The Provincial Capitol

Our group in computer was assigned to focus on the Provincial Capitol. My group mates are Lorenz Gideon Esmero and Janua Quilo and the next paragraph is about our cyber article.

The Provincial Capitol of Cebu will be celebrating its 69^th year of inauguration this coming June 14, 2007. The magnificent structure is standing for almost 70 years despite of its old age.

The history of this structure would trace back to June 27, 1936 where it all began. The building was constructed during the term of the late president Manuel L. Quezon. Cebu’s ex-governor Sotero Cabahug together with the ex-vice president of the Commonwealth, Sergio Osmeña Sr., led the cornerstone laying.

According to Mr. Roger Cerna, Juan M. Arellano was a nationally renowned architect from Manila who designed the magnificent structure. He was an American educated Filipino Architect who graduated from Drexel Institute of Philadelphia. The Capitol Building was an edifice of the White House in Washington, home of the United State’s president.

It was during the term of Cebu governor, Buenaventura Rodriguez when the completion of the building happened. The initiation of the building was attended by the late President Manuel L. Quezon which was held on June 14, 1938.

Unfortunately, the building was destroyed during the war but in God’s grace, it was mended and it was aided by the Americans under the Philippine Rehabilitation Act of 1946.

Until now, programs concerning the beautification of the edifice still exist.

This Provincial Capitol of Cebu is relevant to the Cebuanos for it is the home of one of the leaders in Cebu, which was the Governor. With this edifice, the people would honor and respect the government. In connection to this, it would be a haven for the people for it is where they could ask help regarding on matters concerning their stay in Cebu.

Loneliness

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The structure of ee cummings’ poem seems to be very bewildering and very hard to understand but as you stare at it, you could see that there is a part where it is enclosed in a parenthesis. Inside the parenthesis, a word is formed and that is “a leaf falls”. And on the outside part of the poem, loneliness is formed. Sometimes, people initiate the falling of a leaf as death like the story of the Last Leaf but sometimes, it does not only mean death though it could also be associated. The falling f a leaf may mean a separation. As we all know, leaves are grouped just like humans. We have our own set of friends and sometimes, due to some misunderstanding, one may choose to separate and isolate him or herself from the group. This is the same as the leaf that is isolated from the group of leaves. In a mathematical theorem or equation, we use parenthesis to separate a value from the other. Humans are like numbers that are given boundaries or is put in a wall. Humiliation is a factor where one would want to build walls within him or herself.

Research!!!

Our group’s research is about the “The Effectiveness of Sodium Hydroxide and Sodium Carbonate as Binding Agents in Papermaking”. The research project was a research proposal of Bernalene Vidal when we were still third years. Our aim is to be able to compare and see which of the binding agents named sodium hydroxide and sodium carbonate can effectively and strongly hold the recycled newspapers

When we started with our research, we recycled the newspapers. First, we would cut the newspaper into about half an inch. After which, we soak them in plain water for it to be pulpy after a day or two. When the process of soaking is done, we get some of the soaked newspapers, we got the excess water on it and we pounded it. When it is already evenly pounded, we set it aside and continue pounding on the remaining newspapers. After all the papers are pounded, we weigh a kilo of it and place the binding agents sodium hydroxide and sodium carbonate on each kilo of pounded paper. We mixed the paper and binding agents thoroughly and after which, we pour the mixture in the mold and deckle to form the paper. We get the excess water by using a sponge. After which, we put it under the heat of the sun. When it is already dry, we need to test the paper’s strength. We attach the paper at two ends of the clamp and then we put the weights one by one. When the paper breaks at a certain amount of weight, this means that the paper’s maximum load or weight sustainability is only limited to that amount of weights.

Our research study aims to help the companies in the paper industry to be able to know which binding agent is more efficient to use. It would also be useful because it is a way that we could lessen the cutting of trees as well as the bad things that may happen when we over cut trees which may lead to deforestation which can result to calamities like floods, landslides, mudslides and many more. By this study, we could also encourage everyone to recycle and not just throw our garbage.

THE LOOK.....

Sara Teasdale composed a poem entitled “The Look”. The poem is personified by a woman for she is naming boy’s names like Stephon, Robin and Colin. The first stanza states that Stephon had kissed her during spring while Robin kissed her in the fall. But, it was only Colin who never looked at her and kissed her. On the second stanza, she stated that Stephon’s kiss was lost in jest, Robin’s lost in play and it was only Colin’s eyes that haunts her night and day.

For me, the poem emphasizes that the word “kiss” in the poem represents the act of doing so but in the poem, it is not stated that the woman also loved them as so as the men mentioned. The kiss may represent some kind of a feeling but why Colin do only looked at the woman and not kissed her. After quite some time, the kiss of Stephon was lost in jest as well as Robin’s kiss but Colin’s stare remained. If we are to find another example, gifts may be a very good one. A person may be very happy when he or she receives a newly bought gift and sometimes, disappointed when he or she receives a handmade gift. If we would really look closely, a newly bought gift was just to empress the person and not merely for the sake of wanting the person to be happy. On the other hand, the handmade gift was made just for the person and with love. Just like the kiss, Stephon and Robin may only feel infatuation and not love and Colin, indeed, has a deeper meaning with his stare. The woman in the poem may not understand why Colin did not kiss her and instead, only looked at her. In the poem, I admired Colin for he did not take advantage of the girl and just kept his love in silence and in respect to the woman. Colin only gave a look but as what we can see, the simplest things are those which have deeper meaning and that look left something very important to the woman.

LOVE: An act of Will, Not of the Heart

“Love moves in mysterious ways” as what the song of Nina states. Indeed, it is and even though you are the wisest man on earth, no one is a good man when it comes to love. Love is a feeling that could not be explained. It knows no theorem, equation or amount and is boundless and infinite. It is the most unexpected feeling a person might have. Some say it is “magic” but others say it is a “curse”. Though love is a wonderful thing, many are unfortunate of this. Sometimes, love is based on the physical appearance of a person. A girl or boy would like a boy or girl for he is handsome or pretty. But, as time passes by, this love may fade with the contributing factors like knowing the true attitude of the person or his or her family background and many more. Could this situation be called love or just an infatuation? Within this event when the statement “love is an act of will not of the heart” comes into existence. As I go further, I may give my opinion to the statement or shall I say my stand on the topic and the points necessary to it.

Love for me is truly an act of will not of the heart. I may not be too good in discussing this topic but I may have some experiences which could be related to the topic. Will means the power of choosing and deciding. It takes the mind to decide and teach on what is good or not for the person, what is beneficial or not for him or her and what should his or her actions be. It is the most essential part of our system and is the source of our life. On the opposite track, the heart becomes the source of all emotions that a human may encounter. It does not act logically like the mind but emotionally. The heart does not think of the consequences or outcome of what a person does. It only acts for what it is beating for and does not matter if a person could get hurt and be fooled. If it is an act of will, it gives the person the free will to choose the right or proper man or woman and not just merely the one he or she loves but does not love him or her back. The will teaches us to fight when we know that we are fooled by the one we love. If it is an act of the heart, we may be blinded by the fact that we love that person no matter you change him or her. It is also an act of the heart when you go into different obstacles just to fight for the wrong person. This kind of act may not be good for the person secluded with “love” may give everything and does not have anything left for him or herself. And maybe, that is the reason why the brain is always higher than the heart.

How... I want...

Every person in the world would like to feel special and remembered in the aspect which you are unique of. If a person says that he or she does not want to be remembered, well maybe, he is a fool. As time passes by, we get to go into different schools and meet knew friends, classmates, schoolmates and sometimes, enemies. There are some which leave footprints in our hearts but there are also some which leave a scar. But all in all, the things which conquer our hearts most are the good memories that we have. We may include the times which we were hurt but in the sense that we were able to learn from it. And now, that we are to part our ways and start a new school year with strangers which we are really clueless of the things about them.

When I leave our high school life, I want to be remembered not base on what they see physically but what they feel when I am with them. Others may have a misconception or have misunderstood my attitude but I hope they have changed their outlook towards me. I want to be remembered as the girl who is strong for despite of the problems and stress that we have encountered, I always smile or laugh it out. It is not because I can not solve my problems but because I realize that “Laughter is the BEST medicine” and if you will keep your problem within yourself, it might get worst. I want to be remembered as the girl who is always ready to give a helping hand. In our situation, our friends are the listeners to our problems and sometimes, the people not close to us are open to their problems as well. I want to hear their problem and if ever I can offer a help, it would not be a big deal. If they would have problems on their projects, I am always willing to help them. I want to be remembered as the girl who would really fight for her rights. When I feel that I am right, I do not hesitate in fighting for it and if my friends are in need, I see to it that I can help them in any way I can. I want to be remembered as the girl who is very devoted in her work. Our life in UP High is very stressful and as what as Sir Em-Em says, it is “toxic”. It is very hard because there are many works to be done but despite the fact, I see to it that I could do my projects and assignments and if ever I am assigned to a task, I would not stop unless I can do it. And lastly, I want to be remembered as the girl who is very artistic. As what most of my classmates know, I really want to be an interior designer. I admit that I am not that smart in math or in any subject but when it comes to color, figures and art, I would stay up late just to think of a certain concept.

As I leave UP, I hope that I could be remembered by my classmates in the simplest thing I know how, as a friend.

Success

As the school year started, our Filipino teacher told us about our Drama fest. It was already not new to us for we have seen the drama fests of the fourth year students ahead us. We were unconscious with the time and we realized that it was already January and that event is fast approaching. We then organized the committees for the drama fest. All of us voted for Razel Paldo to be our production manager and Artsron Sumabong as our director. Sunshine Enriquez was responsible for the script, Carla Erike Lagrana for the management stage and Jeraline Gumalal for the stage design. April Gamboa was the director the lights, Czarina Bayani was responsible for the dialogs of the actors; Bernalene Vidal and Jessa de Erio were the directors for the music. I was assigned with the props needed in the play, Christille Gultiano was for the costumes and make-up and Nathaniel Gopinathan was for the Production Album. We also chose the main characters for our play. John Paul Catubig played the role of Rene, Joseph Esteban as Don Ramon, Gayle Lorraine Tallo as Donya Chedeng, Shallunah Faith Leopardas as Marilou and Nico Antonio Sagun as Tasyo. For the supporting characters, Byron Enriquez played as Antonio, Janua Quilo as Mario, April Rhiz Dichos as Leony and Shydel Raya as Theresa. For the squatters, Richard Rey Caminade, Mary Lyndel Amora, Jezza Lagura, Reniel Pañares, Nathaniel Gopinathan and Novelyn Lao played the roles. Lorenz Gideon Esmero, Eldee Balolong and David Aiello Zamora played as the police.

When we were done with assigning, Czarina and Razel directly started with the practicing of the lines. On the other, Jeraline and I started making the playbills, posters and the frame for the props. April also started her work on the lights (the connections, the foot lights and head lights needed) and Christille was busy looking for the costumes. All of us were very focused on the assignments we need to accomplish. We go home very late just to practice because we also need to practice the lights as well as effects of the light during the play. Arstron see to it that the actors would portray the characters well and there would be no blocking in a certain scene. Before the judgment day, we had the “critique’s night”. In it, our teacher invited critiques such as Ma’am Rabago-Visaya, Mdm. Montaño, Kuya Chamy and and Kuya….and we are very thankful because with them, we were able to know what are our flaws and what we need to pratice.

The judgment day came and unfortunately, the wiring of the lights was destroyed but it was not a hindrance in our presentation. We finished our play successfully and section Gonzales followed. The awarding was done after some production numbers performed by the UPSTAGE members and the interpretative dance of Christine Nolasco and Lorem Mendoza. We won the “best playbill”, best actor” which was John Paul Catubig, “best actress” which was Gayle Lorrine Tallo, “best supporting actor” which was Nico Antonio Sagun, “best director” by Artsron Sumabong and “best production” by Razel Paldo.

PROM '07

Promenade means a leisurely walk in a public place or a march of guests opening a formal ball but the popular description of it is a formal dance held by a high school or college class. But beyond all its meanings, prom (in short of promenade), does not only reflect something social but something memorable and happy. Each one of us has experienced being a lady and gentleman once we had a prom. Girls get excited and focuses their attention on what would they look like on their elegant and classy gowns. On the other hand, the guys get busy on their hair and suits for the prom. All and all, what is important is how different types of people meet and mingle.

JS Prom means Junior and Senior Prom but in our case, some of the juniors and seniors are not in good terms. This started during our intramurals. I do not know but it is already usual that seniors really are in contrary with the juniors. Now, the problem is that we are somewhat uncomfortable with them because of what had happen and we do not have a choice for we must be paired with a junior. In my case, the worst thing happened because I was paired to the person that I really do not like. For me, he was very hard headed and a very misbehaved person. He was also the pair of Razel for the boys in U.P. are quite few so our teachers decided that the boys would have two girl partners. As what was expected, our partner does not practice seriously. I have shared this experience in my previous blog. But as time passes by, we became friends because he was more behaved than the usual and he already listens when we say that he must do this and do that.

Finally, the prom came. I had a hard time with my sandals for the heels in it were very high and I am not used to it. When I arrived at the hall, every person I see was transformed into a beautiful ladies and gentlemen. Gone were those boyish manner of some girls and the boys acted as if they were really grown ups. You will get amazed with how a simple duck turns into a swan. The theme of our prom was “Blazing Trails of Legacy and Friendship” and indeed, it was. With the renewal of each junior and senior was the renewal of the friendship we made. The quarrel and uncomfortable feeling that we had were all gone. We were all smiling, taking pictures and talking. The time came when we had to walk down the aisles with our partner. Everything went well and all of us were able to walk properly. In the eating part, we also enjoyed the food and it was very delicious and after which, the prophecy and legacy was presented. We were laughing with their presentation because it was very nice and it presented the characters in our batch clearly. Our practice with our pair would have been irrelevant without the crowning of the junior prince and princess, senior prince and princess and the prom king and queen.

When, the event ended, all the bad memories during the intramurals vanished and along with us were the unforgettable memories and the precious token (it was a c.d. and small pillow) that they have given us.

A Valentine Activity

Each of us are made to complement each other, may it be through knowledge, emotions and many other. We are like letters in the alphabet that can form a word which in turn, could make a sentence and finally, can relay a message. In contrast to this, others may be easily manipulated and could be like a topographically typed message. Let us face it, people are people. You, I, and many other have flaws in our own life and two of this is not showing our love and not appreciating the person/s who have love us. We sometimes prefer to hide our feelings because we are afraid to be rejected, to be hurt and we thought that we did the right thing but often, this could lead to misinterpretation. I think no one would wish to be sad and that wish of ours to be happy could make others feel worst and be disappointed because with our wish to be happy, we tend to be silent and not express what we feel for that is the only way we feel happy.

As I think of the activity we did last Tuesday, February 13, 2007, I realized that it has been a long time since I wrote a letter to my parents and to my loved ones telling them how much I loved and appreciated them. I was happy for our English teacher gave us the chance to express our gratitude and affection towards the person special to us. Our teacher let us made a letter (an I love you and a Thank you letter) to the person/s we want to say I love you and Thank you. I really see to it that I wrote everything especially my feelings for them. It is very important for us to learn to love and to appreciate each other. Specifically, say everything you want to say, express what you feel and do not wait for the moment to stop before you realize that it was too late to let them feel that they were loved and appreciated. Maybe, it might be too late for you to say I love you and thank you and you may regret not to have done or say that thing.

Our teacher gave us a copy of a song and above it is a poem. The poem was, at first, very deep and you feel that you can’t understand it but as the song continued to play, we were able to get the thought of the poem. Our teacher was also very nice for he further explained to us what the poem really meant and the representation of the objects used in the poem. With the activity, I realized how important it is to say what you feel to the person important to you.

KYSD

Know Your School Day or KYSD is one of the school events that we, students, could participate in our school. Each of the students is given the opportunity to be a teacher, a guidance counselor, a clerk, a principal and a PED chair. All we need to do is fill up the form given by the student council and go to the subject teacher we want to. The teacher would have to approve the form and after which, the student is assigned on what lesson would he or she tackle to the class (specifically, the section where the student belongs is where he or she would teach). After which, the forms are collected by the Student Council and they see to it that each student would have an I.D. At first, the students are recognized and they are to go up the stage, to be recognized and to get the I.D. After the event, they could already start teaching at about two to three days depending on the range or time planned for the said event. When the event has finally come to an end, the students would perform the presentation they prepared for the teachers and give them a token of appreciation.

The activity is participated by anybody who wishes to be a teacher for about two to three days. I personally do not want to be a teacher for the fact that I have a difficulty in presenting in front of many people because I got easily nervous. Aside from this, I am not an effective speaker and for other reason, I do not consider myself as a very smart person and I feel that I do not have the right to teach. I am also afraid that if I teach, my classmates might not understand the topic. Maybe, I will just stick to being a student and not a student teacher.

This kind of activity is helpful for the students to be active in being a teacher and share their knowledge to everybody.

My Reflections

Whenever I see old people in the streets, I want to have a lot of money so that I could build a place for them where they could be taken cared of. In this place, they could be happy and be treated with respect and love. I do not know but it is may be because. I have too much attachment with my grandma. One time, when our CWTS Officers said that we would have an outreach program in Gasa sa Gugma(Mabolo), I was very happy for at least, we could show or affection towards them. When we would try to go the deeper meaning of having a program like what our CWTS class has planned, we would realize how lucky we are that we still have our love ones with us and that we feel so much endearment from them. For me, this was the best experience that ever happened in my entire high school life.

We left U.P. High School t bout 1:00 in the afternoon and we rode on a bus. The place was not that far and there was no traffic so we arrived early. I was one who first entered Gasa sa Gugma and I was overwhelmed by the fact that the place was quiet. Even though the vicinity was near the road, these elderly could relax and have a peaceful life. Before we could mingle with them, we need to tell the nun handling the institution. When our CWTS adviser was talking to the nun, I felt that friend was leaning at my back. I thought that she was just sleepy or something but as I turned to look at her, she was already crying. My friends asked her on what was the matter and she said that she was just touched as she look at them. While she was saying those words, I also felt the same and my eyes were close to crying. I tried to stop it and luckily, my other friend helped me to get over. At last, we were permitted to get inside. The “lolos” and “lolas” looked in amazement and confusion. Some of them were amazed that they saw other people side from those working in the institution and some are confused on who we are and what are we doing there. Most of them re outside their rooms for they have just done taking their nap. I can not help myself but cry when I saw one of the workers who transferred these aged people from the wheelchair to a seat. It was not that simple for she was transferring these sensitive people to a chair like they were just dumping garbage. There was not any sign of love or even of respect for the elderly.

I know that it was not proper for me to cry but I could feel how these aged people longed for a hug and appreciation from somebody. A place like the “Home of the Dying Destitute” should be visited by people who do charity works so that there would be a lot of us who could show to these elderly that they re special and somebody still cares for them.

WOW Philippines

“We triumph without glory when we conquer without danger” quote from El Cid written by Pierre Cornielle. This emphasizes that a person walking on the safety line makes no accomplishments worthwhile.

Our country has been blessed with beautiful spots which we can be proud of. For Filipinos like us, we re benefited by these wonderful gifts. We are very grateful that we have the distance advantage in these places unlike the foreign tourists who spends so much just to visit these havens. Examples of these places are Boracay, Siargao, and many others. Another thing our country has been applauding for is our mouthwatering food and delicacies. An addition to these is the wonderful culture we have including the different happy parades and colorful festivals we celebrate.

Even though we re a third world country, we can never deny the fact that we re visited by a lot of tourists. One main reason is because our country has been known to people who have discovered our place. Another reason is that they had been in the Philippines and they wanted to go back. Or, they really love the Philippines. Whatever their reason may be, only these tourists know. But why the Philippines? Many of them have bad experiences while having their vacation here but why PHILIPPINES?

The quote of Pierre Cornielle enters here. Why not take the risk when you know that you would be very contented on your decision. This implies to the tourists who, in spite of the danger that may happen, they are persistent in doing so. By this, they achieve more and the memories are priceless.

Significant Human Experience

I really thought that I would not have anything to write this time but I was wrong. All went right and everything was fine. My life was happy and my special someone and I are very much contented with each other. Everyday was wonderful until an event came. It was July 20, 2006, Thursday, when that experience happened. I was washing the dishes when I heard our neighbor somewhat like in panic. I thought she was only fighting with her husband because it is not new to us and that always happen. So, I continued with what I was doing. Then, my mother saw somebody in our gate and she opened it.

She saw the sister of our neighbor and the girl asked if she could use our phone. My mother asked her on who would she call for she was already crying. The girl answered that she would call her mother and asks for help because his nephew was having a convulsion and his brother-in-law was in Dumaguete. Mother, who was also in panic, suggested that they must bring the little boy to the hospital. Luckily, my father arrived early from work and offered a help in bringing the boy to the hospital. My father went to their house to assist them in handling the boy. When they were on their way to our van, they passed in front of me and I actually saw the boy who was very stiff. He likely tries to move but he can not for his whole body was hardened. I was really shocked and I got nervous because it was only at that time when I saw someone in that condition. I was trembling and I was not able to sleep so I decided to wait for them. My parents came and they said that the boy was already attended by the doctor and was already fine. The boy would have to stay for he must take some tests, especially in the brain, to assure that he would be okay. The boy’s mother said that he fell from the window because he was plying with his siblings and he tried to climb but he was not able to hold so he fell.

For me, it was the main thing we should realize and that we should live our life to the fullest because we never know when God would take it from us. We must not be awkward in doing things for ourselves and for the people we love. Just like our neighbor, it started with a simple fever and in that instant, he had a convulsion. He might not notice the significance of what has happened but in the case of his mother, that moment was very important because for any moment, he could lose her son. So, if you want to do something, do it now. If you want to say something, say it or if you want to hug somebody, do it because we never know when would our lives end?

A funny moment

It was June 13, 2006 at about 4:00 p.m. in the afternoon, when I experienced the most embarrassing and the funniest moment in my life.

On the first day of school, we only have a half-day. Actually, it was a sort of an irregular class because in the morning, we just met with our adviser and in the afternoon we are free to go home. Some of my friends were part of the presentation for the first year orientation so I have to wait for them. When they were already done with their presentation, we decided to go to Ayala and buy an accessory for our bags. We would beautify our bags because we were not allowed to wear accessories

When we were on our way to Molave, my friend saw her crush across the road. She grabbed Juna and pointed on the person across the road. Shedyl and I were bewildered because there were also two guys smiling and waving at us at the opposite side of the road. Then, I asked my friend “why were they smiling at us?” then my friend said that she doesn’t know and that she is referring to *** ********. So, who were those guys? We were laughing very hard because those guys really thought that they were the ones that we were referring to. My stomach was even aching because of that funny incident. When we arrive at Ayala, we go directly to the place where the key chains and accessories are found. Shedyl was sleepy that time and she yawns and sounded like “hayyyy”.

Then, the guy at the opposite side smiled at us. My friend was shocked for we have not yet overcome on what had happened in Molave so she decided to stay away from them for the guy and his friends were approaching us. We ran and went to the third floor of the mall. Thank God, they stopped following us. Maybe, they got tired a

nd with what we experienced, we got home just so that we would not be able to encounter another horrible experience.

Even though it was a funny experience, I was also afraid for the guys who were waiving at us might really assume that we were referring to them and that might stalk at us (this might sound crazy but some of the U.P. students have stalkers). It might have been dangerous if those guys were really consistent in following us like what happened when we were already in Ayala. Past is past and that event made us realize that not everybody in this world has good intentions to everyone. Aside from this, we realize that not everyone thinks first if they are the ones being referred to.

In this experience of ours, there was a lesson for us to learn. Now, we are very vigilant in pointing or even saying something to the right person and not just “bark t the wrong tree”. We really see to it that we do not mislead anybody.

A lonely soul

People say “live your life to the fullest” but, what would life be if your loved ones are not with you?

Summer vacation has ended and the dark clouds started to cover the sunny sky indicating the start of school. Everything was fine during summer except for one thing. My vacation was incomplete because I did not spend it with my grandma.

Ever since I was a child, I lived with my grandma. When I started going to school and she lived in the province, I see to it that every time I m free, I would visit her. This time, my parents decided that for the break; I would have to stay here in the city. They had planned to have an outing and if I go there, I would miss it. At first, I said “so what? I do not care”, but I had no choice. I could not disobey my parents and they have no intentions of ruining my plan in staying in my grandma’s house. So, we had the typical summer vacation and we went to the Miraculous Virgin in Sibonga then we continued our trip to Carcar where we had to take the road to Barili and we headed to Badian. The place was very nice; with white sands and the beautiful beach. Of course, who would miss the most wonderful spot in Badian, the Kawasan Falls?

All that you could see in Kawasan Falls was absolutely amazing. The water was cold but you can not really stop yourself from splashing into the clear water. I admit that even though of the circumstances, I enjoyed our outing. I try not to remember bout my postponed vacation but it kept on sinking in my head. I tried forget the matter but once in while, I would be awaken by the fact that I m having my vacation without my grandma. We arrived in Cebu and I thought it was the time for me to visit her. Unfortunately, we have a crash course in Calculus and I had to attend it which means I was hopeless to see me “lola”. I really felt bad but it was also an opportunity to grab because Calculus is not that easy.

Until now, I still feel guilty because I never had the time. I hope my grandma would understand me and miss me the way I miss her. Today, my grandma is with us because she had a mild stroke and she needs someone to take care of her and monitor her especially the medicines that she took (because after every meal she takes a different medicine). Even though she is with us, I hate the fact that in exchange for the moment for us to be together, she would be in mild stroke. The effect of the mild stroke on my grandma was that she could not speak well. She may have the idea of what to say but she can not say it. I love to see my grandma but it does not to have to go this way.

The problem is....

The problem with men and women is that they are susceptible to problems. Whether we admit it or not, each one of us in this world have problems, may it be personal, social, economic, or in our religious life. As soon as we learn to read, write and comprehend, we learn to question the things happening around us and there and then, a simple question turns out to be problem. Even a small misunderstanding can result to problem. Actions that you have made could be interpreted in the opposite way you planned it to.

Differences among us are one of the reasons why there is chaos. An evident to our differences is war brought about by religion. Everybody has his or her own right to choose and have faith in religion fitted for him or her but he or she could never dictate how would people understand the religion you chose. In this kind of situation, one could decide if he or she would transfer and change his or her religion but, what if he can not do anything? An example to this is the issue of racism, a belief that ones race is superior over the other. You could never disregard it for it is in you and it is inherited so you have no choice but to live with it. Others my have health problems. Some my only have weak immune systems but others are just waiting for their time. Your faith is tested if you have a deadly disease for it is a good factor to be thinking in the positive way. This could contribute to a more affirmative outlook in life or maybe a process which could help you to get well. Mostly, money is also a problem that people are coping up. We need money to survive for we use it to buy our needs in our life and one could only do it if he or she has money.

Just imagine how religion, race or health problems can do big effect in ones self and others. For teenagers like us, we experience problems in our studies. The hectic schedule, busy days, projects to comply and tests to prepare. Those are our burden in life. Our teenage life is also the span of time when we try to be independent and be responsible. This is a challenge for us to prove and to stand into. We also face difficulty indecision making especially on the course we would soon take for college.

Sometimes, we ask and blame the Almighty on why do we have problems. On why do we suffer from pain? I think, this is given to us so that we would learn from our mistakes and the lessons of life. It is given for us to pray, not to complain and to fight our problems and that we can not solve it by just sitting in the corner and crying out your heart out. It is to tell us that success is not acquired without pain.

A different perspective

A wonderful quote from the Bible, John 5:3, states that “The greatest love you can have for your friends is to give your life for them”. Friends, I think for one of us, is the most treasured gifts we receive from the divine person above aside from our parents. We may have met them in schools, parks or any part of the world where we interact with people. Mostly, friendship is given to everybody but there are only some of them who appreciates the move you have made and others my disregard it. When that gift is received whole-heartedly, a different bond is now created. As time went by, this feeling of anticipation is tested and if the clique has overcame the challenge, as well as offer their selves for its members, and it is a proof that each one in their group is true.

Cliques are formed by individuals of different culture, belief, and attitudes. This is the main reason why sometimes misunderstanding is triggered especially when people around them have different thinking than them. I, myself, belong to a group called FAJJYMEASS. Before, it was only FAJYME which represents for Florianne, Aiko, Jessa, Yolike, Michelle and Ernestine then Jezza, April, Shallunah and Sunshine came. At first, our small company was full of nice experiences especially when we eat together at section Bartlett. Another group was formed, still in Bartlett, called EECOGS. Their bunch was very opposite to ours. Time came when some of our members quit the group and transferred to the other one because of some misunderstanding. Even though our group ended up this way, I’m happy that our former members are still my friends. We conquered our quest for the first year in high school and second year came. I found new friends which are from Villamor like Juna, Novelyn, Czarina, Hazel, Doanne, April and many more. It was fun spending time with them for I was also talkative so we share ides and principles in life with them. In third year, it was quite lonely because most of my friends re in Sison but it were not bad at all. I discovered that some of my classmates like Eldee, was not that “selfish” as what others would say. Nico, a friend of mine since elementary, became one of my trusted friend. Michael, our batch’s math wizard, had the biggest contribution of all. He tells us corny jokes which are difficult to comprehend which, in the end, is the source of a boisterous laughter. We called our group the “Corny Corner”. I’m now in fourth year and things had changed. The childish students before are now matured even though some re still not that matured. I’m happy because a lot of my friends re in IV-TAN. I’ve encountered so many problems in school but my dear friends are there to help me. Happily, I was considered to be one of April’s daughters and became one of the ROYAL FAMILY. At first, I was shy because I think I’m not welcome to their group but they proved me wrong. They accepted me wholly without criticizing me.

As we grow older, we don’t think of the bad memories anymore. Instead, we cherish the fact that we had once lived; fight and felt love from our friends.

ME

I am Yolike Sablada Alverio, a seventeen year old teenage girl. I fall under the astrological zodiac sign of The Goat or Capricorn for I was born on the twenty-seventh of December in the year nineteen eighty-nine. I am a fourth year student of the University of the Philippines and from section Tan. My friends call me Yolike, Like or Yolz. Maybe you are wondering where I got my name. I am the daughter of Francisco and Yolanda Alverio. My mother’s nickname is Yoli and my father’s is Ike and when combined, you could form my name. It is quite unique and unusual. We are five children in the family and I am the eldest. Being the “ate” means a lot of responsibility. I have to help in the household chores as well as to be the epitome of my siblings. I’m also responsible in taking care of my grandma. Because she had a stroke, she needs to be checked if she feels something bad.

My biggest dream in life is to travel different places because I want to visit the wonderful spot/s possessed by each location. I am an adventurous kind of person which best explains why my personality jives with my love for Art. I am fond of doing creative stuffs as well as finding an alternative style of design for a certain object for it to look nicer and even in its best. I am also into experimenting colors and lay outing. Books, aside from artworks, are also my weakness. I love to read books on adventure and mystery like Angels and Demons, Nancy Drew, and The Da Vinci Code. When I read books, I visualize the thought of the story so that the details would be very clear. Having a movie marathon with my sister is one of the things I do when I am bored. I like to watch videos which in the end, initiates a moral lesson. While reading this blog, maybe you’ll think I’m boring but hey, I’m not just a bookworm or a couch potato. I am into sports too. I play volleyball, soccer baseball, scrabble and badminton. I also practice a little bit of softball, chess and tennis. I prefer to move because for me, it is more comfortable if I sweat and feel that my whole body is in motion.

“Yolike is nothing without her friends” this statement clearly describes my social life. I’m the person who’ll choose to chat to my friends rather than sit in the corner. I love to share my funny experiences as well as listen to my friends’ stories. My friends are my laughing partners and sometimes, advisers. Now that we re bout to graduate, I hope that we would still be classmates and continue our friendship. As I enter college, I want to meet new friends and I pray that they will be as understanding and loving as my friends.

I think I have told enough of myself and never judge a person by his or her name but by her heart.

My Burden

In my entire high school life, I have experienced many stressful day or week but for me, this week was the worst of all. This exigent school week of mine started last Tuesday, January 23, 2007. We took the NCAE and I was happy that we were dismissed earlier than the usual. I planned to research on my project for Health and go home directly but miserably, our teacher said that we would practice for our prom and we have to sty behind. Perhaps, we can go out of the campus but we can’t escape. The rehearsal was really bragging and most of the students were not listening and not paying attention to the teacher’s instructions.

Morning the following day, January 24, 2007(Wednesday), was the deadline for our Health project. I researched on the topic the other day and I saved it in the diskette and asked my classmate if he could print out the information for me for it was too long. My classmate was quite generous so he greed to do the printing. When I was to print my reaction and recommendation for the said project, the computer I was using can’t connect to Yahoo Briefcase so I had to ask my friend to open the site and save the thing I’ve written so that I could easily copy it in my computer. After setting up everything, I decided to print the page. When I arrive in our classroom, my classmate said that he was not able to do what I favored him to so I went back to Jakoona and told the women that I was to print something. Desperately, their printer hangs up and it took her long time to fix it but still, it didn’t produce any printout. I got back to UP and discovered that I was exactly ten minutes late and the fact that our teacher rescheduled the deadline.

Friday, January 26, 2007, came and I wasn’t feeling very well. I didn’t sleep the night before because I had to make my assignment in our council. Aside from this, my father left earlier which means that I have to take jeepney to school bringing all those twenty four pieces of one-eight cardboards. Student like me who is sleepless and carrying those heavy things would really be stressed out. After I arrived, I have to studied S and T Digest because we would have a test. I still have to rewrite my Calculus and Music project and file up my Health project.

Honestly, this week was not good to me at all. I think bad luck struck unto me that a little move I make results to a disaster. Everyone is in panic for we have to pass the required assignments all at the same time. Even though that week was full of hardships, I’m still glad that I managed it as calmly as possible. I hope and pray that the following school weeks won’t be that tiresome anymore. That each of us could comply with the given or asked project.

A destruction

Prom, for me, is the most awaited part of a student’s high school life. As what our teachers said, it is where we could interact and find friendship between the third year and fourth year students. When I was still in third year, I was very shy especially in the announcing of the pairing. It was mainly because I look up to the fourth years as my elder brothers and sisters and I respect them a lot. I see to it that I don’t give my partner a headache when we were to practice in stage. We were also to do our best in our presentations because the prom was likely a tribute to the seniors. And now that I’m in fourth year, I hope that the juniors would feel the same respect as we felt before. I also hope that they would take things seriously.

While we were in our classroom, one of our classmates announced that the pairing would be held in the afternoon. Some didn’t say anything but most of us disclaimed because we still have a make-up class and it would take us a long time to go home. The pairing took place in the covered court because it was raining that time. The first who was paired were our fourth year boys with the third year girls. After which, it was already the girl’s turn. My partner was Adrianne Paul Entese. I knew him a little because he was one of the most misbehaved students among the third years. At first, I said that I hate him to be my partner but later, I decided that as an elder sister to him, I should be the one to guide him because having a prom is not new to me anymore. We started practicing the whole event. My partner, as what I see, is not that serious. There was a time when we were called and he was not attentive enough so the teacher called us more than once. He also doesn’t know how to put his partner’s hand in the proper position. Adrianne took every practice as a joke. Last Friday, we practiced on our dance for the prom and I really had a hard time practicing with him. I don’t know but he doesn’t follow instructions and always make fun of me. I really feel bad but I just hold my temper because it would be shameful if I scold him in front of all those people. At last, it was the turn of the second pair and I was able to rest. I felt worst because I was not able to sleep the night before for I have to do some work and he was acting like that. I cried because I don’t understand my feelings anymore. I was very sleepy, stressed out, and he was adding to my problems.

During the prom, I hope he would behave and act as manly as possible. I also hope that my last prom won’t be the worst I’ll have.

NCAE 2007

After the tiresome week we have with our tests, we were able to rest for three days (that is Saturday, Sunday and Monday). Some of our classmates were curious if we were to take the NCAE for we were the only school who did not take the exam on the said date. Some people say that it is important to take the exam because if we won’t pass, we won’t be able to pursue our course. Some also say that it was only to determine what kind of course that would be appropriate for us and it is not a big deal. I really thought that we are exempted from it but unfortunately, I and my classmates are wrong. We took the NCAE last January 23. When we arrived in our classroom, there was a list on the wall which indicates on where we would stay. Students with family names starting from A to G fall on the first bracket and stays in Gonzales while those whose family names starting from H to T fall on the second one and stays in Tan. It was a bit funny because four of our classmates belong to the third bracket and stays in the Hometech room. It was only the four of them there. I do not know if they transferred in Tan because I directly proceeded to Gonzales. Because my family name started with A, I fall on the first bracket and stayed in Gonzales. Before the test, our proctor which was Mr. Jover Nuñez, allowed us to buy food in the canteen for us to consume while taking the test. The examination started at about 8:00 a.m. and was estimated to end at 2:45 p.m.

Our proctor distributed the answer sheets and guided us on how and where to put our answers. After which, we were given the test booklets and instructed to answer the first part of the test only. The NCAE was composed of mostly seven to eight parts. There was a Math ability test, Verbal test, Non- Verbal test, Clerical test and many more. Some of the parts were long, about sixty items and some were short, only ten items. There were parts which were very easy like the Clerical test and we were able to finish earlier than the given time. Other parts require comprehension like the Verbal test because we were to read a selection and we were asked some questions. Some requires analyzing the problems like the Non- Verbal test because we were to point out what is the next in the sequence of pictures.

Whether the NCAE was helpful or not, at least we were assured that we had took the exam and if ever it is needed in college, we won’t have any problems in the processing or filling of documents. Even though it added to our stress and pressure, it was done as smoothly as possible. Aside from this, we would also know on what would be the appropriate course that we could take.

Disappointed

I was surfing the internet this morning when my yahoo messenger popped up and one of my classmates told me that the result of the University of the Philippines College Admission Test (UPCAT) was out already. Honestly, I was nervous when I got this news. The UPCAT was somewhat hard and I wasn’t feeling well that day. When I was about to view the list, I feel very sad when I noticed that my name was not there. It’s very frustrating to know that you did your best but maybe, it wasn’t the best to be able to pass the test. I’m happy for my friends especially my seatmate who passed the entrance exam and I know they are worthy of passing. At first, it was so nerve-wracking because the website for the results is slow and sometimes can’t give the information right away and your there in front of the computer waiting if you have passed. After which, I asked my classmate if she passed and she told me that she didn’t. We were disappointed but we just laugh out what we feel. The slots in the UPCAT were not meant for us and we must accept that. As what my cousin said, it’s not the only entrance test that I took so it’s proper that I accept the fact and hope for the best on the results of the other tests.

If you are going to ask me how I feel right now, I would answer you with “very bad”. I know that passing the entrance test depends on me. Maybe I was not prepared or I miss a lot of questions, etc.! I feel so dumb by not passing that test. Some will say that it’s just a test but for me, it’s not. The percentage of UP High School students could make or break UP College and I was really ashamed of the fact that I’m one of those who could possibly break UP College. Even though I would not go to college in UP, I don’t want to fail and at least, I could prove to myself that I’m capable of being an “iskolar ng bayan”. As what had happened, I didn’t pass and it’s His plan. Somewhat it’s funny to think that it could be a sign that I must take up BS Nursing and not Fine Arts. But no! I’m not giving up my dream and I’ll pursue it after I will graduate from college. Even if it hurts to know that I might not be a UPIAN.

It’s never too late to be sorry so I’ll just give my best in the next or all the test that I would be taking up someday and I would promise to myself that I would do better next time. Better in which I could pass already and not be ashamed of myself. Better in which my parents could be proud of me. And better in which that I would not be hurt this way.

A dream not pursued

As we all know, BS Nursing is the most in demand course today. Most of the nursing graduates in our country took this course maybe because they really want to be a nurse or mainly because their parents want them to. It’s nice to know that these people really want to be a nurse but it’s sad when they only did this for their parents. I, myself, am one of the students who’ll take up nursing because of my parents. Being an interior designer is my ambition but many, including my parents, said that being a designer won’t give me high salary and good opportunity. For me, high income or an opportunity of a lifetime is good but would I be happy with it. Every time my classmates or teachers would ask me what course I want to take up, I would answer them “Nursing!” and then say “because my parents want me to”. I, personally, don’t want to be a nurse mainly because I easily get nervous especially when the people around me are in panic. What would happen if I would be assigned in the emergency section? But, as what my other classmates would say, we don’t have a choice. If we don’t obey our parents, we won’t be able to go to college because our parents wouldn’t spend for other course.

My parents want me to be a nurse so I would follow them even though this means that I’ll be throwing my dream away. The admission test in Cebu Normal University had already started and I’m one of those who took the entrance exam. We were grouped according to our family names. I belong to cluster A and I’m at the 8th seat. There were Science, Math, I.Q. and Aptitude tests. It was hard but I’m hoping I could pass so that I would have many schools to choose from. I also took the entrance test in Cebu City Medical Center. We started at about 8:00 a.m. and we ended at 1:30 p.m. Unlike the test CNU, we were not grouped and they just permitted us to sit anywhere in the room. The test was also hard, but taking the exam in CNU helped me because the Aptitude and Science test was the same in CCMC.

I’m afraid that I might not pass the entrance tests I took but I hope I would. What would happen if I don’t pass? What course would I take up? Or would I still go to college? Even if I don’t want the course, I don’t want my parents to be disappointed of me. I know it’s not right to pursue others dreams but we don’t know; maybe my parents are right in their decision for me. I wish that someday I won’t regret on the acts that I have done and I would be successful in this field. If I’m given the chance and I still have time, I want to pursue my dream and take up Fine Arts. It’s realty true that you can never serve two gods at the same time.

Wickedly Perfect?

Interested on reality TV shows? Wickedly perfect is one of the reality-based TV shows which I’m fond of. The show is all about doing a masterpiece out of the guidelines, materials and time given. Different people from all walk of life especially those whose jobs are in the design (interior decorator, painter, etc.), are mostly in the show. They are grouped into two in which they would work on a certain area, a barren land for example, and make it as nice as possible. Aside from the group project that they would make, they would also create an individual project based also on the given instructions. These are important because if their group won’t win, their individual project would determine if they would be nominated by the judge and unfortunately, go home. Their group mates would vote the person which they think, had helped and contributed the most.

There was a time when they are assigned to create a family park of their own choice of design. The teams were given a barren lot, equipments for transporting sand and gravel like back hoe and a time limit of twenty-four hours. Each person was given a small plant which they would trim and also choose a specific design.

If you are into creative and art field like me, the TV show said above would be appropriate for you. I even made a bag out of old jeans! There was a time when they are to make a short show in which they are to create a decorative or useful work of art. I got the idea from one of the final seven contestants of the reality search. One time, I saw a pair of jeans and my mother was to put it as a rag. I told her not to and I cut it and start working with it until I finished it.

Some people say that reality TV shows are scripted but for me, they are wrong. If you really watch every inch of the show, you would see how the participants manage their time by not sleeping just to finish their work. You would also be amazed on how a certain person uses his or her skills in making a beautiful piece of art. Even their quarrels among the contestants are shown. For example, person A has commented on the work of person B and person B took it personally and tells the story to person C and person C told person A and the whole thing went on and on until the quarrel grows and there would be a fight against them. This would be a bad sign for the team cooperation could be affected and each person might not agree on the planned thing to do. And this is what they call as scripted? They must think twice or they must watch first before they judge it. It’s not only a reality search but also a show which makes us realize the different talents and skills within us.