My Life Lessons
More to come.
1/18/2021:
Your worst enemy is yourself.
Your worst enemy is yourself.
1/13/2021:
I do better once I do it right away. I learn from there. The more I wait and procrastinate, it might be too late.
I do better once I do it right away. I learn from there. The more I wait and procrastinate, it might be too late.
8/29/2019:
A curious friend is asking questions about my blog. She is considering to start on a blog too. But she is concerned about having enough creativity.
"You have something to say," I told her. "Because everybody has a story to tell."
A curious friend is asking questions about my blog. She is considering to start on a blog too. But she is concerned about having enough creativity.
"You have something to say," I told her. "Because everybody has a story to tell."
8/28/2019:
My everyday challenge in life is to practice and train my mind.
This is needed for my mental health.
It's essential.
My everyday challenge in life is to practice and train my mind.
This is needed for my mental health.
It's essential.
8/28/2019:
I played tennis at a park. I saw a playground nearby. I witnessed a grandma and granddaughter having fun together at playground.
I was reliving and reminiscing the wonderful moments I cherished with my grandpa, during my preschool and kindergarten days in East Meadow, New York.
I played tennis at a park. I saw a playground nearby. I witnessed a grandma and granddaughter having fun together at playground.
I was reliving and reminiscing the wonderful moments I cherished with my grandpa, during my preschool and kindergarten days in East Meadow, New York.
8/26/2019:
I'm single. I've been on dates. And I'm for it.
Give the lady freedom to choose.
I like her. And it's not guaranteed we are going to be in a relationship. Let it be. I shall see.
One day, I'll write stories about my future girlfriend.
I'm single. I've been on dates. And I'm for it.
Give the lady freedom to choose.
I like her. And it's not guaranteed we are going to be in a relationship. Let it be. I shall see.
One day, I'll write stories about my future girlfriend.
8/23/2019:
I used to buy things to impress others. And I tried to overtop others. Because I would compare and judge people.
I realized I expended my time and energy.
I used to buy things to impress others. And I tried to overtop others. Because I would compare and judge people.
I realized I expended my time and energy.
8/10/2019:
The key to Bruce Lee's way of life.
He explained: "Research your own experience. Absorb what is useful, reject what is useless, (and) add what is essentially your own."
I find this excerpt as I read Rolf Potts' book, "Vagabonding." And Tim Ferriss recommended this book in one of his podcast episodes.
The art of sharing, giving, and communicating.
The key to Bruce Lee's way of life.
He explained: "Research your own experience. Absorb what is useful, reject what is useless, (and) add what is essentially your own."
I find this excerpt as I read Rolf Potts' book, "Vagabonding." And Tim Ferriss recommended this book in one of his podcast episodes.
The art of sharing, giving, and communicating.
8/7/2019:
I looked at my car inside. It was dirty. I decided to use my friend's cordless vacuum.
I went to clean another car. And then the vacuum's battery died.
I had about 10 minutes left to charge it. Because I'll be selling the vacuum.
"Sorry, I used all of its battery. I was hooked on my friend's vacuum. My first time to use it," I told my buyer. "I'm helping him sell it. I get half commission. You see the cleanliness in my car now."
He needed a vacuum to replace his old one.
"If you're dissatisfied with it, you can return it with a full refund," I continued to tell him.
He bought it.
I looked at my car inside. It was dirty. I decided to use my friend's cordless vacuum.
I went to clean another car. And then the vacuum's battery died.
I had about 10 minutes left to charge it. Because I'll be selling the vacuum.
"Sorry, I used all of its battery. I was hooked on my friend's vacuum. My first time to use it," I told my buyer. "I'm helping him sell it. I get half commission. You see the cleanliness in my car now."
He needed a vacuum to replace his old one.
"If you're dissatisfied with it, you can return it with a full refund," I continued to tell him.
He bought it.
8/6/2019:
I don’t want to tell you what to do in life. Go and figure it out. Because I’m still learning too.
I don’t want to tell you what to do in life. Go and figure it out. Because I’m still learning too.
8/5/2019:
Uncle Jun and I were at the bank earlier today. A bank teller helped us.
"Your name is May." I told her. "And his name is Jun. May and Jun. My name is only Mike."
January, February, March, April, May, June, and...
Uncle Jun and I were at the bank earlier today. A bank teller helped us.
"Your name is May." I told her. "And his name is Jun. May and Jun. My name is only Mike."
January, February, March, April, May, June, and...
8/3/2019:
I was looking for Matcha Shake IPA. Because it wasn't on their tap.
They forgot about it. And they were able to update the Matcha Shake IPA on their tap.
"I love my matcha. I drink a lot of tea," I told the bartender.
I smiled at her showing my teeth.
"You see the teeth stains," I continued talking to her.
She laughed.
Yuh cheers.
I was looking for Matcha Shake IPA. Because it wasn't on their tap.
They forgot about it. And they were able to update the Matcha Shake IPA on their tap.
"I love my matcha. I drink a lot of tea," I told the bartender.
I smiled at her showing my teeth.
"You see the teeth stains," I continued talking to her.
She laughed.
Yuh cheers.
8/2/2019:
“Life is a lesson. Pay attention,” an old man from sauna once told me. “Because there will be a test.”
I’m in a situation where I’m the middleman. Because one needs help. And the other one agrees. But he’s far away from home now. I’m not for it.
My younger-self would ignore it. And give a cold shoulder. I would yell and swear.
But it wouldn’t go anywhere.
No more enemies. No more grudges. Because I can only go with I can control.
I’m the messenger.
It’s a test.
“Life is a lesson. Pay attention,” an old man from sauna once told me. “Because there will be a test.”
I’m in a situation where I’m the middleman. Because one needs help. And the other one agrees. But he’s far away from home now. I’m not for it.
My younger-self would ignore it. And give a cold shoulder. I would yell and swear.
But it wouldn’t go anywhere.
No more enemies. No more grudges. Because I can only go with I can control.
I’m the messenger.
It’s a test.
7/26/2019:
I remember my past. I have gone through a lot.
I'm alive. And I'm breathing.
It's the uncertainty.
I hit the finish line once I die.
I remember my past. I have gone through a lot.
I'm alive. And I'm breathing.
It's the uncertainty.
I hit the finish line once I die.
7/19/2019:
I was waiting at a red stop light it hit green. A car stopped next to me. I looked at the driver. Low and behold. She was attractive.
Her music was on. Because her head was shaking.
We exchanged looks. I smiled at her. My younger-self would assume this could be love at first sight.
I decided to try to get her number. But her window was closed.
I used my right hand to disguise it as a phone. Right thumb up. And right pinky out.
She smiled. Until someone appeared from seat. It was her man. His seat was inclined. He came out of nowhere. I was surprised and entertained.
My younger-self would be scared. And I would regret it.
He stared at me as his face looked displeased. I gave him a head nod with a smile. I acknowledged him.
He was still annoyed.
Then the light turned green.
The use of body and sign language. And facial expressions.
I was waiting at a red stop light it hit green. A car stopped next to me. I looked at the driver. Low and behold. She was attractive.
Her music was on. Because her head was shaking.
We exchanged looks. I smiled at her. My younger-self would assume this could be love at first sight.
I decided to try to get her number. But her window was closed.
I used my right hand to disguise it as a phone. Right thumb up. And right pinky out.
She smiled. Until someone appeared from seat. It was her man. His seat was inclined. He came out of nowhere. I was surprised and entertained.
My younger-self would be scared. And I would regret it.
He stared at me as his face looked displeased. I gave him a head nod with a smile. I acknowledged him.
He was still annoyed.
Then the light turned green.
The use of body and sign language. And facial expressions.
7/15/2019:
I finished decluttering someone's home. It was a work in progress. I was able to grind it out. I surprised myself. And I satisfied my client.
I finished decluttering someone's home. It was a work in progress. I was able to grind it out. I surprised myself. And I satisfied my client.
7/11/2019:
I'm decluttering. And I find my high school yearbook.
14 years has already passed since I graduated from St. Pat's
My younger-self wanted my high school yearbook to be full of notes and signatures. And I wished all of my crushes would sign it too. Because I was seeking validation and attention. It never happened.
I decide to take a picture of your note on yearbook. And message it to you.
The past is remembered.
I'm decluttering. And I find my high school yearbook.
14 years has already passed since I graduated from St. Pat's
My younger-self wanted my high school yearbook to be full of notes and signatures. And I wished all of my crushes would sign it too. Because I was seeking validation and attention. It never happened.
I decide to take a picture of your note on yearbook. And message it to you.
The past is remembered.
6/27/2019:
I worked all day. The day was over. I was sitting on a chair. And it felt a cool air coming into my inner thighs. I looked downward. My pants were ripped on the right inner thigh area.
It happens.
I worked all day. The day was over. I was sitting on a chair. And it felt a cool air coming into my inner thighs. I looked downward. My pants were ripped on the right inner thigh area.
It happens.
6/24/2019:
I choose my time. And energy too.
I choose my time. And energy too.
6/19/2019:
We can say whatever we want.
At the end of the day, it's up to you to tell your own story.
History keeps writing.
Life keeps going.
Your story only ends when you die.
Everything else goes on.
History continues to write as life continues to run.
We can say whatever we want.
At the end of the day, it's up to you to tell your own story.
History keeps writing.
Life keeps going.
Your story only ends when you die.
Everything else goes on.
History continues to write as life continues to run.
6/12/2019:
The mind talks. And the body decides.
The mind talks. And the body decides.
6/11/2019:
Blogging is my therapy. I need it. And meditating too. They practice my mind to relax and process.
I must take the time to exercise my mental health every day.
Blogging is my therapy. I need it. And meditating too. They practice my mind to relax and process.
I must take the time to exercise my mental health every day.
6/5/2019:
Take a risk.
Give it a try.
Expect to fail along the way.
Learn from failure.
Tweak changes.
Trust the process.
Take a risk.
Give it a try.
Expect to fail along the way.
Learn from failure.
Tweak changes.
Trust the process.
6/2/2019:
I hated people. Because I wanted them to go exactly my way.
It's not always about me. Because I'm learning, scoping, and observing from others.
It's impossible to find a clone of me. Because we are different in our own way.
It's being able to understand people. And make adjustments.
I hated people. Because I wanted them to go exactly my way.
It's not always about me. Because I'm learning, scoping, and observing from others.
It's impossible to find a clone of me. Because we are different in our own way.
It's being able to understand people. And make adjustments.
6/1/2019:
Everybody has a past behind them.
It's okay. We are human.
I believe you can reinvent yourself.
What matters to you?
You create your new story.
Because everybody has a story to tell.
Everybody has a past behind them.
It's okay. We are human.
I believe you can reinvent yourself.
What matters to you?
You create your new story.
Because everybody has a story to tell.
5/31/2019:
I just met a 62-year-old man at a sauna.
Somehow, I run into anyone at sauna. I enjoy deep, intellectual conversations. And everybody has a story to tell. I like to hear their story.
I told the man about my lifestyle habits. And he shared me what somebody had told him.
Three words for you: Desire, Commitment, and Consistency.
I just met a 62-year-old man at a sauna.
Somehow, I run into anyone at sauna. I enjoy deep, intellectual conversations. And everybody has a story to tell. I like to hear their story.
I told the man about my lifestyle habits. And he shared me what somebody had told him.
Three words for you: Desire, Commitment, and Consistency.
5/30/2019:
My purpose in life is to be grateful, honest, vulnerable, compassionate, empathetic, and forgiving. And to keep learning.
My purpose in life is to be grateful, honest, vulnerable, compassionate, empathetic, and forgiving. And to keep learning.
5/27/2019:
Introducing myself in a sauna or anywhere during any time of the day is a sign of giving.
Whenever and wherever I meet anyone, I like to ask and listen. This avoids empowerment. Ask is to be curious as listen is to be patient.
Introducing myself in a sauna or anywhere during any time of the day is a sign of giving.
Whenever and wherever I meet anyone, I like to ask and listen. This avoids empowerment. Ask is to be curious as listen is to be patient.
5/22/2019:
She believes she has no time for anything other than work.
We choose our time.
She believes she has no time for anything other than work.
We choose our time.
5/22/2019:
You bring joy to the world.
You bring joy to the world.
5/20/2019:
Processing occurs whenever and wherever my mind is able to accept, realize, and live at the moment. The mind is loading. And I give time for it. Because the mind and operates everything in body.
Processing occurs whenever and wherever my mind is able to accept, realize, and live at the moment. The mind is loading. And I give time for it. Because the mind and operates everything in body.
5/14/2019:
I used to dwell in the past. And overthink the future. Because I was seeking and validation to others. I was more worried and concerned about others than myself.
This drained my body and mind.
The time is now.
I choose my time.
I used to dwell in the past. And overthink the future. Because I was seeking and validation to others. I was more worried and concerned about others than myself.
This drained my body and mind.
The time is now.
I choose my time.
5/13/2019:
I believe in you.
I believe in you.
5/11/2019:
Expect to fail in life.
Because you can never follow everything, according to your plan. Go with what you can control. And trust the process along the way.
We shall see.
Expect to fail in life.
Because you can never follow everything, according to your plan. Go with what you can control. And trust the process along the way.
We shall see.
5/5/2019:
I am glad to have finally reread my Uncle's apology letter. I was in tears. It was written 7 months after he took my sister's life. The letter was written on December 2003. And he lost his life 5 years later.
My mom told me she had returned his letter right away at the time. She actually kept it. She had found the letter today somewhere in her room.
I am glad to have finally reread my Uncle's apology letter. I was in tears. It was written 7 months after he took my sister's life. The letter was written on December 2003. And he lost his life 5 years later.
My mom told me she had returned his letter right away at the time. She actually kept it. She had found the letter today somewhere in her room.
5/9/2019:
Life is a challenge every day. It's a test for me to decide. No such thing as the "perfect" answer. Because I will never know "it" all. But it's being able to learn, scope, and observe my flaws, mistakes, and weaknesses.
Are you willing to change and become a better person every day? Or stay the same person to play it safe?
Because you choose your time.
Life is a challenge every day. It's a test for me to decide. No such thing as the "perfect" answer. Because I will never know "it" all. But it's being able to learn, scope, and observe my flaws, mistakes, and weaknesses.
Are you willing to change and become a better person every day? Or stay the same person to play it safe?
Because you choose your time.
5/2/2019:
I will never know until I try.
I will never know until I try.
4/30/2019:
Forgive and remember.
Forgive and remember.
4/23/2019:
Take it step-by-step. No need to rush. Go for the risk. Keep observing. Stop and wonder if you would like. And challenge yourself in this up and down journey.
Take it step-by-step. No need to rush. Go for the risk. Keep observing. Stop and wonder if you would like. And challenge yourself in this up and down journey.
I lost a sister. I lost an uncle. I lost a coach. I used to hate talking about death. Because I did not want any of my loved ones to die. And even myself.
Death is part of life.
Death is part of life.
4/4/2019:
"Play within yourself."
-Dick Stockton
"Play within yourself."
-Dick Stockton
4/4/2019:
I like to ponder and contemplate about life. I am processing.
I like to ponder and contemplate about life. I am processing.
4/1/2019:
I meet interesting people in sauna. We engage in a deep, meaningful conversation. Relationships come unexpectedly.
I meet interesting people in sauna. We engage in a deep, meaningful conversation. Relationships come unexpectedly.
3/31/2019:
A friend likes my life on how I travel. He wants my life. He believes he has no time to travel.
"I am grateful to have supportive parents. My travel expenses came from them." I told him.
A friend likes my life on how I travel. He wants my life. He believes he has no time to travel.
"I am grateful to have supportive parents. My travel expenses came from them." I told him.
3/31/2019:
I just finished listening to Cal Fussman interviewing Bruce Lee's daughter, Shannon Lee, in his podcast.
"He really discovered the nature of water when he was 17," Shannon Lee talks about her father's epiphany.
Bruce Lee was always focused only on winning at that time. His master, Yip Man, was against his perspective in life.
"Go home and think about it. No training for a week," Yip Man told him.
Bruce was trying to relax but he was not able to. It was difficult for him to cope his emotions and feelings. So he rode on a boat to Hong Kong Harbour alone.
He punched the water. At 17 years old, Bruce Lee discovered the nature of water:
“Don’t get set into one form, adapt it and build your own, and let it grow, be like water. Empty your mind, be formless, shapeless — like water. Now you put water in a cup, it becomes the cup; You put water into a bottle it becomes the bottle; You put it in a teapot it becomes the teapot.”
Everybody has a story to tell.
I do not like to label myself, such as an adviser, blogger, hiker, seller, college graduate, coach, or any type of label. (I used to.) Because I am validating, recognizing, acknowledging, and promoting myself as "perfect." And this stops me from learning more.
I continue to learn until I die.
I just finished listening to Cal Fussman interviewing Bruce Lee's daughter, Shannon Lee, in his podcast.
"He really discovered the nature of water when he was 17," Shannon Lee talks about her father's epiphany.
Bruce Lee was always focused only on winning at that time. His master, Yip Man, was against his perspective in life.
"Go home and think about it. No training for a week," Yip Man told him.
Bruce was trying to relax but he was not able to. It was difficult for him to cope his emotions and feelings. So he rode on a boat to Hong Kong Harbour alone.
He punched the water. At 17 years old, Bruce Lee discovered the nature of water:
“Don’t get set into one form, adapt it and build your own, and let it grow, be like water. Empty your mind, be formless, shapeless — like water. Now you put water in a cup, it becomes the cup; You put water into a bottle it becomes the bottle; You put it in a teapot it becomes the teapot.”
Everybody has a story to tell.
I do not like to label myself, such as an adviser, blogger, hiker, seller, college graduate, coach, or any type of label. (I used to.) Because I am validating, recognizing, acknowledging, and promoting myself as "perfect." And this stops me from learning more.
I continue to learn until I die.
3/30/2019:
One take, one photo.
“The resolution of the human eye is 576 megapixels,” studies say.
My phone only contains a 12-megapixel rear camera.
I only take a few photos now. And I am sharing this photo to you.
The art of curiosity through my eyes. Enjoy nature and appreciate life.
One take, one photo.
“The resolution of the human eye is 576 megapixels,” studies say.
My phone only contains a 12-megapixel rear camera.
I only take a few photos now. And I am sharing this photo to you.
The art of curiosity through my eyes. Enjoy nature and appreciate life.
3/28/2019:
"There is an entire section in the bookshop called 'self-help.' What we really need is a section called 'help others.'"
-a small passage in the end from Simon Sinek's book, "Leaders Eat Last"
"There is an entire section in the bookshop called 'self-help.' What we really need is a section called 'help others.'"
-a small passage in the end from Simon Sinek's book, "Leaders Eat Last"
3/27/2019:
"You're doing a really good job. Keep it going. #alwaysmotivated," a friend, Eliot, told me.
"Thank you. I'm not perfect and I will never be. I get negative thoughts in my mind too. It's being able to train my mind. It's a challenge every day for me," I told him. "I like to label my emotions now. For instance, I tell myself, 'I feel mad.' I used to say, 'I am mad.' 'I am' sounds like I am not willing to change."
"You're doing a really good job. Keep it going. #alwaysmotivated," a friend, Eliot, told me.
"Thank you. I'm not perfect and I will never be. I get negative thoughts in my mind too. It's being able to train my mind. It's a challenge every day for me," I told him. "I like to label my emotions now. For instance, I tell myself, 'I feel mad.' I used to say, 'I am mad.' 'I am' sounds like I am not willing to change."
3/26/2019:
I found a small passage in Eckhart Tolle's book, "The Power of Now."
"When you live in complete acceptance of what 'is,' that is the end of all drama in your life. Nobody can even have an argument with you, no matter how hard he or she tries," he writes. "You cannot have an argument with a fully conscious person."
It almost goes with my saying, "Let it be. Be free."
My ego comes in now.
I found a small passage in Eckhart Tolle's book, "The Power of Now."
"When you live in complete acceptance of what 'is,' that is the end of all drama in your life. Nobody can even have an argument with you, no matter how hard he or she tries," he writes. "You cannot have an argument with a fully conscious person."
It almost goes with my saying, "Let it be. Be free."
My ego comes in now.
3/24/2019:
My friend and I saw a personal trainer at gym. Apparently, he went to our old high school. My friend saw him wearing the old PE shorts.
We began talking to him and his girlfriend.
When our conversation ended, my friend told me, "Time flies. He graduated from high school in 2015, while we graduated in 2005."
"Time stops when I die," I told him.
"Time never stops when you die," He corrected me.
"My time stops whenever I die," I answered.
My friend and I saw a personal trainer at gym. Apparently, he went to our old high school. My friend saw him wearing the old PE shorts.
We began talking to him and his girlfriend.
When our conversation ended, my friend told me, "Time flies. He graduated from high school in 2015, while we graduated in 2005."
"Time stops when I die," I told him.
"Time never stops when you die," He corrected me.
"My time stops whenever I die," I answered.
3/14/2019:
Last Tuesday night, Kirby invited me to his birthday dinner with his family.
The server placed the bill next to me (by my right side). I waited until somebody gets the bill. Then, I will slowly get my wallet. I’ve already done this before to Uncle Jun. Yes, I’ve already told this story to Kirb and his family.
“Thank you for inviting me. And thank you for paying the bill,” I told my bro.
The following night I drove him to Baldo’s at Vacaville. Yes, I paid for his carne asada fries.
Last Tuesday night, Kirby invited me to his birthday dinner with his family.
The server placed the bill next to me (by my right side). I waited until somebody gets the bill. Then, I will slowly get my wallet. I’ve already done this before to Uncle Jun. Yes, I’ve already told this story to Kirb and his family.
“Thank you for inviting me. And thank you for paying the bill,” I told my bro.
The following night I drove him to Baldo’s at Vacaville. Yes, I paid for his carne asada fries.
3/14/2019:
I was "hard" on myself. I wanted to be "perfect." I had high expectations. When I failed, my mind fell along with my body too.
I cannot control the outcome. I can only go with what I can control.
I was listening to podcast, "The Knowledge Project with Shane Parrish." In his episode, "Peaceful Parenting," he interviews parenting coach and author, Dr. Laura Markham.
This episode relates to everybody (not only for parents). She teaches me how to be able to train my mind.
"I do not like to use the word, 'control,' in the mind," she says.
Label your emotion. We are human. We have feelings. Thoughts in your head come and go.
For example, I feel angry. "What can I do to resolve it?" I ask myself. I labeled my emotion, my anger, or else anger will take over my mind.
Let it be. Be free.
I was "hard" on myself. I wanted to be "perfect." I had high expectations. When I failed, my mind fell along with my body too.
I cannot control the outcome. I can only go with what I can control.
I was listening to podcast, "The Knowledge Project with Shane Parrish." In his episode, "Peaceful Parenting," he interviews parenting coach and author, Dr. Laura Markham.
This episode relates to everybody (not only for parents). She teaches me how to be able to train my mind.
"I do not like to use the word, 'control,' in the mind," she says.
Label your emotion. We are human. We have feelings. Thoughts in your head come and go.
For example, I feel angry. "What can I do to resolve it?" I ask myself. I labeled my emotion, my anger, or else anger will take over my mind.
Let it be. Be free.
3/5/2019:
My heart was severely wounded. I had enemies. I held grudges. I was stubborn.
My heart has been healed. I have tolerance. My purpose in life is to be grateful, compassionate, empathetic, and forgiving. And to keep learning.
My heart was severely wounded. I had enemies. I held grudges. I was stubborn.
My heart has been healed. I have tolerance. My purpose in life is to be grateful, compassionate, empathetic, and forgiving. And to keep learning.
2/24/2019:
Everybody is weird in their own way.
Everybody is weird in their own way.
2/20/2019:
I assumed shaving my head was badass. I was wrong. I never intimidated anybody.
I still shave my head. No need to pay for a $20-30 haircut. I have dandruff too.
I assumed shaving my head was badass. I was wrong. I never intimidated anybody.
I still shave my head. No need to pay for a $20-30 haircut. I have dandruff too.
2/20/2019:
I walked out of a local bookstore. I saw a man asleep in his car.
I slowly woke him up. "Your headlights are on," I told him.
He placed his key into ignition. His car was starting.
"Thank you. I will leave it running," he said. "So I can charge my battery."
I walked out of a local bookstore. I saw a man asleep in his car.
I slowly woke him up. "Your headlights are on," I told him.
He placed his key into ignition. His car was starting.
"Thank you. I will leave it running," he said. "So I can charge my battery."
2/18/2019:
JUDGING others makes us FEEL BETTER about ourselves.
OBSERVING others makes us LEARN BETTER about ourselves.
JUDGING others makes us FEEL BETTER about ourselves.
OBSERVING others makes us LEARN BETTER about ourselves.
2/10/2019:
Trust my ability. (Train hard all I want.) I must perform it. I will learn better.
Risk and react.
Trust my ability. (Train hard all I want.) I must perform it. I will learn better.
Risk and react.
2/8/2019:
I have lost again to a friend in basketball. He has improved. He plays at his strengths. He is patient now.
I had beaten him many times before.
"The tables have turned."
We are learning together while we compete against each other.
I have lost again to a friend in basketball. He has improved. He plays at his strengths. He is patient now.
I had beaten him many times before.
"The tables have turned."
We are learning together while we compete against each other.
2/4/2019:
I was given a delicious birthday cake yesterday. Uncle told me to make a wish.
"I used to be a 'wisher.' I express my gratitude to you, you, you, and everyone in my life. Thank you. I am 32. We shall see if I can find a mate." I said.
I blew out candle on cake.
I was given a delicious birthday cake yesterday. Uncle told me to make a wish.
"I used to be a 'wisher.' I express my gratitude to you, you, you, and everyone in my life. Thank you. I am 32. We shall see if I can find a mate." I said.
I blew out candle on cake.
2/3/2019:
I am not a huge football fan. Over the years, I have witnessed Tom Brady's greatness and dominance. Say whatever you want about him. It was a low-scoring Super Bowl game, but I enjoyed the Patriots' relentless defense along with the halftime-show.
Jon asked me, "How is Tom Brady able to motivate his team every game? What is his mentality before and during a game?"
He said, "Roger Federer is alone on the court, but Tom Brady has to lead a crew."
"I have no idea. That is amazing. I am gonna read his book." I answered.
I am going off on a tangent.
A few days ago, my good friends and I were talking about the greatest dynasties in sports history. Kirby Fernandez mentioned the Chicago Bulls. They are the only team everybody loved.
We live in a "salty" world.
I am not a huge football fan. Over the years, I have witnessed Tom Brady's greatness and dominance. Say whatever you want about him. It was a low-scoring Super Bowl game, but I enjoyed the Patriots' relentless defense along with the halftime-show.
Jon asked me, "How is Tom Brady able to motivate his team every game? What is his mentality before and during a game?"
He said, "Roger Federer is alone on the court, but Tom Brady has to lead a crew."
"I have no idea. That is amazing. I am gonna read his book." I answered.
I am going off on a tangent.
A few days ago, my good friends and I were talking about the greatest dynasties in sports history. Kirby Fernandez mentioned the Chicago Bulls. They are the only team everybody loved.
We live in a "salty" world.
2/3/2019:
I would leave a book in my car. You can see it. The book would never get stolen. No stress. No worries.
I learn something from the writer too.
I would leave a book in my car. You can see it. The book would never get stolen. No stress. No worries.
I learn something from the writer too.
1/30/2019:
"Do you miss me? (Along with a sad emoji face.)" My younger cousin texted me.
"when is your availability? You have never answered it yet. I try not to miss people anymore. As long as we are communicating someway. That's what matters." I texted him.
I was left with no response.
"Do you miss me? (Along with a sad emoji face.)" My younger cousin texted me.
"when is your availability? You have never answered it yet. I try not to miss people anymore. As long as we are communicating someway. That's what matters." I texted him.
I was left with no response.
1/30/2019:
8 years ago or so, I was given a birthday gift from a good friend. He gave me a book, "Open," written by tennis legend, Andre Agassi. I hated reading, and writing at that time. I finished the book, but it took me forever to read it. Now, I love to read, and write. I am gonna reread it.
8 years ago or so, I was given a birthday gift from a good friend. He gave me a book, "Open," written by tennis legend, Andre Agassi. I hated reading, and writing at that time. I finished the book, but it took me forever to read it. Now, I love to read, and write. I am gonna reread it.
1/29/2019:
I used to very low-key on my birthday. I would remain silent. That way, I can wait, and see who will greet me on my birthday. I wanted to know who cares about me. Now, I have come to realize that does sound needy.
A birthday is celebrating that I am still alive in this world. Also, it is remembering, and thanking the great people in my life. Without them, I would not be where I am at right now as well.
I used to very low-key on my birthday. I would remain silent. That way, I can wait, and see who will greet me on my birthday. I wanted to know who cares about me. Now, I have come to realize that does sound needy.
A birthday is celebrating that I am still alive in this world. Also, it is remembering, and thanking the great people in my life. Without them, I would not be where I am at right now as well.
1/29/2019:
On that note, I'm gonna be 32 on February 3. I was just given a birthday present.
No need to give me a present.
Take me to either a brewery, or a hike. A birthday greeting will be fine too.
Remember, it is your "presence," not "presents."
A book is an exception for a present.
You can also completely ignore me.
I am happy with that.
On that note, I'm gonna be 32 on February 3. I was just given a birthday present.
No need to give me a present.
Take me to either a brewery, or a hike. A birthday greeting will be fine too.
Remember, it is your "presence," not "presents."
A book is an exception for a present.
You can also completely ignore me.
I am happy with that.
"Do you want a Garmin watch?" He asked me.
"No, I'm not interested. Thanks through." I answered.
"Do you want anything for your birthday?"
"No thanks. It's your presence, and unconditional love. That's what matters."
Surprisingly, he gave me a Garmin watch.
"No, I'm not interested. Thanks through." I answered.
"Do you want anything for your birthday?"
"No thanks. It's your presence, and unconditional love. That's what matters."
Surprisingly, he gave me a Garmin watch.
1/29/2019:
I just lost to a good friend in a game of one-on-one basketball. Surprisingly, we played full court for the first time. I was up most of the time, but he found a way to come back for a victory. (He rarely beats me.) I congratulated him. "You are a meditator now," I told him.
I just lost to a good friend in a game of one-on-one basketball. Surprisingly, we played full court for the first time. I was up most of the time, but he found a way to come back for a victory. (He rarely beats me.) I congratulated him. "You are a meditator now," I told him.
1/28/2019:
When I was a kid, I was brainwashed by the fairytale happy endings. I thought girls would come to me. It never happened. I assumed girls liked me, even if I never came up to them. Whenever I was rejected by them, I would get mad. Respect the lady. It is not always about me.
When I was a kid, I was brainwashed by the fairytale happy endings. I thought girls would come to me. It never happened. I assumed girls liked me, even if I never came up to them. Whenever I was rejected by them, I would get mad. Respect the lady. It is not always about me.
1/28/2019:
Every morning, when I wake up, I make my bed. It only takes a few seconds. This starts my day.
Good morning.
Every morning, when I wake up, I make my bed. It only takes a few seconds. This starts my day.
Good morning.
1/27/2019:
I have not touched, or drank an alcohol for 9 days. I am an alcoholic. So far, I feel really good.
I have not touched, or drank an alcohol for 9 days. I am an alcoholic. So far, I feel really good.
1/26/2019:
When nothing goes my way, I always tell myself, "I am alive, and breathing."
When nothing goes my way, I always tell myself, "I am alive, and breathing."
1/24/2019:
“Would you choose between family or your future?” A good friend asked me.
“Family. They provide unconditional love. That is powerful. My mom and dad created me. Loneliness kills. Without family, I would not have any future at all.” I responded to her.
“Would you choose between family or your future?” A good friend asked me.
“Family. They provide unconditional love. That is powerful. My mom and dad created me. Loneliness kills. Without family, I would not have any future at all.” I responded to her.
1/23/2019:
Somebody is against me in how I view my career, and life in future.
"I am not here to win you over, or you win me over. We are different. I respect your way. I have nothing to say." I patiently told him.
Somebody is against me in how I view my career, and life in future.
"I am not here to win you over, or you win me over. We are different. I respect your way. I have nothing to say." I patiently told him.
1/20/2019:
On January 17, I came back to my hostel in Barcelona from a night club at 4AM. That was my first and last experience in joining a pub crawl from hostel. (A pub crawl is where you hangout with other hostel people to go to bars and clubs all throughout the night.)
I knew my limits. I drank enough, since I was able to walk alone for 20 minutes from night club to hostel.
I cannot keep up with the younger people anymore. I am not getting any younger.
I was able to rest, and recover from my bed at hostel.
6 hours later, I woke up to eat breakfast.
Then, I came back from my room to rest and recover again.
Apparently, one of my roommates left the window wide open. So, that person can air dry his or her pair of wet pants. It was hung on top of luggage.
I was hugely distracted by the noise (of vehicles), and the smell (of CO2 emissions) outside.
I trained my mind. I found a solution. I closed the window. Then, I placed 3 euros on top of the person's pants.
(FYI, the hostel has a dryer. It is 3 euros to dry your clothes.)
Now, I was able to sleep.
Both sides were at peace. Nobody was "salty."
On January 17, I came back to my hostel in Barcelona from a night club at 4AM. That was my first and last experience in joining a pub crawl from hostel. (A pub crawl is where you hangout with other hostel people to go to bars and clubs all throughout the night.)
I knew my limits. I drank enough, since I was able to walk alone for 20 minutes from night club to hostel.
I cannot keep up with the younger people anymore. I am not getting any younger.
I was able to rest, and recover from my bed at hostel.
6 hours later, I woke up to eat breakfast.
Then, I came back from my room to rest and recover again.
Apparently, one of my roommates left the window wide open. So, that person can air dry his or her pair of wet pants. It was hung on top of luggage.
I was hugely distracted by the noise (of vehicles), and the smell (of CO2 emissions) outside.
I trained my mind. I found a solution. I closed the window. Then, I placed 3 euros on top of the person's pants.
(FYI, the hostel has a dryer. It is 3 euros to dry your clothes.)
Now, I was able to sleep.
Both sides were at peace. Nobody was "salty."
1/17/2019:
While my hostel buddy from Poland and I ate our breakfast, they played classic Disney movie trailers.
“They just played, “The Lion King,” and I saw a store in San Sebastián called, “Hakuna Matana.” Before Barcelona, I was just in San Sebastián,” I told him.
He has seen that movie as well. He laughed.
When my hostel buddy left, they played, “The Little Mermaid.” In that movie, they had the funny-looking crab character, Sebastián. The character, and the place.
I was waiting for them to play movie, “Aladdin.” Recently, I was in Morocco.
While my hostel buddy from Poland and I ate our breakfast, they played classic Disney movie trailers.
“They just played, “The Lion King,” and I saw a store in San Sebastián called, “Hakuna Matana.” Before Barcelona, I was just in San Sebastián,” I told him.
He has seen that movie as well. He laughed.
When my hostel buddy left, they played, “The Little Mermaid.” In that movie, they had the funny-looking crab character, Sebastián. The character, and the place.
I was waiting for them to play movie, “Aladdin.” Recently, I was in Morocco.
1/15/2019:
When I was in Barcelona with my good friend, we went to a restaurant.
The hostess took us to our table.
As we sat, I saw Asians around me. They looked Chinese.
“I feel segregated. The Whites were seated in front of restaurant,” I loudly told my friend with a smile.
I wanted the Asians to hear me. Apparently, they did not react.
I was not upset at all. I was entertained by it.
When I was in Barcelona with my good friend, we went to a restaurant.
The hostess took us to our table.
As we sat, I saw Asians around me. They looked Chinese.
“I feel segregated. The Whites were seated in front of restaurant,” I loudly told my friend with a smile.
I wanted the Asians to hear me. Apparently, they did not react.
I was not upset at all. I was entertained by it.
1/15/2019:
I am almost done reading a book, “The Art of Happiness,” written by the Dalai Lama, and Howard C. Cutler, from my hostel’s mini-library shelf.
In the book, the Dalai Lama states, “If there is a solution to the problem, there is no need to worry. If there is no solution, there is no sense in worrying either.”
I am almost done reading a book, “The Art of Happiness,” written by the Dalai Lama, and Howard C. Cutler, from my hostel’s mini-library shelf.
In the book, the Dalai Lama states, “If there is a solution to the problem, there is no need to worry. If there is no solution, there is no sense in worrying either.”
1/14/2019:
“A plastic bottle takes 500 years to decompose and a plastic bag 55 years,” it states, according to LEMA (Intelligent Marine Litter removal and Management for local Authorities)
“A plastic bottle takes 500 years to decompose and a plastic bag 55 years,” it states, according to LEMA (Intelligent Marine Litter removal and Management for local Authorities)
1/13/2019:
We live in an imperfect world. We are always seeking happiness. We always want something more, or somebody better. It never ends, until we ever recognize it, and if we are able to change.
We forget to appreciate our family and friends every single day. They are our unconditional love.
We live in an imperfect world. We are always seeking happiness. We always want something more, or somebody better. It never ends, until we ever recognize it, and if we are able to change.
We forget to appreciate our family and friends every single day. They are our unconditional love.
1/13/2019:
I just met a very nice man in plane. He is from Brazil. He will be flying to Boston for school. He just visited his fiancée in Alicante for a month.
He has been engaged with his fiancé for about 3 months.
“Have you seen the movie, ‘The Five-Year Engagement?’” I asked him. “It is with Emily Blunt, and Jason Segel.”
“I have not. That is a long engagement. Our wedding will be held next year. My man and I will finish our schooling first.” He said.
“By the way, it is a great romantic, comedy movie.” I answered.
He looked puzzled, and confused until I smiled at him. He smiled too.
I just met a very nice man in plane. He is from Brazil. He will be flying to Boston for school. He just visited his fiancée in Alicante for a month.
He has been engaged with his fiancé for about 3 months.
“Have you seen the movie, ‘The Five-Year Engagement?’” I asked him. “It is with Emily Blunt, and Jason Segel.”
“I have not. That is a long engagement. Our wedding will be held next year. My man and I will finish our schooling first.” He said.
“By the way, it is a great romantic, comedy movie.” I answered.
He looked puzzled, and confused until I smiled at him. He smiled too.
1/13/2019:
Yesterday, I was on an adventure to find a basketball court. I walked for 20 minutes to one, but it was closed.
I searched for another court. It also took me 20 minutes walking over there.
As I walked, I was in relief. Finally, I was able to play pickup basketball in Spain. The wait was over.
It reminded me of the movie, “Harold and Kumar Go To White Castle.”
I walked a lot to find a court, and I played a lot on the court. When the day was over, I was sore. I enjoyed it though.
Yesterday, I was on an adventure to find a basketball court. I walked for 20 minutes to one, but it was closed.
I searched for another court. It also took me 20 minutes walking over there.
As I walked, I was in relief. Finally, I was able to play pickup basketball in Spain. The wait was over.
It reminded me of the movie, “Harold and Kumar Go To White Castle.”
I walked a lot to find a court, and I played a lot on the court. When the day was over, I was sore. I enjoyed it though.
1/12/2019:
Yesterday, I ran into three women at an open tapas bar. They were choosing their type of tapas.
I heard them speaking English to their server.
I started talking to them.
They live in Chicago, and yesterday was their first day in Alicante too.
A stranger walked closer to us. She was choosing her tapas as well.
When the stranger left, one woman from Chicago told me, “Be careful. Be aware. (That stranger) might have pocket-picked you, or us.”
I heard a bit of her accent. I realized that she is Filipino with her two friends as well. They looked like they were in their 60s.
“Okay, Auntie. Before I visited Morocco, my good friend’s dad warned me that travelers were beheaded over there. I was in Morocco from January 3-8. I survived.” I told her.
She looked confused. She saw me smiled, and she laughed.
Before I left the open bar tapas, I said goodbye to the three women (Titas, or Aunties). We talked for another 10 minutes.
They rather be called, “Sisters,” not “Aunties,” or “Titas.”
“Do you have any pretty daughters?” I asked my sisters.
Apparently, they do not have any daughters. One of them introduced me to her family friend.
So, I messaged her on FB. No word from her yet. Oh, well. Respect the lady.
Yesterday, I ran into three women at an open tapas bar. They were choosing their type of tapas.
I heard them speaking English to their server.
I started talking to them.
They live in Chicago, and yesterday was their first day in Alicante too.
A stranger walked closer to us. She was choosing her tapas as well.
When the stranger left, one woman from Chicago told me, “Be careful. Be aware. (That stranger) might have pocket-picked you, or us.”
I heard a bit of her accent. I realized that she is Filipino with her two friends as well. They looked like they were in their 60s.
“Okay, Auntie. Before I visited Morocco, my good friend’s dad warned me that travelers were beheaded over there. I was in Morocco from January 3-8. I survived.” I told her.
She looked confused. She saw me smiled, and she laughed.
Before I left the open bar tapas, I said goodbye to the three women (Titas, or Aunties). We talked for another 10 minutes.
They rather be called, “Sisters,” not “Aunties,” or “Titas.”
“Do you have any pretty daughters?” I asked my sisters.
Apparently, they do not have any daughters. One of them introduced me to her family friend.
So, I messaged her on FB. No word from her yet. Oh, well. Respect the lady.
1/10/2019:
I am on this trip, since December 28. I have packed about a week supply of clothes.
It has been all polyester clothes. They dry and wash fast.
I only have saved one shirt. It is a blue polyester-collared shirt. I have stored it fresh, and clean in my bag. It has never been worn yet.
I will wear this shirt, once I go on a date with a woman.
I am on this trip, since December 28. I have packed about a week supply of clothes.
It has been all polyester clothes. They dry and wash fast.
I only have saved one shirt. It is a blue polyester-collared shirt. I have stored it fresh, and clean in my bag. It has never been worn yet.
I will wear this shirt, once I go on a date with a woman.
1/9/2019:
Last night, I had a peculiar dream.
I attended somebody’s cotillion. I am not sure for what reason.
A special guest attended. It was Klay Thompson.
I approached him right when people started heading home.
I asked him for a picture. We wrapped our arms around each other, like bros, for the picture.
We met as strangers. Then, we became bros just like that. (He is 3 years younger than me.)
We had a deep, meaningful conversation.
Then, I heard a buzzing noise.
It was a small insect going inside my ear.
Suddenly, I woke up.
Last night, I had a peculiar dream.
I attended somebody’s cotillion. I am not sure for what reason.
A special guest attended. It was Klay Thompson.
I approached him right when people started heading home.
I asked him for a picture. We wrapped our arms around each other, like bros, for the picture.
We met as strangers. Then, we became bros just like that. (He is 3 years younger than me.)
We had a deep, meaningful conversation.
Then, I heard a buzzing noise.
It was a small insect going inside my ear.
Suddenly, I woke up.
1/8/2019:
On January 11, my good friend is flying back home from Seville.
My solo travel starts, when she leaves Seville.
Since I have no idea where I want to go, Skyscanner has helped me. I searched from Seville to "everywhere." It has given me cheap, direct flights.
For instance, flying to Valladolid is 10 Euros, and flying to Alicante is 21 Euros.
I shall fly to one of these, or both of them.
Every place has a history to visit. (It is not always about exploring the most visited spot.)
Everybody has a story to tell.
On January 11, my good friend is flying back home from Seville.
My solo travel starts, when she leaves Seville.
Since I have no idea where I want to go, Skyscanner has helped me. I searched from Seville to "everywhere." It has given me cheap, direct flights.
For instance, flying to Valladolid is 10 Euros, and flying to Alicante is 21 Euros.
I shall fly to one of these, or both of them.
Every place has a history to visit. (It is not always about exploring the most visited spot.)
Everybody has a story to tell.
1/7/2019:
Tonight is my last night at Marrakech.
"What is your wifi password?" I asked the front desk person.
(Their password is not publicly displayed. I need it hooked up on my Mac. That way, I can finish typing a blog entry, "People," in a few hours from now.)
Wi-fi password was given. I am connected now.
Tonight is my last night at Marrakech.
"What is your wifi password?" I asked the front desk person.
(Their password is not publicly displayed. I need it hooked up on my Mac. That way, I can finish typing a blog entry, "People," in a few hours from now.)
Wi-fi password was given. I am connected now.
1/6/2019:
My good friend, and I spotted a pair of girls’ sandals, since this morning. It is located a few steps away from our hotel. Nobody has grabbed the sandals yet.
I decided to do an experiment. It was to drop off my hiking boots right next to sandals, and see who would ever take which pair first.
I was on the way to start my experiment, until somebody stopped me.
(My boots are already worn out, but they are still wearable. Also, I only needed it for my camel ride. Less packing, less hassle.)
It was the front desk person from our hotel.
Even though, I never told him my experiment, he completely read my mind.
He asked me, “Do you want these?”
“Not anymore,” I answered.
“My colleague will use these pair. Thank you.” he said.
At the end of day, somebody needed my pair of hiking boots more than me.
My good friend, and I spotted a pair of girls’ sandals, since this morning. It is located a few steps away from our hotel. Nobody has grabbed the sandals yet.
I decided to do an experiment. It was to drop off my hiking boots right next to sandals, and see who would ever take which pair first.
I was on the way to start my experiment, until somebody stopped me.
(My boots are already worn out, but they are still wearable. Also, I only needed it for my camel ride. Less packing, less hassle.)
It was the front desk person from our hotel.
Even though, I never told him my experiment, he completely read my mind.
He asked me, “Do you want these?”
“Not anymore,” I answered.
“My colleague will use these pair. Thank you.” he said.
At the end of day, somebody needed my pair of hiking boots more than me.
1/4/2019:
My good friend, and I were wandering the historic sites, and spots, at Marrakech.
As we walked, they had a description about each area. We could not understand its history, since it was not written in English.
“We can sneak in on a tour group, and listen to a tour guide,” she told me.
(Apparently, we did not hear any English-speaking tour guides.)
“Or we can try to remember what we see, and search it on Wikipedia,” I said.
My good friend, and I were wandering the historic sites, and spots, at Marrakech.
As we walked, they had a description about each area. We could not understand its history, since it was not written in English.
“We can sneak in on a tour group, and listen to a tour guide,” she told me.
(Apparently, we did not hear any English-speaking tour guides.)
“Or we can try to remember what we see, and search it on Wikipedia,” I said.
1/3/2019:
After I gave my spare change to the Filipino man, I was still sitting on a public bench. My legs were super tired from all day walking. My good friend and I walked for about 8 miles that day.
An old lady appeared. She looked weak, and she was tired.
The small bench was full. I offered her my seat.
A few minutes later, she had to go. She thanked me.
As I went back to my seat, another old lady appeared. She wanted to sit down.
So, I offered her the same seat again. She was with her grandkids as well. They were grateful.
From there, I decided to read a book about the history of Barcelona at a mini-bookstore near bench.
After I gave my spare change to the Filipino man, I was still sitting on a public bench. My legs were super tired from all day walking. My good friend and I walked for about 8 miles that day.
An old lady appeared. She looked weak, and she was tired.
The small bench was full. I offered her my seat.
A few minutes later, she had to go. She thanked me.
As I went back to my seat, another old lady appeared. She wanted to sit down.
So, I offered her the same seat again. She was with her grandkids as well. They were grateful.
From there, I decided to read a book about the history of Barcelona at a mini-bookstore near bench.
1/2/2019:
A few hours ago, my good friend and I sat on a public bench at a shopping center mall.
A man approached me. He asked me, "Are you Filipino?"
(He approached me a few days ago. I was sitting on a bench as well. He did ask me the same question. I did not answer his question right away. I looked ignorant. I was still processing. When I answered his question with a nod, he did not see me anymore as he walked away.)
"Yuh," I answered.
According to him, he is new in Barcelona. He arrived here about 3 weeks ago. He is homeless.
"What made you want to come here? For what reason?" I asked him.
He did not clearly answer my question. I did not understand him.
"Can I have money? Can you buy me a meal tonight?" He asked.
I dug my pocket for change, and I gave him that.
"I need more money," he said.
"That is the least I can do for you," I patiently told him.
He kept begging for more.
"Sorry. That is the least I can do for you." I said.
He walked out on me.
It does not bother me anymore, if he did not say, "Thank you." Most importantly, I do not expect anything in return anymore, like a "thank you."
A few hours ago, my good friend and I sat on a public bench at a shopping center mall.
A man approached me. He asked me, "Are you Filipino?"
(He approached me a few days ago. I was sitting on a bench as well. He did ask me the same question. I did not answer his question right away. I looked ignorant. I was still processing. When I answered his question with a nod, he did not see me anymore as he walked away.)
"Yuh," I answered.
According to him, he is new in Barcelona. He arrived here about 3 weeks ago. He is homeless.
"What made you want to come here? For what reason?" I asked him.
He did not clearly answer my question. I did not understand him.
"Can I have money? Can you buy me a meal tonight?" He asked.
I dug my pocket for change, and I gave him that.
"I need more money," he said.
"That is the least I can do for you," I patiently told him.
He kept begging for more.
"Sorry. That is the least I can do for you." I said.
He walked out on me.
It does not bother me anymore, if he did not say, "Thank you." Most importantly, I do not expect anything in return anymore, like a "thank you."
1/1/2019:
I hit a restaurant at Barcelona. I had to use the restroom. (I always pee a lot these days more than ever before.)
"The restroom is downstairs on the left side," my good friend told me.
As I turned left, I saw a person to my right. I gave that person way.
"Go ahead," I said.
That person was not moving. I looked up. It was my reflection in the mirror.
The mirror pranked me. I was entertained.
I hit a restaurant at Barcelona. I had to use the restroom. (I always pee a lot these days more than ever before.)
"The restroom is downstairs on the left side," my good friend told me.
As I turned left, I saw a person to my right. I gave that person way.
"Go ahead," I said.
That person was not moving. I looked up. It was my reflection in the mirror.
The mirror pranked me. I was entertained.
1/1/2019:
"You gotta jump really high right when it strikes midnight for the new year. You will be tall," I was told that.
I am standing at 5'5. I am 3 inches taller than my parents.
"Make a wish, once midnight strikes for the new year," I was told that.
I do not remember my wishes every year. I think it is a same wish every year. I want a woman. I will give her my 3 C's: Connect, cuddle, and chill.
"Whatever you do on the 1st day of every year determines what you will be doing ever day for the rest of the year," I was told that.
It never worked for me.
These sayings from people that were passed on from their family or friends. It is what keeps them going for the new year.
For myself, these sayings do not keep me going for the new year anymore. A new year indicates that time never stops. I try to continue on reinventing myself.
HAPPY NEW YEAR.
"You gotta jump really high right when it strikes midnight for the new year. You will be tall," I was told that.
I am standing at 5'5. I am 3 inches taller than my parents.
"Make a wish, once midnight strikes for the new year," I was told that.
I do not remember my wishes every year. I think it is a same wish every year. I want a woman. I will give her my 3 C's: Connect, cuddle, and chill.
"Whatever you do on the 1st day of every year determines what you will be doing ever day for the rest of the year," I was told that.
It never worked for me.
These sayings from people that were passed on from their family or friends. It is what keeps them going for the new year.
For myself, these sayings do not keep me going for the new year anymore. A new year indicates that time never stops. I try to continue on reinventing myself.
HAPPY NEW YEAR.
12/31/2018:
I already have stopped in searching for a “perfect” world.
Although, my good friend took about a minute to get the right angle for this “perfect” photo.
I’m such a hypocrite, then.
Most importantly, I am not perfect. We live in an imperfect world.
I already have stopped in searching for a “perfect” world.
Although, my good friend took about a minute to get the right angle for this “perfect” photo.
I’m such a hypocrite, then.
Most importantly, I am not perfect. We live in an imperfect world.
12/30/2018:
It is comfortable to only use my phone without its case. It feels naked. I am done for the day. So, I decided to remove its case. I just realized that now.
(Now, I will be using my iPhone 6 more than ever. That’s not good. My big brother from Belgium would be extremely upset.)
It is similar to being shirtless when I sleep.
Go with what makes you comfortable.
It is comfortable to only use my phone without its case. It feels naked. I am done for the day. So, I decided to remove its case. I just realized that now.
(Now, I will be using my iPhone 6 more than ever. That’s not good. My big brother from Belgium would be extremely upset.)
It is similar to being shirtless when I sleep.
Go with what makes you comfortable.
12/29/2018:
From Munich to Barcelona flight, my good friend chose the window seat, while I preferred the aisle seat.
“I hope nobody sits in between us. So, we can have space,” she said.
“Hopefully, a pretty lady sits between us,” I said.
Low and behold, a pretty lady sat between us. At first, I was hesitant. I saw her wearing a ring on her left ring finger.
I decided to finally talk to her, when flight attendant handed us food. I introduced her to my good friend near us.
It was a challenge. Our means of communication was the body of art, and sign language. We talked super slow to each other. It reminded of me when I traveled, and visited in China.
“Dos años escuela de high en español,” I told her.
She laughed.
“Popular online dating app in Barcelona? Tinder and Bumble is to America. Tantan is to China.”
“Tinder,” she answered. She looked confused. (She met her husband through work.)
“Bonita muchacha,” I answered, while my eyes were looking around.
She laughed again.
She is married. Her husband sat in front of her.
FYI, typical men would tell me to back off, or else I’ll get punched. Nothing bad happened. I respect the lady, and the man.
On my phone, I typed, “Favorite restaurants,” and I handed her it.
From Munich to Barcelona flight, my good friend chose the window seat, while I preferred the aisle seat.
“I hope nobody sits in between us. So, we can have space,” she said.
“Hopefully, a pretty lady sits between us,” I said.
Low and behold, a pretty lady sat between us. At first, I was hesitant. I saw her wearing a ring on her left ring finger.
I decided to finally talk to her, when flight attendant handed us food. I introduced her to my good friend near us.
It was a challenge. Our means of communication was the body of art, and sign language. We talked super slow to each other. It reminded of me when I traveled, and visited in China.
“Dos años escuela de high en español,” I told her.
She laughed.
“Popular online dating app in Barcelona? Tinder and Bumble is to America. Tantan is to China.”
“Tinder,” she answered. She looked confused. (She met her husband through work.)
“Bonita muchacha,” I answered, while my eyes were looking around.
She laughed again.
She is married. Her husband sat in front of her.
FYI, typical men would tell me to back off, or else I’ll get punched. Nothing bad happened. I respect the lady, and the man.
On my phone, I typed, “Favorite restaurants,” and I handed her it.
12/28/2018:
When my younger cousins did something wrong, I would call them out, such as:
"You should know better!"
"I thought you knew!"
"Don't do that next time!"
Then, when they are not around, I would talk behind their back saying, "They are so dumb! They do not know anything!"
At the end of the day, I am scaring them. Next time, they make a mistake, they would keep it a secret. They would not wanna hear my "long so-called know it all" lecture.
I would teach them that you gotta be perfect. I was such a hypocrite. I make mistakes too.
Now, when somebody does something wrong, I would say,
"It is okay. Expect to fail in life. You are alive, and breathing. I have made mistakes. I am still learning."
Then, I would give them stories about my life, or other people that I have encountered, and connected.
When my younger cousins did something wrong, I would call them out, such as:
"You should know better!"
"I thought you knew!"
"Don't do that next time!"
Then, when they are not around, I would talk behind their back saying, "They are so dumb! They do not know anything!"
At the end of the day, I am scaring them. Next time, they make a mistake, they would keep it a secret. They would not wanna hear my "long so-called know it all" lecture.
I would teach them that you gotta be perfect. I was such a hypocrite. I make mistakes too.
Now, when somebody does something wrong, I would say,
"It is okay. Expect to fail in life. You are alive, and breathing. I have made mistakes. I am still learning."
Then, I would give them stories about my life, or other people that I have encountered, and connected.
12/27/2018:
I open up, and tell my stories to somebody. He automatically gives me advice. He always shows me his correct way in my stories, such as "this is how you do it." I hear his lectures.
Whenever I say something, he disagrees with me. I do not talk back to him anymore. It will get worst. I just let it go.
I remember his advice, and his "correct" ways. Then, I see him not fully applying it.
"Whenever you talk to somebody, you must give eye contact to him or her. I am talking to you right now. Give me eye contact," he told me this before.
Whenever I do something wrong, he calls me out. Now, I am already used to it. I just let it go.
Whenever I do something without talking to him, he disagrees with me.
For instance, I know that he is against donating his items/goods. He is attached to his things. I respect that. He finds out that I am donating my basketball hoop. I did not tell him. Somebody told me that he was upset. He did not tell me that he needed it for something else.
So, I told him that I cannot read your mind. I apologized to him. Also, I expressed my feelings to him in a peaceful way. I completely acknowledged him. He never looked at me, not even once.
I open up, and tell my stories to somebody. He automatically gives me advice. He always shows me his correct way in my stories, such as "this is how you do it." I hear his lectures.
Whenever I say something, he disagrees with me. I do not talk back to him anymore. It will get worst. I just let it go.
I remember his advice, and his "correct" ways. Then, I see him not fully applying it.
"Whenever you talk to somebody, you must give eye contact to him or her. I am talking to you right now. Give me eye contact," he told me this before.
Whenever I do something wrong, he calls me out. Now, I am already used to it. I just let it go.
Whenever I do something without talking to him, he disagrees with me.
For instance, I know that he is against donating his items/goods. He is attached to his things. I respect that. He finds out that I am donating my basketball hoop. I did not tell him. Somebody told me that he was upset. He did not tell me that he needed it for something else.
So, I told him that I cannot read your mind. I apologized to him. Also, I expressed my feelings to him in a peaceful way. I completely acknowledged him. He never looked at me, not even once.
12/27/2018:
When I see a woman's appearance, I catch their beautiful, gorgeous eyes.
Eyes never change, and age, until you ever get cataracts.
When I see a woman's appearance, I catch their beautiful, gorgeous eyes.
Eyes never change, and age, until you ever get cataracts.
12/26/2018:
My younger-self used to get paranoid when I found out somebody was talking about me behind my back.
It would completely take over my mind. I would hold a grudge at that person, and continue on gossiping at him or her. That is expending all my energy.
For instance, I held a 3-year grudge to my Coach. I heard from somebody that he was talking about me behind my back.
I can find another use of my time, like read a book, or listen to a podcast.
At the end of the day, I have realized that you can say what you want about me. It is okay. I cannot force you to change. Most importantly, you can only change for yourself. It is up to you.
You are not a villain.
My younger-self used to get paranoid when I found out somebody was talking about me behind my back.
It would completely take over my mind. I would hold a grudge at that person, and continue on gossiping at him or her. That is expending all my energy.
For instance, I held a 3-year grudge to my Coach. I heard from somebody that he was talking about me behind my back.
I can find another use of my time, like read a book, or listen to a podcast.
At the end of the day, I have realized that you can say what you want about me. It is okay. I cannot force you to change. Most importantly, you can only change for yourself. It is up to you.
You are not a villain.
12/26/2018:
I was talking to my mom about my religion, and belief.
“I am agnostic (to the point, where I believe in God, or a spiritual being in this world), and pluralistic (to the point, where I respect every religion). I am thankful, and grateful that you took me to a Catholic school from grade 4-12. Honestly, I have many questions about the Catholic faith,” I told her.
As a mother, you want the best for your child. My mom is passing it on to what she has learned, and believed to her loved one. She looked somewhat disappointed.
“I respect your belief, and religion. I am being open to you. Should you be glad that I am opening to you than keeping a secret from you? Whenever I have a kid, I would like to have him or her open up, or be honest with me. That is whenever they are ready. I cannot force my kid.”
The power of openness from a son to mother.
She understood.
I was talking to my mom about my religion, and belief.
“I am agnostic (to the point, where I believe in God, or a spiritual being in this world), and pluralistic (to the point, where I respect every religion). I am thankful, and grateful that you took me to a Catholic school from grade 4-12. Honestly, I have many questions about the Catholic faith,” I told her.
As a mother, you want the best for your child. My mom is passing it on to what she has learned, and believed to her loved one. She looked somewhat disappointed.
“I respect your belief, and religion. I am being open to you. Should you be glad that I am opening to you than keeping a secret from you? Whenever I have a kid, I would like to have him or her open up, or be honest with me. That is whenever they are ready. I cannot force my kid.”
The power of openness from a son to mother.
She understood.
12/25/2018:
Be present. That's my present.
I enjoy your ”presence” more than your “presents.”
If you gave me a present, thank you for taking the time to give me one.
Be present. That's my present.
I enjoy your ”presence” more than your “presents.”
If you gave me a present, thank you for taking the time to give me one.
12/24/2018:
My younger-self would never be completely honest with you, or anybody else. It was my ego, and my lack in communication.
You are what you see and hear. When I was younger, I never learned how to fail in this imperfect world. I was always taught to always search for a "perfect" world.
When I was younger, I always had to respect the elders as well. So, I was shy and quiet.
I have acknowledged, and learned from it.
It is the awareness.
The past is remembered. Live in the present. The future is in you.
My younger-self would never be completely honest with you, or anybody else. It was my ego, and my lack in communication.
You are what you see and hear. When I was younger, I never learned how to fail in this imperfect world. I was always taught to always search for a "perfect" world.
When I was younger, I always had to respect the elders as well. So, I was shy and quiet.
I have acknowledged, and learned from it.
It is the awareness.
The past is remembered. Live in the present. The future is in you.
12/23/2018:
"Don't need to give us (him and his wife) a Christmas gift. You have done a lot for us," He said.
"My mom has insisted me to give you guys a gift. She buys the gift, while I choose it," I said.
He looked confused, and then, he laughed.
He wants a gift after all.
"Don't need to give us (him and his wife) a Christmas gift. You have done a lot for us," He said.
"My mom has insisted me to give you guys a gift. She buys the gift, while I choose it," I said.
He looked confused, and then, he laughed.
He wants a gift after all.
12/21/2018:
Happy belated bday to the young man, Uncle Jun F Santiago.
I met him in 2009, when I attended his son's college graduation.
You will always spot him wearing a collared-shirt.
If you need to hear a story, you come to him. He will stand in front of you while he talks, like he is giving a presentation. He was once a disc jockey. He has a nice voice. It's clear for all to hear.
If you need help in getting discounts and deals with items, you come to him. He has a way of persuading workers.
If you are in the mood for Asian food, you come to him. He loves Asian food.
If you are at Wooden Valley Winery, you will find him.
If you want to visit a luxury hotel, Makati Shangri-La, you come to him. He knows everybody at his home court.
If you are visiting The Venetian in Las Vegas, he will be your tour guide at his other home court.
If you never heard of any classic funk music, you come to him. He will introduce you to his favorite band, Tower of Power. He will always play their song, "You're Still A Young Man."
If you want meet an owner of a company, you come to him.
If you need help in selling or buying a home, you come to him. He is a realtor and broker.
Meet the young man aka The Kingpin, The Attorney, (and more nicknames coming soon.)
He is a “Crazy, Rich Asian.”
And give him credit too.
Happy belated bday to the young man, Uncle Jun F Santiago.
I met him in 2009, when I attended his son's college graduation.
You will always spot him wearing a collared-shirt.
If you need to hear a story, you come to him. He will stand in front of you while he talks, like he is giving a presentation. He was once a disc jockey. He has a nice voice. It's clear for all to hear.
If you need help in getting discounts and deals with items, you come to him. He has a way of persuading workers.
If you are in the mood for Asian food, you come to him. He loves Asian food.
If you are at Wooden Valley Winery, you will find him.
If you want to visit a luxury hotel, Makati Shangri-La, you come to him. He knows everybody at his home court.
If you are visiting The Venetian in Las Vegas, he will be your tour guide at his other home court.
If you never heard of any classic funk music, you come to him. He will introduce you to his favorite band, Tower of Power. He will always play their song, "You're Still A Young Man."
If you want meet an owner of a company, you come to him.
If you need help in selling or buying a home, you come to him. He is a realtor and broker.
Meet the young man aka The Kingpin, The Attorney, (and more nicknames coming soon.)
He is a “Crazy, Rich Asian.”
And give him credit too.
12/20/2018:
I was on my way to watch Aquaman with my friend and his family. First, I wanted to get popcorn.
I saw a familiar face. I could not recognize him at first.
"It is Mike from tennis. We are Coach Willie's students," I told him, while he began to serve my popcorn.
"You do look familiar." He asked, and smiled at me, "How is Coach doing?"
(I did say, "We are...")
I was hesitant for a bit. I did not know what to say.
"Coach is gone. He is not here anymore. I am sorry," I said.
He was in tears, and he ran off to get some space.
He came back, and asked me, "Do you need anything else?"
"A large coke Icee. I would like to see you again. I will get your number from your sister. I will contact her through social media," I told him.
(He does not have social media.)
"Thanks for letting me know," he told me.
I was always with Coach on the tennis court. Thus, I knew this kid. Now, he is all grown up.
Before today, the last time I saw him was 2015. He witnessed me get into a few arguments with Coach Willie. 2015 was when I held a long-time grudge with Coach as well.
I was on my way to watch Aquaman with my friend and his family. First, I wanted to get popcorn.
I saw a familiar face. I could not recognize him at first.
"It is Mike from tennis. We are Coach Willie's students," I told him, while he began to serve my popcorn.
"You do look familiar." He asked, and smiled at me, "How is Coach doing?"
(I did say, "We are...")
I was hesitant for a bit. I did not know what to say.
"Coach is gone. He is not here anymore. I am sorry," I said.
He was in tears, and he ran off to get some space.
He came back, and asked me, "Do you need anything else?"
"A large coke Icee. I would like to see you again. I will get your number from your sister. I will contact her through social media," I told him.
(He does not have social media.)
"Thanks for letting me know," he told me.
I was always with Coach on the tennis court. Thus, I knew this kid. Now, he is all grown up.
Before today, the last time I saw him was 2015. He witnessed me get into a few arguments with Coach Willie. 2015 was when I held a long-time grudge with Coach as well.
12/20/2018:
We keep searching for a "perfect" world.
We get annoyed, frustrated, and disappointed by others.
At the end of the day, a "perfect" world will never happen.
It is impossible.
We live in an imperfect world.
I have accepted this.
I already have stopped searching for a "perfect" world.
Everybody, and everything is imperfect.
It is a test for me every day.
Life is an up and down journey.
We keep searching for a "perfect" world.
We get annoyed, frustrated, and disappointed by others.
At the end of the day, a "perfect" world will never happen.
It is impossible.
We live in an imperfect world.
I have accepted this.
I already have stopped searching for a "perfect" world.
Everybody, and everything is imperfect.
It is a test for me every day.
Life is an up and down journey.
12/19/2018:
I was told that he is old. Do not mind him.
Anybody can change, if you are willing to change. Most importantly, that is only up to you.
I was told that he is old. Do not mind him.
Anybody can change, if you are willing to change. Most importantly, that is only up to you.
12/18/2018:
2018 is almost coming to an end.
Most people see social media as the highlight reel of our lives.
Society wants us to get a successful job, a good-looking partner, a huge house, a brand new car, a college degree, and etc. I only have a college degree, and that is it. I do not want to pursue it though.
Throughout this year, I have been unemployed. Say what you want. It is impossible to please everybody. Society looks down upon the unemployed. Thank you, Mom, and Dad, for helping me out.
Next year will be a new chapter in my life. No more unemployment.
Even though I was unemployed, I have reinvented myself, such as solo traveling, reconnecting with family in Philippines, reading books, building relationships, selling unused items, coming at peace to others, and many more to be said in my next blog entry, "My 2018."
When I was younger, I hated reading. I thought reading was a huge waste of time by judging at a book's thickness.
"You have read a lot, since you have nothing to do," somebody told me that. He is not a bookworm at all. He would rather watch Netflix, or play video games.
I choose reading books over playing video games. I am learning something in reading books. Then again, that is my preference.
Remember, go with what you want. It's your choice. It's your life. If you are not interested in something, you would not bother to do it.
"You have everything on your FB profile, except a job," somebody told me that. Everything or not, it does not matter. I am not here to prove you, or everybody something. I do not want to overtop you. I agree with that somebody only on the job part. I cannot always rely on my parents.
2019 is a new chapter in my life (on the job part). I continue on reinventing myself.
Next year, I am planning to become a realtor. This year, I have said that many times. Call that, procrastination. I have other jobs on the side as well, once I become a realtor.
To be continued on "My 2018." It will be published on Monday, December 24.
2018 is almost coming to an end.
Most people see social media as the highlight reel of our lives.
Society wants us to get a successful job, a good-looking partner, a huge house, a brand new car, a college degree, and etc. I only have a college degree, and that is it. I do not want to pursue it though.
Throughout this year, I have been unemployed. Say what you want. It is impossible to please everybody. Society looks down upon the unemployed. Thank you, Mom, and Dad, for helping me out.
Next year will be a new chapter in my life. No more unemployment.
Even though I was unemployed, I have reinvented myself, such as solo traveling, reconnecting with family in Philippines, reading books, building relationships, selling unused items, coming at peace to others, and many more to be said in my next blog entry, "My 2018."
When I was younger, I hated reading. I thought reading was a huge waste of time by judging at a book's thickness.
"You have read a lot, since you have nothing to do," somebody told me that. He is not a bookworm at all. He would rather watch Netflix, or play video games.
I choose reading books over playing video games. I am learning something in reading books. Then again, that is my preference.
Remember, go with what you want. It's your choice. It's your life. If you are not interested in something, you would not bother to do it.
"You have everything on your FB profile, except a job," somebody told me that. Everything or not, it does not matter. I am not here to prove you, or everybody something. I do not want to overtop you. I agree with that somebody only on the job part. I cannot always rely on my parents.
2019 is a new chapter in my life (on the job part). I continue on reinventing myself.
Next year, I am planning to become a realtor. This year, I have said that many times. Call that, procrastination. I have other jobs on the side as well, once I become a realtor.
To be continued on "My 2018." It will be published on Monday, December 24.
12/17/2018:
Lately, I have been a regular at Starbucks every morning. My old gift cards from last year's Christmas have not been used up yet.
I was driving my old car to the closest Starbucks near home. (The car is 2 years younger than me.) I already know that my old car does not provide any drink trays.
At Starbucks, I bought myself a grande dark roast hot coffee (as usual), and a morning muffin.
Although I had a few items to carry into my car, I remembered what Coach Willie told me.
"Try not to carry many items into your car all at once," he said.
One time, his daughter carried many items into her car. She backed up her car, while her cup of coffee spilled. She forgot that she had left it on top of her car.
Nobody to blame though. Everybody has a story to tell.
Lately, I have been a regular at Starbucks every morning. My old gift cards from last year's Christmas have not been used up yet.
I was driving my old car to the closest Starbucks near home. (The car is 2 years younger than me.) I already know that my old car does not provide any drink trays.
At Starbucks, I bought myself a grande dark roast hot coffee (as usual), and a morning muffin.
Although I had a few items to carry into my car, I remembered what Coach Willie told me.
"Try not to carry many items into your car all at once," he said.
One time, his daughter carried many items into her car. She backed up her car, while her cup of coffee spilled. She forgot that she had left it on top of her car.
Nobody to blame though. Everybody has a story to tell.
12/16/2018:
My good friend, and I cannot even remember, when we exactly became good friends.
Today, we were talking about it. Nothing was ringing bells at all. We were laughing out loud.
What matters is how we have grown together as good friends. Also, we remain good friends to this day.
Relationships do come unexpectedly.
My good friend, and I cannot even remember, when we exactly became good friends.
Today, we were talking about it. Nothing was ringing bells at all. We were laughing out loud.
What matters is how we have grown together as good friends. Also, we remain good friends to this day.
Relationships do come unexpectedly.
12/16/2018:
When I was a kid, I was always excited in writing on my Christmas wishlist. That was my fantasy.
Apparently, it was impossible to receive it “all.” Whenever I did not get what I wanted, I was extremely disappointed.
In reality, it will never ever 100% fulfill my needs and desires. My kid’s Christmas wishlist was never completed, due to its “never-ending” list.
My wishlist stopped, when I realized that “presents” will never be enough.
For instance, my kid-self would be jumping for joy, when I received a present from my wishlist. When that present devalued and became older, I tossed it aside.
What really matters is your “presence.”
If you still feel like giving me presents, give me money, a book (so I can learn something new), or a gift card, like Starbucks.
When I was a kid, I was always excited in writing on my Christmas wishlist. That was my fantasy.
Apparently, it was impossible to receive it “all.” Whenever I did not get what I wanted, I was extremely disappointed.
In reality, it will never ever 100% fulfill my needs and desires. My kid’s Christmas wishlist was never completed, due to its “never-ending” list.
My wishlist stopped, when I realized that “presents” will never be enough.
For instance, my kid-self would be jumping for joy, when I received a present from my wishlist. When that present devalued and became older, I tossed it aside.
What really matters is your “presence.”
If you still feel like giving me presents, give me money, a book (so I can learn something new), or a gift card, like Starbucks.
12/15/2018:
Everybody has a story to tell.
Everybody has a story to tell.
12/14/2018:
I just discovered many Starbucks gift cards in my room. I have never used them. Last Christmas, they were given to me from family and friends.
I am not much of a Starbucks guy, but I do love black coffee. Well, Starbucks is expensive. (Imagine buying it every morning. It does really pile up.) Every morning, I just drink my black coffee at home.
Since the other day, finally, I have been using my Starbucks gift cards for a black coffee with a muffin every morning.
Unless, I can save these gift cards, and give it to somebody else for Christmas, who ever needs it more than me. (For now, I’ll just use them.)
Thank you, family and friends, for giving me the Starbucks gift cards.
I just discovered many Starbucks gift cards in my room. I have never used them. Last Christmas, they were given to me from family and friends.
I am not much of a Starbucks guy, but I do love black coffee. Well, Starbucks is expensive. (Imagine buying it every morning. It does really pile up.) Every morning, I just drink my black coffee at home.
Since the other day, finally, I have been using my Starbucks gift cards for a black coffee with a muffin every morning.
Unless, I can save these gift cards, and give it to somebody else for Christmas, who ever needs it more than me. (For now, I’ll just use them.)
Thank you, family and friends, for giving me the Starbucks gift cards.
12/13/2018:
When I was younger, I always dreamed of becoming rich and famous. I always thought that it would complete my life.
Being rich and famous does not solve everything.
For instance, despite Kanye West’s mental health struggles, he is obviously rich and famous, and he is also married to a very sexy, beautiful wife, Kim Kardashian West. They have 3 kids together.
My younger-self would see that Kanye has a “perfect” life.
My younger-self always viewed rich and famous people as “gods.” If they ever did anything wrong, I would think they are abnormal.
Now, I see them as humans, like us. We have feelings. Every day, we have to deal with our body, mind, and soul.
My daily goal as a person is to continue growing emotionally, physically, spiritually, and mentally.
I admit it. This is a tough challenge. Life is an up and down journey.
When I was younger, I always dreamed of becoming rich and famous. I always thought that it would complete my life.
Being rich and famous does not solve everything.
For instance, despite Kanye West’s mental health struggles, he is obviously rich and famous, and he is also married to a very sexy, beautiful wife, Kim Kardashian West. They have 3 kids together.
My younger-self would see that Kanye has a “perfect” life.
My younger-self always viewed rich and famous people as “gods.” If they ever did anything wrong, I would think they are abnormal.
Now, I see them as humans, like us. We have feelings. Every day, we have to deal with our body, mind, and soul.
My daily goal as a person is to continue growing emotionally, physically, spiritually, and mentally.
I admit it. This is a tough challenge. Life is an up and down journey.
12/12/2018
A few months ago, I met a good friend in Shanghai at a hostel. I consider him as my big brother. He’s a 40-year-old Belgian architect.➖➖➖
Every time we walked and explored together, he stopped and pointed at something beautiful by saying, “LOOK!”
A few months ago, I met a good friend in Shanghai at a hostel. I consider him as my big brother. He’s a 40-year-old Belgian architect.➖➖➖
Every time we walked and explored together, he stopped and pointed at something beautiful by saying, “LOOK!”
12/12/2018
At Costco gas, I’m next in line. A man and his friend were in need of help. The man asked somebody ahead of him for help. He ignored him.
Then, the man came closer to my car. He seemed nervous. It looked like he never went up to somebody for help. I thought he was asking for water. For the reason that, he was stuttering. He corrected it with “car battery.”
I saw his friend open the trunk of his car. They had a jumpstart cable.
So, I helped them. I parked my car right next to their car. They jumpstarted it. Their car was moving now.
At Costco gas, I’m next in line. A man and his friend were in need of help. The man asked somebody ahead of him for help. He ignored him.
Then, the man came closer to my car. He seemed nervous. It looked like he never went up to somebody for help. I thought he was asking for water. For the reason that, he was stuttering. He corrected it with “car battery.”
I saw his friend open the trunk of his car. They had a jumpstart cable.
So, I helped them. I parked my car right next to their car. They jumpstarted it. Their car was moving now.
12/12/2018
Hiking clears my mind.
Blogging keeps my mind fresh.
Hitting the weights gives me strength.
Traveling builds relationships, and makes me appreciate life more.
Playing basketball and tennis allows me to think strategically on what the defense gives me.
Hiking clears my mind.
Blogging keeps my mind fresh.
Hitting the weights gives me strength.
Traveling builds relationships, and makes me appreciate life more.
Playing basketball and tennis allows me to think strategically on what the defense gives me.
12/11/2018
You can say what you want to me. I can say what I want to myself.
At the end of the day, it’s up to me. I gotta decide, and execute it from there.
You can say what you want to me. I can say what I want to myself.
At the end of the day, it’s up to me. I gotta decide, and execute it from there.
12/10/2018
If you beat me, I congratulate you. If I beat you, I want you to be better than me.
For instance, I just finished playing a game of one-on-one basketball against my younger cousin. We played best of 3. I was taunting him in a friendly way. He beat me in game one. Then, I won from there.
Most importantly, I have nothing to brag anymore. (When you win, it feels good. That’s normal. Nobody wants to lose.)
At the end of the day, I rather learn from others, or possibly inspire others, than brag to others.
My cousin has improved a lot since day one. It’s the growth. Coach would be proud of him.
If you beat me, I congratulate you. If I beat you, I want you to be better than me.
For instance, I just finished playing a game of one-on-one basketball against my younger cousin. We played best of 3. I was taunting him in a friendly way. He beat me in game one. Then, I won from there.
Most importantly, I have nothing to brag anymore. (When you win, it feels good. That’s normal. Nobody wants to lose.)
At the end of the day, I rather learn from others, or possibly inspire others, than brag to others.
My cousin has improved a lot since day one. It’s the growth. Coach would be proud of him.
12/9/2018
In hiking, I am able to completely function more. All of my five senses fully function on a hike.
Luckily, all of my five senses are still functioning. I am not getting any younger.
Go with what you can sense on a hike. Start your journey.
In hiking, I am able to completely function more. All of my five senses fully function on a hike.
Luckily, all of my five senses are still functioning. I am not getting any younger.
Go with what you can sense on a hike. Start your journey.
12/6/2018
"Go with whatever is good for you," a good friend once told me.
"Go with whatever is good for you," a good friend once told me.
12/3/2018
Breathing is what keeps us from living.
Breathing is what keeps us from living.
11/24/2018
I used to have enemies. I would hate it, if enemies copied me, like the way I dressed, talked, and etc.
Before, my enemies hugely boosted my confidence. I always wanted to be better than them. That was my purpose in life.
If I had any problems with my enemies, I would never tell them. As time flies, the anger would build up as I kept "it" inside me. There'll come a time, when I will blow up at my enemy. That was my younger-self.
For instance, I held many grudges with my friends and relatives. I would extremely snap at them. Then, hold a grudge.
The hatred, and huge ego took over me. This expended most of my energy. I was exhausted. It is not worth to have enemies anymore.
No winner, no loser. No more enemies. No more grudges. No more competition. No more jealousy.
If anybody copies me, I am happy. I am sharing my knowledge and experience to you. That is inspiring. If you beat me in something, I congratulate you with a thumbs up, and a smile.
We have different beliefs, values, and ideas in life. I respect it. I am not gonna force anybody in listening to my way of life anymore. I make mistakes. I am no god to anybody anymore. I cannot force somebody to change.
Peacefulness, gratefulness, and forgiveness leads to happiness.
I used to have enemies. I would hate it, if enemies copied me, like the way I dressed, talked, and etc.
Before, my enemies hugely boosted my confidence. I always wanted to be better than them. That was my purpose in life.
If I had any problems with my enemies, I would never tell them. As time flies, the anger would build up as I kept "it" inside me. There'll come a time, when I will blow up at my enemy. That was my younger-self.
For instance, I held many grudges with my friends and relatives. I would extremely snap at them. Then, hold a grudge.
The hatred, and huge ego took over me. This expended most of my energy. I was exhausted. It is not worth to have enemies anymore.
No winner, no loser. No more enemies. No more grudges. No more competition. No more jealousy.
If anybody copies me, I am happy. I am sharing my knowledge and experience to you. That is inspiring. If you beat me in something, I congratulate you with a thumbs up, and a smile.
We have different beliefs, values, and ideas in life. I respect it. I am not gonna force anybody in listening to my way of life anymore. I make mistakes. I am no god to anybody anymore. I cannot force somebody to change.
Peacefulness, gratefulness, and forgiveness leads to happiness.
11/23/2018
“Gratitude leads to happiness.”
This podcast episode from James Altucher interviewing AJ Jacobs is almost similar to my previous blog entries about peacefulness, and forgiveness.
I learned that gratefulness leads to peacefulness, and forgiveness.
Thus, gratefulness, peacefulness, and forgiveness lead to happiness.
For instance, we complain about big rig trucks on the road. They cause traffic. Well, they deliver goods to us, such as our clothes. Be grateful on it, and dig deeper on where it originally came from.
We say, “Thank you.” That is programmed in our minds, like greeting people, “Have a nice day.”
Mix it up. For instance, from my family and friends, I have been receiving greetings today, “Happy Thanksgiving.”
Then, I specifically message each of them, “I am very grateful to...”
“Gratitude leads to happiness.”
This podcast episode from James Altucher interviewing AJ Jacobs is almost similar to my previous blog entries about peacefulness, and forgiveness.
I learned that gratefulness leads to peacefulness, and forgiveness.
Thus, gratefulness, peacefulness, and forgiveness lead to happiness.
For instance, we complain about big rig trucks on the road. They cause traffic. Well, they deliver goods to us, such as our clothes. Be grateful on it, and dig deeper on where it originally came from.
We say, “Thank you.” That is programmed in our minds, like greeting people, “Have a nice day.”
Mix it up. For instance, from my family and friends, I have been receiving greetings today, “Happy Thanksgiving.”
Then, I specifically message each of them, “I am very grateful to...”
11/19/2018
When somebody dies, most people regret to say goodbye.
Peace be with you. I forgive you. That's my goodbye.
If I am able to be at peace with others, the hatred fades. The wound heals.
First and foremost, I have unleashed a natural superpower of peacefulness, and forgiveness.
When somebody dies, most people regret to say goodbye.
Peace be with you. I forgive you. That's my goodbye.
If I am able to be at peace with others, the hatred fades. The wound heals.
First and foremost, I have unleashed a natural superpower of peacefulness, and forgiveness.
11/19/2018
Whenever somebody told me their same story over and over, my younger-self would always say,
"I told you so. C'mon, be aware of what you do. You should have done this..." (He or she never learns.)
Now, I would tell him or her,
"It is okay. Until the day I die, I continue on learning. We live in an imperfect world."
Whenever somebody told me their same story over and over, my younger-self would always say,
"I told you so. C'mon, be aware of what you do. You should have done this..." (He or she never learns.)
Now, I would tell him or her,
"It is okay. Until the day I die, I continue on learning. We live in an imperfect world."
11/17/2018
In his creativity and ingenuity, Stan Lee made us picture in our minds his superheroes, such as Spiderman, Wolverine, Black Panther, and others. They had superpowers. They were out of the ordinary. Furthermore, they had human feelings.
You can still be a superhero. No need for superpowers.
Stan Lee is a superhero to me. He impacted my childhood, and adulthood life. He defined heroism for a very long time.
Thank you, Stan Lee. Rest in peace.
If I am able to at least inspire somebody in my blog, I have unleashed my superpower.
I cannot be a superhero to everybody. That's impossible. For the reason that, the world population stands at about 7.7 billion people.
In his creativity and ingenuity, Stan Lee made us picture in our minds his superheroes, such as Spiderman, Wolverine, Black Panther, and others. They had superpowers. They were out of the ordinary. Furthermore, they had human feelings.
You can still be a superhero. No need for superpowers.
Stan Lee is a superhero to me. He impacted my childhood, and adulthood life. He defined heroism for a very long time.
Thank you, Stan Lee. Rest in peace.
If I am able to at least inspire somebody in my blog, I have unleashed my superpower.
I cannot be a superhero to everybody. That's impossible. For the reason that, the world population stands at about 7.7 billion people.
11/14/2018
No winner, no loser. I’m not trying to either prove a point, or choose a side. I’m at peace. You can say what you want. No more enemies. No more grudges.
In the end, we are gonna die. We have no idea exactly how, when, and where we will die. We are uncertain when to say goodbye, before he or she dies. That’s normal.
Most importantly, being at peace is saying goodbye to you, and everybody. No regrets.
For instance, I’m glad that I came at peace to my tennis and basketball coach. A month and a half later, he passed away.
Peace be with you.
No winner, no loser. I’m not trying to either prove a point, or choose a side. I’m at peace. You can say what you want. No more enemies. No more grudges.
In the end, we are gonna die. We have no idea exactly how, when, and where we will die. We are uncertain when to say goodbye, before he or she dies. That’s normal.
Most importantly, being at peace is saying goodbye to you, and everybody. No regrets.
For instance, I’m glad that I came at peace to my tennis and basketball coach. A month and a half later, he passed away.
Peace be with you.
11/10/2018: About an hour ago, I felt the magnitude 3.7 earthquake.
10 minutes later, it was followed by another quake with a magnitude of 2.7
I remember what my high school English teacher told me, and my classmates.
She said, "I grew up in Japan. I always felt quakes. I am used to it. When I am living here in the Bay Area, it is nothing compared to Japan's quakes."
According to USGS, it states, "Japan is in a very active seismic area, and they have the densest seismic network in the world, so they are able to record many earthquakes."
10 minutes later, it was followed by another quake with a magnitude of 2.7
I remember what my high school English teacher told me, and my classmates.
She said, "I grew up in Japan. I always felt quakes. I am used to it. When I am living here in the Bay Area, it is nothing compared to Japan's quakes."
According to USGS, it states, "Japan is in a very active seismic area, and they have the densest seismic network in the world, so they are able to record many earthquakes."
10/31/2018: My younger-self always wanted attention. Before I would do something, I decided if it is worthy enough as an approval of others. That was my validation.
For instance, I was super happy to drive a brand new car. I heard compliments about it. This truly fed my satisfaction.
Now, when I do something, it is for my approval. Attention is great, but that is not my first priority anymore.
For instance, I enjoy blogging and hiking. This is my happiness.
For instance, I was super happy to drive a brand new car. I heard compliments about it. This truly fed my satisfaction.
Now, when I do something, it is for my approval. Attention is great, but that is not my first priority anymore.
For instance, I enjoy blogging and hiking. This is my happiness.
10/29/2018: I used to be super harsh on people making mistakes. For instance, I would say something like, "They are dumb!"
Now, I have come to realize that I make mistakes as well. When I criticized others, it built my confidence. It felt good. I needed something positive in me. That used to keep me going in life. I would wait for somebody to make a mistake.
This is unhealthy. That was my older-self.
We are imperfect people. When I make mistakes, I admit it. So, I can learn from them.
If you make a mistake, you are human. You have time to grow, evolve, develop, and change. I believe in you.
Now, I have come to realize that I make mistakes as well. When I criticized others, it built my confidence. It felt good. I needed something positive in me. That used to keep me going in life. I would wait for somebody to make a mistake.
This is unhealthy. That was my older-self.
We are imperfect people. When I make mistakes, I admit it. So, I can learn from them.
If you make a mistake, you are human. You have time to grow, evolve, develop, and change. I believe in you.
10/27/2018: When I teach a person something, and the person applies it...
That is my happiness. Sharing my knowledge, and passing it down.
I cannot always through out what I know all at once. We are human. You gotta give us time to process, even myself.
I am not Mr. Know-It-All. My purpose in life is to keep learning.
I just give stories and examples now. I try to avoid giving lectures. I have done many stupid things. I admit it.
That is my happiness. Sharing my knowledge, and passing it down.
I cannot always through out what I know all at once. We are human. You gotta give us time to process, even myself.
I am not Mr. Know-It-All. My purpose in life is to keep learning.
I just give stories and examples now. I try to avoid giving lectures. I have done many stupid things. I admit it.
10/22/2018: Call myself a hypocrite. I am at peace. I wanna be at peace. It is tough to be like Jesus Christ. I admit it.
10/15/2018: It is normal to get angry. Acknowledge your anger, and be mindful of it.
10/12/2018: It's impossible to please everybody.
It's impossible to be liked by everybody.
You can either hate or like me. That's fine. Go with what you want. It's your choice. It's your life.
I'm at peace. I'm focused on myself.
It's impossible to be liked by everybody.
You can either hate or like me. That's fine. Go with what you want. It's your choice. It's your life.
I'm at peace. I'm focused on myself.
10/10/2018: A fresh haircut would be super nice from a barber. I gotta look good in appearance-wise, but I will save $30 a visit. My hair grows fast. $30 a month already piles up. I'm cutting a bit on my spending for now.
10/2/2018: This past week, I have been slowly cleaning my sister's room. Last night, I had a dream about my sister. Before, I had many visitation dreams about her, when she was gone.
This morning, I painted her closet. Tomorrow, I am gonna finish painting her room.
This morning, I painted her closet. Tomorrow, I am gonna finish painting her room.
9/27/2018
Before, I used to worry about others too much. It would always get in my head. I worried for others because I wanted the best of them. Most importantly, it is impossible to please everybody. Also, I realized that I wanted the best of them, but it probably was not what they wanted anyway. Actually, I ended up forcing them than being kind.
I cannot control somebody's life.
Now, I am focused on myself.
Before, I used to worry about others too much. It would always get in my head. I worried for others because I wanted the best of them. Most importantly, it is impossible to please everybody. Also, I realized that I wanted the best of them, but it probably was not what they wanted anyway. Actually, I ended up forcing them than being kind.
I cannot control somebody's life.
Now, I am focused on myself.
9/22/2018: Risk, and react.
9/20/2018
I used to force people so they can tag along with me. I hated going out alone. I used to worry about what others will think about me. Now, I don't care anymore.
I like being alone. When I'm alone, I can do anything I want. No time conflicts. No rush. No need to worry about the other person. For instance, I enjoyed my solo travel experience in China and in the Philippines.
I'm going to see Miguel live tonight at San Jose.
I used to force people so they can tag along with me. I hated going out alone. I used to worry about what others will think about me. Now, I don't care anymore.
I like being alone. When I'm alone, I can do anything I want. No time conflicts. No rush. No need to worry about the other person. For instance, I enjoyed my solo travel experience in China and in the Philippines.
I'm going to see Miguel live tonight at San Jose.
9/16/2018
My appearance used to hurt me before. I had an extremely low self-esteem when I was younger. I had huge acne on my face. I was mainly focused on others thinking about me.
Now, I'm mainly focused on myself. I change, so I can impress myself, not others.
My appearance used to hurt me before. I had an extremely low self-esteem when I was younger. I had huge acne on my face. I was mainly focused on others thinking about me.
Now, I'm mainly focused on myself. I change, so I can impress myself, not others.
9/15/2018: More possessions, more stress. It piles up. I'm slowly decluttering my stuff. I'm learning how to let go.
9/15/2018: I continue on reading and learning. I'll only learn more, if I ever apply it. Most importantly, I need to take the risk and react. Otherwise, I'll just play it safe.
9/9/2018: "Communication is key." Not necessarily. It depends if you and the person are able to friendly communicate with each other.
9/7/2018: Things change. Accept change.
9/6/2018: Expect failure. Expect rejection. This is reality. Be aware of it, and learn from it. Let the mind know that.
8/25/2018: Trust the process. Bad things can happen. You cannot control the outcome.
8/22/2018
You witness something suspicious through your surveillance camera, while you watch Netflix. You catch a man attempting to steal your car. You panic. You realize that you have to figure out something fast without using guns. You slowly take a deep breath to stay calm. You scare him away by using your other car's remote with its "panic" button.
That was me.
You witness something suspicious through your surveillance camera, while you watch Netflix. You catch a man attempting to steal your car. You panic. You realize that you have to figure out something fast without using guns. You slowly take a deep breath to stay calm. You scare him away by using your other car's remote with its "panic" button.
That was me.
8/20/2018
You are focused on expectation. You see happiness from others. The mind wants that.
You go on sharing your highlight reel of your life. Welcome to social media. The mind wants that.
This is reality.
We usually chase something whenever money is involved. Imagine if there was no money in this world.
My happiness is:
-To keep inspiring others, such as this blog.
-To continue hiking. (Before us, nature was created.)
-To keep learning.
-To ask, and listen. (Hear stories from others)
-To have a clean heart. (Unconditional love)
-To be at peace.
You are focused on expectation. You see happiness from others. The mind wants that.
You go on sharing your highlight reel of your life. Welcome to social media. The mind wants that.
This is reality.
We usually chase something whenever money is involved. Imagine if there was no money in this world.
My happiness is:
-To keep inspiring others, such as this blog.
-To continue hiking. (Before us, nature was created.)
-To keep learning.
-To ask, and listen. (Hear stories from others)
-To have a clean heart. (Unconditional love)
-To be at peace.
8/19/2018: LOVE is just a 1-syllable, 4-letter word. L-O-V-E. Truly, it has many definitions to it. We each have a heart. That is love.
A travel buddy once told me, "You gotta love yourself first, in order to love her (or anybody else)."
A travel buddy once told me, "You gotta love yourself first, in order to love her (or anybody else)."
8/17/2018: You witness an argument with disagreements on each side. It goes back and forth, like a ping pong ball. It's crazy.
8/17/2018: A good friend asked me, "What's your purpose in life? Just focus only on yourself, not others."
I answered, "That's a good question. To keep learning."
I answered, "That's a good question. To keep learning."
8/12/2018: I have met a lot of people through traveling, and even dating. Honestly, I cannot remember all of them one by one. It is impossible.
I meet somebody. We connect. That spark at that moment. Then, time flies as the relationship goes. I reach out to them. It has been different. We grow apart from each other. It just happens. No real answer in life. No regrets in life.
Lastly, it's impossible to remain in contact with everybody you know.
I meet somebody. We connect. That spark at that moment. Then, time flies as the relationship goes. I reach out to them. It has been different. We grow apart from each other. It just happens. No real answer in life. No regrets in life.
Lastly, it's impossible to remain in contact with everybody you know.
8/9/2018: Less talking, more listening.
8/4/2018: I heard a news from a friend, relative, or somebody. I used to go on speculating about it. Speculation goes on. Gossip and drama start. Fake news. To come and think about it, I completely wasted my energy.
8/2/2018: Before, I used to change, so I can impress others. Now, I change, so I can impress myself.
7/31/2018: No need to memorize. Go on, and improvise.
7/23/2018: You are angry at somebody. You stay away. You believe you are right. Possibly, you are waiting for that somebody to apologize. You are curious about that person. Somewhat, you do care. Perhaps, you wanna know how that person is. Therefore, you try to be better than him or her. It is what keeps you going in life. That was me before. Be a peacemaker, not a winner.
7/20/2018: It's impossible to please everybody.
7/18/2018: A great question to ask anybody, and even myself is "What is important to you?"
7/8/2018: I need space. I am human. I gotta recharge. It's not you. It's me.
7/7/2018: You are what you hear and listen.
7/3/2018: When I was younger, I wanted to fit in. I was not myself. As I am growing older, I have become more open. This is my true-self.
7/1/2018: If you have a different faith and/or religion, that's fine. Go with what you believe in. I respect you. I am pluralistic. I was baptized Catholic. From middle to high school, I went to a Catholic school. I am not a fully devoted Catholic. I am agnostic. You can say what you want on that I believe in. I am not hear to preach, please, or impress everybody. That is impossible. Toughest part in every religion and/or faith is accepting each other. Comparing others religion and/or faith makes us feel superior.
6/26/2018: My cousin asked me a question, "If you were 90 years old, would you choose to have a 30-year-old body, or a 30-year-old brain?" I answered, "The 30-year-old brain. So, I can remember moments and memories to people I have connected with. Also, I can learn more. The mind is powerful."
6/26/2018: Life is an up and down journey.
6/24/2018: Things do not go your way. You want what you want, but you can only control yourself, not others. No more pointing fingers at others. For instance, I want everybody to be at peace. Another example is I am searching for the right one, but I cannot force the lady. Respect the lady. That is selfish. Realization.
6/19/2018: No whining, no complaining. Live the lifestyle.
6/16/2018: Understanding who people are, and making adjustments.
6/14/2018: You are who you are. Be yourself. Not really. You can evolve and grow, I believe in you.
6/13/2018: My good cousin asked me, "If you saw God, what would you ask him?" I answered to him, "I would like to know how my sister is doing. Is she still at 18 years old, or is she 33 years old now? Can I please see her now?"
6/11/2018: Choose sides or not. Go with what you want. It's your choice. It's your life. I used to have many enemies. I am at peace. I have a cleaner heart than ever before. Most importantly, death brings us together with sadness. Death is arbitrary, for the reason that, most people do not want to die. You born, you live, and you die. A baby is born. It brings us together with happiness. It is a cycle of human life.
6/11/2018: My kid cousin showed me her journal about family. She wrote about family consisting of a mother, father, brothers, and sisters. Obviously, she was describing her family. I slowly read it out loud to her. I told her, "Whenever something happens to you, you have your family. This is unconditional love. We are family. You are not alone.
6/10/2018: It was 11pm. Even though my Auntie looked very tired and exhausted, she had to see her patient. I told her, "You are the real superhero, not Spider-Man. You sacrifice your time to save lives. I am inspired."
6/8/2018: Judging others makes us feel better about ourselves. Observing others makes us learn better about ourselves. Until the day I die, I will continue on reinventing myself.
6/5/2018: This morning, I told her, "You are a great listener. You hear everybody's stories, and even their problems. I continued on telling her, "Mix it up. I wanna really hear from you. Ask, and listen." Then, I began asking her a question.
12/19/2017: The past is remembered. Live in the moment. The future is in you.
12/14/2017: Be humble to others. Do not expect anything in return. Be your true-self.
11/27/2017: Let it be. Be free.
11/2017: No "I." It is "us."
11/2017: Do not hesitate, or else it is too late
11/2017: Respect the lady.
11/2017: Ask, and listen
11/2017: I shall see.
11/2017: Make the change, or stay the same. You choose your life. It is understanding who you are.
11/2017: It is what it is...That's how it is.
11/2017: The game is in my blood.
11/2017: Relationships come unexpectedly.
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