The Unbroken Reverie

...the spirit never ceases to flourish.

Saturday, April 10, 2010

High School Memories

Written by Mike Gallego

It is very unbelievable how time flies by so fast. Yesterday, we were just taking our entrance exam in Bosco. But today, it is already time to say goodbye to our Alma Mater who has been very dear to us; to close this chapter called “High School” and open a new one like we never see it coming.

As we look back to those four multihued years of this magnificent chapter in our lives, we cannot help but contemplate on those scenes that were laden with all kinds of adversities – fear, adjustment, bewilderment, criticisms, unceasing abundance of obligations, and so on.

There were times where the occurrences were tough and demoralizing that hit the highest points of our bounds. There were times where we were unable to help the tears, because we were alone, afraid, lost, or ashamed. Only until we had the guts to face and challenge our issues, and suffered several stumbling blocks and some loss of face – we learned. We considered them all as struggles, until we finally saw the point of them all.

Looking back also brings to our, still, naive minds the countless people who, from the very beginning, offered their support to us without expecting anything in return. We found them; the friends and mentors in our midst, who were there at whatever time and place we were, to listen to our stories, to laugh at our jokes, to share knowledge and experiences.

Suddenly, it seemed that we started to cultivate in many fields and the world threatened us no more. Little by little, bit by bit, we determined the difference between right and wrong, real and unreal, just and unjust.

The past years had been, as we might say, an enthralling maturity for all of us. This must be attributed to Don Bosco, Mary Help of Christians, and all the Salesian Saints who have never failed to intercede for us, and to the Divine Providence that has been always sustaining us.

In keeping, we had to take some times to be with Him every day, in the small chapel or in the big chapel. Sometimes, just to utter “hello,” or some words of friendship. Sometimes, we never had to say anything at all, just stayed a little, there with the Lord.

High School was just short, exhilarating and demanding, yet full of surprises and wonderful experiences. During our four years in High School, all of us exceptionally did a lot of maturing, a lot of growing up. We may not always notice them, but we can always find them, if we do so, inside our hearts, somewhere they could not be obviously seen, and only throbbing is heard.

Don Bosco… Thank you for getting us on the way across to becoming the capable, sturdy and successful persons the Lord hopes we would be. Bigger things, greater tasks, more trials and failures may be waiting outside. We may fall, not once but many times, but we shall rise, again and again.

So long, old man. I will see you again sometime soon. And when that time comes, I will make it sure that you will be proud of me.

Dearest Lord Jesus Christ, thank you for all the blessings you have bestowed upon us all in the previous chapters of our lives. Thank you for the biggest family you have given us in the Educative-Pastoral Community of Don Bosco Technical College. Thank you for our families, and everyone you have given us for support, love and companionship.

As me and my batch go to college, grant each of us the wisdom, assurance, and focus to make the most out of our new lives. Bless all of us and provide us with the necessary things for us to be able to keep on moving forward in making our home, and our school proud.


To everyone, I offer my gratitude. And with my sincerest wishes for one and all, congratulations! We made it.

I love you all from the bottom of my heart.

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Friday, March 26, 2010

Private Warning made Public

Written by Mike Gallego

If there is one certificate in high school which I can say I am most proud of, it will be this Private Warning. You see, I am so proud of it that I even posted it here where everyone can see it. Yes, this is a Private Warning that I received for violating a School Policy.

Some of you reading this may think that I am blogging this to insult the people who endorsed me for this Disciplinary Action; no, definitely not. In fact, I was one of those who sanctioned myself. Others say it was stupid; but for me, it was noble.

This Private Warning gives me a feeling of pride, dignity, and above all fulfillment. That for once in my life, a decision I made set the standard back in its rightful place; that a decision I made proved my courage to face my own self – strengths and weaknesses, successes and failures, self-determination and limitation; that what I did helped some people to realize the dreadfulness behind an action they had thought as pleasurable and fun.
“For all that I have suffered, I do not regret the problems that I have faced – because they are what brought me to where I wanted to arrive... I carry with me all the marks and scars of the combats – they are the witnesses of what I have lived through, and the rewards for what I have conquered... scars are necessary when we fight against Absolute Evil, or when we have to say “no” to all those who, sometimes with the best of intentions, try to impede our journey towards dreams."
- John Bunyan
I did not regret receiving this Disciplinary Action, even though the favor and trust of some of those around me had been sacrificed. If through sacrifices like this I could always help others recognize the insolence of their actions, I would always be more willing and happier to make worse cases and receive punishments and disciplinary actions heavier than Private Warning.

PS: This entry was originally long. It was only summarized to avoid hurting anyone’s feelings.

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Thursday, September 17, 2009

Bad Day

Written by Mike Gallego

Where is the moment we needed the most
You kick up the leaves and the magic is lost
They tell me your blue skies fade to gray
They tell me your passion's gone away
And I don't need no carryin' on...

I suddenly missed this song. The title of this song is "Bad Day" and it is by Daniel Powter, a Canadian Grammy Award-nominated recording artist. The song was first released in Europe in mid-2005 as the Powter's first single from his debut album.

I like this song because it explains life well. It is a kind of song that applies to and is relevant to almost everyone.

You feel useless. You think you are stupid. You want to cry. You want to scream.

Bad days, at times, are really bound to happen. But there is always tomorrow, so just keep your hopes up.

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Friday, August 07, 2009

Happy Oh-Eight, Oh-Eight

Written by Mike Gallego

It is my holiday today! Well, sort of. August 8.

With all the hardships and trials that I have experienced in the past years of my life I must have matured to the next level to understand better what life really means. As I am reflecting about the years that have passed, having faced a lot of adversities, walked amidst many misfortunes, and endured so much agonies, I feel that someone has been here with me to guard me, defend me, and protect me all along. I never thought that I would be so strong, so brave, and so smart to withstand all of those. I never thought that I would be THE MAN.


The experience I had in the past were only a preparation for the next, and the next begins today, and it stops in eternity. This serves, for me, as a call for a continuing search for life’s purpose. As I begin my journey towards the next level, I know that the road would be tough and the water turbulent. Life is not a bed of roses; in fact, it may be the other way around. Encountering more problems, more difficulties, and more pains is very foreseeable. Nevertheless, even though demise would come, I know that I can always make them positive. As the saying goes, there is always a choice in times affliction. It is always either we choose to be submerged in depression, or choose to take advantage of the situation to become a better person.

I personally have not yet truly understood the reason why I exist, but I have discovered some secrets to life which I may share. Take advantage of all the situations in your life. Treat every hardship as an opportunity to equip yourself with the necessary learning on how to get on with life. Pray – pray for God’s help and guidance. Lastly, be on guard at all times.

As I actualize myself, I hope to build more bridges instead of burning them, to remain a positive impact to others, and to live a more meaningful life.

Lord, to you alone I surrender. To you alone I dedicate my life’s purpose. I love you. Bless me on my birthday.

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Saturday, July 11, 2009

Jammed in YJAM

Written by Mike Gallego

I together with other eight intellectuals of our High School Editorial Team were chosen by our adviser to represent our school, Don Bosco in a seminar-conference on journalism yesterday, July 10, 2009. This seminar-conference was conducted inside the old meeting hall of the mayor of Mandaluyong City, at the 4th floor of the old building in Maysilo Circle.

Only three big schools: Don Bosco, La Salle, and Lourdes, were invited to participate in the said seminar-conference; the rest, if not public, were semi-private schools. Though, La Salle and Lourdes did not send their representatives. Perhaps they do not consider gaining from a free seminar on journalism. Right.

The speaker was Albert Almendralejo. He began his journalism career as a contributor of the school organ of San Beda College. On account of that, he became the student council president of the said college. This exposed him in the task of event-organizing and engaging more with different people which means more writing. Some works he handled were the Guinness successful Colgate Lovapalooza where more than 6000 lovers kissed simultaneously for at least 10 seconds, and Bakal Boys (Children Metal Divers): an indie film featuring the lives of unfortunate children in Baseco, Tondo scavenging iron and metal scraps in the dark, muddy waters of Manila Bay. Almendralejo has a degree in Management but, apparently, he is reaching higher in the field of media.

Almendralejo taught us how to capture readers for our articles and how we can reach out to other people as journalists. He just said that our articles must be related to the readers' interests and we could help the disregarded members of our community by addressing in our works their situations and needs. I would not elaborate this for now.

We were expecting three speakers that day but unfortunately only one of them was able to come. We just spent the remaining time of the course with a series of exchange of ideas.

After the course, we were stranded in the City Hall because it was raining and the roads around were already submerged in water. Our adviser called to school to send us a service so we could go back there but since it was already past five, the head of our department had already left the school. We had no choice but to brave the deep flood and the heavy rain.

Getting stuck somewhat gave way for us to bond with one another, which was a good thing. One of them told me some good remarks, and I was happy because I had the chance to show my kindness by giving back to him the favor. Through our conversations, I learned some new great things about them.

Going home, I had to ride a pedal-operated tricycle to cross the sunken road. I asked the driver to drop me to the near gasoline station where I could wait for a jeepney. Jeepneys were quickly filled by other waiting passengers. Just about after eight jeepneys I was able to roll up. Nevertheless, I consider myself lucky because I had three schoolmate-friends inside the jeep. They told me they were from McDo, and they asked me why I was wet and where I was from. I told them what happened, that we were jammed in YJAM (Youth Journalist Association of Mandaluyong).

All in all, it was a memorable day for me. A simple yet an enjoyable adventure.

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Monday, June 29, 2009

Resolved Resolutions

Written by Mike Gallego

It is June, and it is almost July again, mean to say we are halfway through the new year again. For this entry, I will let you make a review on the several commitments I made last New Year. I described them in my blog as the easy things that we often forget to do that we are supposed to. Have they been really easy for me to do? Have I been able to accomplish them, or at least some of them? Well, let's find out through this re-post of my New Year's resolutions. The bold-faced sentences are the ones that I have accomplished.
  1. End every night and start every morning with a prayer. - I am so sorry, Lord. I have no excuse.
  2. Always smile and look happy. - Can't help but feel and look sad especially when I am alone, and when things don't go as I expect them to.
  3. Talk to someone you haven’t talked to for a long time. - Thanks to my old classmates.
  4. Thank all the people who have made a difference in your life. - I have not yet thanked my parents because they're so far away. I haven't thanked someone because we're no longer friends.
  5. Forgive those who hurt you. - When you forgive, you are no longer the victim but rather the victor.
  6. Share your blessings to those in need. - I'm a blessing already. LoL. Giving doesn't just bring sunshine into others lives, but to my own life as well.
  7. Work! Exercise your body!
  8. Keep a journal or blog and have it read by others. - This blog is open to everyone.
  9. Make someone smile. - It's so easy to make the kids smile. I have close relationships with the younger students in my school.
  10. Write a lot of poems. Offer them to those important to you. - I am no longer the poet I used to be. Naks! Drama.
  11. Read philosophy books written by people like Paulo Coelho and Kahlil Gibran. - I am still reading other books not written by these authors.
  12. Be punctual in every commitment. - I am punctual to commitments given to me by other people.
  13. Keep the promises you made. - I rarely make promises.
  14. Conquer your fears. - Eating the sisiw of balut. Ha-ha!
  15. Always be humble. Don’t brag. Damn it! - Dang, I don't know!
  16. Maintain your room clean. - Ehh. Ha-ha!
  17. Learn to play a musical instrument. - I would die to have that.
  18. Greet your school instructors with a handshake. (I used to do this before.) - I think I can no longer return that habit because of Influenza A-H1N1. People, as much as possible, should stay away from one another. I could just say good afternoon/morning to my superiors.
  19. Always do your best to make your parents happy. - I make them laugh through my jokes and pranks but I guess, those jokes and pranks make them stressed too. I'm not doing my best, I guess.
  20. Save 50-75% of your allowance. Eat less. - A little impossible to do.
  21. Give counsel to a troubled friend. - They would comment I'm their best counselor; however, not their best friend.
  22. Draw someone closer to God. - Yes! Accomplishment! One time, a classmate came to me, and he said "You've restored my faith in God. Thanks so much."
  23. Befriend anyone as long as you can. - I can't befriend some people, but yeah I have befriended those I can. LOL!
  24. Make up for your past mistakes. - Yeah, I aim to be a better me each day.
  25. Make the most of 2009 by loving yourself! - I love myself although 2009 has not yet ended.
I still have 6 months left, and I hope to accomplish more with God's help within that period of time. LOL. I will purpose in my heart to accomplish them and make them a habit.

"He will give you all you need from day to day if you live for him and make the Kingdom of God your primary concern." (Matthew 6:33)

That's all for today's blogging.

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Friday, March 20, 2009

Born for Greater Things

Written by Mike Gallego

“Many a man curses the rain that falls upon his head, and knows that it brings abundance to drive away hunger.” – St. Basil

(The following story is my adaptation of the story from the homily of Fr. Eli Cruz, SDB, and from the article by Fr. Armand Robleza, SDB on CodeRED)

Mikey was a lovely raindrop up in the sky. One day, he looked at the clouds and said, “How beautiful it is to stay in this sky. I sparkle like a diamond in the sun. I am pure as the angels without the dirt of the earth. From the sky I can see the whole world. The universe is mine.”

Until the Great Spirit, one day, approaches him, “Mikey, fall down into the earth!”

Mikey replied, “What? Are you serious? Fall down to the earth and die?”

But the Great Spirit came in with assuring words, “Yes. If you drop down, the earth will swallow you; but the rice will grow, the farmers will have something to harvest, and the children will have something to play around.”

Mikey, knows no longer what to do, spoke softly, “You want me to die?” The Great Spirit became silent, and Mikey became very silent too.

The morning came and the fields were greener. The grasses were all satisfied from their thirst. It must have rained the previous night.

Mikey, in spite of so many issues that were being thrown at him, he ran… for student council president. He was no longer afraid to dive into the unknown. He got out of his comfort zone. He took a great leap of faith. He hoped to amplify the use of his gifts, and dared to become more.

“Get away from your comfort zone. Fall down from that abundant and lavish life!”

Jesus said according to Matthew, “Whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will find it.”

So often, life seems to be filled with so much huge paradoxes. You have to fall in order for you to rise once more. You have to go down that you may go off yet again. You have to die… for you to live all over again. I realized it would only seem so until we have finally fully understood His way. He said, “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways are my ways.”

"You cannot fly a kite unless you go against the wind and have a weight to keep it from turning somersaults. The same with man; No man will succeed unless he is ready to face and overcome difficulties and is prepared to assume responsibilities" - William J. H. Boetcker

Diamonds are created under pressures of the earth. They are produced more or less a hundred miles below the ground where pressures are five times higher than on the surface, and where temperature is hot enough to dissolve iron. With carbon exposed to such conditions, the circumstances are perfect to transform carbon into a diamond.

In the same way as the diamonds are formed, true leaders also emerge under pressure. Situations force true leader to the surface. Similar to the diamonds, they erupt when situations require strong leadership. Carbon is everywhere, charcoal and graphite abound; but diamonds are few, just like true leaders are rare.

Pardon me for saying this, but in life, shit really happens. Harsh words could be spoken to you, criticism could be whispered, and conflicts could happen; but how you face and handle these pressures will measure your ability to make a difference… to be a leader.

“Circumstances play a vital role in the development of an individual; the more severe the circumstances, the higher the chances of an ordinary person to become an extraordinary leader.” – Branimir Schubert

Special thanks to DeviantArt.com for the photographs.

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Tuesday, November 11, 2008

The Problems That Was

Written by Mike Gallego

As I was reviewing my old blog entries, I noticed that I am a lot different now. Oh well, time changes everything. Before, almost all of my posts are about the happenings in my school and my friends. Then I started writing sad and disturbing stories when I and a friend had a misunderstanding. I realized how emotion could affect the actions of an individual. They are just evidences that it can not always be alright to entertain your feelings and your emotions especially when you are distant and very much preoccupied with so many troubles.

The problems I had encountered previously are separation of my parents, best ex-friend accusing me of something, friends talking at my back, negative concerns about me, being pressured of some competitions in school, coping with my lessons, and all that. I encountered and tried to face all of them simultaneously. Seriously, I did not succeed and it got me into more difficult situations.

I hope that when you bump into the same situation as I had, or when you feel you are buried under so many problems, you will not do the same.

Problems are inevitable and they are already a part of our lives. All of us, in fact, do encounter them on a daily basis. We must get used to the fact that they will always come and learn to welcome them.

Most of us think that problems come to harm us. No! Problems are actually a signal of our need to change. Usually, they happen to inspire us to change, and make things work better for ourselves and for others. By any standards, our purpose here on earth is to improve ourselves to the best of our abilities. It doesn’t matter how difficult things are. As every opportunity or situation comes our way, think that you always have an option to work on it in the best way you can.

Allow yourself to have a rest. You need that. Most of the time, even if we do not perceive it, being constantly moving, thinking, and so on gives us a feeling of being hot and bothered, upset, and distressed. Solve your problems one step at a time. You are not same as God to solve everything in a snap. Consider that you have a lot of problems; you are weak, and less powerful than you normally are. Do not hurry. Focus on one of your problems first; only after you unravel one you can go on to another. Love yourself, treat yourself, and don’t you even think about ending your life. Do not be so hard on yourself; if you can ignore your problems, do so. Not all problems are worth to be thought about. Pray to God; allow Him to help you and work on your problems. He is incontestably smarter, greater and more powerful than you. Always remember that if God is for us, no one can be against us; there is nothing that can defeat God’s purpose for us, if we maintain our faith in Him.

Do not let problems consume your spirit. Accept the existing reality and make the best of it. Stay positive in spite of the negativity around you. The perception you have of your problems is the key.

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Saturday, October 25, 2008

Reflection

Written by Mike Gallego


In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen!

Lord, Jesus Christ, thank you for always being there, and for never leaving us. Thank you for giving us the strength and courage to face our everyday trials. Thank you for guiding us and leading us in making the right decisions everyday. Thank you for granting us the power to forgive others, and to let go of our difficulties in the past. Thank you for accepting our departed loved ones in your arms.

Thank you for giving us opportunities to use all our gifts, talents, and skills for your greater glory. Thank you that even though a lot of people are trying to bring us down, you are keeping us strong, and you are never letting them succeed. Thank you that even when we are being lost and alone, You are calling us, and leading us back to your flock.

May we always be grateful with your love.

Lord, keep us under your light, guidance, protection, care, and love. Teach us to become as humble as you. Help us to become more, so that we can be a blessing to others. Send us to sway and win hearts for you.

Grant us the grace to cooperate with Your great plans for us. Let us find our rest in You amidst all the hassles and complications of life. Make us forget and surrender all our worries, fears, anxieties, and sinful things. Ignite in us the desire to read and reflect on your words everyday. Grant us the grace to follow you. Help us to love those who have hurt us. Help us to realize our weaknesses and what our limits are. Purify our motives. Purify our hearts.

Take us. Break us. Use us.

Forgive us for the times we doubted your promises. Forgive us for the times we hurt others. Forgive us for the times we failed to think about you. Forgive us for the times we forgot to pray. Forgive us for the times we did not think about others. Forgive us for the times we sinned. Forgive us for the times we did not take the chance to do good.

Drive away everything that is not holy in us.

We praise you for the reliefs you give us. We praise you for all the strengths You gives us, especially when times are rough.

We believe in your promises, Lord. Let them happen in us.

Saint Dominic Savio, pray for us!
St. John Bosco, pray for us!
Mary, Help of Christians, pray for us!

In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen!

Thanks to mhcaillesrn for making and uploading the video.

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Friday, August 29, 2008

What Position Should I Run For?

Written by Mike Gallego

I have made a decision. I have decided. I will participate in the 2009 High School Student Council Elections! Not just as a voter, but as a candidate. A lot of people have advised me to run; schoolmates, classmates, friends, teachers, alumni, and even priests! Many believe in me. I will not let those people down. I will run. I WILL RUN!

I am not sure for what position yet. I want you all, my readers, friends, or anyone here, to help me decide by partaking in my little opinion poll: What position should I run for in the high school student council?

The selections are:

President: The one who preside council meetings. He represents the student body in meetings with school administrators. He is responsible for the expenditure of funds. - Many have told me that I am actually perfect for this position, since I possess all the qualities of a true leader.

Vice President: The one who supports the president in his duties. He stands in for the president when needed. - A lot, too, have told me that I should just lineup with another potential candidate for president and be his secondary. If I would run for this position, I could expect a sure win.

Secretary: The one who keeps the records of meetings, student activities, and programs.

Treasurer: The one who keeps the tracks of funds.

Public Relations Officer: The one who speaks for the council. - Most students from my batch want me to run for this position. They think that I am a good and brave speaker.

Win or lose, whoever my opponent would be, I will go on with my candidacy. I know that it is too early to announce this, but really, I want your opinion to help me decide on the position that I should run for. The poll will be running in this web site starting this day to February 1, 2009.

I believe that I am qualified to be in the Student Council. I am the take-charge kind of person, responsible, and organized. I am always focused and I never take a break when I need to get something done. I am open-minded and I am never scared or discomfited to stand for what I believe in and to express my opinions. I give significance to creativity and am enthusiastic to dream up ideas and different ways to resolve problems.

If ever I will get elected, schoolmates, prepare yourselves for a school year that is bursting of excitements, actions, adventures, and fun. It is going to be priceless, because you cannot put a price on awesomeness!

Your choice is very important to me, and I would greatly appreciate your participation in my poll.

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Saturday, August 09, 2008

Happy Birthday to Me!

Written by Mike Gallego

08.08.08. - I really had a wonderful birthday yesterday. It was like the first time after 4 years, that there was a class on my birthday. My birthday used to be a vacation day; if it was not a weekend, there was a typhoon. I was very happy because almost my whole batch in third year high school greeted and wished me a happy birthday. Some schoolmates from other levels did too. I was also surprised and glad to come home from school for a little feast that was prepared for me by my dad.



Today was another great day for me because a lot of my friends were able to come to my simple birthday treat in Eastwood City. We took a lot of pictures and ate. We went to Ayala-Makati after Eastwood, played in Timezone, watched a movie in Glorietta, and walked around Greenbelt.

As for my birthday wishes, I pray to God to surround me with a lot of good people whom I can turn to anytime and upon whom I can depend all the time. That He may also bless those people around me, and help us to be good to one other.

These birthday wishes were written by my friends who celebrated with me yesterday:



Birthday wishes are really cheering me up. Many thanks to everyone who wished me a happy birthday. I had a great birthday.

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Saturday, July 19, 2008

By Faith

Written by Mike Gallego

July 11:

We went to St. Dominic Savio Parish for the tutorial and feeding program for the poor children in the community of Mandaluyong city as a part of our class's community development program. It was a great experience for me for I was able to gain knowledge about some social and economical issues we have today. We did some crafts with the kids, we talked with them, played, laughed and many more.

Those kids in the feeding program are actually there because they are malnourished. They lack nutrients because they are poor and their parents cannot sustain them. I asked one of the kids I was handling about his daily allowance in school. He said he only gets five pesos each day. What nutrition can you get from that small money? One of them told me before we left the parish, “Kuya, buti nalang sayo ako napunta. Salamat. Balik ka ah. Sayo ulit ako.” That was so powerful. He was really grateful that we came to the parish that day. It was so rewarding to see the instant benefit of giving them food to eat and their nice response.

July 18-19:
We had a two-day recollection at Yahweh Villa in Laguna, for the intentions of paying closer attention to God’s presence, evaluating ourselves, learning, nurturing solidarity and togetherness among us, and completing our CLE requirements (yes!). We had lots of fun, peaceful moments, rest, sing-along, swimming, and spiritual activities. The foods were great, the dormitories were big, the restrooms and shower rooms were clean, and the furnishing of the entire house was cool.


(Click to enlarge.)

Our most memorable experience, as a class, in our recollection this year would be the sharing session, with lots of emotive and pitiful stories similar to what we usually screen on Teleseryes. In that activity, we were free to express anything that we wish to tell someone and share it to our classmates. It was such a relief for all of us that we got to be ourselves and free our sentiments that we had been keeping for a long time.

I really enjoyed our recollection. It was an unforgettable experience for me. I got to know my classmates better and I learned to appreciate them more. I have grown up a lot because of this and I am very thankful for this experience.

Freedom:
Our main topic during the recollection was “Freedom”. Philosophers divide ‘Freedom’ into two, ‘freedom from’ (inner freedom/freedom of thought) and ‘freedom to’ (outer freedom/freedom of action). Achieving ‘freedom from’ depends on yourself, on how you accept things, on how you look at the world. ‘Freedom to’ happens when you have already attained inner peace because it is what makes you decide and do something. When you have peace of mind you know that what you are doing is right, then, you have inner freedom; when there is no obstacle that hindrances you to do what you would like to do; you have outer freedom. As Christians, we also consider ‘freedom for’. Giving others freedom, liberating our brothers and sisters from slavery, setting their thoughts free, and allowing them to live their own lives. Those types of freedom are integral to one another, and true freedom can only be attained when they are united.

Freedom is a gift given to us by God, but because of this freedom we often do things so badly. We make mistakes because of this. We commit sin. We suffer from evil. We ask ourselves, why has God given us freedom if it causes affliction and death? God has given us freedom because He loves us. Yes, He could have made us puppets, given us a finished world, counted our kisses, regulated our embraces and controlled our friendships. But if God has made it so, would we be happy? He created us free to shape our own lives. He made us responsible in building up this world. He blessed us richly with the freedom to love. But then, we become fed-up with this gift. We abuse it. We take the freedom of others, make them our slaves and make ourselves their masters. We become victims of slavery through sin. We never realize that the more we choose what is true and good, the freer we become.

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Thursday, May 01, 2008

10 Random Facts About Me

Written by Mike Gallego

Tagged by: Ken Borce, CJ de Silva, SB, Ange, Rhessa, and Ashen.

  • Each blogger must post these rules first.
  • Each blogger starts with ten random facts/habits about themselves.
  • Bloggers that are tagged need to write on their own blog about their ten things and post these rules.
  • At the end of your blog, you need to choose eight people to get tagged and list their names.
  • Don't forget to leave them a comment telling them they're tagged, and to read your blog.

10 completely random facts about me:

  1. I used to act on stage back when I was a kid. I have played two leading roles: Anton of West Side Story and Che Guevara of Evita Peron.
  2. I am always in constant need of information of my interest. I can't stand not knowing something and not doing anything about it.
  3. Most of my friends are girls and they are all taken. That could possibly be the reason why I haven’t had any girlfriend in the past two years.
  4. I come from a broken home. My mom and dad separated last February, 2008. I did not stop them for I believed that they were old enough to make decisions for themselves; besides, what could I do? I would rather see them that way than to see them fight every time they see each other.
  5. I attend mass at the historical small chapel in my school before going to the assembly. I ask God to give me strength to resist all the negative strength that I will be encountering all through the day.
  6. I chose Information Technology as my high school specialization. I can do a lot of things with computer.
  7. I protect those special to me like the knight who swears to protect the king—risks all to fulfill his oath. I am willing to sacrifice even my life for these people whenever possible.
  8. I am not afraid to die and for me, the best way to die is to die for others; my family, friends, or anyone special to me. I place my life as a Holy Sacrifice on the Altar of God. Nothing in the world could make me happier than having the opportunity to die for someone.
  9. When somebody does me wrong, I don't usually fight back especially when we are not close. I never get even; it is not worth it. I usually let it go. It is not that I am afraid, but simply because I am lazy. I have also done a lot of wrong myself; nobody is perfect. I am very forgiving of people. I encourage gentleness, and discourage violence.
  10. I can be more disillusioned than anyone if let down by those I trust. I get all upset and angry with others when things do not go the way I fully expected them to. That could be the reason why I rather not put all my expectations on what I should get, but base them on what I can give or do.

Now I tag: Mikey, Luis, Ryan, Rod, Louise, Loren, Eduardo, Cher, Jessica, and Patty.
(The people mentioned above are not forced to write their own blog about their 10 facts.)

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Monday, March 17, 2008

Introspection

Written by Mike Gallego

In our time, people have always been focused on their different works and stuff that can make their lives easier and more comfortable. They always think about getting the hassles of existing daily. They mull over too much on the things they are set to do that they do not have enough time to stop and contemplate where they are, what they have achieved, and where they are going.

Thankfully this summer, I was given a time off. And in that span of time, I had the chance to make some reflections and realizations. I realized that a lot of things had occurred, a lot of words had been spoken and a lot of people had been hurt and taken for granted. There were a lot of concerned conversations that I did not take seriously, words of wisdom I refused to heed, aspirations I had left behind, and closeness that I almost had let go and a friendship I had given up... sacrificed.

I realized that I have become almost wholly unresponsive to others – to a lot of things. I have discovered that great pride had devoured and swallowed up the serene, perceptive, earnest, and flexible side of me. I had been overpowered by excitement and irritation sooner than I realized.

It is now great to note that before everything is late, I was reinstated to my good sense. I was able to recognize my shortcomings and mistakes. I could have been living now a life filled with bile. All I could say now is: MAKE the RIGHT ACTIONS, FOCUS on the RIGHT THINGS and SPEAK the RIGHT WORDS before the going gets too serious… before the problem becomes irresolvable… before someone leaves… BEFORE IT IS TOO LATE. Just always take things easy, get a time to pause and ponder… because LIFE IS SHORT.

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Friday, February 29, 2008

Get up and Live!

Written by Mike Gallego

Sorry for not blogging. Wanna know how my friend is now? Doing good and I think he has totally forgotten about all his defeats. I realize he is just an amazing young man and I really admire his capacity to withstand all the trials (ruined friendship, parents’ separation, issues in school, etc.) that come his way; no matter how excruciating and thorny.

Two weeks ago, I got handpicked by our department principal in school herself to be the emcee for this year’s CEAP – NCR of Msgr. Gerry O. Santos General Assembly that was held at our school, particularly in Savio Auditorium last February 16, 2008. Day before, I asked the physics instructor, Mr. Chua, to give me some tips and advice on how to hold or facilitate a program, since it was only the first time that I would face many students from various schools in NCR as an emcee. There were not less than 100 representatives from more than 25 schools attended and I was a bit pressured in the beginning of the program. Again, it was my first time.

I had so much fun during that day for I was not only an emcee but also a receptionist – slash – workshop facilitator – slash – mass lector; besides, I got to realize a lot of things from the talks of Jess Paul Pasibe of Simbahang Lungsod ng Bayan and the “Master of Hapag,” Joey Velasco.

Jess Paul Pasibe spoke about the “Corruption of Truth” that is currently taking place in our country’s government. JP Pasibe suggested in his discussion that everyone should go behind Rodolfo “Jun” Lozada’s sense of right and wrong, conscience in other word. Jun Lozada, as we know him, is the star witness in the ZTE broadband deal anomalies. His assertion has enthused memories of other people’s allegation of graft and insatiability in the government, and was able to instigate the spirit of a lot of people to voice out and act in response.

While the “Master of Hapag,” Joey Velasco gave a short but inspirational talk which actually moved our viewpoint of an actual hero. He also showed us a heartrending – slash – awe inspiring video, which narrates the story of the modern day heroes, the destitute children, in his painting, “Hapag ng Pagasa”.



According to Joey Velasco, a real hero must not hinder our faith but help. Modern day heroes are those usual people we see often around. They struggle with many of the same tribulations and temptation that each one of us faces each day but still strive to live under His cross. Velasco christen his paintings as the story of our own redemptions. They tell us of who Jesus Christ is, who others are and even who we are. Joey Velsaco’s works of art would surely touch everybody’s heart for the reason that each child in the painting tells a different story.

After a week, I was picked again to be the host for the Quiz bee in Math with a, umm... I am not sure how should I classify him… moving on, and Technical Quiz bee of the Inter – Don Bosco School Academic, Technical and Pastoral Festival. Now you could say that I took in two weeks of emceeing. Speaking of Quiz Bee, we did not get the top place during the Pastoral Competition.


With Mrs. Medina (left); during the Technical Quiz Bee (right).


With Julian, AcaTechPas season.

Before I overlook, last January 26, 2008 was the Grand Alumni Homecoming of Don Bosco – Mandaluyong. The night was sponsored by HS Batch ’83. There was a free buffet and free entertainment by Retrospect and DJ Jon Tupas. The Don Miguel Solaroli Digital Library was also open that night so we got to enter and take some pictures inside. Went there with my friends after we spent time in St. Paul Pasig annual fair: RePRESENT.


By the way, the FRIEND I was talking about in the beginning of this entry and the previous was I. See you, friends!

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Thursday, February 07, 2008

5:23PM

Written by Mike Gallego

A friendship has just ended approximately five hours ago. A friendship that was too perfect; too perfect to be real. In instances similar to this, there is always someone who ends up being hurt the most. It must be really painful for him if the occurrence was not really what he wanted.

Someone was hurt because he allowed himself to be fooled. I am aware of that fact. One of those individuals involved in that ruined correlation was critically injured and it would take him a lot of time to repair it himself.

He had no intention of making things any worse or to trigger anything for telling me this and I am quite sure it was already the last. He mentioned that he already wants to forget everything. He also promised me that FROM NOW ON, he would keep his mouth shut about his absurd experience.

The story ends there. Everything would be fine for him too, soon.

Goodbyes can be good too. It may not be easy, but it would be better for the both of them.

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Monday, December 17, 2007

Keep Christ in Christmas!

Written by Mike Gallego

"You better watch out... you better not cry! You better not pout; I'm telling you why... Santa Claus is coming, to town!" - Sa araw ng Pasko. sino nga ba talaga ang talagang dapat nating pagka-abangabangan? Sino ba siya, na tunay na makakapag-pawala ng ating kalungkutan at makakapag-bigay ligaya sa atin? - Siya si Hesus, ang Kristo... nakalimutan mo na ba?

Sa tuwing sasapit ang kapaskuhan, dumarami ang ating pingkakaabalahan; pagbibigay, paghahanda, pagpaplano, pamimili, pamamasyal, pagpapahinga... na sa dami ay nakakalimutan narin natin ang tunay na diwa ng Pasko. Natanong mo na ba sa iyong sarili, kung bakit tayo kailangang mamigay ng regalo sa tuwing sasapit ang Pasko? Ano ba ang kahalagahan nito? Ano ba ang ibig sabihin ng Pasko?

Isa ako at ang aking pamilya sa mga sumusunod sa mga tradisyon tuwing Pasko, tradisyon na nga kasi ito. Namimili ako ng mga regalo para sa aking mama at papa, kuya, at mga pinsan (minsan pati sa teachers at classmates ko). Binabalutan ko pa ang mga ito ng magagarang recycled gift wrappers na mabibili sa mall at kuminsan ay may ribbon pa; pag tinamad, sa mall nalang ng pinagbilihanan ko papabalutan ang mga ito. Ganun din naman ang mama at papa ko sa paghahanda ng regalo sa kanilang mga inaanak na inaasahang dumarating sa ika-25 ng Disyembre; dagsaan ang mga magugulo, makukulit at maliliit na bata sa amin; mayroon din namang matatanda. (trivia: ang mama ko ay may 46 na inaanak sa binyag at 6 sa kasal; ang papa ko naman ay mayroong 23 sa binyag at 4 sa kasal). Sa dami ng bisitang dumarating, inihahanda din namin ang mga dekorasyon na sa tuwing dalawang taon ay parating bago. Ganun naging kamagastos ang aming Pasko.

Tungkol naman sa tradisyong talaga namang kinaiinisan ko, ang Santa Klaws! Ang pinakamalaking kasinungalingang dumarating at naghahasik ng lagim tuwing Pasko. Ang mamang may napakalaking tiyan kaiinom ng Coke at Beer. Una sa lahat, marami na ang napaniniwala na alam ni Santa Klaws ang lahat (all knowing), "he knows if you've been bad or good"; na siya ay may kapangyarihan (all powerful), "he rewards the good and punishes the bad"; nandoon siya kahit saan (fills all space), "he delivers all his present in one night"; at ang lahat ng mga ito ay kasinungalingan, "if the devil is the father of lies and Santa is based on lies, who is the father of Santa?", dahil ang Diyos lamang ang may alam, may kapangyarihan, at naroroon sa lahat (omniscient, omnipotent, omnipresent).

Hindi masama ang pamimigay ng regalo lalo na at isa ito sa pinakamadaling bagay na gawin upang ipakita ang ating pagmamahal sa kapwa; gaya ni Hesus na ibinigay ang kanyang buong sarili sa atin upang tayo ay maligtas. Ngunit ang Kapaskuhan ay hindi parating tungkol sa pagbibigay, pagtanggap ng mga regalo at paggastos ng malalaking pera para sa mga dekorasyon. Ang Pasko ay lalong hindi tungkol kay Santa Klaws. Yun ang dapat natin maunawaan.

Ang pasko ay tungkol kay Kristo, ang pinakamalaking regalong naibigay at atin nang natanggap mula sa Diyos. Ang pagdiriwang ng kapaskuhan ay pag-alaala sa regalong ibinigay sa atin ng Diyos dalawang-libu't-pitong taon na ang nakakalipas. Ngayong Pasko, ating tanggapin ang regalo o biyaya na buhay na walang hanggan; bagay na nabili na Niya para sa atin, binalot ng buong pagmamahal, at inihain sa pamamagitan ng Krus.

Ipagdiwang natin sa piling ng ating pamilya, mga kaibigan at iba pang mga mahal sa buhay ang pagbaba ni Kristo mula sa langit upang maregaluhan tayo ng ating kaligtasan. Nawa ay magkaroon tayo ng isang maligaya at makabuluhang pagdiriwang sa darating na Pasko kasama ni Kristo! Meri Krismas!

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Thursday, November 29, 2007

Standoff!

Written by Mike Gallego

Many of my friends are asking me to give my opinion with regards to what happened in Manila Peninsula last night. Well, I wanna keep quiet for now. I'm not in the position to give any opinion about it because I don't really know anything. It's a tedious matter; besides, it's already over. Let's just focus on the positive corners and be thankful to God that He didn't let anybody to get hurt or injured during the Manila Peninsula Hotel Standoff; although, some got really frustrated.

Kids, we're still too young to mind and think about the issue. We can let it all alone to the adults for now.



BTW. After three months, I've finally made an update to my Silipin ang Sagot: http://tanongsasulok.blogspot.com/. I was a bit challenged in answering the questions I received through my FreedBack.

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