially accepted, yet, cannot be verified objectively. **Preference,** on the other hand, is based on someone's subjective personal choice. And, **opinion**, a type of assertion, is based on facts, but are difficult to verify due to the uncertainty of accepting acceptable proofs.
Secondly, **formulating counterclaims** is like formulating making a rebuttal. A counterclaim is a contradicting perspective; something said to offset someone's claim. A critical reader who thinks critically, is said to be able at locating and providing counterclaims to an argument. Counterclaims can be formulated by asking some of the questions, *“what are the major points on which you and the author can disagree?”, “what is the strongest argument? what did they say to defend their position?”, “what are the merits of their view?”, and, “what are the weaknesses or shortcomings in their arguments? are there any assumptions?”.*
Thirdly, in **determining textual evidence**, it is essential to consider that it substantiates the text, reveals and build the writer's position and sways the readers to your side. Accordingly, the types of textual evidence are **statistical, testimonial, anecdotal and analogical evidences.** To determine textual evidence, there are questions that you can ask in order to develop some, like, *“what are the most important details in the paragraph?”, “what is each one's relationship to the claim?”, “how does the given detail reinforce the claim?”,* *“what are some claims that do not seem to have support? what kinds of support could they be provided with?”, “are some details outdated, inaccurate, exaggerated, or taken out of context?”, and, “are the sources reliable?”.* Further, a good evidence must be **unified, relevant to the central point, specific and concrete,** and **most importantly, accurate.**
Life without printed materials will really be odd, not to mention, pale and dry. In spite the sweet taste of modernization during these times, it is also important to have the smell of papers; free from dangers of the radiation emitted from gadgets. And, as you read those, there is a need to learn the concept of a good and effective critical reader as means to logically evaluate claims, analyze arguments and provide counterclaims with evidences. Through this, you can think before you click, and read before you think.
Publishing an ICT Project for Social Change
Are you fond of making an ICT Project for social change but do not know how to? This article may be worth-reading for you!
In this ever-evolving world, a lot of alterations can occur. One of those that are greatly affected brought by these changes are the ways we people live. Since those will obviously not cease to continue, actions must be done in order to positively respond to them. It can be raising awareness about something or, informing wide-range of people. Fortunately, by the advent of technologies, we are no longer required to spend a hundred percent of our effort. By just one click on our keyboards, we can disseminate tons of informations across the world. For example, raising awareness about a contemporary issue by writing a blog, and post in any website. We can efficiently do it by uploading, managing and promoting.
**Uploading** is defined as putting images, documents, content, or data on the web. Social campaigns are uploaded in several ways: on popular social networking sites like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, or through an own website. You can do it in two ways.
The first one is uploading through your own website. After conceptualizing what the campaign is all about, is to upload through your own website. It is done by creating it via *HTML coding*, or *WYSIWYG (What you see is what you get*). You can use websites like *Wix* or *Wordpress*. Instructions are readily available when you register. Afterwards, choose tags for uploaded content to avoid plagiarism. And, you can upload your content if you want to.
Or, you may choose uploading through Social Networking Sites. The other way of uploading is the use of social media. The first step is to visit the following social networking sites: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and etc. Next, you can register or log in. Lastly, compose your content, locate and click the upload icon, and select the material that you wanted to upload (This varies from any form of social networks). Remember that for Facebook upload, see to it that content you want to upload is set to public, so that people can share the content.
After creating a social campaign and uploading it to social networking sites or your own website, it is important to know that we, the creator, is responsible fot its content. There are management techniques that you will need to consider after uploading or publishing a content. **Improving the site/page** where constant enhancement of a page or site attracts different audience, thus, improves exposure. **Maintenance,** wherein, technical maintenance is also needed like testing, analysis, security and performance check. **Responding to visitors**, by wich, it is our responsibility as a creator to respond professionally. Lastly, **filtering**, where it is also best to observe filtering foul words and comments.
Uploaded ICT content needs audience for popularization. It is being said that a content that is not viewed or known are contents in vain. Hence, **promotion** is needed. You can choose to promote it in two ways in accordance to where you uploaded it: website promotion and social media promotion. Website promotion includes **search engine optimization** where the use of Google and Bing have algorithms that determine the most relevant websites, and **search engine submission** where it refers to submitting your website's URL to search engines like Google, Yahoo, or Bing, to be noticed easily. On the other hand, **social media promotion** can be done by public sharing, guesting on blogs and vlogs, and tagging your friends to make it known to the social media users.
As we continue to perceive it, we realize that ICT projects are not just for nothing, but for something.The integration of ICT in today's campaigns give louder voices to communicate with their target audience and gain sympathy to address existing crises or problems, caused by changes. What are you waiting for? Follow the steps above, start now and be the voice!
**References:**
Revano and Feria. (2016).Empowerment Technologies. pp.13-133
Vidwans and Amol. (2012). Website Management
When She Gazed Into the Abyss
**Disclaimer: Involves the content about suicide. The writer asked the permission first to the bereaved family before posting.**
*"Battle not with monsters, lest ye become a monster, and if you gaze into the abyss, the abyss gazes also into you.”*
*– Friedrich Nietzsche, Beyond Good and Evil*
Grey. Dull. Monotonous. She began to speak up for the very first time. The whole class was silenced as she tried to open her crimson lips and construe her life in a mysterious way. The anger and guilt left traces on her tantalizing, yet peculiar eyes. Void—that is the exact, appropriate term to describe who she was. No emotions were evident. She never opened-up to someone. It was too obscure.
The rain started to fall, and the thunder was rumbling. She was wearing her black jacket, and it truly had a complement on her pale skin. Include her long, straight hair that freely falls freely like a waterfall, and is as black as the night sky. I was staring at her as she looked up into the sky while the rain was falling. It was like gazing at the black void across the space, and the stars were her eyes. Like staring at the sky, too much questions about what lies beneath, who had caused it, and why it happened, started to puzzle me up. Little did I know, she was already looking at me that broke my bemused countenance.That's when I realized, I looked like a hungry stray dog wherein she might have noticed too, yet , I just shrugged it off when gave me a strange smirk which sent off shiver down my spine.
Day after that, I went school as early as possible to see her arrive and, enter the door. She was an "early-bird", as others have called it. Hours passed, no presence of her arrived until the class dismissal. That was an anomalous day since she had never missed any class before. I tried to find my luck, and asked this strict teacher if she left any excuse letter. Unfortunately, she just raised her thin eyebrows, pouted her lips and said,''none', as I have expected. When I reached home, I attempted to search her on any social media accounts, but I found nothing. It brought me chills. Everything flashed back in my mind. That void in herself, her peculiar eyes and that, strange smirk. I did not mind them all, and fell asleep.
The next Friday morning, my messenger blasted many messages, to the point that it lagged my cellphone that hard and I was not able to read what was that all about. I hurried to school with my heart felt very heavy. As I entered that room, the atmosphere was different. All of my classmates were talking to each other, wearing a sad and anxious face. And again, I could not see any presence of the girl. I wanted to ask one of my classmates about the matter, but our adviser has entered the room as well and the class started. Before the class has formally commenced, she informed us that one our classmates was found dead hanging on her ceiling. The who class was stunned, and a very long silence has taken over the four corners of our room.
Our class decided to excuse our whole section from the remaining subjects, in order to visit her funeral and we were given the permission by our school principal. Some of our teachers also came with us, including our adviser. When we arrived in their two-storey house, I overheard the conversation of my adviser and her mother talking about her death. That very girl, who use to be so quiet and mysterious, was dealing with an extreme depression. After her parents' marriage failed, they separated and she lived with her mother. But afterwards, his father got into a car accident just few months before her death. Also, her mother was too busy and has forsaken her emotional aspect.
That void in herself, her peculiar eyes and that, strange smirk. Everything just made sense why I really could not forget them all those times. I realize, it could have been any sign that she was dealing with that particular condition, and she needed someone to talk to. As I came across with this quote by Friedrich Nietzcshe, I cannot help but to remember that girl, two years before.
When you gaze into that abyss, it gazes back, and it tells you what and who exactly you are. Sadly, in the midst of monsters in her life, she went with them without surpassing them all. When her abyss opened up, it was like calling her, and since she knew that they have darkness in their selves, she entered and never came back. It all happened, when she gazed into the abyss.
When Time is Time to Japan
When we take a glance at Japan, we perceive it as an incredibly advanced country, especially, when it comes to technologies. From robots to super-fast bullet trains and up to the impressive vending machines, this island country lying off the east coast of Asia, appears to live decades or even hundreds of years in the future. For example, Japan's Shinkansen Express (Bullet Train) has been around for some time and is still one of the most advanced forms of public transport around the world.²
However, in spite all of these technological developments, the said country was recently just struck by a powerful 7.3 magnitude earthquake struck off the coast of Fukushima in northern Japan, on March 16, 2022. Everyone was shaken by the news. Consequently, the earthquake has resulted to the death of at least four people, triggered a tsunami advisory and plunged more than 2 million homes in the Tokyo area into darkness.¹
Historically, this is not the first time they have encountered such devastating calamity. In fact, the aforementioned region is part of northern Japan that was also devastated by a deadly 9.0 quake and tsunami 11 years ago. The earthquake was so intense that it has triggered nuclear plant meltdowns and spewed massive radiation that still makes some parts of the region uninhabitable.¹ According to JMA (the Meteorological Agency of Japan), there is an approximate number of 2000 earthquakes that strike in Japan every year. When we convert it into percentage, there is atleast 18.5% of earthquakes in the world that occurs in Japan.⁴ Imagine how extremely high these numbers are.
As we try broaden our perception, let's try to think and reflect of the following questions. What makes Japan so vulnerable to earthquakes? How does the government respond to such deadly disaster? And, being an advanced country, haven't they made technologies that can predict earthquake occurrence that would lessen the damage and casualties?
Firstly, the very main reason why Japan is prone to earthquakes because of its position along the Pacific Ring of Fire. Although in reality, it is an imaginary horseshoe-shaped zone, it is where many of the world's earthquakes and volcanic eruptions occur. The movement and collision of large tectonic plates in the Pacific Ring of Fire trigger earthquakes, that would also cause numerous tsunamis in turn. The other reason is because of its topography. The country's topography is rugged and there are many faults and there are many steep inclines.⁴
On the other hand, Japan's government respond to such serious calamity in a way that, in the first hours after the earthquake, Japanese Prime Minister Kan Naoto moved to set up an emergency command centre in Tokyo, and a large number of rescue workers and a hundred thousand members of the Japanese Self-Defense Force were rapidly mobilized to deal with crisis caused by the earthquake.⁴
Moreover, Japan has attempted to predict its occurrence. However, although Japan's National Project for Earthquake Prediction has been conducted since 1965 without success³, the country still found ways to lessen its damage and casualties among its buildings, infrastructures and public establishments. Many have counterweight system installed that swings with the movement of the building to stabilize it. Also, Japan has 7,600 buildings that use seismic isolation system where it reduces shaking by placing rubber, plastic, and oil in order to reduce tremor.⁴ Accordingly, it is the most number of buildings in the world, and followed by China with 3,600.
Technological development, in general, has so much positive effects and benefits on the human lives. It makes the human work easier, and provides an efficient solution to solve certain problems. However, the reality is, it does also not guarantee that it can predict those that are meant to be unpredictable, or save all the lives of the humanity. Although that's what technologies are meants for, everything has limitations. Like in Japan, no matter how they have gone when it comes to these advancements, disasters, usually, can never be predicted nor stopped. That's, when time is time to Japan. http://lives.It
Reference:
1.) Deadly earthquake.. (2022, March 16). Deadly earthquake in Japan knocks out power to millions, prompts brief tsunami advisory. CBS News. Retrieved at: https://www.cbsnews.com/amp/news/japan-earthquake-tsunami-advisory-fukushima-tokyo-power-outages/
2.) McFadden, C. (2018). 23 Reasons Why Japan Is Already Living In the Future. Interesting Engineering. Retrieved at: https://amp.interestingengineering.com/23-reasons-why-japan-is-already-living-in-the-future
3.) Uyeda et al., (2013). On earthquake prediction in Japan. Proceedings of the Japan Academy. Series B, Physical and biological sciences. vol. 89(9). pp.391–400. DOI: https://doi.org/10.2183/pjab.89.391
4.) Why Japan is...(2021). Why Japan is Prone to Earthquakes. Libsnet.com. Retrieved at: libsnet.com http://Libsnet.com http://libsnet.com
A Peso Coin of Happiness
**11:40 AM.** The sweltering heat from the sun has devoured the entire massivenes of the school plaza. Tricycle horns blaring, high-pitched sound of traffic enforcers' whistle and students silently chit-chatting in distant. It was a matter of simply minding their own businesses heading to home, after the official announcement for class suspension. I was patiently waiting for a tricycle, and sat on a bench in an old-fashioned waiting shed beside the pile of garbages. The roof was ripped, and flies were on top of the improperly disposed trashes.
Minutes fast forward, my bemused countenance was disrupted by the arrival of these 2 kids who came near the the garbages. Their physical features were evidently different from the other people as I am. Their blond hairs shone under the intense of the sun. Their ripped clothes were atleast trying to cover some parts of their body. Afterwards, they unhesitantly dove into the pile of garbages; trying to find some foods to eat. Honestly, despite of feeling sad about their situation, I was amazed on how dedicated they were for their own survival.
The other one left his accompany, probably his brother, and started to ask for some money to people. No one paid attention to him, while others were obviously ridiculed to the child. I did not see any traces of sadness, misery, and disappointment of him. In distant, he saw me sitting on a bench. He fastly ran, lifted his palm, and with hopeful sound, he asked for a money. I, on the other hand, had enough money yet, for my fare to home. I wanted, somehow, to pay credit for his effort. I picked a one peso coin from my pocket, and gave it to him. With mouth wide open, he said 'SALAMAT' or 'THANK YOU' in English. He called the other child, and together, they left.
***Badjao or “Sea Gypsies”.*** It was definitely not my first time seeing them. There are actually hundreds of them roaming around the streets, and trying to survive a day by asking for money, food, and even selling their own product like smuggled phones and bags. There are also instances that they go beyond that. Others will give you a spit if you won't give, and some steal phones and sell it in exchange for money. They are even facing discrimination wherever they go. But, in life, we should never generalize or make a conclusion to someone that easy.
**11:51 AM.** After I gave that one peso coin to the boy, I opened my black umbrella and secretly followed them. It was hard sneaking on to them because they would instantly stop when they would see a load of trash, or people whom they can ask money for. But, what happened next, shocked me the most.
**12:00 PM.** They went to a bakeshop, barefoot. Before that, they gathered first their accumulated money and counted it. As soon as they have finished counting, they pointed an 'Ensaymada', a pastry product and a common bread sold in bakeshop. The kids left the shop, and continued walking until they reached a tree where there were plenty of their kinds under it. They shouted loud from afar, and the small kids immediately grabbed the cellophane. All of them shared the bread those two kids bought and brought. The happiness was so blatant on their faces. They were laughing. They were even cheering.
**12:05.** I left that exact location, called a tricycle, and went home. As I was riding in the tiny tricycle, there were many thoughts running through my mind. I reached home, ate my lunch and reflected. I had this feeling of sadness, happiness and satisfaction.
Sadness, because, even up to this modern times, there are still people who are suffering from extreme poverty and face discrimination. Happiness, because witnessing such heart-warming scenario has brought butterflies in my heart. And, satisfaction. The feeling of satisfaction happens when you become a part of any achievement. In my case, who would have thought that laughter and joy will be made out from a peso coin of happiness?
Breakthrough Technologies in the Wake of COVID-19 Pandemic
The wake of pandemic has been one of the most unpredictable year. This scenario has simply exemplified how quickly the world can transform. Due to the pandemic, everything about life has to be altered in one way or another to cope with the new normal. Technology, on the other hand, is already a fast paced, evolving industry, hence, it is no surprise that new adaptations are made even quicker now to accommodate. However, can we also cogitate, and think of it as a "blessing in disguise" if we know that it has also caused the discovery and emergency of certain technologies? Well, let me present them to you one by one, and let's see if you will be convinced.
**1) Messenger RNA vaccines**
Messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccines are just one of newly discovered vaccines where it teach cells how to make a protein that will trigger an immune response inside our bodies. Homologous to the role of any other COVID-19 vaccines, mRNA vaccines benefit people who get vaccinated by giving them protection against diseases like COVID-19 without risking the potentially serious consequences of getting sick.¹
Historically, messenger RNA is a technology that has been in the works for 20 years. When the covid-19 pandemic began last January, scientists at several biotech companies were quick to turn to mRNA as a way to create potential vaccines; in late December 2020, at a time when more than 1.5 million had died from covid-19 worldwide, the vaccines were approved in the US, marking the beginning of the end of the pandemic.²
**2.) Digital contact Tracing**
Pretty familiar, isn't it? As the coronavirus began to ravage and spread across the world, the world was in great need for digital contact tracing. This works so simple. The smartphone apps that we are causing can utilize GPS or Bluetooth to make a log of people who had recently crossed paths. If one of them later tested positive for covid, that person could enter the result into the app, and it would alert others who might have been exposed.
However, the has been a news about the digital contact tracing largely failing to make much impact on the virus’s spread. Consequently, Apple and Google quickly pushed out features like exposure notifications to many smartphones. After solving this problem, public health officials again struggled to persuade residents to use them. From this, we can learn that this pandemic could not only help us prepare for the next pandemic, but also carry over to other areas of health care. Lindsay Muscato, an editor, writer, producer, and journalist MIT Technology Review, explores why digital contact tracing failed to slow covid-19 and offers ways we can do better next.²
**3.) Artificial Intelligence (AI)**
We are all familiar with this term, aren't we? According to the Forbes article, the number one trend in tech will be artificial intelligence (AI). AI may sound to complex and complicated, but it will be a major and efficient tool in improving the pandemic. This is because, the algorithm, a finite sequence of well-defined instructions, can make the AI capable of learning from past data, say from hospitals, to determine new solutions that humans may never have concluded. Furthermore, AI has access to massive amounts of data about the pandemic, such as: how each patient was impacted, and the recovery process, that humans would be ill-equipped to process in a timely manner. These will be then utilized to predict and come up to best possible solution. With machine learning capabilities, AI is even more skillful at predicting the correct
**4.) Drones, and Vehicle Automation**
According to the article, *“In recent years we have seen the emergence of robots in the care and assisted living sectors, and these will become increasingly important, particularly when it comes to interacting with members of society who are most vulnerable to infection, such as the elderly.”*³
One plausible reason for the spread of the virus is human interactions. As states and country are slowly opening up, human interaction is increasing and the risk for those whose immune systems are weak only continues to grow. The only way to eliminate this risk for those populations is to eliminate human interaction as much as possible. This is where robots come in, it will be interesting to see if robots will be able to evolve to the point of providing the comfort a real life human could provide. Interesting and exciting, right?
**5.) Extended Reality (XR) – Virtual and Augmented Reality (VR/MR).**
*“These terms cover technology that uses glasses or headsets to project computer-generated imagery directly into the user’s field of vision. When it is superimposed over what the user is viewing in the real world, it is AR. And when it is used to place the user into an entirely computer-generated environment, it is VR.”³*
By any chance, we have all heard of these terms before, or maybe, familiar with it. The fact these technologies simulate real life as much as possible without the actual risk of interaction, these arrre going to be very popular. Aside from the fame that it would cause, this can also be extremely helpful for situations in life where interactions need to take place such as schools or for those in the medical fields. VR/MR also allows humans to practice situations for training purposes that would never be possible before such as surgeons practicing virtual surgery.
Now, has this article somehow made you the bright side of pandemic? There are many countries alreadt who are back to normal, while others are still slowly recovering. With the emergence of new technologies, we are already equipped with weapons to combat this virus, once it will be vack again in the future.
References:
1.) COVID-19. (2022, January 4). COVID-19. Center Disease Control and Prevention. Retrieved at: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/different-vaccines/mrna.html#:~:text=Messenger%20RNA%20(mRNA)%20vaccines%20teach,serious%20consequences%20of%20getting%20sick.
2.) Sierra and Lenny. (2021, February 24). 10 Breakthrough Technologies 2021. MIT Technology Review. Retrieved at: www.technologyreview.com
3.) The Biggest Trends.... (September 20, 2020). The 5 Biggest Trends in Technology in 2021. Opsani. Retrieved at: opsani.com
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