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Love Frames

Lessons Learned Today

Ate Jojilyn and I had an appointment with our Mayor today at 10 a.m. We conducted an interview about his mother. The masterlistbuilder.com staff of Tabango is tasked to make something for her birthday.

There were a lot of facts I have learned about Mayor's family.

However, over and above the details of their family, the one I considered the best part was our conversation about anything... We had a sort of sharing of ideas and of our lives. Varied as it may be but there are commonalities.

There were points that I considered lessons I learned both from Ate Jojilyn and from Mayor.

I admire Ate Jojilyn's courage for all that she had been through. I consider her as one of the bravest woman I know. She is an epitome of someone who fell along the way but she got up and learned from whatever mistakes she had before.

From among the ideas shared by Mayor, I could not forget the four needs of a human being as he quoted from an author. These are:
- to live
- to love
- to learn
- to leave a legacy

These four is a heirarchy. Living is the basic goal and the highest is to leave a legacy.

Regional Teachers' Day

I was one of those invited to attend the Regional Teachers' Day yesterday at the DepEd Regional Office Gym.

It was also the day set for awarding of outstanding teachers and school heads. One of the Leyte Division Supervisor said to me, you were invited because soon you will also be an outstanding teacher.

There were renowned speakers who discussed different topics but the one who has touched me most was the first speaker. It was the story of the ant which has somehow enlightened my mind.

My mind is clouded with so many negative ideas at present. There are so many things that I wanted to do for my students and for the school in general but various factors overshadow my heart and mind... (So sorry, can't divulge these factors here)
"You are working not for anybody in this world. If no one appreciates you, take note Someone up there sees your good deeds," Ma'am Cheche said.

It was like a hammer blow on my head. She is right. Why am I discouraged when all that I do is for no one else but to God?

Teachers' Day and Sportsfest

Today is our Teachers' Day, Sporstfest, and Christmas Party at San Isidro, Leyte.

I love this day! Why? I had the chance to play my favorite sport - volleyball. It was a long time that I played volleyball. I was quite surprised that I still know how to play it (hehehehe). I had more than 15 as a score and that was straight service (I might just be lucky though).

I still reminisce the times that I was part of the Leyte Normal University Beach Volleyball team. There were three of us who were main players. It was the most difficult kind of volleyball I experienced.

How I wish there will still be other chances for me to play volleyball. It would not be much of becoming better in terms of how to play the game. I wish to have volleyball games for fun and exercise. Hope my wish will be granted.

The other two pictures (with my coteachers) were taken inside San Isidro Gym.

Lukewarm Faith

Reading somebody else's blog about life's pain has opened my eyes that other persons have experienced much pain than what I have been through. I felt ashamed why for quite a while that I distanced myself from God because of "unanswered prayers."

You might not believe it but I have had lukewarm faith for almost a year. Why? It is because I always have believed in the saying "Ask and you will receive; Seek and you shall find..."

There were two requests (I consider them major requests then) I asked which were not given. Forgive me, I cannot just unveil them here. Though I uttered positive words when other persons ask me about them, deep inside of me my heart was shattered.

I wallowed in pain, inferiority, and less sense of self-worth.

You know what my realizations are? I'd like to state them in question form:

"How dare me question God of not giving me answers to those requests when what He had given me are far better than what I have asked for?"

"Why was I so blind of seeing God's graces poured on me?"

I felt ashamed of what I did. I was the one who stayed far from God, but you see? He still loves me greatly that He reaches me out... He even extends his hand to hold me in His heart...


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Sown Seeds

“Don't judge each day by the harvest you reap but by the seeds that you plant.” - Robert Louis Stevenson

I firmly agree to the above-mentioned quotation. Circumstances/events have led me to see its verity. Here are some situations:

Situation # 1
In the recently conducted Division Secondary Schools Press Conference (DSSPC), two of my students were able to win in the individual writing contests (English Category). Almera won 5th in Feature Writing and 6th in Editorial Writing, while Abegail ranked 5th in Sports Writing.
Winning in these categories was not made overnight. Imagine, there were 50 schools all over the Division of Leyte who joined. Only top seven were chosen as winners.
It took me months to train them. I know sometimes they might have felt very tired of writing and writing but I told them that gold needs much polishing before it would shine brilliantly.

Situation # 2
In one of my visits to Naval, Fr. Jun Amante invited me to have lunch at the convent of Naval. He even fetched me to the terminal. I really appreciated his gesture of kindness but deep inside of me I am really amazed for we seldom see each other but he has tried to show to me that we are close friends. When I sent him a text message expressing gratitude, he responded: Because your parents were so kind to me, you are now reaping the fruits of the seed they have implanted in me.

These are but two of representative situations which would prove that whatever seeds you sow, you will definitely reap their fruits in the future.

On the other hand, despite of kind seeds (good seeds at that)planted, there are people who find happiness in trying to uproot sprouting seeds. This happens most especially if the seed you planted looks like a promising young tree... Several situations also have opened my eyes to this reality. At any rate, if the seed you planted is on a fertile ground, there is 75% up possibility that it will still survive.

Let us not be tired of sowing good seeds.

Let us fill the world with the fruits of the seeds we have implanted.

Never mind the detractors for in life's story there are always antagonists or villain. So long as we are not the villains, we have to continue our pursuit of filling the world with good seeds...

Secret to have a beautiful day

Seasons

Busy as a Bee

You may be wondering why there are dates when I don't have blog entries... There are really many things that I need to attend to these days.

Even during night time, I have special sessions with two members of our school publication in preparation for the Division Press Conference next week. I know, training these students is "laborious" (a much extra effort) but to see them learn is my source of fulfillment.

Angel's Hug

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In Memory of Mommy Virgie

'Twas November 7, 2008 that I received a text message from Tatay Cesar teliing me that Mommy Virgie already passed away.

I was shocked. I saw her when I went to Dulag National High School on October 27, 2008. When I went back there on Oct. 29, we had a long conversation via cell phone.

I have known Mommy Virgie (Virgilia Adarayan) the other year when I attended a Seminar on Campus Journalism at Jaro, Leyte. We became close last year, when I was made part of the Area Trainers/Facilitators for Campus Journalism at Areas III-V and also during the Division Press Conference. We became much close when last 2nd to 3rd week of February, we were part of the Writers' team to finalize SEDIP Reports from S.Y. 2003-2008.

Mommy Virgie was a jolly good fellow. I could not forget the time that I invited her to come to our house sometime in October 2007. She liked to collect plants and I told her there are many plants at home. Thus, she went with me to our house.
She told me "Lucky is the man whom you will choose to be your husband. I can see you are a very responsible lady. You're not just beautiful, you also have the right attitudes..." She continued "The key to success is always a combination of intelligence and attitude. I know you have both..."

Last February, we were roommates at the Division of Leyte Dormitory. It was there and then that she unveiled to me about her "life." I could not believe what I heard at first but she went on... Based on what she told me she concluded "Inday May, life is a matter of choice. I've gone through many ups and downs in life but I always choose to move on. Make my story a lesson for you to learn."

We may have spent few hours only together but her words would linger in my mind. She is one of those who inspired me to work with the best that I can in any assigned task.

Mommy Virgie, wherever you are, I hope that you God's angels will usher you to heaven the soonest possible time. Thank you for all that you have shared to me.


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To all my friends...

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Feelin' Sexy

ABC's of Friendship

Halloween Comments | Cute Graphics and Comments

Good News!

I believe that every day, there are good news to tell or share. These are blessings but even bad events sometimes are blessings in disguise, right?

Good News # 1

Our Chamber Theater entry was hailed as one of the top 3. We got the third place but as the coach & director I was really happy about it. It does not matter if we are the 3rd, what matters to me is that we are one of the winners. All the other presentations were really great. I was even nervous because had I been one of the judges, I would really have a headache as to who will win. The first picture shows the whole cast including the props in-charge. The second is my photo. Behind me is one of our props.

Good News # 2

Our school head was happy about the result. During the awarding ceremony, the supervisors and the superintendent extended their congratulations to me and to the whole cast in general

Good News # 3

At Dulag, I've met my batch mates at Leyte Normal University. Only 3 of them are included in the picture 'cause the others are busy during the time that this picture was taken.

Good News # 4

Today, the Editor-in-Chief of our school publication and I went back to Dulag National High School to gather data regarding the Provincial Meet Results. We were able to arrive there and return back to Tabango safe and sound.

Good News # 5

My "honey" really makes me feel that he is very much in love with me. I wish he will stay that way for always. To me, this is a good news. Why? These days, seldom can you find somebody who will truly love you. Most men are just good at the start of the relationship...

Different Quotes to Live By

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General Rehearsal for the Chamber Theater

These are the pictures taken during the general rehearsal today.



The picture on the left shows the persons who are in-charge of the props. They are Crisella, Shella, and Carah. Well, the director has to be present too and that's me (hehehehe).








This picture shows the complete cast of "Kune Comes of Age". This also shows one of our props which is the Mango Tree.

This shows the complete cast still with the "Bahay Kubo" (Nipa Hut).

This picture depicts the director and the narrator.

I wish that we will bring home the bacon tomorrow...

Practice for the Chamber Theater (Part II)

I have mentioned before that on September 16, 2008, the MRVNHS Chamber Theater entry was chosen as the Champion during the Area Level Literary-Musical Contest held at Leyte Agro-Industrial School (LAIS), Leyte, Leyte.

The Division Level contest is scheduled on October 27, 2008. That is already on Monday. The English Supervisor told me that students must have "live" preformance. That means, no group is permitted to have dubbing. So I have made few changes to fit to the set guidelines.

There are 13 students involved. Ten are actors and actresses and 3 are assigned to be the props-in charge.

Before the rehearsals, I emphasize to these students the rules all throughout the practice and presentation phases. I am doing this so that they will be guided as to what to do and how to behave properly. I also have told them that they should be glad that they were chosen from among the other students in school. I also have emphasized to them that being chosen is a privilege but it is their responsibility to show their best...

Funny Experience Today

These pictures were taken before I went to school today.

I am accustomed to wearing skirts and dresses. In school, every Friday is scheduled as the "Wash Day" so we (teachers) can wear anything we like. Of course, proper dress code must also be observed.

Usually, I prefer to wear skirt and blouse in going to school. Well, today, the one you see in the picture is what I wore.

You might wonder what is the funny experience I had today. When I entered the gate, our guard told me what he overheard from the students. Students at the gate were in chorus in saying "Wow, si Ma'am Reah..."

That's what I commonly hear from them so I just did not mind them.

In the afternoon, a co-teacher asked me "Day, na-notice nimo kadtong mga batang lalaki na niari sa Faculty room ganiha?"

I answered "Wala ra ba kuya kay pre-occupied kaayo ko sa mga dad-onon in going to MasterListBuilder Office."

"Well, niingon man ko na gwapo lagi tong usa ka bata ay, kamao sad to sa klase." He narrated. "Naunsa ba diay Inday nga miingon man siya, gwapa jud kuno ka and ikaw jud kuno iya panagasaw-on." He reported.

That's what is funny. Then, another co-teacher said "So if maohon na Inday May, maangata ta ug Jonie, Please Don't Cry..."

Well, it is normal for teenagers to admire. I have had my share of students saying they are in-love with me but I just ignore what they are saying. They are only kids. What they believe as "love" at this time may only be an "admiration". Teenagers find it dificult to distinguish between love and infatuation...

Daily Lessons in Life

"Experience is the best teacher."

I believe everybody knows this saying. While it is true that learning takes place in school, there are really many things that are understood outside of the school. Dealing with people for example. There are many theories related to it but these theories are verified or could be modified in actual situations.

I'm fond of speaking with persons older than me. In terms of wisdom, I know that they have more (although not all) to share to a young lady like me.

Case # 1

Yesterday, I had my nails cleaned/polished. Ate (I prefer not to divulge her name) shared to me about her family life and her "if only's." She said "if only I could turn back the time, I would not have married my husband..." She further stated :"if only I could put back my children to my stomach..." All these and many more.

You may be wondering why she has many "if only's". Well, she has many children and that she has a less responsible husband. I only say "less responsible" because he is not totally irresponsible. She told me that the attitude of a man should be considered before committing yourself to him. That's the greatest lesson she has ever learned. She told me that when people ask her before as to who will be her would-be husband, after she uttered the name most neighbors and friends say "bugoy kaayo na siya" (He is naughty.) But because she believes in love, and that she believes that a man may change because of love, she did not listen to their warning. It is only now that she realized that she must not have let her heart rule over her head.

Case # 2

This afternoon, I had a chance to talk with one of the women I admire (although she does not know about it yet). I admire her in terms of courage and conviction. She, despite of her past, stood up and went on with life. Our topic was realted to how these youngsters would become world-class outstanding workers if their line of thinking is very narrow.

These are only two of the situations where I have learned wisdom. There are still more... I might publish it next time.

On Relationships

"When a door closes, other doors and even windows will be opened for you."

When I was young, I was exposed to many fairy tales. Many fairy tales have happy endings. Having read those fairy tales, it was instilled in my head that once you fall in love, it always would have a happy ending.

It took me an actual experience of how it is to love and lost for me to open my eyes that fairy tales are only in books. Not all love stories have happy endings. In the real world, you need to make choices. Not only that, you have to stand for the choices you have made. Even in a relationship, you have to learn when to hold on and when to let go.

I was never exempted of experiencing life's pains. More than a year ago, I have decided to put a period on a special relationship I had. With an ardent prayer I was able to make it.

Sometimes, when it is raining you don't see the sun but after the rain, the sun peeps through. During the "rain", all we know is that the sky is dark. Water fall from the sky. Though we know that rain helps in making plants grow, we are uncomfortable in going out because we might be wet.

A year has passed, I see the wisdom why I needed to pass such stage. I now see the sun shining brightly. I could say that what happened was a blessing in disguise. I could not have met this man if it did not happen.

This article is especially dedicated to "my honey". I wish I could have met him then. But why should I ask for more when being loved by him at present is a great gift I ever received.

God's timing is really perfect...

Sour Graping

I am a victim of sour graping because I am "the apple of the eye" of most people around me. My heart bleeds not because I am totally affected by what this coteacher is doing. It is because I pity her as a friend.

She may be saying bad things about me but I still pity her for she prefers to see me using dark shades.

I know she is acting like a "goat" which was not able to reach the grapes. Digging into the legend of the term "sour graping", you will be presented with the story of a goat which tried to reach grapes. The goat jumped many times but it wasn't able to reach even just one grapefruit. So, the goat walked away saying "well, it's all right. After all, those grapes taste sour."

How many times have you seen people throwing stones to a mango tree without fruits? Obviously, mango trees with fruits are thrown with stones.

Few, if not some people just prefer to be the thorns of other persons' lives. Psychologically, what these people are doing can be explained. It might be that their id is not fully satisfied. They might be tired of jumping or throwing stones, but still they gained nothing.

Well, I respect other people's opinions - positive or negative about me. After all, those are just opinions. I thank them for that. I firmly believe that criticisms help me grow as a person. Sometimes, I can't also help it, I am deeply wounded especially if the allegations are not true but who am I to be exempted of pains?

Diamonds and gold need to undergo a long process of polishing before they glitter/shine.

Crabs in Work Places

Some people could not just bear looking at persons go up. To them, these people who are on top must be pulled down. This is really crab mentality at work. When can these people learn that they too can go up without pulling people down?

It is a common situation in work places - public or private. Expressing negative words against persons who they consider as threats are what they do.

What is the root of crab mentality?

I agree to these lines posted at http://ilovephilippinestoo.blogspot.com/2008/02/crab-mentalitythe-crab-situation-and.html

"Afraid to be poor? Afraid to be down? Why don't you pull your friends with you so you are not alone? Why don't you pull your neighbors down so you have companions? This is the usual understanding and explanation of a "crabness" or crab mentality. "If I cannot have it, no one must have it." When a crab doesn't want to get cooked inside a cooking pot or"kawali" or anything for cooking, they pull each other for survival or simply to get even but in the end, they all get cooked! This is the same situation in the Philippines. In short, INGGIT!"

These lines are really true. The bottom line of crab mentality is "jealousy or insecurity." People say negative words against you especially when you are praised for a particular achievement because they believe they become equal to this person when they do this.

How sad, why can't they just work hard and make their way to the top too?

"Living for Others"

Lao Tzu in one of his poems said:

"Why is the universe everlasting

Because it does not live for others..."

We should learn to value others because they are the ones who make our life meaningful. No matter what achievements we attain, without persons to share with, these are meaningless.

Teachers have meager salary as they say but "money" is not the 'be-all and end-all' of teaching profession. Our wealth is not deposited in the bank. The wealth of teachers are deposited in the hearts and minds of students.

Happy Hours

After the Echo-Seminar conducted by our school head, we ate lunch together. Then, our school head told us that we may have a singing session. Before, I joined in their singing activity, I made a letter request and training matrix for the Campus Journalism Seminar on October 18-19, 2008.

Then, I went to where they were - at IV-Humility Classroom. Most coteachers drunk beer. Last October 8, it was the birthday of one of my coteachers but she was not around during that day since she was in Cebu guarding her sister who was hospitalized.

They know thatI do not drink hard liquor, hence, they did not force me to drink with them. My mom gave me coffee instead. They requested me to sing so I did but because of a phone call I went out of the room so I would be able to attend to it.

When I came back, they were teasing me especially because of the choice of songs I had. These were the songs I sang:

• Looking through the eyes of love
• A very special love
• Save the best for last
• Tell me where it hurts
• Dancing Queen
• Torete
• Mr. Kupido

Out of the songs I chose they concluded that I am in love. That I do not know yet. Love can be verified through time, right?

Even before when I'm asked to sing, most of these songs are what I choose.

Kuya Ewi sang "Be My Lady". This song reminds me of a person who was part of my past. Well, the song did not actually have the same effect as before. The past was really over. Same as a line of the song "I remember the boy but I don't remember the feelings anymore."

Time Management

Many of my coteachers are wondering how I am able to manage my time. They are aware that aside from being a teacher, I have other assignments - school publication adviser, Circle of English Language Lovers (CELL), and the Education Management Information System In-charge, coach during contests (Chamber Theater, Declamation, Desktop Publishing, etc). Aside from these, they know that I have tutorial classes at home and that I am part of an outsourcing business.

Time Management is the answer. We have the luxury of time. The choice is in our hands as to what will we do with it. Filipinos are oriented with "siesta".

For me, I make use of the "siesta" time or liesure time in learning new skills or in enhancing what I already have. Instead of just lying on my bed and staring at the ceiling, I read books or magazines, play guitar or keyboard, or write articles.

Time is something which cannot be brought back once gone. That's the reason why I make the most out of it...

Smile

"A smile means nothing but gives much..."

During the search for Little Miss Sto. Rosario, the talent that I liked best was that of Angel but it is only the way she delivered the piece which needs to be improved still. However, the message of her piece was splendid.

It was all about "smile."

When I was still working at Leyte Normal University - Integrated Laboratory School (LNU-ILS), my students called me the "Smiling Teacher."

At present, my students call me the "Tiger Teacher." Can you see the irony? Well, it is not because I do not smile to them but it is because I wear a facade when in front of the kind of students I have at present. My goal is for my students to be "globally competitive"ones. In reaching such a goal, an element of being strict is necessary because if you will be lenient with them, all the more that they would not learn the skills that they really need.

The pictures I have posted were taken last night. You are free to give me comments regarding the pictures I have posted...

The Power of Words

Here are famous quotes related to the power of words:

"Words: they can't be changed, rewound, or taken back, they make their mark signing into the guestbook of history." - Christina Pagliarulo


"Words in general and adjectives in particular have power. It is a power that comes in degrees or shadings. People and even societies can make value judgments on others just by the shadings of the words they use. Weird, strange, different and unique are really just different shadings of the same word but evoke completely connotations when applied to individuals or groups of people."
-Mr. Prophet
(Source: Book: "The Path")

"I have always been more afraid of a pen, a bottle of ink and a sheet of paper than of a sword or a pistol."-Alexandre Dumas
[Source: The Count of Monte Cristo (Penguin Classics) ]

Do you agree with these quotes? The power of words cannot really be underestimated. Some people seem to be tactful. Others are tactless. Whichever kind you belong, think about the possible effect it will have to the one you will address or speak to. Both have advantages and disadvantages but I still believe that the power of positivism overpowers negativism.

For instance, I have had a student before who was very naive. She does not greet any teacher except for one. She is intelligent but seems to have a different world. One time, she met the principal, she did not say anything. Of course, the principal got angry.

The principal said: "You should know how to greet persons in authority."

The student answered: "I don't have a good day, why should I greet people then?"

The principal called my attention being the adviser of the student. When I went out of the Principal's office I tried to talk to the student.

"Dear, I was called by the principal earlier and she told me what happened. Is it true that you are not greeting the other teachers and also our principal?" I said.

"Yes ma'am." She replied.

"How come you always greet me?" I inquired.

"Because you make me feel I am loved by calling me with my first name or calling me dear. I see the sincerity on your face when you say something to me because you always give me your sweetest smile. I am sorry ma'am if I caused you to be reprimanded by our principal. My name may not be very important to others but the way you say my name makes me feel being loved."

This was a very touching experience. Words without actions would not always convey the message that is in your heart.

Questions which need time to be answered...

When presented with a question, the time I take to respond depends on the degree of difficulty of the question. The higher the level of question given, the more time I need to give an answer. However, when it comes to personal questions, I really take time in giving an answer because for me not all answers have to be unvieled. There are answers that I keep to myself. These are few of the inquiries addressed to me by my friends today:

Question # 1

We know that you have many suitors but what take you so long in saying "YES" to a suitor?

My answer:

I am a person who stands by my word. My YES really means a lot to me. I need time to know a person better.

Question # 2

Is there any chance that you will still open your doors to your ex-boyfriend?

My answer:

I have had a cup for him. I told him that he could fill it with water but he must not let it overflow. He broke the cup that I reserved for him.

As Cupid said in the story Cupid and Psyche, "a relationship without trust cannot survive."

Question # 3

When will you marry?

My answer:

I could not answer the question at present. Maybe, when Cupid strikes my heart again or when my Prince Charming finds me.

Question # 4

Who will you consider as your Prince Charming? Or what are the characteristics of a man you are looking for to be your husband?

My answer:

I would go for a man who has a strong faith in God, has a great determination for the future, and has an abounding love for me.

Question # 5

In case you will have a family of your own, would you still be a dedicated teacher?

My answer:

Having dedication to any work is an attitude. Hence, if such an attitude is in the person's heart and mind, then may she be single or married, it would still be there.

Search for Little Miss Sto. Rosario of Tabango

Haven't heard from me for a couple of days?

Last October 3 and 4, I was sent to Calubian with four other teachers to be one of the coaches for the Area Level Meet. That's why I was not able to post entries in my blog.


Last night, I was one of the judges for the "Search for Little Miss Sto. Rosario of Tabango." This Search is the highlight of the Omega Clan Fiesta Celebration. Here are three of the pictures I had last night.
The first picture shows the two other judges of the Search. From Left to Right:

Catherine Marie B. Santos, a 3rd Year
College Student of the University of the Philippines, Tacloban Campus. She is a runway model of Jun Encarnacion. She was a high shool Student of mine at Leyte Normal University - Integrated Laboratory School.
Jumar Lumapak, Guidance Councilor of Leyte Normal University.
Me, a teacher of MRVNHS... (You may add the rest of the needed information...)
The second picture is my close up photo. However, it is quite dark. Well, the spotlight was focused of course to the contestants... Anyway, I can still be seen, right? So, it is not a problem then.

The last picture shows the sleepy "Inday May." This was taken after the show.

Well, you may have opinions regarding these photos. This does not show my real complexion because of the light.

You need to remember, that pictures are just semblances. They are not really worth a comparison to what is real...

Restful Holiday

Today is declared an official non-working holiday. Supposed to be we will have an echo training but because of typhoon "Pablo" it was cancelled.

You might notice the title that I have used is "restful holiday." For me, it really is. Normally, during weekends and holidays, I would have tutorial classes from 8a.m. up to 5p.m. Today, I preferred to cancel my tutorial classes except for one (at 4:30 - 5:30p.m. with Diane).

For more than three hours, I slept. Sleep is the best weapon of the body after all. Anti-bodies work properly if we have enough time to rest...

'Not all we want is what we get"

Have you ever experienced not being able to get what you want? Many times perhaps, right? To those who think that I always get what I want, you are absolutely wrong.

"I believe in love... I believe in dreams... I believe in miracles..." Sounds familiar? Very much! It is because these are lines of a famous song.

Sometimes, some of your friends do not intentionally do it but they already have added injury to the wound. That is what I have experienced today. They have opened a topic for conversation about a "lost love." (Actually, he is not my ex-boyfriend.)

My life is an open book to my coteachers. They know me very well because most of them were my teachers in high school. They know one chapter of my life which I would like to forget but maybe I am given this situation so I would know how to accept 'realities.'

It was 'us' in my dream world. As said by his friends and relatives, I am the 'love' of his life and so is he in my heart. Well, not all love stories have happy endings. This is a great lesson which I have learned. It is only in fairy tales that love stories always end happily for in reality there are many factors that affect why a love story could not just end happily. He is already married (forced to marry a woman who makes her way to get what she wants)...

Well, partly I have contributed to the present situation. I made a choice then - to focus on my studies or to have a boyfriend at an early age. I chose the former because I am the eldest and I would like to set as an example to my younger siblings. How would they follow what I say if what I say is totally different with what I do? I vowed not have a boyfriend while I was in high school and college. I was true to the choice I have made. Hence, I finished my degree with flying colors...

Because of the choice I have made, I have attained my goals - to be an example to my sisters and to give my medals and certificates to my parents as my presents for them during Graduation Day.

Moreover, because of that choice, looking for a job is not a problem because jobs are being offered to me.

Consequently, because of that choice I lost my "dream man." How sad! You might say... But I am really aware of the fact that I cannot have it all.

I know when I made the choice before, I have chosen something for a greater good. I don't regret for what I have chosen. I still believe that God has reserved one (much better than him) for me. God's ways are not my ways so I will just have to wait. God's time is the perfect time after all...

Quantity versus Quality

To those who might be able to read my blog, please note that in this article I just would like to express my opinion. You are free to agree or disagree with me, the choice is yours.

Actually, this is quite a sensitive issue that I would like to comment on. That's why I started with lines telling you that these are merely my opinion.

In a family, who do you think will probably have successful children - those who only have two or those who have ten? I know your answer would be the former. Obviously, those parents who have few children have a great chance of sending their children to better if not the best schools.

Well, I am saying that public schools are not good compared to private schools. Take note, I am a product of public schools from elementary to my tertiary education.

Department of Education has a program which leads to mass promotion. Of course, it is not bluntly stated but it is obvious. Why? Supervisors (although not all) would ask or even reprimand teachers who give failing grades to many students.

With respect to individual differences, we know that not all students have the same performance. It is totally easy for these higher authorities to say that students having failing grades are all because of teacher factor. In a way, they may be right but it is not applicable to all situations.

Before I have worked with DepEd, I was privileged to work at my Alma Mater. I was assigned to teach at the Integrated Laboratory School (ILS) of Leyte Normal University. The maximum number of students are 40. Each year level has only one section.

Why are the students of LNU-ILS intelligent?

1. Their parents provide their children's needs (food, clothing, etc.)

2. They have tutors.

3. They are enrolled in a school with complete facilities.

4. There are only a few of them inside the classroom.

5. Their teachers are closely supervised.

There are still many factors but these are the top 5 reasons I believe which have fostered the students' intelligence.

Looking at the reasons enumerated above, are all of the students' intelligence associated with teacher factor only?

Observe the sand. That is one element in building a house, right? A person may order tons of sand but are all these used? Isn't it that the workers (carpenters) use sieve to separate the coarse and the fine ones?

Same with students. Some say that they have to be promoted even without them learning the basic skills. Is this fair with the student? They reach high school without even the basic comprehension skills? Some teachers would argue that they pity the parents or they are afraid that they will be reprimanded by their superiors if they fail pupils/students.

Don't they pity a child who reach further degree without being equipped of the skills they need? Is the quantity of pupils who were given passing grades the measure of the effectivity of the teacher? Think about these...

On Responsibilities

One of my favorite lines in the movie "Spiderman" is "The greater your gifts... The greater are your responsibilities."

If you have noticed, I was not able to post a blog yesterday. I went to the Division Office to join the Conference with the Leyte Division English Supervisor and five other chosen teachers. I am the youngest in the group. The Conference had three agenda:

a. plan for the Division Schools Press Conference

b. organize writers for the Division Publication

c. strategize funds for DSSPAA

Some teachers envy my situation because from time to time, I am called to do some tasks as requested by the Division Supervisors.

First, I did not volunteer.

Second, they have to know that every call connotes responsibilities.

Maybe they just think about the perks that are coupled with it. Crabs are in the sea. We are humans and we must not act like crabs. God has been so good that He has blessed me with some skills and talents which I know I have to share.

Most people would like to shine but they are afraid of the dark and much more that they are afraid of responsibilities. "It is in the dark that the star shines."

I also believe what Saint Jose Maria Scriva said that if you wish to go to heaven you have to do simple tasks extra ordinarily well.

Only the perks are what most people see but they should know that behind these perks are the responsibilities that have to be accomplished.

Office Politics

In an organization, you cannot help it, there are really people who would say something no matter how good you are to them. In my case, I have learned to accept that fact. When I was at the dawn of my teaching career, I was easily affected with what others say. Immediately, my response to the situation would be a pail of tears.

A present, I have passed the stage of being a "cry baby." No matter what others say, I take their words as criticisms. I try to reflect what they say and if they are only merely expressing an unfounded opinion I don't actually mind them. They are the "dogs" of my life. (Remember the previous analogy shared by Dr. Colasito?) Or if the situation calls for it, I would ask the person concerned to have a dialog with me so we can clarify he issues...

Life does not have to be that complicated and bearing heartaches would not make us appear more beautiful... So why keep grudges, when we can store happy memories in our hearts?

Lucky Day?

My schedule this morning was to let the 2nd year students watch the movie "Anna and the King". With II-Patience, all the one hour alloted time was consumed in buying a new pair of battery for the remote but ended up not working still. Thus, with II-Harmony, I ended up having the students watch "The One."

Later part of the day, a coteacher told me taht we have two students who really have a "big problem" (Sorry, can't tell the details here). My opinion was sought as to what we were supposed to do.

Then, at four o' clock in th afternoon, my father sent a text message that salary is already available. I informed some of my coteachers. I had a meeting with the staff so I asked Tita Lor to wait for me so we will go together to Tabango National High School. I know my father will hand me my check but I just want to go to TNHS so I can sign the payroll. When Tita Lor and I arrived at TNHS, Papa told us that Ma'am Em2x just left.

What a day!

Lesson I have learned today? You may start having a bad situation but how you deal with it makes a difference... There are still lessons to learn and opportunities to to be uncovered even in a worst situation.

In the evening, I have had four males visitors - Fr. Bedel, Jun2x and company. After more than 9 years, that was the only time Fr. Bedel was able to visit our house again. He was able to drop by our house when he was still a seminarian. I was a fourth year high school then... He was the one who gave my number to Jun2x. I'm not fond of having textmates actually. Because he was the one who gave my number, I gave in (to be a textmate). I know, he would not push me to friends who would lead me to darkness. What is wrong with having friends, right?

On Friendship

My topic with the 4th year high school students is on "hallmarks of friendship." Students seem to be interested of the topic. Precisely because many of them can relate. Everybody in each class has a friend. The poorest person I believe is the one who does not have any friend at all.

For my 26 years of stay in this world, I can say that generally there are three kinds of friends:
a. true friends
They are persons who are willing to accept you for what you are. They know your strengths and weaknesses but still they remain faithful to you.

b. close friends
They are persons whom you are comfortable talking or spending time with. You agree on a lot of topics. You feel comfortable with each other's company.

c. fair weather friends
They are persons who are there when you have somthing to give them. When you shine, they are there but when time comes that your star run out of light, they also fade away.

"Friends are flowers in the garden of life." We seek true friends but we cannot avoid that there are fair weather friends. Just like a garden, its beauty depends on the variety of flowers that you see in it. To make our garden of life, wider and better, we need friends.

As for me, I do not need a vast garden. I am not after of quantity but of quality of friends. What is the use of having many when they are only flowers that bloom for a single minute and fade away during the time that you need them most?

Wrong Conclusions

One of my coteachers who is very dear to me told me that she really was irritated last night because she was said to be the source of gossip. I was stunned because I know this person very well. How could she be a source of gossip? She narrated how it happened.

How did it happen? It was a wrong conclusion of a particular person who was actually the source of gossip. This person tried to use her name to cover up what she is doing.

I know how this coteacher feels because I too had undergone the same plight. Mine was even worse than what she had experienced. Why? It is because one person falsely warned our school head to be extra careful with me and my mother. This person accused my mother and I to be backbiters.

You ask the teachers who are very close to me, they can attest what I say about our school head.

What I always say is I admire how Ma'am Chona treats the "other persons" staying in their house. What more? I always tell them that Ma'am is not boastful and that in their house, she really is very simple.

Tell me, what is wrong with what I said? These are statements of facts.

Anyway, there are really people who just would like to act like crabs. They just cannot be happy with other people's success. Worse, they try to cover up their own wrong doings by making other people appear as bad as they are.

I remember the words of my favorite teacher in college - Dr. Franklin Colasito said "On your way to the market, May, dogs barked you. What will you do? Will you proceed in going to the market or are you going to go back to your house?" This analogy lingers in my mind whenever I meet unpleasant situations.

I clearly remember that I said "I will continue going to the market Sir."

Then he said, "That's right. Just look for ways so that these dogs will go away from you. You need to have a clear direction as to where you are going. It is not that when trials come your way, you become chicken-hearted. On your way up, people will try to pull you down. Do not mind them. If you know that what you are doing is right, then, don't panick. Do not be affected with narrow-minded people."

Value of Love

My students were asigned last Friday to have a radio broadcasting (2nd year) and speech delivery (4th year).

Regarding the radio broadcasting activity, I was pleased with II-Harmony presentations but with II-Patience, I was quite dismayed. It is totally difficult to reach out to students who do not know how to help themselves. Most of them in II-Patience do not know the value of education. Most of them are like nails, without a carpenter they are useless.

It is totally difficult to love the unlovable...

With the fourth year, IV-Faith is showing progress. Of course, IV-Humility presentations were still superb. There were three topics I told them to choose: Value of love, value of friendship, and value of peace. Guess what? Majority chose value of love.

As expected, teenagers are really fond of the topic "love". Back when I was in high school, I also would write about love most of the time. In Fact, I have written several novelletes and poems about love.

With what these high school students show, I could recall some happy memories I have had in high school. Given the chance to relive my life, I will still happily tread on the path I've walked on. If there is something I need to change, there is only one that I will change: treating my ultimate crush fairly. I should say, I have been totally unfair to him. I've ignored him even when he tried to reach out to me. It was all my defense mechanism for him not to notice my affection towards him. Perhaps, if I had been friendly to him, there might have been a chance that the lovestory I only have imagined will be turned into reality.

If given the chance to relive my life... This is expressed in the subjunctive mood because I know time could never be turned back. Still, most of my high school memories are pleasant. Without changes, my life is near to perfection. God has been so kind to me. I hope He will always be till the end of my life. I know, God's love to me is immeasurable. Despite of my imperfections, He has never left me...

Leadership

My sister Marianne, a first year college student, told me through text that she has a problem with her groupmates who do not fully cooperate with her. She was assigned as the leader in their group. (Usually, her classmates would vote her as the leader.)

I told her that next time she has to learn how to say no. Being a leader means a lot but if it affects her then she has to learn how to say no. Besides, she is the leader in most of the activities so to say no in one assignment is very much valid.

I further told her that she must not carry the world upon her shoulders. All the others may be acting as crosses because they want the position which she is handling only that they were not nominated. Filipino crab mentality, right?

Special Saturday

Early this morning, I went to Ate Jojilyn's apartment to give her a copy of my exams and to hand my gift to Diane. It's Diane's 5th birthday today. What I like about this child is that she is really very perceptive. She also has a zeal for education.

As soon as I gave her my present, she opened it. When she saw what it was, she was very thankful. That is another attitude that I really appreciate. I gave her color pencils. She immediately used those.

At 9a.m., Ate Jojilyn, Richard and two MLB workers conducted a test on grammar to 25 persons (4th year students and out of school youth).

I had two tutorial classes. I cancelled the other schedule 'cause I really needed time to rest. i have overworked the past few weeks. I still adhere to the saying that "health is wealth." A Filipino adage also says "Aanhin pa ang damo kung patay na ang kabayo?" I had a whole body massage. It's my way of pampering myself. That's why I say, it's a special Saturday because I gave time for myself to have a long time for rest...

Unbearable Truth (September 19,2008)

"My husband died when he was on duty yesterday. He met an accident while doing his job... A van lost its brake. My husband did not have any warning that he would be hit by that van... He died yesterday May. "

Any idea who said this? It's ate Charisse, wife of Kuya William. She is my cousin who is blessed with beauty and intelligence.

Just a short background as to who his husband is, well, Kuya William is close to our family. He is a seaman. He works in a cargo ship.

I and my ex-boyfriend were the commentators during their wedding here in Holy Child Parish Church (Tabango, Leyte). Actually, it was a double wedding. Kuya William and Ryan are brothers. They were married on the same day and at the same time. Filipinos have a belief which we call "sukob" but they do not adhere to this.

What happened may actually be only a coincidence.

Taking from the words of Ate Charisse herself "It is a reality May that people will die but what I really find it difficult to accept is that he was taken away from me very soon. We have barely spent two years as a husband and wife. Your kuya is only 32 years old. He will be 33 this October 8."

I really could not fathom how painful is this for Ate Charisse. When I visited her late this afternoon, she was carrying her baby named Angel. Angel does not have any idea at all as to why the people around her are mourning.

I wish I could ease Ate Charisse' pain but how? I know, it is really totally difficult for her.

God must have reasons why this has happened to Ate Charisse. I just hope that even in this situation Ate Charisse can still see God's hand being extended to her...

Students with problems

There are many students with problems. I prefer to call them that way because I don't believe the phrase "problem students". In one way or another, students who show peculiar attitudes have problems. the peculiarity of their behavior depends on the kind of mask they put on their face so as to forget the problem/s even for a while.

Many times, I told my students that I really adhere to the quotation "Life is what we make it." Our life is defined by every single choice we make each day.

Today, one of the class advisers revealed to me that she has an advisory student who is rumored to be pregnant. Oh! I was really surprised but I suggested that she should clarify the issue. Rumors most of the time are only hearsays. Thus, she called the grandmother and the student. There at the computer room, the student unveiled that she had two months delay of menstruation already. She further confessed that she and a male student made love twice. It was like a roaring thunder to my ears. Why? Because both (male and female) are still very young. The student told us - teachers that she took a medicine to have the fetus aborted. I blantly told her, committing another sin to cover up a sin triples the degree of "sin" she had committed. She cried while saying that she did it because of fear and of shame. This female student is still very young to have such an experience but as I already said she made the choice, right?

This reminds me again of another quotation "A moment of pleasure for a lifetime of pain."

History Repeats Itself

"History repeats itself."

A coteacher told me at past 5p.m. that he now feels how his parents have felt before when he would sneak out of the house just to attend a disco. He said it is not an "easy feeling". It is now that he understood why his parents wanted him to just stay at home. It was more for his own advantage. He further told me, he now can attest that history really repeats. This time, it is not him who sneaks out but his son.

I was like a counselor today. I've talked to students and also to their parents. I'm not actually against students having "special friends" but I told them not to be crossing boundaries. As young as they are, their focus should be their studies. Lovelife can be set aside. It must not be their priority. Puppy love will fade. I have experienced that. I also liked a classmate before. I even thought of it as love but as time passed by it faded away. Well, I did not engage in any special relationship when I was in high school and college. It was more of my choice because I was determined to finish my studies with flying colors.

I just hope, in case I will have a family of my own, my children (if ever I will have) will tread on the path I've taken. It might not be all the bricks on the path I've walked on, but most of it will do...

The Winner

Remember I mentioned about Chamber Theater Competition and Declamation Contest practice during the past few weeks?

Today was the schedule for the Area III (Calubian, Leyte, San Isidro, Tabango, & Villaba)Literary-Musical Competition at Leyte Agro-Industrial School, Leyte, Leyte. The participants and I together with Mrs. Laurente, Mrs. Peñaranda, and Mr. Ancajas left school at 6a.m. We arrived at LAIS around 8a.m.

Guess what? Our school entry for Chamber theater was declared as a champion.

Regarding the Declamation, I still consider the student I have trained as a winner. Why? Because I know the distinction between declamation and dramatic monologue. The one declared as a winner presented the latter.

I know, I cannot just have it all. Anyway, I am contented being the winning coach for the Chamber Theater. Also, I did not give much focus on the declamation. Most of the time during the practice, I have devoted it to Chamber Theater Presentation.

I still wish that during the Division Literary-Musical Contest, MRVNHS will bring home the bacon for Chamber Theater.

Pampering Oneself

Have you ever thought of pampering yourself?

I am not saying that you will have to do it every day. Once in a while will do. After all, most of the times you over work yourself. Just like me... Most of the times, you see me working. My coteachers even wonder where I get my energy since aside from teaching I have tutorial classes and online writing job.

Do you know that I also know how to pamper myself? I give rewards to myself when I have achievements. If no one else gives me reward, then who else will do it if not me (just kidding)?

Today, I had a home service for my hair to be cellophaned. "The hair is the crowning glory of a woman", they say. Thus, I really need to take care of it or have somebody work on it so it will become more beautiful...

My Sisters

I am the eldest daughter. I've got two sisters - Geraldine (23 years old) and Marianne (16 years old).

The first picture shows Geradine (Gigi). On the other side is the picture of Marianne (Mayenne).

Both of them are really sweet and kind. They have strong determination in terms of reaching their goals. Geraldine studied at UP Tacloban. She finished Bachelor of Science in Accountancy (BSA). Marianne is still a first year college student at St. Paul's Business School in Palo. She is also taking up BSA.

You might say, I am the only one different 'cause I've finished Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education Major in English (BSED).

Don't you know that my favorite subject is Math? Ironic, right? Yes, but I also love English. Well, at LNU, you really have to choose only one major subject. I like Mathematics but because my hobby is writing essays, novelletes, etc. I took up English as my major subject.

People say that Marianne and I have a semblance in terms of physical appearance. In fact, she is said to be "little Inday May". We differ in color though 'cause I've got a white complexion while she is "morena".

Marianne is into sports (chess) and dancing.

Geraldine loves reading. Ask her Harry Potter from Book 1 until the latest sequel she knows that...

I am proud to have them both as my sisters not because they are achievers but because they inspire me to do good and they also make me feel that I am really their big sister.

In God's Time

Many of us dream to be successful in any aspects of our lives. It took me several experiences before I realize that what I ask for is actually given by God.

Of course, I know that God answers in three ways:

1. Yes and gives you what you want

2. No but gives you something else

3. Wait and He gives you the best

Hypocrisy aside, there were times that I felt downhearted because what I ask for was not granted. Well, several experiences proved that God actually has given me answers. It took me several days or even months to realize this.

I do not know if you will agree with me but I believe most of us are impulsive. We want to get what we ask for immediately. I'm used to that also. Since I was young, I was very prayerful and that what I ask for then, were really given. As I grew older, God gives answers still but this time, it is more of "No" and "Wait". Many are blesings in disguise. As time passes by, I see God's answers not in the way I wanted them to be but they are much better than I could ever imagine.

Reminiscing the Past

The pictures shown were taken last September 6, 2008 at "Bayabayon ni Agalon", Albuera, Leyte.

With me in the 1st picture (from Left to Right) are Ate Merl and tita Lor. Both of them are my coteachers and also close friends. This was taken before we bathed at the pool.

Obviously, in this picture we were happy swimming at the beach. This time, aside from the two coteachers mentioned, Renalyn (3rd from the left) was with us.

In the 3rd picture, we were at the pool. Ate Danah (behind Tita Lor)was with Kyle, her son. Tita Vilma was with Honey, her daughter.

The 4th picture shows most of the MRVNHS Faculty and Staff. My mom is not in the picture 'cause the time this was taken, she was still in the bathroom with my sister Marianne. (Not in the picture are Ma'am Rosa, Ma'am Rosing, Ate Mimi and Tita Teofing. Ma'am Rosa, Ma'am Rosing and Ate Mimi did not go with us. Tita Teofing went home ahead of us.)

Unwinding is a good practice. As the saying goes, "all work without play makes Johny a dull boy." To get rid of stress, teachers need to have relaxation. Spending time in a place like this, gives room for fun, relaxation, and self-introspection.