Jose Rizal

His death was commemorated by a cartoon of himself being shot by two motorcycle riders in tandem.

"Good Riddance Day"

"Since 2006, a group of people have celebrated this unusual event around the New Year.. Based on a Latin American tradition, individuals write down unpleasant, embarrassing memories and bad issues from the past year and throw them into an industrial- strength shredder. Or some take a sledgehammer to their good riddance item." (Our Daily Bread)

How does the entire world do this with Covid-19?

Dutertismo

 Someone had classified members of this cult:

1. Die--hards from when he was still Mayor

2. Opportunists and turn-coats of fairly recent times

3. Technocrats who want to sincerely help out

4. Patriots who put country above anybody else

5. Middle class who just want to have change

Picasso

"Art washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life."

Who Remembers Christmas 1941

Lourdes S. Bautista's "High Blood" column in the Inquirer recalls the entry of PH in WWll on 7 December 1941. It ended in 1945.

Hopefully, this pandemic doesn't take that long.

"Ponder It"

"Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart." Luke 2:19

'Allow yourself a few minutes of quiet during this busy season to sit and listen for what God might be saying to you.' (Our Daily Bread)

Weight Loss

"After every chemotherapy session, I developed a metallic taste in my tongue which destroyed my appetite and induced the terrible feeling of nausea.

Instead of grieving over it, I welcomed it as a chance to finally lose weight...

I also took it as an opportunity to offer my suffering for reparation for my sins, in solidarity with people who are sick, hungry, and suffering.

How to handle trials and sufferings?                    Nasa pagdadala at pagdadalangin.                        Hindi sa pagdadaldal at pagdadada!" 

(Fr. Jerry Orbos' "Healing Moments")

Hope

"Not only is cultivating hope in God a strategy, but clinging to Him in faith and trust is the only strategy." (Our Daily Bread, 22 December)

Warm Springs

Almost like a Christmas miracle story, this touching film on FDR featured him contracting infantile paralysis (polio) in adult life, turning a rundown community into a holistic rehabilitation haven, then "running for the presidency when he could hardly walk" but being given unprecedented three terms during the Great Depression and World War II.  As he said, "There is nothing to fear but fear itself."

Golden Girls rule

Blanche E. Devereaux with the interesting initials rued, "Back in our Career Day, I decided to marry one with a career!"

Wife

 "A pillar, not a punching bag;

A helpmate, not a housemaid;

A treasure, not a slave." (Anon)

Could be a homily at weddings

Lavina D'Souza

"Being in the presence of transgender people made something shift inside me- from fear and avoidance to a rehumanizing of my attitudes, explained in 3 words- revaluating, resurfacing and refinding."

Youth

 The "now of God" (Pope Francis)

Melissa Freeman

This granddaughter of a slave is now 94 but still a practicing doctor in Harlem.

Bo

The Obama presidential pet had also to adjust to life after the White House. Michelle recalls being home alone in their next DC residence one night and their dog seemed disoriented hearing other canine sounds from their new neighbors.

Golden Girl Rule 2

Rose did it again: "You have a date with your ob-gyne doctor? That's an appointment!"

Golden Girl Rule

Rose Nyland finally had a smart line: Punishing a guy by not talking to him? No, don't stop talking would be better punishment!

Prayer

 They say it is the bridge between panic and peace.

St. Nick

The original seems to be San Nicolas de Tolentino who came upon a sizable inheritance. Instead of spending on himself, he gave help to those in need. Example was a poor man who was considering selling his daughters to prostitution. In the dead of night, Nicolas dropped off a bag of gold coins in the beleaguered man's house.

Daggers' Use

On a feature on Diminishing Dukedoms, one insider pointed to a dagger hidden behind a chair. It was to be used to cut out centuries-old portraits from their frames in case of fire. Then, it would be easier to toss out to safer ground.

Alternative Test

Other than the painful and expensive Covid test, a Starbucks patron unexpectedly discovered she was positive for the virus when she couldn't taste her drink anymore.

Beautiful Words

"1. Don't stress yourself out with useless people who don't even deserve to be an issue in your life.

2. Never invest too much emotion at one thing because if you do, you'll end up hurting yourself.

3. Learn to live life without worries because GOD will take care of everything, trust and just have FAITH." 

Everybody's Cup of Tea

We cannot be, and that is ok and expected.

News Diet

CNN compared Trump to Biden on their source of information and how they echoed it. And people can't wait for the change.

Today

I pray for you;

A heart free of sadness,

A mind free of worries,

A life full of gladness,

A body free of illness,

A day full of God's blessings!

(Positivity in Life)

Needs

During this abnormal season of giving, reviewed a list of immaterial presence of Dra. Carandang:

1. Personal significance

2. Unconditional acceptance

3. Clear, consistent discipline

4. Sense of competence

5. Affiliation

6. Wide scope of self-expression

7. Transcendence, faith

Politician

"His constituents had two problems. They did not have a doctor in their barrio. He pretended to call someone on his cellphone and then said, 'Problem solved! What's your second problem?' The people replied, 'We have no signal in the barrio.'" (Fr. Jerry Orbos' Moments)

Pardon

Trump is starting midnight pardons of his children, son-in-law and legal counsel Rudy Giuliani. For what crime, nobody knows. Next, he might pardon himself, probably carried away after that turkey

Animator

Pope Francis was referred as one for the spirit. At first glance, my mind recalled Walt Disney. Maybe just as well, as both of them bring us to the Happiest Place on earth and beyond.

Horrorscope

Chit Roces-Santos wrote about her past fascination with astrology. But after having taken over  as "captain of my ship and master of my fate," she feels "too close to the docks now for anything to make a difference." Instead, she adopts the late Bob Hope's "surprise me" attitude as to where he could be buried.

Blindspot

That's why we need people with whom we don't see eye-to-eye. (Netflix' "Virgin River")

Dr. Kristi Pikiewicz

"We can live without drugs and alcohol but people are more complicated than substances."

Snap out of it

That is what a client of Dr. Honey Carandang literally does upon experiencing growing tension.

Last Christmas

A delightfully touching film produced and starred in by Emma Thompson had this observation:

"Why do they keep asking me to go on a walk, I am not a dog."

West & East Differing Sound

West: "Strike the bell."

East: "Invite the bell to sound."

The Mirror Has Two Faces

This film tackled a person's appearance, among other things.

"When I gave 'Farewell to Arms' to this girl, she thought it was a diet book!"

Mindfulness

"Without mud, no lotus." 

Obama Cares

David Pakman likened Obama to a gradeschool teacher explaining the behavior of little Donnie to his parents, in a recent interview on his new book.

Earth

It is heaven's waiting area. (Maura Roan McKeegan)

10 Ms on Highway to Heaven

1. "Map in Life

2.  Meditation

3.  Mass and Eucharist

4.  Mercy

5.  Meal time with family

6.  Mortification

7.  Meekness of Heart

8.  Missionary Spirit

9.  Mass Media

10. Mary"

Fr. Broom, OMV

Jesus

"Our world needs Your healing and salvation. Teach us to be Your light, Your hands, Your worker, for this earth."

"On the Wrong Side?"

Our Daily Bread speaks of the missionary zeal of Pastor Sam who reached out to the stranded people on the "wrong" side of a river in Ghana. 

What mediators do.

Outsiders

In Netflix' The Crown new episode, Prince Philip consoles fellow-outsider Princess Diana. He says all of them outside The Crown are.

Daily Blessings

 "The richest wealth is Wisdom.

The strongest weapon is Patience.

The best security is Faith.

The greatest tonic is Laughter.

All are Free and may God bless you with them today."

Melancholy

Its enemy is industry. (Bishop Barron)

Intervention

The bully "former President" is now being shown out of the White House by world leaders.

Nepotism

Senator Pia Cayetano tried to block Senator Risa Hontiveros' move to look into the expenses of the last Olympic Games in Clark under Speaker Alan Peter Cayetano. She is her brother's gatekeeper.

Legal vs Moral

"While the obese overturned turtle flails in the hot sun," (Anderson Cooper) and files countless and baseless lawsuits, President-elect Biden calls the former's refusal to concede an "embarrassment." The Humanist Report likens the defeated president to a toddler.

Pompous Fine Print

The US Secretary of State assures us that there will be a smooth turnover...to the 2nd Trump Administration. If so, no need.

PH Christianity@500

 Fr. Sim asks:

1. What should we stop doing?

2. What should we continue doing?

3. What should we start doing?

BBC Earth

Really cool show about the Antartica showed a sneaky penguin weaving its way around orcas for dear life!

Wolves

These feared animals are actually brought into wildlife reserves to scare off grazing bisons so that the land's flora can recover. (BBC Earth)

Forgiveness

Fr. Felloni stated that getting over the wounds of pain and hurt turns the infection to affection.

A-me-rican

They say they are both in that word. Trump's me to Biden's American.

All Bases Covered

A White House staff member has been calling for a prayer meeting. Paula White has also been doing a forceful demonstration of exorcising evil spirits. If only they had done so way before the presidential campaign.

Solomonic Wisdom

Just like the two mothers fighting over an infant before King Solomon, two persons claimed to be the real owner of a dog. The judge just alllowed the pet to go to its master instinctively. (Our Daily Bread)

Emily in Paris

Discovered an updated version of an American in Paris. There is an app now that you speak to and request a translation, and a voice says it out loud.

Translation

"Palabas na si Rolly.

Papunta na si Siony.

Wala pa si Rody.

Rolly is showing now.

Siony is on her way.

Rody is still not here."

Happiness

"It is a crazy mathematics. It multiples when you divide it."

One's Calling

"The confluence of doing something you are good at, which makes people's lives better, and you feel appreciated."

Spiritual Alzheimers

Fr. Ramon Bautista, SJ calls this weakness of people who forget to thank God for blessings received. On the other hand are the grateful ones, who have the memory of the heart.

Christian Citizenship

"For each of us, there was a choosing. There was an election. And God voted for us." Fr. Prior's The Abbot's Circle on Christian Citizenship

Translation

"Inutil kasi kaya naiisahan ng mga tao niya.

  Because he is important, that's why his people are    single." (Found on social media)

Less Miserables

A story is told of a woman brought before a judge in 1935 for stealing a loaf of bread worth $10. Asked why she did it, she admitted she didn't have the money to feed her grandchildren. The judge pulled out $10 from his wallet to pay for the bread and charged everyone in court 5 cents for putting the women in misery. They collected $47.

Conflict of Interest

This odd-ministration treats corruption as a joke. The Ombudsman has thrown the SALNs of government officials out the window. Tonight, the Spokesperson of the DOJ Committee investigating corruption turns out to be the wife of the Secretary of DPWH which is being linked to anomalies.

Hope

It is an art that has to be practiced. It is a choice more than a feeling. It is inseparable from and directly proportional to love. (Fr. Mon Bautista, SJ)

Muting the President

After the disastrous first presidential debate, microphones of Trump and Biden were muted when it was not their turn to speak.

For once, Americans did not want to hear from their President.

Barong Tagalog

It started as the uniform of male indios or local lowly males. It was transparent so as not to conceal weapons, without pockets to prevent theft, and not tucked in to denote inferiority.

How times change!

COVID GRIEF

 Dr. Vista, psychiatrist of Asian Hospital likens our COVID experience to grief and its stages:

1. Shock and Denial- We will not be affected.

2. Anger- Feeling at lockdown.

3. Bargain- Social distancing.

4. Sadness- When will it end?

5. Acceptance- Adjust to new normal.

Colorado Prisons

They double as car plates factory for work of its prisoners. They also have a 3-year reentry program where they even simulate interviewing for a job and ordering food delivery, before ultimate release.

H & M Stockholm

It recycles old clothes after a few hours for $15.00.

Prayer

"Don't pray to God for an easy life. Pray for the strength to be able to accept, handle and conquer anything that comes our way."

Scavenger Hunt

Message contained the invitation to the wedding of Macaulay Culkin and Rachel Miner.

Faith IMG.com

"God is not asking you to figure it out. He is asking you to trust that He already has."

Innocence Project

It helps exonerate wrongly-accused prisoners like America's Got Talent Archie Williams, 59, who was jailed for rape at 22. Fingerprints turned out to be those of a serial rapist.

Scapegoating

Bishop Barron says this theory of a group blaming someone/s for their society's ills is as old as the Biblical Times when Jesus Christ was It.

Karate

It means "no weapons" and started in Okinawa after Japan banned arms. Later they also used fishing tools. (Anthony Bourdain's Parts Unknown)

Medicine

 "It is a social science and politics is nothing more than medicine on a large scale." Rudolf Virchow on PGH accepting Nutribuns with images of Marcos and Imee.

Animals

NATGEO classifies them as Rulers, Rebels, Defenders, Protectors and Survivors. 

The Daily Show

 "We just learned to wash our hands and now they say there could be life in Venus!"

California

Governor Newsom has tapped former inmates who have been trained in firefighting inside prison to now put this into practice battling their forest fires.

Tigerwood

After he garnered more than 100 golfing awards since childhood, his group PGA decided to add numerous courses to the tees so as to lower the advantage of long-hitters like him. This strategy they called "Tiger-proofing."

Raoul Plus, SJ

We may pray to adore, to give thanks, to implore pardon or to ask for the graces we need. But whereas in the last three cases, our thought comes back to ourselves, in the first, we forget ourselves entirely and think of God alone.("Adoration: The Most Perfect Prayer" in the Catholic Digest)

St. Philip Neri

"One should not work to become a saint in 4 days but step by step."

GK Chesterton

"My country, right or wrong" is a thing that no patriot would think of saying. It is like saying, "My mother, drunk or sober." (A Defence of Patriotism)

Indian

In Pilipino, it could mean "not to attend."

But in the film "The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel," an English tourist states that he finds Indians treating life as a privilege, not as a right.

Randy David recalls his visit to India, where they thank the beggar instead, for the opportunity to do good.

Masquerade

Joe Biden has always been the masked man being ridiculed. Now he is the only presidential candidate actively campaigning on its final month's stretch. Trump is sidelined at Walter Reed Hospital. 

Adventurer

So much inspiration, so little time. (ADOBE Creativity Quiz)

"Democracy at Twerk"

Stephen Colbert featured the call to "get your booty to the poll."

 Clue                                                                               Class                                                                         Intellect                                                                     Dignity                                                             Vocabulary                                                                   Taste                                                                       Patience                                                               Integrity                                                         Compassion                                                         Empathy                                                                 Loyalty                                                             Conscience                                                           Courage                                                                 Manners                                                                 Respect                                                               Character                                                               Morality                                                                   Values                                                                       Honor                                                                       Shame                                                                   -   Business Being President- Trump

 Susan Harrell

De-bate

That's how Trump was with Biden and even with their moderator!

The Comey Rule

FX feature traces the Russian involvement in the 2016 US presidential election and the Trump cover-up. FBI Director Jim Comey was more loyal to the country so he learned of his firing from the tv as he was recruiting agents in Los Angeles.

MJ

The mother of Kris Kardashian-Jenner pins her hope for the future on her great grandchildren.  In a recent text message to the family shared by granddaughter Kim, MJ wishes the youngest generation to be able to live well on this beloved home of ours:

"Praying my 10 great grandbabies can help fix this poor planet in time and find solutions to climate change and pollution to stop the destruction of this gorgeous planet for this important moment in time."

The Mind's Journal

 "I sat with my anger long enough, until she told me her real name was grief."

10 Must See in PH

Six I have been to:

1. Manila

2. Tagaytay

3. Vigan

4. Banawe, Mountain Province

5. Palawan

6. Cebu

Still have to go to:

7. Boracay

8. Bohol

9. Donsol

10. Siargao

72nd Emmy Awards

The side contest was not for best gown but living room setting, observed host Kimmel.

Saranggola ni Pepe

Celeste Legaspi's playful song was her husband's musings on martial law, she revealed in the podcast of Ayala Museum's Filipinas Heritage Museum. It is going to be featured in their OPM Archives.

End of Communism

What symbolized it in USSR? McDonald's in Russia 31 January 1990.

Finding Freedom

This book has royal watchers wary that Prince Harry's exit from London has just imprisoned him in the US with wife Meghan

RBG

The late US Chief Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg known for being egalitarian, narrated this anecdote about their son:

"He was a lively boy, what they call hyperactive. One day, his school called and asked me to drop by. 

I replied, 'He has two parents. Why don't you call his father. It's his turn now.'"

Justice for Breonna

The state awarded her estate $ 12M. What the Daily Show pointed out is that taxpayers will be paying for the crime by the police against her person.

Risking the Hard Way

An Idaho pastor skeptical of masks lands in the ICU for Covid 19!

New Lucy Show

She asks, how do you keep the elephant from charging?

Withhold his credit card.

92-year-old's Words of Wisdom

Even before entering the room in her new home, a legally blind elderly woman said she liked it. Why so, the receptionist asked. The woman listed these truths she lives by:

1. Free your heart from hatred.                                    2. Free your mind from worries.                                  3. Live simply.                                                                   4. Give more.                                                                      5. Expect less.                                                                    6. Enjoy every moment.

Being Poor

It seems "is bad for your health. Mental health like physical health doesn't exist in a vacuum. When people's basic needs are met, they're healthier in mind and body. Social determinants include nutrition, housing, education, community safety, and employment." (US study)

Torn Between Two Foreigners

Princess Diana wanted to live as far away from UK as possible she chose a Pakistani surgeon and an Egyptian son of a tycoon for possible teplacement to Prince Charles.

Nicole Kidman's Rules

After being abandoned by first love Tom Cruise then overcoming the substance abuse of husband Keith Urban, she vowed to:

1. Let go of what does not work;

2. Put self first; then

3. Pave the way for others.

Zen Principles

 "Creations are innumerable, I resolve to free them all.

Delusions are inexhaustible, I resolve to extinguish them all.

The aspects of truth are countless, I resolve to learn and master them all.

The way to enlightenment is peerless, I resolve to accomplish it."

Re:venge

 Fr. Sim's Homily:

"The Old Testament injunction of 'an eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth' was not meant to demand vengeance, but rather to put a limit, to avoid excesses in vengeance. For losing a tooth, you cannot knock off all the teeth of your enemy- only one may be allowed."

Jubilee

On the 5th anniversary of Pope Francis' encyclical Laudato Si, we celebrate the Season of Creation by:

1." Remembering our original vocation to exist and flourish;

2. Returning to listen and heal damaged relationships;

3. Resting to be renewed and rediscover;

4. Restoring the original harmony among species and the ecosystem and regain control of the use of land; and

5. Rejoicing in rebuilding our common home and mobilizing people from the peripheries whom God sent."

Detachment

"To reach satisfaction in all, desire satisfaction in nothing.

To come to the knowledge of all, desire knowledge of nothing.

To come to possess all, desire possession of nothing.

To arrive at being all, desire to be nothing." 

 St. John of the Cross

Guantanamera

This lovely tune is about a native girl at Guantanamo, notorious prison site, BBC Earth's Joanna Lumley  discovered. 

Spooksperson

That could refer to Harry Roque now. Formerly championing the call for justice on the brutal death of transgender Jennifer Laude, he now defends the executive pardon of the murderer, American military man Pemberton by Du30. Courting US favor is crucial now that his administration crawls on shaky ground.

Sounds Like

 "Ang taong walang sala, malamang walang sofa." Sen. Kiko Pangilinan

St. Augustine's warning

Hanging on the wall of the dining room at his episcopal residence: "If you speak ill of your brother here, you are not welcome at this table."

Money Can't Buy You

Love (Beatles)

Trust

Class

Time

And so many others in the list, missed.

Best in "Kalokohan"

Pam Pastor of Inquirer's To Be You Lifestyle Section featured Pinoys invading Harvard University's Facebook page. No wonder, we have a Joker as President.

Silence

"The best answer to someone who doesn't value your words." Quoted by Pia Pagkalinawan

Kim Idol

This performer was not in Miss Saigon. A gay stand-up comic who became a frontliner to survive during the pandemic died recently. Anyway, he reasoned to his family, he had a pre-existing illness and they stand to gain a million pesos if he dies from COVID.

Status Symbol

In one sitcom, a mother asked of her child, "When can we afford someone else to take care of him?"

Another COVID Achievement

There was a recent flight from Israel to perpetual enemy Abu Dhabi. (Of course, Trump's son-in-law had to get into the picture.) Sarah's fight with Hagar over Abraham in the Old Testament seems to be in the process of resolution.

Las Chicas del Cable

Continuing Spanish lessons on Netflix tells about the lives of telephone operators in Madrid during the 1920s. The onset of computerized lines threatens to make them redundant. Watching out its development.

Lesson Learned

The first black person in Greenland had this story: bitten by a snake while up a coconut tree in his native land, he heard that Greenland had the lowest temperature not tolerated by snakes. (BBB World News)

Royal Rants

Meghan and Harry's pining for privacy was compared to Diana's. The latter bared her soul and insecurities as a result of personal history. Her younger son and his wife sounded like whining brats despite all the privileges and entitlement.

Applying the Law

Helen Johnson of Alabama was caught for stealing 5 eggs at the supermarket. Telling the police officer that she intended those for her hungry children, he took her back to buy groceries. "Someimes, you must apply the humanity."

Fred Rogers

Chanced upon an excellent film on Netflix, A Beautiful Day In The Neighborhood, about this kindly man on and off the television screen. He was a vegetarian, saying he did not eat anything that had mothers.

Hara Masahiro

At the Denso factory in Japan, he found the barcode being used then as having limited capacity for data. From his board games came the inspiration for the QR code with up to 200 data. 

And in his magnanimity, kept its patents open for future inventions improving on it.

Nancy Pelosi

She is the model for senior women- transforming from running a house to Speaker of the House and tangling with the President at the White House.(CNN)

Staffed Up

Isabelle Diaz gives her household staff feedback forms to fill in regularly on how to improve her relationship with them. Meghan Markle has been called behind her back Me-gain and Duchess Difficult.

Readiness

In the USA, they are presently scrambling for mailed votes to be counted in November.

In PH, Deped had to be put in the spot of its unpreparedness for online lessons to postpone the opening of classes from August to October.

What Do They Want Exactly

A movement seeking to establish a revolutionary government to be headed by the current president aims to effect charter change. Lawyers are trying to understand it- like going against oneself to change itself or a dog chasing its tail.

Do their Biden

Republicans are crossing more than aisles in voting on laws in Congress. They are supporting the Democratic presidential candidate!

UNIQLO

On NHK, this international brand revealed that it is a typo of its original name Unique Clothing or Uniclo. Always felt like editing that name!

All The Light We Cannot See

Started on this novel by Anthony Doerr about a French teen who became blind. Her only other family member was her father, a locksmith at the National Museum of Natural History.  He empowered her to walk from their dining room to the bathroom by means of a rope guide, aside from her cane.  He also made a scale model of their community that she studied so well such that after several hits and misses, she was able to go home from the Museum, with her father a step behind.

Urgent Question

 NAT GEO asks "Planet or Plastic?"

Hello Dolly

HITS Movies featured her last night, Dolly Levi, the New York matchmaker who proved herself hardest to pair with bigtime Yonkers shop owner Horace Vandergelder.  In one of her pitches, she sang, "snuggle up to your cash register."

I'll See You In October

Finally Deped had seen the light on its unpreparedness for the opening of online classes especially for the public schools originally set for 24 August. The busy Vice President had to write an earnest appeal to Secretary Briones, after troubled teachers approached her with their concerns.

Job

When he struggled with all his sufferings, he asked to see the One who sent them. And God humored him. He recounts the wonder of creation. "Here is where your proud waves halt."

Aim

A concerned citizen of the world has warned about the danger of taking the temperature by directing the UV light of a thermal thermometer on another's forehead and the pineal gland behind it.

My ex- wife still misses me

 But her aim is improving every day, goes the joke.

Help from Heaven

Our Daily Bread today reflects on the ever- present help of God if we just ask.

Mediators partake of this mission in their own little way.

Update

Happiness is the new rich.

Inner peace is the new success.

Health is the new wealth.

Kindness is the new cool.

Lamentation

 Today's Our Daily Bread says, "when we lament what is not right, we call ourselves and others to be active in seeking change."

Mediation has 7 letters in common with it.

Fr. John Powell

 He narrated this anecdote about a young boy who wrote a note to his grouchy teacher, "If you're feeling happy today, please inform your face."

Sherlock

In HITS new feature, he told Watson the owner of the hat was intelligent. Asked how he arrived at that conclusion, Holmes put on the quite large headgear. 

Wired to be Generous

Some experts believe that humans are. (Our Daily Bread) That might explain why a young boy protected his sister from a rampaging dog and got seriously wounded in the process.

Resilience

COVID 19 will go down in history as a test of the will to survive.  Reading about a community organization of informal workers PATAMABA inspires awe and respect for this vulnerable group. They chose to organize talipapa mini-markets within the barangay during the lockdown;

1) when markets were closed;

2) there was no public transport;

3) they had to eat and earn at the same time.

Green Book

In the time of Black Life Matters, there was a film about a black pianist who had a white driver who brought him on his cross- country music tour.

Shintoism

The Japanese religion is said to be lenient, focusing less on rigid rules which may have resulted in a more self-disciplined nation.

Lost Cities

NATGEO featured Columbia where Spaniards brought typhoid disease and left with gold.

When Calls the Heart

A meaningful quote from this Netflix feature: "When you don't say anything, that is when you have a lot to say."

John Lewis

In his eulogy, George W. Bush narrated that Lewis had been practicing civil disobedience even in his youth. As a boy in Alabama, he took care of the family's chickens and would not partake of them on their dinner table.

Bike-tru

The titos in the current affairs show "Wag Po," had this brilliant idea of innovating the drive-tru set to open in SM Pampanga today.

To(k)hang

With Covid 19 already taking its toll, there is now a move toward the death penalty to further the killing feat of this government.

The Man Who Harnessed the Wind

This Netflix docu features African William Kamkwamba who after being denied school over non-payment, reads on energy and devices their village windmill to water the parched fields. Fast forward, he finishes further education at Dartmouth University in the US.

Mananita

This breach of Covid protocol by the military to celebrate a general's birthday was brilliantly used as an excuse by rallyists next time they gathered to protest. That's single standard.

Castle UP

It was like it had a moat around it that kept the PNP, marching along Commonwealth Avenue, away from the protesters inside the campus. The ban on rallies this SONA day was not that effective.

Mary Trump

She is not merry with Uncle Donald, of which we have a parallel relationship here in the Philippines.

With relatives like these...

Hemophobia

No typo. Fear of blood is tackled in Netflix' Doc Martin, among others.

Roma Estrella

The professor was quoted by Rappler thus: "What cannot be identified, cannot be treated."

Irish Wag

"In the beginning was the word, and the word was No." (Bishop Barron)

Trophy Wife

Raymond's grouchy dad asking his mom, "What contest in hell did I win?"

Dustin Hoffman

Who would have believed that "The Graduate" who evolved into Kramer vs. Ms. Kramer wanted to become a classical pianist?

The Art of Racing in the Rain

Voiced over by Kevin Costner, a dog narrates that his racer master skids intentionally even before his car does so on its own.

Anger

"It is the spark that starts the engine, but hope is the fuel that keeps it moving."

Example

First, it was Justin Trudeau to don it. Next was the Queen matching the color of  her mask to her clothes.
Trump that!

Optimism

An LP- mate rejoices that we will all meet soon- in prison. Lol

Family Corporation

Speaker Cayetano calls ABS- CBN a family corporation. Well, so is the Cayetano dynasty in politics.

Yoke

When Jesus said it was easy and the burden light, we missed the point that He shares it as our partner and literal co-traveler side by side.

Inhale

Blessings, Exhale Gratitude is always a good practice.

The Other Way, Lord

Do you recall an old joke about a man asking God to heal his hands, one facing upward and the other downward? Well, they got reversed.

It seems that way, too on the travails of the traveling royals. Now that Meghan is comfortable in the US, it is Prince Harry's turn to act up. 

Chesapeake Shores

In one of its episodes, the law graduate son takes the bar exam. When an examinee undergoes a breakdown, he shouts, "I need a charger!"

Broadcast

It is also a way of planting seeds by just throwing them at random across a field.

Yesterday's Gospel reflection was so timed to the decision of the Lowest House to deny the franchise renewal of ABS-CBN.

Truth

It is like a wolf. You do not defend it. You let it loose to defend itself- C Daluz

The Boat is Sinking

Talents are transferring to other boats.

Anne Frank

In a recent documentary about her, one commented what a pity for the lives of all the children lost with her, because the world never saw them fulfill their full potential.

Beverly Hillbillies

It is a delightful old sitcom of southerners hitting oil. Entering their mansion, the son gazes at the chandelier almost at his eye level and exclaims to the real estate agent, "I didn't bust them glasses!"

The Heart

It has reasons that reason knows not- Blaise Pascal

Jim Paredes

He tweeted one night: "In this unkind world, let kindness be your rebellion."

Boasting

It becomes a prophecy of future failure. (Proverbs)

Biggest Terror

The Anti- Terror Bill has just been signed by DU30. A birthday gift to Imelda, at the expense of the Filipino people, as usual.

Oprah

She traced her feelings of inadequacy to her color and family.  Being born of an uneducated black teenager, she lived first with her grandmother who was a maid and abused her physically and emotionally. When she got to live with her mother, she was made to sleep in the porch as they were living with a black woman who could pass for white. Her being raped by an uncle was not mentioned.

She realized later on that forgiveness is accepting that these things happened, but not necessarily condoning them.

Illusions

They are dangerous people; they have no flaws."(Sabrina movie)

Makibeki

This new battlecry was heard during the recent Pride protest in Manila. They were demanding cleansing of the government.

Take That

Kate Middleton has avenged Diana's death. It is said that she has "killed the market for royal paparazzi pictures" by singlehandedly taking her brood's candid shots by her own camera.

Loving God

First and foremost is the way to love others better.

Line of Fire

It is always a place of honor. (Alejandro, 1987)

Such is mediation.

Gone with the Wind

Watched its digitalized version in time with Black Lives Matter. In one scene, Scarlett suggests eloping with her married first love, "There isn't anything holding us here." To which Wilkes replies, "Nothing but honor."

Just like today, too.

Hasegawa

Japanese researcher on dementia became one of his test cases himself. In an NHK docu, he documents his daily activities and thoughts, trying to live in a nursing home and going back home, still giving talks but starting with a military song and explaining why.

He "has egawa" cut out for him.

Job's Comforter

It "has come to describe how NOT to act around a suffering person." Notes from The Student Bible

A mediator is sometimes like one.

Wealth

According to the Navajo Indians, it is defined by how many songs you know. 

Parents

"They all lie to their children for their own good," says 'Everyone Loves Raymond' dad Frank. Question is for
whose good?

What Really Matters

"Westerners have watches. Africans have time." Os Guinness, quoting an African proverb in his book Impossible People

Adversity

It doesn't build character. It reveals it. (American novelist James Lane Allen)

The English Game

Football started as usual among the Etonians et al. Then the workingclass got into it but needed to be paid while at the greens, unlike their wealthy self- employed counterparts. Unfortunately, this was against the rule and it took one Etonian to change that and the history of the game.

SANA

That is Senior Adviser on National Affairs- Covid 19 Dr. Leachon who was asked to resign for being up front with DOH mediocrity on data handling, among other failures.

Terror of a Bill

The Anti-Terrorism Bill set to be signed by DU30 anytime now is instead sowing what it is supposed to prevent.  What it lacks, aside from the constitutional safeguards, is the provision for deradicalization.

Former ARRM leader Hataman from Basilan says that the Bill we copied from other countries like Malaysia leaves out this essential element of converting the mindset of supposed terrorists while in jail. Otherwise, as what had happened, the terrorists converted their jailers. Or they really do not aim to jail terrorists but only political opponents.

Disaster-Related Deaths

Ishii Mieko advocates ensuring that survivors in gyms do not succumb to other causes of death other than the original calamity- lack of privacy, depression, lack of movement and communication, among others.

Doctors and Preachers

In "Sweet Magnolias," they were deemed similar in telling us what we already know we must not do.

Oppo Research

Not of this gadget company but of opposition parties in Netflix "Race for the White House." From Andrew Jackson to Bill Clinton, learn the tricks of the trade.

Pandemic Waste

With all the personal protective equipment usage, there will be a new mountain of waste after this is all over.

In Dependence

Apa Ongpin had a truly insightful study on DU30. As a populist ex-mayor, he has to keep his image as a fighter. Hence, he is always confronting person/s in speeches. Do dirty.

Irony

How would you like to consult a Dra. Calvario caught on a tv weekend show?

After Life

In Netflix, a widower pines for his wife. When friends suggest going out and doing things, he clarifies missing  doing nothing with her.

Fishing

In "The United Plates of America" featuring Seattle, a  fishing buff describes it as hours of peace and calm cut by a few moments of disturbance.

Maya

A small wisp of a woman in Bosnia-Herzegovina overcame a childhood of bullying by seeking others in need. She started by becoming a Red Cross volunteer. She was interviewed by world news recently.

What I'd Give

Healthworkers stand to receive P 100, 000. 00 after getting severely infected by the Covid19 virus. If they can still stand.

Otherwise, their family gets a million if they succumb to the virus.

Choice between pneumonia and yonder.

Not Agri

In an online forum with Senator Kiko Pangilinan, a panelist bewailed the usual negative connotation attached to agriculture:

1. Farmers and fisherfolk are poor and uneducated.
2. When one does poorly, "nangamote."
3. An unfortunate ending leads to the " kankungan."

From Venus

Leave it to women to run countries well, especially during pandemic.

German Chancellor Merkel, a chemist, has even included cash for electronic cars in their country's stimulus package. In New Zealand, half of the population is targeted to receive sanitary products to keep them in school. 

Pag (If)

Maayos ang sistema (the system is set well)
May disiplina (there is discipline)

Malinaw ang plano (the plan is clear)
Susunod ang tao (the people will follow)

Atty. Chel Diokno

POLO Trump

The President of Law and Order poses with a Bible outside a locked down church, after protesters were gassed  to clear his path.

Point of View

Writing for Our Daily Bread, Elisa Morgan quoted a friend as saying, "I love the ocean. It moves so I don't have to."

Worse Jailer

For violating the Anti-Liquor Ban and the Quarantine Pass Ordinance, Ronald Campo was caught in the act of escaping arrest and consequently mauled by the Cavite PNP Provincial Director PCol Marlon Santos.

Basement with Purpose

Baltimore DJ Chris Kopec and family raised a million dollars for charity during these Covid times. How? By enjoying themselves dancing in their basement.

Reconciliation

Root word "cilia" means eyelash. So to reconcile is to see eye to eye.

Bolsonario

There is another foul- mouthed leader on the other side of the world, in Brazil.

Mexico

During the pandemic, they had less drugs going around but more murders reported. Scores were settled mean time.

The Clear Day Project

A group of Broadway actors gave an inspiring tribute to NYC hospital staff instead of their regular activity.

Mclintock!

Not about Bill, but a John Wayne cowboy and Indian movie. There was a train there that had this sign: Property of the US Government. Do not molest.

So looked up that last word, it turns out also means "disturb or persecute esp. with hostile intent or injurious effect."

Jolie Family

Angelina and Brad gathered a multi-cultural family Madox from Cambodia, Pax from Vietnam, Zahara from Ethiopia aside from their own daughter Shiloh born in Namibia who wants to be called John, and twins Vivienne and Knox. They are all encouraged to learn a second language, with twins choosing Arabic and sign language, respectively.

Mini United Nations and Benetton!

Tear Gas

Ice cream invention of Sogno Gelato in protest-torn HongKong has peppercorn, after wasabi and mustard have taken their turn for most explosive ingredient yet. 

Yo-yo Ma

Caught this most affable cellist on CNN. He rendered a piece by Bach in preview for a Memorial Day concert Sunday, US time.  He would play to comfort and console all those who lost loved ones to.Covid 19. He would like to send them all a musical hug.

Improventilator

Trust Pinoys to come up with one, and its added safety feature of protecting healthworkers from being infected by the patient being in close proximity.

Work during MECQ

To revive the economy, employees were allowed to go back to work. To ease their burden, the following were suggested, in case they did not have a company shuttle:

1. Near or on-site accommodations
2. Car pooling
3. Company vehicle plan

Earsaver

Covid 19 led to this invention that catches the mask's earloops at the back of the head instead. This crocheted material, says Citizen Jane, avoids irritating the ears upon prolonged use of the mask.

Like mediation is egosaver.

Advocate

Another name for the Holy Spirit, also Divine Counsel. Like an Atty. in heaven.

PH - PROGRESO

Yet another acronym during these troubled times. It stands for Philippine Program for Recovery with Equity and Solidarity.

As Prince Charles remarked on love, "whatever that means."

Isabelle Daza

Married to a French businessman with whom she has a young boy, Isabelle regularly has her household staff answer a questionnaire on how she can still improve their working relationship.

Daza lot of common sense.

Fear vs Love

Harry Emerson Fosdick:
Fear tends to paralyze, - love releases.
Fear sours, - love sweetens.
Fear wounds, - love heals.
Fear avoids, - love invites.

Court suit vs Mediation

Loving work

Fr. Sim: "When the relationship is good, when the person exercising the authority is a loving person who shows care and concern for those under him then obedience follows naturally. Why? Because fundamentally, love is a union of minds and hearts."

Good HR principle

Pro-active

Fr. John Russell: Having risen in Christ, we must carry our pallets rather than being carried by them."

Mediation vs Court Suit

Time

"How long does this analysis take?" A woman asked Carl Yung.  He replied, "Just as long as it takes."

Like mediation

The Story of God

In Vietnam, there is a United Religions of sorts.  With an Eye as symbol atop their temple, inside are statues of Jesus Christ, Lao Tzu and Confucius. Confusing.

World's Greatest Palaces

NAT GEO featured the Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna where Marie Antoinette grew up as the daughter of Empress Maria Theresa. She was called Maria Antonia then.  One day, the young boy Mozart tripped on the carpet and the Princess Maria Antonia helped him up, then uncalled for.  Mozart was said to have told her of his plan to marry her when they get older.

Drive-in-Disco

The new normal in entertainment has emerged in Germany.

Consistency

The government pounced on Rappler for being foreign funded. Now, in the midst of Covid 19, Batasan passes a bill that gives way to 100% foreign ownership of public services.

Becoming

Missing the Obamas, watching them on a Netflix docu is the next best thing to do. On launching her book, Michelle Obama says she has no intention of going back to her life before, but rather finding another way to live life after the White House.

Plagues

In an article in the Catholic Express,  Stephen Beale says plagues "have a way of stripping away the superfluous, revealing the naked truth against the false gods' impotence in the face of the one true God."

Like mediation.

Standing on the Promises

Our Daily Bread illustrated it thus:

"My friend's brother (when they were both children) assured his sister an umbrella had enough lift to hold her up if she would only 'believe.' So 'by faith' she jumped off a barn roof and knocked herself out, suffering a minor concussion."

Relying on a fellow-disputant's word in the Compromise Agreement is like that at times.

You're Next

That's the chilling effect ABS-CBN's closure has on noisy opposition, says Rappler's Maria Ressa. 

ABS-CBN

5-5-2020 closes the curtain over ABS-CBN. It could be the opening salvo toward preparing for the coming presidential elections, according to Trillanes. Or the return of martial law.

Will and Grace

We sure need them right now. Not only those traits but the sitcom.  Quick exchange of wit among a gay lawyer Will and his jobless sidekick Jack, a Jewish interior designer Grace and her lazy rich secretary Karen. What a perfect blend! One episode featured an imaginary meddle detector Jack held all over Will as Grace went out again with her ex-fiance. Sounds like mediator in a bad way.

HR

Not Human Rights, nor Her Royal... but Human Resources. Sha Nacino's HR Summit was a recent discovery during lockdown. She listed some principles applicable anywhere actually:

1. Have an open mind about opportunity.
2. Allow others to be generous to you.
4. Learn the Art of Being, more than doing.

Salting the Tip Jar

History channel featured ways to influence others.  Displaying big bills in a transparent container for tips is one.

Diana

In Andrew Morton's book, her friend is quoted as lamenting, "It's a great pity that these two people with so much to give to the world cannot give it together."

Finding Pomoy

Another Pinoy talent export, Marcelito can sing The Prayer in two voices all by himself.

Ireland's Got Talent

As usual, a Pinoy was featured. What was unusual was that he stutters which he conquers while singing, sometimes to his Nursing patients.

POW

Could also stand for Princess of War, according to Diana. And Charles, she sometimes referred to as  the spoiled boy or Britain's Worst Boss.

Military Motto

Rather lengthy guide to engagement read recently:

"Don't kill if you can wound;
Don't wound if you can subdue;
Don't subdue if you can pacify;
Don't raise your hand at all, until
you have first extended it.

Pain

When you study it, the truth hurts, so it was said in a HISTORY documentary.

Likewise in mediation.

China Love

This documentary traced the development of positive vibes, not virus. Where before only a 1× 1 picture was proof of a wedding, now they also go, not underground, but underwater in pre-nup pictorials.

Relationshipwrecks

They have this technology of taking photographs of shipwrecks minus the water for clearer perspective.

Mediation is much like that.

Ruthlessly Eliminate Hurry

This adage warns against hasty procedures leading to waste, put another way.

Or run the risk of non- compliance to the terms of the Compromise Agreement.

The Party

Not the legal term but social one. This Peter Sellers starrer mostly takes place in one such wild kind as a result of one mistake- Peter Sellers' Indian character was supposed to have been written off a movie cast but instead was added to the list of guests.

Comedy of  errors!

Stan

Not the other half of the comic team, but the ending of several countries bordering China and India. Simply put, it means "The land of..," a student revealed to David Baddiel, On the Silk Road episode of Discovery channel.

Tell It As It Is

Pilo Hilbay: "This is not lack of discipline. This is a visual representation of vulnerability and inequality."

Pants or PJs

That is the guessing game on The Late Late Show with James Corden from his garage. A guest has to say what a group of workers from home are wearing as bottom apparel.

Three's Company

In one of its episodes, Jack is in the midst of pledging undying love to a girlfriend when her beeper sounds an alarm. A surprised Jack jumps off the couch and cries, "You have a lie detector?"

Entitled

Princess Diana and her brother Charles were supposed to have lived with their mother after the divorce. Except that the latter was seen as having run off with another man, away from a viscount. That counts for something.

Time 2

It took China 6 days to reveal its actual status at the start of the virus. In the midst of mass travel for the Lunar New Year, that delay was significant and crucial even. They say Chinese workers brought it to northern Italy when they returned to their designer factories there.

Time

"Don't just spend time- invest it," Our Daily Bread admonishes us.

Court suit versus mediation

Which to Cover

Czech nudists are told to wear face masks. 

Lori Lightfoot

Chicago's mayor told everyone to stay home and keep distance but went out to get a haircut!

It Takes Two

Bocelli's second wife Veronica reveals the secret of their marriage. It is practically impossible to pick a fight with a husband who already forgives you beforehand.

Shisa kanko

Literally meaning checking and calling, the Japanese conductor in the train's last carriage calls out things things to check at every stop. That is mindfulness or moment- to- moment awareness in action.

Words of War

"All good soldiers never die, they just fade away. Jap soldiers no good better all killed."  Hence this blackboard message in the San Beda relocation center during World War ll.

Cutting Losses

NatGeo documented Notre Dame's recent blaze. Fire fighters raced against time and the fire by getting ahead to the belfry. Our Lady was saved.

The Travel Show

What sets this BBC World News feature apart is its being hosted by a blind man. During a meal, he is told where the food is on the plate based on direction. On a visit to an art gallery for the blind, he is allowed to touch a painting like it is Braille.

Short-term Memory

Perhaps God placed it in maturing people for a reason. Alan Alda's wife of 60 years attributes their long-lasting marriage to it.

Beach Soccer

Have discovered this new sport on cable, thanks to Covid-19. Also more safety-conscious. Although falls would not be so painful, shouldn't the players wear goggles, in case they kick up sand?

Russia

They shot men speaking loudly there, it was reported recently. No wonder DU30 was in a hurry to leave last time.

Performance Management

A Human Resource practitioner says that performers are most likely to be bashed by non-performers who suffer by comparison.

Look what DU30 minions are doing to VP Leni and Mayor Vico.

Pardon Me

"Why, what did you do," smart-aleck comic Lucy asked.

No Ordinary Times

When an earnest young mayor thteatens pranksters today with 14-day isolation, constituents better take heed.

How Long

King David asked this of God in Psalm 13.

Also the question of most litigants.

Attention

Now working from home, resting tired eyes after reading conversations among colleagues on my mobile phone, chance upon birds seeking shade by the window.

Some good coming out of all this.

Affiliates

Our group formed by the nuns of our alma mater was given a short biography of the congregation's foundress, Mother Louise de Meester.

Before going to Tagudin, she first sailed to India. When they got into a stormy night, her sister companion cried out, "We are sinking!" Mother Louise replied, "What about that? Say an Act of Contrition and go to sleep."

Vigilant-e

DU30's apo not the mountain, was cited by townmates for skipping the line in a grocery for some party goodies.

Now that's people power!

3.28

More than the date tomorrow, it is the millions of Americans who filed for unemployment recently due to COVID-19.

How one conflict impacts others.

Mortality

In these days of COVID-19, Christchurch gunman pleads guilty, to the relief of the families of his victims. Must be intimations of his mortality.

The First Wives Club ll

One friend was in denial of her marital problems, enabled by her mother. The latter stated, "You have a husband, a daughter; who needs self-esteem?"

The First Wives Club

That's where a lot of women become members. In this movie, four college friends get together after they lost another friend who made her husband rich who now was being made happy by a younger whoaman.

Woes of Women

Maria von Trapp refused to answer to the whistle call of the Captain father of her wards.

Until now, women refuse to respond to catcalls  which originally meant "a loud or raucous cry made to express disapproval as at a sports event."

Not as bad as having their feet bound or body mutilated!

Women

Another reason to celebrate our month! PH ranks no.1 in Gender Equality in Asia, and 13 globally!!!

Woemen

Before our month ends, good to chance upon Self-Made series on Netflix. It dealt with women on double whammy of being black in addition. And even among them, there were mullatas who looked down on them!

Trump

HISTORY featured his way around adversity.  He gets into denial. He didn't like the B word, bankruptcy, even though he was in it up to billions!

Commission

My son is thinking of getting into tilapia fish-raising. Advised to give commission to fishpond caretakers every harvest. That way, they don't have to think of committing ways to earn on the side.

Secret

"Can you keep one?"
"I'm good till I meet another person."

Repartee between Maxwell and butler Niles (The Nanny)

Viral

Not only corona but a Paris Museum sent its huge painting collection on cyberspace for all lockdown persons to visit.

Creative as a Compromise Agreement. Win2

To Lock or not to Lock

A lockdown by any name stinks just the same perhaps because not much thinking was involved, just some tinkering on what is done abroad. So Pinoy!

Social Distancing

One of its earliest self-imposed cases is in today's Gospel reading on the Samaritan woman drawing water from the well at noon.

Not for physical but rather mental health.

Wilmington Lies

CNN's Amanpour featured counter history in North Carolina during 1890's White Supremacy Law. As "victors write history," they published black men's record of raping white women.  Most of these cases were consensual, it is said, while white men raped black women with impunity.

The Long View

Andrew Matthews' Laws of Life include "Enjoying your work." P.C. Taylor loves his work of removing garbage in tunnels under the subway. "Homeless people live down there in those tunnels. And I'm helping to give them a better home. And while I'm helping the homeless, I'm putting my two daughters through college!"

Like tedious mediation at times

Access 360o

NATGEO features  Heritage Sites in aerial archaeology perspective.

What mediators would want disputants to have.

Reason for the Season

Exit polls in various Democratic Party's state primaries cite voters' anger at Trump, and choice based more on who could defeat him than agreement with candidate's policies.

We hear and empathize with them.

Psalm 61

Our Daily Bread reflection today is on God's listening ears and our hope in Him- the eternal Mediator.

Your Mind is a Magnet

It is a Law of Life in Andrew Matthews' "Happiness NOW."

Mediation's mantra is Compromise.

Insanity

Someone defines it as doing the same thing all over again and expecting different results.

Till the litigious discover mediation.

In Tolerance

US trusts, after God. Proof was the latest Democratic national primary, where contenders included an immigrant's granddaughter turned Judge, a gay mayor, and a woman Senator. But it seems their country is not ready for any one of them.

Sound of Music

This classic film starts on the hills and ends on them too.

Like disputants having in them the resolution to their conflict.

Ego vs Confidence

Ego, they say needs recognition and reward. Confidence banks on own skills and abilities, much like disputants in mediation.

When God Fills Us

Our Daily Bread's reflection today focuses on times of emptiness, loneliness and adjustment.

There are such times too when.we are in conflict with another and someone comforts us with "God will take care of him or her."

Treating Treaties

The Senate has finally asked the Supreme Court for its role regarding treaties after DU30 unilaterally cut short the Visiting Forces Agreement with the US after it cancelled the visa of Senator Bato.

Ray Donovan

Heavily recommended in Netflix' "Grace and Frankie," took in some of its episodes.  In one, the man asked if shamans can really heal. The woman says, "you heal yourself."

P. S. MASH's Hawkeye/Alan Alda also stars here!

Apology

ABS-CBN apologized and DU30 accepted.

Another case is up. His campaign expenses are now being looked into as obviously over the limit.

Mark Twain

He wrote: It isn't what you don't know that gets you into trouble. It is what you know that isn't so."

OJ School

Orangutan Jungle, i.e., in Borneo was featured in Discovery Asia. A group of them was rescued from abuse in a Thai circus and put in this shelter before being released in the wild. There, they experienced bullying from the "locals."

Conflict of Interest

During their ABS-CBN inquiry, when it came to withholding tax of its talents and employees, senators were curious about how much Senator Lapid pays. They could have also asked Senator Poe's mother, Senators Pangilinan's and Recto's wives. They all know about Senator Pacquiao's tax deficiencies.

Surfing

Not the net but water is found to be beneficial to special individuals. Basically, water is soothing to them. Beats drinking medicine non-stop.

The Mule

Inspired by the true story of a 90-year old drug carrier, the character of Clint Eastwood dealt with the Mexican cartel  that was hounded by the law enforcement group of white, black and Asian agents. United nations of and against crime.

The World

Not what it offers but what we can offer it, is a quote from Netflix "Anne of Green Gables."

Lawfare

Not public transport charging people less, but the law charging people more.

People Power

As we celebrate one glorious moment of our recent past, let us recall the million mediators who ousted Marcos from Malacanan.

A Lotto Like Love

This local film deals with the Pinoy penchant for the easy way out in relationships and life in general.  In the end, the girl decides to donate blood to her boyfriend's mother.

That's more than luck.

A Time to Kill

This film is about a black man who killed two white young men who raped his daughter. He developed a friendship with the family of his white lawyer. In the end, their daughters are introduced to each other. As the lawyer observed, "They start by playing together."

Bathan

Nolasco is his first name, this Police Deputy Director snatcher of the cellphone of reporter Jun Veneracion filming police physical abuse on a Nazarene devotee. No-laws-ko could be his more apt name.

Stan and Ollie

This film about the comedy duo traces their differing traits, talents and state of health that made them unique. In the end, Ollie had to bravely call it quits.

Michael Kutcher

The less controversial (twin) brother of  actor Ashton has cerebral palsy and is a motivational speaker.  As his more (in)famous twin says: We are not born equal but have equal capacity to love one another.

How to be an Antiracist

This is the book of Ibram Kendi who in a CNN interview combined the motto of the last two US Presidents' administrations: Yes, we can make America great again!

Sweet inspiration.

Ginger

That's redhead in UK which was Prince Harry's answer to Meghan Markle's insecurities. (Lifetime)

Everyone has them.

To See or Not To See

Revisiting "The Little House on the Prairie" when the eldest daughter Mary lost her sight, it was a tough choice to bring her to a School for the Blind in Iowa.

Mediation is the process too that leads disputants to gain insight into their conflict.

Daddy Home

Past dad meets present stepdad in this film about true one-upmanshit. No typo there, as one dad said, that's what they take sometimes.

Man Date

In these colorful days of the rainbow coalition or at times collision, HBO's "I Love You, Man" came out with various relationships among men and women. Straight guys can now go on man dates other than for business. That's not mandated, though.

Titanic Problem

This cruise ship is not sinking but more guests are getting infected with nCoV while the Diamond Princess is docked at Yokohama.

To leave or not to leave.

Bill Gates

Worth about $300B, he will leave only $10M to each of his children.With the quality education they are receiving, they will have the tools to carve their own destiny, he says. AND his daughter asked him what he was doing about children with polio after he spoke about their suffering.

A woman preaching

She is like a dog walking on its hind legs. That was how Katherine Graham felt running The Washington Post after her father and then her husband.  All that changed after her deft handling of the leaked Vietnam report during the Nixon administration.

Once homeless

Previously living in a vehicle, Bill saved for his home for several years. When his California town called Paradise burned down, he furiously hosed his house and environs. It was the only one that survived the 17-day fire.

Public- Private Partnership

Yesterday, we brought some goods for the Taal evacuees. Some observations:

1. Charity is not dead.  In both the Church and government facilities, donations abounded.

2. The Redemptorist shelter at the Divino Amor church compound was more ready to house families in their dormitories for seminarians.  The DSWD center was in the deserted AFP-PNP housing where we saw some families really turning them into livable studios.

3..The Redemptorist basketball grounds became a soup kitchen preparing nutritious meals with fresh greens and lots of garlic.  In the DSWD campsite, families organized per block for their meals,but some families had to cook ahead meals for their students.

3. We did not see any donations other than sacks of rice at the Redemptorist shelter. DSWD had sacks of old clothes on the stage of their multi-purpose hall, which hosted a Sunday worship when we arrived. At the other building, donors could drop off goods at either the food or nonfood room.

Gerald Ford

HISTORY featured this American President who had such a temper as a child, his mother made him memorize poetry as therapy. He rose to become such an even-tempered President, forgiving predecessor Richard Nixon while emphasizing trust doing his campaign. Another trial would be his wife's Betty's alcoholism

Aladdin

One quote from it: "Steal an apple and you're a thief. Steal a kingdom and you're a statesman."

Whistle Blown Over

Dr. Li, who warned the world last December of nCoV, is its latest victim.

The others were just doctors of the lie.

Lost in the woods

Some people die of shame. ("The Edge" Fox Movies)

People in conflict at least have mediation.

You be the Judge

In social media, a quiz show question goes like this.

For one million pesos, is  Bong Go a:

A. Senator.               B. First Lady
C. Confidante.          D. Spokesperson

Green Book

This HBO feature recalled the cross country tour of the black pianist Dr. Donald Shirley driven by a white Italian- American Tony. Racism in reverse!

Chunnel

When the Tunnel under the English Channel was completed, British engineers were greeted with champagne and canapes in France, while their French counterparts were given water in England. While grateful, a French engineer longed for their native drink. (Nat Geo)

C'est la vin! You don't expect, you don't get disappointed.

Tsunami Stones

Like the Jews, the Japanese build memorial stones, this time to mark the safe ground from the last tsunami. They are directed not to build below that marker stone.

Mediation likewise is a learning process.

BBC EARTH

Offering Sunday travelogues, today's feature is India. The commentator asked why the River Ganges in honor of their goddess Ganga is also an open sewer.

As they say, one does not do it in his own backyard.

Siba's Table

This Asian Food Network show thankfully does not have a "Ma" before her name.

Senator Jon Tester

This true Democrat states that Trump is a menace to democracy.

Impeach harvest season.

Figawi

"Grace and Frankie," or rather their exes turned husbands now Robert and Sol coined this name of a boat. Then one can ask, where the Fugawi are we?

Language is a rule in mediation.

Bato2 Pick

Child's game of Duterte telling the nation the US visa of his favored senator is top priority, national security be damned.

Calling ICC!

Politics over Health

Wuhandled it better? While the city crowned with the virus kept mum, the victims increased exponentially. WHO stepped in after a local Red Cross staff heeded medical ethics over party loyalty providentially.

And now the world shudders.

Two-Way Street

"Grace and Frankie" is a must-see again. Frankie's son on an AA program toasts his brother on his wedding with a literal toast!

Win-win.

Next Best

Apollo 13 should have been called 14. The team did not quite reach the moon but came back alive despite loss of electrical power. Priorities.

Happy Chinese Lunar New Year!

What if

It were the last day of one's life? Good to live with this in mind, a priest advised.

Good for mediation, too.

Donald ducking

Impeachment session at US Senate right now. And he did not cause thousands of EJKs as Duterte. Wonder if my US visa still good.

Gift

It does not always come in packages. The commentator on Christianity Works over DZFE considers his wedding ring as most precious one he has received from his wife. That is some package.

Lovers

Leave it to French expertise on the matter. In one of their films, the jilted wife says, "If you want to separate lovers, put them together."

Carpool

James Corden has made a musical treat out of this mediation on wheels. 

Corona virus

We used to have it in the Supreme Court. This one comes from Super China who has previously been infecting our sea, land and air. What's giving our people a dreaded disease to boot?

Newsies

Caught this thought-provoking Broadway musical on Disney channel.  One quote: "You got in free, at least pay attention."

We could tell the same to disputants who are out of the litigation wagon.

Change is Compromise

That is a quote from Netflix' "Two Popes."

Could also be the other way around, in mediation.

Mediating Mocha

Talk is cheap. Lies cheapest. Photos however don't lie. See VP Leni packing all those donations for Taal, not bread and water as alleged.

Hala Move

A study on online shopping revealed contrasting conclusions. While it saved the time, gas and stress of shoppers, vehicles especially trucks which carried the goods mostly ran on more harmful diesel and the packaging required felling more trees.

Royal Mediation

Queen Elizabeth has family problems, too. Grandchild and American actress wife want out of The Firm Old Hand. Consoling that except for their nonfat British pounds, they are like you and me.

Taal Story

My daughter's mother-in-law flew in from fire- ravaged Australia just in time before NAIA was shut down due to ashfall from Taal Volcano. She is due to visit her hometown La Union where the wind has blown the fallen ash.

An Act of God is not subject to mediation.

PH Blogger deported per EU sanction

Why are other nations implementing our laws?

RV all in

Travel, getting to be a favorite network, had this show of wheels usually catering to families on cross country trips. One father did the enlightened move of asking his wife and kids to vote on which one to buy.

Mammoth Discovery

Travel network featured fossils of these hugh elephants found in Siberia. Now the gulag torture camps have been replaced by those of ivory poachers.

Ghost Liver

That's how a Bisaya calls pate. True in Australia.

I ran from victims' families

Iran admitted shooting the Ukraine aircraft by mistake. When is it proper and right?

Data Yata

VP Leni told off those tough talkers, who question the numbers she mentioned that came from them!

Step Up

The film "Step Up" is about a young man on community service in school who gets to showcase his talent in dance.

Mediation hopefully leads to an improved life.

Pass- a bulong

Someone posted a photo of 10 red onions in UK costing 1£ or P 66. 78. More practical pasalubong
she says, than chocolates or Dove soap.

World War lll

The world is in jitters after the recent killing of the Iranian terrorist in Iraq by the US.

A political analyst says the next World War would happen if China and USSR join the fray.

Mediating the Senses

In "The Music of Silence," a blind young man Amos Brandi (Andrea Bocelli) becomes an accomplished operatic singer.

Modern Parable on Talents.

Sole Mali

Aside from the Australian conflagration, Soleimani's killing by the US drone aptly called The Reaper is big news internationally.

Fodder for the Democratic Party's Presidential Debate 14 January.

Closet Mediation

Like you see on cable shows like Closet Confidential, clothes are usually arranged by color. Going out daily, however has made it more practical to just put them back in order of having been worn and just choose the first in line as ootd.

Not like the HR rule on retrenchment, last in, first out.

War on Dregs

VP Leni's clear-cut analysis of the dismal failure of the war on drugs put DU30 to shame. Expectedly, his psychopaths (really sick), came to the rescue.

Someone said to look forward to another survey with positive results, as usually happens after a crisis.

Seating Mediation

Not the Zen kind, but when your bus seatmate is hefty.

Point to the demarcation line between you.