At around 7:25PM, I was heading to the bundy clock area to punch out already when the yuletide music flew into the air with soothing gentleness. The cold breeze that sweeps the place gave rise to a feeling of coziness that made me enjoy the calming sound the more.
I could not help but utter the lyrics as the soprano saxophone produced the melodious tunes of Christmas...
"Do you hear what I hear? A star, a star..."
"Silent night.. Holy night... All is calm, all is bright..."
"Go to sleep, do not cry..."
"I'll be home for Christmas..."
Hmmm, it brings back memories of childhood. Longing... Longing...
Friday, December 11, 2009
Friday, December 4, 2009
The Korean Diaspora: a 21st Century Demographic Phenomenon
From the Kingdom of Jumong....
To the rest of the world...
The Koreans are conspicuously present in the world's capitals...
To the rest of the world...
The Koreans are conspicuously present in the world's capitals...
Sunday, November 29, 2009
Efren Peñaflorida: CNN Hero of the Year
CNN Heroes: An All-Star Tribute
Hosted by Anderson Cooper. Kodak Theater, Hollywood, California.
2009 TOP 10 HEROES:
(Source: http://edition.cnn.com/2009/LIVING/11/16/cnnheroes.tribute.show/index.html)
1. Brad Blauser
Brad Blauser is providing hope and mobility to disabled children and their families in Iraq. Since 2005, his Wheelchairs for Iraqi Kids program has distributed nearly 650 free pediatric wheelchairs to children in need.
2. Roy Foster
Army veteran Roy Foster started Stand Down House to help veterans struggling with addiction and homelessness in Florida. Since 2000, his program has provided life-changing services to nearly 900 veterans.
3. Doc Hendley
Bartender Doc Hendley is providing clean water to communities worldwide. Through creative fundraising, his nonprofit Wine to Water has brought sustainable water systems to 25,000 people in five countries.
4. Andrea Ivory
Breast cancer survivor Andrea Ivory is bringing early detection to the doorsteps of uninsured women. With mobile mammography vans, her group has provided more than 500 free screenings in Miami, Florida.
5. Betty Makoni
Zimbabwe native Betty Makoni founded the Girl Child Network to provide a haven for young victims of sexual abuse. The organization has rescued more than 35,000 girls since 2001.
6. Jorge Munoz
School bus driver Jorge Munoz is helping hungry New Yorkers make it through tough times. Since 2004, he has handed out more than 70,000 meals from his mobile soup kitchen in Queens -- for free.
7. Efren Peñaflorida
Efren Peñaflorida gives Filipino youth an alternative to gang membership through education. His Dynamic Teen Company's 10,000 members have taught basic reading and writing to 1,500 kids living in the slums.
8. Budi Soehardi
Budi Soehardi founded a children's home in one of the poorest areas of Indonesia. Today, Roslin Orphanage in West Timor provides food, shelter and education to more than 45 children.
9. Derrick Tabb
Derrick Tabb started The Roots of Music to give young people an alternative to New Orleans' streets. His music education program provides free tutoring, instruments and music instruction to more than 100 students.
10. Jordan Thomas
Jordan Thomas, 20, of Chattanooga, Tennessee, lost both of his legs in a boating accident in 2005. Since then, his Jordan Thomas Foundation has raised more than $400,000 to provide prosthetics for children in need.
When Efren Peñaflorida came home to the Philippines, the whole nation was in jubilation. Two success stories in a row have captured Filipinos but also international onlookers. Should not the Filipino be proud? There's Manny Pacman Pacquiao the here comes Efren Peñaflorida! Both heroes in their own right!
Riding on the tide of a chanting population, President Gloria Arroyo awarded Efren the Order of Sikatuna. With wide smiles, many appreciated the gesture of the President to reward Efren's heroism. Thereafter, Efren also received a hero's welcome in his home province, Cavite.
Noteworthy. Inspiring. Heroic. These are but some of the adjectives we can draw to characterize Efren's feat as a "push-cart" teacher. I, for one, am hands down towards Kuya Ef's benevolence and kindheartedness. May the good Lord bless him a thousand fold; may Jesus enlarge his coast; may the merciful Heaven have mercy on his dear soul. Sana may mga umusbong pang katulad ni Kuya Efren.
However, this Filipino achievement brings out many issues that this blogger thinks need immediate action. Think of me as postmodernist if you want, perhaps a skeptic even, but I am convinced that beneath the surface of all these, lie a plethora of dilemmas that drag the Filipino consciousness down to unthinkable levels...
SHOULD GLORIA ARROYO BE HAPPY OR SHOULD SHE BE APOLOGETIC?
IS THE "CNN HERO" AWARD A RECOGNITION OF UNPARALLELLED FEAT OR IT IS A CONDEMNATION FOR THE POOR STATE OF PHILIPPINE EDUCATION?
IS EFREN PEÑAFLORIDA THE HERO OF THE COUNTRY OR IS HE THE HERO ONLY FOR THE KIDS HE AND HIS CO-VOLUNTEERS TEACH?
OBSERVATIONS:
1. Foreigners recognize Filipino achievements first; the Philippine government just echoes by also awarding merits thereafter. (Magaling talagang gumaya ang mga Pinoy, ganun ba yun?)
2. Palaging huli sa action ang gobyerno at nangunguna ang private sector. Tigilan na ang mga salita. Lumakad at gumawa para ang mga tao'y maniwala!
Hosted by Anderson Cooper. Kodak Theater, Hollywood, California.
2009 TOP 10 HEROES:
(Source: http://edition.cnn.com/2009/LIVING/11/16/cnnheroes.tribute.show/index.html)
1. Brad Blauser
Brad Blauser is providing hope and mobility to disabled children and their families in Iraq. Since 2005, his Wheelchairs for Iraqi Kids program has distributed nearly 650 free pediatric wheelchairs to children in need.
2. Roy Foster
Army veteran Roy Foster started Stand Down House to help veterans struggling with addiction and homelessness in Florida. Since 2000, his program has provided life-changing services to nearly 900 veterans.
3. Doc Hendley
Bartender Doc Hendley is providing clean water to communities worldwide. Through creative fundraising, his nonprofit Wine to Water has brought sustainable water systems to 25,000 people in five countries.
4. Andrea Ivory
Breast cancer survivor Andrea Ivory is bringing early detection to the doorsteps of uninsured women. With mobile mammography vans, her group has provided more than 500 free screenings in Miami, Florida.
5. Betty Makoni
Zimbabwe native Betty Makoni founded the Girl Child Network to provide a haven for young victims of sexual abuse. The organization has rescued more than 35,000 girls since 2001.
6. Jorge Munoz
School bus driver Jorge Munoz is helping hungry New Yorkers make it through tough times. Since 2004, he has handed out more than 70,000 meals from his mobile soup kitchen in Queens -- for free.
7. Efren Peñaflorida
Efren Peñaflorida gives Filipino youth an alternative to gang membership through education. His Dynamic Teen Company's 10,000 members have taught basic reading and writing to 1,500 kids living in the slums.
8. Budi Soehardi
Budi Soehardi founded a children's home in one of the poorest areas of Indonesia. Today, Roslin Orphanage in West Timor provides food, shelter and education to more than 45 children.
9. Derrick Tabb
Derrick Tabb started The Roots of Music to give young people an alternative to New Orleans' streets. His music education program provides free tutoring, instruments and music instruction to more than 100 students.
10. Jordan Thomas
Jordan Thomas, 20, of Chattanooga, Tennessee, lost both of his legs in a boating accident in 2005. Since then, his Jordan Thomas Foundation has raised more than $400,000 to provide prosthetics for children in need.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
When Efren Peñaflorida came home to the Philippines, the whole nation was in jubilation. Two success stories in a row have captured Filipinos but also international onlookers. Should not the Filipino be proud? There's Manny Pacman Pacquiao the here comes Efren Peñaflorida! Both heroes in their own right!
Riding on the tide of a chanting population, President Gloria Arroyo awarded Efren the Order of Sikatuna. With wide smiles, many appreciated the gesture of the President to reward Efren's heroism. Thereafter, Efren also received a hero's welcome in his home province, Cavite.
Noteworthy. Inspiring. Heroic. These are but some of the adjectives we can draw to characterize Efren's feat as a "push-cart" teacher. I, for one, am hands down towards Kuya Ef's benevolence and kindheartedness. May the good Lord bless him a thousand fold; may Jesus enlarge his coast; may the merciful Heaven have mercy on his dear soul. Sana may mga umusbong pang katulad ni Kuya Efren.
However, this Filipino achievement brings out many issues that this blogger thinks need immediate action. Think of me as postmodernist if you want, perhaps a skeptic even, but I am convinced that beneath the surface of all these, lie a plethora of dilemmas that drag the Filipino consciousness down to unthinkable levels...
SHOULD GLORIA ARROYO BE HAPPY OR SHOULD SHE BE APOLOGETIC?
IS THE "CNN HERO" AWARD A RECOGNITION OF UNPARALLELLED FEAT OR IT IS A CONDEMNATION FOR THE POOR STATE OF PHILIPPINE EDUCATION?
IS EFREN PEÑAFLORIDA THE HERO OF THE COUNTRY OR IS HE THE HERO ONLY FOR THE KIDS HE AND HIS CO-VOLUNTEERS TEACH?
OBSERVATIONS:
1. Foreigners recognize Filipino achievements first; the Philippine government just echoes by also awarding merits thereafter. (Magaling talagang gumaya ang mga Pinoy, ganun ba yun?)
2. Palaging huli sa action ang gobyerno at nangunguna ang private sector. Tigilan na ang mga salita. Lumakad at gumawa para ang mga tao'y maniwala!
Saturday, November 28, 2009
Korean Concert at SM City Baguio: A Showcase of Musicality and Youthfulness
Right after I dismissed my class at 5:30PM last friday (November 27, 2009), one of my Korean students approached me. He showed me a text message from their Korean classmate who was absent (for the 1st time) that day. The text was asking him to tell me that the texter is absent because he had a concert at 7PM that night at SM City Baguio. He was asking me to have him be excused and that he will present his excuse letter the following meeting. The last part of the message was an invitation for me to go and watch him perform in the concert.
After my last class (5:30-6:30PM), i went to the faculty room to ready my things and go. With a co-teacher, I headed to the bundy area to punch out.
We walked to SM through Assumption Road and then up along Session Road. We arrived early at the venue; to let time pass, we watched the fashion show for a while and then we went to the activity area and sat down...
After a short while, i saw approaching my classmate in the graduate school... He is the owner of Remnant International School, Campt 7, Baguio City. He sat on the chair beside me and we had a lively chat about the concert that is about to begin.
Then four Korean guys came out and took the stage quietly... I can barely recognize their faces... But when the spotlight was lit, it came clear... One of them was my student in the College of Dentistry, and another one is my student this semester. They are going to play the piano and the saxophone respectively.
I thought... "Wow, these guys must be musically gifted!" The first piece was like a birthday gift for me! It was my birthday on the 22nd of november, hehehehe... "Seng il chuk ha hamnida.... Seng il chuk ha hamnida..." (played on piano by Kim Kwang Rok).
Then "Kenny G" played his sax in a way that made the audience feel that they are in a fine dining environment.. Even my co-teacher said... "Sana may mga pagkain na dito." We could not but exclaim, "Ang galing naman ng mga ito."
The music was really great... It was soothing for a tired body; rejuvenating for a weary heart; inspiring for fallen soldier; comforting to a distressed soul. Especially the saxophone sound... Produced by the able and dexterous young musician, Kim Jiwon.
As I was listening to the smooth decibel from the instruments, i could not help but think... "Once in a while, man needs to immerse himself into the world of art... into music.. into the appreciation of aesthetics..." This would enable him to appreciate life more... This would allow him to find an additional dimension of existence... This would lead him to utter words of praise to the Great I AM... This would put him into an environment of calm and peace...peace both with himself, and with his God.
After my last class (5:30-6:30PM), i went to the faculty room to ready my things and go. With a co-teacher, I headed to the bundy area to punch out.
We walked to SM through Assumption Road and then up along Session Road. We arrived early at the venue; to let time pass, we watched the fashion show for a while and then we went to the activity area and sat down...
After a short while, i saw approaching my classmate in the graduate school... He is the owner of Remnant International School, Campt 7, Baguio City. He sat on the chair beside me and we had a lively chat about the concert that is about to begin.
Then four Korean guys came out and took the stage quietly... I can barely recognize their faces... But when the spotlight was lit, it came clear... One of them was my student in the College of Dentistry, and another one is my student this semester. They are going to play the piano and the saxophone respectively.
I thought... "Wow, these guys must be musically gifted!" The first piece was like a birthday gift for me! It was my birthday on the 22nd of november, hehehehe... "Seng il chuk ha hamnida.... Seng il chuk ha hamnida..." (played on piano by Kim Kwang Rok).
Then "Kenny G" played his sax in a way that made the audience feel that they are in a fine dining environment.. Even my co-teacher said... "Sana may mga pagkain na dito." We could not but exclaim, "Ang galing naman ng mga ito."
The music was really great... It was soothing for a tired body; rejuvenating for a weary heart; inspiring for fallen soldier; comforting to a distressed soul. Especially the saxophone sound... Produced by the able and dexterous young musician, Kim Jiwon.
As I was listening to the smooth decibel from the instruments, i could not help but think... "Once in a while, man needs to immerse himself into the world of art... into music.. into the appreciation of aesthetics..." This would enable him to appreciate life more... This would allow him to find an additional dimension of existence... This would lead him to utter words of praise to the Great I AM... This would put him into an environment of calm and peace...peace both with himself, and with his God.
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
HOLOCAUST IN MINDANAO: IS ANDAL TO BLAME?
As per report by the late night newscast BANDILA of ABS-CBN (November 25, 2009), the number of bodies retrieved in Maguindanao has already reached 57. As the bodies were taken out of the hole one after another, this blogger cannot but be outraged by this barbaric act against humanity!
When the news reports have identified a buckhoe in the crime scene being owned by the provincial government, it becomes very difficult not to connect this loathsome scenario to the ruling clan in Maguindanao. In this view, the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (including former Senator Rene Saguisag) suggested that there is sufficient basis for the immediate arrest of Datu Andal Ampatuan, Jr.
However, the DOJ Secretary gave a dissenting view when she said that there is not yet enough basis to consider the Andals as suspects.
Hmmm, whatever the truth may be, tingnan natin ang susunod na kabanata.
This terrifying event in the political history of the Philippines effectively cancels out in the pages of time the record of the province of Abra as the most dangerous place for politicians. In addition, it also merits Maguindanao to be branded as the new "most dangerous place for journalists" in the Philippines.
When the news reports have identified a buckhoe in the crime scene being owned by the provincial government, it becomes very difficult not to connect this loathsome scenario to the ruling clan in Maguindanao. In this view, the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (including former Senator Rene Saguisag) suggested that there is sufficient basis for the immediate arrest of Datu Andal Ampatuan, Jr.
However, the DOJ Secretary gave a dissenting view when she said that there is not yet enough basis to consider the Andals as suspects.
Hmmm, whatever the truth may be, tingnan natin ang susunod na kabanata.
This terrifying event in the political history of the Philippines effectively cancels out in the pages of time the record of the province of Abra as the most dangerous place for politicians. In addition, it also merits Maguindanao to be branded as the new "most dangerous place for journalists" in the Philippines.
Monday, November 9, 2009
GLOWING LOLLIPOP IN SESSION ROAD
Trendy? or Just fad....
"IN"? or baka "jologs" naman! :)
While walking down session road in Baguio City last weekend after watching the UC-BCF marching band concert at SM, one item of merchandise caught my attention instantly. Though my ears were absorbing what companion was telling me (it was about what she has watched just minutes ago), my eyes were magneted to the sort of a glow-in-the-dark thing being paraded by young (mga bata talaga sila) vendors. Echoing in the noisy sidewalk were their calls for passersby to stop shortly and have a look at their items on sale. "Lolipap! Sampu langggg!!! Bili na po kayo!"
I inspected closely (with my eyeglasses on) lollipop met gayam, hehehehe! My companion wanted to buy but she felt awkward to get one. I had the same feeling too, hehehehe..
"IN"? or baka "jologs" naman! :)
While walking down session road in Baguio City last weekend after watching the UC-BCF marching band concert at SM, one item of merchandise caught my attention instantly. Though my ears were absorbing what companion was telling me (it was about what she has watched just minutes ago), my eyes were magneted to the sort of a glow-in-the-dark thing being paraded by young (mga bata talaga sila) vendors. Echoing in the noisy sidewalk were their calls for passersby to stop shortly and have a look at their items on sale. "Lolipap! Sampu langggg!!! Bili na po kayo!"
I inspected closely (with my eyeglasses on) lollipop met gayam, hehehehe! My companion wanted to buy but she felt awkward to get one. I had the same feeling too, hehehehe..
Friday, October 23, 2009
PANAGPAKADA... PANAGPALUBUS...
Ti kuna dagiti mamanakem, "adda panagpatingga ti amin." Kuna met daydi amak, "Awan ti tao a bimmato!"
Dagitoy a sasao ket isu da ti mangipasimudaag nga ti amin nga adda ket dumteng dan to iti pangpatengga... Nairamanen dita ti biag ti tao.
Idi napan a Sabado (16 ti mabilang iti daytoy a bulan ti Uktubre 2009), napanak dimmanggay a nanglinglingay ken nakipagladingit iti pamilya ti maysa a gayyem ko gapwen ta ti ingunguten da nga ina ket isu ti pimmusay. Ti karabiiyan daytoy nga aldaw ket isu met laengen ti kunada nga maudin a rabii ti pannakaimassayag ti bangkay nga banbantayan da gapu ta maitanemen daytoy iti sumarunu nga agsapa.
Nagbiyahe ak ngarud nga napan idiay Bagabag, Nueva Vizcaya iti agarup alas once y media iti bigat; nagluganak iti maysa nga van idiay Dangwa terminal iti likod ti Center Mall. Nagluwas kami iti tingnga ti aldaw ket adda nga inkam tinurng ti Magsaysay Road sa kami nagpakannigid nga nagpa-Bokawkan Road idi makadanun kamin idiay Magsaysay flyover.
Iti apagdarikmat addan nga sursursuren mi ti Marcos Highway. Napintas ti mulagat ti init iti agkukuterter pay laeng nga siyudad maigapu iti kapalpalabas nga didigra nga isangpet ni Pepeng. Numanpay kasta, ti pudot nga itintinnag ti law-ang ket umanayen nga mangited iti namnama ken tured ti pakinakem para kadagiti nadangranan ken naawanan..
Ngem ti kinaranyag ti silnag ti init ket saan nga umanay tapno puraren na dagiti mata nga siririing iti kinapudno nga ti daga ket sugat sugat ket adda nga umar-arungaing iti sangkata'wan.
Riggaay ti daga iti ngatuen ti sementado nga kalsada to kumablaaw kenka apaman a sumrek ka iti sungadan ti Marcos Highway nga bumaba iti prubinsiya ti La Union. Bassit laeng ti napisang nga bakras iti umuna... ngen bayat nga pumarpartak ti taray ti lugan nga mangitunda kenka iti mapanam, ad-adda met nga mangngeg mo ti ikkis ti aglawlaw babaen kadagiti pitak ken bato nga naipenpen iti igid ti kalsada. Nakaal-alinggaget nga panunuten nu anya ken kasanu ti namsaakan ti napigsa nga sangit ti langit kadagiti napalabas nga al-aldaw.
Saan met nga mailisi iti panunot ti kasasaad ti maysa nga gayyem nga adda nga naulilan iti ipapanaw ti dungdungwen na nga ina. Kabayatan na nga innak matmatmatan dagiti bakras ti bantay a nasugatan, diak maikkat iti panunot ko nu kasanu na nga sarsarangeten iti agdama ti nasaem unay a pasamak iti biag na.
Ti dalan ket nawatiwat... Adda nga agikkis ti ubet iti napudut nga tugawan.. Ahehehehe! Ngem uray nu kasta, masapul nga anduran. Di tay dumteng iti pagturungan nu di tay sangwen ti karit ti ipapan.
Dimteng ti malem, dimteng ti rabii... Di napupuutan, dimteng kamin idiay Solano. Bimmabaak ngarud iti sangu ti McDonald's ta kunak nga mapanak agbiruk iti mabalin nga pangalaan iti pamedped iti nabisinan a tiyan.
Padaanan tayo ti tuloy na...
Dagitoy a sasao ket isu da ti mangipasimudaag nga ti amin nga adda ket dumteng dan to iti pangpatengga... Nairamanen dita ti biag ti tao.
Idi napan a Sabado (16 ti mabilang iti daytoy a bulan ti Uktubre 2009), napanak dimmanggay a nanglinglingay ken nakipagladingit iti pamilya ti maysa a gayyem ko gapwen ta ti ingunguten da nga ina ket isu ti pimmusay. Ti karabiiyan daytoy nga aldaw ket isu met laengen ti kunada nga maudin a rabii ti pannakaimassayag ti bangkay nga banbantayan da gapu ta maitanemen daytoy iti sumarunu nga agsapa.
Nagbiyahe ak ngarud nga napan idiay Bagabag, Nueva Vizcaya iti agarup alas once y media iti bigat; nagluganak iti maysa nga van idiay Dangwa terminal iti likod ti Center Mall. Nagluwas kami iti tingnga ti aldaw ket adda nga inkam tinurng ti Magsaysay Road sa kami nagpakannigid nga nagpa-Bokawkan Road idi makadanun kamin idiay Magsaysay flyover.
Iti apagdarikmat addan nga sursursuren mi ti Marcos Highway. Napintas ti mulagat ti init iti agkukuterter pay laeng nga siyudad maigapu iti kapalpalabas nga didigra nga isangpet ni Pepeng. Numanpay kasta, ti pudot nga itintinnag ti law-ang ket umanayen nga mangited iti namnama ken tured ti pakinakem para kadagiti nadangranan ken naawanan..
Ngem ti kinaranyag ti silnag ti init ket saan nga umanay tapno puraren na dagiti mata nga siririing iti kinapudno nga ti daga ket sugat sugat ket adda nga umar-arungaing iti sangkata'wan.
Riggaay ti daga iti ngatuen ti sementado nga kalsada to kumablaaw kenka apaman a sumrek ka iti sungadan ti Marcos Highway nga bumaba iti prubinsiya ti La Union. Bassit laeng ti napisang nga bakras iti umuna... ngen bayat nga pumarpartak ti taray ti lugan nga mangitunda kenka iti mapanam, ad-adda met nga mangngeg mo ti ikkis ti aglawlaw babaen kadagiti pitak ken bato nga naipenpen iti igid ti kalsada. Nakaal-alinggaget nga panunuten nu anya ken kasanu ti namsaakan ti napigsa nga sangit ti langit kadagiti napalabas nga al-aldaw.
Saan met nga mailisi iti panunot ti kasasaad ti maysa nga gayyem nga adda nga naulilan iti ipapanaw ti dungdungwen na nga ina. Kabayatan na nga innak matmatmatan dagiti bakras ti bantay a nasugatan, diak maikkat iti panunot ko nu kasanu na nga sarsarangeten iti agdama ti nasaem unay a pasamak iti biag na.
Ti dalan ket nawatiwat... Adda nga agikkis ti ubet iti napudut nga tugawan.. Ahehehehe! Ngem uray nu kasta, masapul nga anduran. Di tay dumteng iti pagturungan nu di tay sangwen ti karit ti ipapan.
Dimteng ti malem, dimteng ti rabii... Di napupuutan, dimteng kamin idiay Solano. Bimmabaak ngarud iti sangu ti McDonald's ta kunak nga mapanak agbiruk iti mabalin nga pangalaan iti pamedped iti nabisinan a tiyan.
Padaanan tayo ti tuloy na...
Saturday, August 22, 2009
TUTORING
July 2009... Rainy season... A text message startled the hibernating screen of my mobile phone which was lying coldly on the desk...
"Sir, do you have tym for tutor?"
Typical Korean way of asking for help in English studies in the Philippines... What the....
With the busy schedule that I have, tutoring a Korean would be next to impossible. I paused for a while.... Thought of the proposal... Made a decision...
"Sorry, I got no time. Find another one." I made it really straightforward because this person was my student during the previous semester.
But the phone kept receiving follow-up messages. Eventually, because of the persistence of the sender, I replied. I asked for info. "Who is the tutee?"
"Not me, one korean professor wants to study with you, she live in our house, even me study sometym with you hehe"
I really took my time to think over this one! Hmmm, "professor"...? "Wants to study with me?" Could this be an opportunity for new learning experiences to take place?
Then another text message came in... "Sir, if you dont want its ok for me, i dont want you and my relationship is not good"
I realized that I've forgotten to reply.. It's already around 20 minutes past the last text I received.. Hmmm, what shall I say?
I eventually agreed to teach the Korean professor. I learned that she is a professor in Busan City, South Korea. She just came to the Philippines to hone her English communication skills.
When the UB suspended classes due to the threats of AH1N1, I took the chance to visit her and talk to her about the details of our tutorial sessions.
Her name is Mrs. Kim Mi Ra. She is a professor of recreational therapy. She is from Daegu City.
Note: The italicized texts are lifted verbatim from the SMS messages received by this blogger.
"Sir, do you have tym for tutor?"
Typical Korean way of asking for help in English studies in the Philippines... What the....
With the busy schedule that I have, tutoring a Korean would be next to impossible. I paused for a while.... Thought of the proposal... Made a decision...
"Sorry, I got no time. Find another one." I made it really straightforward because this person was my student during the previous semester.
But the phone kept receiving follow-up messages. Eventually, because of the persistence of the sender, I replied. I asked for info. "Who is the tutee?"
"Not me, one korean professor wants to study with you, she live in our house, even me study sometym with you hehe"
I really took my time to think over this one! Hmmm, "professor"...? "Wants to study with me?" Could this be an opportunity for new learning experiences to take place?
Then another text message came in... "Sir, if you dont want its ok for me, i dont want you and my relationship is not good"
I realized that I've forgotten to reply.. It's already around 20 minutes past the last text I received.. Hmmm, what shall I say?
I eventually agreed to teach the Korean professor. I learned that she is a professor in Busan City, South Korea. She just came to the Philippines to hone her English communication skills.
When the UB suspended classes due to the threats of AH1N1, I took the chance to visit her and talk to her about the details of our tutorial sessions.
Her name is Mrs. Kim Mi Ra. She is a professor of recreational therapy. She is from Daegu City.
Note: The italicized texts are lifted verbatim from the SMS messages received by this blogger.
Saturday, August 1, 2009
3:18 AM, August 1, 2009. CORY LEFT.
Early dawn. Snoring time for some, going-home time for others, mourning begins for the Aquino family...
In Baguio City, the sky is gloomy. As the day broke, the sun was never allowed by the persistently gloomy clouds to have even just short sight of the land below..
Cory magic coming to an end? Or it is the start of a sequel that would perpetuate the legacy of Asia's icon of democracy?
Pondering...
Noynoy Aquino... Gunning for the Presidency of the Republic of the Philippines.
In Baguio City, the sky is gloomy. As the day broke, the sun was never allowed by the persistently gloomy clouds to have even just short sight of the land below..
Cory magic coming to an end? Or it is the start of a sequel that would perpetuate the legacy of Asia's icon of democracy?
Pondering...
Noynoy Aquino... Gunning for the Presidency of the Republic of the Philippines.
Back to Debating
Long have i been absent in the university debating scene after my graduation in the Political Science program of the University of Baguio...
After my graduation though, I saw myself get involved in two National Debate Championships (NDCs): one in San Beda College (as breaking adjudicator) and another in the University of Baguio (as the Programme Director). These exciting milestones have truly enriched my debating record and have greatly increased my interest in and fondness for debating...
Debating is a social-educational exercise that plunges all participants into the world of rhetoric-warfare and academic exchanges. It is a dynamic game of minds that employs witty utterances and humorous statements. It is a combative engagement that necessitates moderation and respect on the part of the debaters, and suppresses biases and pre-conceived notions among adjudicators...
This semester, I am challenged to utilize my knowledge and skills in debating and adjudicating because my College Dean gave me the two argumentation and debate classes in the PolSci, MasCom, and English programs of the College of Liberal Arts, UB.. To my delight, I readily accepted the task and began immersing myself in debating again...
It is almost mid-semester... Also, I am already in the middle of teaching debating and adjudication in my classes...
It's rewarding to see usually naive and indifferent students argue and counter-argue on top of their voices! It's heartwarming to read adjudication essays that are emotion-laden and values-filled.
Hmmm, it's always nice to exchange ideas with students...
After my graduation though, I saw myself get involved in two National Debate Championships (NDCs): one in San Beda College (as breaking adjudicator) and another in the University of Baguio (as the Programme Director). These exciting milestones have truly enriched my debating record and have greatly increased my interest in and fondness for debating...
Debating is a social-educational exercise that plunges all participants into the world of rhetoric-warfare and academic exchanges. It is a dynamic game of minds that employs witty utterances and humorous statements. It is a combative engagement that necessitates moderation and respect on the part of the debaters, and suppresses biases and pre-conceived notions among adjudicators...
This semester, I am challenged to utilize my knowledge and skills in debating and adjudicating because my College Dean gave me the two argumentation and debate classes in the PolSci, MasCom, and English programs of the College of Liberal Arts, UB.. To my delight, I readily accepted the task and began immersing myself in debating again...
It is almost mid-semester... Also, I am already in the middle of teaching debating and adjudication in my classes...
It's rewarding to see usually naive and indifferent students argue and counter-argue on top of their voices! It's heartwarming to read adjudication essays that are emotion-laden and values-filled.
Hmmm, it's always nice to exchange ideas with students...
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
JAPANESE CULTURE
MOUNTAIN PAINTING - Sansui Tradition. (Source:http://www.theartofcalligraphy.com/mountain-paintings.html)
Map sourced from http://hhh.gavilan.edu/mturetzky/Pols3/images/Map_of_Japan-Japan.gif
Currently, i am engrossed with this book entitled "Japanese Culture" by H. Paul Varley.
Read and be informed!
Mountain paintings are the soul of Chinese and Japanese landscape painting. It is called sansui in Japanese, which means: Paintings of mountain and water.(http://www.theartofcalligraphy.com/mountain-paintings.html)
Sansui are much more than simple landscape paintings, they represent the principle of universal transformation. During a longer stay at the foot of the mountain Galatzó on the island of Mallorca, the artist followed the Chinese and Japanese sansui tradition and painted the different moods of the mountain —nostalgic, joyful and cooling.
The painting is done on Japanese rice paper, with luminous indigo blue pigment and Japanese ink. The artist has achieved an almost transparent expression, as if water and mountain had fused.
Map sourced from http://hhh.gavilan.edu/mturetzky/Pols3/images/Map_of_Japan-Japan.gif
Currently, i am engrossed with this book entitled "Japanese Culture" by H. Paul Varley.
Read and be informed!
Sunday, April 19, 2009
SUSAN BOYLE (Britain's Got Talent 2009)
Photo from http://d.yimg.com/a/p/ap/20090416/capt.e87b1aeb61ad4796b55dff3bd10f3f4d.eu_britain_singing_sensation_lon805.jpg
So far the biggest surprise on British television talent search! With a Broadway/West End quality rendition of a Les Miserables track, Susan Boyle heats the seats of the initially discriminatory audience whose disapproval of her appearance on the show was far too obvious that it could pierce one's heart to pieces. Their feet sprang to an overwhelming ovation as Susan's heartwarming voice filled the auditorium.
What's more enthralling? The panel went wild in extreme astonishment as they had a swift change of mind from being cynical to appreciative. The foregoing lyrics & Susan's awesome performance may be seen in this URL:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9lp0IWv8QZY
Photo from http://d.yimg.com/a/p/ap/20090416/capt.1be572098ffd4621ab232344bf68f261.eu_britain_singing_sensation_lon111.jpg
FACTS:
Native of Scotland.
47 years old. Unemployed.
Cared for her mother for the most part of her rural life.
Garners the gargantuan and unexpected 3 yeses from a cynical panel.
Sang a track from the stage production Les Miserables.
I DREAMED A DREAM LYRICS:
I dreamed a dream in time gone by
When hope was high,
And life worth living
I dreamed that love would never die
I dreamed that God would be forgiving.
Then I was young and unafraid
When dreams were made and used,
And wasted
There was no ransom to be paid
No song unsung,
No wine untasted.
But the tigers come at night
With their voices soft as thunder
As they tear your hopes apart
As they turn your dreams to shame.
And still I dream he'll come to me
And we will live our lives together
But there are dreams that cannot be
And there are storms
We cannot weather...
I had a dream my life would be
So different from this hell I'm living
So different now from what it seems
Now life has killed
The dream I dreamed.
_____________________________
Friday, April 17, 2009
THE KINGDOM OF THE WINDS (Korean Drama Series)
Photo taken from
http://www.korean-drama-guide.com/kingdom-of-the-winds-korean-drama.html
SYNOPSIS:
The drama about the life of Jumong's grandson, Moo Hyul. The object of his love is Princess Yeon.
MAIN CAST:
Song Il Gook as Prince Moo Hyul / Daemusin , Choi Jung Won as Princess Yeon , Park Gun Hyung as Prince Do Jin , Jung Jin Young as King Yuri, Kim Hye Ri as Lady Mi Yoo (Yeo Jin's mother) , Lee Jong Won as Prince Hae Myeong (Moo Hyul's brother) , Kim Hye Sung as Prince Yeo Jin , Oh Yoon Ah as Hye Ap , Kim Jae Wook as Chu Bal So , Jang Tae Sung as Ma Ro (Moo Hyul's friend) , Kim Sang Ho as Ma Hwang , Park Sang Wook as Gwi Yoo , Han Jin Hee as King Daeso , Park Jung Hak as Sa Goo , Im Jung Eun as Princess Se Ryu.
Monday, April 13, 2009
The Kingdom of the Winds Theme Song
This is the Korean singer WHEESUNG. (Photo from http://wheesung.files.wordpress.com/2008/01/wheesung-flawless.jpg)
IN LIFE OR DEATH (By: Wheesung)
Taken from
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8k6uPydlmtg
saranghaeseon an doel saramirago, ije geuman eoseo doraseorago
miryeonjocha naui deungeul tteomineun gabwa
jiwonaedo jiwojijiga anha, miwohaedo miwojijiga anha..
geuriumman deohaeganeun geol
my last feeling push me to go away
because you are not a person who can fall in love with me
I try to forget you, I try to hate you... but I can't
the more I try, the more I miss you
neoreul saranghagiga nan neomuna apa
sumdo mot swil mankeum hime gyeopjiman
loving you is a heartache
I can't even breathe, but
cheonbeon manbeon taeeonado... todasi neol saranghae
geujeo neo eobsineun andwae... nan andwae... wo~ nae sarang
neul meolli itda haedo... neo oerowo ma~
sarado jugeodo... nae mameun
hangsang ni gyeote nama isseul tenikka
even if I was born thousand and ten thousand time, I'll love you
I can't live without you, just you... I can't... my love
even if we are far away, our love will grow... so don't be lonely
in life or death, my heart will stay with you
hoksi nunmurirado tto sae naolkkabwa
chama saranghandan mal motaetjiman
I couldn't say I love you
because I'm afraid a new tear will come again, but,
cheonbeon manbeon taeeonado...ttodasi neol saranghae
geujeo neo eobsineun andwae... nan andwae... wo~ nae sarang
neul meolli itda haedo... neo oerowo ma~
sarado jugeodo... nae mameun
hangsang ni gyeote nama isseul tenikka
even if I was born thousand and ten thousand time, I'll love you
I can't live without you, just you... I can't... my love
even if we are far away, our love will grow... so don't be lonely
in life or death, my heart will stay with you
nan eonjedeun jigeum gateun
maeumilgeoya, illyeonhuna
simnyeonhuna... baengnyeonhuna~
byeonhaji anheul i sarang idaero,
yeongwonboda deo orae jikyeogalge~
after one, ten, hundred years, my love will still be same
I'll love you longer than forever
cheonnyeon mannyeon heulleogado... nae sarangeun neoppunya
naega eotteoke neol ijeo... mot ijeo wo~ nae sarang
neul eogeutnanda haedo... neo uljineun ma~,
ibyeoldo sewoldo jugeumdo
gareul su eomneun uri saranginikka
you are my only love even after thousand and ten thousand years
how can I forget you? I can't .... my love
don't cry even if we can't meet anytime we want
separation, time, death.... nothing can separate us, my love.
Photo from http://www.koreandrama.org/wp-content/uploads/2008/09/the-kingdom-of-the-winds.jpg
Sunday, April 12, 2009
Rising up... On Easter Sunday..
12th of April, 2009! A little past 7 o'clock in the morning. The majestic rays of the approaching sun cast much-needed light on a world that slowly creeps away from a seemingly evil power possessed night. Spring arrives as winter ends... Hope comes in as gloom retreats... Life comes back anew as hibernation is halted. Faith conquers again as unbelief and doubts fade. God is here; he is risen! He is alive!
Monday, March 30, 2009
The exchange students from Nagasaki, Japan...
Map sourced from http://www.world-guides.com/images/japan/japan_country_map.jpg
The Japanese exchange students from Nagasaki Wesleyan University were the most emotional of all the international students i had... Hmmm, their looks were really heavy for the heart. The two gentlemen were smiling but it is obvious that they feel saddened by their return to the Land of the Rising Sun. The two ladies were more expressive enough - they let their tears flow like spring water running down Mount Fuji when we bade each other goodbye. Well, what can we say... SAYONARA!
Their text messages are cool... Read on!
From Daichi:
"Good evening Sir! This is Daichi who is ur one of d student & japanese. Thank u very much all abt ur treat here in philippines. I had a good experience w/ u sir. C u again wen we come back here in philippines sir! Good nyt & God bless u." Received: March 24, 2009 8:48 PM.
"We always said we miss ur class & our class mates in socio1 dat was we shared d tym. Exactly we will send e-mail 2 u sir! I dnt know how 2 show my feeling 2 u. Its not enough to say thank u very much 2 u. Im really appreciate ur kindness sir. We r really going 2 miss u. Bt i believe dat we will meet again sir! Bcz our hurt & hurt r always 2gether 5 of us." Received March 25, 2009 9:08 PM.
From Asami:
"Sir good evening po this is asami! Thank u so much yr every kindness! Im shy to say to u something. But Id like to be a teacher like u! If I can hahaha then u call me magin boo right? I minded so much caz i cannot do enything its effect of medicin..... But now no more thats why dont care about that sir. Ur my teacher also brother i dont know what i can say to u. its very hard to say good bey Ill miss u so much ur always makes me lonely ill promise u ill treasure my family my mother thank u to tell me many important things in my life im very fortunete person malami salmat po Sir i cannot promise u to meet again exactly but im sure ill invite u my wedding if i can marriage ^^ I dont like to say to u but its time to say sayonara ><" Received: March 26, 2009 10:23 PM.
From Akane:
"Sir..thats glad to cros w/t u in my lif. i realy lov our sociology class..i gona mis. sir, thx so much to teach us. i learned many things from u. i never forget u & experiences w/t u. aft i go back to japan, ill tell my friend and family about u. i realy respect u. sir, realy tnx u so much. c u in japan. ill invite u 2 japan!! also ill visit to her again.. its realy promise. sir, sayonara mata auhimade.. :)" Received: March 26, 2009 10:52 PM.
When they were on their way to the airport (March 29, 2009), they sent these...
Akane: "morning, sir..we r on our way 2 go airport. realy tnx for sir. always tak car.. u r my teacher forever..ill com back. :) ill send e-mail aft ariv 2 japan. i never forget all of philippin. sir, ill invit u 2 japan. thx so much.." Received: 6:49 AM.
Akane: "aft graduat at my schol, we wil get a god job & hard 2 work..then, we wil invit u by my money. we wan u com 2 japan so much. lov u..always w/t u." Received: 7:13 AM.
Daichi: "Thank u a lot sir. I will miss u. C u l8er again sir! Hahaha." Received 7:12 AM.
Asami: "Sir ill be mas maganda! my brother! Ull miss me so much di ba? ^^ ill study very hard! Its like u ><> Received: 7:24 AM.
They were all enrolled in my Sociology class, 11:30-12:30 MWF, 2nd Sem 08-09. Hmmmm, i think i will watch anime again! Hahahahahaha!
The Japanese exchange students from Nagasaki Wesleyan University were the most emotional of all the international students i had... Hmmm, their looks were really heavy for the heart. The two gentlemen were smiling but it is obvious that they feel saddened by their return to the Land of the Rising Sun. The two ladies were more expressive enough - they let their tears flow like spring water running down Mount Fuji when we bade each other goodbye. Well, what can we say... SAYONARA!
Their text messages are cool... Read on!
From Daichi:
"Good evening Sir! This is Daichi who is ur one of d student & japanese. Thank u very much all abt ur treat here in philippines. I had a good experience w/ u sir. C u again wen we come back here in philippines sir! Good nyt & God bless u." Received: March 24, 2009 8:48 PM.
"We always said we miss ur class & our class mates in socio1 dat was we shared d tym. Exactly we will send e-mail 2 u sir! I dnt know how 2 show my feeling 2 u. Its not enough to say thank u very much 2 u. Im really appreciate ur kindness sir. We r really going 2 miss u. Bt i believe dat we will meet again sir! Bcz our hurt & hurt r always 2gether 5 of us." Received March 25, 2009 9:08 PM.
From Asami:
"Sir good evening po this is asami! Thank u so much yr every kindness! Im shy to say to u something. But Id like to be a teacher like u! If I can hahaha then u call me magin boo right? I minded so much caz i cannot do enything its effect of medicin..... But now no more thats why dont care about that sir. Ur my teacher also brother i dont know what i can say to u. its very hard to say good bey Ill miss u so much ur always makes me lonely ill promise u ill treasure my family my mother thank u to tell me many important things in my life im very fortunete person malami salmat po Sir i cannot promise u to meet again exactly but im sure ill invite u my wedding if i can marriage ^^ I dont like to say to u but its time to say sayonara ><" Received: March 26, 2009 10:23 PM.
From Akane:
"Sir..thats glad to cros w/t u in my lif. i realy lov our sociology class..i gona mis. sir, thx so much to teach us. i learned many things from u. i never forget u & experiences w/t u. aft i go back to japan, ill tell my friend and family about u. i realy respect u. sir, realy tnx u so much. c u in japan. ill invite u 2 japan!! also ill visit to her again.. its realy promise. sir, sayonara mata auhimade.. :)" Received: March 26, 2009 10:52 PM.
When they were on their way to the airport (March 29, 2009), they sent these...
Akane: "morning, sir..we r on our way 2 go airport. realy tnx for sir. always tak car.. u r my teacher forever..ill com back. :) ill send e-mail aft ariv 2 japan. i never forget all of philippin. sir, ill invit u 2 japan. thx so much.." Received: 6:49 AM.
Akane: "aft graduat at my schol, we wil get a god job & hard 2 work..then, we wil invit u by my money. we wan u com 2 japan so much. lov u..always w/t u." Received: 7:13 AM.
Daichi: "Thank u a lot sir. I will miss u. C u l8er again sir! Hahaha." Received 7:12 AM.
Asami: "Sir ill be mas maganda! my brother! Ull miss me so much di ba? ^^ ill study very hard! Its like u ><> Received: 7:24 AM.
They were all enrolled in my Sociology class, 11:30-12:30 MWF, 2nd Sem 08-09. Hmmmm, i think i will watch anime again! Hahahahahaha!
Thursday, March 19, 2009
Koreans and Me: An International Interchange in a Local Setting (+Black American)
I first had a personal interaction with a Korean when I worked as an ESL tutor in January 2003. This was when I was still an undergraduate student in the Political Science program of the College of Liberal Arts of the University of Baguio. I never really thought that this "rough" encounter would be the beginning of a continuous influx of the descendants of JUMONG into my life, hehehehe. Well, I say it was "rough" because I was disappointed with the behavior of the lady I tutored (she was in her early 30's then). I did not continue teaching her because she was dictating what I should teach her. Hmmm, I'll cut it right there. I am invoking my right to remain silent and my right against self-incrimination, hehehehe.
Anyway, that Korean lady might have been... mmm... you know... But she is but one among many. In short, she is an exception. Many of my Korean students are good-natured and are really diligent. Hmmm, they're quite nice and warm; sweet and friendly; happy and thoughtful.
Take a look at these guys who are undergoing grueling academic training in my class...
Kim, Jung Hwan (2nd from left). Byun, Jimin (1st from right)
They truly are a relevant addition to our University community. They are an essential element in opening up the minds of our studentry to the vast realities outside the Philippines.
Map sourced from http://www.wordtravels.com/images/map/South_Korea_map.jpg
These descendants of the peoples of Silla, Beakje, and Koguryo present a real test to the tenacity and effectiveness of the professors'/instructors' teaching strategies and techniques, & to their ability to respond to the demands of a globalized world in terms of multicultural education and international academic exchange. They, alongside other international students in the campus, provide a new and richer academic environment where professors could adjust and level-up their teaching performance towards becoming more internationally-competitive.
More importantly, their presence gives the teachers a chance to "widen their coasts" (i.e. make their influence more transnationally profound) and touch more lives. Fascinatingly, it thrills this blogger so much that many of his international students have expressed their appreciation of his efforts in teaching. It truly warms one's heart when people show how thankful they are to you because of how you dealt with them or for how you have unknowingly touched their hearts.
I would like to share to my readers these written notes and text messages that came from some of my international students... (Disclaimer: The succeeding statements were copied verbatim from the notes and SMS sent by the students.)
"Hello! My value instructor he he i am ___________ (name withheld).. And thank u for the teaching :D And I am so sorry.. My shortage english.. He he.. Thank u very much! Salamat.. I cannt forgot my skul life because of u.. I am really happyness when I was studying with u.. please don't forget me thank u! God bless u everyday." Text message from _SSK_, a Korean (Rizal class, 4:30 MWF, 2nd Sem 08-09). Received: March 13, 2009 5:26 PM.
"Thank you for your kindness sir. And then Have a good trip sir." Text message from _LSM_, a Korean (Sociology class, 11:30-12:30 MWF, 2nd Sem 08-09). Received: March 26, 2009 9:11 PM.
The following are notes from my Korean students:
"Thank you for being kind to Koreans..." - Do Young (Sociology class, 11:30-12:30 MWF, 2nd Sem 08-09).
"Thank you. I met you everyday without weekend. I studied here first time I think You are a good teacher, for me. I want to meet you next semester." - Kang Eun (Sociology class, 11:30-12:30 MWF, 2nd Sem 08-09).
"haha very exciting subject... Teacher thank you for giving us consideration especially Im late everyday haha.. anyway I enjoyed being under your class because your very happy in teaching. Im looking forward to be your student in Rizal... hahaha happy vacation thank you teacher" - Young Min (Sociology class, 11:30-12:30 MWF, 2nd Sem 08-09).
"Have a nice vacation! And Don't for get me... Maybe, I'll be missing you. :) I thought, You are very good teacher." - Hee Hyun (Sociology class, 11:30-12:30 MWF, 2nd Sem 08-09).
"Sir _______, thank you teacher. i think you are a good teacher I'll try my best. thank you sir And have a nice vacation!" - Seung Chan (Sociology class, 11:30-12:30 MWF, 2nd Sem 08-09).
"I think, we have group activity our class we can to study very well. and, more funny. But, sometimes we don't know culture of Philippine. So, we wanna know more culture." - Soung Min (Sociology class, 11:30-12:30 MWF, 2nd Sem 08-09).
"Thank you for your hard work teaching and I had fun in your lessons. Happy vacation and always take care." - Minjin (Sociology class, 11:30-12:30 MWF, 2nd Sem 08-09).
"Thank you sir. your class was really interested for me." - Hanui (Sociology class, 11:30-12:30 MWF, 2nd Sem 08-09).
"Thank You Sir for teaching me. Thank You for everything, I enjoyed the class with you, I will miss you" - Tae Hoon (Sociology class, 11:30-12:30 MWF, 2nd Sem 08-09).
"Sir ______. Thank you for teaching me earnestly. I really liked your way of teaching. Because of it, I think I could learn more. And thank you for concerning me for this term. I hope to learn from you for next term again. God bless you. Sir. Have a nice vcation." - Chan Yang (Socio-Anthro class, 1:30-2:30 MWF, 2nd Sem 08-09).
"thank you for your kindness for me and I hope see you next time in Cambodia. I will pray for you. Pls Pray for me also. I'm really Thank to you. thanks :)" - Dre (Socio-Anthro class, 1:30-2:30 MWF, 2nd Sem 08-09). Hmmm, his father is a missionary to Cambodia. He said he'll pray so I can go there too...
"Thank you po? I miss you sometimes." - Hyeong Cheol (Socio-Anthro class, 1:30-2:30 MWF, 2nd Sem 08-09).
And the only black American student I had wrote this... "Thank You Very much almost for everything that you have done for me. I had a wonderful time in the classroom and outside the classroom. May God bless you forever and ever." - Akele (Socio-Anthro class, 1:30-2:30 MWF, 2nd Sem 08-09).
Well, are those not something? Think of it...
Where are my fellow teachers? hehehehehe.
Anyway, that Korean lady might have been... mmm... you know... But she is but one among many. In short, she is an exception. Many of my Korean students are good-natured and are really diligent. Hmmm, they're quite nice and warm; sweet and friendly; happy and thoughtful.
Take a look at these guys who are undergoing grueling academic training in my class...
Kim, Jung Hwan (2nd from left). Byun, Jimin (1st from right)
They truly are a relevant addition to our University community. They are an essential element in opening up the minds of our studentry to the vast realities outside the Philippines.
Map sourced from http://www.wordtravels.com/images/map/South_Korea_map.jpg
These descendants of the peoples of Silla, Beakje, and Koguryo present a real test to the tenacity and effectiveness of the professors'/instructors' teaching strategies and techniques, & to their ability to respond to the demands of a globalized world in terms of multicultural education and international academic exchange. They, alongside other international students in the campus, provide a new and richer academic environment where professors could adjust and level-up their teaching performance towards becoming more internationally-competitive.
More importantly, their presence gives the teachers a chance to "widen their coasts" (i.e. make their influence more transnationally profound) and touch more lives. Fascinatingly, it thrills this blogger so much that many of his international students have expressed their appreciation of his efforts in teaching. It truly warms one's heart when people show how thankful they are to you because of how you dealt with them or for how you have unknowingly touched their hearts.
I would like to share to my readers these written notes and text messages that came from some of my international students... (Disclaimer: The succeeding statements were copied verbatim from the notes and SMS sent by the students.)
"Hello! My value instructor he he i am ___________ (name withheld).. And thank u for the teaching :D And I am so sorry.. My shortage english.. He he.. Thank u very much! Salamat.. I cannt forgot my skul life because of u.. I am really happyness when I was studying with u.. please don't forget me thank u! God bless u everyday." Text message from _SSK_, a Korean (Rizal class, 4:30 MWF, 2nd Sem 08-09). Received: March 13, 2009 5:26 PM.
"Thank you for your kindness sir. And then Have a good trip sir." Text message from _LSM_, a Korean (Sociology class, 11:30-12:30 MWF, 2nd Sem 08-09). Received: March 26, 2009 9:11 PM.
The following are notes from my Korean students:
"Thank you for being kind to Koreans..." - Do Young (Sociology class, 11:30-12:30 MWF, 2nd Sem 08-09).
"Thank you. I met you everyday without weekend. I studied here first time I think You are a good teacher, for me. I want to meet you next semester." - Kang Eun (Sociology class, 11:30-12:30 MWF, 2nd Sem 08-09).
"haha very exciting subject... Teacher thank you for giving us consideration especially Im late everyday haha.. anyway I enjoyed being under your class because your very happy in teaching. Im looking forward to be your student in Rizal... hahaha happy vacation thank you teacher" - Young Min (Sociology class, 11:30-12:30 MWF, 2nd Sem 08-09).
"Have a nice vacation! And Don't for get me... Maybe, I'll be missing you. :) I thought, You are very good teacher." - Hee Hyun (Sociology class, 11:30-12:30 MWF, 2nd Sem 08-09).
"Sir _______, thank you teacher. i think you are a good teacher I'll try my best. thank you sir And have a nice vacation!" - Seung Chan (Sociology class, 11:30-12:30 MWF, 2nd Sem 08-09).
"I think, we have group activity our class we can to study very well. and, more funny. But, sometimes we don't know culture of Philippine. So, we wanna know more culture." - Soung Min (Sociology class, 11:30-12:30 MWF, 2nd Sem 08-09).
"Thank you for your hard work teaching and I had fun in your lessons. Happy vacation and always take care." - Minjin (Sociology class, 11:30-12:30 MWF, 2nd Sem 08-09).
"Thank you sir. your class was really interested for me." - Hanui (Sociology class, 11:30-12:30 MWF, 2nd Sem 08-09).
"Thank You Sir for teaching me. Thank You for everything, I enjoyed the class with you, I will miss you" - Tae Hoon (Sociology class, 11:30-12:30 MWF, 2nd Sem 08-09).
"Sir ______. Thank you for teaching me earnestly. I really liked your way of teaching. Because of it, I think I could learn more. And thank you for concerning me for this term. I hope to learn from you for next term again. God bless you. Sir. Have a nice vcation." - Chan Yang (Socio-Anthro class, 1:30-2:30 MWF, 2nd Sem 08-09).
"thank you for your kindness for me and I hope see you next time in Cambodia. I will pray for you. Pls Pray for me also. I'm really Thank to you. thanks :)" - Dre (Socio-Anthro class, 1:30-2:30 MWF, 2nd Sem 08-09). Hmmm, his father is a missionary to Cambodia. He said he'll pray so I can go there too...
"Thank you po? I miss you sometimes." - Hyeong Cheol (Socio-Anthro class, 1:30-2:30 MWF, 2nd Sem 08-09).
And the only black American student I had wrote this... "Thank You Very much almost for everything that you have done for me. I had a wonderful time in the classroom and outside the classroom. May God bless you forever and ever." - Akele (Socio-Anthro class, 1:30-2:30 MWF, 2nd Sem 08-09).
Well, are those not something? Think of it...
Where are my fellow teachers? hehehehehe.
Children: innocent and fragile
These are varied faces of the young... Capture the message they convey through their smiles, their coy dispositions, and their eyes...
I took these pictures during the Lang-ay Festival in Bontoc, Mountain Province in April 2008.
Kids from Sabangan, Mountain Province.
Kids from Bontoc, Mountain Province.
Kids from Paracelis, Mountain Province.
"The youth... The fair hope of the fatherland..."
(Dr. Jose Rizal - National Hero of the Philippines)
These are pictures of my "kulit students" in the College of Dentistry (2nd Sem., SY 2007-2008). Sensya na kids, pero exposure ito, hehehehehehe!!!
Grade six pa lang ito a...
Si Jones, hehehehehe.
I took these pictures during the Lang-ay Festival in Bontoc, Mountain Province in April 2008.
Kids from Sabangan, Mountain Province.
Kids from Bontoc, Mountain Province.
Kids from Paracelis, Mountain Province.
"The youth... The fair hope of the fatherland..."
(Dr. Jose Rizal - National Hero of the Philippines)
These are pictures of my "kulit students" in the College of Dentistry (2nd Sem., SY 2007-2008). Sensya na kids, pero exposure ito, hehehehehehe!!!
Grade six pa lang ito a...
Si Jones, hehehehehe.
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
Heart jumping out!
I scheduled a film exhibition last Thursday, 12 March 2009, at the University's Audio-Visual Room. The movie we watched was the same movie I made a synopsis of in here - TAEGUKGI (Brotherhood of War).
In relation to our topic on marriage & family, I asked my students to carefully evaluate the movie in terms of the symbolisms it used and the familial/filial values it highlighted. Yesterday, monday (March 16), my desk at the faculty room was flooded with summaries and film critiques... I told myself, "Hmmmmm, what did i do to myself?" I thought that I am only punishing myself with reading off-tangent comments and badly constructed sentences, hehehehe... (Kids, no offense meant!)
To my surprise, the contrary surfaced as I began to scan some of the pages of the loosely piled handwritten outputs. Lines bursting with familiar yet unfathomable words caught my attention sharply and immediately... The statements I glanced at were devastatingly forceful!
To be continued...
In relation to our topic on marriage & family, I asked my students to carefully evaluate the movie in terms of the symbolisms it used and the familial/filial values it highlighted. Yesterday, monday (March 16), my desk at the faculty room was flooded with summaries and film critiques... I told myself, "Hmmmmm, what did i do to myself?" I thought that I am only punishing myself with reading off-tangent comments and badly constructed sentences, hehehehe... (Kids, no offense meant!)
To my surprise, the contrary surfaced as I began to scan some of the pages of the loosely piled handwritten outputs. Lines bursting with familiar yet unfathomable words caught my attention sharply and immediately... The statements I glanced at were devastatingly forceful!
To be continued...
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
INCOMPLETE BUT WITH NO MISSING PIECE
"Here I am, standing in front of you... Incomplete but with no missing piece!"
The preceding statement was given as a concluding portion in a speech by one of the new members of the student organization which I advise & coach in the University of Baguio - the Soapbox Union (it is a public speaking & debating club). This kept reverberating in my mind since I left the room where we met purposely to evaluate the speech. Till this time (I mean... the speech was delivered just an hour and a half ago), I can feel the impact of that meaning-pregnant and emotion-laden utterance from the young man who shared it to us. I can't help but wonder (and this makes my curiosity become the more itchy, hmmm...) what could have moved him to say those words... In fact, he is stereotyped as a jolly, sort of easy-go-lucky, often light-mooded person who most of the time turns a seemingly silent moment into a time of boisterous laughter and fun.
In my cognitive gymnastics (as in I am really philosophizing (") on this right now), my memory bank spills over righ in front of me a controversial (most of the time subjective) line of thought which relates smiles to tears. The saying goes: "Happy faces do not always mean dry pillows at night."
Source of photo: http://pookieart.blogsome.com/category/from_the_archives/
Furthermore, my emotive memory flashes on this computer screen the very femininely written long hand of one of my students in Sociology about her personal view of what a family should be. Her last line in that essay read like this: "...I feel incomplete everytime family is discussed." Oh! It really made my heart ache... my soul hurt... and my spirit down... I am convinced that the sketch above catches the emotions i am having right now, hehehehe. Well, I do not know the story of this young lady's family life, but I felt that she went through the roughest of times so far in terms of her family's relationship web. (Honestly, I would like to dig deep into it so that I will understand why she wrote that! Wouldn't you if you were in my shoes?)
Be that as it may, what can this lowly instructor do but to listen to the speech and just content himself with reading the lines in that essay?
Your comments are most welcome.
The preceding statement was given as a concluding portion in a speech by one of the new members of the student organization which I advise & coach in the University of Baguio - the Soapbox Union (it is a public speaking & debating club). This kept reverberating in my mind since I left the room where we met purposely to evaluate the speech. Till this time (I mean... the speech was delivered just an hour and a half ago), I can feel the impact of that meaning-pregnant and emotion-laden utterance from the young man who shared it to us. I can't help but wonder (and this makes my curiosity become the more itchy, hmmm...) what could have moved him to say those words... In fact, he is stereotyped as a jolly, sort of easy-go-lucky, often light-mooded person who most of the time turns a seemingly silent moment into a time of boisterous laughter and fun.
In my cognitive gymnastics (as in I am really philosophizing (") on this right now), my memory bank spills over righ in front of me a controversial (most of the time subjective) line of thought which relates smiles to tears. The saying goes: "Happy faces do not always mean dry pillows at night."
Source of photo: http://pookieart.blogsome.com/category/from_the_archives/
Furthermore, my emotive memory flashes on this computer screen the very femininely written long hand of one of my students in Sociology about her personal view of what a family should be. Her last line in that essay read like this: "...I feel incomplete everytime family is discussed." Oh! It really made my heart ache... my soul hurt... and my spirit down... I am convinced that the sketch above catches the emotions i am having right now, hehehehe. Well, I do not know the story of this young lady's family life, but I felt that she went through the roughest of times so far in terms of her family's relationship web. (Honestly, I would like to dig deep into it so that I will understand why she wrote that! Wouldn't you if you were in my shoes?)
Be that as it may, what can this lowly instructor do but to listen to the speech and just content himself with reading the lines in that essay?
Your comments are most welcome.
Monday, March 2, 2009
TAEGUKGI hwinalrimyeo
Photo taken from http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v484/esis82/personal/main.jpg
The brotherhood of Jin-Tae [actor: Jang Dong-Gun] and Jin-Seok [actor: Won Bin] is the heartbeat of this movie... Jin-Tae, who earns money as a shoe-shine boy, is a very responsible and dedicated older brother to Jin-Seok; a loving and thoughtful son to their mother; and a protective lover to Young-shin Kim (his fiancee) and her little sisters. Like their mute mother, Jin-Tae works literally day and night in order to keep the family financially afloat and to send his younger brother to school (Jin-Seok dreams of finishing a degree). Jin-Tae liberally gives to Jin-Seok what he wishes because he wanted him to finish studies and become the instrument to emancipate their family from poverty.
This very admirable and compassionate family set-up will be tragically shattered when the Korean war breaks out (1950-1953). North Korea, the stronghold of the "commies," invades South Korea (a democratic country). In a sudden and almost desperate defensive reaction, the government will enlist all men, 18 years old and above, to the roll of soldiers who will fight.
Unwillingly, the two brothers will be ferried to the camps, leaving Young-shin and her siblings, and their mother helpless in the town.
Photo taken from http://twitchfilm.net/pics/taegukgi.jpg
While in the battlefield, the memories of home (with all the happy moments together) keep flashing back in the minds of these "brothers-in-arms." With the lonesome killing fields as witness, and in the midst of fierce fighting, Jin-Tae will exert unprecedented effort and exhaust all available ways to protect his brother from imminent danger. Hoping to eventually send Jin-Seok home to take care of their family, he volunteers for exceedingly dangerous missions. Through this, and the medal of valor he would get, he will be allowed to petition for the relief of his brother from military duty.
Jin-Seok, however, misreads the actuations of his brother. He concludes that he was aiming for personal fame and honor. This situation will cause a rift to start between the two... and this leads to a fatal end.
Photo taken from http://i22.tinypic.com/1zvr2hf.jpg
The setting of the movie (Korean War) is an honest-to-goodness depiction of the horrors of war. From countries and peoples dragged into fiery friction, to the brutal casualties that fighting causes. From the plight of the displaced (refugees), to the slaughter of the innocent. From families bitterly torn apart, to relationships that are crushed into fine debris. From the tears that eloquently elaborate the sorrows of the soul, to the blood that vividly speak of the pain (physical, emotional) inflicted on the people. All for real, I am convinced.
Just as things change, the war also transforms the brothers into the sort-of unexpected persons they would become. The barbaric nature of the war turns things upside-down. Jin-Tae will defect to the commies' camp as Jin-Seok returns home. Eventually, they will fight against each other in an almost fatal duel. In this fight, the brothers share a common line of thought: "love, family, and blood are the strongest motivators for man to fight... even if it means losing his life."
Photo taken from http://twitchfilm.net/pics/TaeGukGi.jpg
This makes the movie a masterpiece of peace education, a champion of promoting the fundamental values of understanding and respect, of tolerance and accommodation. It is a celebration of valor and honor, of fidelity and true love, of filial values and fraternity, of family and brotherhood.
Taegukgi is a heart-piercing action-drama delivered by an exceptionally gifted cast and an excellent director (Kan Je-Gyu). I am confident to say that this is one of the best war movies (if not the best so far) I have ever seen. Unsolicited advice: be sure that you have your handkies when you watch this movie! hehehehe...
Photo taken from http://www.sofacinema.co.uk/guardian/images/products/5/39335-large.jpg
THE VOYAGE
This one is more than fit for the sensing-feeling trippings that the author sometimes engages into. At times, he becomes so engrossed in deep thinking that he unconsciously begets thoughts that are beyond normal and sort of hmmmm...indescribable? Bear with the idea please!
THE VOYAGE
Sung by George Donaldson of Celtic Thunder
URL: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t1f3mKrbToU&feature=related
I am a sailor, you're my first mate
We signed on together, we coupled our fate
We hauled up our anchor, determined not to fail
For the hearts treasure, together we set sail
With no maps to guide us we steered our own course
We rode out the storms when the winds were gale force
We sat out the doldrums in patience, and hope
Working together, we learned how to cope
Life is an ocean, love is a boat
In troubled waters, it keeps us afloat
When we started the voyage, there was just me and you
Now gathered round us, we have our own crew
Together we're in this relationship
We built it with care, to last the whole trip
Our true destination's not marked on any charts
We're navigating for the shores of the heart
Life is an ocean and love is a boat
In troubled waters, it keeps us afloat
When we started the voyage, there was just me and you
Now gathered round us, we have our own crew
THE VOYAGE
Sung by George Donaldson of Celtic Thunder
URL: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t1f3mKrbToU&feature=related
I am a sailor, you're my first mate
We signed on together, we coupled our fate
We hauled up our anchor, determined not to fail
For the hearts treasure, together we set sail
With no maps to guide us we steered our own course
We rode out the storms when the winds were gale force
We sat out the doldrums in patience, and hope
Working together, we learned how to cope
Life is an ocean, love is a boat
In troubled waters, it keeps us afloat
When we started the voyage, there was just me and you
Now gathered round us, we have our own crew
Together we're in this relationship
We built it with care, to last the whole trip
Our true destination's not marked on any charts
We're navigating for the shores of the heart
Life is an ocean and love is a boat
In troubled waters, it keeps us afloat
When we started the voyage, there was just me and you
Now gathered round us, we have our own crew
MY BOY...
Lyndel Jaeus. Born in the Middle East.Any child who truly loves his parents would surely be moved by the message of this song... George Donaldson very effectively conveys a parent's message to a son in his rendition of this song... He deserves a standing ovation. Visit the URL in youtube and watch..
Photo taken from http://www.tenortours.com/celticthunder/images/ctgr1.jpg
MY BOY
Sung by George Donaldson of Celtic Thunder
URL: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8iaYohqMLaQ&feature=related
You're sleeping son, I know
But, really, this can't wait
I wanted to explain
Before it gets too late
For your mother and me
Love has finally died
This is no happy home
But God knows how I've tried
Because you're all I have, my boy
You are my life, my pride, my joy
And if I stay, I stay because of you, my boy
I know, it's hard to understand
Why did we ever start?
We're more like strangers now
Each acting out a part
I have laughed, I have cried
I have lost every game
I’ve taken all that I can take
But I'll stay just the same
Because you're all I have, my boy
You are my life, my pride, my joy
And if I stay, I stay because of you, my boy
Sleep on, you haven't heard a word
Perhaps it's just as well
Why spoil your little dreams
Why put you through that hell
Life is no fairytale
As one day you will know
But now you're just a child
I'll stay here and watch you grow
Because you're all I have, my boy
You are my life, my pride, my joy
And if I stay, I stay because of you, my boy
Because you're all I have, my boy
You are my life, my pride, my joy
And if I stay, I stay because of you, my boy
...my boy.
Friday, February 27, 2009
THE OLD MAN
he's gone ahead into eternity... he's nowhere to be found in here... his tomb seem deserted... only the epitaph remains... an almost perpetual reminder of who he has been -- to me, to my bro, to my sis, to my mother... he'd been our "old man"... he'll always be... he'd been hated... sometimes made fun of... even cursed... but eventually forgiven... now being missed... Wherever you are now "papang" -- we surely miss the "old man" that you were...
THE OLD MAN
(Sung by George Donaldson of Celtic Thunder)
URL1: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Cw1yorwijY
URL2: http://vids.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=vids.individual&VideoID=44876940
The tears have all been shed now
We've said our last goodbyes
His souls been blessed
He's laid to rest
And it's now I feel alone
He was more than just a father
A teacher my best friend
And He'll still be heard
In the tunes we shared
When I play them on my own
(chorus)
I never will forget him
For he made me what I am
Though he may be gone
Memories linger on
And I miss him, the old man
As a boy he'd take me walkin'
By mountain field and stream
And he showed me things
Not known to kings
And secret between him and me
Like the colours on the pheasant
As he rises in the dawn
Or how to fish and make a wish
Beside a fairy tree
(chorus)
I never will forget him
For he made me what I am
Though he may be gone
Memories linger on
And I miss him, the old man
I thought he'd live forever
He seemed so big and strong
But the minutes fly
And the years roll by
For a father and a son
And suddenly when it happened
There was so much left unsaid
No second chance
To tell him thanks
For everything he's done
Oh, I never will forget him
For he made me what I am
Though he may be gone
Memories linger on
God I miss him, the old man
Note: George squeezed my heart with his rendition of this song...
This is George Donaldson. Photo taken from http://www.glogster.com/media/1/2/94/74/2947409.jpg
This post is also available from http://farland.tigblog.org/
THE OLD MAN
(Sung by George Donaldson of Celtic Thunder)
URL1: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Cw1yorwijY
URL2: http://vids.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=vids.individual&VideoID=44876940
The tears have all been shed now
We've said our last goodbyes
His souls been blessed
He's laid to rest
And it's now I feel alone
He was more than just a father
A teacher my best friend
And He'll still be heard
In the tunes we shared
When I play them on my own
(chorus)
I never will forget him
For he made me what I am
Though he may be gone
Memories linger on
And I miss him, the old man
As a boy he'd take me walkin'
By mountain field and stream
And he showed me things
Not known to kings
And secret between him and me
Like the colours on the pheasant
As he rises in the dawn
Or how to fish and make a wish
Beside a fairy tree
(chorus)
I never will forget him
For he made me what I am
Though he may be gone
Memories linger on
And I miss him, the old man
I thought he'd live forever
He seemed so big and strong
But the minutes fly
And the years roll by
For a father and a son
And suddenly when it happened
There was so much left unsaid
No second chance
To tell him thanks
For everything he's done
Oh, I never will forget him
For he made me what I am
Though he may be gone
Memories linger on
God I miss him, the old man
Note: George squeezed my heart with his rendition of this song...
This is George Donaldson. Photo taken from http://www.glogster.com/media/1/2/94/74/2947409.jpg
This post is also available from http://farland.tigblog.org/
Thursday, February 26, 2009
Celtic Woman
This group is known as CELTIC WOMAN...
An ensemble of five angelic voices from Ireland, and one stunningly gifted violinist!
They's awesome in ensemble repertoire and equally wondeful in solo performances...
Photo sourced from http://www.awesome-tickets.com/celticwoman.jpg
Photo sourced from http://blog.mlive.com/flintjournal/entertainment/2008/04/large_Celtic_Woman.jpg
Sunday, February 22, 2009
BROTHERS IN ARMS
My simple tribute to those who have dedicated their lives to the defense of their homelands, to the security of their and their posterity's freedom, to the integrity of their nationhood, to the maintenance of a better environment to live in... THE SOLDIERS of HUMANITY!!! to the soldiers of the COUNTRY! to the SOLDIERS of GOD!!!
This is Ryan Kelly of Celtic Thunder. Photo taken from http://a7.vox.com/6a00d4142454586a4700f48d00411f0001-200pi
BROTHERS IN ARMS
(Sung by Ryan Kelly of Celtic Thunder)
URL: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h7hlvJi-gkM (copy & paste on the web address bar)
These mist covered mountains
Are a home now for me
But my home is the lowlands
And always will be
Some day you'll return to
Your valleys and your farms
And you'll no longer burn
To be brothers in arms
Through these fields of destruction
Baptisms of fire
I've witnessed your sufferin'
As the battles raged higher
And though they did hurt me so bad
In the fear and alarm
You did not desert me
My brothers in arms
There's so many different worlds
So many different suns
And we have just one world
But we live in different ones
Now the sun's gone to hell
And, the moon's riding high
Let me bid you farewell
Every man has to die
But it's written in the star light
And every line on your palm
We're fools to make war
On our brothers in arms
Note: Celtic Thunder is an all-male Celtic (1 Scottish and 4 Irish) ensemble...
This is also posted here: http://farland.tigblog.org
This photo was taken from http://www.stephanspage.info/bilder/Brothers%20In%20Arms%20-%20Earned%20In%20Blood.jpg
This photo was taken from http://www.reliantpark.com/attachments/wysiwyg/8/CTBannerWeb.jpg
From left to right:
Paul Byrom, Ryan Kelly, Keith Harkin, Damian McGinty, George Donaldson
This photo was sourced from http://www.brandtcentre.com/files/image/brandt/Events/ZK4F8917.jpg
This is Ryan Kelly of Celtic Thunder. Photo taken from http://a7.vox.com/6a00d4142454586a4700f48d00411f0001-200pi
BROTHERS IN ARMS
(Sung by Ryan Kelly of Celtic Thunder)
URL: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h7hlvJi-gkM (copy & paste on the web address bar)
These mist covered mountains
Are a home now for me
But my home is the lowlands
And always will be
Some day you'll return to
Your valleys and your farms
And you'll no longer burn
To be brothers in arms
Through these fields of destruction
Baptisms of fire
I've witnessed your sufferin'
As the battles raged higher
And though they did hurt me so bad
In the fear and alarm
You did not desert me
My brothers in arms
There's so many different worlds
So many different suns
And we have just one world
But we live in different ones
Now the sun's gone to hell
And, the moon's riding high
Let me bid you farewell
Every man has to die
But it's written in the star light
And every line on your palm
We're fools to make war
On our brothers in arms
Note: Celtic Thunder is an all-male Celtic (1 Scottish and 4 Irish) ensemble...
This is also posted here: http://farland.tigblog.org
This photo was taken from http://www.stephanspage.info/bilder/Brothers%20In%20Arms%20-%20Earned%20In%20Blood.jpg
This photo was taken from http://www.reliantpark.com/attachments/wysiwyg/8/CTBannerWeb.jpg
From left to right:
Paul Byrom, Ryan Kelly, Keith Harkin, Damian McGinty, George Donaldson
This photo was sourced from http://www.brandtcentre.com/files/image/brandt/Events/ZK4F8917.jpg
Saturday, February 21, 2009
LIFE...
life may have its ups and downs... vicissitudes... turbulence and tranquility...
nonetheless, life has to go on... it must traverse its destined course... it must reach a designated level of trnasformation... it must lead to eternity...
just like the rattan vine that perpetually struggles to get a modest share of sunlight while she is almost hopelessly incarcerated in between the huge trunks of the towering jungle trees, the individual must strive for survival... for refinement... for a meaningful existence... for the ascertainment of the purpose of living...
Photo taken from http://www.lanting.com/images/products/books/ju_lanting_life-1.jpg
to be continued...
this may also be read here: http://farland.tigblog.org
nonetheless, life has to go on... it must traverse its destined course... it must reach a designated level of trnasformation... it must lead to eternity...
just like the rattan vine that perpetually struggles to get a modest share of sunlight while she is almost hopelessly incarcerated in between the huge trunks of the towering jungle trees, the individual must strive for survival... for refinement... for a meaningful existence... for the ascertainment of the purpose of living...
Photo taken from http://www.lanting.com/images/products/books/ju_lanting_life-1.jpg
to be continued...
this may also be read here: http://farland.tigblog.org
Friday, February 20, 2009
TEACHING and LIVING...
i've been teaching for four years now... ever wonder what a young man ever thought of so he stayed that long in the "noblest profession"? well, it may be called an accidental choice of career... it may also be "the only choice" left in a situation of desperation and need. it may be passion. or vocation? hehehe. Calling as others say it is.
nonetheless, it is where i am now. am i stuck in here? who knows? am i of significance in here? only my students know. am i ever gonna stay? only time can tell. am i ever gonna make impact in here? God will help me for sure.On 15 December 2008, i received a message from my good friend ("Lorenzky"). It was truly heartwarming at the same time heart-rending in emotional and matter-of-fact content! The SMS reads:
I REALIZED THAT BEING A TEACHER IS INCOMPARABLE.
AS WE CARE FOR OUR STUDENTS,
WE LEARN HOW TO COVER OUR SORROW WITH A SMILE;
WE LEARN HOW TO STAY VIGOROUS DESPITE ALL THE TASKS WE ENDURE;
WE LEARN HOW TO GIVE HOPE EVEN THOUGH OURS IS UNCLEARLY SEEN;
WE LEARN HOW TO GIVE STRENGTH EVEN AT TIMES THAT WE ARE WEAK.
NOBODY WOULD KNOW WHAT KIND OF LIFE A TEACHER HAS...
UNLESS HE/SHE BECAME ONE...
is teaching really the noblest among the professions? or it is just one of the four cornerstones of the edifice of humanity? queries that remain... queries that are answered only by experience and understanding... queries that reflect the reality of the teacher's vocation... queries that do not just ask the world for answers but more importantly tells the world of the desires and cravings of the teacher...
live and let live! live peaceably with all men... God be praised! God be glorified! For God is the source of all things that are and the cause of all things that be.
(i also posted this here: http://farland.tigblog.org)
nonetheless, it is where i am now. am i stuck in here? who knows? am i of significance in here? only my students know. am i ever gonna stay? only time can tell. am i ever gonna make impact in here? God will help me for sure.On 15 December 2008, i received a message from my good friend ("Lorenzky"). It was truly heartwarming at the same time heart-rending in emotional and matter-of-fact content! The SMS reads:
I REALIZED THAT BEING A TEACHER IS INCOMPARABLE.
AS WE CARE FOR OUR STUDENTS,
WE LEARN HOW TO COVER OUR SORROW WITH A SMILE;
WE LEARN HOW TO STAY VIGOROUS DESPITE ALL THE TASKS WE ENDURE;
WE LEARN HOW TO GIVE HOPE EVEN THOUGH OURS IS UNCLEARLY SEEN;
WE LEARN HOW TO GIVE STRENGTH EVEN AT TIMES THAT WE ARE WEAK.
NOBODY WOULD KNOW WHAT KIND OF LIFE A TEACHER HAS...
UNLESS HE/SHE BECAME ONE...
is teaching really the noblest among the professions? or it is just one of the four cornerstones of the edifice of humanity? queries that remain... queries that are answered only by experience and understanding... queries that reflect the reality of the teacher's vocation... queries that do not just ask the world for answers but more importantly tells the world of the desires and cravings of the teacher...
live and let live! live peaceably with all men... God be praised! God be glorified! For God is the source of all things that are and the cause of all things that be.
(i also posted this here: http://farland.tigblog.org)
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)