Dear Beautiful

Hi. 

I just want to remind you how beautiful you are. I may not know what you are going through today or the pain you are feeling right now, but I know you are strong. 

You see, there is an average of 15,600 deaths each day. And you are still alive reading this. Life can be tough, I know that for sure. Maybe that is also the reason why some people choose to end their lives. Because they think problems go away when you die. People do not know problems still go away even if you're alive. You know the saying, "This, too, shall pass?" Believe it. Because every thing in life is temporary, whether good or bad.

So if you are kind of depressed today - stressed from work, expenses, relationships or health, don't worry because IT WILL PASS. Each day is a blessing. Be thankful for each moment that you breathe because there are 15,600 people who breathed their last. So while you are still here, make each moment count. And never take anything and anyone for granted.

And remember what you are capable of doing. You are strong-willed, bright, and strong. People may not always agree with your thoughts and principles in life. They may mock, berate and judge you... but you know who you are. And that is what's important. You hold on to who you are because that is what makes you unique. 

Life is beautiful... and so are you.

Cause sometimes we don't really notice

Just how good it can get

So maybe we should start all over

Start all over again 

- Someday, Rob Thomas

With love,

Raych

What the 'Bad Boy' Taught Me

My parents were not strict when it comes to my friendships. They let us freely choose the people we want to be friends with, trusting that we are smart enough to know who the trust-worthy ones are. They also let us freely choose the person we get to like. Maybe I am just one of the lucky ones who get to open up with my parents.

But, I will never forget what my mom told me when it comes to the person we should spend the rest of our lives with: "Choose the good one." I held that in my heart since, and I was decided to look for the person my mom wanted for me.

Fast-forward to a few years later, I met different guys - both good and bad. I don't know how you define bad, but in this generation, it means 'someone who doesn't stick to the rules and who flows in a different current'.

I met one... and, I eventually fell in love with him. Then I realized, it's a lot easier to hold on to a promise when you're younger.

When you become aware of the world outside your comfort zone, something in you becomes liberal. After I turned 18, I thought freedom was already in my hands - that I can do everything that I want from dating to getting drunk. I am thankful though that I was more of a homebody than a party girl. I would like to believe I was handling my freedom well, until I fell head over heels with the 'bad boy'.

I knew even from the start it was wrong to choose the 'bad boy'. But looking back, I realized... the 'bad boy' still taught me a lot - from getting outside my shell to discovering the world beyond the haven I created only for myself.

So, to all the girls who fell in love with the wrong guy, whether you are still together or not, still be thankful because the 'bad boy' taught us these things:

1. Take risks. I was always playing on the safe side, but ever since I fell in love with the 'bad boy', I did things I never imagined I could.

2. Be patient. It takes an understanding woman to handle the mood swings of a 'bad boy'. And yes, it takes a lot of patience.

3. Enjoy every moment. The 'bad boy' just wants to have fun. And whenever you are with him, you just have to enjoy every bit of it.

4. Appreciate the little things. 'Bad boys' usually don't go the extra mile and put too much effort. They will give you simple compliments, or a phone call when you least expect it. You appreciate those little things, even if you know deep down you deserve more than just that.

5. Never expect anything. Since it is very seldom for a 'bad boy' to plan extravagant date nights or surprises, you're left expecting less.

6. Be content with what the two of you have. You're not expecting much, so you deal with what you have. Sometimes, you get confused about his feelings for you, most especially when he starts acting up... but you ALWAYS choose to think you two are fine. And that it's just a phase he has to go through (everyday?).

7. Hide your feelings. The 'bad boy' gives us lots of headache and heartache, but because we love him, we learn how to conceal the pain we are feeling. I am guilty. At some point, I had to master the art of 'pretending'.

8. Never regret anything. You could've chosen the 'good one' but you fell for the 'bad boy' instead. You've sacrificed a lot and now you think it is not worth it. But there is no point in regretting because you still learned... and you learned a lot from the 'bad boy'.

We have different stories to tell about the 'bad boy' we once fell in love with. He made us cry and disappointed us too many times. He stood us up and left us waiting. He was not gentlemanly enough to help us with our errands. He did not open doors for us. He slept when we were supposed to have a date. He always chose what will be easy for him. He had things HIS WAY, ALWAYS.

But he also made us laugh, made us smile with his sweet compliments and reminded us how beautiful we are. He kissed our forehead when we fell asleep, and taught us to be strong. He made us happy.

And so because of this, I would want to believe 'bad boys' are good people with bad habits. And I think it only takes the right girl to unleash the good person in the 'bad boy' a little more often.

A Taste of Binondo Near Our Home

Aside from Japanese, I also love Chinese food. So when my mom told me there's a new food establishment serving Chinese food near our home, I became decided to try it out.

My mom wouldn't stop talking about it. She even bought food from this place so I can have a taste of it. And I have to say that convinced me even more to visit this new foodie place. Since my boyfriend is also an avid fan of Chinese food, we decided to eat there one time.

It's a simple kainan - just a little bit bigger than the usual eatery (karinderya). It's called 'Authentic Chinese Cuisine'.

Based on my brief interview with one of its staff, Kuya Bernie, it was established last August 2014 and has another branch in Ususan, Taguig just near Shell. It is owned by a certain Mr. Reynan Roque.

We went there on a Sunday after hearing mass. I think that was around 11:10 in the morning. My boyfriend and I were the only customers when we arrived, but more started coming in as it nears lunch time.

There were lots of food to choose from and we had a bit of a hard time deciding. But since my mom mentioned the Savoury Style Fried Chicken tastes good, I picked that too. My boyfriend, meantime, chose the Orig Beef Brisket Binondo Pares.

All meals are served with free soup

We had to wait 5 to 7 minutes before our meals were served, but I did not mind it. After all, the food was GREAT.

The Savoury Chicken I ordered was very delicious. It was crispy on the outside, and tender on the inside. It was also served with an equally delicious gravy and flavorful Yang Chow rice. 

The Beef Brisket Pares was yummy too. The soup was thick and the beef was tender. The staff also served chili sauce for the Pares which gave it an extra kick.

My boyfriend also ordered a regular Asado Siopao, and three pieces of Buchi. 

The Siopao was definitely delicious. You might want to get the jumbo size though if you're hungry. The 3 pcs. Buchi were served hot, and I really enjoyed it. The monggo flavor was outstanding and it was not as greasy as the other Buchis I have tasted.

Everything that we ordered was delicious! And what makes it even more awesome is the very affordable price. Here's the breakdown of the food we ordered:

Savoury Style Fried Chicken - P69.00

Orig Beef Brisket Binondo Pares - P89.00

3 pcs. Buchi (P18.00/each) - P54.00

Asado Siopao - P36.00

Grand Total - P248.00


Awesome food in less than P300! Amazing!

And they also have a food challenge. We were able to witness someone who tried the Lucky Pao challenge.

I doubt anyone could finish it in 2 minutes. But who knows, right? If you finish it in under or within 2 minutes, you get the Lucky Pao for free which is originally priced at P119.00. Still not bad if you lose though.

So if you're just around Pateros or Taguig and you love good food, don't hesitate to visit Authentic Chinese Cuisine. It's located just behind San Roque Parish Church. Or if you're from outside Pateros or Taguig, but want to avoid the hassle in Manila, why not try the little Binondo in Pateros?

They are open 24 hours, so if you wake up in the middle of the night craving for authentic (and good) Chinese food, visit them! It's definitely worth your tricycle fare.

They also accept catering and delivery. But according to Kuya Bernie, the farthest they have reached so far is Makati. But who knows? The possibilities are endless. For inquiries, you may reach them through these lines:

Smart: 0999-714-7633
Sun: 0942-270-9788
Globe: 0905-312-8558

I hope that like me, you also enjoy their food! 'Til our next food trip. :)

10 Things I Have Learned From My Not-So Happy Ending

"...and they lived happily ever after."

This is how every fair tale end. I cannot recall the first time I have encountered those six words, but I was sure I was still young then. I used to believe every one of us will have our own 'happily ever after' until I have learned that my first ever crush likes someone else. I consider that as my first heartbreak.

But I learned how to move on (yes, even at a young age.)

Throughout the years, I have met quite a number of good-looking guys. It's a major turn on for me when a guy is smart, tall, and chinito. And then I met my ex-boyfriend.

The first six months were the happiest days of my life.  I started to believe in 'happily ever after' again.There were even days I would cry due to extreme joy. I was afraid that one day, it will all change.

The sad truth, however, is... it did.

And while it did break my heart into million tiny pieces, I still do not regret any of it. Because I believe it brought me to where I am right now. And it taught me a lot when it comes to relationships... and even a lot more about myself.

Here are the 10 things I have learned from my not-so happy ending:

1. Don't push yourself too hard.

Effort is very important in any relationship. It is through this that we are able to see and feel how important we are for a person. However, too much of it can also be unhealthy. I skipped working days just to see my ex. At that time, I would like to believe I exerted 'too much effort'. Today, however, I see it as katangahan.

2. Never forget your self-worth.

My ex and I both have strong personalities. Whenever we argue, none of us will retreat and raise the white flag. This often leads to name-calling, curses, and degrading remarks. After a while, though, I will initiate the move to say sorry (even after all the nasty name-calling I have received). I thought that was 'humility'. Today, however, I see it as disrespect for myself.

3. Sometimes, being strong is the only choice you can make.

There were days I had to comfort myself because I was afraid my ex will be judged by my family and friends once I open up to them. So I cried myself to sleep almost every night and I had no other choice but to be there for myself, and yes... to be strong for myself too.

4. Learn when and how to say 'NO'.

Sometimes, saying YES to other people means saying NO to yourself.  Before you agree on doing something, think first if it's worth your 'YES'.

5. It is not worth stressing out.

I tried hard to fix things for the two of us. I stressed too much looking for ways to make the relationship work. I did so much overthinking. And yes, it wasn't worth stressing out. I could've done better things than just stress out. But I didn't.

6. NEVER forget about your friends.

I chose my ex-boyfriend over my friends too many times. Since my ex was the jealous type, my friendships were compromised. I have a guy best friend my ex was very jealous with. I stopped talking to him for almost a year. After the breakup, he was still there for me. My College friends did the same thing too, even if I chose my ex over them. And it made me realize one thing: guys will leave you, your friends never will.

7. If you feel like something is wrong, something is really wrong.

I am so thankful I was born with the female gender because women's instincts are so powerful. It never failed me. So when you feel like something is wrong, figure it out. Because there's a great chance something unpleasant is happening.

8. Trust is VERY important.

When you lose trust, it's a domino effect... You also lose respect and eventually, it will lead you to love the person less. Did I mention my ex was the jealous type? He will easily get mad by a simple stare from a stranger which even I did not notice. He started calling me names no woman deserves. Respect was lost. And, love faded gradually.

9. Love yourself.

I already mentioned this in my previous blog, 'How to 'Unlove''. Remember the saying, "You cannot give something you don't have?" It's true. You cannot love other people if you don't love yourself first. Self-love is very significant because people will treat you the way you treat yourself. If you have low regards for your own person, people will not give you as much importance.

10. Someone better is coming along.

After the breakup, I did not look for someone new. Some people say it's the easiest way to forget someone. But I didn't like the easy way out because I believe shortcuts only bring more trouble. I was decided to make myself complete again and bring my life back together by myself. And the unexpected came. Someone made me realize despite all the wrong choices and broken promises, good life still awaits. You just have to believe in your heart that someone better is coming along. And you need patience while doing that.

#Hugot Lines From EDSA Traffic

Are you one of those running late for school or work due to the traffic jam in major thoroughfares around the metro? It sucks, right? But good news is, you are not alone.

Most of us have to endure the terrible traffic during rush hour in major roads, most especially in EDSA. I have quite a number of 'late' stories to share with you, but I will choose not to share it anymore. On the other hand, this undeniably annoying situation we encounter almost every day also paved the way for this blog.

I am definitely sure you are also fond of making 'hugot'. I call it, 'hugutan mula sa nararamdaman'. My friends and I have the habit of doing that literally every single day that we are together. From crossing the street to unintentionally leaving someone in the pantry after lunch break, these 'hugot' lines already became part of our lives.

I know you have those moments too.

And so this morning, while I was on my way to work, I decided to make my day productive instead of getting dismayed over the EDSA traffic by jotting down 'hugot' lines from the annoying situation I was in.

I know some of you may be able to relate with some of these 'hugot' lines:

"Minsan talaga wala ka nang magagawa kundi ang maghintay. Pero minsan nakakapagod na rin."

"Buti pa ang traffic may forever. Tayo wala."

"Darating din tayo doon. Konting tiis lang."

"Makakamove on ka rin, kahit paunti-unti."

"Kailangan nating pagdaanan 'to. Makakarating din tayo kung saan tayo dapat."

"Buti pa 'yung mga sasakyan sa EDSA nakakausad. Ikaw kaya kailan?"

"Palagi na lang ganito. Hindi ka pa ba napapagod?"

"Akala ko makakamove on na 'ko. Hindi pa rin pala."

"'Wag kang magpadalus-dalos. Baka makasakit ka."

"Matutong magpasensya. Ganyan talaga eh."

"At least hindi lang ako ang hindi pa nakakamove on." 

"Hirap sa'yo mas pinili mong ma-stuck diyan eh."

"Magmove on naman tayo!"

"Hindi ko 'to ginusto."

"Nakakasawa na."

"Kailan mo ba 'ko tatantanan? Sinabi nang ayoko na eh."


And so my friends, instead of being annoyed with the EDSA traffic or with whatever situation you find unpleasant, try writing down 'hugot' lines instead. You will be surprised with how deep you can be sometimes. :)

"Bakit" List

I'm pretty much sure everyone of us has our own 'bucket list'. Mine include to have a very big walk-in closet, to travel the world, and to date a famous Basketball player (the latter seems impossible now). I have so much more in my list, but I will no longer elaborate.

One morning, I was talking with my workmates when the 'bucket list' subject sprang. One of them thought she heard 'bakit' instead of 'bucket', thus, the title of this blog. And from there, the 'Why' questions came.

If you happened to stroll around Bonifacio Global City in Taguig, or walk around the streets of Makati and Pasig, I'm sure you have noticed a number of 'Why' graffiti pieces placed on walls, pedestrian lanes or posts.

The artist behind this 'Why' graffiti, who remains anonymous until now, shared in an interview with a big network that he chose this word because it is thought-provoking. The artist further added it can be interpreted in so many ways - "happiness, sadness, almost anything". I became curious about its ability to stir people's thoughts and maybe even feelings and I wanted to know what comes into people's minds if they ever happen to come across the 'Why' graffiti or given the chance to ask one 'Why' question.

I thought of asking random people of their 'Why' questions in life. I ended up asking only my friends (although I have plans of asking more people in the near future). I find some of their questions funny, others a little bit interesting. Some of it I ask myself too.

So I am sharing this blog with you. You may be able to answer some of the 'Why' questions of my friends. I don't know. What I do know is, we all have our 'Why' questions in life. And all of us are in the quest of finding answers for it.

You may even find yourselves having the same questions as my friends':

"Bakit hindi nakukuntento lang sa isang tao?"

"Bakit ako maliit?"

"Bakit ako kaagad?"

"Bakit ka pinanganak na ganyan, kami hindi?"

"Bakit ako single?"

"Bakit laging traffic sa EDSA?"

"Bakit mahirap?"

"Bakit walang forever?"

"Bakit malaki dibdib mo?"

"Bakit hindi na lang maging maayos ang lahat?"

"Bakit lahat ng maganda kailangang magtapos?"

"Bakit ako nagpakasal kaagad?"

"Bakit nga ba mahal kita?"

"Bakit ako pogi?"

"Bakit ako pinanganak sa mundo?"

"Bakit 'Nanghihinayang' 'yung gusto kong theme song sa kasal ko?"

How to 'Unlove'

"How do I unlove you?"

This is just one of the most famous lines from a local movie. I don't know about you, but I find the word 'unlove' a bit weird.

And so, being the curious girl I have always been, I asked the help of my trusted friend, Merriam to figure this word out. And according to Merriam:

unlove
    verb un·love \"+\
Definition of UNLOVE

transitive verb
:  to cease to love <he must not unlove her but he must certainly leave her — Delineator>
intransitive verb
:  to stop loving something <he can … unlove so easily — Robert Hichens>


How are we really able to 'unlove' a person? This takes me to my unforgettable heartbreak story.

I had my first serious relationship in 2011. I was a junior college student then. It lasted for 2 years and 2 months to be exact. I did things I never expected I could (e.g. riding the bus alone which I never did, looking for an unfamiliar place just to see my ex-boyfriend, confronting a girl who I thought was flirting with him which I later confirmed was true, etc). And the end result, heartbreak.

The relationship started smoothly. I was the happiest girl on the planet. I woke up every day feeling energized and refreshed. I was VERY in love. And then one day, things changed.

Things turned sour between the two of us. Every single day I would go to work with swollen eyes from crying the night before. My mom used to confront me about it, but I insisted it was just the normal "lovers quarrel". I dramatically lost weight due to stress. Each day will not be complete without an argument over petty reasons. This went on for long that I lost appetite for almost everything. I wanted to curse the world for the pain I was feeling that time. I even thought love is just another lonely word.

I poured out my heart and soul into that relationship and I thought I already did my best. But it's true... sometimes, our best is really not enough. I waited for love, respect, time and affection. But I came to realize, these are the things that must not be chased for if it is not given freely, it isn't worth having. (I read it somewhere too.)

I tried, but I grew tired.

So how did I 'unlove' him? I did not. I just learned to love myself more.

After the breakup, I kept myself busy. I read self-help books (some find this pathetic, but I find it helpful), I went out with friends (those I fail to meet during the relationship), I learned a new hobby (making no-bake goodies), and I stress-ate. I did all the things I thought would make me happy. And I did it successfully.

Little by little, I learned to appreciate life again. I smiled more often. And because I was slowly regaining my self-confidence and self-worth (which I thought I lost during the relationship), I was able to serve others and love the people WHO LOVE ME BACK more.

You can never really 'unlove' a person. What you can do is make a choice. You have to choose to be happy and settle for what you deserve. Most of us choose to stick to a relationship that is no longer healthy, because we believe that is what's meant for us. WRONG. Life is short to be dull, stressed and unhappy. I cannot blame you if you stay, though. I once wore your shoes. But everything will pass... and eventually will end. It is what you choose to end: your freedom and happiness, or your unhealthy relationship.

The beginning is always the hardest. I understand it is hard to let go. More so, it is hard not to be bitter after you have decided to move on. But remind yourself this: medicines are bitter, but it's that bitterness that cures us. It's okay to cry, shout, curse if those are your means to let it out. LET IT ALL OUT. And after that, remind yourself that you deserve to be happy.

Love yourself more. Because when you learn how to love yourself, believe me... GOOD THINGS WILL COME. And you will thank yourself one day for doing so.

"DON'T QUIT EARLY"

Ever felt God was giving you a sign? When you have a certain question running through your head, and suddenly you read a phrase from some random shirt worn by a stranger... And you felt like fate is actually talking to you?

I did.

I lost my great grandmother exactly a week ago. And while we were never really particularly close, we still shared some great memories and I have learned a lot from her. She used to tell me stories of her struggles to send my grandmother and my grandmother's siblings to school, to put food on their table, and make sure they will have a decent place to live. She told me this with a broken voice and teary eyes. And that's when I knew I always need to strive hard to keep my source of income to succeed in life so that I would never have to endure what she had.

But, I became unmotivated.

One Sunday afternoon, I had coffee with two of my college friends. I thought it was just a mere catch up thing, a simple chitchat since we haven't seen each other for quite some time. But things didn't turn out the way we expect it to be. 

I told them I want to look for a work with less hassle and less stress. (Although I am definitely sure this doesn't exist.) I opened up the topic of online writing. Since I was in grade school, I was already fascinated with how I can express myself through writing. The things I cannot say, I put it in words through poems. (And a little trivia, I love Essay during exams.) And that's how the idea started.

We had a premature plan of putting up our OWN website where we can share our thoughts and personal blogs and where we can collate our content for public reading. There's no money in there, right? I have learned online websites gain income through advertisements and I'm pretty much sure that wouldn't be easy.

But we were decided to push through with it. We list the things that we will need (e.g. webmaster, content, theme, etc.) and agreed to invite our other friends to ask for their suggestions for our "dream website".

I was 70 percent sure I wanted to quit my job and do the online stuff instead, but Monday came.

I woke up feeling lazy. I didn't want to go to work, as a matter of fact. My face was low, my mood was bad, and I was thinking how can I figure things out. I am imagining a home-based work where I can just share my thoughts, inspire people, and if possible, gain money while doing it. Sounds perfect, right? Getting to do what you want to do, encouraging people, and earning bucks for it! WOW. But the big question is how?

And then I read an article published online by Rappler. I love reading articles online because I learn a lot from them, and this one has got to be one of my favorites. I was only browsing through my Facebook feed when I saw a friend share the article. I became eager to see its content upon reading its title, "For yuppies who want to quit, a word from Jesse Robredo". It was published March 29, 2014 and was updated December 16 the same year.

I admire Mr. Jesse Robredo for the simple fact that he served our country well. (For those who don't know, Mr. Robredo served as the country's Interior and Local Government Secretary from July 2010 to August 2012.) Given that, plus the fact that I am also losing my appetite for work, I opened the article. It was about Mr. Robredo's advice to his eldest daughter, Aika about her career. The article enclosed the unedited letter of Mr. Robredo to Aika, which was sent through email. And I have to say, it changed how I view my career.

You may view the full article here (http://www.rappler.com/move-ph/54143-robredo-letter-aika-graduation-career?utm_content=buffer8d3f9&utm_medium=social&utm_source=twitter.com&utm_campaign=buffer)

 The letter was quite long, but I thought it was meant for me. I have highlighted some of my favorite portions which struck me the most:

"it is too early to tell what you are meant to do. but quitting this early will not be good for you. while you may be unhappy and stressed, there is a better way of coping with it."

"i think sticking on to your job for a significant amount of time is a good idea. it will test your ability to cope with something you are not too happy doing. the sad reality is that we have to bear it because it is part of the learning process."

Upon reading these portions, I felt encouraged. I was thinking maybe God made His way to speak to me through this. And Mr. Robredo added:

"many people would love to take your place, given the opportunity. just look at this stage as the difficult stepping stones in testing your character and patience. probably, later on, with the benefit of hindsight, you will conclude that it was all for the better that you were not too hasty in making the decisions on this matter."

"but as they say, do not make decisions when you are unhappy (or emotional). they tend to be the less logical ones."

Now back to my question: Ever thought God was speaking to you through some weird instance? Well, this is my story. The article was published more than a year ago, and I still found it. I don't know if that's fate, but I certainly know it happened for a reason. With this, I took a deep breath and a minute to ponder on what I just read. "Do not quit early", Mr. Robredo said. 

And I did not. 

Hopefully, I never will.