2011: Opportunities, Surprises, Lessons, and Everything in Between

I started 2011 with excitement, probably because after so many years, my papa celebrated the holidays with us. When I welcomed the year, I hoped for something and prayed that everything would happen according to what I wished and longed. Reviewing the year that was about to end, things didn’t happen the way I planned it, well, not exactly, but wasn’t really bad at all. 

My Plan A – the dream of becoming a frequent flyer didn’t happen this year, but at least, there were some progress. It was January when I tried for a local airline that aims to let every Juan flies. I was able to reach the final interview but wasn’t recommended to take the medicals, meaning, I didn’t make the cut. It was sad of course! Having the thought of being so close to what you wanted but ended up going back to zero was really disappointing. A few weeks after, I learned that my dream airline (World’s 5 Star Airline) was hiring again. I was half-hearted about trying for it because I tried a few times before yet I never experienced being shortlisted among thousand applicants, so I was like tired already of trying and trying, waking up very early, dolling up myself and only have a few seconds with the recruiter. It was my MUA friend, now an International Flight Attendant who encouraged me to try and even offered to groom me for the Open Day. I said yes to her but a few days before the big day, I was still having thoughts of trying but I realized that I don’t want ‘what ifs’. So I tried and luckily, for the very first time, I got shortlisted among more or less a thousand applicants. It was really a productive moment for me. I got shortlisted and at the same time, I got to learn how to put make-up the right way. I didn’t make it until final interview yet I considered myself blessed. Having been shortlisted for the first time after a few tries was an achievement. I didn’t feel bad after being eliminated after the first stage of the assessment. Come July and December, I got shortlisted again for the same airline. The second time (July) was a surprise for me. When I attended the Open Day, I arrived at the hotel around 9:30 am and was able to submit my CV around 5 pm, so imagine the hunger and thirst for the entire hours of waiting. There was neither a call nor a text message telling me to come back for the second day, so I thought luck wasn’t on my side again, but I was wrong. I got the ‘magic text’ the next day. It was something I didn’t expect at all. To make it short, I didn’t make it again until the final interview. When my name wasn’t called to proceed, it was sad but at the back of my mind, I should be thankful for the chance, at least I have an idea what to do or what to improve the next time. It was the December assessment that my heart got broken and made me want to cry and just give up. Again, for the third time, I didn’t make it until final interview. I wanted to give up but a part of me says I should not. To recall, one of our recruiters told us not to be disheartened if our names won’t be called now, who knows we might get called the next time. I really thought it was the right time for me but, I have to go back to ZERO. Life goes on after all. If I try harder the next time, if God wills, I’d get to where I wanted to be. 

LESSON LEARNED: The only chance I missed was when I said NO. God gives us not an opportunity but OPPORTUNITES. Since I never said NO, for sure God wanted me to learn the basics first. 

My Plan B – getting a job that I would like. Working in Manila wasn’t really a big adjustment for me since I’m used to getting to and from the place. I’ve become a Manila girl since 2005 (and a Makati girl from 2008-2009) so commuting would not be an issue. It was waking up early for work that had been a challenge for me, well, at first, since I didn’t work for a long time. I would be a hypocrite if I say I was contented with my work. I would love to do more and learn more from what I have now. Nevertheless I could say that I was just relaxed. I don’t drag myself to work. I don’t get depressed from what I do. In Filipino I would say: “sakto lang, kalmado lang ako, okay lang ako sa ginagawa ko, wala naman akong reklamo sa mga katrabaho at boss ko”. 

LESSON LEARNED: Consider every work day as a chance to learn something new. If there’s nothing new to learn, might as well use the day to work with quality. 

2011 also offered me surprises like falling in love and getting an opportunity to work abroad. I started the year with a ZERO lovelife but along the way, it came when I least expected it. I don’t think I need to inform the whole world how, when and where our love story started; how we got along; when I said YES to him; or how we spend quality time together. We were never a perfect couple and our relationship was never perfect but the ride was always worthwhile. 

LESSON LEARNED: Once in a while, it’s good to swallow my pride to settle something. If there’s something that should be talked about, facebook won’t help, hindi dapat nagpaparinig sa Facebook or Twitter, mas okay nang maging straight to the point sa kanya. After all, lahat naman nadadaan sa mabuting usapan. 

On the latter part of this year, I got an opportunity to work abroad but I didn’t take the chance. I won’t say my reasons but I would say I didn’t have regrets. I have longed wished to work overseas, I won’t get paid here as much as I would earn there; but considering everything, I still chose to stay and I know that God wanted me to stay here. I know that my decision was well-guided by God. So far, that was the biggest decision I have ever made. 

LESSON LEARNED: When you’re about to make a BIG decision – Pray! 

2011 had been a happy year for me. I hang out with friends once in a while; I was able to experience another EPIC night with my high school friends; bonding time with my family; singing for God; a little shopping for the things I want and a whole lot more. I might not be earning really high but at least I’m getting by and surely, God was the reason why I’m getting almost all my wants and needs. 

If there’s one moment that this year made me really sad, it was when one of my closest aunt died of cancer, but I know she’s in good hands now. She’s in a place when there’s no pain, and no problems. 

All in all, I’m thankful for everything that “2011: The Year that was” gave me. I’m thankful for everyone and for everything I have. God must be really great that despite all the problems and challenges I’ve encountered this year, He never fails to give me enough strength to get through each and every day. Hindi ko man masabi na akin ang 2011, pero maraming blessings ang dumating. Things may not be the way I wanted them to be, pero alam ko na lahat ng mayroon ako ngayon ay yung mga bagay na sa tingin ni God na kailangan ko. 

For the year that was about to end: THANK YOU! Let’s all welcome the Dragon with faith in God and with ourselves and of course, with a happy and grateful heart!  Cheers!

Friends that Pray Together, Stay Together

I'm happy that God gave me friends who also love to visit churches may it be on a holy week or not. My friend, Lars, also brought me to a few churches around the metro and it's a nice feeling to surrender all your worries at the heart of the metro and after a while, you're fine again.  Going to churches had been my solace for the one whole year of being a bum and God provided me all the things I needed even without a job. Going to churches also made me stronger. When I became a bum for a year, I learned how to appreciate small things; be wiser to overcome failures; and be more faithful to God.

This post is made to share some of the photos of me and my friends visiting churches in and out the metro :)

At Padre Pio, Libis

Tierra de Maria, Tagaytay

Pink Sisters, Tagaytay

La Salette, Silang

Hustle While Waiting

I'm back! Definitely am, with a lot to tell! :) 

As expected, I've been very busy juggling two works (assuming two positions in the same company) each and everyday. Although work has been very tight, at the end of the day, there's this piece of pride in me that reminds me how I managed to be a mobilization assistant and a web writer at the same time. I'm stressed, yes, I get tired each day, but the bulk of work reminds me that I should be thankful because I can do them (the two positions) both. 

I'm so thankful I am enjoying my current work,add to that the friends I gained ever since I joined the company. So far, so good, that's what I can say even if I'm always going home later than 5 pm. This won't take longer since I'll be replaced by someone soon for the mobilization post.

I feel so blessed with what I have now- deep faith in God, family, friends, my habibi, work, choir, etc, but even if God provided almost every aspect of  my life, I still can't stop asking that one day, I get to land on my 'dream job'.  I've been trying, praying and waiting for 2 years now. I sacrificed one year and didn't work for any company because I want to put my full focus on it, but I guess, if it's not the right time yet, it will not be given. What I can do is to just keep on trying while I am doing something else that can help me. True enough, the experience I have right now with my present company is helping me - dealing with people, assisting VIPs, etc. I know that if ever I make it again to a final interview, I can converse better and tell them my experience which is in line with my dream job. I'm very sure God is testing my faith in Him and my determination to reach that 'job'. I've been to many failures but they didn't dishearten me, I may failed once, twice, thrice, many times, but 'that' is my dream and I should not let any failure keep me from pursuing and reaching it. I know, one day, I'll get there.

The Past Few Weeks and Days

MIXED EMOTIONS. I've been challenged, felt excitement, stressed, happy, motivated, inspired, etc. etc.Let me tell you a few 'happenings' in my life at random and what I've learned from each.

I've been challenged and maybe, stressed. Work keeps me busy each and every single day, especially now. I feel privileged to assume two posts at the same time. It's quite hard especially when I receive much number of calls to transfer, I would admit there were times I am complaining but, all of a sudden, I would realize, hey, I wanted these, I accepted these so, why not just put the scenario on a lighter note and perceive what's happening as a blessing rather than a burden. Well, at least, at the end of the day, I could say, I assumed two posts, (one full time and the other a part time) in one day.

Motivated and inspired. I've always kept mum recently whenever I attend an Open Day for QR. It's not that I don't want to spoil what may happen, I just want to keep things sometimes until such time that the event was all done.  I tried applying last March and the recent May 1 OD but didn't get the call for the AD. I got the call in one of my tries but how come I didn't again after that try? I stopped wondering. I maybe "ok" for one recruiter and I might not be the same for the other one. Bottomline would be, try and try until my turn comes.

Happy. I feel overwhelmed whenever I receive questions or e-mails from flight attendant aspirants asking me of some information and tips. I felt that I'm being trusted and that really matters to me. Rest assured that when the time comes that God grants me my greatest dream, I'd still continue to express my thoughts and hopefully, I'd be able to give helpful tips.

Sad. Just last Monday, one of my closest aunt died. It was sudden. Although she was battling with cancer and undergoing chemotherapy, we didn't expect her journey would end this soon. I remembered I bought her a scarf after I attended the OD because her hair already diminished. But I'm sure, she'd be in God's arms and at least, she won't be experiencing any more pain in heaven.

BOTTOMLINE: Think things positively, yes, I would always do that. God never forsakes anyone who believes in Him.
 

Expression of Gratitude

 I just celebrated my birthday last Monday. For the first time in so many years, I spent most of the time not in our house, but, at the office. In one of my previous posts, I expressed how excited I am to celebrate my birthday with bosses and colleagues. I felt it right. My recent birthday celebration was that of simple yet exciting. Everything went in my favor. Officemates and even bosses greeted me and I felt thankful. My choir mates also expressed their greetings personally (when we sang during the Palm Sunday Mass), through facebook, twitter, and through text messages. I just feel great knowing that a lot said happy birthday even if we’re not that close or we’re not really talking everyday. I feel thankful and blessed to be surrounded with people with thoughtfulness and good heart. I don’t need material things, just the thought of people, remembering my birthday would suffice; but of course, I wouldn’t deny that there’s one birthday wish that I’m eyeing on. I hope it would come true anytime soon. Inshallah! In God’s perfect time! Amen.

Waiting Patiently

I realized that I have not updated this blog recently. This month's quite a busy one for me - working 5 days a week and spending the first few weekends with the choir. Though I'm a busy bee and have less time for rest, I am not complaining, I am actually enjoying it. I can see and I can feel how things start to change for the better since I joined the choir. I guess, this is what Joshua Harris meant when he said, "Hustle while you wait". I feel like I'm doing something good whenever I sing for God even if it's really challenging to read and understand how the musical notes are supposed to be sang.

things start to change for the better

There are times when I love to look back and see how things go.  I am still amazed by how time time flies alongside unfolding what God planned for me this year. Supposedly, I'm about to give up on something, but He gave me a strong event that made me realized that it's still worth fighting for. It doesn't matter how many times I tried. There's no easy way toward a dream. We all need to work hard for what we want and soon, when God's perfect time is in our hands, everything will just happen very fast; but while waiting for that one big opportunity to happen in my life, I'll do my best to produce quality works, perform through the best way I can to meet the expectations and standards, and sing with all my heart for God.

Things I've Learned from Dr. Schuller

Months ago, I went to St. Jude with my friend, Jaymee. After the novena, we went to Quiapo and SM Manila while waiting for her class. A mall visit for me always includes going to a bookstore, sometimes, bookstores, whatever that certain mall has. We went inside Booksale. Some of my books were bought there. Reading doesn't have to be expensive, plus, I'm a person who will read anything as long as the book catches my interest. I saw the book entitled: Life's not Fair but God is Good. The title itself already caught my attention, it's priced at 75 Php. I was hesitant to buy the book at first because I found it quite expensive for a bum like me, but hours after my friend and I separated and after that one phone conversation with my friend Lars, I realized it wouldn't hurt my pocket so much. After all, it was hardbound and I could feel that I could find some of the answers I need from that book. It happened that I didn't have time to go back, so I just asked my friend to buy it for me and pay her when I get the book. The rest was history. The book was meant to be mine.

I started the year by reading the book. Now, I'm done reading. I've learned so many things, although some were not new to me, but at least, I know that I'm acting out right and I'm trying to believe right. I need to be inspired and motivated. I've found both by just reading 272 pages. As promised, I'm going to share some lines from the book that were really wonderful. I hope, you'll like them too:

• from page 46-60: Five Self Esteem Boosters: 1. Give yourself a pat on the back; 2. Look at what you have left, don't look at what you've lost; 3. Re-evaluate your assets; 4. Pump up your possibility thinking; 5. Realign your attitudes

• p.50: You can choose to be bitter. You can choose to be slide into a deep pit of self-pity, or you can choose to react positively.  You can look at this set-back as an opportunity for learning, for growth, painful as it may be. What happens to you is important, but it is not the end. 

• p.56: Begin by believing in God.  Believe in His future for you. You can make it! God will give you the dream if you ask Him and He will provide the resources if you will look to Him. 

• p.84: Life's not fair but God is good.  Life throws us a disappointment - and God responds by giving us encouragement.Everyone faces disappointments  at one time or another - but the winners are the ones who refuse to let the disappointments become discouragements. Success isn't a matter of being the best.  Success is a matter of handling the worst.  It is being able to deal constructively with life's disappointments.   

• p.88: The NEXT TIME always motivated me to keep on trying.

• p.92: Why Lord? No, don't ask why.  Ask how, O.K. how am I going to get through this?

• p. 99: A plan gives direction.  A dream gives energy. 

• p.174-176: When faced with a hopeless situation: Pray with honesty and trust in the Lord; Ask for help and understanding; Seek nurturing from your friends and loved ones, but not to the point that you will be a millstone around their necks ; Try to be optimistic; Remind yourself that God has given you a talent; Don't look back in anguish. You did the best you could under the circumstances you were given. 

• p.252: Every trouble has vast built-in opportunities to grow, to learn, to serve, or to be cleansed.  Imagination can turn your bed into fruitful pasture. Your time of lying low can be your mourning of spiritual refreshment. 

•  p.255: We learn courage when we face danger. We learn patience when we endure suffering. We learn tenderness when we taste pain. We discover true friendship when false ones forsake us. We learn to prize freedom when we are in danger of losing it. 

• p.272: Life's not fair but God is good. Jesus Christ is proof enough of that. 

Those were just few lines from the book. There were a lot of lessons and quotable quotes. Dr. Schuller also included life stories of people and the lessons that those people had after facing their respective endeavors. I would recall one person, a Miss America winner. Just like Venus Raj, the crowd didn't love her the first time they saw her. It took her 7 years before she finally bagged the title of Ms. America.  The clue there would be determination - to win and make each try a better one. Personally, I've learned that sometimes, we don't get what we want on our first try, but a failure doesn't mean it would never be yours. You just need time to make things better, and time to work on it and put it in your hands. I wasn't accepted in my dream school the first time I tried, but I claimed it and promised myself that I'd get my degree earned from that school and it happened. Work and pray! Just like what I've learned at SSC: ORA ET LABORA, Prayer and Hardwork.
If you don't get in at first, it's okay. It's okay to grieve, it's okay to be frustrated but don't let all the negative things embrace you for so long. Believe that you're just in a big waiting room, and God still needs time to shape you and prepare you to be the person you've been dreaming of.

Welcoming the Rabbit

Hurray!!! Today marks the first Monday ever for 2011 and I'm making my first entry for the year of the rabbit.

How was your new year people?
Mine was just simple - dinner with family after 12 midnight, prayed, woke up early and attended the 9:30 am mass. I'm happy and thankful for this another year. A new chapter unfolds. Time to start anew. Time to forget all the not-so-good memories of the previous year.

This 2011, I hope the "big thing" happens. I'll be forever grateful for that. For the mean time, I hope I can hustle while waiting. I have so many plans for this year and I hope I can put each plan into reality. I am hopeful that the rabbit will bring better days. Let's all be positive for this year.

I know I am trying my best to start the year right. I am currently reading the book entitled: "Life's not Fair but God is good". For me, it's a great way to start this another chapter by appreciating God's goodness and greatness amidst all the circumstances you're experiencing. If I finished the book within the week, I'll definitely post the things I've learned from it and share each lesson with you.

Happy New Year Dear Readers

Always,

Optimism over Pessimism

Underneath are the Everlasting Arms:

The eternal God is your refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms. - Deuteronomy 33:27

(source: Just for Today by Harold Sala)

Every rejection is a chance to improve yourself. Every frown is a chance to smile. Every single moment is a chance to do our best and leave the rest to God. Every single day, I am learning and I am being faithful to God even more. Not just because I know I am at my lowest point right now, but I feel that even if at the lowest point, I still have to be thankful and there's still a reason to be thankful. Even if I'm unemployed right now, there are a lot of reasons that keep me going: my dream, my family, my friends, and  GOD. I believe with Carrie Underwood when she sang, Jesus take the wheel. These are just challenges that I know I can surpass, of course with the help of God.

I've been very active at twitter. I've been "tweeting" a lot. I've read one of Karen Davila's tweets about Raissa Laurel, the law student who lost her legs on the Bar Exam bombing. Despite what happened to her, she remained strong and she even said, "laban lang tayo" which Karen Davila tweeted. Why give up right? Every challenge and every problem is a chance to be strong and gather more strength. Why give up on your dream when you encountered your first rejection? The first NO will not always be a NO and will not remain a NO forever. Let's just believe that God is still preparing us for the best that is yet to come.

Approximately 23 Kilometers Away from Home

I mentioned in my previous post that my friend and I planned to go to Tagaytay. I've been there many times but I'd always want to come back. There's something in Tagaytay that made me fall in love over and over everytime I set foot on the said city - maybe the cool breeze that sets a romantic mood or the overlooking image of the smallest volcano in the world, I could not say which of the two was the main reason. Either or, it wouldn't set a problem, as long as I enjoy the place. 

Before I share some photos from the trip,I wanted to give a short history of Tagaytay. I never posted facts about the place in my previous post. According to wowcavite.com :

Legend has it that the word “Tagaytay” came from “TAGA” meaning “to cut” and “ITAY” which means “Father”. A father and son were said to be on a wild boar hunt when the animal they were chasing turned and attacked them. As the boar charged towards the old man, the son cried “TAGA- ITAY”. The boy’s repeated shouts reverberated in the valleys of the ridge. Heard by the residents, hunters and wood gatherers, the cries became the subject of conversation for several days among the people in the countryside. In time, the place where the shouts came from became known as TAGAYTAY.

Even though I hate the Cavite traffic, in a way, I'm thankful I live 3 towns away from Tagaytay. Last Tuesday, I was able to get to our first destination in less than an hour, but I bet, my dad and my other friends could beat that time (driving only 80-90 km/h at Aguinaldo highway).

Our First stop: Summit Ridge 

Summit Ridge Hotel 

The place was owned by Robinsons Land Corporation. The photo above was the hotel and beside it was an open air commercial center with: a number of restaurants and coffee shops to choose from, a supermarket, appliance store, shops and bank.

My friend and I arrived minutes before 1 p.m., still on time for lunch. We ate at Shakey', ordered bunch of lunch and later on had our dessert at Razon's. 
 




Second Stop: Pink Sisters Chapel and Convent

The Pink Sisters Chapel 

Also one of the famous landmarks when you're traveling at Tagaytay.

My friends and I would always include this in our 'itinerary' during the Holy Week.  At first, I was hesitant to go straight and park at the space but I saw a car at the back and at that moment,I was sure, it was really open for everyone during off peak season. 


Since it was just an ordinary Tuesday and the week had just started, the place was not jam packed. It was a good thing because you would get to pray more seriously because silence was around the place, not like when all the people were all over the place to do Stations of the Cross. 


You could also drop your petition letters and the nuns would be praying for you. Go to the leftmost side of the chapel. If ever you haven't written any letter, don't worry, papers and pens were provided.

Third Stop: Tierra de Maria 

50 ft Virgin Mary

 Two years ago, when I went to Glorietta, I was able to pass by an image of Virgin Mary. I wrote my petition and prayed. I got a flyer with a Make a W.I.S.H. and expect miracle to happen message at the top. A website was mentioned in the flyer and  I visited it, there, I found out about the gigantic image of Mama Mary at Tagaytay. I wanted to go to the place but never got the chance. 


Finally, last Tuesday,I was able to see the place in person. At first, I didn't know the exact location, I knew it was on the right side if you're coming from Rotonda. My friend and I were looking at every church/chapel we passed by, I said, " I know, you wouldn't miss it because of the huge image of Mama Mary". It was just across Development Academy of the Philippines, and just near Picnic Grove. 

Stations of the Cross will welcome you

Before going inside, you could stop on the wishing well and drop your coin. You could also offer a candle or candles for your petitions. 


It was my first time to be at Tierra de Maria. I was awed by the place. I've been to chapels and churches but that was, for me, the most intimate. I was laughing at hyper the whole time I was driving and taking photos, but when I got inside, silence enveloped my system. I was observing the images. I was awed by everything the chapel offered me. Seriously, you would really feel the presence of God, not that you could not feel God's presence on other chapels and churches,  I felt like my heart was really touched everytime I hold the images. I knew at that very moment, I was talking to God and God was telling me to leave my worries behind and say what I wanted to say.  There's another corner inside that caught my attention, another prayer corner with lots of rosaries hanging. 


On our way out, my friend and I got a bible scripture:
 The message I got was very timely:

Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened, and I will give you rest. - Matthew 11:28

We also went upstairs and visited every floor.
You'd see the liturgical calendar on the second floor. It was educational and had some facts on every date and it was also a form of "special fund raising". You could put your names on your birth date provided you'd donate a certain amount of money which I failed to remember.

At the third floor, you could hold the hand of the 50 ft Mama Mary. Go straight and you'd also have a nice view of the Taal Volcano.

Hold her hand and make a WISH

Taal

 If you want some alone time or a place where you wanted to release all your stress and worries,I suggest you visit Tierra de Maria and have some moments with God. 

Fourth Stop: Mushroom Burger

It was my first time to have a taste of Mushroom Burger. We just bought burgers because we still have one more place to visit. Mom advised me to go home early because she was thinking of my safety, I just want to be an obedient daughter so there would be a next time for road trips :p 

Wishing well again :)

Mushroom burger was located near Casino Filipino and Taal Vista. You'd pass by those two first. Reviews said it was hard to park at Mushroom burger during weekends and peak seasons. 

Aside from the burgers,they also have other dishes at a very affordable price.


Fifth Stop: Cliffhouse 


 Now,I understand why this place had a parking fee of 100 Php - because of the romantic  scenery! 
The fee would be waived if you present a validation from any of the restaurants inside. 

If you want an Italian brunch, go to Buon Giorno. 

Craving for crepes? Have a stop at Cafe Breton. 


If you want to feel the cold breeze more, take your pick, either you buy an ice cream at Fruits in Ice Cream or have a Fling. 

Other restaurants would include Fire Lake Grill,Domicillo and Platito. 


After I parked the van, my friend and I had our pictures first. We could not resist the beauty of the view. If I have a boyfriend, I'd tell him we spend time at Cliffhouse. We'd sit on the white benches facing the taal lake, I'd lay my head on his shoulders while we hold hands and talk of our priorities, future plans, dreams,etc. OOOokay, enough for the imagination. haha. 

Anyway, my friend and I had a Fling for 85 pesos. :P

It's been months since I had a taste of frozen yogurt and I missed it. The craving was satisfied last Tuesday and with a bonus of course - a great ambiance.

The trip was only half day, started driving by 12 noon and by 6:00 pm we're on our way back home, but it was really worth it! By the way, before I end this post, for you travelers out there, buy boxes of Amira's Tart as your pasalubong.

I hope I was able to bring Tagaytay to you! :) 

A Year in Heaven

It's been a year since I lost my close friend|professor| mentor in a tragic incident.
I would remember that one gloomy dawn. I woke up around 3 am and saw messages on my phone saying my professor was found dead. I could not believe on that message. I could not believe he was dead. I haven't even seen him for a year and then I would receive a news like that. Naturally, our instant reaction would be in form of tears, but my tears did not fall immediately. I was really in a state of shock. The news would not sink in.

It was a Sunday when I received that message but I had work and I was on a 9:00 am - 6:00 pm schedule. Before I went to the office, I attended the 7:30 am mass at Baclaran. While I was on my way to church, my tears would fall. It took hours before the news would sink in. I was exchanging messages with my college friends. At work, it was hard being so professional in that kind of situation. In a way, I wanted to blame myself for not spending time with him as much as I could. I was really busy when I started working and could not meet my friends as much as I could. I had little or no social life when I worked. OFFs were usually spent at home, sleeping or going to Church. I was guilty I didn't exert enough effort to arrange my schedule.

I was traumatized by what happened to him. I could not sleep alone in my room for so many months.

The last time I saw my mentor was 2008 and never in my mind that the next time I'd see him was the moment he was inside a closed casket. It was depressing. We were all devastated upon the lost of our beloved mentor. I owe half of my La Sallian life with my mentor. If not for him, I would not be receiving the Outstanding Thesis award. If not for him, I might have less 4.0s in my course cards. The TRUST and BELIEF he put on me would forever be remembered. He trusted my capabilities. He made me realized that our professors could also be our friends. It was not a long time ago that I ( in cooperation with Dave and with my other friends ) was arranging a despedida party for him. Fate could sometimes be cruel but I know he's with God right now, in good hands.

Sir,I would always remember the advice you told me: "The world never runs out of love Joanna." I pray that your first year in heaven would also be the first year in bliss. You would always be loved Sir.

Once Broken but is MOVING ON with FAITH

Good morning world! It's been days since my last post. 

I learned a lot of lessons this week. I started this week with a big hope in my heart. Been heart broken in the middle of the week, and now, I'm moving on. I could not tell the whole story, at least not for now. I still owe you a story in the future. It's not that I'm ashamed to tell you about a recent failure. If you would recall, I never denied all my failed airline applications in the past. I'm very much open about them. Sometimes, there were really things you just want to keep on yourself.  


I'm grateful for everyone who keeps on supporting me all throughout. Your every word keeps me going. I know, I owe a lot to everyone who drops by my blog. Thank you for all the comments. Thank you for all the encouraging words. I'm grateful that God did not leave me with nothing. When 'that' door closed (as for now), another opened the day after. I considered that as a sign that this might not be the right time and there's a better opportunity waiting, I just need to wait for that. 


I was teary eyed when my mom told me (though not verbatim):

"Hindi pa siguro ngayon ang panahon mo para diyan. May mas magandang plano ang Diyos sa'yo. Buksan mo muna ang sarili mo sa ibang pinto. Next time na lang ulit. " 


"Malay mo sa mas maganda ka ilagay ni Lord. Huwag mo munang ipilit ngayon. Baka hindi ka pa hinog. Magtrabaho ka muna ulit dito at mas maghanda ka sa mga susunod. Honor na rin yang narating mo." 


My friends also told me a lot of uplifting words. I would agree with my best friend "don't ever think you're not good enough just because you didn't get in". With my mom's, cousin's and friends words, who would not feel better? I woke up this morning with a light heart. No worries. No hang ups. Sometimes, we just have to be brave enough to accept the unknown. If our moms know best, God also knows best. Don't ever give up people! It's hurting to fail especially when you're almost there but still didn't make it.  The pain might be there for some time, but it would subside soon. I learned to take things easy and not to put pressure on me. I still have so many years to make my lifetime dream come true. Patience would always be a virtue! 


Last Tuesday, I attended the 6 PM mass for our Lady of Fatima of Portugal. The image visited our parish and I know this would be very timely for me to attend masses and novenas. Bishop Chito Tagle's homily was touching. I would summarize some points:


Ang Diyos, loyal din sa mga taong loyal sa kanya. Ibibigay niya ang hinihingi natin sa tamang panahon.

My Sunday

I'm having a healthy Sunday! Literally and figuratively! :)

1. Attended the 8 am mass with mom and siblings. I started the day hearing the Word of God. My Sunday will not be complete without going to Church and hearing God's message. My heart rejoices with what God wanted to tell me. Especially now that I feel like everything in me is on recession. Sounds cliche but I'll say this for the nth time: Nothing is impossible with God. 

2. Breakfast at Kenny Rogers:

Health buff mode! Hehe :)

All Veggie Salad + Caesar dressing + Chicken Macaroni Salad + Chicken Soup

I'm more serious with my diet. I haven't reached my target weight :| !  I'll never give up on my 'no rice diet'!

Part 1

THIS morning, while I'm preparing myself for the Wednesday's novena at Baclaran, an HR staff from Banco De Oro called me at our landline. She just asked a few questions and invited me for an interview tomorrow at their Greenhills building. I am advised to bring a copy of my resume so when I went to a mall with my mom, I asked her to buy two cartridges (black and colored) since the cartridges are already empty and fainted areas are all over the whole document when printed. While I'm doing a test print, the problem still persists. I continue clicking the head cleaning icon and printed the last part of my resume until a message appear telling me that my printer needs a service because a part inside the printer needs a replacement. Shoot! Add to this is the newly installed black cartridge which is now LOW. Errr. Thank goodness mom is not mad at me. hehe. I thought she's going to make a little sermon but I'm glad it turned the other way around since I told her right away that my printer needs a service :P

Back to BDO, I am going tomorrow. I'll be taking an exam too and their exam has an Accounting part. Goodluck to me! I don't have a background in Accounting or shall I say I have a little background but it has been years ago since I have been taught of it. I am a Mass Media graduate so what will you expect? Algebra 101 is the only Math subject in my entire college life!  I have some notes on Accounting during my BPI days but we did not have a thorough lesson on it. I'll just do whatever I can and entrust the rest to God.

Applying to BDO does not mean I am giving up my dream of becoming a cabin crew. Like what I've mentioned in one of my previous posts, I need a temporary job that will help me pursue my application. Its costly to apply for the cabin crew position because there are things where you have to invest in like the suit and make up. A suit may cost you more than a thousand bucks. Well,when it comes to make up, it depends on the brand, but I don't think your P500 will suffice.

Tomorrow, I'll be waking up early to apply for a job I consider "temporary". I am really serious on pursuing my dream of becoming a cabin crew and I will not give up until I am 35. I'm 22 now, still far from the max age limit. 

To be continued.

Have You Ever Asked: "Why do Bad Things Happen to Good People?"

Bo Sanchez wrote a book entitled: Why do bad things happen to good people?
and I always ask myself: Why do "good" people experience problems and challenges?

Last Sunday, before the mass started, I prayed that I may hear what God wanted to tell me right now, being in this kind of situation. You know what I mean - living a life quite similar to "recession". God answered my prayer. Father preached about why "good" people experience problems and challenges?. We might ask and say: marami namang ibang tao diyan bakit ako pa? bakit hindi na lang yung mga makasalanan? It would be so wrong throw a bad wish for other people. Nobody was born a saint. We could say, we follow God. We follow his teachings. We try to be good Christians. We've been trying to follow God but life was never smooth sailing.  Instead of asking "why" with hatred, why not paraphrase our question(s)? I guess, it would be better to ask : "Why did it happen to me? What would be God's reason for letting that thing come into my life?" I wouldn't be a  hyprocrite. There had been a part in my life when I questioned God, but I know it was unhealthy to leave my faith behind just because I don't get what I want in life. My whole system needs faith in God. Everything that I achieved in the past was not just my OWN labor, it's ORA ET LABORA (Prayer and Hardwork).

We experience problems even if we've been faithful to God because, they're part of our FAITH in God. To quote our priest: parte yan ng pagsunod kay Hesus. The story of Job would be a good example of this. He lost everything yet he remained faithful to God.

But God proves His love for us in that while we still were sinners Christ died for us - Romans 5:8

If we feel like we don't get what we want, like our dreams and aspirations; Or that, the wheel don't turn around and we couldn't get on top, it would be alright to cry to release the hard feelings. Pray afterwards. Every beginning has an end. Every problem has a solution. Every sadness would turn into happiness. As the song goes: ♫♫ ♫ God is watching us, from a distance.

Strength Booster

FOOTPRINTS IN THE SAND

(Mary Stevenson)

One night I dreamed I was walking along the beach with the Lord.

Many scenes from my life flashed across the sky.

In each scene I noticed footprints in the sand.

Sometimes there were two sets of footprints,

other times there were one set of footprints.

This bothered me because I noticed

that during the low periods of my life,

when I was suffering from

anguish, sorrow or defeat,

I could see only one set of footprints.

So I said to the Lord,

“You promised me Lord,

that if I followed you,

you would walk with me always.

But I have noticed that during the most trying periods of my life

there have only been one set of footprints in the sand.

Why, when I needed you most, you have not been there for me?”

The Lord replied,

“The times when you have seen only one set of footprints in the sand,

is when I carried you.”

from:
http://www.poetseers.org/the_great_poets/misc/footprints_in_the_sand/

An Encounter with a Former Flight Attendant

Everytime I go to airline screenings, and or interviews,  I get to meet and had a short chat with other applicants. Yesterday was quite different but not unusual.

I met a woman who was with a young guy (whom I assumed was also an applicant ) at the Diamond Hotel's lobby while I was waiting for my friend. She asked me if I'm applying for QR, I quickly said Yes with a smile. She told her nephew: "ayan sabay na kayo" (something like that), I told them to go ahead since my friend was not around yet that time. I eventually went upstairs and decided to wait my friend there. I saw the (same) woman again, there, we shared our own stories. That's when she told me she was a former flight attendant of Philippine Airlines, and the OD was her nephew's first try for an airline company. She worked for the flag carrier for 33 years. Her sister, was once a flight attendant too for Cathay Pacific but did not serve long, "hindi daw nakatagal" according to her. The woman told me, "dati, hindi naman mahigpit sa airlines, hindi mahirap makapasok. Ngayon, matindi ang kompetisyon, kawawa nga ang generation niyo". She also added (though not the exact words): "hindi ko nga akalain na makakapasok ako kasi maliit lang ako, noong nag-apply ako, dalawa lang kaming kinuha. Ang tatangkad niyo. Kung ngayon ako nag-aapply, siguro hindi ako matatanggap."Aside from sharing her life in PAL, she also said her experiences on missed opportunities, like her regrets on why she was unable to try for an international carrier and her other chances of working abroad. "Hindi ko natagalan kasi nalulungkot ako "(because she was all alone to a 'faraway land'). While she was telling me those stories, I have thought myself, living alone abroad -Kaya ko at kakayanin ko kasi iyon ang gusto ko. My father once asked me, kaya mo bang mag-abroad? Sa abroad, mag-isa ka lang, malayo ka sa pamilya mo, hindi lang trabaho mo ang iisipin mo, iisipin mo rin ang pamilya mo. I know the thought of living alone was sad and seemed to be scary. Who wanted to live alone anyway? A friend told me: lahat may katapat na sacrifice. If you want to be an international flight attendant, then, you have to live independently, away from your loved ones. Everything has its pros and cons because nothing was perfect.

On a lighter note, the woman shared some tips like always smile and maintain a good posture, "wag kang kukuba kasi kapag maganda ang posture madaling makita ang height".
She also gave me inspiring and encouraging words: hindi ka dapat nahihiya, try lang ng try, tsaka prayer din.

Yes! PRAYER! It would always be our greatest weapon. In times of adversities, a prayer would always be our easiest and instant connection with God. There were times when we might feel like God was not giving us our desires, but,as the Perpetual Help devotees would say: that HE answers all our prayers in the way that is best for us.

I didn't know what happened to the application of the woman's nephew. I didn't see them after I went out of the ballroom, but, I would always remember the warm approach of the woman who had chosen to spend several minutes talking to me. I hope our paths would cross again in the near future.

A Cup of Drama in the Middle of the Night

     The same matter goes, 5 months of NO WORK and nearing 6 months this coming June 3.,I feel like my life's on recession. Sometimes, I cannot keep myself from having that "what if I went to blah blah yada yada yada" but, I instantly realized that I cannot bring back the past, but I can still do something for my future. I will not be a hypocrite, the feeling of hurt for my Asiana application is still here (yeah, there's a minute of hurt left) but I'm trying to regain the old ME - optimistic and hopeful. One of my friends cannot believe that at one point she's starting to see my negative thoughts and that I almost isolate myself from the rest here in the cyber world and kept mum about everything that regards with my application. I've been asking myself many times, "How long will I wait for that one thing to happen?" . It's really uncertain. My mind wants to give up sometimes, but my heart says NO. There are times when I'm praying at the church, then suddenly, I'm starting to be emotional, next thing I knew, I'm using my handkerchief to act like I'm just wiping some sweat on my face well in fact, I'm just drying my eyes. I'm sure mom can see me crying inside the church, in the middle of the mass, while everyone's falling in line waiting to receive the host and say AMEN. It's really hard how you let time flies staying at home and doing nothing. There are times when mom tells me, I should not be choosy in finding a job. *Sigh* It's not good to settle for something you dislike. It's just repeating my history. Dragging yourself to work is not as easy as ABC or 123. I don't want to work for something just for the sake of getting paid because in the end, I will be the one to suffer and I might end up crazy. If I to work, I want it for something I like. If I to work, it's mainly because it's my dream or that it's one thing I'm passionate about, as simple as that. But, reality hurts sometimes. I remember what an old friend told me: after graduation, the usual scenario is that you don't land for the job you're dreaming of unless you're the president's daughter/son. He's right and has a point, but I guess that has to deal also with the perfect timing.

   I've been open with everybody about my dream of becoming a Cabin Crew. I started applying mid 2009, but not continuously since I'm so busy working back then. Things changed after I resigned. I devoted so much of my time applying to my dream job. I applied to almost every airline company, but failure is really inevitable; If something is not meant for you, you will not have it no matter how much you prayed for it. I will not be ashamed to admit that I applied to several airlines and still unlucky to get in. I've gone as far as the final interview but that's it, that's JUST it for NOW. I'm conditioning myself that my failed applications are stepping stones not stumbling blocks. It's a stepping stone for something better. I know God is watching me, He is watching each and everyone of us who dreams and who tries to make that dream a reality. Whenever there are Open days and Screenings, I don't ask for signs, I just go, and that's one thing I will always tell everybody, don't wait for signs, I'm not saying it's wrong to ask for signs; my point is, whenever there's an opportunity to reach for that dream, just GO, who knows, that dream might be landing on your doorsteps. Make yourself closer to that one thing you've been wanting for so long.

     Uhmm..,Sorry, I'm making this entry a lengthy one. I apologize if I stated a "drama" or if I sound like preaching. It's 12:47 am in my clock now. I hope you will still have the patience to read this post ehe. Good-mor-night everyone!

Oh May!

MAY, the fifth month of the year. I know it's been a year and half since I graduated. I already worked for a known bank but, there's this place that I miss so much - SCHOOL.
In DLSU, since it follows a tri-semester/trimester system, school year starts as early as May, and this is one of the reasons why I can't help but look back. There are times when I do read my previous posts that contain my life as a student and it makes me sentimental. Although being in school entails a responsibility that will lead to frequent sleepless nights and etc, still, I will not trade my life as a student to a year of being a bum. Doing my paper works is a lot easier than finding a job, more so, reaching for yor dream job.


I miss school because I miss my friends too! I miss the times we'll just stay at the 'conscious walk' waiting for someone to pass by,  doing a crazy boy hunting, studying for our exam, exchanging stories, eating at our university's canteens, staying inside the library and etc. I miss those precious moments.

I miss school because I miss my everyday routine of going to one of our chapels before my first class. It's my way of making sure that everything will be alright and that my stressful life will be paid off.

I miss school because it reminds me that dreams can turn to reality as long as we don't know the word SURRENDER; as long as you know that GOD EXISTS; and as long as you're trying to live through the words: perseverance, diligence, strength, courage, motivation and optimism. If there are still words I failed to include, let me know :)

Game and Reality

Out of boredom,I took a quiz in Facebook trying to find out my marrying age, and the result: 25. That will be 3 years from now, but still a long way. At 22, I'm still single, not searching and not in a hurry to jump into a relationship. What's more important to me now is to land on my dream career, which is to be a flight attendant. Rejections from my previous applications will not make me raise the white flag. I can stay single but not without a career as I say.

Most of my cousins are either married or in a relationship. My 2 cousins (maternal side) who are on their middle and early 20s are in a relationship while I? Still single for more than half a decade. I've been in love, been hurt, moved on and the rest is history. Every family gathering, most likely, our relatives will ask me, may boyfriend ka ba? I will just shake my head in response to them,but they will not believe me, as if I'm keeping the truth to my mom. Sometimes, I feel like,why they expect me to have a boyfriend? Is that unusual? Haha.

25 is my ideal age of settling down.,BEFORE.

Now, I know that when I turn 25, I'm still enjoying things. Hopefully by that time, I've already flown and will be flying to so many more destinations around the globe. With the question of Mr.Real? Only God knows who will be the right person and when the right time will be.