Thank you for what makes days here on earth meaningful and blessed. I am left in awe at the beautiful world you provided for your children. I cannot thank you enough for breathing life into me, and I am so grateful that you are my Savior.

I may have committed mistakes and have gone astray, but I am thankful that you have found me again. You are my shepherd and I shall not want… You restore my soul and lead me in the paths of righteousness… I will fear no evil for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me… I will dwell in your house forever.

I adore your unfailing love. Always, I have felt safe in your presence and sane in your guidance. You have given me the family and friends whom I treasure next to you. Thank you for surrounding with these people I can build trust, and love.

You said that “whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours”. I pray for rain, and a deluge of blessings to be upon your children; that they receive their heart’s desire with your grace. I pray for distance to be cut amongst loved ones; and that they’d feel safer in the comfort of your hands. I pray for burning passion to be upon all working men and women; that they do not let go of a blessing so easily because of hardship. I pray for everyone, that they find even the simplest thing interesting everyday. Above all, I pray for love; that everyone loves each other deeply, because love covers a multitude of sins.

Amen.

Written by Rachel Held Evans for Relevant Magazine (March 13, 2012)

Examining the controversy behind the massively viral Invisible Children campaign.

It seemed so simple.

A ruthless child abductor on the run. A grassroots campaign to ensure his capture.

But within 48 hours of Invisible Children’s “Kony 2012” video going viral, the conversation surrounding Ugandan warlord Joseph Kony and the best way to help the people he has terrorized for more than eight years, had become anything but simple.

The same social networking momentum that propelled the Kony 2012 campaign to trending status on Twitter generated a wave of criticisms regarding Invisible Children’s messaging and tactics. Critics expressed concern that the video’s message was too emotional and simplistic, and that it failed to account for complex realities on the ground. IC’s financial practices were scrutinized, its ratings on Charity Watch and Charity Navigator brought to light. Soon, people around the world were locked in passionate debates about activism, aid, colonialism, violence, foreign policy and justice.

Perhaps accidentally, the leaders of Invisible Children had started an important conversation—one regarding how we think about and engage social justice, about how best to use our resources and time, about the finances and logistics behind humanitarian efforts, and, perhaps most importantly, about how we tell one another’s stories.

When I shared the “Kony 2012” video on my blog, I had no idea it would be so controversial. At first I was surprised, then frustrated, then—after hearing from readers— encouraged because we’re getting passionate about something that matters.

So we should be encouraged this conversation is happening. And, as it proceeds, we should be wary of veering to two extremes in our thinking: idealism and cynicism.

Idealism: It’s Not That Simple

In the “Kony 2012” video, the co-founder of IC, Jason Russell, explains to his young son that Kony is “the bad guy,” and to save the children.

But critics say it’s not that simple.

They note that Joseph Kony no longer lives in Uganda, that his power has dwindled significantly over the past few years and that the Ugandan army—which IC says should be supported by the United States to hunt down Kony—is itself guilty of violence, looting and rapes. Some say launching a major strike against Kony may cause more violence. In addition, Christians committed to non-violence have questioned Invisible Children’s militaristic approach on the grounds that Christians in particular should seek a peaceful resolution.

Also, because Invisible Children is primarily an advocacy and awareness organization, only 37 percent of the funds they raise directly impact the people of Uganda. Critics say donors should send their money to organizations that devote a larger percentage of their resources to empowering the people in this region to bring peace and prosperity to their communities, and to help former child soldiers assimilate back into society.

Furthermore, many are uncomfortable with what they see as a “savior complex,” reducing a complex socioeconomic and political conflict into a “good guys vs. bad guys” scenario. Some African writers have expressed concern that the video presents white, American college students as heroes to poor, helpless Africans—a storyline that has plagued African aid for decades.

These are valid concerns, but many IC supporters reacted defensively when they were raised, because it disrupted the narrative they had already embraced. As difficult as these questions may be though, they are important ones to ask. For if we hope to move from mere awareness to long-term activism, we have to confront some realities we don’t like or understand, and accept that not every question has an easy answer.

Cynicism: It’s Not That Simple Either

However, as the furor grew, I began to encounter attitudes from Christians and non-Christians alike that disturbed me. Some people seemed more upset by IC’s policies and practices than by the cruel actions of Joseph Kony and the LRA.

These folks dismissed out-of-hand all of Invisible Children’s efforts to help bring safety to children in the region. They cast the leaders of Invisible Children as good-for-nothing hipsters more concerned with imposing their naïve, colonial idealism than their fellow human beings. They took to Facebook and Twitter to show off their humanitarian expertise and shoot down any idealistic IC supporter who stood in their way.

In doing so, these cynics became guilty of the same oversimplification of which they accused IC. Just as the lives of Ugandans affected by the LRA cannot be reduced to a single storyline, so the hearts and minds of IC leaders and supporters cannot be reduced to a single characterization. When we categorically vilify Invisible Children, we run the risk of forever alienating thousands of young people whose hearts for humanitarianism were first touched by an IC film or campaign.

No one becomes an informed activist overnight. We have to leave room for people to grow. It is in piquing the interest and imagination of young people that Invisible Children truly thrives, and in that sense, they play an important role in the world. Sure, IC is in need of some reform. But it is precisely because they are so effective at raising awareness that so many have joined the conversation about better practices in activism and aid.

So what do we do next?

When I shared a long list of resources about this controversy on my blog, I was surprised to hear from a reader who wanted to know what he was supposed to conclude from them. I’d presented books and articles from various sides of the debate, and, confronted with so many choices, he wanted me to tell him what to think.

I saw the same thing happen across the blogosphere, as pastors in particular seemed compelled to issue either blanket endorsements or condemnations of Invisible Children and Kony 2012.

This, in my opinion, is just about the worst way to respond to the controversy. The upside to all this fallout from Kony 2012 is that it has challenged a lot of us to do our homework and begin thinking more critically about how we talk about and pursue justice. The first step in turning this controversy into something that benefits the Kingdom is to embark on the uncomfortable but rewarding journey of becoming more curious, more informed and more passionate about justice.

This is not something we can do exclusively on Facebook and Twitter. It’s going to require hard work and time. We’ve got to learn how to read financial reports and track progress indicators. We’ve got to study history and engage public policy. We’ve got to move beyond the dichotomies of victim and savior, good and evil. We’ve got to listen more and speak less. We’ve got to avoid the danger of hearing and telling single stories.

The wisest people I know are neither naïve nor cynical. They are, as Jesus put it, wise as serpents but harmless as doves.

What Christians can bring to this conversation is an extra-large heaping of grace.

Grace for the idealists.

Grace for the cynics.

Grace for the amateurs.

Grace for the experts.

Grace for our brothers and sisters from Eugene to Uganda, South Carolina to Sudan.

Grace for hipsters and aid workers and peacemakers and child soldiers.

And, if we are truly radical, grace even for Joseph Kony himself.

Fresh from Sinulog, the city welcomed me with festive colors from the airport. It was a little port, the size of the one we have in General Santos, but unlike the latter, this beacon breathes a better lounge and pathways for the traveler.

It’s easy to get a white taxi from there. Note that yellow taxis are always the expensive ones in the Philippines, except if you’re in Davao. Waterfront Cebu was its neighbour, but I never dared to step foot in it. I was to embrace Plantation Bay in a few anyway.

Taking a taxi to Plantation Bay that rainy day would cost you about 200 pesos. The place is a man-made haven for relaxation. Ocular viewing is free, but it’s best to spend the moolah for the experience. Go biking, have real buko juice, swim, get a massage, enjoy a couple of drinks in the (literal) poolside bar, sun bathe, and just… breathe. It’s awesome. It’s one of the reasons why I want to go back there soon.

My vacation was short, so immediately after I explored Plantation Bay, I traipsed down Lapu-Lapu Shrine to meet the hero the people paid homage to. Nothing very spectacular, but the souvenir area was a treat. I suggest getting them all there, unless you want to bring home Otap or Danggit; there’s a place for that.

I was expecting an Intramuros-like experience in Fuerza de San Pedro, but it…. fell short of a good one. I fell in love with the doors, yes, but after one round inside, I wanted to leave. Buying the 30/60-pesos entrance ticket isn’t a good idea, but if you want to get all-historical, I suggest the Magellan’s Cross.

I say, visiting Magellan’s Cross is mandatory when you go to Cebu. It’s where history took place (where Magellan planted the cross back in 1521). Around this historic site are women who sell candles. You can light a candle and say your prayer after the woman has enchanted these candles with a prayer/ chant.

Close to the cross is the Basilica de Sto. Nino and the City Hall. I thought about filming the walk I had, but I just couldn’t risk getting robbed. Maybe next time. By the way, if you’re the type who adores the Sto. Nino, this place is a must for you as it sells the thing in different sizes. It’s insane! And it’s on display everywhere!

If you’re the type who likes to visit temples, Cebu has the Taoist Temple. I went there… for the heck of it! There’s not much to do, except play around with dragons, and tourists. If I were you, I’d rather be in Magellan’s Cross for some… heritage.

The traveler in me was more pleased when I tried the tasty lechon and puso at the humble CnT Lechon. Moreover, the Terraces/ Ayala was a good place to while the time away. It was the sunny Greenbelt, I thought, but with the affordable stores. This is home to Casa Verde as well where I had the biggest burger in my life! The 9-inch Big Bang Burger is a must-try. And so is Tin-Tin’s Tavern Shrimps.

Before going home, the Filipino would bring Pasalubong to family and friends, so I got the famous Otap/ Dried Mangoes/ Spicy Squid from Shamrock Pasalubong Center and Danggit from Taboan. I was shocked to see baskets full of it! 500 PhP worth a kilo of yum! Not satisfied, I bought myself 3 marble eggs as souvenirs of my trip from a nearby shop. I can’t wait to go back!

Two days later, I found myself on an hour and fifteen minute trip to Manila from Mactan International Airport. My stay might have been short, but Cebu is a good place to visit. Next time I’m there, I’ll skywalk and pathetically scare myself with the Edge Coaster. Maybe not.

Passion. I’ve always been the type who’s passionate about work. It feels good to get a job done and well sans the frustration when things go in shambles. Moreover, nothing can be more satisfying when you begin to influence others’ work perspectives… the right way, and see something you love so much prosper. It’s a plus if you get to motivate them.

Initiative. In connection to being passionate, one needs to have initiative. I reckon it’s just logical to think that with passion comes initiative. When you are given a task, try to make sure that all rears are covered. If you think you can do more, seek opportunities subtly. With the current job that I have, when I see an opportunity to be responsible for  a task, I take it and try to drive action from others as well (if need be).

Team player. With work, hardly anything could be done single-handed.  As far as I understand it, both independence and co-dependency are at play. When I was with a magazine, I was the perfectionist. As the chief, I left no room for late submissions, bad reasoning, and unacceptable English because on a bigger scale, I thought, any late and badly written article would mean extending press work and delaying the release. Every individual in the team should be a contribution. And to do that, it would take personal will to make sure that a task is done well and on time! Everyone should be accountable to each other for a team can only achieve success through teamwork.

Integrity. There really are instances when you’re character is challenged to do something against your will, especially when you are desperate. Rationalizing the act won’t do you well. Keep your integrity in tact! Bad can never be the definition of good no matter how well you twist it. Think about the repercussions of your acts before even doing it because it could cause you the job that feeds you. Consistency is associated with this characteristic. Don’t be a hypocrite.

Interest. No job is easy. For you to keep learning, interest must be developed on a daily basis. There’s always something new to learn everyday, and so is there something new to appreciate daily. We should not grow dull toward a job we love. This is part of our life, and it is fantastic.

Do we need to disguise ourselves to get closer?

GET CLOSER.

—
Hey, hey! What’s the best place to go to in Cebu?

If you any idea in mind, shoot me an e-mail. I’d love to read suggestions.

During those weeks, I found out that General Santos has not changed at all. The same warm climate and wide road networks. I was amused though to see a traffic light on my way home from the airport, and then I realized that… yeah… GenSan is still a budding city after all… a far cry from what is Manila today.

In this city, tuna is still golden. I got my fix of kinilaw, which I didn’t stop eating until I left the place. I don’t eat Kinilaw just anywhere. Our kasambahay makes a really good one that you won’t stop eating. It has just the right sourness and spicyness to keep you coming back and eat more. I also tasted the yummy garlic chicken of Chicken Hauz. Unfortunately, Antipolo was closed when I got home and I was not able to salivate on their tasty barbecue. Nevertheless, GenSan is still a haven for food trippers and those who want to catch up with friends. Here’s a few of my photos from home.

When I returned to Manila, I was able to attend my first ever company party in SMX. This was the time to be sociable. An introvert like me would loathe this occasion, but I honestly enjoyed it. In events like this, it’s best to be able to know people more especially those you don’t see on a daily basis. This would mean colleagues from other departments. This may also be the perfect time to rub elbows with managers, supervisors, and what-have-you. Here’s the loner in his first company party. Tip is, if you really get bored, “people watch” and keep it to yourself.

A week later, I went to Pansol, Laguna with my colleagues for our team building. It’s always good to develop camaraderie especially with those you work with. The best piece of advice is: mingle. Know them at a personal level. That day, I was able to know them better and there are some whose stories are so interesting I could write a book about them.

A week later, a friend and my mother arrived and we went all around the metro and ate wherever. The best places we dined at are in UCC Park Cafe (Burgos Circle, Taguig); Mesa (Greenbelt 5/ SM Megamall); and Orchard Road (SM Megamall). Try them out!

Let’s see what’s in store for the coming weeks. How’s your new year so far? I hope it’s well.

Serge

Here’s a peek of a possible adventure within the year:

JANUARY:

My year started off as a celebration of reunited relationships. I was in Manila where I met my awesome relatives from my mother’s side – Tito Lito, Tita Merci, Kuya Michael, Ate Barbie, and Bea – and my best friends – Bruce and Sandi. These were people I have not seen for years. And because of these people, I learned how to play scrabble that month, and got better on how to commute in Manila. In addition, I started this blog to document my musings and wanderings.

FEBRUARY:

Back to school, and the start of my gaining weight. I was drenched in thesis. I thought, ate, and breathed thesis. I immersed myself in a community of Moro Women who try to redefine what it is to be a “Moro” every day. I had earplugs daily, transcribing discussions and analyzing how they made sense of their environment. And when the month ended, I… well… I humiliated myself by singing in public for MOCSTRA.

After MOCSTRA

MARCH:

I don’t recall much about March, except for countless hang’s with Mhea, Ged, Harvey, Shimea, Leo, Rica, Archie, Dora, Maejoy, and Duchess because this month marked the end of thesis and we splurged on food and karaoke. But apart from that, this month was witness to tsunami in Japan, which caused worldwide alarm.

APRIL:

Glorious Graduation. I finally finished college, and I breathed a sigh of relief. After receiving an offer to work in Manila, I flew north a few weeks after the commencement exercises. I had a small shoot for graduating, and I arrived in Manila shortly after. I was welcomed by my papa’s relatives whom I stayed with for seven months! And to cap the month, I met up with Tita Neneng and Ate Kleng who came all the way from Texas for a Reyes reunion.

MAY:

I was part of the growing pool of bums. This was the month I set out for the jungle. I was job hunting, almost desperate to be part of the elusive employed world. And yes, I ditched my early offers to work for a bank and teach just because I thought it was not the right… avenue for me (yet). And so I searched and searched, and my blog posts have become fewer. At the latter part of the month, the Osorio’s arrived and it was such a fun family reunion with my sister, brother and sister in law, and my nephew. We went to Intramuros and dined… a lot.

JUNE:

Finally, I landed myself a job! There was much to learn, and I have to get used to getting up and meeting with traffic on a daily basis. The first weeks were stressful but it taught me endurance and patience. June was also the month when the 9089 Project started.

We went to ABS for the heck of it

Meeting Akiko

JULY:

The all-steady month. I had no other thing to do but work. I was used to just reporting for class 4 days a week because of UP, but with work, I have to report 5 days a week. As if it’s a biggie. LOL! Anyway, July marked the first meal I have ever cooked: Filipino Spaghetti. This month was the month I promised to learn how to cook, and I did (sort of).

AUGUST:

August, August, August… Aside from work and trying to cook, August was an interesting month because of Showtime! We had to dance… you know, all that shiz. I also met with up Duchess and Bataan whom I’ve never seen in months in SM Megamall with Archie.

SEPTEMBER:

September was a reunion with my mentor, Prof. Jeni Eligio. She was my teacher for debate, writing, ethics, and many more. She’s really helped me a lot when it comes to the academe, and I’ve valued all her lessons. As of this writing, I don’t recall anything significant happening in September. I apologize.

OCTOBER:

October was a reunion with my college friends, Jordan, Archie, and Maxine. We dined at Nasi Lemak and had dessert at Jack’s Loft.  This was also the month when I was itching to move out of my relatives’ home because I wanted to be independent. It was my house-searching month.

NOVEMBER:

A month later, I found myself a new home! Aside from getting hired and graduating this year, finding a space to call “my own” is one of my big achievements. I just realized, I’ve done so much this year and I’m excited to do more in 2012! I hope it’s as eventful as 2011. At the of the month, there was another surprise. I got regularized as an employee. Woohoo!

DECEMBER:

And here comes my favorite month of the year because I see the Philippines at its most festive mood. This is the month where people splurge! But for me, it’s not the spending that marked this month interesting. This is the month where I was reunited with my mother… after almost 2 years! Although my birthday this year was too different from my past ones (because I spent it sleeping most of the time), the reunion with my mother was  a great consolation. And because of her, I was able to go back home after 7 or 8 months! Ahhh, December good times.

How about you?

What made your year interesting and what are you most thankful about? I had a contest a few months back about that question and I have chosen two winners. Here are there answers:

Watermelon Princess:

February 25 2011 was the day i decided to really know someone in the most unconventional way… facebook. i was afraid, i got a bit scared and i doubted my feelings but at the same time, i felt happy, glad and loved inexplicably.

Nine months ago i took a chance on a relationship. i feel that up to this day it was one of the best decisions i have made for myself this year. it was the perfection our God has blessed my life with. i met someone who was affectionate, loving, understanding, everything i prayed for and more.

right now, i’m just saying thank u… and i want to let people know. i want to say thank u to a moment in 2011 when a man reminded me of what im capable of feeling, and what i was capable of giving back.

Nine months later, i have not regretted i loved a man by the name of Oscar. true enough, there must be something between two people, even if it’s an ocean apart. there must be something when you end up having conversations where you just feel like running around and dancing and pulling everything out of your cabinet and tell the person “this is all of me, know me, love me.” there must be something when you meet someone who will say he’s willing to be the first and your last. there must be something when even if a mistake is committed you’re willing to overlook it because both of u believe that love keeps no records of wrong… there must be something when both of you believed in taking a chance because both of you know that it’s the start of a life together.

=)

Love Ninja:

Long distance relationships.
Such an unconventional way to stay together, yet far apart. In February 2011 my life changed for the better. in short, i met a girl. online. we shared our stories, made each other laugh. shared what has been happening in our days. we became really good friends. The times we spent online (around 5-6 hours a day) fuelled a growing feeling deep in my heart which was soon going to become love.

Is it love? or just infatuation? all of the above happened in the space of 2-3 days. i’m a 22 year old who’s never been in a relationship before. I was not desperate to be in one. but i said to myself. “I do not want to lose this girl”. She lived in adelaide at the time, and i’m in Brisbane. I know it seems silly to fall in love with someone online, but it felt so real. eventually, i asked her if she would be my girlfriend.

The plan was for her to come to Brisbane to visit me. so we can meet and just be with each other. But she had to go back to Philippines because of urgent matters. Honestly, we almost broke up a few times. saying “this wouldn’t work. the distance is too great”. We decided to stay together and against all odds, we’re still together after nine months. We haven’t met properly yet. but we Skype and call each other when we can. we’re far apart in the physical, but honestly our love feels like its getting stronger and stronger. I’m happy to announce our ninth monthsary which happened on friday.

I’m thankful for someone who i can share everything with. and i thank God that he gave us the ability to love, despite the distance and obstacles. it’s been nine long months. we can’t wait to finally be together. it’s going to be worth the wait. I’m thankful that we stayed together this long. because you know, no matter what obstacle comes your way. love is worth fighting for.

- Love Ninja

PS: If you’re reading this babe, i love you so much. 
PSS: that was to my girlfriend. not you sergei 

Don’t worry guys, your prices are on their way. I’ll stay in touch thru e-mail! Thank you very much Alysa and Oscar.

Have a fruitful year to everyone!!!

I had to let you know again that I so appreciate the greetings and wishes from you the other day. It’s awesome… that I have built solid friendships with amazing people over the past years, and I’m very thankful that you’ve taken the time to know me and to understand my ways. For the next years to come, I hope the camaraderie would only get stronger. Merry Christmas and have a blessed year ahead!

// Off to General Santos tomorrow! It’ll be a busy weekend! See you next year, readers!!! Enjoy the holidays.

Next week is full on! Apart from work that’ll keep me busy for five days, I’ll be ending the week by flying all the way down South to my hometown in General Santos to celebrate Christmas. Yes, it has been a while. And I’m sure, just like you, there are many things that you’d like to do. Let me share a checklist of what I plan to do while I’m there. Sharing this would also give you a glimpse of General Santos, if you haven’t been there. This is my way of encouraging you to visit it.

1. A Trip to the D’Orchard

I miss swimming in the pool and just relaxing, eating mangoes at the farm and freshly cooked meals by my aunt. This is a good place to unwind with friends or family and to just let go.

2. A Taste of Antipolo

I know it’s fatty and oily, but one has got to taste the barbecue of Antipolo. I’ll make sure I’ll drop by one night to have at least a stick of their very affordable and savory chicken and pork barbecue. The last time I was there, it was only P5.00/ stick. Manila price? Incomparable!

3.  Breakfast at Sarangani Highlands

A cup of coffee and some coffee-flavored adobo would be awesome. I’d also like a bowl of fresh fruits while looking at the scenery. This place is actually better during day time.

4. A reunion with tuna dishes

I’d specifically like to have tuna lumpia and kinilaw on top of bulad/ tuyo, which are food I have not had the chance to eat when I’m here in Manila. For the first time, I miss fish. Chicken is the closest thing to healthy here. Fruits and vegetables and fish are so hard to find, especially if you do not know how to cook.

5. Cheap movies

Unlike cinemas in Manila, theaters in GenSan are small, but the movie prices are affordable. Sans the odor of old theaters, there is a new one created which I would definitely like to go to when I’m there just so I can watch a good movie with the family.

6. Pig out at Chicken Hauz

This place has the best garlic-tasting chicken I’ve ever had. Mesa’s have the same taste, but Chicken Hauz sells it cheaper and there’s more meat! In addition to that, they serve chicken crackles if you eat at the resto itself. Can’t wait!

Basically, all I ever want to do in GenSan is eat. You can never compare food in Manila and GenSan.It’s cheaper there, and most of the time, tastier. I’ll share some of the things I’ll be doing in GenSan soon, and I might be away from the blog for probably a week or two. Next entry would be in January, most probably but keep on sending your answers to the question raised in the earlier posts. Your gift is coming soon! Merry Christmas!

I’ve heard of their shows in General Santos, but I’m very unfortunate that I have not seen them perform live. But man was I awed by this performance. I thought I should share as well. Click on the link!

Teatro Ambahanon

From 05:53-08:01.

(Sorry about the video quality)

Good job, guys!

—

Also, I would like to congratulate the folks of UP Mindanao for the successful Deviance Day, which of course is led by Dugong ANTRO. I’ve heard a lot participated. And LOL! This is the first photo I saw for Deviance Day…