that's how i feel as i look at my planner for tomorrow until before i leave on the 26th...
tonight, we will have our bibles study at greens...
tomorrow, dec 17, dinner at chalet, one of david's fave rest along jumeirah...
thursday night, dec 18, 180 christmas party back-to-back with CnC shoebox stuffing night at kitty's...
friday, dec 19, morning at church, then labor camp distribution of shoebox, and then desert camping until sat morning!
saturday night, dec 20, room inspection of our boys and ladies' accommodation for the 'best room' awards!
sunday night, dec 21, bibles study with CnC, back-to-back with adventureland's annual staff party!
monday night, dec 22, special date night...
tuesday night, dec 23, christmas get-together with church mates...
wednesday night, dec 24, evening worship service...
thursday afternoon, dec 25, bonfire at jebel ali beach and send off david to the airport...
friday morning, dec 26, off to airport... YAHOO!!!
12.16.2008
Gift Wrapping
if you are like me, then as of now, you must have done your christmas shopping, or at least you already have a list of presents to buy...i do not like to rush, and i do not like to fall prey to last-minute shopping, so as early as first week of december, i am already on the lookout for potential gifts ;)
i've always loved the gift-hunting process. it makes me think about my friends more than usual. i try to know what the person wants or needs thru house visits, casual conversation or direct questioning! oh yeah, i do that, right mano?
gift giving is so tricky. we always say, "it's the thought that counts", but does it? there are times when we receive gifts, and we'd think that he/she shouldn't have. literally. and many times, when we give, we assess it based on how the person will react. not everyone will appreciate gifts. others are openly blunt about their thoughts (balloons thoughts would be more preferred at these times...). but there are others who are realy good recipients-- they have the ability of making you feel right about your choice of gift. many times, you need that assurance as a giver.
i believe, whatever gift we receive, the mere fact that we received one, we should be thankful. the mere fact that the other person picked it up, wrapped it up and gave it to me meant that i was thought of, even if it is the same gift as the rest.
same goes that whatever gift we give, as long as we do not expect anything in return, and it is from the bottom of the heart, it will be well received.
do you recycle gifts? tricky topic eh? sometimes i do... but that is after years of not finding use for it.
so, here i am, for one week now, thinking, and wrapping and thinking and wrapping... and enjoying it!!! and it is a challenge how to compromise budget, quality and meaning into that package!
i've always loved the gift-hunting process. it makes me think about my friends more than usual. i try to know what the person wants or needs thru house visits, casual conversation or direct questioning! oh yeah, i do that, right mano?
gift giving is so tricky. we always say, "it's the thought that counts", but does it? there are times when we receive gifts, and we'd think that he/she shouldn't have. literally. and many times, when we give, we assess it based on how the person will react. not everyone will appreciate gifts. others are openly blunt about their thoughts (balloons thoughts would be more preferred at these times...). but there are others who are realy good recipients-- they have the ability of making you feel right about your choice of gift. many times, you need that assurance as a giver.
i believe, whatever gift we receive, the mere fact that we received one, we should be thankful. the mere fact that the other person picked it up, wrapped it up and gave it to me meant that i was thought of, even if it is the same gift as the rest.
same goes that whatever gift we give, as long as we do not expect anything in return, and it is from the bottom of the heart, it will be well received.
do you recycle gifts? tricky topic eh? sometimes i do... but that is after years of not finding use for it.
so, here i am, for one week now, thinking, and wrapping and thinking and wrapping... and enjoying it!!! and it is a challenge how to compromise budget, quality and meaning into that package!
12.11.2008
It's Hazy Again
oh, glad i got a glimpse of the clear skies the past days... because today, it's back to hazy skies!
just like many things... back to normal!
just like many things... back to normal!
12.10.2008
Airports I've Landed On
there are those who look at airports as just airports, just a passageway from one place to another... but i look at airport as a microcosm of community. gone are the days when airports are just "stopovers"... it now has a life of its own, bustling with many people from different countries passing by the airport for different purposes, and some can be really life-changing!
my first international flight was to HK in 1998, so we landed at hongkong international airport. it was so huge for a first timer, and i thought, airports can be sooooo intimidating. your first time will always be memorable ;)
Now, let me trace back all the airports i've been to:
- Changi airport, Singapore
- Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia, going to singapore
- Soekarno-Hatta International Airport, going to Jakarta, Indonesia
- Dubai International Airport which felt like second home-airport to me, following our NAIA
- Carthage International Airport, Tunis, Tunisia
- Doha International Airport, Qatar
- Mohammed V International Airport, Casablanca, Morocco
- Frankfurt Airport, Germany
- Amsterdam Airport Schipol, Netherlands
- Suvarnhabumi International Airport, Bangkok, Thailand
- JFK International Airport, New York, US
- Port Columbus International Airport, Ohio, US
- Detroit Internationa Airport, US
- O'Hare International Airport, Chicago, US
- Orlando International Airport, Florida, US
- Cincinnati/ Northern Kentucky International Airport, US
- MSP International Airport, Minnesota, US
Not all landings have registed in my very capable memory, nor in my handy digicams. But there are some details that are etched in my mind, either because it is so nice, or so infamously terrible!
1. I was unpleasantly suprised at the JFK airport. very chaotic! Line was so loong at immigration, of course, I missed my flight to Cincinnati! And there was a typhoon that evening so all flights were cancelled for the next day! Good thing, I have Malou, Lex and Gabby (churchmates) in NY and they adopted me for that evening and even chauffered me to the airport the next day! ;)
2. I liked the 'econolighting' of the Frankfurt airport. LCD lights were beamed unto steel ceilings so the lights are effectively scattered even with just few lights on. talk about efficiency eh? Yes, I noticed that because I stayed there for 6 hours! what to do yani!
3. I liked the serenity and calmness of Cincinnati and Columbus Aiport. And here is where all the really 'white people' are in! Most of them sport simple running shoes and simple clothes.
4. I like the customer-friendly signs at HK, Dubai at Changi airports. And it's ok for me to have a stopover there for more than 3 hours coz there is just so much to do... and see... and buy! I am also amused by the fashion parade in these places.
5. I do not like the $3 per cart in most US airports... and we hated NAIA when they started charging?
6. I liked the view from the top when landing at Amsterdam Airport-- super picturesque! Plains draped with nicely lined and uniformly colored crops.
7. I liked the view from the top going to MSP because it is the first time i saw a place all covered with snow! ;)
8. Mohammed V really reminds me so much of NAIA! and hey, that was were i had been infamously left by the plane... uh huh! and that was because i do not speak arabic nor french, huhu!
9. Oh, I was so surprised i was intervied by a Filipino passport control officer at... Orlando Airport! Very welcoming!
10. I cannot forget how for all the entries and exits i did in US, i was always "the chosen" one ... SSS... that is, more disriminate screening. hmm, must be my passport?
11. I will not forget too how i kinda lost my composure at Detroit International Airport, when I realized I did not pass thru any immigration and I am already going out of US! I spoke with Immigration Officer asking for stamp, but he said not needed, and I spoke with KLM boarding officer, and I spoke with other people! Hmm, now i realized, when you go out of US, there is no immigration! Just give the white piece of paper to the airline guy when you are boarding the plane! plain and simple. saves manpower.
Did you know that when I was planning my recent trip to US, included in the factor were the stopovers ;) next time, i wanna have a stopover in London, France and Italy... hmmm
Despite all these landings into the differently-charaterized airports, the NAIA airport has its own enigma to me--- of course, that's where my home is! ;)
my first international flight was to HK in 1998, so we landed at hongkong international airport. it was so huge for a first timer, and i thought, airports can be sooooo intimidating. your first time will always be memorable ;)
Now, let me trace back all the airports i've been to:
- Changi airport, Singapore
- Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia, going to singapore
- Soekarno-Hatta International Airport, going to Jakarta, Indonesia
- Dubai International Airport which felt like second home-airport to me, following our NAIA
- Carthage International Airport, Tunis, Tunisia
- Doha International Airport, Qatar
- Mohammed V International Airport, Casablanca, Morocco
- Frankfurt Airport, Germany
- Amsterdam Airport Schipol, Netherlands
- Suvarnhabumi International Airport, Bangkok, Thailand
- JFK International Airport, New York, US
- Port Columbus International Airport, Ohio, US
- Detroit Internationa Airport, US
- O'Hare International Airport, Chicago, US
- Orlando International Airport, Florida, US
- Cincinnati/ Northern Kentucky International Airport, US
- MSP International Airport, Minnesota, US
Not all landings have registed in my very capable memory, nor in my handy digicams. But there are some details that are etched in my mind, either because it is so nice, or so infamously terrible!
1. I was unpleasantly suprised at the JFK airport. very chaotic! Line was so loong at immigration, of course, I missed my flight to Cincinnati! And there was a typhoon that evening so all flights were cancelled for the next day! Good thing, I have Malou, Lex and Gabby (churchmates) in NY and they adopted me for that evening and even chauffered me to the airport the next day! ;)
2. I liked the 'econolighting' of the Frankfurt airport. LCD lights were beamed unto steel ceilings so the lights are effectively scattered even with just few lights on. talk about efficiency eh? Yes, I noticed that because I stayed there for 6 hours! what to do yani!
3. I liked the serenity and calmness of Cincinnati and Columbus Aiport. And here is where all the really 'white people' are in! Most of them sport simple running shoes and simple clothes.
4. I like the customer-friendly signs at HK, Dubai at Changi airports. And it's ok for me to have a stopover there for more than 3 hours coz there is just so much to do... and see... and buy! I am also amused by the fashion parade in these places.
5. I do not like the $3 per cart in most US airports... and we hated NAIA when they started charging?
6. I liked the view from the top when landing at Amsterdam Airport-- super picturesque! Plains draped with nicely lined and uniformly colored crops.
7. I liked the view from the top going to MSP because it is the first time i saw a place all covered with snow! ;)
8. Mohammed V really reminds me so much of NAIA! and hey, that was were i had been infamously left by the plane... uh huh! and that was because i do not speak arabic nor french, huhu!
9. Oh, I was so surprised i was intervied by a Filipino passport control officer at... Orlando Airport! Very welcoming!
10. I cannot forget how for all the entries and exits i did in US, i was always "the chosen" one ... SSS... that is, more disriminate screening. hmm, must be my passport?
11. I will not forget too how i kinda lost my composure at Detroit International Airport, when I realized I did not pass thru any immigration and I am already going out of US! I spoke with Immigration Officer asking for stamp, but he said not needed, and I spoke with KLM boarding officer, and I spoke with other people! Hmm, now i realized, when you go out of US, there is no immigration! Just give the white piece of paper to the airline guy when you are boarding the plane! plain and simple. saves manpower.
Did you know that when I was planning my recent trip to US, included in the factor were the stopovers ;) next time, i wanna have a stopover in London, France and Italy... hmmm
Despite all these landings into the differently-charaterized airports, the NAIA airport has its own enigma to me--- of course, that's where my home is! ;)
The Day I got my US Visa
for the longest time, i have always had it in my mind that i would like to go to US- the land flowing with milk & honey, the land where the pasture is greener....
when i started working in dubai, people have always prodded me to get my US visa from dubai because it is easier. but year after year, i've always found a reason to delay doing it... either it coincides with my trip to philippines, or my time in dubai does not permit, or many other reason i create to dilly-dally the process.
until this march 2008, with resolve, i told myself, "it's now or never". so i went online and started to go thru the tedious process of compiling documents to fill up the appointment form. my main reason then was for the convention that i will be attending on november. so i got a june appointment because i was thinking that july-sept, i would be in and out of morocco for our project. i got a june 29 appointment.
by first week of june, i was already nervous. what if i do not get it? what if they ask a lot of questions which i do not know how to answer? what if? what if???? david calmed me by saying "it is in God's hand. just be honest and give it your best shot." i felt comforted.
the day came that i had to line up as early as 6am outside the US consulate building in dubai. i lifted it all up to Him. many of the decisions does not come with a hard and fast rule anyways. so after all the security checks and document checks, i had come face-to-face with the consul. well, what i remember is that he is not as terrifying as how others perceive them to be. just poker-faced. part of the job i guess.
he just asked me the following questions after looking at my bank statements:
- what are you going to do in US
- how long have you been staying in the UAE?
- how long have you been staying in your company?
- what is your position and how much is your salary?
- have you been to another western/european country before?
that was it! and i got a piece of paper that says i got a visa! no need to look into our company profile, my list of suppliers to meet up with, and other documents i prepared "just in case"... at that point, i do not know yet what kind of visa, is it one time visa, 5-yr or 10 yr? but it doesn't matter, the important thing was, i got a visa! praise God!
and the best part was, when i got my passport4 days after, it was 10 year multiple entry, B1/B2!
so when did i first use it? august 15, when i visited david and his family in kentucky while he was there vacationing too! isn't it nice how God makes all these things to fall into the right place? amazing!
and yes, last november 14, i went to the convention which was my primary purpose of getting the visa....
you will never really know if you will get one or not. Mano got a mulitple entry even when she said that her husband is there working. one friend did not get it even if all the directions point to a her getting one...
so do not burden yourself with so much thinking with things that are out of your control. the only thing is... God knows ;)
when i started working in dubai, people have always prodded me to get my US visa from dubai because it is easier. but year after year, i've always found a reason to delay doing it... either it coincides with my trip to philippines, or my time in dubai does not permit, or many other reason i create to dilly-dally the process.
until this march 2008, with resolve, i told myself, "it's now or never". so i went online and started to go thru the tedious process of compiling documents to fill up the appointment form. my main reason then was for the convention that i will be attending on november. so i got a june appointment because i was thinking that july-sept, i would be in and out of morocco for our project. i got a june 29 appointment.
by first week of june, i was already nervous. what if i do not get it? what if they ask a lot of questions which i do not know how to answer? what if? what if???? david calmed me by saying "it is in God's hand. just be honest and give it your best shot." i felt comforted.
the day came that i had to line up as early as 6am outside the US consulate building in dubai. i lifted it all up to Him. many of the decisions does not come with a hard and fast rule anyways. so after all the security checks and document checks, i had come face-to-face with the consul. well, what i remember is that he is not as terrifying as how others perceive them to be. just poker-faced. part of the job i guess.
he just asked me the following questions after looking at my bank statements:
- what are you going to do in US
- how long have you been staying in the UAE?
- how long have you been staying in your company?
- what is your position and how much is your salary?
- have you been to another western/european country before?
that was it! and i got a piece of paper that says i got a visa! no need to look into our company profile, my list of suppliers to meet up with, and other documents i prepared "just in case"... at that point, i do not know yet what kind of visa, is it one time visa, 5-yr or 10 yr? but it doesn't matter, the important thing was, i got a visa! praise God!
and the best part was, when i got my passport4 days after, it was 10 year multiple entry, B1/B2!
so when did i first use it? august 15, when i visited david and his family in kentucky while he was there vacationing too! isn't it nice how God makes all these things to fall into the right place? amazing!
and yes, last november 14, i went to the convention which was my primary purpose of getting the visa....
you will never really know if you will get one or not. Mano got a mulitple entry even when she said that her husband is there working. one friend did not get it even if all the directions point to a her getting one...
so do not burden yourself with so much thinking with things that are out of your control. the only thing is... God knows ;)
Wishful Thinking
if i have it my way, here is how i want to spend my week...
i will only have 4 working days for my main career, that is monday to thursday. and then on friday, that is when i will do my fling careers such as being a receptionist, a fastfood attendant, a tour guide, a researcher, or any other that is not inline with my main line of work. this will keep me from boredom, burnt out, and will make me a well-rounded person. this will also give me the opportunity to live up my long-forgotten wishlist of things to do...
and then on saturdays, that will be my off day... meeting up with friends, lazy afternoons, doing charity works, etc.
and then sundays, that would be worship day...
now, i have to find a company that will allow me to work for only 4x a week... otherwise, this will just really be --> wishful thinking ;)
i will only have 4 working days for my main career, that is monday to thursday. and then on friday, that is when i will do my fling careers such as being a receptionist, a fastfood attendant, a tour guide, a researcher, or any other that is not inline with my main line of work. this will keep me from boredom, burnt out, and will make me a well-rounded person. this will also give me the opportunity to live up my long-forgotten wishlist of things to do...
and then on saturdays, that will be my off day... meeting up with friends, lazy afternoons, doing charity works, etc.
and then sundays, that would be worship day...
now, i have to find a company that will allow me to work for only 4x a week... otherwise, this will just really be --> wishful thinking ;)
12.09.2008
The Best Thing
i know he'll be embarrased... he is a very private person... but just once, i want the whole world to know who he is to me... ;)
he is the best thing that happend to me last 2007. for many years, i have been praying for someone i would like to share my thoughts with, my moments with, my passion with... and when i was not looking for it, bam! he fell into this niche in my world! thank you Lord for this wonderful gift!
david is first a crush, then a friend and now, the love of my life ;) at first i was hesitant to claim
something so serious as this, but after months, i know deep in my heart that he is someone so special to me.
he caught my eye the first time he attended the church. he was speaking at the podium, when mano nudged me and whispered "what if he is God's will for you?" i laughed silently... him? no way! he's way too up there.
then, we had our initial encounter in a youth activity. he was better looking up close... but the thing that most endeared me was his gentlemanly ways with everybody. i loved his voice, his calm persona and who can resist that cute smile?
i evaded activities wherein he would be there. why? firstly, i get tongue-tied, that's so not me! secondly, i do not like to have wrong motives, and i know God sees my heart. and thirdly, i do not like to take charge anymore of this aspect of my life. i've messed up a lot already when i manipulated things, and so i lift it up to Him fully! if it is His will, He will open the way...
and in His mysterious and lovely scheme of things, our paths crossed again. and this time, it was sweet, in His own time and mutual.
and so months after, here we are, enjoying each other's company, getting to know each other better and looking forward to more memories in the future...
months after, i am amazed that he is still the same sweet and loving guy that i met. he is still the same responsible, humble, Christ-centered servant... and he is still the same witty and funny guy that knows how to make me laugh!
i love the way he opens the car door for me. i love the way he says things so gently and kindly. i
love the way he listens and remembers things. i love the loving way he says his disagreements to my ideas. i love the way he 
really tries to learn tagalog. i love his very simple ways. i love his forgiving heart. i love it when he tickles me out of the blue. i love the way he holds my hand. i love the flowers he gives me. i love his spontaneous spirit.... i love how he loves me. i love how he loves his family. i love how he loves his youth group. i love it when we are in deep spiritual discussions. i love how he prays passionately.... and i loved the way he made me see tennis in a different light, haha!.... oh, these are just some of
the things i love about him... i always think i do not deserve him, so i'm just so grateful to God for every moment we are given to share together.
and i do not know what lies in the future. but one thing i know... if it is His will that it will be with david, i am sure that His blessing and love beckons... and it is just so wonderful to love someone you are in love with, and know that Christ is in the center of it all! priceless!
he is the best thing that happend to me last 2007. for many years, i have been praying for someone i would like to share my thoughts with, my moments with, my passion with... and when i was not looking for it, bam! he fell into this niche in my world! thank you Lord for this wonderful gift!
david is first a crush, then a friend and now, the love of my life ;) at first i was hesitant to claim
something so serious as this, but after months, i know deep in my heart that he is someone so special to me.he caught my eye the first time he attended the church. he was speaking at the podium, when mano nudged me and whispered "what if he is God's will for you?" i laughed silently... him? no way! he's way too up there.
then, we had our initial encounter in a youth activity. he was better looking up close... but the thing that most endeared me was his gentlemanly ways with everybody. i loved his voice, his calm persona and who can resist that cute smile?
i evaded activities wherein he would be there. why? firstly, i get tongue-tied, that's so not me! secondly, i do not like to have wrong motives, and i know God sees my heart. and thirdly, i do not like to take charge anymore of this aspect of my life. i've messed up a lot already when i manipulated things, and so i lift it up to Him fully! if it is His will, He will open the way...
and in His mysterious and lovely scheme of things, our paths crossed again. and this time, it was sweet, in His own time and mutual.and so months after, here we are, enjoying each other's company, getting to know each other better and looking forward to more memories in the future...
months after, i am amazed that he is still the same sweet and loving guy that i met. he is still the same responsible, humble, Christ-centered servant... and he is still the same witty and funny guy that knows how to make me laugh!
i love the way he opens the car door for me. i love the way he says things so gently and kindly. i
love the way he listens and remembers things. i love the loving way he says his disagreements to my ideas. i love the way he 
really tries to learn tagalog. i love his very simple ways. i love his forgiving heart. i love it when he tickles me out of the blue. i love the way he holds my hand. i love the flowers he gives me. i love his spontaneous spirit.... i love how he loves me. i love how he loves his family. i love how he loves his youth group. i love it when we are in deep spiritual discussions. i love how he prays passionately.... and i loved the way he made me see tennis in a different light, haha!.... oh, these are just some of
the things i love about him... i always think i do not deserve him, so i'm just so grateful to God for every moment we are given to share together.and i do not know what lies in the future. but one thing i know... if it is His will that it will be with david, i am sure that His blessing and love beckons... and it is just so wonderful to love someone you are in love with, and know that Christ is in the center of it all! priceless!
Christmas is around the corner...
we had a dubai-style thanksgiving last nov 23-24... it kicked-off the christmas season i guess...
then we had shoebox ministry to the labor camps last friday afternoon, and friday night, we were serenaced by the EBCI angels via the Christmas Cantata. it was so nice, and i almost got teary-eyed when they started to sing the familiar tunes that excites my heart...
and today, although it is the eid of the muslim, it felt like christmas too... with people so happy and enjoying family times... holiday for one week!
next few weeks, i will be seeing more of the holiday get-togethers with friends and brethren... we may be more low key this time, considering the global economic slowdown... however it is, i know that we will find ways to celebrate the season... why? because for me, Christmas is not just a season-- it is a special time of remembering our Saviour, whom God gave so freely for the redemption of our souls...
i just love it when christmas is just around the corner.... ;) thank you Lord!
then we had shoebox ministry to the labor camps last friday afternoon, and friday night, we were serenaced by the EBCI angels via the Christmas Cantata. it was so nice, and i almost got teary-eyed when they started to sing the familiar tunes that excites my heart...
then a couple from our church had this pre-christmas gathering at their lovely home in marina...
and then, yesterday, i had been gift wrapping for friends and officemates...
and today, although it is the eid of the muslim, it felt like christmas too... with people so happy and enjoying family times... holiday for one week!
next few weeks, i will be seeing more of the holiday get-togethers with friends and brethren... we may be more low key this time, considering the global economic slowdown... however it is, i know that we will find ways to celebrate the season... why? because for me, Christmas is not just a season-- it is a special time of remembering our Saviour, whom God gave so freely for the redemption of our souls...
i just love it when christmas is just around the corner.... ;) thank you Lord!
It Had to Rain
it has been raining in dubai and sharjah the past days... many would really loathe the idea. what with flooding, and traffic everywhere! the thunder and lighting were not as exciting too.. it actually made me nervous as i was not used to it anymore..
but then, it had to rain...
after the rain... for the first time, i can see Burj dubai (the tallest tower in dubai) from a road in sharjah! for the first time, i am seeing the dubai skyline! for the first time, i am seeing lots of very nice cottony clouds. for the first time, i am seeing blue skies!!!! for the first time, it does not feel so heavy outside...
yes, it had to rain... for us to see the beauty of many things that is covred by the grey thick clouds...
it may not be fun when it rains... but now, it's ok... it had to rain...
but then, it had to rain...
after the rain... for the first time, i can see Burj dubai (the tallest tower in dubai) from a road in sharjah! for the first time, i am seeing the dubai skyline! for the first time, i am seeing lots of very nice cottony clouds. for the first time, i am seeing blue skies!!!! for the first time, it does not feel so heavy outside...
yes, it had to rain... for us to see the beauty of many things that is covred by the grey thick clouds...
it may not be fun when it rains... but now, it's ok... it had to rain...
10.28.2008
Good, Better, Best
it's good to be in love... oh the excitement, the tingling sensation on the spines..
it's better to love...oh the depth of commitment
it's best to be in love with someone you love... oh the mix of both gifts from above!
usually it does not coincide and that spells D-I-S-A-S-T-E-R!
it's better to love...oh the depth of commitment
it's best to be in love with someone you love... oh the mix of both gifts from above!
usually it does not coincide and that spells D-I-S-A-S-T-E-R!
10.27.2008
Just in Time (JIT)
isn't it amazing how our gracious and loving Father rescues us just in time? i've had a gruelling two weeks at work, and when i was about to give up, He sent the answer on the way... giving me enough ray of hope to enable me to stand up and continue with the race ;)
1 Cor 10:12-14
12So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don't fall! 13No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it.
1 Cor 10:12-14
12So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don't fall! 13No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it.
10.22.2008
Work Woes
it's 2 am, and i'm still at work. printing documents for my boss' meeting with the board of directors. i've been going to work from 10am to 12 midnight the past two weeks. and right now, my eyes are already giving up. until when will this last?
yesterday, i spoke with our hrd, who told me that there has been some changes on my airfare benefit. it has been reduced. i felt shortchanged. but i prayed and asked God for the right attitude. i spoke with my boss and he said the very thing that will normaly drive me out of my wits. but i kept my cool.... until when?
awile ago, while trying to finish some report, one of my managers told me his complaint about the other manager. and narrated to me the other instances which ended up in venting his side to me. sometimes i am ok with it, but when they are being so childish, it's not funny anymore... when will they stop?
last week we were doing the budget and i am looking at the provisions for us managers. i am pushing for more benefits, to no avail. but what is irritating is that you know that the company is making money... so why not give?
two weeks ago i disapproved a proposal because we do not have a budget for it anymore. and in this rare instance, my boss superceded my decision and worked a way to be able to support this activity. it stabbed me, and yet, i just sighed and said, "he's the boss!"
oh well, i just realized i've been ranting... just one of those moments when i do not enjoy my work. but i am sure in a few days, things will turn around and i will find my enjoyment back to my work.
i am just so glad that i have Him who hears my prayers, and i have him who has been there thru it all.... and this makes all the difference...
yesterday, i spoke with our hrd, who told me that there has been some changes on my airfare benefit. it has been reduced. i felt shortchanged. but i prayed and asked God for the right attitude. i spoke with my boss and he said the very thing that will normaly drive me out of my wits. but i kept my cool.... until when?
awile ago, while trying to finish some report, one of my managers told me his complaint about the other manager. and narrated to me the other instances which ended up in venting his side to me. sometimes i am ok with it, but when they are being so childish, it's not funny anymore... when will they stop?
last week we were doing the budget and i am looking at the provisions for us managers. i am pushing for more benefits, to no avail. but what is irritating is that you know that the company is making money... so why not give?
two weeks ago i disapproved a proposal because we do not have a budget for it anymore. and in this rare instance, my boss superceded my decision and worked a way to be able to support this activity. it stabbed me, and yet, i just sighed and said, "he's the boss!"
oh well, i just realized i've been ranting... just one of those moments when i do not enjoy my work. but i am sure in a few days, things will turn around and i will find my enjoyment back to my work.
i am just so glad that i have Him who hears my prayers, and i have him who has been there thru it all.... and this makes all the difference...
9.17.2008
Who will Insure my Insurance?????
hmmm, i looked at my bank fund notes, and it is insured by AIG. i looked at my life plan and pension plan, and both are insured by AIG... "It is better to take refuge in the LORD than to trust in man. It is better to take refuge in the LORD than to trust in princes." Ps 118:8-9
************************************
Sept. 16 (Bloomberg) -- A collapse of American International Group Inc., the insurer seeking to raise as much as $75 billion, would have consequences for financial firms around the globe, analysts and investors said. Wall Street's top firms, and the biggest companies in Europe and Asia, have bought protection on $441 billion of fixed-income assets from AIG to guard their investments against potential bankruptcies. A failure by New York-based AIG may result in $180 billion of losses to financial institutions, RBC Capital Markets analyst Hank Calenti said in a report today.
``It is certainly a big number,'' Calenti said in an interview. ``AIG is ubiquitous.''
AIG, with $1 trillion in assets, piled up net losses totaling $18.5 billion in the past three quarters on writedowns tied to the collapse of the U.S. subprime mortgage market. It insures some of the largest assets in the world, doing business in more than 100 countries.
``If AIG goes under, there could be a domino effect,'' said Andrea Cicione, a credit strategist at BNP Paribas SA in London. ``AIG is very connected to the financial system and it is very connected to the real economy.''
AIG is the largest corporate insurer in the U.S. It sells protection against some of the biggest risks, insuring planes and commercial shipping and providing coverage against terrorist attacks.
AIG Global Real Estate's portfolio includes over 53 million square feet of property in more than 50 countries, the company said on its Web site.
Lehman Brothers Holdings Inc.'s London landlord, Songbird Estates Plc, said rent payments on the bank's offices in the Canary Wharf financial district are insured by AIG. The insurer is committed to paying up to four years of rent in the event of a default, Songbird said in a statement today.
AIG is the second-largest property and casualty insurer and the seventh-largest life insurer in the U.S., according to 2007 data compiled by A.M. Best Co. The company insures high-end homes through its Private Client Group and sells auto coverage online through AIG Direct.
More than 40 percent of AIG's revenue comes from property and casualty customers. AIG provides coverage for offshore oil drilling platforms in the Gulf of Mexico, warrantees for televisions in Brazil, and insurance that complies with Islamic law in Bahrain.
AIG's insurance businesses have enough money to pay claims, said David Neustadt, a spokesman for Eric Dinallo, the New York State insurance superintendent.
``AIG's problem is not that it is short of capital, unlike some other institutions,'' Neustadt told reporters today. ``It's a liquidity problem.
``We're ensuring that the new assets that come in will protect policyholders,'' he said. ``That's our job.''
New York Governor David Paterson said Wall Street is ``stunned'' by the AIG's struggles. The executives at U.S. financial firms ``aren't totally aware'' of the scope of the crisis, he said today in a Bloomberg Radio interview.
Goldman Sachs Group Inc. and JPMorgan Chase & Co. are working with AIG to determine how much the insurer needs, said two people familiar with the matter and declined to be identified because negotiations are private.
``AIG poses a systemic risk because it's a large counterparty in the financial system,'' said Prasad Patkar, who helps manage the equivalent of $1.8 billion at Platypus Asset Management in Sydney. ``It's too big to be allowed to fail.''
Without outside help from the U.S. government or investors, AIG will be forced into bankruptcy, said Maurice ``Hank'' Greenberg, its former chairman and chief executive officer. Greenberg, who controls the largest stake in the insurer, saw his holdings decline by $3.1 billion last week.
AIG would be able to sell assets to raise the funds it needs ``given some time,'' Greenberg said on CNBC today. Allowing it to fail would create a ``systemic'' issue, he said.
************************************
Sept. 16 (Bloomberg) -- A collapse of American International Group Inc., the insurer seeking to raise as much as $75 billion, would have consequences for financial firms around the globe, analysts and investors said. Wall Street's top firms, and the biggest companies in Europe and Asia, have bought protection on $441 billion of fixed-income assets from AIG to guard their investments against potential bankruptcies. A failure by New York-based AIG may result in $180 billion of losses to financial institutions, RBC Capital Markets analyst Hank Calenti said in a report today.``It is certainly a big number,'' Calenti said in an interview. ``AIG is ubiquitous.''
AIG, with $1 trillion in assets, piled up net losses totaling $18.5 billion in the past three quarters on writedowns tied to the collapse of the U.S. subprime mortgage market. It insures some of the largest assets in the world, doing business in more than 100 countries.
``If AIG goes under, there could be a domino effect,'' said Andrea Cicione, a credit strategist at BNP Paribas SA in London. ``AIG is very connected to the financial system and it is very connected to the real economy.''
AIG is the largest corporate insurer in the U.S. It sells protection against some of the biggest risks, insuring planes and commercial shipping and providing coverage against terrorist attacks.
AIG Global Real Estate's portfolio includes over 53 million square feet of property in more than 50 countries, the company said on its Web site.
Lehman Brothers Holdings Inc.'s London landlord, Songbird Estates Plc, said rent payments on the bank's offices in the Canary Wharf financial district are insured by AIG. The insurer is committed to paying up to four years of rent in the event of a default, Songbird said in a statement today.
AIG is the second-largest property and casualty insurer and the seventh-largest life insurer in the U.S., according to 2007 data compiled by A.M. Best Co. The company insures high-end homes through its Private Client Group and sells auto coverage online through AIG Direct.
More than 40 percent of AIG's revenue comes from property and casualty customers. AIG provides coverage for offshore oil drilling platforms in the Gulf of Mexico, warrantees for televisions in Brazil, and insurance that complies with Islamic law in Bahrain.
AIG's insurance businesses have enough money to pay claims, said David Neustadt, a spokesman for Eric Dinallo, the New York State insurance superintendent.
``AIG's problem is not that it is short of capital, unlike some other institutions,'' Neustadt told reporters today. ``It's a liquidity problem.
``We're ensuring that the new assets that come in will protect policyholders,'' he said. ``That's our job.''
New York Governor David Paterson said Wall Street is ``stunned'' by the AIG's struggles. The executives at U.S. financial firms ``aren't totally aware'' of the scope of the crisis, he said today in a Bloomberg Radio interview.
Goldman Sachs Group Inc. and JPMorgan Chase & Co. are working with AIG to determine how much the insurer needs, said two people familiar with the matter and declined to be identified because negotiations are private.
``AIG poses a systemic risk because it's a large counterparty in the financial system,'' said Prasad Patkar, who helps manage the equivalent of $1.8 billion at Platypus Asset Management in Sydney. ``It's too big to be allowed to fail.''
Without outside help from the U.S. government or investors, AIG will be forced into bankruptcy, said Maurice ``Hank'' Greenberg, its former chairman and chief executive officer. Greenberg, who controls the largest stake in the insurer, saw his holdings decline by $3.1 billion last week.
AIG would be able to sell assets to raise the funds it needs ``given some time,'' Greenberg said on CNBC today. Allowing it to fail would create a ``systemic'' issue, he said.
9.16.2008
Crazy Rent! Crazy Construction! Crazy Traffic!
that's the three things i dislike about dubai (and sharjah)... let me tell you why...
can you imagine bedspacing for AED 600/ month or $163 or P 7,500???? that is bedspace in a room with six to eight other girls, double deck. or can you imagine renting a modest 2BR flat for AED 10,000/ month or $ 2,700 or P 125,000??? and if this isn't bad enough, yearly they can increase their rent to as high as 100%! landlords can pull off the biggest surprise of your life when they offer you your lease renewal. and since many cannot afford living in a flat of their own, they would do sharing between 2-3 families, each family occupying one room. and when we thought again that that was the end of the misery, there comes the municipality driving people out saying that sharing is not legal, cutting electricity and water services if they do not comply. and man, if you only know the hassle of transferring here and there, it'd really drive you crazy!
as to construction, maybe this is one thing we'd have to embrace as long as dubai is in its teenage state of progress. it used to be nice when the world all over was hailing dubai for its construction wonders and having almost 90% of the world's cranes. but it comes to a point that it is not so cute anymore, especially if week after week, you'd go thru your normal route just to be blocked by a sign that says "constuction. detour ahead". it's like a daily puzzle to me as a driver. i like the adventure, but it is just too much to handle for now.
and yes, as a consequence of the constructions, detouring, more people owning cars and avoiding Salik toll gates--> traffic congestion! i admire the patience of people coming from sharjah going to dubai who brave thru the 1 to 2 hours traffic of what used to be just a 15-min drive! and yes, the patience too of all others living in this place who have to face this toil everyday, sometimes even to the tune of a 48-degrees-centigrade weather! good thing, gas is cheap (AED 6.25/gal or $ 1.70/gal or P 20/liter).
but then again, no amount of complaining nor whining can achieve reversal of all of these. so everyday, i just ask God for enough grace to sustain me the whole day thru ;)
can you imagine bedspacing for AED 600/ month or $163 or P 7,500???? that is bedspace in a room with six to eight other girls, double deck. or can you imagine renting a modest 2BR flat for AED 10,000/ month or $ 2,700 or P 125,000??? and if this isn't bad enough, yearly they can increase their rent to as high as 100%! landlords can pull off the biggest surprise of your life when they offer you your lease renewal. and since many cannot afford living in a flat of their own, they would do sharing between 2-3 families, each family occupying one room. and when we thought again that that was the end of the misery, there comes the municipality driving people out saying that sharing is not legal, cutting electricity and water services if they do not comply. and man, if you only know the hassle of transferring here and there, it'd really drive you crazy!
as to construction, maybe this is one thing we'd have to embrace as long as dubai is in its teenage state of progress. it used to be nice when the world all over was hailing dubai for its construction wonders and having almost 90% of the world's cranes. but it comes to a point that it is not so cute anymore, especially if week after week, you'd go thru your normal route just to be blocked by a sign that says "constuction. detour ahead". it's like a daily puzzle to me as a driver. i like the adventure, but it is just too much to handle for now.
and yes, as a consequence of the constructions, detouring, more people owning cars and avoiding Salik toll gates--> traffic congestion! i admire the patience of people coming from sharjah going to dubai who brave thru the 1 to 2 hours traffic of what used to be just a 15-min drive! and yes, the patience too of all others living in this place who have to face this toil everyday, sometimes even to the tune of a 48-degrees-centigrade weather! good thing, gas is cheap (AED 6.25/gal or $ 1.70/gal or P 20/liter).
but then again, no amount of complaining nor whining can achieve reversal of all of these. so everyday, i just ask God for enough grace to sustain me the whole day thru ;)
9.14.2008
CnC: Christ's Network of Compassion
as the title says, that's how i see CnC in one aspect-- a network of 
Christ's compassion. even if our official meetings usually happens only on sunday evenings at EBs place, i should say that daily, there is a flow of compassion running thru each one's veins...CnC is short for college and careers, a ministry of EBCI. it's just been a couple of months since i have been immersed here (see may march entry "Evenings with CnC guys), yet i can say i have been truly blessed! praise God! the people whom i barely knew months back, now seem like friends for life!
...i have felt how it is to rejoice with them when our prayers are answered... i have seen how we worked together when someone is sick... i have witnessed how we mobilize when someone is in need... i have seen how each
one has given themselves unselfishly when others sought for help... i have experienced many giving their valuable time when people 
looked for company... i have increased in knowledge when some wants to study more His word... suffice it to say that i have experienced a foretaste of heavenly fellowship with them! i believe that God uses them as ministering angels to the brethren... 
whether at bible studies, at prayer times, at casual fellowships, at fun meal times at homes or at the malls, at AWANA and 180 ministries, at hospital beds, at fun birthday celebs, at offices, at big group activities or smaller intimate coffee talks, at carpooling around dubai, or mere phone calls, i have seen them all do their own sweet part in accomplishing Christ's display of love among His people. each one has been given their own unique gifts of generosity, gift of talents, gift of encouragement, gift of time, gift of financial provision, gift of wisdom, gift of big heart, gift of smiley face, gift of godly rebukes, gift of service, and other gifts that abound.
we see each other on fridays, on friday lunches, friday evenings, saturday evenings, sunday evenings, and thursday evenings. sometimes i think, i see them soooo often. will i get tired of them? i think not. as long as we sow love, and seek spiritual growth, we will not get quenched, instead we'll keep seeking for more. plus the fact that almost every month new people joins, and this adds to the dynamics of this 
growing circle! i wish to know more of them and i pray that we continue to seek His presence and blessing in all our gatherings. to Him be the glory!As what John 13:34-35 says
"A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another."
and i leave 1 Cor 15:58 as an encouragment:
"Therefore, my dear brothers, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain."
Crossroads
would you have thought that one of the most prevalent problem here in dubai is----- crossroads??? nah, i'm not talking about two intersecting physical roads, but i am talking about the point in one's life when you are in the middle of different paths in your life, and you do not know what to do, what you want and where to go.
when i had mine some months ago, i cherished every moment of it. maybe it's because i really like adventures or simply because i have no choice. but now i understand why. it is because God would use me to help out friends and brethren who are experiencing it now (and i didn't know there would be a handful of them... they just would not talk until you hit the right button!)
crossroads usually happen when we (1) actively look for other options, or (2) when an option is thrown our way, or (3) when we simply want a way out of our daily routine. routine is something our parents did not have to worry about then. you can see more of them doing the same job for 20-30 years! but our generation is so restless! restless with uncertainties! restless with options! restless with routines! restless with controlling the future! i believe what really is so daunting about this period is that we do not know what lies ahead. we hate not knowing what will happend. we hate not knowing the answer. we just hate it when we thought that we are too smart not to see our plans carried out as we want it. it is at this period when i humble down and confer with Him who is all-knowing ;)
so how do i deal with crossroads? firstly, i check what really is the root of it. is it the unquenchable desire for more, more, more? the answer is stop, stop, stop. or is it the desire to shift lanes and go to a more peaceful path? the answer is pray for acceptance of this seemingly simple road. or is it a desire to try other options beyond what i nornally do. the answer is to pray for courage to face this new path.
identifying this will help me solve how i want to deal with it. along the way, i always talk to our Father, pray over it, sometimes just for a couple days, sometimes, months, it depends. i sometimes even struggle with Him. i also ask prayers and opinions from people i am really close with and who can understand my struggles. do not underestimate the wisdom and encouragement of others. and when i reach to the point when i am at peace with my decision, i just let Him surprise me with His masterplan.
As what Proverbs 2:6-10 says
"For the LORD gives wisdom, and from his mouth come knowledge and understanding. He holds victory in store for the upright, he is a shield to those whose walk is blameless, for he guards the course of the just and protects the way of his faithful ones. Then you will understand what is right and just and fair—every good path. For wisdom will enter your heart, and knowledge will be pleasant to your soul."
when i had mine some months ago, i cherished every moment of it. maybe it's because i really like adventures or simply because i have no choice. but now i understand why. it is because God would use me to help out friends and brethren who are experiencing it now (and i didn't know there would be a handful of them... they just would not talk until you hit the right button!)
crossroads usually happen when we (1) actively look for other options, or (2) when an option is thrown our way, or (3) when we simply want a way out of our daily routine. routine is something our parents did not have to worry about then. you can see more of them doing the same job for 20-30 years! but our generation is so restless! restless with uncertainties! restless with options! restless with routines! restless with controlling the future! i believe what really is so daunting about this period is that we do not know what lies ahead. we hate not knowing what will happend. we hate not knowing the answer. we just hate it when we thought that we are too smart not to see our plans carried out as we want it. it is at this period when i humble down and confer with Him who is all-knowing ;)
so how do i deal with crossroads? firstly, i check what really is the root of it. is it the unquenchable desire for more, more, more? the answer is stop, stop, stop. or is it the desire to shift lanes and go to a more peaceful path? the answer is pray for acceptance of this seemingly simple road. or is it a desire to try other options beyond what i nornally do. the answer is to pray for courage to face this new path.
identifying this will help me solve how i want to deal with it. along the way, i always talk to our Father, pray over it, sometimes just for a couple days, sometimes, months, it depends. i sometimes even struggle with Him. i also ask prayers and opinions from people i am really close with and who can understand my struggles. do not underestimate the wisdom and encouragement of others. and when i reach to the point when i am at peace with my decision, i just let Him surprise me with His masterplan.
As what Proverbs 2:6-10 says
"For the LORD gives wisdom, and from his mouth come knowledge and understanding. He holds victory in store for the upright, he is a shield to those whose walk is blameless, for he guards the course of the just and protects the way of his faithful ones. Then you will understand what is right and just and fair—every good path. For wisdom will enter your heart, and knowledge will be pleasant to your soul."
Sisses
isn't it amazing how God provides for us in so many little miraculous ways? i will tell you a prayer request of mine, which to others might seem a small request, but for me, it is a big deal.
each time i see them, i can't help but be amazed at how He takes care of my needs. truly nothing is impossible with Him. He may not give everything that we want, but i am pretty sure that He will give everything that we need. just keep your eyes open for all of it....
when i stepped into UAE years ago, i've prayed for a sister who'll keep me companied coz i know how difficult it is to be home away from home. i only asked for just even one. and true to His promise, God has wonderfully interwoven the times when my sisses will come in and out of my life...
first
was SHEY who used to be my flatmate. we shared almost 3 years together, and God opened up her eyes to His salvation. and then she got married, and she has to start her own life with jude... and then while shey was slipping away from my life (i mean, just physically), He gave me RIZA, who became my housemate too. she's the younger sis of my friend malou from our church in manila, and she has been a wonderful officemate and friend to me. we've shared christian struggles together and both of us have indeed grown in Him more... then, before she decided 
to move to another company and out of our villa, MANO came into the picture (see A Sister, A Confidante, A Friend). she was a collegemate back in the philippines, and God also opened her heart to His teachings... after almost 2 years, she has to 
move out of UAE, and then out of seemingly impossible providences, God gave me MONIQUE, who is a very good sister of mine wayback in the philippines...
first
was SHEY who used to be my flatmate. we shared almost 3 years together, and God opened up her eyes to His salvation. and then she got married, and she has to start her own life with jude... and then while shey was slipping away from my life (i mean, just physically), He gave me RIZA, who became my housemate too. she's the younger sis of my friend malou from our church in manila, and she has been a wonderful officemate and friend to me. we've shared christian struggles together and both of us have indeed grown in Him more... then, before she decided 
to move to another company and out of our villa, MANO came into the picture (see A Sister, A Confidante, A Friend). she was a collegemate back in the philippines, and God also opened her heart to His teachings... after almost 2 years, she has to 
move out of UAE, and then out of seemingly impossible providences, God gave me MONIQUE, who is a very good sister of mine wayback in the philippines... but this is the most exciting of all--> in addition to monique, He gave me so many more such as kate, constance, icel, valerie, mommy sally, everlyn, kitty, narmi, nine, lea, mitch, melody, mona, beth, rhoda, alecks, and so many other sisters that i think i am spoilt for choice now! ;) and i'm really lovin' it!
each time i see them, i can't help but be amazed at how He takes care of my needs. truly nothing is impossible with Him. He may not give everything that we want, but i am pretty sure that He will give everything that we need. just keep your eyes open for all of it....Serenity of Ramadan
wow, it has been two months since my last entry? i can't believe it! just when i said that i'd write more frequently, it's then that i started to lag behind. slacker. haha!
but then, it happened for a valid reason ;) i've been out and about for the past 2 months with so many things happening to me in a blur!
first off, it was the peak season of our business here in Adventureland last july. this is the time when so many guests come in and out of our center, almost everyday! next, was my bday last month. need i say more about that? when it is your bday-- you must be busy ;) and lastly, was my trip to US for 3 weeks! will tell you more about that in a separate blog/s...
and now, coming back here to dubai during ramadan is such a nice transition point from a very eventful vacation time. no hitting the ground running. during ramadan, we have fewer working hours, our center is closed during the day so we at the office experience our once-a-year treat of serenity....no roller coaster noise, no shrieking of kids, no jamming of the log jam, no nothing, except peace and quiet. but then again, it may be peaceful too in the office, because, everyone is working on their............... 2009 Budget, hehe. and more than that, we do our annual thorough preventive maintenance of our rides. and i saw other centers doing that too.
i love this period when the world seems to stop for a while. living in the big city, i think we need this pause... for my mental sanity, it is like my preventive maintenance.
but then, it happened for a valid reason ;) i've been out and about for the past 2 months with so many things happening to me in a blur!
first off, it was the peak season of our business here in Adventureland last july. this is the time when so many guests come in and out of our center, almost everyday! next, was my bday last month. need i say more about that? when it is your bday-- you must be busy ;) and lastly, was my trip to US for 3 weeks! will tell you more about that in a separate blog/s...
and now, coming back here to dubai during ramadan is such a nice transition point from a very eventful vacation time. no hitting the ground running. during ramadan, we have fewer working hours, our center is closed during the day so we at the office experience our once-a-year treat of serenity....no roller coaster noise, no shrieking of kids, no jamming of the log jam, no nothing, except peace and quiet. but then again, it may be peaceful too in the office, because, everyone is working on their............... 2009 Budget, hehe. and more than that, we do our annual thorough preventive maintenance of our rides. and i saw other centers doing that too.
i love this period when the world seems to stop for a while. living in the big city, i think we need this pause... for my mental sanity, it is like my preventive maintenance.
7.17.2008
Missing Pinas
a friend of mine is coming and she asked me "hey, what do you want me to bring to you from manila?" hmmm.... i thought, nah... most of the philippine products and delicacies can already be found here, what with hundreds of thousands of pinoys inhabiting UAE!
plus, the things i enjoy in manila, i have to enjoy in manila... such as...
FOOD TRIP
Jollibee!!! i have long foregone eating fried chicken skin, but when it's jollibee, no rules!
Max's!!! oh, i just love this resto! and now they have more affordable combo meals!
Red Ribbon!!! my fave cake store, and they added other sumptuous meals!
MALL HOPPING
Trinoma!!! it's like SM, glorietta and greenbelt rolled into one
Serendra!!! i love the greens and the cozy ambiance! i like ayala malls!
BARGAIN HUNTING
Ukay Ukay!!! not a visit is complete without a trip to Ukay Ukay with Nanay!
Greenhills and Tutuban!!! well, if we have the time and the energy...
Sta. Lucia Mall, Big-R and Ever !!! i can't believe i found bargain gems in these malls near our place!
GET AWAYS
Tagaytay!!! especially when summer heat is scorching!!!
Sleepovers at friends houses!!! oh, nothing beats this! haha!
Mall cafe's and Restos!!! rendezvous with friends has always been in cafes even if i'm not a coffee-drinker... or stand aloone specialized restos in timog or eastwood, or the fort for some reason...
Fellowships at church!!! oh, i love spending time with my mcbc family, either for church, activities, fellowship, etc.
our humble abode in cainta!!! oh the best get-away place from all the work chaos! i love the breakfast time with nanay, the afternoon play with the kids, and the evening tv time, catching up on dyesebe, maging sino ka man or 24 oras! hahaha!
ohh......... just writing this makes me misssssss pinas soooo much!!!!! even though there's traffic, undending rain, impatient drivers, humidity, high cost of gasoline, etc. well, you can't have it all!!! ;)
plus, the things i enjoy in manila, i have to enjoy in manila... such as...
FOOD TRIP
Jollibee!!! i have long foregone eating fried chicken skin, but when it's jollibee, no rules!
Max's!!! oh, i just love this resto! and now they have more affordable combo meals!
Red Ribbon!!! my fave cake store, and they added other sumptuous meals!
MALL HOPPING
Trinoma!!! it's like SM, glorietta and greenbelt rolled into one
Serendra!!! i love the greens and the cozy ambiance! i like ayala malls!
BARGAIN HUNTING
Ukay Ukay!!! not a visit is complete without a trip to Ukay Ukay with Nanay!
Greenhills and Tutuban!!! well, if we have the time and the energy...
Sta. Lucia Mall, Big-R and Ever !!! i can't believe i found bargain gems in these malls near our place!
GET AWAYS
Tagaytay!!! especially when summer heat is scorching!!!
Sleepovers at friends houses!!! oh, nothing beats this! haha!
Mall cafe's and Restos!!! rendezvous with friends has always been in cafes even if i'm not a coffee-drinker... or stand aloone specialized restos in timog or eastwood, or the fort for some reason...
Fellowships at church!!! oh, i love spending time with my mcbc family, either for church, activities, fellowship, etc.
our humble abode in cainta!!! oh the best get-away place from all the work chaos! i love the breakfast time with nanay, the afternoon play with the kids, and the evening tv time, catching up on dyesebe, maging sino ka man or 24 oras! hahaha!
ohh......... just writing this makes me misssssss pinas soooo much!!!!! even though there's traffic, undending rain, impatient drivers, humidity, high cost of gasoline, etc. well, you can't have it all!!! ;)
7.16.2008
Forgive and Forget, yes.... but Help???
last week we've finished our exhaustive bible study on the life of joseph in CnC (college n careers) which we started wayback in february 2008. there were a hundred and one lessons which we can digest on, but one thing that really struck me is the lesson of forgiving, forgetting, AND helping and loving back. reading his story is like a very nice story to be told and to listen to... but to apply it in real life?... hmm, really takes much grace from God!
for many, forgiving is hard enough... and then add forgetting.......... and now, even help this very person who hurt you, who betrayed you, who caused so much pain to you?
there are only a few people who can hurt me so deeply, that is, my family and so-called close friends. because my principle is, i choose the people who will affect me, and if you do, it means i consider you close to me.
so the past years in my stay in dubai, i have been hurt so badly maybe just a handful of times. others are mere egotistical offenses, which, fortunately, i forget so easily.
he is one of those who has really let me down. i've forgiven him (even if he has not asked for it) and even forgot the offenses... but now, he is there knocking on my door for help, desperate and seeking...
should i shrug him off? should i lick old wounds? should i help him?
remembring again EB's words at CnC, "let us always think how Christ would act if He was in our shoes at this particular moment." i think i know what i have to do........
for many, forgiving is hard enough... and then add forgetting.......... and now, even help this very person who hurt you, who betrayed you, who caused so much pain to you?
there are only a few people who can hurt me so deeply, that is, my family and so-called close friends. because my principle is, i choose the people who will affect me, and if you do, it means i consider you close to me.
so the past years in my stay in dubai, i have been hurt so badly maybe just a handful of times. others are mere egotistical offenses, which, fortunately, i forget so easily.
he is one of those who has really let me down. i've forgiven him (even if he has not asked for it) and even forgot the offenses... but now, he is there knocking on my door for help, desperate and seeking...
should i shrug him off? should i lick old wounds? should i help him?
remembring again EB's words at CnC, "let us always think how Christ would act if He was in our shoes at this particular moment." i think i know what i have to do........
7.15.2008
Alive.. Dying.. Dead
Love is alive when it is patient, it is dying when it is hurried, and it is dead when it cannot wait.
Love is alive when it cares, is dying when it forgets, and is dead when it ignores.
Love is alive when it is secure, dying when it starts doubting, and is dead when it stops trusting.
Love is alive when it is giving, is dying when it is exchanging, and is dead when it is taking.
Love is alive when it acts its way into feeling, is dying when it feels and doesn't act or acts and doesn't feel, and is dead when it no longer feels or acts.
-Anonymous Author
Love is alive when it cares, is dying when it forgets, and is dead when it ignores.
Love is alive when it is secure, dying when it starts doubting, and is dead when it stops trusting.
Love is alive when it is giving, is dying when it is exchanging, and is dead when it is taking.
Love is alive when it acts its way into feeling, is dying when it feels and doesn't act or acts and doesn't feel, and is dead when it no longer feels or acts.
-Anonymous Author
7.08.2008
When It Rains It Pours
truly, when it rains, it pours...so many of my prayers have been answered. i'm so thankful for i do not deserve any of these... i just pray that all these blessings be used for His glory! sometimes, we only ask for a day, and He gives us months. and at times, we only ask for one thing, and He gives us more. not because we are good, but because our Father is good and He knows what we need and when we need them...
and truly, God moves the heart of the leaders as well. months (or even years) ago, we've been pushing for a number of people programs to our top management. and this day, i saw a silver lining...just a little paper pushing and in a few days, maybe we will see these programs coming to life! ;) sometimes answers can take a while, but when it comes... it's such a sweet gift from above!
"Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows." James 1:17
and truly, God moves the heart of the leaders as well. months (or even years) ago, we've been pushing for a number of people programs to our top management. and this day, i saw a silver lining...just a little paper pushing and in a few days, maybe we will see these programs coming to life! ;) sometimes answers can take a while, but when it comes... it's such a sweet gift from above!
"Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows." James 1:17
6.29.2008
Can Lovers be Friends? Part Two
after reading my previous blog, a close friend posted the reverse situation question: "Can lovers be friends?"
in the first place, those who are in the relationship should be friends with each other. the element of friendship has more permanence than romance, glueing it together when sparks fly outside the window. we all know how 'romance' is very fickle, and sadly oftentimes equated by couples to their commitment--> that is, if the romance is gone, and so does commitment. wrong.
now, going beyond the scope of a relationship: "Can former lovers be friends?" hmmm... again, it depends on how the parting away has been. if it is was REALY amicable, this can happen, otherwise, do not force the issue. do not open a can of worms. do not hold on to the ideal but accept the real thing. reality bites, and moreso former lovers. haha! this poisonous end is what makes us afraid of getting into a relationship with a good friend. so it's good to be careful, discerning and... resilient ;)
in the first place, those who are in the relationship should be friends with each other. the element of friendship has more permanence than romance, glueing it together when sparks fly outside the window. we all know how 'romance' is very fickle, and sadly oftentimes equated by couples to their commitment--> that is, if the romance is gone, and so does commitment. wrong.
now, going beyond the scope of a relationship: "Can former lovers be friends?" hmmm... again, it depends on how the parting away has been. if it is was REALY amicable, this can happen, otherwise, do not force the issue. do not open a can of worms. do not hold on to the ideal but accept the real thing. reality bites, and moreso former lovers. haha! this poisonous end is what makes us afraid of getting into a relationship with a good friend. so it's good to be careful, discerning and... resilient ;)
6.28.2008
Can Friends be Lovers?
oh, the perennial question that tickles the minds of those in a girl-guy relationship! i've been in that situation and i can symphatize with the sleepless nights, the marathon of analysis of what-ifs, and the daydreaming portion of a happy-ever-after.
and my answer to this? YES, it is possible, but not always the case! it takes divine intervention for it to really work and for you to know it without sweating an effort at all! ;)
i've always had close guy friend. and having three brothers around has somehow helped me how to deal with this situation... not that they taught me how, but it helped me understand guys a bit. i do not say i've always been in control of the situation (coz who says you can always control that deceitful heart?), but i've pretty much passed most of my friendships with flying colors and has kept these close guy friends longer than my exes...
if i just like him as my best friend, nothing more, how do i avoid him misinterpreting my actions and words?
when i've a close guy friend whom i see only as a friend (after months and months of looking at a romantic angle to no avail), i make sure it is clear to him. how? i do not cross the boundary of physical friend zone, like casual hugging and holding hands. why? because even if it is harmless for me, it may be encouraging for the other party. also, i do not cross the boundary of conversational friend zone, like talking to him as if he's my BF.
ladies, do not be selfish that you are only thinking of expressing yourself to your 'best friend", oblivious of its effect on the other party. be very careful, in the same way that you yourself do not want to get mixed signal from your guy-friend and be hurt in the end, right? do not simply indulge in this "best friend" zone. with privilege, comes responsibility. remember too that the difference between best friend and romance is really just thin-line, thin ice, and if the feeling is not shared by both--- you can be losing a very important relationship because of carelessness and selfishness.
what if i feel something for my guy best friend and i'm not sure if the feeling is mutual?
now, this is a killer-- if not handled well! and i had one friendship 6-ft below the ground now because of my immaturity! anyways, i suggest that being his friend, stick to the facts first. if you really know him, you will know if he likes you. he will drop hints if he does not know your feeling for him, and he will look for encouragement and hope before he drops the real bomb...
so do not delude yourself of reading-too-much-between-the-lines. guys are usually wired simply, unlike us. they do not go the lenghts of scheming things in order to let their feelings be known to you. do not rob off your friendship of its current joys because of "malicious thoughts". do not go inventing sweet dreams, when reality does not support it. do not think for him and do not start sewing facts together. do not spend sleepless nights trying to analyze things, coz really, he just might not be thinking about you and you end up feeling unfair!
instead, pray for it, and do not mess up with your close friendship! let Him do His work, let Him freely work out His great design. in the first place, the worst case scenario if it is not His will is, is that he will still be your best friend-- which isn't really bad after all!
i've always been a believer of guy doing the first move, because if he really really like you ENOUGH, he will make the move however much "torpe" he is. so let him do the chasing. but i also believe that girls can encourage and do their part in making it easy on the "torpeng" guys--- only if you really like the guy.
what if my best friend told me he likes me more than friends, but i do not feel the same?
put yourself in his shoes and you will be reminded to handle this well. he went thru all the troubles, and really, it took a lot of guts from him to do this, so if you will decline him, decline him squarely but gently. be honest, but be gentle. be firm, but be gentle. this is not just another guy, but a real close friend with whom you shared part of your life with.
oh well, this is not a list of what-to-dos but simply a sharing of how i did it in mine. but still, no situation is ever identical, so play it by ear, be guided and be brave for the circumstances ;)
and my answer to this? YES, it is possible, but not always the case! it takes divine intervention for it to really work and for you to know it without sweating an effort at all! ;)
i've always had close guy friend. and having three brothers around has somehow helped me how to deal with this situation... not that they taught me how, but it helped me understand guys a bit. i do not say i've always been in control of the situation (coz who says you can always control that deceitful heart?), but i've pretty much passed most of my friendships with flying colors and has kept these close guy friends longer than my exes...
if i just like him as my best friend, nothing more, how do i avoid him misinterpreting my actions and words?
when i've a close guy friend whom i see only as a friend (after months and months of looking at a romantic angle to no avail), i make sure it is clear to him. how? i do not cross the boundary of physical friend zone, like casual hugging and holding hands. why? because even if it is harmless for me, it may be encouraging for the other party. also, i do not cross the boundary of conversational friend zone, like talking to him as if he's my BF.
ladies, do not be selfish that you are only thinking of expressing yourself to your 'best friend", oblivious of its effect on the other party. be very careful, in the same way that you yourself do not want to get mixed signal from your guy-friend and be hurt in the end, right? do not simply indulge in this "best friend" zone. with privilege, comes responsibility. remember too that the difference between best friend and romance is really just thin-line, thin ice, and if the feeling is not shared by both--- you can be losing a very important relationship because of carelessness and selfishness.
what if i feel something for my guy best friend and i'm not sure if the feeling is mutual?
now, this is a killer-- if not handled well! and i had one friendship 6-ft below the ground now because of my immaturity! anyways, i suggest that being his friend, stick to the facts first. if you really know him, you will know if he likes you. he will drop hints if he does not know your feeling for him, and he will look for encouragement and hope before he drops the real bomb...
so do not delude yourself of reading-too-much-between-the-lines. guys are usually wired simply, unlike us. they do not go the lenghts of scheming things in order to let their feelings be known to you. do not rob off your friendship of its current joys because of "malicious thoughts". do not go inventing sweet dreams, when reality does not support it. do not think for him and do not start sewing facts together. do not spend sleepless nights trying to analyze things, coz really, he just might not be thinking about you and you end up feeling unfair!
instead, pray for it, and do not mess up with your close friendship! let Him do His work, let Him freely work out His great design. in the first place, the worst case scenario if it is not His will is, is that he will still be your best friend-- which isn't really bad after all!
i've always been a believer of guy doing the first move, because if he really really like you ENOUGH, he will make the move however much "torpe" he is. so let him do the chasing. but i also believe that girls can encourage and do their part in making it easy on the "torpeng" guys--- only if you really like the guy.
what if my best friend told me he likes me more than friends, but i do not feel the same?
put yourself in his shoes and you will be reminded to handle this well. he went thru all the troubles, and really, it took a lot of guts from him to do this, so if you will decline him, decline him squarely but gently. be honest, but be gentle. be firm, but be gentle. this is not just another guy, but a real close friend with whom you shared part of your life with.
oh well, this is not a list of what-to-dos but simply a sharing of how i did it in mine. but still, no situation is ever identical, so play it by ear, be guided and be brave for the circumstances ;)
6.24.2008
Looking thru the Eyes of Kids
lately, even after months of vacation, i did not find going back to work something to look forward to, when in the past, it used to. for some vague reason, i did not find work as appealing anymore. maybe it has something to do with being in the same place and the same work, and the same workmates year after year... oh the glooms of monotony!
but then this afternoon, i got to treat some of the kids of my churchmates to adventureland. i welcomed being pushed away from my office chair even for just a moment. and then seeing how the kids were sooooo happy with the cards i gave them gave me a certain lift of joy! oh, those were precious moments when kids' eyes just flash with ecstacy! haha!
and then when they finished playing, they went to our table and started chatting with me. there were 4 kids talking to me simultaneously...
"hey, what's your favorite ride?"
"do you need to pay when you ride? no? wow, that's sooo cool!"
"what's your work there? do you just go around the center the whole day?"
"are you the boss? no? so you get to tell everyone what to do except the boss?"
"wow, you can play all you want here?"
"you do not need to swipe that card to enter?"
"you have free cards?"
and i knew this was coming "i think i like to work here someday.."
haha! i think looking at my work in these kids' perspective will help a little in bringing back the joy in my work... ;)
but then this afternoon, i got to treat some of the kids of my churchmates to adventureland. i welcomed being pushed away from my office chair even for just a moment. and then seeing how the kids were sooooo happy with the cards i gave them gave me a certain lift of joy! oh, those were precious moments when kids' eyes just flash with ecstacy! haha!
and then when they finished playing, they went to our table and started chatting with me. there were 4 kids talking to me simultaneously...
"hey, what's your favorite ride?"
"do you need to pay when you ride? no? wow, that's sooo cool!"
"what's your work there? do you just go around the center the whole day?"
"are you the boss? no? so you get to tell everyone what to do except the boss?"
"wow, you can play all you want here?"
"you do not need to swipe that card to enter?"
"you have free cards?"
and i knew this was coming "i think i like to work here someday.."
haha! i think looking at my work in these kids' perspective will help a little in bringing back the joy in my work... ;)
The Tunnel
last week, in a bible study, a brother asked us about the benefits of sufferings for His sake. a number of us flipped thru the bible, and there we saw an ocean of list of good things we get out of suffering: closeness with God, pruning of our character, increasing our faith, etc. (romans 5:2-4; romans 8:17; 2 cor 1:7...)
and the next question which seemed to have been logically easy to answer based on the premise above, but was really difficult to, was "if there are a lot of benefits to it, and then why do we avoid sufferings?"
it made me think for a while. and in my mind, aside from the other obvious reasons of avoiding it such as fear of alienation, financial distress, pain, sadness, i realized that one thing that really makes this kind of suffering something we do not look forward to, is the thought of uncertainy...
suffering is always appreciated at hindsight, at that end of the tunnel when all questions are answered, all pieces of the puzzle are complete.
but while we are at it not knowing what is happening and the end is seemingly so far-fetched from what we hope it would be, suffering becomes so unbearable.
but it is in this uncertain period do we clearly see the stark contrast that we are mere mortals and that He is the all-powerful and all-knowing God! it is in this period that we have no one else to turn to but to Him, no one else to strenghten us but Him and no one else to hope to than on Him. and this is certainly an opportunity to exercise our faith and to look at these dark providences thru the lens of our Saviour...
and the next question which seemed to have been logically easy to answer based on the premise above, but was really difficult to, was "if there are a lot of benefits to it, and then why do we avoid sufferings?"
it made me think for a while. and in my mind, aside from the other obvious reasons of avoiding it such as fear of alienation, financial distress, pain, sadness, i realized that one thing that really makes this kind of suffering something we do not look forward to, is the thought of uncertainy...
suffering is always appreciated at hindsight, at that end of the tunnel when all questions are answered, all pieces of the puzzle are complete.
but while we are at it not knowing what is happening and the end is seemingly so far-fetched from what we hope it would be, suffering becomes so unbearable.
but it is in this uncertain period do we clearly see the stark contrast that we are mere mortals and that He is the all-powerful and all-knowing God! it is in this period that we have no one else to turn to but to Him, no one else to strenghten us but Him and no one else to hope to than on Him. and this is certainly an opportunity to exercise our faith and to look at these dark providences thru the lens of our Saviour...
6.21.2008
Lazy or Busy?
whoa! it's been months since i last updated my blogsite... so not me huh! either i'm lazy or just plain busy. hehe. well anyways, i'm back on my normal sched after a month and a half of hiatus, so expect new articles to come... i still owe you my maldivian adventures, and now i have my philippines tales to tell you, my bangkok trip and other tales of my grey matter... watch this space.... ;)
5.17.2008
The Paradox of God's Gift
i've always heard of ladies in the church saying "when i was already contented being single and not looking for that someone anymore, just then, he pops up from nowhere." i thought, how can God be so paradoxical in giving His blessing, giving you the very thing that you wanted when you are already willing to give him up graciously (not resignedly) and you thought you do not need that someone anymore?
i think what "He gives it to us when we do not 'seem' to need it" may mean is that:
- He gives him to us when we are already complete in Him first, before another person comes into the scene. He is a jealous God and another wonderful creation taking His place in our heart is not His will.
- Being able to give up 'graciously' the precious gifts is a sign of maturity in receiving them
- The very nature that it is A GIFT says that it is not His obligation towards us. it is a gift... a grace... and so He gives it in His own sweet time! and many who has received their gifts could not have thought of any other perfect timing than His.
- He knows that this gift is not just a momentary present, but a lifetime gift so He wants it to be given, not when "we" need it, but when "He" thinks we need it, and "He" thinks we are well equipped to receive it
- this overall paradox just simply display His sovereignty above all things, even the littlest details of situations pertaining to our God's gift! ;)
so to those who has received them already, continue rejoicing in Him! they are one of the best gifts that any person can ever have in this world.
to those who has not yet received them, be happily patient, be prayerful and be expectantly faithful!
Sweet Miracles
Many times in our lives we pray for miracles. sometimes we know how impossible our requests are, and we know how undeserving we are, yet day and night we wet our pillows with deep cries and petition for it. The uncertainty of attaining it challenges our faith. The long waiting period challenges our source of peace. And the first sign of a negative response challenges our perseverance.
And just when we thought that things are very remote from being a possibility, God sends forth His sweet miracles. And more often than not, even if we are expecting it and praying for it, we get utterly surprised when we get it! Talking about lack of faith huh? ;)
And when the dust has finally settled, we will then fully appreciate the sweetness of this miracle, and how He has worked out His wonderful scheme of things beyond our wildest imagination. It will just give you that smile on your face and twinkle in your eyes! Truly, His ways are higher than ours, more creative than ours, and much more wonderful than ours, if we just let Him do His perfect will in our lives! And to many impatient souls like me, sweet miracles are a testament of God’s perfect timing—never too late, nor too early! He knows best when we need it, when our wants should be met, and when we are most prepared to receive and take care of it.
And this sweet miracle begets great joy to our hearts, a thankful spirit and a worship to Him! May the sweetness of this miracle when it was first revealed to us, never fade in time…but the more that we appreciate it as time goes by… as things go good or bad… as more miracles unravel…
And just when we thought that things are very remote from being a possibility, God sends forth His sweet miracles. And more often than not, even if we are expecting it and praying for it, we get utterly surprised when we get it! Talking about lack of faith huh? ;)
And when the dust has finally settled, we will then fully appreciate the sweetness of this miracle, and how He has worked out His wonderful scheme of things beyond our wildest imagination. It will just give you that smile on your face and twinkle in your eyes! Truly, His ways are higher than ours, more creative than ours, and much more wonderful than ours, if we just let Him do His perfect will in our lives! And to many impatient souls like me, sweet miracles are a testament of God’s perfect timing—never too late, nor too early! He knows best when we need it, when our wants should be met, and when we are most prepared to receive and take care of it.
And this sweet miracle begets great joy to our hearts, a thankful spirit and a worship to Him! May the sweetness of this miracle when it was first revealed to us, never fade in time…but the more that we appreciate it as time goes by… as things go good or bad… as more miracles unravel…
4.14.2008
Decisions
i just wanna share with you a different take on the wisdom of God on crossroads that we encounter... it helped me, and it just might be of use to you too.
"The wisdom God gives is not necessarily information on how to get out of trouble but rather insight on how to learn from one's difficulties (see also Proverbs 29:15). It is not more information about how to avoid times of testing but instead a new perspective on trials. The wisdom of God begins with a genuine reverence for the Almighty (see "the fear of the Lord" in Ps. 111:10; Prov. 9:10) and a steadfast confidence that God controls all circumstances, guiding them to His good purposes (Rom. 8:28)."
"The wisdom God gives is not necessarily information on how to get out of trouble but rather insight on how to learn from one's difficulties (see also Proverbs 29:15). It is not more information about how to avoid times of testing but instead a new perspective on trials. The wisdom of God begins with a genuine reverence for the Almighty (see "the fear of the Lord" in Ps. 111:10; Prov. 9:10) and a steadfast confidence that God controls all circumstances, guiding them to His good purposes (Rom. 8:28)."
4.12.2008
Up Close and Personal
i think i got this inquisitive bone from my dad... i do not normally pass up opportunties to meet with people, either old friends or new alike. i consider every encounter a big opportunity and a privilege. i am always curious to know how God has dealt wonderfully with them, either in good or bad times. i get excited with people the way some get excited with fashion, with cars, with gadgets, with sports, with investments. i ask a lot. i learn a lot. i see precious souls within. sometimes i confuse them a lot too, or they confuse me back. then, at the end of each meeting, it's like i'm living ten new lives...
lately, i've been going to different small get togethers. each one is unique in its own. i've met so many wonderful people who has touched my life in one way or another. some i did not have a good start with, but we ended up well anyways. some were hard nuts to crack. dubai, being a melting pot of cultures, will open your eyes to different point of views and i celebrate the diversity of it all! they have different stories to tell about their lives here, about struggles, about victories, about life-changing moments and the ever-present roadblocks! i am even surprised to know that those who seemed to appear having a problem-free life, are actually a testimony of "peace in the midst of storm"!
and what struck me also are the stories of seemingly "random acts of kindess" which we often hold back because of past pains and mere laziness. it's really true that God works thru us in answering prayers of others. so do not hold back that thought of sending sms to comfort someone, or stopping and entertaining a directionally-challenged person, or simply popping up "hey how are you?" to a friend, or thinking of giving food to someone, or even saying the long-delayed "pls forgive me" to a hurt person...
i realized it's really equally blessing to go out of your comfort zones and try to start a conversation, which in the end may turn to something up close and personal...
lately, i've been going to different small get togethers. each one is unique in its own. i've met so many wonderful people who has touched my life in one way or another. some i did not have a good start with, but we ended up well anyways. some were hard nuts to crack. dubai, being a melting pot of cultures, will open your eyes to different point of views and i celebrate the diversity of it all! they have different stories to tell about their lives here, about struggles, about victories, about life-changing moments and the ever-present roadblocks! i am even surprised to know that those who seemed to appear having a problem-free life, are actually a testimony of "peace in the midst of storm"!
and what struck me also are the stories of seemingly "random acts of kindess" which we often hold back because of past pains and mere laziness. it's really true that God works thru us in answering prayers of others. so do not hold back that thought of sending sms to comfort someone, or stopping and entertaining a directionally-challenged person, or simply popping up "hey how are you?" to a friend, or thinking of giving food to someone, or even saying the long-delayed "pls forgive me" to a hurt person...
i realized it's really equally blessing to go out of your comfort zones and try to start a conversation, which in the end may turn to something up close and personal...
Grass is Greener
many times, it takes another person to point us to appreciate what we already have.
i met some friends from london, who had their one week vacation here in dubai. even before we finished our dinner, i have a pretty much clear picture of how unlikable london is. not that they are discouraging me from staying in london (i do not have plans anyways), but i guess, it is just pouring their hearts out as part of their "vacation". they kept comparing london to dubai. but the thing is, they see london in a microscopic lens, and they saw dubai in a macroscopic one. so, it's not a fair judgement at all! it's not comparing apples to apples.
then last friday, i had lunch with other girlfriends. talks about work tales, and worse, work woes! i told them "i think i'm liking these kinds of lunches coz it makes me appreciate my work more" ;) of course, it is too bad that it is at their expense!
but it all led me to confirm more this ever-pervasive disease of "grass is greener on the other side of the fence". always is, and will always be... and the antidote? Read Phil 4:11-13
"11I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. 12I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. 13I can do everything through him who gives me strength."
i met some friends from london, who had their one week vacation here in dubai. even before we finished our dinner, i have a pretty much clear picture of how unlikable london is. not that they are discouraging me from staying in london (i do not have plans anyways), but i guess, it is just pouring their hearts out as part of their "vacation". they kept comparing london to dubai. but the thing is, they see london in a microscopic lens, and they saw dubai in a macroscopic one. so, it's not a fair judgement at all! it's not comparing apples to apples.
then last friday, i had lunch with other girlfriends. talks about work tales, and worse, work woes! i told them "i think i'm liking these kinds of lunches coz it makes me appreciate my work more" ;) of course, it is too bad that it is at their expense!
but it all led me to confirm more this ever-pervasive disease of "grass is greener on the other side of the fence". always is, and will always be... and the antidote? Read Phil 4:11-13
"11I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. 12I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. 13I can do everything through him who gives me strength."
Touch and Go
" Hold on tight'
Cause life is touch and go
It's sink and swim, But never doubt
If you're out on a limb
I'll get the call
To break your fall
I'll never leave you
Even when life
Is touch and go
Or hit and run
We'll never break
If we take it as one
I'm here to stay,
I pray you know
I'll never touch
I'll never touch and go"
so goes a famous 1980's love song... recently, i've had more than my share of encounters of people coming in and going out of my life. that's what so unique about my expatriate life experience here in dubai. the only permanent thing is change. even friends come and go (well, some just physically, coz there are a few gems i've kept until today)... jobs come and go.... opportunities come and go... men come and go...
but if you look at it at half-full glass perspective, it has made me appreciate and treasure each moment more, knowing that "life is touch and go"... and more importantly, it has made me clung to Him more and surrender to Him more, whom i can count on when "life is touch and go"...
Cause life is touch and go
It's sink and swim, But never doubt
If you're out on a limb
I'll get the call
To break your fall
I'll never leave you
Even when life
Is touch and go
Or hit and run
We'll never break
If we take it as one
I'm here to stay,
I pray you know
I'll never touch
I'll never touch and go"
so goes a famous 1980's love song... recently, i've had more than my share of encounters of people coming in and going out of my life. that's what so unique about my expatriate life experience here in dubai. the only permanent thing is change. even friends come and go (well, some just physically, coz there are a few gems i've kept until today)... jobs come and go.... opportunities come and go... men come and go...
but if you look at it at half-full glass perspective, it has made me appreciate and treasure each moment more, knowing that "life is touch and go"... and more importantly, it has made me clung to Him more and surrender to Him more, whom i can count on when "life is touch and go"...
4.10.2008
Eureka!
It is most famously attributed to the ancient Greek scholar Archimedes; he reportedly proclaimed, "Eureka!" when he stepped into a bath and noticed that the water level rose – he suddenly understood that the volume of water displaced must be equal to the volume of the part of his body he had submerged. This meant that the volume of irregular objects could be calculated with precision, a previously intractable problem. He is said to have been so eager to share his realisation that he leapt out of his bathtub and ran through the streets of Syracuse naked.
Well, i am no archimedes, but i had the same "enlightenment" when i was doing just a very ordinary thing -- writing a response letter to a friend. you see, months before this, i had in mind tons of questions that has been nagging me, and somehow putting me in that hanging scenario. i kept all these questions at bay, thinking i'd deal with it when i have the time. so while writing a letter to a friend... composing answer to his question... i just realized that i had been answering my life questions already! in an instant, a light bulb lighted up, and i pushed back my laptop, thought for a while and the big picture just snapped right into my face! it's like the whole thing fell into the right place! i immediately called mano and recalled to her my 'eureka' moment! oh, it's very liberating indeed!
there will be times in your life when answers to pressing major questions do not come in big packages. you maybe just doing the most mundane things, when God flashes the answer! just make sure you are not tooooo busy nor toooo blinded to read His words ;)
4.06.2008
The Customer is Always Right
i've always worked in a service-oriented industry, so it is common for me to handle customer concerns, or worse, complaints. but did i tell you that customers here in the UAE is a far-cry from what i've been accustomed to in the philippines?
1. "where's the manager?" that's always the question whenever our staff encounters problematic customers. they would not deal with the lowlies, but rather only with the decision-makers. i guess this is a european influence, or maybe, they are born with this assertiveness.
2. "no Filipini, i need arabic" ok, here's when they bluntly tell you i do not like to talk to you, period! that's when our emirati employee comes in handy. and this is the time when i get frustrated with my arabic skills, although really, even if i know how to speak the language, they want someone from their own race.
3. "why before, they always allowed my son to ride here, and now no?" (yes, that broken english) this rational for insisting their kids to go to our rides even if the kid does not meet height restriction has been so infamous that we already learned the antidote: "sir, we are very strict with this safety rule given to us by the manufacturers to avoid accidents. so tell me who's the ride operator who allowed you this, and i will fire him immediately." almost all the time, they cannot point a person. really! but then, i'd give them a plus point for trying soooo hard just to let their kids into our rides :)
4. "i came all the way from oman just to get these free rides!" there's really nothing wrong with this statement, except that they are asking for redemption of free ride vouchers which are two months expired! yes, they have a talent in switching the burden on you. this is when a certain level of judgement call is needed among our managers.
just yesterday, my operations manager called for SOS. we had a very angry customer and insist on talking to his superior. i ushered him to come to my office. i let him vent out his complaints and then i stated my side, which is the same as what my manager said. he became more furious, insisting on allowing his child on a ride, breaking the height restriction rule which is a cardinal sin for us! and since he sensed i will not allow that to happen, he then accused us of inconsistent implementation of rules depending on our mood. he ended up asking for my name, to which i gladly gave my business card, and telling me that he will call the owner to complain about this. i told him "sir, it is perfectly ok as it is your right. once again i apologize for the inconvenience we have caused you. " he said to me to stop apologizing, saying that i ruined his life and his child's enjoyment, and went out of my office and he said "f**k you!"
my operations manager apologized that he had to elevate that seemingly simple concern to me. i told him that any given day i'd take in a hundred of this kind of complaint, rather than one accident just because we've given in to this safety restriction.
well, all in a day's work....
1. "where's the manager?" that's always the question whenever our staff encounters problematic customers. they would not deal with the lowlies, but rather only with the decision-makers. i guess this is a european influence, or maybe, they are born with this assertiveness.
2. "no Filipini, i need arabic" ok, here's when they bluntly tell you i do not like to talk to you, period! that's when our emirati employee comes in handy. and this is the time when i get frustrated with my arabic skills, although really, even if i know how to speak the language, they want someone from their own race.
3. "why before, they always allowed my son to ride here, and now no?" (yes, that broken english) this rational for insisting their kids to go to our rides even if the kid does not meet height restriction has been so infamous that we already learned the antidote: "sir, we are very strict with this safety rule given to us by the manufacturers to avoid accidents. so tell me who's the ride operator who allowed you this, and i will fire him immediately." almost all the time, they cannot point a person. really! but then, i'd give them a plus point for trying soooo hard just to let their kids into our rides :)
4. "i came all the way from oman just to get these free rides!" there's really nothing wrong with this statement, except that they are asking for redemption of free ride vouchers which are two months expired! yes, they have a talent in switching the burden on you. this is when a certain level of judgement call is needed among our managers.
just yesterday, my operations manager called for SOS. we had a very angry customer and insist on talking to his superior. i ushered him to come to my office. i let him vent out his complaints and then i stated my side, which is the same as what my manager said. he became more furious, insisting on allowing his child on a ride, breaking the height restriction rule which is a cardinal sin for us! and since he sensed i will not allow that to happen, he then accused us of inconsistent implementation of rules depending on our mood. he ended up asking for my name, to which i gladly gave my business card, and telling me that he will call the owner to complain about this. i told him "sir, it is perfectly ok as it is your right. once again i apologize for the inconvenience we have caused you. " he said to me to stop apologizing, saying that i ruined his life and his child's enjoyment, and went out of my office and he said "f**k you!"
my operations manager apologized that he had to elevate that seemingly simple concern to me. i told him that any given day i'd take in a hundred of this kind of complaint, rather than one accident just because we've given in to this safety restriction.
well, all in a day's work....
4.03.2008
Interviews
it's that time again of the year when we line up people for interviews as part of our staffing 
program. in front of me are CVs of 5 shortlisted applicants--- in manila. yes, i've conducted interviews of people in manila thru internet. this is how we've been doing things for the past years.
there's much lost when you interview via conference call, even if there's webcam. the eye contact, the involuntary gestures which means a lot to an interviewer, and the curve of the lips when they smile, their attire, the sweaty palms, the train of thoughts when the line gets so choppy, etc.... so these aspects, we have to leave in the able hands of our manile agency who shortlists for us.
as i interview them, i've to up my antenna in terms of other aspects in liue of the personal connection. so i am more conscious of their wordings, their stammerings, and the consistency of their answers after numerous rewordings of the questions.
my filipino boss has always been asked to get staff from other nationalities, especially when the partners know that we are having problems with our pinoy staff not finishing their contracts. but he has kept with his policy of "one filipino staff coming here, means one less needy family in our country". very noble, yet most would forget that and the other bold statements they have said during the interview, a few months after......
program. in front of me are CVs of 5 shortlisted applicants--- in manila. yes, i've conducted interviews of people in manila thru internet. this is how we've been doing things for the past years.there's much lost when you interview via conference call, even if there's webcam. the eye contact, the involuntary gestures which means a lot to an interviewer, and the curve of the lips when they smile, their attire, the sweaty palms, the train of thoughts when the line gets so choppy, etc.... so these aspects, we have to leave in the able hands of our manile agency who shortlists for us.
as i interview them, i've to up my antenna in terms of other aspects in liue of the personal connection. so i am more conscious of their wordings, their stammerings, and the consistency of their answers after numerous rewordings of the questions.
i love asking them the perennial question of "what makes you the best candidate for the position". i love the resolve, the self-salestalk, the promises which i know would be broken someday. there are times too that i learn a lot from their experience, and from the industry the've worked on. you just don't realize the valuable information the interviewer gets from all of these ;)
more often than not though, i am the one who gets lost in the interview, specially when they start telling their tales when i ask them "why would you like to come here to the UAE". i know it would always be financial reason, but the reason of their lack of finance varies from pole to pole, and that's what would usually captivate my ears! i would be drawn to stories of big families trying to make both ends meet, to candidates left to fend for their own, to hate tales of being victimized by swindlers and fraudulent agencies, etc.my filipino boss has always been asked to get staff from other nationalities, especially when the partners know that we are having problems with our pinoy staff not finishing their contracts. but he has kept with his policy of "one filipino staff coming here, means one less needy family in our country". very noble, yet most would forget that and the other bold statements they have said during the interview, a few months after......
4.02.2008
Loving the Long History
i brought my pair of shoes to Minutes to fix the sole. i got a look that says "hey lady, why don't you buy a new pair?". i just blankly stared back at him.... i love my shoes, even if it really looks worn and torn after years of loyal service. it's my fave shoes-- tangerine color, right 2-inch heel and it's just sooo comfy ;)
i bought a pair of jeans last 2002, and until now, it is what i wear for special ocassions... i have a
purse given to me by riza's mom years back, which is now already 
faded and really old, but i haven't changed it since... my bible has been with me since 93 given by my bro, and i wouldn't trade it for anything newer... i've this red tops i bought in HK last 98 which until now i wear for casual ocassions...
unlike most people, when i've new things, i do not take care of it so much more than i would an old stuff. i am not very 'new' fanatic, you know the kind most people usually are when they have new bags, new shoes, new things, new phone, new gadgets, treating it like it's so fragile, so immaculate... i don't freak out when it gets dirtied. actually the more i'd want it to be dirtied, crumpled, faded... weird huh?
there's something about old stuff that endears me. i like the worn-torn look. i like the old yucky smell. i like the signs of the years weathering the storms. i like the scratches... maybe it's the long history we've had together. or maybe i'm just typically sentimental...
i bought a pair of jeans last 2002, and until now, it is what i wear for special ocassions... i have a
purse given to me by riza's mom years back, which is now already 
faded and really old, but i haven't changed it since... my bible has been with me since 93 given by my bro, and i wouldn't trade it for anything newer... i've this red tops i bought in HK last 98 which until now i wear for casual ocassions...unlike most people, when i've new things, i do not take care of it so much more than i would an old stuff. i am not very 'new' fanatic, you know the kind most people usually are when they have new bags, new shoes, new things, new phone, new gadgets, treating it like it's so fragile, so immaculate... i don't freak out when it gets dirtied. actually the more i'd want it to be dirtied, crumpled, faded... weird huh?
there's something about old stuff that endears me. i like the worn-torn look. i like the old yucky smell. i like the signs of the years weathering the storms. i like the scratches... maybe it's the long history we've had together. or maybe i'm just typically sentimental...
4.01.2008
Alias
i started with season 3 last year-- the best season i must say! and i am hooked since then. i was so into the story revolving sydney who was back into the CIA but had severe memory loss specially of her past two years. and the first person that she saw? agent 
vaughn! cute ;) i learned from mano (who's the real avid alias girl) was that before season 2 ended, their love 
story really blossomed, but as usual, it went ka-poof! and that's why there is season 3 to keep all of us glued to the boobtube. the not-so-cute part is --- he is now married--- to a CIA officer! hmmm... very interesting twist and really keeps you at the edge of your seat..
vaughn! cute ;) i learned from mano (who's the real avid alias girl) was that before season 2 ended, their love 
story really blossomed, but as usual, it went ka-poof! and that's why there is season 3 to keep all of us glued to the boobtube. the not-so-cute part is --- he is now married--- to a CIA officer! hmmm... very interesting twist and really keeps you at the edge of your seat..so i watched season 3 almost non-stop (of course i gotta go to work as a break, hehe). it is about that love triagle, mysteries, espionage at its best and so much more in between. it is a well written plot and well written screenplay. i even borrow some of the lines which i use whenever it suits the situation (oh, yes, even during our ManCom sessions). it taught me also how to do the delegation thing, the interrogation sequences and most importantly, the separation of professional from personal life. tough! and after that, i of course moved on to season 1 and 2 (mixed up sequence? haha), and now i'm into the last part of season 4...
i like sydney's being the master of disguises. she's so cool in so many of the personas she's done. she has been a nerd, a nurse, a teacher, a bimbo, an argentinian, an american, european, etc. and speaking various languages! cool! and the coolest part is 
her fighting skills. i love jen!i love the other characters as well-- they seemed to be cut to a T! jack bristow, the ever irritating arvin sloane, and another of my fave, nadia, sydney's sister. she's also great and really gorgeous to boot!
each charater has its own flavor and kick, especially the antagonists. oh, you'll really abhor them, and even dream about them!
so, when evenings allow me 2 hours of tv watching-- i go for my Alias dose! watch it and see what i'm talking about!
3.31.2008
Out of College
you're reading it right-- out of college. that exactly how i feel right now! as i venture into the unknown tomorrow, i am anxious but excited in equal measure at the prospects ahead. 2007 has been quite a whirlwind of major events in my life, which culmated in january 2008 when dad passed away. and then i knew, major changes will happen, and i have to do that leap of faith in Him and accept with open arms the new life that He will send my way...
if you know me, you'll understand my trepidation. i've always been a planner, a "segurista". and whatever iota of uncertainty the future shows, it rattles me. i am not talking about small plans, coz i can be very flexible with that, nor small adventures coz believe me, i love adventures. but i am talking about life plans. life plans that may kick me out of my comfort zones.
at the same time, i am thrilled at the thought of new beginnings. i never realized life is full of so many choices! wayback when i was really out of college, my only category of choice was -- which company should i apply for? my feet and hands then were itching for real work. and now that i've passed thru work life for 13 yrs now, i realized there is more to life than work, work, work. it's not too late to start anew i guess. i have a second chance at being out of college coz anyways, they say i am still 25 ;)
so whatever the future holds, i am at peace now knowing that God is there.
and if in case i choose the wrong path, He will be compassionate enough to bring me back to the right tract. i am His child and i believe He wants the best for me.
if you know me, you'll understand my trepidation. i've always been a planner, a "segurista". and whatever iota of uncertainty the future shows, it rattles me. i am not talking about small plans, coz i can be very flexible with that, nor small adventures coz believe me, i love adventures. but i am talking about life plans. life plans that may kick me out of my comfort zones.
at the same time, i am thrilled at the thought of new beginnings. i never realized life is full of so many choices! wayback when i was really out of college, my only category of choice was -- which company should i apply for? my feet and hands then were itching for real work. and now that i've passed thru work life for 13 yrs now, i realized there is more to life than work, work, work. it's not too late to start anew i guess. i have a second chance at being out of college coz anyways, they say i am still 25 ;)
so whatever the future holds, i am at peace now knowing that God is there.
and if in case i choose the wrong path, He will be compassionate enough to bring me back to the right tract. i am His child and i believe He wants the best for me.
God will Make A Way
i love humming this simple song each time i am confused or worried.... and i am reminded of His sovereignty in my life. and i am at peace.
*********************************
God will make a way
When there seems to be no way
He works thru ways we cannot see
He will make a way for me
He will be my guide
Hold me closely to His side
With love and strength for each new day
God will make a way
God will make a way...
*********************************
*********************************
God will make a way
When there seems to be no way
He works thru ways we cannot see
He will make a way for me
He will be my guide
Hold me closely to His side
With love and strength for each new day
God will make a way
God will make a way...
*********************************
3.30.2008
My 7-11 Trip
i am not talking about 711 convenience stores. i am talking about 7 life-changing days for 11 ordinary people going on an extra-ordinary adventure trip...
i've always been amazed at people, at community and the dynamics that exists between them. if possible, i always opt for cultural immersion trips rather than touristic ones. i'm fortunate that my job has allowed me in the past to explore a bit of social science as i study market behaviours in our target country locations.
now on this trip to maldives, we went into different inhabited islands. it is a very beautiful place where beautiful people live; where beautiful nature abounds; where the 
beauty of the sun, stars and moon shine in splendor; where life lived in simplicity reigns. but i realized beauty ends there... they do not know our beautiful Saviour.
on our first day when we arrived, the host set the rules upfront: (1) no talk about religion, and (2) no talk about politics. and guess where we were housed? right in front of a mosque! i am sure this is not mere coincidence...
for 7 days,
the 11 of us lived like the locals, did what the locals did, ate what the locals ate, played what the locals played. actually, it felt like i was in one of our provinces in my hometown where beach, sand, coconut trees, fish and fresh air abounds. the community is so small, where everyone knows everybody. the men do the fishing, the ladies keep the house and do their 
crafts, and kids go to school and play in the afternoons. it felt like home...
i've always been amazed at people, at community and the dynamics that exists between them. if possible, i always opt for cultural immersion trips rather than touristic ones. i'm fortunate that my job has allowed me in the past to explore a bit of social science as i study market behaviours in our target country locations.
now on this trip to maldives, we went into different inhabited islands. it is a very beautiful place where beautiful people live; where beautiful nature abounds; where the 
beauty of the sun, stars and moon shine in splendor; where life lived in simplicity reigns. but i realized beauty ends there... they do not know our beautiful Saviour.on our first day when we arrived, the host set the rules upfront: (1) no talk about religion, and (2) no talk about politics. and guess where we were housed? right in front of a mosque! i am sure this is not mere coincidence...
for 7 days,
the 11 of us lived like the locals, did what the locals did, ate what the locals ate, played what the locals played. actually, it felt like i was in one of our provinces in my hometown where beach, sand, coconut trees, fish and fresh air abounds. the community is so small, where everyone knows everybody. the men do the fishing, the ladies keep the house and do their 
crafts, and kids go to school and play in the afternoons. it felt like home...in 7 days, i learned more about their lives, their culture. in 7 days i have been personally enriched with my dealings with the local people. in 7 days, i appreciated the true simplicity of life. in 7 days, being one of the 11 lives, i have been changed. it was enough to scratch off the surface of God's masterplan for this place... but to fully continue with this, we need more than 7-11
i have faith that in His time, He will make His glory be known there... To God be the glory!
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