Silent fighters

A Tribute to the Silent Fighters: Those Who Give Without Expecting in Return

In this fast-moving world, it becomes easy to overlook quiet fighters among us-the one who takes his or her burdens in silence and still manages to lift others up. Those who do not require others to survive; who pop up right back once the odds have knocked them to dust multiple times. Such people offer a hand in without wanting something in return; they tend to be listeners whom others hardly hear; they are supporters of everyone cheering for them without little credit being given for it.

To Those Who Carry Their Burdens in Silence

There is a special kind of strength to endure the most heinous hardships of life silently. It is the strength that emanates from within, coming from resilience and silent courage. It is those who have their burden and go silently unnoticed holding so much together. When they themselves are hardly holding on, they lift others; such has been driven by empathy and a deep urge to make life a little better for all around.

For the Self-Reliant and the Dreamers Who Restart

Self-reliance carries a blessing and a curse along with it. Being that person to whom others are turning around and seems to have everything in order is rather liberating and debilitating at the same time. And yet, even when the world crumbles around them, these silent fighters gather up the pieces and start anew, hoping their dreams were just out of reach. They may have restarted innumerable times, but every time they do, they learn and grow and become more determined.

To the Givers and the Listeners

The world needs givers—the people who offer kindness, support, and understanding, even when they receive little in return. These are the people who would sooner look out for other's needs before speaking of their own. They listen and create a safe space for others to share their emotions before asking for validation of themselves. It is a sacrificial act many times thankless, but it is of profound impact. And for those listeners who so seldom have a voice amongst a chorus, know this: your work is invaluable, your presence needed, and your heart is extraordinary.

Cheering Without Cheers in Return

There is nobility in being the beholder who cheers for others with no expectation of applause or glory. Heroes not on any kind of pedestal but those who hold up our spirits, remind us that we can do greater things. But for it to be unspoken, like in most of humanity, they too need encouragement and assurances that are proof they deserve to feel the support, love, and value they have longed for.

Here's to You

To every silent fighter, to every giver, to every dreamer refusing to give up-it sees your journey, though it feels invisible. It admires your strength, though the world does not always. And while life is often just pushing forward, there'll come a day when it is more. There will be that day when the fruits of your toughness and sacrifice come back to you in unexpected, beautiful ways.

Someday, You'll Feel Fully Alive

Life is so much more than just one long, drawn-out list of incessant things to do. There is so much more out in the world for people than having made these sacrifices in silence and being pursued 24/7 for stability and happiness at the cost of everything else. But one day, life won't have to be about push, pull, or drag to go along. You'll wake up to it every day. You'll wake up to joy, peace, to a sensation that makes everything else worth it. You'll be heard, valued, and loved in ways probably never dreamed of.

So here's to all of you-the silent givers who give without taking, fight battles unseen and continue to believe in a better tomorrow. Their time will come, but by the time it does, it will be richer and more meaningful for the journey that brought them there. Hold on, stay true, and keep going, for certainly the best is yet to come.

What it feels to earn a million?

What It's Like to Take Home My First Million: A Story of Effort, Sacrifice, and Gratitude

I remember that day very well sometime in October 2021 when I earned my first million (I just totalled all my basic pay from 2017 to 2021 hahaha). It wasn't a film scene with confetti and party scenes. It was rather quiet-only me, my computer, and that balance on the screen. A wave of emotions came all at once, filled with excitement, disbelief, pride, and a bit of nostalgia for the journey that got me here. The first million was not only a financial milestone but also a testament to years of hard work, late nights, sacrifices, and lessons learned.

1. How I Made My First Million: Blood, Sweat, and Tears

That journey to a million did not come easy. There were long hours of sweat, a whole lot of stick-to-itiveness, and doubts. There were times when things seemed absolutely impossible and had to try out all sorts of avenues. It wasn't a smooth ride, but it made me stronger and taught me much-needed lesson: tenacity, flexibility, and the need for never giving up.

2. The Emotional Rollercoaster

The moment I reached that financial milestone, a mix of emotions overwhelmed me. On one level, it was disbelief-for so long had I pushed towards that goal, that it seemed almost surreal to see it finally happen. Then came pride-I knew that every late night, every stressful day, and every ounce of effort was worth it. There was some sobering realization right in the middle of all this happiness: while earning that first million was a major milestone, it was merely one piece of my entire journey.

3. Things I learned along the way

Consistency is everything: anybody can enthusiastically do something one day, but it is the consistent effort that eventually makes a difference. This is how the road to my first million was sort of greased along when I really did not feel much like putting in any effort on any particular days.

Importance of Resilience: At some points, it seemed like the whole world turned against me. Projects fell through, deals that would have seemed sure failed, and other unnecessary expenses popped up like weeds overnight. But resilience catapulted me forward, helping me to view failures not as setbacks but as learning curves.

Financial Discipline: Reaching this milestone required not just making more money but how I handled what I had. Learning how to save, invest, and expend was crucial in building wealth.

4. The Sacrifices That Went with the Success

The financial milestone cost me dearly in more ways than one. I had to forego many social events, vacations, and time with loved ones. Nights were late, and mornings were early. Burnout was a very real challenge. All this, however, was valuable for learning about balance and the need for self-care and relationships even in the pursuit of ambitious goals.

5. Gratitude and Humble Mind

Earning that first million was not just my doing-it was the result of mentors, friends, and family encouraging me to keep going when things got tough. It reminded me to stay humble and thankful that success is not a solo cup of champagne. Gratitude became this anchor that would keep me grounded and motivated to continue striving, never forgetting where I came from.

6. Life After the First Million

Strangely enough, life did not change after that first million. There was nothing but a sense of security and a new opened-up world of opportunities. But it surely changed the focus. I quickly understood that after this milestone was only the starting point to the journey toward new goals, aspirations, and a far greater drive to make a meaningful impact. I wanted to invest further in myself, expand my ventures, and help others achieve their milestones.

7. Words for Those Traveling with You

If you're on your own path to a personal financial goal, I would say this:

Stick to it. It's not easy all the time, but sticking to it through the peaks and troughs is critical.

Keep learning. Whether that's enhancing your skills, studying new market trends, or seeking valuable insight from others' experiences, never stop learning.

Enjoy the Journey: Focus on the process, celebrate small wins, and learn from the setbacks.

Give Back: Success becomes more meaningful when shared. The best ways are always supporting and inspiring those around you while winning to your goals.

Conclusion

In conclusion, earning my first million has actually become a milestone that I will never forget; it was a moment that marked years of hard work, learning, and growth. But what above all this matters is the lesson that success is far beyond hitting marks. Fact is, resilience and humility literally cut across financial targets; it's about people standing by you along the way. So to anyone on their way to their first million or any major goal, remember that the journey is as important as the destination and the lessons learned what give the achievement its real value.

Pains in life

Life's Agonies: The Road to Life and Resilience

Life will certainly have its pains. Be it in the form of uncomfortable physical sensations or emotional heartache, or even by some unexpected setbacks, pain is something which each one of us faces. Though most people dread it at all costs, the fact is that pains are indeed a quintessential part of life. It shapes us, pushes our limits, and finally enables us to grow. Pain makes us learn the in-depth lessons and the power of resilience that will lift us up and make us move forward in life. But why do we need pain, and how can we change it into stepping stones for growth?

1. Pain as a Teacher

Pain is probably one of the best teachers of all time. It has a way of shining a light on our weaknesses and showing us where we need to grow. For example, heartbreak can teach us about self-love and what it means to put boundaries in place. Professional failures can teach us the power of resilience and the importance of persistence in all that we do. When we learn to see pain as not an enemy but as a mentor, that's when we're going to start seeing the wisdom that is inside. Every obstacle that we fight, no matter how impossible it may seem, teaches us a lesson for what is yet to come.

2. Developing Strength from Adversity

It is not in comfortable circumstances that people become resilient. Rather, the more inner strength and resolve it requires to get through life's uncertainties are usually found in the difficulties. The more we endure and learn from our painful experiences, the stronger we become. Each triumph helps develop our "resilience muscle," preparing us for the successful management of future tribulations.

Resilience not only heals us but also empowers those we love to go on to fight more valiant battles against their foes.

3. Pain Brings Transformation

Too many of life's most significant transformations begin in pain. Just like that of a caterpillar breaking through distressingly to become a butterfly, we too have to go through the discomfort process in order to evolve. Pain can incite change, but we need to reassess the choices and the behavior and the path that one lives; for instance, a health scare could lead someone to change their lifestyle to a healthier one while career setback may inspire a change towards more fulfilling employment. It actually forces one to look inwards and make the necessary changes that will help in growing as well as benefitting one's health.

4. Building Compassion and Sympathy

Suffering brings out sympathy and sympathy for others. Having known what we try, we are able to feel more sympathy for those who suffer. Because of this experience that humanity shares, people share deeper connections with each other, especially when it involves kindness. Pain reminds everyone of how vulnerable humanity can be and how weak anyone can be at any given time. So recognizing our pain becomes an opportunity to comfort others in their suffering.

5. How to Accept and Cope with Pain

But though pain cannot be evaded, the way we respond to it is what counts. Here are a few ways to cope with and accept suffering in a constructive manner: 

Be Conscious of Your Emotions: Allow yourself to feel without judgment. Suppressed long-term pain only makes healing take longer. It is the beginning part of victory over suffering.

Seek Help: Suffering alone cannot be borne. Discuss things with friends, family, or professionals what you are going through. Even in a single minute of discussing the pain can lift some burden from the heart.

Find the Lesson: Reflect on what that experience may teach. What insight or lesson can be gained from this pain? How can you use it in becoming a better person or in your future?

Taking Baby Steps Forward: Healing is not a one-off event. Take baby steps forward, no matter how minute the progress is. Celebrate each win as a victory.

Practice Self-Compassion: Treat yourself sweetly when things get tough. Do not be too harsh on yourself; let your self-forgive and heal and grow.

 

6. Pain into Purpose

Out of all the ways that might transform pain, channeling it into something meaningful is probably the most powerful. Many who have faced hardships become purposeful as they share experiences with others. Whether it is advocacy, sharing your story, or simply lending a listening ear, turning pain into purpose will always become healing and empowerment. This is the ability to change the narrative from being a victim of pain to one who survives and uses his story to inspire and uplift others.

Conclusion: Pain as a Moral Catalyst

Pain is not easy; however, it is one of the exigent necessities that defines us. It gives a challenge that makes us stronger and teaches us to appreciate moments of pleasure and peace. Despite the ache, the confrontation with pain allows us to grow in ways we would not have even imagined. Remember, this pain is only temporary, but the lessons in it and the resilience it brings can last an entire lifetime. Be open to the pains of life, learn from them, and use them as a foundation to build a stronger, more resilient version of yourself.

Truth to be told

People may not recall the intricate details of your facial features, although it's often a concern for many. What they do remember, however, is your smile, the warmth in your eyes as they engaged with you, and the way you made them feel. They remember your kindness, your gentle demeanor, and the comfort your words provided. Your willingness to listen, understand, and offer compassion leaves a lasting impression.

While physical beauty may capture attention, it's the beauty of the heart that truly resonates with people. A beautiful face may mask an ugly heart, but a beautiful heart radiates genuine warmth and kindness. Whether others perceive this beauty depends on what they seek and value. Ultimately, it's the goodness within that leaves a lasting impact on those around you.

Unveiling the philosophy of history: exploring Plato's allegory of the cave

Deep within the confines of a cave, dwellers are ensnared in a world of shadows, their backs turned to the flickering light emanating from the entrance. To them, these fleeting shapes—of animals, people, and objects—are the only reality they've ever known, their true forms obscured by the darkness.

Yet, one fateful day, a soul breaks free from the cave's grasp, emerging into the blinding brilliance of the outside world. Initially overwhelmed by the radiance of truth, this seeker's eyes struggle to adjust to the newfound clarity.

As time unfolds, the veil of illusion begins to lift, revealing the shadows for what they truly are: mere reflections, devoid of substance or authenticity. Armed with this newfound understanding, the enlightened soul returns to the cave, eager to share the revelation with fellow captives.

However, met with incredulity and resistance from those confined within, the truth-bearer's attempts at illumination are met with hostility. Like Plato's allegory, this timeless tale serves as a poignant reminder of the struggle to convey enlightenment to those entrenched in ignorance.

Even in our modern era, this metaphor rings true, reflecting humanity's propensity to embrace only what lies within the bounds of comprehension, rejecting that which lies beyond.

Indeed, the courage to confront the blinding truth—to step out of the shadows and into the light—is a rare and daunting endeavor. Yet, it is through this brave confrontation that liberation is found, and true enlightenment attained.

May we all find the courage to venture beyond the confines of our own caves, embracing the light of truth and the boundless freedom it offers.

An open letter to Ilagueños

Dear fellow Ilagueños,

Today, May 4, 2024, as we commemorate the founding anniversary of our dear city, let us pause to consider the path that has united us. Our city's history is intertwined with tenacity, cohesion, and steadfast spirit, from the modest beginnings of Ilagan in 1686 to the colorful and prosperous city we are today.

As we commemorate this momentous anniversary every year, we embrace the prospects of the future while also paying tribute to the past. Let us honor the memories of our forefathers, whose toil and devotion set the groundwork for our city. Let's also commemorate the victories and advancements we have made as a team, led by the values of unity and collaboration.

Let's reaffirm our commitment to creating a better future for Ilagan as we come together to celebrate this significant occasion. Let's keep collaborating to promote diversity, creativity, and sustainable growth in our neighborhood.

I hope that this foundation anniversary will serve as a constant reminder of our common history, our power as a group, and the limitless possibilities that lie ahead. Let us write the next chapter of Ilagan's history with pride, enthusiasm, and determination as a team.

Happy Founding Anniversary, Ilagan!

With warm regards,

Gerry Yabes

CTRL + ALT + DECEIT: Ito ang Gameshow ng buhay niyo!

Ang ‘Control+Alt+Deceit’ ay istorya ng Bayan ng Pinagkaisahan sa ilalim ng pamumuno ni Mayora Divina Gracia. Perpektong pamumuhay gamit ang makabagong teknolohiya ang kanyang adhikain para sa nasasakupan.

Ito ay orihinal na likha ng mga sumali sa theater arts workshop na tumagal sa loob ng anim na linggo.

Bahagi ng kampanya ni Mayora Divina Gracia na paunlarin ang bayan ng Pinagkaisahan ay ang paggamit ng makabagong teknolohiya. Nais nitong ipagamit sa mga mamamayan sa araw-araw ng kanilang pamumuhay ng mga pamilya, sa mga paghahanap-buhay, at maging sa mass media.

May kautusan nisi Mayora na ang anomang negatibong impormasyon ay huwag ma-i-publish ng Voz Unida Media company. Nais din niyang palaguin ang produksiyon ng mga kumpanya upang makakalap ng malaking kita sa mga negosiyo gaya ng McJolliSal sa pamamagitan naman ng mga robot bilang service crews nito. Inutusan din niya na bawat pamilya ay magsumite ng kanilang ideya tungkol sa isang perfect family sa pamamagitan ng larawan, pagsasayaw, at pati mga gawain sa bahay.

Si Cathy ay isang bagong empleyado ng Voz Unida Media. Habang tumataggal ay napapansin niya na ang mga negatibong balita ay hindi ipinapalabas ng kumpanyang pinagtatamrabahuan nito.

Hindi kalaunan ay paparami nang paparami na nga ang mga gumagamit ng makabagong teknolohiya na ida-download lamang ang Santa Siri app sa appstore ay napapagaan na ang mga gawain. Ngunit sa kabilang bahagi ay parami naman nang parami ang mga nagrereklamo sa palpak na paggamit ng teknolohiyang ito.

Una na si Angela na manager ng McJolliSal. Nagkaroon ng palpak na gawain ang mga robot bilang service crews nito. Mga customer ay nagrereklamo dahil may ipis sa pagkaing inorder. Nakarating itong reklamo sa Voz Unida Media. Ang balitang kapalpakan ng MacJolliSal ay pilit na itinatago ng Voz Unida Media.

Isang pamilya naman ay nakilahok sa perfect family task ni mayora. Ang buong pamilya ni Juswa ay nakilahok na nagsumite ng tatlong photos at isang video dance gamit ang Santa Siri app. Ngunit hindi nagtagal ay nagrereklamo si Juswa, pangalawang reklamador. Dahil narin sa makabagong teknolohiyang ginagamit na lumilitaw na fake familya task pala ito.

Ang mga reklamong ito ay nakarating sa Voz Unida Media. Isang kumpanya na gumagamit din ng robots na sina Honeybunch at Bebelove. Pilit pa ring itinatago ang mga reklamong natatanggap ng mediang ito. Bandang huli ay nagkaroon ng malfunction ang robots ng Voz Unida Media. Samantalang nagmemeryenda ang mga kasamahan ni Cathy ay naipublish nito ang mga balitang totoo at pinaalalahanan ni Boss Leon ang magiging epekto ng ginawa ni Cathy.

Itong tatlong reklamador ay sumali sa game show na Bayan ko 'to: Ang game show ng buhay niyo.  Dito isiniwalat ang lahat ng mga kapalpakan na nagawa ng paggamit ng makabagong teknolohiya. Hindi kalaunan ay naibulgar na ang Voz Unida Media ay nagfifilter ng news. Kaya't ang buong bayan ay nagningas ng galit kay Mayora. Hanggang sa ang buong bayan ay natutong maging mapanuri sa mga balitang naririnig, at pati ng mga paggalit ng mga makabagong teknolohiya na makakaapekto sa mga mamamayan.

Sa wakas ay nananalo din ang bayan dahil hindi na magpapalinlang kundi sama-sama nang mag-iisip sa kapakanan ng bawat isa. Prayoridad na ang kabutihan, pagkakaisa, at magtutulungan para sa katotohan, at katarungan sa bayan ng Pinakaisahan.

Theater acting

I embarked on my acting journey in July 2022, delving into various productions to explore the art of performance. Seeking to deepen my skills and immerse myself further in the craft, I made the decision to enroll in a Theater Arts class on August 19, 2023. Facilitated by PETA Inc., the class comprised eight enriching sessions aimed at refining my abilities in portraying diverse roles across stage plays, movies, series, and more.

For aspiring actors eager to embark on their own path, I wholeheartedly endorse the pursuit of formal training. Enrolling in a Theater Arts class not only provides a structured approach to learning the intricacies of acting but also serves as a cornerstone for developing a strong foundation in the art form. Through immersive experiences and expert guidance, such classes offer invaluable opportunities to hone one's craft and expand one's artistic horizons.

Undoubtedly, the study of theater arts offers a transformative journey, enriching individuals from myriad perspectives. Beyond honing artistic skills, it fosters a holistic growth mindset, nurturing capacities for collaboration, critical thinking, creative problem-solving, and effective communication. Each session serves as a catalyst for personal and professional development, empowering actors to embrace the multifaceted nature of their craft with confidence and finesse.

As I reflect on my own experience, I am reminded of the profound impact that theater arts education has had on my journey as an actor. It has not only equipped me with the technical proficiency required for the stage but has also instilled within me a deep appreciation for the power of storytelling and the art of performance. I encourage aspiring actors to embrace the transformative potential of theater arts education, knowing that it serves as a gateway to a world of endless possibilities and personal growth.

An open letter to batch 2021 of Isabela NHS

Dear class of Isabela NHS 2021,

You must feel excited to go out of our city (Ilagan City and nearby towns in Isabela province) and seek for your future! The feeling is mutual when I graduated 20 years ago at Isabela National High School.

Photo grabbed from Google Image search

Before you leave the premises of our prestigious school, enjoy your last moments with your classmates and friends. I know that some of you may not have yet definite directions or paths in life. This maybe the last time you see some of your classmates and friends. Enjoy it. I encourage you to cherish these moments. Take photos and videos as remembrance. I know that you're tired of doing homework, projects, you name it. But remember to keep and cherish your notes, letters, test papers, projects and sorts of.

No easy way

Now tell me if you know a single person who hasn’t failed yet. Have you ever encountered a student who never failed in an exam in his whole life? What about a story character who won all the time? Ever heard of a story without twists? Yung tipong happy ending agad. Well, probably not. That’s the point – life would not be called life if it does not have lessons. And lessons would never exist without mistakes. Let’s sum it up: You can’t win all the time. That probably is the art of losing. Let us face it, most of us are afraid to commit mistakes, most of us are afraid to lose something. Most of us as much as possible don’t want to fail. But the inevitable truth is, just what I’ve said a while ago: You can’t win all the time. That’s probably a good thing. Just imagine watching a story of a man who went through his whole life on an endless winning streak. That would be boring for sure. There is the fact behind this: all winners don’t grow for they don’t learn anything.

People face different kinds of failures. May it be failing in a test, having a fight with your friend and even having your heart broken. These are just some from the numerous kinds failures. But why are people afraid to fail? According to knowmyself.com, fear of failure is like any other type of fear, it’s an emotion generated by your subconscious mind in order to protect you from problems. Because some people have got much less tolerance to failure they always experience fear of failure, while others don’t. The reason behind this tolerance may be caused by lack of understanding of the success mechanism, being unable to tolerate the underlying emotions. These emotions could be shame, guild, or any emotion after they fail. Fear of making mistakes. Some people fear making mistakes to the extent that they quit trying just not to make a mistake in front of others. In this case, the fear of failure may be caused by lack of self confidence. In this case, the fear of failure may be caused by lack of self confidence. People who are emotionally sensitive, who fear rejection and those who lack self-confidence are more likely to be afraid of failure than others.

Failure will be and will always be a part of life. Thus, the only better way is to befriend it. Failure is just a message telling you that you have to try doing the same thing in a different way. Overcoming it may start by changing your beliefs about failure. No one has ever reached the top without failing several times. Build you self-confidence. Remember: having a better version of you starts from within. Give yourself a hand.

These are a hundred ways to kill a chicken. What I’m trying to say is, if you fail once, it doesn't mean you shouldn't try anymore. Failing means you could do better. Failing means learning from your past. There are no lost opportunities if you are always searching for alternatives. Delete the thought that you should win all the time. Here’s a simple thought: the ones who don’t fail, are pretty empty. Let life’s disappointments create a better version of you. Look forward to the ways loss will you change. Believe that the best is yet to come. And if those useless feedback keep dragging you down, bear this in mind: Failures would never ever define you truly are. So cheer up!

Sample chat

Gerry: How r u na?

Jan: Im fyn :-), kaw?

G: Fine 2

J: Hows ur study?

G: its ok

J: cu soon

G: k

Hello to this year 2007

Happy New Year! May this year bring you joy, happiness, and all your heart desires. Let us embrace the opportunities and challenges that come our way, and make the most of every moment. Here's to a fantastic year ahead!

If you're looking to make a change in your life, there are many things you can do. Here are a few suggestions:

• Setting of goals: Identify what you want to achieve and set clear, achievable goals for yourself. This year, I want to explore more of my career. Planning to continue my education and become a licensed librarian.
• Adopt a healthy lifestyle: Make changes to your diet, exercise routine, and sleep habits to improve your physical and mental health. Health is wealth. Drink a lot of water in good intervals. Let your food be your medicines. Instead of taking pills, supplements, etc. eat fruits and vegetables and protein.
• Learn a new skill: Take a class, read books, or find other resources to help you learn something new and expand your horizons. I am planning to write my book. I love writing actually.
• Volunteer: Give back to your community by volunteering your time and talents to help others. I am a blood donor as well.
• Travel: Explore new places, meet new people, and gain new perspectives by traveling to different parts of the world.
• Get out of your comfort zone: Try new experiences and push yourself out of your comfort zone to grow and learn. Do
• Cultivate gratitude: Practice gratitude by focusing on the things you are thankful for and making an effort to appreciate the good things in your life.