Day 16

Today, the Philippines welcomed its new Leader- President Benigno Aquino III. Personally, I voted the elected President, and I believe that he won for a reason. I believe a new life for my country.

If President Noynoy gave his Inspirational-Inaugural Speech for the country, I will give my personal citizen's speech. Allow me to narrate it:

My Personal Citizen's Speech

There is a reason why I was born here. There is a purpose why Im not an American, a Japanese, an Arab or an Australian. There is a reason why I am a Filipino. God has placed me here for a reason.

My country has suffered a lot. It was bruised many times. It was degraded for many centuries. Now, let the prophecies be fulfilled, that this nation will rise above other nations. That this nation will rise again to proclaim the glory of God.

Bayang Magiliw, Perlas ng Silanganan, LUPANG HINIRANG, Duyan ng Magiting, Lupa ng araw-- these phrases are not just lyrics from the national anthem, but they are fulfillment to God's promises.

"If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land." - 2 Chronicles 7:14

As a citizen of this Country, I will do my best in order to fulfill my Country's Dream.

As a leader and member of the Church, I will help the church in nurturing the Youth and Children in terms of their relationship with the Great King. I will use my abilities in proclaiming God's goodness to the World. By producing Christ-loving and Christ-like individuals, our country will soar like an eagle.

As a public servant and employee of Department of Trade and Industry I will help my country in developing its industries and businesses, to encourage individuals to put up their businesses,to promote the products of this province and this country. I will do my best to be a good employee, to be aware and vigilant of any misconducts.

As a member of my family, I will love my parents and honor them. I will be a good example and inspiration to my cousins and younger relatives. The family is the smallest unit of the society, stronger Families means stronger Country.

As an individual gifted with life by the great King, i will take responsibility for my actions, I will take care of my body, I will do small things with big impacts, I will have sex after marriage, I will throw the trash on the proper bin, I will exercise, I will not overwork, I will cross the pedestrian lane, I will pay my taxes, I will vote, I will not abuse my body with cigars and beers, I will continue loving, singing, dreaming, hoping, becoming the person God wanted me to be.

This is my offering for my country.

This is my contribution for the country's welfare.

So Help me God.

God Bless the Philippines!

Day 15

Prince Max supports: Queen Rachel's Love Project

Well, as her little brother, Im here to support my Big Sister's crazy but interesting project for her Kingdom-- The Love Project.

Queen Rachel of the Southern Valleys is a love advocate. She enthusiastically dreams for the King who will melt her heart and finally complete the missing pieces of her life. If my 500 Days of Rebellion Project purports revolt against mediocrity, her Love Project stress for self discovery and a readying project for her future wedlock.

The Great King has instilled creativity, enthusiasm and unconditional love to Queen Rachel, that is why she deserves a counterpart that will complement her in the areas of her life and to run their Kingdom according to the purposes of the Great King.

Let us accompany Queen Rachel in her journey, pray for her future "Knight in Shining Armor" and of course follow her blog:

www.dloveproject.blogspot.com

Long Live the Great King!

Day 14

500 Days of Rebellion is not just about Rebellion against mediocrity, but its also Rebellion against Forgetfulness--forgetfulness in terms of forgetting people who changed your life, forgetting ideas that once made you, forgetting your "birthplace", your "source", your "pinagmulan".

In life we often meet different people as we journey along through it's ins and outs. There are people that you see everyday, like the driver of a cab, the security guard in the office, the merchant near your house. There are some people that pass by in your life just to say HI. But there are some that have significant value to us. They are not just acquaintances, not just friends, but they become part of you that is difficult to "dislodge" in your system. No matter what happen in your life, there are some people that still composes you, that makes you.
Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity! Psalm 133



Im talking about my Royal Siblings. The Royal Siblings was established last December 2008 during the time that I was so depressed because I suddenly longed for siblings. Yes, I am an only child and there came a point that I felt so alone because Im afraid to finally finish my college and enter the adult realm. I also suffered from an attachment disorder that saying temporary "goodbyes" really made me sad. I did not know what came to me that time, but I did not expect that it will bear a fruit. Weeping may endure for the night, but Joy comes in the morning (Psalm 30:5)

The Great King opened doors and expressed His great love for me by providing me 7 wonderful people which turned out to be my 'Non-Biological Siblings". These siblings came from different sources... some from the church, some from the school, some from the theater. Each sibling has provided me sub-siblings, which made me happier. I prayed for one, he gave me multitudes.

Almost 2 years has passed and each sibling has developed their own kingdoms and pursued their own dreams. Some entered adolescence, some entered adulthood. But in my heart, they are still the same-- Special, wonderful, genuine, good royalties.

This group is one of the treasures I have in my life. This will never fade because I know, God gave them to me, God gave me to them... and I know, all of us, will declare His glory til the end of days.

Today's post is dedicated for them. Meet my Royal Siblings. We were all 8, representing the 8 directions:

In Order of Age:

1. Queen Danielle of the Western Hills, the Favorable
2. King Harold of the Eastern Sun, the Guide
3. Queen Rachel of the Southern Valleys, the Wise
4. Prince Darby of the Northern Sky, the Magnificent
5. Princess Faye of the Northeastern Seas, the Gentle
6. Prince Andrew of Northwestern Jungle, the Just
7. Princess Andrea of Southwestern Shore, the Valiant
8. Knight Carlgel of Southwestern Woods, the Innocent

Day 13

Delayed Post for June 27, 2010

The Fellowship of the Youth sang a hymn entitled Mighty to Save during the service at The Aldersgate Cathedral. Mighty to save. For me, its more than a song but its what the Great King did for me—H e saved me from death. A love that is never failing. Hope of Nation. Author of Salvation. MY KING. Mighty…so mighty that words cannot express.

My “Mighty to Save” story started 7 years ago. I was young then and I was caught up in the uncertainties of the adolescent life. Confusions and doubts bombarded my thoughts. “Who am I?”, “What is life all about?”, “Is there really a God?” questions flooded my mind. I was shy and have no potential to lead. I have no confidence, I stutter, and a certified pessimist. I don’t know where I am going.

Until one day, I was invited in a certain activity. It was there when I realized that LIFE is not about me and I cannot save myself. That’s it.. ITS NOT ABOUT ME! That’s the answer to my questions. I need a God, and I need a Great King to save me. I need to live my life for Him and not to live it for myself.

Whats your “Mighty to Save Story”?

Day 12

Homesick

There was a point in my life that I felt series of Homesickness. Its one of the worst seasons of my life.
I worked at a certain company which required me to handle 1/2 of Luzon. It was a large area therefore giving me large responsibility. Technically, I was away from home during weekdays and stayed at different hotels.

I cant deny the fact that Hotels give me doses of pleasure. Aside from the friendly staff that treats you like real royalties, their buffet is like a dream. Hundreds and Hundreds of meals from different origins are there, and all you have to do is to choose and eat. The comfortable bed with white covers, the soft towels, the freebies in the bathroom, warm showers...the list goes on.

But at the end of the day, before I sleep, theres something in me that really misses Home. Unconsciously, it led me to tears. I missed the smell of sauteed food of my mom, the smell of the termite-infested wood, the plastic flowers decoration of my grandma, the quilted coverings of my bed, the old-school pictures in our wall, my dad's showcase of HotWheel toys, our mini-pinscher, my desk, our small garden...everything about home.

Everytime my parents drive me to the Bus Station at 4am during Mondays, I often feel distressed that I have to leave them for another week. Me and my parents have this uncomparable bond that leaving them really sucks. That scenario during Mondays continued for weeks.

The hostility of my North Luzon office added to my agony. I was 5 hours away from home and I do not feel happy. During those times, I planned to just stand up, carry my bag, leave the office and head towards home.

I wonder what our Overseas Workers feel being far away from home. Homesickness manifested in my life like I just cry for no reason at all, and Im just 5 hours away from home and within the bounds of the country.

Home is where the heart is. Its a very common and overused quote, but its really true. It is in our Home where we could be ourselves, where we could do things that we really love, where we could rest.

God is like our home. It is in God that we find peace during our dark times. It is in God that we find hope during hopelessness. It is in God that we find answers to our doubts. He is our refuge and stronghold in times of trouble. Let us come to him for rest, for restoration, for LIFE.

What about you?Are you homesick?

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WELCOME TO MY HOME

My closet door

The view from my window

Here's my working desk--where I write my blog

My Statue of Liberty Decor

The shell curtain for the second floor.

The plastic flowers of my lola

Pictures on the wall

A sculpture of Jesus

My Dad's Vintage Car Collection

Our Mini Pinscher-- Chico

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Day 11

This is going to be a long long post, for DAY 11, is the beginning of the adventures of Prince Max.

THE VISIT

The Kingdom of Toivoa was often visited by notable men and women, foreign dignitaries, ambassadors, and Royalties like me.

Today, I received a royal visit from a neighboring Kingdom called Rauha (meaning Peace) led by Princess Belle. Here's a blog written by the mentioned princess, Princess Belle: A CALL FOR ROYAL HIGHNESS
by Princess Belle

I am a traveler, a wanderer. I’ve left my empire to have an alliance with another neighboring kingdom. My purpose is to establish a strong treaty with them in order to fortify our economy; enhance our warriors; develop our skills and knowledge and harness our abilities and talents. My sovereignty was known for producing good musicians and writers; hence, I am journeying a long course to find that monarchy.

Until…

I found my feet stepping in the Kingdom of Toivoa, a land full of colorful places. The fancy outlook of the castle plus the bright shades makes me wonder what was this kingdom all about. Without any second thoughts, I enter the empire and saw its wonderful sceneries. People are smiling and greeted me a Great morning as I walked closely to the palace. The way of living there was simple, yet very classy and innovative. They continue to invent more and more equipments that will make their economy prosper. They have different means of transportation and one of those is their so called “Kalesa”, a box type carrier that is being pulled by a horse. They also have buildings and classrooms for music and writers, same as with ours. They all have great stuffs there.

But…

The things that inspired me most are the sanctuaries that are build on every corner. People there recognized the sovereignty and greatness of our Great King, same as with ours. And the beautiful gardens alongside makes me admire the place, and the ruler that was entrusted by the GREAT KING. These trigger me more to meet the prince, their leader. I’ve heard that his name is Prince Max.

I’ll be meeting the prince this evening over dinner and a cup of coffee. I hope we will have a great talk.

This is really a call for Royal Highness.

***

Chef D' Angelo (plus Starbucks) : The Dinner worth Remembering with Princess Belle

Located at SM Pampanga, Chef D' Angelo is another restaurant you should never miss. The American-Italian theme of the place really got my attention. Cheap price plus food quality plus big servings is also a win for me!

I ordered a huge Garlic Mushroom Burger and she ordered Spaghetti Carbonara.

The place is informal, but not that of a fast food restaurant--its more classy compared to that.
Their Iced tea has this berry taste that leaves a tangy sensation in your mouth. Unfortunately, they served it with less ice. Another turn off was that they have an extra charge for mayonnaise.

But everything was worth it and I give 4 stars to Chef D' Angelo!

***

The Notes

After the dinner, the Princess of Rauha and I exchanged notes. It was a symbol that TOIVOA and RAUHA are now officially partners in bringing glory to the Great King! Long live TOIVOA, Long love RAUHA! Long Live the Great King!

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THE ROYAL LIBRARY: HOMESICK



I saw this really cheap book entitled HOMESICK. It was a story behind Bart Millard's song Homesick (if you dont know the song, upload it in Youtube, type Homesick by Mercy Me) . It was about our status here on earth: WE ARE NOT OF THIS WORLD.

I havent read it yet,but I listened to the song already and I know this book will be a blessing for me and for others as well.

A DVD of the song was included in the book.

***

Before I end day eleven, I just want to share with you 2 notes I placed on my workstation at the League of the Merchant Helpers. Have a great and blessed day!

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Day 10

We all have goals right? As a prince and part of the league of merchant helpers, my major goal is to serve the people. But sometimes, no matter how clear our goals are, we often forget them,lead us to confusion and leave us hanging with a question mark in our head.

I encountered 2 "high-maintenance" people today asking for an assistance. The first one narrated a complaint regarding a merchant who allegedly flimflammed her. The other one has this irritating voice who kept on asking for various requests. I was literally pissed off.

But, upon reflection, I realized that this was my purpose why I joined the league--to help people in need.

In times of troubles, during uncomfortable moments, during hardships, during confusing times, let us PUSH the PAUSE button and remind ourselves of our goals and our reason of existence.

***

This was a delayed post. I was really tired yesterday (June 24, 2010). WE went back to Bambusca Tribe in the afternoon to meet some notable people there. It was fun, but tiring.

A little bamboo attached in the big bamboo.

Members of the league and the incoming Mayor of Lubao :)

The road to Bambusca Tribe

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Day 9

I cant believe that time flies so fast..I mean really fast. One day we were like kids playing Mario Brothers and Pac Man using our Family Computer and the ever so famous Brickgame...then all of a sudden, we are swiping almost everything with our fingers. I am guilty of that because I own 2 touch screen gadgets, Hachi (my new cellphone) and Jireh (my iPod touch). (Thank God for these gadgets)

The actual KALESA I rode

Everything has changed, as in almost everything. Like during the Spanish Occupation, the eliteness of an individual was determined by his manner of living. Riding a Kalesa is one of the determinants whether you belong in the elite class or the not-so-elite class. I cant understand why riding kalesa these days made us feel awkward.

Today was a real "DO A HARD THING" experience for me. On my home, I rode the Kalesa. It felt good, though you cant really avoid the stares of the people-- a corporate guy like me riding the Kalesa. The anticipation for awkwardness became a learning experience for me...that there are new things that we need to love and old things that we need to cherish.

I love the Kalesa and will forever love it.

I remembered a song when i was a kid and we used to sing it during my glee club days. It goes like this:

Kalesa'y may pang-akit na taglay
Maginhawa't di maalinsangan
Nakahahalina kung pagmasdan
Kalesa ay pambayang sasakyan

Kabayo ay di natin problema
Pulot at damo lang ay tama na
Matulin din sa kalsada
Tumatakbong maginhawa
Wala pang gasolina

From this day onwards, I hereby declare, that the KALESA will be the official mode of transport of the Kingdom Toivoa.

Long Live the Great King!

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SUMO SAM

Today, a good friend of mine, a balikbayan from the States, Jecy Marie, invited me to hang out, to have a little chat and to have a HUGE update with each other. We chose to dine at the Japanese-Inspired Restaurant--SUMO SAM.

The RED HOT JAPANESE ambiance was a turn on. The decorations and the table arrangement justified the said theme. It was not a cozy place for family hang outs but its more of a night-out Corporate Barkada restaurant. I dont recommend this to students because the price is. . . oh never mind.

Conversation?I guess because of the RED AMBIANCE, our conversations were majorly related to heartbreak stories and more serious matters. (right ate jem? LOL)

For the food, I cannot contest the fact that it doesnt taste "instant" like any other Japanese Restaurants. Also, variety of SUSHI'S and MAKI'S are available.

SUMO SAM is located at the 2nd Floor of Marquee Mall, Angeles City.

(Thanks Ate Jem for the hang out! See you next week! Dont leave yet ok?)

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Day 8

Fingerprints never fail to amaze me. No one in this world have the same fingerprints like yours. No 2 persons have the same fingerprints, even the people who already lived and died. Since the beginning of time til the end of it, your fingerprint will be unique. This fact only proves that there is a GOD!



Today I was enrolled at the Biometrics Detector of the League of Merchant Helpers. I was amazed how it detected the complicated-pattern of my fingerprints. I am unique, you are unique. The Great King's love is unique, manifested in unique ways.

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OLD SPAGHETTI HOUSE

Last Sunday we celebrated Father's Day at Old Spaghetti House located at the Marquee Mall, Angeles City.

We really enjoyed not only the food but also the ambiance of the restaurant. Admittedly, I prioritize ambiance over food. For me, the ambiance of the restaurant will definitely invite meaningful conversations for the diners and to give them an excellent dining experience. As for the OSH, a woody and solemn 1950s nostalgia was their theme decorated with antique gizmos and knickknacks .

This is my mom and the man of the day, my Dad.

A good friend of mine, Vina, celebrated father's day with us :)

Anyway, the food was really reasonable. They offer big servings for a cheaper price. Highly recommended for family dinners or lunches. As for me, Im really curious to try other dishes offered. Til next time :)

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