By Blue Rose on Thursday, 27 of August , 2009 at 12:38 pm
This is a true to life story of some young Filipina and Filipino, which are born a princess and prince, with golden spoon in their mouth, with beautiful and new things whenever they want to have, with servants and personal maids that always follow their command, and fly in every country where they wanted to go.
But then something changed their life, from riches to rags. How can they live? How can they cope up?
1st Story: Once Upon a Princess
Think haciendera with sugar, coffee plantations, farms, vast of lands with workers, and a mestiza class. Stephanie, though illegitimate, lived like a don’s daughter – born with a house in Forbes Park, multiple Cadillac’s, and a Brent – School education. “We had relatives in high places, and my dad was the one who took care of the clan’s much business.”
Unfortunately, her family’s business transactions with the government went awry. Her dad, a womanizer who partied hard, was also too lax with his family’s money, loaning huge amounts to cousins (which never got paid). “We are losing money, while our relatives got wealthier.”
“We had to move to a shabby, poorly constructed house. Suddenly, the maids were gone, the luxury trips disappeared, and only one old car was left in the garage.”
Stephanie passed the entrance exam at one of the top universities in the country, but couldn’t afford the tuition fee. She ended up in a junior college in the province, which also became too expensive. So she went back to Manila to continue her studies at a so-so college. Without a part-time job, he had to literally beg her older half-siblings in the US and her dad’s rich friends to lend her some money for school. “Kinain ko talaga pride ko (I really eat my pride). I had to sweat blood and work hard for the things I needed. Pahirapan’ ang paghingi ng pera (asking and begging for money become so hard).”
Stephanie recalls a loving and generous dad from his childhood. But he no longer has that now. Her dad would always remind him to study and work hard for the sake of her younger siblings. “I was scared of failure. I didn’t want to disappoint my dad. I’d often find myself crying whenever I’d do something that seemed to embarrass him, like not passing the entrance exam of one university. I did everything he wanted, but all I ever got from him were accusations of selfishness and scorn.”
“Once, I couldn’t take the humiliation anymore – people talking about what happened to our family, begging from relatives, the hard life – so I found myself in tears. Before, some people would snub me because I’m a bastard girl; now, they snub me because I’m a poor bastard. My life now is a far cry from my childhood. Back then, I had helpers who spoke English, a chopper that fetched me from Brent, and plans for a US college education.”
I try to cope by forgetting I was once wealthy. Even if I still try to keep that air of aristocracy, I don’t live beyond my means. I never get to pursue the course I wanted because the pressure to excel was so great – but the thought of my rich, smug relatives keeps me going. Actually, I’m really worrying about the future of my younger siblings that pushes me to not waste my time thinking about my old life.”
2nd Story: Poor Little Rich Kid
Andrew had no dad, but his highly successful, workaholic mom made up for it by giving him everything he asked for. In short, what Andrew wanted, Andrew got. “Ako ang boss dati (I’m the boss before).”
Two years ago, Andrew’s mom died in a plane crash. Unfortunately, Andrew would only have access to his trust fund when he turned 21. “I have access to some of the money, but these funds have been blocked by my aunt.”
Andrew rented a condo unit after his mom died, but couldn’t pay the rent. He also tried his hand at various types of business, but everything fell through. So he had to live with relatives. However, because of his bossy, “rich” attitude, he was turned away from every house he tried to stay in. the little money he had was wasted on drugs. “But I’ve stopped already.”
His cell phone, musical instruments, and computer were sold to make ends meet. Though he wasn’t made to pay the bills, he also couldn’t take the “poor lifestyle.” “I really tried to live a simple life, but having grown up with everything. I couldn’t help but feel frustrated with my life as a penniless guy.”
He had only one possession left – his car. Andrew put college on hold for two years. When he felt it was time to go back, he decided to sell his car to have money for tuition. “My car was like my home. But if I was to make something of myself until I got my trust fund, then I had to go back to school. The money from selling the car won’t see me through college. But I’ll handle that problem when it arises.”
“Even if I have girlfriends and relatives, I still feel alone. Before, it was my mom and me against the world. Now, it’s just me against everyone. I can’t say I’ve adjusted to having no money. I’m just so full of pain and anger. Kung buhay ang mommy ko, hindi mangyayari ‘to! (If my mom was alive, this will never happen!) Kapag nakikitira ka, its important na makisama ka. (If you’re not living in your own house, like relatives, it’s important that you get along with them.) I couldn’t hack it, so I moved out. Now, I’m living my life on my own.”
You can also share your story with us, it’s never a shame full move to tell people of what you are before, and instead you give them inspiration, people who had experiences like you, may get lots of lesson from your story.
By Blue Rose on Wednesday, 26 of August , 2009 at 11:30 am
Have you seen a shark eating penis? Well here’s a sample for you.
I have seen this news from Washington city paper, written by Amanda Hess, something odd but a bit funny for me. Want to view it?
Click this link to view:
http://www.washingtoncitypaper.com/blogs/sexist/2009/08/25/shark-with-a-shark-penis-in-its-mouth-video-corner/
By Blue Rose on Friday, 21 of August , 2009 at 8:02 am
Benigno Servillano Aquino, Jr. (November 27, 1932 – August 21, 1983), popularly known as Benigno S. Aquino, Jr. and by his nickname Ninoy, was a former Philippine senator, governor, vice governor and mayor, and a leader of the opposition to the rule of Ferdinand Marcos. He was assassinated at the Manila International Airport (later renamed in his honor) upon returning home from exile in the United States. His death catapulted his widow, Corazon Aquino, to the limelight and subsequently to the presidency, replacing the 20-year Marcos regime.
Malacañang has declared this day, Ninoy Aquino Day, a special nonworking day in commemoration of his 26th death anniversary.
Policemen have been deployed in areas where activities are expected to be held, such as the Manila Memorial Park in Parañaque City, the EDSA Shrine in Quezon City, and the Ninoy Aquino monument in Makati City, among others. Metro Manila still retains its heightened alert status because of the mass actions held recently.
Apart from providing area security and crowd control, police are also expected to manage traffic and prevent congestion in major roads where crowds are expected to gather.
Normal status remains in other areas in Luzon and Visayas, while the full alert status remains in Mindanao because of sporadic clashes between rebels and government troops, he added. Groups planning to hold protest actions or activities are required to seek the appropriate permits before conducting any program in public places.
By Blue Rose on Saturday, 15 of August , 2009 at 8:32 am
Any woman can look beautiful if she feels beautiful. Feeling beautiful makes you feel good about life, increases your self-confidence and lifts up your mood. Here are reasons why beauty is every woman’s asset that she should assert.
Beauty is innate to women – all women are born with it. Each possesses a unique grace and confidence, which ultimately defines her beauty. Whatever shape or size, a woman’s body has curves that make a sensual silhouette and delicate features, which seem like intricate details of a work of art. Sadly, some woman can’t see beyond their flaws that they cover themselves up as much as they can; not knowing that being beautiful begins with loving and appreciating one’s own body.
Beauty is a matter of respect – being beautiful is not a question of whether you’re pretty or plain, young or old, thin or not thin – simply put; it’s not what you look; it’s how you project yourself. A good appearance shows that you respect yourself. When you take time to relax, take care of your skin, fix your hair and dress up. People see that, and they pay respect you, too.
Beauty reflects a sound mind and body – having balanced lifestyle shows in the way you see and deal with the things around you. A clear head makes you focused and keeps you from doing sloppy job, while a relaxed and good mood perks up your physique and helps you relate with others better. When you’re at peace with yourself, whatever the circumstances – wet weather, traffic jam, or gossipmongers – can’t ruin your day.
Feeling beautiful comes from within – when you feel and accept that you are beautiful, you don’t need to be conscious of people throwing second glances at you for assurance. Feeling beautiful inside will most definitely reflect on the outside that others are able to see. Surfacing your inner beauty gives you the ability to hold your head up with confidence and face the world upfront.
Simple tips in preserving beauty
Small simple habits count a lot to revealing your beauty.
- Drink plenty of water – apart from hydrating; water purifies the body by removing toxins and waste.
- Catch up on at least eight hours of beauty sleep – your body needs as much time to recharge and rejuvenate itself after the day’s activities.
- Exercise regularly – you don’t need to hit the gym everyday. Taking the stairs, cleaning your pad, or grooving to some music makes a world of difference.
- Put a smile in your face – it accentuates your face, brightens a gloomy day and gives off positive vibes!
- Indulge in your favorite past time – a relaxing bubble bath, reading a good book, or soothing music make you feel wonderful!
Source: Cosmo
By Blue Rose on Saturday, 15 of August , 2009 at 2:56 am
More women will be promoted to top government jobs under a new law on woman’s rights signed by Philippines’ President Gloria Arroyo Friday, officials said.
The law compels the government to boost the number of women in higher-level positions “to achieve a 50-50 gender balance” within five years, said Myrna Yao, head of the National Commission on the Role of Filipino Women.
The statute also bans discrimination against women in the workplace and promotes non-discriminatory and non-derogatory portrayals of women in media and film.
“Women in marginalized sectors are better protected under the law,” Leila de Lima, head of the government’s Human Rights Commission told reporters at the signing ceremony.
“Also in terms of work, in terms of employment opportunities, more recognition of woman’s rights is embodied.”
Yao said the statute also requires the government to provide training in human rights and gender sensitivity to all members of the civil service.
Philippine embassies abroad will train consular officials to handle concerns of woman migrant workers.
Local governments are required to set up district-level desks to investigate cases of violence against women, while working women who undergo surgery for gynecological disorders will be granted leave for two-months.
A Philippine Commission for Women will be created to draft the law’s implementing rules and regulations, as well as monitor compliance, according to the text of the legislation.
The Philippines office of the UN Development Programmer hailed the statute in a statement, calling it “comprehensive human rights legislation that seeks to eliminate discrimination against women.”
By Blue Rose on Sunday, 2 of August , 2009 at 5:54 pm
Filipina girls, some are conservative some are not, Filipina’s are yet reserve for their feelings and attitudes.
Thai girls are not conservative at all; they are open in “every thing”, open minded, open in ideas, open in anything new. They don’t have reservation for their feelings and attitudes, maybe for some low class girls but for girls with breeding, sure they have reservation.
Filipina girls are religious and believe in Church, as a Catholic they believe in the Holy Bible and follow the teachings.
Thai girls are also religious; they have great faith in their Buddha and believe in their ways.
Filipina girls are polite, shy, kind and sweet. They pay great respect for the elderly and their family and parents.
Thai girls are also the same; most Asian’s have the same characteristics towards family. Thai girls are sweet and kind “if you have money”. If you don’t have they are also sweet and kind.
Filipina girls are loving and caring. They will love you until the end; just don’t make any moves that will lead them to leave you.
Thai girls are also loving and caring “especially” if you have money; they are extra caring and loving. If you don’t have money at all to provide their material things, say goodbye.
Filipina girls are supportive and hardworking; they provide everything for their family even if the husband doesn’t work.
Thai girls are also hardworking, they work to support their family but not their husband, if you don’t have money, sorry for you. They are supportive in telling you to find job always.
Filipina girls are quite and are not so talkative.
Thai girls are loud and talkative and noisy, they are more aggressive and straightforward.
These are just some of the characteristics and attitudes I had learn from our 1 month of stay in Bangkok, Thailand. I remember my husband told me one evening when we are having a conversation, when he went to a massage parlor, coz he always likes to have foot massage, he said one of the Thai girls says, she likes him, spoken indirectly coz she doesn’t know how to speak English, just the other masseur told my husband. Then my husband replied, “sorry I’m with my wife”, the girl said, its ok I want to be your girlfriend. See how they are so aggressive and open minded, and of course my husband is a European so they thought he has a lot of money to provide them what they want. Maybe some of the Filipinas are also thinking like that, but as known they are more concern on their husbands love and care than the money. And that’s for sure.
By Loving Asya on Tuesday, 28 of July , 2009 at 12:55 am
Here, across the room, I sprawl stiffly on some chair in front of him. Wondering if he has the slightest idea of my leaving.
Three months before I pack my bags, getting ready to be away from home, away from the one I used to waking up each morning, away from him, finally. A part of me is quite excited at the turning yet for the most part, cringing from sadness.
Slumped on the couch, eyes squeezed shut, his thin lips (like mine) protruding and the familiar constant involuntary movement of his fingers on both hands and feet as he tried to lull himself to sleep- I will never forget. Though it would seem as if he’s scrambling to yank tragic thoughts off his mind. He looks, as always, tired. And sad as ever.
It’s hard to see him this way. even harder when eventually I would have to let him know. Like how difficult it would be, as helpless as you are, to release someone from your grip after years of almost solely dwelling on the fact that the person will always be there. Especially if it has some rapport to your system. akin to your nature and whole being. Especially if it was your daughter. The one person who gives a glimmer of hope and somehow, light, for your existence. Or so I strongly thought.
His eyes are wildly open now, agitated by the noise of street children still singing caroling songs even if it is no longer Christmas. His eyes flicker on and off at its first opening, dazed by the light. He finally stands and sprinted toward the door, my prying eyes still following, so gracefully… and easily. I wished fervently it’s that easy, too.
By Loving Asya on Monday, 27 of July , 2009 at 5:53 am
“You spend a lifetime trying to get them off the ground. You run with them until you’re both breathless…they crash…they hit the rooftop…you patch and comfort, adjust and teach. You watch them lifted by the wind and assure them that someday they’ll fly. Finally, they are airborne.” – EB
I was in a road trip for Malolos, Bulacan last week. For months of living in the hustle and bustle of Metro Manila, I suddenly felt joy of having the wide, vast expanse of green land from my window. The trip only took an hour but I had happy moments of reminiscing my childhood and my province in the south resembling to the province of Bulacan.
As I was peeping through my window sitting in the bus, I saw a little girl trying to make her kite fly. She was running in the field with her right arm clinging to a string attached to a newspaper and few fragile sticks, she was running along with the wind. Her image made me smile as I have been like her when I was still in grade school.
Under the scorching heat of the sun, or in the late afternoon with other kids my age, together we would run the whole day during summer. With sweating brows and back we don’t mind as long as we made our kites fly.
I have consumed a lot of paste, newspapers, sticks and threads though. My mother would even have to hide her sewing box of fear I might ransack again and again her collection of threads for mending clothes. But that did not deter me. I saved up some of my allowance to buy a roll of strong thread.
I have consumed a lot of materials before I made my first kite – a perfect kite, balanced in weight and can surely fly. A kite that can withstand the strong wind, stay easy in the atmosphere, gliding at my control and returns with me when I come home.
I have always been full of hope when making my kites. I was hopeful that the one I am making would fly, if not today, perhaps tomorrow after analyzing and fixing its flaws. My friends had the biggest kite, the most colorful and most beautiful. Jungjung had a butterfly-like kite, Rey had the sharpest tip that could ravage other kites in the air, and the Sta. Maria’s had the longest tail. Well, they had their fathers who made it. While I have the simplest kite of all, but I am mighty proud that it is mine for I made it myself. The one I took hardships on making it.
Cut here. Paste it there. Wrap some rubber band here and there. Attach some string here and there and hoping it will fly.
Thank God, I did not graduate from grade school without ever learning how to make a kite of good materials and make it fly. Just as I have believed, I have learned something valuable through the kite.
