In my 2000 days of living in New York, and 20000 of living in Manila, I’ve observed that these are the values are important to Filipinos and Americans.
Filipinos/Manila/Philippines
1. Family
2. God
3. Food
4. Friends / Camaraderie
5. Education
6. Home
7. Respect
8. Moral Law
9. Humility
Americans/New York/US
1. Self
2. Money
3. Clothes
4. Independence
5. Convenience
6. Work
7. Freedom of Speech
8. Civil Law
9. Confidence
Question:
When you like someone, do you really feel inadequate?
Like you can’t even look or walk, think or speak…
If time is gold, timing is fourteen carats of it.
There are times in your life when you weren’t ready. Or when he wasn’t set. And then when you are, the chance isn’t there.
That’s why I think blind dates, set-ups and match.com work for most people. Because both are ready. You just have to take those chances. And make time to actually do them.
Everyone I know in New York is connected to something great. Whether it’s a media giant, a fashion giant, a cosmetic giant, a store giant or a restaurant giant. Sometimes, they are giants themselves.
Everyday I receive a free gift. A shopping spree at Levi’s. Complimentary seats at Broadway plays. Many magazines. Treats and trinkets. Jet Blue flights. And unlimited access.
But what I find most beneficial are those that lend an ear, keep an eye out and give a hand. Those who listen to your experiences, and actually care. Those who warn you of possible deceit and mishaps. And those that help you move – yourself, your stuff or your life.
I too am happy to share my benefits. Material or otherwise.
Suddenly I feel like a contestant of American Idol. Or to be more politically correct, Philippine Idol.
Someone just told me today ‘You’re like Julia Roberts now… It’s part of the job.’
Don’t you wish that people sometimes just say no comment? Like when you’re having diet coke in the morning, or eating a chocolate cake. Isn’t the retort ‘Bawal yan’ the perfect way to ruin your appetite or your whole day?
I don’t know how critics can make a living out of praising or bashing a work of art. It takes a lot of courage just to put your name and material out there. It’s like putting a dart board on your chest, and telling everyone to ‘Go ahead, shoot me.’ Before you screech to a halt and fold into a cocoon, you just have to realize that those that can’t do, teach. Those that can’t do, nor teach, critique.
My definition of love was
when you care for the other more than you care about yourself.
Now is
When he’s there in a heartbeat the moment you need him. For whatever reason - no excuses, no questions, no time wasted.
Physically, it’s when your heart skips a beat and your knees totally go weak.
Let’s see when those definitions evolve.
