Monday, December 14, 2009

New hair :)

i thank God for barbers. thank you Lord for the haircut that i just had from Rocky's barbershop at G. mall. :). i feel renewed, revitalized and super happy. thank you God.

more than that, i feel motivated to study. but well, i think i'll give myself until 8pm or so to browse the net and after that. go go go study life :D hahaha. thank you God for this day :)

AM+DG!
miko :D

Monday, November 30, 2009

two women...

Lord, bakit sabay sila? hmmm....

enlighten me God
AMEN!

-miko

Saturday, November 28, 2009

a clean and organized room at last

i feel refreshed and really blessed to have successfully cleaned my room. well, i am loving the feeling of having well organized files, arranged books, mess-free cabinet and so on... blah blah blah.... but really, the cleaning that i am hoping to achieve is beyond what the eyes can see. i mean, i wish to also clean my insides- my soul, my conscience... and strengthen my relationship with God...

i offer all these to you Lord... Amen

AD+DG!
Miko

Thursday, November 26, 2009

Happy, Thankful and Overflowing with Joy

Just yesterday, November 25, 2009 (2 months after my birthday), i had my final defense for my undergraduate thesis entitled "Optimization of pectin Extraction from the Peels of Citrus microcarpa (Kalamansi) and Proximate Analysis of the Residue for Selected Parameters." My thesis adviser is Dr. Lourdes Simpol (Maam Simpol is a Natural Products, Pharmaceutical and Analytical Chemist which i also dream of becoming in the future) and my panelists are Dr. Joval Afalla and Mr. Roland Anthony Mindo. I felt light before, during and after the defense, since i am confident enough about my study and i know for sure that after the defense was more like an improvement to my paper.

it was truly a milestone in my life. i am just happy and blessed to have "top-notcher" and great panelists and supportive mentor. all in all, i felt that, my education in ADDU was worth it. not only because of the recognitions that i had before and this big accomplishment that i am enjoying now, but because, my journey in Ateneo allowed me to know myself better. i was able to find my passion, and love which is science, research and education. i just hope that i would be consistently driven towards spreading the love for science and quality education in our country. Maybe, through these, i can materialize the "ripples of change" that i have been envisioning.

Truly, we have different roles and destinies as individuals. And having been placed in this position makes me blessed, since pursuing all these passions would never be hard, since all the things that i am doing are the things that i love.

AMDG!
Miko :)

Friday, November 20, 2009

happy ko.,,

:) <---- see!

AM+DG!
Miko

Thursday, November 19, 2009

away from the stress-stricken life that i had few weeks ago...

i am very happy today. i feel thankful that at least today, marks the end of my lab works for thesis. i would like to be honest that state now as a student is far more relaxed as compared to my state a month or few weeks ago. the pressure is finally off my back and i can formally say that i am somehow free of stress. yes, in fact, i had my haircut, came to school at around 11am, returned all my materials and chatted all day long with maam tes and maam carms. it was fun, nice and it made me thankful. at least i would have the time to study for my subjects and be good in them. i just pray that i gain the discipline to work harder and do better in school. i know i can! :)

AM+DG!

Miko

Wednesday, November 18, 2009

The Inconvenient and Disturbing Truth

this essay is my reaction paper to the movie the inconvenient truth. i submitted this for my environmental chemistry class.

The truths presented by Former Senator Al Gore were not only inconvenient as the title of his documentary, The Inconvenient Truth, would say it, but the facts he and other scientists presented are disturbing especially that the destruction of the environment that we see and experience can only be pointed back to our humanity. It is a fact that as human beings, we tend to explore beyond what we have at present, thus through technology, researches and invention, we are able to improve our lifestyle. However, for the past fifty years or so, we have gained greater understanding of the universe especially in the dawning of space ships, we have improved our lifestyle through the technologies and researches materialized and we have established sprawling industries which provide for our daily needs all in the expense of our environment. This sad fact has been overlooked by our forefathers, who thoughtlessly made ways to improve the way we live without considering its implications to the environment and to our humanity in the long run. They were too near sighted of aiming for economic gain without considering the other side of the coin- which involves our environment. In effect, Winston Churchill says it well that, “… we are entering a period of consequences.” We are troubled and tormented by the changes happening in our environment. For me, this is a bittersweet reality which we ought to scrutinize- bitter, because we and other species’ existence is at stake with our doings, but at the same time sweet, because it serve as a wake up call so our very own habitat can be salvaged.

Watching the movie again in class, not only created new insights in me, but a greater level of disturbance was implanted in my conscience. I am disturbed with the possibility of losing the ice caps. I am disturbed with the diminishing of exotic species. I am bothered with the typhoons which have pestered the world. I am bothered with the emergence of new and hard to treat diseases. Most of all, I am disturbed by the possibility that all human beings will be gone in a few years time. These and many other pictures which I saw in the documentary really scare me. But, dwelling on these fears and not being able to do something about them is a shame. Thus, I am now looking at the disturbances which hovered in my mind as a challenge so I can help solve the problems that our humanity is facing.
As a junior scientist and chemistry major, I am challenged to look at the bigger picture and see how I can possibly contribute something to alleviate the issue especially in the context of our local and national environmental issue. First, I can possibly contribute in the advancement of environmental protection through research. In fact, my high school and undergraduate chemistry researches are my first steps towards this contribution. In these studies, I have proven that wastes from farms or leading industries may be utilized to boost the economy while preventing the dumping of these same wastes to the environment. Thus, it can truly be proven that environmental care and economic development can both come hand in hand through research. Second, I can start by changing the way I live and becoming a good example for others. This simple and easy to do task is what I think is the most practical and most effective of all. By changing the way I live and becoming a good example by segregating garbage, recycling, proper waste disposal and gardening are simple yet worth emulating ways which I can start today. Lastly, I believe that becoming an active member and leader in the community where I belong will be effective in starting the move towards taking care of the environment. I believe that my involvements are the best way that I can practice social and environmental responsibility by sharing my knowledge to my constituents and doing initiatives together to make the fight against environmental destruction successful. All efforts are more successful when done together by groups, because “more head is better than one.”

The destruction that our humanity caused to the environment can only be reversed first by our humility to accept that the issue has to be addressed as soon as possible. Such will pave the way to avoid skeptics from thinking that environmental problem is not a pressing issue. Moreover, it will be a precursor to a concerted effort from all sectors of society. Moreover, political will, a “renewable resource,” according to Al Gore should actively perform its responsibility in legislation for environmental protection. Laws which are sincerely and properly implemented after they are passed in congress are what we need at this point. We need not wait for the last minute to decide. The urgency of the issue has spoken through the destructive effects that we experience in our living. Thus, we are called to step up as responsible individuals to take action properly so that our great grand children can enjoy a livable world and eventually, they would tell us on our deathbeds “thanks for making this world a better place.”

It is worthwhile to be disturbed by the inconvenient truth!

AM+DG

Michael Casas

on science and national development

I always believe that maximizing the science and technology capabilities of our country will lead us to progress. We have seen how science propelled the progress of first world countries as they harness the full potential of their science and technology sectors. Such progress can also be attained by our country if we invest enough attention, resources and our own efforts as men and women of science. This is in the knowledge that science and technology are key players of our national development.

I believe that science has three key roles in national development. First, science and technology sets the grounds for innovation and improvement in our country by exploring on new applications of our resources and improving present practices by fabricating new technologies. This role of science gives it an important position in promoting national development by constantly improving the status quo and transforming the way we live through the researches that it produce. Constant improvement leads to progress and a better life for Filipinos. Second, science and technology propels economic progress and environmental care in the country. Scientific research advances our knowledge about our society and gaining such knowledge will move us to translating such knowledge into profitable-income generating ventures. Moreover, researches which look into using waste products of industries expand these industries, add to their income and protect the environment at the same time. Thus, science and technology has the capacity of leading our country towards sustainable development. Lastly, I believe that science and technology is essential in providing relevant and competent education to the Filipinos. Above anything else, it is sustaining and improving the quality of scientists who will continue to work on the scientific advancement in our country which is very important. More than that, it is ensuring that quality science education is brought to the population that makes science not a field limited only to few but a body of knowledge meant to touch the lives of all people.

The three key roles of science explored above can only be carried out by people who are into science and who believes that through it, national development will be achieved. As a junior scientist, I believe that I play an essential role in the advancement of science and technology in the country. First and foremost, I believe that I am responsible in promoting science to my immediate community. It is by helping people appreciate science that it can be spread and understood. By making lay people understand the benefits of science, its concerns, activities and developments in a language which is easily understood by them can science become embedded in the lifestyle of people. Second, I believe that I am given the task of taking further studies in Chemistry. In my case, I intend to major in Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Biochemistry or Natural Products Chemistry because I am passionate in understanding the underlying principles involved in the synthesis of drugs, extraction of novel active components from plants, structure elucidation of new compounds and finding cure to the many diseases that infest the Filipino people. This brings knowledge further by making it tangible and beneficial to people. Other than that, I think, that advancing my knowledge in any of these fields of specialization will make me equipped to become part of the Philippines’ Biochemical team who, apart from the influences of westerners, can formulate its original cure for many forms of diseases and set the stage for medical progress in our country. Third, I can contribute to science through education. I have always been passionate in tutoring fellow students who are having difficulties in understanding Chemistry and Mathematics. I always felt that sense of fulfillment whenever I am able to make some students understand a complex concept in chemistry or mathematics. Thus, I always say to myself that teaching will always be an option for me. Lastly, I think that my biggest role in the advancement of science and technology is to stand by my country no matter what. The idea of going abroad and stay there for good is inviting, but to stay and serve the Filipinos who need my expertise is the best thing that I can do in my life. We can never tell what happens in the future, but the challenge remains, that I stay and serve the Filipino people. I offer this service for the greater glory of God!

Science is a potent body of knowledge. It can transform our society and can serve as a vehicle towards national development. But it only finds its relevance if used to serve a community and in this case, our country which needs it the most. It is by translating science to a tangible, understandable and relevant object can its impact and importance be felt by lay people. Most of all, a passionate scientist ready to undertake continuous improvement through education, research and service is what the Philippines is clamoring. On my part as a junior scientist, I am ready to take on the responsibility and carry them out the best way that I can.
Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam!

Michael Casas

overflowing gratitude

My research project would never be possible without the support of individuals who extended their support, time and expert advice to me as researcher.

First and foremost, to Ms. Simplicia Arquiola, Mr. Edgar Casas and Mrs. Alma Casas for all the love, support and guidance. Nay, Pa and Ma, thanks for consoling me whenever I cry of despair, hopelessness and pessimism. Thank you for extending your help especially in preparing the samples for my FTIR analysis and for all the love and care that you’ve given to me. I love you very much.

To my brother Raprap and sister Camille, thank you for the encouragement, support and love.

To my mentor, Dr. Lourdes Simpol, for sharing her expertise in research work. Thank you Maam for teaching me to go the extra mile and work harder for me to finish this research project with flying colors.

To Dr. Joval Afalla for extending his help in correcting the manuscript and giving advise and moral support for me to successfully fulfill this scientific paper. To Mr. Roland Anthony Mindo for all his guidance, especially in operating the FTIR and the Nitrogen Analyzer and for his guidance in the making of this paper. Thank you Sir Afalla and Sir Mindo for all your help.

To Mrs. Evelyn Tan, for her guidance, tolerance and understanding of my situation. Thank you Maam for all the support that you have provided to me so I can succeed in this endeavor.

To Ms. Agnes Aranas for sharing her time in providing relevant and helpful journals on pectin which was used in this study.

To Katryna Castro for all the help and support.
To Elaine Joan Cedeno for making me laugh on gloomy days in the lab, for understanding my being busy and caring for me.

To the BPI-DOST Science Awards for recognizing the potential of my research to contribute to national development. Thank you for the trust, the recognition and the high esteem that you have given to me and to my research work.

To my friends in the Chemistry Stockroom, Maam Tes, Sir Germs and Maam Carms, thank you for all the fun, the reflections and sessions that we shared together. Thank you for helping me especially when I felt that I am in a dead end.

To Mr. Osbert Bryan Villasis for the help that he extended in the statistical analysis of the data in the experiment. Thank you sir.

To ADDACS, PIGLASAPAT, SICO, SAMAHAN, CCO, NSM-SEC, ASLA, SUBDOM, Chem/ChE 4 and to all my friends in the organizations and classes where I belong, thank you for the friendship, understanding and support that you have extended all the way.

Most of all, I thank the Almighty Father for the perfect plan that he has laid down for my life. Lord, my heart overflows with joy and thanksgiving as I finish this research work. I bring this back to you for your greater glory!

Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam!

Miko Casas

i am back!

its been so long since i did my last post here in blogger. i think, i neglected this, because first of my busy schedule as a college student and having been enamored by facebook and friendster (in the past) led me to forgetting to post to this blog site. however, i think, it is still nice to be back once more. i am happy typing these texts as my come back post.

most probably, this blog site will not only become a personal-day-to-day journal, but will most likely contain my experiences and exciting insights learned as a chemistry major, some opinions on national situations and of course, spiritual reflections. broadening the scope of the contents of this blog gives me a greater sense of meaning and fulfillment.

i would like to make this blog site, not only a site to contain my thoughts on personal experience, but my learning, opinions and ideas in the fields of science and probably on national situations with the aim that through this, i may contribute something good to the people who might read this blog site.

i am truly excited to divert my attention from facebook to this more meaningful venture!

AM+DG

Michael Casas

Sunday, April 19, 2009

priorities...

now i see something...

well... i think i should prioritize some things over senseless stuff...

Friday, April 17, 2009

thinking...

You're going to want to watch the action from the sidelines, today -- you need to avoid getting too involved in the games people are playing. Even if the main players want your insight, you don't have to share more than you're comfortable sharing. Saying too much could get you too deep. Besides, there's nothing wrong with holding onto your hard-earned knowledge. Any romance you have is easy-going right now, with low pressure situations that make you comfortable.

Wednesday, April 15, 2009

well well well...

You've been running around, booked solid for weeks now. It may have been fun, it may have been overwhelming -- but it all finally ends today. The trend now will be for unexpected cancellations, delays and last minute rescheduling. It won't all be welcome news, but the time it frees up will prove invaluable. One thing to watch out for would be hasty decision making -- don't do it if you don't have to. But this freedom should loosen you up and help you relax.
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i am generally thankful for my life today. in as much as i am imperfect, i am learning my lesson through the experiences that i encounter each day.

i am thankful for the holy week that transpired, for it allowed me to count my blessings and finally sort out things in my life. thank God... :)

and now... i am appreciating my DALINC OJT experience... wow! it is very great. i really learned a lot from it and i am enjoying the work :) the new instruments inspires me to do well as a chem major. Go! i have a bright bright and super bright and super great future ahead of me. God is Good! and He wills this bright future to happen to me :)

i am also appreciating my relationship with my family... the love, the care and the communication is more intensified and more intimate than never. praise God! :)

truly... life is beautiful!
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as chemists we do what we write and we write what we do. :)
AMDG!

Friday, April 10, 2009

owws?

Here is the analysis:
You desire a love that will last forever. You are quite serious about finding this type of love, and that's why you think carefully about the men that you meet before deciding whether you could really love them. You don't just develop a crush on someone overnight: you look at a person's personality and other aspects of their life before deciding to form an attachment. If a guy doesn't meet your expectations, you would rather be alone. Your love has to be perfect. Be careful though, you could be missing out on some worthy relationships because your standards are so high.

Personality Test

Your view on yourself:
You are down-to-earth and people like you because you are so straightforward. You are an efficient problem solver because you will listen to both sides of an argument before making a decision that usually appeals to both parties.

The type of girlfriend/boyfriend you are looking for:
You are a true romantic. When you are in love, you will do anything and everything to keep your love true.

Your readiness to commit to a relationship:
You are ready to commit as soon as you meet the right person. And you believe you will pretty much know as soon as you might that person.

The seriousness of your love:
You like to flirt and behave seductively. The opposite sex finds this very attractive, and that's why you'll always have admirers hanging off your arms. But how serious are you about choosing someone to be in a relationship with?

Your views on education
Education is very important in life. You want to study hard and learn as much as you can.

The right job for you:
You're a practical person and will choose a secure job with a steady income. Knowing what you like to do is important. Find a regular job doing just that and you'll be set for life.

How do you view success:
You are confident that you will be successful in your chosen career and nothing will stop you from trying.

What are you most afraid of:
You are afraid of things that you cannot control. Sometimes you show your anger to cover up how you feel.

Who is your true self:
You are mature, reasonable, honest and give good advice. People ask for your comments on all sorts of different issues. Sometimes you might find yourself in a dilemma when trapped with a problem, which your heart rather than your head needs to solve.

Here is the analysis:

1. You've got great self-confidence and you're full of charm. Most guys/girls who get to know you will be attracted to you. You are far from sweet and proper; your intriguing personality fascinates them. Most guys/girls find it easy to fall for a girl/boy like you.
2. You really care about other people's feelings and are quite serious about the issues that affect your life. You are sincere, and your concern for the well-being of others makes many people want to be your friend.
3. You strictly follow rules, and you expect other people to be the same as well. People can get tired of you easily, as you can make them feel a little guilty about themselves. You always make decisions on your own, and can be dismissive of other people's advice. You like to be the leader in groups, but can forget to be concerned about the people you are with.
4. Guys/Girls see you as being a thinker and a careful person. They will be really attracted to this quality in you, but you need to learn to speak your mind, otherwise people will find you too shy and quiet. Learn to relax and lighten up--it's okay to have fun sometimes. When you learn to develop your fun-loving side, guys are going to flock to your side.
5. Your boyfriend/girlfriend believes that you are a strong and independent person. Your confidence and cheerfulness make you an attractive person to be around, but sometimes you need to pay more attention to what other people, including your boyfriend/girlfriend, are thinking.

Wednesday, April 08, 2009

gaining strength from the past... looking forward for a bright future!

looking back at my third year in college required a lot of guts from me. why? because, i cannot accept a lot of things that happened this year especially when it comes to my grades... but looking deeper into this very unique experience, i found that i gained more in another aspect of my life- which awakened me to the real dimension of existence.

as i reread my previous blog entries, i could not help but say that yes "those were the happy and sweet moments of my college life" simply because i get to have good grades, i could cope with stress and i heave this heart of thanksgiving at all times. feel thankful for having read those entries once more. i just realized that indeed i am blessed by the Lord in these years of my life. and for that i am very thankful to God... :)

if i look back into my third year in college...

February 2008
-i won in the elections. i am the new Samahan Treasurer!
- bigger responsibilities... more pressure. hmp!

April 2008-May 2008
-i was busy tutoring Amie Lou Cisneros with public speaking and english language proficiency. i earned a lot, but hey, i lost the time- the private times (which are supposedly used for pesonal rest, review and etc.) in exchange of the earnings that i had. nevertheless, it was beneficial to me. i gained a new friend and in a way, i refined my english speaking skills.

May 2008
-ASEP! Maragusan baby! grabe. i love the experience of being one with nature. and to experience the life in the country side. honestly, it was fun living with the people in Brgy Tupas in Maragusan. they were all nice and very warm/. i love gulay! and the water falls made me worship God for His greatness :). Len Len, Audrey, Shin Shin, Ate Mae, Kuya Agner, Nanay Naty and Tatay Sising... Memorize ko pa!! :) miss oyu all :)
- the love affair started here... hmmm. well, it was a learning experience though :)
-AFYOP! walang kapaguran. so blessed to have X1, Y2 and 1A as my class. matatalino silang lahat and they all have the life to participate and be oriented well in the AFYOP! i love you all guys. and i love the work too... :)

June 2008
-Pasukan na. nagkaroon ba ako ng bakasyon? hmmm. tanong na ang sagot ay hindi. hindi ako nakapagbakasyon dahil sa napakabusy kong buhay :) hahahaha

July 2008
-SAMAHAN rush. preparations for fiesta, prelim exams

August 2008
-prelim exams, fiesta. stress... but fun. we had a special part during the cheerdance competition. i was a torch bearer then. hahaha. nice one...
-during the Gawad awards night, i was awarded as the most outstanding sophomore and the highest WPA awardee. Praise God for these awards... Education should be done for the Greater Glory of God! it was ahumbling and at the same time a super blessed experience... :)

September 2008
-Midterms? Gosh!
-Birthday :). i am already 19! :) more mature and more prepared with life... :)

October 2008
-ASLA7. it is one of the most memorable experiences that i ever had this year. well. i learned a lot from the self, to others to the nation, to God. ASLA was a defining moment and really, it moved me to do things which i could not imagine. my standard went high, but a change in my character and personality set in... when the passion and the high somehow normalized and equilibriated, i realized that i have changed... in some ways for the worst... too bad... the manila journey was refreshing, antipolo was great, fresh air... and manila is a shopping haven,,, :)

November 2008
-super stressed. prelims are up... budget crunch. we dont have a moderator in samahan... so ako pa talaga ang gumawa ng paraan. sobra! hahahah :((

December 2008
-EXAMS!!! so little time to study!

January 2009
- grades confronted me- they are not that high... below my expectations and aim... too bad... nevertheless, i remained hopeful for midterms...
-ELECTIONS, planning period... pressure...
-too much extra curricular, too much academics, too much work, too little time...

February 2009
- campaign... stress, friendship, pressure
- Elections, i lost. mixed emotions...
- midterms... time to study... meron pa ba?
- low low low grades... :(

March 2009
- finals!
- you are fired- maam tan :(
- expectations are rising, performance is getting low... so sad. i've never been this mediocre before :(

April 2009
-fixing things
-rest
- what went wrong?
- what ought to be done?

actually, my third year was more of an adventure... i actually forgot that i am a college student aiming to graduate with honors. a student who forgot that he is a chem major- a course which requires a lot of hardwork, attention, concentration and focus! well, i thank the Lord for this wake- up call... and as the book 7 habits of highly effective teens would say it- BE PROACTIVE! i am the force and i can change the course of my life for the better. i know that things will be better for as long as i prioritize the important things in my life... although my third year was a perfect imbalance, but i should say that i learned a lot from it. it was a learning experience and it is something worthy to be treasured. i learned to work under pressure and stress. to stretch it beyond the limits up to the point of exhaustion, depression and defeat... but in this instance, i learned to grow as a person and recognize my limits and know how to manage myself

above all the experience made me closet to my God... well, i appreciated His plans more and more each day... and i realize that it is just i who is so impulsive and hardheaded in this life... so i'd better listen to Him and allow Him to direct my life... :)


:)

Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam!

Michael Casas
Take time to ...
Take time to think, it is the source of power;
Take time to play, it is the secret of perpetual youth;
Take time to read, it is the fountain of wisdom.
Take time to pray, it is the greatest power on earth.
Take time to be friendly, it is the road to happiness.
Take time to laugh, it is the music of the soul;
Take time to give, it is too short a day to be selfish.
Take time to work, it is the price of success.
Take time to do charity, it is the key to heaven.
Take time to love and be loved, it is a God given privilege.
Mother Theresa of Calcutta

from: http://www.reflexiones-online.net/en/reflections.php

a good site to visit for reflection: http://onlineministries.creighton.edu/CollaborativeMinistry/Lent/holyweek2.html

the best lessons in life are those that come unexpectedly. God allows them to arrive into our senses when we least expect it. God is Good all the time :)

Thursday, April 02, 2009

i dont want to become a hypocrite...

i hate myself...

and that hurts... but i htink it is just but right for me to hate myself so that i would find time to know my value as a person. i mean, i have been doing a lot of stupid things in life...

i wish to have FOCUS in life...
and learn to PRIORITIZE what is essential :)
i hope that i could UNLEARN BAD HABITS
and EMBRACE the authentic ones...
i want to LIVE beyond the conventional
and SHARE the PASSION for EXCELLENCE!!!
most of all, i would like to MAKE GOD SMILE
in everything that i do...

the more essential thing in life is that which is invisible to the eyes :)
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read between the lines :)

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Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam!!!

philosophy...

Budhha told his disciples: whoever makes an effort can attain enlightenment in seven days. If he can't manage it, certainly he will attain it in seven months, or in seven years. The young man decided that he would attain it in one week, and he wanted to know what he should do: "concentration" was the reply.

The young man began to practice, but in ten minutes he was already distracted. Little by little, he began paying attention to everything that distracted him, and though that he was not wasting time, but was getting used to himself.

One fine day he decided it was not necessary to arrive at his goal so fast, because the path was teaching him many things.

It was at that moment that he became an Enlightened one.

Wednesday, April 01, 2009

when the sun kisses the moon. :)

Today, take a second look at recent events and see them for what they really are -- proof that you rock! You were being flattered and flirted with and you didn't even know it! Stop kicking yourself and start trying to salvage what someone was trying to start! Contact the person who was heaping all the good vibes on you and find out what they are up to tonight. If you're both available, then you should meet up. Big things could start happening very soon. (come on!) this is a joke right?

whenever i come across love, i used to eagerly open my ear, listen to the experiences of people and try to learn from them as much as possible. that was when i myself was not a recipient of that feeling that we used to call love. however , now that i myself experienced this, i realized that love is something which a person should not limit into something that is romantic. well, probably the notion of the common people on love has been very limited. and yes it i very limited to the point of making one blind of the true essence of love. limiting love to a romantic sense makes it very unrealistic. primarily because, love is not only romantic. more often than not, the love that we experience is non-romantic, like those that we have with our friends, family and colleagues. however, just as it is, we should not leave behind romantic love alone, because it is also a form of love. the point of stressing that romantic love is not the only form of love is to ascertain that we do not limit ourselves into it and that we make sure that we are able to explore the totality of what it is really...

my experience on loving and being loved is quite complicated. in a way, the experience taught me a lot of things for it has really been unique and very providential. providential in a sense that it taught me a lot of lessons on how i ought to deal with things in life especially those relating to love...

metaphorically, i should say that my experience of loving and being loved was like the sun kissing the moon. yes, you got the picture right. it is like the familiar eclipse that we usually notice on earth. when we see the eclipse, we are sometimes made to believe that these two heavenly bodies are united. they are thought ot be one. however, we never know that they are miles away from each other. thus the sun could never kiss the moon. however, we are made to believe that they kissed each other. that they were once united. probably yes, in the eyes of imperfect human beings but not in the eyes of our perfect God. (its up for you to interpret this and relate this to my love story- too complicated if i elaborate). hehehe

one thins is for sure... to love is something which every person should not take for the sake of fulfilling one's own desire, desperation or longing. sometimes, love should be sought out of faith. yes, faith should be an ingredient which one should invoke so that it may be said that the realtionship is official. i may sound preachy but it is a reality which every person should face. faith and the realization that things happen according how they should happen should be a solid proof that a relationship is indeed something which one should be thankful for.

i may sound desperate when it comes to this thing, but let me clarify myself... i may end up a jesuit 10 years from now, but at least when i look back to these memories, i could surely say that i have experienced how it is to love, rationalized about this comlicated topic and enjoyed the feeling with some people who are worth it. :)

*please don't get me wrong... i would never choose to become a jesuit as a last resort. if ever i would enter into the order, i would make it my first choice!!! but wait, i am still open to the possibility of getting married :) who does not want to have a child right?

Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam

Saturday, March 28, 2009

the samahan central board exit conference

i feel so blessed last march 28, 2009. for so many things.

1. i was able to enjoy the beach after a long time. hahaha. thank you Lord!!!. i really love the sea. i love swimming as it will improve my posture and respiratory system and as advised my my doctor i should swim often. and i just enjoyed the waters yesterday... the clear, cold and relaxing sea in mergrande...

2. i had the chance to bond with the SCB. it was fun.:. the amazing race was fun as ever. hahaha... and nanalo kami!!! hahahha :). go TEAM BANGAN!!! hehehe

3. i saw the stats!!! i feel so inspired whenever i see a starry night. then i would try to identify constellations, the brightest stars, locate proxima centauri, orion, hyra and etc. hahahha. so inspiring. the stars makes me think that there is something more in this world. there is more to life than just this. :)

4. i had the chance to talk to friends who really are inspiring. to ate sei, thanks for imparting to me your story. yes i should never give up. thanks for making me realize that all people are really challenged to give in to the temptations of giving up, but winners never quit and i owe you something. and yes, optimism sahll always be with me!!! to kring and lloyd, we had some sort of chat about love, relationships and all. i really appreciate your insights and your listening to my story. hahaha... and yes, love is a leap of faith. we never know when the right person will come for us, but what is for sure is that we should prepare ourselves anytime... so that when that person comes, we would truly give the love that we should share... philosophers of love!!! hahahaha. and yes, i will pray for our love life :)

5. i could now rest from so many things. thanks be to God...
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If someone confuses you today, you should avoid them like the plague -- no matter how beautiful or handsome you may find them to be. People who send mixed messages, play head games and just aren't clear about who they are in general have nothing of any real value to add to your life. Like a bad cold, they will bring you nothing but restless nights and an overwhelming fatigue. Right now, you should stick to known territory and the people you know that you can always count on.

when the sun kisses the moon: a reflection of my junior year

all this time, life has been very magical for me. magical in the sense that things happen not because i willed them so, but they happen just as they should happen. for the longest time, my junior year affirmed this reality that sometimes, one need not plan, impose or be rigid about things, because the unexpected, yet the best will come. by saying that something it is the best would not mean that it is always a good, more often than not, the best are those bad things, failures and falls that we experience in life which destroys our pride and reforms our character where we find more meaning and value.

i would like to be blatant in saying that my junior year was stormy. yes it was. i really regret about a lot of things this year while i am moved and shaken inside. phrases like "i wish i did" or "i wish i did not" would populate my mind whenever i think about the year that was. which really makes me sad. probably, it is not so apparent to other people because i am good at hiding my feelings. i am just bothered by the way the busy schedule, so much responsibilities, high expectations from people and the character of people whom i wok with shaped, destroyed and strengthened my character. i mean, it was a painful process. i never thought that these things, although part of life, would cause so much heartache, pain and anxiety to me. all the while, i thought that life would go normally having experienced these same things in the past. nevertheless, these same things also caused a lot of good things to come my way in my third year...

although my junior year was really challenging, i should still say that it allowed me to have a glimpse of eternity. probably, the experiences of pain, desperation and failures are instrumental for me to realize and experience the more encompassing and the more essential things in life. first, my third year experience allowed me to know the REAL people that i should value in my life. my family, best friends, some colleagues and mentors are among them. i mean, they nurtured and challenged me in my journey and with that, i should thank them. second, the experienced allowed me to realize once and for all my limitations and weakness as a person. it is painful and liberating at the same time whenever you know that this is who you are. knowing yourself, your limitations and weakness makes you humble and above all it reminds you of the truth that hey miko, these are not yours... it was just loaned to you. but really, i am happy that i have failed, experienced rejection, doubts and confusions in the past school year because through them i saw the authenticity of things and the reality that i cannot do it all alone. the experience allowed me to succumb into the fact that i am only michael casas. that i am in no position to be boastful about anything, i have no right to be proud of myself and i have no right to show off anything because all these came from my God. this leads me to my final realization that life is not all about me, but it is more about God... it is how his name is worshiped, praised and lifted.

aside from the learning experiences, i should also say that my third year is a memorable year for some other things. well, my love life flourished that year. i felt mature about it and as of now, i am more careful about wishing for relationships because i don't want to hurt people just as i don't want to be hurt by them. yes, loving, admiring or liking someone is part of growing up and tell you it is a very nice experience. moreover, the experiences of admiring someone has become a big part of my third year days and i should admit it helped me go on with the stormy junior life. however, it also taught me lessons, it made me more mature and it helped me realized that love is not something which i should be anxious about. it should not pressure me. seeing sweet couples somewhere should not move me to hasten the process of finding my future partner. i feel so affected about this issue, because really, the aspect of loving and being loves especially in the past year formed my person. siguro masasabi kong masyadong mataas ang standard ko, or better said, gusto ko magkaroon ng ideal, perfect and happy relationship. i mean i want to fall in love with a girl, get to know her more, before i make the appropriate move. i have learned from my previous relationships. i am thankful and i feel blessed about them. and honestly i will treasure them. but i have to move on so i could grow.
i think this would be the last time that i would talk about this... unless someone, and i pray the right one, would come too soon...

moreover, my junior year helped me go back in a way to my favorite hobby- singing. yes i love singing and i think i could sing fairly din naman... i really love music. if you give me CDs of relaxing songs, reflective music, love songs, senti songs, celtic woman, josh groabn, air supply then i will surely love you. hahaha... i just love music... i find healing in it and i find rest in it as well. for me music is the language of the soul. it moves the spirit to action for it is alive. music is alive and it invigorates a dead spirit. and experience has revealed to me that it is one way i recover from pain and failures... i simply love music... but wait, i consider the sounds in nature as the best music. the chirping of the birds, the sound of the waves and the whispers of the wind gives me the assurance and affirmation that God is the originator and the true God of music.


There is no life - no life without its hunger;
Each restless heart beats so imperfectly;
But when you come and I am filled with wonder,
Sometimes, I think I glimpse eternity.


above all these things, i still find myself victorious despite the fall. i think the fall became sweeter because it revealed a gem which i never imagined that would be in my hands... and for that, i am thankful to the Lord, for all these experiences... for all these love... for all the gifts... for everything :)

Wednesday, March 25, 2009

Tuesday, March 24, 2009

the purpose of everything

it all boils down to the issue of reinventing oneself.

to reinvent oneself is such a complex issue. it involves all aspects of the human person... it should encompass all the aspects of a person to truly qualify that an object has been successfully reinvented...

so i shall reinvent myself... i will... i willl... with the Lord... everything is possible :)

reinvent... RE- INVENT!!!

Monday, March 23, 2009

it is all over

exams are over

extra curricular stuffs and the very problematic room shall now be the next preoccupation which i will attend to. hahahha... atleast the lighter things :)

Thank you Lord :)

Friday, March 20, 2009

i just realized

how blessed i am
even though i am so busy

how people love me
even though i am imperfect

how rich i am
even though i am financially poor

how handsome i am
even though i have a lot of critics

how lucky am
even though i have so many problems

how blessed i am
because God blessed i am...

BECASUE GOD LOVES ME SO MUCH :)

AMDG :)

i am back

after sometime... i am back... hahahaha... i will update this blog and as susual be more vocal about my feelings and reflections here... hahahaha... it is nice to be back :)

AMDG
MIKO