From an Immigrant's Perspective: Ways Americans can appreciate (more) what they have here in the U.S.A

1. Know and understand your own history, the American history.

Understand what it was like before and how much things changed and so much better now.

To newly naturalized Americans, who are English as Second Language (ESL) speakers like me, the DK's Children's Encyclopedia of American History is easy to read and understand, the pictures and illustrations help a lot too. I imagine myself enjoying reading it again with my children in the near future. The American Reader: Words that  Moved a Nation Edited by Diane Ravitch is another must read. Learning more about American History since I arrived here makes me appreciate of what you have here more and more everyday. Learning our country's history helps us to appreciate what we currently enjoy and those who made sure we are enjoying and still enjoying it now. Knowing history, as they say, helps us not to repeat the same mistakes of the past.

I can't help but to compare and connect the American and Philippine history, the Philippines being colonized by the U.S.A after Spain, and realizing how much influence you have on us too. Comparison is good when it helps to improve things. Comparison is better when it makes you appreciate the differences and improvements of the 'before and after'. Comparison is the best when it gives you contentment cause you know you have more than what others are still wishing for.

2. Read and watch global news and documentaries about other countries, especially third world countries and war-torn countries.

To some sympathetic and empathetic people, reading and watching can be more than enough but to some it may not. Most countries in the world still look up to the U.S.A because of the individual rights you have here. There is no perfect society in the world, but some citizens from other countries are still fighting and working on to have and enjoy the same rights you already have here. The rights you are taking for granted and sadly even abusing at times. Most countries are still on their way trying to copy what you have here and experimenting what will work in their own country. Wanting more and discontentment are human nature but so does gratitude and appreciation.

3. Befriend an immigrant and ask them, listen to their own experiences from their country.

Take an interest to their observations on what you have here, the similarities and differences. Sometimes, listening in real life to a person in front of you can have a better impact. Try to look through their eyes. Most immigrants who are thankful to be here are appreciative and will actually tell you what you have here that they wish they have too back in their home country. Legal immigrants who went through the process and did everything the right way to come and live here have substantial reasons why they left their own countries.

The opportunities you have here, you might not realize how lucky you are that job qualifications don't include your age, gender, height etc. Anyone who can still work and still wants to work have the same opportunities here, we are just starting to see that back at the Philippines where it is not a normal sight to see flight attendants and waiters past on their 40s, 50s and even 60s. Jobs that may be considered physically challenging and put aesthetic on the top employable factor still prefer employees on their 20s and 30s. Here in the U.S.A, I learned that is illegal, you cannot discriminate someone based on age, appearance, gender, race etc.

For me, you are also very accommodating here, respecting and recognizing the languages and cultures the immigrants brought with them. Almost everything and everywhere have available translations of other leading languages. Indeed, the U.S.A. is the melting pot of the world. I believe though that as you respect ours, we should also respect yours, learn your language, history, and culture, adopt and assimilate.

4. Visit another country, better if it is a country who have less but more people are happy and contented (like Bhutan).

As a Filipino, we are known to be one of the happiest and resilient people despite the economic and political challenges, uncontrollable disasters like storms and earthquakes we always experience in our country. We don't have a confrontational culture and are also known for our hospitality. Most Filipinos are very family orientated. However, these traits can be both our strength and weakness. We don't have the Second Amendment and owning a gun is not a norm, most people who get and have them are in the professions that are considered dangerous and get death threats like being a politician or a lawyer.

In the not so distant future, when we have kids already, I want our kids to have a first hand experience of a life in another country, like the Philippines, by visiting once a year or every two years or whenever possible (plane fare is not cheap LOL). They will always be part Filipino because of me and it is always important to know our parent's heritage which is also a part of our own identity. I hope, pray, and wish with all my heart that having that kind of experience will open up their eyes and minds to be more appreciative of what they have here in the U.S.A and also appreciate what the Philippines have. I wish people here can have the same opportunity, I hope when they visit another country it gives them more understanding and appreciation of life in general.

Happy 4th of July!

Happy Independence Day!

I am not an expert, I am not yet an American citizen but I appreciate everything you have here. I am amazed by how the United States of America was founded. American History is fascinating and inspiring. I wrote this article as a way of saying Thank You. As a new immigrant here, as a spouse of an American citizen,  this is my way of saying I love and appreciate this country, this country that I also now call HOME. 

God bless America!

The Anti-Terrorism Bill of the Philippines (ironically called as the Terror Bill)

In the Philippines, a new Anti-Terrorism Act endangers rights, a special Council would usurp court powers. I agree that the Philippines' anti-terror bill is poised to cause more terror, given the abuse of power we are already witnessing.

Now let this be clear, I am even considered pretty conservative on my political views here in the U.S.A. and I am 100% against terrorism and communist insurgencies. I want it to end too in all ways possible, but the fear is that this Philippine bill can also be used to anyone who is critical of the Philippine government (especially the Duterte administration now) is a legitimate concern. Given that the administration is already consolidating so much power from all three branches of the government. Duterte's minions are holding the majority in Congress and Senate (Legislative) and Supreme Court (Judiciary). They tried to bully anyone who is against them, especially those on the oppositions like the removal of previous Chief Justice Sereno, jailing Senator de Lima, belittling Vice President Robredo who works harder during this COVID pandemic than him, making fun/chilidsh personal attack to Diokno  and more. Even ordinary citizens, inside and outside the country. Like the Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) in Taiwan, our own government tried to deport her for sharing in social media her critical opinions toward the Duterte administration. How ironic and disappointing, Taiwan protected our own citizen from the bullying of our own government. Taiwan refuses to deport caregiver who ‘insulted’ Philippine president on Facebook.

People in our country who posted satirical jokes, disappointments, and frustrations about Duterte and his administration were also arrested without a warrant. A teacher, son arrested without warrant in GenSan over Facebook post. The reason behind their post? Hunger (or fear of hunger) during the enforced COVID quarantine. Also, the warrantless arrest of a teacher over tweet threatening Duterte was considered invalid and the court junks case vs teacher who offered bounty to kill Duterte. All these teachers are charged for citing sedition. I do not condone what they did but even Duterte himself always joke about killing (or seriously, to be honest we don't know anymore, it depends on his mood).

Living in a country where a MAN CAN BE SHOT FOR NOT WEARNING A FACE MASK OR NOT FOLLOWING SIMPLE QUARANTINE RULES, even if he is a retired soldier suffering post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is something to really WORRY about, what more when they passed a law where someone who bought a knife or anything that can be used as a weapon can already be a suspected terrorist (or anyone decided by their chosen Council). It is more ridiculous now for me cause I live in a country where the right of the people to own a gun is even protected by their Constitution, called the Second Amendment. It is not even a gun you need to own in the Philippines to be a suspected terrorist, a knife will do. LOL.

I support the good intentions behind this Anti-Terrorism Bill, everyone who care about their country and is against terrorism will support this bill, as long as it is modified to make sure that it won't be abused. It is a given that any law can be abuse, but with the Executive branch already abusing its power now and them executing this new law later on. We need an assurance that the final form of this law is clear and the best form it can be to avoid or to be sure that it has the tiniest possibility of being abuse. And that is their job as lawmakers to make sure of that. To find the holes and fix it.

So given these circumstances and what is happening now in the country, these are 5 Things to know about the Philippines' Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020 (these are not my words, from Nikkei Asian Review) :

1. What exactly does this bill say and do?

The Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020 amends the Human Security Act of 2007. It expands the definition of terrorism to include acts intended to cause "death or serious bodily injury to any person," "extensive damage and destruction" to a government facility, private property or critical infrastructure and when the purpose of those acts is to "intimidate [the] general public," "create an atmosphere or message of fear," or "seriously destabilize or destroy the fundamental political, economic and social structures of the country." Those found guilty face life sentences without the chance of parole.

The act also criminalizes the "threat, planning, training, facilitating of" and "proposal" and "inciting" to terrorist activities by means of speeches, proclamations, writings, banners and emblems. It also subjects suspects to surveillance, warrantless arrest and detention for up to 24 days. In addition, it removes compensation for the suspect in the event of acquittal and boosts the Anti-Terrorism Council, the implementer of the law, whose members are appointed by the president.

2. Why is the government pushing it?

Backers of the bill say the legislation seeks to end terrorism in the country, which is still battling decadeslong communist and Islamic insurgencies. In 2017, Islamic State-aligned militants laid siege to the southern city of Marawi; last year the southern region was rocked by suicide bombings.

Even the lockdown did not stop terror, according to presidential spokesperson Harry Roque, who cited the communist rebels' attacks on soldiers securing the distribution of financial aid and attacks by Islamic militants in late May that led to an evacuation in the country's south that uprooted over 6,000 people.

Sen. Panfilo Lacson, a former police chief and proponent of the bill, said the Human Security Act of 2007 "has proved to fail in terms of its efficacy as an anti-terrorism measure," partly because it's lenient for offenders and restrictive for enforcers.

"Under the current Human Security Act, there are only four instances for terrorists to be prosecuted under the law," Lacson said last year. "On the other hand, there are a total of 20 instances where law enforcers can be charged and penalized for violations of the Human Security Act."

3. Why is it being opposed?

The Philippines' Commission on Human Rights said the broad definition of "terrorism" in the bill "paves the road for possible abuse."

"By this broad definition, starting a fight in a bar could technically be classified as an act of terrorism," said Human Rights Watch, which called the act "a human rights disaster in the making."

The overreach, according to CHR, could also be used "to limit substantial freedoms, including expression of dissent, while [with] the vague and overly broad definition, authorities could wantonly tag [the] exercise of rights as terrorist expressions."

Fears are also on the rise due to the Duterte's administration's history of cracking down on political opposition and the recent arrest of government critics during the lockdown. "It's not about going after terrorists," human rights lawyer Jose Manuel Diokno said, "but critics of this administration."

4. What do businesses and the international community have to say about the bill?

At least 16 Philippine business groups have jointly voiced strong opposition, calling the bill "highly divisive because it poses clear and present danger to human rights enshrined in our Constitution at a time [of pandemic] when our nation needs to come together as one."

Meanwhile, the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights said the bill "dilutes human rights safeguards, broadens the definition of terrorism and expands the period of detention without a warrant from three to 14 days, extendible by another 10 days. The vague definitions in the Anti-Terrorism Act may violate the principle of legality."

5. What are the chances that it will become law?

Duterte's office received the bill on June 9, giving him 30 days to act on it.

Amid crumbling support for the act -- some lawmakers have withdrawn their backing -- and mounting opposition from businesses, universities and the Catholic Church, the Department of Justice said it will review the bill regarding its potential to violate constitutional rights.

With the bill now on his desk, Duterte can sign or veto it anytime to reflect the executive branch's amendments. If no action is taken on it, the bill automatically becomes law in 30 days.

But given the growing opposition to the proposed law, a legal challenge in the Supreme Court is a possibility.

Once passed, this New Anti-Terrorism Law Would Enhance Duterte’s Power. Here is also an explainer comparing dangers in old law and anti-terror bill. 

To those who will say that anyone against this bill is afraid because they are terrorists, this article answer it: 

[OPINION] Who’s afraid of the new anti-terrorism law? The author was suspected as a rebel at  3 years old. LOL right? But not really. It is not funny anymore when you are the one or someone you love experience it. And with the new law saying you can't complain or sue them (the council and the government) if they commit a mistake of suspecting or identifying you as a terrorist, ruining your reputation, putting you in torture without enough evidence and no need for a warrant. You can't do that here in the U.S.A., I wish the same for the Philippines where individual rights are put on top, protected the most by their Constitution, the government fearing its people and not the people fearing their government (I wish they appreciate it as much as I do as an immigrant, but that would be another topic and post to discuss about 😅 ).

To those who need more and can't analyze enough by themselves (oops sorry! but not really sorry), these are interesting reads:

[ANALYSIS] The Anti-Terrorism Act: Duterte will have all dissenters’ necks

[ANALYSIS] On the Anti-Terror Bill: Beyond constitutionality

What can we do once Duterte signed it into a law or either way it becomes a law? Support the petition that Carpio and the others will file against it! Watch the Supreme Court and pray they will do their jobs and interpret it the way it is, unconstitutional! Let our representatives hear us and let them revised it to the best form it can be, once proven that this law is really needed and the old law is not enough after smart deliberation that we all know. Unlike what happened that they passed it during the COVID pandemic when all of us are busy focusing on COVID issues and more (like China's bullying and militarization in our islands and thanks to Duterte's support and selling us off which again is another topic and post to discuss about 😅).

References:
House Bill No. 3413
Senate No. 1083

Why do we fear the uncontrollable?

Sickness?

Accident?

Death?

Unforeseen or unexpected things?

Just like we can't control these things, we also can't control other people, their emotions and decisions, what they will do or what will happen to them.

Why do we fear the things we can't control?

Why do people, especially women (more when they became a mother based on my observation) worry about a lot of stuff?

We worry because we care.

We fear more when we know that it is out of our control.

When we feel hopeless, some of us try to escape or run away.

Some find something else to focus their energy on (productive or unproductive tasks).

Some try to seek professional help.

Some experience some sort of mental breakdown (to some it is also physical).

Some pray and seek spiritual guidance.

And some of us just know that like an unwanted visitor, fear visits you even when you don't want to but it also go away when you push it out.

Human beings worst enemy is ourselves, our fears, our own demons.

The only thing we can control (or try to control) is ourselves, our emotions, our decisions. Our fears and demons listen to us, we feed them, we keep them alive and we can starve and kill them too.

I am not an expert but let me assure you that we all experience it, maybe on different degrees, but it is all part of who we are. This is a realization most of us know already.

It is normal to fear, what is not normal as cliche as it may sound, is to let fear rule us.

To let the uncontrollable control us.

Indeed, an idle mind is the devil's playground.

We all deal with fear differently but if you can't control it on your own anymore, please ask help.

If you don't want to trust a stranger (even if it is a professional especially during this time of COVID 19), contact a family member or a friend.

If you don't trust anyone or no one to trust to or feel like no one understands, choose any other ways to take your mind off it, a hobby or a anything you can find based on your research.

Some seek and find spiritual guidance.

Some was able to deal it on their own.

Fearing the uncontrollable and unknown is normal, letting it control you and how you live your life is NOT.

Suggested Reading:

Coronavirus Anxiety: Coping with Stress, Fear, and Worry

Lockdown/Stay-at-Home Order/Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ) Diary

*Based on my personal experience and knowledge as an individual, a married couple, with our family and friends in our very own communities.

Yesterday, my closed friend married at their home in Pennsylvania (PA), we wanted to be there but due to the travel advisories and other factors related to COVID-19, we weren't able to go. She understood too, PA is one of the top states with most number of cases, they were told it is better to keep the number of their guests to 10 including them and the minister that will officiate their wedding.

An aunt's family visit here in Florida (on my husband side) is move to later this year, before or around Thanksgiving.

The family of our Pastor in Mississippi also planned a Florida (FL) trip this May and he and his wife are planning to visit us but it was also cancelled. Hopefully, after everything gets back to normal (or what others call the 'new normal') they can still visit us.

I'm sure people all around the world have similar experiences, cancelled plans, much awaited vacations etc. Of course, these are small things compared to a death of a person because of COVID-19, unemployment, hunger, inadequate assistance, and abused of power by the government and its officials during this trying times.

My husband's work is part of the essential workers category, he still go to work everyday. In our neighborhood, we are the only young couple our age, all of our neighbors (who are very sweet and kind to us) are retired and senior citizens. Because of this reason, we know that we have the responsibility to be extra careful and not interact with them if we are feeling any symptoms at all. Even without symptoms, I continuously remind my husband to take care of his health and keep his distance at work (if there is a co worker who is showing symptoms). Thank God, we are all in good health.

My family in the Philippines are in total lockdown, they can only go out if they need to buy food and medicine, only one person per household can go out. My mom's store in Cavite is closed for more than a month now. She and her family in Oriental Mindoro are in good condition but we are all worried because the lockdown was extended until May 15.

We understand the reason for this extension but sadly after the lockdown, people will be overwhelmed by the bills lined up, with no income for those who are no work, no pay and those who were required to close their small businesses like my mom.

We are more blessed than others. We try to help in our own little ways. Our heart ache to those who both fear dying either from the virus or hunger.

I support herd immunity especially in poor countries with more young population like India and the Philippines. I think the government can focus protecting the vulnerable: senior citizens, children, sick, disable, and anyone with weak immune system. They should allow people who want and need to get back to work, reminding them to be extra careful if they have someone at home who is part of the vulnerable population. Individual responsibility is very important and it is said to be flattening the COVID-19 curve in Sweden.

The main fear is that hospitals won't be able to handle the situation, even though 80% of cases are  mild and most of them can stay at home until they get well.

I should be working now as a teaching aide/assistant in a nearby technical college if not for the COVID-19 pandemic.

This lockdown/stay-at-home/ECQ is no one's fault but China (Chinese Communist Party/Communist Party of China) and their lies.

China should pay a financial cost for its Coronavirus lies. China committed a crime against the world that resulted in economic hardships all over the world. China should be legally liable for the pandemic damage it has done. But how? How to make China pay?

As we pray that we remain safe and all our loved ones, we also pray for all the COVID-19 patients, medical workers, frontliners, and essential workers all over the world.

I hope all leaders all over the world can effectively handle their own local situations, copying other proven and effective strategies they can from other countries.

I wish that a vaccine will be available soon but if not, may the government find a way that everyone can survive too financially even if it means ending these different versions of lockdown/stay-at-home order/ECQ soon.

May all the government officials/leaders/public servants listen to the people they serve and not abuse the emergency powers given to them according to the law during these trying times.

May they execute the law fairly and not bend it to their own will.

A compilation of helpful info AGAINST the COVID-19 Coronavirus PANIC

5 Reasons You Don't Need to Panic About the COVID-19 Coronavirus
by Ross Pomeroy

1. The number of cases in China is already falling significantly.

2. The vast majority of cases are mild, and the death rate is likely lower than reported.

3. Only one out of every 1,000 people in Hubei Province has contracted the coronavirus.

4. There have been no reported deaths in young children.

5. The world already survived another pandemic just ten years ago.

Additional:

6. COVID-19 Panic will bankrupt more people than it kills--- and that's the real global emergency. 

7. FIGHT CORONAVIRUS FAKE NEWS IN SOCIAL MEDIA by checking the credibility of each message (mostly chain messages) and post (especially viral posts). Here's a running list of the latest hoaxes spreading about the coronavirus and How social media is shaping our fears of--- and response to--- the Coronavirus.

8. SADLY, SHARING CREDIBLE NEWS CAN BE A CHALLENGE TOO especially when people are more interested (and more tempted) to believe fake news. Another challenge is when social media giants like Facebook accidentally blocks genuine COVID-19 news. I experienced something similar when I posted credible infographics (I always check first my sources before I post or repost them).

9. Educate ourselves properly. SHARE FACTS ABOUT COVID-19. Learn how we can slow the spread and what to do if you are sick with COVID-19.

10. Read or listen to global and local news and check World Health Organization (WHO) and your state's health website. What you need to know about COVID-19 in Florida. COVID-19 patients in the Philippines by place of residence. Phil DOH COVID-19 Updates. 

11. DON'T PANIC OR AT LEAST TRY NOT TO PANIC or pass your 'panic mode' to other people. Don't panic but be prepared. Being prepared and cautious is different to irrational panicking. Beware of cyber criminals manipulation COVID-19 panic. Here's a GUIDE TO KEEPING CALM DURING COVID-19 PANIC.

12. Mental health at risk as COVID-19 panic grows. Is worry about COVID-19 disrupting your life? Try to focus on other things or do other things to it off your mind.Take a break from stressful news, reading other good news instead (23 pieces of good news and 10 positive updates reg COVID-19). Stay informed--- but don't obsessively check the news.  You can check out how to cope with COVID-19 anxiety, stress and uncertainty, also these four strategies you can try.

P.S. Infographics are not mine. CTTO. To those who enjoy infographics than reading long articles, you can find more data about COVID-19 (that might ease your worries and might even remove your panic) here. Credible sources are always mentioned in these infographics I share.

Reasons I hate ILLEGAL IMMIGRATION (as a legal immigrant)*

1. It is UNFAIR for everyone. Law and rules should apply to everyone and should be followed by everyone.

    Special procedures may be given to some cases but even those rare cases have specific rules applicable to them that they should follow. As someone who went through the right process, I experience it first hand, it was a long journey (others are longer) and we (my husband and I) also felt impatient at times but we knew it will be worth it in the end, knowing later on it will save us from complications and having a bad record. Some people may say they didn't had the same chance and who am I to judge but at the end of the day, sleeping peacefully at night knowing you did the right thing is what matters most (cliche as it may sound). Raising your head high without the need of pitiful justifications. Remember the saying 'Ignorance of the law excuses no one'? It is our responsibility as civilized human beings to learn the law and rules we need to follow and follow them.

2. Respecting the country, the culture, and the people of the country where you will immigrate.

    What better way can you show your respect than following their immigration rules? I have a very simple understanding, some may say this topic is not that simple but I beg to disagree. When you visit a house or ask the owner if you can stay longer or live permanently in his or her house, do you do it in your terms or the owner's terms? As a visitor or a new member of the household, it is not only polite but also necessary to ask permission first from the owner (or else you are considered trespassing or squatting) and once he approved your request to enter his house and stay there, it is your responsibility to follow his house rules. After being accepted inside the house, a visitor who knows how to properly show his gratitude will try his best to live honorably and harmoniously with everyone who lives in the house. It is the owner's privilege if he wants to think thoroughly before he decides if he wants you in his house permanently. Prove yourself worthy and he will. If you are hardheaded and want to have your own house rules, then you need to consider buying your own house (creating your own country) or returning to your previous house (previous country).

3. Some people have the wrong sense of self-entitlement

     It may be true there are things out of my control but it will never change the fact that my life and choices are my responsibility. We can blame everything and everyone but does that really give us the justification to feel we are entitled to do things our way illegally? Maybe some people can't even help but to blame God for being born in a country with bad government, being born in a war-torn area, being born from a poor family with irresponsible parents, blaming corrupt world and local leaders, human greediness etc. Everyone of us want to survive, escape bad situations, and have a better future. However, there are many before us who were in similar situations but didn't had the same wrong sense of self-entitlement. They worked hard to remove themselves from the situation they were born in, creating their own destiny in the process.


*Peace! These are my own opinions, my personal perspective on this matter. I am not an expert but I try to read, listen, and observe anything I can to learn more about this issue. I hope you do too, and whatever conclusion you may end up with, I hope you will still have the tolerance for other people's opinion. I do. ☺❤🤍🤞

Why I like the Republican Party here in the U.S.?

Back home, I like the Liberal Party or more appropriately speaking I tend to lean more to them than the other parties we have.

I started to care about politics when I was in college. Taking up some minor and major political science courses, I learned some things I wish I knew earlier. It would've been nice if I understood the importance of all these things, which should have been basic knowledge for everyone but sadly no. Even college students, after taking these classes, some intentionally (and unintentionally) forget and brushed off its importance.

Politics sucks. Politicians are corrupt. The government is useless. Politics are becoming synonymous to showbiz, entertainment, scandals in our country. Everyone seemed fake and just up for a show. It is hopeless. The majority tend to be cynical about it already back home.

I remember when I was in grade six during the first impeachment trial of former President Estrada. We only have one T.V. and my dad, a lawyer, wanted to watch it (Of course!). It was boring for me as a child and I have a favorite show I rather watch. We bickered and fought for the remote control, he won of course which resulted of me giving him the 'cold treatment' for a few days until we 'make up'.

When I started talking to my husband, I knew he was 'political', even his profile in the dating site/app where I met him had 'political' as one of his traits. I have the potential to be political too but not as much as he is.

My husband asked me about my political view, he got curious and read also about our political system, its similarities and difference to theirs. Even though we modeled our constitution to theirs, our political system and parties have big differences. They only have two major parties here, whereas, I just read recently, we were also like that before but Marcos changed it to a multi party system for his advantage. Divided and with smaller political parties, it was harder to oppose him.

Coming here in the U.S., learning their history and observing their current events, I began to understand my husband's political view better and deeper. For instance, the Liberal Party in the Philippines is not really like their Liberal or Democratic Party here. The Democrats are more similar to the socialist/communist parties in our country. They are also exaggeratedly liberal in a lot of issues such as supporting abortion which interestingly they call pro choice here. What a nice word to hear, it can easily confused people.

My Filipino Catholic/Christian values are more in line with the values of the Republic Party here which are considered the conservative side.

Now, I may like the Republican Party but will I be a blind supporter? NO. Me liking them more than the Democratic Party doesn't mean that I will blindly support anything they propose. I asked my husband the same thing and he answered the same way.

A blind supporter forgets to weigh all the important factors in an issue that may benefit or destroy their country.

Though I am not yet a citizen of this country, thus I still cannot vote, but as a permanent resident, I pray and hope the best for this country.

My husband's home is my home too.

And just as I love my home country, I can honestly say that I love this country too that I also call my home now.

Suggested Reading:

Being a Filipino American in the Republican Party
Why I am Republican and why Filipinos should vote for Republicans
The Filipino Voice Rises In American Politics
Filipino-Americans finally 'making waves' in politics

Cooking Filipino Food for my American parents-in-law

I cooked Bulalo, Tapa, Afritada, Pancit Bihon, and spring rolls (with white rice) which are some of the favorite Filipino dishes of my husband. For dessert, I prepared leche plan and guyabano juice. I am so happy they liked and appreciated everything I prepared. My mother-in-law loved the different flavors of 3-in-1 coffee mix, the pito pito and other traditional herbal tea I gave her.

On their next visit, I am excited to let them try other Filipino and Asian dishes.

Starting all over again: Applying a new job here in U.S.

We, my husband and I, went by the books. We followed everything by the letter. We chose to wait for all my documents to be processed first before I started applying for a job.

I don't want to be a pasaway. I don't want to be a part of the stereotype of immigrants who already applied for jobs even when they don't have their Employment Authorization Document (EAD)/working permit YET. My husband also don't want me to be pasaway. Thank goodness he was so supportive in all the ways I needed. The feeling of being unemployed is never a good feeling, even if we know that it is just a part of the process we need to go through.

Before I left the Philippines, I was a college instructor in a state university. I was given an item (an equivalent of a regular position in the government) a temporary item that will turn to permanent once I finished my thesis and get my master's degree. I wasn't able to finish my thesis. If I am not leaving, I don't have a choice but to finish it or transfer in a non thesis program. My job was good but can be overwhelming and stressful at times, like all other jobs. Juggling them both (writing a thesis while working and teaching was just too much for me). But I regret not finishing it. I am finding a way now if I can continue it thru distance learning in UPOU or in a university here.

Now living in the U.S., I know I can't expect to get the same job I last had in the Philippines but as they say there is no harm in trying so I will. But I am also open to start at the bottom as a teacher assistant or office staff.

Having a driver's license is so important here. Most job ads I saw have it under the requirements. Since I am still working to have one (just got my learner's license), I am narrowed in applying jobs that don't require having one.

Certifications are also big here. Almost all jobs require some kind of certifications. Here in Florida, the most in demand jobs are mostly related to medical professions.

Some professional jobs may also ask you to submit a US Equivalency Report. I just did my research on that one and working to get mine now.

Those who want to be primary, middle, and high school teachers here need to have a Florida teaching license. These are the requirements for foreign trained graduated or non-citizens like me.

I am not so choosy regarding the salary but I am looking and hoping to get a Monday-Friday job. Day shift of course. Raise your hand to those who tried night shift before and you just know it won't work out for you. LOL.

Wish me luck! God bless us all!

I want to write and I'm learning

I promised myself to write at least once a month in my two (barely) active blogs.

I just shared and posted my experience in getting a LEARNER'S LICENSE (for first time drivers) here in Florida.

I went here in my blogspot after I published the said article above in WordPress.

I tried to open some saved bookmarks to get an idea on what I can write about but I don't like them.

I opened a book entitled What If? Writing Exercises for Fiction Writers but nothing caught my interest at the moment.

I bought the book after seeing it in a Thrift Shop knowing it would come in handy as a reference book even though I like writing non fiction more than fiction.

And then...

while typing the word license a question popped in my mind...

Can anyone just get the LICENSE to WRITE?

It is interesting to realized that driving and writing have similarities.

It is said that driving is not a right but a privilege with great responsibility.

And it can be withdrawn anytime you don't drive responsibly (i.e. driving under influence or texting while driving)

Now how about writing? Is it a right?or more like a privilege?

Anyone has the right to write (nice homonyms).

But isn't it a privilege to be read by some and of course by many?

Some write responsibly and some don't.

Everyone writes for different reasons, with different or similar goals.

With purpose (consciously or subconsciously).

Just like we drive to go somewhere...we write to tell..to show...to let the story flow and go somewhere.

Some people write to impress, to earn money, to persuade, to sell, and some write..mostly for themselves yet sharing it with the hope it can and will make sense to someone else.

And sometimes we drive and write to escape.

Just like we drive to go out of the house, we write to get thoughts out of our minds...of ourselves.

I remember reading, hearing, learning, and agreeing that everything seemed to be written already. All topics and stories (existing and non existing in real life but exist in the mind/imagination of someone) they said in a way had been written already and there are just some parts changed or just told/written differently by various authors.

Saw the article proving that researchers analyzed over 1700 novels and found out that every story in the world has one of these six basic plots?

Read the The Seven Basic Plots?

There are also those who are saying there are 9 basic plots. The only difference is how many they count but the point remains that they all fall to a finite number of plots.

Just as I only have a learner's license in driving, just like how I am learning to drive now...

I feel like I am eternally holding a learner's license in writing.

But learners can be teachers too.

Learners can share something important too.

And I'll end this post here even when I don't like using two too's and ending two sentences in the same word.

Cause imitating and repeating are not always as bad as they seem...at all.

The Language, Science, Arts, and Secrets of Online Dating

I first started online dating April or May 2016 when I was about to turn 26.

I tried a lot of dating sites but it is in OkCupid where I met my husband.

I like OkCupid out of all the dating sites I tried. It worked for me but not instantly.

It took me almost two years before I met someone who is as honest, serious and share the same values I have.

It is very important to KNOW WHAT YOU WANT, it is harder though because it is easier to just let yourself be fooled by anyone and justify that he or she is good enough. When you need to convince yourself otherwise, most of the time there is something wrong.

Too good to be true= FAKE/NOT TRUE/SCAM

I learned that it is never too much to know more, be more prepared and cautious yet still BE HONEST as much as you can. Never mind the liars, stay away from pervs and just try your best to not fall for them and their games.

There are things that we can only learn through experience but there are more things we can learn beforehand (through tips backed by data) that can help us in the long way.

In an app like OkCupid, I learned that answering questions as many as you can to read others’ answers too is the first phase to know (as much as you can) the person you are interested to. Investigate before meeting someone in person and only meet first in a public place.

In an article I read, one of the co-founders of OkCupid said that ''We're not psychologists. We're math guys,” remarked Sam Yagan, the chief executive of OKCupid. He wasn’t being self-deprecating.

OKC suggests romantic pairings based on information gathered from a sprawling, seemingly endless questionnaire. When filling out the questionnaire, users are also asked to rank the relative importance of each question and to say which answer or answers they would prefer in a partner. Users, in other words, describe to the OKCupid database their ideal “match” as a set of data points.

READ and equip yourself as much as you can.

Either online or offline, bad people are everywhere.

BE SMART. BE WISE.

Learn the language of online dating.

Learn the science and arts of what you are doing.

Know the secrets of what you are trying.

Don't take the shortcut even when it is tempting.

Some may be lucky/blessed to meet their THE ONE instantly but believe me when I say that it is rare.

There are no exact rules but knowing these things will surely help you to set your expectations and limitations.

Suggested Readings:

The Science of Online DatingOnline dating secrets, as revealed by math majors
How To Get More Matches On OkCupid, According To An
ExpertDating with data
Seven secrets of dating from the experts at OkCupid
Going on a First Date? Here Are the Questions to Ask
The Language of Online Dating
Language in Online Dating Texts: Trait Identification, Homophily, and their Effect on Attraction
Decoding The Language Of Online Dating: What She Says vs. What She Means
Online Dating Vocabulary: What You Need to Know
From 'Bae' To 'Submarining,' The Lingo Of Online Dating
The secret language of internet dating
How To Win At Online Dating
Best dating sites for introverts, wallflowers, and anyone hesitant to try online dating
7 Ways To Optimize Your Online Dating Profile
How to Protect Your Privacy While Online Dating
Translating the Language of Online Dating Sites
The Essential Do's and Don'ts of Online Dating
The Grown Woman's Guide to Online Dating
“Gendering” the Self in Online Dating Discourse
Online Dating Decoder: Desperately Seeking Meaning
11 Results from Studies About Online Dating
The 5 Love Languages For Singles: Using Them With Online Dating

Online Dating Translations: What Guys And Girls Are Actually Saying In Their Profiles
An Examination of Language Use inOnline Dating Profiles
Idiot’s Guide To Online Dating Terms & Lingo [2019 Edition]

Bakit uso ang networking sa Pilipinas?*

Direct selling/MLM o Multi-level Marketing/Network Marketing o networking.

May ilan na talaga namang legit. Tulad ng Avon* at Amway.

Pero meron ding mga nagsasabi na may pagkakatulad na rin kahit ang mga nabanggit sa isang Pyramid scheme. Madami pa rin ang nagsasabi na hindi ngunit may paalala. May isang unbiased umano na review akong natagpuan na maaring basahin.

Sa kabilang banda, sa pagkakaalam ng aking asawa mas madami naman daw ang naloloko dito sa Amerika ng Ponzi scheme.

Natanong ka na ba ng Open minded ka ba? May kakilala ka ba na bigla na lang nag text, nag chat o tumawag para yayain kang mag kape? Ang biruan, alam na this. Kung wala kang balak sumali, run for your life. 😅🤣

Kung wala ka namang ka alam alam at nakipag kita ka, napasama o na 'kidnap' sa isang presentation, hindi ka nag iisa.

Na budol budol ka na ba?

Na pressure?

Na guilt trip?

Kung oo, at pakiramdam mo na budol budol ka, na pressure, na guilt trip, muli, hindi ka nag iisa na napaniwala ng mga pangako na malaki ang kikitaing pera at makakapag travel ka pa kung saan saan.

Gullible nga ba ang mga Pinoy?

Isa pang tanong, kung sa ibang bansa ang headquarters ng mga companies na ito (though may mga bago na 100% Filipino owned na), bakit hindi sila o hindi na sila ganun ka sigla sa mga bansa na pinagmulan nila pero namamayagpag sila sa Pilipinas?

Bakit nga ba booming pa rin ang mga direct selling companies sa Pilipinas? Bakit nga ba hit na hit pa rin ang mga ito?

Sinasabing ang old ways ng mga companies na ito ay epektibo pa rin sa mga Pinoy.

Sino-sino ang mga sumasali at tumatangkilik?

Mga part timers o walang regular na trabaho lang ba ang mga nahihikayat? Mga housewives lang ba na naghahanap ng extra income? HINDI.

Iba ibang tao galing sa iba't- ibang larangan ang sumusubok, ang nahihikayat, ang nangungutang pa para lang ipambili ng 'starter kit' o kung anuman ang tawag dito ng MLM company na sinalihan.

Pulis, teachers, kahit mga doktor, nurses at iba pang mga nasa medical field.

Parang kulto ang mga networking companies na ito kung makapang charm ng mga myembro.

Sa isang artikulo ng Forbes, inamin ng USANA na sumailalim ito sa isang informal na probe ng Security and Exchange Commission noong 2007.

Ilang mga MLM companies na rin tulad ng Royale Business Club ang may hinarap na tax evasion charges. Ilang mga companies din ang nagkaron ng pyramidal problems kaya naman isinulong ng Department of Trade and Industries noong 2017 na magkaron ng isang ahensya na sasala sa mga direct selling companies.

Madami ang nawalan ng pera dahil sa panloloko ng isang multi million pyramid scam sa Mindanao nuong 2018, ang pangalan ng kompanya ay Lahdin's Marketing.

Isang artikulo ang aking natagpuan tungkol sa pag kaka ugnay ng MLM at Pyramid Scheme sa Pilipinas.

May isang pag aaral din na ginawa tungkol sa Pitfalls ng Network Marketing sa Pinas.

May mga nag sasabi na madami na ang nasirang buhay ng pagsali sa MLM, ang nababaon sa utang, ang nagkakalamat ang relasyon sa pamilya at mga kaibigan.

Sa palagay ko, uso pa rin ang networking sa Pinas dahil sa kagustuhan ng mga Pinoy na makapag negosyo kahit sa kokonting puhunan. Dagdag na kita para sa mga maybahay at kahit sa mga nagtratrabaho pa, ganun din sa mga nag retired na.

Nakakalungkot nga lamang isipin na karamihan sa mga sumasali ay iniisip na easy money o maibebenta nila ang mga produkto ng sinalihang kumpanya nang madali.

Na amazed sa presentation ang karamihan, sa mga nagsabing napagaling, napaputi, napapayat sila ng produkto ng kompanya.

Nakaligtaan na higit na may kamahalan ang karamihan sa mga produkto na inilalabas ng mga bagong MLM companies na ito kumpara sa mabibili sa grocery kung kayat kung hindi magaling mag sales talk o mambola, mahirap makuhang muli pabalik ang nailabas na pera.

Madami pang big myths and facts about MLM programs at malaki ang maitutulong sa mga gustong sumali na alamin muna ang mga ito bago magdesisyon at maglagak ng perang kanilang pinaghirapan o inutang.

May 5 fatal flaws ang MLM. Marapat na ito ay timbangin muna. Hindi lahat ng tao ay para sa MLM. May mga nagtatagumpay man ngunit higit pa ring madami ang umuuwing luhaan, ang nababaon sa utang.

Naniniwala ako na higit nang mautak o nag iisip ang mga Pinoy ngayon lalo na ang mga Millenials bago sumali sa kahit anong MLM.

Sa ngayon, nakakaranas ng mga challenges ang mga MLM companies kahit pa nga ang nangunguna sa Amerika na Amway na meron din sa Pinas.

Magkaganon man, masasabi pa rin natin na hanggang ngayon ay tinatangkilik pa rin ng mga Pinoy ang mga MLM companies.

Pahabol! Naisip ko lang ano kaya ang reaction ng mga die hard networkers noon dun sa sikat na 'Yes! Powerful! line nina Kim Chiu at Xian Lim sa pelikulang All You Need is Pag-ibig na nagpapakita ng isang stereotypical na meeting/presentation sa isang networking company. Naging pambansang inside joke na tuloy ang linya na ito kasama ng 'Open minded ka ba?' 😂✌

*Hindi po ako against sa direct selling/MLM/networking basta legit at kayang ibenta dahil abot kaya at may mga siguradong consumers na sa market. May Avon store nga kami sa Cavite e, pero bukod sa mga dealers madami din kaming mga suki dahil well known na ang mga produkto ng Avon sa Pinas, kumbaga may cult following na. Subok na rin ang kalidad. Lalo na ang kanilang mga underwears, makeup, cologne and lotions. A proud user here. Naka pag advertisement pa nga e noh. Haha.


Suggested Readings:

Understanding pyramid scams in PH
Investors in Philippine Pyramid Scheme Lose Over $2 Billion
Philippines Deports Mastermind of $33 Million Bitcoin Pyramid Scheme
BI nabs alleged leader of pyramid scam in Davao
Court freezes Kapa-Community Ministry's assets over Ponzi scheme
The Difference Between MLM and Pyramid Schemes
Investing 101: Don’t Get Scammed! Learn How to Spot Investment Scams in the Philippines