Super! Editorials

The Atigas!

2008-11-04T03:41:00.000+08:00

Tinabu, husband Nelli and baby Naz surprised be by saying they were in town. Luckily enough, my Sunday was free and I was able to meet up with them at very colorful Martha's Cakes in the Fort. It was nice seeing this Singaporean based couple after so long. Baby Naz is not even two years old but she's certainly looking like she's going to have a growth spurt for a long time. This I bet is thanks to her Samoan dad! Am pretty sure she will grow up to be as wonderful as both her parents and that she will be able to eat cupcakes, a whole bunch of them with us adults very soon.

Social Networking Like No Other-in Shanghai

2008-07-05T05:55:00.000+08:00

MANILA, Philippines—In these techie times, social networking is easily associated with finding your super friends (or making them) via Multiply, Facebook and Friendster. But for Ros Juan, area manager of Figaro Coffee Shanghai, nothing beats social networking in the flesh.

“I came to Shanghai in 2005 to study Mandarin for six months and after that, it just seemed a waste of time to just go home and not practice it.”

Then she was given the task to develop the market for Figaro in China. “You can say that I have to be an all-around kind of person,” laughs Ros.

Her greatest challenge was to get more people to come to the two-storey coffee shop and spread the word. Her initial desire way back in college is to be a librarian—“I wanted so much to fill my library card, what a nerd!”—found some fulfillment here—she devised a book swap. Bringing together people via books was the most natural thing.

“In China, it’s rather difficult to get English language books or foreign books, so I got inspiration from Oprah’s Book Club and decided to start something similar to that, using my store as venue.”

What was even more successful was a book swap that also finds a home every third Saturday of the month. People come in, not just Filipinos, with books they’ve read and they do an exchange. Not only do they meet more people with similar interests; they also have a rare opportunity to build their friendship pool.

Literary events are definitely the passion of Ros, as the book club is held every second Sunday. She even started a writer’s night every Monday. This is the only regular weekly group. Writers—be they freelance, aspiring or professional—hang out, start discussion groups and do writing workshops.

“Before,” recalls Ros, “It was me going out there looking for events or activities to generate business for my store, now it’s people approaching us for events.”

Socializing has gone beyond books and writing. Every second Tuesday, they have “travel guy” John Mckenna, who is known for making custom-made tours to China. There are so many kinds of people visiting Figaro Shanghai that it has been given the amusing nickname of “mini-consulate.”

Growing network

How big exactly has her personal and professional network grown as a result of all her social networking?

“Shanghai is a very transient city, so the groups pretty much maintain an average number of five to 10 people per meeting. So we can’t actually measure growth in terms of numbers of attendees. My growing name card collection is a good gauge for professional contacts and Facebook for more personal contacts like actual good friends and an acquaintance here and there. If you want numbers, I can tell you that more than 1,000 books have been swapped at Figaro.

“We’re very close to the Philippine consulate, and it helps that they make us a must-see when they’ve got guests. I’ve been able to meet and even tour people around which I would not have had a chance to do if I had chosen to work in Manila.”

So what does this 26-year-old “ambassador” have planned out to unite nations?

“I plan to start a Camera Club. All the activities we have at Figaro and events I get involved in are all my interests—books, literary events, writers’ groups, etc. Photography is a passion so a camera club will be a great way to meet other photographers and learn from them.”

What made her successful at being a “Friendster in the flesh”?

“Shanghai’s really been a great city to meet all sorts of people and to get involved in so many different things. Maybe it’s the whole expat culture of being in a new place where people don’t know you and you don’t know anyone. So you have to burst out of your shell, comfort zone, and make an entrance. Have the courage to try new things, pursue your interests and passions and be ready to make new friends. It’s nice to have a fresh start.”

If you plan to visit Shanghai, check out what else (besides coffee) is brewing in Ros Juan’s mini-consulate.

Living Organically

2008-06-22T13:07:00.000+08:00

I still remember a long distance phone call I received while I was living overseas some five years ago. My mother, who was always a pillar of strength and guidance for me throughout my life, had called me from Manila. Her voice, normally calm and steady, broke down mid-sentence--and in that very instant, as I was about to enter a noisy restaurant for dinner with friends, I felt the world around me slow down.

My father had just been diagnosed with stage 2 bone marrow cancer, probably the second most painful cancer ever to be experienced. I had known my father was not well when I left to live and work abroad, but we all thought it was due to a fracture in his back and that all he needed was some surgery and therapy to get back on track. For this latest diagnosis, it was prescribed that he undergo radiation and six cycles of chemotherapy.

Although I was planning to relocate to yet another country in the upcoming months, something in my mom's voice told me that I should just return home. About a month and a half after that call, I landed in Manila and mentally prepared myself to see my father. How foolish of me! Nothing can prepare anyone for the sight of a chemo-ravaged body and spirit. My father was almost a ghost of a man, and though I was bright-eyed and cheery when I spoke to him, I couldn't stop the sobs that escaped from me that night as I tried to get to sleep.

Fast forward to a couple of months later when, as a family, we decided to make some changes. We did not want to turn our backs completely on western medicine, but something collectively told us that there must be some other options that my father could benefit from that may be of a gentler, less drastic nature.

My mother discovered The Wellness Center in San Juan and began a relationship with its founder, Dr. Cristina Gonzalez. With the help of this center, we started to combine more holistic practices, supplements, probiotics (enzymes), juicing, and similar regimen into my father's diet and daily life. Unfortunately, in the end, we were again faced with a very difficult situation as a family. It was time to choose between one or the other. Chemo would basically annihilate (yes I am using that strong a word because that's what I felt it was doing) both good and bad cells, which meant that whatever we were trying to replenish or even regenerate via organic means would be wiped out every time he had a session.

My father was about to have his last round of chemo, plus a bone marrow transplant, and blood transfusions were recommended. The image of my father, already so frail and weak, being cut open and undergoing that kind of risk was just unacceptable to us. My father, of course, was frightened. He wanted to live, by any means, and of course he didn't want to make the “wrong” decision. I cannot verbalize enough how long and dramatic a process it took for him to finally say “NO!” to his final session. Our oncologist was very understanding; he had a great fondness for my father and wished us all well.

Our household had to change on account of this decision. We started removing as many things as possible that were considered toxic or cancer-inducing in our home. First was the microwave, then all canned goods. Cleaning soaps and laundry detergent were replaced with more natural cleansers. Toothpaste with fluoride, out, deodorants and antiperspirants containing aluminum chlorohydrate were disposed of, beauty products containing parabens and other heavy chemical compounds found their way into the trash bins. Our fruits and vegetables were bought from the organic market, meat if ever was free range, as were eggs. Dairy was replaced by soy, white rice was completely taken off the grocery list, and we have, for the last five years been eating either brown, red and even black rice with every meal. It was a complete turnaround for us but we accepted it willingly because we were getting slowly educated on the benefits of integrating this diet into our lives.

This is not to say we were hardcore believers and purists in practice. I am guilty of drinking a couple of diet sodas and downing some fast food happy meals every now and then. It's just that I know that I have afforded my body with enough ammo so that when I'm feeling nutritionally naughty, I'm probably not going to feel any adverse effects later on in life. As for my father, he went into remission a year after he was diagnosed with cancer. To this day, although I can't say my father is in the best of health (he's far from being the next Iron Man), the cancer has not reared its ugly head again, and doctors are still amazed that he has been able to survive despite discontinuing his chemo, not to mention refusing the transplant and transfusion. My father has been able to get an extraordinary second chance, some may even say third chance at living, and I strongly believe that we, his family have gotten that same extraordinary opportunity as well.

Living Organically
By Katrina A. Holigores
Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 02:57:00 06/22/2008

MANILA, Philippines

The Best Listener

2008-06-17T18:03:00.000+08:00

A cousin once told me over dinner that moments when you felt most blissful or most happy are never repeated in the same, exact intensity, that’s why the older you get, the more you realize that a life is built on being bouyed (and sometimes dragged down) by memories.

If I had to take one of those instamatic, psychological tests in which I’m given less time than it takes to blink an eye to say a word in reaction to another, my reaction to the word “generations” would be family.

Yes, predictable and ho-humy, but family is normally a very understated and underestimated sustaining factor of our DNA.

We all have funny, enlightening, depressing or “for our ears” only accounts of what goes on with our blood relatives, and whether we like it or not, we continue an age-old tradition of passing down stories for other generations to hear.

They may get embellished, censored or downright fabricated as the years go by, but they’re still worthy of at least one telling at a family gathering.

A little over a year ago, a most beloved storyteller, and more importantly listener, was lost to us. My lola Nena, who was (in my opinion) the binding factor in most of our reunions and get togethers, passed on seven years short of turning a century old.

Of course our family got the usual barrage of “Wow, she lived a full life,” or “That’s a great age to die.” Whatever. As far as I was concerned, my lola was going to live forever. Period. She had gottten sick before but she had always stayed in the hospital for a brief spell and was back home and back to normal.

But, ironically, on Mother’s Day in 2007, she finally succumbed, and slipped rather quietly away from this life to the afterlife, and none of us seemed prepared to believe it.

It’s hard to verbalize the loss of someone who was there from the moment you were born, although oftentimes she seemed in the background as you went through the more tumultuous times in your life.

A grandmother is nothing like a mother, they’re seemingly more patient, more detached, and more oblivious to your faults. Perhaps because they didn’t see you that often or, in my lola’s case, didn’t want to get too involved for fear of being too intrusive.

But oh, how she could listen, with that lightness and lack of judgment that a child would possess.

She seemed genuinely interested in everything you had to say and her voice would rise in wonder whenever something new or “innovative” would be included in a conversation.

The fax machine, to her, was more alien intelligence than she could ever have dreamt of. The very notion that the exact same page could appear exactly the same way halfway across the country (or the world) seemed like black magic.

How very different from this new generation, who look at a fax machine as a Jurassic piece of equipment.

It’s been more than a year since her passing but her presence is still felt and sorely missed.

As a test to what an impact this magnificent woman had in our lives, I shot out a text an hour before I was to write this article to my fellow cousins, asking for a one to two sentence “memory” of her.

Within minutes, I received responses, even one from as far off as Madrid, Spain. The common thread? “She was a great listener” kept coming out, as if it was the very first thing that came to mind. And that she was.

I can only imagine, with regret, how many stories were filed lovingly away in my grandmother’s mind, stories that could have once more been shared with other generations to come.

She will forever be remembered, and retold, as the matriarch with the mostest, for as long as someone is willing to listen.

Published in the Philippine Dailly Inquirer, 6/14/08

Artful Escape in Antipolo

2008-06-01T09:18:00.000+08:00

Instead of spending a Sunday channel surfing and stuffing your face with junk food (trust me, you will regret it come Monday) it may be time to get out of the metropolis and take a drive up to Antipolo to check out the Pinto Art Gallery.

Having locked the chips and the dip in the pantry I was whisked away one afternoon and welcomed with relatively traffic free roads to check out this art haven built by Dr. Joven Cuanang. I had heard about this place from friends many times before, that it was a weekend retreat originally and had eventually been turned into a hotspot for exhibits and gatherings for the cultured kind.

The coolest thing about Pinto Art Gallery is that the entire place is one huge exhibit hall. You get to see paintings on one floor, installations in the garden, furniture in the entrance, textiles draped in another room etc. The most exciting bit (at least in my opinion) is that visitors are free to move around at will, over the entire property, and enjoy the fresh air and the wide-open spaces that have pockets of art ready to pop out and greet them.

If you get tired, there’s actually a bed right smack in the garden (yes, the couch potato in you might get tempted) if you want a little spiritual enlightenment, you can go into the chapel, or if you want some meditation time you can go and enjoy some quiet moments overlooking an almost endless expanse of trees. For those feeling the need to express themselves, there is a mini-amphiteater located near a guest house, a fitting area that can probably be used for poetry readings or impromptu theater performances.

Art all around

On the Sunday of my visit, an exhibit entitled Aramid had just opened, I saw handmade furniture, pottery pieces and inabel textiles from Ilocos among others. I met with Dr. Cuanang who warmly welcomed guests and personally tried to show them around whenever he could.

As I viewed some paintings on the elevated floor of Gallery One, I could see a steady stream of art lovers come in and wander around freely, some were first timers such as me and I could hear sounds of delight as they took everything in.

There were regular visitors of course who showed first timers around, or family visiting from abroad. “I never knew something like this existed here” was commonly heard (in various versions) throughout the afternoon. Since it was the first day of this monthlong exhibit (the Pinto Gallery is celebrating the Antipolo Arts Festival till the end of June) merienda was served in the form of batac-styled empanada (freshly brought in) and dirty ice cream. Not quite sure if the food is a regular onsite experience but it certainly made the stay more enjoyable.

Families brought their kids who happily ran around the garden and if the weather was better I’m pretty sure Dr. Cuanang would have encouraged them to jump into the pool. Before I left I even asked the good doctor if he could rent out the place for a weekend stay (perfect for a group of friends or even a family wanting a short distance out of town escape). “Not yet,” he smiled although perhaps to keep it a sanctuary for both himself and art lovers it may be a not “ever.” Still, that one Sunday afternoon was more than enough for me to plan a trip back there whenever I need an artful escape.

Pinto Art Gallery is a member of the Silangan Foundation for Culture and the Arts. Gallery hours are from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., from Wednesday to Sunday. It is located at 1 Sierra Madre St., Grandheights, Antipolo City, Rizal. For inquiries log on to the gallery website at www.pintoartgallery.net, E-mail silangan.foundation@gmail.com or call (632) 6971015.

Artful Escape in Antipolo

By Katrina A. Holigores
Philippine Daily Inquirer

Last updated 19:05:00 05/30/2008

MANILA, Philippines—

Inter-ART-ive Exhibit

2008-05-17T06:27:00.000+08:00

Text and photos by Katrina A. Holigores

When you were a kid you probably heard “don’t touch!” yelled at you in panic as you went rushing towards some objet d’ art that to you looked heavensent from Toys R Us. Something that would have cost more than all your limbs combined when auctioned off in Sotheby’s was to you nothing more than something you just wanted to get your hands on and throw against a wall (or a cousin). Come on, you were probably 5 or 6 (or even younger) and art appreciation made no sense. The stigma though of untouchable art stays with us into adulthood. It seems to become even worse when we realize how much art, especially good art…costs. We’re not just talking about paintings of course, but anything and everything that will look at home in a museum or the creepy neighbour next door’s house.

What if you could find a playground of art? Imagine instead of swings, slides and a sandbox you would get to actually interact with art, and actually have fun and not get a spanking afterwards. Impy Pilapil’s Outdoor Sculpture exhibit at the Ateneo is a great way to kill a couple of hours alone or with a bunch of friends. But, choose wisely, bring buddies who actually want to have fun. If all they want to do is sit and stare direct them to the nearest cinema because you’re about to get your hands a little dirty.

The cool thing I’ve le arned about installation art is that anything goes. Size, shape, form, texture, color, or meaning. Perhaps that only rule should be that if it’s bigger than you, it better be sturdy enough never to come crashing down and crushing you to death. Anyway, no danger of that happening here I was assured my managing curator of the Ateneo Art Gallery, Yael Buencamino. The first piece I saw was entitled the Mangrove and for a moment there I could imagine how it must have been, lying in my crib as a newborn staring up at a shiny, brighty, multicolored mobile. Yes, even at my age, I can still think (and act) like an infant. There were other pieces that I couldn’t wait to get my hands on. The first was a wish stone made out of marble. With a paintbrush dipped in water you could write out your heart’s desires on this slab of stone. Whether or not your wish comes true remains to be seen but it sure is fun having to write it out, and with the hot sun or some gentle winds, even your most secret intention slowly disappears never (you hope) to be revealed to anyone else.

For a sensorial experience (and to work out some trust issues) have a friend guide you over the Barefoot Trail with your eyes closed. Feel different sensations greet your barefeet as you slowly walk over portions of wood, sand, porcelain, glass, granite and pebbles. The giant Chime Halo made out of solid bamboo makes for a rather noisy but melodious game of hide and seek if you wish. Do your own thing beat wise on the inside and ask someone else to strum out a tune on the outside, don’t forget to look up while inside, every aspect of this exhibit is meticulously crafted, infusing manmade structures with God given ones.

You can spend several hours feeling like a child again, try out your musical skills at the colorful foam orchestra of The Music Chamber. A rainbow labyrinth of guitar shaped instruments that require a good shake for a tune. Play sungka, (another massive marble slab accompanied by marble stools) or sit down in my personal favorite the Nautilus to take it all in. This exhibit is certainly not one you can rush through, but rather one that requires the regaining of your childhood curiosity and wonder to thouroughly enjoy the art of play. Feel young again and this time, feel free to touch everything in fact, you will be encouraged to.

Impy Pilapil’s Outdoor Sculpture Exhibit will be on display until August 31. For more information visit the Ateneo Art Gallery Ateneo de Manila University Loyola Heights, Quezon City or call Tel 426-6488

(Published in the Philippine Daily Inquirer May 17, 2008)

Clean Living

2008-04-26T09:42:00.000+08:00

Keeping your house clean without comprising your health sounds like a paradox. The truth is, many household products contain chemicals that may prove harmful to you and your family in the long term. Just taking out dirt and grime is no longer enough, especially if the cleansing materials used are toxic. Siblings Troy Bernardo, Candy Reyes and Krie Lopez started out looking for a project that would help in the rehabilitation of people in need, patterning their ideas after the Delancey Street Foundation which is a self-sustainable rehabilitation program. “I began researching on self-sustained programs, or termed recently as “social entrepreneurship,” and I particularly liked Delancey explains Krie “they took in the bottom 2 percent of the society—drug addicts, excons, homeless, etc.—and they provided them with jobs that educated and empowered them and later on placed them back into mainstream society. The income from the businesses they worked for in turn sustained the whole program. I actually went to visit the foundation two years ago, and this prompted me to start something here.”

What was started was Messy Bessy an earth friendly, non-toxic and biodegradable line of household cleaning products. They are manufactured in one of the homes of the Virlanie Foundation. Specifically Elizabeth home—which is the home of formerly abused girls. “Messy Bessy is a private corporation, but it’s actually run like a non-profit. The primary objective of the company is to personally develop the disadvantaged young adults who are trained and employed by the company. Secondary is to help create safer and “greener” homes” continues Krie.

Earth and human friendly are the strong points of the products and there are even refills available as well as returned bottle discounts so recycling is also encouraged. The most popular products are the Eucalyptus All Purpose Scrub, Orange Blossom Surface Cleaner and the Disinfectant Aroma Spray. The siblings also promote a shift in consciousness so people become more sensitive to their environment. “It would be best to get people out of the old, conventional way of doing things such as buying things regardless of how these products harm them or the environment. We can do our part by bringing Messy Bessy to major retailers, giving people the option. In the meantime, though, while that hasn’t happened yet, people may want to explore other ways to do their groceries. For example, visit outdoor markets, patronize small businesses, support organic growers, bring your own shopping bags, choose to buy products from local companies that contribute to society,” adds Troy.

All in all, earth friendly is not just about where you live, it’s about how you live and how you affect those who live around you.

Messy Bessy is part of a project called HOUSE: Helping Ourselves through Sustainable Enterprises. For orders and inquiries: messybessycleaners@gmail.com or call 0917-8303003 or visit www.messybessy.multiply.com

Interiority Complex

By Katrina A. Holigores
Philippine Daily Inquirer

Last updated 17:15:00 04/25/2008

More Than Durian in Davao

2008-04-19T05:33:00.000+08:00

The last time I was in Davao all I saw was the airport and my hotel. This time around, I was going to see a hotel on my way to the airport, but wow, what a hotel. When you think of the name Kublai (depending on your age) you may think of Kublai Khan, the last emperor of the Mongol

Empire and founder of the Yuan Dynasty. If you were partying out in the 80’s, you think of the hotspot Kublai’s (like I do) where anything and everything was legal—but thankfully without the digital image evidence (Phew, many of you may be saying). In this part of the world though, Kublai was the name of an artist who is giving expressive art a whole new dimension. I arrived at the Ponce Suites Hotel and all I could say as I took in the entrance was “Wow, size matters.” Huge sculptures greeted my companion and I, and even if they looked like they weighed more than a ton, some of them seemed to be suspended like they were as light as air.

Inside the hotel I was in for a rather explosive set of textures, colors and images. Every single space of this four-story hotel is covered in an artwork. Yes, if France has Versailles in terms of decadence, Davao has Ponce Suites in terms of expressionism. Each floor greets you with a different theme. You look up, down, around, upside down and there is always something to look at. I even had my share of giant spiders, comical bat sculptures and a huge gecko staircase. Wow, who needs Walt Disney on acid when you have the artist who made all of this—Kublai Ponce

Millan.

Upon meeting Kublai, I couldn’t help but think “Oh my god, he looks Mongolian!” what with the long hair the slanted eyes, the goatee and moustache. But of course I bit my tongue. He was

the most charming and humble of hosts as he brought us up and down his hotel/gallery. Yes, you don’t have to check in to take a tour, but if you do, a regular room will cost about P800 a night—not bad and another incentive to come back. He told me that after a long stint of living in Manila, he decided to return to Davao and just do what he loved for fun and hoped that other people would have fun with it too. In fact, he doesn’t sell any of his artwork, he keeps everything and just finds more and more places to put them.

Those who, like me, have only been as far as the airport can get their dose of Kublai’s art by looking at the sculpture of a giant durian with women coming out of it.

My friend and I had a late flight to catch so we decided to chase the sunset and go to another one of Kublai’s projects, the People’s Park right smack in the heart of the city. It is actually Kublai’s dream to just build public places for children. (He has a son and daughter and his wife is pregnant with his third). So he envisions areas where they can play and families can go to enjoy themselves without having to spend a lot of money.

The People’s Park is a statement of integration. The sculptures of larger than life children represent different looks of Fiipinos from their dress to the fruits or products of a particular region. The entire park is family-friendly—children run and climb on everything, adults sit around and walk around and there is an educational component for everyone as the different trees come with “labels” so you can even get a lesson in tree-ology.

What’s even more amazing about this park is that it is litter-free. “The people take pride in this as their personal space even if it’s public,” shares Kublai, “so there is a certain reverence with how they treat it, they don’t leave anything and throw their trash in the respective trash bins.” The park is also free of charge, like his hotel turned gallery (where we capped the night off having vegetarian pizza) Kublai has created (and continues to create—as he is in the process of building another park in another province) a sanctuary for the senses.

Ponce Suites is located on Roads 3 and 2 Doña Vicenta Village II, Bajada Davao City. Contact No. (092) 778-8808 or (802) 227-9070 www.poncesuites.com

Text and photos by Katrina A. Holigores
Philippine Daily Inquirer

Last updated 04:34pm (Mla time) 04/18/2008

An Earth Hour Passes

2008-04-05T04:29:00.000+08:00

Illustration by Jason Moss
(Printed in the Philippine Daily Inquirer 04/05/08)

An Earth Hour Passes

by Katrina A. Holigores

Give the Earth a break from Global Warming the text messages said. For one full hour, all were requested to shut off their lights, aircons, radios, tv sets...basically almost every electrical powered device in their households. Seemed simple enough, 8pm to 9pm would see the world unite in the dark. At 7pm I made my way to a friend's condo in San Juan. There was a small gathering planned of about 7-8 people that night and we were excited to see from the vantage point of the 9th floor parts of the city "black out". We prepared candles, incense and a light dinner that was pre-cooked so we could enjoy a real candlelight dinner.

Five minutes to the 20th hour of the day and we settled in a circle as our host went around switching off lights, the electric fan and even the telephone. Some took advantage of the silence and lack of light to meditate, some prayed, some played light, rhythmic beats on a skin drum while I went out and stood over the balcony in anticipation for a vast neverending stretch of darkness.

No such luck. Fifteen minutes into 8 o' clock and the houses closest to the apartment building seemed to have every light turned on. The streets should have just been lit by passing cars but were illuminated instead by every abode within sight. Half an hour and still no change, I looked to my left and saw buildings, I imagine commercial ones lit from top to bottom, some even looked like they were under construction and I doubt anyone was working on them on a Saturday night. By 8:45 it was glaringly obvious that at least this portion of the Philippines were I had chosen to spend my Earth Hour had not bothered to deduct even 60 mins worth of usage from their Meralco bill.

I returned to the circle with mixed feelings. Another companion rang a bell fifteen minutes later and gently said "One Earth Hour is over". I couldn't help but think as the lights were switched back on and the room started to get brighter and brighter..was it really just an hour that was over? Or a general consciousness to make a change? I hope not.

Kalipimu: Move with Spirit

2008-03-29T03:13:00.000+08:00

By Katrina A. Holigores
Philippine Daily Inquirer

Last updated 16:33:00 03/28/2008

MANILA, Philippines—Stuck. Trapped. Blocked. Disconnected. These are words that formed part of my daily dictionary. Active as I was on the outside, inside I was feeling lethargic, and going through the motions of life on automatic pilot. I had tried meditation to clear my head of a thousand voices—but they just wouldn’t shut up. Even my outward movements felt mechanic, truth be told, finding quiet time was a skill I did not possess. An inner desperation led me to an old acquaintance (on recommendation of a mutual nephew) to Kalipimu. Kali what? Kalipimu, without delving into details (since you can Google it or go to www.innerdance.multiply.com) it was explained to me as an ancient healing ritual indigenous to pre-colonial Philippines—practiced by tribal shamans, the baylan (male) and the babaylan (female). They were the soul “doctors” before Christianity was brought (some say ‘forced’) upon us with the arrival of the Spaniards.

Feel it to believe it

But describing the power of this healing ritual in words is unjust. Experiencing it is the only way to go, or in this case, flow. I was simply asked to sit down and close my eyes. I felt light touches on various parts of my body and later on was slowly and seemingly stretched with gentle pushes and pulls. Part of me thought, “Ok, feels nice, but … ” and my mind started to drift off, to the usual traffic of what I did that day, what I was going to do later … etc., etc. The being moved around continued and at some point I found myself lying down on my back, eyes still closed taking in the music that was being played and trying desperately not to think about anything else but stay in the moment. I decided to just let my friend finish his work and I would politely just lie still until the session was over.

The tipping point

My friend stopped physical contact with me and moved a short distance away. My hands started to tremble, and jerk—to an irregular beat all on their own. My arms, planted firmly on the floor, started to sway, in no fixed direction left, right, round, up, down. At this point I should have freaked out, but I didn’t, I was mesmerized, transfixed (even with my eyes still closed) by the flow, by the loss of control which was still, weirdly enough, controlled. I felt little snaps of electricity traveling from my elbows to the tips of my fingers, as if something was slowly being released into the world and beyond. The trembling and shaking continued and this time, the voices in my head did shut up and my mind flew free. There was a lightness I felt, although I was still very connected to my body. All I could comprehend in this in-between state was that something had opened up within that allowed me to see into another dimension of myself, one that acknowledged an inner life force that had long been dormant. My body continued to move on its own and as I turned my head to one side my eyelids opened slightly and I ‘saw’ standing over me a woman, dressed in what seemed to be native American garb, her expression was one of observation. There was nothing sinister about her presence, she just seemed to belong there. Minutes later I heard a voice in my ear welcoming me back to the present. I left that night feeling like I had definitely found something. “This practice is a guru-less one,” my friend explained, “all you need is to find spirit and you can continue this on your own.” That night, alone and lying in my bed, I plugged in my iPod, closed my eyes and was taken over by movement once more.

Level Up

A month passes and I find myself on a plane to Davao, and greeted in the airport by Pi Villaraza—who I will identify basically as the moving force behind the awareness and expansion of Kalipimu and its benefits. I was going to spend the Easter weekend at his base, in the Don Bosco Youth Camp in Makilala, North Cotobato. For the next three days, I was going to immerse myself in all the healing qualities that this inner dance had to offer. First was release, the blocks, past life traumas, issues, hurts that were contained in my subconscious. The movements that took over my body were sometimes violent in their force and speed, but they never once caused any injury nor any fear in me, it was almost like I welcomed the spasms, the coughs that escaped from my throat and, on one occasion, tears. In the midst of one of my almost cathartic states, I had images of all the people in my present life who had hurt me and as tears flowed I heard myself addressing each of them saying, “I’m sorry, I’m so, so sorry,” Yes, it was a reverse, instead of forgiving I was the one asking for it instead. That particular session left me with a rather deep sense of emptiness, and as it was performed on a rock overlooking a beautiful flowing river, I curled up into a fetal position and allowed the Universe to cradle me once more, so vulnerable, and yet open to what was around me. The key was, I was no longer caught up in the past, it was a giant, giant leap for me as I came to understand later on during my stay. We are emptied out, so that we may change what fills us, what makes us, and what moves us.

Part of this immersion was also reconnection to the purity of nature. Our party hiked, swam, took in the icy cold and warm waters offered by the mountains, natural heated pools and the cleansing benefits of breathing clean air and drinking fresh, flowing water. I felt like a child again, there were no “no’s” involved in anything I did as I explored what surrounded me and what was within me. By the end of the weekend, I had even learned the healing art of massage through Kalipimu. During this heightened state of connectivity to spirit you can activate another’s own life force to remove pains, both physical and emotional by touch. You become so sensitive to energy that sometimes you don’t even need to look where to place your hand, you are guided to it intuitively.

Everyone Can Heal

To think that Kalipimu is an instant fix is a huge mistake, it is part of a process, one that is designed for you to dig deeper and deeper, and you realize how much you may have repressed when the rigidity of adulthood took over the free spirit you possessed as a child. We all have aches and pains, but the ones we repress are the most difficult to bear. Kalipimu is like a much needed hug to a bruised heart or a broken soul. There is an almost instant soothing that takes place, but it doesn’t make all that pain or past issues go away. It takes practice, and sincerity. When it is later combined with an intention to heal, it may be used to free others from their own issues. It has been known to ease physical ailments, enhance creativity and more importantly (as in my case) feel connected again. Visualization ( if you’ve been on the recent law of attraction bandwagon) is energized when in a state of inner dance release. This could possibly take you one step closer to the person you were meant to become.

No one experience is the same; to resonate with spirit at this level is different for everyone, and is definitely for everyone.

A three-day Inner Dance convergence in Makilala, North Cotabato will occur on May 8-12. For more details call or text: 0919-2358153 and 0916-4748496

Special thanks to Betsy Gamela of the Don Bosco Foundation for Sustainable Development and her staff.

Friends in Need

2008-02-16T08:24:00.000+08:00

By Katrina A. Holigores
Philippine Daily Inquirer

Last updated 20:19:00 02/15/2008

MANILA, Philippines—All the world’s a stage and all the men and women merely players’ penned noteworthy playwright William Shakespeare. In theater, it is easy to say that everything is staged, from start to finish be it a happy or a tragic ending. Behind the scenes though, less predictable and planned situations take place, and in many cases, less ideal-especially when it comes to the funding and support of theatrical productions. Repertory Philippines has been in existence for the last 40 years and it has been a breeding ground for locally and internationally recognized talents such as Lea Salonga and Monique Wilson. In spite of all this it has counted on support from its “friends” in order for it to keep going season after season.

The Past

Friends of Repertory (F.O.R) was originally formed in 1988, by Margaret Go and later formalized with its own officers and members by the late Paz Yuchengco. Friends of Repertory’s main mission was to support the theater and its productions. The end goal was to keep ticket sales up while keeping prices low. Activities revolved around fundraising, sales of season tickets, wrap parties for cast members and even a pension plan for actors were part of its goals, some were realized, and some were not. In recent years, F.O.R seemed to have lost its voice and another plan of action was to be taken. Rem Zamora, current Marketing Head for Repertory Philippines decided that the best way to revive the “friends” was to create a whole new “barkada” (group). “I just decided to go for some new blood, people who had more energy and enthusiasm to volunteer their time and effort.”

The Present

Last October, Friends of Repertory was “revived” with 21-year-old Toff de Venecia as head. “Toff seemed the perfect candidate” explained Rem, “He loved theater, was acting and had a wide network of friends.” Toff certainly didn’t have an easy start, the thrust of Friends of Rep was not necessarily fundraising but to sell tickets, and there was some resistance as many felt that Repertory was already well-financed and supported. Theater is in constant need of funding as productions are not cheap, and actors get paid an almost minimum wage for their performances. Now with about 30 members total in F.O.R, the first goal of 2008 is firstly, raise awareness of the ‘encore’ presence of the younger set. Of course, they also have to raise in order for them to start their campaigns for the selling of new Repertory plays and seasons.

Stage Hands

I met with Toff and five other members on the day of the shoot and he explained to me that their first activity for 2008 was a dinner/concert benefit on Feb. 22 entitled FORever Rep. “We got artists such as Miss Saigon alumni Michael Williams and Robbie Guevara, opera singers Lionel and Cynthia Guico among others to perform. The proceeds will be used to fund our projects which includes buying shows that will cater to the sectors of society (including the youth) who have limited exposure to theater.”

It is true that until now, theater (especially the Western pieces that are the standard of REP) are considered too high brow, but F.O.R plans to change all that through its efforts of bringing more people to watch—without having to spend. The other members who were present at the shoot were also active in theater, either with their school or outside. Andrei Pamintuan is a Theater Arts Major from Ateneo and most recently appeared in a Trumpets’ production directed by Freddie Santos. Jorja Hung is still in school but came out as Simone in Floy Quintos’ Fluid. Nicole Co is fascinated by languages and is planning to pursue Mandarin studies in Beijing this year. Charlie Barredo who hails from Assumption has done both musicals and straight plays and is passionate about saying that her involvement is what her parents ( Repertory founders Baby Barredo and Zeneida Amador) would have dreamt about. Faust Peneyra is focusing on production design, but also involves himself in acting and as a professional stage manager for concerts and theatrical performances.

Wrap-up

The rapport between these “friends” was genuine as they teased each other and got their game on posing and talking about what they were going to do that day. The jokes and teasing flowed especially as Andrei got a free haircut from hairstylist Raymond Ko. The girls studied their curls and the boys (all having theater backgrounds) were obedient in the makeup chair. I asked them why any of them would want to volunteer their free time when they could easily spend their weekends partying, going out of town or just “act their age.” All of them just shrugged their shoulders like being involved in as many aspects of theater was just a natural progression for them. Natural was the vibe during the shoot and it went pretty quickly. Then off they went (Rehearsals for some, studies for others) they didn’t even slow down to eat. It looks like Repertory has found a group that certainly has the vim and vigor to make sure that the show will go on, and on, and on.

FORever Rep will be held at the Urdaneta Clubhouse in Urdaneta Village, Makati, MM. For more information call or text Bea Garcia at 0917-9128930 or click on www.repertory-philippines.com

The Secrets Society

2008-01-06T07:54:00.000+08:00

By Katrina A. Holigores
Philippine Daily Inquirer

Last updated 06:07pm (Mla time) 01/04/2008

MANILA, Philippines—Postcards are like the post-its of travel, one single evocative image in front and enough space to write on in the back. At least, this is what comes to mind when I think of postcards. Frank Warren though, thought different—he saw a postcard as a means to build a community. In 2004 he handed out 3,000 blank postcards to strangers and asked them to write down a secret ( a real and true one) that they had not shared with anyone else and mail it to him. Since then, he has received more than 150,000 homemade postcards (with a rate of 1,000 a week) which he posts on his blogsite http://postsecret.blogspot.com./ When I entered the site I became its 116,605,328th visitor, but I strongly feel that those are humbled values. Everyone loves a good secret, be it a dirty little one like “I don’t brush my teeth on weekends” to ones with deep anguish such as “I only date black men because my white brother molested me”. The accompanying artwork is a far cry from the usual picturesque scenes you see in a tourist stand-some are evocative of the pain or joy the “secret- donor” unleashes on that one piece of paper.

Reading someone else’s auto-exposé is akin to paper voyeurism—a visual confession that was not meant for anyone’s ears or eyes... but Post Secret has created a community of confessors. In fact, one so large that it has already resulted in international art exhibits of selected postcard confessions and four books (three of which are New York Times bestsellers). The site invites anyone who wishes to unload a chance to do it anonymously and as creatively as can be. The temptation to spill has never been so juicy, and not only can one do so in print as video and audio confessional options are now available. Keep those lips locked or tell all, but before you decide see what other people have to say about themselves.

Katrina Holigores is a self-confessed secrets junkie. Having been born with planetary energies that would have made her better suited as a private investigator than a media multitasker, she finds solace in trying to make light of things that would have been better off left in the dark. To achieve 20/20 night vision is her next goal this year.

Fed Up in 2007

2008-01-01T17:11:00.000+08:00

gifts of all shapes and sizes containing food. This last year has had a lot of hits and misses even with the overflow of new restaurants sprouting up around the country. I certainly can’t say that I am a gourmand ( I can barely spell that) but there are definitely a number of restaurants that I have r been satisfied with overall in terms of the dishes they ‘dish out’ as well as the service and prices. Yes, I know there are probably lots of places I’ve missed and there are probably better bargains, but come on, this would take too long to read, and you’d be better off going out there and finding your own gastronomical gems!

There is no particular order as to what I’ve listed here, all I can say is I still haven’t had a bad meal or a scary dining experience in any of the places I’ve listed down. There are 10 for food and 5 for dessert-some of you may not agree with my comfort food standard but I hope you can experience at least one unforgettable meal ( or dessert) among the ones below-and have one more excuse to renew that gym membership in 2008!

Top 10 food

The Tofu-Caesar Salad at Piquant restaurant in RCBC Plaza. It’s got this eggless Caesar salad dressing that makes it less heavy than other dressings plus I like the spice it contains for an extra kick.
Piquant Restaurant Podium 3 RCBC plaza Ayala Avenue Makati City
7293452
piquant.health@gmail.com

Haiku’s Spicy Tuna Sashimi-this appetizer can be a light meal for some. If you like the taste of sashimi with some zing ( I don’t want to say spicy and extra kick again) this gives a different take on just getting your usual sashimi, and the tall glass it's served in is cool.
Haiku Restaurant Greenbelt 3 2/F tel no. 757-4597

Fried Eel with black bean sauce in The Cove
You want fresh seafood while you’re in Cebu? Seems a pretty easy feat to accomplish but no one does it better than the newly opened The Cove Restaurant at the longstanding Maribago Bluewater Resort in Mactan Cebu. There are other fish-y choices at this restaurant and you can expect to taste a certain sweetness that comes from the freshness of the dish-be it steamed, grilled or fried. Eel is my favorite but the lapu-lapu is a close second.
The Cove, Maribago Bluewater Resort, Cebu
Tel. (32) 492-0100 / 232-5411

Mamou’s Duck adobo flakes with red rice and scrambled eggs.
Not sure if this is the proper name but you will find it on the menu of Mamou. It’s not the healthiest of dishes-although the red rice does help but it’s incredibly tasty. Even if this restaurant is known for its “New York” type steaks, I still order this everytime I’m there. You better call for reservations though, because it’s always packed-and with good reason.
Mamou Restaurant in Serendra Bonifacio
Tel 8563569

Steak and mushroom pie at Basilio’s. I used to enjoy the Meat Pot pies when I was still based abroad and sadly I haven’t found another place that made this until a friend invited me for lunch at newly opened Basilio’s. Even the crust that covers this stew-like meal is of perfect consistency and not too starchy, especially when you break it open and it lets the steam out. You don’t even need to eat the sidings of bread that accompany it.
Basilio’s Restaurant
Rizal Drive cor 29th St.
Forbeswood Heights
Fort Bonifacion
Tel. 856-1742 to 43

El Cirkulo’s Puntillitas. Sick of the usual calamares rings? Why not try deep fried whole baby squid that you can just pop into your mouth, like a seafood-y popcorn. Known as “chopitos” in Andalucia, Spain, these are the perfect appetizer. Providing you prefer fish over meat and they aren’t oily so one plate goes pretty fast!

El Cirkulo’s Paella Negra, yes I know, it’s getting obvious that I have a preference for seafood but trust me this paella is amazing, if you don’t mind the black teeth and gums while eating it from the squid ink. ( Go with someone who loves you unconditionally or dump him/ her to eat this by yourself).
El Cirkulo Restaurant
900 A. Arnaiz Ave
cor Paseo de Rozas Makati
Tel. 8108735

Lamb Adobo at Abe’s. This is hearty Filipino ( ok, Capampangan)food you can really dig into. It’s a sin to not have lamb adobo with rice, I can’t explain it, it’s just perfect and you can order anything (like the Gising-gising) to accompany it. This is another restaurant that gets filled up quickly so always try and make a reservation, it is certainly worth it, and bring the whole family while you’re at it. The lamb replacing pork or chicken for this traditional Filipino dish is genius. Oh and it’s national artist BenCab’s favorite.
Abe’s Restaurant, Serendra, Bonifacio Global City
Tel. 8560526

Cantinetta’s Tartufo Pasta is not for anyone on a diet. First, it’s pasta, second it’s got white sauce with truffle oil, and thirdly it’s got prosciutto ham to boot. But of, if you’re going to go down, (or rather, up weightwise) go with this. Whenever I bring someone to try this, eloquence escapes them, and all they can say is “wow” (and then they order their own serving). Selfish!
Cantinetta Restaurant
Karrivin Plaza
Pasong Tamo extension
Tel. 8929873

Delimundo Schublig sausages-these products are available at the Delimundo stall at the Saturday Market in Salcedo village. If you want to order you can call 892-9440 and look for Renie. Oh, and you should also try some of their pasta sauces for quick comfort meals at home ( like the Bolognese) Rumor has it they will officially launch their entire product line by January 2008.

Feeling full yet? There is always room for dessert. Here are my top 5.

Molten Chocolate Cake Basilio’s Restaurant -think smoky chocolate and forget about the calories! (Address and number are already mentioned before bub, don’t be lazy)

Milky Way’s Halo-Halo. Ah the classic and no one does a classic better than Milky Way which seems to have been around as long as the Milky Way up above. Go, be a kid again and try this!
Milky Way Café (right above El Cirkulo Restaurant)
Tel. 8437124

Marta’s Cakes cupcakes-a very bright, happy store which showcases the design supremacy of its proprietor, ( you can even decorate your own cupcakes and cakes) but you don’t want to work to sate your sweet tooth, then just indulge in a pound cupcake with buttercream icing.
Marta’s Cakes
Serendra, Bonifacio Global City
Tel. 9153802 or 8561791

Chocolate Lace Cookies made by Dentelle Au Chocolat Les Chocolatieres. Honestly, I can’t pronounce anything. These are extremely thin (hence the lace description) cookies that are either filled with dark, milk or white chocolate. I used to order them by the canister to take back to Manila everytime I was in Cebu. The only danger is that they are so deceptively thin that you will probably inhale a hundred of them before you stop. Call Lynn Moro at (0917) 6220427.

Mango Torte Cake (Petron gas station Arnaiz Ave cor EDSA)
-Yes I know not a very good way to end this “list” but this is a cake we have been having at almost every family occasion so I think the dessert stork just drops it off. Yum.

A Charmed Life

2007-12-23T05:38:00.000+08:00

By Katrina A. Holigores
Philippine Daily Inquirer

Last updated 07:01pm (Mla time) 12/21/2007
MANILA, Philippines—A New Year is approaching and a lot of internal and external spring cleaning is in order.

The “industry” of new age, or eastern as opposed to western philosophies have been on the rise in recent years, regardless of the fact that the belief in most of the practices have existed for centuries. Recently, I have picked up an interest in feng shui, which is not an uncommon word nowadays and when Wikipedia-d means “wind-water” ( literally) and when described it is the ancient Chinese practice of placement and arrangement of space to achieve harmony with the environment. Curiosity got the best of me even more when a friend came over one day accompanied what may best be described as a jingly-jangly sound (and no she wasn’t on Santa’s sleigh). She was wearing bracelets made out of semi-precious stones, crystals and some even had rather peculiar, mythical animal figurines on them. “They’re my ‘anting-anting’ (talismans) she gleefully exclaimed and proceeded to tell me how her luck had taken a rather positive, almost divine turn after a feng shui consultation and acquisition of bracelets. Having studied western astrology, the enneagram and other (ok weird) similar subjects, I made an appointment to visit Chains and Charms proprietor, Joy Lim, who had been (I later found out) practicing her feng shui craft for almost eight years.

Waiting auspiciously

Getting to Joy Lim’s Quezon city office (although she has other branches peppered all over GMA) was a rather complicated adventure for my Makati spoiled being, but, I got there and “prepared” myself for what would be the outcome. Perhaps I’ve just watched one too many movies that depict these geomancers or feng shui practitioners as aging, grumpy, wild-eyed soothsayers so I was really trying to hold my rather wild imagination at bay. I was though, surrounded by as many Buddha figurines, chimes, dragons, red and gold as far as the eye could see, which was amusing. “She has never renovated or changed this place,” explained Vangie Kua, her publicist and longtime friend. “It is where she found her first success.” As I looked around and took in walls that needed a paint job and floors that needed some loving I figured that there may be truth in “Don’t fix what isn’t broken” as this is a woman who sometimes has a waiting list of clients for weeks, even months and people are willing to wait hours for their appointment. Thankfully, my wait wasn’t very long and it was certainly worth it because when Joy Lim breezed in my grumpy-lady-with-too-much-black-eyeliner notions were dispelled. I was greeted with a woman of vibrant, warm and happy energy and found my own energy buoyed as I was ushered into an extension of the building that was her current office.

A different kind of bling

A tip: you need to come equipped with your birth details and from there, your Chinese Zodiac animal is identified and what number or “star” corresponds to you. Things may get a little technical at this point, but you are shown charts, photos and you can ask a barrage of questions.

“It was my grandfather who used to practice feng shui,” confides Joy. “I would just know about it as a hobby, the only time I started believing in it was when my first business failed. When I started applying proper feng shui techniques—things changed and since then I’ve been a convert, but always with the intention to help others by providing them with what they need to change their luck. First and foremost, none of this will happen if you don’t have faith in God-or a Supreme Being.” What she is most known for is her chains and charms bracelets, which she started making-using customized designs for her friends, and when they started to tell her that things were also changing for the better, she decided to go into it full-time. “The bracelets are like portable auspicious items that you can take with you—they help with personal energy and then I can recommend other things for the energy of your house.” Depending on your life concern at the time is what she will base what kind of bracelet to create for you. All her creations are made out of crystals and semi-precious stones and even the figurines she attaches are made of the same material. Rose quartz for example is good for attracting love and relationships, yellow citrine for money and success, a crystal sculpted golden rooster may be attached to a bracelet to attract your peach blossom luck in that particular area, or you may benefit from bracelets that have the “heavenly” DZI Tibetan charm. ( Rumored to have fallen from heaven and what is used by Tibetan monks) The bracelets, at the very least can make you feel more positive and if you are still unsure of what your concerns are there is always the Blessed Lucky Animal Sign Charm Bracelet. It is unique to the wearer and is created according to your sign, and carries with it blessings from heaven—this was her very first creation and technically her “best-seller.”

Luck be a lady

So, as I ended my session and walked away—jingling jangling all the way—armed with my new bands of luck and power (Wonder Woman would not have stood a chance) I couldn’t help but think that at the very least, I made a new friend, had some new accessories that would certainly be conversation starters and hey, if 2008 turns out to be bigger, brighter and better due to my wrist warriors then I would definitely be a very happy feng shui follower for life.

For information or to make an appointment: call Charms and Crystals at 742-2597. Or check out www.charmsandcrystals.com

A Road with A View

2007-11-17T03:50:00.000+08:00

(published in the Philippine Daily Inquirer Nov. 17, 2007)

Text and photos by Katrina A. Holigores

It was almost like a rite of passage. An escapade up north that started in the dead of night. The end point was Baguio, one day before the end of February three years ago. My professional career had hit a speed bump and I was dating a guy who could best be described as a dead end. Going nowhere it seemed, I was then asked by an indie-hero to come along to shoot a “roadtrip” travelshow. The invitation was like a kiss from an angel, and at a red-eyed hour we set off for the NLEX and up, up and away we drove to the city of Pines. The plan was to cover the floral festival known as Panagbenga, but before that, indie-hero intimated, he wanted to show me a road he had discovered. It looked deserted and abandoned at ungodly hours but was traffic jammed virtually impassable as soon as the sun came up. “You have to see it right before the sun rises, it’s magnificent.” Having been nursed on National Geographic fodder I held my breath and kept my cynicism inside my camera bag. Four, five, six hours passed and I was amazed that the darkness did not intimidate our driver as I couldn’t even make out a single street sign. It was an endless black snake of asphalt but eventually we came to a clearing and all traces of sleepiness left me in a single breath-which was just as quickly taken away by what I saw. It was as if the skies were smoldering, rich with the colors of rising flames and framed against thick white smoke. For the next ten minutes all we could do was watch in silent awe as the sun slowly waded through the clouds as if coming out of a rich foamy bath. Once sunlight streamed in from all directions, the glamour of the surroundings disappeared and the road was revealed as nothing extraordinary, just a means to get from one end to the other and so we continued on our journey. I look back on that trip as a turning point in my life. Soon after, my career shifted gears and I found a detour out of Mr. Dead End. Funny, all this from an unremarkable road with an unforgettable view.

Au Natural

2007-10-12T17:11:00.000+08:00

Discovering something new is irreplaceable, especially when it's a place you want to share with friends and, in this blog's case, the rest of the cyberworld. A Wednesday afternoon found me in a new gallery on Quirino Ave (athough people of a different generation will firmly identifu the area as Tambo) to see a series of photographs of children during playtime. Before the Michael Jackson in you comes out take note that the photos connote a joy and abandon that kinds lose themselves in during their endeavors. Hey, even sleeping is done with so much enthusiasm it take a rather cruel heart to want to stir them from their slumber. The photos were even arranged in a way that it made you want to look at them, and when I say arranged...I mean you have the opportunity to do some neck and back stretches. Congratulations to Chit and Eileen Ramirez who put up this gallery which I hope will pump in more work and even more interesting styling curator style. "Natural Lang" is the current exhibit at Blankspace, 0431 Quirino Ave, Paranaque tel. (02) 851-2647. Take a couple of hours out of a "usual" weekend and go view something new, which will probably bring more than a smile to your face. To the arts, and to those who still have the spirit for it in the Philippines. The battle isn't over they say til the soldiers stop fighting.

Roundabout and Out

2007-09-29T01:15:00.000+08:00

Roundabout and Out

By Katrina A. Holigores
Inquirer

Published on 09/14/2007

MANILA, Philippines—Logistics has never been a strong point for me. Getting lost in my own backyard or anyone’s backyard combined with a rather short term memory for names of places and streets is something I’ve learned to live with. Suffice to say finding my way from A to B is always an adventure. This week I find myself with a couple of friends on a road trip around Italy, this sounds (and is) an absolute joyride, with the exception of me having to take my shift in driving. I can and do drive back in Manila although I can’t say I’m the most patient and coolheaded person on the road. I feel constantly challenged by having to avoid all forms of public transportation, private transportation and not to mention public and private citizens who feel they are the only ones who have a right to be there. Driving abroad though is not necessarily any easier. The rules (although in general depicted in international symbols) vary and it doesn’t help when you’re trying to find parking and can’t understand what the signs mean. Read: parking directly in front of a tow away or EU 500 fine zone.

A couple of days ago I found myself snaking my way through the narrow streets of a typical Italian town which wasn’t built for anything wider than a horse. The feeling of actually maneuvering my way (both successfully, and unfortunately also unsuccessfully) through eye of a needle looking arches and maniacally parked cars raised my heartbeat a couple of times. Out on the wide open road the heartbeat raising aspect was in the form of roundabouts, (or a rotonda) which, if not entered into with confidence can cause a whole bout of insecurities. Think about it, you enter (literally) into a circular speedway of choices. Now, if you are not alert enough, you forget that someone else (or many someone elses) is bearing down on you from your left which could end up in disaster. If you are not sure of where to go and doubt yourself for a second, you miss the proper exit, and have to go around again with your tail between your legs as other cars, who know where they’re going zip by you without any hesitation.

But roundabouts are also a confidence builder, because at some point, you have to take charge and after taking a deep, deep breath choose your way out of there. It’s akin to the very moment (enter personal epiphany) that you get behind the wheel of your own life and decide that you do want to reach point A—or realize what point A actually is. Then, with that determination (taking into consideration that you will get a little sidetracked,) you go for it, just don’t be afraid to slow down every now and then to get your bearings. When driving it helps to be in a car with a GPS and a bunch of people who are understanding enough to know that even someone like Michael Schumacher hit a few speed bumps in his own career. In life expect to get pulled over a couple of times, remember to get tuned up regularly, and know with absolute certainty that there is an exit point to get to where you want to be on any roundabout you find yourself revolving. Go ahead and program your life’s GPS to be able to cruise through some of the most scenic routes that will make it the ride of a lifetime.

A Pilgrim Age

2007-09-28T21:43:00.000+08:00

A Pilgrim Age

By Katrina A. Holigores
Inquirer

Last updated 03:37pm (Mla time) 09/28/2007
MANILA, Philippines—We have just zipped through another month. Not a great believer in coincidences, I find it ironic that as we focus on speed this weekend I have just passed through the slow, sleepy town of Assisi in Italy, and have, over the last two weeks, been inside over a dozen churches. Being a flexible Catholic, I can appreciate certain aspects of the religion that I was born into but remain clueless (by choice) of many others. One tradition (no idea of the source) that I grew up with was the wish-making associated when entering a church for the first time. There are many versions of this ritual; some say you make one wish, and some say three. Suffice to say, the latter quantity is what I opted for each and every time I found myself in front of the nth altar for the day.

During this quasi pilgrimage I had a chance to observe my companions and a thousand strangers entering and exiting each of these historic and significant houses of worship. There were those of course who went in as it was part of the tour they had spent X amount of Euros on. There were the local tourists who entered and, depending on the level of their faith, opted to sit down, say a prayer, or just take a photo (no flash) and then make their way back outside. For me, the visits were a combination of both, a chance to digitally document some masterpieces in art and architecture and also, on a more personal note, to slow down, take a break and indulge in the solemnity and sheer energy of a space that has housed over a million prayers and represented a steady vestibule of hope.

Like a Prayer

To have faith is to believe, without a shadow of a doubt, in an intangible happy ever after. Wishes, like prayers, are said when nothing else in the physical world can help you so you throw your heart’s desire out into the wide open flux of the divine. Wish granted? Some people ask for a sign, while some are content with the knowledge that someone or something out there has already heard and all they have to do is believe.

Faith is a funny, albeit powerful emotion. In my case, it has certainly lifted me over some of the more challenging potholes in my existence even if I have never subscribed to the more rigid norms that govern believing in God or a higher entity. The wishes that I’ve said in silence I know have been jotted down and one day I will come to realize if they have indeed been granted. Of course, the “wait” or as a very wise friend of mine pointed out the incorrigible “in-between” stage is the hardest part, and this again is where putting your trust in the unknown (but still knowing—if that makes any sense at all) has to come into play.

I Saw the Sign

So, how do we trust? Just saying to think positive sounds as shallow as the almost casual way people use soul searching nowadays. “Letting go” is a phrase that makes sense but isn’t easy to do, we revert back to old habits in order to find reassurance or affirmation that what we want we will get, and ASAP. Be patient? Try watching paint dry and you will see how easy that is especially when you are thoroughly convinced that your life will be so much better once wish 1-1000 is delivered to your doorstep.

Perhaps the best thing we can all do, in the time it takes from realizing what we want and actually getting it, is to grow up. To fully accept (with no sarcasm and rolling of eyes) that everything does happen for a reason and that the sooner we find out what that reason is we can better discern what to really wish. To put into full and utter belief that an omnipotent Santa Claus is making his or her list (and that we are on it) is the best we can hope for.

As I light another candle in one of the last churches of my trip, I look up and make my wishes and see sunlight slowly spreading across the ceiling and frescos. I feel like I’ve just received a knowing smirk from up above. Believe it or not.

Out on a Limbo

2007-08-29T12:27:00.000+08:00

Out on a Limbo

(Published in the Super section of the Philippine Daily Inquirer, August 25, 2007)

By Katrina A. Holigores

I think I can be guilty most times of being an emotional fence sitter, racking up mileage points to and from my trips to limbo. It was easier earlier on in life, using pure idealism to propel me forward in making decisions, the world, being black and white through a teenager’s eyes was so much easier to make my oyster, or at least I thought. Adulthood and coming to terms with emotional upheavals slowly brought in more color, and definitely more static. So, finding clarity when lost in a feelings fog can make one reluctant to leave the limbo terminal. Not knowing the beginning or the end of what you’re going through can sometimes be extremely peaceful, as paradoxical as that sounds, it’s like being a permanent resident of Switzerland during the World War. It’s a neither here nor there Neverneverland and numbs the pain of having to choose one over the other. Ignorance is bliss, and limbo is bliss at its best.

There are of course, advantages and major disadvantages of being in this state. One thing that could be considered a pro is that it actually gives you some time to think and reflect. Honestly, like when you are unsure if your flight is leaving on time or is delayed you then surrender to the fact that you have to sit down or walk around lost in as many distractions as you can possible come up with. In come the scenarios swimming in your head, all the possible wonderful endings and all the disastrous ones, in fact, it becomes a mental Choose Your Own Adventure, and the best part about it is that the ending can change over and over again. That’s the fun part about being in limbo (ok, fun is relative) you allow yourself a certain amount of detachment in order to play and replay scenes from your life and permit yourself to rebook your destination, if at least, in an imaginary outcome atlas, with no hidden fees and surcharges. You become audience to your drama, so in that aspect, limbo rocks.

Another plus about limbo is that it allows reassessment, and for some, the chance to be vulnerable. Vulnerability is often scowled upon as a weakness, when the truth be told, showing vulnerability gives others a chance to help, when they would normally be turned away out of pride. There is no shame in admitting you need help, no one is expected to be strong day in and day out, and when the winds of confusion set in leaving us helpless in the hands of what we cannot control then humility takes over as well. We then learn that although we have to make decisions on our own, there are many around us who will help us til it’s time for that decision to be made, who act as support, sounding boards, sometimes even a shoulder to cry on or an understanding ear. We all crave definition in everything from our tv sets to our own lives but first we have to surf through our experiential channels in order to get the best reception, and this takes time. Limbo gives us a timeout and eventually a way out.

So on your way to destination definition, enjoy a couple of stopovers in limboland.

Sigh Candy

2007-08-29T12:24:00.000+08:00

Sigh Candy
(Published in the Super Section of the Philippine Daily Inquirer August 18, 2007)

By Katrina A. Holigores

A thousand words are unspoken in a sigh. The singular release of breath, accompanied by an all original sound (composed by sigh-er) may represent anything from relief to sad surrender.

It can signal delight while recalling an afternoon spent in the company of a new friend or bring back with full force a painful memory of a past love. For whatever reason, when a sigh springs forth from one’s lips, it is never shallow, it comes drawn from a place deep within and is released into the here and now. Sighing is the most acute assessment of the power of what was experienced and its effect on the present. Wow. Deep. Sigh.

I’ve been collecting sighs recently, mostly mine, generated by changes that have occurred in my personal and professional life. There were sighs that welcomed the changes, and there were many more sighs that acted as the only way to lessen the dull ache in my heart when they were not welcome at all. I’ve been privy to other sighs as well, those of friends and family around me, it seems, that sighs are as universal as a deep belly laugh, and depending on the delivery can be met with sympathy or scorn.

So I carry a jar full of sigh candy, and every now and then I share one (or many) with a friend, or have a piece in private. What I’ve discovered is that each one symbolizes moving on, in other words, if you can sigh about something, then it’s behind you and the same way you push the breath out, you also push yourself forward if only to be fully aware of you feel, then and there. Sounds stupid, sigh, I know.

If anything, a sigh can help. It is an affirmation and a release. It welcomes in a happy thought and bids farewell to unpleasantness, all you need to do is breathe. Change is inevitable and will bring about every kind of emotion imaginable. Thank goodness no matter how affected we may get, no matter what part of the world we are in, we can always just stop, inhale and…sigh.

Lazy blogging

2007-06-23T10:22:00.000+08:00

Before I get into this blog, let me take the lazy way out and just cross post all the articles that I've written, that have been published before I start with new thoughts.

With a little help from my friends

2006-05-29T23:32:00.000+08:00

With a little help from my friends

First posted 00:41am (Mla time) May 27, 2006
By Katrina Holigores
The Philippine Daily Inquirer

FEELING displaced and disoriented is not an uncommon state when one is in a new place, and experiencing culture shock or just all over shock from his or her surroundings. These two rather alienating feelings were what hit me within the first 48 hours that I arrived, in Mactan, Cebu. Some may think, Cebu??? Friends laughed at my initial whimpers by comparing my past moves to other countries but they just didn’t understand where I was coming from. As we age, we form habits, we have comfort zones, or behavioral patterns that give us a sense of place wherever are. If you think only children have security blankets you’re wrong, adults have them too, they’re just not in tangible forms many times. I had, over the last two years built up a schedule for myself that jetted between work, socializing, traveling, romance, exercise and hedonism. All of a sudden, I was away from home, but not “away” from home, and short of sounding like a brat, I was at a loss of what to do next. Even with a new job as producer for Fashion TV, and an upcoming Model School Gala to look forward to (which was handled rather successfully by new friends and colleagues Rebecca Piket and Daniel Moretti) I was still feeling like I had made a rather drastic change in my life.

So what’s a newbie to do? Newbie’s gotta get busy. Work will soon get up to speed but in the meantime the hyperdrive in me must be satisfied … so I took a quiet moment, and “asked” the powers that be to keep me occupied and do away with my comfort zone. Well, the powers that be, ironically enough, were on hyperdrive and answered me within 48 hours. The first weekend I was invited to a press con headed by the very charismatic and personable Julie Alegrado-Vergara (a dear old friend who I had met almost serendipitously in Cebu more than 3 years ago). Julie had long ago dreamed of putting up a foundation that would be beneficial to all her countrymen. Her foundation, Turismo Rural, aims to teach and train anyone to promote tourism in their locale, whether it be through ancestral homes, bed and breakfast accommodations or heritage tour. In other words, no matter where you come from, there is a beauty there that must be shared to others and through tourism, great or small, a chance exists for the Philippines to improve its economy and its dwellers to be more respectful and aware of the treasure they are quite literally, standing on. Aside from being hosted at her already popular family owned and run resort Maribago Blue Water, we were then whisked off to Sumilon Blue Water Island Resort, located about 2 ½ hours away by car in Oslob, Cebu. On the way, we stopped by an ancestral home, a local café favorite and a church. Analyzing this situation that had me relaxing and reconnecting with old friends, it was almost as if the weekend was trying to wean me away from my old life through several comfort manifestations.

But what next? It was the second week, approaching the second weekend (and a Mactan Holiday) and although work had picked up the pace a little bit, I still dreaded the long hours of nothing. Before the pangs hit though, fate intervened again. Another friend, (a blonde, always seemingly programmed on hyperdrive one) called me and asked me to take his place at a series of events being thrown at the Shangri-La Mactan by the Lifestyle Network. White Hot Summer was the theme, and it was going to be chockful of activities from a fashion show, a cooking show, a furniture exhibit, a beach party, and the clincher: spa treatments at the newly opened Chi Spa. I looked back at my comfort zone list, everything was met with a check mark. Who could refuse? Needless to say the Lifestyle Network knew how to shake the homesickness blues. The parties were well attended bringing in the fashion and society forerunners in Cebu. While the cooking show had me win a book authored (and later autographed) by guest chef Glenda Barreto. I also saw more old friends from Manila who then introduced me to new friends based in Cebu. It was probably this last "intervention" from the powers that be, or the friends that be that finally jumpstarted by acceptance of my surroundings and my situation. It was almost like a three day farewell party to a life I had gotten accustomed to and a solid welcome to a "new" stage of life.

It’s been three weeks and there have been changes, but none have been unwelcome. There are adjustments but they only serve to make me realize how adaptable and flexible one can become given the chance to stretch out into new territories. And thank goodness, for interventions.

Heavy Petting

2005-09-10T20:43:00.000+08:00

Heavy petting

First posted 04:36am (Mla time) Sept 10, 2005
By Katrina Holigores
Inquirer News Service

Editor's Note: Published on page C2 of the September 10, 2005 issue of the Philippine Daily Inquirer

IT’S A dog's life they say. IF only it was. Having a dog or a pet at a tender young age could either be: a growth experience or: a cruel mistake (to the pet, not the owner). Most of us may have grown up on Disney, Hanna Barbera, the Looney Tunes and Sesame Street. Let’s not of course forget “Batibot” and traditionalists please don’t hate me for forgetting the name of the series of lesson books that featured a water buffalo mascot and a lady tomato head. What’s my point, everyone I mentioned above used one common thread, animal characters as teachers or entertainers. We were all clamoring for a shirt of Big Bird rather than the grocer (see I forgot the name) and I’m sure Mickey Mouse will leave a longer lasting impression over Michael Jordan.

Unconditional love

I could be wrong and I’m no expert on trivia and I’m pretty sure a number of you are googling frantically to see if I am, in fact, mistaken in my comparisons. But that’s missing the point really, I’m not about to prove the effectivity of animals versus people in terms of marketing, I’m here to write about the much understated abilities of these “beasts” to heal. Through unconditional love, and strangely enough, by leading through example. How so? In this rat race that most of us now find ourselves in, we are under constant pressure to DO in order to BECOME. Example, we have to DO well in school in order to BECOME the best in class and perhaps the most coveted new recruit in the most lucrative multinational.

What else? We have to JUST DO IT in order to be the most successful, brightest, most beautiful, most mostest mostestest in order for us, in the eyes of others to shine brighter than the sun itself. The difference with animals, such as let’s say, a nice furry little lap dog, is that, they just ARE. In other words, even if they are supposedly lower in the food chain than us super developed highly evolved(?) humans… they have a stronger sense of self. They are what they are. So they do what they have to do. Nothing more nothing less. They’re hungry? They don’t count calories, they just eat… to live. They want to sleep, so what if it’s 2 p.m. in the day, the best time to meet a client, or they go snoring quite happily for everyone to hear. They’re horny? Well…

No excuses

Maybe I’m being too simplistic and maybe I’m saying we’re not better than animals. Honestly, I am, we’re no better, and neither are we any worse. All I can say is that if we could all greet one another with the same enthusiasm and genuine adoration that our dogs do when we get to see them, we would all feel a lot more loved. Animals express a real interest in their surroundings, and they take great pains to preserve and care for their homes or territories. How long does it take for you to clean your desk or your room? Hmmm. When was the last time you did something that would indirectly or directly affect the state of the world we ALL inhabit. Sure, it’s just ONE cigarette out the window into an already polluted highway, into an already clogged sewerage system. Guess what, you just made yourself part of the problem. There are no excuses.

Having a connection with another form of life gives you the power to heal and be healed. We have to coexist for the balance of life to remain… balanced. We may not be able to speak canine, feline or be a horse whisperer but when we pat our dog and it gleefully flips over in order for a belly rub, we can’t help but laugh and feel a certain level of joy. If you stroke a cat and it starts to purr closing its eyes in an almost meditative trance we strangely feel soothed and relaxed. Seeing the spirit and majesty of a horse as it runs we feel humbled by its awesome beauty and the gracefulness of its gait. These may only be three animals, but they do evoke a reaction do they not? That is something to pay attention to. These animals are a lot wiser than we give them credit.

Jungle

Of course, I am aware that not everyone has an affinity to the animal kingdom. That’s fine. I am in no way implying that you should substitute human love for animal love, I’m merely suggesting that having a pet can be an elixir and we all need one because, as you know it’s a jungle out there. Maybe the next time you look at that doggie in the window, bear in mind that it is probably looking you in a more objective angle, or better yet, without judgment. How many humans are capable of that?

Up Yours!

2005-08-20T10:08:00.000+08:00

Up yours, mister!

First posted 04:29am (Mla time) Aug 20, 2005
By Katrina Holigores
Inquirer News Service

Editor's Note: Published on page C2 of the August 20, 2005 issue of the Philippine Daily Inquirer

COME rant with me. Has the past week (or weeks) been rife with frustrations? Have you or the people around you been screwing up royally? Texts gone unanswered, clients non-committal, phone calls never returned, delays, misunderstandings, plain old incompetence slapping you left and right?

Well, if you are like any normal hot blooded individual I can bet with my own blood boiling in my veins that you came pretty close to just losing it or fuhgeddahbout-ing whatever it was you wanted to achieve. I remember seeing a T-shirt once upon a time with the very funny (albeit pathetic) slogan, when all else fails …lower your standards. Well, today, despite what I wrote above, I’m going to tell you to up yours… standards that is.

Obviously, we cannot change the world in a day. Or even in a hundred, but we can certainly do our part to make sure that on our little patch of earth, we are contributing in a positive way to the rest of society. Unless you are born without any human compassion, or a conscience, then it may be time that you start throwing mundane excuses out the door. It’s not about living a normal life, it’s about living an extraordinary existence. Sounds too poetic, overly dramatic and damn near unachievable right? Well, as vehicular tycoon Henry Ford was once quoted “Whether you think you’re going to fail or succeed, you’re absolutely right.” If you don’t even try to be a cut above the rest, then you have already banished yourself to be just like the rest. So again, when everyone else has lowered their standards… up yours.

But everyone comes late you say, so? If you are to be known for something then let people know that you are considerate enough with the awareness of time to allow for more things to be achieved during the day. Hey, the world does not and never will revolve around you, bigshot, that’s what the sun is for. If people around you have lowered their expectations of time-keeping then up yours. If you are heading a group, whether as a manager, president, or just head of your school org then set an example. If you dictate a time and place to meet, make sure to do whatever it takes to be there according to what you have set. It doesn’t matter if everyone else lags behind, you look to yourself as the leader. If it happens often enough, the more valuable members of your group will take note of that, and hopefully up their own practice of time management. All in all, you set an example, and at least you can say you did your part, even in a perceived small way. Time is gold as the cliché goes.

Mean what you say. Paying lip service is such an ingrained way of life in our country, “I’ll call you,” “I’ll get back to you” is a promise, not a conversation ender. If you need to tell someone that you are not going to make it, not going to give them the job, not going to see them, then they deserve to know. If others have reduced themselves to saying just about anything in order to end something, then step up. Be a man, or a woman, and mean what you say. You have committed to someone else a response, and they in turn have trusted you to keep your word. It’s just a phone call, or a text to say yes or no, how much time does one need to do that. You have the hottest phone/PDA and/or iBook in the market with Wifi capabilities… and yet they never hear from you again. (Twilight Zone soundtrack) I assume that you don’t like to be kept hanging, or more appropriately termed made “bitin” so why would you assume anyone else would?

Oh, and as a footnote… flakes… should only belong in cereal, snow and uncared for scalps. You plan not to show up? Let them know… you have no intention of going? Let them know too, in the nicest possible manner. “I’ll try” I have come to learn is a very weak, tail between the legs “No.”

Maybe I am too idealistic, and maybe my expectations are too high. But honestly, I am convinced that there are loads of people out there from the very young to the very old who still believe in progress, and not just on the economic scale but on the maturity one. It is simply the awareness that there are others who have taken a risk in you by believing that you will deliver what you say you will. They have made the effort to be available when you say to be available and they also put their faith in your sincerity. So, as we enter into another weekend, you may want to look at the quality level of life of your peers and colleagues and decide if it’s time to up yours. End of rant.

Four Golden Tickets

2005-08-06T20:03:00.000+08:00

Four Golden Tickets

First posted 02:58am (Mla time) Aug 06, 2005
By Katrina Holigores
Inquirer News Service

Editor's Note: Published on page C2 of the August 6, 2005 issue of the Philippine Daily Inquirer

YES, BY now you’ve probably watched Charlie and The Chocolate Factory and yes, there were five, not four, golden tickets. It’s not a typo but yes (sheepish grin) a cheap trick to get you to read this. If you have not had the opportunity to watch Tim Burton’s adaptation of Roal Dahls bittersweet storytelling of a rather dark Peter Pan type character (and I don’t mean Michael Jackson) taking five different kinds of children into his Chocolate filled Neverland then go. At the very least, it will be a venerable feast for the senses, and you may enjoy the incredible CG effects the movie has in store. Today let’s explore a different kind of factory, one that is held up by four golden pillars. Pillars, which if left uncared for, will cause a serious meltdown.

The first pillar is the body. What have you done to it lately? For every gym and fitness center that opens up, about ten new fast food outlets open right along with it (or right beside it). It seems to be a vicious cycle. What do you do to your skin? Have you checked the ingredients of the products that you use at least once a day? How much exactly do you know about proper nourishment and stress relieving practices? Fad diets, accessibility to dietary medication, technology that promises to give you a whole new you in an instant has whittled down the discipline of working things from the inside out.

Second pillar

The second pillar is the mind. Like TV addict Mike in the movie, we have become fixated on the box. The convenience of being visually spoonfed dramatic stories, gossip, violence, sex, new musical idols, etc., has caused deterioration in our own imagination. Because of the availability of entertainment via the boob tube 24/7 we have turned our mind into a vacuum rather than a machine of creation.

The third pillar is the heart. Do you feel that you may have lost the ability to express yourself? Or is there a general feeling of numbness within you? The word that may describe this is “manhid” or indifferent, even apathetic. The heart that normally bursts forth with emotion is now subdued and waits rather miserably within your chest. Due to the increasing instability and bad news blues brought to us via every media vehicle out there, we would rather not say or feel anything that will bring us more grief, or cause more hurt.

The fourth pillar is the soul. Spirits may be on an all time low. Sure there are a lot of party places to relieve you, but these are temporary fixes. Yup, you know the feeling, you’re pretty much flying until you wake up the next morning, and you have to trudge your way through the rest of your day.

Awareness

I’m going to stop now, because my intention is not to depress, but to raise awareness of certain issues that you may have swept under the carpet instead of facing them. I’m here to offer you alternatives and there is no better time to explore your options than now; in fact, these may be wonderful ways to celebrate the last quarter of 2006.

For the body: The Wellness Institute offers classes on Herbology, Bionutrition, Aromatherapy, Homeopathy, Anatomy and Physiology as well as serves as a center for holistic diagnostic and inner health checkups. Have your blood analyzed, get a biological terrain assessment (BTA) and see how your systems are (or not) performing to their optimum. Check them out at www.wellnessinstituteinternational.com or call 6317794

For the mind. Get inspired, start to create. A group of cinematographers, photographers, painters have come together to form the Blacksoup Artspace which offers a chance to see exhibits, short films and to take courses in digital photography, filmmaking and storytelling. You can e-mail blacksoup_projectartspace@yahoo.com or call 4398838 to find out schedules.

Feel again

For the heart. It’s time to feel again, and this October, the prestigious Writing Salon Workshops is coming to the Philippines. American poet James Navé and American screenwriter Allegra Huston (daughter of legendary director John Huston) will conduct workshops in Boracay. To see what’s in store go to www.thewritingsalon.net or e-mail info@thewritingsalon.net.

For the soul. The possibilities are ENDLESS. But start with a cause. Yours. There are so many people in need of your special skills. Perhaps your guidance, your strength, your talents, abilities that only you possess that could ease the lives of others. There are many institutes out there that will welcome your presence with open arms, but first you must decide in what way you want to give BACK. Think bigger than yourself and, maybe, create a personal mission statement. Find inspiration in this. And soon, you will inspire others. Your four pillars need care and attention so that the factory that is you will not have to close down anytime soon.

Lighten Up

2005-07-30T13:04:00.000+08:00

Lighten up

First posted 01:05am (Mla time) July 30, 2005
By Katrina A. Holigores
Inquirer News Service

Editor's Note: Published on page C2 of the July 30, 2005 issue of the Philippine Daily Inquirer.

WEATHER changes also seem to bring about mood changes. Actually, anything seems to be a perfect excuse for a little moodiness. Brooding, self-pity, some angst, reminders of unresolved issues poke their needly little fingers into our souls every so often. All of a sudden you wake up and you’re just not good enough, what you’re doing is not fulfilling enough, the people that surround you are jerks, your family is suffocating you… the list goes on. Bad hair day (for women), no hair day (for men), you name it. The slightest thing can cause mega irritation, even the “comic” faux ending in the CSI Finale was enough to get your eyes rolling. (At least it did mine). So, now that you’re carrying the weight of YOUR world on your shoulders what is there to do?

Lighten up, yes really. From Hello Diether to Hello Garci jokes and ring tones you’ve probably laughed as much as you could and faked your smile as an older relative or your boss went through (the millionth time) his version or her version of the Hellos. Watching the news is not an option and on the music channels you can swear that the artist of the month was the same one last month. What is the world coming to? Is it just you who notices how lame everything is? Wow, pare dude, chill. We are all allowed our days of being angry or rebels without causes but if we don’t give ourselves a time limit to feel and act like rabid dogs, then we’re pretty much on a long lonely road to bitterness and (gasp) the cloud surrounding every silver lining.

Surrender

To make light of every situation is done with practice and of course acceptance. Surrender to the fact that there are situations in life that are just not in your control… in fact there will be many, and if you allow them to affect you, then you’re in for a lifelong pounding. The only thing that you can really control is your own REACTION to what is in front of you. How much are you going to take before you break? Or are you simply just going to look this horrid, irritating situation in the face, and chuckle politely to yourself before stepping aside and moving on? Have you ever heard the expression “mabigat kasama” and no, that doesn’t translate as “He ain’t heavy he’s my brother” but it means that Mr. Mabigat is this close to being an emotional vampire. Trouble is, you might look in the mirror one day and see no reflection, so, lighten up.

A lot of things that are hurtful, frustrating, even abusive in nature are not necessarily meant with YOU in mind. In other words, when your father or mother started to date again, it was not meant to HURT you. If your ex has decided to go out with someone possessing “buhaghag” free hair and the body of a Sports Illustrated hussy it’s not life’s way of shoving poker hot barbs straight into your heart. Perhaps, it is just a little nudge to see exactly what issues you still are dealing with about your own self image or attitude toward life. (Thereby causing your hair to stand on end and your frown lines to increase in number). Stop it, take a deep breath, cuss if you need to, then rise above it.

Laugh out loud

Laugh out loud or cry wildly for a full hour. Then stop. Put a timer on your hysterics, because you CAN turn the on and off switch when dealing with your emotions. If you’ve reached a boiling point, go explode… then enough. Don’t drag it with you for another day. Go to the gym, hit a punching bag, dance your heart out at a club, write down as you wail your every thought and emotion, run a mile, take a long drive out of town, sit in front of your favorite piece of art, watch your corniest, slapstick movie or sitcom, call up someone you haven’t spoken to long distance… have a healthy outlet, then live your life again on a fresh mood start. It’s not as difficult as it seems. Life is indeed so generous that it always provides us options, we just have to look past the rage to see them. The decision to do so may be a little more difficult. Some choose to wallow in misery, some choose to finally swim for air.

Brighter outlook

Feeling better? Hopefully yes, or perhaps not yet. I say yet, because I honestly believe we all have been given the capabilities to have a brighter outlook. That these eyes that squint in anger are the same ones that can spot beauty in everything, the same ears that hear bad news are the same ones which hear the perfect song playing on the radio, and the mouths that roar out curses and expletives are the same ones which can emanate a message of peace and love. We are all vessels, it’s what we decide to bring as cargo that makes all the difference if we are to sink or stay afloat in life. Bon voyage.

Faith in Fate

2005-07-27T23:27:00.000+08:00

Faith in Fate

First posted 11:13pm (Mla time) July 15, 2005
By Katrina Holigores
Inquirer News Service

Editor's Note: Published on page C2 of the July 16, 2005 issue of the Philippine Daily Inquirer

ANY GREAT detective will ask himself a series of questions in order to solve a mystery. Fans of "CSI" are treated to theories in every episode as each forensics team double guesses the COD of their victims. We on the other hand, do not have the storyline and script written out for us, so we search endlessly for answers to our future. The question we should ask ourselves though is, how much do we really want to know? We are spoiled by a deluge of pirated DVDs which enable us to finish an entire season of a show without having to wait like the rest of the world. I admit that if I had to sit through "24" without finding out what happens in the next episode I would go mental. It is probably because we now have access to quicker answers (don't know something? Google it) that takes our attention away from the present and finds us fixated on how everything is going to turn out in the end.

Reality

Ok, here's the reality, there are no guarantees in life except one, we are ALL going to kick the bucket someday. So, what you do between today and bucket-kicking should be worth something. Here are some actions or attitudes that most of us are guilty of (myself included): We want to be told the future, instead of being mindful of the present. We rely on others for answers instead of finding them on our own. We keep asking for advice, suggestions, people's opinions instead of trusting our own instinct. We preach, scold, reprimand, are quick to come to judgment and forget how much we resent being on the receiving end. We boast of being more "spiritual" than religious, yet not really sure what either means. We compare, compete with those around us later realizing that there is really nothing to be won. We let the fear of loss outweigh all other feelings and deny ourselves a life lived to the fullest. (Risks have to be taken every now and then you know)

If one or two, or all of the above ring a familiar bell in your head, not to worry, you're just as human as the person next to you. What supposedly separates an adult from a child is being able to believe in something that is intangible. To have faith or to trust in what the eye cannot see but what the heart, or for some, the soul can feel. There is an eastern philosophy that suggests when you "pray" you should simply say "I am grateful because everything I need is on its way to me." Oh, if only it were that easy to just trust in that and believe it to the hilt. If you are young, active, ambitious then just the thought of NOT HAVING TO WORK to get what you want is almost incomprehensible. Oftentimes we hold on desperately, needily to something we feel we cannot live without. When life forces you to let go you are often shocked at how much you didn't really need said thing (or person) at all. You see, Life is a lot smarter than we give it credit for. Fighting for something you believe in may just turn out to be defending one's pride. There are times when we really just have to surrender gracefully and allow things to take their course.

Religion

Religion may sometimes provide us with answers on what to expect down the line. For Christians if you follow what it says in the Bible, you go to Heaven, for Buddhists, it's about Karma and celebrating the Divinity in oneself and others, for the Hindus, how you live this life will determine what you will be reborn as in your next life. (Do you really really want to come back as a cockroach?) In Western astrology, your natal chart indicated the position of the planets on the day, hour, year and place of your birth. These planets are said to send energies that may influence your behavioral patterns throughout your life. All the practices mentioned above claim to be based on fact, but what keeps the believers going is faith.

It would be a lot easier if we used acceptance instead anger when things don't work out the way we expected. That actually surrendering to the notion that if it was meant for you it will come. Or even harder, that everything that happens in our life is absolutely perfect and happens at a perfect time. If we are to believe that there is something out there that is indeed concerned about our welfare then we should also believe that whatever hurdles we face are just part of the process, they are not there to turn us into miserable, bitter people. If this weekend you indeed choose to find your religion or revamp your faith in a Higher Plan, then I wish that everything you truly need is on a celestial express package enroute to you.

War of the Words

2005-07-02T06:46:00.000+08:00

War of the Words

First posted 01:11am (Mla time) July 02, 2005
By Katrina Holigores
Inquirer News Service

Editor's Note: Published on Page E2 of the July 2, 2005 issue of the
Philippine Daily Inquirer

ONE OF my favorite authors posed an interesting question in one of her books
"How difficult have you made your life?" We often fill our days
rationalizing, brooding or obsessing about things that may not really be
beneficial to us in the long run anyway. We say things to ourselves that are
not positive or uplifting, we make mountains out of molehills, we "sweat the
small stuff" not knowing that our own anguish, frustrations or bitterness
towards a situation (or person) has an exponential effect whether it is a
direct or indirect interaction. When we're in a bad mood we tend to use
harsher language towards the people around us, we blow up, and we sometimes
say things to others that are cruel and hurtful. What we may not be aware of
is what we scream or sarcastically snort out to either someone else or
ourselves doesn't do ANYONE any good. But man, it's nice to just blame
someone else for the crap going on sometimes right?

Vocabulary
I once read that the vocabulary
you use is essential to the kinds of energies that you attract or deflect in
your life. When you start your day off dreading work, dreading school,
dreading your spouse, partner or family member then the way you deal with
people is going to be affected.
Think back to when you were younger, if your dad or mom came home in a
grumpy mood... was it a good time to ask permission to go out? (off with
your head!!) the reverse is when your parents are in a good mood and all of
a sudden its like Christmas has come in early. Be mindful of the language
you use when dealing with others, it is NOT your helpers fault that your
boss has decided to drop a load of work on you right before a long weekend.
Your driver did not cause the traffic on Edsa and it's not his fault either
that whichever lane you decide to pick has become the slowest moving one.
The salesgirl behind the counter did not cause that huge zit to appear on
your nose and your little brother or sister is not to blame for your
boyfriend dumping you (unless you're starring in a telenovela).

So, how difficult have you made your life? Understand that troubles are
often self inflicted, we tend to read too much into ordinary situations.
When we are too emotionally embroiled then we put too much meaning into a
tiny, insignificant gesture. "Did you see/hear what he/ she/ did/ say?" you
exclaim to nearby vultures. Honey, your arch rival sneezing in public does
not a criminal make.
Everytime you add a negative thought into your mental file on someone or
yourself then you're just basically inviting more bad vibes in. Maybe if you
could be more conscious of what you actually think and what comes out of
your mouth you will invite a lot more positivity to enter. There is a
formula in life, and that like begets like. If you surround yourself with
garbage, you start to smell like it, same goes for your internal process.
Overload your daily routine (mental, physical and spiritual) with enough
crap and don't be surprised how your life will begin to reek of it.

Mean it
When was the last time you made an effort to do or say something nice (and
mean it) every single day? Ok, we're not all Bree Van De Kamp every single
moment, but it doesn't take a lot of effort to say to the person beside you
how nice he or she looks today, or how much you liked what he or she did or
said. Am going to stress though that you have to MEAN it, flattery without
sincerity is just more BS. Deepak Chopra, in his book
The Seven Spiritual Laws of Success explains how a daily output of sincerity
and kindness goes a long, long way. And yes, eventually it finds its way
back to you, and hopefully at a time when you need kindness and compassion
the most. During days of stress and frustration, before you decide to vent
on a poor, unsuspecting soul (read anyone with a heartbeat) take a really
long deep breath and focus on something that gives you joy. When I say focus
I mean LOOK or READ something that gives you peace. I'm not saying raid your
fridge and stuff your face till kingdom come. Yes, watching a movie counts,
listening to music counts, driving with lots of alcohol swishing inside you
does NOT.
Try and make a habit of making someone else feel good on a daily basis, but
be conscious of your intentions when complimenting someone. If you choose to
flatter for the purpose of getting something in return, then eventually you
will begin to question the sincerity of others towards you. It's not fun to
live in paranoia or doubt. Perhaps it's time to change your battle cry. Good
luck soldier.

Cleaning the Mess

2005-06-28T18:00:00.000+08:00

Cleaning the mess

First posted 05:44am (Mla time) June 25, 2005
By Katrina Holigores
Inquirer News Service

Editor's Note: Published on page C2 of the June 25, 2005 issue of the Philippine Daily Inquirer

IT'S NOT often that people can spark a revolution. There are many non-conformists but they do not necessarily inspire a people into action. Some try to make a statement through scandal or intrigue, because it's easier. There is "shock therapy" conveyed via jolting (often gory) images, inappropriate words or phrases in order to create an impact. These are heavily ingrained in media, as most viewers and readers have shorter and shorter attention spans, so the theme of the subject must give as much information as possible in the quickest possible time.

This weekend let's shift our attention away from the outside world and focus on an internal revolution that could take place within minutes. When was the last time you were moved to do something that was for change? Not necessarily for the rest of mankind but for yourself? What I am going to explain is certainly not an original thought and it has been practiced by many civilizations before me. It has the power to rid one of excess...and we have all heard that too much of a good thing... is, well, not really good at all.

It's called fasting, and no, fasting is not necessarily starving. I remember a rather cruel (but funny joke) a colleague once shared with me in the past. "How do you scare a group of models?" "Offer them dessert:" (ha ha) Ok, my apologies for the generalization. I guess I'm proud (and a bit ashamed) of my tremendous appetite, and for that, someone like me has to resort to fasting every once in a while. Why fasting? Some may call it a purge, or a cleanse. Call it what you will but one to two days of no taking in of solids or impure liquids (alcoholic or softdrink beverages) will give your digestive system a rest.

Look under the hood

There are days that you feel sluggish, in a bad mood, unmotivated and uninspired. You call to your inner muses to help you out and they don't seem to be listening. Of course there may be other factors and there may be too many to list down here, but always bear in mind that whatever you put INSIDE your body sooner or later is going to affect what goes on outside. If you love your car you would never put the wrong kind of petrol in it, you take it for tune-ups, oil changes, get its tires checked... what about your body? When was the last time you looked under your hood? (I can bet it's in a bit of a mess.)

It's not going to affect your muscle mass or weight maintenance if you decide to stop exercising for two days. If you fast properly you can continue to be active during the fast; but again, not excessively. Cut your gym or cardio workout to half of what you normally do, that way the body is still moving and burning what it needs but is not getting too tired. And remember, the body was made to move, but at the same time, it needs to recharge. When the body is at rest, the mind is allowed rest too. There is less stress involved since (in my opinion) the hardest working system that we 24/7 food loving Filipinos possess is the digestive one.

We often want to take breaks from work, from people and that's why we do something to just "get" away. So now and then, if you want an internal overhaul then the best way to do it is to give your stomach a rest. This is not easy to do, and you have to possess the proper mindset to see it through. Looking at the bigger picture, for one day of no junk food, no animal products, and no sweets, you may get a clearer mind, deeper sleep and rejuvenation. Your body doesn't have to work as hard during a fast, and your mind is at ease because instead of thinking of where the next meal is coming from (aside from the millions of other things it has to think of) it has one less task to be responsible for.

No limit

All you need is a steady supply of mineral water (not distilled, mineral, so read your labels) and a bunch of American lemons (look, there are no substitutes here so calamansi is not going to cut it). Take your room temperature glass of water with a squeeze of lemon. There is no limit, take as much as you can from the minute you wake up to the minute you sleep, and remember, don't gulp, sip or drink in a relaxed state. Be aware of what you're doing and you will feel more relaxed and less anxious.

Fasting gives one more time for contemplation. Buddhists, Hindus, Christians and Muslims often fast because they say a clean body gives one a clean mind and a heightened sense and stronger connection to the divine. Need inspiration? Experience the absolute high of a body that has rid itself of some internal garbage.

If we don't start with our bodies, then the very vehicle that houses our creative minds, our passionate hearts and our enlightened spirits will not take us to where we want to go next. Time to clean up.

A Myopic Heart

2005-06-19T08:59:00.000+08:00

A Myopic Heart

First posted 07:40pm (Mla time) June 17, 2005
By Katrina Holigores
Inquirer News Service

Editor's Note: Published on page E2 of the June 18, 2005 issue of the Philippine Daily Inquirer

THEY say that love is blind. I say that all it needs is a good pair of glasses. For most of my life I have been visually dependent on contacts or spectacles. Even if photography or cinematography was my passion of choice, I could get by in my profession without 20/20 vision due to outside "help." Perfect sight is something that is often taken for granted, I see how the younger generation stares endlessly into their computer monitors and I have to restrain myself from lecturing them about the perils of being slave to one's ophthalmologist and optometrist.

Oh don't worry I'm not about to lecture you (do you have adequate lighting while you're reading this?) When your eyesight starts to fail, you are slipped on a pair of frames (with all kinds of shapes and sizes) or a plethora of contact lenses that range from soft, to hard, and even to colored. But enough is enough, after 15 years of looking at life through sometimes rose, green, or yellow tinted glasses I decided to book myself for laser eye surgery.

Under the knife

The last time I've ever had to undergo any kind of operation was when I was 6. I was feeling invincible and running as fast as the wind. Unfortunately, unlike the wind, when I slammed straight into a steel pole I didn't pass through it gracefully, I kind of splattered. That was my first brush with a surgeon's knife and needle. Now, more than two decades later I find myself at The American Eye Institute; I don't know exactly what to expect but my eyes (literally) were fixed on a goal, to read, play, dance and move with NOTHING covering them except uh, vitreous fluids. As Dr. Jack Arroyo sat down with me (after like a 100 tests) he pulled out a 3D model of the eye... or eyeball, he took it apart meticulously explaining to me the ins and outs of why my eyesight was how it was, what he was going to do... (Yes, I zoned out) But my mind was otherwise engaged in a more fascinating line of thought. Could science one day be able to explain what exactly makes LOVE go blind??

What happens when we are sideswiped by attraction... normal or fatal in nature? Figuratively speaking, the heart doesn't abide by the more rational senses that differentiate us humans from the rest of the animal kingdom. Falling for someone just happens, whether your heartthrob resembles Mr. Frodo or Mr. Smith. It gets complicated when personal desires and willfulness override the pure feelings of the heart. In other words, instead of seeing what's really in front of you, you WILL to see what you WANT. There is a saying that goes "The one who loves, loses." Before you throw me dagger looks allow me to explain (are you squinting?).

Blinded by love

It is never easy for one to look the truth in the eye. Perhaps your best friend is in a relationship and you have to bite your tongue every time you're asked what you think about his/her newest beau? All of a sudden this soul mate of yours has decided to join forces with a creep from hell. Even if creep from hell has not done anything directly to you, you can swear there is a lingering stench of brimstone when said creep is in the vicinity. I exaggerate of course, but I bet my left eyeball or ventricle that you know exactly what I mean. Your friend is not willing to listen to reason becoming oblivious to the obvious. And you? Have you ever been in love with someone that EVERYONE thought was so wrong for you? Yet you fought for your (ahem) love, and several years later when the dust cleared and the emotional damage is done you sheepishly face your friends steeling yourself for the usual "I told you so's."

Even without family, friends (and even enemies) cajoling us, deep down, we KNOW more about our "better" (or worse) half than we care to admit. We are all victims of double vision; which doesn't mean that we see fantastic things twice but rather we blur our inner sight to see what we desire, leaving us "blind" to a harsher reality. When you have started to replace the person in front of you with the image that you want, then love ceases to exist. You start to make excuses for why he/she treats you this/that way, why he/she does/doesn't do this/that. When this starts to happen, your hearts' eyes need a checkup. But do you really want to see? If not, then you are destined to be nearsighted for a long and even painful time.

We may never have a formal institution or a Dr. Arroyo to fully explain what caused our heart temporary blindness. But we do possess something that can remind us of what may come to pass. Ironically, it's called hindsight, and it's always 20/20.

Breakdowns and Breakthroughs

2005-06-11T14:37:00.000+08:00

WE are all subject to moods. Being human, we're not expected to perpetually be even tempered, light and bubbly, no matter our choice of beverage. When asked about this some blame the weather, others the immediate surroundings, and for the Freud loving, the past. Nothing can equal a good old fashioned rant and rave. It sometimes feels super to cuss out loud, to think violent thoughts about your worst enemy (or best friend) or plot the annihilation of bus drivers in the metropolis.
The point is, we all sink low at one time or another and we say and think awful things. Even if we know we have to rise up from our pit of darkness and go forward, wallowing in misery and self pity can be comforting. At least when you're at the bottom of the heap, you know exactly where you are. Right? (Pass me the Prozac please.)
In Anthony Robbins' (yes the gargantuan man in Shallow Hal) book, Awaken the Giant Within, he points to two triggers that are crucial in our decision making process. These are: Pleasure and Pain -- for fans of the Sandman series, The Agony and the Ecstasy.
Avoid pain
The majority choose to avoid pain. This avoidance sometimes leads to denial, and denial can then lead to demise (and I don't just mean in the physical sense). Pain and pleasure are of course subjective. I have seen grown men risk their lives for the pleasure of the thrill of jumping out a perfectly good airplane... and then cower and quiver in fear at the sight of a teeny tiny needle aimed at their rear end. A woman will allow herself the agony of hunger in order to feel ecstasy when she easily slips into her little black dress.
These are examples on a simplistic plane, what I would like to focus on has much deeper roots. Pain is up to a person's perception, and when it is put in a positive light (positive?) it can actually lift you to a whole new level. How so? Look at it this way. We all have issues. Some I admit, more than others. Issues can be reworded as baggage or fears.
Unless you are one of the enlightened ones (i.e. NOT Anakin), the very thought of facing one's fears is as scary as a facelift gone bad. We all have to choose which path to take in life, be it school, major, job, romantic partner or lifelong partner. Subconsciously (think about it now in hindsight) we actually weighed the pain-pleasure principle before making our decision.
When we do not acknowledge what brings us pain, then we will not know what will ultimately give us pleasure. Do you notice how you often have "blasts" from the past? Situations, people, songs, lines from movies that make you recall (and recoil at) unpleasant and or traumatic memories?
Influenced by a memory
Let me make this clearer. You will know that you are still being influenced by a memory (or a fear) if you still react to it in a negative, even spiteful manner. The wound has not healed and instead of finding out its true cause, you choose to ignore it. When you see the former love of your life walking in the mall hand in hand with your former best friend and the first thing that springs to mind is bloodlust... then rest assured this experience will affect your outlook on your future relationships, both in love and in friendship. Instead of moving up you slide back down. It is a crappy feeling not wanting to trust anyone again, especially yourself and your taste!
Can you relate? Look, I'm not saying that your bone-head ex and your equally bone-headed ex friend should be canonized. I'm just saying that they are still alive (Why God, Why?) to REMIND you of what you really feel. As one of my favorite authors wrote, "Stop refusing to acknowledge what life is showing you about yourself." Ouch.
When you go on selective memory mode, at some point you're going to have a breakdown. Set yourself free from the traumas that entrap you (and they always come when you least expect them, making it doubly harder) and have a pain "breakthrough" instead.
The Taoists believe that if you really want to get over something (like an obsession) then you either drop it completely or saturate yourself with it. This is going to sound very unpalatable but try to drown yourself in the feeling of disgust, betrayal, anger etc., etc., you feel towards person A or situation A. One day, you wake up, and you are no longer affected. Why? Because you're fed up with feeling like... (cuss word here).
The word independence is synonymous with freedom. Starting right now, be thankful for your past and know that your future can be completely independent of it. It's time for a breakthrough. Happy Independence Day!

Trigger Happy

2005-06-04T07:53:00.000+08:00

Trigger Happy First posted 10:12pm (Mla time) June 03, 2005 By Katrina HoligoresInquirer News Service Editor's Note: Published on page D2 of the June 4, 2005 issue of the Philippine Daily Inquirer

SAY CHEESE! Filipinos are nuts about taking photos. Anywhere and everywhere they go, we snap away. We are self-appointed paparazzi - with the twist of having ourselves as the celebrity du jour. Our parents of course are one step above, taking photos of us right out of the womb -- literally -- and proceeding to document every single style disaster and/or triumph we go through in our lives. Do you want to forget your prom (or at least your date)? It's guaranteed that there is enough proof on film to never let you forget it! Some photos are to be cherished; some are used for comic relief, others for blackmail. With the advent of camera-equipped cellphones (one model even offers two--go figure), it's almost impossible to escape a photo op.

Recently, I came across a business that creates "scrapbooks" for other people. This struck me as odd. When I was younger, a scrapbook was a very personal piece of work, almost like a visual diary, and I would never think of anyone else doing it for me. At least, with the exception of my mom who religiously turned my baby book into a glorious work of evidence of my existence at par with the files of CSI Las Vegas, Miami and New York. Photo albums lined my room and my family room, labeled carefully with notes on each trip and each occasion. The photo albums are now replaced by computer files or CDs but the contents are the same. Inside lies a treasure trove of what has come to pass.

Visual recording

Today, we celebrate the 2nd birthday of Super! That's a total of around 96 Saturdays of visually recording the past 24 months' goings on. Though still in its infancy, Super! has given many unknown photographers and writers a voice. There were many styles and countless layouts produced, it remains true to one thing--its fixation on youth empowerment. It is foolish to compress any generation into one neat little package, hence a cacophony of expression has ensued through Super!'s numerous print outs. One has a choice of reading a simple, almost fluffy retelling of an event, to an exploration of the esoteric meaning of life (sometimes from the same writer). Like a person going through puberty (or a mid-life crisis), phases and personalities are revealed. What is consistent is that "The Now" is highlighted. And if we don't know how to live in the present, then we don't know how to live.

Look back

Most of us document our reality via diaries (or now blogs), photos (phlogs), videos (www.manyak.com--kidding) and for some, kiss and tell stories from their exes (those b*stards!). When we look back at where and what we've been, we get a good gauge of what direction we should be looking at for our future. Often, we charge through life with blinders on, forgetting where we came from or what made us the most happy. When we stop to look back on what brought us the most joy, we begin to question if we are where we want to be. A photo album, aside from bringing forth laughter or groans of embarrassment, makes us remember the good, the bad and the moments that make us what we are today. Memories trigger something in us and remind us of what we had wanted to do once upon a time when there were no such things as "limitations."
They say when you wish for something, you must wish the way a child does. Think or dream big and be engulfed in the feeling that is brought forth when you affirm that nothing is impossible. It's true, once upon a time, you actually dated that *&%$! and survived. What could be harder? Seriously, compare yourself then, to now, isn't it cool that you are (hopefully) a little more hip and perhaps a lot wiser? Go and look over the visual memories of you or the people in your past that were lovingly archived for reflection. Search for old letters, book reports, essays, agenda entries or anything that was reminiscent of your beliefs and values in the recent or distant past. Change was and is inevitable and now you have proof of it. Knowledge (and acceptance) of one's beginnings attribute to a stronger sense of self. Once we know what is home and where our roots are, the more confidence we have to fly out to the unexplored.

Be grateful

Memories can be a safe haven and a comfort zone for us but they should not hinder our growth. In fact, they should allow us to be freer, with the awareness that we have been through so much and that we will go through much, much more! This weekend, spend some time in your past. Be grateful for the bridges you have built and the ones that you (for your own maturity) had to break off. Looking back will give you more fuel to move forward.
Don't forget your camera and smile.

Katrina Holigores is a contributor to the Philippine Daily Inquirer.

Playing By The Rules

2005-06-02T10:05:00.000+08:00

Playing by the Rules

In the game of life we often hear ourselves crying out “foul!” We feel cheated, discredited, unjustly passed over as we go through the motions of moving from point A to B. At an early age most of us are programmed by figures of authority be it family or faculty members that happiness is equated to being the best at something (or everything). The rules seemed simple enough. Study hard=good grades=good job. Good looking=popular=choice of relationships. Good family=good spouse=good marriage. I’m simplifying things a bit, but you get the gist. Reality then hits when even after abiding by the rules dictated by parents, teachers, peers or society that we are NOWHERE near the pinnacle of happiness or fulfillment we desire. The awareness of this strikes a painful, sometimes fatal blow on our self esteem and we are in danger of living the rest of our life on auto-pilot.

The Great Escape
For those who are in the process of creating a future for themselves, the road ahead is not a smooth one. Career or relationship wise there are many hurdles to get over and at some point throwing up one’s hands and wondering out loud why we even bother is normal. Escapism sets in, the lure of partying the night away, drowning sorrows in alcohol, mind altering drugs and/ or superficial relationships that do not require commitment or emotional investment seem so much SAFER. Life has thrown you a curveball and perhaps it is better to give up and just watch from the sidelines. Look around you, for many people you know (and maybe yourself?), it’s game over.

Though I am certainly not a fan of hip hop (or is it R&B?), I spend a lot of time on the road constantly changing the radio dial listening out for something new. Although the ipod shuffle promises a random (surprise!!) selection of songs, for me that’s cheating. Recently, I heard a song which was predominantly in rap that I wish to share with those who have relocated themselves to the sidelines. The song was called “Hope” and in spite of some of the words being WAY too fast for me to absorb in their entirety the message was simple. Part of the chorus was “Be hopeful, and He’ll make a way...” Now, for the purpose of religious and non-religious preferences, let’s just replace “He” with the word life. When we no longer allow ourselves to hope, then we have committed spiritual suicide.

How can we, through pain, past issues or current ones, keep our chin up, look ahead and soldier on? Bear in mind that disappointments are directly caused by our expectations. Just because things don’t work out the way we EXPECTED them to is no indication that NOTHING will ever work out. Instead of focusing on what did not work out, why don’t we try something else?

Be grateful

No one likes an ungracious guest at an event. Life included, so since you were important enough to be invited to its party, then thank yous are in order, don’t you think? You then groan “Be thankful for what?” One look at the headlines, the news, or even the state of your personal affairs and being thankful is the FARTHEST thing from your mind. Sometimes we focus on what is missing rather then what is already there. If you would like to wake up each day with a brighter, lighter outlook on your life then it’s time to get down and get grateful. Here’s one way you can start off:

Get a notebook and a pen, the notebook can be fancy, but chances are you will never write it in. Something practical will do. Everyday write down three things, no more, no less that you are GRATEFUL for. It doesn’t matter what time of the day you start as long as you DO get those three items in. Your grateful entries don’t have to be deep or complicated; they can be completed in a single sentence. Your personality will shine through when you start to write, you can make them funny, poetic, or bullet points, the only rule here is to MEAN what you say. Before the day is over, take time out to go over what you wrote.

Here’s what happens, from reading something as simple as “Today I am grateful that I had three full meals”, “Today I am grateful that no one I love is suffering from illness.” “Today I am grateful for finding parking when I got to work”; there is a little layer of heaviness removed from inside of you. Now you are looking at the positive occurrences in your life, and these occurrences happen to you EVERY SINGLE DAY. Wow, when you actually think about it, something, no, at LEAST three wonderful things happen to you on a DAILY basis. When you wake up in the morning, perhaps to start the day writing “I am grateful today for waking up” you may glance at what you wrote previously, and trust me, when you begin your day with the awareness of what you can be THANKFUL for, your outlook for your future starts to change….for the better.

Life does play fair. We just have to follow some of its rules. Just remember how good it is to be a lifetime member.

Be Cool

2005-05-21T22:57:00.000+08:00

Pinoy cool Posted 07:22pm (Mla time) May 20, 2005 By Katrina HoligoresInquirer News Service Editor's Note: Published on Page C2 of the May 21, 2005 issue of the Philippine Daily Inquirer
NOBODY really wants to admit to being baduy. In fact, I still have to find the exact English translation of the word. Maybe the closest would be uncool.
Most of us want to be cool or at least be deemed cool, popular or hip. There are those who say they are rebels, not realizing that, in their rebellion, they are, of course, still wanting to be cool.
Does that make any sense? Sure it does. We would be hard pressed to find someone who does not care to be a model of baduy-ness. Wanting to be different or not part of a crowd doesn't mean you DON'T want to be cool. In fact, NOT being part of a crowd could make you the absolute icon of cool.
(Yawn) Really. Enough. The last thing I'm sure you need is a lesson on what's cool and what's not. Besides, I'm not an expert on either; I just know what I like, whether it's en Vogue or en Liwayway.
Theme for this weekend is Filipino pride, and yes there is a lot to be proud of but I don't want to talk about the usual. When asked what makes the Philippines beautiful, you will probably hear: Boracay's white sands, Banaue's rice terraces, Bohol's Chocolate Hills and butanding-watching in Donsol, Sorsogon. Truly a list that meets international standards (applause). I hope none of the above gets crossed out of the list for environmental reasons and people's apathy.
Now, here is my own list: beauty pageants, bading speak, bideoke (ok, I'm pushing it) and Bulagaan 2005. Ah, I can see eyes roll. I do feel MY list also extols true beauty.
Now before you stop reading, allow me to defend my choices.
PageantsWhat I am most proud of about being part of a race that has gone through more than its share of coups (huh again?) and EDSA movements (huh again?) is its sense of humor.
Honestly, beauty pageants are probably among the most entertaining forms of gaming known to people. From the minute a child can walk it should also be able to wear a tiara and a sash. Gender is irrelevant; there are more than enough categories to go around.
The coup de grace of any pageant is always the question and answer portion. Some of the responses from the prettiest faces are quoted more often than passages from the Scripture.
Most of us have probably laughed till we cried at how Miss........ from ...........City answered a final question. Some contestants can have a future in stand-up comedy, and should get a crown.
Bading speakUnless you are new in town bading is the current popular term for "bakla", euphorically happy man who loves other men or euphorically happy woman who loves other women. Knowing some gay speak gives a little cachet that can get you in the company of movers and shakers in popular media.
It has become a growing personal obsession to discover the beginnings of some words because I feel that most reflect humor, and a bit of genius. Tolkien did it with LOTR, taking words from several languages to come up with Elvish (no, not the singer, but the language spoken by elves).
Creators of Swardspeak deserve a limp- wristed, cologne-dabbed pat on the back. Chika!
BideokeOk, videoke (hey, our ex colonizers pronounced "V" and "B" the same way), video and karaoke. The passion for singing and well, singing EVERYWHERE is a source of pride.
Bursting into song has never been so easy, and you can attract an appreciative (or angry) crowd even without a recording contract. Being self-conscious is a non-issue. Class and the risk of being laughed at are irrelevant.
Filipinos love to sing, and like just as much making fun of others who sing. Of course, unless they are blessed with perfect pitch, they may also be the ones being laughed at. But in a videoke group, it may seem like they are laughing with you... ignorance can be bliss.
PhenomenonBulagaan 2005 is a comic skit in what I can safely say is a phenomenon in Philippine noontime viewing, Eat Bulaga. Call it whatever you want, it is a show that has lasted longer than some networks. If Helen of Troy launched a thousand ships, this show has launched a thousand skits.
Bulagaan is a classic, a classroom full of students singing for a passing grade. Despite the jokes being gloriously corny, "Sir, I have a knock knock", and most of the singing close to atrocious, it just works. It connects, it has a following, and it combines everything on my list: beauty contests (or pretty hosts), bading, bideoke and plain old Filipino humor.
Yes, it's baduy at its best. Those of you who raise a threaded eyebrow at me, here's a pie in your face. (canned maniacal laughter)

Reality Shows

2005-05-16T01:12:00.000+08:00

REALITY SHOWS

Keeping it real has never been such an Extra Challenge. We are riveted by man woman dynamics via Blind Dates, gripped by Survivor tactics during an Amazing Race, and have given an Ambush Makeover to the English language by breathing life to the term Queer-Eyed. Six years ago, a program on Average Joes leading a Simple Life desperately Playing It Straight as The Fab 5 show him ways of Starting Over would have been The Biggest Loser. Today, the reality genre has everyone hooked. Local media has gotten in on the game, trying to come up with their versions of what could create a new star, a new trend, a new you. I admit an addiction to American Idol, and I can’t stand the fact that being Asia bound I can’t vote! As I live vicariously through those who can carry a tune (unlike me) I do wonder what the impact is of real TV on one’s self esteem.

Staying real (and alive) is no easy feat. Faking it till you make it is the new battle cry of the TV generation. While our parents’ generation was about making a stand, the 00s is all about making it to the next stage of The Apprentice/ The Contender etc. People are willing to cheat, lie, steal, make complete morons out of themselves for a little screen time. Getting your fifteen minutes of fame has never been easier. As one PR mogul has put it, as long as you can get in front of a press camera, you got your shot. In the pursuit of glamour and stature most are willing to be herded like a flock of sheep to be sheared of the very idiosyncrasies that make them authentic. Hair that was once free to frizz and curl at will is rebonded down to resemble road kill. Skin that was born with natural pigmentation and a healthy glow has been scrubbed and bleached to uncooked chicken pallor. Almost every VJ on display seems to have graduated from the “accent = talent” school of hosting.

We are surrounded by fakes. Imitations, phoneys, copies and fabrications. From accessories to lifestyles, we don’t necessarily have to get the real thing as long as it can fool a captive audience for a while. A person with a keen eye and the hunting skills of a Strider can transform Greenhills into via Condotti. Big deal you say, everyone loves a bargain. Sure, but nobody loves a fake. Even if you’re LV armored, a poor attitude towards yourself and your fellow men will eventually cause a couple of chinks. If your closest friend bases friendship on what’s in your closet, then maybe you should go shopping for a new friend. Seriously, there’s only ONE kind of friend, and class A, B or C still doesn’t mean REAL.

Fixer-Upper

You cannot walk three steps inside the hottest club without bumping (and bouncing off) a silicon seduced chest. (Not necessarily belonging to a female). “Beso-beso” can now be done from great distances thanks to collagen fattened lips. You may pass a series of expressionless Botoxed faces (smiling has never been so taboo) or suddenly notice that your date has a couple of bumpity bumps on certain areas of her nose. (No, they’re not zits) People of all ages and genders are so into quick fixes, and I’m not even talking recreational drugs.

This is not an article written to pass judgment. If you happen to be a savvy shopper and can walk through a milieu of “tiangges” blindfolded and still come out with fashion treasures, then kudos to you. Just bear in mind that the clothes never ever make the person. Even if you blind your peers with the latest, brightest bling, they won’t be blind forever. The dullness of your spirit will (ironically) shine through. Plastic surgery, (do you recall what was implied when a person was called plastic?) is a choice. Just manage your expectations; a new body still has the same old heart beating inside of it. How are you trying to cosmetically enhance that part of yourself? If your self esteem is directly proportional to the amount of body fat you possess, then you are in for some pretty tough times. Psychologist Carl Jung said “If you don’t learn to love your defects they will never go away.”

Some of you may view this as a reality check. Can you remember the last time when all it took was YOU to affirm your authentic self? Does support for your endeavors only come from the standards you meet dictated by your peers? Or do you make your own rules? If you were to remove the outer trappings that bind you, would you still feel this good about yourself, if you voiced out to those around you what you really thought, would you get voted off the island? Who do you hang out with? Is it possible that you have grown weary of talking about the same people, the same parties, the same things over and over again? Now think about it, if the life you and your friends lead was truly fabulous, why would you have time to pay attention to those whose lives aren’t?

As the search for self is a continuous process you can remember this: No matter how well staged your life seems to be, eventually, reality shows. Hope you win.

Basic Instinct

2005-05-13T23:51:00.000+08:00

Basic Instinct

In observance of all things colonial in this country we celebrate Mother’s Day tomorrow. We find ourselves doing last minute gift purchases, dinner reservations, hastily writing a card, or perhaps, a tattoo(?) done as a “momage”. Mothers are like supreme beings. They can bargain a shopkeeper down to bankruptcy, out-prescribe a medical professional in remedies, and know the ABSOLUTELY MOST PERFECT boyfriend/ girlfriend/ husband/ wife/ doctor/ route to take/ place to shop/food to cook/ gift to bring (fill in the blanks). Plus, they are the All Seeing Eye and even while creeping home after a night of debauchery with fantastic lies and excuses building up in your head, one split second of a mother’s gaze locking into your glassy one the next morning has you sputtering the ugly truth.

Whether your taste is aligned or not to your moms is irrelevant. Mother knows best. And she will never let you forget it. Some mothers are so sensitive that they can tell EXACTLY how you feel about their latest purchase, culinary effort, or whatever it is they ask your opinion about. (are those alien probes?) without you uttering a word! This truth seeking mommy missile can put the entire cast of Alias to shame. Granted that they’re not always right, and yes there are some mothers who are clueless of the world beyond their mahjong table, many seem to be pre-cognitive with regard to YOUR life. This may extend to our choice in partners or friends, and when we come home tattered and torn from life’s battlefield, they raise an eyebrow as if to say “I saw that loser coming a MILE away…but did you listen?..”

Wouldn’t it be awesome if we, children of the precogs, could also develop our intuition, and use it wisely to make decisions for ourselves about the situations and people around us? This “sixth sense” is a gift that is inherent in everyone. You do NOT have to go the “I see dead people route” (creepy music) but certainly can become more sensitive to the Un-dead. Yes, I mean the living. Try this out:

STOP AND LISTEN. Due to the barrage of fast moving images, fast songs, fast internet speed, we expect instant answers, reactions, replies. With all the mental noise we do not allow ourselves to distinguish between what is intuitive and what is just “noise”. Your initial or basic instinct about something or someone comes expressly delivered from your gut. The moment you allow your mind (or past fears and experiences) to “rationalize” what you just felt, you dilute the truth. Try not to taint what you initially feel with facts and figures, intuition is intangible.

ASK AND REFLECT. If you are Christian then you may opt to pray. Prayer has its benefits, but sometimes in prayer one becomes engulfed in asking, thanking, asking, thanking that there is no lapse at all in mental and/ or verbal action to LISTEN to a reply. Ask and you shall receive is the truth. So after you ask, shut up, really. Quiet the mind and quiet the self and allow God a WORD in. Have you ever been in a conversation with your closest friend both of you at the same time? Do you truly hear what your friend is trying to say? Like in prayer, you have to be polite and enable who you are talking to, to answer. Revel in the silence and you WILL hear something.

That sounds ridiculous doesn’t it? And come on, how do you REALLY REALLY know if what you feel is REALLY REALLY REAL? (say that three times and fast) Practice. Seriously, intuition is a muscle that needs to be flexed. And if you can’t find truth in yourself, then where else are you going to find it? Or do you keep asking mother? (It worked for Norman Bates, you say)

YOU’VE DONE IT BEFORE. Look back.. If you’re old enough to read this, then you MUST have made at least ONE correct decision in your life. Can you remember exactly what you felt back when you made up your mind that made everything fall into place? The thing about foresight is that you can only recall it in hindsight. There was a time (maybe several) what to do next, was all up to you.

Back to the Mothership.
My own theory on why mothers are practically psychic when it comes to their children is because they too made a perfect choice once, they chose to be a mom, and in that, they were granted special powers. So, you may want to cut them a little slack.

I am aware that there are many mother-child relationships that are in dire need of nurturing and connection. There are those who are in harmony and I have been blessed with a mother who though not always “right” was always coming from the right direction, one guided by love. For this mother’s day, I would like to urge you to make peace with the woman who brought you into this world. Whatever the state of your relationship with your mom to her credit, she did what she felt to be best for you. And if you are not reading this from behind bars, then she didn’t do such a bad job.

Here ends my momage. Happy Mother’s Day Mommies!!

May the Force Be With You

2005-05-03T00:56:00.000+08:00

MAY THE FORCE BE WITH YOU

Same s--t different day. Sound familiar? Same old, same old. These are standard answers for many of my peers and even the more youthful of my friends have used the word “boring” to describe their current situation in life, work and sometimes their future’s outlook. Being stuck in a rut just sucks. Artists call it a “block”, executives call it a “dead-end job” students call it “practicum” and I call it a “telenovela”. Maybe I meant same s--t different network.

The biggest challenge in wanting something different is people are not often willing to DO something different. I’ve read that if you keep doing the same thing over and over again and expect a different result, then you’re a horse’s ass (Ok I added the horse part) In a nutshell,
your situation will only change when YOU change, so today let’s talk about change, or at least making some changes. Tomorrow we welcome the first day of May, not only do we enter into the second quarter of 2005, in Western hemispheres Spring is in the air, and for most species of flora and fauna, life begins in the Spring. In a galaxy far, far away, it also marks the opening month of a small, under hyped sci-fi movie entitled Revenge of The Sith. (Yes, there is a connection, patience.)

Whether your Jedi Master is Yoda or Buddha the “force” is something to be reckoned with and not taken lightly. In Chinese philosophy it is called “qi” (pronounced chi) which means the circulating life energy that is thought to be inherent in all things. In simpler terms, it’s the life force. You may not be aware of it, but your surroundings, the way you live, the way you think have already caused clogging in your qi and the qi around you. If lately you feel you’ve been down on your luck, stuck to a routine, uncreative, and unhappy then it may be time for a change of scene. The wonderful thing about changing your “qi-nery” is that it is simple, inexpensive and can be done by anyone, anytime.

Ready padawan? Look around you. What is the state of your house? Apartment? Bedroom? Office? Unopened mail, unwashed clothes, unread books, dried out pens, betamax tapes (?!!!) memorabilia from the 70s and 80s that are so decrepit in appearance that they wouldn’t be displayed on Ebay. Wasted space is wasted energy. How you live is a reflection of how you are. Think of your body like your bedroom, how much clutter will it take in your inner interior design for you to finally do something about it? Let’s get started:

Have nothing around you that you do not know to be useful and believe to be beautiful. There exists a metaphysical law saying that if we desire more abundance in our lives we must create space for it. How can more good come into our lives if there is no room to accommodate it?

Start to give. What may no longer be useful and beautiful to someone may be a treasure found to another. Look at your closets, bathroom counter, library, drawers, gadgets, music and video collection. Is it possible that these things you no longer need or desire could be more beneficial to and/or serve others? Even when you’re cleaning and clearing out remember not to make a mess of things.
Some rules: (applicable to public officials too)
If you take it out, put it back
If you open it, close it
If you throw it down, pick it up
If you take it off, hang it up.
If you really don’t need it give it to someone who does.

Move 27 objects. (Huh?) Literally, PICK UP and MOVE 27 objects in your home that have not been moved in over a year. No one is going to mind if the left bedside lamp is now on the right, move the books you still love from the lower shelf to the upper shelf. Arrange a series of picture frames in a different way. Maybe the dining room table would look better if it faced a window, those knick knacks, touristy souvenirs could use a reshuffle… (oh my God the Christmas lights are still up?!!!!) So what’s happening now? Are you perhaps getting more creative? Maybe a little more imaginative? (how the hell am I going to explain this to my mom?) What is certainly happening during this process is that you are doing something DIFFERENT 27 times and all of a sudden you just start to FLOW.

When you move things around energy transforms from potential to kinetic. Your mind expands, you break your routine and you allow the vital universal life energy to swirl inside and around you. True creation is based on intuition and not on manipulation. I will be bold enough to say that when this is done in the spirit of fun and lightness you will actually start to FEEL the positive energy released throughout your surroundings. The added bonus in doing this makeshift spring cleaning is that you may stumble upon something you once thought was lost, or forgotten. YOU. (cue: voluminous, orchestral background music.)

Feel the force. Ready are you?
Do or do not, there is no try.

Livin La Vida Luna

2005-05-02T01:37:00.000+08:00

Livin La Vida Luna

We are a superstitious lot. Though the Philippines is said to be more than 90% Catholic, I cannot throw spilled salt over my shoulder without hitting someone who has at one point “dabbled” in supposed non-Catholic rituals of astrology, fortune telling, feng shui, or avoiding walking under a ladder because it’s “malas” (bad luck). I remember as early as the age of 5, my mother would say to never put a purse or bag containing money directly on the floor because it would supposedly send ones fortune “down”.
(down where, to the government?)

The polar opposite of wanting to prevent bad luck is of course, wanting good luck. And the theme for this weekend is RENEW! RECHARGE! What’s even more appropriate is this weekend brings about the Full Moon, coupled with a lunar eclipse making it a Super! Full Moon. It has long been believed that the moon has special powers, and when it is full (as it will be by Sunday) is when witches come out, and men turn into nasty, fanged, furry beasts…(what else is new). The moon can affect moods, hence the term (and this is my own theory) “making moony-moony” so all of a sudden you find yourself dating a witch or a werewolf. Before you pass any judgment, look in the mirror first, you may be in desperate need of a shave or your laugh now resembles a cackle.

Kidding aside, the full moon’s potency are even recognized by practitioners of astanga (power) yoga. They will not practice a full moon day believing that their bodies become more susceptible to injuries and use the day for meditation and rest instead. A lunar eclipse comes only with a full moon twice a year. Under an eclipse the true nature of a person or a situation in your life will be revealed to you. Take any message you hear at the time of an eclipse seriously, see the news as more or less a non-negotiable item and try to move on. Bide your time and do not take drastic actions, or give ultimatums during an eclipse, give yourself a couple of weeks when the air has cleared to make your next move.

So how exactly is this about renewing or starting anew? Eclipses can give you epiphanies, help or give you chances to do things you never thought were possible! A TV show contract, a record or publishing deal may be offered to you. In short, an eclipse may open a door that was previously closed. Now is the time to harness the full potency of the moon and the accompanying eclipse by a wish. Normal practice is to wish upon a star but I never have the patience to wait around for one to “fall” (no offense, Ate Guy). I have prepared two simple wishing rituals for both beginners and more intermediate believers. I must stress that when you wish, you MUST first be grateful, and have a peaceful state of mind. Wishing out of desperation, hate, anger or revenge just boomerangs. If you don’t want the additional mega ton amperage of the moon adding on to the negativity, then take a long hard look at what it is you’re really wishing for.

Beginner wisher: Take a piece of unmarked white paper, preferably from an unused pad. White symbolizes innocence and purity of intention. Get a red-inked pen (red symbolizes passion) and write down your wish. There are no guidelines to manner of writing what you want, your heart should tell you, not me. Once done, take a small box, insert the paper and bury the box in your garden or wherever there is fresh soil under the light of the full moon. Throwing the box down the gutter or hiding it under some potted plants will NOT be effective. The digging symbolizes the depth of your need and indicates the willingness to work toward what you wish. If you are a high rise dweller or have no garden to speak of then you have 24 hours to find a place to dig. So no, it doesn’t necessarily have to be at your house, but this doesn’t mean you should trespass and destroy private or public property either. Be resourceful not unlawful!

Intermediate wisher: This is not for the faint hearted, and certainly not for those with low self esteem. Prior to the full moon make sure you have a long hot bath or shower. If you know what exfoliate means do so, if you don’t, ask a female or gay member of your household immediately. If you have no means to exfoliate then a fresh bar of soap will do. The essence is that you have to be as “clean” as possible. Dry off and sit down in a quiet, uncluttered part of your home. Light a white candle (again for purity) and one red (passion). Sit for as many minutes as it takes to clear your mind of angry or negative thoughts. When you’re done walk outside. If you are bold enough (literally) you can do this naked, if you’re modest, wear all white. Under the light of the full moon make a wish, you may take the candles with you. When you’re done and before your naked presence is recorded on a hidden videocam say a prayer or mantra of thanks and blow out the candles.

Regardless of the outcome, you will feel super charged, and more hopeful about the future. Happy moonwishing!

The Return of The Rings

2005-04-30T17:42:00.000+08:00

The Return of The Rings

Thirty. The number seems to strike fear, dread and anxiety in most people. Male or female, one should have, must have, done this, bought that, had this, reached here, gone there etc. When the late 20’s hit, there is a maniacal assessment of one’s social, financial, physical, economic and even spiritual station in life. Being past 30 I look bemusedly and with much sympathy at those who are going through what I once was. Unlike many of my peers, I was actually looking forward to hitting the Big 3-0. Not because I was right on track with everything I wanted to achieve, but because of a little known planetary pattern that astrologers have come to call “The Saturn Return”.

The what? The Saturn Return, and yes I am referring to the original Lord of the Rings (sorry Tolkien) and it’s “return”. To be more specific, the first time Saturn completes its cycle through your birth chart and returns to the spot it occupied when you were born. Without getting too technical Saturn is the sixth planet from the Sun and the second largest in diameter in astronomical terms but is known as “The Great Teacher” in astrological ones. It completes a cycle approximately once every 29 years, and its energies are believed to be the cause of why those years approaching 30 seem so messed up!!

If you are 30 and over, look back at your life between the ages of 27 ½ to 29 ½, if you are between 27-30 or are close to someone who is, stop and read this, please. I can assure you that it’s not going to be a sermon, and you can of course come to your own conclusions and use this editorial to housetrain your dog. But, if it does spark an “Oh man, so THAT’S why….?!!” reaction, then do more research on The Saturn Return because it doesn’t just come once, but even thrice in a lifetime. The last cycle may catch you at 87, and honey, you had better have learned the lessons by then, or you are going to be one cantankerous old goat! (smile) Although a surly 28 yr. or 58 yr old is still pretty unpleasant.

What exactly happens during the ages of 27-30 (I’m lazy, so let’s just round the numbers off). Hmmm, why don’t you tell me? Perhaps you’re in a relationship now, everything blissful, perfect…and yet…you just want to be left ALONE, your partner doesn’t UNDERSTAND you, you feel like you don’t know whether to STAY or LEAVE. How about work? Normally you content, all of a sudden there are other offers or major changes abound. You feel you’re being pulled in all directions, the career path you’ve chosen is unfulfilling, your colleagues or your business partner PISS YOU OFF, or worse, you have just decided that life behind a desk is hell compared to making beaded underwear for a living. But so what? Life is nothing if one is not happy right?

Basically, on a whole you’re going nuts. The normal you is almost unrecognizable, your family, your colleagues, your romantic partner and friends see you turning into something different, and they’re right. Saturn asks you to “break” old patterns in your life, in order to sit your ass down, look you in the eye and say “Grow up, or get out”. True adulthood and wisdom are obligatory, because Saturn strips away illusions and points out limitations, allowing you to view yourself in a harsh, often unflattering light. At the same time, it endows you with prudence, practicality, and the perseverance to work hard toward achieving your purposes. When friends who are 27-30 or are dating someone of that age ask me advice about their current relationship (especially when it involves marriage) I shake my head and tell them to WAIT the period out.

But why why why? You moan. Because what is normally begun during this period is not long lasting. Relationships that have withstood distances, parental disapproval, racial and religious differences can fall flat when one goes through this period. The people and situations that enter your life in this season are literally being “used” by the Universe to teach YOU a lesson. You may even befriend someone suddenly who has recently passed a Saturn Return, because they know “exactly how you feel” even on a subconscious level. If you, on the other hand have a friend who is going through his or her return, then you have to be the patient and understanding one, it is not an easy time. They’ll be a little psycho, and trust me, so were you (ask your older friends or relatives)Sadly, 28-29 is the age when most suicides occur, because instead of growing up, the individual gives up. (yikes)

Ok, wait, wait, wait, before you decide that this article stinks and you had been better off reading about the latest vote off on American Idol hear me out. There is good news…this phase is temporary, and it’s always for the best, because that is what change is for, the chance to renew, to rediscover and to recreate the path this is meant for your absolute peace of mind and peace of heart. Saturn brings to your attention what is important to you, to fill a void. Think of Saturn as that teacher you had in school, the one who was super strict, but knew his stuff, so even if the lessons were hard, you learned from him the most. That’s what this planet is attempting to do with you, and it is a worthwhile education.

So what now? Should you dump the person, friend, career if it is indeed occurring during your Saturn Return? That is up to you. Let me clarify that the life lessons you have to endure are directly correlated to the quality of life you have lived during your 29 years. If you learn the lessons quickly, and take them to heart then the dramas won’t be as dramatic. Know this, that if you truly, truly love who you are with, and what you are doing, then this is just a bump on the road. And when you hit your 30s you can, like me, look back, with a smile and say “Phew! Thanks for the lesson!”. See you again in 29 years.

Totally Eclipsed!

2005-04-30T04:29:00.000+08:00

Totally Eclipsed!
by: Katrina Holigores

Ah..the weekend once more. Summer has started and thankfully, the island of Boracay has not sunk under the weight of the sun-worshippers, sun-evaders and sunset fixated photographers who landed on its shores. Our world, along with other heavenly bodies, (planets not Vicki Belo endorsers) seems to revolve around the Sun; it is, for the most part, the center of our celestial universe, and can dictate how people schedule their activities. Nobody wants to work on a Sunday, which is often viewed as a day of rest.

Today though, the Sun is about to be eclipsed, literally and figuratively by the original lady of the night, The Moon. The purpose of this editorial is to raise awareness of the relevance of the moon and its varying stages of waxing and waning and how one can use these energies to move forward, to gain more self awareness, and for most people, just to “shake them up a little”. Bear in mind that my studies come from personal experience and self study of astrology, which at most, offers “possibilities” and in no way promises a fixed destiny. In this life, one is always granted free will.

A quick lesson: There is the New Moon phase (when the moon starts off like a crescent) and the self-explanatory Full Moon. When the moon is new it “waxes”, (approaching full moon status) this is often the best time for you to start something new, take a risk. A full moon on the other hand, symbolizes the culmination or end. These moon phases occur every month, so you basically have one chance to get things moving and growing on a regular basis. This April though will be slightly different, as the moon comes equipped with a “turbo-booster” More on that later.

The New Moon started on April 8, but to be precise, it hit our part of the world at 4:37am this very morning, the full moon will reach maximum potency on the 24th late evening. (Yawn) and so what? So everything. If you want something new to happen in your life, if you want a project you have been dreaming of to move, it’s best to start presenting these new ideas or striving for goals within the weeks that the moon grows from New to Full. For example, if you have wanted to start an exercise regime or lose some weight, the time to enroll in a class, gym, begin a dietary program is TODAY! And if you want to see results, continue till well after the Full Moon, as it reveals the “fruits” of your labors.

Still there? The presence of the ECLIPSE adds to the potency of the moon although they only occur about twice a year. Eclipses bring to your attention (sometimes through a very dramatic event) what you need to focus on in your life at present. Even if you are NOT affected directly by the eclipse (and this is based on what month you are born in) you will notice that there are MAJOR events happening in the world around you. If the eclipse does not bring MONUMENTAL news to you it will to the rest of the world and people around you.

The eclipses are said to be the “wild cards” of the zodiac. They reveal things about situations and people to you that will “force” you (not always subtly) to make crucial decisions, often times WAY before you are prepared to. (Hence the term, turbo-booster). Choices made by everyone in general will affect the world as a whole, even if on the onset it seems like something so personal and intimate. To make this more relevant let me show you some examples. For those cynics out there bear with me a moment, you might just learn something, whether you agree with it or not.

Last week saw the passing of the Pope and millions witnessed his burial yesterday. That means an “end” right? Yes and no, the end of his tenure, yes, which has set into motion the selection process for his successor, right on the onset of the New Moon. Throw in the Solar Eclipse, and you and more variables are added to the mix. The new pope and what he stands for and represents, be he pontiff of the developing world or a doctrinal conservative, will impact the world in a major way, and I do mean the WHOLE world. The Vatican must make its announcement no SOONER than April 17, roughly a week prior to the Full Moon and Lunar Eclipse.

Nationwide, high school graduates are storming major universities in order to register and enroll. The first three weeks of April are all about them choosing which school, which course, what time, what professor, etc., Is it coincidence that enrollment normally falls around a new moon, and that universities “close” by full moon? This month is no exception coupled and with the eclipse, the choices a student makes may possibly, for many years irreversible. Many people stay in professions unhappy or unfulfilled because they feel obligated to stick to what they learned in school. The industries they choose to eventually support will impact as in the future as well.

There is not enough space for me to fully explain the nuances (although they will certainly be felt) of the eclipse. I can only share this, be aware that eclipses bring forth revelations that may prove cataclysmic to your future. Take a step back as a situation is brought into full light, so you may gain more understanding of it, and assess wisely what to do next. By the light…of the silvery moon….