Thoughts Gone Digital

Reviving an Old Pastime

2021-01-03T11:39:00.002+08:00

It's been such a long time since I wrote anything simply for the fun of it. But it is a new year, and maybe an opportunity to get in touch back with what I used to love. Writing has been a form of release a number of times, but these days, those words remained stuck in my head in an endless loop that keeps me awake at nights, that maybe, its high time I wrote them all down.

On 2020

The year that was...

It was eventful to say the least, but with it, a lot of lessons and changes. Some good, some bad, but ultimately, its a year to be thankful still:

for being alive
for family
for friends
for work
for the unexpected blessings
for the extra time to spend not being taken up by traffic

It was also an opportunity that allowed us to help others even in our own small way. Charity has always been a part of what I do yearly, and last year was no different, except doing different types of stuff compared to just usually emptying out my closets and donating to NGOs.

On 2021

Hopeful and a bit apprehensive, but keeping motivated. Its always a good idea to stay positive.

Keeping this short and sweet as my future giggles cutely and demands attention.

Boob Envy: Why Bigger Isn't Necessarily Better

2014-05-16T14:15:00.000+08:00

For some odd reason or another, I usually find myself encountering situations where I become the subject of boob envy. Granted, my breasts might be slightly bigger than average for an Asian, it doesn't mean I don't deal with problems that comes with it.

Every time I complain about how cumbersome it is, people reacts with the usual "you're blessed so why are you complaining", or "if you don't like it, please donate it to my chest", and other in the same vein. But I wonder if people really understand the dilemma of having larger than average breasts.

Here are some of the things and situations I encountered:

1. Growing breasts are expensive

The main thing to note when your breasts start growing is the need for bigger bras. And they are not cheap. Bras that offer the much-needed support to your growing lady lumps means spending more. It also pays to invest in higher priced bras from reputable brands as they last longer, meaning, you end up spending now, but saving later since you don't have to keep on buying new ones when the underwire pops out, the pads get distorted, the straps had gone bacon, and for other possible bra issues you'll encounter.

2. New wardrobe is expensive

More than just your brasserie needing an upgrade, so does your wardrobe. And again, replacing your entire wardrobe cost a whole lot more than just bras. Favorite tops? Forget about it. They're better off going into a donation box as you'll probably be unable to fit in one. Though the breast growth might be gradual, the reality of your clothes not going to be able to accommodate the growth exists. Spare the loose tops from the closet clean up and say goodbye to structured tops that don't have much stretch. Less pressure on the chest area is a welcome relief to your lungs. Be prepared to invest in clothes that come in stretchier fabric.

3. Button-downs? Have it tailored to fit!

Usually, its the men who visit tailor shops to get fitted for suits and stuff to ensure the perfect silhouette for their physique. But if you have larger than average breast size, it's unavoidable. Wearing a medium button down that used to fit when you're a cup A will pop open when you become a cup B. Likewise, buying a bigger size to fit your chest will look unflattering from the chest down.

4. Never quite knowing what dress size to get

More than troubles with button-downs that won't stay close, choosing which size to shop for in general is a trial and error that wouldn't disappear anytime soon. Medium sizes look great from the chest down, but pretty much creates an unflattering figure for your chest. Large sizes might solve the problem pertaining to the chest area, but becomes too voluminous beneath the breast that the look becomes unbalanced. Who says clothes shopping is relaxing must not have to deal with finding clothes you want in sizes that can't seem to fit properly.

5. No long term relief for back pain

Since breasts are made of mostly fats, it is to be expected that they are quite heavy as well. It's not a treat for your back when gravity weighs down your front.

6. The occasional occurrence of breast pain

Expect to feel sudden jolts of pain in your chest area when doing strenuous activities without proper chest support. As they are juggling masses of tissue, its not surprising over exerting yourself would cause gravity to act on it more and result in that sudden pain.

7. The accidental brush

Bigger chest means higher chances of experiencing strangers brushing past you. Yes, we do our best to protect our chest from being bumped into, but that doesn't mean we'll succeed all the time. Most especially in tightly packed spaces like buses or trains, you'll definitely feel accidental brushes on your lady lumps

8. Face up here, not down there

Ever had the experience of talking to someone whose eyes linger on your chests? Then, welcome to the club. Despite guys claiming they find faces the most attractive part of a female, they still end up zeroing in on those lovely mounds. It can be flattering at times, but its still eye-rape.

9. Bend Down Not

The 'bend and snap' trick shown by Elle Woods of Legally Blonde movie series might seem a good way to attract the opposite sex, but in reality, in a conservative nation, you get chastised when you bent down and expose the top of your breasts unintentionally. I don't think any shirt stays in place on your chest unless it's a body con type fit, and being demure won't pick up your stuff for you when they fall down. But the reaction we get at those instances brings to mind how rape culture places the blame on women being provocative resulting in untoward sexual advances. How can women be practical and do the things they need to do if we're going to be all demure about accidentally showing a bit of skin? It's not a woman's fault if the man can't keep his eyes and his hands to himself. It's also not a woman's fault when her clothes shows a bit more skin when bending down to retrieve something or do some work, it's the other person's fault for injecting explicit thoughts at an otherwise innocent act or gesture.

10. Breast Cancer, enough said

Whether your breast size is natural or enhanced, you're still at risk for breast cancer.

Breasts aren't like things you see in the store with signs that goes, "nice to look, nice to hold, but if you break it, its considered sold". They are a part of your body that you have to live with, learn to navigate the world with, all the while protecting it as much as you can from getting injured. They're not something you can reduce or enlarge at will, without cost.

At the end of the day, the bottom line is love what you have, inconveniences and all. You only have one body, take care of it. Be content with what you have, since the one you're desiring for might not actually be all it's cracked up to be.

I would definitely love to hear your opinions and your own experiences in regards to this, so share away at the comments below.

Taking on the 52 weeks money challenge

2014-01-16T22:24:00.001+08:00

Here's to my first post in 2014!

At present, I am taking on the 52 weeks money challenge! It sounds fairly easy enough when you start it, saving less than a 100 in the first 10 weeks, but it's bound to get more difficult after. On searching for checklists I can use though, I only find guides in doolars. Thus, I'm doing this without any regard for the balance with increments of P 10 rather than P 1. If this proves quite successful a challenge, I might just consider doing this annually, and increasing the increments if I'm able to. Being blind to the end balance means, I'll only find out how much I've actually saved at th end of the 52nd week.

If you feel like starting your own challenge, it's always a good idea to start with a small amount. Set a day during the week when you'll be setting aside your money challenge dues. If you're the type who gets motivated seeing your savings grow, by all means, recycle a clear bottle to serve as your personal bank. If you're going traditional, choosing a coin bank is always a good option. You can also create a checklist for yourself if you're really more into visual motivation, or you can make use of technology and set a 52-week long reminder on your smartphones, tablets or any gadget you use.

There are many wyas to go about it, but at the end of the day, it'll always be exciting to take on new challenges that make you a better person and help teach you about saving and budgeting. Come to think of it, this is actually quite a good exercise to teach kids!

Dealing...

2013-05-21T18:34:00.002+08:00

I always tell myself I would blog more, write more, dream more, think more and put whatever I feel like out there... But as always, that doesn't seem to be the case. I always end up finding myself writing when it gets too crowded emotionally or mentally that I somehow need to vent. True, venting out to friends seems to be the thing best to do, but there are just simply times I appreciate the pseudo-anonymity the internet provides.

So how is it possible that I survived far more pain in the years of past without the need to write it all down, and yet, the pain I suffer in silence currently has begged me to put it all out there? I can't help but wonder if the strength I had stocked up on in the trying parts of life had somehow been depleted tremendously that I am left with the need to vent out, in my typically vague manner, of course.

Either way, I feel a bit better, though I know this is far from over. But reality and responsibility beckons, and I must heed their call for I am not a super woman, nor do I consider myself extraordinarily gifted with inhuman abilities to juggle everything without need for some emotional reprieve.

News Thoughts: RH Bill Approved

2012-12-18T18:21:00.000+08:00

Here's one piece of news that I feel is quite welcome on the heels of the violence of the Connecticut shooting - the RH Bill has finally been approved! Yehey!

Listening on the news last night on the way home, it is very much fun to note that no women member of the Senate had voted against the bill, whereas, the eight senators who had been outvoted are all men. I'm not sure how many voted in the congress are women, but the odds are of course in the favor of the bill at about 60 - 40 split, the actual number of senate being 13 pro - 8 anti, and the congress around 100+ - 80+ (can't recall the exact).

After all the drama that unfolded since its inception, it has been finally approved after the final reading. But its really funny how some of the people involved in passing the bill is so hanged up on the word satisfying. Guess we really are a country run by people who are still unable to grasp the difference between then and now, but luckily for us, we actually do have forward thinkers in the government that looks at it more from the perspective of the realistic need of the country than the spiritual need.

Throughout this event, I am quite glad to note that there are people who started to notice that the church is indeed pushing the boundary protecting the separation of church and state. At least, I'm not the only one noticing how the church seems to want to influence the legislature and allow our country to remain a backward one.

News Thoughts: Royal Family Blamed for Nurse Suicide

2012-12-18T14:44:00.000+08:00

If you haven't been hiding under a rock for the last quarter of the year, news of the Duchess of Cambridge aka Kate Middleton, before her marriage to Prince William of the British throne, being pregnant has been overshadowed by a tragedy.

Such joyous news should have been met with tons of congratulations, loads of royal watchers and baby bump watchers would be clamoring to get a glimpse of the commoner cum royal just to see how far along she is, but instead, a tragedy instigated by a prank call lead to this wondrous occasion to be forever stained.

Jacintha Saldanha, the nurse who committed suicide in her quarters at the King Edward VII Hospital, from what I can gather, was of Indian descent. She was a mother of two and very much married at the time of her demise. She was also the receiver of a prank joke by two Australian DJs of a radio show on 2DayFM, Mel Grieg and Michael Christian, three days prior to her suicide. Found among her belongings were three apparent suicide notes, two of which were readily recovered at the scene of the tragedy and the final one most probably in her luggage as reports indicate vaguely that it was found among her possessions. Also noted, injuries on her wrists were found at the time of her death, their nature has been pretty much left unsaid, and it is my best guess that they could have been signs of cutting injuries. How long they have been there, your guess is as good as mine.

Despite obvious reasons pointing to the suicide as something that had already been attempted at, or at least hinted at, a number of people are placing the blame on the newly-wed Royal couple due simply to their association with the hospital, its staff and of course, being the object of the DJs misfired prank call. The person who has been most notably vocal about the whole thing is Morissey, who seems to think that blaming people simply due to association a very clever and wise move.

It makes you wonder why throw light on the Royal couple when we should be more concerned about the lack of awareness people working and living with Saldanha have. Suicidal tendencies aren't something that happens overnight. It is a long-term psychological problem that should be addressed properly. It is not something people decide to do in the spur of the moment. It is something that increases gradually at a time, as the injuries on her wrists would suggest. Suicidal tendencies exist most especially in people who suffers from some form of depression, but it could also be the result of other things. Since we are of course not aware of what the mother of two had been going through, we cannot therefore simply form assumptions at what could have cause this behavior. The prank call may or may not have been the trigger that led to her final attempt at suicide, albeit a successful one, but unless the contents of the three suicide letters were made public, most especially dates to when it was written, we are pretty much left in the dark of her psychological state at the time.

I am deeply sorry for the royal in the womb, as the reports of its conception has been marred by people wanting to blame his parents simply for their association to a woman who had taken her own life. And to those who still claim the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge cares naught for a fallen health care provider, they best be informed that the couple had issued a joint statement concerning this matter shortly after hearing about this tragedy. You can find their statement here.

Celebrity Thoughts: RobSten Marriage

2012-12-07T09:22:00.001+08:00

It's not everyday I comment on celebrity news, but more than the rumors of Robert Patinson and Kristen Stew, or RobSten, tying the knot soon, the thing that irks me the most at times is how people who don't know the two personally comment on their relationship as if they know better.

Anyway, here's a link to the article about this news: http://ph.omg.yahoo.com/news/pattinson-stewart-split-marriage-170000474.html

While there are some well-wishers commenting on the article, there are quite a huge number of negative criticisms about it. From people predicting they'll divorce within the next five years, people chastising Robert for forgiving Kristen on her ill-advised discretion, to encouraging him to dump Kristen and date around.

Honestly, we live in such a duality. The guys go like dump the girl she cheated on you, she doesn't deserve a second chance, and yet, a number of these same guys boast about having met and dated tons of "good" women. So how is being a serial dater different from cheating on your current girlfriend many times over? Or are we really into the idea of casual relationship where people sleep around and nobody blinks an eyelash at this practice? And then, there's also the girls who judge Kristen harshly for her momentary indiscretion. It's not like it was something she planned on, it was a result of something much more deeper.

People who are serious about their relationship don't just jump into the arms of another unless there's something they're not getting from their partner. It doesn't mean they love their partner any less, it just so happens that there are some things that they feel they don't get at certain points of the relationship. I mean who here hasn't felt under-appreciated occasionally? Who here can say that they're content in their relationship all the time? Who can claim that they never had any bad day in their relationship? If you do, well and good, you must have an extremely one-sided dictated relationship with a mindless partner. As humans, we're thinking creatures, thus, we are meant to work at relationships because without nurturing the relationship, it will fall apart. But that doesn't mean we all know how to work at it to avoid the pitfalls that all relationships seem to encounter one way or another. A relationship is made up of two individuals who want to build a life together, they are not two mindless entities who you can put together and expect them to flourish.

Robert and Kristen deserve to work on their relationship in peace. To do what they feel is best for each other. But due to their celebrity status, peace is pretty much elusive, and it doesn't help that there are people who feel that this couple struggling to make theirs work should just give up and throw in the towel. I do whoever wish them the best of luck, and I hope that the opinions of strangers wouldn't deter them from making the decisions of their lives solely for their own benefit and not for the legions of people who are torn between celebrating their union, waiting and expecting them to fail, and those who delight in criticizing others.

Crime Thoughts: Warren Jeffs and the FLDS Church

2012-11-23T09:53:00.000+08:00

I don't often blog but that doesn't mean there aren't many things I would like to express my opinion on. I'm just really lazy to put down my thoughts on paper, or in this case, in a digital platform.

A few nights ago, I stayed up to catch the special presentation about Warren Jeffs: Fallen Prophet produced by Bio Channel and shown on Crime and Investigation Channel on its 10 pm time slot on Sunday. If you're into watching real life crime and how the investigators across the world work to solve them, it's definitely a time slot you want to check out.

I first got acquainted with the case through another blog, prairiechicken.blogspot.com, around mid-2009. Back then, I was just following the case of Casey Anthony when I stumbled on her posts regarding the Fundamentalist Church of the Latter Day Saints or FLDS. It was a post about the raid in the FDLS compound known as the Yearning for Zion Ranch in El Dorado, Texas and since then, I've been hooked on this story.

To give you a brief background, Warren Jeffs was a fugitive being hunted down in Utah, where the FLDS Church was based at the time, due to his alleged (at the time) arrangement of illegal marriages between adult male members of the congregation and underage girls. He had fled to Texas and had his followers contribute big amounts of cash to establish a large compound with a huge white temple under the guise of the compound being their new home. Caught in August 2006, he was tried in the Utah court and was convicted in 2 counts of rape as an accomplice in September 2007 and was sentenced to 10 years to life in November 2007. The ruling was overturned in October 2010, but not before the raid on the Yearning for Zion ranch occurred in 2008.

Instigated by a prank caller unrelated to the sect posting as a 16 year old married to a 50 year old man, the call had become in effect the smoking gun that had led to the discovery of over 400 children, married, unmarried, with and without child. A circus of sorts ensued with this discovery as the State took charge of the children found inside the compound and custody battles in court took place. Among those in custody are 24 underaged girls of the 78 wives of Warren Jeffs, the youngest of the his wives was aged only 11 at the time of her marriage.

After being extradited to Texas to stand trial, Warren Jeffs was sentenced to 20 years and life in 2011 in connection with charges of one count of aggravated sexual assault of a child and one count of sexual assault of a child.

To know more about this guy, you can definitely find this wikipedia article quite helpful.

There were a number of intimate details that are of course not provided on the wikipedia article but can be found online in relation to this case. Photos of Jeffs with his 15 year old and 12 year old brides, as well as other underage brides, have been posted online before and had become part of the evidence that has been used by the prosecution in their case. If you read through the case files, you'll probably notice how the focus of the prosecution was placed on the pedophilia charges to which Jeffs was convicted and currently serving his sentence. However, I can't help but feel that there should have been more charges filed against him. But then again, a number of his fellow church leaders had also been booked and sentenced. It still feels lacking because of how he manipulated everyone just to serve his own greed and apparent sexual appetite for girls of all ages. It's so sad at how isolated he made everyone in the compound be, the psychological effect this must have on the people involved. It's like he trapped them all in a frozen state of time, with no ties to modern society. It would also be great if he would be tried for the abandonment of quite a number of underaged boys known as the Lost Boys.

I feel that the people involve, most especially the children have been deprived justice for this man's own selfishness and I just hope they will wake up from their warped sense of reality and live a life free from the machinations of this man.

Movie Thoughts: Breaking Dawn Part 2

2012-11-19T16:09:00.000+08:00

I don't usually post movie reviews, but then again, I don't get to watch a lot of movies to write about to begin with. It's not that I don't like watching movies, I just usually have limited free time to allow for it. Anyways, less about me and more about the movie.

Just a brief background, Breaking Dawn Part 2 is the fifth and the final installment of the Twilight movie franchise. The story follows Bella Swan as she awakens to her new life as a vampire, motherhood and her initiation to keeping their secret a secret and still lead a normal life.


Photo credit: Hollywood Reporter

The movie provides quite a lot of eye catching panning, and if you're into landscape scenery, you'll definitely find the movie worthy of eye candy. Story-wise, it pretty much follows the book with a twist that highly suck you in near the end. As much as I would like to share tidbits about the movie, I don't want to spoil it for those who have yet to catch the flick.

One thing to do watch out for is the montage at the end. It definitely is a fitting way to end the series that had captivated millions when it was still nothing more than printed matter, spawned near rabid following when it hit the big screen, and now that it had come to an end, it will very much turn into a legend, one that will most likely be appreciated by the generations to come.

A Poem A Day 08

2012-07-20T22:26:00.001+08:00

A week had passed
And I am proud that I had last
Achieve a week of poems straight
Though some are posted late

This challenge I placed
Was something that I had thought in haste
And the struggle to maintain had cause me to daze
It has been quite a feeling this past seven days

An outlet it proved to be
For the creative side of me
That had lain dormant
For quite a number of months

A Poem A Day 07

2012-07-19T23:03:00.001+08:00

Pain inflicted in the past
Leave wounds that will last
Though to heal it might be your task
It's best if you think on your feet and fast

The dark memories remain
Threatening to engulf with its pain
Writhing and growing like an uncontrollable flame
There is much to lose and few to gain'

When shall this stain disappear
Or will it forever sway with uncertainty and fear
Will things ever be clear
For the one who holds me dear?

A Poem A Day 06

2012-07-18T20:37:00.001+08:00

Should I give my imagination care
Long slumbering passion shall flare
To meet him I shan't dare
Lest I might melt with just his stare

My resolve must remain strong
I must not give in and do wrong
Though his touch I might long
To another I already belong

Undoubtedly our paths will cross
But in his eyes I cannot be lost
These desires away I should toss
My undoing shall not be it's cause

A Poem A Day 05

2012-07-17T21:26:00.001+08:00

Tiring is how my day ends
And I struggle to find time for my friends
For should they need me by their side
I shall be ready to abide

Though life is not easy
And there are times I get bitchy
My friends are there for me
For them I'll always be

May they find strength on my shoulders
Though we are not always together
May they know there exists no border
That I will always be by their side now and forever

A Poem A Day 04

2012-07-16T18:06:00.002+08:00

I stumble today
And lost the hope I held yesterday
But I cannot let this sway
The decisions I made to go my own way

It is but a sudden block
But won't keep me from trying my luck
Till time has not run out of the clock
Ambition shall remain unlock

I shall rise on my feet again
To brave another chapter despite the pain
There is much to be gained
But none if I choose to remain

A Poem A Day 03

2012-07-15T22:51:00.001+08:00

The dreams of yesterday
Intrude on the thoughts of today
The memories flood anew
Bringing with it a sense of something new

Hidden in its depths
Lies the answer that you seek
To understand that you are blessed
And take the chance to share and speak

The world is not set against you
Perhaps that is your clue
To redefine who you are
And put a stop to what you lost so far

A Poem A Day 02

2012-07-14T09:01:00.000+08:00

In memories you flit in and out
And I can't help but wonder what it's all about
You've been part of my life
Though it is filled sometimes with strife

I long to know why
My curiosity piqued so high
When the next time we meet
Will the answers I seek be complete?

My mind had venture to unknown territory
Perhaps a reflection of what could have been our story
If you had stayed true to your heart
Then maybe we will not have part

A Poem A Day 01

2012-07-13T13:52:00.002+08:00

Life seems to pass
Quite unseen through the looking glass
The pain of tomorrow and today
Soon to shadow the pain of yesterday

Without a sense of foreboding
Nor a hint of warning
We trudged ahead
And thus made our bed

Emotions rubbed raw and bare
Unseen by all who profess to care
I struggle deep within this hateful abyss
Waiting for the day I shall attain eternal bliss

Personal Thoughts: Writing and Reading

2012-07-13T13:42:00.000+08:00

I didn't realize fully how I missed writing. Whether it's a song poem, a story or song, as long as it was something that I made wholly for myself. Being in the business where writing press releases, marketing and advertising copies, sponsorship letters, regrets and appreciation, it can get to you in time and you will eventually lose sight of why you are considered a writer in the first place.

True, nowadays, people find the drive or motivation to write in a more monetary rewards, and I will admit I myself had been drawn to be just like them. Unfortunately, despite the many pics that I took with my phone regarding the places I've been to, food that I've sampled, events I had attended, I never can seem to stay put and write about it. Guess I really am one of those people who rather write about themselves or their thoughts, than write for the recognition of others, and hopefully the recognition of brands as a potential source of online advertising.

Reading had used to fill my time, along with other hobbies. And without realizing it, reading had in some ways taken a back seat to other pursuits and finding the joy reading once again via the use of my devices, I had recaptured the excitement it brings me. The agony of having to put down an unfinished book in other to go about your daily tasks, the constant wondering about where the story is heading to next, the frustration at having come to a cliffhanger of a series and the next one isn't out yet, and the emotions as you are drawn to the story. The feelings that reading a book can elicit... oh how I missed it so.

It's lame, true, to share my passion for the craft and the hobby, but there are days in the life of everyone they just need to vent, plain and simple.

Personal Thoughts - Loss of Compassion on the Workplace

2012-05-31T12:05:00.001+08:00

Hanging out with a former colleague got me thinking about a lot of things. I do miss my old workplace, the friends I had left behind, the work that I do since I understand what I'm doing, but at the end of the day, with missing and recalling the best of those times, you also end up recalling the worst experiences you had encountered during your stay there.

More than hanging out with old friends, job hunting kinda brings very bad memories to the forefront. No matter how many times people advise you not to speak ill of your previous company, when the interviewer asked you why you left, the haunted look immediately follows. It's been three years and the bad things still haunts me, and hearing how the system remained unchanged bothered me more than ever.

People say that abuse happens everywhere, it's no big deal. But isn't that in a way shows that we, as people, passively accepts the fact that anyone can step on us and our right to fair and humane treatment? Instead of asking why people had not done anything about it, shouldn't we start asking ourselves why we hadn't done anything ourselves?

I had been a victim of an abuse in workplace and I had been witness to countless of incidences. People would say why are you just speaking out now, why not then? But the thing is, I did, I just didn't write it down and immortalized it on the internet. I shared my experiences with friends, I shared it with acquaintances, I even shared it to a number of HR personnel that I had encountered in my journey in search of greener pastures. But this is probably the first time I'm sharing it personally in the web because I just really need to feel that I had done something in behalf of the friends I had left behind who are still subject to some form of abuse or another.

I don't plan to name the company if that's what you're looking for. That would be a tad distasteful since its products are not at fault, it's the management who needs to rethink their approach. Personally, I had experience being physically manhandled. It was just having the front of my shirt pulled, and to the fresh grad me, it was too much of a shock to react in protest. I'm just lucky a supervisor colleague was there to react on my behalf and had prevented any more physical sort of abuse to befall me. Unfortunately, I cannot say the same thing to my other colleagues. I had been witness to seeing her abused on a near daily basis. She would be manhandled at times, get water thrown in her face, kicked and even had things thrown at her. If she's not being abused because she made a mistake, she's being abused for fun by having her attach s bull clip at various parts of her body, including her face (If you're not aware of how painful that is, try attaching a bull clip to your nose for a minute, then get back to me of how that felt). I also encountered seeing one of the bosses with a stapler and pretending to staple her on the forehead, and the stapler is loaded with staple wires. I've also seen her being fired and dragged back more times than I dare to count, her things thrown here and there, I've seen her cry and work her butt off, often having work take over her personal life.

I can still recall my first day at the company, I was trying to learn my way around the place and take a bite out of my workload, when it wasn't even lunch yet when the boss came flying out of nowhere towards the pile of files next to me and threw everything to the ground in rage. He was fuming mad at something that had gone wrong and since work started, he was in his cubicle with my colleague, alternating between screaming at her and insulting her in low tones, as well as slamming his fists on the table. I'm not sure if there were any physical abuse being done as well, since I wasn't in the cubicle with them to witness that. He sent her packing, telling her she's fired. She was pleading then, and they were arguing, they went back to the cubicle and fought some more. I can't recall much of what happened after, but I do recall wanting to quit then and there and I was persuaded to stick it out for at least a year.

More than the physical abuse, there's definitely a lot of emotional abuse happening in that place as well. Insults being thrown left and right can work at your insides until you completely lose any self-respect or self-worth. I've seen it happen and I can still remember feeling helpless as it happens. Trying to intervene whenever I can, providing encouraging words, a shoulder to cry on, an assessment of what she can do, unfortunately, I think it was too late. She can't function without the abuse, she had become dependent on being abuse.

People had grown indifferent to it over time, and that, I think is the saddest thing of all. People had become okay with that scenario. They had gone numb and it had become the norm in that workplace, like its no longer a big deal to them. People had lost their sense of compassion and had started fearing being the focus of that abuse. Everyone had simply became onlookers, turning a blind eye to what is clearly a violation of the one's basic human right. Sad to say, I had slowly became one of those people. The only difference is, before I lost my heart and the ability to feel compassion, I had been able to leave that kind of environment. Unfortunately, my friends hadn't been quite as lucky.

Why not report the abuse to HR? How can you when the HR is pro-management. Why not report the abuse to the labor court? They're a big company, you're only an individual, you're not going to accomplish anything. Or, reporting that will consequently black list you on other companies and would not help you land a new job.

It's such a sad thing when you can't do anything because of the consequences that you're not privy to. How one act of rebellion can affect those you leave behind will remained unmeasured. The possible destruction you leave behind in your wake can make even the bravest rethink whether its worth changing the system if it meant many would lose their job. Is there anyway to report abusive companies without having to call attention to yourself and risk being black listed everywhere else?

Shopping Thoughts - Converse Bags Back to School Choices

2012-05-31T11:14:00.001+08:00

The new school year had already started for a number of schools and universities, but for some, they still have a few days of precious vacation days to savor before the need to be serious on their studies take hold.

Bags have always been an essential part of the academic life, and shopping for one isn't always an easy thing to do. Do you go for flashy to show off to your friends? Do you go for something cute simply because its cute? Are you the type that could care less what's color it is as long as its functional and practical? How about the type that would scour the whole department store canvassing the many different styles and their value for money?

A mash-up of form, style, function and practical use, the Converse bag collection is perfect for the picky back-to-school shopper!

California Red Carry All Small - P 1,379.75

Converse Back-to-School Bag Tips

With the new school year just around the corner, bag shopping has just been added to your to-do list and Converse got tips to make your shopping trip easier.

Getting a new bag is not all about style. It’s also about functionality and durability. Are you the type to carry around your books by hand? Converse small bags are the perfect complement to carry around your other school necessities. Choose one with adjustable strap to customize to your desired length for comfort, and they add a touch of casual dressing to an otherwise usual school get-up.

Black Small Messenger Bag - P 1,369.75

Charcoal Gray Small Messenger Bag - P 1,509.75

Fennel Leaf Small Messenger Bag - P 1,369.75

Navy Chucks Shoulder Bag - P 1,039.75

Navy Shoulder Bag - P 1,039.75

Phantom Small Messenger Bag - P 1,509.75

Pompeian Red Small Messenger Bag - P 1,369.75

Red Clay Small Messenger Bag - P 1,509.75

Vanilla Ice Small Messenger Bag - P 1,509.75

Wild Berry Small Messenger Bag - P 1,369.75

More notes than books? These Converse messenger bags can fit your notebooks and your everyday essentials comfortably. An adjustable strap makes it easier to switch from the laid-back hip-level bag to the more feminine waist-height bag placement. The Converse carry bag is a new offering this season, and it’s a nice alternative to a messenger bag. Be it small or medium, the bright shade of California red is a fresh pop of color against your school uniform.

Black Messenger Bag - P 1,389.75

California Red Carry All - P 2,109.75

Fennel Leaf Messenger Bag - P 1,609.75

Navy Messenger Bag - P 1,389.75

Wild Berry Small Messenger Bag - P 1,369.75

Books and other heavy school things? No worries as the Converse backpacks are ready to take on the weight. Padded shoulder straps provide much needed comfort and roomy interiors can fit most if not all your school needs. Have PE classes? Then switch to a duffel bag for its bigger interior, multi-pockets and have the option to switch between hand-carrying it around or slinging it over your shoulders.

Black Backpack - P 1,419.75

Fennel Leaf Backpack - P 1,619.75

Gray Duffel Bag - P 1,509.75

Jet Black Backpack - P 1,619.75

Pompeian Red Backpack - P 1,619.75

Wild Berry Backpack - P 1,619.75

Whatever your school needs might be, the Converse back-to-school line is the perfect complement. Durable and functional, colorful and stylish, start your school year right with Converse. Don’t forget to like Converse Philippines on Facebook and drop by www.converse.com.ph.

Art Thoughts: Realistic Portraits

2012-04-04T09:09:00.002+08:00

There are many things in life that can make you go wow. Most will be photographs that capture the beauty of the world frozen in millions of pixels for all eternity, daredevils stunts that you can easily miss in the blink of an eye, and artworks that span ages - from the ancient artifacts unearthed in the many archaeological dig sites spread out around the world, the pyramids and the hieroglyphs, massive installations that leave onlookers baffled at the sheer magnitude of its size and complex execution. These are just some of the things that can elicit and everyday wow, and there's a new addition to this huge list of art appreciation in the creation of 47-year old hyperrealist artist Paul Cadden.

Featured below is one of the 8 photos that can be found on this article from Yahoo!

Detroit by Paul Cadden (Solent News / Rex Features)

It may be hard to believe, but that's done in pencils. And if you're still not convinced that this worthy of an appreciative WOW, then you definitely need to check out his other works.

Event Thoughts: Converse Asia Crown to be Attended by International Skateboarders

2012-03-30T16:14:00.000+08:00

It's not everyday that an underground sports gets highlighted on the mainstream! Whether you're a fan of the brand, the sport, or the Converse Skateboarding Ambassador, take time from your weekend rest and head on over to the Trinoma Mindanao Open Parking for a day of extreme tricks, friendly competition, arts and music! Event starts at 10 am!

Int’l Pro Skateboarders to Grace Converse Phils. Asia Crown Skate Summit

What better way to hold the country’s biggest Skate Summit than to let two of the world’s best pro skaters to lead it?

This is exactly what Converse Philippines has in store for the hundreds of skateboard enthusiasts who are set to compete for the Converse Asia Crown title on March 31 at the Trinoma Mindanao Open Parking in Quezon City.

During the summit, US-based pro skaters Kenny Anderson and Mike Anderson are set to show Filipino skaters how skateboarding is really done with their extremely polished skate tricks that seem effortless.

Kenny Anderson

Kenny Anderson, who returns better than ever as an alumni to the Converse Skate Team (having been on the original team in 1997), is considered “untouchable” on a skateboard for his consistent style and fluidity; while for Mike Anderson’s part, his skating is often described as “effortless,” because he is said to make his tricks look as if was very easy to do.

Catering to the best skateboarders around the Metro, the Asia Crown aims to give Filipino skateboarders the chance to show off their dope moves on the board and compete with the best of the best skateboarders across the country.

More than bragging rights, the local Asia Crown skateboarding champion will be hailed as the first official skateboarding ambassador of Converse Philippines—That means a year of Converse skateboarding goodies, P50,000 cold hard cash, and plane tickets to official Converse skateboarding events worldwide.

An open skate for all, free of charge, the skate summit will also be a day-long celebration of physical recreation, while fusing music and the arts, to reinforce Converse Philippines’ position as a key proponent of the global sport that is skateboarding,

For interested registrants, check Converse Philippines Facebook page and drop by www.converse.com.ph. Registration forms are available for download at the Converse Philippines’ Converse Asia Crown FB event page and in stores nationwide.

On-the-spot registration is also open for those who wish to register on-site. You do have to be ref confirm your participation on or before 1 pm to be included in the official list of participants.

Beauty Thoughts: The Body Shop Launches Beauty Movement

2012-03-30T15:35:00.000+08:00

If you're big on skincare and make-ups, then there's no way you're not familiar with The Body Shop. Catering to clients interested in organic and natural skin care products, The Body Shop had made quite a name for itself in the Philippines!

One more reason to love the brand is its dedication in supporting causes that empowers and encourages women, and one of the most notable campaign I can remember is the petition to Stop Sex Trafficking. This year, they are at it again with a new beauty movement that is simply wonderful and hopefully help women the world over to Look Good, Feel Good And Do Good.

Without further ado, here's the official release from the brand itself!

THE BODY SHOP LAUNCHES A NEW BEAUTY MOVEMENT: BEAUTY WITH HEART

Lily Cole to act as first global Brand Advocate for pioneering beauty brand

London, 22^nd March, 19:30 hrs. The Body Shop, one of the 21^st Century's most iconic and pioneering Brands, today launched a new beauty movement – called Beauty With Heart – that will inspire individuals everywhere and transform the boundaries of beauty.

Check out the welcome arc at the launch party!

Beauty With Heart places emphasis on a beauty experience that is more than skin-deep, putting a human stamp on beauty and empowering people the world over to Look Good, Feel Good And Do Good.

Beauty With Heart will spring to life through a new store experience called Pulse, as well as through the active support of the first global Brand Advocate for The Body Shop, Lily Cole.

Activist, model and actor Lily Cole is the embodiment of the Brand’s strong Values and the first of a community of inspiring young activists.

Lily Cole, the global Brand Advocate for The Body Shop retouching her make-up at her launch party in UK

Sophie Gasperment, Executive Chairman, The Body Shop, said: "We know that our Brand delivers more than beauty; our products truly contain heart as well. Today, we’re looking to a future where our vision of beauty can be experienced by new generations for whom it is all about looking good, feeling good and doing good, too.”

Lily Cole, global Brand Advocate for The Body Shop, said: “I have long been an advocate of the potential of using business and consumer power to cause positive change. The Body Shop takes a responsible attitude to people and the environment, and it feels amazing to be supporting a brand who are pioneers in that way of working.”

The launch took place in central London and attracted figures from the world of fashion, beauty and lifestyle such as Vivienne Westwood and Jo Wood.

The Body Shop became one of the world’s first ethical businesses when it opened its first store in 1976 in Brighton, UK. Today, The Body Shop welcomes over 275 million shoppers to its stores every year, and has over 2,700 stores in 63 countries worldwide.

Beauty With Heart will be rolling out in the UK from 3^rd May, with global roll out to follow from 15^th May onwards.

Meanwhile, here are some more of my favorite pics from the event!

Shopping Thoughts - Markdown Madness

2012-03-19T16:34:00.000+08:00

If there's one upside in working at a high-rise building with major brands scattered on several floors, its knowing when there's a sale on the horizon! Footwear fanatics better plan a trip this week to enjoy up to 70% off on selected footwear, apparel and bags from Skechers, Merrell, Marc Ecko, No Fear, and Zoo York! Of course, no need to panic about your expenditure, you can avail of 0% interest installment on P 3,000 minimum single-receipt purchases for 3 months, and 6 months for purchases of P 6,000 and above!

Beauty Thoughts - Salon Beauvoir

2012-03-18T21:02:00.000+08:00

Nestled in the quiet quarters of Somerset Olympia... as their advertising starts, it truly is a great place to visit if you're serious about pampering yourself - simply because its run by professionally trained stylists and its definitely a great luxurious experience if you can afford it.

More than its French name, the Salon Beauvoir's interior captures French vintage perfectly with a plush sofa and wing chair on its reception/waiting area, chandeliers in white or black giving the whole place a romantic feel, sculpted mirrors and tables adds to its relaxed French Riviera feel, while lighted mirrors promotes a modern touch. Rooms and doors leading beyond to treatment rooms were down in pinks, yellows, blues and greens, while the chairs are comfy and a mix of modern details on a retro silhouette.

Reception/Waiting Area

Chandelier Love

Beyond this hall lies the Men's grooming area with a more masculine look of hard edges, black chandeliers and black modern chairs. Not to mention you get to find three hair-washing stations as well.

Now, I don't normally like posting my pictures online, but just to add some drama to this post, here's a before and after photo taken by my stylist for the day, Ms. Pam Ferrater, UK-trained Senior Stylist of the salon.

Before

After

Posting with Ms. Pam Ferrater afterwards


Had to ask the receptionist to post with me as well because her uniform is way too cute not to share!

More than just professional stylists, they also offer other common salon and spa services, unfortunately, I forgot to take a photo of their menu of services. Fret not, because they do have an FB page you can check out here. And if you're March is still pretty much free, take advantage of their opening promo and avail of FREE Hair Spa when you go for their adult hair cutting services, 50% off on their Mani/Pedi Foot Spa package from Mon - Wed and enjoy FREE Manicure for Hair and Make-up package.

Contact Details!

Did I mention they also serve iced tea, coffee or water to help you enjoy your salon experience even more?