Misa de Gallo

They say that if you are able to complete the nine morning masses (Misa de Gallo), whatever you wish for will come true. Too bad I missed one day. I wasn’t able to go to church yesterday; not because I forgot to, but because the alarm clock didn’t go off. Yes, blame it on the alarm clock. I’m really determined to complete the nine mornings, that I even adjusted my schedule at work. I even went home early from our Christmas Party, so that I can wake up early for the mass. When I got home, I set the alarm clock on at 2:30 am so that I would have ample time to prepare. But the stupid alarm clock had a mind of its own, that it preferred to be silent. Or did it go off and I just didn’t hear it because I was sleeping like rock? I must admit I was really tired and lacked sleep that day. Plus, I drank two bottles of beer during our Christmas Party. Maybe… Hmmm… I’d prefer the alarm-clock theory.


Okay, so I wasn’t able to attend the second Misa de Gallo last Sunday. I was disappointed; nevertheless, I was able to go to Pitalo that day. When I woke up, I was surprised to read Keith’s text message saying he wanted to go to Pitalo Church with me. And without any hesitation I said yes. It’s a well known church in San Fernando for its miraculous San Vicente Ferrer. They say that when you get there, you should light some candles, pray and say your wish three times for it to come true. Keith also said that people, who lost their love ones like due to tragedy or something, usually go there; pray and wish that they’d be found.


After passing three provinces and 30 minutes travel later, we finally arrived. I was expecting a big church, more like Sto. Niño and Sto. Rosaryo church, instead it was a humble one knowing what it was known for. Not really that big but once you get inside you’ll be amazed. From the ceiling to the wall, you’ll find paintings of divine images. For me, it’s kinda like the Sistine Chapel but the smaller and Pinoy version of it. We lighted some candles, prayed, and made our wish. I’m glad Keith brought me there. It was a wonderful experience, to think it was an impromptu.


Today is the third Misa de Gallo. My mom and I woke up late, so we decided to hear mass at Pardo Church, which is near our place. I don’t know why for some reason I choose to park at Holy Cross School’s basketball court, when there was a parking space right in front of the Blessed Virgin Mary’s grotto. Unmindful of anything bad that would happen; we got out of the car and went to hear mass. After the mass ended, we got back to the car and were surprised to see papers scattered inside. I instantly realized that it was ransacked. The robbers took my bag with my mp4 in it. On the other hand, the car’s stereo, the 1 GB flash disks and the automatic tire inflator were still there. Good thing nothing really important or precious was inside my bag. I was shaken by what happen. I didn’t expect that of all places it would happen within the church vicinity or inside a school’s basketball court.


So will I still continue the remaining six early morning masses? Yes, my conviction to attend the Misa de Gallo is still there. Even if I had a traumatic experience and wouldn’t be able to complete the nine mornings to make a wish, the important thing is I tried. Besides, it’s more of the preparation you make for the coming Christmas day that matters. Who knows, what I long for is just what He might have planned for me. Then I may not even need to wish for it anymore.



***** Amen!

A time to share

It’s the time of year once again when we get to play Santa with our less fortunate brothers and sisters. With Bigfoot as a sponsor, we’ve touched lives and brought smiles to the orphans of David Livingstone Foundation, Ubay Liloan yesterday. We gave out a lot of gifts and in return they sang songs (a production number) and prayed for us. At some point in their presentation while I was recording it, some of them cried, then suddenly I felt tears fell from my eyes. I was touched. It was either the song or the way the children sang it. A “thank you” song, which I felt they sang from their hearts.

Three weeks of preparation was all worth it. It was really such a wonderful and enlightening experienced. It made me realized that even if I don’t have that much, even if I don’t usually get what I want, I am already blessed with a family and friends, and for that I have a lot to be thankful for.



***** Share your blessings this Christmas

THE GREATEST ADVICE - Practical thoughts on a Purpose-driven life

THE GREATEST ADVICE
Rick Warren, the Purpose Driven Life




Don't date because you are desperate.
Don't marry because you are miserable.
Don't have kids because you think your genes are superior.
Don't philander because you think you are irresistible.

Don't associate with people you can't trust.
Don't cheat. Don't lie. Don't pretend.
Don't dictate because you are smarter.
Don't demand because you are stronger.

Don't sleep around because you think you are old enough & know better.
Don't hurt your kids because loving them is harder.
Don't sell yourself, your family, or your ideals.
Don't stagnate!

Don't regress.
Don't live in the past. Time can't bring anything or anyone back.
Don't put your life on hold for possibly Mr. Right.
Don't throw your life away on absolutely Mr. Wrong because your
biological clock is ticking.

Learn a new skill.
Find a new friend.
Start a new career.
Sometimes, there is no race to be won, only a price to be paid for some of life's more hasty decisions.

To terminate your loneliness, reach out to the homeless.
To feed your nurturing instincts, care for the needy.
To fulfill your parenting fantasies, get a puppy.
Don't bring another life into this world for all the wrong reasons.

To make yourself happy, pursue your passions & be the best of what you can be.
Simplify your life. Take away the clutter.
Get rid of destructive elements: abusive friends, nasty habits, and
dangerous liaisons.
Don't abandon your responsibilities but don't overdose on duty.

Don't live life recklessly without thought and feeling for your family.
Be true to yourself.
Don't commit when you are not ready.
Don't keep others waiting needlessly.

Go on that trip. Don't postpone it.
Say those words. Don't let the moment pass.
Do what you have to, even at society's scorn.

Write poetry.
Love Deeply.
Walk barefoot.
Dance with wild abandon.
Cry at the movies.

Take care of yourself. Don't wait for someone to take care of you.
You light up your life.
You drive yourself to your destination.
No one completes you - except YOU.

It isn't true that life does not get easier with age.
It only gets more challenging.
Don't be afraid. Don't lose your capacity to love.
Pursue your passions.

Live your dreams.
Don't lose faith in God.
Don't grow old. Just grow YOU!

When you give someone your time, you are giving them a portion of your life that you'll never get back.
Your time is your life. That is why the greatest gift you can give to
someone is your time.
Relationships take time and effort, and the best way to spell love is
T-I-M-E because the essence of love is not what we think or do or provide for others, but how much we give of ourselves

God is good all the time!

That Long Distance Relationship Thing

“It won’t work!” That has always been my stand every time someone brings up the topic about long distance relationship and asks my opinion. Talks of romantic moments but without physical interaction; no hugging, no kissing, no holding hands, and no sex, is a total bs. Who in their right sense of mind can stand such an arrangement? I mean, I could get sick of loneliness if I can’t even take a glimpse of my special someone in a week. How much more if that would happen in a month or in years? I could be dead by then! All right, I exaggerated a little. I know we already have webcams, mms and 3G technologies to see someone from far away. Still, I just don’t believe that such a romantic relationship can survive. The saying, “absence makes the heart grow fonder” is such a big cliché. An overused phrase that everyone likes to use to cover up their dying relationship and their overflowing longing to be their partners. Duh! I think it’s more likely “absence makes the heart forget” or “out of sight, out of mind.”

Take for example my college friend, Andrea (not her real name). She is sexy, beautiful, and a successful Computer Engineer; however, her love life may not speak the same. Andrea had a college boyfriend and they have been together for along time. A few months after graduation, Andrea had to go to another country for work, leaving her boyfriend behind with hopes that she’d return after 2 years. Yes, they’ve decided to join the few others in the implausible world of long distance relationships. Everything went well at first. But I guess it’s really man’s nature to be physically stimulated. After a few months of exchanging “I love yous” through emails and calls, Andrea found out that her boyfriend was seeing another girl. To make the long story short, they broke-up. Andrea was a little devastated, but take note of the word “a little” because just a month after the break-up she found James. Andrea and James went back to the Philippines; they got married and Andrea got pregnant. James had to go out of the country again to continue his contract in the company where he works. Like a déjà vu and without any choice, Andrea found herself in another long distance relationship. Nine months later Andrea gave birth to a bouncing baby boy, whom of course became one of my good-looking godchildren. Years and months have passed and somehow things were going smoothly between the two. Until just recently, I received a text message from Andrea with the following words; “Nit, I’m sad… I found out that James had a girlfriend there and the girl had the nerve to even call me…” I told her to fight for her rights and her love for James, which of course she did and gave James another chance. But that’s another story to tell.

I think that is proof enough that long distance relationships don’t work. Ok, you may say that it is an isolated case. So I did a little survey and I tried asking about 20 people for their opinion on the matter. However, only 7 replied with their best opinion and the rest, either they don’t care or they have a boring lovelife. Surprisingly, out of the 7 only 3 people share the same opinion as I have. According to my oozingly sexy friend Eloise, it won’t work. She pointed out that, the most common reason you hear from the brokenhearted or the heartbreaker why the relationship didn’t work is that they grew apart (and they are just a mere 2 miles or less away). How much more if you put the geographical quotient in the picture, it would be such a disaster. On the other hand, the versatile Bhobby said that, it may indeed be very difficult but when two people are mature enough, then it can work. But Yo, a promiscuous friend of mine, was very firm in saying it won’t work. He said that, if your partner is far away from you, there are tendencies that he/she might be tempted. It is a big world out and it is inevitable that someone almost the same or much more might come along, he added. Jokingly he said, how about if your partner will be assigned in Lebanon, would you be happy with your long distance relationship knowing there’s a raging war going on there? I just laughed. “Some kinda tough ha, “ was Jerwin’s first reaction. Jerwin said that, he still believes that it can work, even if it didn't work out for him. Yes, he finds it ironic, but it may be so because he confesses to still feel that his one of those bunch of "hopeless delusionals" who believe that love...true and genuine love, in its all-encompassing power, does not know any boundaries, geographic or otherwise. Pretty mom Noreen and voluptuous Lyn both shared that, it depends on the couple involved. If they both want it to work out there are always ways to keep it alive. Anything will work if both want it to, she concluded. Although Lyn said it could be very tiring, based on her on going experience.

Hmmm…I’m almost convinced it will work. Wait a minute. If I take into consideration my dad working for 5 years already in Saudi, and knowing that my mom and dad are still happily in love with each other, I think it can work. There may still be hope for those lovers in such relationship. But how to pull it off and what the true factors or key elements to a successful long distance relationship? That I don’t know for sure. I guess it would be safe to say that with a little fate, love and trust, it can work out.


*****To the hopeless romantic

Live, Laugh and Love

Live, Laugh and Love…Live your life to fullest; life is too short. Treasure each day you get to share with your family and friends. Do not let a day pass without saying “I love you,” “Thank you,” or “take care” to the ones you love. No matter how simple it is, know that it means so much to them. Be happy. Do not let a day pass without having to laugh. Read a joke, watch “Will and Grace” or go to a comedy bar. Go with the flow but be wise. Do not waste your time thinking about all your problems that you know you can’t solve in a day. Go out and enjoy what you have, but do not forget to share what you can with others. Love like you’ve never loved before; even if it’s already your nth time to be with someone. Life is too short…




*** To Callai, we will pray for you.

That Rain Thing

Totot – totoot – totooot… The alarm goes off and I found myself waking up on a dark and rainy morning. The rain was pouring and the weather was cold. Everyone in the house was still sound asleep, even the dogs. But despite my being a sucker for a cool weather, I was excited to get out of bed and start my day. I love the rainy days. I’m not sure what it is, but somehow it gives me a comforting feeling. Yes, I know and I feel it sometimes. Something in the rain also brings a gloomy feeling; a cheerless and a dispiriting atmosphere. Most, if not all, gets emotional during this kind of weather.

I was driving on my way to the office and I turned the radio on. After almost 30 minutes trip, it was then I realized that I have already listened to three straight sad songs – Break it to me gently, Cool with you and Tonight I want cry. I arrived in the office 5 minutes ahead of time; parked my car and by the last note of the song, “Tonight I want cry,” I turned the engine off. For a few minutes there I was dumbfounded. Suddenly, memories of heartaches went flashing through my mind. Not only of my own, but also of friends whom had their share of painful experiences too.

I remember the time my ex broke up with me over the phone. The words “I fell out of love” echoed in my ears like a church bell. I was in bed when I got the call and I cried a river that time. It was a murky day. The time Megan was crying in the office early morning. She already had puffy eyes when she told me, “I don’t know what to do anymore,” then tears continuously flowed down from her eyes. It was heartbreaking. I remember Jayson’s shaky voice over the phone when he said, “I love him but I’m tired… I’m breaking up with him.” It was emotional. That dawn, when Mild opened up to me and told me how partly unhappy she is with her life. How she longs to have someone to inspire her and share her life with apart from her family. It was heartrending. I remember when my sister secretly told me that, she and her boyfriend had already broke-up due to a third-party. She attempted to be courageous and put on a smile, but her tears betrayed her. It was nostalgic. There was also that time when my mom got a long-distance call from my aunt, informing her of my grandmother’s death. Tears fell from her eyes as she woefully puts down the phone. Her hands were shaking as I held it; then she embraced me and told me what happened. It was a mournful day.

It made me feel a little depressed, but I had to overcome it. I was not planning of getting emotional, while face with loads of work in the office. After a tiring day, I went home and went straight to bed. I was so sleepy that I didn’t even bother to eat dinner at all. The rain continued to pour until the following day. I watched as it fell from the shadowy sky, accompanied by a cool breeze that swooped in my room. I thought the rain was calling me, so I took off my shirt and went outside. It has been a long time, as far as I can remember, since I freely bathed under the pouring rain. I felt the raindrops on my face and all over my body. I was enjoying myself. For a while, the rain poured hard and I thought it dropped so hard that it stings a bit. It was cold, yet it felt so refreshing and uplifting. Then the rain stopped and there was a short silence. Suddenly, streaks of sunlight appeared in the open air. Frogs started to croak, as if a wonderful song is being made. I looked around me and the place was so invigorating. The plants looked so green and the place was glowing. Everything seemed so alive and new.

I continued to watch my surroundings, as I wiped my body with the towel that was hanging outside the terrace. Then it came to me; I guess this is the reason why I feel something in the rain is comforting. It is natures’ way of cleansing the earth and bringing out the best in everything. Just like the problems we have in our life, it polishes us to become a better person. It would be boring if life were all sunny and funny. I think we need the rain like we need to endure hardships in life. It is the only way for us to be able to grasp happiness and the true meaning of life. Although, sometimes the rain can pour longer than we expect it or even become a storm, but we just need to hold on and keep our faith. The sun will always shine after every rain. Remember that everything happens for a reason, and it is for that reason that we continue to live and endure pain.


*** To all the people in pain

That Sex Thing

It was 11pm and I just got home from a date when the phone rang. Marlon was on the line. He mentioned something about Kim and sounded a bit pissed off. Marlon and Kim (not their real names) are one of those PLU couples that I admire. He asked me if we could talk for a while. Something in his voice tells me that it will be a long talk, but what the heck, I wasn’t sleepy yet. Marlon is a good friend of mine; moreno, a gym buff and a smart guy. He met Kim at work on their lunchtime and they started going out. From then on, they have been going steady for almost a year now. Like any other relationships, they’ve been through rough roads; constant quarrels, jealousy, and misunderstandings almost leading to their break-up. But they’ve somehow managed to make it through all those.

I sat down on the couch and Marlon said, “What a really frustrating day.” That was his first sentence. “I just want to talk to someone or I’m going mad.” I asked what happened and he started talking. “Today, I called Kim and invited him for a dinner date and a movie. We’ve talked for over an hour on the phone and we’ve both decided to check-in a motel and make love after watching a movie. Funny because I had to practically beg for it, but take note, I didn’t force him to. It has just been awhile since we’ve done it, and I miss him so much. I think he also sounded excited about our plan and was even teasing me how he’s already horny.” I continued to attentively listen to Marlon’s story for almost 30 minutes. Once in a while I give a confirmative tone to let him know that I was still there. Then the climax…

“After we’ve bought all the paraphernalia needed (condoms and lubricant) and after watching a really horrifying film, I found myself seating next to a sleepy Kim inside my car. I couldn’t believe my eyes and I didn’t know what to exactly feel. He lied down and said that, he was tired and sleepy. How can he be tired and sleepy after having slept almost the whole day and after watching “See no Evil,” a suspense/ horror film? Tell me Mon. My god! To think I was so excited to kiss him and much more feel his body. But after a few minutes, I didn’t see that coming to a realization anymore. I was upset and insulted, maybe because I was so emotionally and physically prepared. I mean if he didn’t want to do it, why not just say so. Rather than get me going and lead me to believe something’s going to happen but in the end nothing at all. You know what? He has done it so many times. He has this unique way of indirectly turning down my request or any plans we make, to the last minute. Right then and there, I decided we’d go home. I mean it’s just the right thing to do, right? I can be more understanding Mon, but this time I just don’t get it. He added that he just needed a 10 minutes nap, then we can make love. He said that it’s like work he needed a break. A break from what? What the hell was he talking about? Besides, who in his right mind after seeing his partner acting sleepy and tired, would still want to have sex? Good thing I didn’t buy the tube lubricant or it would’ve caused me more than 200 pesos for nothing.”

It came to me that Marlon was already finished with his story. He asked what I thought about it, but I was speechless for a few moments. I didn't know what to say because I had the same experience before. It was as if I was listening to myself complaining. Then I finally said that I agree with him. I told him that he should tell Kim how he felt about what happened and talk about it. We ended our conversation with him saying. “Oh well! Maybe I’ll just jack-off with this lubricant we bought. Sayang nman.” We both laugh and said our good nights. I went to bed still wondering about something. What Marlon said caught my attention; when he said that he practically beg for them to make love. How important is sex in a romantic relationship?

I’m talking about Sex, not as a gender, but as an activity associated with sexual intercourse. It is that thing that involves vaginal, anal, or oral penetration. It is an act, for sexual procreation and also for sexual enjoyment, done during which the erect penis is inserted into the vagina, anus or mouth, where orgasm and ejaculation occur. Some would actually prefer using the phrase “make love.” This is the term that most couples use to differentiate plain sex and the sex done in a relationship. Don’t be confused. It is still sex but with added complications. The term coitus may also be used synonymously.

I woke up the next day but I still can’t forget about the things I’ve heard last night. I went to Ayala and had my weekly facial care; I went shopping and I went to the gym, but I still can’t get the question off my mind. I realize I needed to confide with my friends for some answers. It was then when Rainne and Megan, both good friends of mine, invited me for a lunch-out. Rainne is the glamorous Quality Assurance Engineer, who has been going steady with his boyfriend for 5 years now. Megan is the sexy and intelligent Customer Service Representative, who is currently in a long-distance relationship for 2 months. We hopped in my car and decided to eat at Jollibee. I was driving when I told them about Marlon’s experience and asked them; is sex important in a romantic relationship? How important is it?

After hearing the story, they both laughed at it. Megan’s first reaction was somewhat strong, as she can also relate about it in a different way. It has something to do with falsely leading on someone to believe something, which is entirely not true. I believe that it wasn’t also right for Kim to lead Marlon to believing that he was excited to make love to him that night and in the end turned him down. Megan said that it was really frustrating. She added that, sex is really part of any romantic relationship. She calls it part of being intimate with each other. However, she claims that if the person is firm when it comes to his values, say waiting for marriage before doing it, then we should respect the person’s decision and values. Rainne nodded to show affirmation to what Megan said. She said that, it is that special thing you do in a romantic relationship, a thin line that separates lovers from being just friends. Your partner shouldn’t beg for it, but it should be willingly given in a joint decision, she further said. Lastly, I personally think that it jazzes up a relationship.

I hurriedly parked my car because we were already hungry. Before we got out of the car, we’ve already arrived to the conclusion that sex, “making love,” “cuddling” or whatever you call it, is really an essential component in every romantic relationship. Instead of eating in Jollibee, we ended up eating in Mc Donalds, coz after all, my car was parked in their parking area. =)


***** To a happier relationship and a wonderful sex life.

A Tribute to SUPERMAN

* CAN YOU READ MY MIND *

Can you read my mind?
Do you know what it is you do to me?
Don't know who you are
Just a friend from another star

Here I am, like a kid at the school
Holding hands with a god or a fool
Will you look at me, quivering,
Like a little girl, shivering,
You can see right through me.

Can you read my mind?
Can you picture the things I'm thinking of?
Wondering why you are
All the wonderful things you are.

You can fly - You belong to the sky
You and I we belong to each other.

If you need a friend,
I'm the one to fly too
If you need - to be loved -
Here I am, Read my mind!


***** To Christopher Reeve and Brandon Routh

Rainy Days

I like the weather today; the shower of rain and the cool breeze. Days like these make most people romanticize. Makes you want to be with your bf or gf alone; hugging each other on the couch or on your bed while watching a very romantic movie, or listening to some sweet love songs while talking about just anything. Cinematic? Oh yes, but true.

However, some people just want to be alone in days like these, like me. Not that I’m loner or unromantic, but there’s something about the rain that makes me want to be by myself. I just want to be alone in bed, listening to the lullaby of the falling rain. Or watch any movie in the living room alone and feed myself with lots of chips. Then listen to my collection of some oldies-but-goodies love songs. Most of all, I love it after it rains. Everything seems so serene, fresh and peaceful. The sound of crickets is just music to my ears. The unruffled and cold breeze just doesn’t fail to make me smile. The earth is cleansed once again.

**** To Gaya, Mother of the Earth

ST. CROMNZ PDF

Just recently, my cell phone got corrupted and I lost all my contacts. I could very well remember it happened the dawn of Wednesday. I was installing a game on my cell phone, when suddenly it popped up; “File Corrupted. Some entries lost.” I got tensed and agitated. I was worried I lost some of my contact numbers. I opened my phonebook and to my surprise, it was completely blank.

That day, I started emailing my friends asking for their contact numbers. I even announced it in Friendster to keep everyone posted of what happened. A few of them texted me with their names on it, while others emailed their contact numbers. By Sunday, I thought I had most of the numbers that got lost. However, I was still receiving some text messages from “unknown” numbers. Thanks to Globe Unlimited, it made it cheaper and easier for me to send blast text messages to everyone and asked them who they were. One of those “unknown” numbers was Ivan’s.

Ivan was a high school batchmate and a friend of mine. He is a BS HRM graduate and now teaching English as a second language to Koreans. I already have his number before, but we rarely text nor call each other. I was not even sure if he had the same number after all this time or if he has my number at all. When the thing about my cell phone happened, he texted this, “Naa nko uyab…” The number was unregistered and I didn’t have any clue from who it was. I was puzzled. I thought it was from my ex. I would have surely replied, “It’s about time…” But I had to make sure first. I texted and asked who it was, then I receive a text back and it reads, “Ivan. (smiley face).” He called me later in the evening and we got to talk over the phone.

We talked for over an hour, reminiscing our High School days and what have become of us after school. So many things have happened back then and I could still vividly remember everything; the jokes we’ve shared, the disappointments felt towards a low grade, the connivances every after school, the teachers who made us felt special and really involved, and the fights that usually lasted for just a day or hours even. Ivan mentioned that we would soon be having our High School Reunion next year. I can’t believe that it has been almost 10 years since High School. I told him I’m looking forward to it. Ivan on the other hand isn’t. He said that he is not yet successful enough to face everyone. I told him that it doesn’t really matter. Well, okay it does, but not much. For me, I’m just excited to see friends from way back. Besides, he is successful already. Having graduated college, single and earning as much as 15,000 – 20,000 a month, is in fact something to be proud of. I wasn’t sure if he was convinced.

We shifted our discussion to our circle of friends. I asked if he is still in contact with Damier, Jayson, Julius, Ray and etc. Like me, they just keep in touch through text or call, but never got a chance to go out anymore. While Ivan was saying something, I began to remember how it was before and how we used to call our group. It was a very smart effort of the whole group, particularly Misty (who used to be known as Brian), Celine (who we used to call Roland) and Damier. They got all the first letters in our family name and formed an acronym out of it – ST. CROMNZ PDF. Yes, it is unique. Back to the phone with Ivan, it was already 7:30pm. I was about to tell him that I had to go and prepare for work, when he invited me for a night out on Friday. Since Friday was my day-off, I immediately said yes. Then I suggested why not make it a reunion with the ST CROMNZ PDF. Ivan agreed with excitement. He then started to contact the others and got a favorable response. By the next day, it was already official – June 16, 2006, 8pm Friday at Mango Square.

As usual, I was the first one to arrived. Jayson, who was very masculine in black shirt, met up with me in Jollibee. Ivan, who looked very sophisticated in folded and hung polo, was already on the table with Chris, who is now, in a certain angle Eric Santos look-a-like. Ray, who looked so healthy with silver jewelries, came alone. Cerwin, who’s now bald was wearing a white sando and maong short, came with the sexy and gorgeous Celine, who was wearing a really micro-mini skirt. While Fresh looking and beautiful with curly-tip long hair Misty, came in late. We were almost complete, except for Ryan, Damier and Julius, who have their own valid reasons for not coming. For the first time, after almost 10 years, we were all gathered like one big happy family in the heart of Mango Square. The first few hours were spent in chatting; sharing experiences, asking of common friends, asking how’s who and where’s who now, and a lot more. Then we started drinking beer, dancing, singing, and boys watching. We even saw some high school classmates who were also doing there usual night out. We partied the whole night until 4am the next day. It was my first time there in Mango Square and I had so much fun, we all did. We almost forgot that Misty still had to go to work; Chris had a slight fever, even if he was feeling a little numb because of the beer; and I had to take my sister to a seminar as early as 6am.

I drove my way home with a light feeling and a bit tipsy. I got to bed and decided to take a short nap, but I couldn’t. I was still feeling high. I caught myself staring at the ceiling, thinking how nice it is to know that even if I don’t get to see them, I know that we are still good friends. I know that I can still count on them. It’s just like this text message that I received from a friend in Chicago, and I quote,


“ Good friends are like stars. You don't always see them, but you know they are always there.“


****To Good Fiends and Good Time.

That Gay Thing

Independence day!

I went to Ayala the other day hoping to meet Keith for a lunch date; however, after almost an hour of waiting, he didn’t show up. So I decided to go to Tacos and ordered one whole quesadillas. I was a bit hungry and this is where we usually eat if were kinda short in cash. I was that time.

I was enjoying my slices of hot, spicy, and cheesy quesadillas while checking on the people around. I saw Angge, a friend of a friend of mine who has 6th sense; my cousin who was in rush to buy blank CDs; and some children playing with their plastic swords. As I was about to eat my fourth slice, there he was: straight looking, neat, tall, in a yellow Lacoste polo shirt, Dickies jeans and with a girl. The latter was surprising. Mind you, I was not surprised to see that the girl was not so good-looking, but I was more surprised to see that he was locked-arms with the girl. The girl’s arms were wrapped around his left arm, like a python tightly gripping on its prey. They looked so sweet to each other and I couldn’t help but wonder. Was she her girlfriend? Then suddenly, like a movie, I had a flash back.

John, not really the guy’s real name, was a schoolmate way back in high school. He was an intelligent student, good-looking, flamboyant, and effeminate. Yes, he is gay. He wore short shorts in PE class, always liked to be in a female character in every short plays held either in the class room or gym, brings a foldable glittering fan during flag ceremony, and likes smooching around with guys. There was even one time when he was wearing green contact lenses, but he had to leave it at home the next day, because the teacher called his attention for doing so. It was a boys’ school.

Back to reality, I was caught up staring at them as they passed by. I took a small bite on my fourth slice of quesadillas and started asking myself: is it possible for someone as gay as John to change into a straight guy? I thought I needed my friends help. So I emailed some of my open-minded friends right away and was able to get different views.

Mild’s answer was, “YES, if he joins the oasis of love”. I thought it was kinda funny, so I emailed back and asked if she was serious. You see, Mild is the sexy, religious and joker type. You just can’t be sure if she is joking or not. True enough, she’s heard some testimonies about it from some people in the “congregation.” Eloise, my out going and sophisticated friend, knew of someone who was gay in high school but who’s now happily married, with a beautiful daughter. Maricar, a very good friend of mine who wants some of my sperms when we turn 40, just don’t think it’s possible. She added that, at a moment he may look and live like a straight guy but the desires and the feelings of a gay person will still haunt him. Philmore was positively sure it could happen, as soon as the person discovers that cherries are tastier than bananas. A friend of mine from a call center and proud to be gay, Jerwin, related this to a bi-sexual preference, but somehow he just couldn’t understand why there is such a thing as a bi-sexual person. He said that, you may like two things but there’s always this tendency to like the other one more. So he concluded that there’s really no such thing as a bi-sexual and an image of a really gay individual turning into a straight guy, is rather a little hard to believe. Professor Richard, and sexy Mahal both shared that it is a matter of choice. If the person is determined to change, then he can be whatever he wants. Today, I asked Keith the same question and he said, “Being gay is an absolute entity.” Half of your body just couldn’t be gay while the other half is straight. If you are gay, then you are gay, he concluded.

As I drive my way back to the office, I keep getting the picture in my mind of John smiling and laughing with a girl. I somehow realize that he was actually happy, as his face obviously suggests. And it came to me; I think that’s the most important thing. After all, happiness is what we all seek in life and we are all entitled to it. So if John was either reborn into a straight guy or was just acting like one, as long as he is happy, that’s what matters. I started working with a smile, knowing how happy and loved I am in just being me.


*** To those people who are trying to be true.

Gemini - May 26, 1980

Freyr and Freyja as the Twins

Freya is considered to be the goddess of Love and Beauty, but is also a warrior goddess and one of great wisdom and magick. She and her twin brother Freyr are of a different "race" of gods known as the Vanir. Many of the tribes venerated her higher than the Aesir, calling her "the Frowe" or "The Lady." She is known as Queen of the Valkyries, choosers of those slain in battle to bear them to Valhalla (the Norse heaven). She, therefore, is a psychopomp like Odhinn and it is said that she gets the "first pick" of the battle slain. She wears the sacred necklace Brisingamen, which she paid for by spending the night with the dwarves who wrought it from the bowels of the earth. The cat is her sacred symbol. There seems to be some confusion between herself and Fricka, Odin's wife, as they share similar functions; but Fricka seems to be strictly of the Aesir, while Freya is of the Vanic race. The day Friday (Frejyasdaeg) was named for her (some claim it was for Fricka).

Freyr (Fro Ingwe) is Freya's twin brother. He is the horned God of fertility, and has some similarities to the Celtic Cernunnos or Herne, although he is NOT the same being. He is known as King of the Alfs (elves). Both the Swedish and the English are said to be descendents of his. The Boar is his sacred symbol, which is both associated with war and with fertility. His golden boar, "Gullenbursti", is supposed to represent the daybreak. He is also considered to be the God of Success, and is wedded to Gerda, the Jotun, for whom he had to yield up his mighty sword. At Ragnarok, he is said to fight with the horn of an elk (much more suited to his nature rather than a sword.)


Chatty Gemini is my star sign, which tells us that the Sun awakened the dual sign of the Twins in the Zodiac on my birthday. The Sun in astrology stands for our inner nature. The third sign of the zodiac, Gemini, a masculine sign, is ruled by the quick and lively planet Mercury, the messenger of the gods. A mutable (fluid and changeable) sign, Gemini governs communications, intellectual matters, and gossip! It is an air sign, which means Gemini people are ingenious, quick-witted communicators, although you are often restless, easily bored and can become frustrated by things moving too slowly.

The Sun, ruler of our inner nature, is bright in Gemini. It favours writing, other forms of communication, and travel (although beware of running around in circles just for the sake of it, or because others have imposed on your good nature). Geminians are great talkers and are usually very much in demand socially, because you are so entertaining. You'd make a great talk-show host. Gemini is the life of the party.

A Dual Sign

Being a dual sign has (of course) both an up and a down-side. You are vitally interested in what's new and fashionable, though you have a healthy skepticism which allows you to see both sides of the image. You are a party animal, but like to sit back and analyse, or send up the whole procedure.

You multiply the effects of other people's energy, but can become deflated if you are out of the limelight for any length of time. Your sharp wit and excellent powers of observation make you a good raconteur, although you have a tendency to exaggerate which can cause trouble with your relationships.

Ironic Wit

You really have little faith in yourself, which you mask with ironic wit or sarcasm, but in truth you can use your flexible mind to better yourself in a surprising number of ways. You spend more time talking than eating, so you are able to stay fairly slim. Your flexible bod enjoys agile sports: gymnastics, bicycling, swimming, and so on. Favorites are tennis, racquetball and similar games involving a partner. Gemini talents include design, interior decoration, arts and crafts, magic and illusion, and music.

As the day-throne of Mercury, your strengths are in communication, both the spoken and the written word, media, gossip and trivia of every conceivable variety. A mutable (changeable) sign, you are chameleon-like in your ability to blend in with your environment, yet you stand out like a beacon when you become the life of the party, with your witty remarks and seemingly limitless knowledge about all and sundry.

Multi-faceted Personality

You love zooming around, running right left and centre. As a source of information you are unparalleled and you love to keep in touch with your friends, neighbours and indeed anyone who is on your wavelength. The mobile phone, if not invented by a Gemini, was definitely invented for you – and is certainly your most treasured accessory!

Gemini rules the hands and arms, lungs, thymus gland and upper ribs; people with Gemini active in their charts are subject to injury or infection in these areas and should resist the temptation to smoke. Geminians are also subject to mental distraction and hovering between alternatives, or attempting to pursue mutually conflicting goals.

Gemini colours are yellow and light blue, and mixed colours. Your birthstone is the agate, attractively streaked with colours like the multi-faceted Geminian personality. Gemini flowers include the lilac, azalea, and lily-of-the-valley.

The Element associated with Gemini is Air. Air Signs are the thinking person's Signs, and the Twins don't disappoint. Those born under this Sign prize intellect and consider it the key to all things. At work, they are the clearest of thinkers, looking at a project from all (well, at least two) sides and putting forth some logical and well-thought-out ideas. This quality makes Geminis an asset to any team, and while these folks are not inclined to take the lead, they are a most valuable component. It's also the Gemini's literary bent which allows them to offer a useful perspective on most any situation. The Twins also enjoy bringing their objective reasoning and big-picture ability into their personal relationships. While some may perceive all this logical thought as cold and unemotional, it's simply how these folks tick. They want to connect, they just do it their own way. Luckily for Geminis (and their pals), their lightness of spirit and youthful exuberance help them to appear forever young. In keeping with that skip in their step, Geminis enjoy short road trips -- and their agile minds and nimble hands ensure that they could change a tire (if needed) in no time flat. Is all of this Twin-energy more than any one person can handle? Ah, maybe that's why they are two.