THE BEST OF TIMES, THE WORST OF TIMES

On September 11, 2008 we remembered the victims of the single most tragic event in American history. Many lives were broken, many pains were suffered by this very unnecessary and evil act perpetuated allegedly by one evil person (Muslim or otherwise). I can't fathom how the families of those who died are coping now. But, in this worst of time come out the heroes--cops, firemen, medics and plain office mates. These brave and hardworking men and women who toiled to right this wrong. Still, it's a very painful feeling when August finally ends and comes September.

In all of these sadness comes joy, at least for me, also to Nette and our friends, Nanie, Agnes and Carrie. And that is when I got the call from Arnel, on September 26, that we would really was going to see him and the Journey perform live in concert. To think that last August, I gave up of ever going to see one of their concerts this year. But, that month was saved by the excitement of my niece's wedding and seeing my family again, also. I'll treasure those happy moments with them.

And when October 1st came and having seen the Journey sing their songs of hope, encouragement and just plain corny feelings expressed in, of all media, rock and rock style, I couldn't ask for anything more. Because the memories--sounds and sights of them, especially, of course, our Idol--still lingers in my thoughts. Tanong nga ni Aggie kung high pa raw ako hanggang ngayon, when we chatted tonight. And I answered without hesitation:"Yes!" But, their US concert tour ended October 5. So that was it, I just have to wait for the Summer of 2009. And indeed I will wait to continue the journey.

But after October 1st came the collapse of Wall Street triggered by the greed and false sense of being of some to what Americans should really be. The excesses of some citizens of this great country--the urge to keep up with the Joneses, as they say. And by their recklessness and foolishness to have it all, to know it all, it ultimately comes to all of us, globally, who will pay and suffer for it. The US government will not be able to solve this problem as one knowledgeable source I talked to said. And to think it started to grow slowly six years ago and nobody was payin attention. All of them wanted some of the goodies of course. Some believe Uncle Sam can fix this mess, but, I believe only the GOD-father and the SON can do the job. All we have to do is pray FAITHFULLY, DON'T STOP BELIEVING IN HIM, BE GOOD TO YOURSELVES AND CHANGE FOR THE BETTER.

And what do we do about those careless Chinese who allowed this "Got (Tainted) Milk! hysteria grow to such monstrosity. Should Uncle Sam do some spanking to his favorite or most favored nation. It's interesting to see how the Eagle battles the Tiger. To wit:"The eagle can fly, but, the tiger cannot eagle." All the tiger can do is crouch! And what does that do? So, does that mean the Eagle will win. Abangan Ang Pagdapo ni Juan "Journior! HOHOHO! I mean: Hehehe! Or maybe Someone's (or Something's) Good Waiting For Me (Us)? And make me feel good again. Winning the lotto wouldn't be bad! I just have to work more on my "The Secret" formulate! LOL. I hope I have lighten up your life.

A Day In History

September 21, 1972, a infamous date in Philippine history when President Ferdinand Marcos declared martial law so he can remain in power. Infamous cause it started the decline of the quality of life of most Filipinos. Before Marcos, the Philippines was on the way to prosperity under President Diosdado Macapagal, father of Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, the present Prez. Martial law resulted in many problems that is felt even up to now.

I was four month out of high school and have been admitted at the University of Santo Tomas. I was eager to learn more at a higher level and was beginning to know other people such as my new found classmates, especially of the opposite sex and teachers that would guide me later on with my studies. I remember watching on television the Liberal Party Convention at Plaza Miranda in Quiapo, Manila. And as the politicians spoke, a bomb exploded and confusion and carnage folowed. And later that night, Marcos issued the suspension of writ of habeas corpus and Martial Law folowed. The next day there soldiers roaming the whole of Metro Manila in search of Marcos oppositions. And things became scary that all of us stayed away of the streets and later on, also, a curfew was enforced. And this experience made Filipino wary and afraid of policemen and soldiers and the notorious METROCOM.

I was thinking, how can this be happening. I just graduated and was full of life and eagerness to finally better my life. What will the coming years be under this sad condition of supression and corruption of the illegal administration. Life continued everyday as people went along with Marcos. There were some improvements, but, ultimately, the changes were cosmetics and the people were tired of what they've seen and acted to free themselves that led to the famous People Power in 1986. And that's another story.

As this date come every year, it is not celebrated, but, on the other hand remembered. Remember those who died, those hundreds who disappeared and are still not known what happened to them. More importantly, it's a day to remind us to be vigilant of our freedom and democracy, of someone who would just take advantage of us for their own evil intentions. And in the end, good will triumph over evil.

People Are The Same

The other day my older brother left Manila for Brazil on a government assignment. I wish him the best and happiness while he's there. And good health to my sister-in-law. While there they'll experience firsthand a different culture and get to know other people who they will encounter as they have in his past trips to other countries. That being said, in my own observation, I find that people are the same wherever they may live or where they come from originally.

In my work at car dealerships that I've worked, I learnt by just talking and asking questions that we all share the same fears, hope, aspirations for a better live and the importance of family, friends and the need to know other people. May they be Swedish, Polish, German, Peruvian, Chilean (I don't if that's right), Chinese, Indian, Mexicans or Filipinos. We all want to know about each other's people or countries. And I feel that diversity here really works, not just tolerance as some think as a means of getting along with each other. One has to have an open mind and not stereotype people. Or prejudice others just because of their color or stature. All we need is start with a comment about the weather or about cars.

And that is what's great about America, we all consider ourselves equal. One may be a wealthy businessman from Rancho Santa Fe, a realtor from Solana Beach or a Marine soldier stationed at Camp Pendleton in Oceanside, in most places or situations, one cannot say I am better than the guy standing next him or her. One may drive a Mercedes Benz or a beat up Ford truck or Japanese import, it doesn't matter, we all can truly feel the same, unique and matter in our own way. Color and age doesn't matter also, as long as we respect each other that each deserve to co-exist and enjoy what this bountiful country has to offer to everyone who work hard and deserve in so doing.

People in the world have to realize that we need each other. People needs to learn each others cultures. All these can be done by asking:"Nice weather we're having!" Go ahead start a conversation. Ask a stranger. Truthfully asking questions what we really what to know. Wars have been started because of miscommunication or good intention. We are all the same. We used to joke:"It's raining, aren't we?"

It's Nice To Be Nice

A sports manager once said:"Nice guys finish last." I don't believe this. A living proof is my Father, who is, to me, will almost be Number One. He has accomplished many important things in his life and one of them is to raise children who have become responsible and respected citizens just like himself. Thanks Dad. He's the nicest guy I know who I never seen husrt a fly. He's not a wimp for he commands gentleness from others.

Here are some things to emulate about being nice:
1. The power of nice a domino effect that may not be immediately apparent but will eventually find its way back.
2. A stranger on the street mat seem insignificant, but could be your boss's wife of client's daughter.
3. Treat everyone with respect. Today's clerk could be tomorrow's MD.
4. Being nice is always ON. It must be automatic, it's loses it's effectiveness if used only whenever you like it.
5. Being nice has effects that may not be seen but they are felt; if only by you.
6. Treat others with kindness, respect and generosity and you'll be blessed.