Its an ugly word because it causes pain to well-meaning and caring people. Traditions and cultures are also misunderstood and often leads to speculation. Filipinos are closely knit families. We bathe our kids, show affection openly that other cultures may find irregular. I remember a case wherein a father was charged in court because their neighbor saw him bating his son. To us this caring and not malicious. The problem lies in the ignorance of cultures and the difference in norms.

Another problem is the rigidity in belief. Some people simply see what they want to see without ever dissecting the situation. Speculation is a result of malice. Why do I discuss this you might ask? Because as we break down borders, cultures clash and misunderstanding arises. It would be nice to live in a society that understands culture. Gossip is also a product of malice. How many marriages are wrecked because of this? I’m sure that at one time in your life you’ve been a victim of such practice.

If only people would see differently, the world would be a better place to live in. If only people would be more inquisitive than speculative, maybe we would get along better. But of course, we should also know what is wrong or right, good and evil. Remember, a sin is always a sin.

As more and more weight-loss pills are introduced, bad effects are becoming a concern. Just recently, a supplement was banned because it damages the liver. Liporexall is a supplement that regulates your sugar and also improves your metabolism. It’s has no side effects that some experience from other pills. Just imagine being able to enjoy that foods you like to eat without feeling the guilt afterwards. But of course nothing beats the natural way, do your execise regularly. As they say, “No pain, no gain.” With the cost of healthcare nowadays, it’s a sin to get sick.

With the economic situation gripping the world, more and more people are changing careers. One sector that needs more people is the health sector. Nurses, caregivers and other medical workers are desperately needed around the world. As more healthcare jobs open, the unemployed and even those in college are shifting careers and courses to feel the gap. Healthcare is a rewarding field with some of the most high-paying jobs available. My cousin is in fact training now to be a caregiver and a friend is now a nurse. I hope they’ll be more successful in their new-found careers.

My aunt who lives in Los Angeles has finally decided to move. Her children have all married and are living in Connecticut and New York. So she packed up, hired some cross country movers and left L.A. where they lived for almost three decades. Our culture dictates close family ties. Rarely do you see families live far from each other. I’m glad she decided to move to the East. She’s alone after her husband passed away a couple of years ago. At least now, she’ll be near her kids and grandchildren. And this will allow her to move on with her life.

If there’s a song that would fit Michael’s life, this is it.  He lived a life of make-believe, in the end, he died a very lonely man.

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My old camcorder is kaput. I have to buy a new one and I’ve been shopping around for a new one. I’ve checked out some but with so many too choose from with so little detail, I’m at a loss of what to buy. I’d like a small but very versatile one that would suit my needs. My kids have also been nagging to get one. camcorders are a big part of our lives as we’ve used them to create journals of our special moments. We often spend Sundays watching our home videos and it’s a great alternative to going out to bond. I’m getting old and soon, these videos will be my only reminder of the fun my kids and I had when they were young. It would also be a good way to show my future grandchildren of how loony their parents were. They’ll surely have a good laugh.

A heart attack is no joke and it could hit anyone even the more healthy ones. sometimes, professional help comes too late but this can be avoided. Knowing CPR is good but sometimes not enough. Having an AED (automated external defibrillator) is an excellent device. The device is so easy to use that even an untrained person can use it and prevent a tragedy. Heart disease is a silent killer. We should always be prepared for this. Having a healthy lifestyle is a good start but we can never be sure. Maybe Michael Jackson would still be with us if only they had an AED in the house.

My kids have been hounding me for a trip. It’s been a while since we travelled. Unlike my eldest, my son hasn’t been to other places that mcu. He hasn’t even been to Disneyland. I’ve been saving for a family vacation and we’ve been eying some Orlando vacations. That would be an excellent choice since Disneyland, Sea World and even Universal Studios are all there. I’m sure the kids wih have loads of fun. Now if only this swine flu finally passes so we can go ahead with the trip.

Michael Jackson is dead at 50. The man who lived a reclusive life succumbed to cardiac arrest. He may have some issues but his acts of kindness overshadows them. Hailed as the King of Pop, he showed the world what the power of music can do. Who can forget the charity works he did and the impact it had with the people. I lived in his generation. His songs are some of the best I’ve ever listened too.

Deprived of a childhood, Michael refused to grow old. Living in a world of make-believe, he tried to relive the things his missed. The little boy trapped in a grownup’s body lived a lonely life. One of the most reclusive and misunderstood personalities can now move on. As the world comes to grips with his demise, I will celebrate his death. With it comes the end of condemnation.

“We Are The World” and “United We Stand”, just examples of how precious Michael saw life. I will truly miss his music, his dance and the genuine love for life. May you finally find what you’ve been searching for. Rest in peace, my friend.

Aargh! This weather’s driving me nuts. The storm that’s supposed to hit Manila never came. Two days of school were wasted. Huge changes in the weather is largely blamed on global warming. People should really take this problem seriously. Unfortunately, much of the developed countries simply refuse to do their part. At least now, more and more people are aware of the disasters this phenomenon is causing. I’m trying to do my share through recyclyng and using alternative fuels. Plus recycling gives me added earnings.

What I fear most if the seasons join the fray. It’s would be nice to have winter here but what about those who cannot afford winter clothing? Yikes! I shudder at the cost of life it may bring. I’d rather stick to this quirky weather than see thousands perish due to cold. I just hope and pray that that day never comes. Let’s all do our share, this is the only home we have.