· Bulanglang

Ingredients:

1 cup malunggay leaves
1 cup fried tokwa cubes
1 cup squash, cubed
1 cup rice washing
1 cup upo, sliced
Salt to taste
1/2 onion, sliced
1/2 cup sliced tomatoes

Preparations:

Mix tomatoes, onion and squash in deep sauce pan or pot.

add rice washing and boil.

After 5 minutes cooking, add tokwa and upo.

When upo is almost tender, add malunggay and cook for 2 more minutes.

· Coconut Soup

Ingredients:

1-1/2 cups coconut meat, 2 cloves garlic, crushed
medium soft, chopped 1 small onion, chopped
4 cups water 2 leaves lemon grass (tanglad)
1 tablespoon oil Salt to taste

· Filipino Leche Flan Recipe

Ingredients:

1 can (390g) evaporated milk

1 can (390g) condensed milk

10 egg yolks

1 teaspoon of vanilla extract or lemon essence

For the caramel:

1 cup sugar

3/4 cup water

Preparations:

In a saucepan, mix the sugar & water. Bring to a boil for a few minutes until the sugar caramelize.

Pour the caramelized sugar into aluminum moulds - you can use any shape: oval, round or square. Spread the caramel on the bottom of the moulds.

Mix well the evaporated milk, condensed milk, egg yolks and vanilla by hand or blender.

Gently pour the mixture on top of the caramel on the aluminum moulds. Fill the moulds to about 1 to 1 1/4 inch thick.

Cover moulds individually with aluminum foil.

Steam for about 20 minutes OR

Bake for about 45 minutes. Before baking the Leche Flan, place the moulds on a larger baking pan half filled with very hot water. Pre-heat oven to about 370 degrees before baking.

Let cool then refrigerate.

To serve: run a thin knife around the edges of the mould to loosen the Leche Flan. Place a platter on top of the mould and quickly turn upside down to position the golden brown caramel on top.

· Banana Bud With Sotanghon(vermicelli)

Ingredients:

1 medium-sized banana bud
1 tablespoon soy sauce
4 tokwa squares
2 tablespoons onion, sliced
1-1/3 cup tomato, sliced
2 segment garlic, minced
Sotanghon(vermicelli)

Preparations:

Cut the banana bud into small pieces.

Put in a bowl of water with salt. Let it Stand for 3 minutes.

Slice the tokwa into desired size and fry.

Sauté the minced garlic, sliced onion and tomato in vegetable oil.

Drain the soaked banana bud and sauté together with the ingredients.

Mix the fried tokwa.

Pour two cups of water. Let it boil.

Then add the sotanghon which had been soaked in water.

Season with soy sauce and salt.

· Fried Eggs With Sweet Sour Sauce

Ingredients:

6 eggs 1 tablespoon sugar
1 tablespoon kalamansi juice 2 tablespoons soy sauce
6 tablespoons oil 1 tablespoon flour or cornstarch

Preparations:

Heat oil. Fry eggs one by one, sunny side up, then fold each egg in half, frying
until both sides are light brown. Set aside on a plate.

combine soy sauce, kalamansi juice. sugar and flour, and simmer eggs lightly in this mixture before serving.

· Banana Blossom Kilawin

Ingredients:

2 banana blossoms
4 tablespoons oil
1 cup fried tokwa cubes
2 cups water
4 cloves crushed garlic
2 tablespoons kalamansi juice
1 onion, sliced
Salt to taste
Dash of, peppers

Preparations:

Remove tough covering of the blossom slice thin crosswise.

Squeeze it with salt and then rinse. Set aside.

Mix tokwa, sliced onion and kalamansi juice.

Sauté garlic and add the tokwa mixture.

Add water, salt and pepper and continue cooking.

Then add the blossom. Turn over constantly till tender.

serve hot.

Yield: 8 to 10 servings.

· Ampalaya(bitter melon)With Eggs

Ingredients:

1-1/2 cups ampalaya, sliced thin crosswise
1 teaspoon garlic, minced
1/2 cup tomatoes, sliced
2 eggs, slightly beaten
2 tablespoons shortening
1/4 cup onion, minced
1/4 cup water
Salt to taste

Preparations:

Sauté garlic and onion in 2 tablespoons of shortening or oil.

add tomatoes and water, cover and cook for 2 minutes. add sliced ampalaya, cover and cook for 3 more minutes. Season with salt.

Add the beaten eggs spreading all over the vegetables.

Cook over slow heat until the eggs are slightly firm. Add an extra 2 tablespoons of oil if necessary to keep the eggs from sticking.

Avoid stirring the vegetables as it squeezes more of the bitter flavor of the vegetables and makes the dish unpalatable.

· Guinataang Papaya

Ingredients:

2 tablespoons cooking oil
1 cup thick coconut milk (second extraction)
8-10 heads of garlic, minced
1/2 cup slivered ginger
1 teaspoon black peppercorns
1 cup thick coconut cream (first extraction)
1 medium green papaya, slivered thinly
MSG (optional)
Salt to taste

Preparations:

In a pan heat cooking oil and saute garlic.

When garlic starts to turn brown, add the ginger and peppercorns and saute while pressing down to pulverize mixture. Saute the papaya in the pan.

Pour in second extraction of coconut milk, salt and MSG, Cover and simmer 10 to 15 minutes or until papaya turns transparent.

Add first extraction of coconut milk and simmer 5 minutes more. Correct seasoning.

May serve already at this point unless you want it of thicker consistency, in which case, let it simmer on low heat until of desired consistency.

· Crispy KangKong

Ingredients:

4 bunches kangkong leaves, cleaned 1-1/2 cup water
3 cups corn starch 5 cups cooking oil
1 cup flour
1 pc boiled egg, grated medium
salt and monosodium glutamate ( MSG) to taste

Preparations:

Wash kangkong and drain leaves thoroughly.

Remove leaves from stem. Set aside.

In a clean mixing bowl combine cornstarch, flour, egg, MSG, salt and water ( batter mixture ).

Mix until smooth in consistency.

Heat oil to 250°F and reduce fire to medium.

Dip kangkong leaves one by one in batter and deep fry until crispy.

Put fried leaves in a plate lined with table tissue to drain oil from kangkong leaves.

serve with sauce on the side.

· Filipino Lumpia

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 pound ground pork
• 2 cloves garlic, crushed
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 1/2 cup minced carrots
• 1/2 cup chopped green onions
• 1/2 cup thinly sliced green cabbage
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce
• 30 lumpia wrappers
• 2 cups vegetable oil for frying

Preparations:

1. Place a wok or large skillet over high heat, and pour in 1 tablespoon vegetable oil. Cook pork, stirring frequently, until no pink is showing. Remove pork from pan and set aside. Drain grease from pan, leaving a thin coating. Cook garlic and onion in the same pan for 2 minutes. Stir in the cooked pork, carrots, green onions, and cabbage. Season with pepper, salt, garlic powder, and soy sauce. Remove from heat, and set aside until cool enough to handle.
2. Place three heaping tablespoons of the filling diagonally near one corner of each wrapper, leaving a 1 1/2 inch space at both ends. Fold the side along the length of the filling over the filling, tuck in both ends, and roll neatly. Keep the roll tight as you assemble. Moisten the other side of the wrapper with water to seal the edge. Cover the rolls with plastic wrap to retain moisture.
3. Heat a heavy skillet over medium heat, add oil to 1/2 inch depth, and heat for 5 minutes. Slide 3 or 4 lumpia into the oil. Fry the rolls for 1 to 2 minutes, until all sides are golden brown. Drain on paper towels. Serve immediately.

· Grilled Chicken Adobo

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups soy sauce
• 1 1/2 cups water
• 3/4 cup vinegar
• 3 tablespoons honey
• 1 1/2 tablespoons minced garlic
• 3 bay leaves
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 3 pounds skinless, boneless chicken thighs

Preparations:

1. Preheat an outdoor grill for high heat, and lightly oil grate.
2. In a large pot, mix soy sauce, water, vinegar, honey, garlic, bay leaves, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, and place the chicken into the pot. Reduce heat, cover, and cook 35 to 40 minutes.
3. Remove chicken, drain on paper towels, and set aside. Discard bay leaves. Return the mixture to a boil, and cook until reduced to about 1 1/2 cups.
4. Place chicken on the prepared grill, about 5 minutes on each side, until browned and crisp. Serve with the remaining soy sauce mixture.

· Filipino Avocado Milkshake

Ingredients:

• 1 avocado - peeled, pitted, and cubed
• 5 cubes ice
• 3 tablespoons white sugar
• 1 1/3 cups milk
• 1 teaspoon fresh lemon or lime juice
• 1 scoop vanilla ice cream

Preparations:

Place avocado, ice, sugar, milk, lemon juice, and ice cream into a blender. Puree until smooth.

Chinky's Bibingka

Ingredients:

• 4 cups grated fresh cassava
• 3 cups coconut milk
• 3 tablespoons melted butter
• 3 eggs
• 1 1/2 cups white sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 cups coconut milk
• 1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 egg yolks, beaten

Preparations:

1. NOTE: Cassava, also known as Manioc, tapioca or yucca, can be found in Filipino or Latin American food stores. Usually sold frozen and grated. Mix together the cassava with the coconut milk, melted butter and eggs. Stir in the white sugar, salt, vanilla, cheese and lemon rind.
2. Pour batter into a 9x5 inch loaf pan and bake at 350 degrees F (175 C) for 30-35 minutes or until done.
3. To Make Topping: Put 2 cups coconut milk, condensed milk, flour, and some grated cheese in a saucepan and boil, stirring constantly. When thick, add the slightly beaten egg yolks. Cook for two minutes. Spread on top of the cooked cassava and bake at 400 degrees F (200 degrees C) for ten minutes or until golden brown.

Christianity

Christianity; what does in mean to you? What do you think about that word? What comes to your mind whenever you hear that word? What persons or things come to your mind when you hear that word? Do you also like other person that thinks that a Christian word means that it’s a religion? Well I cannot blame them. Many people really believed that the word Christian means that it is a religion. Many people are saying that Christian people are different from the other. It’s true that Christian people are really different because their lives are dedicated to Jesus Christ.

But what other people don’t know is that the word Christian is deeper than what they think it is. It’s not just a religion. Yes, the word Christian is a name of a religion. But for us Christians, it’s not. We can say that because the word Christianity is not a matter of religion but it’s a matter of relationship with Jesus Christ. That’s the real meaning of the word Christian. It’s not what the people think it is.

We Christians are always open to other people. Note that when we get the word Christ in the word Christian, the remaining letters are: i, a, n. Do you know what it means? It simply means that, without Christ, I am nothing! Isn’t it true? Can you do something without Him (Christ)? Of course not! We can never do something without Him! He is the only One Who can do anything, not us.

That’s what the word Christian means. It’s not just a religion. As long as your god is Jesus Christ, we are one! Because Jesus Christ will always treat His children fairly and equally. He is always a good judge and a loving Father.

I’m hoping that someday, people will know the real meaning of the word Christian because it’s really important to know that real meaning of the word. But of course, being a Christian is always a good life. I can say that Christians have nice and good lives because even if we are persecuted, we are not abandoned. We are pressed, but we are not crushed. We are struck down but not destroyed. That’s the message of the song, “I’m Trading”.

Christianity is not just a word. But it carries the word of Jesus Christ. Because when you say that you are a Christian, then it means that you have already accepted Him (Christ) as your personal savior and Lord. No matter what race you belong, as long as you have accepted His free gift of salvation, we are one! And of course, you are a Christian! That’s what Christianity means. It’s not a matter of religion, but it’s a matter of relationship with God, as what I said, a while ago.

But if you are really a Christian, you have to put it into action. Because they other people say that, “action, speaks louder than words”. It’s not easy to be a Christian, I tell you. But you have complete peace with Jesus Christ.

A love affair with MV Doulos and Books

MV Doulos is a ship wherein we can find lots of beautiful books. It is where we can find lots of books that are very affordable. Last February 13, 2007, we went to MV Doulos. It’s already my third time to went there. Actually, the youth of our church, including me, already went to MV Doulos. And we went there twice. It was really enjoyable in MV Doulos. When we went there, we were in the conference hall. We were having a praise and worship conference. It was a very nice experience!

Just like I said a while ago, last February 13, 2007, the students in UP including me, went to MV Doulos. It was at that time that I bought two books.

I thought at first that MV Doulos is just a ship all about books and other stuffs. But what I didn’t expected was that the people aboard are Christians! And in fact, they are also dedicating their lives to God! I didn’t expect that the people in there are on board because it’s their job! But it’s not! They are there because they are offering what they are doing to God. And it’s very nice to know that they’re not doing it for themselves but for God! Isn’t it great? I really thought at first that MV Doulos is just somewhat a library! It’s just a place full of books. But it’s more than that, it is a place where people are put together to serve Jesus Christ and help Him draw people back to Him.

When we went there, I bought two books entitled, “The Peacemaker” by Lori Copeland and “Future Leader” by Viv Thomas. Both books are nice! The “The Peacemaker”, is a nice book! It tells about a story of a girl who is taking revenge! And she learned that it’s not good to take revenge on somebody because God is the only One Who can handle that matter. And it’s a good lesson isn’t it? While the “Future Leader”, is talking about being a good future leader. And I have already picked up lots of lessons in that book. And it’s very nice to have something for you out from your hard work. Because the money I spent for the books are my savings. Because mostly, when I save money, I’m not the one who is going to use the money. But at that time, I was the one who benefited on the money. There are lots of books in MV Doulos that I liked. But I lack money so I can’t buy all I want. But it’s still an experience for me to be able to have a chance in going to MV Doulos. Their books really have lots of moral lessons in life. There are lots of books that can help you to have a better life. It’s like wisdom for the way.

Next year, MV Doulos will no longer come here in the Philippines. They say maybe four years from now. Because they will still have to, it’s like a renovation because the ship is so old. But anyway, I’m still looking forward to the day wherein I can go to MV Doulos again.

Global Warming!!!

Look around you; can you see the difference? Did you notice the change in our surroundings? Or it’s just that you don’t care? Look closely to our surroundings; is there
a change? Yes, there is! And the change in our surroundings right now is dangerous. It can affect all of us. But there is a problem. People are not aware of the changes in or surroundings and its bad effects. Or maybe they are already aware but they are just taking it for granted. People are not taking any action to solve this problem.
Global warming! That’s the problem right now! And it’s getting worse! And if we don’t get rid of this right away, it will become worst! The world is facing a problem that is hard to solve. But we all know that there’s no problem that cannot be solved. As we all know, global warming is the main issue that the country is facing right now.
Last week, we watched a film entitled “An Inconvenient Truth”. That film was really something that will wake people up from deep slumber. It’s something worth remembering.
When I was still young, I’m already aware of global warming. They say that our ozone layer is having a very big hole in it. And I was confused. If the ozone layer is having a hole, then it’s easier for the heat from the sun to go out in space. But what I didn’t know was that it is protecting us from the heat of the sun. And they also said that the ice and the glaciers in other countries are already melting. Then I said to myself that, “If the ice are melting, then its good so that other places will not suffer of to much cold.” But when I watched film I learned that ice serves as a mirror for the heat of the sun so that it would be release in space as infrared radiation. And I learned that if the ice and glaciers were going to melt, it would result to rise of water level. And when the water level will overflow! If that happens, it will be the end of us all! It’s scary to think isn’t it? It’s very dangerous if that happens. And if we don’t do something, we will surely suffer.
But there are ways for us to prevent global warming. We can always contribute to hinder global warming in our own little way. Little things that we do is always a big help to prevent this problem. It’s really very important for us to solve this problem because not only us will suffer, but also the future generation. And it will be unfair to the next generation because they are the ones who will suffer the consequences of our bad activities.
We can still solve this problem if we will just cooperate and help each other. This problem is not only our country’s problem, but it’s for the whole world’s problem. We must all help in solving ”Global warming!”

Street Children

When you hear the word street children, what usually comes into to your mind? Do you think that they are the rugby boys? Or do you think that they are the children who are bothering you because of asking money? Yes they are out there in the streets calling for justice and dreaming of having a comfortable life! When you see them, do feel sorry for them? Or maybe you are avoiding them because they might steal something from you? Why don’t you put yourself in their place? Why don’t you see for yourself the situation that they are in? Many people say that children are the hope for our country. But how can they be the hope of our country if they are already hopeless? They already think of themselves as nothing! I know that street children are really that bad. They are just influenced by teenagers that are also influenced by the wicked world. They are thinking of themselves that there’s no hope for them to have a new, and peaceful life. They are having a hard time in having a dream for themselves. They are lost! They need our help! But are we helping them? We are afraid to help them because we think that they are wicked. But don’t you know that they have also feelings? They are just hiding their fear because if they show their fear, they are not going to be accepted in a group. And besides, they think that when they show their fear, they are not in within a place. I know that deep inside their hearts, they are also afraid, but they manage not to show it. They are just hiding their fear.

Women and children are just associated to each other, because both of them are treated as second-class. Children are also helpless because they are not yet expose to the world and what is it all about. And if they are already expose to the world, they are going to be influence by the wicked world. The same with the women, children are also treated as minors. Just like I wrote above, how can they be the hope for our country if they, themselves lack hope? How can they be the future leaders if they are not guided the way for them to be a leader? Isn’t unfair for the children’s part to have a life like that, wherein they are wasting their time of doing nothing? Wasting their time doing some things that will destroy their lives?

Everyday, we can see lots of children walking along the streets bring with them a sack to look for garbage that can still be use, so that they can sell it. Look at their hands! There hands are supposed to be holding a pencil. Look at their feet! Their feet are supposed to wear school shoes. Their life must have an importance because they are the hope of our country. They are supposed to be in school! In school! Where they can learn a lot for their future!

Why are women treated as second-class?

Last March 8, we celebrated the women’s month. This is an important celebration because it is like refreshment to our minds that women are important in our nation. Actually all of us came from women!

But why are they treated as second-class? Why are they treated cruelly? Why are they treated as an object that is controlled by men?! Women are not treated equally with men. Don’t they know that women are also important?! They have let the women live a life wherein they are helpless, and not cared of. I can say this because I’m also a woman!

This morning, we watched a video during our reading class entitled, “Sex Trafficking: We’re so Syndicated Ma’am.” It tells about the abuse of women today. Trafficking is recruiting women and blackmailing them to go to other countries and have a wonderful work and big salary. But upon reaching there, they are forced to work as prostitute. Isn’t it unfair? They are only dreaming of having a good life for their family! They went in that country to work and have a big salary for their family. But why are they treated like this? Why?!!!!!!

It’s because of money! Sex Trafficking is the most common business right now. In this business men are playing. But what kind of toys are they playing? You’re right! Women! They are playing the women! It’s a very hard in the part of a woman to be treated like that! They are just doing it for their family but why?! I know that that’s the most common question of women right now? Why are we like this? Why are we in this situation that we are helpless? Women are crying out for justice! They should be treated equally to men! It’s unfair! It’s unfair! They should be treated gently! They should be treated with love. They should also experience the feeling of being the superior for something. Women must be trusted with something that is a challenge.

I can really say that we, women, are strong! We are not weak! We can do things that men can do! We can also achieve things that are hard for men to achieve. We women are brave and industrious. Suppose the husband is too lazy to work for the family, who take risks for the family to be able to eat everyday? Who finds a way for the family to eat three times a day? Who is suffering for the pressures and the problems of the children? Isn’t it the women? Isn’t it that they’re the ones who are taking the lead of carrying the burdens and sufferings of the children? Who is doing everything for the family to be together and taking care of the family? And who is the light of the family? Isn’t it the women?

Why don’t we scan ourselves and find out if we ourselves are also respecting women? And we must also learn to give more respect to our mother, because we owe our life to her.

I have a best friend

Friendship is a kind of relationship in this world. I can really say that having friends will give color to your life. Can you imagine living in a world without friends? It’s very boring isn’t it? I can’t see myself without any friend at all. Honestly, I’m a very friendly person. But I’m shy to make friends. But anyway, I still have lots of friends. But of course I’m making it sure that they are all good influence.

There are many kinds of friends in this world. Not all friends are good. I have already experienced in having a friend, but that friend left me when I was in the lowest part of the world. It hurts of course!

There are those friends that are good-weathered only. To the point, they are the persons who are there because you when you have something in which you can give to them. There are also friends that will be there because you are happy. But there are also friends that will never leave you even if you’re in the lowest part of the world.

I have a friend in which I can really say that He is a true friend. I mean, not just a friend, but He is my best friend. He never left me when I needed Him. I can always rely to Him whenever I needed someone to rely on to. I don’t know if He is also your friend, but I’m sure about this that He is a true friend.

I also had another friend. Her name is Rosa. We were best friends since grade four. She is a good friend because she’s there whenever I needed her. I know that she’s my best friend and she knows that too. She is always ready to listen whenever I needed someone to talk to. And of course, I’m also ready to listen to her. In fairness I knew her better than her mother. I know her feelings, her manners, and the negative side of her and many more. The same with her too! She knows me very well. We are always there for each other. We never leave each other.

I’m really thankful to God that He sent us in the same school. I know that our friendship will still face a lot challenges. Just like now, we are facing a new challenge. We are in different sections right now and we seldom talk to each other. I’m afraid that the ax of our friendship will become dull. What if that would happen? What will happen to our friendship? Will it be broken up? No!!!! I won’t allow that to happen! Because we understand to each other. We know that we seldom talk to each other but when we talk just a little while, it seems that we’ve never talk so long.

I’m always hoping that she won’t change her attitude towards me because I will never change towards her. I’m hoping that until now, she still considers me as her best friend.

Who is God?

God is everything to me. He is the one that is always there whenever I need Him. I’m really safe in His arms. I don’t know if people know Him for Who He is in there lives. Isn’t it nice to think that there is someone Who will never leave no matter what happens? And that whatever problem you have He can always help you? It’s very nice to think isn’t it? God is always there to defend us when we are oppress isn’t it? He always helps us to recover when we fail. Even if we sin against Him, yet He looks at us with love. Isn’t that amazing for such a person like that? Aren’t we lucky for having a father, a friend, a savior like Him? Even if we sinned against Him, yet He suffered for us and He never sinned! He conquered the crown for us! We are the ones who got the prize! God was the one who suffered the penalty for our sins; and when He rose, we are the ones who receive the price of His salvation. I bet there’s no man that has kind heart that would dare to suffer for someone else’s sin. And yet He sacrificed Himself for us.

For me God is always be the best best friend that I’ll ever have. Where can you find such a friend that is willing to die and to sacrifice everything just for you? Where can you find such a friend that always wants the best for you? He loves us so much that’s why He sacrificed Himself for us. How can we be so greedy of not offering our life to Him and yet He’s the one who is always there whenever we need Him? It’s our only way to thank Him for what He has done in our lives. Even if we offer our whole life to Him, that won’t be enough to thank Him. But at least we had our way of thanking Him.

So we must allow Him to be our personal Savior and Lord and we must give our lives as a living sacrifice to Him. My life right now is devoted to Him. Everything I do is always for His glory. It’s because I love Him so much and I will always remain in His love forever. I can’t spend my life in doing things that are not for His glory.

And right now I’m doing my best to please Him, but of course with His help. That’s what the word Christian means. Notice that when you get the word Christ, the remaining letters are ian. This simply means that without Christ I am nothing. Isn’t it true? It’s really true that without Him we can never live life.

I’m hoping that someday people will really know Him for who He really is in our lives. I’m really asking God the permission to help Him in bringing people back to Him. All we ask in Him is for ourselves. Why don’t we try to ask His permission to help Him in bringing people back to Him? You in your life, have you done this?

Different Kind of Experience

Hi! I am a student of the University of the Philippines. And I’m very proud of my school. In short, I’m proud to be a Upian. I know that I’m in a good school, because my school is very famous. When I was still in elementary, I already want to study in UP. Maybe because it’s just near to my school. They say that UP is a very strict school. And the lessons are very hard. But I still give in.

ast March 11, 2005, was the entrance exam at UP High. I don’t know if I’m ready at that time. I was scheduled during the afternoon test. When I arrived at UP, I was from the retreat at that time. I really lack sleep the night before the test because it was our retreat. We went to Eco-Tech and there have bonding together. I really enjoyed at that time. In the morning, while we were having a lecture we were really sleepy. We were given an early lunch so we can prepare for the test at UP. I was already nervous because I’m going to take the test. But before I leaf the lecture room, I suddenly opened my Bible to a certain verse and there God told me that “If you ask for something, you must believe that you can have it.” I was really shocked at that time because I didn’t expect that God would tell that verse. My nervousness lessened. After lunch we went to UP High School. Thanks to God that He guided me during the test. I was able to concentrate in the test and I was able to finish it all. After the test, I went home and when I arrived home, I immediately went to bed.

And now here comes March 20, 2005! I was very nervous because we are going to find out the result of the test. When I arrived in UP, I was very shock to find out that I passed the test! My teachers are very happy for me! Maybe they are happier than me. Especially teacher Gracel. She really hugged me when she found out that I passed the test. That was a very happy day for me. Because I know that it’s really God’s plan for me to study in UP.

And now, I’m already in UP and I never realized how happy it is to be in UP. It’s very enjoyable in UP. Despite the hectic schedules, hard lessons, and many more, it’s still enjoyable. I really can’t believe that I entered here in UP. It was a very unforgettable experience to take the test in UP.

Right now, I’m just enjoying my life of being a Upian! Even though that there are very scary situations in UP. Especially the card day and the periodical test. But anyway, I’m still enjoying lots of activities here in UP.

For me the best High School for me is UP. Because it is where I found freedom and more enjoyment. And now I’m here in UP enjoying everyday with the school that I’m very proud of.

My Alma Matter

The memory of my elementary school is always a part of my life. I can never forget the school that molded me and shaped me into a better person. I really love my school very much!

I can still remember the times when I was in that school, I was still in grade one. Every teacher knows me because I’m a very naughty child. Even if I’m a girl, I always play with boys during my grade one level. I’m really like a tomboy at that time. But I know that I’m still very young at that time, that’s why I still have that childish prank. I don’t know why at that time that was my behavior. I still can’t imagine myself having that manner. Maybe because I’m already a teenager right now.

I know that in that school, it is where I grew up and changed myself. Every time I went there, the teachers will always say that I’m already a teenager. It’s true but I’m still shy because I still have the mind of a child. It’s a little funny but it’s true.

In that school it is where I have found the people that love me. And I love them also. The memories that I have in that school is still very fresh in my mind.

One also that I cannot forget was when I was still in grade five. Our teacher is a very good one. I liked her very much as my teacher. She understands me very well. And do you know the saying that, “Bird with the same feather flocked together?” That’s also the saying in my situation with my teacher in grade five. I can’t really forget the time when she makes jokes. She’s a very funny person. Every time I see her, I always smile. That’s why she asked me if she looked like a clown to me. I just want to smile, whenever I see her. She’s a very important person to me. Sometimes, she is absent because she had a fever. I was very sad, and I don’t feel well that I’m in school. It’s really hard to have a day without the person that makes you smile. I don’t feel comfortable on that day. I don’t know if I’m going crazy.

And the most unforgettable experienced was during my grade six level. I’m also very close with my teacher at that time. I have already gone with her to Ayala and to other malls. That was very fantastic! And we also have our retreat at Eco- Tech. That was also a very unforgettable experience. I was very happy at that time because we have bonding together. I really didn’t sleep well at that time.

We already have that foundation of friendship before we graduated. It’s really good to have a bonding together with your classmates before graduating. Until now we are already separated. Others are in other schools. I can’t believe that time went on to fast. Next time I know that we were graduating. I don’t really want my grade six year to end because I’m happy in it. But I understand that everything must change. But now, I’m still visiting my Alma matter. I’m very proud to introduce my school, where I grow up. My school is Lahug Christian School!

How did I celebrate the sinulog festival?

Sinulog festival is always celebrated in Cebu every year. I too celebrated the Sinulog festival this year.

The Sinulog festival was Sunday, and I’m so happy that it is Sunday because were going to have a mission. I’m so excited about the mission because I know that with this mission we are serving God.

I arrived at the church early because we planned to have the service early because of the mission. I’m so excited that I arrived at the church so early.

After the service, I’m leaping with joy. I know that our mission will start soon. I can’t eat my lunch because of excitement. I can’t wait to start our mission.

After lunch, we got ready for our mission. We are going to Plaza Independencia to spread the Salvation of Jesus Christ, in short, we are going to evangelize people. Evangelizing is helping people to accept Jesus Christ as their personal savior and Lord. And that’s a very big mission for me, because we know that every one soul that is save, the whole angels are rejoicing in heaven.

At last! We already arrived at the Plaza Independencia! We are going to start our mission soon! After gathering and praying for the success and safety of the mission, we started the mission. We were in pairs. Ate Lovely and I are the partners.

It’s not easy to approach people that are walking. We had a hard time in approaching people because they are walking and it’s difficult to stop them. But still we have to have enough courage to approach people because it’s our mission. And besides, God also did suffer for us so this mission is not enough to thank Him. Mostly we evangelized boys because they are the ones who are that are willing to listen than the girls. We are really very happy every time a soul will accept Jesus Christ as their personal savior and Lord. We were having a hard time to talk to people because some people are roaming around to collect money from the people. I’m really disappointed with these people. One incident is that when we are about to talk with the girls when suddenly, a man approached us and ask for some donations for the church. That’s why the girls went away. That incident really upsets me because those girls are not yet saved and they already lost their chance to have their salvation.

Our mission is almost finished! It’s getting dark in the park. We all gathered around and counted the people that we have evangelized. And it’s very good because all in all, we have evangelized one hundred six! Isn’t it a good harvest? We’re so happy for having a good harvest. Even if we’re exhausted, we’re very happy because in this way we have served God and it’s also our way of thanking Him for what He has done in our lives.

I’m still looking forward to the opportunities that will come to have that mission. It feels really good to serve God.

My teacher Fina

Teacher Fina is our librarian when I was still in grade six. When I was still in grade five, I didn't notice her at that time. One time, I met her at the stairs, I was about to greet her good morning, but she got an angry face when she's not smiling. My fear overcomes me, that's why I wasn't able to greet her. But it's really that her face is ugly, the truth is that she is beautiful. I am just to shy to talk to her.
When I turned to grade six, she's already the librarian of our school. I often went to the library to read lots of story books. I didn't know when that started, but I found myself already talking with her comfortably. We spent most time talking together, and we enjoyed each other's company. Until every break time, I always talked to her.
Everyday, we grew closer to each other. Until we already shared lots of our problems, experiences, and many more! I shared a lot of my secrets to her that my parents don't know about it. Every time I'm sad, she's always there to cheer me up. We are always laughing every time we are together. Every time I have problems, she's always there to help me. I don't know how she did it, but she knows if I have a problem or none. I didn't even tell her about it but she would just say, "Common tell me your problem. What's the matter?" I asked her how did she know that I have a problem, her answer is, "I can see it in your eyes." she said. Honestly, she is one of the persons who understand me. She's very nice to me and she is also very funny. We have shared a lot of experiences and problems.
Now that she's married, I thought that our relationship will stop. But it didn't stop, right now we are still communicating to each other even if we don't see each other everyday.
Now, she is still concern about me even if she already had her own family. I'm always happy for her. I always tell her that I love her so much. The same with her also, she also told me that she loves me.
I know that she is not just a pass away in my life. She will always be in my heart, no matter what happens. She has taught me a lot of lessons in life, that have left a foot print in my heart.
I really don't know why I always get close with people who are older than me. Maybe God really planned everything so that whenever I'm down, somebody will always lift me up. We also have lots of moments together. She's always there to inspire me whenever I'm discouraged. She will always be my teacher Fina.
Having her in my life is a very big thing for me to thank God. I know that it was God who really put her in my life so that I can have someone to help me with something that I need someone to lean on to.

Everlasting Love

Everlasting love is different from all the other. I can say this because, I've experienced it too. Just like the love that God have for us. He died for us, therefore He loves us so much. Not just that, He will always love us forever and a day.
We cannot love other people unless, we go to the source. And the only source of this is God, and God alone. We can never give love if we haven't experienced His love first; for us. I thought that I can give love freely without feeling His love, but I was wrong. The truth is, it doesn't matter that the one you love doesn't give your love back because, God loves us so much. It doesn't matter if we lack love, because God is there loving us, and no love can compare His love for us. Even if our parents doesn't love us, the good news is He will always love us.
There are many kinds of love in this world. And mostly the teenagers right now have the wrong definition of love. They say love is just a thing that is a relationship. But the truth is that love is an attitude. Love is not happy with evil. It is not happy with bad things. It is happy with the things that are good, and with the things that are worthy to have. Just like having the plans for the a good future together. But of course, we must also seek God's will for that matter.
Other people are looking for the right person that will love them, and they will love it also. But how can they find that person, if they're looking it in the wrong place? Many people look for these people in bars, and many other places. And they tried to ask for an advice to other people, but how can they have the right advice if they ask the wrong person?
And also for the married couple right now, when they were still sweethearts, they always said "I love you" to each other. But now that they are married, I don't know. Mostly they will never, say anything to each other. And also if they walk together, the wife is walking ahead maybe ten meters away from her husband. Is it still everlasting love? Of course not! It because, there ax is no longer sharp. And through the years that they've been together, they didn't sharpen there ax. And that's why even if how hard they work out, if there ax is dull, then they cannot finish the work fast. That's why there are lots married couple right now are having divorce, without knowing that it's a sin in the eyes of God. That's why we have to keep our ax sharp.

What is Love?

Love is an attitude. That's my definition of love. When I was still young, I thought that it is called love when two people run away because they love each other. But I was wrong, because I have read in the Bible that love do the right thing. In 1 Corinthians 13 that love is patient, and it is not happy with evil. Love is happy with the truth. And if we experience love that is like that, we can say that it is true love. I really thought that my mother really loves my father because she gives her virginity to my father. But I realized that I was wrong because maybe it was just her way to escape. After what she have done, she escape to her responsibility. I don't think that she went to Japan to earn more money because she loves us. I thought at first that I love my love ones more than I love myself, but I learned lately that you cannot give what you don't have. So if you don't have love for yourself, then you cannot love someone. I thought this is not true but I came to realized that it's true.
I'm so lucky, in terms of love. Even though my mother left me and I have no love for a mother, God sent lots of people to love me. In the past, I don't know what love means and how it feels to love and to be love. I was so curious about that word in the past. I thought that unless I'm still young, I cannot love. But I was wrong, because everyone can love. I thought at first that when I like a person and I care for her/him, it's just admiration and I just like her or him. But I came to know that it was love.
Loving someone is a very comfortable thing to do, because you don't have to be someone that you're not. With someone that you love, he or she knows what the person is that he or she is loving. When you are with someone that you love it's like that you don't want that moment to end. I can say this because, I too have experienced it myself.
I can really say that my love ones know me for who I am. I don't really want to pretend that I am that. If ever they have notice something bad on me, I can't blame them because everyone has negative side. Not all is perfect. Now when you love someone, you have to make sure that you love him/her for he or she is. You should not find something that he or she don't have. You have to know her or him for who he or she is. But I've known a person that had no negative side. Maybe I don't know all that is in her. But for me even if there is negative in her, I still love her, because that's what true love is.
Love is not just a word for me, because love is sacred. Just like what Jesus Christ did for us. He died on the cross just to save us from our sins yet we still disobey Him. Even though we are so disobedient He still died for us. That's what true love is! Love is patient and it will do everything for the person that he or she loves.

Books

I wonder what books I want. When I was still young, I always look at books that have attractive cover. It's like viewing the books outside appearance, and when the outside appearance is not beautiful the book is not good to read. Sometimes I also look at the title of the book. If I don't find the books title interesting, I don't like the book already. My best friend told me that it's not good to judge a book by it's cover. But I never listened to her. I keep on reading books that have attractive pictures. But I came to realized that it's not the pictures that makes the books good to read but it's the content of the book.
Everything changed when I read the Bible. I was so down at that time and there in the Bible, I found the answer to the situation that I'm in. I found the Bible so inspiring and it lifted my spirit at that time. The Bible that I read was not an attractive one. It had a brown cover and had old style of book. I found the Bible there to help me whenever I'm in my world of confusion.
Books are like treasures in our lives. We can never live without books. They are the things that gives us knowledge in things that we don't know. Now that I learned something from that experience, I now read books that are not so attractive but the content is very amazing. Even if how much we get the knowledge of the book, the treasure of the book is still there, it still remain the same. It was never taken, and the full knowledge is always ready to share its knowledge to the next reader. It's like that you get something from that particular thing but it didn't lost anything. That's one of the significance of a book.
Books are really part of our lives because they are not just things that are things. They are no ordinary things because they help us to have more knowledge in the knowledgeable world that we don't know about it. We can never learn something if we don't read a book, and if we don't even care to read it. Reading books is a good hobby because it can enhance your mind to be sharper. And even better to think faster and have more ideas to any situation. It can help us to think more wise answers to the questions and help us have good lookout of life.
You can never find a solution to a problem if you don't have enough knowledge for that particular problem. Just like the Bible, every problem that you have, the solution is there. It's a mystery how books are made, and it's very interesting to write a book. But before you can write a book, you have to read first a book to have some ideas in making books.
I always want to write a books but I don't know what to write about. I always want to have a masterpiece of my own, just like to write a book. But first I have to read more books for me to have that ambition. I hope so, someday.