The World of Second Chances

Dirty Linen Addict

July 5, 2023

That’s Entertainment

I am following the teleserye (TV drama series) called “Dirty Linen” starring Janine Gutierrez and Zanjoe Marudo. It is a story of revenge rooted in the disappearance of the four helpers of the family.

The Fierro family is the most powerful family in El Hambra, led by the feisty Doña Cielo Fierro. Her eldest son, Carlos, is her successor and the husband of Leona Fierro. They are the parents of Aidan and Chiara. Doña Cielo’s youngest daughter is Feliz, who married one of their staff members, Ador Pavia. They also have two children, Tonet and Tristan.

Externally, the Fierro family appears to be very happy because of their wealth. Doña Cielo’s grandchildren are studying in an exclusive school. The family is involved in livelihood programs. Both Carlos and Leona, as well as Ador and Feliz, seem to be deeply in love with each other.

The hidden agenda of the family gradually unraveled when Mila Dela Cruz entered their lives. Mila, who was a household helper of the Fierros, had a motive for seeking revenge. Mila’s mother was one of the missing household helpers from ten years ago. We will also learn that Carlos’ trusted driver, Mang Abe, is the mastermind behind the revenge plot because his wife was among the missing household helpers. The two relatives of the missing helpers, Lala and Max, will also cause turmoil in the lives of the Fierros.

We will discover that Carlos was not faithful to Leona. He had multiple affairs with other women, which deeply hurt Leona. As a result, she shifted her affection towards the female lawyer who serves as the Fierro family’s legal counsel. Her name is Atty. Olga. There is also tension over money in the Pavia household because they solely rely on the allowance provided by Doña Cielo. In their desire to improve their financial situation, Ador ventured into pornography, while Feliz got caught up in gambling at the casino. Cousins Chiara and Tonet constantly argue and even reached a point where they both fell in love with the same man, Nico.

In the twisting and turning tale of pursuit, legal battles, torture, conflicts, and jealousy, sometimes I just want to know who really killed Olivia, Alexa’s mother. Who are Mila and Alexa in Dirty Linen? I suggest you watch it and let’s get hooked together.
Old (Netflix Movie)

June 26, 2023

That’s Entertainment

The movie “Old” is currently streaming on Netflix. Its story has a touch of science fiction. The narrative begins by introducing a family aboard a coaster on their way to a beautiful resort. Despite their efforts to hide it from their two children, the tension between the couple is evident. Upon arriving at the resort, they can hardly believe how stunning the place is. The young son, who is only six years old, quickly befriends another child. In their hotel room, we discover that the couple is on the verge of divorcing and planned the vacation as one last happy memory as a complete family.

The following day, the hotel manager offers them the opportunity to explore a hidden cove. Intrigued by the adventure, the couple agrees. In the coaster, they meet another family. At the cove, the daughter, who idolizes a rapper, is thrilled to find him there. However, the rapper’s female companion drowns shortly afterward. Weirder things follow like the Capa siblings, and the young daughter of a doctor have an insatiable appetite. The movie’s story revolves around the inexplicable rapid aging of those in the cove. The children become teenagers within a few hours. The doctor’s daughter becomes pregnant and gives birth to a baby that cannot withstand the cove’s magic and dies. In the end, the surviving members are the couple and their two children, as anyone attempting to escape the cove perishes.

The elements of the film “Old” suggest the question of “who or what is most important in your life?” The doctor’s wife experiences deep sorrow upon realizing that her true love was her first love, whom she never reciprocated due to his average looks. The couple, who had considered separating, realizes that their love for each other never disappeared, and in their rapid aging, they discover that they should be together. The children, who suddenly become teenagers, are saddened by the fact that they have no memories of the typical stages a child goes through on the path to becoming a teenager. The ending of the movie is left for you to watch.

What I liked about it was the realization that perhaps we are too busy criticizing what we lack in our lives, but all along, the things we truly desire are already within us. Sometimes, we think that we lack blessings or love because we focus too much on people’s shortcomings instead of accepting them as they are. At times, we also believe that we have all the time in the world, which is why there’s a scene where the psychologist who is with them, regrets not being on speaking terms with her sister. In the case of the doctor’s wife, her attention is fixated on superficial things like physical appearance and wealth, which is why even though she was deeply loved by her first love, she left him. “Old” revolves around the idea of embracing life to the fullest, recognizing the transient nature of everything around us.
Karma

June 16, 2023

Life & Love

Karma is a concept deeply rooted in ancient Indian philosophy and widely recognized across various spiritual traditions. It is often referred to as the law of cause and effect, suggesting that our actions have consequences that shape our present and future experiences. Karma teaches us that every thought, word, and action we express has a ripple effect, influencing our lives and the world around us.

At its core, karma reminds us of the interconnectedness of all things. It implies that our choices and actions are not isolated events but are part of a grand web of cause and effect. Just as a pebble thrown into a still pond creates ripples that spread outwards, our actions create energetic imprints that reverberate throughout the universe.

Karma operates on three dimensions. The first dimension is Sanchita Karma, which encompasses all our accumulated actions and their consequences over multiple lifetimes. It suggests that our present experiences are shaped not only by our current actions but also by the karmic imprints carried forward from previous incarnations.

The second dimension, Prarabdha Karma, represents the portion of accumulated karma that manifests in our present lives. It is the karmic package that we are born with, encompassing the circumstances and life situations we encounter. Prarabdha Karma serves as the canvas upon which we paint our current life’s experiences.

The third dimension, Agami Karma, refers to the actions we generate in our present lives. It is the karma we create through our thoughts, intentions, words, and deeds in the here and now. Agami Karma holds tremendous power, as it directly influences the trajectory of our lives and shapes the quality of our future experiences.

While karma is often associated with rewards and punishments, it is essential to understand that it goes beyond a simplistic system of cosmic justice. Karma is not about judgment or blame but rather about learning, growth, and personal responsibility. It reminds us that we have the power to shape our own destinies through our conscious choices and actions.

The path to transforming negative karma lies in cultivating mindfulness, self-awareness, and the willingness to take responsibility for our actions. By examining our thoughts, motives, and intentions, we can identify negative patterns and make conscious efforts to break free from them. Practicing forgiveness, compassion, and kindness towards ourselves and others helps create positive karmic imprints, paving the way for healing and growth.

Karma also extends beyond individual actions. It encompasses the collective karma of societies and the interconnectedness of all beings. Our choices and actions have implications not only for ourselves but also for the world we live in. By recognizing the ripple effects of our actions, we can become conscious contributors to a more harmonious and compassionate society.

Ultimately, the understanding of karma invites us to let go of attachment to outcomes. It encourages us to embrace detachment and surrender to the flow of life, trusting that the universe holds a higher wisdom beyond our limited perspective. By releasing the need to control and accepting the natural unfolding of karmic consequences, we can find peace, resilience, and a deeper sense of purpose.

In essence, karma serves as a powerful reminder of our interconnectedness and the profound impact our actions have on ourselves and the world. It invites us to tread the path of self-awareness, personal growth, and conscious living. By aligning our thoughts, words, and actions with positive intentions, we can sow the seeds of positive karma and contribute to a more compassionate and harmonious existence.
From NLEX to Baguio via SCTEX and TPLEX

May 23, 2023

Travel

I am amazed at how much faster it is to travel to Baguio now compared to when I was a student there. The last time I visited was in 2017 for our company’s strategic planning, and it only took us 3 hours to reach Baguio from Quezon City. The main factor for the quick travel time was that we were able to maintain a speed of 120 km/hr without any stops.

During our recent visit, we left home at 2:30 AM to avoid heavy traffic, as Baguio has become more popular and accessible. There was a slight confusion about which exit to take, as Waze suggested the Dau exit. We followed the suggestion and ended up on the McArthur Highway. However, it was only a short distance to the Mabalacat Exit, which was the correct route. It took us 45 minutes from the Bocaue Exit to reach the Mabalacat Exit. We decided to have an early breakfast at PTT-SCTEX, where we stopped for around 45 minutes. After that, we resumed our journey and reached TPLEX in less than 20 minutes.

It’s important to note that TPLEX is different from NLEX and doesn’t have as many gas stations for pit stops. Therefore, if you need to take a break, it’s best to plan accordingly. The stretch from TPLEX to the Rosario Exit took about an hour, and the next suitable stop would be the gas stations along Marcos Highway. Due to the closure of Kennon Road at that time, it took us another 45 minutes to travel along Marcos Highway. It was surprising to see that Marcos Highway is no longer as isolated as I remembered, with numerous vendors selling sweets and vegetables along the way. There are also new establishments that have been built, although some obstruct the natural view of the mountains.

On our way back home, we made a stop at the eatery near the Total Gas Station. The eatery is called Max Grillos, and they serve delicious, clean, and affordable food.

To ensure a smoother travel experience, it is advisable to start your journey with a full tank of gas to avoid long queues at the gas stations. Additionally, opting for an early morning departure is recommended. This way, by the time you reach TPLEX, there will be sufficient daylight. It’s challenging to imagine being stuck in TPLEX during a dark night since many areas lack proper lighting. By planning your trip accordingly, you can mitigate potential difficulties and enjoy a safer and more convenient travel experience.
Oh Belinda

May 22, 2023

That’s Entertainment

“Oh Belinda” is a Turkish film currently available on Netflix. I will now provide my own interpretation of the movie. The story unfolds with Dilara, a renowned actress, shooting a shampoo commercial with little enthusiasm. Struggling to connect with the role of a conventional housewife responsible for cooking for her family, she finds it difficult to fully immerse herself in the character. The director suggests that she needs to completely embody the role of Handan. Driven by her determination to finish the shoot, she forces a smile and begins to bring her character to life. However, things take a bewildering turn for Dilara when she discovers herself freshly showered in a different bathroom. From there, her journey as Handan continues, and she experiences life as a working mother with two children, fulfilling the expectations of her husband, who not only requires her attention for family matters but also for his own sexual desires.

This opinion might not be widely shared, but I believe that Handan is a disenchanted housewife who has lost her love for her husband. Taking care of their two young children has become an obligation rather than a fulfilling role for her. She initiates an affair with her brother-in-law and even attempts money laundering to facilitate their escape together. However, she eventually realizes that running away with him would only worsen the situation, so she hides the money instead. It is my belief that she suffers from depression, leading her to believe that she is the famous actress Dilara, who is involved with the handsome actor Serkan. Being an ardent fan, she is familiar with Serkan’s personal stories. In her Dilara persona, she becomes convinced that Arzu, a less famous actress, is envious of her and wants to seduce Serkan. This obsession leads her to audition for the role of Arzu’s sister in a play, but she ultimately gets fired when she fails to show up. In reality, it is likely that the theater director manipulated her, aware of her mental instability. The conclusion of the movie, with her in the shower realizing she is back to being Dilara, suggests that she remains trapped in her depression and her alternate reality continues to consume her.

The enchanted shampoo, Belinda, serves as a metaphor for Handan’s yearning for a more magical and fulfilling existence, an escape from her mundane married life. Her feelings toward her husband have waned, which explains her inability to recall the first time they met. As an act of rebellion, she gets a star tattoo on her back, symbolizing her desire to break free. Her daughter, perceptive of her mother’s situation, consistently wears a stunned expression, understanding the turmoil within her. Unfortunately, Handan’s deteriorating mental health is not comprehended by her unsympathetic mother-in-law, who continues to criticize her. Although her husband, Necati, appears to love her, he likely lacks the knowledge and understanding necessary to effectively support someone grappling with mental illness.

Once again, I’d like to emphasize that the perspective I’ve shared is solely my own. If you’re interested, you can watch “Oh Belinda” on Netflix. Enjoy! 🙂
Hidden Agenda

May 18, 2023

Poems & Stories

Chapter 1: Isang Gabing Madilim

Gabi, sa isang madilim na bahagi ng kagubatan.

“Kailangang hindi nila ako maabutan!”

Takot na takot na sabi ng isang babae. Basang-basa ang damit nya sa pawis. Puro galos sa pagkakasabit sa mga halamang may tinik ang binti nyang puno na ng dugo. Umaalingawngaw ang warning shot ng baril ng mga humahabol sa kanya sa madilim na kakahuyang iyon. Hindi na nya alam kung anong oras na ba dahil balot ng dilim ang gabi liban sa kapiranggot na liwanag na galing sa buwang papaliit na. Nagkubli sya sa puwang ng isang malaking puno. Pikit-matang pinaglalabanan ang takot sa ahas at iba pang hayop sa kakahuyan. Nanghihina na sya, parang hihimatayin sa pagod pero kailangan nyang makaalis sa lugar na yon at maisahan ang mga lalaking humahabol sa kanya.

Sa kabilang banda ng kakahuyan ay parang mga asong ulol ang apat na lalaking humahabol sa kanya. Ang isa ay iika-ika pa habang tumatakbo at panay ang mura.

“May kakalagyan kang babae ka. Pag namatay ang kuko ko sa paa, isusunod kita!” gigil na sabi ng lalaking may kabilugan ang mukha, kulot ang buhok at sarat ang ilong. Humahangos namang humabol sa tatlong lalaking nauna ang isang matipunong lalaki na naka-leather jacket, ang boss ng grupo. Pinaputok nito ang baril at saka sumigaw.

“Wala kang mapupuntahan kaya kung gusto mo pang mabuhay, sumama ka na sa amin nang hindi na kami nahihirapan,”sabay putok ng baril. Abala naman ang dalawang iba pa sa paggalugad sa bawat sulok na matapatan nila. Yung payat na matangkad ay hinampas pa ang kulumpon ng baging na nakapulupot na matandang puno.

“Mabuti pa ay maghiwa-hiwalay tayo. Dito ako sa direksyon na ito pupunta. Okay lang ba sa yo, boss?” suhestyon ng pinakabata sa kanila. Tumango ang lider ng grupo at sumenyas sa dalawang kasama na magkanya-kanya.

Nanatili pa din sa puwang ng malaking puno ang babae. Nakatulog na ito sa pagod at sakit ng katawan. Kapag kuwa’y may malaking palad na nagtakip sa bibig niya. Nanlaki ang mata nya sa nakita. Natunton na sya ng lalaki. Sumenyas ang lalaki na wag mag-ingay kundi ay papatayin sya nito. Tumango-tango ang babae at nanginginig habang itinayo sya ng lalaki.

“Akala mo siguro ay hindi kita matututunton? Sinundan ko ang bakas ng dugo mo sa mga dahon. Mapupusok ang kasama ko pero kulang sila dito,” itinuro ng lalaki ang sintido. Inalis nya sa pagkakatakip ng bibig ng babae ang kaliwa nyang kamay habang nakatutok ang baril gamit ang kanang kamay. Napaatras ng kaunti ang babae at tumingin sa paligid.

“Matigas talaga ang ulo mo, ano? Alam mo bang isang putok lang ng baril ko ay tapos na ang problema ng bosing ko?” gigil na sabi ng lalaki.

Nangilid ang luha ng babae. Nagmamakaawa ang mukha nitong nakatingin sa lalaki.

“Huwag maawa ka. Wala akong kalaban-laban sa inyo. Wala akong kasalanan sa inyo. Hayaan nyo na ako. Hindi ko maintindihan bakit ginaganito ninyo ako,” pagsusumamo ng babae.

Nakaamba pa rin ang baril sa babae. Nakataas ang dalawang kamay, dahan-dahang lumuhod ang babae at nagsumamong pakawalan. Nagdadalawang-isip ang lalaki sa gagawin. Hindi niya kayang manakit nang walang kalaban-labang babae pero hindi niya rin kayang harapin ang galit ng bosing nya. Sa bandang huli ay nanaig ang pagkatakot ng lalaki sa sinasabing bosing. Isang malakas na putok ng baril ang pinakawalan nito.

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Finding A Long Lost Friend

May 2, 2023

Life & Love

Sa gitna ng walang kaabog-abog ay naalala ko ang isang dating kaibigan. Matagal na kaming walang komunikasyon sa isa’t-isa. Halos dalawampung taon na ang lumipas na napakabilis. Ang huling mga palitan ng salita ay hindi masaya dahil pareho kaming nabalot sa kalungkutan ng buhay. Iyon ang mga panahong ginugugol ko ang oras ko sa pagpapagaling sa sarili gawa ng mga suliraning may kinalaman sa pag-ibig. Sa pag-ibig noon umikot ang mundo ko—pipi at bingi sa mga pagsusumamo ng iba na alamin ang dinaranas nilang pagsubok sa buhay.

“Happy birthday!” bati ko sa text.

“Salamat, pero walang happy sa birthday ko,” tugon niya.

Kung bakit hindi ko masabi sa kanya na nainis ako sa tugon niya. Hanggang dumating ang panahong ayaw ko na din siyang kausapin pa. Mabigat na ang dinadala ko at ayoko nang dumagdag pa siya. Pero hindi ko inasahan na ang katahimikan sa amin ay daraan mula sa araw patungong buwan. At sa bilis ng takbo ng panahon, inabot na ng dalawang dekada ang putol na komunikasyon.

Dumating ang ginhawa sa pagod kong isip at puso kung kaya’t may lakas na akong hanapin ang mga taong naging bahagi ng buhay ko. Ngunit sa loob ng maraming taong paghahanap, naging mailap ang pagkakataon sa akin. Naaalala ko ang mga panahong naging mabuti siyang kaibigan sa akin. Isa siya sa mga nasasabihan ko noon ng mga bagay na hindi ko kayang sabihin sa iba.

Sabi nila, mahirap daw magpakita ang taong ayaw talagang matagpuan. Minsan, napapaisip ako kung isa ba ako sa mga taong gusto niya lang kalimutan. Na baka isa ako sa mga kaibigang dumaan lang sa buhay niya ngunit hindi nakatalagang pumirmi. Sa tagal nang panahon, heto ako at umaasang sana ay nasa maayos lang siyang kalagayan.

Ah, bakit namin hinayaang maging ganito ang pagkakaibigan namin? Napakaraming kaganapan sa buhay ko na hindi na niya alam. Siguro nga ay may mga bagay na hindi pinipilit ngunit kusang darating.