Photos of my recent trip to Bangkok
Saturday, September 08, 2007
Wednesday, August 22, 2007
TRUSTING IN GOD: THE KEY TO A HAPPY, STRESS-FREE LIFE
The stock market has been taking a beating these past weeks.
I really shouldn't be worried... except that I had placed a good sum of my "retirement"money on balanced funds,which means part of it were probably invested in equities.
But there in lies the lesson.
No one could really have predicted when this market decline would happen. And if I had spent a lot of time worrying about it,I probably would have ended up just plain miserable instead of living and enjoying my life.
So I choose not to worry myself to death about it. After all the experts say, over the long haul things will get better! Who am I to argue with the "experts."
So there really is a lot of wisdom in the biblical passage that goes:"Look at the birds in the air...they neither spin nor weave yet your Heavenly Father feeds them."
Trusting in the goodness of a Loving Father...that is the key to a healthy,stress-free life.
I really shouldn't be worried... except that I had placed a good sum of my "retirement"money on balanced funds,which means part of it were probably invested in equities.
But there in lies the lesson.
No one could really have predicted when this market decline would happen. And if I had spent a lot of time worrying about it,I probably would have ended up just plain miserable instead of living and enjoying my life.
So I choose not to worry myself to death about it. After all the experts say, over the long haul things will get better! Who am I to argue with the "experts."
So there really is a lot of wisdom in the biblical passage that goes:"Look at the birds in the air...they neither spin nor weave yet your Heavenly Father feeds them."
Trusting in the goodness of a Loving Father...that is the key to a healthy,stress-free life.
Tuesday, August 21, 2007
THE CONNECTION GENE
I spent some time yesterday just randomly browsing through the blogsites that were on BLOGGER and there were quite a lot. I even came across blogs in German, Chinese,Arabic and some in script that I didn't recognize.
Why were they posting these?Maybe for the same reason I started my own blog,i.e., to share experiences and get connected with others.
So if there is any evidence that man has a gene that programs him for connection and social interaction...then the proliferation of blogs over the internet is it!
Why were they posting these?Maybe for the same reason I started my own blog,i.e., to share experiences and get connected with others.
So if there is any evidence that man has a gene that programs him for connection and social interaction...then the proliferation of blogs over the internet is it!
Monday, August 20, 2007
PATTING OUR KIDS' BACK:SOMETHING WE OFTEN FORGET
I happened to catch Oprah on TV last night. She had a recognition program entitled "Cheers To You" where she recognized people who were doing extraordinary things for their fellowmen and yet were not getting any applause for it.
One of these was Debbe, who launched Project Cuddles. This was a home for infants who were being put up for adoption by their mothers who could no longer take care of them. In the past 10 years of her project,Debbe had saved about 570 babies.
I thought it was good that Oprah was around to recognize people like Debbe. While I was reflecting on this I realized that everyday people around me were probably doing a lot of good things and yet these were going unnoticed.
Then I got an insight. My kids!
Jaja and I tend to focus more on their shortcomings...the low scores they get on their test...the projects they did not submit...the things they failed to do. When I tried thinking about the time I last praised my kids I couldn't recall having done it.
Maybe it is something I take for granted,i.e. my kids needing praise even for the little things they may have done right, because growing up as an achiever, I always thought my success was my own reward. I didn't need to be given a pat on the back because for me it was expected that I perform well in whatever undertaking I did.
But maybe my kids are different. (with the exception of Tasha,who has been achieving a lot in the field of gymnastics.) Maybe,things would be better for them if I learned to appreciate them more and look for things to praise...rather than for faults to harangue them about!
One of these was Debbe, who launched Project Cuddles. This was a home for infants who were being put up for adoption by their mothers who could no longer take care of them. In the past 10 years of her project,Debbe had saved about 570 babies.
I thought it was good that Oprah was around to recognize people like Debbe. While I was reflecting on this I realized that everyday people around me were probably doing a lot of good things and yet these were going unnoticed.
Then I got an insight. My kids!
Jaja and I tend to focus more on their shortcomings...the low scores they get on their test...the projects they did not submit...the things they failed to do. When I tried thinking about the time I last praised my kids I couldn't recall having done it.
Maybe it is something I take for granted,i.e. my kids needing praise even for the little things they may have done right, because growing up as an achiever, I always thought my success was my own reward. I didn't need to be given a pat on the back because for me it was expected that I perform well in whatever undertaking I did.
But maybe my kids are different. (with the exception of Tasha,who has been achieving a lot in the field of gymnastics.) Maybe,things would be better for them if I learned to appreciate them more and look for things to praise...rather than for faults to harangue them about!
Friday, August 10, 2007
WOW BOHOL
Went to Bohol for a 4 day vacation with Jaja from August 1 to 4. Actually,it was a reunion of her Basa Air base barkada and I just happened to tag along.
This was my 4th trip to Bohol so I pretty much expected seeing sights I had seen before: the Chocolate hills, tarsier sanctuary,Loboc river etc. What was different though was this time around it was a vacation (not work-related) and I was with my wife.
For a change too, we were booked at a new resort in Panglao (the Amorita resort) and not at Bohol Tropics. Amorita,the name alone conjured visions of a romantic weekend and thankfully it was.
What amazed me about Bohol was that it has improved since the last time I was there,which was two years ago for our Franchisees convention.
The road to the Chocolate Hills observatory has been completely cemented,making for a quick and comfortable 1 1/2 hour trip from our resort. There was also something new at the observatory.
Enterprising locals had cleared a spot on the hillside,where tourists could pose for souvenir photos with the Chocolate Hills as a background. The photos taken were not your usual stiffly posed shots...but trick photography pics! The most common picture would show the subject jumping over one of the hills.
The photographers even provided for broomsticks which the tourists would pretend to ride on. The resulting photos would show these Harry Potter wannabes soaring over the hills.
The Loboc river cruise also had some added features which weren't there last time I visited.
At the end point of the cruise,just before the waterfalls,the locals had set up three floating stages. On each stage there were different groups of children and adults performing dances and songs. The floating restaurants would draw alongside these stages so that the tourists could watch the show and be entertained.
At the end of the cruise the boats docked at a newly built docking station where all tourist buses and vans now waited. There, the municipality had built new comfort rooms which were airconditioned!
I was impressed by these improvements and it was no wonder that tourism in Bohol has certainly been improving over the years.
On the third day of our vacation, we transferred to the Bohol Bee Farm, which was just a 15 minute drive from Amorita.
Although the accomodations were not first class and more rustic by design, the view and the relaxing atmosphere made up for the lack of amenities. Besides, the food here was delicious and organic.
So even if this was my fourth time at Bohol, I still had a wonderful time!
This was my 4th trip to Bohol so I pretty much expected seeing sights I had seen before: the Chocolate hills, tarsier sanctuary,Loboc river etc. What was different though was this time around it was a vacation (not work-related) and I was with my wife.
For a change too, we were booked at a new resort in Panglao (the Amorita resort) and not at Bohol Tropics. Amorita,the name alone conjured visions of a romantic weekend and thankfully it was.
What amazed me about Bohol was that it has improved since the last time I was there,which was two years ago for our Franchisees convention.
The road to the Chocolate Hills observatory has been completely cemented,making for a quick and comfortable 1 1/2 hour trip from our resort. There was also something new at the observatory.
Enterprising locals had cleared a spot on the hillside,where tourists could pose for souvenir photos with the Chocolate Hills as a background. The photos taken were not your usual stiffly posed shots...but trick photography pics! The most common picture would show the subject jumping over one of the hills.
The photographers even provided for broomsticks which the tourists would pretend to ride on. The resulting photos would show these Harry Potter wannabes soaring over the hills.
The Loboc river cruise also had some added features which weren't there last time I visited.
At the end point of the cruise,just before the waterfalls,the locals had set up three floating stages. On each stage there were different groups of children and adults performing dances and songs. The floating restaurants would draw alongside these stages so that the tourists could watch the show and be entertained.
At the end of the cruise the boats docked at a newly built docking station where all tourist buses and vans now waited. There, the municipality had built new comfort rooms which were airconditioned!
I was impressed by these improvements and it was no wonder that tourism in Bohol has certainly been improving over the years.
On the third day of our vacation, we transferred to the Bohol Bee Farm, which was just a 15 minute drive from Amorita.
Although the accomodations were not first class and more rustic by design, the view and the relaxing atmosphere made up for the lack of amenities. Besides, the food here was delicious and organic.
So even if this was my fourth time at Bohol, I still had a wonderful time!
Tuesday, July 24, 2007
RE-COMMITTING TO GOALS...THE KEY TO STAYING ALIVE!
Life's been passing by slowly..and I haven't been feeling so alive. But I know why...
It's because I've not focused on setting and achieving goals for myself (no matter how small these are.) I've been content with just taking each day as it comes along.
I recall that it was when I was in the thick of things,whether it was setting up a reunion, or solving a problem at home,that I felt most fulfilled.
So my lesson in living is...commit to achieving the goals I set before...while enjoying life!
"Live the Life you dreamed about!"
It's because I've not focused on setting and achieving goals for myself (no matter how small these are.) I've been content with just taking each day as it comes along.
I recall that it was when I was in the thick of things,whether it was setting up a reunion, or solving a problem at home,that I felt most fulfilled.
So my lesson in living is...commit to achieving the goals I set before...while enjoying life!
"Live the Life you dreamed about!"
Thursday, June 14, 2007
PLAYING GOD
Read an interesting article in TIME magazine about the scientists who are into bio synthetics. These guys are able to produce components of living organisms and alter them to create new ones. The article cites that the proponents of this movement talk about their work as casually as if they were just producing machines.
If these "scientists" could have their way,they would be able to create the "perfect species" (e.g. a perfect boy or girl) free of any genetic defects because they can alter DNA structures according to any design they want.
Of course, there are opponents to this movement. Those who object to biogenetic reengineering have as their premise the belief that God has already created a perfect world that can produce all that there is needed to be produced.
If these "scientists" could have their way,they would be able to create the "perfect species" (e.g. a perfect boy or girl) free of any genetic defects because they can alter DNA structures according to any design they want.
Of course, there are opponents to this movement. Those who object to biogenetic reengineering have as their premise the belief that God has already created a perfect world that can produce all that there is needed to be produced.
Monday, June 11, 2007
BIZARRE SEX:HAVING DINNER WHILE HAVING SEX!
Nat Geo's WILD SEX last Saturday showed a segment about the way Mantids have sex. The smaller male has to slowly and carefully approach the larger female because mantids are sensitive to movement. Any sudden movement and he may be mistaken for lunch!
Once he is close enough to make his intentions known he must find a way to mount her and escape being eaten alive. Usually, males try to find their way behind the female. But this segment showed a male trying the missionary position...with deadly results.
As soon as it was face to face with its potential mate,the female started eating him,starting with his eyes. The narrator tried to put some levity to this grotesque scene by calling it a literally "blind date."
The mantids nerve structure are so designed that even if one body part is severed the others continue to function. In this case, while the female was making a meal of the male's head (...hmmm...a new meaning to the term " giving head," :-) ) the male's drive for sexual satisfaction kept its genitals looking for the female's until it was able to consumate the sex act!
When this was over,the headless male walked away (to die later) while the female cleaned itself after heaving supped....while having sex!
(Hmmm...This can be a plot for one of these adult fantasy magazines!)
Once he is close enough to make his intentions known he must find a way to mount her and escape being eaten alive. Usually, males try to find their way behind the female. But this segment showed a male trying the missionary position...with deadly results.
As soon as it was face to face with its potential mate,the female started eating him,starting with his eyes. The narrator tried to put some levity to this grotesque scene by calling it a literally "blind date."
The mantids nerve structure are so designed that even if one body part is severed the others continue to function. In this case, while the female was making a meal of the male's head (...hmmm...a new meaning to the term " giving head," :-) ) the male's drive for sexual satisfaction kept its genitals looking for the female's until it was able to consumate the sex act!
When this was over,the headless male walked away (to die later) while the female cleaned itself after heaving supped....while having sex!
(Hmmm...This can be a plot for one of these adult fantasy magazines!)
Sunday, June 03, 2007
KOREA'S STATE OF "ONE MIND"
Saw an interesting feature on Nat Geo yesterday morning. It featured a young rhythmic gymnast from North Korea who had participated and performed in the country's Mass Games before the communist state's revered leader Kim Il Sung.
What really got me was how the Korean leaders were able to "brainwash" and convince North Koreans that the key to their success as a nation was for each one to lose their individuality in favor of the common good.
And in fact the North Koreans lived this belief. The Mass games is a good example of this communality in action. The show of talent which is really a performance of many thousands of athletes in a coordinated script is a marvel to see. Even the audience performs by flashing cards of different colors to form pictures of Korean figureheads and propaganda themes.
The gymnast,whose name I can't recall, said in her interview that being a performer in the Mass Games is tough but she "trains through the pain" because for her performing before the General is a great privelege and one which she considers a highlight of her life.
Part of North Korea's success in communicating propaganda is attributed to the fact that it has only one government controlled TV station that broadcasts only communist propaganda and stories of North Korea's many heroes, who are supposed to be idolized by the people.
Though one might criticize their methods of achieving their means one cannot doubt that North Korea's State of "One Mind" is nonetheless,effective!
What really got me was how the Korean leaders were able to "brainwash" and convince North Koreans that the key to their success as a nation was for each one to lose their individuality in favor of the common good.
And in fact the North Koreans lived this belief. The Mass games is a good example of this communality in action. The show of talent which is really a performance of many thousands of athletes in a coordinated script is a marvel to see. Even the audience performs by flashing cards of different colors to form pictures of Korean figureheads and propaganda themes.
The gymnast,whose name I can't recall, said in her interview that being a performer in the Mass Games is tough but she "trains through the pain" because for her performing before the General is a great privelege and one which she considers a highlight of her life.
Part of North Korea's success in communicating propaganda is attributed to the fact that it has only one government controlled TV station that broadcasts only communist propaganda and stories of North Korea's many heroes, who are supposed to be idolized by the people.
Though one might criticize their methods of achieving their means one cannot doubt that North Korea's State of "One Mind" is nonetheless,effective!
Sunday, May 27, 2007
TWO YEARS OF BLOGGING!
I just realized that I've been into blogging for two years now! My first entry was about my attempt at do-it -yourself plumbing,where I learned that plumbing is not so easy!
When I checked my archives,there was only 1 month (December,2005) that I didn't post anything. This in itself is an achievement!
Out of curiosity I checked the other blog sites I used to visit,in particular that of Christa's "Girl In Progress." I found out she had also stopped blogging for a while then resumed again because she hasn't had much progress in her lovelife!
I did however, get an idea from her on how to keep life interesting.
She made this resolution for 2007 to do something new every month,whether it is to go a new adventure,visit a new museum or try out a new restaurant! (This is similar to something I read in ETR about doing something new EVERYDAY!)
Maybe I ought to do that! I've made lists of things I have wanted to do but have not put a time line to them. So,just to start the ball rolling:
1. Eat in Sakae San
2. Have a regular dine out with my two dine-out buddies at a different resto every month.
3. Try a new bottle of wine every month.
4. Create a new comic/toon strip every month.
5. Start the vermiculture business in July
6. Learn the songs: "Satisfaction,""Black Magic Woman,""Stairway to Heaven,""Butterfly Kisses"
7. Cooked or baked a new recipe every month. (Sunday dinners)
8. Posted an original artwork in any of my blogs.
9. Done something wild within the next 6 months. (e.g. Throw out a lot of old things. Sport a new look)
10. Painted a mural
When I checked my archives,there was only 1 month (December,2005) that I didn't post anything. This in itself is an achievement!
Out of curiosity I checked the other blog sites I used to visit,in particular that of Christa's "Girl In Progress." I found out she had also stopped blogging for a while then resumed again because she hasn't had much progress in her lovelife!
I did however, get an idea from her on how to keep life interesting.
She made this resolution for 2007 to do something new every month,whether it is to go a new adventure,visit a new museum or try out a new restaurant! (This is similar to something I read in ETR about doing something new EVERYDAY!)
Maybe I ought to do that! I've made lists of things I have wanted to do but have not put a time line to them. So,just to start the ball rolling:
1. Eat in Sakae San
2. Have a regular dine out with my two dine-out buddies at a different resto every month.
3. Try a new bottle of wine every month.
4. Create a new comic/toon strip every month.
5. Start the vermiculture business in July
6. Learn the songs: "Satisfaction,""Black Magic Woman,""Stairway to Heaven,""Butterfly Kisses"
7. Cooked or baked a new recipe every month. (Sunday dinners)
8. Posted an original artwork in any of my blogs.
9. Done something wild within the next 6 months. (e.g. Throw out a lot of old things. Sport a new look)
10. Painted a mural
Thursday, May 17, 2007
THE WRITE STUFF...IT'S IN OUR GENES!
I stumbled across my son TJ's Blog,(The Ramblings of A Still Invisible Man) which is a journal of his struggles as a boy turning into a man...or should I say a "lost" boy trying to figure things out for himself...and I should say, I am impressed with his writing! Too bad he thinks he does not have any "special skill" he can be proud of..it's right there in front of him! He actually gets comments from his "fans," friends who actually read his stuff and commiserate with him. It's like they see their own struggles expressed in his blogs.
While reading through his "emo stuff," I saw a link to his cousin Bruce's blog and when I click on it I am blown by the look of his site and his postings. No wonder TJ keeps on ranting about wanting to draw original art...Bruce has some of it in his blog and they're "kewl!" His writing style is different. Short,frank and brutal at times but always interesting. He also has a following among his peers.
While navigating around Bruce's blog I see "frootjoos," my niece Orange's blog and so I pay a visit and get updated with what's happening to her back in LA.
Before I know it my whole afternoon's been absorbed with reading the kids' blogs, finding out more about them...( than I would get from asking them the usual parent question:"So how are things with you?" and getting the usual "OK lang!")...and telling myself "Man,we do come from a family of writers!"
Yep, we the Mendoza's have got the "Write Stuff."
While reading through his "emo stuff," I saw a link to his cousin Bruce's blog and when I click on it I am blown by the look of his site and his postings. No wonder TJ keeps on ranting about wanting to draw original art...Bruce has some of it in his blog and they're "kewl!" His writing style is different. Short,frank and brutal at times but always interesting. He also has a following among his peers.
While navigating around Bruce's blog I see "frootjoos," my niece Orange's blog and so I pay a visit and get updated with what's happening to her back in LA.
Before I know it my whole afternoon's been absorbed with reading the kids' blogs, finding out more about them...( than I would get from asking them the usual parent question:"So how are things with you?" and getting the usual "OK lang!")...and telling myself "Man,we do come from a family of writers!"
Yep, we the Mendoza's have got the "Write Stuff."
Sunday, April 29, 2007
WATCHING THE HURRICANE & WONDERING WHO'S TELLING THE TRUTH
I watched a movie last night about Rubin "The Hurricane" Carter, a very long but inspiring movie about the black welterweight boxer (portrayed by Denzel Washington,) who was allegedly wrongly convicted of murder and had to serve 22 years in prison before being set free by a federal court.
I say "alleged" because after watching the film I searched the internet for more details about Carter's case and lo and behold I come across at least two websites claiming that Rubin Carter was really guilty of the crime,and that the movie was full of inaccuracies.
This leads me to a concern I have about how media handles the truth. If the producers of the movie were aware of the inaccuracies but went ahead and showed it to the public (to make money) then, isn't this being irresponsible? Whom will the public believe?
I know that Hollywood exaggerates a lot of what it shows in movies to make a film sell more but at least it must base its premise on truth.
I shudder at the thought that my all time favorite stations, National Geographic & Discovery Channel, would go to the extent of bending the truth too much in order to get more advertising money!
I say "alleged" because after watching the film I searched the internet for more details about Carter's case and lo and behold I come across at least two websites claiming that Rubin Carter was really guilty of the crime,and that the movie was full of inaccuracies.
This leads me to a concern I have about how media handles the truth. If the producers of the movie were aware of the inaccuracies but went ahead and showed it to the public (to make money) then, isn't this being irresponsible? Whom will the public believe?
I know that Hollywood exaggerates a lot of what it shows in movies to make a film sell more but at least it must base its premise on truth.
I shudder at the thought that my all time favorite stations, National Geographic & Discovery Channel, would go to the extent of bending the truth too much in order to get more advertising money!
Tuesday, March 20, 2007
FINALLY...I KNOW WHAT GOLF IS ALL ABOUT
I went to the Kagitingan driving range last night to practice in preparation for our golf get together on Friday. After not having touched my clubs for more than a year,I felt awkward and concerned that rather than help me, the practice might even make things worse.
But after I went through the basics and started hitting the ball well, I started gaining more confidence. Then I had an insight.
I often heard golf commentators talk of how well-balanced great golfers were after they hit the ball. So I worked on setting up properly and aiming for balance whenever I hit the ball.
Voila! I struck the balls more squarely.
Then I focused on slowing down my takeaway and finishing my backswing so I was in good balance from the backswing to the downswing. I started hitting the balls more consistently.
Good balance and a slow backswing allowed my head to keep still and also help me make a better turn.
Then, I told myself make things more effortless so that I wasn't putting a lot of muscle on the downswing. I started hitting the balls pure and didn't get any jarring feelings on my hands!
It was as if I had learned what golf was all about in that one practice session.
BALANCE. SLOW BUT SURE. EFFORTLESS
But after I went through the basics and started hitting the ball well, I started gaining more confidence. Then I had an insight.
I often heard golf commentators talk of how well-balanced great golfers were after they hit the ball. So I worked on setting up properly and aiming for balance whenever I hit the ball.
Voila! I struck the balls more squarely.
Then I focused on slowing down my takeaway and finishing my backswing so I was in good balance from the backswing to the downswing. I started hitting the balls more consistently.
Good balance and a slow backswing allowed my head to keep still and also help me make a better turn.
Then, I told myself make things more effortless so that I wasn't putting a lot of muscle on the downswing. I started hitting the balls pure and didn't get any jarring feelings on my hands!
It was as if I had learned what golf was all about in that one practice session.
BALANCE. SLOW BUT SURE. EFFORTLESS
Monday, March 19, 2007
WHAT MAKES A SUICIDE BOMBER TICK?
I caught a portion of a foreign film on the tube yesterday afternoon. It was about two Arabs (I guess),Said and Khaled, who were chosen by their terrorist mates to go on a suicide bombing mission in Tel Aviv. Although I wasn't able to watch the whole movie,it was enough to provide me with a glimpse of what these war torn countries must be going through.
For example,there was a scene where they were being videotaped making their final "suicide" messages to their families. Khaled,the supposedly more fanatical of the two, suddenly stops in the middle of the taping and tells his mom to buy a particular brand of water filters because it's cheaper and more reliable. Later in the film,I learn that water filters are important to them because the water in that country has been polluted with sediments and chemicals that make it unsafe to drink.
In another scene,a shop that repairs watches is shown selling these videotapes and I also learn that the tapes sell for a lot of money! Although I suspect the movie is poking some fun,there must be a hint of truth in this practice.
I have come to believe that suicide bombers must really be just plain bonkers to go on these senseless killing sprees. But the film made me realize that maybe after all,these suicide bombers were motivated by a something more noble than just having sex with 72 virgins in the afterlife.
In a dialogue between between the two friends, Said tells Khaled that something must be done to stop the injustice of being dictated to by their oppressors (the Israelis.) But since nobody seems to be doing something about it,then it is up to individuals (like them) to put a stop to it!
It's as if he was saying that without his freedom he couldn't live like a decent human being anyway. At least by killing Israelis and himself along the way,he will have asserted his freedom and perhaps achieved something,rather than just bearing the suffering of oppression.
For example,there was a scene where they were being videotaped making their final "suicide" messages to their families. Khaled,the supposedly more fanatical of the two, suddenly stops in the middle of the taping and tells his mom to buy a particular brand of water filters because it's cheaper and more reliable. Later in the film,I learn that water filters are important to them because the water in that country has been polluted with sediments and chemicals that make it unsafe to drink.
In another scene,a shop that repairs watches is shown selling these videotapes and I also learn that the tapes sell for a lot of money! Although I suspect the movie is poking some fun,there must be a hint of truth in this practice.
I have come to believe that suicide bombers must really be just plain bonkers to go on these senseless killing sprees. But the film made me realize that maybe after all,these suicide bombers were motivated by a something more noble than just having sex with 72 virgins in the afterlife.
In a dialogue between between the two friends, Said tells Khaled that something must be done to stop the injustice of being dictated to by their oppressors (the Israelis.) But since nobody seems to be doing something about it,then it is up to individuals (like them) to put a stop to it!
It's as if he was saying that without his freedom he couldn't live like a decent human being anyway. At least by killing Israelis and himself along the way,he will have asserted his freedom and perhaps achieved something,rather than just bearing the suffering of oppression.
Friday, March 16, 2007
THE SAVING POWER OF INSIGHT:OR HOW I SAW THE BRIGHT SIDE OF A BAD SITUATION
My Mazda Familia has been in and out of the shop lately for repairs. The latest,which cost me 47,000 involved a major overhaul of the engine, requiring a change of all valves etc. This was after it had undergone repair whcih cost me 23,000,when the timing belt broke while Jaja was on the way to Pampanga. Prior to that I shelled out 27,000 to replace the throttle body which was the cause of erratic idling.
Recently, the erratic idling showed up again and when I returned it to the shop they diagnosed the problem to be caused by the throttle body which they said was defective in the first place. Now, I'm in a dilemma because the supplier can always claim that he had put in a new unit last December and that any damage that may have occurred could not have been because of his spare part.
Bottomline is I face the prospect of spending more money just to get the car fixed!
Normally, I would be distressed,but surprisingly I found solace in an insight...what I will call my education in entrepreneurship. I've really been visualizing myself as a businessman and one of my "Aha's" was that if I was going to be one I better learn how to part with money (i.e.,lose it). I also ought to realize that each disappointment should be regarded as a learning experience.
Looking at my " car problem" experience under this light, I rationalized that,yes, I will be throwing away some money but at least I got to feel firsthand how it is to bounce back quickly from an upsetting situation.
Recently, the erratic idling showed up again and when I returned it to the shop they diagnosed the problem to be caused by the throttle body which they said was defective in the first place. Now, I'm in a dilemma because the supplier can always claim that he had put in a new unit last December and that any damage that may have occurred could not have been because of his spare part.
Bottomline is I face the prospect of spending more money just to get the car fixed!
Normally, I would be distressed,but surprisingly I found solace in an insight...what I will call my education in entrepreneurship. I've really been visualizing myself as a businessman and one of my "Aha's" was that if I was going to be one I better learn how to part with money (i.e.,lose it). I also ought to realize that each disappointment should be regarded as a learning experience.
Looking at my " car problem" experience under this light, I rationalized that,yes, I will be throwing away some money but at least I got to feel firsthand how it is to bounce back quickly from an upsetting situation.
Wednesday, March 14, 2007
POSTSCRIPT TO REFLECTION ON "TUESDAYS WITH MORRIE"
A thought just struck me while mulling over what I read from "Tuesdays With Morrie"...
Morrie somehow appreciated what it meant to live fully when he knew he was going to die. I got the insight that I need not wait for this situation to start living fully.
One of Morrie's favorite mantras was "Love each other or perish." That is what I resolve to do each day now...to make sure that I get to love or express my love to someone each day...before it becomes too late.
Corollary to this,I will try my darndest best not to think ill of my fellowmen (e.g the #@!!! who drive on the fast lane or cut me in traffic :-)) or learn to forgive in my heart those who do me wrong!
I think that's it...living happily means you've expressed your love to the people who matter...and you don't go around carrying the burden of guilt of not having forgiven someone who has wronged you!
Morrie somehow appreciated what it meant to live fully when he knew he was going to die. I got the insight that I need not wait for this situation to start living fully.
One of Morrie's favorite mantras was "Love each other or perish." That is what I resolve to do each day now...to make sure that I get to love or express my love to someone each day...before it becomes too late.
Corollary to this,I will try my darndest best not to think ill of my fellowmen (e.g the #@!!! who drive on the fast lane or cut me in traffic :-)) or learn to forgive in my heart those who do me wrong!
I think that's it...living happily means you've expressed your love to the people who matter...and you don't go around carrying the burden of guilt of not having forgiven someone who has wronged you!
Monday, March 12, 2007
Reflection on TUESDAYS WITH MORRIE
I've been reading Mitch Albom's "Tuesdays with Morrie" and I just finished the part where Morrie Schwartz tells Mitch that one has to learn how to forgive oneself just as he must learn how to forgive others. Then he went on to say that he regretted not having written more books or that he should've done more, but he must now let it go because he was dying and would no longer be able to do these things.
It made me think of my own list of things I would want to do in my lifetime. I've crossed out several in this list but there are still many more I haven't done,e.g the songs I haven't written, the businesses I should've put up, the murals I wanted to paint,the trips with the family I dreamed of taking,the friends and loved ones to whom I still haven't said;"I Love You".
I realized that if I don't follow the Nike motto of just "doing it" on my deathbed I will have a whole litany of "sins" for which I will have to forgive myself.
Somehow, Morrie's lessons have pushed me to just face life with more abandon and more enjoyment. I will not wait for the perfect time to do something...because that perfect moment is now!
It made me think of my own list of things I would want to do in my lifetime. I've crossed out several in this list but there are still many more I haven't done,e.g the songs I haven't written, the businesses I should've put up, the murals I wanted to paint,the trips with the family I dreamed of taking,the friends and loved ones to whom I still haven't said;"I Love You".
I realized that if I don't follow the Nike motto of just "doing it" on my deathbed I will have a whole litany of "sins" for which I will have to forgive myself.
Somehow, Morrie's lessons have pushed me to just face life with more abandon and more enjoyment. I will not wait for the perfect time to do something...because that perfect moment is now!
Tuesday, February 27, 2007
ON SEEING OPPORTUNITIES & CHANGE: REFLECTION ON A QUOTE
I got this quote from Knowledge@Wharton.(I didn't get the name of the person who said it...)
"If you see something wrong or a little unusual,or something that makes you mad,GO CHANGE IT. Then change it for everybody else. You'll become wealthy and very successful." He went on to suggest the areas that business should look into:energy,security,healthcare,traffic,pollution,war,poverty,education,roads,prisons,airport development.
I thought about what I would change because I was mad about it or saw something wrong about & my list would be:
1.Plumbing- i have a leak at home and I can't find it!
2. Garbage-there's a problem with garbage collection in our area (maybe using worms to recycle will be an answer)
3. Unskilled car mechanics- I'm spending money again on my car because they didn't do a good job.
My other concerns are already listed above: education,health,traffic
Maybe if I think more about solutions to these I can come up with business ideas.
"If you see something wrong or a little unusual,or something that makes you mad,GO CHANGE IT. Then change it for everybody else. You'll become wealthy and very successful." He went on to suggest the areas that business should look into:energy,security,healthcare,traffic,pollution,war,poverty,education,roads,prisons,airport development.
I thought about what I would change because I was mad about it or saw something wrong about & my list would be:
1.Plumbing- i have a leak at home and I can't find it!
2. Garbage-there's a problem with garbage collection in our area (maybe using worms to recycle will be an answer)
3. Unskilled car mechanics- I'm spending money again on my car because they didn't do a good job.
My other concerns are already listed above: education,health,traffic
Maybe if I think more about solutions to these I can come up with business ideas.
Monday, February 26, 2007
Big I and small i innovation
Read an article at Knowledge@Wharton which presented a challenge both big and small businesses have to face:Innovation.
Basically,it said that to spur "organic" growth,companies must think about innovating both at the Big "I" and small "i" levels. Big I refers to radical innovation, a "breakthrough" or breaking away from what the organization is currently doing.(As in addressing a new market or unfamiliar territory.Example given,McDonald's foray into the pizza market,for which it had no expertise.) Small "i" refers to improvements in products and services by way of features,add-ons etc.,to respond to customer demands.
The article goes on to show that big businesses tend to be risk averse and shy away from Big I innovation because often the profitable returns on these initiatives are long term,while investors are looking for quick returns. It cites GE as an example of a company that has managed around this problem by requiring its SBU heads to come up with 3 Breakthrough Ideas which must be delivered.
Thinking about this I notice that at Chowking we have tended towards small i.We have yet to go to Big I innovation (e.g. i can think of: spinning off the catering business,coming up with an upscale brand to compete with Super Bowl and casual dine concepts)
But I also agree with one comment on the article.We should not really separate the two because for all we know the continuous samll i activities may be the ones that will trigger Big I.
Basically,it said that to spur "organic" growth,companies must think about innovating both at the Big "I" and small "i" levels. Big I refers to radical innovation, a "breakthrough" or breaking away from what the organization is currently doing.(As in addressing a new market or unfamiliar territory.Example given,McDonald's foray into the pizza market,for which it had no expertise.) Small "i" refers to improvements in products and services by way of features,add-ons etc.,to respond to customer demands.
The article goes on to show that big businesses tend to be risk averse and shy away from Big I innovation because often the profitable returns on these initiatives are long term,while investors are looking for quick returns. It cites GE as an example of a company that has managed around this problem by requiring its SBU heads to come up with 3 Breakthrough Ideas which must be delivered.
Thinking about this I notice that at Chowking we have tended towards small i.We have yet to go to Big I innovation (e.g. i can think of: spinning off the catering business,coming up with an upscale brand to compete with Super Bowl and casual dine concepts)
But I also agree with one comment on the article.We should not really separate the two because for all we know the continuous samll i activities may be the ones that will trigger Big I.
Wednesday, January 24, 2007
52 and Counting
I turned 52 last week (Jan. 18)and though I didn't feel a year older that day,this morning a strange thing happened when I got up to pee. A flash of realization that my kids had grown older...suddenly made me aware that time had really flown and was ticking faster now. It happened so quickly...in just a few seconds I relived holding TJ in my arms...James as a baby..and Tash as a cute 2 year old. Now...TJ is a 21 year old,figuring out what he'd like to do with his life. James is in 1st year College,enjoying his new friends and college life. Tash is in 1st year high blossoming into a pretty and smart teener. Now, if there is one thing I ought to pay attention to and savor...is how they will turn out to be in the next 5 to 10 years. I hope what we have done to prepare them to be good persons,work! I can only sit and wait :-)
Wednesday, January 03, 2007
2006: THE YEAR THAT WAS
I will remember 2006 as the year for reunions and getting re-acquainted with old friends.
January- Jaja and I grew older by one year!
February- We had a successful convention for Managers (at the Philippine Plaza) & Franchisees (at Boracay Regency) in spite of the difficulties in preparations. The highlight of the month though was the much awaited R&R which we held on Feb 17-19 at the Redemptorist Novitiate in Lipa. We had 53 reunionists attending this once in a blue moon affair.Frs. Ahearn,Murray and Mr. Bautista joined the event.
I also had a reunion with "old friends" from Fatima parish in June.
Tasha and James graduated this year. Tash graduated from St.Paul,elementary and James from Lourdes High school. James passed entrance exams at College of St. Benilde (HRM) and seems to be enjoying his College life.
Auntie Bebeng finally passed away after a long bout with cancer. Angie Padilla's dad, Al, died of a heart attack several weeks after he joined our Fatima reunion. Mike Meily, a classmate from San Beda, lost his eldest son. Jerome broke up with Iris.
TJ was able to experience working with a company during his practicum with Accenture.
Evie, Lyra and Isah migrated to Canada and are starting new lives over at the land of the Canucks.
Jaja had trips to India and Australia. We were able to go to Dos Palmas, Palawan although not under ideal conditions because it was raining hard. We enjoyed the trip nevertheless. I was able to go to Pearl Farm and experience a helicopter ride courtesy of Mayor Duterte's private chopper.
I was able to visit Tacloban and Ormoc during the Grand Opening of our store there.
Auntie Luming and Uncle Tony vacationed once again here when they came over to check on how Auntie Bebeng was doing.
Typhoons Milenyo and Reming devastated the country. TJV went under water when Milenyo hit.
I got hooked on Friendster and YouTube. I also developed my skills in video editing, in a way I fulfilled a dream when I was akid of doing my own video productions.
January- Jaja and I grew older by one year!
February- We had a successful convention for Managers (at the Philippine Plaza) & Franchisees (at Boracay Regency) in spite of the difficulties in preparations. The highlight of the month though was the much awaited R&R which we held on Feb 17-19 at the Redemptorist Novitiate in Lipa. We had 53 reunionists attending this once in a blue moon affair.Frs. Ahearn,Murray and Mr. Bautista joined the event.
I also had a reunion with "old friends" from Fatima parish in June.
Tasha and James graduated this year. Tash graduated from St.Paul,elementary and James from Lourdes High school. James passed entrance exams at College of St. Benilde (HRM) and seems to be enjoying his College life.
Auntie Bebeng finally passed away after a long bout with cancer. Angie Padilla's dad, Al, died of a heart attack several weeks after he joined our Fatima reunion. Mike Meily, a classmate from San Beda, lost his eldest son. Jerome broke up with Iris.
TJ was able to experience working with a company during his practicum with Accenture.
Evie, Lyra and Isah migrated to Canada and are starting new lives over at the land of the Canucks.
Jaja had trips to India and Australia. We were able to go to Dos Palmas, Palawan although not under ideal conditions because it was raining hard. We enjoyed the trip nevertheless. I was able to go to Pearl Farm and experience a helicopter ride courtesy of Mayor Duterte's private chopper.
I was able to visit Tacloban and Ormoc during the Grand Opening of our store there.
Auntie Luming and Uncle Tony vacationed once again here when they came over to check on how Auntie Bebeng was doing.
Typhoons Milenyo and Reming devastated the country. TJV went under water when Milenyo hit.
I got hooked on Friendster and YouTube. I also developed my skills in video editing, in a way I fulfilled a dream when I was akid of doing my own video productions.
Thursday, December 28, 2006
CHRISTMAS PRACTICES & TRADITIONS: WHAT'S IN & WHAT'S OUT
Over the years I've noticed that little by little Christmas practices/traditions/rituals have been disappearing and newer "trends" have been emerging. Some have remained although not observed the same way we did when I was still a kid.
WHAT's OUT:
1) Christmas caroling the old fashioned way: used to be you could just go caroling anytime.Now,because of the ban on caroling, you have to send in advanced notice otherwise they won't let you into subdivisions.
2) Candy canes-when I was a kid Dad used to buy 2 large peppermint candy canes and hang these on one of our walls;I dont see these around anymore.
3) Christmas trees from real pine or agojo trees - Christmas trees are made of plastic or foil. There are even trees with built-in Christmas lights.
4) The traditional Belen under the Christmas tree - these were made of cardboard and you set these up like a diorama.
5) Sending Christmas cards-Used to be you would buy these and send them so many months in advance so they would reach the addressees in time for the Holidays.
6) Personalized Christmas cards- These were printed with the family photo at the front and customized greetings inside the card.
7) One Christmas Eve Mass only-it used to be held at 12 midnight and end after about an hour. Noche Buena followed. Nowadays,there can be as many as 3 evening masses.
8) The many corporate displays outside office buildings- Coca-Cola, Pepsi Cola, Ysmael Steel,COD. These would have movable displays which would be watched by people during the Christmas holidays.
9) Christmas shopping only in December- that was the only time we shopped for gifts and Christmas music was played.
10) Christmas vacations and celebrations at home-it used to be that people just stayed home or went to the provinces but still stayed inside homes during Christmas vacation.
11) Giving gifts that come in boxes and painstakingly gift-wrapped with ribbons and all. The bigger the gift the more expensive it usually was.
12) Dressing up for the holidays.
13) Home made parols and lantern parades in schools-used to be part of the pre-Christmas vacation activities in schools to have lantern parades.
14) Home-cooked Noche Buena
15) The Nativity story would be televised frequently.
WHATs IN:
1) Christmas shopping as early as July
2) Non-traditional Christmas decor and more brightly lit,flashy,high-tech lanterns.
3) Christmas vacations in hotels and resorts
4) Christmas gifts in bags and preformed boxes
5) Noche Buena meals in quick service restaurants or food delivered to your homes.
6) More monetary gifts or donations to the poor made in your name.
7) As times get tougher,more cookies and baked goods are given as gifts.
8) Nowadays, the smaller the package the more expensive the gift (e.g cameras, mp3s or ipods)
9) Sending electronic greeting cards or actually face to face greetings via webcam.
10) Christmas movies shown in so many channels but less of the Christmas story as told by the Bible.
11) Christmas masses held as early as 9 PM.
WHAT's OUT:
1) Christmas caroling the old fashioned way: used to be you could just go caroling anytime.Now,because of the ban on caroling, you have to send in advanced notice otherwise they won't let you into subdivisions.
2) Candy canes-when I was a kid Dad used to buy 2 large peppermint candy canes and hang these on one of our walls;I dont see these around anymore.
3) Christmas trees from real pine or agojo trees - Christmas trees are made of plastic or foil. There are even trees with built-in Christmas lights.
4) The traditional Belen under the Christmas tree - these were made of cardboard and you set these up like a diorama.
5) Sending Christmas cards-Used to be you would buy these and send them so many months in advance so they would reach the addressees in time for the Holidays.
6) Personalized Christmas cards- These were printed with the family photo at the front and customized greetings inside the card.
7) One Christmas Eve Mass only-it used to be held at 12 midnight and end after about an hour. Noche Buena followed. Nowadays,there can be as many as 3 evening masses.
8) The many corporate displays outside office buildings- Coca-Cola, Pepsi Cola, Ysmael Steel,COD. These would have movable displays which would be watched by people during the Christmas holidays.
9) Christmas shopping only in December- that was the only time we shopped for gifts and Christmas music was played.
10) Christmas vacations and celebrations at home-it used to be that people just stayed home or went to the provinces but still stayed inside homes during Christmas vacation.
11) Giving gifts that come in boxes and painstakingly gift-wrapped with ribbons and all. The bigger the gift the more expensive it usually was.
12) Dressing up for the holidays.
13) Home made parols and lantern parades in schools-used to be part of the pre-Christmas vacation activities in schools to have lantern parades.
14) Home-cooked Noche Buena
15) The Nativity story would be televised frequently.
WHATs IN:
1) Christmas shopping as early as July
2) Non-traditional Christmas decor and more brightly lit,flashy,high-tech lanterns.
3) Christmas vacations in hotels and resorts
4) Christmas gifts in bags and preformed boxes
5) Noche Buena meals in quick service restaurants or food delivered to your homes.
6) More monetary gifts or donations to the poor made in your name.
7) As times get tougher,more cookies and baked goods are given as gifts.
8) Nowadays, the smaller the package the more expensive the gift (e.g cameras, mp3s or ipods)
9) Sending electronic greeting cards or actually face to face greetings via webcam.
10) Christmas movies shown in so many channels but less of the Christmas story as told by the Bible.
11) Christmas masses held as early as 9 PM.
Monday, December 11, 2006
A REFLECTION ON SIN
It's Advent once again. Last Sunday's Gospel was about John the Baptist calling on sinners to repent for the Messiah was coming. The reading from the Old Testament used picturesque words to describe the repentance that was required for one to be prepared for the Messiah..."make way for the Lord...you shall flatten the hills and valleys"...as if to suggest that if you've got one hell of a sin,you've got to clear it out!
When I was in Grade 1, our Catechism book illustrated the difference between venial sin and mortal sin. I still recall drawings of three boys: one whose heart was pure white(sinless);the second had some spots on his heart (venial sin) and the really bad boy had a black heart (mortal sin.) Whoever drew that picture is to be commended because I really believed that was how sin affected people. When I saw a broadcast of a heart surgery done on TV I wanted to see if the patient had sins. I was looking for the black spots on his heart that would tell me if he had mortal or venial sins. So it came as quite a shock to me when I realized that sin wasn't something you could see marked on one's heart.
But now that I am older and wiser,I realize that the imagery of sin as something blackening one's heart is really closer to the truth than I realized.
My realization is that sin has a way of deadening one's capacity to love (as symbolized by the heart.) For example, if a man cheats on his wife,I'm pretty sure that the first thing to react is his heart.It starts to pump faster because it knows something wrong is happening. The man's guilt can't be hidden. Over time though,after the man has rationalized his sin,the heart no longer reacts...because it has already been blackened by sin...it no longer feels.
No wonder that men find true repentance difficult!It will require the effort of" levelling the hills and valleys" to clean one's heart, and bring it back to a state where it can love and feel again.
When I was in Grade 1, our Catechism book illustrated the difference between venial sin and mortal sin. I still recall drawings of three boys: one whose heart was pure white(sinless);the second had some spots on his heart (venial sin) and the really bad boy had a black heart (mortal sin.) Whoever drew that picture is to be commended because I really believed that was how sin affected people. When I saw a broadcast of a heart surgery done on TV I wanted to see if the patient had sins. I was looking for the black spots on his heart that would tell me if he had mortal or venial sins. So it came as quite a shock to me when I realized that sin wasn't something you could see marked on one's heart.
But now that I am older and wiser,I realize that the imagery of sin as something blackening one's heart is really closer to the truth than I realized.
My realization is that sin has a way of deadening one's capacity to love (as symbolized by the heart.) For example, if a man cheats on his wife,I'm pretty sure that the first thing to react is his heart.It starts to pump faster because it knows something wrong is happening. The man's guilt can't be hidden. Over time though,after the man has rationalized his sin,the heart no longer reacts...because it has already been blackened by sin...it no longer feels.
No wonder that men find true repentance difficult!It will require the effort of" levelling the hills and valleys" to clean one's heart, and bring it back to a state where it can love and feel again.
Wednesday, December 06, 2006
THE ULTIMATE SACRIFICE
I attended the 25th anniversary of Fr. Leonido "Nonie"Dolor as a priest last Monday(December 4) at the La Salle Lipa Sentrum. In attendance were his brother clergy from the Lipa archdiocese and from the neighboring religious orders,which included among others,the Redemptorists,to which he once belonged.
At one point during the ceremonies I could not help but notice the number of priests and religious,many of whom were probably my age and maybe younger. I thought to myself that had I not left I would probably have been one of them.
The next thought that struck me though was the realization that these men and women were really giving up a lot to be of service to God and their fellowmen. Now that I have experienced the joys of married life and having children, I couldn't help admire the sacrifice these people were making.
At one point during the ceremonies I could not help but notice the number of priests and religious,many of whom were probably my age and maybe younger. I thought to myself that had I not left I would probably have been one of them.
The next thought that struck me though was the realization that these men and women were really giving up a lot to be of service to God and their fellowmen. Now that I have experienced the joys of married life and having children, I couldn't help admire the sacrifice these people were making.
Wednesday, November 22, 2006
WHEN NANNY KNOWS BEST!
The kids and I watched Nanny 911 last Sunday and it was an interesting example of how sometimes,Nanny really knows best.
The episode was about the Finks (Geesh what a name!) who had 3 sets of twins for kids! The first set, Amanda and Alex were both adopted.The next two sets were apparently theirs. The couple's problem was that the kids were always whining, crying and showing aggressive behavior--- as in hitting their siblings if they didn't get they want.
The couple called on Nanny 911 for help,and the Nanny who came to the rescue assessed what was going on then came up with a set of rules. The parents,upon hearing what the Nanny was prescribing as solutions and seeing the written rules were skeptical about calling in the Nanny. There was even a shot of the wife saying,in a rather sarcastic manner, that it won't work.
But was she proven wrong!
When one of the kids started whining about something,the Nanny coaxed her to use words and say what she wanted. The kid stopped crying and said what she wanted! The parents were flabbergasted.
When another kid started throwing a tantrum because he couldn't get what he wanted, Nanny picked him up and gave him a choice...say what you want or get locked up. The kid said his piece and the crying stopped.
Apparently, what had been happening was that the husband had been leaving the care of the kids to the wife,who,unable to cope with the kids dysfunctional behaviors didn't do anything to correct them and started harboring ill feelings toward the husband. In the process they started not communicating. Pretty soon everyone in the household was not communicating with each other. The only way they knew to get attention was to whine, cry or get aggressive.
The episode ended with the nanny finally saying goodbye after she saw that the Finks had alreazdy learned how to communicate with each other. Mrs. Fink confessed thsat the house was now so quiet and peaceful,she could even hear herself think!
The episode was about the Finks (Geesh what a name!) who had 3 sets of twins for kids! The first set, Amanda and Alex were both adopted.The next two sets were apparently theirs. The couple's problem was that the kids were always whining, crying and showing aggressive behavior--- as in hitting their siblings if they didn't get they want.
The couple called on Nanny 911 for help,and the Nanny who came to the rescue assessed what was going on then came up with a set of rules. The parents,upon hearing what the Nanny was prescribing as solutions and seeing the written rules were skeptical about calling in the Nanny. There was even a shot of the wife saying,in a rather sarcastic manner, that it won't work.
But was she proven wrong!
When one of the kids started whining about something,the Nanny coaxed her to use words and say what she wanted. The kid stopped crying and said what she wanted! The parents were flabbergasted.
When another kid started throwing a tantrum because he couldn't get what he wanted, Nanny picked him up and gave him a choice...say what you want or get locked up. The kid said his piece and the crying stopped.
Apparently, what had been happening was that the husband had been leaving the care of the kids to the wife,who,unable to cope with the kids dysfunctional behaviors didn't do anything to correct them and started harboring ill feelings toward the husband. In the process they started not communicating. Pretty soon everyone in the household was not communicating with each other. The only way they knew to get attention was to whine, cry or get aggressive.
The episode ended with the nanny finally saying goodbye after she saw that the Finks had alreazdy learned how to communicate with each other. Mrs. Fink confessed thsat the house was now so quiet and peaceful,she could even hear herself think!
Sunday, November 12, 2006
A BARBECUE IN THE DESERT!!!
I caught a feature on Animal Planet about the life of sand grains in the Namib Desert. It tracked the years-long journey of the desert sands travelling from the desert of South Africa to their end in the ocean.
The documentary showed some of the hidden dramas taking place in the desert and one of these was the way the spore spiders trapped and killed their favorite prey...the Namib ants.
The spore spider digs a hole in the sand and at the entrance of its lair it mixes its web with sand to camouflage the trap. The spider then hides in its tunnel which is also cooler than on the surface and lies in wait for its victim.
When an ant gets caught in the web it struggles to get free but in doing so, it sends vibrations throught the sand particles which the spider detects. But here's the interesting part!
The spore spider just traps the ant in its jaws then lets it roast under the sun until it cooks to its death...ready for the spider to eat!
A desert barbecue!
The documentary showed some of the hidden dramas taking place in the desert and one of these was the way the spore spiders trapped and killed their favorite prey...the Namib ants.
The spore spider digs a hole in the sand and at the entrance of its lair it mixes its web with sand to camouflage the trap. The spider then hides in its tunnel which is also cooler than on the surface and lies in wait for its victim.
When an ant gets caught in the web it struggles to get free but in doing so, it sends vibrations throught the sand particles which the spider detects. But here's the interesting part!
The spore spider just traps the ant in its jaws then lets it roast under the sun until it cooks to its death...ready for the spider to eat!
A desert barbecue!
Wednesday, November 08, 2006
BOOKS...BOOKS...EVERYWHERE! BUT DOES ANYBODY READ THEM?
One of the routine things we do when we go malling on Sundays is drop by a bookstore. Usually this is Powerbooks at Alabang Town Center,Fully Booked at Rockwell or any of the National Bookstores in any mall.
I've often wondered if anybody really reads these books and why there are so many authors writing on the same subject. What with all the stuff you can get for free over the internet...and in a more exciting format at that!
Many of these books, after staying on shelves for so many years usually go on sale sometimes at 70%-80% of their original price during book sales. Maybe an indicator that they're not really that saleable!
Recently, though I had an experience which made me realize why having books around are important.
I'm supposed to put together a "book" on "Inspirational Leadership" for Chowking. It should be written in a simple style that would make it easy reading even for our cooks. It should also be interesting, informative and yet not comre across as intellectual.
In my search for a "model" for this type of book, I came across Andrew Matthews' "Being Happy." I had used this book before as a reference for a Crew Leader develpment program I had packaged for Jollibee over 20 years ago.
While browsing through the book to check out its style, I couldn't help but read the passages I had used to teach our Crew Leaders before on how to change their mindsets in order to change their lives. And while doing so, I stopped to reflect on my own life and see whether I had put these principles to good use myself.
It was good to be reminded again!
And maybe that's what books are for...at first they serve as sources of information...later on they serve as reminders...and we can use a reminder time and again!
I've often wondered if anybody really reads these books and why there are so many authors writing on the same subject. What with all the stuff you can get for free over the internet...and in a more exciting format at that!
Many of these books, after staying on shelves for so many years usually go on sale sometimes at 70%-80% of their original price during book sales. Maybe an indicator that they're not really that saleable!
Recently, though I had an experience which made me realize why having books around are important.
I'm supposed to put together a "book" on "Inspirational Leadership" for Chowking. It should be written in a simple style that would make it easy reading even for our cooks. It should also be interesting, informative and yet not comre across as intellectual.
In my search for a "model" for this type of book, I came across Andrew Matthews' "Being Happy." I had used this book before as a reference for a Crew Leader develpment program I had packaged for Jollibee over 20 years ago.
While browsing through the book to check out its style, I couldn't help but read the passages I had used to teach our Crew Leaders before on how to change their mindsets in order to change their lives. And while doing so, I stopped to reflect on my own life and see whether I had put these principles to good use myself.
It was good to be reminded again!
And maybe that's what books are for...at first they serve as sources of information...later on they serve as reminders...and we can use a reminder time and again!
Thursday, November 02, 2006
DA VINCI PREDICTS THE DA VINCI CODE
Here's a cartoon I made about the Da Vinci Code. For all we know Leonardo must've "predicted" it all along! :-)
Wednesday, November 01, 2006
TAI CHI LESSON: SLOW DOWN TO ENJOY LIFE
It just struck me that because of my seminary upbringing (i.e.,"Never waste time") and regimented programming, I tend to do things quickly and in the process not enjoy or savor the moment.
Maybe that's what my attempts at learning tai-chi has taught me recently.
There are really a lot of enjoyable things happening around me but whether I will take pleasure from these or not will really depend on me. Perhaps if I slow down a bit and appreciate things in slow motion,like the movements of tai chi,then maybe I can enjoy life more!
Maybe that's what my attempts at learning tai-chi has taught me recently.
There are really a lot of enjoyable things happening around me but whether I will take pleasure from these or not will really depend on me. Perhaps if I slow down a bit and appreciate things in slow motion,like the movements of tai chi,then maybe I can enjoy life more!
Sunday, October 22, 2006
FIDEL CASTRO:HOW THE FATE OF A NATION HAS RESTED ON THE FATE OF ITS LEADER
I watched a NatGeo documentary on Fidel Castro last week. He has been in power since the late 50's (1959 if I heard it right) and to this day Cuba's destiny depends on what Fidel says it should be. I don't remember much about the Cuban Revolution but Fidel and his Communist guerillas overthrew the administration. Cubans who supported Fidel hoped that he would lead them to the prosperity they dreamed of. However, it was not to be. Fidel had a vision of great things for Cuba,but he only made promises. Anyone who openly criticized him was persecuted...or killed.
When Communism in Russia was finally dissolved,Fidel was in a dilemma. He had modelled his country after the USSR but now the model was gone! According to the documentary this was a great blow to Fidel. But what is more amazing is how come the Cubans have not managed to rid themselves of Fidel's strong man rule even after other countries have deposed their tyrants.
As one of the commentators mentioned, Fidel's charisma still exists. I saw a footage of him, old and haggard-looking walking up a podium to give a speech, wearing rubber shoes and a small Cuban flag on one hand. He didn't look very threatening...but still he is revered.
So maybe, the Cubans cannot blame anybody but themselves for the hard times they are experiencing. After all, they are the ones who have been tolerating Fidel all these years!
When Communism in Russia was finally dissolved,Fidel was in a dilemma. He had modelled his country after the USSR but now the model was gone! According to the documentary this was a great blow to Fidel. But what is more amazing is how come the Cubans have not managed to rid themselves of Fidel's strong man rule even after other countries have deposed their tyrants.
As one of the commentators mentioned, Fidel's charisma still exists. I saw a footage of him, old and haggard-looking walking up a podium to give a speech, wearing rubber shoes and a small Cuban flag on one hand. He didn't look very threatening...but still he is revered.
So maybe, the Cubans cannot blame anybody but themselves for the hard times they are experiencing. After all, they are the ones who have been tolerating Fidel all these years!
Monday, October 16, 2006
BRAZILIAN PASSION
I watched an Atlas Discovery channel feature on Brazil last night, and of course central to the film was something about the Carnivale. I learned that the word meant "to shun away from meat" (carne=meat) since the festival usually fell during the season of Lent,which in Catholic countries is observed with abstention from meat. "Meat" here though could also mean the "pleasures of the flesh," so in sensual Brazil, "carnivale" does mean a great sacrifice.
What was interesting to know though was that the preparations for Carnivale take place many months before the celebration and that many of the people who work on the huge floats and decor work for free.What motivates them simply is passion for Carnivale,and the thought that because of their contribution,their "school" might win in the annual competition.
What was interesting to know though was that the preparations for Carnivale take place many months before the celebration and that many of the people who work on the huge floats and decor work for free.What motivates them simply is passion for Carnivale,and the thought that because of their contribution,their "school" might win in the annual competition.
Monday, September 25, 2006
THE ROUT @ THE RYDER CUP 2006
I watched the Ryder Cup over the weekend and from the Day 1 performance of the USA team I had a feeling it was going to go the way of the Europeans. They just looked too stiff and tense while their European counterparts were all smiles...pumped up and enjoying themselves. Of course, it helped a lot that they were on home ground,but so were the Americans last time around,and yet they lost!
So in spite of all the talent in the USA side (Tiger Woods #1, Phil Mickelson #2, Jim Furyk#3) they couldn't muster enough points to win back the trophy that has been in Europe's hands for the last three outings. This, too,in spite of the preparations Tom Lehman did to make sure he had a "team."
From my standpoint,what Team USA lacked was passion! They didn't seem to want to win! They seemed to be just going through the motions and were not putting up enough good golf to really give the Europeans a real challenge.
Maybe if there were just enough money at stake in winning the cup...then maybe the Americans might have been motivated enough! Ha!
Anyway, that's golf for you.
So in spite of all the talent in the USA side (Tiger Woods #1, Phil Mickelson #2, Jim Furyk#3) they couldn't muster enough points to win back the trophy that has been in Europe's hands for the last three outings. This, too,in spite of the preparations Tom Lehman did to make sure he had a "team."
From my standpoint,what Team USA lacked was passion! They didn't seem to want to win! They seemed to be just going through the motions and were not putting up enough good golf to really give the Europeans a real challenge.
Maybe if there were just enough money at stake in winning the cup...then maybe the Americans might have been motivated enough! Ha!
Anyway, that's golf for you.
Sunday, September 17, 2006
THE VIEW FROM MY WINDOW:AN INDESCRIBABLE LOSS
Once again,I looked out my window this Monday morning and observed parents as they brought their sons to the entrance gate of Lourdes School. I noticed a familiar pattern of behavior...more like a ritual...,and one which I performed every morning when I used to bring my own two sons to the same school.
After bringing the kid to the gate,there would be this last words of advice (or admonition),then a kiss and finally, a lingering look, as the parent watched his or her son disappear into the crowd of boys. Only then would the parent move on.
It's that lingering look that caught my attention this morning. Why did we parents instinctively do this? We knew our kids were safe, after all we personally accompanied them to the gate. And yet after we let them go,we just would stand there and watch.Perhaps we also knew instinctively that our kids would glance back and check us out and give us a last goodbye wave.
Or maybe it was because for a brief moment,we would be amazed at how our kids had grown!
Whatever the reason for lingering, I'm sure when each of us parents looked at our sons we were looking at them with love.
And that's why I guess, not being able to ever see them alive would be the worst feeling any parent would have to bear in his or her lifetime.
One of my former classmates from Grade school is going through this right now. He lost his son and to make matters worse,he wasn't able to be around for his funeral.
The indescribable feeling of loss was best pictured by another former classmate, Sonny Hernandez, when he pointed out that we had terms for a husband who loses his wife (widower),or for a wife whose husband dies (widow.) A kid who loses his parents is called an orphan.
But a parent who loses a child...there are no words to describe this...just a s no words will probably be able to describe the loss.
After bringing the kid to the gate,there would be this last words of advice (or admonition),then a kiss and finally, a lingering look, as the parent watched his or her son disappear into the crowd of boys. Only then would the parent move on.
It's that lingering look that caught my attention this morning. Why did we parents instinctively do this? We knew our kids were safe, after all we personally accompanied them to the gate. And yet after we let them go,we just would stand there and watch.Perhaps we also knew instinctively that our kids would glance back and check us out and give us a last goodbye wave.
Or maybe it was because for a brief moment,we would be amazed at how our kids had grown!
Whatever the reason for lingering, I'm sure when each of us parents looked at our sons we were looking at them with love.
And that's why I guess, not being able to ever see them alive would be the worst feeling any parent would have to bear in his or her lifetime.
One of my former classmates from Grade school is going through this right now. He lost his son and to make matters worse,he wasn't able to be around for his funeral.
The indescribable feeling of loss was best pictured by another former classmate, Sonny Hernandez, when he pointed out that we had terms for a husband who loses his wife (widower),or for a wife whose husband dies (widow.) A kid who loses his parents is called an orphan.
But a parent who loses a child...there are no words to describe this...just a s no words will probably be able to describe the loss.
Monday, September 11, 2006
Sunday, September 03, 2006
The View from my Window: Father and Son
This morning as I watched the students of Lourdes school being accompanied by their parents to the gate, I noticed this dad and his kid in particular because from the way dad behaved you could tell his kid was special!
For one, he was lugging the kid's trolley bag even though I thought the boy was big enough to do it on his own. While they were walking towards the gate he was talking to him as if going through a checklist of things. I could just see it now:"Oh, do you have your handkerchief?Your assignment was it done na?"...and so on.
When they finally reached the gate,doting dad didn't just kiss son goodbye and saw him off. He bent down,cupped his son's face, said some words before kissing him. Then...and this is what got me...he lingered for a while making sure his son was safely in. Then as if this was not enough he went behind the sign on the gate and spent some seconds playing peek-a-boo with his son before waving goodbye.
He hurried back and luckily he did, because some traffic aides on patrol were looking his car over because he seemed to be blocking traffic. After some explanation he was let off.
It was a great sight because it's something I did when TJ and James were still small(although not as mushy as doting dad). I kind of miss this but am also thankful that I also gave my own sons some memorable mornings by going through these rituals.
For one, he was lugging the kid's trolley bag even though I thought the boy was big enough to do it on his own. While they were walking towards the gate he was talking to him as if going through a checklist of things. I could just see it now:"Oh, do you have your handkerchief?Your assignment was it done na?"...and so on.
When they finally reached the gate,doting dad didn't just kiss son goodbye and saw him off. He bent down,cupped his son's face, said some words before kissing him. Then...and this is what got me...he lingered for a while making sure his son was safely in. Then as if this was not enough he went behind the sign on the gate and spent some seconds playing peek-a-boo with his son before waving goodbye.
He hurried back and luckily he did, because some traffic aides on patrol were looking his car over because he seemed to be blocking traffic. After some explanation he was let off.
It was a great sight because it's something I did when TJ and James were still small(although not as mushy as doting dad). I kind of miss this but am also thankful that I also gave my own sons some memorable mornings by going through these rituals.
The SWAN and a NatGeo special on Wolves
TJ and I watched a portion of the SWAN finals last Saturday. We were really amazed at what cosmetic surgery can do to transform these once Ugly Ducklings to jaw dropping bombshells! What I noticed though was that those with really good features to start with really looked good after their treatments and with very little alterations too.
It was also sad to note that those who were blessed with good looks to begin with didn't really take good care of themselves...especially their self-esteem...hence their deterioration into Ugly Ducklings.
I also managed to catch a feature by NatGeo on wolves. One interesting scene showed a pack of wolves that had trapped a male elk. The narrator said that strangely enough if elk didn't run their chances of surviving increased and I could see why. Although the wolves had their prey cornered they couldn't get near it because one swipe of the antlers could kill or maim them. If the elk had run it would just get tired and make easy pickings for the wolves.
Another scene showed some elk actually prancing confidently even if the wolves were near. It was sort of a risky bluff to the wolves,showing them that they could outrun them if they dared chase them. Unfortunately for one, the wolves called the bluff and dragged her down.
Wolves and bears,it turns out, are mortal enemies too. There was a scene were a mother bear and her cub were surrounded by a pack. The wolves kept a safe distance because the bear could easily break their backs with its claws. However,mama bear couldn't distance itself too far from its cub so it just fended off the wolves until they realized they were going nowhere and gave up.
It was also sad to note that those who were blessed with good looks to begin with didn't really take good care of themselves...especially their self-esteem...hence their deterioration into Ugly Ducklings.
I also managed to catch a feature by NatGeo on wolves. One interesting scene showed a pack of wolves that had trapped a male elk. The narrator said that strangely enough if elk didn't run their chances of surviving increased and I could see why. Although the wolves had their prey cornered they couldn't get near it because one swipe of the antlers could kill or maim them. If the elk had run it would just get tired and make easy pickings for the wolves.
Another scene showed some elk actually prancing confidently even if the wolves were near. It was sort of a risky bluff to the wolves,showing them that they could outrun them if they dared chase them. Unfortunately for one, the wolves called the bluff and dragged her down.
Wolves and bears,it turns out, are mortal enemies too. There was a scene were a mother bear and her cub were surrounded by a pack. The wolves kept a safe distance because the bear could easily break their backs with its claws. However,mama bear couldn't distance itself too far from its cub so it just fended off the wolves until they realized they were going nowhere and gave up.
Wednesday, August 30, 2006
LIVING WITH ONE'S LIMITATIONS
I just got my lab test results. The 2-D Echo and Holter Monitor results validate that there is something definitely wrong with my heart. I have atrial fibrillation according to the Holter monitor findings and the echocardiogram said I have ventricular hypertrophy. I had to look these up in the internet to understand what was going on inside my body.
In a nutshell,my heart is beating irregularly and the danger with this,at least in my case, is that some blood may not be pumped out of the atrium. This blood may coagulate and form clots which if dislodged may be transported to the brain and cause what is known as an embolic stroke. One treatment for this is to give medication (warfarin aka Coumadin) that will help thin the blood so that clotting does not form.
Now as to why I had this condition in the first place I don't really know. I have engaged in regular exercise, I have controlled my intake of "bad-for-the-heart" food and I can say I am not under any form of stress, and yet this happened.
So I guess this is one of life's surprises for me!
In a nutshell,my heart is beating irregularly and the danger with this,at least in my case, is that some blood may not be pumped out of the atrium. This blood may coagulate and form clots which if dislodged may be transported to the brain and cause what is known as an embolic stroke. One treatment for this is to give medication (warfarin aka Coumadin) that will help thin the blood so that clotting does not form.
Now as to why I had this condition in the first place I don't really know. I have engaged in regular exercise, I have controlled my intake of "bad-for-the-heart" food and I can say I am not under any form of stress, and yet this happened.
So I guess this is one of life's surprises for me!
It's just another one of those events that makes me realize my limitations and maybe challenges me to still live fully in spite of these.After all, I did not wish for this.
One positive thing has already come out of this...I got to review my basic anatomy and are more familiar with terms related to the heart's functions! I sort of understand what I'm up against...and as the GI Joe slogan goes..."Knowing is half the battle!"
I also know for sure that the Good Lord wants me to slow down and enjoy life! Thanks to my seminary training I realize I've been programmed to rush through life so as not to waste time.
Maybe this is the Lord's way of giving me a much needed break!
One positive thing has already come out of this...I got to review my basic anatomy and are more familiar with terms related to the heart's functions! I sort of understand what I'm up against...and as the GI Joe slogan goes..."Knowing is half the battle!"
I also know for sure that the Good Lord wants me to slow down and enjoy life! Thanks to my seminary training I realize I've been programmed to rush through life so as not to waste time.
Maybe this is the Lord's way of giving me a much needed break!
Monday, August 28, 2006
ON MENTAL TOUGHNESS AND ON SLOWING DOWN
I watched Tiger Woods win the WGC Invitational yesterday. He almost gave it away when he couldn't keep his lead in regulation play. But during the playoff with Stewart Cink,who battled him hole for hole,he showed why he was a champion. In the fourth playoff hole,he stuck his approach shot within 8 feet while Cink's went into the bunker. Given that opportunity Tiger sunk the birdie putt for the win. Cink had his chance in the previous hole but didn't capitalize on it...therein lay the difference. Both were under a lot of pressure but I guess Tiger handled it better...was mentally tougher than Stewart...that's why he came out on top...for the fourth straight time!
Now that I have this nagging problem of an irregular heartbeat I realized once again that perhaps the Good Lord wants me to slow down some more.Maybe enjoy life a little bit more in the process. After all, I did my best in trying to stay healthy & yet my genetics seems to have acted up in the process.
This is just another obstacle I have to work around.
Now that I have this nagging problem of an irregular heartbeat I realized once again that perhaps the Good Lord wants me to slow down some more.Maybe enjoy life a little bit more in the process. After all, I did my best in trying to stay healthy & yet my genetics seems to have acted up in the process.
This is just another obstacle I have to work around.
Tuesday, August 22, 2006
THE GRASS IS GREENER IN OUR BACKYARD
These past two weeks,I had the chance to visit two of the Philippines'famous resorts:Dos Palmas and Pearl Farm.
We went to Dos Palmas when it was raining so we didn't get to see many of its attractions like the schools of fishes and colorful corral reefs that one would normally see if the water is clear. We had a delicious lunch at the Isla Puting Buhangin, about 15 minutes by ferry boat from Dos Palmas and in spite of the rain we still marvelled at the beauty of the place.
We had better luck when we went to Pearl Farm. The weather was perfect so that when we docked at the wharf you could see fish swimming in the clear waters along the shore. We visited the island of the Floreindo's and checked out the villas which were being rented out to tourists. If I had the money and the time to waste this would be an idyllic place to do it. It was so peaceful..and restful.
No wonder many foreign tourists who have heard about these places...and do have the money,come over to our country!
It is unfortunate that many who live in our country can't even afford to see such sights which are right in our own backyard!
We went to Dos Palmas when it was raining so we didn't get to see many of its attractions like the schools of fishes and colorful corral reefs that one would normally see if the water is clear. We had a delicious lunch at the Isla Puting Buhangin, about 15 minutes by ferry boat from Dos Palmas and in spite of the rain we still marvelled at the beauty of the place.
We had better luck when we went to Pearl Farm. The weather was perfect so that when we docked at the wharf you could see fish swimming in the clear waters along the shore. We visited the island of the Floreindo's and checked out the villas which were being rented out to tourists. If I had the money and the time to waste this would be an idyllic place to do it. It was so peaceful..and restful.
No wonder many foreign tourists who have heard about these places...and do have the money,come over to our country!
It is unfortunate that many who live in our country can't even afford to see such sights which are right in our own backyard!
Monday, August 21, 2006
Sunday, August 06, 2006
REFLECTIONS ON TWO TV FEATURES
This weekend I watched two documentaries on TV which got me thinking about the oddities of life,but more specially how one's beliefs affects the way one behaves.
The first,which was shown on Discovery channel's "On the Run," was about an international scam artist and the second,which was on National Geographic, was about Mennonite's search for their "perfect world."
The first feature reenacted the hunt for a Chinese guy from Malaysia named Mr. Wee,who managed to swindle people of over $4 M and ended up getting free after serving short terms in prison. His modus operandi was to sweet talk people into investing their money on businesses which he promised would give them profitable returns.
The segment I caught showed him putting up a magazine in Netherlands called Publique. He convinced most of his employees except a certain Ellen, to put in money in the venture. Then he spent their money on his personal pursuits until the business folded up. It was this Ellen who helped put him in jail eventually.
What was interesting to note was that Mr. Wee was a confirmed psychopath and yet he was able to convince intelligent people into giving him their money! I couldn't help but recall Rose Balajay and her Multitel scam operation which robbed many people (including my sister & law and my wife) of their life's savings! The lure of easy money does blind people and makes them believe what they want to believe.
The piece on the Mennonites was also on how one's beliefs influences one's actions.
It showed families and individuals belonging to three different colonies of Mennonites; two in Mexico and one in Bolivia. One colony in Mexico which was called El Capulin was a "progressive" one which allowed its members to use electricity and rubber tires on its tractors. With electricity the community could produce more products (e.g. milk and cheese) and enjoy amenities like TV, which in most Mennonite circles is forbidden.
I was puzzled at first about the issue on rubber tired tractors until it was explained by one of the men interviewed. He explained that having rubber tires on tractors would allow their boys to "steal" away to town and drink beer. Having only metal wheels would discourage them.
The other two colonies were less progressive but the Mennonites there preferred that kind of life even though they wished they had more money so they didn't live poorly! As the feature progressed I understood that the perfect world they were after was one in which they could practice their religion and basically live in peace, away from the trappings and temptations of civilization.
These people who shunned the more progressive colony of El Capulin to live in the more desolate colonies did so because they believed this was the correct way of living their faith!
The first,which was shown on Discovery channel's "On the Run," was about an international scam artist and the second,which was on National Geographic, was about Mennonite's search for their "perfect world."
The first feature reenacted the hunt for a Chinese guy from Malaysia named Mr. Wee,who managed to swindle people of over $4 M and ended up getting free after serving short terms in prison. His modus operandi was to sweet talk people into investing their money on businesses which he promised would give them profitable returns.
The segment I caught showed him putting up a magazine in Netherlands called Publique. He convinced most of his employees except a certain Ellen, to put in money in the venture. Then he spent their money on his personal pursuits until the business folded up. It was this Ellen who helped put him in jail eventually.
What was interesting to note was that Mr. Wee was a confirmed psychopath and yet he was able to convince intelligent people into giving him their money! I couldn't help but recall Rose Balajay and her Multitel scam operation which robbed many people (including my sister & law and my wife) of their life's savings! The lure of easy money does blind people and makes them believe what they want to believe.
The piece on the Mennonites was also on how one's beliefs influences one's actions.
It showed families and individuals belonging to three different colonies of Mennonites; two in Mexico and one in Bolivia. One colony in Mexico which was called El Capulin was a "progressive" one which allowed its members to use electricity and rubber tires on its tractors. With electricity the community could produce more products (e.g. milk and cheese) and enjoy amenities like TV, which in most Mennonite circles is forbidden.
I was puzzled at first about the issue on rubber tired tractors until it was explained by one of the men interviewed. He explained that having rubber tires on tractors would allow their boys to "steal" away to town and drink beer. Having only metal wheels would discourage them.
The other two colonies were less progressive but the Mennonites there preferred that kind of life even though they wished they had more money so they didn't live poorly! As the feature progressed I understood that the perfect world they were after was one in which they could practice their religion and basically live in peace, away from the trappings and temptations of civilization.
These people who shunned the more progressive colony of El Capulin to live in the more desolate colonies did so because they believed this was the correct way of living their faith!
Wednesday, August 02, 2006
ON DEATH AND DYING
It's been two weeks since I started having heart palpitations and because of its effects on me sometimes I can't help but think about death and dying.
Though the palpitations are less pronounced,thanks to the medication I've been taking,I feel some difficulty breathing properly since my heartbeats are irregular. When I do something that requires some effort like walking upstairs or taking a walk to Shangrila I can't do it as quickly as I used to because I feel some heaviness on my chest and some weariness.
I tried doing a light work out the other day and though I could easily lift 30 pound weights prudence dictated that I just stick with very light weights. I didn't even sweat...soit didn't count as a work out!
It's a bother really.
So am I just waiting for the big attack? I try not to think of it because I know I've still a lot of things I want to do. And when I think of my wife and kids and how my passing away will affect them...I get the motivation to keep on living.
Perhaps what God wants me to do right now is just slow down and enjoy life as much as I can.
Though the palpitations are less pronounced,thanks to the medication I've been taking,I feel some difficulty breathing properly since my heartbeats are irregular. When I do something that requires some effort like walking upstairs or taking a walk to Shangrila I can't do it as quickly as I used to because I feel some heaviness on my chest and some weariness.
I tried doing a light work out the other day and though I could easily lift 30 pound weights prudence dictated that I just stick with very light weights. I didn't even sweat...soit didn't count as a work out!
It's a bother really.
So am I just waiting for the big attack? I try not to think of it because I know I've still a lot of things I want to do. And when I think of my wife and kids and how my passing away will affect them...I get the motivation to keep on living.
Perhaps what God wants me to do right now is just slow down and enjoy life as much as I can.
Sunday, July 23, 2006
CALLING ON HEAVEN FOR HELP DURING A TIME OF CRISIS
It came so suddenly I was caught off guard!
I was having dessert after a heavy buffet lunch last Wednesday when I started having palpitations. It was not the first time I had such an episode but this was different because the palpitations were quite strong and went on for a prolonged period of time that I was starting to feel some pain on mychest from the pounding.
I was in a seminar at the time so I had to excuse myself and be driven by Jaja to the Medical City ER for a check up. The resident on duty detected the abnormal heartbeat and saw that my BP had risen to 150/100 but the ECG they did on me showed things were normal! They gave me some meds and I took the rest of the day off.
I was able to attend the whole session Thursday and even went to the gym afterwards.However, come Friday morning I was feeling the arrythmia again so I decided to take the day off. I thought that resting would revive me and rid me of the pain but I was wrong. It seemed to have gotten worse such that in desperation I cried for help from someone whom I had forgotten for a very long,long time...Our Mother of Perpetual Help.
Her picture was just beside our bed and at the height of an attack I asked for a miracle...that she take the malady away.
I didn't get relief at once but as I have experienced time and again,my prayers seemed to have been answered in a different way. For one, I had some restful naps where in I felt some relief. Then yesterday, Sunday, my sister arrived from Cebu and through her connections I got a different medicine which seemed to have worked better than the one prescribed to me before.
I was having dessert after a heavy buffet lunch last Wednesday when I started having palpitations. It was not the first time I had such an episode but this was different because the palpitations were quite strong and went on for a prolonged period of time that I was starting to feel some pain on mychest from the pounding.
I was in a seminar at the time so I had to excuse myself and be driven by Jaja to the Medical City ER for a check up. The resident on duty detected the abnormal heartbeat and saw that my BP had risen to 150/100 but the ECG they did on me showed things were normal! They gave me some meds and I took the rest of the day off.
I was able to attend the whole session Thursday and even went to the gym afterwards.However, come Friday morning I was feeling the arrythmia again so I decided to take the day off. I thought that resting would revive me and rid me of the pain but I was wrong. It seemed to have gotten worse such that in desperation I cried for help from someone whom I had forgotten for a very long,long time...Our Mother of Perpetual Help.
Her picture was just beside our bed and at the height of an attack I asked for a miracle...that she take the malady away.
I didn't get relief at once but as I have experienced time and again,my prayers seemed to have been answered in a different way. For one, I had some restful naps where in I felt some relief. Then yesterday, Sunday, my sister arrived from Cebu and through her connections I got a different medicine which seemed to have worked better than the one prescribed to me before.
Friday, July 14, 2006
A LESSON ON CREATIVITY FROM A MOVIE: SOMETHING THAT CAME FROM GOD
I happened to catch a movie showing on TV this afternoon entitled: "Something that Came from God" about Dr. Alfred Blalock and his African American assistant,Dr. Vivien Thomas. Both were involved in the historic cardiac operation that led to the saving of many so-called "blue babies." These infants had congenital heart abnormalities which made their heart pump more un-oxygenated blood into their system thus causing them to turn blue.
In their effort to find a solution to the blue baby syndrome they of course went through a lot of basic analyzing of how the problem came about. But what was "creative" was that they tried creating the problem by experimenting on normal dogs, so that if they knew how the problem came about ,they could undo it.
They had failures in their experimentation but that led them to the correct way of doing things and even serendipitous solutions.
The inspiring angle of the movie was that Dr. Viv Thomas was a carpenter who had dreams of becoming a doctor. He never had formal education on medicine, but learned on the job. He died in 1985, accorded an honorary doctor's rank by the Johns Hopkins Hospital.
In their effort to find a solution to the blue baby syndrome they of course went through a lot of basic analyzing of how the problem came about. But what was "creative" was that they tried creating the problem by experimenting on normal dogs, so that if they knew how the problem came about ,they could undo it.
They had failures in their experimentation but that led them to the correct way of doing things and even serendipitous solutions.
The inspiring angle of the movie was that Dr. Viv Thomas was a carpenter who had dreams of becoming a doctor. He never had formal education on medicine, but learned on the job. He died in 1985, accorded an honorary doctor's rank by the Johns Hopkins Hospital.
Friday, July 07, 2006
INSIDE THE BEEHIVE: MY JOLLY YEARS AT JOLLIBEE #1
Out of the blue,I just decided I'd write about my years at Jollibee while I can still recall them:-)
When I'm asked about what I did for Jollibee as it's Training Manager,(a post I held for over 11 years) my ready answer is:
"When I joined Jollibee in 1985 it had only 20 stores.When I left in August,1999 it had grown to 348 stores! So whether good or bad,I may have had something to do with the 320 stores that opened!"
I wouldn't have stayed that long if I didn't love the company.Fact is, I never really left because today,I still do work for the JFC group as a Training Consultant for one of it's brands,Chowking.
So what was it like inside the beehive? Maybe I ought to go back to 1985 when I joined Jollibee.
THE PRELUDE:OPPORTUNITY AT A TIME OF CRISIS
I was still working as a Training Specialist at Foodmine Inc.,the local franchise of KFC, when the opportunity to work at Jollibee presented itself.This opportunity though came in the form of a crisis that was facing the organization.
KFC under the Quesada's had just gone through a wildcat strike and so things were not good inside that organization. Morale of store managers was so bad that there was a mass exodus of managers starting late '84 (just after the strike) up to the 2nd quarter of 1985. The company President Efren Quesada,or EQ as we called him,was coddling the labor union so they wouldn't threaten to strike again. In doing so however,he alienated himself from the Store Managers who had sided with him all throughout the almost month-long strike.
Many of these managers left and looked for work at Jollibee,which was then starting to move up the ranks of the fastfood chains.
If I recall correctly,Leonie Antonio,Connie Mendoza and Jimmy Ramos were among the first ex-KFC's who were hired by Jollibee for it's expansion plans. The blow to KFC came when sometime in March of 1985 Jimmy Enriquez,who was then a KFC Area Manager,Raffy Selga (Training Store Manager),Meann San Juan(Store Manager and Jimmy's girlfriend) and a newly-hired Management trainee named Livia Pinggoy,all went to Jollibee. Their jumping ship gave a signal to everyone else at KFC then that things were going bad.
To stave off any further resignations, EQ and his VP for HR and Administration,Atty. de Leon, HR Manager Conrad Donato and Operations Manager Raffy Vallejo started having one-on-one sessions with the Store managers left pleading with them not to resign and promising them a better future at KFC.
Meanwhile, I had to contend with the problem these resignations were causing.
My boss then and former classmate, Joseph Hernandez,also resigned his post leaving me as the OIC of the training department. Since there were now vacancies for Store managers in about eight of the 12 KFC stores we had to fill up these posts immediately.
As a stopgap solution,some of the senior managers who had stayed behind had to manage two stores at a time. We at the Training department came up with a two week crash course for management trainees so that after that time we could field them immediately at any KFC store that needed a manager.
What made matters worse for us was that Raffy Selga,who was then our Training store manager,was part of the diaspora so we needed to have someone who could train these new recruits on actual store operations.Fortunately for me,there was one relatively new manager, Ma. Lourdes "Iyoh" Sordan, and Raffy's assistant manager at KFC Tomas Morato, who agreed to take on the role.
Sometime in February of 1985,I made a decision to start looking for a better option than KFC. I was just about a year and a half into my marriage and my wife,Jaja, was pregnant with our first child. I definitely couldn't afford not to have a job.
Jollibee was an option and since I was hearing good things about the company from the likes of Leonie and Connie who were already there I decided to send in my application. As luck would have it,the person in charge of recruitment, Susan Rosales (now de Guzman),was a friend of my sister in law. When she learned I was with Training,she informed me that Jollibee had plans of putting up a Hamburger University soon and had in fact hired a former professor,Dr. Butch dela Cruz, from the University of Maryland to spearhead the project.
I became more optimistic about my chances of joining Jollibee when I was interviewed by Ms. Fe Labayen,the HR Manager, who told me that my credentials looked good and that she would recommend me for a post in the HR Institute,as they called it.
Back at KFC,things were coming to a head. Many more managers were resigning so that EQ told his Vice Presidents that they were to do duty at the stores in order to keep operations going. I didn't like to work in our stores then since the employees were no longer in good terms with management specially after the strike. I told myself that if I was to be forced to work in the stores, I would leave and take my chances with Jollibee even as a management tainee.
My friends who were already at Jollibee (like Meann San Juan and Connie Mendoza)would call me time and again saying that I was needed there because their Operaions Manual needed revising and that they could use a guy like me in Training over there.
June of 1985, my wait was finally over when Jollibee called me up for a final interview with Dr. Ambrosio "Butch" dela Cruz,whom I think I impressed enough to give me the OK. WhenI finally passed my physical examination and submitted all my requirements, I was home free. The only thing left was to hand in my resignation.
Atty. de Leon tried to dissuade me from leaving,revealing to me that KFC had plans for expansion but which were just put on hold temporarily because of the current problems besetting the company. EQ didn't try to persuade me to stay but at one point sort of tried to make me feel guilty. Why was it that I was leaving when he needed my help most. He did wish me good luck though when he knew I was gettiing a better offer and couldn't match what Jollibee was going to give.
I said my tearful goodbyes to my colleagues and best friends in the Training department,Au Acosta and Chie Narvas. It was a sad parting but they understood it was for the better.
As a fitting and somewhat hilarious ending to my KFC stint I cooked KFC chicken.
It was a Saturday morning, and I had just come from my 1st day orientation at the Jollibee headquarters in Culmat building. On my way home I decided to pass by KFC Morato to say goodbye to Iyoh,who was on duty at that time. Coincidentally, one of her cooks hadn't reported for work yet and her chief cook needed to go on lunch break. She asked if I could take charge of cooking chicken for the lunch period until her cook finished his break.
I agreed to do this and I'm happy I did because it was a good way to end a chapter in my life.
When I'm asked about what I did for Jollibee as it's Training Manager,(a post I held for over 11 years) my ready answer is:
"When I joined Jollibee in 1985 it had only 20 stores.When I left in August,1999 it had grown to 348 stores! So whether good or bad,I may have had something to do with the 320 stores that opened!"
I wouldn't have stayed that long if I didn't love the company.Fact is, I never really left because today,I still do work for the JFC group as a Training Consultant for one of it's brands,Chowking.
So what was it like inside the beehive? Maybe I ought to go back to 1985 when I joined Jollibee.
THE PRELUDE:OPPORTUNITY AT A TIME OF CRISIS
I was still working as a Training Specialist at Foodmine Inc.,the local franchise of KFC, when the opportunity to work at Jollibee presented itself.This opportunity though came in the form of a crisis that was facing the organization.
KFC under the Quesada's had just gone through a wildcat strike and so things were not good inside that organization. Morale of store managers was so bad that there was a mass exodus of managers starting late '84 (just after the strike) up to the 2nd quarter of 1985. The company President Efren Quesada,or EQ as we called him,was coddling the labor union so they wouldn't threaten to strike again. In doing so however,he alienated himself from the Store Managers who had sided with him all throughout the almost month-long strike.
Many of these managers left and looked for work at Jollibee,which was then starting to move up the ranks of the fastfood chains.
If I recall correctly,Leonie Antonio,Connie Mendoza and Jimmy Ramos were among the first ex-KFC's who were hired by Jollibee for it's expansion plans. The blow to KFC came when sometime in March of 1985 Jimmy Enriquez,who was then a KFC Area Manager,Raffy Selga (Training Store Manager),Meann San Juan(Store Manager and Jimmy's girlfriend) and a newly-hired Management trainee named Livia Pinggoy,all went to Jollibee. Their jumping ship gave a signal to everyone else at KFC then that things were going bad.
To stave off any further resignations, EQ and his VP for HR and Administration,Atty. de Leon, HR Manager Conrad Donato and Operations Manager Raffy Vallejo started having one-on-one sessions with the Store managers left pleading with them not to resign and promising them a better future at KFC.
Meanwhile, I had to contend with the problem these resignations were causing.
My boss then and former classmate, Joseph Hernandez,also resigned his post leaving me as the OIC of the training department. Since there were now vacancies for Store managers in about eight of the 12 KFC stores we had to fill up these posts immediately.
As a stopgap solution,some of the senior managers who had stayed behind had to manage two stores at a time. We at the Training department came up with a two week crash course for management trainees so that after that time we could field them immediately at any KFC store that needed a manager.
What made matters worse for us was that Raffy Selga,who was then our Training store manager,was part of the diaspora so we needed to have someone who could train these new recruits on actual store operations.Fortunately for me,there was one relatively new manager, Ma. Lourdes "Iyoh" Sordan, and Raffy's assistant manager at KFC Tomas Morato, who agreed to take on the role.
Sometime in February of 1985,I made a decision to start looking for a better option than KFC. I was just about a year and a half into my marriage and my wife,Jaja, was pregnant with our first child. I definitely couldn't afford not to have a job.
Jollibee was an option and since I was hearing good things about the company from the likes of Leonie and Connie who were already there I decided to send in my application. As luck would have it,the person in charge of recruitment, Susan Rosales (now de Guzman),was a friend of my sister in law. When she learned I was with Training,she informed me that Jollibee had plans of putting up a Hamburger University soon and had in fact hired a former professor,Dr. Butch dela Cruz, from the University of Maryland to spearhead the project.
I became more optimistic about my chances of joining Jollibee when I was interviewed by Ms. Fe Labayen,the HR Manager, who told me that my credentials looked good and that she would recommend me for a post in the HR Institute,as they called it.
Back at KFC,things were coming to a head. Many more managers were resigning so that EQ told his Vice Presidents that they were to do duty at the stores in order to keep operations going. I didn't like to work in our stores then since the employees were no longer in good terms with management specially after the strike. I told myself that if I was to be forced to work in the stores, I would leave and take my chances with Jollibee even as a management tainee.
My friends who were already at Jollibee (like Meann San Juan and Connie Mendoza)would call me time and again saying that I was needed there because their Operaions Manual needed revising and that they could use a guy like me in Training over there.
June of 1985, my wait was finally over when Jollibee called me up for a final interview with Dr. Ambrosio "Butch" dela Cruz,whom I think I impressed enough to give me the OK. WhenI finally passed my physical examination and submitted all my requirements, I was home free. The only thing left was to hand in my resignation.
Atty. de Leon tried to dissuade me from leaving,revealing to me that KFC had plans for expansion but which were just put on hold temporarily because of the current problems besetting the company. EQ didn't try to persuade me to stay but at one point sort of tried to make me feel guilty. Why was it that I was leaving when he needed my help most. He did wish me good luck though when he knew I was gettiing a better offer and couldn't match what Jollibee was going to give.
I said my tearful goodbyes to my colleagues and best friends in the Training department,Au Acosta and Chie Narvas. It was a sad parting but they understood it was for the better.
As a fitting and somewhat hilarious ending to my KFC stint I cooked KFC chicken.
It was a Saturday morning, and I had just come from my 1st day orientation at the Jollibee headquarters in Culmat building. On my way home I decided to pass by KFC Morato to say goodbye to Iyoh,who was on duty at that time. Coincidentally, one of her cooks hadn't reported for work yet and her chief cook needed to go on lunch break. She asked if I could take charge of cooking chicken for the lunch period until her cook finished his break.
I agreed to do this and I'm happy I did because it was a good way to end a chapter in my life.
Sunday, July 02, 2006
THE INTERESTING PHENOMENON OF EVOLUTION
I caught a snippet of a National Geographic feature on how a type of ants called the Pelagius evolved into a slave capturing kind. Since their mandibles are built for killing they are useless when it comes to taking care of themselves so what these warrior ants do is pillage and capture another type of ants called the Formica. The latter class have cutter type mandibles used for foraging food and which are useless for battle. When the slave Formica ants grow old and die, the Pelagius go out and hunt for Formica ant nests. They ruthlessly attack helpless Formica ants and carry off the eggs. When these eggs grow in the Pelagius nests these become future generations of slaves!
Very interesting!
Very interesting!
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