The Penniless Wanderer

It was one hot morning when the a few people of the block instantly had an interesting game of ‘jokingly’ stealing important stuffs of other people. The game was just to make fun of other people’s belongings and make them react in such uncomfortable situations, thus attempt to capture the culprit by personal investigation and some sort of friendly alliances. Of course, barking on the wrong tree was inevitable, but it offers a great deal of add-up to the excitement. Mobile phones are on top of the list of the bulk of stolen items. The game has no precise rule. One must be patient to get the item back in the fastest and easiest way he could think of. It may seem easy but it’s not, especially when the entire block takes part in worsening the case of missing items, therefore, making pinpointing of who’s the suspect really hard.
I was among the founders of the game. I was once the suspect in keeping January’s mobile phone under her chair and the person behind Chiwee’s missing handkerchief. I had a lot of fun… only to realize that I was victimized by the unsuspicious maneuvers of an unlikely suspect, Miguel. He stole by wallet and never had the guts to return it until lunchtime was over!
Since my wallet was gone and I was left empty-handed (financially speaking), I had no choice but to wander… basically everywhere. I went to the library and toured the entire campus! Then, since I have not seen any of my friends around, I was forced to walk half a kilometer towards the mall. There, I thought of things to gain vengeance. It was such a hurt to ever skip my most important meal of the day! My anger overshadowed me, even leading me to think of harsh things against Miguel, the missing-in-action thief! I thought of bringing red paint the day after and pouring it over his white school uniform. I thought of stealing his wallet just like what he had done, thus, following the principle of an eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth (well, with some modifications because I wasn’t planning on returning it thereafter). And also, I thought of making the rest of his college life harder than he could ever conceive of… crueler than the way teachers usually treat us!
The agony of killing time by wandering finally ended when the bell rang and all of us were about to attend the start of the afternoon class. It was over indeed, but my anger raging within me tells me that it isn’t, especially as it screams louder than the sound of hunger in my stomach. I entered the room silently, craving not for food but for a sharp-edged knife so I could stab the guy responsible for the uncomfortable feeling I felt deep inside. Miguel acted as if nothing happened. That scapegoat never took any form of responsibility whatsoever. Magically, the wallet appeared before my eyes, out of nowhere. No one was brave enough to comfort me. My fiery eyes somehow pushed any consoling soul to come close.
Then, I realized, that was a start of a war. Miguel and I never talked for two months. It was hard because you get to see him everyday. Miguel actually had the guts to play jokes on me because he was such a good friend of mine. He probably never knew that he just crossed my borders. That’s a lesson to learn, I’d say.

DNA2

Recently, I watched the whole episode of DNA, an animated TV series about DCM bullets, time machines, combat robots, lame way of impressing girls and a lot of hot scenes! LOL. The story is really interesting. It is about an attempt of an agency in the future to change the not-so-good past which led to negative effects in their time. According to the story, there was once a young man named Junta who left hundreds of women pregnant. Junta was tagged as the Mega-Playboy, the reason behind the problems on population growth in the future. To resolve the problem, Karin was sent back to the past when Junta was still young and vulnerable, and she realized that Mega-Playboy ironically was such a loser and allergic to women. Junta pukes every time he sees a naked chick in front of him. So, Karin thought he accomplished her mission by firing the DCM bullet in Junta’s chest to prevent the DNA of a womanizer from becoming history’s most dreaded girl magnet! Unfortunately, she failed in her quest to change the past because she brought along the wrong bullet, thus, turning Junta into the person they feared him to be. TSk3.

The story isn’t just that. It has a lot of interesting and complicated scenes! Seriously. There are a lot of bathing scenes, body exposures, seductive chicks and ahhh!!! I can’t tell you the rest. It’s up to you to find out how far the story will go. LOL. Please watch Masakuzi Katsura’s DNA! Be impressed with Karin’s hidden love and sacrifice for Junta, Ami’s care and love for his childhood friend Junta, Tomoko’s desire for Junta even up to the point of sacrificing her relationship with her best friend Ami, and Kotomi’s love for Junta causing her to dump her boyfriend Ryujii. Everyone seem to be hooked with the irresistible appeal of Junta! Can’t he at least share with me his DNA? LOL.

Anyway, I love the OST of the story. The lyrics goes like this:

The distant wind wraps itself around me,
And it doesn’t let me reach you,
I try to arrange my words in my mind,
But you’re gazing elsewhere through the window
To some place far away.
I have a premonition that never changes,
It lingers on.
All the days since then have been filled with clouds
The changing of the seasons
May have erased the promise that we made
Even if I reach out with both my hands,
Our hearts remain apart,
The changing of the seasons
Have already taken the one I love from me,
When I look back into those eyes
I let out a little sigh,

At last!

Tropang Ulupong... what's left of us are memories='c

Tranquil Versus Fast-paced

Such a dilemma indeed… sigh. What would I choose? Who should I work for? Both these huge companies are multinational and truly award-winning. Both even offer good staring pay. There’s just a thin line that sets them far apart… And now, the pressure’s on me. They’re calling, waiting for my answer. What should I choose?

1. Is it the company that is located in the ‘primitive’ areas of the north? …A company whose nature of industry is really interesting but would necessitate me to live away from the ‘civilization’ and away from my friends? Should I work for this company that would highlight my expertise in management and gives me a great chance of promotion and working further abroad?

2. Or is it the company that is located in the busy work-stations of the country’s capital? …a company that naturally requires me to work rigorously with very little rest but great opportunity to find a substitute job (in adjacent companies)? …a company that offers a work with very little emphasis on trainings and education, not even in line to the degree I finished? … a work that gives a great chance to have fun and stay in the comfort of my friends? Sigh. Am I ready to experience the fast-paced work environment?

Now, decide… (Clock’s ticking).

Interlude: Wanna have fun? Click here.

Height of Poverty

Para makilala naman ako sa pagiging nationalistic. ^__^

Kahirapa’y tila di na natin maiibsan,
Gutom at hapis, hapdi ng karalitaan,
Anu’t ano pa’y ito ri’y malalampasan,
Pagsubok lamang yan, turing ng ilan!

Kaya mo ‘to, makabagong Pilipino,
Sipag at tyaga, sagot sa pag-asenso,
Iwasan na ang inggitan, magkaisa tayo
Malalim na pang-unawa, simulan mo!

Caught on Paper

9:45 am, January 2003
Burdock Room
Earth Science Class, Sir Nealega

Ladies and Gentlemen….

THE NOTEBOOK PASS

Prologue (Torn Page of my Notebook)
At the time only a few knew…

Emily: Love? I said how should I know how much you love me? Through richer scale?
Charlie: Aram mo na kung [gaano] naghahapot ka pa…
Emily: Urg! Is it like Dante-Melody or Josh-Melody or Bien to Lola or Matt Murdock to Elektra Natchios or Matt to Will?
Charlie: Huh?
Emily: Is your love for me as much as any of them?
Charlie: Like Dante to Melody perhaps… because it’s against all odds…
Emily: Oh really? I think Matt Murdock’s is more than that… Have you watched Daredevil? They are so ‘bagay’ together!!
Charlie: …like us? =P
Emily: Your answer was Dante… so if that’s your answer then you know my answer.
Charlie: Huh? Can I change it to Matt and Elektra?
Emily: Have you watched it?
Charlie: Nope… (attempts to change the topic). I told Cris about the ‘casual thing’.
Emily: Everything?
Charlie: Yup…just now… she knew it from SM (Sailor Moon).
Emily: Pira pa ang dapat makaaram?
Charlie: She just approached me and asked me frankly. You know I’m not so good with lying.
Emily: It stops there! …until her only!
Charlie: She is talkative!
Emily: Then tell her to shut up!
Charlie: She won’t. I know her and she’s really one hell of a talkative gal.
Emily: THEN KILL HER!

FACT: Nothing has been fabricated or modified in the above conversation. I am Charlie. Guess who’s Emily. ^__^ Nope. Keep guessing….

TIGSIK 5-7-5

I commend Chiwee,
For her diligence and wit,
Majestic beauty!

I commend Louie,
For his passion so manly,
Loyalty must see!

I commend Jan-Jan,
For her luck and being fun
True love’s on the run!

I commend myself,
For the power I am served
Thy love of thyself!

Gladiator’s Top Chicks

Beauty and Brains. Wow. They’re really good. LOL.

Where’s Penny?

Rumor’s spreading… good and bad. Where are you Penny?

I hate my graduation Pix!

Why do MOST people think that this photo rocks? I certainly don’t think so. I look so fat and stupid! If there’s any chance, I would like to have a refund! I want to tear this thing apart! Sigh. I am just so ashamed of how I look. And to make things worse, the studio owners hung this picture together with their samples in front of their shop! Great! I’m an instant celebrity… the school’s laughingstock!

The Disappointed Granny

By Michael Arevalo
This morning, I went to Ateneo’s Registrar Office and waited for the release of my Transcript. While waiting, an old woman came in and drove people’s attention. She was disappointed upon seeing that the grades of her Nursing student grandson wasn’t as outstanding as she thought. Poor Lola. Tsk Tsk.

A funky granny on a blistering Saturday morn,
Stood with weight set on a rusty cane she bore,
Her ghastly velvet housecoat intricately worn,
Presume from unseen censer, she did outpour!

My benign behavior made me to thinking
Beguiling my sad fancy into genuine smiling,
What vital matter betook her into such willing?
To stroll across the hall alone and sighing.

At the Registrar she requested their support,
Grades of her grandson was what she purports,
In patience she waited as they plainly sort,
Pile of papers, unknown about what it’s worth.

Handed her over the file was what they did,
And gave modest granny a moment to peek,
Few seconds more and she began to feel weak
The AF’s and INC’s made her close to get sick!

Oh, poor grandma was left in disgust and grim,
Angered to her Johnny whose grades were failing
Fiery eyes, discreetly concealed, were but unseen
Her madness showed in no syllable expressing!

Then, her emotional outbursts were but controlled,
The old woman uttered her melancholic thoughts,
She startled the room’s stillness, rose my heartbeat
Her shriek and stridence shook me on my seat!

SEVER

by Michael Arevalo

Addressed to my Ex-girlfriend=P

With anguish and valor I wished to save it,
To ensure colliding hearts to forever beat,
Give chance to the dying feeling to relive,
And put thy world of sorrow out thou deceit.

The dew of the morning sun to me greets
His toast, perhaps, for a starting day of grief
To signal loneliness in thy body to creep
Make thee realize that I am alone and weak.

Farewell to you, oh thy four-year lover,
For thou cake you gave, and those daily letters
Soar high and seek for your happily ever after…
Thanks for thou heart I returned for the better!

Cookies and Balloons

To kookie and her love for balloons=P
Written under the influence of alcohol.

An empty cookie jar, left with nothing but crumbs,
Set beside thou window, facing the tranquil farm,
Alone amidst the sweet and wholesome hour,
Allured by the lively herbs and flowers from afar.

Then, just as the jar reckon thy vanishing array,
Mum placed freshly baked cookies from a tray,
With a dozen cookies with peanuts and raisins,
The jar is filled, alas, thy wondrous purpose begins.

One palatable cookie inside the jar then mumbles,
‘Why does thy life be spent imprisoned, left crumbled?
Why does demise become thy end in humane craving?
Thy existence is but to be accomplished by dying!’

‘…the world is unfair, for how it has created thee,
With fragile physique, crazed crust, without beauty.
Unlike a balloon, flying freely above for all to see,
So intact, bold and firm, fascinates everybody!

The jar sympathized with thy poor fellow’s grief,
But gains momentum with a phrase he’s to give,
His rich voice started to cause the latter’s dismay,
He hoped to utter words that would end the cookie gay.

‘Dump thou thoughts of vulnerability, my dear.
For thou purpose exceeds what wondrous balloons offer.
Balloons may give pleasure in thy master’s eyes,
But never can thy give him joy free of hunger and sigh.

‘Thou life may hath given, but for a cause so noble,
To satisfy thy human’s appetite is far more unbelievable.
To gaze at balloons soar does nothing to a summer of dreary
But to fill their stomachs surely would make them merry!’

My Artistic Inclination

Mike's Paintings to be Auctioned!

Starting bid: 50 dollars

Email Mike for more details.=P

Harry Potter
Date: March 2005
I think it’s what they call addiction… LOL.

Rays
Date: January 2000
The very first painting I made with watercolor and a mixture of Tulco paint. I was only twelve by then.

Such Scary Symphony

Download my Composition

Composed by Mike

Summer of 2007.

What do you expect when you keep a handsome man and an old piano under one roof? LOL. Well, instantly, the piano gets played and the man becomes a composer! Who would believe that the man knows not a single piano piece? He doesn’t even know the do-re-me!

Genuine Sarcasm

The Faithful Ones
The Serious Class Discussion
The Sporty Freaks at the Covered Courts
Chiwee’s Reticence Unveiled
The Agony of Waiting (for Food)
The Sad Faces of Goodbye

At the Gateway of the Real World

By Michael Arevalo, 11:54pm, April 30, 2008, Di Makatulog
Eto ang napapala ng sobrang takot magtrabaho. LOL. Pwede bang mag-apply na poet na lang?

I am in a voyage towards a new wilderness;
From afar, I witness the terrain of the unknown,
Where people say monster creeps and hides;
The place I am bound to be crushed and torn.

The vicious fear engulfs thy whole body,
I feel it in thy nerves rushing to thy swollen heart,
It lays down from thy toes, moving to every part of thee,
Whilst allured in discomfort, I’m vulnerable to part!

Then, with a leap of faith, I took a single step,
Thy mournful chirps, oh yes, is but I can speak
Alas, thy carping tongue uttered a mortal alarm,
‘When wilt thy agony end and success overcome?’

What fear cannot thy strength raise and quell,
Thy trust dwells amidst the harsh wind of fate,
I hope to uncover the light and thy wishes to forbear;
Thy present conquest is yet never beyond compare.

I seek for light as vapors in thy morning dream,
To battle imperviousness; to conquer recklessness,
To be vigor, and act when called for superior bliss,
To be sequacious and adjoin the life-restoring beam!

Bow. (applause!) This is thy thought so perfectly could I represent. But thy sight is failing with thy unruly dizziness. Thy concluding yawn marks my limit to work. Goodnight oh mindful ‘overtime’ companion (tigshutdown ang computer), so long thy greater blaze (inoff na ang lamp shade), and sweet dreams thou handsome poet (inadress sa salamin). Yawn! (At natulog).

In their Photo Album

My Italian Cousins: The Martinsigh Brothers

Paulo and Lucas. They’re JUST the owners of hundreds of cars in Italy. Nothing’s really special about them. LOL. Ate Chix and Uncle Romy at the Big Brother House

Wow. Rock On Ate Chicqui! ^__^
Guess Who?

Rico Barrera, Chix Alcala and Sam Milby. Yehaa! Pinsan ko yang sa gitna! LOL.
My Cool Granies

Now, who would think they’re in their 80’s?
Not so long ago…

I really hate this picture. What a pose!
Ate Annie in Canada

Can’t refuse the aroma of the freshly opened chocolate bars? LOL.
No one thought she’d go that far…

Tsk. Tsk. The star in the making. Yehaa.

The rest is HISTORY!

I really hate history. I hate memorizing places, names, and events. I have this low memory retention problem which further gives me trouble in conceptualizing events chronologically. Grr. I hope this blog can help me remember just in case I lose track.

Charcoal Masterpiece

Sa paghahalukay ko ng baul, nakita ko ang sketchpad ko. Walang date itong isa eh. Sayang. Pero hula ko mga Second year highschool ko ‘to ginawa:

THE JONAS BROTHERS!

Whoo!! Rock On Jonas Brothers! Yehaa!! ^__^

The Jonas Brothers is an American pop-rock band from Wyckoff, New Jersey made up of three brothers, Joe, Nick, and Kevin Jonas. All three brothers attended Eastern Christian High School in North Haledon, New Jersey.[1] They have released two albums - It's About Time in 2006, and Jonas Brothers in 2007, and will release A Little Bit Longer in 2008.

Man’s best friend plays soccer

Airbud, 1997
Written September 2004

Soccer is a known sport in foreign countries, especially in South America where it originated. Annually, several countries would send their representatives to compete with those of other countries in ‘kicking balls’ game. The committees are very strict to follow the standardized rules and regulations. Though, never in any rules of American soccer had a dog being forbidden from playing.

The story of Airbud which is a Walt Disney film implies that even dogs could play soccer. Of course, this is quite improbable since dogs are nothing but… dogs. They’re domestic animals and they’re man’s best friend. Thus, aside from it’s hard to train dogs as a player, it is difficult for them to play because they are small (compared to human players). Their natural characteristics of being small can be seen as an advantage for the competing team… or not. LOL. How in the hell could someone train a dog to pass a ball to a teammate? Well, first of all, how can he be able to distinguish a teammate from an opponent? Sigh.

Buddy, contrary to what people think, is not an ordinary dog. He may seem too vulnerable but he is such a profitable pup. Many were impressed by his ability to play and become famous in the world of soccer.

Buddy, a well-breed dog by a young man named Josh (Kevin Zegers) of Fernville, once played for America. The movie states that Buddy have won several intervillage soccer competition which made him famous and an asset to the world cup team of the USA.

The plot of the story is quite simple and highly predictable. But, truly, it is interesting. Having a dog as a lead character is a bit rare in the movie industry nowadays. I would take huge effort to direct a non-human cast. It was proven in the ‘sneak peek’ to how the movie was done. Extreme effort was shown among the crews and staff. That, fortunately, was paid off by having 4.5 million videos sold all over the USA alone.

What I really like in the story is the way the story shifted from ‘cute and funny’ genre into a more serious love story. Talk about dogs having romantic scenes together while watching TV! I also like the presence of the antagonists who were also hilarious with their dumbness in the latter part of the story. And also, I would like to have the magic whistle that lets other dogs… I mean all sorts of dogs… come together in an instant. That is just so interesting. Not to mention Josh’s relationship with a migrant woman… uhm… it was romantically humorous. ^__^

Dogs are truly fascinating. Some people believed that dogs can be trained and develop certain abilities that exceed present human expectations. Scientists say that animals have functional brains though smaller than ours. In the recent researches, dogs are proven to be able to sniff certain chemicals that are hazardous to human health. They can detect bombs, pirated discs, and even cancer. They can act as a doctor and could do CPR. They can detect if you have high blood sugar with a single sniff. Nevertheless, they could be a companion and a savior. This present conclusions prove that dogs have a powerful brain backed by amazing senses. They have the ability to retain in their memory what they are taught to do. This ability varies from different animals, depending on the size and capacity of their brains. Wow. Ever heard of the dog that effectively uses the bathroom, flushes the toilet, knows how to switch on the light and other appliances, and knows how to give you a massage after work? Well, it’s true. As they say, only in the Philippines. =P

Dogs, like all other animals need proper care and genuine love. This is the first step to properly communicate with them. They must understand that their owners would do them no harm.

The Hot Zone

A book written by Richard Preston

Written when I was in Highschool

The novel is about the truth behind the twenty-three years of terrifying outbreaks of deadly incurable filoviruses. Based in real life, the story of these highly infectious viruses, Marburg and Ebola, began when it swept throughout Africa with a horrifying and extremely devastating range of effects, brutally killing 50% to 90% of their victims. The host (those infected) suffers from throbbing headache, pain behind the eyeballs, and backache. The victim also becomes nauseated, spikes a fever and vomits- ‘something black, speckled liquid and stew of tarry granules mixed with flesh red arterial blood’. The filoviruses did not remain in the rainforest of central Africa, they also appeared in the Reston Monkey House in the suburbs of Washington D.C. This potentially real-life story is scientifically investigated by military in Biosafety level, and a major biohazard operation is performed to control the spread of these viruses. Since there is no definite place where the virus came from, scientists, SWAT team and military soldiers theorized that the Kitum Cave in the rainforest of Mount Elgon is the major origin, and distinct monkeys are the carrier. They experimented on hundreds of dying monkeys to further support their hypotheses and at the same time search for a possible cure. The experiments, however, were not successful.

The plot is really fascinating. It was thrilling and would keep you wondering if such thing could really happen. While reading, you’ll feel like you’re a part of the social and health catastrophe that endangers the welfare of mankind. Every event is described efficiently; so detailed that you’ll feel how gross it is to have been infected by the fatal virus.

Charles Monet, the lead character, reminds me of my own recklessness. Moreover, he personifies a side of me who often forgets to think twice before arriving at a make-or-break decision. This characteristic often leads me to a face a negatively induced situation that affects the well-being of others. In the story, for instance, Charkes visited the Kitum Cave without sufficient knowledge about the possibility of being infected. He crept inside and touched carcasses of elephants and other animals, and even some shining crystals, not knowing that those were dangerous. Not just that, he posed a threat in the entire human race by the being a virus carrier.

What is Philosophy?

A Personal Definition
Nosebleed ako nung First Year College

The real definition of philosophy cannot be objectively defined because one must first learn to philosophize before he can fully arrive at a concrete definition of what it is. Simply put, it is through experiencing it that a person can define it. One must learn to search meaning for his life though rational reflection by considering his thought and holistic experience. The task of philosophy includes commitment, or the active search for truth, proper attitude in approaching reality, considering a way of life and thinking philosophically. Philosophy, as a dynamic process, presupposes a beginning known as the act of questioning. This process starts with one’s self through asking who he is, and how and why he exists. This act somehow relates to the act of doubting of Rene Descartes which implies that one must learn to question the truthfulness of things. Also, the process of philosophizing implies liberation or freedom from unquestioning acceptance. One must be open to possibilities or to recognize the past and potentialities. Liberation leads to self-project and affirmation of oneself through personal philosophical resolution. Therefore, philosophy is a subversive activity or something that is open to historicity and open to what can and should be. Another characteristic would be the personhood which suggests that philosophy is a personal task that is operative in life (creative project). Creative project is the continuous fulfillment of his possibilities through integration of his experiences and thus, his philosophical world-view becomes the basis of discourse with his fellowmen.

Good Morning

Written during my English I Class
A Classroom Activity

The sun rises wonderfully over the field,
Moving closer, restoring hope throughout the land;
Slowly driving nearer as the clock ticks,
Embracing colossal darkness with carroty glow;

Oh, Cirrus clouds, your majestic beauty then appears,
After the mountains and valleys stepped out of the dullness,
Birds flutter as the rays illuminate over the foggy flowers,
Then thy concluding yawn, cheers for a new day of bliss!

THE BATTLE OF THE CENTURY

Laban na!

Who will win?

From the blue corner, wearing a blue suit made of non-waterproof silk and cotton, weighing 400 lbs., the man of steel with an “I love Louis Lane’ tattoo on the left check of his ass, SuperManiac Louie! (Clap clap… Boooo!!!)

From the red corner, wearing a maroon suit made of pure Kryptonium Ore, with built-in anti-X-ray vision and anti-laser sensory device, a locomotor shoes that enhances agility and speed, web stings made of addictive rugby, and a compact MP3 player. Ladies and Gentlemen, the man who can use Kagebushin technique, has Super strength, has Mutant powers of Magneto, has Luffy’s elasticity, and can summon Poseidon’s thunder and lightning… SpiderMike! (Standing Ovation…Whooo!!!!!)

Drake Raevin’s christening!

I am officially a Godfather! Last April 27, 2008, I attended the christening of a cute little boy named Drake Raevin at the Metropolitan Cathedral. He is the son of my classmate back in elementary, Mae, who was then the class’ valedictorian. She married Marvin, his very first crush and all-time lover (yeha!). I really admire the relationship that this couple has. They’ve been together since our kindergarten years. Now that they’re married and have Drake with them, I couldn’t be happier.

Drake
This is Drake: so cute, eh?

Russel and I before Drake’s christening.

Yehaa. Notice Ruz’ blouse. It was worn backwards…seriously… and it took us an hour or two to notice it. LOL. Everyone couldn’t help but laugh.

Nice shot
A picture taken by a professional photographer. Tsk. Tak. Don’t ever lend Russel the camera… she’s better off with the syringe.

Emkhae, Mae, Drake and Mike
Drake, where’s the monster?

LOL. Drake’s so sure where the monster is. Good boy!

Stop kissin’ the monster, Mike!

My friends for almost two decades.
On the right side is Hannah. She came back from Manila for a visit. Wow. It’s been several years all right...

ADOBE PHOTOSHOP FREAK

Summer is a bit boring. My TV’s broken and I am left with nothing but this computer. Just to ease my boredom, I tried to ‘fix’ some pictures using Adobe… and since I have the entire prerogative to post anything on my blog, I have uploaded the first few sets of my ‘masterpiece’. LOL. Scroll down if you want to laugh to what I call ART. April, Louie and Mike. Uhmm.. you hardly recognize, eh?
That’s Me and Tang. Wow. I'm beside the future CEO…^__^

My best bud Chiwee and I at the beach. Tsk Tsk. Sooo happy??

JusTiCe mEN!

Justice is generally defined as the giving what is due to the other. Most of the time, however, people tend to get confused about its real meaning. The real basis of justice has nothing to do with laws, equity, and the satisfaction of needs. Rather, it is based on the presumptions of human dignity.
The Filipino expression, ‘Huwag mong ilagay ang batas sa iyong mga kamay,’ is an indication of how much we value laws when considering justice. This is a socially accepted standard; not to act against the predefined laws is a moral obligation. However, there are problems in considering laws as our basis for being just. First is that laws are made, thus, man is responsible for creating it using a subjective approach and having a certain degree of bias. Second is that laws change and therefore it evolves and varies as time goes by. Geographical differences (especially between nations) limit the universal application of laws. The injustice, for instance, exists in courts where the wealthy people are influential and in control. Rich individuals are capable of hiring better lawyers than the poor ones. The dissimilarity and unequal rights poses a greater possibility of the rich to gain victory in the court. In a narrow perspective, even lawyers are unjust because they work for money and refuse to stand for what is right. Truly, this inequality by means of wealth leads to unjust actions.
The second misconception is when one relates justice with equity. When one breaks a chocolate bar into eight equal parts for his siblings, he may be unjust in some way. The real basis of justice is never equity because some may need more than what is given. The situation they are in (for instance, if one is in grave situation and the other is not) must be clearly analyzed prior to making sound judgments. The real basis of justice is giving what people need and not what you think is right for them.

When you see a beggar roaming around the streets, would you give him some coins? Oftentimes, we do that because of pity and our drive to reach out. As they say, Filipinos are naturally kind and loving people. With such act, do we consider ourselves being just? The real basis of justice is not the satisfaction of needs. As they say, ‘Give a man a fish and he’ll live for a day, but teach him how to fish and he’ll live for a lifetime’. That means, if you really want to help a beggar, you must do something that will dramatically change his life forever. You can help street children not by giving them lollipops but by sending them to DSWD. Furthermore, you can help an adult beggar by giving them livelihood. This way, you can be assured of their good future.
The basis of justice is human dignity because it’s through human dignity that man becomes equal with others in being rather than of having. Thus, one must consider the total concrete situation of man in relation to the other when we want to be just. Dignity is therefore determined by the kind of relationship that influences the life and action of the person. I truly believe this new definition of justice because it is more concrete and fair insofar as the welfare of mankind is concerned.

New Friend and New Career Option

Today, I was interviewed for PLDT. As usual, I came in late. In fact I was the last person interviewed. There were five of us in the batch of applicants but only two were hired. I was among the two. It was so unfortunate that those people who came from far places didn't make it. The secondary school English teacher failed the interview, so does the 2-year Sutherland Customer Care Representative. The honorary student with a lot of co-curricular activities also failed. There were just a few who were accepted. Good thing I learned my lesson. Not to brag and stay focused on what I'm saying. Yehaa. Aireen and I, both Ateneo graduate, nailed the gruesome test!

The Odd Feeling of Unemployment

Sigh. I'm so confused. Should I stay here in Naga or should I go somewhere else? Should I study law or take up my masters degree or should I work? Sigh. I hate this feeling...

OopZ! I did it again!

Call Center Agents. Hmmm. Why do I always think that it's a high-end job? During interviews, I mess up! I often brag on my accomplishments and my amazing personal qualities. I think that it's the best way of selling myself. I make use of exaggerated words to emphasize my traits and superb potential. Now I realize those weren't necessary. Call centers seek those who can speak English and nothing more. Too bad I can speak Mandarin just as good. ^__^ "Mike, you're over-qualified!" Yehaa...

Unwelcomed Guest

It was eleven in the morning when an unknown disturbance came to ruin my sleep. It wasn’t my dad’s chickens doing the Toktoraok or the cats playing on the rooftop. It was my old friend who came in for a visit. He came to ask about the Misibis employment… but the topic was often diverted to things about Barri, his crush (I guess). His name’s Peter and he’s uhmm… gay. Peter and I never really mingled as friends. We were childhood foes and we really never dared staying at one place together. Anyway, I was ‘cornered’ so I had to entertain him. I guess he enjoyed my hospitality that he stayed for the next three and a half hours. How did it go? Honestly I don’t know. He just played some games on my computer and watched Beowulf. Same old same old. We never talked. LOL.

Achievement

"My biggest achievement is having been able to finish college as a Cum Laude at Ateneo de Naga University. Along with this achievement comes my overall personal growth which is shaped by the Ateneo community. I have been exposed to the realities of the business world by starting up my own business. It also such a great accomplishment to be able to have the privilege to attend to various national seminars and inter-school painting competitions (where I usually win). Above all, the greatest indication of my genuine success is making my parents proud."

Organized Chaos

I went to attend mass with my dad on a Saturday afternoon at a nearby church. We went shopping after and bought something for dinner. I was craving for a McDonald’s float so I decided to buy a To Go. Then, suddenly, as I was waiting for dad, I saw her in a yellow shirt. She was walking around with a guy and I didn’t know what to do. Sigh. Part of me wanted to approach her (and probably spank the guy she’s with) and another part wanted me to go home and hide under my blanket. That was the first time I ever saw her with someone up-close. Why am I getting jealous? We’re not even together! Wake up Mike!

The Seeker

Yesterday, I passed by Trofir and saw some new movies displayed on the racks. Our TV had to be fixed so I was hesitant to rent some movies. But my craving for a highly entertaining movie took over me, so I rented four. One of which was entitled The Seeker: The Dark is Rising. The movie was awesome! The reason why I chose to rent the movie was because the word ‘seeker’ seemed like interesting (Qudditch was actually the thing I had in mind). It has been a long time since I watched a movie about kids so I took a shot at the film… and I really loved it! It would rate... 9/10. The plot, though predictable, was cool. I highly recommend people to try watching it!

Beowulf: PAUSO

I also watched Beowulf (just now). The movie was full of fighting scenes, which is good, and an amazingly extraordinary plot. It was so great! I totally enjoyed it. I loved the animation and the setting. Wow. It sets a trend in the movie making not just insofar as digital effects are concerned but also with the story line. You see, who ever thought of fighting a monster bare-naked? Ha! …who ever thought of having a seductive witch as sexy as Angelina Jolie to be a villain? Wow. But there’s more to the movie to be impressed of. Watch it!

DAKILANG PUSO
Michael Arevalo
(Naks. Ang Korni. Haha. Sinulat ko ‘tu nung Grade Six ako. Nakuha ko ang copy sa mahiwagang baul. Haha.)

Poot na naipon sa sisidlag maliit,
Pilit kinimkim, puno ng luha’t pasakit,
Sa kanynag sarili’y siya’y nagngingitngit;
Nabigo sa babaeng huwad ang bait.

Dati’y ginto ng ligaya kanilang pagsasama,
Babagyo, lilindol sa sobrang ligaya.
Ibinigay nang niya lahat na makakaya;
Matustusan ang babaeng kanyang sinisinta.

Minahal niya ang magandang binibini,
Kahit alam niyang pangit ang angking ugali.
Nabanaag na niya na mayroong itong masamang gawi-
At iniwan ang pusong sawi sa hapis at hapdi!

Nang naubos ang lahat niyang kayamanan,
Ang babae ay kasabay na lumisan.
Sa kagipitan walang malapitan;
Ang tinustusan niya’y siya’y pinagmalupitan!

Wala nang silbi ang lupalop ng buhay,
Kung kaya’t mas nanaisin na n’yang magpakamatay.
Nananatiling pangarap na lamang ang nais makamtan,
Magbalik ang sinisinta’t muling yumaman!

Note : Naka-98 ako sa class activity na ‘to. Lupalop ng buhay… wow sunggo! Haha. Baka mali ang date nito. Sure ba akong grade six lang ako ng ginawa ko ‘to? Hmm… Anyway, mayroon diyang limang figurative speech… mga bata, hanapin niyo nga ang METONIMYA, EKSAHERASYON, OKSIMORON, ASONANSYA at PANGITAIN? LOL.

Her Graduation

I went to the Naga College Foundation to watch Danielle’s graduation. I came there at 6, starving and really exhausted. I had the chance to grab a bite at some of the food vendors inside the campus but, because I have a really strong appetite, two burgers weren’t enough. I constantly sent her text messages even if she seldom sends messages back. We never had a chance to talk after she sat together with the other graduates. Soon, I realized I should follow my instincts and search for her in the massive crowd (redundant?). I considered a really helpful clue: I am wearing a black toga. Sigh. Good thing she mention she’s in the Southeast. Then, I saw her, so beautiful and… uhm… holding a digicam: smelling (?) it, shaking it, and trying to fix it. She didn’t see me as I stared at her for ages. Then I realized why she never really had a chance to send messages back. She’s more concerned about a friend’s problem of broken cameras than me being around. I stared a few moments more. As my hunger raged stronger, I decided to go and let go of the photo opportunity she promised me. I arrived home a quarter before eight. Then, half an hour later, she called… I think I’ve fallen again…

Almost common

Tang and I have a lot of similarities. Here are some things we have in common:

1. We don’t know how to ride a bike.
2. We are the top two of the BMHP graduating class and our individual average grade is above 3.5 (only that her grades are way higher than mine)
3. We think a lot and sometimes it’s not voluntary. Often, we could hardly sleep because we’ve got so much stuck in the head.
4. We say the word ‘black’ as an attempt to erase whatever’s on our head and ultimately sleep. Oftentimes, it helps.
5. We love doing computer graphic designs (Adobe Photoshop).
6. We’re both afraid of getting Alzheimer’s disease in the future.
7. We stand by our own principles.

Gabriel

Yesterday, I watched a movie entitled Gabriel. It was about angels sent to guide mankind towards what is good and right. There were seven of them mighty angels bound to fight the realm of darkness. Unfortunately, the first six failed to accomplish what they are bound to do, for they embraced darkness, got feared and deceived by the greatness they would have as the devil promises. The whole task was shouldered by the last angel named Gabriel. He tried to redeem the goodness in the angels and ultimately accomplish the goal of saving mankind. If I would rate the movie, I think I would give it 2/10. The movie, since I am oftentimes such a deaf, is hardly understood because to too much murmuring. I love the whole dark cinematography though. But the plot rather seemed.. uhm.. irritating. I was named after St. Michael, and I deeply honor his greatness to ever defeat the mightiest devil in hell. In fact, the street where I live was even named after him and I constantly pray for his undying guidance. The movie, however, depicted something else. St. Michael was portrayed as the greatest traitor of God. He argued that God’s reason for the creation of man was His selfish security to have people to worship Him. Gabriel said that they were sent to guide and not to rule. This was because St. Michael was overshadowed by greed, fame and power… and he considered having these as the ultimate indication of freedom and total separation from God. Sigh. I can’t believe the movie writers would ever think that St. Michael was a disgrace to the servants of God! Grr. I have nothing against the other Angels. I live across St. Michael and St. Gabriel Street (you guessed it right… my father and I named our streets from our favorite angels). Anyway, I just wish St. Michael’s prestige was not put into question.

When this battle is over, we meet again in heaven or on the field of victory!

Elizabeth: The Golden Age. Wow. This movie was the best! I love the plot, the scenes, the characters… and most especially the clothes of Queen Elizabeth! Wow. I am still so astonished I couldn’t say a word. I’d give the movie a rating of 10/10. No wonder it got a lot of awards in the Oscar’s… Magnifico!

Irrationality, Greed, and Self-centeredness

Why do dome people consider themselves superior to others? Why do they put themselves up the pedestal for others to worship them? Why do they spread rumors about other people, fabricating facts, and causing conflict between different parties? Why do they live in the world of the past, which cause them discomfort that the present is highly influenced by what had happened way back in history? Can’t they forget and put the doubt aside? Why do they make irrational judgments that often stems from anger and hatred? Why do they widen the scope of the issue, from simple gesture of the flipping of one’s hair to an act of insulting maneuver? … from an unbiased opinion to an opinion emerging from self-interest? … from a misunderstanding on whose name should appear in a formal letter to false judgment that there was an assuming and unconcerned member who thinks he’s in authority? … from a simple friendly joke to an insulting attacks? …and from a simple hearsay to a ground for a libel case? Sigh. I hope this would soon be over.

Tribute to Seniors

Libel case?

I watched last night a documentary report about libel cases on the internet. Being a blogger, I feel really involved if there would be a specific law that charges legal complaints on blog masters. In the documentary, there was an Australian who once had a Filipino boyfriend. That Filipino, unfortunately, only aimed for latter’s money and nothing more. In the blog of the Australian, he called the Filipino a theft, a liar, and other maliciously degrading words. Sigh. Now, I feel really frightened if I have had written discriminating accusations against some people. Better have some assessment on some of my past posts...

How I knew it should end

I made peace with Mich after more than a month of ‘let’s-forget-each-other’ stuff. I decided to lower my boundaries and befriend her once again. I realized that I should put an end to this childish conflict to give way to bigger conflicts that are slowly troubling the minds on the batch members. Sigh. One conflict settled. The other one got so much bigger.

Mich and I: friends again

I can’t believe I totally nailed it!

As I felt extremely exhausted from more than 24-hours of road trip, I was able to check my e-mail for messages from some companies I applied on. For a few days now, I really do not have any idea that I could pass one dreadful exam experience. I arrived late for the Accenture exam which generally focused highly incomprehensible logic (particularly leaned towards computer processes and math) and grammar (SRA raised to the 7^th power). I wasn’t really astonished that a few of my friends have received a ‘you’re-not-qualified’ e-mail immediately after the exam. I, just like most of them, wasn’t really expecting. Seriously. I realized how to answer most of the logic part long afterI had a chance to answer it. It’s such a blessing to really be able to pass the exam and receive this image:

Parang kelan lang

My elementary classmates-turned-best friends meant so much to me. There were there always even up to now… almost 15 years have passed. Some of us will soon be working and have just graduated. Some got married and had their own children to attend to. But the bond still remains as we constantly see one other during semester break, Christmas occasions, summer parties and the usual ‘hi there’ when we bump into each other at the Naga Center. Recently, we just made a visit at Mae’s, our valedictorian who just had her baby Drake last March 13 while watching the ABS-CBN program Palos. She married Marvin, her very first crush to whom we used to tease her back when we were in preparatory school (when we were just 5 years old). They’ve been together for ages so we (her concerned friends) are really very secured that the couple will stay happy together.

Then Nitz. He is going to United States by June as an exchange student. Currently, he is studying his English and is very much excited about the whole 70,000 package allowance every month when he goes to the new ‘unchattered’ (term taken from an American Literary book) terrain. Nitz is an expert when it comes to plants and animals. He’s Mr. Know-it-all when it comes to dogs, cats, rabbits, flowers, and other sorts of flora-fauna stuffs. Bon Voyage Nitz!

MK (Mary Kristil) who once was my prom date at the Universidad de Sta. Isabel, just graduated this year and is studying for the Nursing Board exam. She’s currently in Baguio spending time with her family. Russel Ann, my neighbor graduated together with MK in the same university. She is about to enroll at the Nursing review center and will soon take a shot at the board exam comes December.

Mannit, my longtime crush, will join me to Laguna where she is about to do her On-the-Job Training. I will work there as an administrative assistant in a huge company called Fujitsu. Bryan, Hannah Joy and other friends are there too so we really have a lot of time to spend in Laguna.

Me and Kinan.. Mae’s nephew.

IRIGA Invasion!

April Fool's day at Barri's house in Iriga. Part of the post-graduation escapade. Spring Fountain Resort swimming lesson with mavic from 9pm-12 midnight. Lot's of food. So much fun.

The Arrival... After being lost for half an hour...Amazed by the plasma TV at Barri's... wow!

Aren't we HOT?! (look closer.. Barri's peeing..)

Ladies and Gentlemen, the Summer-wear fashion statements!

uhm.. no comment... keep trying guys!,.and dream on!

Louie: the human glow-in-the-dark

Ooopz... invasion of privacy, eh? carry on...

Freshly bathe Mike... (no photos on the showering part=P)