When the Elephants Dance

One of the finely written novels of a Filipino-descent author, Tess Uriza Holthe. Set during the Japanese occupation in the Philippines, Miss Holthe showcased the plight of a family and their neighborhood as they try to survive during the war. Views and struggles before and/or during the war of each major character were told after every chapter/sub-chapter.

It was like reading a novel in the tradition of Gabriel Garcia Marquez’ “Hundred Years of Solitude.” The author was somehow effective in infusing magic-realism popularized by Marquez in the story.

I enjoyed the story as colloquial Tagalog was used in some scenes. And I could easily visualize Old Manila and Central Luzon, the novel’s setting. Filipino folklores and traditions were also highlighted making me proud of our rich culture.  It was light and made for easy reading. Though there were dragging chapters but towards the end, it would make you turn pages effortlessly.

One thing I have proven here: I am not good in making book reviews.

Who says I am ferpect? (Classic Laughs for a Crazy Cause)

Just now, a former colleague’s YM status is, “I am not here right now.” This is truly one for the books, a classic one indeed. There’s nothing wrong with it grammatically but she could have easily said, “I am not at my desk” or “I am away.” Well, this same person has her share of anecdotes which may consume a blog entry but I will share some as I randomly remember them. I would also add anecdotes of my other former colleagues, of my friends. This will be my collection of classic jokes.

Did I mention that she pronounces the word ‘mavericks’ with a long A as in “maiv•ricks” and the word ‘archives’ with a short I as in “ar•chives” sounding like achieve? hehehe

She also posted a job opportunity in her YM status before. Her post: WANTED: Accounting Assistants. She should have added dead or alive!

A former classmate of mine applied for a position of Computer Programmer in a shipping company. During her panel interview, she was asked to create a sample of a computer program based on the data given. She sucked but she remained defiant. Wrapping up the interview, she was asked if she has any questions. She replied, “Yes. I do have a question. What are your hobbies?” The panel’s moderator was caught off-guard and felt the need to answer her. After getting one answered, my friend asked the other member of the panel as she said, “And you?” Humirit pa talaga!

One time, This friend of mine was arguing with her foreigner-boyfriend. She had difficulty in explaining her point in English. Her boyfriend got even more mad after she refused to speak up for sometime. After much prodding, she finally spoke up and said, “You’re a monster!” Her boyfriend can’t help but laugh!

While waiting for the elevator on the 9th floor of a condominium building, my friend got irritated and said “Paano aakyat yung elavator, eh hindi ninyo pinondot yung “UP?” May tama ka!

My former associate and I were a discussing an issue regarding OFW’s. Suddenly, I get to ask her, what does the acronym OFW stands for? Her reply: “Overseas Factory Worker” Tinimbang ka ngunit kulang!

A former colleague is known for his side comments that would make you go wild.  One time, he made a  gay-ish  approval to one of our colleagues and said “Dapat bigyan  ka ng  korona at sachet!”  Yes, sachets of shampoo for his crowning glory.

I will add more classics here in the coming days!

Status Quo

There are a lot things to be done yet I am seemingly tired to lift a finger. I am not in my element for reason/s I am still trying to figure out. I could feel that sadness is haunting me. I am not miserable to begin with, though. But everytime I wish to unravel what’s wrong, it points to my lack of inspiration.

For weeks, I am not writing any on this blog. I was asked by a friend why I haven’t updated my blog. I reasoned out my lack of inspiration to do so. I think I am going circles now hehehe. Told you, I am not at my best.

Status quo for now as I make a list of what intend to accomplish in the next few days. I think this would aid me to be more focused.